“Proposal to shift hours to 5:00 a.m. draws mixed reaction from residents, prompts split board action“

The Select Board voted at their last meeting to partially approve a request from Dunkin’ Donuts to open earlier at two local locations, allowing a 5:00 a.m. start at 110 Main Street while postponing a decision for the 273 Salem Street site pending further review of neighborhood concerns.

Request for Earlier Openings

Representing Dunkin’, Regional Manager Vipin Khera and District Manager Lynne Ostrowsky presented a proposal to shift opening hours at the two stores from 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 a.m.

Khera told the board that demand already exists in the early morning hours, particularly from customers heading to nearby Planet Fitness, jobs, or commuting into Boston. The company currently operates another Reading location at 85 Walkers Brook Drive that opens at 4:30 a.m.

Khera said customers frequently attempt to access the Main and Salem Street locations before opening, only to leave and go to locations in surrounding communities.

Neighborhood Concerns Raised

The proposal drew opposition from at least one nearby resident, Don Boudreau of Salem Street, who submitted a petition and addressed the board during the hearing.

Boudreau said while neighbors support local business activity, they believe a 5:00 a.m. opening is unnecessary and could add to early-morning disruptions. He cited concerns about noise, including deliveries and dumpster pickups occurring before typical business hours.

Town officials noted that retail deliveries are generally restricted to between 6:00 a.m. and midnight, while dumpster pickups are not permitted before 6:30 a.m.

Dunkin’ representatives stated that their standard deliveries occur later in the day, typically after 9:00 p.m. or after 11:00 a.m., and said they would verify delivery schedules and address any issues if needed.

Board Balances Business Needs and Neighborhood Impact

During discussion, board members emphasized the need to balance support for local businesses with the quality of life for nearby residents. Members also referenced prior decisions involving other businesses, including Bagel World and McDonald’s, where drive-thru operations were restricted during early hours to limit noise.

Concerns about consistency in policy, particularly for drive-thru operations near residential areas, played a key role in shaping the board’s decision.

Split Outcome for Two Locations

Following discussion, the board took the following actions:

• 110 Main Street:
  The board approved a 5:00 a.m. opening for the location’s lobby service only. The drive-thru must remain closed until 6:00 a.m., consistent with past board decisions aimed at limiting early-morning noise from speaker systems.
• 273 Salem Street:
  The board voted to continue the public hearing to a future meeting. Members said additional time is needed to determine whether reported early-morning disturbances are linked to Dunkin’ operations or other businesses in the same plaza.

Town staff indicated there have been no documented noise complaints specifically tied to the Dunkin’ location, though concerns raised by residents will be reviewed further. Dunkin’ representatives also agreed to provide documentation on delivery and trash pickup schedules.

Next Steps

The Salem Street request is currently on the Select Board agenda for June 9th. In the interim, town staff, Dunkin’ representatives, and property stakeholders will gather additional information regarding early-morning activity at the site.

Board members said the goal is to ensure any decision reflects both economic considerations and neighborhood impacts.

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