Select Board Meeting Recap - January 29, 2026
The Select Board held its regular meeting on Thursday, January 29, 2026 at Town Hall and via Zoom, with an agenda that included topics from liquor license violation hearings and committee appointments, to budget updates and grant acceptance. Here are the key highlights:
Snow Removal Operations Update
Town Manager Leon I. Goodwin III recognized DPW and contractors for exceptional work during the recent snowstorm (8th largest in Greater Boston history!). The Town now has 23 contractors compared to 40-50 in past years, as many vendors left the business after mild winters. This shortage has extended the removal process, but crews continue working day and night to clear streets and respond to resident concerns.
Deficit Reduction Plan Community Forum #2
Nearly 40 residents attended the January 28 forum at the Endicott Estate focused on the Deficit Reduction Plan, Community Survey results, and budget process. Dedham Library staff provided childcare and activities during the forum that were a big hit! The Deficit Reduction Plan Project page remains available for those unable to attend, with recordings by Dedham TV, and portal to submit questions/comments.
FY27 Budget Update
- Unrestricted aid increase: 2.5%
- Chapter 70 (school funding) increase: 1.2%
- Net state aid increase after chargebacks: approximately 1%
- Outstanding Items: Town Manager expects to have health insurance numbers in February; liability insurance and final debt service numbers still pending.
- School Budget: School Committee is expected to vote on its recommended budget at next week’s public meeting.
Two Liquor License Violation Hearings
The Select Board held violation hearings for two establishments that sold alcohol to underage operatives during November 2025 compliance checks by the Dedham Police Department:
- Plaza Liquor Mart: Untrained temporary employee sold to minor. Attorney recommended TIPS certification for all staff ($38 online).
- Tavern in the Square: Bartender sold to minor; employee terminated per zero-tolerance policy
Select Board voted to close both hearings and will make decisions at the February 10, 2026 public meeting.
Legacy Boulevard Mixed-Use District Plan
The Select Board voted to accept a $105,000 state grant from the Community One Stop for Growth Program to update zoning in the Legacy Boulevard area, as presented by the Director of Planning, Zoning, and Natural Resources Jeremy Rosenberger. The process includes hiring consultants (RFP out now), forming 11-member advisory committee, market assessment, public engagement, and developing zoning guidelines. Anticipated project timeline: Late Spring 2026 through Summer 2027. Select Board voted to appoint Michelle Persson Reilly to the Legacy Blvd Mixed-Use District Plan Advisory Committee as its representative. Read the full vacancy posting on our Board & Committee Vacancies page.
Restaurant Updates
Planning and Zoning Director Jeremy Rosenberger addressed recent restaurant closures:
- Uno Pizzeria: Kimco Realty has brokers working to fill space
- El Centro and Blue Ribbon Barbecue: New tenants already lined up for both Dedham Square locations
- Coming Soon: Pressed Cafe (former Friday's location) and First Watch (Legacy Place, near Panera)
Despite closures, Dedham's restaurant industry is thriving with record meals tax revenue. The Town is finalizing communications to highlight the strength of the local restaurant industry.
Sustainability Advisory Committee Appointment
After interviewing three strong candidates (Emily O'Connell, Tim Kozen, and Nick Iandolo), the Select Board voted to appoint Emily O'Connell to fill the open position on the Sustainability Advisory Committee. The Select Board thanked the other candidates for their interest and encouraged them to apply for other openings, or consider running for Town Meeting. Current list of board vacancies is available on our Board & Committee Vacancies page, and posted at Town Hall.
More Information
This document is a summary/recap of a public meeting and does not replace official meeting minutes.
