Millis board approves Stormlong beverage license and raises food inspector rate to $90/hour

The board approved a local carbonated beverage (bottled water/carbonated non‑alcoholic beverage) license for Stormlong Cider LLC of 725 Main Street North, conditioned on proof of active state licensure. Staff said the Department of Public Health review found the application package and product labels compliant with Massachusetts bottled‑water standards; the board set an incidental local fee of $33 for the town license.

Separately the board discussed the town's food inspectional services contractor, who had been paid $60/hour historically and requested an increase. Members noted market rates for comparable consultants and the need for professional liability insurance for a contracted inspector. After discussion the board moved to raise the inspector's rate to $90/hour effective July 1, 2026, subject to available department funds and execution of a professional services contract under $10,000; the motion passed.

Board members said retaining an experienced inspector reduces the number of return visits and supports public‑health outcomes for local restaurants and mobile food vendors.