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Finance committee backs residency waivers for two financial analysts
Summary
The Brockton Finance Committee recommended favorably on temporary residency waivers for two entry-level financial analysts who say housing and student‑loan pressures prevent them from moving into Brockton immediately.
The Brockton Finance Committee on June 2 recommended favorably to the full City Council residency waivers for financial analysts Andrew Barbetto and Megan McKee, allowing them to remain employed while living outside Brockton.
The waivers were sought under section 2-1-10 of the City of Brockton ordinances and were introduced by Chief Financial Officer Dr. Troy Clarkson on behalf of each employee. Dr. Clarkson said both analysts “are tremendously valued members of the team.”
The request matters because Brockton’s residency requirement is intended to ensure municipal employees live in the city; councilors debated whether recruitment difficulties and housing costs justify waivers. Councilor Farwell urged support, saying, “competence and character and integrity outweigh where someone sleeps at night.” He added that the analysts had made sincere efforts to find housing in Brockton.
Andrew Barbetto, introduced by Dr. Clarkson, told the committee, “I’m unable to move to the city at this time,” citing recent graduation, housing costs and student loans. Megan McKee said she “currently commute[s] from just outside of Worcester” and is “actively looking” for housing in Brockton.
Councilor Darren Court opposed the waivers on principle, saying the residency rule should not be routinely waived and that applicants should demonstrate stronger intention to live in the city. Other members, including Councilor Minichiello and Councilwoman Castell, expressed sympathy for the analysts’ financial pressures and supported the waivers.
Motions to recommend both waivers favorably were made, seconded and approved by voice vote. The committee’s recommendation sends the waivers to the full City Council for final action.
