Chelmsford Select Board Reviews $70K Stormwater Management Proposal and Approves New Licenses
- Meeting Overview:
During the recent Chelmsford Select Board meeting, the board addressed a new proposal in House Bill 5562, which seeks $70,000 for stormwater management and drainage infrastructure assessment near Sandra Drive and Donna Road. The Department of Public Works (DPW) emphasized the project’s significance, citing the critical role of drainage in the area, which includes four culverts. This funding aims to enhance environmental resilience amid climate change concerns and potential flooding. The study, if funded, will guide future DPW initiatives to mitigate flooding during heavy rain events.
The meeting also covered other topics, including the demolition timeline for the South and West Fire Stations. The dismantling of the South Fire Station is set to start on July 27, with an expected duration of a week. The West Fire Station will follow, also taking about a week for demolition. Ensuring the community is informed about these changes was stressed, with plans for announcements via social media and press releases to avoid surprises due to the long-standing presence of these buildings in the community.
A public hearing was held for an amended alcohol beverage license application for the House of Chiron. The amendment involved adding a second manager to the LLC to comply with state regulations, which require one manager to be a U.S. citizen. The board closed the public hearing without any comments from the audience or on Zoom, and the amendment was approved unanimously.
Additionally, the meeting addressed committee vacancies across various groups, prompting a call for residents to apply as work on these committees is already ongoing. The board also approved a common victualler’s license for Bavani Boston, a fast-food Indian street food restaurant looking to open its second Massachusetts location. The restaurant, which will have 49 seats and not serve alcohol, was quickly approved by the board, with members expressing well-wishes for the new establishment.
The town manager’s report included updates on double poles in the community, a point of frustration due to delays caused by an aerial lift bucket truck being out for repair. A National Grid public service announcement regarding a $330 million project to refurbish overhead transmission lines was also discussed. This project will affect multiple communities, including Chelmsford, and aims to upgrade 16 miles of aging lines. Community engagement sessions are scheduled, and there was emphasis on communicating potential disruptions to residents.
The meeting concluded with the appointment of election workers, which was approved without dissent, and the confirmation of three appointments: Edwin Paul Ericson as town constable, and Aaron Cunningham and David Bva to the parade committee, with support from the police chief. The board reviewed and unanimously approved meeting minutes from June 1st, June 29th, and July 6th.
During liaison reports, members shared updates from various committees. One noted an upcoming show at the Chancer Center for the Arts, while another discussed the parade committee’s early preparations for next year’s event. A police swearing-in ceremony for promotions and a new officer was also acknowledged. Updates from the Board of Health meeting and a recent managed growth strategy meeting highlighted ongoing grant discussions and infrastructure assessments.
Paul Cohen
City Council Officials:
Virginia Crocker Timmins, Pat Wojtas, Erin Drew, George R. Dixon, Jr., Paul Cohen (Town Manager), Kristina Bruce (staff member)
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
07/20/2026
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Recording Published:
07/20/2026
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Duration:
50 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Massachusetts
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County:
Middlesex County
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Towns:
Chelmsford
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