Braintree public meetings in 2025

Pond Meadow Park Commission

The Pond Meadow Park Commission will review several ongoing items, including the Project Partnership Agreement for the Smelt Brook Ladder and updates on invasive‑species work and signage. The board will also discuss the annual budget development and website updates. New business includes the 2026 annual organizational meeting and a vote on the Ranger 3 recruitment subcommittee report. Public comment will be invited before adjournment.

• Vote on the outcome of the Ranger 3 Recruitment Subcommittee report
• Update on the Project Partnership Agreement / Smelt Brook Ladder (town concurrence)
• Status report on invasive‑species specialist Randy Prostak visit
• Status of Forestry invasive removal and signage for pavilion & picnic area usage
• Annual Organizational meeting of elected officials for the Board of Commissioners 2026

The commission unanimously approved the November 19 minutes. It elected William Flanagan as Chairman, Frank Collins as Clerk, and Corey Bowdre as Treasurer. The board also unanimously approved offering the Ranger 3 position to Tim Krutz of Woburn. Funds for the Smelt Brook fish‑ladder project have been received from both towns.

• Approved November 19 minutes (unanimous)
• Elected William Flanagan as Chairman (unanimous)
• Elected Frank Collins as Clerk (unanimous)
• Elected Corey Bowdre as Treasurer (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Tim Krutz as Ranger 3 (unanimous)
• Received funds for Smelt Brook fish‑ladder project (reported receipt)

Herring & Fisheries Commission

The commission is meeting to elect officers and establish a monthly meeting schedule. The body will also discuss the appointment of new Wardens and Student Wardens.

• Election of officers
• Discussion of new Wardens and Student Wardens
• Setting of monthly meeting schedule

The inaugural Braintree Herring & Fisheries Commission meeting elected Matthew Sisk as Chairman and Jeff Maderas as Vice Chairman unanimously. The commission agreed to prepare formal recommendations for two full voting wardens and two student wardens to submit to the Mayor. It tentatively set a monthly meeting schedule for 2026 on the second Wednesday of each month, excluding July and August, and confirmed the commission will operate under the Conservation Department.

• Elected Matthew Sisk as Chairman (unanimous)
• Elected Jeff Maderas as Vice Chairman (unanimous)
• Agreed to prepare formal recommendations for two voting wardens and two student wardens
• Tentatively set monthly meetings on second Wednesday, except July/August
• Confirmed commission activities will be housed under the Conservation Department

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will meet to approve minutes from 2023 and 2024 and set the schedule for 2026. The meeting is scheduled for Monday, December 15, 2025, at 6:00 PM in Johnson Chambers.

• Approval of meeting minutes from October 2023 to July 2024
• Approval of the 2026 meeting schedule
• Meeting to be held in Johnson Chambers

The Braintree Historical Commission met on Monday, December 15, 2025 at Johnson Chambers, Braintree Town Hall. No minutes were approved because of posting issues, and the approval of minutes and the 2026 meeting schedule were postponed to the February 2, 2026 meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 6:30 PM.

Planning Board

The Braintree Planning Board will conduct a new public hearing for a special permit and site plan review at 729 Granite Street. The board will also continue hearings for a grading permit at 60 Proctor Road and a site plan review at 10 Plain Street.

• Special Permit/Site Plan Review for Scratch Golf LLC at 729 Granite Street
• Grading Permit for William Frazier at 60 Proctor Road
• Site Plan Review for Braintree Apartments Ventures LLC at 10 Plain Street
• Bond Release for TLC Supply at 40 Arnold Street
• As-Built Approval and Bond Release for Alliance Health at 175 Grove Street

The Planning Board voted unanimously to release a $300,000 surety bond for TLC Supply’s detention basin (PB File #20-02(B)). It also approved a $5,000 bond release and as‑built approval for Alliance Health (PB File #96-12). The board approved the October 14, 2025 meeting minutes, approved a grading permit for 60 Proctor Road, and postponed the 10 Plain Street site‑plan hearing to Jan. 13, 2026.

• Released $300,000 bond for TLC Supply detention basin (4‑0‑0)
• Approved as‑built and released $5,000 bond for Alliance Health (4‑0‑0)
• Approved October 14, 2025 meeting minutes (4‑0‑0)
• Approved grading permit for 60 Proctor Road (4‑0‑0)
• Continued 10 Plain Street site‑plan hearing to Jan 13 2026 (4‑0‑0)

Community Preservation Committee

The Community Preservation Committee will review applications for restoration work at two Braintree Historical Society sites. The body will also receive updates on several ongoing town projects and handle administrative business.

• Application review: French House Gutter Replacement and Grounds Restoration, 766 Washington Street
• Application review: Thayer House Conditions Assessment and Rehabilitation Project, 786 Washington Street
• Project updates: Nathan Buliga Park/Highlands School Playground
• Project updates: Daughraty Gym Restoration
• Project updates: Town Hall Handicap Ramp

The Community Preservation Committee unanimously approved $17,876 to replace the gutters and repair the French House at 766 Washington Street. It also unanimously approved $34,365 from the Historic Preservation Fund for a conditions assessment and rehabilitation plan for the Thayer House at 786 Washington Street. The members then approved the October 27, 2025 meeting minutes, adopted the 2026 meeting schedule, and adjourned the session.

• Approved $17,876 for French House gutter replacement and grounds restoration (unanimous 7‑0)
• Approved $34,365 for Thayer House conditions assessment and rehabilitation plan (unanimous 7‑0)
• Approved the October 27, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous 7‑0)
• Approved the 2026 meeting schedule (unanimous 7‑0)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous 7‑0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will consider three petitions for zoning relief. These include a request for a child day care facility and two requests for residential additions or reconstructions on non-conforming lots.

• Petition #25-25: Request for child day care facility at 38 Roosevelt Street
• Petition #25-26: Request for front and rear yard setback relief for an addition at 105 Prospect Street
• Petition #25-27: Request to demolish and reconstruct a dwelling on a non-conforming lot at 11 Blossom Road
• Petition #25-28: Public hearing for 41 Hillside Road extended to January 26, 2026

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold several public hearings, including applications for 19-23 Granite Street, 201 Commerce Drive, and sites off Venus Road and Audubon Road. It will discuss a preliminary matter for 335 Middle Street and review and approve an emergency stormwater repair determination for 665 Middle Street. The commission will also consider a Fore River Department of Agriculture request, a certificate of compliance for 100 River Road, and a Wildflower Meadow project at Watson Park.

• Public hearing – ANRAD – DEP File #8-746 – 19-23 Granite Street (Atlanta Real Estate Holdings, LLC)
• Request for Determination of Applicability – 201 Commerce Drive (Marr Scaffolding Company)
• Request for Determination of Applicability – off Venus Road and Audubon Road (Massachusetts Water Resources Authority)
• Review and Approval of Emergency Repair Determination – 665 Middle Street (Braintree DPW, Stormwater)
• Notice of Intent – DEP File #8-695 – Request for Certificate of Compliance – 100 River Road (Gary Gabriel)

The Conservation Commission approved the Determination of Applicability for the 19‑23 Granite Street site and for the phase‑3 work at 201 Commerce Drive and 600 Grove Street, adding a condition on the storm‑water plan. It issued a Negative Determination for the MWRA project on Venus Road/Audubon Road. The commission also approved a Certificate of Compliance for the 100 River Road planting project, holding the bond for one growing season.

• Approved Determination of Applicability for 19‑23 Granite Street (as submitted)
• Approved Determination of Applicability for 201 Commerce Drive and 600 Grove Street with condition to submit revised storm‑water plan
• Issued Negative Determination for MWRA access project on Venus Road/Audubon Road
• Approved Certificate of Compliance for 100 River Road planting, bond held for one growing season

Commission on Disabilities

The Braintree Commission on Disabilities will meet virtually to approve the November 3, 2025 meeting minutes and receive updates on several ongoing items. Topics include the replacement of an accessible bench at Thayer Library, a sub‑committee report, and the status of the Handicapped Parking Fund. The meeting is open to the public and will conclude at 8:00 PM.

• Approve November 3, 2025 meeting minutes
• Update on accessible bench replacement at Thayer Library
• Sub‑committee update from Kelly Ormsby and Crystal Evans
• Handicapped Parking Fund account update

The Braintree Commission on Disabilities approved the minutes from the November 3, 2025 meeting by unanimous roll‑call vote. The commission then adjourned the December 1 session unanimously. No other actions were approved; discussions on bench replacement, parking‑fund balance, and accessibility concerns were noted for future follow‑up.

• Approved November 3, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Adjourned the December 1, 2025 meeting (unanimous roll‑call vote)

Pond Meadow Park Commission

The Pond Meadow Park Commission meeting will review updates on the Project Partnership Agreement, invasive species specialist visits, water and wetland inspections, and signage for the pavilion. New business includes hiring a park accountant, replacing park bridges and culverts, conducting forestry mowing under a grant, and replacing doors on the park building. Reports from the treasurer, chairman, supervisors, and subcommittees will be presented, and the public will have an opportunity to comment.

• Replacement of park bridges and culverts (new business)
• Forestry mowing by Land Timber in December under the Forestry Grant Partnership
• Door replacement on the park building by Liberty Painting and Siding in November
• Update on the Project Partnership Agreement / Smelt Brook Ladder (old business)
• Status of invasive specialist Randy Prostak visit (old business)

The commission unanimously approved a letter to help rangers with abutter communications and adopted new signage at the pavilion to curb litter. It also unanimously approved posting a draft notice about invasive‑species treatment on the park website and supported $80 safety training for rangers. Earlier items included unanimous approval of the October 15 minutes and the draft website notice.

• Approved forwarding of invasive‑species draft notice to website (unanimous)
• Accepted abutters letter for tree‑work assistance (unanimous, second by Commissioner Collins)
• Approved pavilion signage to address litter (unanimous, second by Commissioner Folan)
• Unanimously supported $80 safety training for rangers (unanimous)
• Approved October 15 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved previous minutes motion (unanimous)
• Approved Friends of Pond Meadow Park donation‑signage design suggestions (discussion, no formal vote recorded)
• Approved Land Timber forestry mowing under grant (no vote recorded)

Board of Health

The Board of Health will conduct a hearing regarding a sale of tobacco violation. The board will also receive an update on flavored tobacco products and continue its review of Kratom.

• Hearing: Sale of Tobacco Violation: Braintree Market & Deli-978 Liberty Street
• Update on Flavored Tobacco Products
• Continued review of Kratom

The Board approved the minutes from the October 16, 2025 meeting. A hearing on the market’s tobacco violation was tabled pending a representative’s arrival. The Board upheld a first‑offense penalty of a $1,000 fine and a five‑day suspension of the tobacco sales permit for Braintree Market & Deli. The meeting was adjourned at 7:29 p.m.

• Approved meeting minutes of Oct 16, 2025 (2‑0)
• Tabled hearing on Braintree Market & Deli tobacco violation (unanimous)
• Upheld first‑offense penalty: $1,000 fine and 5‑day permit suspension (2‑0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:29 p.m. (2‑0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a closed hearing to review the draft decision on a major modification to the Subdivision Plan (SPR) for the property at 201 Commerce Drive and 600 Grove Street, submitted by Marimar Construction, LLC. The meeting also includes several public hearings on grading permits for 60 Proctor Road, 60 Columbian Street, and 55 King Hill Road, as well as a site‑plan review for a residential project at 10 Plain Street. An approval‑not‑required (ANR) request for multiple parcels on Granite Street, Silver Road, and Lakeside Drive will be considered, and the minutes from the September 9, 2025 meeting will be approved.

• Closed hearing – review draft decision on major SPR modification, 201 Commerce Drive / 600 Grove Street (Marimar Construction, LLC)
• Public hearing – grading permit for 60 Proctor Road (William Frazier)
• Public hearing – grading permits for 60 Columbian Street (Banner Park Campus, LLC) and 55 King Hill Road (Charles B. Almy III)
• Site‑plan review – 10 Plain Street residential project (Braintree Apartments Ventures LLC d/b/a Trammell Crow Residential)
• Approval‑not‑required (ANR) request for parcels at 250 Granite Street, 0 Silver Road, 131 Lakeside Drive, and 135 Lakeside Drive (ZMA Development, LP)

The Planning Board voted 5‑0 to endorse the Approval Not Required (ANR) application for 250 Granite Street, 0 Silver Road, 131 Lakeside Drive, and 135 Lakeside Drive. The Board also approved the September 9, 2025 meeting minutes by a 5‑0 vote. No other land‑use actions were decided at this meeting.

• Endorsed Approval Not Required for 250 Granite St/0 Silver Rd/131 & 135 Lakeside Dr (5-0-0)
• Approved September 9, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0-0)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission continued the public hearing for the Notice of Intent (DEP File #8-0745) concerning 0 Hancock Street and 10 Plain Street, moving it to the December 4 meeting. The commission will also consider an emergency stormwater repair at 665 Middle Street, approve the 2026 meeting dates and filing deadlines, and review three additional Notices of Intent for certificates of compliance at 42 Hayward Street, 60 Jensen Farm Road, and the postponed hearing site.

• Continued public hearing for DEP File #8-0745 – 0 Hancock St / 10 Plain St – Braintree Apartment Ventures, LLC.
• Emergency repair request – 665 Middle St – Braintree DPW (stormwater).
• Approval of 2026 meeting dates and filing deadlines.
• Notice of Intent DEP File #8-695 – request for certificate of compliance – 42 Hayward St – John Lu.
• Notice of Intent DEP File #8-729 – request for certificate of compliance – 60 Jensen Farm Rd – Wenfang Zheng.

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will meet to review and sign a decision regarding a denied application. The item concerns a petition filed by Steven Young of Mona River, LLC.

• Decision review for Petition #25-24: 1139 and 1151 Washington Street (Denied Application)

The Zoning Board of Appeals signed the decision on Petition #25-24 for 1139 and 1151 Washington Street. The signature page was signed by the Chair, Vice‑Chair, and Clerk. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Signed ZBA decision for 1139 and 1151 Washington St (unanimous)
• Meeting adjourned (unanimous)

Commission on Disabilities

The Commission on Disabilities will approve the minutes from its September 8 and October 6, 2025 meetings. It will consider forming a Community Planning Subcommittee and moving items such as bike racks, communication boards, benches, and pedestrian access for South Braintree Square to that subcommittee. Updates will be given on sidewalk concerns, an accessible bench replacement at Thayer Library, and the Handicapped Parking Fund. The board will also continue discussions on potential purchases like bike racks and communication boards and on MassDOT issues.

• Approve September 8, 2025 meeting minutes
• Approve October 6, 2025 meeting minutes
• Form Community Planning Subcommittee
• Move bike racks, communication boards, benches, and pedestrian access for South Braintree Square to Subcommittee
• Handicapped Parking Fund account update

The Braintree Commission on Disabilities voted to create a Community Planning Subcommittee and assigned it responsibility for bike‑rack, communication board, bench and patio‑access discussions at South Braintree Square, as well as for drafting letters to commercial properties about bike racks and handling ongoing MassDOT issues. The commission also approved a motion to purchase a six‑foot bench for Thayer Library if the previously approved eight‑foot bench cannot be installed. The handicapped parking fund balance was reported as $51,910.78.

• Approved formation of Community Planning Subcommittee (5‑0 roll call)
• Approved moving bike‑rack, communication board, bench, patio‑access discussions to Subcommittee (5‑0 roll call)
• Approved Subcommittee to draft letters to commercial properties regarding bike racks (5‑0 roll call)
• Approved moving ongoing MassDOT issues to Subcommittee (5‑0 roll call)
• Approved purchase of six‑foot bench for Thayer Library if eight‑foot bench unsuitable (5‑0 roll call)
• Approved minutes of September 8, 2025 meeting as amended (5‑0 roll call)
• Approved adjournment of October 6, 2025 meeting (5‑0 roll call)
• Reported Handicapped Parking Fund balance of $51,910.78

Community Preservation Committee

The Community Preservation Committee will review a project application from the Braintree Historical Society. The meeting also includes project updates from Director Peter Matchak.

• Review of application for Braintree Cannon Wheel Replacement at 786 Washington Street

The Community Preservation Committee voted unanimously to appropriate $4,875 from the Historic Resources Fund for the Braintree Cannon Wheel Replacement project. Funds for the Independence Manor affordable‑housing grant ($1.44 M) were returned because the required deed restriction was not accepted. A remaining balance of $25,256 from the Microfilm Digitization project will also be returned to the CPA account. The committee directed that a historic restriction be placed on the Liberty Grove house and that the property be sold through an RFP.

• Approved $4,875 for Braintree Cannon Wheel Replacement (unanimous vote)
• Returned $1,440,000 Independence Manor funding (no deed restriction accepted)
• Returned $25,256 remaining balance from Microfilm Digitization project
• Directed placement of historic restriction on Liberty Grove house and RFP sale
• Directed Director Matchak to investigate Sunset Lake land issue
• Reported completion of Delory Field Rehabilitation (new turf installed)
• Reported completion and public opening of Armstrong Dam Trail
• Confirmed historic inventory 2023 finalized and copies filed

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will consider Petition #25-24 from Mona River LLC for variances on open space, density, and building height for a 43‑unit multifamily building at 1139 & 1151 Washington Street. It will also review Petition #25-23 from Dick’s Sporting Goods, Inc. for façade height and sign variances at 250 Granite Street. Administrative items include approving the cancellation of two prior meeting dates, setting a new meeting date, approving the 2026 meeting schedule, and adopting the September 29, 2025 minutes.

• Petition #25-24: variances for open space, density, and stories for a 43‑unit building at 1139 & 1151 Washington St.
• Petition #25-23: variances for façade height up to 78 ft and expanded wall signs at 250 Granite St.
• Approve cancellation of Nov 24 2025 and Dec 29 2025 ZBA meetings; replace with Dec 8 2025 meeting
• Approve 2026 Zoning Board of Appeals meeting schedule
• Approve meeting minutes from Sep 29 2025

The Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously approved the variances requested by Dick’s Sporting Goods for 250 Granite Street, allowing increased facade height and larger signage. The Board denied the density variance sought for the 43‑unit multifamily project at 1139 and 1151 Washington Street, finding it exceeds the allowable residential density. No other relief was granted for the Washington Street application.

• Approved variances for 250 Granite Street (Dick’s Sporting Goods) – unanimous
• Denied density variance for 1139 and 1151 Washington Street (Mona River LLC)

Board of Health

The Braintree Board of Health will meet via Zoom on October 16, 2025. It will approve the minutes from the August 14, 2025 meeting. The board will hold hearings on a tobacco sale violation at Braintree Smoke Shop, 6 Commercial Street, and a bodywork regulation violation at Relaxing Sunlight Spa, 36 Commercial Street. A presentation on the substance kratom will also be given.

• Hearing on tobacco sale violation at Braintree Smoke Shop, 6 Commercial Street
• Hearing on bodywork regulation violation at Relaxing Sunlight Spa, 36 Commercial Street
• Presentation on kratom
• Approval of August 14, 2025 meeting minutes

The Board voted 2‑0 to uphold the first‑offense penalty for Braintree Smoke Shop, imposing a $1,000 fine and a five‑day suspension of its tobacco sales permit. It also voted 2‑0 to issue a warning letter to the owner of Relaxing Sunlight Spa for bodywork regulation violations. The minutes from August 14, 2025 were approved (2‑0) and the meeting was adjourned at 7:59 p.m. (2‑0).

• Approved $1,000 fine and 5‑day tobacco permit suspension for Braintree Smoke Shop (2‑0)
• Issued warning letter to Relaxing Sunlight Spa owner for bodywork violations (2‑0)
• Approved minutes of August 14, 2025 (2‑0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:59 p.m. (2‑0)

Pond Meadow Park Commission

The commission voted to deny Mark Salzillo's Eco Preschool proposal for the park. The September 17 minutes were approved as amended. The park hired Edward DeLuca CPA as a consulting accountant and accepted a FY26 Community Woodland grant of $19,195.47. A Community Preservation Act grant for the Brookside fish ladder was approved, and the meeting was adjourned.

• Denied Eco Preschool proposal (unanimous approval)
• Approved September 17 minutes as amended (unanimous)
• Approved hiring Edward DeLuca CPA as park consulting accountant
• Accepted FY26 Community Woodland grant of $19,195.47 (net)
• Approved Community Preservation Act grant for Brookside fish ladder $163,125 (Braintree $175,650, Weymouth $163,125)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous approval)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold new and continued public hearings regarding grading permits and site plan reviews for several properties. The board will also consider modification requests and approve the 2026 meeting schedule.

• Grading Permit for 60 Columbian Street (Banner Park Campus, LLC)
• Major Modification to SPR for 201 Commerce Drive / 600 Grove Street
• Site Plan Review for 10 Plain Street (Braintree Apartments Ventures LLC)
• Special Permit/Site Plan Review for 29 Messina Drive
• Minor Modification Request for 250 Granite Street (Dick’s Sporting Goods)

The Planning Board unanimously approved the as‑built approval and release of the surety for the grading permit at 42 Hayward Street. It also approved a Minor Modification allowing Dick’s Sporting Goods to replace the former Nordstrom space at 250 Granite Street. Finally, the Board adopted the 2026 meeting schedule.

• Approved As‑Built approval and release of surety for PB #21-12, 42 Hayward Street (5‑0‑0)
• Approved Minor Modification for PB #08-03, 250 Granite Street – Dick’s Sporting Goods (5‑0‑0)
• Approved 2026 Planning Board meeting schedule (5‑0‑0)

Conservation Commission

The provided agenda contains only procedural information and member listings. No specific items for decision or discussion are listed.

Commission on Disabilities

The Braintree Commission on Disabilities will meet on October 6, 2025, from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM via Zoom, open to the public. The agenda includes approval of September 2025 minutes, an update on audible crosswalk signals, and a discussion of possible purchases—bike racks, accessible benches, and communication boards—using handicapped funds. A report on the Handicapped Parking Fund account will also be provided.

• Potential purchase of bike racks using Handicapped Funds
• Potential purchase of accessible benches using Handicapped Funds
• Potential purchase of Augmentative and Alternative Communication boards for playgrounds
• Update on audible crosswalk signals
• Handicapped Parking Fund account update

The commission approved the purchase of three eight‑foot benches, pending location confirmation, by a unanimous roll‑call vote. It also approved spending up to $3,000 for bike racks, also unanimously. Members formed a Community Planning Subcommittee and assigned it to handle bench, bike‑rack, and other accessibility projects. The commission unanimously approved a letter to state senators and a presentation to the Town Council to seek MassDOT accessibility funding.

• Formed Community Planning Subcommittee; appointed Kelly Ormsby and Crystal Evans (no vote taken)
• Approved purchase of three eight‑foot benches (Crystal Evans‑yes; Robin Torpey‑yes; Mary Russo‑yes; Scott Lamphere‑yes; Kelly Ormsby‑yes)
• Approved up to $3,000 for bike rack purchases (Robin Torpey‑yes; Mary Russo‑yes; Scott Lamphere‑yes; Crystal Evans‑yes; Kelly Ormsby‑yes)
• Assigned subcommittee to draft commercial‑property bike‑rack letters (Scott Lamphere‑yes; Crystal Evans‑yes; Mary Russo‑yes; Robin Torpey‑yes; Kelly Ormsby‑yes)
• Approved sending a letter to Senators Keenan, Driscoll and Rep. Cusack for MassDOT funding (Scott Lamphere‑yes; Mary Russo‑yes; Robin Torpey‑yes; Crystal Evans‑yes; Kelly Ormsby‑yes)
• Approved giving a presentation to the Town Council on MassDOT funding (Crystal Evans‑yes; Scott Lamphere‑yes; Mary Russo‑yes; Robin Torpey‑yes; Kelly Ormsby‑yes)
• Reported Handicapped Parking Fund balance of $50,925.78
• Adjourned meeting at 7:53 p.m. (no vote taken)

Community Preservation Committee

The Community Preservation Committee will review the FY 2025 annual report and accept public comments. It will also approve the minutes from the May 12 and June 9, 2025 meetings, consider the CPA Coalition annual dues, and set the date for the next meeting.

• Approve minutes from the May 12, 2025 meeting
• Approve minutes from the June 9, 2025 meeting
• Consider CPA Coalition annual dues
• Review FY 2025 Community Preservation annual report
• Schedule next meeting for October 27, 2025

The Braintree Community Preservation Committee opened and then closed its annual public hearing. It approved the minutes from the May 19 and June 9, 2025 meetings, authorized a $3,500 payment for the FY2026 Community Preservation Coalition dues, and then adjourned the session.

• Motion to open public hearing approved (6:0:1)
• Motion to close public hearing approved (6:0:1)
• Approve minutes of May 19, 2025 meeting (6:0:1)
• Approve minutes of June 9, 2025 meeting (6:0:1)
• Approve $3,500 FY26 Community Preservation Coalition dues payment (6:0:1)
• Motion to adjourn approved (6:0:1)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will review a petition to convert a two-unit multi-family home into a four-unit dwelling. The board will also process a withdrawal request for a property on Forbes Road.

• Petition #25-22: Request to convert 244 Hayward Street from two to four units and construct a porch
• Petition #25-22: Variance requests for side yard setback (8.9 ft vs 10 ft required), open space, and density
• Petition #25-18: Request for withdrawal for 60 Forbes Road by Robert Tuttle, NE Neon Co.

The Board unanimously approved the variances requested by Kevin B. Sweeney for 244 Hayward Street, allowing a porch setback reduction and conversion to a four‑unit multi‑family dwelling. The Board also approved the withdrawal of Petition #25-18 submitted by Robert Tuttle of NE Neon Co. The August 25, 2025 meeting minutes were approved and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved variances for 244 Hayward St (porch setback & unit conversion) (3-0)
• Approved withdrawal of Petition #25-18 (3-0)
• Approved August 25, 2025 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Pond Meadow Park Commission

The Weymouth-Braintree Regional Recreation-Conservation District Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss pond water and wetland inspections. The board is also reviewing policies regarding e-bikes in the park and property line tree regulations.

• Establishment of a sub-committee for By-Law updates
• Review of pollinator meadow assessment
• Update on Smelt Brook Ladder Project Partnership Agreement
• Status of State/DCR FY '26 Grant for an Invasive Specialist
• Findings of the Pond water and wetland inspection and fall treatment

The commission unanimously approved funding from Weymouth ($163,125) and Braintree ($175,650) for the Brookside Road Fish Ladder project. It also approved a $1,500 limit for an invasive‑species specialist to evaluate Mugwort, a demolition jack‑hammer purchase up to $1,100, and a metal cutoff saw purchase up to $300. All motions were passed unanimously.

• Approved $163,125 from Weymouth for Brookside Road Fish Ladder Project (unanimous)
• Approved $175,650 from Braintree for Brookside Road Fish Ladder Project (unanimous)
• Approved up to $1,500 for invasive specialist evaluation of Mugwort (unanimous)
• Approved demolition jack hammer purchase not to exceed $1,100 (unanimous)
• Approved metal cutoff saw purchase not to exceed $300 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of RB800 pressure washer as a capital expense (recorded purchase)
• Disbursed $11,450 check for Liberty Siding door replacement (recorded disbursement)
• Approved $14,766.66 grant reimbursement to Forest Fund (recorded receipt)

Town Council

The Town Council approved the minutes from the June 3, 2025 meeting with a 7‑0 vote and two members absent. They then opened the public hearing on Order 25 003 concerning accessory dwelling unit zoning amendments, also by a 7‑0 vote. Finally, the council took Order 25 003 off the table with the same unanimous vote.

• Approved June 3, 2025 minutes (7‑0, 2 absent)
• Opened public hearing on Order 25 003 (7‑0, 2 absent)
• Took Order 25 003 off the table (7‑0, 2 absent)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct continued public hearings for several special permits and site plan reviews. The board will also consider a grading permit and approve minutes from the August 12, 2025 meeting.

• Special Permit/Site Plan Review for Escapology of Braintree, LLC at 400 Franklin Street
• Special Permit/Site Plan Review for Bayshore Athletic Club at 160 Granite Street
• Grading Permit for Charles B. Almy III at 55 King Hill Road
• Special Permit/Site Plan Review for Tingting Li at 29 Messina Drive
• Site Plan Review for Braintree Apartments Venture LLC at 10 Plain Street

The Planning Board unanimously approved the Special Permit/Site Plan Review for Escapology of Braintree LLC at 400 Franklin Street (PB File #25-07) and for Bayshore Athletic Club at 160 Granite Street (PB File #25-08). The board also voted to place correspondence through September 2, 2025 into the record for both permits. Additionally, the board continued the grading permit hearing for 55 King Hill Road to the October 14, 2025 meeting and approved the August 12, 2025 meeting minutes.

• Approved inclusion of correspondence through Sep 2, 2025 for 400 Franklin St (5-0-0)
• Approved Special Permit/Site Plan Review for 400 Franklin St, Escapology of Braintree LLC (5-0-0)
• Approved inclusion of correspondence through Sep 2, 2025 for 160 Granite St (5-0-0)
• Approved Special Permit/Site Plan Review for 160 Granite St, Bayshore Athletic Club (5-0-0)
• Continued grading permit hearing for 55 King Hill Rd to Oct 14, 2025 (5-0-0)
• Approved meeting minutes for Aug 12, 2025 (4-0-1; Connolly abstained)

Commission on Disabilities

The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the July 7 and August 4, 2025 meetings. A discussion was held about installing bike racks and other accessibility projects, but no actions were voted on. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved July 7, 2025 minutes (Crystal Evans‑yes, Robin Torpey‑yes, Scott Lamphere‑yes, Kelly Ormsby‑yes)
• Approved August 4, 2025 minutes (Crystal Evans‑yes, Robin Torpey‑yes, Scott Lamphere‑yes, Kelly Ormsby‑yes)
• Adjourned meeting (Crystal Evans‑yes, Robin Torpey‑yes, Scott Lamphere‑yes, Kelly Ormsby‑yes)

Conservation Commission

The provided agenda contains only procedural information and member listings. No specific business items, hearings, or decisions are listed for this meeting.

Town Council

The Town Council unanimously approved the mayor’s appointment of Michael Esmond to the Braintree Contributory Retirement Board for a three‑year term. The council also approved the appointments of William Cash to the Tree Committee and Nicholas Campia to the Conservation Commission. Additionally, the council referred three items—Order 25 056, Order 25 055, and Order 25 058—to the Committee of Ways & Means, the Department of Public Works, and the Ordinance & Rules Committee, respectively. All votes were 9‑0 in favor.

• Approved appointment of William Cash to Tree Committee (9‑0)
• Approved appointment of Nicholas Campia to Conservation Commission (9‑0)
• Approved appointment of Michael Esmond to Braintree Contributory Retirement Board (9‑0)
• Approved minutes of May 27, 2025 (9‑0)
• Referred Order 25 056 (Smelt Brook Restoration Project) to Committee of Ways & Means (9‑0)
• Referred Order 25 055 (National Grid Petition: 5‑268 Peach Street) to Committee on Public Works (9‑0)
• Referred Order 25 058 (Proposed Herring and Fisheries Commission ordinance) to Committee on Ordinance & Rules (9‑0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a variance allowing 27.7% lot coverage and 72.3% open space for a new single‑family dwelling at 2B Graziano Drive. It also approved a finding for a roof overhang at 9 Woodside Avenue. The hearing on the sign variance for 60 Forbes Road was continued to September 29, 2025. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved variance for lot coverage (27.7% vs 20% allowed) and open space (72.3% vs 80% required) at 2B Graziano Drive (unanimous)
• Approved finding for roof overhang at 9 Woodside Avenue (unanimous)
• Continued public hearing on sign variance for 60 Forbes Road to Sep 29, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved petition #25-19 (same variance at 2B Graziano Drive) (unanimous)

Pond Meadow Park Commission

The commission unanimously approved the July 16th meeting minutes. A motion to allocate up to $4,000 to complete the Lily Pad control project was passed unanimously. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved July 16th minutes (unanimous)
• Approved up to $4,000 for Lily Pad control project (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Board of Health

The Braintree Board of Health will meet to review a request for a well variance regarding roadway and property line setbacks. The board will also vote to approve the minutes from the July 10, 2025 meeting.

• Well variance request for 70 Zana Park Drive (roadway and property line setbacks)

The Board approved the minutes from the July 10, 2025 meeting. It then approved a well variance request for 70 Zana Park Drive, allowing the well to be placed 68 feet from the roadway and 40 feet from the neighboring dwelling. The meeting was adjourned at 7:09 p.m.

• Approved July 10, 2025 meeting minutes (3-yes)
• Approved well variance for 70 Zana Park Drive (3-yes)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:09 p.m. (3-yes)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board voted to issue Notices of Decision for the eight‑unit townhouse and the seventy‑unit apartment projects at 383 Washington Street, as required by the Appeals Court order. Both motions passed unanimously. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved issuance of notice for eight‑unit townhouse project (unanimous)
• Approved issuance of notice for seventy‑unit apartment project (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board approved a six‑month extension of the grading permit for 9 John Paul Circle (4‑0‑0). It also granted As‑Built approval for 9‑11 Independence Avenue and released the surety except $4,000 (or $118,784.40) (4‑0‑0). Finally, the board adopted the July 8, 2025 meeting minutes (4‑0‑0).

• Extended grading permit for 9 John Paul Circle by six months (vote 4-0-0)
• Approved As‑Built for 9-11 Independence Avenue and released surety minus $4,000 (vote 4-0-0)
• Adopted July 8, 2025 meeting minutes (vote 4-0-0)

Conservation Commission

The minutes for the Braintree Conservation Commission meeting on August 7, 2025 contain only header information listing department contacts and commission members. No actions, approvals, denials, or vote tallies are documented. Therefore, no substantive decisions were recorded.

Town Council

The Town Council unanimously approved the FY 2025 Capital Plan (Order 25 027) after a public hearing. The Council also approved an appropriation of $17,463,500 for a list of capital projects (Order 25 028) with a 9‑0 vote. Councilors voted to table and continue the public hearing on the Accessory Dwelling Unit zoning amendment (Order 25 003) to September 16, 2025. The minutes from the April 29, 2025 meeting were approved unanimously.

• Approved FY 2025 Capital Plan (Order 25 027) – vote 9‑0
• Approved $17,463,500 capital projects appropriation (Order 25 028) – vote 9‑0
• Tabled and continued public hearing on ADU zoning amendment (Order 25 003) to Sep 16, 2025 – vote 9‑0
• Approved April 29, 2025 meeting minutes – vote 9‑0
• Opened public hearing on Order 25 027 – vote 9‑0
• Closed public hearing on Order 25 027 – vote 9‑0
• Opened public hearing on Order 25 028 – vote 9‑0
• Closed public hearing on Order 25 028 – vote 9‑0

Commission on Disabilities

The commission voted to adjourn the meeting. Members agreed that ADA Coordinator Kristina Ziniti will obtain cost estimates for benches, bike racks and an AAC device, and will prepare pricing information for benches at the Monatiquot River Walk for a future vote. The group also decided to continue discussion on Route 37 and other infrastructure improvements at the next meeting.

• Adjourned meeting (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Tasked ADA Coordinator to gather pricing for benches at Monatiquot River Walk
• Tasked ADA Coordinator to gather pricing for bike racks suitable for e‑bikes, scooters, and tricycles
• Tasked ADA Coordinator to obtain a quote for an AAC device for playground use
• Agreed to continue discussion on Route 37/Grove Street improvements at next meeting
• Agreed to compile a list of funding opportunities for MassDOT projects as requested by Senator Driscoll’s office
• Discussed adding a handicapped parking space at Richardi’s/Olympian Diner and agreed to explore options

Historical Commission

The commission voted 5‑0‑0 to approve a Certificate of Appropriateness for a synthetic slate composite roofing product on the Braintree Fire Department headquarters, with staff to confirm acceptance by Mass Historical. The meeting was then adjourned by a 5‑0‑0 vote.

• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for synthetic slate composite roof (5:0:0)
• Motion to adjourn the meeting passed (5:0:0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Board approved a finding with conditions for Demetrios Stavropoulos to add a 272‑sq‑ft single‑story addition at 92 Celia Road. It also approved Boston Gas (National Grid) to demolish and rebuild its fleet garage at 39 Quincy Avenue with conditions. Additionally, the Board voted to continue the public hearing on Logan Brown’s deck addition at 73 Beechwood Road to August 25, 2025 and to conduct a site visit.

• Approved finding with conditions for 92 Celia Road addition (all in favor)
• Approved finding with conditions for 39 Quincy Avenue fleet garage reconstruction (all in favor)
• Motion to continue public hearing on 73 Beechwood Road deck addition to Aug 25, 2025 (all in favor)

Pond Meadow Park Commission

The commission approved the corrected minutes from the June meeting unanimously. It approved the FY25 matching grant of $16,363.20 and will disburse the funds within 30 days. The $2,000 insurance settlement offer was rejected and the Friends of Pond Meadow adopted a new mission statement. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved corrected June meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved FY25 match grant funds $16,363.20 for park projects
• Rejected $2,000 insurance settlement offer
• Adopted new mission statement for Friends of Pond Meadow, Inc.
• Motion to adjourn meeting passed (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board voted to approve the Zoning Board of Appeals Rules and Regulations dated July 14, 2025. Clerk Cavanaugh moved the motion, Vice‑Chair Perez seconded, and Chair Rubin, Vice‑Chair Perez, and Clerk Cavanaugh all voted in favor, passing the motion unanimously. No other substantive items were decided. The meeting was adjourned at 9:40 p.m.

• Approved Zoning Board of Appeals Rules and Regulations (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Board of Health

The Braintree Board of Health unanimously approved three well variance requests, imposed a $2,000 fine and 10‑day permit suspension for a second tobacco sale violation, and approved an amendment to the Norfolk County inter‑municipal grant agreement. The meeting minutes from June 12, 2025 were also approved and the session was adjourned at 7:45 p.m.

• Approved minutes from June 12, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved well variance for 90 Catherine Drive (unanimous)
• Approved well variance for 103 Hawthorn Road, contingent on receipt of one abutter notification (unanimous)
• Approved well variance for 100 Louise Road (unanimous)
• Imposed $2,000 fine and 10‑day tobacco permit suspension for 4 Granite Street violation (unanimous)
• Approved amendment to Norfolk County 5‑East Inter‑Municipal Agreement (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:45 p.m. (unanimous)

Town Council

The Town Council voted to table Order 25 003, the proposed accessory dwelling unit zoning amendment, and to continue its public hearing on August 5, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. The motion passed with eight votes in favor, zero against, and one councilor absent. The Council also opened the public hearing on Order 25 027, the FY 2025 Capital Plan, which was approved unanimously by seven votes.

• Opened public hearing on Order 25 003 (8‑0, 1 absent)
• Took Order 25 003 off the table (8‑0, 1 absent)
• Tabled Order 25 003 and continued hearing to Aug 5, 2025 (8‑0, 1 absent)
• Opened public hearing on Order 25 027 (7‑0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board approved the as‑built release for 575 Quincy Avenue, a minor modification to relocate EV chargers at 20‑60 Forbes Road, and a minor modification for the 4‑44 Allen Street housing project. Each item was approved unanimously (5‑0‑0). The board also approved the May 13 and June 10, 2025 meeting minutes.

• Approved As‑Built release for 575 Quincy Avenue (5-0-0)
• Approved Minor Modification to relocate EV chargers at 20‑60 Forbes Road (5-0-0)
• Approved Minor Modification for 4‑44 Allen Street housing project (5-0-0)
• Approved May 13 and June 10, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The board voted unanimously to appoint Rayna Rubin as Chair, Jose E. Perez as Vice‑Chair, and Angela Cavanaugh as Clerk. The motion to adjourn the meeting was also passed unanimously, ending the session at 9:20 p.m.

• Elected Rayna Rubin as ZBA Chair (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Elected Jose E. Perez as ZBA Vice‑Chair (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Elected Angela Cavanaugh as ZBA Clerk (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:20 p.m. (unanimous roll‑call vote)

Commission on Disabilities

The Commission approved the minutes from the June 2, 2025 meeting by unanimous roll‑call vote. Members also agreed to hold an additional meeting in August 2025. No other formal actions were taken during this session.

• Approved June 2, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Approved holding an August 2025 meeting (members agreed to proceed)

Town Council

The Town Council approved the minutes from the April 7, 2025 meeting. It authorized Mayor Erin Joyce to execute an Inter‑municipal Agreement for the Public Health Excellence Grant, costing $270,000 per year. The council also confirmed three new regular voting members—Angela Cavanaugh, Rayna Rubin, and Jose Perez—to the Zoning Board of Appeals. All votes were 8‑0 in favor with one councilor absent.

• Approved April 7, 2025 minutes (8‑0, 1 absent)
• Authorized Inter‑municipal Agreement for Public Health Excellence Grant ($270,000/yr) (8‑0, 1 absent)
• Approved appointment of Angela Cavanaugh to ZBA (8‑0, 1 absent)
• Approved appointment of Rayna Rubin to ZBA (8‑0, 1 absent)
• Approved appointment of Jose Perez to ZBA (8‑0, 1 absent)

Board of Health

The Board of Health approved the meeting minutes from April 10 and May 15, 2025. It granted body‑art practitioner permits to Nayla Cristina Vieira Pereira, Gessica Dos Santos, and Djeny Alves for Eyebrow Glam. The Board also upheld the order requiring the removal of chickens from 31 Poulos Road by July 1 2025.

• Approved April 10, 2025 minutes (3‑0)
• Approved May 15, 2025 minutes (2‑0‑1)
• Approved body‑art permit for Nayla Cristina Vieira Pereira (3‑0)
• Approved body‑art permit for Gessica Dos Santos (3‑0)
• Approved body‑art permit for Djeny Alves (3‑0)
• Uphold order to remove chickens from 31 Poulos Road by July 1 2025 (3‑0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board postponed approval of the May 13, 2025 meeting minutes until the July meeting. The Board unanimously approved the As‑Built plan and released the surety for Planning Board File #23‑10 at 460 Pond Street (vote 5‑0‑0). No vote was recorded on the minor modification request for 8‑10 and 40 Arnold Street.

• Tabled approval of May 13, 2025 meeting minutes (postponed to July)
• Approved As‑Built plan and released surety for 460 Pond Street (5‑0‑0)

Community Preservation Committee

The committee voted 6-0-0 to recommend that the Town Council appropriate $175,650 from the Open Space Fund for the Smelt Brook Restoration project, contingent on matching local and federal funds. The meeting was then adjourned by a 6-0-0 voice vote.

• Recommend $175,650 Open Space Fund for Smelt Brook Restoration (6-0-0)
• Adjourn meeting (6-0-0)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission meeting on June 5, 2025 recorded only attendance and administrative details. No approvals, denials, or other actions were documented.

Town Council

The council continued the public hearing on Order 25‑003 (Accessory Dwelling Unit zoning) to July 8 2025. It opened, closed, and approved Order 25‑021, adopting revised FEMA flood maps for the Floodplain Protection District. The council also approved a $150 donation from Sustainable Braintree and referred two items to committees.

• Continued public hearing on Order 25‑003 to July 8 2025 – vote 7‑0 (2 absent)
• Opened public hearing on Order 25‑021 – vote 7‑0 (2 absent)
• Closed public hearing on Order 25‑021 – vote 8‑0 (1 absent)
• Approved Order 25‑021 adopting revised FEMA flood maps – vote 8‑0 (1 absent)
• Approved Order 25‑038 to accept $150 donation from Sustainable Braintree – vote 8‑0 (1 absent)
• Referred Order 25‑039 (Inter‑Municipal Agreement for Public Health Grant) to Committee of Ways & Means – vote 8‑0 (1 absent)
• Referred Order 25‑040 (Clerk of the Council reclassification) to Committee on Personnel Issues – vote 8‑0 (1 absent)

Commission on Disabilities

The Commission voted to approve the minutes from the May 5, 2025 meeting. No formal actions were taken on any project proposals or policy changes discussed. The meeting was then adjourned at 8:10 p.m. by roll‑call vote.

• Approved May 5, 2025 meeting minutes (roll‑call vote)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:10 p.m. (roll‑call vote)

Town Council

The council unanimously approved the appointment of Frederick T. Viola as Braintree Fire Chief. They also approved the minutes from the April 1, 2025 meeting and authorized a brief recess before resuming. A public hearing on the FY2026 operating budget was opened.

• Approved appointment of Frederick T. Viola as Fire Chief (9-0)
• Approved April 1, 2025 meeting minutes (9-0)
• Approved five‑minute recess (9-0)
• Approved motion to resume after recess (9-0)
• Opened public hearing on FY2026 operating budget (9-0)

Community Preservation Committee

The Community Preservation Committee voted to approve the minutes from the April 14, 2025 meeting with a 5-0-1 tally. The committee then adjourned the May 19 session by a unanimous voice vote of 6-0-0. No other project approvals or policy actions were decided at this meeting.

• Approved minutes of 4/14/25 meeting (5-0-1)
• Adjourned meeting (6-0-0)

Board of Health

The Board of Health voted unanimously to approve a lifeguard variance for River Bend Condominium Trust and a partial lifeguard variance for Liberty Park Apartments. The Board also endorsed continued participation in the Massachusetts Public Health Excellence Grant Intermunicipal Agreement. All three actions passed with a 2‑yes, 0‑no vote.

• Approved lifeguard variance for River Bend Condominium Trust (2-0)
• Approved partial lifeguard variance for Liberty Park Apartments (2-0)
• Endorsed continuation of Intermunicipal Agreement for Public Health Excellence Grant (2-0)
• Adjourned the meeting (2-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board approved the minutes from the April 8, 2025 meeting by a 5‑0‑0 vote. A request for minor modification at 8‑10 and 40 Arnold Street was tabled for the June 10, 2025 meeting. The board approved the minor modification for 250 Granite Street, subject to review and approval of an easement agreement, also by a 5‑0‑0 vote.

• Approved April 8, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0-0)
• Tabled minor modification request for 8-10 and 40 Arnold Street (no vote)
• Approved minor modification for 250 Granite Street subject to easement agreement (5-0-0)

Commission on Disabilities

The commission approved the minutes from the March 3, 2025 meeting by unanimous roll‑call vote. No other formal actions were taken. The meeting was then adjourned by a unanimous motion.

• Approved March 3, 2025 meeting minutes (4‑yes)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:28 p.m. (4‑yes)

Town Council - Ways & Means Committee

The Ways & Means Committee approved a motion to take Order 25 018, the FY2026 operating budget, off the table with a 4‑0 vote and one member absent. A public hearing on the town budget was scheduled for May 27, 2025 at 7 pm. The library reported that its $4,000 Explore grant request was denied. No old business or minutes were approved.

• Motion to take Order 25 018 (FY2026 Operating Budget) off the table approved (4‑0, 1 absent)
• Public hearing on the Town Budget set for May 27, 2025 at 7 pm
• Library denied $4,000 Explore grant
• No approval of minutes (none recorded)
• No old business items acted upon

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission meeting on May 1, 2025 recorded attendance and agenda items but did not approve, deny, or table any actions. No votes or resolutions were documented.

Town Council - Ways & Means Committee

The committee voted to approve the minutes from the February 24, March 4, and March 10, 2025 meetings. Each motion passed with four votes in favor and one member absent. No other actions or votes were recorded during the session.

• Approved February 24, 2025 minutes (For 4 – Boericke, Morin, Flaherty, Maglio; Absent 1 – Reynolds)
• Approved March 4, 2025 minutes (For 4 – Boericke, Morin, Flaherty, Maglio; Absent 1 – Reynolds)
• Approved March 10, 2025 minutes (For 4 – Boericke, Morin, Flaherty, Maglio; Absent 1 – Reynolds)

Town Council

The Town Council approved the minutes from the February 25, March 4, and March 18, 2025 meetings unanimously. It voted 9‑0 to continue the public hearing on Order 25 003 (Accessory Dwelling Unit zoning amendments) to June 3, 2025. It also voted 9‑0 to continue the public hearing on Order 25 006 (Supplemental Appropriation #2) to May 27, 2025. The DPW Committee gave a unanimous favorable recommendation on the gas‑line expansion request at 899 Washington Street.

• Approved February 25, 2025 minutes (9‑0)
• Approved March 4, 2025 minutes (9‑0)
• Approved March 18, 2025 minutes (9‑0)
• Continued public hearing for Order 25 003 to June 3, 2025 (9‑0)
• Continued public hearing for Order 25 006 to May 27, 2025 (9‑0)
• DPW Committee recommended approval of gas line expansion at 899 Washington Street (unanimous)

Town Council - Public Works Committee

The Public Works Committee approved the minutes from the January 21, 2025 meeting by a 3‑0 vote. It also approved Order 25‑017, granting the property owner at 899 Washington Street permission to have National Grid expand the gas line under the existing excavation moratorium, with staff‑recommended conditions, also by a 3‑0 vote.

• Approved January 21, 2025 minutes (3‑0)
• Approved Order 25‑017 to expand gas line at 899 Washington Street (3‑0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals accepted the withdrawal of application ZBA#25-03. It approved a finding allowing a 204‑sq‑ft front‑yard addition at 15 Highview Avenue, subject to conditions. The board also approved the March 24, 2024 meeting minutes and then adjourned the meeting.

• Approved withdrawal of ZBA#25-03 application (3‑0)
• Approved finding for 15 Highview Avenue addition (ZBA#25-09) (3‑0)
• Closed public hearing for ZBA#25-09 (3‑0)
• Approved March 24, 2024 meeting minutes (3‑0)
• Closed the meeting (3‑0)

Community Preservation Committee

The committee voted to approve the minutes from the February 10 and March 10 meetings. It also approved moving the May meeting to May 19 and formally adjourned. The Open Space and Recreation Plan CPC funding recommendation was halted due to a state extension of the existing plan. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved minutes of February 10, 2025 (vote 5‑0‑1)
• Approved minutes of March 10, 2025 (vote 4‑0‑2)
• Moved May meeting to May 19, 2025 (decision, no vote recorded)
• Adjourned meeting (vote 6‑0‑0)
• Halted Open Space and Recreation Plan CPC funding recommendation (state extension, no vote)

Board of Health

The Braintree Board of Health approved the minutes from the February 13, 2025 meeting. It also unanimously approved lifeguard variances for Turtle Crossing, Jonathan’s Landing, Landing 53 Apartments, Hampton Inn, Residence Inn, Royal Lake Village, and Reservoir Crossing, allowing reduced or no lifeguard coverage due to low bather loads. The board adjourned at 7:24 p.m.

• Approved February 13, 2025 meeting minutes (2-0-1)
• Approved lifeguard variance for Turtle Crossing, 501 Commerce Drive (3-0)
• Approved lifeguard variance for Jonathan’s Landing Condominium, 400 John Mahar Highway (3-0)
• Approved lifeguard variance for Landing 53 Apartments, 25 Commercial Street (3-0)
• Approved lifeguard variance for Hampton Inn, 215 Wood Road (3-0)
• Approved lifeguard variance for Residence Inn by Marriott, 180 Forbes Road (3-0)
• Approved lifeguard variance for Royal Lake Village Condominium Trust, 3 Royal Lake Drive (3-0)
• Approved lifeguard variance for Reservoir Crossing, 614 Pond Street (3-0)

Planning Board

The Board approved the March 11, 2025 meeting minutes by a 4‑0‑0 vote. It unanimously voted 5‑0‑0 to continue the special permit hearing for 250 Granite Street until the May 13, 2025 meeting. Requests for minor modifications at 250 Granite Street, 8‑10 and 40 Arnold Street, and the Board fees were tabled without testimony.

• Approved March 11, 2025 meeting minutes (vote 4:0:0)
• Continued 250 Granite Street special permit hearing to May 13, 2025 (vote 5:0:0)
• Tabled request for minor modification – 250 Granite Street (no motion required)
• Tabled request for minor modification – 8‑10 and 40 Arnold Street (no motion required)
• Tabled Planning Board Fees discussion (no motion required)

Town Council

The council approved the appointment of Kenneth J. Rossetti as Town Solicitor with a 9‑0 vote. It also approved Emily McGinley as a Community Member of the School Building Committee, also by a 9‑0 vote. A motion to take Order 25‑014 off the table was adopted unanimously. A motion to accept a $2,000 donation from Braintree Youth Soccer for East Middle School field improvements was presented, but the vote outcome was not recorded.

• Approved appointment of Kenneth J. Rossetti as Town Solicitor (9‑0)
• Approved appointment of Emily McGinley to School Building Committee (9‑0)
• Approved taking Order 25‑014 off the table (9‑0)
• Presented FY2024 Audit Review placeholder (no vote)
• Motion to accept $2,000 donation for soccer field improvements (vote not recorded)

Town Council - Ways & Means Committee

The Ways & Means Committee voted to approve the appointment of Kenneth J. Rossetti as Town Solicitor, with a unanimous 5‑0 vote. The committee also removed Order 25‑010 from the table, approving Emily McGinley’s appointment to the School Building Committee, also by a 5‑0 vote. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved Kenneth J. Rossetti as Town Solicitor (5‑0 vote)
• Took Order 25‑010 off the table, approving Emily McGinley to School Building Committee (5‑0 vote)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission meeting on April 3, 2025 in Braintree, MA recorded only attendance and administrative details. No approvals, denials, or votes were documented. The minutes contain no substantive actions.

Town Council

The Braintree Town Council voted 7‑1‑1 to approve the appointment of Peter Matchak as Director of Planning & Community Development. Earlier in the meeting, councilors voted unanimously (8‑0‑1) to open public hearings for Orders 25‑003, 25‑006, and 25‑008, and to continue the hearings for Orders 25‑003 and 25‑006 to April 29, 2025. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved appointment of Peter Matchak as Director of Planning & Community Development (7‑1‑1)
• Opened public hearing for Order 25‑003 (8‑0‑1)
• Continued public hearing for Order 25‑003 to April 29, 2025 (8‑0‑1)
• Opened public hearing for Order 25‑006 (8‑0‑1)
• Continued public hearing for Order 25‑006 to April 29, 2025 (8‑0‑1)
• Opened public hearing for Order 25‑008 (8‑0‑1)

Town Council - Ways & Means Committee

The Ways & Means Committee approved the appointment of Peter Matchak as Director of Planning & Community Development by a 3‑0 vote, with two members abstaining. The committee also voted to take Order 25‑006 (Fire Details) off the table (5‑0) and then to table it again (5‑0). The appointment of Emily McGinley to the School Building Committee was tabled (5‑0).

• Approved appointment of Peter Matchak as Director of Planning & Community Development (3‑0, 2 abstain)
• Took Order 25‑006 Fire Details motion off the table (5‑0)
• Tabled Order 25‑006 Fire Details motion (5‑0)
• Tabled appointment of Emily McGinley to the School Building Committee (5‑0)

Town Council - Ways & Means Committee

The Ways & Means Committee voted to approve a series of fund transfers totaling $1,042,470 for FY2025 supplemental needs. Major approvals included $248,500 for one‑time school expenses, $220,648 repayment from the Golf Fund, and $125,000 for legal services. All motions passed unanimously with four votes in favor and one member absent.

• Approved $248,500 transfer to School Operating Fund (4-0-1)
• Approved $220,648 repayment from Golf Fund to General Fund (4-0-1)
• Approved $125,000 transfer to Legal Services (4-0-1)
• Approved $98,000 transfer to Treasurer/Collector (4-0-1)
• Approved $75,000 vacation and sick‑leave buyback transfer (4-0-1)
• Approved $65,000 transfer for Insurance Premiums (4-0-1)
• Approved $33,000 Golf Improvements transfer (4-0-1)
• Approved $12,500 transfer for Town Accountant salaries (4-0-1)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The March 24, 2025 Zoning Board of Appeals meeting in Braintree recorded attendance and board members but did not approve, deny, or table any agenda items. No substantive actions or votes were documented in the minutes.

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a finding to allow demolition and reconstruction of a single‑family dwelling at 15 Highview Avenue. It also approved variances for a 33‑sq‑ft wall sign at 731A Granite Street and for an 18‑by‑22‑ft addition at 160 Messina Woods Drive. The Board approved the February 24, 2024 meeting minutes and then adjourned.

• Approved finding for demolition/reconstruction at 15 Highview Ave (all members in favor)
• Approved variances for 33‑sq‑ft wall sign at 731A Granite St (all members in favor)
• Approved variance for addition at 160 Messina Woods Dr (all members in favor)
• Approved February 24, 2024 meeting minutes (all members in favor)
• Moved to close the meeting (all members in favor)

Pond Meadow Park Commission

The commission unanimously approved the February 19, 2025 meeting minutes. It also approved a land survey not to exceed $1,000 and hired George Thibeault for invasive species removal in the meadow, capped at $7,000. Both contracts were approved without opposition.

• Approved February 19, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved land survey not to exceed $1,000 (unanimous)
• Approved hiring George Thibeault for invasive species removal, not to exceed $7,000 (unanimous)