Billerica, Massachusetts Development News
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Billerica Select Board Meeting- 7-20-26
Published: Jul 20, 2026
Licenses Approved for New Mini-Golf Bar and Diner Expansion
The Select Board held a public hearing and approved a new Section 12 restaurant all-alcohol beverages on-premise license, common victular license, weekday entertainment license, and Sunday entertainment license for 2-Putt LLC, doing business as 2-Putt, at 279 Boston Road. The establishment is described as an indoor mini-golf and sports bar. The approval was contingent upon approval from the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA), if needed. Separately, the board approved a new Section 12 restaurant wine and malt beverages license for Armando and Louise Restaurant Incorporating, doing business as Belly Buster Diner at 306 Boston Road, and approved a change in operating hours from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily.
Select Board Debates, Rejects Proposed Policy Prioritizing Internal Candidates for Chief Positions
The Select Board discussed a proposed policy to prioritize internal candidates for Police and Fire Chief positions before considering external candidates. The policy, drafted by Selectman Rosa, aims to promote continuity, preserve institutional knowledge, and enhance employee development. Town Manager Dillon and Town Counsel expressed concerns that the policy, as written, might violate the town charter by infringing on the Town Manager's administrative authority and appointment powers. Town Counsel advised that the Select Board's authority lies in rejecting proposed appointments with 'just cause' after the Town Manager makes an appointment, rather than dictating the hiring process. The motion to waive the first reading and approve the policy failed with a 2-3 vote.
Resident Questions Release of Security Footage Involving Minors; Speaker Criticizes Interference in Town Operations
Grace Chu, a resident of Precinct 9, questioned the release of security video footage involving minors by Select Board member O'Connor on his campaign page. She asked the Town Manager if authorization was granted for the release and expressed concern about potential compromise of an investigation and consistency with town policies. Chu also questioned the Select Board's role in policy oversight versus management and the ramifications of O'Connor's actions. Separately, a speaker identified as 'JB' criticized the Town Manager for doing his job and interfering with town operations, and stated the Select Board must act through the Town Manager according to the Town Charter, arguing against individual members giving orders to staff.
Advocate Highlights Health Risks of Senior Isolation, Pushes for New Senior Center
Marguerite Massey, resident of 9 Stafford Lane, advocated for a new senior center, emphasizing the crisis of isolation among older residents and its significant health risks. She described a new senior center not just as a building, but as a 'modern hub for connection' providing community, purpose, and social services, ultimately restoring dignity and protecting health. She invited attendees to a breakfast at the BCOA to meet senior center members and witness the need for a new facility.
Town Accepts $120,000 Mass Trails Grant for Yankee Doodle Bike Path Project
The Select Board voted to accept a $120,000 Mass Trails Grant from the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) for the Yankee Doodle Bike Path Project. This grant will support Phase II of the project, extending the path from Billerica Memorial High School to Concord Road and Middlesex Turnpike. Phase I is currently under construction. While the awarded amount is less than the requested funding, it requires a local match of $30,000 (20% of the grant amount). The town will need to identify additional funding sources to fully complete Phase II. Selectman Rosa thanked the department for their grant efforts and acknowledged the long-standing community desire for the bike path.
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The Billerica News archive
Comm on Disabilities 07-16-26
LORAX 07-16-26
HDC 07-15-26
Charter 07-14-26
Billerica Planning Board Meeting- 7-13-26
CPC 07-09-26
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