Councilor Farwell criticizes council process after late-filed zoning amendment; requests better public notice

Councilor Farwell on Monday publicly criticized the Brockton City Council's handling of a late-filed zoning-map amendment and the scheduling of a Thursday ordinance committee meeting with short notice.

Farwell said the council routinely accepts late files but argued zoning matters require more public notice and the normal legislative process. “I just don't think this is the way to conduct zoning business,” Farwell said, adding that last-minute scheduling makes it difficult for working residents and business organizations to participate.

The remarks came after a zoning map amendment was read into the record and referred to the ordinance committee and planning board. Farwell asked council colleagues to follow the established filing deadline — noon on the Tuesday preceding a meeting — and to give the public time to review accompanying documents before substantive deliberation.

Farwell noted he was not consulted about the committee schedule and said rapid scheduling risks public perception of impropriety. “If I was sitting out in the audience or I was sitting at home, I would wonder, well, if they're doing something this fast, what's the slight of hand here?” he said. He urged the council to provide fuller public notice and consistent timing for hearings and committee meetings.

Ending The council did not reverse the referral; the zoning amendment remained referred to the ordinance committee and planning board. Farwell said he was “proud of the council” but asked colleagues to improve transparency on substantive items.