The Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 on Monday, Sept. 14, to schedule a Special Town Meeting for Monday, Nov. 16, at 8 p.m. in Town Hall, and it was held that night. Read a summary here >>

The warrant was open for one day, Thursday, Sept. 24, from 8 a.m. to to 7 p.m. The purpose of the meeting is to give the town the opportunity to vote on the optional meals and hotel tax increase. To read the warrant and selectmen's report for this meeting, see >>

Arlington's regular Town Meeting begins in late April every year, but the selectmen may call a special meeting if issues arise that call for one. In this case, the Legislature this summer adopted measures allowing cities and towns to consider local-option taxes.

The special meeting was called so members can consider taxes on restaurant meals (0.75% excise) and hotels (1% or 2%).

Arlington has one hotel and a number of restaurants.

Under the one-day warrant, officials may file articles for Town Meeting consideration. Residents who collect 100 signatures may also file articles that day.

Town Election date changed

The selectmen on Sept. 14 also voted to change the date of the 2010 Town Election from April 3 to April 10.

The change occurred because the earlier date conflicts with religious observances. April 3 is Holy Saturday, the day before Easter, as well as one of the days during Passover.

The vote was 4-0, with Chairman Kevin Greeley abstaining. His current term ends in 2010.