Bellingham Board of Health Votes to Ban Adult-Only Tobacco Retailers

BELLINGHAM — April 15, 2025 — Bellingham Board of Health unanimously bans adult-only tobacco stores and approves more than $28,600 in vendor bills. The board voted Tuesday to prohibit adult-only tobacco retail establishments, which under state law may sell vaping products up to five percent nicotine but must bar minors from entering entirely and cannot hold food or lottery permits. Health Agent Bill Nanti, who completed the first session of a Massachusetts Health Officers Association tobacco inspector certification that day, said the town's current roster of 27 tobacco licenses is expected to shrink further as retailers close. The board also approved a $670 Solomon VNA bill and a $28,000 payment to FE Morris Enterprises Incorporated, accepted a septic variance for 30 Lake Street reducing required setbacks to 7.8 and 18.7 feet, and welcomed new member Deborah Bush, completing the five-member board.