The approval of the liquor license for Bean and Barrel LLC was a focus of the meeting. Bean and Barrel LLC is poised to open a European-style café on High Street. The business is owned by a couple, Jeppe and Stephanie, and aims to bring a unique dining experience to Reading, offering fresh pastries and coffee in the mornings and transitioning to a social venue with wine and desserts in the evenings. The Select Board reviewed the application, which included a request to pledge the liquor license to Middlesex Federal Savings, providing financial backing for initial costs. The café is expected to create 12 to 16 local jobs and contribute to the vibrancy of the downtown area. The board unanimously approved the liquor license, expressing enthusiasm for the new business and its potential impact on the community.

In parallel, the board deliberated over a request from Dunkin’ Donuts for early opening hours at its 273 Salem Street and Main Street locations. A representative from Dunkin’ Donuts articulated the demand for a 5:00 a.m. opening, primarily influenced by customers from a nearby gym. However, the proposal met with resistance from community members, including resident Don Budro, who presented a petition opposing the change due to concerns about early morning noise from deliveries and trash pickups. The board decided to postpone a decision on the 273 Salem Street location to further investigate noise complaints, while approving early lobby hours for the 110 Main Street location under specific conditions.

Additionally, the meeting covered the restructuring of town government roles, with emphasis on the creation of an Administrative Services Director position. This role aims to enhance budget management efficiency by taking over some responsibilities from the Chief Financial Officer. The reorganization is expected to save approximately $20,000 and improve operational effectiveness by elevating certain positions to department head status. Concerns were raised about the decision to leave the Assistant Town Manager position unfilled, though the board expressed confidence in the new structure’s ability to support departmental needs.

Another topic of interest was the discussion on water and sewer rates. The Select Board reviewed options for future rate adjustments, considering the financial health of the enterprise funds. The board debated various rate strategies, including modest annual increases and potential decreases, reflective of strong retained earnings and recent water usage trends. The financial implications of second water meters and the town’s pricing structure for water from the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority were also deliberated.

A proposal to implement consent agendas was introduced as a means to streamline meetings by grouping routine items for expedited approval. This approach was seen as a potential improvement to the board’s efficiency, allowing more focus on strategic discussions. The idea was well-received, with members acknowledging the flexibility it provides for addressing items requiring further debate.

Lastly, the board addressed procedural matters, including the public comment policy. The board voted to revise public comment practices, introducing a new format where residents can provide initial comments with a time limit, and additional comments can be permitted by the chair’s discretion during discussions on specific agenda items. The meeting concluded with a decision to discontinue police presence at future meetings, deeming it no longer necessary.