Brentwood commission names new parks and recreation director, votes to rename department

Nick Lawrence, introduced as Brentwood’s new parks and recreation director, told the Recreation Commission he brings about 10 years of experience and plans to prioritize programming, events, and longer-term capital projects.

Lawrence said the department will focus on rebuilding participation and finding financial support for larger projects. "We're just gonna wanna do the very best that we can to deliver value, from a recreation standpoint to everyone, for the community of Brentwood," he said.

Commissioners discussed aligning member terms and bylaws and the practical implications of board size and alternates. Several members recommended a work session to review bylaw language and confirm staggered terms before sending amendments to the Select Board for ratification.

Separately, the commission moved to change the department and commission name from "Recreation" to "Parks and Recreation," a change the chair said would make more grant funds and funding avenues available. The motion to rename passed unanimously. Members said they will update the bylaws to reflect the new name at a scheduled work session on Feb. 18 and then bring the change to the Select Board for final approval.

Next steps: the commission will hold a bylaws work session before the next meeting, prepare a draft of the proposed bylaws that use the new department name, and forward results to the Select Board for ratification.