Nearby News: Arlington Heights Panera Closing

Arlington

Arlington Heights Panera Closing

After weeks of rumors and speculation, it’s official: the Arlington Heights Panera is closing near the end of the month. A Panera Bread spokeswoman confirmed the news Wednesday, although she would not specify which day will be the bakery’s last. The bakery, at 1398 Mass. Ave., opened in 1998. - John Waller

Somerville

Sen. Jehlen Speaks Out Against Beacon Street Reconstruction Plan

Somerville State Sen. Patricia Jehlen Tuesday weighed in on a proposed plan to reconstruct Beacon Street, a plan that would add cycle tracks and eliminate some parking spaces along the street. The proposal has been a contentious issue in the neighborhood in recent months. In response to some comments made at Tuesday's meeting, Alex Epstein, a Beacon Street resident and chair of the Somerville Bicycle Committee, sent a letter to the editor that led to a lengthy discussion on Somerville Patch. - Chris Orchard

North Reading

Moratorium Proposed For Medical Marijuana Dispensaries in North Reading 

On Election Day last year, Massachusetts voters approved a ballot proposal that allows medical marijuana sales in the state, which left cities and towns to set regulations for medical marijuana dispensaries. The Community Planning Commission (CPC) held a workshop Monday night regarding such dispensaries in North Reading. According to Town Planner Danielle McKnight, the CPC discussed proposing a moratorium to residents at Town Meeting in June. - Ashley Troutman

Reading

Selectmen Interview 3 Finalists for Town Manager 

 Each of the three finalists for Reading town manager took a turn in the spotlight Tuesday during their public interviews with the Board of Selectmen.

The finalists are Robert LeLacheur, Reading’s assistant town manager and finance director since 2005; John D’Agostino, Abington town manager since 2010; and Kerry Speidel, Lunenburg town manager since 2007. (The screening committee identified Speidel as town administrator.) - Ashley Troutman