Framingham Board Approves Four Alcohol Suspensions, Continues Portuguese Club Hearing

FRAMINGHAM -- February 14, 2017, Framingham selectmen flagged a looming ambulance-contract crisis and approved four alcohol license suspensions at a lengthy Valentine's Day meeting. Fire Chief Joe Hicks and Assistant Chief Mike Dutcher told the Board of Selectmen that AMR, the town's ambulance contractor through June 30, 2018, is now the company's only MetroWest client, with its nearest backup in Springfield, and that mutual-aid calls have climbed sharply since 2012, straining neighboring departments. The board directed Hicks to develop provider criteria and a procurement timeline, with a possible transition as soon as July 1, 2017. The board also continued a contentious hearing for the Portuguese Recreation Club of Framingham, 67 South Street, after members produced Facebook posts showing live bands, cover charges, and alcohol promotions beyond the club's DJ-only entertainment license, agreeing to reconvene at 6:30 p.m. on February 28. Two-day alcohol suspensions and $300 investigation fees were approved for Framingham Beer Works, Isla Restaurant and Lounge, Paparazzi Trattoria, and Tropical Cafe following a fall 2016 police compliance sting. Chief Financial Officer Mary Ellen Kelley warned the board that the FY2018 budget framework, assuming a 2.5 percent tax-levy increase, could add roughly $250 to the average homeowner's tax bill before any water-and-sewer rate hike, with board feedback due February 22.