MassVoter.com← Brookline Select BoardBrookline Select Board · 2025–2026 Board · Regular meeting
21 recorded votes, 3 with disagreement.
Sources: Official minutes (PDF) · Agenda
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Your Brookline ballot: 13 quizzes, about a minute each.
Start my ballot →Present: Bernard Greene, John VanScoyoc, Paul Warren, David Pearlman, Michael Rubenstein
Absent: None
Enter into executive session
On motion, it was, Voted to enter into executive session.
“On motion, it was, Voted to enter into executive session. Aye: Bernard Greene, John VanScoyoc, Paul Warren, David Pearlman, Michael Rubenstein.”
Accept a grant in the amount of $20,000 from the Brookline Community Foundation
Question of accepting a grant in the amount of $20,000 from the Brookline Community Foundation. These funds will support their programs.
“5a. Question of accepting a grant in the amount of $20,000 from the Brookline Community Foundation. These funds will support their programs. Approved Aye: Bernard Greene, John VanScoyoc, Paul Warren, David Pearlman, Michael Rubenstein.”
Approve an Appropriation Transfer request from the Chief of Police in the amount for $60,000 to cover recruiting-related expenses as follows: This request will be submitted to the Advisory...
Question of approving an Appropriation Transfer request from the Chief of Police in the amount for $60,000 to cover recruiting-related expenses as follows: This request will be submitted to the Advisory Committee for approval. From: 2100210-5A0001-Automobile Account -$60,000 To: 21002010-551099- Education/Training/Conferences -$35,000 To: 21002010-539035 -Uniforms/Protective Clothing-$15,000 To: 21002010-561010- Electricity- $10,000
“5b. Question of approving an Appropriation Transfer request from the Chief of Police in the amount for $60,000 to cover recruiting-related expenses as follows: This request will be submitted to the Advisory Committee for approval. From: 2100210-5A0001-Automobile Account -$60,000 To: 21002010-551099- Education/Training/Conferences -$35,000 To: 21002010-539035 -Uniforms/Protective Clothing-$15,000 To: 21002010-561010- Electricity- $10,000 Approved Aye: Bernard Greene, John VanScoyoc, Paul Warren, David Pearlman, Michael Rubenstein.”
Accept and authorizing the Town Administrator to sign the Commonwealth of Massachusetts contract to receive a grant to advance work on the Think Blue MA campaign in the amount of $16,000
Question of accepting and authorizing the Town Administrator to sign the Commonwealth of Massachusetts contract to receive a grant to advance work on the Think Blue MA campaign in the amount of $16,000
“5c. Question of accepting and authorizing the Town Administrator to sign the Commonwealth of Massachusetts contract to receive a grant to advance work on the Think Blue MA campaign in the amount of $16,000 Approved Aye: Bernard Greene, John VanScoyoc, Paul Warren, David Pearlman, Michael Rubenstein.”
Award and executing contract PW/26-44 with Capital Strategic Solutions to complete the scope of work outlined in the State Grant for the amount of $16,000
Question of awarding and executing contract PW/26-44 with Capital Strategic Solutions to complete the scope of work outlined in the State Grant for the amount of $16,000
“5d. Question of awarding and executing contract PW/26-44 with Capital Strategic Solutions to complete the scope of work outlined in the State Grant for the amount of $16,000 Approved Aye: Bernard Greene, John VanScoyoc, Paul Warren, David Pearlman, Michael Rubenstein.”
Accept a grant in the amount of $2,000.00 from the Brookline Community Foundation to the Office of Diversity, Inclusion, and Community Relations, to fund a more inclusive and accessible outreach...
Question of accepting a grant in the amount of $2,000.00 from the Brookline Community Foundation to the Office of Diversity, Inclusion, and Community Relations, to fund a more inclusive and accessible outreach strategy, as well as to incorporate new voices into the score library.
“5e. Question of accepting a grant in the amount of $2,000.00 from the Brookline Community Foundation to the Office of Diversity, Inclusion, and Community Relations, to fund a more inclusive and accessible outreach strategy, as well as to incorporate new voices into the score library. Approved Aye: Bernard Greene, John VanScoyoc, Paul Warren, David Pearlman, Michael Rubenstein.”
Approve a contract with Maryann Thompson Architects in the amount of $139,295 for the Conceptual Design Phase of the Larz Anderson Park - Jack Kirrane skating rink renovation *Michael Rubenstein...
Question of approving a contract with Maryann Thompson Architects in the amount of $139,295 for the Conceptual Design Phase of the Larz Anderson Park - Jack Kirrane skating rink renovation *Michael Rubenstein noted a professional acquaintance with the vendor, but has no financial relationship with them.
“5f. Question of approving a contract with Maryann Thompson Architects in the amount of $139,295 for the Conceptual Design Phase of the Larz Anderson Park - Jack Kirrane skating rink renovation *Michael Rubenstein noted a professional acquaintance with the vendor, but has no financial relationship with them. Approved Aye: Bernard Greene, John VanScoyoc, Paul Warren, David Pearlman, Michael Rubenstein.”
Approve a One-Day All Alcoholic Beverages Non- Sale License to the Brookline Senior Center Foundation for the 25th Anniversary Celebration event to be held on April 30th, 2026, from 5:00 PM- 8:00...
Question of approving a One-Day All Alcoholic Beverages Non- Sale License to the Brookline Senior Center Foundation for the 25th Anniversary Celebration event to be held on April 30th, 2026, from 5:00 PM- 8:00 PM at the Brookline Senior Center, 95 Winchester St. Attendance is approximately 200 people.
“5g. Question of approving a One-Day All Alcoholic Beverages Non- Sale License to the Brookline Senior Center Foundation for the 25th Anniversary Celebration event to be held on April 30th, 2026, from 5:00 PM- 8:00 PM at the Brookline Senior Center, 95 Winchester St. Attendance is approximately 200 people. Approved Aye: Bernard Greene, John VanScoyoc, Paul Warren, David Pearlman, Michael Rubenstein.”
Accept sponsorships in the amount of $1,450.00 from residents, organizations, and businesses to be used towards the 11th Annual 2026 BAAFN Essay Contest
Question of accepting sponsorships in the amount of $1,450.00 from residents, organizations, and businesses to be used towards the 11th Annual 2026 BAAFN Essay Contest.
“5h. Question of accepting sponsorships in the amount of $1,450.00 from residents, organizations, and businesses to be used towards the 11th Annual 2026 BAAFN Essay Contest. Approved Aye: Bernard Greene, John VanScoyoc, Paul Warren, David Pearlman, Michael Rubenstein.”
Approve an Authorization to Hire request from the Police Chief for two (2) Public Safety Dispatchers
Question of approving an Authorization to Hire request from the Police Chief for two (2) Public Safety Dispatchers.
“5i. Question of approving an Authorization to Hire request from the Police Chief for two (2) Public Safety Dispatchers. Approved Aye: Bernard Greene, John VanScoyoc, Paul Warren, David Pearlman, Michael Rubenstein.”
Approve a one-day temporary entertainment license for Comm Ave Canna, Inc. d/b/a Comm Ave Canna at 16 Winslow Rd. on Monday, April 20, 2026 from 11:00AM - 7:00PM. Entertainment will include a live...
Question of approving a one-day temporary entertainment license for Comm Ave Canna, Inc. d/b/a Comm Ave Canna at 16 Winslow Rd. on Monday, April 20, 2026 from 11:00AM - 7:00PM. Entertainment will include a live Disc Jockey and Outdoor games.
“5j. Question of approving a one-day temporary entertainment license for Comm Ave Canna, Inc. d/b/a Comm Ave Canna at 16 Winslow Rd. on Monday, April 20, 2026 from 11:00AM - 7:00PM. Entertainment will include a live Disc Jockey and Outdoor games. Approved Aye: Bernard Greene, John VanScoyoc, Paul Warren, David Pearlman, Michael Rubenstein.”
Approve contract "Roof Replacement Project" with MDM Engineering Company in the amount of $1,380,000.00
Question of approving contract "Roof Replacement Project" with MDM Engineering Company in the amount of $1,380,000.00. The project includes Town Hall, Main Library, and Fire Station #6. Director of Public Buildings Charlie Simmons, reviewed the contract with MDM Engineering for roof replacements at Town Hall, Main Library, and Fire Station #6. The work includes preparing the library roof for future solar installation. Simmons provided an update on mold remediation for the Main Library (now reopened; some children's areas reopening next week).
“7a. Question of approving contract "Roof Replacement Project" with MDM Engineering Company in the amount of $1,380,000.00. The project includes Town Hall, Main Library, and Fire Station #6. Director of Public Buildings Charlie Simmons, reviewed the contract with MDM Engineering for roof replacements at Town Hall, Main Library, and Fire Station #6. The work includes preparing the library roof for future solar installation. Simmons provided an update on mold remediation for the Main Library (now reopened; some children's areas reopening next week). Approved Aye: Bernard Greene, John VanScoyoc, Paul Warren, David Pearlman, Michael Rubenstein.”
Public Hearing - Temporary Entertainment License and Noise Bylaw Waiver Schneider Electric Energy Zone - Boston Marathon . Question of approving a Temporary Entertainment License application for...
Public Hearing - Temporary Entertainment License and Noise Bylaw Waiver Schneider Electric Energy Zone - Boston Marathon . Question of approving a Temporary Entertainment License application for the Schneider Electric Energy Zone, taking place along the Boston Marathon course on Monday, April 20, 2026, from 9 am-5 pm. The event is located in the parking lots between the Fairbanks and Brandon Hall T-Stops. The activation consists of a viewing area stage and spectator trailer, a mobile screen showing the race and sponsor content, as well as a DJ with amplified speakers. 8b. Public hearing -Question of approving a Noise By-Law Waiver from Interstate Rental Service for work to be completed from Sunday, April 19th, 2026, 12 pm-9 pm for installation. Event hours Monday April 20th, 2026, 9 am-5 pm. Load out from 5 pm-9 pm in the parking lot across from 1517 Beacon Street.
“8. Public Hearing - Temporary Entertainment License and Noise Bylaw Waiver Schneider Electric Energy Zone - Boston Marathon . Question of approving a Temporary Entertainment License application for the Schneider Electric Energy Zone, taking place along the Boston Marathon course on Monday, April 20, 2026, from 9 am-5 pm. The event is located in the parking lots between the Fairbanks and Brandon Hall T-Stops. The activation consists of a viewing area stage and spectator trailer, a mobile screen showing the race and sponsor content, as well as a DJ with amplified speakers. 8b. Public hearing -Question of approving a Noise By-Law Waiver from Interstate Rental Service for work to be completed from Sunday, April 19th, 2026, 12 pm-9 pm for installation. Event hours Monday April 20th, 2026, 9 am-5 pm. Load out from 5 pm-9 pm in the parking lot across from 1517 Beacon Street. Lauren Porsche, representing Schneider Electric (Boston Marathon major sponsor), reviewed the purpose of the license is to operate the annual Schneider Electric Cheer Zone along the Boston Marathon course in Brookline. The activation is intended as a hospitality and viewing area for Schneider Electric employees, guests, and international clients. It mirrors similar setups from previous years. The location is within the parking-lot areas between the Fairbanks Street and Brandon Hall Green Line (C-branch) stations, slightly expanded toward Brandon Hall for 2026 to accommodate improved pedestrian flow. Approved Aye: Bernard Greene, John VanScoyoc, Paul Warren, David Pearlman, Michael Rubenstein.”
Noise Bylaw Waiver Porsche continued to review the noise bylaw waiver request to allow set up and breakdown of the equipment after hours, (12:00 PM - 9:00 PM) Purpose: installation of trailers,...
Noise Bylaw Waiver Porsche continued to review the noise bylaw waiver request to allow set up and breakdown of the equipment after hours, (12:00 PM - 9:00 PM) Purpose: installation of trailers, tents, platforms, and delivery of heavy equipment. Expected noise sources: truck unloading, power tools only as needed. Contingency allowance: extended window accommodates late-arriving equipment or weather delays.
“Noise Bylaw Waiver Porsche continued to review the noise bylaw waiver request to allow set up and breakdown of the equipment after hours, (12:00 PM - 9:00 PM) Purpose: installation of trailers, tents, platforms, and delivery of heavy equipment. Expected noise sources: truck unloading, power tools only as needed. Contingency allowance: extended window accommodates late-arriving equipment or weather delays. Breakdown Period - Monday, April 20, 2026 (Marathon Day) Hours: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM Purpose: disassembly of viewing platforms, bleachers, restroom trailers, and removal of event infrastructure. Expected noise sources: Hand drills for disassembling bleachers (identified as the loudest operation), Standard load-out of equipment by Interstate Rental. The applicant noted that they do not expect to use the entire waiver window, but request flexibility due to dependencies on the road reopening and vendor schedules. Last year's breakdown concluded around 6:30 PM. Public Hearing: No speakers Approved Aye: Bernard Greene, John VanScoyoc, Paul Warren, David Pearlman, Michael Rubenstein.”
Approve PW/26-38 with Lorusso for FY26 Transportation and Mobility Improvements - Harvard Street in the amount of $3,182,538.50
Question of approving PW/26-38 with Lorusso for FY26 Transportation and Mobility Improvements - Harvard Street in the amount of $3,182,538.50. Commissioner Chute and the Engineering team reviewed the contract. Purpose
“9a. Question of approving PW/26-38 with Lorusso for FY26 Transportation and Mobility Improvements - Harvard Street in the amount of $3,182,538.50. Commissioner Chute and the Engineering team reviewed the contract. Purpose This contract covers the rehabilitation and improvement of Harvard Street, one of Brookline's most important corridors, serving residents, businesses, schools, pedestrians, transit users, cyclists, and daily vehicle traffic Scope of Work Roadway Rehabilitation: Milling and paving of Harvard Street, divided into two phases (north and south of Beacon Street). Safety Enhancements: Includes improved bicycle lane visibility and buffering, intersection daylighting, and strategic use of flex posts to deter illegal parking. Signal Optimization: Installation of video detection systems for traffic signals, replacing embedded loops. These systems do not record or transmit video; they are used solely for traffic movement detection ADA Improvements: Upgrades to sidewalks and ramps to ensure accessibility. Night Work: Milling and paving operations will occur at night to minimize daytime disruption for businesses and corridor users. Timeline Start Date: Shortly after Marathon Day (tentatively May 4, 2026) Phasing: North of Beacon Street first, then south. Each phase includes milling, structure adjustment, paving, and marking. Estimated Completion: July-August 2026, depending on weather Community Engagement & Policy The project is a direct outcome of Brookline's pavement maintenance and preservation policy, aiming for disciplined, transparent, and financially responsible road maintenance. Practical safety improvements are included, but this is not a full corridor redesign. Staff acknowledged disappointment from bike advocates that the project does not go further at this time, but emphasized ongoing commitment to Vision Zero and Complete Streets priorities Technology & Privacy Video Detection: Used for traffic signal optimization; does not store or transmit video or personal information. Processing occurs within the cabinet, and access is passwordprotected. The Select Board requested conditions to ensure privacy and restrict future upgrades or external access without Board approval. Approved Aye: Bernard Greene, John VanScoyoc, Paul Warren, David Pearlman, Michael Rubenstein.”
Public Hearing on a Noise Bylaw Waiver request from Lorusso related to contract PW/26-38 "FY26 Transportation and Mobility Improvements". Purpose of the Waiver The waiver was requested to allow...
Public Hearing on a Noise Bylaw Waiver request from Lorusso related to contract PW/26-38 "FY26 Transportation and Mobility Improvements". Purpose of the Waiver The waiver was requested to allow night work for the Harvard Street Rehabilitation Project, specifically for milling and paving operations. The intent was to minimize disruption during daytime hours, especially for businesses and corridor users, and to improve safety during construction. Night work was also expected to help shorten the overall project duration Project details The project is divided into two phases: north and south of Beacon Street. Night work would be limited to up to 10 days per phase, with actual dates dependent on weather and scheduling.
“9b. Public Hearing on a Noise Bylaw Waiver request from Lorusso related to contract PW/26-38 "FY26 Transportation and Mobility Improvements". Purpose of the Waiver The waiver was requested to allow night work for the Harvard Street Rehabilitation Project, specifically for milling and paving operations. The intent was to minimize disruption during daytime hours, especially for businesses and corridor users, and to improve safety during construction. Night work was also expected to help shorten the overall project duration Project details The project is divided into two phases: north and south of Beacon Street. Night work would be limited to up to 10 days per phase, with actual dates dependent on weather and scheduling. Milling and paving would occur at night; structure adjustments and other work would be done during the day. The tentative schedule indicated milling the week of May 17th, with paving operations in early June, approximately three weeks after milling Rationale for Night Work: Staff emphasized that night work would reduce disruption for businesses and residents, and that breaking the project into two phases would minimize the time residents and visitors deal with milled surfaces. Weather Dependency: Past projects, such as Beacon Street, experienced delays due to weather, resulting in prolonged periods with milled surfaces. The phased approach aims to avoid similar issues Noise Concerns: The waiver was specifically for the noise generated during night work. Staff clarified that the loudest activity would be the use of hand power drills to disassemble bleachers, with most other tasks being relatively quiet Public hearing: No speakers Approved Aye: Bernard Greene, John VanScoyoc, Paul Warren, David Pearlman, Michael Rubenstein.”
Favorable Action on Article 6
On motion, it was, Voted 5-0 Favorable Action on Article 6
“On motion, it was, Voted 5-0 Favorable Action on Article 6 Aye: Bernard Greene, John VanScoyoc, Paul Warren, David Pearlman, Michael Rubenstein.”
Favorable Action on Article 17 as revised and supported by the petitioners
On motion, it was, Voted 4-0-1 Favorable Action on Article 17 as revised and supported by the petitioners.
Yes: Greene, Pearlman, Rubenstein, VanScoyocAbstained: Warren
“On motion, it was, Voted 4-0-1 Favorable Action on Article 17 as revised and supported by the petitioners. Aye: Bernard Greene, John VanScoyoc, David Pearlman, Michael Rubenstein Abstained: Paul Warren.”
Favorable Action on the Article with Paul Warren's revisions
On motion, it was, Voted 4-1 Favorable Action on the Article with Paul Warren's revisions.
Yes: Greene, Pearlman, VanScoyoc, WarrenNo: Rubenstein
“On motion, it was, Voted 4-1 Favorable Action on the Article with Paul Warren's revisions. Aye: Bernard Greene, John VanScoyoc, Paul Warren David Pearlman Against: Michael Rubenstein.”
Article 25. Resolution requesting the discontinuance of state and local collaboration with Federal Immigration Enforcement and participation in related information-sharing programs (Lebovitz,...
Article 25. Article 25. Resolution requesting the discontinuance of state and local collaboration with Federal Immigration Enforcement and participation in related information-sharing programs (Lebovitz, TMM8; Wu, TMM7, et al.) Public Safety Officials (Fire Chief, Police Chief): Strongly opposed withdrawal from BRIC and ceasing grant participation, citing critical importance for emergency management, regional cooperation, and law enforcement effectiveness. Select Board: Expressed concern that the article would hamstring public safety operations and that allegations against BRIC needed further investigation before any withdrawal. The Board emphasized the need for more information and collaboration with public safety officials.
Yes: Pearlman, Rubenstein, VanScoyoc, WarrenAbstained: Greene
“13e. Article 25. Article 25. Resolution requesting the discontinuance of state and local collaboration with Federal Immigration Enforcement and participation in related information-sharing programs (Lebovitz, TMM8; Wu, TMM7, et al.) Public Safety Officials (Fire Chief, Police Chief): Strongly opposed withdrawal from BRIC and ceasing grant participation, citing critical importance for emergency management, regional cooperation, and law enforcement effectiveness. Select Board: Expressed concern that the article would hamstring public safety operations and that allegations against BRIC needed further investigation before any withdrawal. The Board emphasized the need for more information and collaboration with public safety officials. On motion, it was, 4-0-1 Vote No Action on Article 25 Aye: John VanScoyoc, Paul Warren David Pearlman, Michael Rubenstein Abstained: Bernard Greene.”
Approve the Section 18B local ballot information mailer
Vote to approve the Section 18B local ballot information mailer.
“14a. Vote to approve the Section 18B local ballot information mailer. Town Counsel Joe Callanan reviewed the process as required by State law. It is now in final draft. Approved Aye: Bernard Greene, John VanScoyoc, Paul Warren, David Pearlman, Michael Rubenstein.”
From the Brookline Select Board’s official minutes, posted on the town’s CivicClerk meetings portal. We check every vote against the Select Board members present and quote the exact wording. MassVoter never grades or scores officials. Photos: Brookline.News (candidate profiles, 2024 and 2026) and the Michael Rubenstein for Brookline Select Board campaign website.
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