Personnel Committee backs Tiona Brown for Conservation Commission seat

MARLBOROUGH — May 11, 2026 — Personnel Committee advances ex-councilor Tiona Brown to Conservation Commission seat. The panel voted unanimously Tuesday to recommend Brown, a four-year former city councilor, for a three-year term expiring April 30, 2029, replacing retiring commissioner Elizabeth R. Austin. Mayor J. Christian Dumas, in his nomination letter, wrote that Brown "always had a strong connection with the conservation office" and would bring continued dedication to the city. Councilor Sean Navin moved approval after a light exchange in which Brown joked that her "honorary aunt Priscilla is the most excited" about the appointment. Councilor Laura Doucette, arriving late, told Brown "the city is better for you being here." Brown said she had attended recent Conservation Commission meetings to learn "the lay of the land." The recommendation now goes to the full City Council. The meeting adjourned at 6:20 p.m., five minutes after it began.