Waltham public meetings in 2025
261 substantive meetings from 2025, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing to consider an appeal by Fabio Varano and Varano Family Realty Trust. The petitioner seeks to overturn a Building Inspector's refusal to issue an occupancy permit for a six-family residential structure.
- Case 2025-41: Appeal of Building Inspector's determination for 3 Charles Street Avenue
Economic & Community Development
The Economic & Community Development Committee amended the 12/15/25 minutes to note that the Bike Parking Proposal for Downtown Moody Street will be sent to the Mayor, and adopted the amended minutes. Members also voted to move all 2025 docket items to the 2026 docket, and the meeting was adjourned.
- Amended 12/15/25 minutes to include Bike Parking Proposal copy sent to Mayor (voice vote)
- Approved the amended 12/15/25 minutes (voice vote)
- Carried over all 2025 Committee Docket items to 2026 docket (voice vote)
- Adjourned the meeting (voice vote)
City Council
The City Council will meet following the Inauguration of Waltham City Government. The purpose of the meeting is to elect a City Council President.
- Election of City Council President
The City Council approved a $6.8 million loan authorization for the Utility Rehabilitation and Roadway Reconstruction Project at 200 Trapelo Road, with the motion adopted by voice vote for a first reading. The council also approved appropriations of $50,000 for a nine‑hole par‑3 golf course design and $100,000 for architectural services for the former Elks Building on School Street. Donations of $300 to the Police Department and $5,000 to the Council on Aging were accepted, and a $346,062 allocation for preservation work at Wellington House was approved. Several resolutions and license renewals were filed or approved, all by voice vote.
- Approved $6.8 M loan authorization for Utility Rehabilitation and Roadway Reconstruction Project at 200 Trapelo Road (first reading, voice vote)
- Approved $50,000 appropriation for design of nine‑hole par‑3 golf course at 200 Trapelo Road (voice vote)
- Approved $100,000 appropriation for in‑house architect services for former Elks Building on School Street (voice vote)
- Accepted $300 donation to Waltham Police Department from New Light Korean Church (voice vote)
- Accepted $5,000 gift to Waltham Council on Aging from Bird Precision Charitable Foundation (voice vote)
- Approved $346,062 allocation for interior and exterior preservation of Wellington House (voice vote)
- Approved Noise Ordinance Amendment for first reading (voice vote)
- Approved Class II license renewals for Specialty Auto Sales (265 Bear Hill Rd) and Boston Brake and Muffler (251 Lexington St) (voice vote)
Long Term Debt Committee
The committee adopted the October 6, 2025 minutes by voice vote. It approved a $346,062 allocation of CPA Undesignated funds for interior and exterior preservation at Wellington House, 735 Trapelo Road. It also approved a $6,800,000 loan to fund utility rehabilitation and road reconstruction at 200 Trapelo Road. All motions passed by voice vote.
- Approved October 6, 2025 minutes (voice vote)
- Approved $346,062 CPA Undesignated funds for Wellington House preservation (voice vote)
- Approved $6,800,000 loan for utility rehabilitation and road reconstruction at 200 Trapelo Road (voice vote)
Traffic Commission
The Traffic Commission will first accept the minutes from the previous meeting. It will hear three petitioned requests: a 15‑minute parking space at 42 Warren Street, a permit modification for JMC Driving School on Prospect Hill Avenue, and permission for a road race on May 3, 2026. The commission will then discuss a series of tabled items, including studies, signal inventories, and specific safety improvements such as a potential traffic signal at Lexington and Pond Streets and a speed bump on Wellington Street. Department reports on parking meters, traffic commission status, and signal inventories will also be presented.
- 15‑minute parking space request for Kristina’s Variety at 42 Warren Street
- JMC Driving School request to modify permit for cones and signs on Prospect Hill Avenue (Saturdays)
- WEBF Strides For Education request for a road race on Sunday, May 3, 2026
- Potential new traffic signal at Lexington Street and Pond Street
- Wellington Street speed bump proposal
The commission approved a two‑space 15‑minute parking zone in front of Kristina’s Variety at 42 Warren Street. It also approved a permit for JMC Driving School to place cones and signs on Prospect Hill Avenue sidewalks on Saturdays, and authorized the WEBF Strides For Education road race on May 3, 2026. The Elson Road parking study was tabled, the speed‑study request for 28 Lakeview Avenue was denied, and a No Engine Braking sign was approved for Trapelo Road near Berkley Street. Additionally, the commission voted to request state updates for the Weston/Stow signal and to have the Wires Department make specific upgrades to the Weston/Eddy/Cabot signals.
- Approved 15‑minute parking area (two spaces) at 42 Warren Street
- Approved permit for JMC Driving School to place cones and signs on Prospect Hill Avenue sidewalks Saturdays 8:30 am‑2:30 pm
- Approved WEBF Strides For Education Road Race scheduled for May 3, 2026
- Tabled Elson Road parking study pending neighborhood meeting
- Denied request for speed study at 28 Lakeview Avenue
- Approved No Engine Braking sign on Trapelo Road westbound near Berkley Street
- Approved request to contact State for updates to Weston/Stow traffic signal
- Approved request to Wires Department for upgrades to Weston/Eddy/Cabot traffic signals
Board of Health
The Board of Health will meet to review updates regarding Rose Aromatherapy and discuss body work regulations from Watertown and Framingham.
- Update on Rose Aromatherapy
- Discussion on body work regulations from Watertown and Framingham
The Board approved the minutes from the November 19, 2025 meeting. It denied the Rose Aromatherapy permit, allowing the applicant to reapply in 2026 with a complete application. The Board agreed to take Body Works regulations home for review and discuss them at the next meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 5:23 PM.
- Approved November 19, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Denied Rose Aromatherapy permit; applicant may reapply in 2026
- Agreed to review Body Works regulations at next meeting
- Adjourned meeting at 5:23 PM
Licenses & Franchises Committee
The Board of License Commissioners will consider a transfer of a 7-day All Alcohol Restaurant license and a common victualer permit from Davinci’s Ristorante to Maple & High at 482 Moody Street. The new manager is Michael Culpo.
- Transfer of 7-day All Alcohol Restaurant license from Davinci's Ristorante to Maple & High
- Transfer of common victualer permit
- Change of manager to Michael Culpo
- Premises: 482 Moody Street, Waltham MA 02453
- Public hearing scheduled for Wednesday, December 17, 2025
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Waltham Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on January 6, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. to consider a special permit request. The petitioner, Tico, Inc., seeks to convert a gymnastics/health and exercise facility to a basketball/hoop center. The request concerns the property at 110‑2 Clematis Avenue, which is in the Industrial Zoning District. The board will review the application under Zoning Ordinance §3.7223.
- Special permit application to convert a gymnastics/health facility to a basketball/hoop center at 110‑2 Clematis Avenue (Industrial District)
Economic & Community Development
The committee approved the Bike Parking Proposal in Downtown on Moody Street and directed it to be forwarded to the Mayor. The Rodent Activity Resolution was tabled, and several other resolutions were filed, some without prejudice. The meeting minutes from 10/20/2025 were also approved.
- Approved meeting minutes of 10/20/2025 (voice vote)
- Approved Bike Parking Proposal in Downtown on Moody Street (voice vote)
- Forwarded Bike Parking Proposal to the Mayor (voice vote)
- Tabled Resolution Regarding a Proactive City-Wide Strategy to Address Rodent Activity (voice vote)
- Filed Waltham Connections for Healthy Aging Resolution (voice vote)
- Filed Benches Around Waltham Resolution (voice vote)
- Filed Canada Geese Resolution without prejudice (voice vote)
- Filed Lexington Street Construction Resolution (voice vote)
City Council
The City Council will meet in its Committee of the Whole and several standing committees on Dec. 15, 2025. A key item is a resolution to receive an update on funding, location, and construction of new police, public safety, and fire department facilities combined with the 187 Lex property. Most other agenda items, including road resurfacing petitions, licensing renewals, and various community resolutions, are listed as tabled.
- Resolution to update funding, location, and construction of new police, public safety and fire department facilities at 187 Lex (Public Works & Public Safety Committee) – status: tabled
- Class 2 license renewal for Chrislins Auto Inc. at 477 Main St. (Licenses & Franchises Committee) – presented Dec. 8‑15, 2025
- Resolution requesting road improvements and increased paving of public ways for FY25 (Public Works & Public Safety Committee) – status: tabled
- Resolution for Bentley Pond update (Public Works & Public Safety Committee) – status: tabled
- Resolution concerning MBTA Better Bus Project (Committee of the Whole) – status: tabled
The council approved the minutes from the November 17 and December 1 Committee of the Whole meetings by voice vote. A resolution about the Waltham Cultural Council was placed on the table, also by voice vote. A resolution concerning updates to the City’s website was likewise tabled by voice vote. The meeting was adjourned by a voice‑vote motion.
- Approved minutes of November 17, 2025 (voice vote)
- Approved minutes of December 1, 2025 (voice vote)
- Tabled resolution on Waltham Cultural Council (voice vote)
- Tabled resolution on City website updates (voice vote)
- Adjourned meeting (voice vote)
Finance Committee
The committee approved the minutes from the November 17 and December 1, 2025 meetings. It accepted a $5,000 gift from the Bird Precision Charitable Foundation in memory of Carl Cunningham and a $250 donation from Connors & Connors, LLC for holiday‑light maintenance. The meeting was adjourned after a voice‑vote motion.
- Accepted November 17, 2025 minutes (voice vote)
- Accepted December 1, 2025 minutes (voice vote)
- Heard from COA Director Patrick O’Brien (voice vote)
- Accepted $5,000 gift from Bird Precision Charitable Foundation (voice vote)
- Accepted $250 donation from Connors & Connors, LLC for holiday lights (voice vote)
- Adjourned meeting (voice vote)
Parks Recreation Board
The board approved the November 12 meeting minutes. It also approved the "Skate with the Hawks" fundraising event scheduled for January 4, 2026. The Capital Budget was approved and will be sent to the City Auditor. The meeting was then adjourned.
- Approved November 12, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Approved Request: Skate with the Hawks fundraiser (unanimous)
- Approved Capital Budget (6‑0 vote; 2 absent)
- Adjourned meeting (unanimous)
Board of Health
The Waltham Bio-Safety Committee will meet to approve previous minutes and discuss rDNA permit applications from Abcam and Aldevron. The meeting is scheduled for December 9, 2025, at 5:00 PM at the Waltham Government Center.
- Approve minutes from September 9, 2025
- Abcam seeking rDNA permit
- Aldevron seeking rDNA permit
The board accepted the corrected minutes from the September 9, 2025 meeting. The committee unanimously approved Abcam’s operation. The committee also unanimously approved Aldevron’s operation. The next meeting was scheduled for March 10, 2026.
- Accepted corrected September 9, 2025 minutes
- Approved Abcam (unanimous)
- Approved Aldevron (unanimous)
- Scheduled next meeting for March 10, 2026
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Waltham Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on Dec 9, 2025 at 7:00 PM to consider a petition by Gann Academy. The petition seeks approval to construct, use, and maintain a 12′ × 20′ (240 sq ft) gazebo on the academy’s 19.86‑acre campus at 333 Forest Street, which is in a Conservation/Recreation zoning district. The request also asks to modify the prior ZBA decision in Case No. 01‑38 to incorporate the new plans. The board will review the appeal from the Building Inspector’s decision under G.L. c. 40A §3 ¶2.
- Petition by Gann Academy to build a 12′ × 20′ (240 sq ft) gazebo at 333 Forest Street
- Appeal from Building Inspector decision under G.L. c. 40A §3 ¶2
- Request to modify prior ZBA decision (Case No. 01‑38) with new plans
- Location in Conservation/Recreation zoning district
- Public hearing scheduled Dec 9, 2025, 7:00 PM at Government Center, 119 School Street
City Council
The Waltham City Council will hold a joint public hearing to consider amendments to the city’s zoning code that would create three new overlay districts—MIRROD, MIRROD 2, and MIRROD 3—covering specific assessor parcels. The council will also hear proposals to modify special permits for a drive‑thru ATM at 130 Lexington Street and for Middlesex Integrative Medicine at 305 Second Avenue, including changes to floor area and operating hours. Additional items include the mayor’s requests for a $5,000 gift to the Council on Aging, a $250 donation for holiday lights, and a $50,000 appropriation for design services for a nine‑hole golf course at 200 Trapelo Road.
- Joint public hearing to add MIRROD overlay district covering parcels R019 001 001C, R009 002 002C, R009 002 002B, R009 002 0002, R009 002 002A, R010 001 002, R010 001 004, R010 001 005, R009 002 003
- Joint public hearing to add MIRROD 2 overlay district covering parcels R056 002 019, R056 002 017, R056 003 001
- Joint public hearing to add MIRROD 3 overlay district covering Atlas Map 48, Block 003, Lots 0001, 001B, 001C
- Special permit modification (Order 35340) for Digital Federal Credit Union to operate a standalone drive‑thru ATM at 130 Lexington Street
- Special permit modification (Order 35737) for Middlesex Integrative Medicine at 305 Second Avenue to reduce floor area to 3,568 sq ft and extend hours to 8 a.m.–10 p.m. Mon‑Sat, 8 a.m.–8 p.m. Sun
Historical Commission
The commission voted not to preserve the historic house at 18 Hagar Street, allowing demolition to proceed. Funding of $4,732 for rug cleaning and repairs at Stonehurst was approved. Four rain barrels for the Wellington House site were authorized. The Wellington House agenda item was taken out of order and the meeting was adjourned.
- Demolition of 18 Hagar St house allowed (3-4)
- Approved $4,732 Stonehurst rug cleaning and repair funding (7-0)
- Approved installation of four rain barrels at Wellington House (6-0, 1 recused)
- Moved Wellington House agenda item out of order (7-0, 1 recused)
- Accepted November 2025 meeting minutes (6-0, 1 no response)
- Adjourned meeting (7-0)
Disability Services Commission
The Waltham Disability Services Commission will review the 911 Voluntary Notification Form and discuss the DSC website. It will dedicate a bench in memory of Jerry Leblanc and consider police details, finances, and upcoming projects. The commission will also schedule its annual meeting for February 6, 2026.
- Dedication of bench in memory of Jerry Leblanc
- Review of 911 Voluntary Notification Form
- Discussion of DSC website
- Review of finances
- Scheduling of annual meeting February 6, 2026
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on three Notice of Intent applications involving work in buffer zones: a multi‑family residential complex at 245‑265 Winter Street, demolition and subdivision for two single‑family homes at 125 Marlborough Road, and a new single‑family home with stormwater management at 94 Hardy Pond Road. The commission will also approve minutes from the November 20, 2025 meeting and receive informational updates about test borings at 25 Farwell Street, Eversource vegetation maintenance, and an upcoming planning board hearing on mixed‑use overlay districts.
- Public hearing on Notice of Intent for a multi‑family residential complex at 245‑265 Winter Street (buffer zone work).
- Public hearing on Notice of Intent for demolition, subdivision and two new single‑family homes at 125 Marlborough Road (partly within 100‑foot wetland buffer).
- Public hearing on Notice of Intent for a new single‑family home and stormwater system at 94 Hardy Pond Road (within 100‑foot buffer to Hardy Pond).
- Approval of meeting minutes from 11‑20‑2025.
- Informational updates: test borings at 25 Farwell Street; Eversource 2026 vegetation maintenance along right‑of‑way between Border Road and the Waltham‑Weston line; upcoming planning board hearing on Mixed Innovation Residential Redevelopment Overlay Districts.
The commission voted to continue the Maple Multi‑Family Land East Coast application until January 8, 2026. It also approved standard order‑of‑conditions packages for the Paul Keating demolition/subdivision project and the Hardy Pond residential reconstruction project. The minutes from the November 20, 2025 meeting were approved.
- Continuance approved for Maple Multi‑Family Land East Coast project (5‑0)
- Order of conditions issued for Paul Keating demolition/subdivision project (5‑0)
- Order of conditions issued for Hardy Pond residential reconstruction project (5‑0)
- Approval of November 20, 2025 meeting minutes (5‑0)
Board of Survey and Planning
The Board of Survey and Planning will hold a public hearing on a special permit for driveway openings at 962 Main Street and vote on repaving Fir Avenue. The meeting also includes an executive session on litigation and a deadline to act on a plan for 1432 Main Street.
- Public hearing: Special permit for driveway openings at 962 Main Street
- Vote to repair and repave Fir Avenue
- Executive session on Land Court litigation
- Deadline to act on ANR Plan for 1432 Main Street
- Schedule special meeting for December 8 on zone change
City Council
The City Council will hold committee meetings to discuss various license renewals and public works requests. The session includes reviews of extended hours for local businesses and utility-related street work petitions.
- Extended hours renewals for Wendy’s (806 Main St), J&J Variety (851 Main St), ProTech Auto & Tire (205 Willow St), and Morley Doughnuts (859 Main St)
- GOL for Eversource at 72 Kingston Way and 25 Tavern Road
- NGrid petitions for work at Felton & Brown and 52 Willow
- Massport Letter application for Firat Sedal at 415 Stearns Hill Rd
- Discussion of various tabled items including the New Police/Public Safety/Fire Depts funding and location
The City Council approved the appointment of Anja Shafer and Frank Fitzgerald as permanent members of the Conservation Commission. It also tabled the minutes from the November 17 meeting and placed the Library Building Project on the table. All motions were adopted by voice vote.
- Tabled minutes of the November 17, 2025 COW meeting (voice vote)
- Confirmed appointment of Anja Shafer to the Conservation Commission (voice vote)
- Confirmed appointment of Frank Fitzgerald to the Conservation Commission (voice vote)
- Tabled the Library Building Project matter (voice vote)
- Adjourned the meeting (voice vote)
Finance Committee
The committee voted to table the minutes from the prior meeting. It approved a $104,048 grant for the Council on Aging and a $24,500 grant for the Public Works Recycling Division. It also accepted donations of $1,500 for the Fire Department and $2,000 for the Police Department. The meeting was then adjourned.
- Tabled prior meeting minutes (voice vote)
- Accepted $104,048 Council on Aging grant (voice vote)
- Accepted $24,500 Public Works Recycling Division grant (voice vote)
- Accepted $1,500 donation for Fire Department (voice vote)
- Accepted $2,000 donation for Police Department (voice vote)
- Adjourned meeting (voice vote)
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on July 8, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. to consider a comprehensive permit application submitted by Maple Multi‑Family Land East Coast, L.P. The application seeks approval to construct and operate 323 rental units, including 81 affordable deed‑restricted units, on the property at 245‑265 Winter Street in the Limited Commercial zoning district. The board will review the request under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 40B, Sections 20‑23.
- Comprehensive permit application for 323 rental units (81 affordable) at 245‑265 Winter Street
- Location in Limited Commercial zoning district
- Petitioner: Maple Multi‑Family Land East Coast, L.P.; owners: 245 Winter LLC and 265 Winter LLC
- Case #: 2025‑23
- Public hearing scheduled for July 8, 2025, 7:00 p.m. at Government Center, 119 School Street
City Council
The City Council of Waltham, Massachusetts scheduled a special meeting for November 24, 2025. The agenda materials provided consist of three PDF documents titled “Special Meeting,” “Agenda,” and “Tax Rate Meeting.” No specific agenda items are listed in the provided text.
The Council approved the Samuel M. Shriberg Resolution and the Flock Camera Resolution, both by voice vote. It approved two Nationalgrid location grants (Felton Street and Hall Street/Taylor Street) and a $60,985 award to the Police Department’s FY26 Road Safety Program, also by voice vote. The Council extended the time for Order #36442 for BP 103 Fourth Avenue LLC with a 13‑0‑1‑1 vote and approved numerous license renewals, including a Fortune Teller license, extended‑hours permits, and a lodging house renewal, all by voice vote. Additionally, the public hearing for a special permit at 220 Moody Street for MICOL, LLC was recessed to January 12, 2026.
- Approved Samuel M. Shriberg Resolution (voice vote)
- Approved Flock Camera Resolution (voice vote)
- Approved Nationalgrid location grant at Felton Street (voice vote)
- Approved Nationalgrid location grant at Hall Street and Taylor Street (voice vote)
- Approved $60,985 award to Police Department FY26 Road Safety Program (voice vote)
- Approved extension of time for Order #36442 for BP 103 Fourth Avenue LLC (13-0-1-1)
- Approved multiple license renewals (Fortune Teller, Reclaim Chic, Samdough Inc., Burger King #370, Asia Wok, Waltham Auto Gallery, 52-54 Bedford Street LLC) (voice vote)
- Recessed public hearing for MICOL, LLC special permit to Jan 12, 2026
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on December 16, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. to consider a variance request submitted by Carla Valentino. The petition seeks a height variance for a proposed 26.8‑foot two‑story garage and confirmation of existing side‑yard and front‑yard setbacks at 80 Clark Lane in the Residence A‑2 district. The board will review the applicable zoning ordinance sections §4.11 and §4.223.
- Variance request for a 26.8‑foot two‑story garage at 80 Clark Lane
- Height variance beyond the 15‑foot limit in §4.223
- Setback variance for side‑yard (15.7 ft vs 20 ft required) and front‑yard (12.20 ft vs 40 ft required)
- Public hearing scheduled for Dec. 16, 2025, 7:00 p.m. at Government Center, 119 School Street
- Petitioner: Carla Valentino
Traffic Commission
The commission will first accept a motion to approve the minutes from prior meetings. It will then discuss six petitioned items, including safety improvements on Lowell Street, a speed study at 28 Lakeview Avenue, a No Engine Braking sign on Trapelo Road, a traffic impact assessment for the Watch Factory Lofts, and approval requests for the RiverBeat and Steampunk festivals. Selected tabled items such as parking studies, signal inventories, and crosswalk proposals will also be reviewed. Department reports on parking meters, traffic signals, and funding requests will be presented.
- Southside Safety Plan – safety improvements on Lowell Street (Mayor McCarthy)
- Speed Study request at 28 Lakeview Avenue, including potential speed bump (Councillor Dunn)
- Watch Factory Lofts traffic impact assessment for 140 residential units (BSC Group)
- RiverBeat Festival approval request for June 20, 2026 (inaugural event)
- Steampunk Festival approval request for May 9, 2026
The commission approved the Watch Factory Lofts traffic impact assessment and sent the report to the City Council for a special permit decision. It also approved the RiverBeat Festival and the Steampunk Festival, authorizing street closures and volunteer parking. Several studies were directed to the Traffic Engineer, including the Southside Safety Plan, a speed study at 28 Lakeview Avenue, and a “No Engine Braking” sign on Trapelo Road. Parking on the west side of Amory Road was prohibited and a flashing stop sign was authorized for a 60‑day trial at Cedarwood Avenue.
- Directed Traffic Engineer to study Southside Safety Plan traffic control proposals
- Directed Traffic Engineer to conduct speed study at 28 Lakeview Avenue
- Directed Traffic Engineer to study a “No Engine Braking” sign on Trapelo Road at Berkley Street
- Approved Watch Factory Lofts traffic impact assessment and forwarded it to City Council
- Approved RiverBeat Festival, closing Moody Street from Pine St to Carter St 7 am–6 pm on June 20 2026
- Approved Steampunk Festival, closing Carter Street 10 am–5 pm on May 9 2026
- Approved flashing stop sign installation for a 60‑day trial at Cedarwood Avenue/Villa Street intersection and instructed review of nearby parking regulations
- Prohibited parking on the west side of Amory Road from 365 ft north of River Street to River Street
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on two Notice of Intent applications that propose demolition and new construction within 100‑foot buffer zones to vegetated wetlands and Hardy Pond. The projects are located at 125 Marlborough Road and 94 Hardy Pond Road. The commission will also consider approval of the meeting minutes from the November 6, 2025 session.
- Public hearing – Notice of Intent DEP File #316-0844: demolition of a house and subdivision at 125 Marlborough Road (within 100‑ft wetland buffer)
- Public hearing – Notice of Intent DEP File #316-0843: raze and rebuild at 94 Hardy Pond Road (within 100‑ft buffer to Hardy Pond)
- Approval of meeting minutes from 11‑06‑2025
The Conservation Commission approved the minutes from the November 6, 2025 meeting. It reopened the public hearing for the 125 Marlborough Road project and continued that hearing and the 94 Hardy Pond Road hearing to the December 4 meeting. The commission also adjourned the session.
- Approved minutes from 11-6-2025 (Doyle, Donovan, Limonciello, Dufromont)
- Reopened public hearing for 125 Marlborough Road (Doyle, Donovan, Limonciello, Dufromont)
- Continued public hearing for 125 Marlborough Road to 12/4 (Doyle, Donovan, Limonciello, Dufromont)
- Continued public hearing for 94 Hardy Pond Road to 12/4 (Doyle, Donovan, Limonciello, Dufromont)
- Adjourned meeting (all present in favor)
Board of Health
The Board of Health will first consider approval of the minutes from its October 15, 2025 meeting. It will then receive an update on the Rose Aromatherapy program. Finally, the board will address any old or new business items.
- Approve minutes of October 15, 2025 meeting
- Rose Aromatherapy – update
- Old or new business
The Board of Health unanimously approved the minutes from the October 15, 2025 meeting. It denied the Rose Aromatherapy BodyWork Establishment Permit due to missing paperwork and an unrecognized certification. The Board also tabled the permit until required documents are submitted and adopted a rule that all future applicants must file paperwork at least ten days before a Board meeting.
- Approved October 15, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Denied Rose Aromatherapy BodyWork Establishment Permit (unanimous)
- Tabled Rose Aromatherapy permit pending complete paperwork (unanimous)
- Adopted requirement for applicants to submit paperwork 10 days prior to meetings (unanimous)
Licenses & Franchises Committee
The Board of License Commissioners will consider several one-day alcohol permits and a business license transfer. The board will also approve the 2026 meeting schedule and New Year's Eve extended hours for various local establishments.
- Transfer of 7-day all alcohol Restaurant license and Entertainment permit for Joco’s at 450 Moody Street to JH Varden, LLC
- One-day alcohol permits for Gann Academy (333 Forest Street) and Bentley University (175 Forest Street)
- Manager change for Courtyard by Marriott at 385 Winter Street to Jahayra Santiago
- Extended hours until 2:00am on New Year's Eve for multiple licensees including Bistro 781 and Mighty Squirrel
- Approval of 2026 Common Victualer’s and Liquor license renewals
Community Preservation
The Community Preservation Committee will hold a public hearing on the Wellington House historic interior and exterior restoration application. The committee will vote on Community Preservation Act allocations for FY2026, including an estimated city surcharge of $4.5 million. The agenda also notes a FY2025 unappropriated balance of $583,180.55 to be moved to the CPA Undesignated account, and a state match amount for FY2026 is to be determined.
- Public hearing: Wellington House Historic Interior/Exterior Restoration and Preservation Application
- Vote on CPA allocations: Estimated City Surcharge for FY2026 – $4.5 M
- CPA Unappropriated Balance from FY2025 – $583,180.55 transferred to CPA Undesignated account
- State Match for FY2026 – amount TBD
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing to consider a variance request for a single-family residence. The petitioner seeks to construct a single-story addition to the rear of the existing structure.
- Case 2025-38: Variance request for a single-story addition at 74 Mokema Avenue
- Proposed rear setback of 25.2 feet and right-side setback of 6.3 feet
- Proposed lot coverage of 39.6% on a 5,000 square foot lot
- Proposed distance of 4.5 feet between the addition and an accessory building
City Council
The Waltham City Council is meeting to process several business license renewals and a street resurfacing petition. Other committee items regarding public works and community development remain tabled.
- Street resurfacing petition for Blossom Street
- Fortune Tellers License renewal for 12 Sartell Road
- Secondhand dealers license renewal for 709 Main St (Reclaim Chic)
- Extended hours renewals for 806 Main St (Wendy's), 591 Moody St (Samdough Inc.), 881 Moody St (Burger King), and 573 Main St (Asia Wok)
- Lodging house renewal for 52-54 Bedford St and Class 2 renewal for 712 Moody St (Waltham Auto Gallery)
The City Council approved the November 3, 2025 meeting minutes and moved several items to the table, including the bike‑share program and arterial bike‑lane plan. Councilors adopted a motion for a public input meeting on bike lanes at Government Center, and they took the Flock camera license‑plate‑reader resolution off the table, requesting a press release on its policy and referring the matter to the full Council and the Ordinances & Rules Committee.
- Approved minutes of Nov 3, 2025 COW meeting (voice vote)
- Placed bike‑share program discussion on the table (voice vote)
- Adopted public input meeting on arterial bike lanes at Government Center (voice vote)
- Placed arterial bike‑lane discussion on the table (voice vote)
- Removed Flock camera license‑plate‑reader resolution from the table (voice vote)
- Requested Chief O’Connell issue a press release on Flock camera policy (voice vote)
- Referred Flock camera matter to the full Council and Ordinances & Rules Committee (voice vote)
- Adjourned meeting (voice vote)
Ordinances & Rules Committee
The committee approved the minutes from the November 3 meeting. It released a redacted Law Department opinion on the 130 Lexington St special permit, allowed direct communication between the petitioner and the Law Department, and then tabled that permit application. The committee also approved a time extension for Middlesex Integrative Medicine orders, moved that application off the table, and later tabled it. It took the Confusion of Noise Ordinance Resolution off the table, requested the Law Department clarify the ordinance and attend a future meeting, and adjourned the session.
- Approved minutes from 11/3/2025 (voice vote)
- Released redacted Law Department opinion on 130 Lexington St permit (voice vote)
- Allowed petitioner and Law Department to communicate directly (voice vote)
- Tabled the 130 Lexington St special permit application (voice vote)
- Approved time extension for Middlesex Integrative Medicine orders (voice vote)
- Moved Middlesex Integrative Medicine permit application off the table (voice vote)
- Tabled the Middlesex Integrative Medicine application (voice vote)
- Requested Law Department clarify noise ordinance and attend future meeting (voice vote)
Finance Committee
The committee accepted the minutes from the November 3, 2025 meeting by voice vote. It approved the acceptance of a $60,895 grant for traffic safety enforcement for the Police Department, also by voice vote. A statement about the upcoming FY2026 tax‑rate meeting was read, and the meeting was adjourned.
- Accepted minutes of November 3, 2025 meeting (voice vote)
- Approved acceptance of $60,895 traffic‑safety grant for Police Department (voice vote)
- Read statement on upcoming FY2026 tax‑rate meeting (informational)
- Adjourned meeting (voice vote)
Licenses & Franchises Committee
The Licenses & Franchises Committee approved seven business license renewals and two extended‑hours renewals, all by voice vote. It also took two National Grid grant‑of‑location items off the table and approved each petition with specific conditions, also by voice vote. The meeting adjourned at 7:53 p.m.
- Approved Fortune Teller license renewal for James Spanks, 12 Sartell Rd (voice vote)
- Approved Secondhand Dealers license renewal for Reclaim Chic dba Re/Chic, 700 Main St (voice vote)
- Approved extended‑hours renewal for Samdough Inc., 591 Moody St (voice vote)
- Approved extended‑hours renewal for Burger King #370, 881 Moody St (voice vote)
- Approved extended‑hours renewal for J&T Shun Lai, Inc. dba Asia Wok, 573 Main St (voice vote)
- Approved Class 2 renewal for Waltham Auto Gallery, 712 Moody St (voice vote)
- Approved lodging‑house renewal for 52‑54 Bedford St LLC, 52‑54 Bedford St (voice vote)
- Took grant of location for National Grid at Taylor St & Hall St and Felton St off the table and approved each petition with conditions (voice vote)
Parks Recreation Board
The Parks‑Recreation Board approved the minutes of the October 8, 2025 meeting after a motion by Tom Creonte, seconded by Stacey Tully, with all members in favor. The board then adjourned the November 12, 2025 meeting following a motion by Tom Creonte, seconded by Tricia Curtin, also unanimously approved. No other substantive actions were taken.
- Approved October 8, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Adjourned meeting (unanimous)
Historical Commission
The Waltham Historical Commission will meet remotely to review a Section 106 project for a church cell tower and receive monthly reports on Stonehurst and Wellington House.
- Review of Section 106 project at 730 Main St.
- Monthly report on Stonehurst Curator
- Monthly report on Wellington House
- Historic Inventory update
- Education and Outreach update
The commission accepted the amended September 2025 minutes and moved item 11 out of order, both unanimously. It approved a $1,200 landscaping expense for Stonehurst and a letter of support for the Wellington House restoration application. Commissioners recommended a 2 × 3‑foot historic marker for Saint Charles Borromeo Church. They also authorized Commissioner Isaacson to write a letter of approval for the Section 106 review of the New Light Korean Church cell‑tower project.
- Accepted September 2025 minutes as amended (6 yes, 1 abstain)
- Moved item 11 New Business out of order (7 yes)
- Approved $1,200 for Stonehurst fall landscaping (7 yes)
- Approved letter of support for Wellington House CPC application (7 yes)
- Recommended 2 × 3‑ft historic marker for Saint Charles Borromeo Church (7 yes)
- Authorized letter of approval for Section 106 review of New Light Korean Church cell‑tower project (7 yes)
- Adjourned meeting (6 yes, 1 absent)
City Council
The City Council will hold public hearings regarding a special permit modification for a drive-thru ATM at 130 Lexington Street and floor plan and hour changes for a facility at 305 Second Avenue. The body will also review bike lane recommendations and various business license renewals.
- Resurfacing of Blossom Street private way with assessments to be applied
- Special permit modification for a drive-thru ATM at 130 Lexington Street
- Special permit for 305 Second Avenue to reduce floor area to 3,568 square feet and expand operating hours
- Acceptance of $60,985 grant for the Waltham Police Departments FY26 Municipal Road Safety Program
- Review of arterial bike lane recommendations submitted by the City Engineer
The City Council voted 9‑3‑0‑2‑1 to approve the 17‑25 street opening at 88 Hammond Street. Several resolutions—including the Marine Corps 250th Anniversary, Firefighter Retirement, Salvation Army, and Shop Small Business Saturday 2025—were each approved by voice vote. The Licenses and Franchises Committee recommendations for multiple license renewals and extended‑hours permits were adopted by the Council, also by voice vote.
- Approved 17‑25 street opening at 88 Hammond Street (9‑3‑0‑2‑1)
- Approved United States Marine Corps 250th Anniversary Resolution (voice vote)
- Approved Waltham Firefighter Retirement Resolution (voice vote)
- Approved Salvation Army Resolution (voice vote)
- Approved Shop Small Business Saturday 2025 Resolution (voice vote)
- Approved extended‑hours license renewal for CVS Pharmacy #114 at 12 Harvard Street (voice vote)
- Approved extended‑hours license renewal for Global Montello Group Corp #774 at 821 Main Street (voice vote)
- Approved Class 1 license renewal for Lotus Motorsports Inc. at 85 Linden Street (voice vote)
Conservation Commission
The Waltham Conservation Commission will hold a remote meeting to discuss two residential subdivision projects and review site visits. The body will also approve meeting minutes and schedule a boundary walk.
- Public hearing for demolition and subdivision at 125 Marlboro Road
- Public hearing for new home construction at 94 Hardy Pond Road
- Approval of meeting minutes from 10-16-2025
- Site visit reports for 171 Copeland Street, Trapelo Road, and 417 Lexington Street
- Scheduling of annual Paine Estate/Storer boundary walk
The commission held a public hearing on the 125 Marlborough Road project and moved to close the hearing. It then decided to hold off voting on approval because the plans may change and scheduled the matter for the next meeting on November 20. The commission also approved the minutes from the October 16 meeting.
- Postponed vote on 125 Marlborough Road subdivision (no approval vote)
- Moved to continue 125 Marlborough Road matter to Nov 20 meeting (motion passed)
- Postponed vote on 94 Hardy Pond Road project (motion to continue passed)
- Approved meeting minutes from 10‑16‑2025 (motion passed)
- Adjourned meeting (motion passed)
Board of Survey and Planning
The Board voted to continue the special‑permit request for four driveway openings at 962 Main Street to the December 3, 2025 meeting. It approved the minutes from the October 15, 2025 meeting. The ANR plan for 1432 Main Street was denied because it did not meet ANR requirements. The meeting was adjourned at 6:40 p.m.
- Continued special‑permit request for 962 Main St (to Dec 3 2025)
- Approved October 15 2025 meeting minutes
- Denied ANR plan for 1432 Main St
- Adjourned meeting at 6:40 p.m.
Ordinances & Rules Committee
The committee approved the minutes from the October 20 meeting and took the Middlesex Integrative Medicine special permit application off the table. It also moved the Confusion of Noise Ordinance Resolution off the table, then later tabled it. Several requests for departmental attendance at the November 17 meeting were approved, and the meeting was adjourned.
- Approved minutes from 10/20/2025 (voice vote)
- Took Middlesex Integrative Medicine special permit application off the table (voice vote)
- Approved petitioner may work directly with Law Department (voice vote)
- Approved release/forward of information related to the permit (voice vote)
- Took Confusion of Noise Ordinance Resolution off the table (voice vote)
- Approved request for Law Dept, Police Chief, Building Inspector, Public Health Director, and Mayor to attend Nov 17 meeting (voice vote)
- Tabled the Confusion of Noise Ordinance Resolution (voice vote)
- Adjourned the meeting (voice vote)
Finance Committee
The committee approved the minutes from the October 20, 2025 meeting by voice vote. A motion to adjourn was also passed by voice vote, ending the session.
- Accepted October 20, 2025 minutes (voice vote)
- Adjourned meeting (voice vote)
City Council
The Waltham City Council will meet in the Committee of the Whole and in several standing committees to consider a range of items, most of which are being tabled. Items include an update on funding, location, and construction of new police, public safety, and fire department facilities related to 187 Lex, multiple private‑way conversion petitions, licensing and franchise extensions for local businesses, a proposal to locate a memorial venue for Joseph Lazaro Romard, and a bike‑parking proposal on Moody Street. The council will discuss these items and record any decisions or further actions.
- Resolution requesting update on funding, location, and construction of new police/public safety/fire departments (187 Lex) – tabled
- Private‑way conversion petitions for streets such as Marion Way, Buxton Lane, and others – tabled
- Licensing and franchise extensions for businesses (e.g., CVS Pharmacy #114, McDonald’s RE, Wendy’s) – tabled
- Resolution to locate a suitable venue to memorialize Joseph Lazaro Romard – tabled
- Bike parking proposal on Moody Street – tabled
The City Council approved the minutes of the October 20, 2025 Committee of the Whole meeting. The Council approved a motion to hear from Police Chief Kevin O’Connell and Captain Timothy Maher about the use of Flock camera license‑plate readers. The Council approved a motion to have the City Solicitor attend the next meeting to discuss the matter and then moved to table the camera resolution. The meeting was adjourned.
- Approved minutes of Oct 20, 2025 COW meeting (voice vote)
- Approved motion to hear from Police Chief O’Connell & Captain Maher on camera use (voice vote)
- Approved motion to have City Solicitor attend next COW meeting (voice vote)
- Approved motion to table the Flock camera license‑plate reader resolution (voice vote)
- Adopted motion to adjourn the meeting (voice vote)
Licenses & Franchises Committee
The Licenses & Franchises Committee approved the meeting minutes and a Massport license application for Amandeep Rampal at 76 Indian Road. It also approved several license renewals and extended‑hours permits, including McDonald’s, Lotus Motorsports, and multiple Global Montello Group locations. The committee tabled the Wendy’s extended‑hours renewal and removed CVS Pharmacy #114 from the agenda, then approved its renewal. All actions were approved by voice vote.
- Approved meeting minutes (voice vote)
- Approved Massport license for Amandeep Rampal at 76 Indian Road (voice vote)
- Approved extended‑hours permit for McDonald’s Real Estate Co. at 789 Main Street (voice vote)
- Approved Class 1 renewal for Lotus Motorsports Inc. at 85 Linden Street (voice vote)
- Approved Class 2 renewal for Prospect Automotive Sale & Service at 143 Prospect St (voice vote)
- Tabled Wendy’s Properties extended‑hours renewal at 806 Main St (voice vote)
- Removed CVS Pharmacy #114 from the table (voice vote)
- Approved CVS Pharmacy renewal license (voice vote)
City Council
The City Council will hold public hearings regarding a street opening at 88 Hammond Street and extended drive-through hours for McDonald's at 789 Main Street. The body will also review committee recommendations for city appointments, funding for an illicit discharge program, and a bike share implementation plan.
- Proposed Bike Share Program to be implemented by Spring 2026
- Funding of $74,500 for the Illicit Discharge & Detection Elimination (IDDE) program
- Public hearing for street opening at 88 Hammond Street for utility connections
- Extended hours request for McDonald's drive-through at 789 Main Street
- Transfer of $13,628 from Stabilization Fund for 128 Business Council Community dues
The City Council took the $6,356,860 loan authorization for the Amphitheater Arts and Athletic areas at 200 Trapelo Road off the table and approved it by a 13‑0‑0‑1‑1 vote. It also approved the Zoning Amendment for Fast Food Establishments, the Bike Sharing Resolution, and confirmed Luke Stanton as First City Solicitor. Several finance transfers and licensing renewals were approved, most by voice vote.
- Approved regular City Council minutes of 10/14/2025 (voice vote)
- Approved Recovery Awareness Month Resolution (voice vote)
- Confirmed Luke Stanton as First City Solicitor (15‑0‑0 roll call)
- Approved Bike Sharing Resolution to implement program by Spring 2026 (14‑0‑0‑1 roll call)
- Approved $74,500 funding for IDDE program (voice vote)
- Approved $6,356,860 loan for Amphitheater Arts and Athletic areas (13‑0‑0‑1‑1 roll call)
- Took Zoning Amendment for Fast Food Establishments off the table and advanced it (14‑0‑0‑1 roll call)
- Approved multiple Class 2 license renewals and extended‑hours renewals (voice votes)
Licenses & Franchises Committee
The Waltham Board of License Commissioners will consider requests for one-day alcohol permits for several events and a transfer of a restaurant liquor license. The board will also address attendance requirements for licensees.
- One-day alcohol permit for Bentley University hockey game (Oct 25)
- One-day alcohol permit for Dions Liquors seminar series (Nov 5-20)
- One-day beer and wine permit for McKenna Family Christmas Party (Dec 14)
- Transfer of 7-day all alcohol license from Little India to Incredible India
- Attendance required for licensees missing the October 15 renewal meeting
The committee approved a location grant for Ferdinand & Marie Michel at 25 Tavern Road. It tabled both Nationalgrid petitions for Felton Street and Hall & Taylor Streets. Several Class 2 and extended‑hours license renewals were approved, while the CVS Pharmacy renewal was tabled and a representative was requested. The meeting was adjourned by voice vote.
- Approved location grant at 25 Tavern Road (voice vote)
- Tabled Nationalgrid petition for Felton Street location (voice vote)
- Tabled Nationalgrid petition for Hall & Taylor location (voice vote)
- Approved Class 2 renewal for European Auto Solutions, 1486 Main St (voice vote)
- Approved Class 2 renewal for P.P.A. Inc, 44 Charles St with map condition (voice vote)
- Approved extended‑hours renewal for MK & Company, 677 Moody St (voice vote)
- Tabled CVS Pharmacy #114 extended‑hours renewal and requested representative (voice vote)
- Adjourned meeting at 7:46 p.m. (voice vote)
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on July 8, 2025 to consider a comprehensive permit application for a proposed 323‑unit rental development, including 81 affordable deed‑restricted units, at 245‑265 Winter Street in the Limited Commercial district. The petition is filed by Maple Multi‑Family Land East Coast, L.P., owned by 245 Winter LLC and 265 Winter LLC, under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 40B, Sections 20‑23. The board will review the application and related waivers as required.
- Comprehensive permit application for 323 rental units (81 affordable) at 245‑265 Winter Street
- Project located in the Limited Commercial zoning district
- Petitioner: Maple Multi‑Family Land East Coast, L.P.; owners: 245 Winter LLC and 265 Winter LLC
- Application submitted under G.L. c. 40B §§20‑23
- Public hearing scheduled for July 8, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. in Government Center
Economic & Community Development
The Economic & Community Development Committee approved the meeting minutes from 10/6/2025. The committee took the Bike Sharing Systems resolution off the table, suspended Rule 9 to hear off‑committee input, amended the resolution to direct the Council and Mayor to work with the Chief Procurement Officer, accepted the Traffic Commission’s recommendation, and then approved the amended resolution. The meeting was adjourned.
- Approved meeting minutes of 10/6/2025 (voice vote)
- Took Resolution to Implement Bike Sharing Systems off the table (voice vote)
- Suspended Rule 9 to hear from off‑committee members (voice vote)
- Amended resolution to direct Council and Mayor to work with Chief Procurement Officer (voice vote)
- Accepted Traffic Commission recommendation on bike sharing (voice vote)
- Approved the amended Resolution to Implement Bike Sharing Systems (voice vote)
- Adjourned the meeting (voice vote)
Ordinances & Rules Committee
The Ordinances & Rules Committee approved the minutes from the October 6 meeting. It approved requests for the Law Department to review the noise ordinance and to attend the next meeting, then voted to table the resolution. The committee also took the Middlesex Integrative Medicine special permit application off the table, released a law opinion to the petitioner, and scheduled the petitioner to attend the next meeting before tabling that matter. The meeting adjourned at 10:21 p.m.
- Approved minutes from 10/6/2025 (voice vote)
- Approved request for Law Department to review noise ordinance (voice vote)
- Approved request for Law Department to attend next meeting on noise ordinance (voice vote)
- Approved motion to table the Noise Ordinance Resolution (voice vote)
- Approved taking Middlesex Integrative Medicine special permit application off the table (voice vote)
- Approved release of latest law opinion to petitioner (voice vote)
- Approved request for petitioner to attend next Committee meeting (voice vote)
- Approved motion to place the matter on the table (voice vote)
Ordinances & Rules Committee
The Ordinances & Rules Committee approved the minutes from the October 6, 2025 meeting. It voted to have the Law Department review the noise ordinance and to attend the next meeting on that topic, then tabled the resolution. The committee also took the Middlesex Integrative Medicine special permit application off the table, released the latest law opinion to the petitioner, and scheduled the petitioner to attend the next meeting. All motions were approved by voice vote.
- Approved minutes from 10/6/2025 (voice vote)
- Approved request for Law Department to review noise ordinance (voice vote)
- Approved request for Law Department to attend next meeting on noise ordinance (voice vote)
- Approved motion to table the Noise Ordinance Resolution (voice vote)
- Approved motion to take Middlesex Integrative Medicine special permit application off the table (voice vote)
- Approved motion to release latest law opinion to petitioner (voice vote)
- Approved request for petitioner to attend next Committee meeting (voice vote)
- Approved motion to place the matter on the table (voice vote)
Finance Committee
The committee accepted the October 6 minutes, approved $74,500 to continue the Illicit Discharge & Detection Elimination (IDDE) program, and authorized two transfers from the Stabilization Fund: $13,628 for Business Council dues and $10,000 for the Mayor’s Benevolent Fund. All motions passed by voice vote.
- Accepted October 6 minutes (voice vote)
- Approved $74,500 IDDE program funding (voice vote)
- Approved $13,628 transfer to Business Council dues (voice vote)
- Approved $10,000 transfer to Mayor’s Benevolent Fund (voice vote)
- Adjourned meeting (voice vote)
City Council
The City Council’s Public Works & Public Safety Committee will consider a resolution requesting an update on the funding, location, and construction of new police, public safety, and fire department facilities. The agenda also lists numerous other items—including resurfacing requests, private‑to‑public way petitions, traffic improvement proposals, and many licensing and franchise applications—all marked as “Tabled.” No items are recorded as approved or adopted at this meeting.
- Resolution requesting update on funding, location, and construction of new police, public safety, and fire department facilities (Public Works & Public Safety Committee) – Tabled
- Grants of License (GOL) applications for NGrid at Felton and adjacent streets (Licenses & Franchises Committee) – Tabled
- Private‑to‑public way petitions for Marion Way, Buxton Lane, Lory Drive, Matthew Lane, Michaelchris Drive, Raffaele Drive, Roseanna Park Drive (Public Works) – Tabled
- Resolution requesting road improvements and increased paving of public ways for FY25 (Public Works) – Tabled
- Fishing Resolution presented by LeBlanc et al. (Public Works) – Tabled
The council approved the appointment of Luke Stanton as First Assistant City Solicitor for a two-year term. It authorized the city solicitor to negotiate the DCR Flood Station easement at 48R Pine Street and then placed the easement request on the table. The council adopted a resolution recognizing Recovery Awareness Month and the work of local organizations. The discussion on a bicycle and pedestrian plan for Lowell Street was tabled.
- Approved minutes of the Oct 6 Committee of the Whole meeting (voice vote)
- Authorized Solicitor Katie Laughman to negotiate the DCR Flood Station easement (voice vote)
- Tabled the DCR Flood Station easement matter (voice vote)
- Approved appointment of Luke Stanton as First Assistant City Solicitor (voice vote)
- Approved Recovery Awareness Month resolution recognizing GWRS, Patty’s Sanctuary, and Waltham Police (voice vote)
- Tabled discussion of the Lowell Street bicycle/pedestrian designation (voice vote)
- Adjourned the meeting (voice vote)
Licenses & Franchises Committee
The Licenses & Franchises Committee approved the petition to grant a location at 25 Tavern Road for Ferdinand & Marie Michel. Two National Grid location petitions at Felton Street and Hall & Taylor Streets were each tabled. All Class 2 and extended‑hours license renewals on the agenda were approved by voice vote. The meeting minutes from October 6 were also approved.
- Approved minutes from 10/6/2025 meeting (voice vote)
- Tabled National Grid location petition at Felton Street and adjacent streets (voice vote)
- Tabled National Grid location petition at Hall & Taylor Streets (voice vote)
- Approved location grant petition for 25 Tavern Road (Ferdinand & Marie Michel) (voice vote)
- Approved Class 2 renewal for European Auto Solutions, LLC at 1486 Main Street (voice vote)
- Approved Class 2 renewal for P.P.A. Inc at 44 Charles Street, conditional on detailed map (voice vote)
- Approved Class 2 renewal for Hull Corp. Inc at 50 Thayer Road (voice vote)
- Approved extended‑hours renewal for 7‑Eleven #37504A at 591 Moody Street (voice vote)
Traffic Commission
The Traffic Commission will consider several petitioned items, including a request from Mayor McCarthy for a new traffic signal at Lexington Street and Pond Street. It will also review a proposed crosswalk with a raised refuge crossing on Stow Street near the Discover Child Care driveway, and evaluate the final design plans for the Main/Gore/Barbara/Warren intersection reconstruction. Additional agenda items cover parking restriction reviews, road race approvals, and a range of crosswalk and signal studies listed as tabled items.
- Potential traffic signal at Lexington St/Pond St (Mayor McCarthy)
- Proposed crosswalk with RRFB on Stow Street near Discover Child Care (Councillor Katz)
- Final design plans for Main/Gore/Barbara/Warren intersection reconstruction (VHB presentation)
- Parking restrictions review on Amory Road (DPW)
- New crosswalk requests surrounding Whittemore School (Waltham Police Department)
The commission approved the final design for the Main/Gore/Barbara/Warren intersection reconstruction and instructed the Traffic Engineer to prepare bid documents and seek funding. It also directed the Traffic Engineer to conduct a warrant analysis for a signal at Lexington/Pond/Summer Streets and to study several crosswalk proposals, including Stow Street and sites around Whittemore School. The commission recommended mayoral permits for two upcoming road races and ordered studies of parking and signal options on Amory Road, South Street/Shakespeare Road, and the Jersey Mike’s site.
- Directed Traffic Engineer to conduct traffic signal warrant analysis for Lexington St/Pond St/Summer St intersection
- Directed Traffic Engineer to study Stow Street crosswalk with RRFB and signage improvements near Discover Child Care
- Approved final design of Main/Gore/Barbara/Warren intersection; instructed preparation of bid documents and funding search
- Directed Traffic Engineer to study crosswalk needs at five intersections surrounding Whittemore School
- Recommended mayor issue permits for the 14th Annual Piggy’s 5K (Nov 22) and Bentley University Phi Sigma Sigma (Nov 14) road races
- Directed Traffic Engineer to study parking restrictions on Amory Road and recommend solutions for trash and fire truck access
- Directed Traffic Engineer to evaluate South St/ Shakespeare Rd for a full signal or RRFB crosswalk warrant
- Accepted traffic impact study for Jersey Mike’s store at 864 Lexington Street
Conservation Commission
The Waltham Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing on the Notice of Intent (DEP File #316-0841) for a multi‑family residential complex at 245‑265 Winter Street, continuing from the September 18, 2025 meeting. The commission will also approve minutes from the October 2, 2025 meeting, consider an enforcement action resolution for 1036 Lexington Street, review site‑visit reports, and discuss a new boundary walk. The meeting will be conducted remotely via Zoom.
- Public hearing on Notice of Intent (DEP File #316-0841) for 245‑265 Winter Street multi‑family project
- Approval of meeting minutes from 10‑2‑2025
- Resolution of enforcement action for 1036 Lexington Street
- Site‑visit reports: 165 Copeland Street, 171 Copeland Street, Trapelo Road culvert replacement
- New business: Paine/Storer boundary walk
Board of Survey and Planning
The Board of Survey and Planning will hold a public hearing regarding driveway widths at 962 Main Street. The board will also discuss road construction bonds and lot releases for Susan Circle.
- Public hearing for special permit for four driveway openings over 25 feet at 962 Main Street
- Susan Circle Covenant extension and lot release for construction
- Susan Circle Bond for road construction completion
The Board voted to continue the special permit petition for 962 Main Street to the November 5, 2025 meeting. It approved a $161,000 performance bond to guarantee completion of the road for the Susan Circle subdivision. The September 3, 2025 meeting minutes were approved and the meeting was adjourned at 6:23 PM.
- Continue special permit petition for 962 Main Street to November 5, 2025
- Approve performance bond of $161,000 for Susan Circle road construction
- Approve September 3, 2025 meeting minutes
- Adjourn meeting at 6:23 PM
Board of Health
The Waltham Board of Health will meet on October 15, 2025, to approve the minutes from the June 18, 2025 meeting and discuss an update regarding Rose Aromatherapy.
- Approval of June 18, 2025 meeting minutes
- Rose Aromatherapy update discussion
- Old or New Business discussion
The Board approved the minutes from the September 10, 2025 meeting. It voted unanimously to keep Rose Aromatherapy for BodyWork closed until the business complies with health requirements and ensures an English‑speaking staff member is present. The Board also set the next meeting for November 19, 2025.
- Approved September 10, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Approved closure of Rose Aromatherapy for BodyWork until compliance (unanimous)
- Scheduled next Board of Health meeting for November 19, 2025 at 5 PM
City Council
The Waltham City Council will meet to approve minutes, hear requests for gas main locations, and consider several budget transfers and license renewals. The Long Term Debt and Capital Planning Committee also recommends funding for recreation and preservation projects.
- Nationalgrid requests consent for gas main locations in Felton St, Fountain St, and Williams St
- Mayor requests $74,500 for Illicit Discharge & Detection Elimination program
- Mayor requests $10,000 transfer from Stabilization Fund to Benevolent Fund
- Finance Committee recommends $140,000 for Public Works move to former Fernald Property
- Licenses and Franchises Committee recommends approval for New England Transit Sales, Inc.
The City Council approved a $6,356,860 loan to fund the fourth and fifth phases of the 200 Trapelo Road Recreation Plan and then tabled the matter on the council floor. It also approved CPA funding of $77,250 for steeple preservation at First Parish and $942,575 for window restoration at St. Mary’s Parish. Several resolutions, including Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the U.S. Navy 250th Anniversary, were adopted, and multiple small finance transfers were approved by voice vote.
- Approved $6,356,860 loan for Trapelo Road Recreation Plan (first reading) (voice vote)
- Tabled the loan action on the Council floor (voice vote)
- Approved $77,250 CPA funds for Steeple Preservation at First Parish (12-0-1-1-1)
- Approved $942,575 CPA funds for Window Restoration at St. Mary’s Parish (13-0-1-1)
- Approved Breast Cancer Awareness Month Resolution (voice vote)
- Approved United States Navy 250th Anniversary Resolution (voice vote)
- Approved $2,901 transfer between Auditor accounts (voice vote)
- Approved $9,704 purchase of BigBelly Solar receptacle on Newton Street (voice vote)
Parks Recreation Board
The Parks‑Recreation Board approved the minutes from the September 10, 2025 meeting. It also approved the Special Day in Waltham event on May 30, 2026, the Bay State Bullets Lacrosse event on June 27‑28, 2026, and the Pastor Hoaglander Memorial plaque request. All motions passed with all members in favor.
- Approved September 10, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Approved Special Day in Waltham event on May 30, 2026 (unanimous)
- Approved Bay State Bullets Lacrosse event on June 27‑28, 2026 (unanimous)
- Approved Pastor Hoaglander Memorial plaque request (unanimous)
- Adopted monthly FY 26 bills signed by all board members (unanimous)
- Adjourned meeting (unanimous)
Economic & Community Development
The committee approved the September 15 meeting minutes and moved two resolutions off the table. Both the Mental Health Awareness Resolution and the Resolution to Implement Bike Sharing Systems were later tabled. The committee also asked Purchasing Director Crystal Philpot to provide a written response on bid procedures and invited the traffic engineer and planning director to the next meeting.
- Approved 9/15/2025 meeting minutes (voice vote)
- Took Mental Health Awareness Resolution off the table (voice vote)
- Tabled Mental Health Awareness Resolution (voice vote)
- Took Resolution to Implement Bike Sharing Systems off the table (voice vote)
- Requested Purchasing Director Crystal Philpot to respond in writing on bid actions (voice vote)
- Invited Traffic Engineer Michael Garvin and Planning Director Robert Waters to Oct 20 meeting (voice vote)
- Tabled Resolution to Implement Bike Sharing Systems (voice vote)
- Adjourned meeting (voice vote)
Ordinances & Rules Committee
The Ordinances & Rules Committee approved the minutes from the September 15 meeting. It authorized the Law Department to research the legality and feasibility of exempting wheelchair lifts from zoning setback requirements and asked the City Solicitor to attend the next meeting on the issue. Several pending items—including a special permit for Middlesex Integrative Medicine, a fast‑food zoning amendment, and an Outside Dining Resolution—were taken off the table, with the fast‑food amendment sent to the full Council for a first reading. The meeting was adjourned at 8:35 p.m.
- Approved minutes from 9/15/2025 (voice vote)
- Authorized Law Department to research wheelchair‑lift exemption (voice vote)
- Requested City Solicitor attend next meeting on handicap issue (voice vote)
- Took Middlesex Integrative Medicine special permit off the table (voice vote)
- Took Fast Food Restaurants zoning amendment off the table (voice vote)
- Sent Fast Food amendment to full Council for first reading (voice vote)
- Filed Outside Dining Resolution without prejudice (voice vote)
- Adjourned meeting at 8:35 p.m. (voice vote)
Historical Commission
The Waltham Historical Commission will conduct public hearings regarding demolition delays for two specific addresses. The body will also review a development prospectus and discuss building renovations.
- Demolition Delay Hearings: 15 Church Street
- Demolition Delay Hearings: 132-134 Russell Street
- Development Prospectus Review: 874 Lexington Street
- Waltham Public Library Building Committee renovation planning
- 190 Moody Street Mill Building window replacement
Commissioners voted 3‑3 on the motion to preserve 15 Church Street, so the demolition delay did not pass and the owner will add a historic marker. The commission also voted unanimously to not give preservation status to 132‑134 Russell Street and to deem 864 Lexington Street not historically significant. It approved the removal of 11 new business items from the agenda and accepted the window‑replacement designs for the 190 Moody Street mill building.
- Demolition delay for 15 Church Street not approved (3‑3 tie); no delay imposed
- 132‑134 Russell Street designated NOT preferably preserved (6‑0)
- 864 Lexington Street deemed NOT historically significant (6‑0)
- 11 new business items taken out of order (6‑0)
- Designs for 190 Moody Street Mill window replacement accepted (6‑0)
Finance Committee
The committee accepted the September 15 meeting minutes. It approved funding for a BigBelly Solar trash receptacle, a traffic safety beacon, design services for the Common Street garage, Owner’s Project Management services for the Public Works move, and a small office equipment transfer. All approvals were adopted by voice vote.
- Accepted September 15, 2025 minutes (voice vote)
- Approved $9,704 funding for BigBelly Solar receptacle (voice vote)
- Approved $9,700 transfer for RRFB on Farwell Street (voice vote)
- Approved $128,000 for structural design services at Common Street garage (voice vote)
- Approved $140,000 for Owner’s Project Management services for Public Works move (voice vote)
- Approved $2,901 transfer for office equipment/furniture (voice vote)
City Council
The Waltham City Council will hold a series of committee meetings to discuss various public works, licensing, and community development items. Most listed items are tabled from previous sessions, but the Licenses and Franchises Committee is scheduled to review a specific license application.
- Class 2 license application for New England Transit Sales, Inc. at 215 Lexington Street
- Discussion on funding and location for new Police, Public Safety, and Fire departments
- Petitions to convert private ways to public ways for Forest Park Drive, Lory Drive, Matthew Lane, Michaelchris Drive, and Raffaele Drive
- Review of road resurfacing petitions for Mount Pleasant St, Parkview Road, and Duddy Ave
- Resolution regarding the construction of new public safety facilities and the 187 Lex property
The City Council approved the minutes from the September 15, 2025 Committee of the Whole meeting by voice vote. They voted to table the Recovery Awareness Month resolution and schedule discussion for the October 20, 2025 meeting, also by voice vote. The meeting was then adjourned by voice vote.
- Approved September 15, 2025 COW minutes (voice vote)
- Tabled Recovery Awareness Month resolution for Oct 20 discussion (voice vote)
- Adjourned meeting (voice vote)
Long Term Debt Committee
The committee approved a $77,250 historic preservation grant for steeple work at First Parish Church (50 Church Street) with a 4‑0 vote. It also approved a $942,575 grant for window restoration and masonry repointing at St. Joseph building (30 Pond Street) by a 5‑0 vote. The committee authorized a $6,356,860 loan to fund the fourth (Amphitheater/Arts) and fifth (Athletic) phases of the 200 Trapelo Road recreation plan, approved 4‑0. Earlier, the August 4 2025 minutes and a motion to hear from off‑committee members were adopted by voice vote.
- Approved $77,250 historic preservation grant for First Parish Church steeple (4-0)
- Approved $942,575 historic preservation grant for St. Joseph building (5-0)
- Approved $6,356,860 loan for 200 Trapelo Road recreation phases (4-0)
- Adopted August 4, 2025 minutes (voice vote)
- Adopted motion to hear from off-committee members (voice vote)
Licenses & Franchises Committee
The committee approved the minutes from the September 15, 2025 meeting by voice vote. It then approved a Class 2 motor vehicle license for New England Transit Sales, Inc. at 215 Lexington Street, allowing ten parking spaces, with conditions noted on a handout, also by voice vote. The meeting was adjourned by voice vote.
- Approved 9/15/2025 meeting minutes (voice vote)
- Approved Class 2 motor vehicle license for New England Transit Sales, Inc. at 215 Lexington Street, ten spaces, with conditions (voice vote)
- Adjourned meeting (voice vote)
Conservation Commission
The Commission will consider a request for a Determination of Applicability for maintenance of an existing access driveway at 417 Lexington Street for Chapel Hill‑Chauncy Hall School. It will also vote on approval of the meeting minutes from September 18, 2025. The agenda includes approval of a planting plan at Lyman Estate (reference 316‑0734) and an informational notice about an invasive spotted lanternfly infestation confirmed on September 23. The next CPC meeting is scheduled for November 18, 2025.
- Request for Determination of Applicability – driveway maintenance at 417 Lexington Street (Chapel Hill‑Chauncy Hall School)
- Approval of meeting minutes from 9‑18‑2025
- Approval of planting plan at Lyman Estate (ref 316‑0734)
- Informational notice of invasive spotted lanternfly infestation confirmed September 23
- CPC next meeting scheduled for November 18, 2025
The commission voted to issue a negative determination for the Chapel Hill‑Chauncy Hall School driveway maintenance request. They approved the minutes from the September 18, 2025 meeting. They also approved the revised planting plan for the Lyman Estate (project 316‑0734). All motions passed with the members present voting in favor.
- Negative determination issued for Chapel Hill‑Chauncy Hall School driveway project (all present voted in favor)
- Approved September 18, 2025 meeting minutes (all present voted in favor)
- Approved revised planting plan at Lyman Estate, project 316‑0734 (all present voted in favor)
- Motion to adjourn passed (all present voted in favor)
Board of Survey and Planning
The Board of Survey and Planning will hold a regular meeting to deliberate and make recommendations regarding a zoning amendment. The discussion focuses on the definition of 'Fast-food establishment' within Article 111, Section 3.2, Subsection 3.229.
- Zoning amendment for Fast Food Establishment (Article 111, Section 3.2, Subsection 3.229)
Licenses & Franchises Committee
The Licenses & Franchises Committee will review several one‑day alcohol permit applications, a change of operating hours for Margaritas, a proposed alteration and extended hours for a McDonald’s location, a transfer of a restaurant liquor license to John Brewers Tavern, and a lottery KENO monitor offering to convenience stores. Decisions will be made on each application and the license transfer request. The meeting will also include discussion of related entertainment schedules.
- One‑day all‑alcohol permit for Community Day Center, 52 Gore Street, Oct 30 2025, 4:00‑8:30 pm, 70 participants.
- One‑day beer and wine permit for Buganda Day Celebration, Oct 4 2025, 7:00‑11:00 pm, 100‑150 participants.
- Change of hours request for Margaritas, 211 Moody Street, to allow Sunday brunch at 10:00 am.
- Alteration request for McDonald’s, 789 Main Street, to expand dining area and extend hours to 2 am, manager Eudocia Malone.
- Transfer of a 7‑day all‑alcohol restaurant license to John Brewers Tavern (highland & Main LLC), 39 Main Street, with scheduled live‑band and DJ entertainment.
City Council
The Waltham City Council will approve minutes, consider several public‑hearing applications for special permits, and vote on the Mayor’s financial requests. The most significant request is a $6,356,860 loan to fund the fourth (Amphitheater/Arts) and fifth (Athletic) areas of the 200 Trapelo Road Recreation Plan. Additional items include funding for Public Works relocation, structural design for the Common Street Garage, and various licensing and resolution approvals.
- $6,356,860 loan authorization for the fourth and fifth areas of the 200 Trapelo Road Recreation Plan
- $140,000 for Owner’s Project Management services to move Public Works to the former Fernald Property
- $128,000 for structural design services for the Common Street Garage
- Special permit hearing for a kennel at 62 Fourth Avenue (MSPCA‑Angell petition)
- Special permit amendment hearing at 305 Second Avenue to reduce floor area and extend operating hours
The council voted 13-0-1-1 to approve the special permit for the MSPCA at 62 Fourth Avenue. It also approved several finance transfers, the 2025 municipal election warrant, and the early voting schedule. Additional approvals included a fuel storage license for BP Third LLC, a Massport license for Pawan Mannan, and a tables‑and‑chairs application for Inspired Concepts. All actions were adopted by voice vote unless a tally is noted.
- Approved special permit at 62 Fourth Avenue (MSPCA‑Angell) (13-0-1-1)
- Approved Fuel Storage license at 180 Third Avenue for BP Third LLC
- Approved Massport license for Pawan Mannan at 88 Lura Lane
- Approved filing of Tables & Chairs application at 265 Moody Street (Inspired Concepts dba In A Pickle)
- Approved transfer of $80,000 from Library State Aid to Library Educational Supplies
- Approved transfer of $9,460.50 from Library State Aid Special Revenue to Library Bookmobile
- Approved 2025 Municipal Election Warrant
- Approved 2025 Early Voting Schedule
Traffic Commission
The Waltham Traffic Commission meeting will consider several petitions and proposals, including parking adjustments, speed and parking studies, and infrastructure upgrades. Commissioners will discuss the final traffic signal design and timing plans submitted by TPD Inc. for the proposed signal on Second Avenue at the Costco driveway. Additional items include requests for new MBTA bus shelters and upgrades to electric‑vehicle chargers in municipal parking lots.
- Removal of parking space near Watch Factory on Crescent Street (Councillor Harris)
- Lincoln Street speed study between Lexington Street and Lake Street (Councillor Dunn)
- Final traffic signal design and timing plans for Second Avenue at the Costco driveway (TPD Inc.)
- MBTA request to install new bus shelters in Waltham
- Wires Department request to upgrade electric‑vehicle chargers in municipal parking lots
The commission approved the final traffic signal design and timing plans for Second Avenue at the Costco/MGH garage. It ordered studies on parking and speed issues at multiple locations and approved free parking for the Waltham Open Studios event and the Octoberfest 5‑Miler race. The commission denied permanent radar speed signs on Harrington Road and the resident parking sticker program for the Bobby Connors Playground area. It also approved two new RRFBs on Trapelo Road, painting a double‑yellow centerline and STOP legend on Villa Street, and allowed the purchase of EV chargers pending later approval of specific spaces.
- Approved final traffic signal design and timing plans for Second Ave/Costco/MGH
- Voted to have the Traffic Engineer study parking and speed conditions at several streets
- Approved free parking for Waltham Open Studios artists and volunteers on Nov 1, 2025
- Approved Octoberfest 5‑Miler race and recommended a permit to the Mayor
- Denied permanent radar speed signs on Harrington Road after trial data
- Denied the Resident Parking Sticker Program for the Bobby Connors Playground neighborhood
- Approved installation of two RRFBs at Trapelo Rd. (Porter Rd. and Chase Rd.)
- Approved painting a 75‑ft double‑yellow centerline and STOP legend on Villa St at Cedarwood Ave
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a multi-family residential complex and review a request for a certificate of compliance for a water main project. The body will also approve its 2026 meeting schedule.
- Public hearing for multi-family residential complex at 245-265 Winter Street
- Certificate of Compliance request for MWRA Section 101 Extension Project on Lexington Street
- Approval of 2026 meeting schedule
- Informational notice of pipeline work by Algonquin Gas near 890 Winter Street
- Informational report of Level 2 Significant Drought status for Waltham and Middlesex County
The commission granted a continuance for Andy Huntoon's multi‑family project at 245‑265 Winter Street. It issued a Certificate of Compliance to the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority for the Lexington Street water main work. The minutes from the August 21 meeting were approved, and the 2026 meeting schedule was adopted, returning to one meeting each in July and August.
- Continuance granted to Andy Huntoon multi‑family project (5‑0)
- Certificate of Compliance issued to MWRA for Lexington Street water main (5‑0)
- Approval of August 21, 2025 meeting minutes (5‑0)
- Adoption of 2026 meeting schedule, reinstating July and August meetings (5‑0)
Community Preservation
The Community Preservation Committee will consider restoration applications for the First Parish steeple and the St. Mary Parish St. Joseph building. The committee will also approve the June 10 and July 28, 2025 meeting minutes, elect officers, and discuss future meeting dates.
- Approval of June 10, 2025 and July 28, 2025 meeting minutes
- First Parish in Waltham Universalist-Unitarian Inc. steeple restoration application
- St. Mary Parish: St. Joseph building restoration application
- Election of committee officers
- Discussion of upcoming meeting dates
The Community Preservation Committee recommended $77,210 for the First Parish steeple restoration and $942,575 for window restoration and repointing at the St. Joseph Building, and both motions passed unanimously. The committee also reappointed its officers and set the meeting schedule to four times per year, with dates through May 2026. All actions were approved by roll‑call vote with every member voting yes.
- Recommended $77,210 steeple restoration to City Council (unanimously passed)
- Recommended $942,575 window restoration and repointing to City Council (unanimously passed)
- Reappointed Justin Barrett as Chair, Erika Oliver Jerram as Vice Chair, Julie Toole as Clerk (unanimously passed)
- Set CPC meeting schedule to four per year with dates Nov 18 2025, Feb 10 2026, May 12 2026 (unanimously passed)
- Adjourned meeting (unanimously passed)
City Council
The City Council and its committees will meet to discuss several new license applications and a street paving petition. Most other items on the agenda remain tabled from previous sessions.
- Fuel storage license application at 180 Third Ave for BP Third LLC
- Tables and chairs application at 265 Moody St for Inspired Concepts dba In A Pickle
- Massport license application for Pawan Mannan at Lura Lane
- Paving petition for Milner St
- Request for a memorial on Prospect Hill for Pastor Hoaglander
The council approved the minutes of the September 15 meeting and the August 4 executive‑session minutes. A motion to send the executive‑session minutes was also approved. The council then tabled further discussion on the former Lawrence School property recommendations. The meeting was adjourned.
- Approved minutes of the September 15 COW meeting (voice vote)
- Approved minutes of the August 4 COW Executive Session (23 AFT Keach Street) – 13 in favor
- Approved sending of the August 4 COW Executive Session minutes – 13 in favor
- Tabled discussion on former Lawrence School property reuse (voice vote)
- Adjourned meeting (voice vote)
Economic & Community Development
The committee approved the minutes from the June 23, 2025 meeting by voice vote. A request to remove the bike sharing program from the agenda was approved, and the same matter was then formally tabled, also by voice vote. The meeting was adjourned by voice vote.
- Approved June 23, 2025 meeting minutes (voice vote)
- Moved bike sharing matter off the table (voice vote)
- Tabled bike sharing matter (voice vote)
- Adjourned meeting (voice vote)
Ordinances & Rules Committee
The committee approved the special permit application for the MSPCA Little Angels project at 62 Fourth Avenue, conditional on all required documents being submitted to the Clerk’s office by Thursday. The application was taken off the table and the motion passed by voice vote. The committee also took the special permit modification application for Middlesex Integrative Medicine at 305 Second Avenue off the table, continued its public hearing to October 27, 2025, and tabled several zoning items. All motions were approved by voice vote.
- Approved minutes from 8/4/2025 meeting (voice vote)
- Tabled zoning amendment for fast‑food restaurants (voice vote)
- Tabled draft zoning map, table, and definitions from comprehensive study (voice vote)
- Took special permit application for MSPCA Little Angels at 62 Fourth Ave off the table and approved it conditional on submission by Thursday (voice vote)
- Took special permit modification application for Middlesex Integrative Medicine at 305 Second Ave off the table (voice vote)
- Continued public hearing on Middlesex Integrative Medicine permit to October 27, 2025 (voice vote)
- Tabled Middlesex Integrative Medicine matter (voice vote)
- Adjourned meeting at 9:44 p.m. (voice vote)
Finance Committee
The committee accepted the minutes from the August 4, 2025 meeting. It approved an $80,000 transfer from the Library State Aid account to the Library Educational Supplies account. It also approved a $9,460.50 transfer for the Library Bookmobile battery replacement, passing 4‑1 on a roll‑call vote. The meeting was then adjourned.
- Accepted August 4, 2025 minutes (voice vote)
- Approved $80,000 transfer from Library State Aid to Library Educational Supplies (voice vote)
- Approved $9,460.50 transfer from Library State Aid to Library Bookmobile (4‑1 roll call vote)
- Adjourned meeting (voice vote)
Licenses & Franchises Committee
The Licenses & Franchises Committee approved three licenses: a Massport license for Pawan Mannan, a fuel storage license for BP Third Ave LLC, and a tables & chairs application was filed without prejudice. The committee also tabled a memorial rock proposal for Pastor Hoaglander and adjourned the meeting. All motions were approved by voice vote.
- Approved minutes from 8/4/2025 meeting (voice vote)
- Filed Tables & Chairs application at 2665 Moody St without prejudice (voice vote)
- Approved Massport license for Pawan Mannan at 88 Lura Lane (voice vote)
- Approved fuel storage license for BP Third Ave LLC at 180 Third Ave (voice vote)
- Tabled memorial rock proposal for Pastor Hoaglander (voice vote)
- Adjourned meeting at 7:08 p.m. (voice vote)
Board of Health
The Board unanimously approved the minutes from the June 18, 2025 meeting. It also unanimously approved a motion to send a letter to Rose Aromatherapy requesting attendance at the October meeting and to have an inspector visit the site at least three times before then. The Board noted that Best Reflexology is already licensed by the state and requires no further action. The meeting was adjourned at 5:30 PM and the next meeting is set for October 15, 2025.
- Approved June 18, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved letter to Rose Aromatherapy and three inspector visits before next meeting (unanimous)
- Adjourned meeting at 5:30 PM
Parks Recreation Board
The Parks‑Recreation Board approved the minutes from the June 4 meeting and signed the monthly bills for FY 25‑26. It unanimously approved three community sports events—the Needham Soccer Memorial Day Tournament, the November IFA tournament, and the inclusion of Waltham Youth Field Hockey as a youth sport organization with a $3,500 stipend. The board also voted to hire Scott Campbell as Facilities Supervisor I. All actions were approved without dissent.
- Approved June 4, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved Needham Soccer Memorial Day Tournament (unanimous)
- Approved November IFA tournament (unanimous)
- Approved Waltham Youth Field Hockey as a youth sport organization (unanimous)
- Approved $3,500 stipend for Waltham Youth Field Hockey (unanimous)
- Approved hiring of Scott Campbell as Facilities Supervisor I (unanimous)
- Approved updated hours of operation to 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. (unanimous)
- Approved adjournment of the meeting (unanimous)
Board of Health
The Waltham Bio-Safety Committee will meet to discuss permit applications for recombinant DNA (rDNA) work. The committee will also review minutes from the June 10, 2025 meeting.
- rDNA permit request from MaxCyte purchase of SeQure Dx
- rDNA permit request from General Biological
The board unanimously approved Maxcyte as a BSL‑1 and BSL‑2 facility. The board also unanimously approved the General Biological facility. The meeting approved the June 10, 2025 minutes and discussed updating the 24‑hour contact list.
- Approved Maxcyte facility (unanimous)
- Approved General Biological facility (unanimous)
- Approved June 10, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Waltham Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on June 3, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. to consider eight appeals of Building Inspector determinations. Each appeal seeks to maintain the existing use of the property despite cease‑and‑desist orders for operating as unlicensed lodging houses. The cases involve properties in Residence A‑3, Residence B, and Business B zoning districts. The board will review the petitions and any related zoning ordinance provisions.
- 659 South Street – Residence A‑3 Zoning District (Case 2024‑36)
- 188‑190 Ash Street – Residence B Zoning District (Case 2024‑37)
- 184 Ash Street – Residence B Zoning District (Case 2024‑38)
- 139 Adams Street – Residence B Zoning District (Case 2024‑39)
- 92 Brown Street – Residence B Zoning District (Case 2024‑40)
City Council
The Waltham City Council will hold a joint public hearing with the Board of Survey and Planning to discuss proposed amendments to the zoning code, including changes to the definition of a fast-food establishment. The council will also hear public comments on a fuel storage license amendment for a property at 180 Third Avenue and a resurfacing project for Milner Street.
- Zoning amendment to reduce fast-food seating threshold from 50 to 35 seats
- Public hearing on fuel storage license amendment for 180 Third Avenue (BP Third Ave LLC)
- Public hearing on Milner Street resurfacing project with betterments to be assessed
- Mayor requests $80,000 transfer from Library State Aid to Library Educational Supplies
- Mayor requests $9,460.50 transfer for Library Bookmobile
The council approved a $6,753,695 loan for a citywide water‑service replacement project and a $6,420,000 loan for exterior renovations to the Howe & Administration Buildings. It also adopted the Cryptocurrency ATM ordinance, the Massport license for Manot Mannan, and a gift of a Light Guard Crosswalk from Brandeis University. Additional resolutions honoring the fire department, youth baseball champions, and Mary Waddick were also approved.
- Approved $6,753,695 water‑service replacement loan (14‑0‑0‑1)
- Approved $6,420,000 exterior renovation loan for Howe & Administration Buildings (13‑0‑0‑1‑1)
- Approved Cryptocurrency ATM ordinance (13‑1‑0‑1)
- Approved Massport License for Manot Mannan (voice vote)
- Approved gift of Light Guard Crosswalk for South Street (voice vote)
- Approved Resolution honoring the Fire Department and residents of 49‑51 Brown Street (voice vote)
- Approved Resolution honoring Waltham Youth Baseball 10‑Year‑Old District Champs (voice vote)
- Approved Mary Waddick Resolution (voice vote)
Historical Commission
The Waltham Historical Commission will hold its September 8, 2025 meeting to accept minutes, hear reports on Stonehurst and Wellington House, and discuss a historic marker for Saint Charles Borromeo Church. No demolition delay or development prospectus hearings are scheduled.
- Stonehurst: Monthly report and inventory update
- Wellington House: Monthly report and update
- Saint Charles Borromeo Church, 51 Hall Street: Historic marker proposal
The commission accepted the August 2025 meeting minutes. It approved a letter of support for the Saint Mary’s CPC restoration application. It also approved the wording for a historic marker at the former St. Charles Borromeo Church.
- Accepted August 2025 meeting minutes (5-0)
- Approved letter of support for Saint Mary’s CPC restoration application (5-0)
- Approved wording for historic marker at former St. Charles Borromeo Church (5-0)
Board of Survey and Planning
The Board of Survey and Planning will hold a public hearing on a special permit for driveway openings at 962 Main Street and an endorsement for an A.N.R. plan at 495 Lincoln Street. The meeting will also include the approval of previous meeting minutes.
- Public hearing: Special Permit for driveway openings at 962 Main Street
- Public hearing: Endorsement of A.N.R. plan at 495 Lincoln Street
- Approval of June 4, 2025 meeting minutes
Licenses & Franchises Committee
The Waltham Board of License Commissioners will review several one-day all-alcohol permit requests for events at Bentley University, local venues, and private gatherings. The board will also consider an extension request for an outdoor event at Shopper’s Café and a license transfer for Gordon’s Fine Wines & Liquors, including a change of manager.
- One-day alcohol permits for Bentley University events (football, hockey, receptions) at 175 Forest Street
- One-day alcohol permit for Boston Commandery Masonic Lodge event at Paine Estate, 100 Robert Treat Paine Drive
- One-day alcohol permit for wedding reception at Paine Estate, 100 Robert Treat Paine Drive
- Extension request for Shopper’s Café outdoor corn hole tournament at 731 Moody Street
- License transfer for Gordon’s Fine Wines & Liquors (599 Moody Street) with new manager Sandip Ramesh Patel
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing to discuss a special permit request. The petitioner seeks to add living space to an existing structure in a Commercial Zoning District.
- Case 2025-36: Special permit for a 100 +/- square foot addition on the 3rd floor at 118 Prospect Street
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Waltham Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on October 7, 2025, to consider a special permit request from William J. Durkin and Ramina Ghods to keep hens as backyard pets at 17 Charlotte Road. The petition seeks relief from zoning ordinance §3.612 to allow poultry on land under 5 acres.
- Public hearing for special permit to keep backyard hens
- Case #2025-35 at 17 Charlotte Road
- Request to allow poultry on land under 5 acres
Conservation Commission
The Waltham Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing on a request to amend conditions for rear additions and a rain garden at 171 Copeland Street. Additional public hearings and meetings cover projects at Winter Street, South Street, Chesterbrook Road, and Wyman Street, including repairs, redevelopment, and compliance requests.
- Amendment to Order of Conditions for 80 sq.ft. and 598 sq.ft. additions at 171 Copeland Street (DEP File #316-0816)
- Notice of Intent for multi-family residential development at 245-265 Winter Street (DEP File #316-0841)
- Request for Determination of Applicability for stone-lined drainage basin at 415 South Street (RDA 25-07)
- Certificate of Compliance for paver and patio work at 43 Chesterbrook Road (DEP File #316-0827)
- Certificate of Compliance for sewer line repair at 303 Wyman Street (DEP File #316-0800)
The Conservation Commission approved an amendment to the order of conditions for 171 Copeland Street, allowing driveway expansion and a rain garden. It continued the Maple Multi-Family project review to the September 18 meeting. It issued a negative determination for Brandeis University's drainage basin and approved several Certificates of Compliance for properties on Chesterbrook Road, Wyman Street, Riverview Avenue, and Lexington Street.
- Approved amendment to order of conditions for 171 Copeland St (impervious driveway expansion and rain garden) – motion passed
- Continued Maple Multi-Family Land East Coast application (245-265 Winter St) to September 18 meeting – motion passed
- Issued negative determination (Positive 2b/Negative 5) for Brandeis University drainage basin at 415 South St – motion passed
- Issued Certificate of Compliance for Susan Flint, 43 Chesterbrook Rd – motion passed
- Issued Certificate of Compliance for Bradley Cardoso, 303 Wyman St – motion passed
- Issued Certificate of Compliance for Bradley Cardoso, 404 Wyman St – motion passed
- Issued Positive 2b/Negative 5 determination for Gary Freeman, 105 Riverview Ave – motion passed
- Issued Certificate of Compliance for Chapel Hill Chauncy Hall School, 399 & 327 Lexington St – motion passed
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Waltham Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on September 16, 2025, to review a variance request for a second-story addition to a single-family home at 121 Summit Street. The petitioners seek relief from side-yard setback requirements under §4.2181(a) due to a 0.35-foot deficiency.
- Case #2025-32: Variance request for second-story addition at 121 Summit Street
- Petitioners: Graham Dimmock & Lynsey Kraemer, Trustees of 121 Summit Street Realty Trust
- Zoning district: Residence A-4; provisions involved: §4.11 and §4.2181(a)
- Side-yard deficiency: 0.35 feet (required 16 feet total, existing 15.65 feet)
- Public hearing scheduled for September 16, 2025, at 7:00 P.M. in Government Center, 119 School Street
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Waltham Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on September 30, 2025, to review a variance request for a single-story rear addition to a home at 153 Circle Drive. The petitioner seeks to reduce the required rear-yard setback from 30 feet to 19 feet. The board will consider §4.11 of the Zoning Ordinance.
- Case #2025-33: Variance for rear-yard addition at 153 Circle Drive
- Proposed setback reduction from 30 ft to 19 ft
- Public hearing scheduled for September 30, 2025, at 7:00 PM in Government Center
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Waltham Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on October 7, 2025, to consider a variance request for a two-and-a-half-story single-family home on Clark Avenue. The proposed home would encroach into both front and rear yard setbacks, requiring relief from current zoning requirements.
- Case #2025-34: Variance for 2.5-story single-family home at 103 Clark Avenue
- Petitioners: Branden and Margaret Roumanis
- Front yard setback reduced to 21.6 feet (40 feet required)
- Rear yard setback reduced to 20.4 feet (40 feet required)
- Hearing scheduled for October 7, 2025, at 7:00 PM in Government Center
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing to consider a variance request for 16 BEF Smart Street. The petitioner seeks to build a single-family home on a non-conforming lot.
- Case 2025-29: Variance request for 16 BEF Smart Street to allow construction on a lot with a width of 66.3 feet at the rear-yard setback point
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing regarding a Comprehensive Permit application for a housing project. The applicant, DIV 455 TPR, LLC, seeks to construct 315 rental units, including 79 affordable deed-restricted units.
- Comprehensive Permit application for 315 rental units at 455 Totten Pond Road
- Proposal includes 79 affordable units for households up to 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI)
- Project location is within a Limited Commercial Zoning District
Planning Department
The Planning Department will hold a public hearing to release the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Consolidated Annual Performance Evaluation Report (CAPER). The body is soliciting resident input on housing and community development accomplishments from the 2024-2025 program year.
- Public hearing on the 2024-2025 CDBG Consolidated Annual Performance Evaluation Report (CAPER)
Historical Commission
The Waltham Historical Commission will meet to review a development prospectus for 220 Moody Street. The body will also receive monthly reports on Stonehurst and Wellington House and discuss the First Parish Church via the CPC liaison report.
- Development prospectus review for 220 Moody Street
- Monthly report and inventory update for Stonehurst
- Monthly report and update for Wellington House
- CPC report regarding First Parish Church
- Commission officer elections
The commission approved the July 2025 minutes with a 5‑yes, 1‑abstain vote. It voted unanimously to deem the 220 Moody Street building not historically significant, clearing the way for the proposed hotel and mixed‑use project. The body also authorized Commissioner Isaacson to contact city departments on fire mitigation at the Paine Estate, preservation of Art Deco features at the Fitch School, and to write a support letter for First Parish Church’s steeple restoration. Officers were re‑confirmed for the next year and the meeting was adjourned.
- Approved July 2025 minutes as amended (5 yes, 1 abstain, 1 absent)
- Found 220 Moody Street building not historically significant (6 yes, 1 absent)
- Took CPC item out of order (6 yes, 1 absent)
- Authorized contact on fire mitigation at Paine Estate (7 yes, 0 no)
- Authorized contact on preserving Fitch School Art Deco features (7 yes, 0 no)
- Authorized letter of support for First Parish Church steeple restoration (7 yes, 0 no)
- Confirmed officer slate for next year (7 yes, 0 no)
- Adjourned meeting (7 yes, 0 no)
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings regarding a residential addition and rain garden at 171 Copeland Street and utility and roadway work at 200 Trapelo Road. The body will also receive informational updates on utility work and pond maintenance.
- Public hearing for 171 Copeland Street: additions and rain garden expansion
- Public hearing for 200 Trapelo Road: utility infrastructure and roadway reconstruction
- Informational notice: SOLitude observation and potential treatment at Hardy Pond on August 12
- Informational notice: National Grid gas main replacement from Yetten Terrace to Whitcomb Street
- Informational notice: MWRA test borings at 209 Lexington Street starting week of August 11
The commission authorized the chair to sign the order of conditions for the 220 Moody Street development prospectus. It continued the public hearing on the amendment request for 171 Copeland Street. It approved a positive order of conditions for the utility and roadway reconstruction at 200 Trapelo Road. It issued a letter approving stump grinding at 2 Worcester Lane and accepted the ZBA comment text for the 40B permit at 379‑395 Totten Pond Road.
- Authorized chair to sign order of conditions for 220 Moody Street (unanimous)
- Continued public hearing on amendment for 171 Copeland Street (unanimous)
- Approved positive order of conditions for 200 Trapelo Road utility/roadway project (unanimous)
- Issued letter approving stump grinding at 2 Worcester Lane (unanimous)
- Accepted ZBA comment text for 40B permit at 379‑395 Totten Pond Road (unanimous)
- Approved minutes from 7‑24‑2025 meeting (unanimous, Limonciello abstained)
- Adopted commission’s correspondence notes (unanimous)
- Adjourned meeting (unanimous)
City Council
The Waltham City Council will hold a special meeting to review several special permits, including a kennel and marijuana establishment updates. The body will also consider multiple grant acceptances and funding requests from the Mayor.
- Loan request of $6,420,000 for exterior renovations to Howe & Administration Buildings at 20 Trapelo Road
- Financing plan of $7,400,000 for a water service replacement project to remove lead gooseneck connections
- Special permit for a kennel at 62 Fourth Avenue requested by MSPCA-Angell
- Draft ordinance for regulating Cryptocurrency ATMs
- Three secondhand dealers license petitions for locations at 88 Maple Street, 709 Main Street, and 16 Elm Street
The City Council approved two large loan authorizations—$2,904,575 for demolition and abatement of three buildings and $2,861,967 for street resurfacing. It also adopted a Floodplains and Floodways Draft Ordinance and a Compensation Ordinance Amendment. Additional actions included a secondhand dealer license for Reclaim Chic and a 50th wedding anniversary resolution.
- Approved $2,904,575 loan for building abatement and demolition (12-0-1-1-1)
- Approved $2,861,967 loan for street resurfacing (13-0-1-1)
- Approved Floodplains and Floodways Draft Ordinance (13-0-1-1)
- Approved Secondhand Dealers License at 709 Main St for Reclaim Chic dba Re/Chic (voice vote)
- Approved Martin & Flora Appel 50th Wedding Anniversary Resolution (voice vote)
- Approved Compensation Ordinance Amendment for staff stipends (voice vote)
- Approved regular City Council meeting minutes of 6/23/2025 (voice vote)
- Approved special City Council meeting minutes of 7/16/2025 (voice vote)
Licenses & Franchises Committee
The Licenses & Franchises Committee approved the minutes from the June 23, 2025 meeting. It appointed Councillor Logan as Clerk Pro Tem. The committee approved two secondhand dealer licenses—one for LaBoutiqua at 88 Maple Street and another for Big Dawgs Cards at 16 Elm Street—and approved Eversource's request to locate a transformer on Grant Street. The meeting was adjourned.
- Approved June 23, 2025 meeting minutes (voice vote)
- Appointed Councillor Logan as Clerk Pro Tem (voice vote)
- Approved secondhand dealer license for LaBoutiqua, 88 Maple St (voice vote)
- Approved secondhand dealer license for Big Dawgs Cards, 16 Elm St (voice vote)
- Approved Eversource location grant on Grant St for transformer relocation (voice vote)
- Adjourned meeting (voice vote)
Ordinances & Rules Committee
The Ordinances & Rules Committee approved its previous meeting minutes and took several actions on special permit applications, tabling them for later consideration. It directed the Law Department to draft a special act for the Mayor concerning Officer Harry Michel. It also moved the cryptocurrency ATM ordinance to the full Council for a first reading.
- Approved minutes from 6/23/2025 (voice vote)
- Released new information and law opinion for 62 Fourth Ave permit (voice vote)
- Tabled 62 Fourth Ave special permit matter (voice vote)
- Approved amended order for Uma Flowers special permit (voice vote)
- Directed Law Department to draft special act for Mayor on Officer Harry Michel (voice vote)
- Sent cryptocurrency ATM ordinance to full Council for first reading (voice vote)
- Removed 2/10/2025 trash matter from the table (voice vote)
- Filed the 2/10/2025 trash matter (voice vote)
Finance Committee
The committee approved the minutes from the June 23, 2025 meeting. It accepted several state 911-related grants and a Massachusetts Council on Aging grant. It authorized a $7.4 million financing plan for a water services replacement project, and approved transfers for traffic safety devices and a Microsoft Office upgrade. All motions passed by voice vote.
- Approved minutes of June 23, 2025 meeting (voice vote)
- Approved acceptance of State 911 Training Grant $123,462.96 (voice vote)
- Approved acceptance of State 911 Support & Incentive Grant $271,871.00 (voice vote)
- Approved acceptance of State 911 Emergency Medical Dispatch Grant $20,186.19 (voice vote)
- Approved $7.4M financing plan (loan $6.753M, $646k funds) for water services replacement (voice vote)
- Approved $9,700 transfer for RRFB on Stow Street (voice vote)
- Approved $20,000 transfer for flashing yellow arrow on Lexington Street (voice vote)
- Approved $165,000 transfer for Microsoft Office upgrade (voice vote)
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing to consider a variance request for a multifamily residence. The petitioner seeks to deviate from side yard setback and unit density requirements.
- Proposed 4-unit multifamily residence at 20 Williams Street
- Request to reduce south side yard setback from 10 feet to 6.5 feet
- Request to increase unit density to 27 units per acre (limit is 18 units per acre)
Community Preservation
The Community Preservation Committee is holding a special meeting to discuss a single application. The body will review a request for structural repairs at a specific residential property.
- Structural Repairs Application for St. Mary’s Apartments at 88 Lexington Street
The Community Preservation Committee held an emergency Zoom meeting to address structural issues at St. Mary’s Apartments, 88 Lexington Street. A motion was made and seconded to allocate $270,000 for repairs, including a new concrete slab, waterproofing, and a dehumidification system. The motion passed with all eight members voting in favor. The meeting was then adjourned.
- Approved $270,000 allocation for structural repairs at St. Mary’s Apartments (8 yes)
- Adjourned meeting (8 yes)
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings regarding a multi-family residential complex and a residential addition. The body will also consider requests for certified copies of compliance certificates for two properties.
- Notice of Intent for multi-family residential complex at 245-265 Winter Street
- Amendment request for additions and rain garden at 171 Copeland Street
- Certificate of Compliance request for 17 Elinor Circle
- Certificate of Compliance request for 85 Knollwood Drive
The commission voted to continue Bubchull Kim’s amendment request to the August 7 meeting. It also moved the multi‑family project hearing for 245‑265 Winter Street to August 21. The commission approved issuance of a certified copy of the Certificate of Compliance for 85 Knollwood Drive. Minutes from July 3 and July 10 were approved.
- Continue Bubchull Kim amendment request to 8/7/2025 (4-0)
- Continue Andy Huntoon multi‑family project hearing to 8/21/2025 (4-0)
- Issue certified copy of Certificate of Compliance for 85 Knollwood Drive (4-0)
- Approve meeting minutes from 7-3-2025 (motion passed)
- Approve meeting minutes from 7-10-2025 (motion passed)
- Schedule emergency meeting for July 28 on St. Mary’s funding request
- Volunteer site visits: 404 Wyman Street (Donovan) and 43 Chesterbrook Road (Dufromont)
- Adjourn meeting (motion passed)
Licenses & Franchises Committee
The Board of License Commissioners will review several requests for one-day alcohol permits and premise extensions for upcoming events. The board will also consider a transfer of a 7-day all alcohol restaurant license for a business at 663 Main Street.
- Transfer of 7-day all alcohol restaurant license from Revelry Main LLC to Monarca Taqueria Corporation at 663 Main Street
- One-day all alcohol permit request for Bentley University at 175 Forest Street for September 19 and 26
- Premise extension request for Loyal Order of Moose Waltham Lodge #1018 at 249 Lexington Street for September 21
- Premise extension request for Mighty Squirrel at 411 Waverley Oaks Road for a September 2 race
- Entertainment permit extension for Westin Waltham-Boston Hotel at 70 Third Avenue for August 15, 16, and 17
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing regarding a Comprehensive Permit application for a housing project. The applicant, DIV 455 TPR, LLC, proposes to construct 315 rental units, including 79 affordable deed-restricted units.
- Comprehensive Permit application for 315 rental units at 455 Totten Pond Road
- Proposal for 79 affordable units for households up to 80% of Area Median Income (AMI)
- Project location is within a Limited Commercial Zoning District
Board of Survey and Planning
The Waltham City Council and Board of Survey and Planning will hold a joint public hearing to discuss amendments to the Waltham Zoning Code. The proposal aims to establish a Floodplain District based on a July 8, 2025, FEMA map.
- Proposed amendment to Zoning Code Section 3.12 (Floodplain district)
- Proposed amendment to Zoning Code Section 3.82 (Floodplains and floodways)
City Council
The Waltham City Council will hold a joint public hearing with the Board of Survey and Planning. The body may deliberate on amendments to the Waltham Zoning Code regarding floodplain districts and floodways.
- Proposed amendment to Zoning Code Section 3.12 (Floodplain district)
- Proposed amendment to Zoning Code Section 3.82 (Floodplains and floodways)
The council suspended Rule 39 to act without committee reference, approved a first reading of the floodplain zoning amendment, and ordered it sent to the Law Department for review. The amendment was then tabled on the council floor and will be advertised for a second reading on August 8, 2025. All motions were approved by voice vote.
- Suspended Rule 39 to act without Committee reference (voice vote)
- Approved first reading of Floodplain Zoning amendment (voice vote)
- Sent Floodplain Zoning amendment to Law Department for review (voice vote)
- Tabled Floodplain Zoning amendment on Council floor (voice vote)
- Authorized advertisement and second reading on August 8, 2025 (voice vote)
- Approved motion to hear from off‑committee members (voice vote)
- Adopted motion to adjourn the meeting (voice vote)
Planning Department
The Planning Department is seeking public input on a substantial amendment to the PYSO Annual Action Plan. The proposal involves reallocating funds and program income to pay for new energy efficient windows at the Chesterbrook Community Foundation Learning Center. The meeting will also address a proposed revision to the CDBG Citizen Participation Plan.
- Proposed funding for energy efficient windows at Chesterbrook Community Foundation Learning Center
- Proposed revision to the CDBG Citizen Participation Plan
- Public hearing on CDBG Substantial Amendment and Citizen Participation Plan Amendment
Historical Commission
The Historical Commission will receive monthly reports and updates regarding Stonehurst and Wellington House. The body will also discuss proposed bills in the Massachusetts Legislature and homeowners insurance related to MACRIS listings.
- Monthly report and inventory update for Stonehurst
- Monthly report and update for Wellington House
- Discussion of proposed bills in the Massachusetts Legislature
- Discussion of homeowners insurance and MACRIS listings
The commission voted to accept the June 2025 minutes after correcting “Bentley College” to “Bentley University.” The motion was approved by all commissioners present. No other substantive actions were taken and the meeting was adjourned.
- Accepted June 2025 meeting minutes (amended) (5-0)
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a project amendment at 171 Copeland Street. The body will also consider certificates of compliance for three separate properties and discuss a mosquito monitoring request at Storer land.
- Public hearing for driveway and rain garden expansion at 171 Copeland Street
- Certificate of Compliance request for New High School project at 554 Lexington Street
- Certificate of Compliance request for 147 Riverview Ave (roof area, deck, and retaining wall)
- Certificate of Compliance request for two single-family houses at 314, 320, and 326 Lexington Street
- Request to place mosquito monitoring traps on Storer land
The commission continued an amendment request for a driveway at 171 Copeland St and approved Certificates of Compliance for the new high school at 554 Lexington St, a residence at 147 Riverview Ave, and a partial COC for three Lexington St lots. It also approved a COC for Hardy Pond invasive‑plant management, adopted the May 22 minutes, gave provisional permission for mosquito‑monitoring traps, and re‑elected the current officers for the 2026 budget year.
- Continued amendment request for 171 Copeland St (motion passed)
- Issued full Certificate of Compliance for New High School project, 554 Lexington St (motion passed)
- Issued Certificate of Compliance for 147 Riverview Ave (Cate Solomon) (motion passed)
- Issued partial Certificate of Compliance for 314, 320, 326 Lexington St (Curtis Beaton) (motion passed)
- Issued Certificate of Compliance for Hardy Pond invasive‑plant management (motion passed)
- Approved meeting minutes from 5‑22‑2025 (motion passed; Limonciello abstained)
- Granted provisional permission for mosquito‑monitoring traps (permission given)
- Re‑elected current officers for 2026 budget year (roll‑call vote in favor)
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing regarding a petition by Hall Street Partners, LLC. The petitioner seeks to amend a previous decision to allow for an easement for an abutter's driveway and parking area.
- Case 2025-28: Proposed amendment to site plans for 20 residential units at 61 Hall Street
- Proposed easement of 637.42 square feet to an abutter for driveway and parking use
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing to consider a special permit request for a building addition. The petitioner seeks to add a rooftop stairway or bulkhead to a structure in the Business C Zoning District.
- Special permit request for 599 Main Street to add a rooftop bulkhead increasing gross floor area by approximately 85 square feet
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission is holding a special supplemental meeting to address pending applications delayed by prior cancellations. The body will hear notices of intent and requests for compliance regarding city infrastructure, private developments, and environmental management.
- Stormwater runoff treatment using green infrastructure at 14 Pine Street
- Invasive Aquatic Plant Management Program at Hardy Pond using herbicides and algaecides
- Conversion of approximately 1 acre of Embassy parking lot at 14 Pine Street into park land
- Construction of two paver courtyards at 404 Wyman Street
- Installation of ramp approaches on two bridges at 53BEF Trapelo Road
The Conservation Commission used the special meeting to close several pending public hearings and to issue orders of conditions or certificates of compliance for projects at 14 Pine Street, 404 Wyman Street, and 40‑60 Sylvan Road. It approved an order of conditions for the Hardy Pond invasive‑plant management program, setting a three‑year term and a special condition requiring curly pond weed treatment by May 15. All motions were adopted unanimously by the six commissioners.
- Closed public hearing for Embassy garage NOI (DEP 316-0838) – motion passed
- Issued order of conditions (incl. condition 26.A) for Embassy garage – motion passed
- Issued invalid Certificate of Compliance for Embassy parking lot park project (DEP 316-0265) – motion passed
- Issued Certificate of Compliance for water‑main project (DEP 316-0379) – motion passed
- Closed public hearing and issued order of conditions for 404 Wyman Street project (DEP 316-0839) – motion passed
- Issued amended order of conditions for Sylvan Road project (DEP 316-0835) – motion passed
- Closed public hearing for Hardy Pond NOI (DEP 316-0837) – motion passed
- Issued order of conditions with 3‑year term and May 15 curly pond weed treatment condition for Hardy Pond – motion passed
Conservation Commission
The commission will hold public hearings and meetings to review several notices of intent and requests for compliance. Key discussions include city-led infrastructure projects at 14 Pine Street and invasive plant management at Hardy Pond.
- Stormwater runoff treatment using green infrastructure at 14 Pine Street
- Invasive Aquatic Plant Management Program at Hardy Pond using herbicides and algaecides
- Construction of two paver courtyards at 404 Wyman Street
- Amendment to change cabin foundations to slab-on-grade at 40-60 Sylvan Road
- Installation of bridge ramp approaches and stringer replacement at 53BEF Trapelo Road
Licenses & Franchises Committee
The Board of License Commissioners will consider several requests for one-day alcohol permits for events at Bentley University, the Charles River Museum of Industry and Innovation, and the Paine Estate. The board will also review a manager change for 99 Restaurant and discuss Sunday sales hours for off-premise operations.
- One-day all alcohol permit for Bentley University at 175 Forest Street
- One-day beer and wine permit for a Bar Mitzvah at 154 Moody Street
- One-day all alcohol permit for a wedding at 100 Robert Treat Paine Drive
- Two one-day beer and wine permits for events at 154 Moody Street
- Manager change for 99 Restaurant at 110 South Street from Samantha Jo Foy to Skye Sealy
City Council
The City Council will review several special permits for hotels and kennels and consider multiple funding requests from the Mayor. The meeting includes discussions on infrastructure loans, street resurfacing, and various municipal appropriations.
- Special permit for a 6-story hotel with 135 parking spaces at 1265 Main Street
- Loan authorization of $2,904,575 for the abatement and demolition of three buildings
- Financing plan totaling $6,240,000 for street resurfacing
- Special permit for a kennel at 62 Fourth Avenue
- Appropriation of $350,000 from the Unreserved Fund Balance to the Stabilization Fund-General
The City Council approved the special permit applications for 1265 Main Street (12‑1‑1‑1) and 61 Hall Street (13‑0‑1‑1). A grant of location for Eversource at Totten Pond Road and Winter Street was also approved by voice vote. The Finance Committee transfers of $35,000 for traffic‑light utilities, $29,460 for a mental‑health jail diversion grant, and $170,000 for Fire Department overtime were each approved by voice vote. Several Ordinances and Rules Committee recommendations were filed or tabled as directed by the Council.
- Approved special permit for 1265 Main Street LLC and J & Co. (12-1-1-1)
- Approved special permit for Hall Street Partners LLC at 61 Hall Street (13-0-1-1)
- Approved grant of location for Eversource at Totten Pond Road and Winter Street (voice vote)
- Approved $35,000 transfer for traffic‑light and street‑light utility costs (voice vote)
- Approved $29,460 grant from Dept. of Mental Health for Jail Diversion program (voice vote)
- Approved $170,000 appropriation for Fire Department overtime and medical expenses (voice vote)
- Filed Update Special Permit Ordinance Resolution (voice vote)
- Tabled Fast Food Establishment Zoning Ordinance Amendment on Council floor (voice vote)
Economic & Community Development
The committee approved the minutes from the June 16, 2025 meeting by voice vote. Councillor Harris’s requests to remove the Solar Compactable Trash Cans resolution from the table and to have Public Works Director Michael Chiasson and Recreation Director Kim Hebert attend a September 15, 2025 meeting were each approved by voice vote. The council then moved to table the Solar Compactable Trash Cans resolution, which was approved by voice vote. The meeting was adjourned by voice vote.
- Approved June 16, 2025 meeting minutes (voice vote)
- Approved request to take Solar Compactable Trash Cans matter off the table (voice vote)
- Approved request for Directors Michael Chiasson and Kim Hebert to attend Sep 15, 2025 meeting (voice vote)
- Approved motion to table Solar Compactable Trash Cans matter (voice vote)
- Approved motion to adjourn meeting (voice vote)
Ordinances & Rules Committee
The Ordinances & Rules Committee voted to forward the special permit application for MSPCA Little Angels at 62 Fourth Ave to the Law Department for an opinion. The committee also approved releasing any new information and the law opinion to the petitioner. The matter was then laid on the table, and the meeting was adjourned.
- Approved sending the application to the Law Department for opinion (voice vote)
- Approved releasing new information and the law opinion to/from the petitioner (voice vote)
- Approved laying the matter on the table (voice vote)
- Approved adjournment of the meeting (voice vote)
Finance Committee
The committee accepted the minutes from the June 16 meeting and approved several fund transfers and appropriations. Major actions included a $29,402 transfer for a police cruiser replacement, a $51,000 appropriation for municipal lot lighting and parking‑meter fees, and a $6.24 million financing package for street resurfacing. Additional approvals covered a time‑capsule donation, roof‑repair administration funds, title‑insurance costs, and a $350,000 move to the Stabilization Fund.
- Approved transfer of $29,402 for police cruiser replacement (voice vote)
- Approved acceptance of a 1957 time capsule donation (voice vote)
- Approved $51,000 appropriation for municipal lot lighting and parking‑meter credit‑card fees (voice vote)
- Approved $9,000 transfer for construction administration of Malone Archive Center roof repair (voice vote)
- Approved $6,200 transfer for title insurance on 66 Brewster Road property (voice vote)
- Approved Chapter 90 appropriation of $1,066,807 and use of existing funds $2,311,226 for street resurfacing (voice vote)
- Approved first reading of loan authorization for $2,861,967 for street resurfacing (voice vote)
- Approved $350,000 appropriation moving funds from Unreserved Fund Balance to the Stabilization Fund‑General (voice vote)
Long Term Debt Committee
The committee approved the minutes from the June 9, 2025 meeting. It approved a $472,660 allocation of CPA funds for the roof replacement at 260 Grove Street. It also gave a first‑reading approval to a $2,904,575 loan for the abatement and demolition of three buildings. All motions passed by voice vote.
- Approved June 9, 2025 meeting minutes (voice vote)
- Approved $472,660 CPA fund allocation for roof replacement at 260 Grove Street (voice vote)
- Approved first reading of $2,904,575 loan for abatement and demolition of three buildings (voice vote)
- Suspended Rule 9 to hear off‑committee members (voice vote)
Licenses & Franchises Committee
The Licenses & Franchises Committee approved an Eversource site on Main Street for cathodic protection, contingent on Engineering Department sign‑off. It also approved new and renewal secondhand‑dealer licenses for Milano Gold, Neighbors Who Care, and L&V Collections, each subject to required departmental approvals. One license application (L&V Collections) was taken off the table before being approved. All motions passed by voice vote.
- Approved Eversource location on Main St for cathodic protection, pending Engineering Dept sign‑off (voice vote)
- Approved secondhand dealer license for Milano Gold at 487 Moody St, pending Police Dept sign‑off and updated business certificate (voice vote)
- Approved renewal of secondhand dealer license for Neighbors Who Care at 709 Main St, pending Police and Building Dept sign‑offs (voice vote)
- Moved L&V Collections license application at 139 Moody St off the table (voice vote)
- Approved secondhand dealer license for L&V Collections at 139 Moody St after Building and Police Dept sign‑offs were received (voice vote)
- Approved adjournment of the meeting (voice vote)
Board of Health
The Waltham Board of Health will meet to address tobacco sale violations at six local businesses. The board will also review ownership changes and staffing updates for two spas.
- Tobacco sale violation: Ryan’s Wine Shop
- Tobacco sale violation: Maya Market
- Tobacco sale violation: New World Gas
- Tobacco sale violation: Al Corner Market
- Tobacco sale violation: Guatelinda Supermarket and Salgueros Market
The Board approved the minutes from the May 21, 2025 meeting. It approved tobacco permit suspensions for New World Gas, Maya Market, Guatelinda Supermarket, Salgueros Market, Ryan’s Wine Shop, and set conditional suspension terms for A-1 Market. The matters concerning Rose Aromatherapy and Best Reflexology were tabled until the September meeting. The Board also scheduled members' yearly meeting dates and set the next board meeting for September 10, 2025.
- Approved minutes of May 21, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
- Approved tobacco permit suspension June 24‑26, 2025 for New World Gas (unanimous)
- Approved tobacco permit suspension June 24‑26, 2025 for Maya Market (unanimous)
- Approved conditional tobacco permit suspension for A-1 Market: if fine paid by June 23, suspension June 24‑26; if not, suspension June 24‑28 (unanimous)
- Approved tobacco permit suspension June 24‑26, 2025 for Guatelinda Supermarket (unanimous)
- Tabled Rose Aromatherapy matter to September meeting (unanimous)
- Approved scheduling of board members' yearly meeting dates (unanimous)
- Set next board meeting for September 10, 2025 (unanimous)
Ordinances & Rules Committee
The committee approved the minutes from June 2, 2025 by voice vote. It voted to amend and redraft three compensation ordinances—for the COA administrative assistant, the HR director, and the purchasing agent—and to send each to the full Council for a first reading, all by voice vote. The committee accepted the revised Fast Food Ordinance, approved special permit applications for Hall Street and 1265 Main Street, and moved several pending items off the table and filed them, each action confirmed by voice vote.
- Approved June 2, 2025 minutes (voice vote)
- Amended and redrafted COA Administrative Assistant compensation ordinance; sent to full Council for first reading (voice vote)
- Amended and redrafted HR Director compensation ordinance; sent to full Council for first reading (voice vote)
- Amended and redrafted Purchasing Agent compensation ordinance; sent to full Council for first reading (voice vote)
- Accepted Fast Food Ordinance draft with track changes (voice vote)
- Approved Hall Street special permit application (voice vote)
- Approved 1265 Main Street special permit application (voice vote)
- Took Building Permit Fees matter off the table and filed it (voice vote)
Economic & Community Development
The Economic & Community Development Committee approved the June 2 meeting minutes. The committee directed Director Chiasson to appear before the September 15 meeting to discuss the solar trash‑can resolution. After brief discussion, the Solar Compactable Trash Cans, Bike Share Systems, and Mental Health Awareness resolutions were each tabled.
- Approved June 2, 2025 meeting minutes (voice vote)
- Directed Director Chiasson to appear before Sep 15 committee on solar trash‑can resolution (voice vote)
- Tabled Solar Compactable Trash Cans for Waltham’s Public Parks and City Land Resolution (voice vote)
- Took Resolution to Implement Bike Share Systems off the table (voice vote)
- Tabled Resolution to Implement Bike Share Systems (voice vote)
- Took Mental Health Awareness Resolution off the table (voice vote)
- Tabled Mental Health Awareness Resolution (voice vote)
- Adjourned meeting (voice vote)
Licenses & Franchises Committee
The committee approved the minutes from 5/19/2025. It took the secondhand dealers license for L&V Collections at 139 Moody St out of order and then tabled that license. The committee approved two Nationalgrid location grants with conditions, delaying the Bolton‑to‑Newton‑to‑Clinton Streets project until after Labor Day and setting a 9 am–5 pm work window for the Cutter & Newton Streets to Cedar Street project. The South St grant of location was removed from the table and the petition was withdrawn without prejudice.
- Approved 5/19/2025 minutes (voice vote)
- Took secondhand dealers license for L&V Collections at 139 Moody St out of order (voice vote)
- Tabled the secondhand dealers license (voice vote)
- Approved Nationalgrid location at Bolton to Newton to Clinton Streets with conditions and start delayed until after Labor Day (voice vote)
- Approved Nationalgrid location at Cutter & Newton Streets to Cedar Street with conditions and 9 am–5 pm work window (voice vote)
- Took South St grant of location from the table (voice vote)
- Withdrawn South St petition without prejudice (voice vote)
- Adjourned meeting at 7:26 p.m. (voice vote)
Finance Committee
The Finance Committee adopted a series of funding motions, all by voice vote. Approvals included transfers for utility lighting, a mental‑health grant, fire department overtime, HR services, dispatch exam costs, workers‑comp, security at 200 Trapelo Road, and a retaining‑wall project at 48 Chestnut Street. No dissenting votes were recorded.
- Approved $35,000 transfer for utility lights (voice vote)
- Accepted $29,460 mental‑health grant for jail diversion (voice vote)
- Approved $170,000 appropriation for fire overtime and general expenses (voice vote)
- Approved $20,000 transfer for HR pre‑employment services (voice vote)
- Approved $3,700 transfer for dispatch supervisor promotional exam (voice vote)
- Approved $250,000 appropriation for workers’ compensation (voice vote)
- Approved $110,700 transfer for security at 200 Trapelo Road (voice vote)
- Approved $394,200 funding for retaining wall at 48 Chestnut Street (voice vote)
City Council
The City Council and its committees will discuss several utility licenses and a business license. Other committees will review ongoing resolutions regarding public works, traffic, and community development.
- GOL for Eversource at Bolton St from Newton to Clinton
- GOL for Eversource at Cutter St from Newton to Cedar
- Secondhand dealers license for Levron Terzian & Varden Aghajanyan at 139 Moody St
- Solar Trash Cans Resolution
- Discussion on converting private ways to public for Forest Park Drive, Lory Drive, Matthew Lane, Michaelchris Drive, Raffaele Drive, and Roseanna Park Drive
The Council approved the minutes from the June 2, 2025 meeting. It took the MWRA project and the 67 Crescent Street property matters off the table, then approved a request for the Mayor to pursue acquiring 67 Crescent Street for park land. Both items were later placed back on the table before adjournment.
- Approved June 2, 2025 meeting minutes (voice vote)
- Took MWRA project (2/12/2024) off the table (voice vote)
- Authorized hearing from MWRA reps Fred Laskey and Kathy Murtagh (voice vote)
- Placed MWRA project back on the table (voice vote)
- Took 67 Crescent Street property matter off the table (voice vote)
- Requested Mayor to pursue acquisition of 67 Crescent Street for park land (voice vote)
- Placed 67 Crescent Street acquisition matter back on the table (voice vote)
- Adjourned meeting (voice vote)
Traffic Commission
The Traffic Commission will discuss several petitioned traffic studies, safety improvements, and project approvals. The body is reviewing proposals for a new traffic signal at Costco and a traffic impact report for a convenience store at 962 Main Street.
- Proposed traffic signal on Second Avenue at the Waltham Costco location
- Traffic impact report for a proposed convenience store at 962 Main Street
- Review of options for a city-wide bike share program
- Approval of MWRA Traffic Management Plans for Sun Street and Felton Street
- Approval for road races on October 4 and October 18, 2025
The commission directed the Traffic Engineer to study a Moody Street loading zone, conduct an RRFB warrant analysis for Newton & Grove, and evaluate safety improvements at Cedarwood & Villa. It accepted the traffic impact study for the Costco driveway on Second Avenue, stipulating coordinated upgrades at the Winter Street/Second Avenue signal. It approved the MWRA traffic management plans with a revised detour for Felton Street and ordered the preparation of an RFP for curb extensions along Lowell Street. Additional actions included approving two community races, ordering bike‑share research, and installing a “Cross Traffic Does Not Stop” sign at Oak & Cedar Streets.
- Directed Traffic Engineer to study Moody Street loading zone (petitioned item A)
- Directed Traffic Engineer to conduct RRFB warrant analysis for Newton St at Grove St and consider Reyem St turn restrictions (item B)
- Directed Traffic Engineer to study Cedarwood Ave/Villa St intersection safety improvements (item C)
- Authorized neighborhood meeting on Trapelo Road parking and gave Traffic Engineer authority to act on parking solutions (item D)
- Accepted Costco driveway traffic impact study with stipulation for coordinated Winter St/Second Ave signal upgrades (item E)
- Accepted 962 Main St convenience‑store traffic impact study with curb‑cut restrictions and memo to City Council (item F)
- Approved MWRA traffic management plans, requiring detour change for Felton Street to use Moody St intersection (item H)
- Directed Traffic Engineer to prepare RFP for curb extensions along Lowell Street and seek funding (item Q)
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing to consider a variance request for a residential property. The board will determine if the proposed construction meets zoning requirements for setbacks, height, and lot coverage.
- Case 2025-24: Request for a two-story addition including an attached garage and farmers porch at 122 Greer Street
- Proposed front-yard setback of 20.8 feet (25 feet required)
- Proposed lot coverage of 26.3% (25% allowed)
- Proposed maximum height of 37.3 feet (35 feet allowed)
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing regarding a petition to demolish a residential structure and build a commercial building/garage. The petitioner is seeking three variances related to lot area, frontage, and front yard setback.
- Proposal to demolish residential structure and construct commercial building/garage at 8 Fern Street
- Variance request for lot area of 4,134 square feet (minimum required: 10,000 square feet)
- Variance request for frontage of 45 feet (minimum required: 50 feet)
- Variance request for front yard setback of 5 feet (minimum required: 10 feet)
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing to consider an appeal of a Building Inspector's decision. The petitioner seeks to allow the continued use of a multi-family structure and a variance for units per acre.
- Case 2025-26: Appeal to overturn refusal of occupancy permit for a six-unit building at 31-37 Washington Avenue
- Request for variance regarding units per acre at 31-37 Washington Avenue
Board of Health
The Waltham Bio-Safety Committee will meet to discuss a permit request and safety requirements. The body will also review minutes from the March 11, 2025 meeting.
- BGPBio request for rDNA Permit
- Discussion on requiring a third party safety consultant
The Board of Health approved BPG Bio unanimously. The safety consultant and BPG Bio agreed to update the lab safety protocol. No motion was made to change the rule requiring an outside safety consultant, and the March 18, 2025 minutes were approved. The meeting adjourned at 5:45 p.m.
- Approved BPG Bio (unanimous)
- Agreed to update safety protocol (no vote recorded)
- No motion to change safety‑consultant rule
- Approved March 18, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
Community Preservation
The Community Preservation Committee is meeting to discuss a specific funding or project application. The primary focus of the new business is a roof replacement project.
- Roof replacement application for 260 Grove Street
The Community Preservation Committee appointed Julie Toole as its permanent clerk and accepted the May 13, 2025 meeting minutes, both unanimously. It then recommended a $472,660 expenditure to repair the roof of the former Bright School, also by unanimous vote. The meeting was adjourned with all members in favor.
- Appointed Julie Toole as permanent clerk (unanimous)
- Accepted May 13, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Recommended $472,660 for Bright School roof replacement (unanimous)
- Adjourned meeting (unanimous)
City Council
The Waltham City Council will hold public hearings on a special permit for 51 Hall Street and gas main replacements on several streets. The body will also review multiple funding requests from the Mayor and committee recommendations for city appropriations.
- CPA funding request of $2,842,612.00 for renovation and addition at 15 Fiske Avenue
- Special permit modification for floor area ratio increase at 51 Hall Street
- National Grid gas main replacements on Bolton St, Day St, Clinton St, and Cutter St
- Mayor's request for $394,200 for a retaining wall project at 48 Chestnut Street
- Proposed zoning amendment for marijuana retail hours, days, and ownership transfer
The council approved a $812,688 appropriation for numerous department minor capital items and a $181,500 appropriation to relocate the Schools Facilities Department. It also approved a $250,000 appropriation for the worker’s compensation deficit and adopted the Waltham at Bunker Hill Resolution. Licenses were granted for Global Lease Group and a commemorative plaque at 200 Trapelo Road, while the draft Floodplains and Floodways ordinance and the Mayor’s communication on 66 Brewster Road were tabled.
- Approved $812,688 minor capital items appropriation (12-0-2-1)
- Approved $181,500 relocation of Schools Facilities Department (voice vote)
- Approved $250,000 worker’s compensation deficit appropriation (voice vote)
- Adopted Waltham at Bunker Hill Resolution (voice vote)
- Approved Class Two License for Global Lease Group at 260 Bear Hill Road (voice vote)
- Approved plaque for former Activity Center at 200 Trapelo Road (voice vote)
- Tabled draft Floodplains and Floodways ordinance (voice vote)
- Tabled Mayor’s communication regarding 66 Brewster Road (voice vote)
Historical Commission
The Commission will discuss FY2026 budget updates and the upcoming election of Commission officers. The meeting includes progress reports on the Stonehurst and Wellington House properties. Members will also review restoration work at the Fernald Howe and Administration buildings.
- FY2026 budget updates
- Election of Commission officers
- Fernald: Howe and Administration Building exterior repairs/restoration
- CPC: 260 Grove Street roof
- Watch Factory area brochure
The Waltham Historical Commission voted to authorize a letter of support for a Community Preservation Committee application to fund slate roof replacement at 260 Grove Street (Malone Archives Building). The commission also discussed exterior restoration plans for two Fernald buildings, with concerns about costs and lack of a use plan. No public hearings or demolition delay hearings were held.
- Approved May 2025 meeting minutes (6-0-1)
- Authorized letter of support for CPC roof repair application at 260 Grove St. (5-0-2 recused)
- No objections to Bentley University mosquito study at Stonehurst
- No public hearings or demolition delay hearings held
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing regarding a Comprehensive Permit application under G.L. c. 40B. The petitioner seeks to construct 323 rental units, including 81 affordable deed-restricted units.
- Case 2025-23: Comprehensive Permit application for 245-265 Winter Street
- Proposal for 323 rental units
- 81 units designated as affordable for households up to 80% of Area Median Income (AMI)
Long Term Debt Committee
The Long Term Debt Committee approved the May 5, 2025 minutes by voice vote. It adopted a motion to hear from all off‑committee members, also by voice vote. The committee unanimously approved a $2,842,612.00 allocation of CPA funds for a renovated community residence at 15 Fiske Avenue. The meeting was adjourned by voice vote.
- Approved May 5, 2025 minutes (voice vote)
- Adopted motion to hear from all off‑committee members (voice vote)
- Approved $2,842,612.00 CPA fund allocation for community residence at 15 Fiske Avenue (4-0)
- Adjourned meeting (voice vote)
Disability Services Commission
The Disability Services Commission will meet to receive updates from the IT Director and discuss the commission's website. The body will also review finances and police details.
- Update from IT Director Don Aucoin
- A Special Day in Waltham update from Adam Maher and Bob Marcou
- DSC Website discussion
- Police Details
- Finances
City Council
The City Council is holding a special meeting to gather input from residents, developers, and business owners regarding zoning. The body is seeking feedback on desired zoning changes, existing challenges, and ideas for future zoning.
- Citizen Input Hearing on Comprehensive Zoning Review
The City Council held a special meeting under Rule 88 to collect additional information for the Comprehensive Zoning study. Attendees gave public comments on various addresses. The Council referred the matter back to the Ordinances and Rules Committee. A motion to adjourn was approved by voice vote.
- Referred matter to Ordinances and Rules Committee
- Motion to adjourn approved (voice vote)
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing to consider a petition from Welch Foods Inc. The petitioner is seeking variances to install two internally illuminated wall signs at 1601 Trapelo Road.
- Case 2025-22: Request for sign variances at 1601 Trapelo Road
- Proposal for two internally illuminated wall signs measuring 10 feet 5 inches wide by 5 feet 2 inches tall
- Request to exceed the 18 square foot limit for secondary wall signs with a proposed 54.25 square foot sign
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on several land-use projects, including stormwater treatment at 14 Pine Street and invasive plant management at Hardy Pond. The body will also review requests for certificates of compliance and amendments to existing project conditions.
- Stormwater runoff treatment using green infrastructure at 14 Pine Street
- Invasive Aquatic Plant Management Program at Hardy Pond using herbicides and algaecides
- Construction of two paver courtyards at 404 Wyman Street
- Foundation changes for conference room cabins at 40-60 Sylvan Road
- Bridge ramp installation and bog bridge repair at 53BEF Trapelo Road
Board of Survey and Planning
The Board of Survey and Planning will hold a public hearing regarding driveway widths at 962 Main Street. The board will also review covenant releases and subdivision plans for several local addresses.
- Special Permit for four driveway openings over 25 feet at 962 Main Street
- Release of Covenant for Braemore Road
- ANR for 15 & 21 Fiske Ave
- ANR for 162 & 166 Felton Street
The Board continued the special permit petition for 962 Main Street until the September 3, 2025 meeting. It authorized a covenant for Braymore Road. It approved an ANR plan to merge 15 and 21 Fiske Avenue into a single lot for a group home, and another ANR plan to merge 162 and 166 Felton Street into one commercial lot. The May 7, 2025 meeting minutes were approved and the meeting adjourned at 6:28 pm.
- Continued special permit petition for 962 Main Street (motion Barrett, seconded Keefner)
- Authorized covenant filing for Braymore Road (motion Barrett, seconded Moroney)
- Approved ANR plan to combine 15 & 21 Fiske Ave into one lot for group home (motion Barrett, seconded Moroney)
- Approved ANR plan to combine 162 & 166 Felton St into one 24,782 sq ft commercial lot (motion Moroney, seconded Barrett)
- Approved May 7, 2025 meeting minutes (motion Devito, seconded Moroney)
- Adjourned meeting at 6:28 pm (motion Barrett, seconded Moroney)
Parks Recreation Board
The Parks‑Recreation Board unanimously approved the May 7 meeting minutes. It also approved the 2025‑2026 Youth Organization Schedule, moving the youth hockey presentation to April. The board adopted a new playground policy that prohibits animals and motorized or manual bikes and scooters in playgrounds, spray parks, and athletic courts.
- Approved May 7, 2025 board minutes (unanimous)
- Approved 2025‑2026 Youth Organization Schedule (unanimous)
- Approved Updated Playground Policy banning animals and bikes/scooters in recreation amenities (unanimous)
City Council
The City Council and its committees will meet to discuss various tabled resolutions and petitions. A key item for the Licenses and Franchises Committee is the Mayor's recommendation to erect a plaque for Jerry LeBlanc at the former Activity Center.
- Recommendation to erect a plaque for Jerry LeBlanc at the former Activity Center
- Bentley Pond Update Resolution
- Mental Health Awareness Resolution
- Petitions to convert Forest Park Drive, Lory Drive, Matthew Lane, Michaelchris Drive, Raffaele Drive, and Roseanna Park Drive from private to public ways
- Resolution regarding funding and location for new Police, Public Safety, and Fire Departments
The City Council approved the minutes from the May 19, 2025 meeting by voice vote. It adopted a resolution to display the Pride Flag on June 8, 2025 for Waltham Pride Day, with 13 councilors voting in favor. The meeting was then adjourned by voice vote.
- Approved May 19, 2025 meeting minutes (voice vote)
- Adopted Waltham Pride Day 2025 resolution – Pride Flag display on June 8, 2025 (13‑0 roll call)
- Adjourned meeting (voice vote)
Ordinances & Rules Committee
The committee approved a motion to take the marijuana zoning amendment from the table. A second motion gave the amendment a second reading and forwarded it to the City Council with a recommendation for that reading. All votes were voice votes.
- Marijuana zoning amendment taken from table (voice vote)
- Marijuana zoning amendment given second reading and forwarded to City Council with recommendation (voice vote)
- Complete Streets resolution taken from table (voice vote)
- Copy of Complete Streets order sent to Traffic Commission (voice vote)
- Complete Streets matter placed on file (voice vote)
- Specific Permit 51 Hall Street review released from Law Department (voice vote)
- Specific Permit 51 Hall Street matter laid on table (voice vote)
- Special Permit 1265 Main Street new law opinion released to petitioner (voice vote)
Economic & Community Development
The Economic & Community Development Committee approved the June 19, 2025 meeting minutes by voice vote. The committee suspended Rule 9 to hear testimony from off‑committee members, also by voice vote. The Mental Health Awareness Resolution was then tabled by voice vote. The meeting was adjourned by voice vote.
- Approved June 19, 2025 meeting minutes (voice vote)
- Suspended Rule 9 to hear off‑committee members (voice vote)
- Tabled Mental Health Awareness Resolution (voice vote)
- Adjourned meeting (voice vote)
Licenses & Franchises Committee
The committee approved the minutes from May 19, 2025. It approved a plaque honoring Jerry LeBlanc near the activity center. It took the Class II Global Lease for 260 Bear Hill Road and the location grant for Cutter Street from the table and approved each. The meeting was adjourned at 7:52 p.m.
- Approved minutes from 5/19/2025 (voice vote)
- Approved plaque placement for Jerry LeBlanc near activity center (voice vote)
- Took Class II Global Lease 260 Bear Hill Road from table (voice vote)
- Approved Class II Global Lease 260 Bear Hill Road (voice vote)
- Took grant of location for Cutter Street from table (voice vote)
- Approved grant of location for Cutter Street (voice vote)
- Adjourned meeting at 7:52 p.m. (voice vote)
Finance Committee
The Finance Committee approved three mayoral appropriations and accepted a scholarship trust, all by voice vote. $181,500 was allocated to relocate the School Facilities Department. $812,688 was allocated for FY2025 minor capital items. The Joseph & Harriet Kingsbury Temperance Scholarship Trust was accepted.
- Approved $181,500 appropriation to relocate School Facilities Department (voice vote)
- Approved $812,688 appropriation for FY2025 minor capital items (voice vote)
- Approved acceptance of Joseph & Harriet Kingsbury Temperance Scholarship Trust (voice vote)
- Approved minutes of the May 19, 2025 meeting (voice vote)
- Adopted motion to hear from all off‑committee members (voice vote)
- Adopted motion to adjourn the meeting (voice vote)
Licenses & Franchises Committee
The Waltham Board of License Commissioners will hear 11 permit requests at its May 28 meeting, including new and transfer applications for beer, wine, and full liquor licenses, as well as outdoor dining and event permits. The board will also discuss a reported incident at Joco’s involving the Waltham Police Department.
- One-day beer and wine permit for Charles River Museum event at Premier Bar Service, 80 people, pre-approved
- One-day all-alcohol permit for Gore Place event, 200 people, pre-approved
- Extension of premise for American Legion Post #156 Car Show fundraiser, 150 people, pre-approved
- Alter of premise and outdoor patio for Boston Kebab at 146 Lexington Street, 3,700 sq ft, 162-person capacity
- Transfer of liquor license from Green River Wine & Spirits to Green River Liquors at 178 High Street, new manager Krunaibhai D. Patel
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing to consider a petition for variances at 75 Goldencrest Avenue. The owners propose to construct a single-story addition to a single-family residence.
- Request for variance to reduce front yard setback from 40 feet to 23.9 feet at 75 Goldencrest Avenue
- Request to amend a January 7, 2025 decision to allow a revised site plan with a 49.5-foot rear yard setback
City Council
The City Council will hold public hearings on several special permits for zoning and floor area ratio increases. The body will also consider mayoral requests for capital funding and the relocation of the Schools Facilities Department.
- Special permit for a 6-story hotel at 1265 Main Street
- Appropriation of $812,688 for minor capital items for FY2025
- Appropriation of $181,500 to relocate Schools Facilities Department to 617 Lexington Street
- CPA fund allocation of $2,842,612 for a community residence at 15 Fiske Avenue
- Special permit for floor area ratio increase at 460 Totten Pond Road
The council unanimously approved special permits for Ferris Development Group at 1432 Main Street and for ALP PHOP Manager and NWALP TPOP Property Owner at 460 Totten Pond Road. It also approved five tables and chairs licenses for Moody Street businesses, a Mental Health Awareness Resolution, and several finance and licensing actions.
- Approved special permit for Ferris Development Group, LLC at 1432 Main Street (14-0-0-1)
- Approved special permit for ALP PHOP Manager, LLC and NWALP TPOP Property Owner, LLC at 460 Totten Pond Road (14-0-0-1)
- Approved tables & chairs applications for five Moody Street businesses
- Approved Mental Health Awareness Resolution
- Approved $20,000 transfer from Library State Aid Special Revenue to Library‑Educational Supplies account
- Approved donation of historical items from Donna Laswell for City Hall Museum Room
- Approved $130,251.93 transfer between Public Works accounts
- Approved Class Two License name change for Lehnen & Restvov Enterprise LLC dba Waltham Auto Gallery
Conservation Commission
The Waltham Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on projects including capping the Woerd Avenue landfill and expanding the Jack Koutoujian Playground, stormwater treatment at the Embassy parking garage, and site work at 404 Wyman Street. The meeting will be held remotely via Zoom with public access available.
- Notice of Intent for capping Woerd Avenue landfill at 901 Moody Street (DEP File #316-0836)
- Stormwater treatment proposal for Embassy parking garage at 14 Pine Street using green infrastructure
- Site work at 404 Wyman Street including paver courtyards and building entrance reconstruction
- Request for Determination of Applicability for 455 Totten Pond Road demolition and erosion controls
The commission closed the public hearing and approved a positive order of conditions, including standard and site‑specific conditions, for the landfill capping project at 901 Moody Street. It issued a negative determination for the demolition proposal at 455 Totten Pond Road. The hearing on the green‑infrastructure stormwater project at 14 Pine Street was continued to the next meeting.
- Closed public hearing on 901 Moody St project (5-0)
- Approved positive order of conditions for 901 Moody St landfill cap (5-0)
- Issued negative determination for Davis Companies demolition at 455 Totten Pond Rd (5-0)
- Moved hearing on 14 Pine St green‑infrastructure project to next meeting (5-0)
Board of Health
The Waltham Board of Health will meet to discuss a pool variance and specific business locations. The board will also review and approve minutes from the April 16, 2025 meeting.
- Pool Variance for 305 Apartments, Winter St.
- Discussion regarding Peshawri Kebabs, 603 Main St.
- Update on Bonfire Indian Grill, 1091 Lexington St.
The board approved the minutes from the April 16, 2025 meeting. It approved a variance for the pool at 305 Apartments on Winter Street, requiring a sign with the maintenance person's name and phone number. The board received an update that the Dumpster Ordinance has been enacted. The meeting was adjourned at 5:30 PM.
- Approved minutes of April 16, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
- Approved pool variance for 305 Apartments (unanimous)
- Motion to adjourn passed (unanimous)
Economic & Community Development
The committee approved the minutes from the May 5 meeting by voice vote. A resolution recognizing McDevitt Middle School students for their litter‑reduction project was approved by voice vote. The bike‑share system resolution was taken off the table, a request to study docked bike‑share options was approved, and then the bike‑share resolution was tabled, all by voice vote. The meeting adjourned by voice vote at 7:16 p.m.
- Approved May 5 meeting minutes (voice vote)
- Approved 2025 Resolution recognizing McDevitt Middle School civics project (voice vote)
- Moved bike‑share resolution off the table (voice vote)
- Approved request for Traffic Director Garvin to research docked bike‑share systems (voice vote)
- Tabled the Resolution to Implement Bike Share Systems (voice vote)
- Adjourned the meeting (voice vote)
Licenses & Franchises Committee
The committee approved the meeting minutes from May 5, 2025 and authorized a gold plaque for a bench in the field area. It approved several tables and chairs permits on Moody Street, including a conditional approval for Ponzu pending a fire department letter. The grant of location for Eversource on Ash Street was approved, while the Global Lease motor‑vehicle license request was sent to the Law Department and tabled. A Class 2 motor‑vehicle license for Lehnen & Restov was approved and the request for an Eversource project manager to attend a meeting was granted.
- Approved minutes from 5/5/2025 (voice vote)
- Approved gold plaque request for bench (voice vote)
- Approved tables & chairs permit for DaVinci Ristorante, 482 Moody St (voice vote)
- Approved tables & chairs permit for Ponzu, 286 Moody St, pending fire letter (voice vote)
- Approved grant of location at Ash Street for Eversource (voice vote)
- Sent Global Lease Corp. Class 2 motor vehicle license request to Law Department and tabled (voice vote)
- Approved Class 2 motor vehicle license for Lehnen & Restov Enterprises, 712 Moody St (voice vote)
- Approved request for Eversource project manager to attend meeting (voice vote)
Ordinances & Rules Committee
The Ordinances & Rules Committee approved the minutes from May 5, 2025 and sent a draft Building Inspection Department ordinance to the full Council for a first reading. It took several special permit applications off the table and approved the 1432 Main Street permit with amended conditions, while denying a proposed four‑way stop condition. The committee also set a public hearing for June 23, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. and released a redacted legal opinion to the petitioner. The meeting adjourned at 11:30 p.m.
- Approved minutes from 5/5/2025 (voice vote)
- Sent draft Building Inspection Department ordinance to full Council for first reading (voice vote)
- Took special permit application at 1432 Main St off the table (voice vote)
- Approved special permit application at 1432 Main St with amended conditions (voice vote)
- Took special permit application at 460 Totten Pond Rd off the table (voice vote)
- Denied four‑way stop condition for 460 Totten Pond Rd (voice vote)
- Set public hearing for June 23, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. and requested agency attendance (voice vote)
- Released redacted legal opinion to petitioner (voice vote)
Finance Committee
The committee accepted the minutes from the May 5 meeting and heard updates from the mayor and department heads. It approved four fund transfers totaling $183,696 for library supplies, assessor services, public works repairs, and a water‑meter vehicle. The committee also accepted multiple donations for the City Hall Museum and recreation areas.
- Accepted minutes of May 5, 2025 meeting (voice vote)
- Approved $20,000 transfer from Library State Aid to Library Educational Supplies (voice vote)
- Accepted historical items donation from Donna Laswell for City Hall Museum (voice vote)
- Accepted two statues donation from Robert DiGregorio for Recreation Area at 200 Trapelo Road (voice vote)
- Accepted softball cage donation from Waltham Girls Softball for Veterans Fields Athletic Complex (voice vote)
- Approved $12,800 transfer from Assessor Salary to Assessor Valuation Services (voice vote)
- Approved $130,251.93 transfer between Public Works accounts for facilities repairs and tree planting (voice vote)
- Approved $20,643.80 transfer for new water‑meter reading vehicle (voice vote)
City Council
The Waltham City Council will hold committee meetings on May 19, 2025, to discuss several new items, including a resolution on the McDevitt Middle School project, multiple table and chair permits for Moody Street restaurants, and new Class 2 licenses. Many older items remain tabled. The committees meeting are Licenses & Franchises, Economic & Community Development, and Committee of the Whole, with Finance and Ordinances & Rules following later.
- Resolution on the McDevitt Middle School project (Economic & Community Development)
- Tables and chairs permits for five Moody Street restaurants: Vinotta (361), Ponzu (286), DaVinci (482), Peppinos Dosa (434), Solea & Tapas Bar (388)
- Class 2 license for Global Lease Ent. at 260 Bear Hill Road
- Class 2 license name change for Lehnen & Ristov Ent. at 712 Moody Street
- Grant of Location (GOL) on Ash Street for Eversource
The Council suspended Rule 9 to hear Mayor McCarthy, then referred the FY2026 municipal budget of $254,155,373 and the FY2026 school budget of $123,336,745 to the Finance Committee. It also referred a $545,069 parking‑meter appropriation and the revolving accounts for several departments to the Finance Committee, and sent the Compensation Ordinance Amendments to the Ordinances and Rule Committee. Both the suspension of Rule 9 and the motion to adjourn were approved by voice vote.
- Suspended Rule 9 to hear mayor (voice vote)
- Referred FY2026 municipal budget $254,155,373 to Finance Committee
- Referred FY2026 school budget $123,336,745 to Finance Committee
- Referred $545,069 parking meter appropriation to Finance Committee
- Referred revolving accounts for City Clerk, Council on Aging, Planning and Recreation to Finance Committee
- Referred Compensation Ordinance Amendments to Ordinances and Rule Committee
- Adjourned meeting (voice vote)
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on June 24, 2025, to consider a special permit request from Franklyn Chaffee to allow raising chickens on a property under five acres at 28 Palmer Street in the Residence A-3 Zoning District. The hearing will determine whether to grant the permit under Zoning Ordinance § 3.612.
- Public hearing on special permit (Case #2025-20) to allow a livestock farm for poultry (chickens) at 28 Palmer Street
Traffic Commission
The Traffic Commission will hear several petitioned items including safety studies for Lowell Street and Silver Hill Lane, crosswalk reviews near Trapelo Road playground, and an infrastructure update for 1265 Main Street. Other items include a food truck permit for Ash Street Lot, a revised definition of commercial vehicle, and a disabled parking space request. Tabled items are not expected to be discussed at this meeting. The commission will also receive department reports on parking meters, signal inventories, and outdoor dining.
- Safety study request for Lowell Street corridor
- Safety study request for Silver Hill Lane
- Pedestrian crosswalk review near new playground at 200 Trapelo Road
- Infrastructure update for development at 1265 Main Street
- Definition of commercial vehicle in traffic rules and regulations
The Traffic Commission denied a safety‑study request for Lowell Street and a food‑truck request for Ash Street, and updated the definition of commercial vehicles. It also approved several safety actions, including making South Street radar speed signs permanent, converting Adams‑Cherry to an all‑way stop, and changing parking markings on Crescent Street.
- Denied Lowell Street safety‑study request
- Denied Ash Street lot food‑truck request
- Updated commercial‑vehicle definition: length >24 ft, removed advertising clause
- Made South Street radar speed signs permanent
- Converted Adams Street and Cherry Street to an all‑way stop
- Approved pavement‑marking changes to allow west‑side parking on Crescent Street between Orange and Brown Streets
- Directed Traffic Engineer to install playground warning signs on Winter Street
- Directed Traffic Engineer to conduct a speed and safety study for Silver Hill Lane
Community Preservation
The Community Preservation Committee will hold its annual public input hearing to present types of projects funded under the Community Preservation Act, summarize projects approved in the past year, and review the financial position of CPA funds. The committee will also hold public meetings for two applications: a community residence from Opportunities for Inclusion and a rehabilitation project at St. Mary's Apartments.
- Public hearing on Community Preservation Act funding priorities and past project summary
- Opportunities for Inclusion Community Residence application for public meeting
- St. Mary’s Apartments Rehabilitation application for public meeting
- Financial position presentation of CPA funds
- Approval of April 15, 2025 meeting minutes
The committee approved the minutes from the April 15, 2025 meeting. It voted to recommend the Opportunities for Inclusion application for $2,842,612 to the City Council. No decision was made on the St. Mary’s Apartments Rehabilitation because the applicant did not appear. The meeting was then adjourned.
- Approved April 15, 2025 meeting minutes (all in favor)
- Recommended Opportunities for Inclusion $2,842,612 to City Council (all in favor)
- No action on St. Mary’s Apartments Rehabilitation application (applicant absent, pending information)
- Adjourned meeting (all in favor)
Historical Commission
The Waltham Historical Commission will meet via Zoom on May 12, 2025, to hold public hearings on demolition delay requests for 30 Maple Street and 225 Trapelo Road. Commissioners will also receive monthly reports on Stonehurst and Wellington House, discuss subcommittee updates, and set the meeting schedule for FY2026.
- Public hearing on demolition delay at 30 Maple Street
- Public hearing on demolition delay at 225 Trapelo Road
- Stonehurst monthly report and inventory update
- Wellington House monthly report and update
- Discussion of meeting schedule for FY2026
The commission accepted the April 2025 meeting minutes. It voted to not preferably preserve the house at 30 Maple Street and to preferably preserve the house at 225 Trapelo Road. The FY2026 meeting calendar was approved and the meeting was adjourned.
- Accepted April 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous yes)
- 30 Maple St NOT preferably preserved (6 yes votes)
- 225 Trapelo Rd preferably preserved (5 yes, 1 recused)
- Approved FY2026 meeting calendar (unanimous yes)
- Adjourned meeting (unanimous yes)
City Council
The City Council will hold public hearings for two Class II motor vehicle license applications and a Eversource grant of location. They will review mayoral requests including budget transfers, gifts, a lease extension, and a new vehicle purchase. Committee recommendations include a first reading of a zoning amendment for marijuana retail hours and transferable ownership, and appropriations for various departments and the Robert Treat Paine Estate.
- First reading of zoning amendment for marijuana retail hours and transferable ownership
- Appropriation of $850,000 CPA funds for improvements at the Robert Treat Paine Estate
- Transfer of $130,251.93 between Public Works accounts
- Funding of $20,643.80 for a new water meter reading vehicle
- Public hearing on Eversource conduit installation on Ash Street
The City Council adopted the Long Term Debt & Capital Planning Committee’s recommendation to allocate $850,000 of CPA funds for improvements at the Robert Treat Paine Estate. Several appropriations were also approved, including $6,602 for Council operating expenses, $18,500 for the City Clerk, $38,500 for the Veterans Memorial Rink utilities, and $29,675 for a building painter. The Council approved the 5‑year lease extension for the Waltham Rink and a series of Tables & Chairs permits, while a zoning amendment and two public service awards were tabled.
- Approved $850,000 allocation for Robert Treat Paine Estate improvements (voice vote)
- Approved $6,602 appropriation to City Council Operating Expense Account (voice vote)
- Approved $18,500 appropriation to City Clerk Operating Expense Account (voice vote)
- Approved $38,500 appropriation for Veterans Memorial Rink utility costs (voice vote)
- Approved $29,675 appropriation for Building Department painter services (voice vote)
- Approved 5‑year lease extension for Waltham Rink (15-0-0 vote)
- Approved Tables & Chairs permits for multiple Moody Street locations (voice vote)
- Tabled Zoning Amendment for Marijuana Retail Hours and Ownership (voice vote)
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing on a Notice of Intent (DEP File #316-0836) for the City of Waltham's proposal to cap the Woerd Avenue landfill and expand recreational opportunities at the Jack Koutoujian Playground at 901 Moody Street. The commission will also discuss revisions to procedure documents, including Standard Special Conditions and a 30-foot No Disturbance Zone policy, and approve prior meeting minutes.
- Public hearing on Notice of Intent (DEP File #316-0836) for landfill cap and playground expansion at 901 Moody Street
- Discussion of revisions to Standard Special Conditions and 30 Foot No Disturbance Zone Policy
- Approval of meeting minutes from 4-24-2025
- Informational: City of Waltham 2025 Yearly Operational Plan for vegetation management along rights of way
- Informational: Withdrawal of appeal of DEP superseding determination at 77 Copeland Street
The Conservation Commission adopted the revised Standard Special Conditions document and the 30‑Foot No Disturbance Zone Policy, each by a unanimous 5‑0 vote. The minutes from the April 24, 2025 meeting were approved. Commissioners also voted 5‑0 to continue the agenda at the May 22 meeting.
- Adopt revised Standard Special Conditions document (5-0)
- Adopt 30‑Foot No Disturbance Zone Policy (5-0)
- Approve minutes from 4-24-2025 meeting (vote passed)
- Motion to continue to 5-22 meeting (5-0)
Board of Survey and Planning
The Board of Survey and Planning will hold a public hearing on a special permit request to allow four existing driveway openings wider than 25 feet at 962 Main Street. They will also consider extending a subdivision approval for 46 Lincoln Street (Susan Circle) and deliberate on zoning changes for medical and nonmedical marijuana establishments.
- Special permit for four driveway openings >25 ft at 962 Main Street
- Request to extend subdivision approval for 46 Lincoln Street (Susan Circle)
- Deliberations on zoning updates for medical marijuana treatment centers and cultivation centers
- Deliberations on zoning updates for nonmedical marijuana establishments
- Review of March 5, 2025 meeting minutes
The Board scheduled a site visit for the 962 Main Street driveway petition and postponed the decision to the June 4 meeting. It approved a two‑year extension for the subdivision at 46 Lincoln Street (Susan Circle). The Board also voted to keep marijuana establishment hours at 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and approved the March 12, 2025 meeting minutes.
- Scheduled site visit for May 14, 2025 and continued 962 Main Street petition (approved)
- Approved two‑year extension for subdivision at 46 Lincoln Street aka Susan Circle (approved)
- Maintained original operating hours (8 a.m.–8 p.m.) for medical and non‑medical marijuana establishments (approved)
- Approved minutes from the March 12, 2025 meeting (approved)
- Adjourned the meeting at 6:42 p.m. (approved)
Parks Recreation Board
The Parks‑Recreation Board approved the minutes from the April 9, 2025 meeting. It also approved hiring staff for the Summer 2025 programs and accepted a donated batting cage from the Waltham Girls Softball League. All motions passed with unanimous support.
- Approved April 9, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Approved hiring of Summer 2025 staff (unanimous)
- Approved donation of batting cage from Waltham Girls Softball (unanimous)
Ordinances & Rules Committee
The Ordinances & Rules Committee approved moving the zoning amendment for Article XI & XII—covering marijuana establishment hours and transfer of ownership—to the full council for a first reading. The committee also approved a request for the Law Department to create advertising language for the amendment. All motions were approved by voice vote. No other substantive actions were taken.
- Approved sending marijuana zoning amendment to full council for first reading (voice vote)
- Approved request for Law Department to draft advertising language (voice vote)
- Tabled amendment to add Section 17-85 on street parking on private ways (voice vote)
- Took special permit application at 460 Totten Pond Road off the table (voice vote)
- Forwarded any materials from Law Department or petitioner after clerk review (voice vote)
- Continued public hearing to May 27, 2025 (voice vote)
- Took special permit application at 1265 Main Street off the table (voice vote)
- Requested City engineer attend next meeting to discuss project height (voice vote)
Finance Committee
The committee accepted the April 22 minutes. It approved four appropriations totaling $73,277 for City Council, City Clerk, Veterans’ Rink, and Building Department painting services. It also set dates for FY2026 budget review, a budget cutting session, and the City Council budget approval. All actions were adopted by voice vote.
- Approved $6,602 appropriation from Unreserved Fund Balance to City Council operating expenses (voice vote)
- Approved $18,500 appropriation from Unreserved Fund Balance to City Clerk operating expenses (voice vote)
- Approved $38,500 appropriation from Retained Earnings to Veterans’ Rink general expenses (voice vote)
- Approved $29,675 appropriation from Unreserved Fund Balance to Building Department painting services (voice vote)
- Approved Finance Committee budget review meeting on May 28, 2025 at 9:30 am (all day)
- Approved Finance Committee budget review meeting on June 4, 2025 at 9:30 am (all day)
- Approved Finance Committee budget cutting session on June 9, 2025, 6:00 pm–7:00 pm
- Approved City Council budget approval session on June 9, 2025, 7:00 pm–7:30 pm
City Council
The Waltham City Council committees meet on May 5, 2025. The Licenses & Franchises Committee will hear new applications for sidewalk café permits at 315, 367, 467, 484 Moody Street and a secondhand dealer renewal at 563 Moody Street. Most other docket items are tabled and carried over from prior meetings with no new actions scheduled.
- Tables & chairs permit application – 315 Moody St (Farmers India Market & Café)
- Tables & chairs permit application – 467 Moody St (Deep Ellum)
- Tables & chairs permit application – 484 Moody St (Amuleto Mexican Table)
- Tables & chairs permit application – 367 Moody St (Lizzy's Ice Cream)
- Secondhand dealers renewal – 563 Moody St (Compustar Inc)
The council approved the minutes of the April 22, 2025 meeting. Councillor Harris added $300 to the Ritcey Award budget item. The FY2026 City Council budget request of $447,674 was approved. The solar farm project resolution was taken from the table and then filed.
- Approved minutes of April 22, 2025 meeting (voice vote)
- Added $300 to Ritcey Award budget item (voice vote)
- Approved FY2026 City Council budget $447,674 (voice vote)
- Took solar farm project resolution from the table (voice vote)
- Filed the solar farm matter (voice vote)
- Adjourned meeting (voice vote)
Long Term Debt Committee
The Long Term Debt Committee approved the FY2026 operating budget of $178,229. It also approved CPA fund allocations of $850,000 for improvements at the Robert Treat Paine Estate and $20,000 for design services for window restoration at Gore Place. Procedural items, including approval of the prior meeting minutes and a motion to hear from off‑committee members, were also adopted. The meeting was adjourned.
- Approved Jan 21 2025 minutes (voice vote)
- Approved hearing from all off‑committee members (voice vote)
- Approved FY2026 operating budget $178,229 (voice vote)
- Approved $850,000 CPA fund allocation for Robert Treat Paine Estate improvements (voice vote)
- Approved $20,000 CPA fund allocation for Gore Place window‑restoration design services (voice vote)
- Adjourned meeting (voice vote)
Licenses & Franchises Committee
The Licenses & Franchises Committee approved the minutes from April 22, 2025. It approved a plaque honoring Assistant City Solicitor Patricia Azadi and tabled further name requests. The committee approved tables‑and‑chairs permits for four Moody Street locations and renewed a secondhand dealers license for Compustar, Inc. It removed the Eversource grant of location from the agenda and then tabled that matter, all by voice vote.
- Approved minutes from 4/22/2025 (voice vote)
- Approved plaque for Assistant City Solicitor Patricia Azadi (voice vote)
- Tabled request for additional plaque names (voice vote)
- Approved tables & chairs permits for four Moody St locations (315, 467, 484, 367) (voice vote)
- Approved renewal of Secondhand Dealers License for Compustar, Inc. (voice vote)
- Removed Eversource grant of location from agenda and then tabled it (voice vote)
City Council
The City Council will hold a joint public hearing with the Board of Survey and Planning on proposed zoning amendments for medical and nonmedical marijuana establishments, setting operating hours (8 a.m.–10 p.m. weekdays, restricted Sunday hours, closed on Christmas and Thanksgiving) and special permit transferability. Public hearings continue for a special permit to build a 6-story hotel at 1265 Main Street, and for floor-area-ratio increases at 1432 Main Street (to 0.6) and 460 Totten Pond Road (to 1.88). The Council will also consider several mayoral appropriations, including $38,500 for Veterans Memorial Rink utilities and $29,675 for painting the Arrigo Farm building, and act on committee reports for permits, licenses, and grants.
- Joint public hearing on zoning amendments for medical and nonmedical marijuana establishments (operating hours, special permit term of 3 years, transferability)
- Public hearing for a 6-story hotel with 135 parking spaces at 1265 Main Street (special permit)
- Public hearing for FAR increase to 0.6 at 1432 Main Street (Ferris Development Group)
- Public hearing for FAR increase to 1.88 at 460 Totten Pond Road (ALP PHOP Manager LLC)
- Mayor requests appropriations: $38,500 for Veterans Memorial Rink utilities and $29,675 for Arrigo Farm building painting
The City Council approved a resolution honoring the Waltham Philharmonic Orchestra's 40th anniversary. It also approved an extension of time for a special permit on Winter Street with a 13‑0‑1‑1 vote. A $650 appropriation to the Council Ritcey Award account was approved by voice vote. Several permits and licenses, including tables & chairs permits on Moody Street and a grant of location for Eversource, were approved.
- Resolution Honoring Waltham Philharmonic Orchestra approved (voice vote)
- Extension of time for special permit (Order #31842) on Winter Street approved 13-0-1-1
- Appropriation of $650 to City Council Ritcey Award account approved (voice vote)
- Grant of $8,500 for student fire education (SAFE) program approved (voice vote)
- Grant of $2,900 for Senior SAFE program approved (voice vote)
- Tables & Chairs permit at 458-470 Moody Street for RASSA approved (voice vote)
- Grant of location for Eversource at 1131-1133 Main Street approved (voice vote)
- Fuel Storage License at 1601 Trapelo Road for BXP-BP Reservoir Place LLC approved (voice vote)
Conservation Commission
The Commission will hold a public hearing on a Request for Determination of Applicability for a second-story addition at 104 Hibiscus Ave, within the 100-foot buffer zone but with no additional disturbance or impervious area. They will also discuss revisions to the Standard Special Conditions and a new 30-foot No Disturbance Zone Policy. Informational items include a Level 2 – Significant Drought declaration and planned DCR invasive species management in Beaver Brook reservation.
- Public hearing on RDA 25-04: second-story addition at 104 Hibiscus Ave (within buffer zone, no new disturbance)
- Discussion of revisions to Standard Special Conditions and 30-Foot No Disturbance Zone Policy
- Approval of meeting minutes from 4-10-2025
- Informational: DEP downgraded Waltham to Level 2 – Significant Drought as of April 9
- Informational: DCR invasive species work planned for Beaver Brook reservation (316-0777)
The Conservation Commission voted to approve the restoration plan for 265 Totten Pond Road, lifting the enforcement order after the work is completed. It also issued a Negative 3/Positive 2b determination for the second‑story addition at 104 Hibiscus Ave. The commission approved its April 10 meeting minutes and then adjourned.
- Approved restoration plan for 265 Totten Pond Road (motion passed)
- Issued Negative 3 / Positive 2b determination for 104 Hibiscus Ave addition (motion passed)
- Approved meeting minutes from 4‑10‑2025 (motion passed)
- Adjourned meeting (motion passed)
Licenses & Franchises Committee
The Board of License Commissioners will hear requests for one-day alcohol permits for various events, including celebrations at the Paine Estate and Bentley University. The board will also consider a permanent transfer of a 7-day wine and malt license from Field Italia to Tico's Corner at 102 Clematis Avenue, and discuss police-reported incidents at Joco's and Mighty Squirrel. Multiple applications for farmers market special licenses are on the agenda.
- Transfer of 7-day wine and malt license from Field Italia to Tico's Corner at 102 Clematis Avenue, Bay 3A, with new manager Rosette Jacobson-Antico and 49 indoor seats plus 12 outdoor seats
- Change of manager for Boston Culinary Group at 860 Winter Street from Lisa Powers to Patrick Cusick
- Three farmers market special license applications for wine tastings at the Waltham Farmers' Market (65 Lexington Street) from June 7 to November 1, 2025
- Request for attendance from Joco's (450 Moody Street) and Mighty Squirrel (411 Waverley Oaks Road) to discuss incidents reported by Waltham Police
- One-day all alcohol permits for Bentley University events on May 8-9, May 16, and June 3, 2025
The Licenses & Franchises Committee approved all agenda items by voice vote, including utility location grants for Eversource and National Grid, a fuel storage license, a bench plaque request, several tables‑and‑chairs permits, secondhand dealer renewals, and all Brandeis University lodging house renewals.
- Approved grant of location for Eversource at 1131‑133 Main Street (voice vote)
- Approved grant of location for National Grid at Waverly & Linden Streets (voice vote)
- Approved fuel storage license at 1601 Trapelo Road for BXP‑BP Reservoir Place LLC & Boston Properties LLC (voice vote)
- Approved request for bench plaque at 200 Trapelo Road for Kathleen B. McMenimen (voice vote)
- Approved Section 10A permit for temporary dock at Cronin’s Landing for Charles River Canoe & Kayak (voice vote)
- Approved tables & chairs permits at 474 Moody St (Tempo) and 475 Moody St (Little India Restaurant) (voice vote)
- Approved secondhand dealer license renewals at 681 Main St, 100 River St, and 322 Moody St (voice vote)
- Approved all Brandeis University lodging house renewals (East Quad, North Quad, Ridgewood, Massell Quad, The Village, The Skyline, Rosenthal Dorms) (voice vote)
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on May 20, 2025, regarding Case #2025-16, an appeal of the Building Inspector's determination to confirm continued use of 390 Newton Street, Unit 1 as a residential unit. The property is currently a three-family dwelling in the Business A zoning district. The board will consider sections of the zoning ordinance on appeals and units per acre.
- Case #2025-16: Appeal of Building Inspector’s Determination for 390 Newton Street, Unit 1 residential use
- Property currently used as three-family residential building in Business A zoning district
- Petitioner: Carl J. Cincotta, Trustee of Jason's Realty Trust
- Zoning provisions: § 7.31 (Procedure on Appeals) and § 4.11 (Units per Acre)
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing to consider an appeal of a Building Inspector's determination. The petitioner seeks to overturn the refusal to issue an occupancy permit for Unit 6 of a six-unit residential building.
- Case 2025-17: Appeal to allow continued use of Unit 6 as a residential unit at 400 Newton Street
Ordinances & Rules Committee
The Ordinances & Rules Committee approved a one‑year extension for Winter St LLC’s building permit, moving the deadline from May 5 2025 to May 5 2026, and also approved a one‑year extension for King First West Owner, LLC’s permit to June 18 2026. Several special permit applications (1265 Main St, 460 Totten Pond Rd, 1432 Main St) were taken off the table and scheduled for a public hearing on May 27 2025, with the Law Department asked to review the materials and attend the May 5 committee meeting. The resolution to opt‑in to the Specialized Energy Code was tabled. All motions passed by voice vote.
- Approved one‑year extension for Winter St LLC permit (Order #31842) – voice vote
- Approved one‑year extension for King First West Owner, LLC permit (Order #36287) – voice vote
- Took special permit application at 1265 Main Street off the table – voice vote
- Took special permit application at 460 Totten Pond Road off the table – voice vote
- Took special permit application at 1432 Main Street off the table – voice vote
- Scheduled public hearing for these applications on May 27 2025 – voice vote
- Requested Law Department to review materials and attend May 5 2025 meeting – voice vote
- Tabled resolution to opt‑in to the Specialized Energy Code – voice vote
Finance Committee
The committee accepted the minutes from the April 7, 2025 meeting. It approved an $8,500 grant from the Executive Office of Public Safety for the Student Awareness of Fire Education (SAFE) Program and a $2,900 grant for the SAFE Program for Seniors. The committee also accepted a donation of a Waltham pocket watch and a Waltham wristwatch from Carol Watts for display in the City Hall Museum Room.
- Accepted minutes of April 7, 2025 (voice vote)
- Approved $8,500 grant for SAFE Program (voice vote)
- Approved $2,900 grant for SAFE Program for Seniors (voice vote)
- Accepted donation of Waltham pocket watch and wristwatch from Carol Watts (voice vote)
City Council
The City Council will meet in several committees to discuss public works petitions and various license applications. The Licenses and Franchises Committee has a heavy agenda featuring multiple Brandeis University lodging house renewals and several business license requests.
- Lodging house renewals for Brandeis University (East Quad, North Quad, Ridgewood, Massell Quad, The Village, The Skyline, and Rosenthal Dorms)
- Secondhand dealers license renewals for Finely Find IT Vintage (610 Main St), Jwaze LLC (100 River St), and Opus Tiger Thrift (322 Moody St)
- Tables and chairs applications for Tempo (474 Moody St) and Little India (475 Moody St)
- Grant of location requests for Eversource (1131-1133 Main St) and NGrid (Linden & Waverly)
- Fuel Storage License at 1601 Trapelo Rd for BXP-BP Reservoir Place LLC and Boston Properties
The City Council approved the minutes of the Committee of the Whole meeting held on April 7, 2025 by voice vote. Afterwards, a motion to adjourn the April 22 meeting was adopted by voice vote. No other agenda items were considered.
- Approved minutes of April 7 Committee of the Whole meeting (voice vote)
- Adjourned the April 22 meeting (voice vote)
Traffic Commission
The Waltham Traffic Commission will hear several petitioned items including traffic safety studies, parking changes, a car show, and a proposed bike lane connecting Bentley University to downtown. Multiple tabled items are listed but only those bolded/highlighted will be discussed; asterisked items are reserved for a special meeting. Department reports include parking meter updates, traffic signal inventories, and a Moody Street outdoor dining update.
- Oak Street and Cedar Street traffic safety study requested by Councillor Logan
- Proposed protected bike lane on Lyman Street connecting Bentley University to downtown
- Parking removal request at Moody Street and Chestnut Street intersection
- 4th Annual Moody Street Car Show scheduled for August 16, 2025
- Algonquin Gas Transmission traffic management plan for Trapelo Road
Board of Health
The Waltham Board of Health will meet to approve previous meeting minutes and discuss an item regarding Bonfire Indian Grill. The meeting is scheduled for April 16, 2025.
- Approval of March 19, 2025 meeting minutes
- Discussion regarding Bonfire Indian Grill at 119 School Street
The Board of Health unanimously approved the minutes from the March 19, 2025 meeting. They discussed code violations at Bonfire Indian Grill and considered a motion for six months of monthly inspections, but no vote outcome was recorded. The next Board meeting is set for May 21, 2025, and the session adjourned at 5:30 PM.
- Approved March 19, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
Community Preservation
The Community Preservation Committee will hold public meetings on two restoration applications: the Paine Estate and Gore Place window restoration design services. The committee will also discuss the FY2026 budget. Approval of previous meeting minutes is on the agenda.
- Public meeting for Paine Estate Restoration Application
- Public meeting for Gore Place Window Restoration Design Services Application
- Discussion of FY2026 budget
- Next meeting set for May 13, 2025 (Annual Meeting & Public Input Hearing)
The committee approved the November 19, 2024 meeting minutes. It voted to recommend $850,000 for the Paine Estate restoration and $20,000 for Gore Place window design services to the City Council. The FY2026 Community Preservation Committee budget was approved, and the meeting was adjourned.
- Approved November 19, 2024 meeting minutes (all in favor)
- Recommended Paine Estate restoration application for $850,000 to City Council (8-0)
- Recommended Gore Place window design services application for $20,000 to City Council (8-0)
- Approved FY2026 CPC budget (all in favor)
- Adjourned meeting (all in favor)
Historical Commission
The Waltham Historical Commission will review development prospectuses for two specific sites. The body will also receive monthly reports on Stonehurst and Wellington House and review the FY2026 budget.
- Development Prospectus Review: 687-709 Main Street and 24 Common Street
- Stonehurst monthly report and inventory update
- Wellington House monthly report and update
- FY2026 Budget Review
The commission accepted the FY2026 budget after a roll‑call vote with all commissioners in favor. It also approved $1,200 for Stonehurst landscaping, postponed a development prospectus hearing until the applicant returns, and formally found the discussed site historically significant. The March 2025 minutes were accepted as amended and the meeting was adjourned.
- Accepted March 2025 minutes as amended (all yes)
- Postponed Development Prospectus item for 687‑709 Main St & 24 Common St (yes by 5, Daly recused)
- Found the site historically significant (all yes)
- Approved $1,200 landscaping funding for Stonehurst grounds (all yes)
- Approved FY2026 commission budget (all yes)
- Adjourned meeting (all yes)
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on June 3, 2025, to consider an appeal by property owner Roseangela Caloiero regarding the continued use of 129-131 Russell Street as a three-family residential structure. The appeal challenges the Building Inspector's denial of an occupancy permit for three units and requests lot coverage and side-yard variances. The property is in the Residence B zoning district, and the proposed additions are within the existing building footprint.
- Appeal of Building Inspector’s decision not to issue occupancy permit for three-unit residential building at 129-131 Russell Street
- Request for lot coverage variance (currently 35%) and side-yard variance (current setback 9.41 ft), both not proposed to change
- Public hearing scheduled for June 3, 2025 at 7:00 PM at Government Center, 119 School Street
City Council
The Waltham City Council will hold public hearings on street openings and utility locations. The body is also reviewing several ordinance amendments regarding noise pollution, on-street parking, and accessory dwelling units.
- Proposed $15,500 appropriation for the Disability Services Commission
- Request to accept $17,154 grant for firefighter safety equipment
- Public hearing for a new 480-gallon fuel oil tank at 1601 Trapelo Road
- Proposed 'Complete Streets Policy' and 'Accessory Dwelling Unit Ordinance'
- Request for a temporary dock permit for Charles River Canoe & Kayak on the Riverwalk
The Council approved the Complete Streets Policy as amended with a unanimous vote. Several ceremonial resolutions, including World IBS Day, the 250th Anniversary of the Alarm of April 19, 1775, High Street Fire, and Earth Day Arbor Day, were also approved. The FY25 Round 2 Firefighter Safety Equipment Grant of $17,154 was accepted. Donations for the City Hall Museum, including Brandeis memorabilia and a trivia game, were approved.
- Approved Complete Streets Policy (amended) 14-0-0-1
- Approved World IBS Day Resolution (voice vote)
- Approved 250th Anniversary of the Alarm of April 19, 1775 Resolution (voice vote)
- Approved High Street Fire Resolution (voice vote)
- Approved Earth Day Arbor Day Resolution with tree planting on April 25, 2025 (voice vote)
- Approved FY25 Round 2 Firefighter Safety Equipment Grant of $17,154 (voice vote)
- Approved donation of Brandeis memorabilia for City Hall Museum (voice vote)
- Approved donation of Waltham Trivia Game for City Hall Museum (voice vote)
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission approved a Certificate of Compliance for the property at 170 Lakeview Avenue. The commission also approved the March 27, 2025 meeting minutes. A motion to adjourn the regular meeting and convene a board of trustees meeting of the Conservation Trust Fund was passed. Votes on revisions to the Standard Special Conditions and the 30‑foot No‑Disturbance‑Zone policy were deferred to the next meeting.
- Approved Certificate of Compliance for 170 Lakeview Avenue (motion passed)
- Approved March 27, 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed)
- Deferred vote on revisions to Standard Special Conditions to next meeting
- Deferred discussion/vote on 30‑foot No‑Disturbance‑Zone policy to next meeting
- Approved motion to adjourn regular meeting and call board of trustees meeting (all in favor)
Parks Recreation Board
The Parks‑Recreation Board approved the FY 2026 budget for the department and adopted the capital budget for new equipment. It also confirmed hiring David Gilbert as Assistant Superintendent and Jaclyn Robinshaw as Recreation Supervisor. Two community tournaments – a Launch Foundation pickleball event and an Armenian Youth Federation softball tournament – were approved. All motions passed unanimously.
- Approved David Gilbert as Assistant Superintendent of Recreation Facilities (5‑0 vote, 2 absent)
- Approved Jaclyn Robinshaw as Recreation Supervisor (5‑0 vote, 2 absent)
- Approved Launch Foundation Pickleball Tournament for June 14‑15, 2025 (unanimous)
- Approved Armenian Youth Federation Softball Tournament (unanimous)
- Approved FY 2026 Recreation Department Budget (unanimous)
- Approved Capital Budget for vehicle and technology purchases (unanimous)
- Approved minutes of the March 5, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
- Approved monthly bills for the department (unanimous)
Finance Committee
The committee accepted the March 17, 2025 minutes, removed the DSC appropriation and school mid‑year budget report from the agenda, and approved a $15,500 appropriation for specified handicap projects. It also accepted three donations for display in the City Hall Museum Room: Justice Louis D. Brandeis memorabilia, a handbook and code book, and a Waltham trivia game. The meeting was adjourned at 9:40 p.m.
- Accepted March 17, 2025 minutes (voice vote)
- Removed DSC appropriation and school mid‑year budget report from agenda (voice vote)
- Approved $15,500 appropriation for handicap projects (voice vote)
- Accepted Justice Louis D. Brandeis memorabilia donation for City Hall Museum Room (voice vote)
- Accepted handbook and code book donation for City Hall Museum Room (voice vote)
- Accepted Waltham Trivia Game donation for City Hall Museum Room (voice vote)
- Filed the school department mid‑year budget report (voice vote)
- Adjourned the meeting (voice vote)
Economic & Community Development
The committee approved the minutes from the March 17, 2025 meeting by voice vote. After hearing from off‑committee members, the council took the Traffic Safety Technology, Web‑Based Reporting System, and Canada Geese Mitigation resolutions off the table, then each was subsequently tabled again by voice vote. The mayor and the IT director provided input on the reporting system and were asked to develop recommendations for a city‑wide app. The meeting was adjourned at 7:30 p.m. by voice vote.
- Approved March 17, 2025 meeting minutes (voice vote)
- Took Traffic Safety Technology Resolution off the table (voice vote)
- Tabled Traffic Safety Technology Resolution (voice vote)
- Took Web-Based Reporting System Resolution off the table (voice vote)
- Tabled Web-Based Reporting System Resolution (voice vote)
- Took Canada Geese Mitigation Resolution off the table (voice vote)
- Tabled Canada Geese Mitigation Resolution (voice vote)
- Adjourned meeting (voice vote)
Licenses & Franchises Committee
At the Licenses & Franchises Committee meeting, members approved the Mayor’s request to name a room at the new high school “The Waltham Room,” approved a plaque for a bench at 200 Trapelo Road honoring George A. Darcy III, and approved a Tables & Chairs permit for In A Pickle restaurant at 265 Moody Street. The committee also took the South St grant location matter off the table, then tabled it, and approved the renewal of a lodging house license at 77 Prospect Street. Several other permit applications were tabled. All actions were approved by voice vote.
- Approved minutes from 3/17/2025 (voice vote)
- Took South St grant of location matter off the table (voice vote)
- Tabled South St grant of location matter (voice vote)
- Approved naming of high school room “The Waltham Room” (voice vote)
- Approved plaque for bench at 200 Trapelo Road honoring George A. Darcy III (voice vote)
- Approved Tables & Chairs permit for In A Pickle at 265 Moody Street (voice vote)
- Approved renewal of lodging house license at 77 Prospect Street (voice vote)
- Tabled Tables & Chairs permits for Rassa (489 Moody St) and Common Goods Co (419 Moody St) (voice vote)
Ordinances & Rules Committee
The committee approved the meeting minutes from March 17, 2025. It tabled the affordable‑housing recommendation and sent proposed fee amendments for building permits, gas & plumbing, and inspections to the Law Department for review. The ADU Ordinance received a second reading, and the Complete Streets Resolution was amended, approved, and forwarded to the full council for adoption. Noise‑pollution fines and offenses, as well as a parking‑on‑private‑ways letter, were taken off the table and sent to the full council for first readings.
- Approved minutes from 3/17/2025 (voice vote)
- Tabled affordable housing proposal recommendation (voice vote)
- Sent suggested building‑permit fee amendments to Law Department (voice vote)
- Approved second reading of ADU Ordinance (voice vote)
- Approved amended Complete Streets Resolution and sent to full council for adoption (voice vote)
- Sent Noise Pollution – Fines to full council for first reading (voice vote)
- Sent Noise Pollution – Offenses to full council for first reading (voice vote)
- Sent parking on private ways letter to full council for first reading (voice vote)
City Council
The City Council will hold committee meetings to discuss several 'Tables & Chairs' applications for Moody Street and requests to name a room at Waltham High School and place a memorial plaque. Other committees are scheduled, though many long-term items remain tabled.
- Tables & Chairs applications for 489 Moody St (Rassa), 419 Moody St (Common Good Co), and 265 Moody St (In A Pickle)
- Request to name a room at Waltham High School 'The Waltham Room'
- Request to place a plaque for George A. Darcy, III on a bench at 200 Trapelo Rd
- Discussion on Traffic Safety & Tech Resolution
- Review of various tabled road resurfacing and private-to-public way petitions
The council approved the Committee of the Whole minutes from March 17, 2025 by voice vote. It also approved the Executive Session minutes from that date and directed that they be sent to the Law Department, with a roll‑call vote of 12 in favor. Motions to take the meeting‑notice resolution and the preserving residentially zoned neighborhoods resolution off the table were each adopted by voice vote. The meeting was adjourned at 8:20 p.m.
- Approved COW March 17 minutes (voice vote)
- Approved COW Executive Session minutes (12 in favor roll call)
- Sent Executive Session minutes to Law Department (12 in favor roll call)
- Took meeting notice resolution off the table (voice vote)
- Took preserving residentially zoned neighborhoods resolution off the table (voice vote)
- Adjourned meeting (voice vote)
Board of Survey and Planning
The agenda for this meeting contains no public hearings and no regular meeting items. It consists of procedural boilerplate.
Conservation Commission
The Waltham Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on two Notice of Intent applications: improvements to Landry Park at 190AFT Moody Street and construction of conference room cabins, an elevated boardwalk, and associated site work at 40-60 Sylvan Road. The commission will also consider a Certificate of Compliance for a pool and patio at 44 Lauricella Lane, review a development prospectus for 677 Main Street (not in WPA jurisdiction), and discuss the FY 2026 budget. Informational items include an Eversource herbicide operational plan and remote meeting authorization extension.
- Public hearing on Landry Park improvements at 190AFT Moody Street (DEP File #316-0834)
- Public hearing on Sylvan Road project: two conference room cabins, elevated boardwalk, stormwater upgrades at 40-60 Sylvan Road (DEP File #316-0835)
- Certificate of Compliance for pool, patio, retaining wall, tree removal at 44 Lauricella Lane (DEP File #316-0825)
- Development prospectus for 677 Main Street (multiple parcels), noted as not in WPA jurisdiction
- FY 2026 budget discussions
The commission authorized the chair or conservation agent to sign off the 677 Main Street development prospectus. It closed public hearings and issued orders of conditions for the Landry Park project (DEP File #316-0834) and the 40‑60 Sylvan Road project (DEP File #316-0835). The minutes from the March 13 meeting were approved, and the request for a Certificate of Compliance at 44 Lauricella Lane was continued for two months. The meeting was then adjourned.
- Approved sign‑off for 677 Main Street redevelopment (motion passed, all six commissioners in favor)
- Closed public hearing and issued order of conditions for Landry Park improvements (DEP File #316-0834) (motion passed, all six commissioners in favor)
- Closed public hearing and issued order of conditions for 40‑60 Sylvan Road improvements (DEP File #316-0835) (motion passed, all six commissioners in favor)
- Approved meeting minutes from 3‑13‑2025 (motion passed, all six commissioners in favor)
- Continued Certificate of Compliance request for 44 Lauricella Lane for two months (motion passed, all six commissioners in favor)
- Adjourned the meeting (motion passed, all six commissioners in favor)
Licenses & Franchises Committee
The Board of License Commissioners will hear requests for one-day alcohol permits for events at Bentley University, Gann Academy, Paine Estate, and Gore Place, and an entertainment permit for Brandeis University's Spring Fest. The board will also discuss an incident at Tempo (474 Moody Street) reported by the Waltham Police Department on February 9, 2025.
- One-day all alcohol permit for Bentley University (175 Forest St) on April 11, 50ppl
- Two one-day beer and wine permits for Gann Academy (333 Forest St) on March 13 and June 19, 100ppl each
- One-day all alcohol permit for wedding reception at Paine Estate (100 Robert Treat Paine Dr) on May 25, 85ppl
- Entertainment permit for Brandeis University Spring Fest 2025 (Chapels Field, 1500ppl) with artists Baby Tate and Daya
- Attendance request regarding police incident at Tempo (474 Moody St) on February 9, report #25004874
City Council
The council approved a special permit for BP Third Avenue LLC at 180 Third Avenue and transferred the Field Station Building at 240 Beaver Street to the Recreation Department. It also moved several ordinances forward, accepted a $152,275 Green Communities Competitive Grant, and approved vehicle purchases for the Building Inspection and Recreation departments. Additional approvals included license renewals and the Community Development Block Grant order and resolution.
- Approved special permit for BP Third Avenue LLC at 180 Third Avenue (14-0-0-1)
- Approved transfer of Field Station Building at 240 Beaver Street to Recreation Dept (14-0-0-1-1)
- Approved Special Permit Ordinance Amendment (first reading) (14-0-0-1)
- Approved amended ADU Ordinance (first reading) (14-0-0-1)
- Approved $152,275 Green Communities Competitive Grant (voice vote)
- Approved $34,167 purchase of vehicle for Building Inspection Department (voice vote)
- Approved $61,301 purchase of vehicle for Recreation Department (voice vote)
- Approved license renewals for Clean Out Your House, Inc., Mint Condition Sports, LLC, and ALVE, LLC (voice vote)
Traffic Commission
The Traffic Commission will hear petitions including a request to replace an overhead flashing beacon with a rectangular rapid-flashing beacon (RRFB) at Bacon Street and Plympton Street, and a request for an all-way stop at Adams Street and Cherry Street. Councilor Harris is also requesting comprehensive safety studies for the Adams Street corridor and the intersection of Crescent Street and Robbins Street. Additionally, the commission will consider a charity bike ride permit and a free parking request for the STEM Education Festival. Department reports on parking meters, traffic signal inventories, and other matters will be presented.
- Request to install RRFB at Bacon Street/Plympton Street (Mayor McCarthy)
- All-way STOP at Adams Street/Cherry Street (Councilor Harris)
- Comprehensive safety study of Adams Street corridor (Councilor Harris)
- Safety study for Crescent Street/Robbins Street (Councilor Harris)
- Charity bike ride: National Brain Tumor Society Boston Brain Tumor Ride on May 18, 2025
The Traffic Commission approved funding for additional design services on the Trapelo Road and Waverley Oaks Road intersection. It also approved several safety and infrastructure actions, including a curb extension at Pine and Hall Streets, traffic signal recommendations for two intersections, and a new signal phasing option at Lexington and Beaver Streets. Additional approvals covered free parking for a STEM festival, a “Do Not Block Intersection” paint symbol, and a permit for a charity bike ride.
- Approved $64,500 additional services for Trapelo Rd @ Waverley Oaks Rd redesign
- Approved curb/sidewalk extension and ADA ramp at Pine St & Hall St
- Approved traffic engineering recommendations for Beaver St/Waverley Oaks Rd signal inventory
- Approved traffic engineering recommendations for Main St/Lyman St signal inventory
- Authorized VHB to proceed to final design of Main/Gore/Barbara/Warren intersection reconstruction
- Approved alternative #2 (lagging left turn phase) for Lexington St & Beaver St signal
- Approved 30 free parking placards for STEM Education Festival on May 10
- Approved paint “Do Not Block Intersection” symbol on Elm St
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on May 20, 2025, to consider a variance request from Rustin McIntosh. The proposal seeks to construct a single-story rear addition with a 20.2-foot rear-yard setback where 30 feet is required, and to confirm pre-existing non-conforming setbacks for the home and a shed.
- Variance request for a rear-yard addition at 264 Seminole Avenue, Residence A-4 District
- Relief sought from §4.11 and §4.221 of the zoning ordinance for a 20.2-foot rear-yard setback (30 feet required)
- Confirmation of pre-existing non-conforming front and side-yard setbacks for the home
- Confirmation of setbacks for a pre-existing shed on the property
Board of Health
The Waltham Board of Health will discuss and vote on approving minutes from December 2024 and consider a new bodyworks establishment and therapist license at 119 School Street.
- New bodyworks establishment and therapist application at 119 School Street
- Approval of minutes from December 18, 2024 meeting (procedural)
The Waltham Board of Health met on March 19, 2025, and approved the minutes from the December 18, 2024 meeting. The only substantive item was a report that a Body Works Establishment and Therapist was no longer seeking a permit to operate in Waltham. No other decisions were made.
- Approved minutes of December 18, 2024 meeting (unanimous)
- Noted Body Works Establishment and Therapist withdrew permit application
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on Brandeis University's petition to build a new five-story, 60-foot residence hall on its Upper Campus at 415 South Street. The university seeks a determination under the Dover Amendment (G.L. c. 40A, §3) that the zoning ordinance's 450-foot setback and 11,206-space parking requirements are unreasonable as applied to this project. Brandeis proposes setbacks of approximately 171 feet (side) and 195 feet (rear), and only 1,338 parking spaces instead of the required 11,206.
- Brandeis University proposes constructing a five-story, 60-foot residence hall at 415 South Street (Upper Campus).
- Requested setback reduction from 450 feet to approximately 171 feet (side yard) and 195 feet (rear yard) from residential property lines.
- Parking requirement of 11,206 spaces would be reduced to 1,338 spaces under the proposal.
- Petition invokes the Dover Amendment (G.L. c. 40A, §3) to override local zoning ordinance provisions.
- Public hearing scheduled for April 29, 2025 at 7:00 PM at Government Center, 119 School Street.
Board of Health
The Waltham Bio-Safety Committee will meet to approve minutes from December 2024 and discuss a recombinant DNA (rDNA) permit application from Fluidform, located at 119 School Street.
- Discussion of rDNA permit for Fluidform at 119 School Street
The Waltham Bio-Safety Committee approved a permit for Fluid Form, contingent on obtaining an occupancy permit from the building department. The approval followed a presentation by Fluid Form representatives about their BSL-2 lab operations. The motion passed unanimously.
- Approved Fluid Form permit contingent on occupancy permit (all approved)
- Approved minutes from December 10, 2024 meeting (all approved)
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing to discuss a petition for 642 Moody Street. The petitioner seeks to convert a first-floor commercial space into a residential unit.
- Special permit and variances for parking and units per acre at 642 Moody Street
- Request to waive the two-parking space requirement due to lack of off-street parking
- Proposed amendment to the prior ZBA decision and plan in case 2016-46
Finance Committee
The Finance Committee approved all four agenda items by voice vote: a $34,167 transfer and a $34,167 appropriation for a new Building Inspections vehicle, acceptance of a $152,275 Green Communities Competitive Grant for energy projects, and a $61,301 appropriation from Unreserved Fund Balance for a Recreation Department vehicle. All motions were adopted without roll call votes.
- Approved $34,167 transfer for Building Inspections vehicle (voice vote)
- Approved $34,167 appropriation for Building Inspections vehicle (voice vote)
- Approved acceptance of $152,275 Green Communities Competitive Grant (voice vote)
- Approved $61,301 appropriation for Recreation Department vehicle (voice vote)
Economic & Community Development
The Economic & Community Development Committee approved the Year 51 Community Development Block Grant by voice vote. It also tabled a resolution on a web-based reporting system and requested that the Mayor, IT Director, and Director Aucoin attend the next meeting to discuss technology options.
- Approved meeting minutes of 3/3/2025 (voice vote)
- Approved Year 51 Community Development Block Grant (voice vote)
- Approved request for Mayor and IT Director to attend next committee meeting (voice vote)
- Approved amendment to include Director Aucoin in the request (voice vote)
- Tabled Web-Based Reporting System Resolution (voice vote)
Licenses & Franchises Committee
The Licenses & Franchises Committee approved secondhand dealer license renewals for Clean Out Your House, Inc. at 1250 Main Street and Mint Condition Sports, LLC at 108 River St. It also approved a Massport License Letter application for Mr. Yildiz, conditioned on submitting a letter from the property owner granting parking permission by March 20, 2025 at noon. The committee tabled the 77 Prospect St matter until the April 7, 2025 meeting. All votes were voice votes.
- Approved secondhand dealer license renewal for Clean Out Your House, Inc. at 1250 Main Street (voice vote)
- Approved secondhand dealer license renewal for Mint Condition Sports, LLC at 108 River St (voice vote)
- Approved Massport License Letter for Mr. Yildiz with condition to submit parking permission letter by March 20, 2025 at noon (voice vote)
- Tabled 77 Prospect St matter until April 7, 2025 meeting (voice vote)
Ordinances & Rules Committee
The Ordinances & Rules Committee approved an amended Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) ordinance for a first reading, changing the minimum unit size to 450 square feet (with a 900 sq ft maximum) after a split vote. The committee also approved a special permit for BP Third Ave LLC at 180 Third Ave, and tabled several other items, including noise ordinance amendments and multiple special permit applications, pending Law Department review.
- Approved amended ADU ordinance for first reading (voice vote)
- Approved special permit application for BP Third Ave LLC at 180 Third Ave (voice vote)
- Tabled noise pollution ordinance amendment (voice vote)
- Tabled noise pollution fines amendment (voice vote)
- Tabled special permit at 1265 Main Street (voice vote)
- Tabled special permit at 1432 Main Street (voice vote)
- Tabled special permit at 460 Totten Pond Road (voice vote)
- Tabled parking on private ways letter (voice vote)
City Council
The Waltham City Council meets in committees to discuss new business including two secondhand dealer license renewals, a Massport license, and the Year 51 Community Block Grant presented by the Mayor. Most items on the docket remain tabled from prior meetings, including street resurfacing, traffic mitigation, and a resolution on new police/fire facilities.
- Secondhand dealers license renewal at 1250 Main St for Clean Out Your House Inc
- Secondhand dealers license renewal at 108 C River St for Mint Condition Sports, llc
- Massport license for Ali Ihsan Yildiz for Alve LLC at 5514 Stearns Hill Road
- Year 51 Community Block Grant (Mayor presentation)
- Web-based Reporting System Resolution (Logan et al)
The City Council Committee of the Whole approved transferring care, custody, and control of the Field Station Building at 240 Beaver Street to the Recreation Department, with a roll call vote of 9 in favor, 2 opposed, and one recusal. The council also approved minutes from prior meetings, including executive session minutes, and tabled discussions on residentially zoned neighborhoods and the MWRA Tunnel Project. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Approved transfer of Field Station Building at 240 Beaver Street to Recreation Department (9-2, LeBlanc recused)
- Approved minutes of COW meeting March 3, 2025 (voice vote)
- Approved minutes of Executive Session (187 Lexington Street) (12-0)
- Sent Executive Session minutes (187 Lexington Street) to Law Department (12-0)
- Approved minutes of Executive Session (995 Main Street) (12-0)
- Sent Executive Session minutes (995 Main Street) to Law Department (12-0)
- Tabled resolution on preserving residentially zoned neighborhoods (voice vote)
- Tabled MWRA Tunnel Project discussion (voice vote)
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on April 15, 2025, to consider an appeal by Roseann DeStefano Giardina to overturn the Building Inspector's decision that disallowed the continued use of 14-18 Jackson Street as a three-family structure. The petitioner also seeks relief from parking requirements, noting the property is within a quarter mile of a transit station.
- Case #2025-11: Appeal of Building Inspector’s determination regarding 14-18 Jackson Street
- Request to continue use of property as a three-family structure in Residence B District
- Relief sought from parking requirements under zoning ordinance §§ 7.31 and 5.21
- Property located less than ¼ mile from a T (transit) station
Conservation Commission
The Waltham Conservation Commission will hold two public hearings: one for a Notice of Intent for improvements to Landry Park (porous pathways, stormwater BMPs, native plantings) and another for a Notice of Intent for construction of two conference room cabins, boardwalk, and stormwater upgrades at 40-60 Sylvan Road. They will also consider a Request for Determination of Applicability for a seepage collection system replacement at 190 Moody Street by the Massachusetts DCR Office of Dam Safety. Other business includes approval of meeting minutes, discussion of revised procedure documents, and noting a correspondence update on a 77 Copeland Street matter. The meeting is remote via Zoom.
- Public Hearing: Notice of Intent for Landry Park improvements at 190AFT Moody Street / 144 ADJ Moody Street (porous asphalt pathways, stormwater BMPs, tree pruning, native plantings)
- Public Hearing: Notice of Intent for construction of two conference room cabins, elevated boardwalk, and underground utility connections at 40-60 Sylvan Road
- Request for Determination of Applicability: DCR Dam Safety replacement of seepage collection system at 190 Moody Street
- Correspondence update: Matter at 77 Copeland Street remains active after MassDEP motion to dismiss denied
- Conservation Commission vacancy and scheduling of Conservation Trust Fund meeting
The Commission approved a negative determination (NDA) for DCR's seepage collection system replacement at 190 Moody Street, with conditions for pre- and post-grading surveys and explicit erosion controls. Two public hearings were continued: the Landry Park improvements and the Sylvan Road conference cabins project, both pending further details. The Commission also approved prior meeting minutes and tabled discussion of procedure documents.
- Issued negative determination for seepage system replacement at 190 Moody Street (5-0)
- Continued Landry Park improvements hearing to next meeting (5-0)
- Continued Sylvan Road conference cabins hearing to next meeting (5-0)
- Approved meeting minutes from 2-27-2025 (5-0)
- Tabled discussion of Commission procedure documents
Board of Survey and Planning
The Board of Survey and Planning voted unanimously to grant a Special Permit Modification for 1265 Main Street, allowing removal of a gate and curb cut at Fifth Avenue per fire department requests. It also voted to accept City Solicitor recommendations on two zoning amendments (time limits for special permits and accessory dwelling units), despite some member opposition. The petition for 962 Main Street was continued to May 7, 2025, and the February 12, 2025 minutes were approved.
- Granted Special Permit Modification for 1265 Main Street to remove gate and curb cut at Fifth Avenue (5-0)
- Continued 962 Main Street driveway extension petition to May 7, 2025
- Accepted City Solicitor recommendations on zoning amendment to time limitations for special permits (unanimous)
- Accepted City Solicitor recommendations on accessory dwelling unit zoning amendments (unanimous)
- Approved February 12, 2025 meeting minutes
Historical Commission
The commission will review development prospectus applications for properties at 687-709 Main Street and 24 Common Street, receive monthly reports on Stonehurst and Wellington House, and consider CPA applications for Gore Place and Paine Estate. Additionally, a new business item involves roof renovations at 260 Grove Street (former Bright School). No demolition delay hearings are scheduled.
- Development prospectus review for 687-709 Main Street and 24 Common Street
- CPA application review for Gore Place
- CPA application review for Paine Estate
- Historic Inventory update for the Rail Trail
- Roof renovations at 260 Grove Street (former Bright School)
The Waltham Historical Commission voted to support a development proposal for 687-709 Main Street and 24 Common Street, which would preserve two historic buildings, including the Lawrence Building, while demolishing others for taller structures. The Commission also authorized letters of support for CPC funding requests for window restoration at Gore Place and phase three of the Paine Estate rehabilitation. Additionally, the Commission approved adding a survey of historic artifacts on the Waltham Rail Trail to its website.
- Approved a motion to empower the Chairman to write a letter of support to the City Council for the Main Street/Common Street project, acknowledging its intent to save key historic buildings.
- Approved a motion to authorize the Chairman to write a letter of support to the CPC for design services and evaluation of the south façade windows at Gore Place.
- Approved a motion to authorize the Chairman to write letters of support to the Waltham CPC and the Massachusetts Historical Commission for phase three of the Paine Estate rehabilitation project.
- Approved a motion to add the survey and inventory of historic artifacts on the Waltham Rail Trail to the Commission website.
- Accepted the February 2024 meeting minutes as written.
- Took item #9 (CPC) out of order during the meeting.
- Discussed the Wellington House, including a potential driveway and parking arrangements, with no formal action taken.
- Discussed the roof replacement at 260 Grove Street (Malone Archive), with a request for a sample of the replacement tile.
City Council
The Waltham City Council will hold public hearings on two special permits: Boston Properties seeking to install generator pads at 180 Third Avenue, and McDonald's requesting extended hours (possibly 24-hour service) at 789 Main Street. The council will also consider committee recommendations including a zoning amendment for marijuana retail hours and transferability, an ordinance amendment on garbage and refuse, and several appropriations for vehicles and design services. Additionally, they will vote on a $1.46 million transfer to cover snow-related overtime and expenses.
- Public hearing on McDonald's special permit to operate 24 hours at 789 Main Street
- Public hearing on Boston Properties' request to install generator pads at 180 Third Avenue
- Appropriation of $1,458,378 for snow overtime and general expenses deficit
- Appropriation of $257,825 from Unreserved Fund Balance for design services at 200 Trapelo Road (Phase 2)
- Committee recommends scheduling a joint public hearing on a zoning amendment for marijuana retail hours and ownership transfer
The Waltham City Council approved a special permit for McDonald's Real Estate Company at 789 Main Street by a 14-0-0-1 vote. The council also approved the Outside Dining Ordinance Amendment on its third reading, 13-0-0-1-1, with Councillor LaCava recused. Several other items were referred to committees, including the Year 51 Community Development Block Grant Program and multiple appropriations for vehicles and grants.
- Approved special permit for McDonald's Real Estate Company at 789 Main Street (14-0-0-1)
- Approved Outside Dining Ordinance Amendment on third reading (13-0-0-1-1, LaCava recused)
- Approved appointment of John Everett White to Biosafety Committee (14-0-0-1)
- Approved $1,458,378 transfer for snow overtime and general expenses deficit
- Approved $257,825 appropriation for design services for 200 Trapelo Road improvements (McMenimen recused)
- Approved $1,500 donation from Waltham Lions Charitable Foundation for Council on Aging
- Approved updated Bike Rack Plan to be sent to Mayor for funding request
- Filed Resolution to Improve Traffic & Safety Technology without prejudice
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on April 15, 2025 to consider a variance application from Omved Corp. to operate a smoke shop at 887 Main Street. The request is needed because the proposed location is approximately 139 feet from a residential zoning district, less than the required 300-foot minimum. The board will decide whether to grant a special permit with conditions.
- Variance application for a smoke shop at 887 Main Street (Business B district)
- Proposed shop is only 139 feet from a residential district, violating the 300-foot minimum (Article III, §§ 3.647 and 3.222b)
- Petitioner: Omved Corp.; Owner: Doherty Realty Group
- Public hearing scheduled for 7:00 PM on April 15, 2025 at Government Center, 119 School Street
Board of Survey and Planning
The Board of Survey and Planning will hold public hearings on a special permit for driveway openings at 962 Main Street and a curb-cut modification for Fifth Avenue. During the regular meeting, they will deliberate two zoning amendments: one limiting the duration of special permits, and another updating accessory dwelling unit regulations. Both amendments will be recommended to the City Council.
- Public hearing: Special permit for four driveway openings >25 ft at 962 Main Street
- Request to modify a previously issued special permit for a curb cut on Fifth Avenue
- Deliberation on zoning amendment to Section 3.552 and 3.51 regarding time limits on special permits
- Deliberation on zoning amendment to multiple sections (2.302, 3.23, 3.4, 3.616, 4.221, 4.223) for accessory dwelling units
- Approval of February 12, 2025 meeting minutes
Parks Recreation Board
The Waltham Parks-Recreation Board re-elected Jerry Walker as chair and John Graceffa as vice chair, and approved the 2025-2026 meeting schedule. The board also approved the February minutes and signed monthly bills. No other formal votes were taken; the rest of the meeting consisted of reports and updates.
- Approved February 5, 2025 meeting minutes (all in favor)
- Re-elected Jerry Walker as Chairperson (5 yes, 1 abstained, 1 absent)
- Re-elected John Graceffa as Vice Chairperson (5 yes, 1 abstained, 1 absent)
- Approved 2025-2026 Parks-Recreation Board meeting schedule (all in favor)
Finance Committee
The Finance Committee approved a $1,458,378 transfer to cover projected snow overtime and general expenses deficits, citing the number and type of snow events. It also approved a $257,825 appropriation for design services at 200 Trapelo Road, with Councillor McMenimen recused. Three donations were accepted, and prior minutes were approved.
- Approved $1,458,378 transfer for snow deficit (voice vote)
- Approved $257,825 appropriation for 200 Trapelo Road design (voice vote)
- Accepted donation of 1999-2000 Waltham Public Schools manual (voice vote)
- Accepted $1,500 donation from Lions Club for Council on Aging (voice vote)
- Accepted shovel from Leland Home groundbreaking (voice vote)
- Approved minutes of February 18, 2025 meeting (voice vote)
Economic & Community Development
The committee approved an updated Bike Rack Plan for downtown Moody Street and will send it to the Mayor and Director Chiasson for a funding request. Several items were tabled, including the Elm Street Train Crossing and the Cancer in Waltham Resolution, with updates expected in coming weeks. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Approved updated Bike Rack Plan for downtown Moody Street (voice vote)
- Tabled Elm Street Train Crossing until end of meeting, then tabled again after discussion (voice vote)
- Tabled Cancer in Waltham Resolution pending Health Department update (voice vote)
- Requested Traffic Commission to study removal of granite curbing at Elm and Moody Street crossings (voice vote)
Licenses & Franchises Committee
The committee approved the prior meeting's minutes and tabled a lodging house renewal for MG Beech Road LLC at 94 Adams Street. The petitioner was asked to attend the next meeting to discuss ownership and the property. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Approved minutes from 2/18/2025 (voice vote)
- Approved request for petitioner to attend next meeting (voice vote)
- Tabled lodging house renewal for MG Beech Road LLC at 94 Adams Street (voice vote)
Ordinances & Rules Committee
The Ordinances & Rules Committee approved multiple amendments to the Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) ordinance, including changes to distance requirements and a request for legal review of a rent restriction, but tabled the final approval. The committee also approved a special permit for McDonald's at 789 Main Street and advanced several other items for further review or hearings.
- Approved ADU ordinance amendments (voice vote), including changing distance from 600 to 300 feet
- Approved request for Law Department review of ADU rent restriction legality (voice vote)
- Approved special permit for McDonald's at 789 Main Street (voice vote)
- Approved sending trash ordinance amendments to full Council for first reading (voice vote)
- Approved sending fines amendment for trash/dumpsters to full Council for first reading (voice vote)
- Approved request for Law Department review of trash ordinance amendments by March 6 (voice vote)
- Approved sending marijuana zoning amendments to full Council for joint public hearing (voice vote)
- Tabled ADU ordinance, special permit at 180 Third Ave, and other items (voice votes)
City Council
The City Council and its committees are meeting to discuss several local issues, including a lodging house license renewal and a train crossing resolution. Most other items on the docket remain tabled from previous sessions.
- Lodging house renewal for Vibrant Estate Management at 77 Prospect Street
- Elm Street Train Crossing Resolution
- Review of tabled resurfacing petitions for Mount Pleasant St., Parkview Road, and Duddy Ave
- Tabled requests to convert private ways to public ways for Lory Drive, Matthew Lane, Michaelchris Drive, Raffaele Drive, and Roseanna Park Drive
The City Council confirmed John Edward White as a member of the Biosafety Committee. A resolution on traffic and safety technology was tabled. The council also took up two matters from the table—the new Police Station and a Public Parking Lot resolution—and discussed both in Executive Session before reconvening.
- Confirmed John Edward White to Biosafety Committee (voice vote)
- Tabled traffic and safety technology resolution (voice vote)
- Took new Police Station matter from table and moved to Executive Session (14-0)
- Took Public Parking Lot resolution from table and moved to Executive Session (14-0)
Conservation Commission
The Commission will consider requests for determination of applicability regarding railroad vegetation management and hazardous tree removal. The body will also review a request for a certificate of compliance for a multifamily dwelling rehab.
- Vegetation management plan (2026-2030) for MBTA Fitchburg Line right-of-way
- Removal of 12 dead and two declining trees at 700-1050 Winter Street
- Certificate of Compliance for multifamily dwelling rehab at 226-230 River Street
- Withdrawal of Notice of Intent by Algonquin Gas Transmission, LLC near 1265 Main Street
- Update on MWRA Lexington Street culvert replacement project
The Waltham Conservation Commission approved several routine requests, including a Negative 5/Positive 2 determination for Keolis' vegetation management plan along the MBTA Fitchburg Line, a Negative 5 determination for tree removal at 700-1050 Winter Street, and a Certificate of Compliance for 226-230 River Street. The commission also approved minutes, a replacement OOC, and a seed purchase. No major controversies or denials occurred.
- Approved Negative 5/Positive 2 determination for Keolis vegetation management (4-0, Doyle recused)
- Approved Negative 5 determination for tree removal at 700-1050 Winter Street (5-0)
- Approved Certificate of Compliance for 226-230 River Street (5-0)
- Approved minutes from 1-23-2025 (unanimous)
- Approved replacement OOC for 31 Warwick Ave (5-0)
- Approved up to $814 for native seed order (5-0)
Licenses & Franchises Committee
The Board of License Commissioners will consider several requests for one-day alcohol permits for university, non-profit, and private events. The board will also review a common victualer license transfer and a police-reported incident at a local business.
- One-day all alcohol permits for Bentley University events at 175 Forest Street
- One-day beer and wine permits for Waltham Fields Community Farm and Waltham Land Trust
- One-day all alcohol permit for a wedding reception at 100 Robert Treat Paine Drive
- Transfer of common victualer license from Tap-Tap Station LLC to Trencito Taqueria and Deli at 3 Carter Street
- Review of a January 5, 2025, Waltham Police Department incident report regarding Afro Grill/Rhino Lounge at 11 Cooper Street
Licenses & Franchises Committee
The committee approved three bench plaques at 200 Trapelo Road, renewed lodging house licenses for MG Beech Road LLC and other tabled renewals, approved a grant of location for Nationalgrid at Second Ave, and filed a Lodging House Resolution. All votes were voice votes with no recorded dissent.
- Approved bench plaques at 200 Trapelo Road (voice vote)
- Approved lodging house renewal for MG Beech Road LLC at 94 Adams Street (voice vote)
- Approved all tabled lodging house renewals collectively (voice vote)
- Approved grant of location at Second Ave for Nationalgrid (voice vote)
- Filed Lodging House Resolution (voice vote)
City Council
The City Council will hold joint public hearings with the Board of Survey and Planning on proposed zoning amendments for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and for time limits and changes in special permits. The council will also consider several special permit requests, including modifications for a building at 180 Third Avenue, a development at 1432 Main Street, a proposed hotel at 1265 Main Street, and a drive-through at 100 High Street.
- Proposed zoning amendment to permit accessory dwelling units (ADUs) by-right in single-family residential districts, with size, parking, and dimensional requirements
- Proposed amendment to special permit rules to allow minor modifications (up to 2% floor area increase or 5-foot structural move) without a new special permit by 2/3 council vote
- Public hearing for Boston Properties to modify a special permit to install exterior generators at 180 Third Avenue
- Public hearing (recessed) for a special permit to increase floor area ratio to 0.6 at 1432 Main Street
- Public hearing (recessed) for a special permit to construct a 6-story hotel with 135 parking spaces at 1265 Main Street
The City Council approved accepting Section 71 of Chapter 40 of the General Laws of Massachusetts regarding school bus cameras (15-0). The first joint public hearing on the Accessory Dwelling Units Ordinance was closed and referred to the Ordinances and Rules Committee after 20 residents spoke in opposition. The council also approved a $1,458,378 transfer for snow overtime and general expenses, and a $257,825 appropriation for design services at 200 Trapelo Road, both referred to the Finance Committee. Several special permit hearings were continued to future dates.
- Approved school bus camera program acceptance (15-0)
- Closed ADU public hearing, referred to Ordinances and Rules Committee
- Approved $1,458,378 snow overtime/general expenses transfer
- Approved $257,825 appropriation for 200 Trapelo Road design services
- Approved $5,000 car wash ticket donation to public servants (9-5)
- Approved $100,000 library grant acceptance
- Approved 14-0 re-appointment of David Joseph McGann as Constable
- Continued BP Third Avenue special permit hearing to March 10, 2025
Traffic Commission
The Traffic Commission will consider the 2025 Moody Street Outside Dining Plan and review traffic impact assessments for projects at 460 Totten Pond Road, 1265 Main Street, and 180 Third Avenue. The body will also discuss road race approvals and a requested safety study for the intersection of Lexington Street and Beaver Street.
- Approval of 2025 Moody Street Outside Dining Plan
- Traffic signal study of Lexington Street and Beaver Street requested by Waltham Police
- Traffic management options for MWRA project on Lexington Street north of Trapelo Road
- Road race approvals for April 5, April 12, May 29, and June 1, 2025
- Supplemental traffic memos for 460 Totten Pond Road and 1265 Main Street
The Waltham Traffic Commission approved the 2025 Moody Street outdoor dining plan, allowing restaurants to use parking spaces from May 23 to September 1. They also approved a detour for the MWRA project on Lexington Street, accepted several traffic studies, and approved new traffic signal plans and an all-way stop at Highland and Curtis Streets. The commission filed a request for traffic calming on Longfellow Road due to lack of data showing speeding.
- Approved Moody Street outdoor dining plan (May 23–Sep 1)
- Approved MWRA detour for southbound traffic on Lexington Street
- Accepted supplemental traffic study for 460 Totten Pond Road
- Directed traffic study for Lexington Street/Beaver Street intersection
- Accepted traffic memo for hotel at 1265 Main Street
- Approved revised signal timing plans for Main Street/Lyman and Newton
- Approved all-way stop at Highland Street and Curtis Street
- Approved revised signal design for Beaver Street/Warren Street
Finance Committee
The Finance Committee approved a $100,000 grant from the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners for the library renovation planning phase, after initially tabling it to await the Mayor's input. The committee also approved several donations, including car wash tickets, a historical calendar, a police book, and a Grover Cronin bag. The mid-year budget report was filed with a request for an ARPA line item summary.
- Approved $100K library planning grant (5-0)
- Approved $5,000 car wash ticket donation from Prestige Car Wash
- Approved donation of Waltham historical calendar from Timothy Kelly
- Approved donation of 50th anniversary Police book from Charles McCarthy
- Approved donation of Grover Cronin bag from Darren Aucoin
- Filed mid-year budget report; requested ARPA line item summary
Ordinances & Rules Committee
The committee tabled the amended trash ordinance after a motion to send it to the full council was withdrawn and replaced with a motion to table. The dog grooming resolution was also tabled. Special permit applications for McDonald's Realty at 789 Main Street and Ferris Development Group at 1432 Main Street were discussed and tabled. A school bus camera resolution was sent to the full council for approval.
- Tabled trash ordinance amendments (voice vote)
- Tabled dog grooming/kennel resolution (voice vote)
- Tabled McDonald's Realty special permit application at 789 Main Street (voice vote)
- Sent school bus camera resolution to full council for approval (voice vote)
- Tabled Ferris Development Group special permit application at 1432 Main Street (voice vote)
City Council
The Waltham City Council committees are meeting to consider a mix of new petitions and long-tabled items. New business includes five petitions to convert private ways (Lory Drive, Matthew Lane, Michaelchris Drive, Raffaele Drive, Roseanna Park Drive) to public ways, and a request for commemorative bench plaques at 200 Trapelo Road. Several lodging house renewals are also on the Licenses and Franchises agenda. Most other docket items remain tabled from prior meetings.
- Petitions to convert Lory Drive, Matthew Lane, Michaelchris Drive, Raffaele Drive, and Roseanna Park Drive from private to public ways
- Lodging house renewal applications for 124-126 Ash St, 403 River St, 24-26 High St, 6 Park Place, 12-14 Lowell St, 52-54 Bedford St, and 94 Adams St
- Request for three commemorative bench plaques at 200 Trapelo Road for Tom Curtin, Battaglino/Durkee, and Thomas E. & MaryAnn Centofanti
- Tabled resolution seeking update on funding, location, and construction of new police/public safety/fire departments and 187 Lexington Street property
- Tabled resolution on preserving residentially zoned neighborhoods
The City Council approved the reappointment of David McGann as a Constable. A resolution on the Municipal Opt-in Specialized Stretch Energy Code was tabled after discussion and a presentation from the MA Department of Energy Resources.
- Approved minutes of February 3, 2025 meeting (voice vote)
- Approved motion to hear from all off-committee members (voice vote)
- Approved reappointment of David McGann as Constable (voice vote)
- Tabled resolution on Municipal Opt-in Specialized Stretch Energy Code (voice vote)
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on April 1, 2025, for a sign variance petition from Boston Properties Limited Partnership. The petitioner requests relief from Waltham Zoning Ordinance sections 6.63(b), 6.63(c), and 6.6662 to build two monument signs and six directional signs that exceed size limits and one that violates setback requirements. The board will decide whether to grant the variance based on claimed hardship due to the lot shape.
- Petitioner: Boston Properties Limited Partnership
- Case #2025-07: Application for sign variance at 200 West Street (Commercial Zoning District)
- Specific relief sought: variance from Article VI, §§ 6.63(b), 6.63(c), and 6.6662
- Proposed: two main monument signs (one not meeting setback) and six directional signs exceeding permitted size
- Public hearing: April 1, 2025 at 7:00 PM, Government Center, 119 School Street
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Waltham Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on April 1, 2025, regarding a sign variance application from BXP Second Ave, LLC. The petitioner seeks to construct a main monument sign advertising an off-premises business at 153 Second Avenue in the Commercial District. The request cites hardship due to the lot's shape and topography, requiring a variance from the city's sign ordinance.
- Sign variance case #2025-08 for off-premises monument sign at 153 Second Avenue
- Petitioner: BXP Second Ave, LLC
- Location: 153 Second Avenue, Commercial Zoning District
- Relief sought: variance from Article VI, §§ 6.392 to allow off-premises advertising sign
- Public hearing scheduled for April 1, 2025 at 7:00 PM
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on April 1, 2025, to consider a sign variance application from BXP Second Ave, LLC. The petitioner seeks to vary sign size and copy requirements (Article VI, §§ 6.392, 6.622(b), 6.762, 6.7623) to construct an off-premises monument sign and directional signs at 211 Second Avenue. The applicant cites lot shape and topography as grounds for hardship.
- Case #2025-09: sign variance application by BXP Second Ave, LLC for 211 Second Avenue
- Requested relief: vary criteria for one main monument sign (off-premises advertising), ground sign size, and directional sign copy/size
- Property located in Commercial Zoning District
Board of Survey and Planning
The Board of Survey and Planning will hold a public hearing on a special permit under Section 5.41 of the Zoning Ordinance to allow continued use and maintenance of four existing driveway openings wider than 25 feet at 962 Main Street. The board will also vote on minutes from the January 8, 2025 meeting.
- Public hearing: special permit for four driveway openings over 25 feet wide at 962 Main Street
- Approval of minutes from January 8, 2025 meeting
The Board of Survey and Planning voted to continue the special permit application for 962 Main Street to February 12, 2025, requiring the petitioner to submit a traffic study, respond to Engineering comments, and verify existing curb cuts. The Board also voted to have the Clerk write a letter to the developer of 955 Main Street to restore any disturbed property to city standards by April 15, 2025. Meeting minutes from five prior dates were approved with corrections.
- Continued special permit for 962 Main St. to Feb 12, 2025, with conditions
- Voted to send letter to 955 Main St. developer to restore property by April 15, 2025
- Approved corrected minutes from June 5, Aug 14, Oct 2, Dec 2, and Dec 16, 2024
Historical Commission
The Waltham Historical Commission will hold a public hearing on a demolition delay for properties at 64-66 Orange Street. They will also review minutes, receive updates on Stonehurst and Wellington House, and hear liaison reports.
- Public hearing on demolition delay at 64-66 Orange Street
- Reading and acceptance of January 2025 meeting minutes
- Monthly report and inventory update from Stonehurst Curator
- Monthly report and update on Wellington House
- Reports from Fernald, CPC, Historic Inventory, and Education & Outreach committees
The Waltham Historical Commission voted 5-2 to find the house at 64-66 Orange Street NOT preferably preserved, allowing demolition to proceed. The decision followed a hearing where the owner proposed replacing the 1884-1886 house with four family units. The Commission also approved the January meeting minutes with a correction and received updates on Stonehurst and other properties.
- Approved January 2024 meeting minutes as amended (unanimous)
- Found 64-66 Orange Street house NOT preferably preserved (5-2)
- Directed office assistant to contact Building Maintenance about Wellington House lights
- Noted City Council approved funding for Fernald external renovations
City Council
The Waltham City Council will hold public hearings to accept five streets as public ways and consider numerous committee recommendations. Financial items include appropriations for building improvements, grants, and equipment purchases. The council will also vote on trash ordinance amendments, lodging house renewals, and other routine matters.
- Public hearings to accept Lory Drive, Mathew Lane, Michaelchris Drive, Raffaele Drive, and Roseanna Park Drive as public ways (betterments may be assessed).
- Finance Committee recommends $236,160 from Unreserved Fund Balance for exterior renovation of Trapelo Cottage (190 Trapelo Road).
- Finance Committee recommends $57,015 from Unreserved Balance Fund for Senior Center building improvements.
- Finance Committee recommends $36,000 for environmental surveys at Withington Hall and Farrell Hall (200 Trapelo Road).
- Mayor requests acceptance of a $100,000 grant from the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners.
The Waltham City Council approved several financial items, including a $120,590 state energy grant, a $36,000 appropriation for environmental surveys, a $35,000 fire safety equipment grant, a $31,000 sewer jet truck rental transfer, a $57,015.13 Senior Center improvement appropriation, and a $236,160 Trapelo Cottage renovation appropriation. The council also approved numerous lodging house renewals, a second-hand dealer license, a NationalGrid location grant, and the 2025 Election Calendar. Public hearings on private-to-public way conversions were held and referred to committee.
- Approved $120,590 EECBG grant for Planning Department
- Approved $36,000 for environmental surveys at Withington and Farrell Halls
- Approved $35,000 grant for fire safety equipment
- Approved $31,000 transfer for sewer jet truck rental
- Approved $57,015.13 for Senior Center building improvements
- Approved $236,160 for Trapelo Cottage exterior renovation
- Approved 2025 Election Calendar
- Approved 12-0-2-1 to enter Executive Session on 995 Main Street
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission will hold a continued public hearing on a Notice of Intent to relocate 1,992 linear feet of 24-inch natural gas transmission line on Tower Road within buffer zones to wetlands and an intermittent stream. The Commission will also discuss revisions to Standard Special Conditions procedure documents and approve minutes from the previous meeting.
- Continued public hearing for DEP File #316-0833: relocation of natural gas line within 100-foot buffer zone to Bordering Vegetated Wetland and Bank of Intermittent Stream
- Applicant: Brad Wynnemer / Algonquin Gas Transmission, LLC, property on Tower Road
- Discussion of revisions to Standard Special Conditions procedure documents
- Approval of meeting minutes from January 23, 2025
- HPCA 2025 Restoration Seeding under Old Business
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on a comprehensive permit application under state law Chapter 40B for a 369-unit rental development at 1362 Main Street. Of those units, 93 will be deed-restricted affordable for households earning up to 80% of area median income. The hearing is scheduled for January 7, 2025, at 7:00 PM at Government Center.
- Comprehensive Permit Application (Case #2024-35) by LPC West Main LLC for 369 rental units at 1362 Main Street
- 93 affordable deed-restricted units for households up to 80% AMI
- Petitioner seeks waivers from local zoning bylaws under G.L. c. 40B
- Property is in Commercial Zoning District
- Single public hearing on this application
Parks Recreation Board
The Waltham Parks-Recreation Board approved the Community Day Center road race proposal and the 2025 proposed summer program fees, which include a $5 increase per program. The board also reviewed accounts, noted a postponed youth football/hockey presentation, and received updates on the Trapelo Road project and Logan Park construction pause.
- Approved Proposed Road Race - Community Day Center (unanimous)
- Approved 2025 Proposed Summer Program Fees with $5 increase per program (unanimous)
- Approved minutes of January 8, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
- Circulated and signed monthly bills
- No motion required for 2025 Summer Staff Rates as no changes proposed
Finance Committee
The Finance Committee approved multiple appropriations from the Unreserved Fund Balance, including $36,000 for environmental studies at Withington and Farrell Halls, $236,160 for renovations at Trapelo Cottage, and $57,015.13 for Senior Center improvements. It also accepted a $35,000 fire safety grant and a $31,000 transfer for sewer jet truck rental. The Farwell Street Bridge matter was tabled.
- Approved $36,000 for environmental study at Withington and Farrell Halls (voice vote)
- Approved $236,160 for Trapelo Cottage renovations (voice vote)
- Approved $57,015.13 for Senior Center building improvements (voice vote)
- Accepted $35,000 grant for fire safety equipment (voice vote)
- Approved $31,000 transfer for sewer jet truck rental (voice vote)
- Tabled Farwell Street Bridge discussion (voice vote)
- Accepted donation of Warrendale Little League cap (voice vote)
Economic & Community Development
The committee approved a $120,590 state grant from the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant Program for the Planning Department, related to EV ports and chargers. It also took the downtown Moody Street bike parking proposal off the table, directed staff to amend the plan to exclude bike racks in front of restaurants, then tabled the resolution again. Meeting minutes were approved.
- Approved $120,590 EECBG grant for Planning Department (voice vote)
- Took Bike Parking Proposal on Moody Street off the table (voice vote)
- Directed staff to amend bike rack plan to exclude restaurant fronts (voice vote)
- Tabled Bike Parking Proposal on Moody Street (voice vote)
- Approved meeting minutes of 2/3/2025 (voice vote)
Licenses & Franchises Committee
The Licenses & Franchises Committee approved a grant of location for National Grid to replace 1,270 feet of cast iron pipe at Warren/School/Church Streets, and approved plaques on benches at 200 Trapelo Road. It also approved lodging house renewals for Bentley University (10 total) and Martin Reilly Realty Trust (4 total), tabled a renewal for 52-54 Bedford St, and approved a secondhand dealer license renewal for The Tool Shed at 471 Main Street. All votes were voice votes with no recorded tallies.
- Approved grant of location for National Grid pipe replacement (voice vote)
- Approved plaques on benches at 200 Trapelo Road (voice vote)
- Approved 10 Bentley University lodging house renewals collectively (voice vote)
- Approved 4 Martin Reilly Realty Trust lodging house renewals collectively (voice vote)
- Tabled lodging house renewal at 52-54 Bedford St (voice vote)
- Approved secondhand dealer license renewal for The Tool Shed at 471 Main St (voice vote)
Ordinances & Rules Committee
The Ordinances & Rules Committee met and took several actions. It tabled the School Bus Camera Resolution after requesting Law Department review and inviting officials to discuss bus contracts. It also took the Outside Dining Ordinance Amendment off the table, amended it, and sent it to the full Council for a first reading, then tabled it. The committee requested an update from the Planning Director on hiring a consultant for the comprehensive zoning review.
- Approved minutes from 1/21/2025 (voice vote)
- Tabled School Bus Camera Resolution (voice vote)
- Approved sending school bus camera ordinance to Law Department for review (voice vote)
- Approved inviting Susan Sutherland and Chad Mazza to next meeting to discuss cameras and contracts (voice vote)
- Took Outside Dining Ordinance Amendment off the table (voice vote)
- Approved sending Outside Dining Ordinance Amendment to full Council for first reading as amended (voice vote)
- Tabled Outside Dining Ordinance Amendment (voice vote)
- Approved requesting Planning Director update on consultant hiring for comprehensive zoning review (voice vote)
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on March 18, 2025, for a variance request by Nicholas and Nicole Capodilupo. The petitioners seek to build a second-story addition to their single-story home at 104 Hibiscus Avenue, which currently has a side-yard setback of 4.43 feet where 5 feet is required.
- Case #2025-04: Variance request to allow second-story addition at 104 Hibiscus Avenue – side-yard setback relief needed (4.43 ft vs. required 5 ft)
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing to consider a variance application for a two-story addition to a single-family residence. The board will determine if the project meets dimensional regulations for the Residence B Zoning District.
- Case 2025-06: Variance request for a two-story addition at 41 Curtis Street
- Request for relief regarding lot area (4,705 sq ft vs required 6,000 sq ft)
- Request for relief regarding front yard setback (7 ft vs required 15 ft)
- Request for relief regarding side yard setback (7.2 ft vs required 10 ft)
- Request for relief regarding rear yard setback (proposed 24.1 ft vs required 30 ft)
City Council
The Waltham City Council will meet in committees on February 3, 2025, to discuss new business and many items tabled from prior meetings. New items include acceptance of a $120,590 state grant for the Planning Department, several lodging house renewals (including Bentley University dormitories), and grants of location for utility work by NGrid and Eversource. Most other agenda items remain tabled with no immediate action scheduled.
- Acceptance of $120,590 EECBG grant for Planning Dept.
- Lodging house renewals for Bentley University dormitories (Copley Hall, Fenway Hall, etc.)
- Lodging house renewals at 11-13 Walnut St, 118-120 Robbins St, 44-46 Chester Ave, 20-22 Adams St, 52-54 Bedford St
- Grant of location for NGrid at Warren/School/Church Streets
- Secondhand dealer license renewal for The Tool Shed at 471 Main St
The Committee of the Whole met and approved the minutes from the January 21, 2025 meeting. The council briefly took up and then re-tabled a resolution on EV charging stations, and took up the police station matter before entering executive session with the Mayor and City Solicitor. No substantive decisions were made on either item.
- Approved minutes of January 21, 2025 COW meeting (voice vote)
- Tabled EV charging stations resolution (12/23/2024) for future discussion (voice vote)
- Took police station matter (11/25/2024) from table (voice vote)
- Entered executive session on police station matter (14-0 roll call)
- Adjourned meeting (voice vote)
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing to consider a variance request for a residential property. The petitioners are seeking to build a two-story addition that would encroach into the required rear-yard setback.
- Case 2025-02: Request for a 24.8-foot rear-yard setback at 5 Whittier Avenue, where 30 feet is required
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing regarding a petition for 54 Turner Street. The petitioner seeks to convert a two-family residential structure in a Commercial Zone into a single-family residence.
- Special permit request to convert two-family to single-family residence at 54 Turner Street
- Variance request to confirm a non-conforming side-yard setback of 4.54 feet (15 feet required)
City Council
The City Council holds public hearings on two special permits: a 6-story hotel at 1265 Main Street with 135 parking spaces, and McDonald's request to operate 24 hours at 789 Main Street. Also up for discussion are a floor-area-ratio increase at 460 Totten Pond Road, multiple appropriations including $236,160 for Trapelo Cottage exterior renovations, and $225,000 for a zoning ordinance update. The meeting features routine renewals of lodging house licenses and committee recommendations.
- Public hearing on 6-story hotel at 1265 Main Street with 135 parking spaces
- McDonald's seeks special permit for 24-hour operations and extended hours at 789 Main Street
- Special permit for FAR increase to 1.88 at 460 Totten Pond Road
- Appropriation of $236,160 from Unreserved Fund Balance for Trapelo Cottage exterior renovation
- Appropriation of $225,000 for Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance and Map Update
The City Council approved an amendment to the Dumpster Ordinance, which had been tabled since December 23, 2024, by a vote of 12-1-1-1, and then gave it a first reading by a vote of 11-2-1-1. The council also approved several committee recommendations, including a $225,000 appropriation for a zoning update and a $1,000,000 ARPA small business assistance program. Public hearings for special permits at 1265 Main Street, 789 Main Street, and 460 Totton Pond Road were continued to February 24, 2025.
- Approved Dumpster Ordinance Amendment (12-1-1-1)
- Approved first reading of Dumpster Ordinance Amendment (11-2-1-1)
- Approved $225,000 for Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance and Map Update
- Approved $1,000,000 ARPA small business assistance program (filed)
- Approved benches on Main and Moody Streets with conditions
- Approved FFY24 EMPG Grant of $25,600 from MEMA
- Approved donation of $300 to Waltham Fire Department from New Light Korean Church
- Approved lodging house renewals for multiple properties
Conservation Commission
The Waltham Conservation Commission approved an enforcement order against Insook & Kim Bubchull for destruction of vegetation, wetland encroachment, and unpermitted driveway expansion at 171 Copeland Street. The order sets conditions on the driveway and requires a restoration plan. The commission also approved a continuance for the Algonquin Gas Transmission project and authorized sign-off for an interior renovation at 887 Main Street.
- Issued enforcement order for wetland violation at 171 Copeland St (unanimous)
- Approved continuance for Algonquin Gas Transmission NOI to 2/6/2025 (unanimous)
- Authorized chair or agent to sign off on 887 Main St interior renovation (unanimous)
- Approved meeting minutes of 01-09-2025 (unanimous)
Licenses & Franchises Committee
The Board of License Commissioners will hold a public meeting on January 22, 2025, to hear requests for one-day beer and wine permits, license transfers and ownership changes, and appearances by four establishments cited for police incidents. Key items include transfer of the Hilton Garden Inn's all-alcohol innholder's license, change of ownership at Brewers Tap and Table, and transfer of Absolutely Asia's restaurant license. The board will also address incidents at Deep Ellum, Ruth's Chris Steak House, Franco's Pizzeria, and Guanachapi's Bar and Grill.
- One-day beer and wine permits for Chapel Hill-Chauncey Hall (Feb 11) and Gann Academy (Feb 6)
- Change of ownership for Brewers Tap and Table (256 Moody St) with manager remaining
- Transfer of Absolutely Asia's all-alcohol restaurant license to Urbanflavor Inc. at 864 Main St, new manager Abel Cai
- Transfer of Hilton Garden Inn's innholder's, common victualer, and entertainment licenses to Summit Hotel TRS 143 at 450 Totten Pond Rd
- Four establishments cited for police incidents (Deep Ellum, Ruth's Chris Steak House, Franco's Pizzeria, Guanachapi's Bar and Grill)
Ordinances & Rules Committee
The committee unanimously elected Councillor Harris as chair for 2025. Several items were discussed but all were tabled, including an outside dining resolution and special permit applications for 1432 Main Street and 789 Main Street. No substantive decisions were made beyond the chair election and approval of previous minutes.
- Elected Councillor Harris as 2025 Committee Chair (5-0)
- Approved minutes from 12/23/2024 (voice vote)
- Approved sending outside dining ordinance amendment to Law Department (voice vote)
- Tabled outside dining resolution (voice vote)
- Tabled special permit application for 1432 Main Street (voice vote)
- Tabled special permit application for 789 Main Street (voice vote)
Finance Committee
The Finance Committee appointed Councillor LaFauci as Chair for 2025 and accepted the previous meeting's minutes. It approved a $25,600 MEMA grant for emergency management, a $300 donation to the Fire Department, and a booklet donation for City Hall. The committee also approved a $225,000 appropriation for a zoning ordinance update and filed an outdated ARPA funds item.
- Appointed Councillor LaFauci as Finance Committee Chair for 2025 (4-0, 1 absent)
- Accepted minutes of December 23, 2024 meeting (voice vote)
- Approved $25,600 EMPG grant from MEMA for Emergency Management Services (voice vote)
- Approved $300 donation from New Light Korean Church for Fire Department (voice vote)
- Approved donation of booklet 'Empowering the African American' for City Hall Museum Room (voice vote)
- Appropriated $225,000 from Unreserved Fund Balance for zoning ordinance and map update (voice vote)
- Filed ARPA funds item from 3/27/2023 as no longer needed (voice vote, LaCava recused)
Licenses & Franchises Committee
The Licenses & Franchises Committee elected Carlos Vidal as chair for 2025 and approved several license renewals, including a Class 2 renewal for Jofi Enterprises at 712 Moody Street and renewals for four lodging houses. A grant of location for Eversource at Moody & Carter Streets was tabled pending answers to questions.
- Elected Carlos Vidal as 2025 Committee Chair (5-0)
- Approved minutes from 12/23/2024 (voice vote)
- Approved Class 2 renewal for Jofi Enterprises at 712 Moody Street (voice vote)
- Tabled grant of location for Eversource at Moody & Carter Streets (voice vote)
- Approved lodging house renewals for 10-12 Maple St, 21-23 Pine St, 755 Main St, 107 Adams St (voice vote)
Economic & Community Development
The committee elected Paul Brasco as its 2025 chair by a 4-0 vote. It approved a motion to place benches at bus stops on Main and Crescent Streets, modifying the Mayor's recommended locations. The Cancer in Waltham Resolution was taken off the table and then tabled again pending further data.
- Elected Paul Brasco as 2025 Committee Chair (4-0)
- Approved bench locations on Main and Crescent Streets, replacing Moody Street with Crescent Street (voice vote)
- Tabled Cancer in Waltham Resolution (voice vote)
City Council
The Committee of the Whole approved minutes from its December 23, 2024 meeting and its December 2, 2024 executive session, and sent the executive session minutes to the Law Department for review. A resolution on electric charging stations, submitted by absent Councillor LeBlanc, was tabled. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Approved minutes of December 23, 2024 COW meeting (voice vote)
- Approved minutes of December 2, 2024 executive session (11-0, 2 not present, 1 absent)
- Sent December 2, 2024 executive session minutes to Law Department (11-0, 2 not present, 1 absent)
- Tabled electric charging station resolution (voice vote)
Traffic Commission
The Traffic Commission will hear petitioned items including a safety analysis request for Highland and Curtis, an RRFB crosswalk on Stow Street, and a final signal design for Beaver and Warren Streets. They will also consider a 5K road race on June 9. Tabled items may be discussed if highlighted, but are not specified in the agenda text.
- Safety analysis requested for Highland Street and Curtis Street intersection
- RRFB crosswalk request on Stow Street between Ravenswood Rd and Milton St
- Approval of final traffic signal design at Beaver Street and Warren Street
- 5K road race request for June 9 as part of Middlesex County Corporate Fun Run
The Waltham Traffic Commission voted to install a Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon (RRFB) on Stow Street between Ravenswood Road and Milton Street, contingent on ADA ramp construction and crosswalk painting, without requiring a traffic count. The commission tabled the final traffic signal design for Beaver Street at Warren Street to increase the leading pedestrian interval from 3 to 5 seconds. It also approved a 5K road race, directed a safety analysis for Highland/Curtis, and denied a request to purchase bike racks, referring it to the City Council.
- Approved RRFB installation on Stow Street between Ravenswood Road and Milton Street, after ADA ramps and crosswalk painting, without traffic count
- Tabled Beaver Street at Warren Street traffic signal design to increase leading pedestrian interval from 3 to 5 seconds
- Approved Middlesex County Corporate Fun Run 5K Road Race for June 9, 2025
- Directed Traffic Engineer to conduct safety analysis of Highland Street and Curtis Street intersection
- Denied request to purchase 48 bike racks, referred to City Council
- Voted to file Oakley Lane parking item
- Approved traffic signal inventory recommendations for Dale Street/Bacon Street
- Tabled Longfellow Road truck restriction, directed Traffic Engineer to create raised table design (Fire Chief Mullen opposed)
Historical Commission
The Historical Commission will meet to receive monthly reports on Stonehurst and Wellington House. The body will also consider the approval of new tour brochures for the Watch Factory neighborhood.
- Approval of new tour brochures for Watch Factory neighborhood
- Monthly report and inventory update for Stonehurst
- Monthly report and update for Wellington House
- Preservationist presentation regarding the Boys and Girls Club
The Waltham Historical Commission met remotely and approved the December 2024 minutes. They heard a presentation on the renovation of the Waltham Boys and Girls Club at 20 Exchange Street, which includes preservation of the Midcentury Modern building and is funded by $6 million from the CPC and $6 million in private donations. The commission also approved a draft walking tour brochure for the Waltham Watch factory area. No demolition delay hearings were held; one demolition application at 24 Tolman Street was deemed not historically significant.
- Approved December 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Approved draft walking tour brochure for Waltham Watch factory area
- Took Old Business item out of order (unanimous)
- Adjourned meeting at 7:53 PM (unanimous)
City Council
The Waltham City Council will elect a president, adopt rules, and appoint a vice president. Public hearings are scheduled for utility location grants by Eversource (Moody Street conduit) and National Grid (gas main relay on several streets). Two recessed special permit hearings are on the agenda: a floor area ratio increase at 1432 Main Street and a fast-food restaurant at 1074 Lexington Street, with a request to withdraw the latter. The mayor requests a $225,000 appropriation for a comprehensive zoning ordinance update, acceptance of a $25,600 emergency management grant, and a $300 fire department donation. Tabled items include the MBTA Communities zoning ordinance, a veterans housing amendment, and a $1,031,710 loan authorization for 200 Trapelo Road.
- Election of Council President and appointment of Vice President
- Public hearings for Eversource conduit on Moody Street and National Grid gas main relay on Church, Park, Orchard, Mt Pleasant, and School Streets
- Recessed special permit for increased floor area ratio at 1432 Main Street
- Recessed special permit for fast-food restaurant at 1074 Lexington Street (withdrawal requested)
- Mayor's request for $225,000 comprehensive zoning ordinance update and $25,600 EMPG grant
The Waltham City Council held its organizational meeting, re-electing John J. McLaughlin as President and Joseph P. LaCava as Vice President for 2025. It approved final readings of the Preferential Veterans Housing Ordinance Amendment and the MBTA Communities Zoning, both by 12-0-2-1 votes. The council also approved a $1,031,710 loan authorization for the Howe/Administration building at 200 Trapelo Road (11-0-1-2-1) and granted a withdrawal without prejudice for a special permit at 1074 Lexington Street (12-0-2-1). Several other items were referred to committees or tabled.
- Re-elected John J. McLaughlin as City Council President (13-0-2)
- Elected Joseph P. LaCava as City Council Vice President (13-0-2)
- Adopted 2025 City Council Rules (voice vote)
- Approved final reading of Preferential Veterans Housing Ordinance Amendment (12-0-2-1)
- Approved final reading of MBTA Communities Zoning (12-0-2-1)
- Approved $1,031,710 loan authorization for Howe/Administration at 200 Trapelo Road (11-0-1-2-1)
- Approved withdrawal without prejudice of special permit at 1074 Lexington Street (12-0-2-1)
- Tabled Dumpster Ordinance (voice vote)
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a project at 31 Warwick Ave. The body will also discuss invasive species management at the Hardy Pond Conservation area.
- Public hearing for James Shaw: addition and deck extension at 31 Warwick Ave within 100-foot buffer zone to Bordering Vegetated Wetlands
- Discussion of invasive species management in the Hardy Pond Conservation area
The Waltham Conservation Commission approved the selective cutting of 16 Norway Maples in the Hardy Pond Conservation Area and approved a third year of invasive species treatment and native wildflower seeding. The commission also closed a public hearing and issued an order of conditions for a house addition at 31 Warwick Ave, and approved the previous meeting's minutes.
- Approved cutting 16 Norway Maples in Hardy Pond Conservation Area (unanimous)
- Approved third year of invasive species treatment and native wildflower seeding (unanimous)
- Closed public hearing for 31 Warwick Ave addition (unanimous)
- Issued order of conditions for 31 Warwick Ave with special conditions (unanimous)
- Approved minutes from 12-19-2024 meeting (unanimous)
Board of Survey and Planning
The Board of Survey and Planning will hold a public hearing on a special permit under Section 5.41 to allow continued use and maintenance of four existing driveway openings wider than 25 feet at 962 Main Street. The board will also receive updates on 955 Main Street and vote to approve minutes from several prior meetings.
- Public hearing: Special permit for driveway openings >25 ft at 962 Main Street
- Update on 955 Main Street project
- Approval of minutes from June 5, Aug 14, Oct 2, Dec 2, and Dec 16, 2024 meetings
Parks Recreation Board
The Waltham Parks-Recreation Board approved the 2025 Indoor/Outdoor Recreation Facilities additional hour fee, a $10 per block increase to Veterans Memorial Rink fees, and the Community Development Block Grant (Year 51) requests for Hardy Pond shore stability and ADA surfacing at Nipper Maher Park. The board also approved the December 11, 2024 meeting minutes and signed monthly bills. No changes were made to the Indoor/Outdoor policy, pickleball, or pavilion fees.
- Approved 2025 Indoor/Outdoor Recreation Facilities additional hour fee (all in favor)
- Approved Veterans Memorial Rink policy and $10 per block fee increase (all in favor)
- Approved Community Development Block Grant (Year 51) requests (all in favor)
- Approved minutes of December 11, 2024 meeting (all in favor)
- Signed monthly bills (all in favor)
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on February 25, 2025, to consider an application from Two Thirty Second LLC for sign variances at 230 Second Avenue. The petitioner proposes to replace an existing 208 sq. ft. wall sign with a 180 sq. ft. digital display sign on the same wall facing Route 128/I-95, seeking relief from the city's moving signs ordinance and the by-right size limit for secondary wall signs.
- Petition for variances from § 6.41 (moving signs) and § 6.52 (secondary wall signs size limit)
- Proposed digital display sign: 180 sq. ft. (5′ x 36′), replacing existing 208 sq. ft. sign
- Location: 230 Second Avenue in Commercial Zoning District, building with existing office and parking
- Primary wall sign complies with overall size requirements; only secondary sign needs variance