✅ April 7, 2025 Minutes Approved
— Approved as written by Sue Waters, Wally Hersee, Dane LaBonte, David Bourbeau, and Taylor Stedman (5-0)

✅ Sign Special Permit Approved for Five Guys at 21 New Boston Road
— Granted permit for two 29.23 sq.ft. wall-mounted signs (one on West elevation, one on East elevation) exceeding the one-sign limit under the sign bylaw (5-0)

The Planning Board held a public hearing to consider a sign special permit request for the incoming Five Guys restaurant at 21 New Boston Road. The application sought permission to install two 29.23 square-foot wall-mounted signs—one facing west and one facing east—where the town's sign bylaw typically allows only one wall-mounted sign per business.

Edward Batten of Batten Bros Signs & Awnings represented the applicant virtually, explaining that the additional sign on the east elevation is necessary for visibility to eastbound traffic. Batten noted that Panera, located next door to the proposed Five Guys location, previously received the same special permit approval for an additional building sign, establishing a precedent for the request.

The Board opened the floor for public comment, and Paul Rosenbloom of 5 Old Brook Circle expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating "the sign looks great" and that he's "excited to have Five Guys coming to town."

With no concerns raised by Board members or the public, the permit was granted unanimously, clearing the way for Five Guys to move forward with its signage installation.

🍔 New Restaurant Coming to Route 20
Five Guys will be opening at 21 New Boston Road, adding another dining option to Sturbridge's commercial corridor along the busy Route 20 area near Panera.

✅ Sign special permit approved for Five Guys at 21 New Boston Road (5-0)

✅ Two 29.23 sq.ft. wall-mounted signs authorized for east and west building elevations

✅ April 7, 2025 meeting minutes approved

✅ Public hearing scheduled start time may shift from 6:35 PM to 6:31 PM to eliminate waiting gaps

📅 Planning Board Meeting — June 9, 2025, 6:30 PM | Center Office Building
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📅 Planning Board Meeting — June 23, 2025, 6:30 PM | Center Office Building
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The Town Minute is an independent publication not affiliated with the Town of Sturbridge or any municipal office. While we strive for accuracy, errors or omissions may occur. For official and complete records, please refer to the Town's approved meeting minutes or watch the official meeting recordings on the Town's website.