Mary Byrne, Author at The Belmont Voice

The Sometimes-Daunting Path to Small Business Permits

March 4, 2025

After a few months in operation, a local business owner’s desire for outdoor signage at his shop on Concord Avenue set into motion a retroactive process for acquiring the necessary permits to run his business in Belmont. “It was a little confusing…

Elections

Three Candidates for Two Public Library Trustees

February 25, 2025

Three candidates are running to fill two vacancies as the Trustees for the Public Library. Incumbent Mark Carthy is joined on the ballot by Ed Barker Jr. and Tara Donner. According to the Trustee handbook, the role of trustees on a public…

Elections

Joy Aims to Grow Economy ‘Holistically’

February 21, 2025

In his campaign for Select Board, Economic Development Chair Paul Joy emphasizes plans for economic growth and support for a “people-centered” budget. Joy is one of two candidates running for the open seat on the board, filling a vacancy to be left…

Elections

Yates Leans on Planning Board Experience

February 21, 2025

Leaning on his Planning Board experience, Chair Taylor Yates focuses his campaign for the Select Board on financial stability and economic growth as Belmont’s main priorities in the coming years. Yates is one of two candidates running for the open seat on…

Business·News

Open Planner Position Revised as Town Looks To Improve Commercial Growth

February 13, 2025

Absent the resources to fund a full-time economic development coordinator or director-type position, town officials are studying an alternative way to ensure that work is getting done as they seek to improve Belmont’s commercial tax base. Town Administrator Patrice Garvin explained that…

News

New Turnout Gear, Free of ‘Forever Chemicals,’ Ordered for Firefighters

February 12, 2025

According to Fire Chief David DeStefano, three sets of new turnout gear, free of so-called “forever chemicals,” have been ordered for Belmont firefighters, with two additional sets on order. The purchase was possible because of a $18,670 grant from the Massachusetts Executive…

News

Planning Officials Refine ADU Bylaw Amendment

February 10, 2025

Subject to minor changes discussed last week, Belmont planning officials have voted to recommend favorable action at Town Meeting on the accessory dwelling unit bylaw amendments. The Planning Board vote followed lengthy discussions on whether ADUs should be allowed for short-term rental…

News

From Hurricanes to Invasions, Belmont Resident Provides Real-Time Relief

February 9, 2025

About two and a half years ago, within a week of starting his new job at Project Hope, Belmont resident Arlan Fuller headed south to address the devastation caused by Hurricane Ian. “I was thrown into the deep end of the pool…

News

Municipal Rink Takes Shape

February 4, 2025

The municipal rink on Concord Avenue is starting to take shape, with paneling work and roofing underway. “It’s starting to look like a building,” said Building Committee Chair Mark Haley. On April 4, 2023, voters approved a $29.9 million debt exclusion to…

Business·News

Survey: Retail Diversity, Empty Storefronts Considered Key Issues in Center Rezoning

January 31, 2025

Most of the nearly 400 residents who completed a survey on Belmont Center’s needs said increased diversity and quality of shops and services are key concerns. Others noted traffic challenges (particularly at rush hour) and a desire for expanded business hours. Empty…