Select board approves outdoor dining plan for Arna Irish Pub in downtown Millis

The Millis Select Board voted June 1 to approve an outdoor dining proposal submitted by 36 Pub LLC (d/b/a Arna Irish Pub & Coal Fire Kitchen) for tables in the plaza area at 36 Miliston Road. The application requests six four‑top tables and one two‑top table for a maximum of 26 outdoor seats; the board discussed accessibility changes made to the plan and the local licensing authority's role under state ABCC rules.

Staff explained that changes to the Massachusetts Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission (ABCC) rules now allow local licensing authorities to approve temporary alterations of premises for outdoor alcohol service; the town packet showed the applicant had worked with building and accessibility reviewers and submitted a drawing of the proposed layout. Because one member of the board said he was the landlord of the plaza, that member recused from voting.

After a brief discussion in which board members compared the proposal to similar outdoor service in neighboring towns, the board moved and seconded approval of the alteration of premises consistent with ABCC guidelines; the motion passed. The board noted the approval would be forwarded to the licensing authority for the required amendment of premises so the restaurant can serve alcohol outdoors during the permitted times.

The board did not record contested testimony on the proposal; no public objections were raised in the meeting record. The matter concluded with the approval and the board proceeded to review other agenda items.