Resolution seeking review of the Town's practices regarding non-electronic communications

VOTED: That the Town adopt the following resolution:

Resolution urging a review of the Town's practices regarding non-electronic communications

WHEREAS, the capacity of Brookline residents to receive electronic communications has increased over time and is now widespread; and

WHEREAS, despite this capability, the Town continues to expend substantial sums on printing, postage and other costs relating to the dissemination of information in nonelectronic forms; and

WHEREAS, the annual budget of the Town of printing and mailing letters and materials for all departments is estimated to be more than $581,000; and

WHEREAS, substantial sums might be saved through a systematic reduction in nonelectronic communications not required by law; and

WHEREAS, on inquiry of the Town's staff, it is not clear which of the communications required by law must be sent by non-electronic means; and

WHEREAS the Town lacks a sufficient electronic system for efficient, timely and emergency communications, to the whole Town, or to precincts or to individual streets or to individual properties; and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that Town Meeting urges the Select Board to undertake a review of the Town's non-electronic communications to make:

1) recommendations as to savings through use of electronic communication systems; and

2) improvements for electronic communications with residents, particularly in emergency situations

by charging an existing committee or establishing a new committee, accordingly; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that such committee reports its findings in a timely manner such that, if appropriate, Warrant Articles might be submitted for consideration at a Special Town Meeting to be held in November, 2018.