One month ago, the Brookline Chamber of Commerce closed its doors. More than 150 Brookline businesses have since transitioned to our organization, the Charles River Regional Chamber.

We’ve spent these intervening weeks listening to businesses in town, meeting with town officials, talking with candidates and catching up on key issues before the town, most notably a proposed upzoning along Route 9 in Chestnut Hill and next week’s property tax override vote.

Today, we’re sharing our thoughts on why we are recommending a “Yes” vote on the May 5 Proposition 2 ½ override.  We will do the same on the zoning amendments in the days to come.

But first, a few observations.

Many Brookline business owners don’t live in Brookline. They can’t vote in local elections or run for Town Meeting.

But due to the town’s split tax rate, businesses will face a disproportionate increase in property taxes if the override passes—and, longer term, if Town Meeting fails to support efforts to expand the town’s tax base later in May.

Nearly every business owner we’ve spoken with told us they do not feel well supported by the town. Many appreciate the town’s economic development team and the sincerity of various committees, yet overall feel that a successful business community is a low priority for the town.

Poor communication around streetscape changes, parking challenges and Town Meeting warrant items aimed at restricting what they sell or serve were among the concerns.

All of this comes as many businesses are still recovering from the pandemic and grappling with inflation. They now face immigration challenges, federal funding uncertainty, tariffs and some of the nation’s highest energy and insurance costs. 

And, of course, already high property taxes.

At the same time, we recognize that the same rising costs squeezing business margins are driving the town’s $23.25 million override request, the largest by dollar amount in state history.

We would have preferred the Select Board had adopted the Expenditures & Revenue Study Committee’s recommendation for a tiered override—giving voters a more nuanced choice and creating an opportunity for a fuller conversation about spending priorities.

That said, the choice before voters on May 5 is yes or no.

The last thing the town and its businesses need is cuts to schools, infrastructure and public safety. Town services contribute to making Brookline an attractive place to live, shop, dine and visit. A no vote would also further strain the town’s capacity to support the economic development priorities businesses want expanded, not reduced.

Therefore, the Charles River Regional Chamber recommends a “Yes” vote on May 5. However, we also urge town leaders not to take the concerns and challenges facing the business community for granted moving forward.

We consider it a great privilege and an important responsibility to represent Brookline’s businesses and nonprofits. We look forward to a productive collaboration with this special community.

Please vote “Yes” on May 5.

Greg Reibman (he, him)

President & CEO

Charles River Regional Chamber

617.244.1688

We value your feedback