Auburn Planning Board Approves CEMS Drive-Thru Coffee Shop Under Court Settlement

AUBURN — May 12, 2026 — Auburn Planning Board approves CEMS drive-thru coffee shop under court settlement, continues golf simulator hearing. The board voted unanimously Tuesday to grant a special permit and site plan approval to CEMS, LLC for a coffee shop with a drive-through at 602 Southbridge Street, fulfilling the terms of a settlement agreement signed April 14 with the Worcester Superior Court after the board had denied an earlier version of the project in December 2024; signed decisions go to the town clerk to begin a 20-day appeal period. The board continued four other items, including a 10-bay indoor golf simulator proposed by Mast Futures LLC at 615 Southbridge Street, after members pressed attorney Todd Broder and engineer David Mackwell of Kelly Engineering Group on a parking plan that shows 33 spaces against a theoretical peak of 42 occupants. Board member Ricky Arisme urged the applicant to pursue a shared-parking conversation with neighboring Golfer's Warehouse, saying it "would go a long way with this board." Also continued: a contractor building complex at 282 Southbridge Street pending architectural elevations and a lighting study, and a Casella Waste Management drainage upgrade at 15 Hardscrabble Road — continued for at least a third time — while the company still has not submitted draft easements the town requires before approval.