Select Board — April 13, 2026
All substantive actions were unanimous; public comments received no engagement and no off-agenda controversies emerged.
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At the April 13 Select Board meeting, Bob Young raised persistent concerns about double utility poles and gas-powered leaf blower noise—issues flagged in prior years. The board gave a standard thank-you and moved on without questions, discussion, or any plan for follow-up.
A second commenter called for local policies affirming resident safety and constitutional rights, similar to measures in other communities. Again, the board offered no response or engagement.
The rest of the meeting consisted of routine unanimous approvals on appointments, bonds, licenses, and warrant articles. When repeated resident input on visible local problems receives no traction, it raises questions about how seriously the board treats public comment.
Public impact
Bonds authorized at AAA rating via JP Morgan
$165,737 share of $1.5M study approved
Captain promoted to Assistant Chief (5-0)
Corrected total $11,147,087 (2.42% increase)
Topics discussed
Bob Young raised concerns about double utility poles and gas-powered leaf blowers. Alex advocated for policies affirming constitutional rights and safety of residents.
Board elected new chair Jimmy Tickus and vice chair Sarah Collie following annual post-election tradition.
Captain Mark Adroni recommended and approved for promotion to Assistant Fire Chief effective May 4, 2026.
Three positions filled: Daniel Matazzo (pump station operator, April 14), Jason Silva (heavy equipment operator, April 21), and Kayla Andred (procurement specialist, April 21).
Roger Scarian appointed to fill vacancy on the committee.
Proclamation issued recognizing the -8 Armenian Genocide and designating April 24, 2026 as memorial day.
Annual opening day parade approved for April 25 (rain date April 26) at 8 a.m.
Board approved submission of 14th SOI to MSBA for high school renovations, noting it does not commit to a project.
Discussion of multi-town debt exclusion vote process and support for Shasheen feasibility study; board expressed positive views on school improvements and relationship with Shasheen. Board approved Burlington's $165,737 share of $1.5M feasibility study.
Treasurer presented competitive bids won by JP Morgan Securities; board approved bonds for police station and BANs for school and town hall projects at AAA rating.
Presentation on March 18 economic summit findings, office market pressures, and six proposed action items including retention tracking, quarterly benchmarking, lost deal follow-up, zoning flexibility, and fiscal analysis.
Update on Metropolitan Planning Organization representation and TIP projects including I-95/Route 3 interchange, Cambridge Street improvements, and potential electric shuttle feasibility studies.
Public hearing for new all-alcohol license at 193rd Avenue; approved after subcommittee review and public comment period.
Approval of new general on-premises license for ramen restaurant at Burlington Mall food court; third MA location planned for May 1 opening.
Item postponed; board raised concerns about mobile secondhand junk dealing practices and lack of applicant attendance.
Discussion of escape-room style use at 90 Middlesex Turnpike under prior settlement agreement restrictions; board feedback sought before special permit process. Board concluded use is consistent with restrictions and can proceed to special permit review.
Annual housekeeping vote to approve the index of articles for the May 2026 town meeting warrant so they may be heard.
Review and discussion of 13 warrant articles covering building security upgrades, COA fitness equipment, conservation land programs, fire command vehicle, cardiac monitors, revolving accounts, Chapter 90 funds, sewer and water assessments, and cable access enterprise fund.
Correction of $55k error in police budget; updated FY27 total set at $11,147,087 (2.42% increase).
Thanks for recent election; promotion of July 4th parade and 250th anniversary events; announcement of May 14 mental health awareness night at Grand View Farm.
Controversy & dissent
Potentially controversial issues
Double utility poles and gas leaf blower noise
Local policies on constitutional rights and resident safety
Community vs. board tension
Public comment
Decisions logged
Action items
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