The Minuteman High School’s budget was approved with increased investment in capital projects and a lower assessment for Arlington due to decreased enrollment, while Article 16 to ban the sale of pets in pet shops passed, emphasizing animal welfare and support for shelter adoptions. Continue reading

The Arlington Select Board declined to use town time to advise Town Meeting on how to approach calls for a Gaza ceasefire proclamation. Continue reading

The Arlington Annual Town Meeting decided against a bylaw prohibiting focused residential picketing, but passed a new bylaw making it unlawful to sell new fur products in the town. Continue reading

The Finance Committee unanimously amended the language in Articles 61 and 63 to better outline the utilization of funds for tax rate reduction, while they also reaffirmed their stance not to reconsider the Prudent Investor Warrant Article (Article 56) due to the lack of an established investment policy. Continue reading

The Arlington Select Board approved a new commercial loading zone on Lachlan Avenue and granted special licenses for upcoming community events, with further discussions on a ceasefire proclamation concerning Gaza postponed for future consideration. Continue reading

Town Meeting voted to expand the definition of “major renovation” under the fossil fuel-free bylaw to include significant residential and commercial additions and changes of use. The bylaw amendment, if approved by the Attorney General’s office, could become effective on May 21, 2024. Continue reading

The board heard concerns over Cambridge sewer discharges affecting Arlington residents and scheduled a public meeting with the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection. Continue reading

The board voted 4-1 in favor of a by-law amendment that prohibits targeted residential picketing in Arlington to balance privacy concerns against free speech, and unanimously approved land acquisitions for the Stratton Safe Routes to School project to enhance children’s safety. Continue reading

The Finance Committee approved an increased insurance budget due to rising costs, while also addressing budget cuts and maintenance of funding for various community committees. Continue reading

The Select Board focused on amending a bylaw to better manage vacant storefronts on Massachusetts Avenue and Broadway and voted to give themselves the flexibility to change the annual town meeting date to avoid conflicts with significant events or holidays. Continue reading