Summary

Board advances path, policies and town meeting plans

BelmontFeb 9, 20262 min read

At a glance

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The Town Administrator reported that the Governor’s preliminary FY2027 state aid estimates are below Belmont’s current revenue projections, creating a projected shortfall. The Select Board also approved a revised Community Path Project Committee charge, updated alcohol policies, several event requests, and recommendations for the March 4 Special Town Meeting.

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Select Board

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What this means

Belmont’s preliminary state aid figures are higher than the prior fiscal year but lower than the amounts included in the Town’s current FY2027 budget projections. The Board will continue monitoring the state budget before deciding whether adjustments are needed. The Board also approved administrative changes, supported upcoming community events, and advanced planning for the next phase of the Community Path.

Key decisions

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Approved a request from the Belmont LGBTQ+ Alliance to install 30 posters on the Town Green from March 27 through April 2, 2026, and hold a small gathering on March 31.
Approved revised Alcoholic Beverages Policies, Rules, and Regulations, including updated license language and broader application filing fee provisions.
Approved Star Market’s application for a change of corporate officers, stock, or ownership interest; the minutes state that store operations, hours, layout, management, and license conditions will not change.
Approved the Belmont Chinese American Association’s request to host the fifth annual AAPI 5K and 2K road races on May 3, 2026.
Approved revisions to the Community Path Project Committee charge as the project moves from Phase 1 toward Phase 2. Phase 1 design was reported as 100% complete and on schedule.
Recommended favorable action on Articles 2 and 3 of the March 4, 2026, Special Town Meeting warrant.
Recommended unfavorable action on an amendment proposed by the Bylaw Review Committee chair to delete sections 10.1 through 10.8 and replace them with “(reserved).”
Designated Chair Matthew Taylor as Select Board liaison to the Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee and Vice-Chair Taylor Yates as liaison to the Economic Development Advisory Committee.
Vice-Chair Yates volunteered to serve as the Select Board point of contact for the Belmont Sports Complex rink during its operational transition.
The Board held an executive session concerning collective bargaining or litigation strategy involving Service Employees International Union, Local 888, then reconvened in open session.

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