At a Glance

Welcome to the second edition of Burlington Brief, the town's official e-newsletter! This issue has a little bit of everything, from important dates and helpful reminders to community highlights and upcoming events for all ages. You’ll find information on Town Meeting, a look back at a recent community gathering, a nod to Burlington’s past, and a few ways to get involved. We hope it helps you feel more connected to the people, places, and programs that make Burlington home.

Dates to Remember

Town Offices Closed – Presidents' Day 🏛️

• All non-emergency town offices will be closed on Monday, February 16, 2026 in observance of Presidents’ Day.

Trash & Recycling Schedule Change 🚛

• Due to Presidents' Day, curbside trash and recycling collection for that week will take place on Friday, February 20, 2026.

Town Meeting 📜

• Town Meeting will be held on Wednesday, January 28, 2026 at 7:00 PM due to the snow delay this week.

There's Still Time to Apply for Real Estate Tax Relief

If you’re a qualifying Burlington homeowner who could use a little extra support this year, there’s still time to apply for the town’s Elderly and Disabled Tax Relief Fund.

This program helps ease the burden of property taxes by providing financial assistance to eligible residents. You may qualify if you are 60 years of age or older or have a state-recognized disability and meet income guidelines.



You can apply online or submit your application in person at the Burlington Council on Aging, located at 61 Center Street. If you’d like help along the way, social workers are available to assist with applications. Call 781-270-1950 to schedule an appointment.



📅 The deadline to apply is January 31, 2026.

🔗 Learn more at burlington.org/TaxRelief 

Burlington Basics: A Guide to Town Meeting

Ever wonder how decisions get made in Burlington? In this edition of Burlington Basics, we’re breaking down Town Meeting and what you need to know.

Town Meeting is Burlington’s legislative body and one of the most direct ways residents help shape the future of the community. Rooted in local democracy, it plays a central role in how the town makes decisions.



What Happens at Town Meeting?

Burlington uses a Representative Town Meeting form of government. The town is divided into seven precincts, and residents in each precinct elect Town Meeting Members to represent them.

While any resident is welcome to attend and observe, only these elected Town Meeting Members can vote. Their role is to listen, ask questions, and make informed decisions on behalf of their neighbors.

At Town Meeting, members vote on key issues that impact daily life in Burlington, including:

• The town’s annual budget and spending
• Local bylaws, including zoning changes
• Funding for town projects and initiatives
• Salaries for elected officials

Town Meeting is held three times a year in January, May, and September. The May session is typically the most extensive, as it includes the annual operating budget.

How Decisions Reach the Floor

Before anything comes up for a vote, proposed items — known as warrant articles — are carefully reviewed by appointed committees such as Ways & Means, Capital Budget, Land Use, and others. These committees study each article and make recommendations so Town Meeting Members can vote with a full understanding of the issue.

How You Can Get Involved

Even if you’re not a Town Meeting Member, there are plenty of ways to stay engaged:

• Read the warrant before each meeting
• Attend and observe Town Meeting sessions
• Reach out to your precinct’s representatives
• Consider running in a future election

Mark Your Calendar 📅

The next Town Meeting will be held on Wednesday, January 28, 2026. After the meeting, we’ll share a recap highlighting key decisions and what they mean for Burlington residents. Visit the Town Meeting webpage to learn more.

A Superhero Adventure Awaits

The Characters Come to Life event is back for another year — and this time, superheroes are swooping into town! Join the Burlington Parks & Recreation Department for a super-powered day of fun featuring meet-and-greets with your favorite heroes, activities, and a live performance. You might even spot a few of Burlington’s own everyday heroes stopping by for a visit.



Event Details

• March 21, 2026 from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
• $40 – Couple Registration (One Adult + One Child)
• Please register under the child’s name.
• $20 – Each Additional Child

Spots are limited, so be sure to sign up early and get ready for a truly heroic day at Grand View Farm! Register today.

In Case You Missed It: Civic Expo

Thank you to everyone who joined us for the 3rd Annual Civic Expo on January 14th! The collaborative event hosted by Burlington Buzz and the Town of Burlington was a lively and welcoming celebration of community.

In addition to meeting town departments, boards, and committees, attendees enjoyed live music and entertainment throughout the evening. Clowns delighted younger visitors with their balloon animals, while families and residents of all ages stopped by to say hello to Burlington Police K-9 Zuko.

Burlington Before: A Look Back at the Mall

When the Burlington Mall first opened its doors in 1968, it was more than a new shopping destination — it was an event. On its very first day, crowds poured in by the thousands, eager to experience what was then a modern marvel for New England.

With anchor stores like Sears, Filene’s, and Jordan Marsh, plus a grocery store and a movie theater, the Mall quickly became a central gathering place for shopping, entertainment, and everyday life in our town.

Stay in the Loop

Check Out Other Burlington Newsletters:

Council on Aging, Parks & Recreation, Library

Discover the Town of Burlington on Social Media:

Follow our official Facebook page.

Sign Up for Alerts:

Visit the Notify Me page on our website to receive tailored updates directly to your phone or email.

Explore the Town Calendar:

Find upcoming meetings and events on our website.

Make Sure Your Voice Is Heard:

What do you want to see in Burlington Brief moving forward? We want your feedback! Share your thoughts with our Communications Officer.