The Brookline Select Board meeting on May 20, 2025, focused on budget allocations and operational challenges within the town's public works department. A key discussion point was the proposed split of $300,000 in funding, with $200,000 earmarked for school appropriations and $100,000 designated for the police department's budget to alleviate pressures in their services grouping.

The board also addressed the establishment of a new health vaccine revolving fund, which requires annual authorization. This fund was included in the advisory committee's approved budget motion. Additionally, an amendment proposed by Alec Leibovitz regarding budget reallocations was debated but ultimately failed with a close vote of 10 to 11.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the challenges faced by the Department of Public Works (DPW), particularly concerning sanitation services. Commissioner Aaron Shute highlighted ongoing difficulties in recruiting staff for sanitation roles, noting that the department currently operates with only three out of eight required drivers. This staffing shortfall has led to reliance on employees from other divisions, which is not sustainable.

The board discussed the implications of potentially defunding a current sanitation contract, which could further complicate service delivery. The proposed amendment aimed to shift funds from contracted services to personnel, with the intention of restoring previously cut positions. However, concerns were raised about the feasibility of hiring sufficient staff by the July 1 contract start date.

The meeting concluded with a recognition of the urgent need for a reliable sanitation service plan, as residents have reported delays in trash collection. The board's decisions in the coming weeks will be crucial in determining the future of public works operations in Brookline.