Brockton Ordinance Committee July 21, 2021

The Brockton City Council's Ordinance Committee met on July 21, 2021, to discuss several procurement and budget-related matters. Key topics included proposed ordinance amendments to change job titles and wage scales for city positions such as assistant commissioner of buildings and chief information officer, with discussions on budget funding and salary adjustments. The committee also reviewed a zoning ordinance to establish form-based code districts aimed at streamlining development approvals and encouraging economic growth, though some councilors expressed concerns about implementation and experience. Additionally, the committee considered an ordinance to increase fees for septage disposal at the city’s wastewater treatment plant, ultimately approving a phased fee increase starting at 20 cents per gallon with subsequent increments. Another significant discussion involved a proposed cottage kitchen ordinance to regulate home-based food production, with input from inspectional services and fire department officials addressing safety and enforcement concerns; however, some councilors opposed the measure citing impacts on existing businesses and neighborhoods. The meeting also covered the creation of a facilities director position to manage city buildings and an amendment to the stormwater management ordinance to align with state standards and streamline review processes. Motions to postpone certain items for further review were made and approved, reflecting ongoing deliberations on these procurement and policy issues.