Public Meetings - Beverly, Massachusetts

This was a joint meeting of the Beverly City Council Committee of the Whole and the Finance & Property subcommittee on June 11, 2026, to review FY27 budget requests from the Library, Solicitor's Office, Police Department, Parks and Recreation, and Public Services (including enterprise funds). The meeting began with a procedural issue regarding missing agenda items for Community Services and Veterans, which were not listed. The council scheduled a supplemental meeting for Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 6 p.m. to address those items. Procedural Matter - Council recognized that the agenda did not list Community Services or Veterans, which fall under that umbrella. The solicitor advised that discussing them would violate open meeting law. Council agreed to schedule a new meeting on June 16 at 6 p.m. specifically for Community Services. Council apologized for the oversight. Library Department (Alison Babin, Director) - Presented FY27 budget request, which represents 1.3% of the total city budget. Highlights: 921 programs with 18,813 attendees; 331,461 physical items circulated; 81,746 ebooks/audiobooks; over 172,000 visits (equivalent to 4.5 times Fenway Park capacity). - Reduced funding led to service changes: Children's room at main library closing at 7 p.m. Monday-Thursday; Farms branch hours reduced from 52/45 (seasonal) to 33/30. The library lost one full-time employee (FTE) and 0.8 FTE in part-time staff, saving about $80,000. - Director cited a 301% return on investment (ROI) using a Maine State Library calculator, valuing services at $7,014,262. For every $1 invested, residents get $3.01 in services. - Farms branch usage: 6% of circulation vs. 82% main library. Annual cost: $150,000 for FY27 (one FTE). Council discussed whether cuts to the library are appropriate given its high use. Solicitor's Office (Beth Oldmixon, City Solicitor) - Budget request: $540,000 (0.3% of city budget), a reduction of $16,000 (3%). Staff reduced from 3 full-time attorneys to 2.5 (one part-time). The office handles legal counsel for all city departments, boards, litigation, public records, open meeting law, and union contract negotiations. - Increased outside counsel line from $55,000 to $70,000 to cover collective bargaining and possible special projects (election recount, airport leases). - Council noted the office's responsiveness but questioned whether further cuts would delay responses. The solicitor prioritized resources, noting that response times may lengthen. Police Department (Chief Philip Lasher) - Budget: $11,228,370 (6.2% of city budget), up 1.2%. Staff of 74 officers (below FBI recommendation of 85-90). The budget includes a reduction of one sergeant and one patrol officer through attrition. - Overtime budgeted at $930,000; actual FY26 overtime reached $1.1 million. The chief indicated they will manage within the budget by shifting funds from other line items if needed. - Discussion: Cruiser fleet aging—cost per cruiser $48,000 plus $25,000 for outfitting. No new cruisers in FY27 budget. Chief noted the department absorbed major incidents (homicide, home invasion) and continues to operate with minimal resources. - Council expressed support for public safety and concerns about overtime and fleet. Parks and Recreation (Mr. Doyle) - General budget: $445,000 (0.25% of city budget), 4 full-time employees (down from 5). They staff 12 free summer parks, day camps at Lynch Park, and over 20 concerts annually. They employ 80 seasonal staff. - Finances: Lynch Park generates $115,000 in revenue (parking and rentals). The department leverages grants (CPC, Lynch trustees) for playgrounds and facilities. Recent AED program placed over 30 defibrillators in parks. - Council questioned the impact of cutting the entire department; Doyle responded that Lynch Park, 28 playgrounds, and programming would be severely affected. Public Services & Enterprise Funds (Commissioner Mike Collins) - Total staff: 99 full-time equivalents across all divisions (highway, engineering, parks, etc.). Budget reduced by 2.1% year-over-year (excluding accounting changes and trash fee increases). Lost 3 FTEs. - Capital outlay line: $150,000 budgeted, but actual FY26 spending was $929,000 due to long delivery times for equipment (dump trucks, loaders). Fleet aging: a new dump truck can cost up to $400,000. - Enterprise funds: Water and sewer rates increased 5.54% (combined rate $12.18 per cubic foot). Sanitation fund: significant increases due to new contract (labor, fuel, and recycling processing costs rising from $62 to $125/ton). - Airport (Chris Hamm): Jet fuel tax generated $95,000; airport supports 67,000 operations/year. No major issues—council praised management. - Council discussed the structural deficit and the need to address unfunded mandates (MS4, DEP) but noted that enterprise funds are self-supporting. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken on the budgets; this was a hearing for information and discussion. - A supplemental meeting was scheduled for June 16 at 6 p.m. to cover Community Services and Veterans. - The council will continue budget deliberations at the next meeting (Committee of the Whole on June 15). - Several councilors expressed support for public safety and library services while noting the need to balance the budget.

This was the second budget meeting of the FY2027 cycle for the City of Beverly, convened as a joint session of the Committee of the Whole and the Committee of Finance and Property. The meeting focused on the proposed budgets for the Planning Department and the Fire Department. No formal votes were taken; the meeting was informational and included presentations, Q&A, and discussion of budgetary challenges. Planning Department – Presentation and Q&A - Director Darlene Wynn presented the Planning Department’s mission and operations. The department staffs nine boards/commissions, processes 200–300 permits annually (including 200 conservation permits), and manages approximately $1 million in grants (including a $850,000 Community Development Block Grant for a housing rehab program). - Budget reduction: The proposed FY2027 budget is $577,221, down from $784,000 in FY2026—a reduction of over $207,000 (about 26%). The department is losing one full-time equivalent (an associate planner position) through attrition, reducing technical staff from five to four (plus two administrative staff). This position had staffed the Design Review Board and Historic District Commission and provided long-range planning support. - Impact on workload: Remaining staff have absorbed additional boards and commissions, resulting in more night meetings and administrative work. The department anticipates fewer special projects and will rely on self‑performance (e.g., updating design standards) rather than outside consultants. The consulting line was also cut. - CADA Shuttle: The elimination of the $100,000+ shuttle service was discussed. The service, operated by CADA, provides 10,000 rides per year (about 1,000 per month). CADA declined to extend the contract and cited federal funding legal issues. The shuttle will end June 30, 2026 (end of FY2026). Director Wynn noted that ridership data is limited, but many users are elderly or without cars. She is working with MassDOT and MAPC on a study to explore regional alternatives, and a rider survey will be issued. Councilors expressed concern about the loss of service, especially given the similar loss of the Salem Skipper. - Comparison to Salem: Salem has 13–15 planners plus a separate transportation department (4–5 staff). Beverly’s lean staffing was highlighted as a constraint. - Board vacancies: The Planning Board has four vacancies (with two appointments pending); Conservation Commission has two or three; CPC has several. Director Wynn noted efforts to recruit volunteers using testimonials and social media. - Community engagement: Despite limited staff, the department prioritizes outreach (e.g., Harbor Fest, surveys, online meetings). However, fewer staff make such engagement more challenging. Fire Department – Presentation and Q&A - Chief Peter O’Connor presented the Fire Department budget. The FY2027 proposed budget is $8.824 million, an increase of 2.2% over FY2026. Personnel costs account for 94.3% of the budget. - Staffing: The department has 67 authorized positions, with 64 line personnel staffing three stations (North Beverly, West Street, Headquarters). Minimum daily staffing is 13 firefighters (one engine per station, plus a ladder truck and deputy chief at headquarters). The NFPA standard is 17 on scene within eight minutes for a single‑family fire, so the city is already below that benchmark. - Training officer change: The department will lose its full‑time training officer position (the retiring lieutenant will not be replaced). That individual will move to a line role but retain training responsibilities as a supplemental function. This is the first time since the early 1990s without a dedicated training officer. Chief O’Connor acknowledged this is not ideal but said company officers will help deliver training, and the training officer will still facilitate major projects on an overtime basis. - Overtime lines: Two overtime accounts: General Emergency ($182,593 proposed) and Shift Coverage ($749,000 proposed, up $130,000 from FY2026). Combined, these total about $931,593, compared to an FY2026 actual of $986,000. Chief O’Connor expressed confidence that the increase will cover shift coverage needs, noting that FY2026 was an anomaly due to multiple injuries and retirements. Finance Director Brian Ailes and Budget Analyst Jerry Perry expressed concern that the combined line is $54,000 lower than FY2026 actuals and may be insufficient, especially given the third year of the collective bargaining agreement (≈4% salary increase effective July 1, 2026) and the risk of unforeseen injuries. Perry noted that the city has had to supplement overtime appropriations in four of the last five fiscal years. Chief O’Connor argued that FY2023 was an anomaly (six members on military orders), and that the new budget accounts for known retirements and a reduced injury burden. - Minimum staffing risk: If the daily minimum of 13 cannot be maintained, a piece of apparatus (ladder truck or engine) would be taken out of service. The ladder truck was out of service from 2004 to 2020. Councilors Houseman and Flowers emphasized the importance of maintaining current staffing levels to avoid losing a station or truck. - Other budget lines: The building maintenance line was increased after a $20,000 sewer line replacement at headquarters. The supply special line (for turnout gear) was maintained, but Chief O’Connor noted that from January 2027, new PFAS‑free gear will be required, likely increasing costs. The department has benefited from federal grants (e.g., SCBA, breathing air compressor, fireboat). - Grant support: Lieutenant Mike Bishop (grant writer) and other staff perform supplemental functions to secure grants; these have brought in hundreds of thousands of dollars in equipment and staffing. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken on the budgets. The meetings will continue with other departments on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers, covering the Library, City Solicitor, Police, Parks & Recreation, Enterprise Funds, and Public Services. - Councilors expressed appreciation for both departments’ work and acknowledged the difficulty of budget reductions. Several councilors noted the structural deficit and the need to address it in future years. - The Fire Department’s overtime risk was flagged by the Finance Director and Budget Analyst as a concern, though Chief O’Connor is optimistic that the proposed funding will be adequate. - The Planning Department will move forward with reduced staffing and will focus on mandated state projects (energy siting zoning) and internal planning work, while seeking community input on the CADA shuttle discontinuation.

This was a meeting of the Finance and Property Committee of the Whole to review the proposed Fiscal Year 2027 budget. The budget, as presented by Mayor Cahill, is balanced at $180.8 million in general fund revenues, with a 4.12% increase over FY26. The meeting featured presentations from Budget Analyst Jerry Perry, Mayor Mike Cahill, and Finance Director Brian Ailes, followed by extensive discussion among councilors on structural deficits, spending priorities, and potential revenue options. Discussion Items - Budget Analyst's Presentation: Mr. Perry reported that the FY27 budget is balanced without using reserves, which he praised. He noted revenues match expenditures, with the levy limit increasing by 3.57% and new growth at $1.9 million (an anomaly). He highlighted several stress factors: collective bargaining, public education spending, health insurance, trash costs, and public safety overtime. A major concern was the structural deficit: public education spending (Beverly Public Schools up 5.27%, vocational education up 17.4%) now exceeds the levy limit by over $1 million. He warned that without a policy change, continued vocational education increases will force cuts to municipal services. He also noted the city’s overtime budgets for police and fire are likely insufficient, and that FY28 will be even more challenging, with a projected $7.1 million deficit. Mr. Perry advised the council that their only legal authority is to decrease line items, and he recommended they consider a conversation with the mayor and school committee about vocational education sustainability. - Mayor's Presentation: Mayor Cahill presented his executive office budget, reduced by nearly 20% to $803,237. He explained the consolidation of the sustainability director and chief of staff into one position, the reduction of the DEI director from full-time to part-time, and the proposal to fund the assistant sustainability director through donor funds for two years. He defended keeping the constituent services director, citing heavy workload and effective communications. He also discussed the summer learning program (12th year, $15,000 city contribution, leveraged with grants) and funding for the youth center. He noted cuts to organizations supporting downtown economic development (Beverly Main Streets, Chamber of Commerce) and reduced training and travel expenses, but argued that small investments in travel and conferences yield significant returns. - Finance Director's Presentation: Brian Ailes presented the finance department budget, which is reduced from 23 to 20 FTEs. He explained the restructuring after the assistant finance director’s departure and the impact on producing the digital budget book (delayed due to staffing shortages). He walked through the various sub-departments: accounting, assessing, IT, procurement, treasury, and collector. He noted that IT costs are rising due to licensing agreements, and the city is extending computer replacement cycles from four to five years to save money. He also addressed pilot payments (payments in lieu of taxes), noting the city currently receives voluntary contributions from four entities (Endicott College, Montserrat College, Beverly Housing Authority, and a solar developer), totaling about $250,000 annually. Councilors discussed the possibility of expanding pilots through a committee or more aggressive outreach. - Councilor Discussion: Councilors debated spending priorities and revenue options. Councilor Houseman called for cutting what he termed “nice-to-have” positions (constituent services, DEI) and travel, arguing residents have no appetite for fees or overrides and that the city should focus on core services. Councilor St. Hilaire emphasized the need to control costs before considering new revenue, criticizing the city hall project and suggesting the council should propose cuts. Councilor Feldman and President Flowers pushed back, arguing that the executive budget is only $800,000 and cannot solve the structural deficit, and that an override should not be taken off the table. Councilor Sonya defended the constituent services director and grant coordinator. Several councilors expressed concern about the lack of a digital budget book and the impact of staffing reductions on transparency. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken at this meeting. The committee will continue budget hearings on Tuesday, June 10, 2026, at 6:00 PM, with presentations from the fire and planning departments. - Mr. Perry recommended that the council initiate a policy conversation with the mayor and school committee about the sustainability of vocational education enrollment and funding. - Councilor St. Hilaire indicated he will propose specific cuts to the budget during upcoming deliberations. - Councilors agreed to explore options for expanding pilot payments, potentially through a small committee.

The Beverly City Council met on Monday, June 1, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at 191 Cabot Street. The meeting featured the official presentation of the Fiscal Year 2027 city budget by Mayor Cahill, an update from National Grid on the long-running transmission line replacement project, five public hearings, and a full agenda of subcommittee reports and votes. Notable actions included approval of a $1.6 million transfer from free cash to purchase new automated trash carts, approval of several free cash transfers for roads, sidewalks, snow/ice, and OPEB, and a first vote on accessory dwelling unit zoning amendments. The council also postponed a second vote on the trash fee ordinance pending a community meeting in Ward 5. Presentations - FY27 Budget Presentation (Mayor Cahill & Finance Director Brian Ailes): The mayor presented a proposed balanced budget of $180,884,417 for FY27 (July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027). Key elements include: a $4.5 million increase (5.28%) for Beverly Public Schools (total $89,867,235) and $690,000 more for Essex Tech (total $4,650,519). The budget assumes a trash fee increase of $300/residential and $650/commercial as previously voted by the council. The mayor outlined staff reductions across multiple departments, totaling several positions eliminated or reduced (e.g., 2.5 positions in the Mayor's office, 1.5 in Inspectional Services, attrition of 2 in DPS, 1 in Police, 1 in Fire). The city will finish FY26 with a balanced budget. Budget hearings begin Thursday, June 4 at 6:00 p.m. - National Grid Update (Dan Granger): The N192 115kV transmission line replacement project is nearing completion. New cable is expected to be energized this month. Removals of the old cable will begin in early July in three phases: (1) Goat Hill neighborhood and River Street (priority for the city, 12 weeks, 40 ft. per day per crew), (2) along the MBTA route (starting October, with efforts to maximize daytime track outages), and (3) under the Danvers River (permit window Nov 15 – Feb 15, 30 days of removal). Completion of all removals is expected by April 2027. Councilor Housman noted the project has taken five years instead of the original two, and thanked National Grid for partnering with the Community Advisory Committee. Public Comments & Testimony - Lindsay Ducharm (31 Bertram Street): Expressed concern that the proposed $4.5 million school increase is a "balanced budget" not a "critical needs budget." Noted that the district faces pressures including increased transportation and athletic fees, preschool tuition increases, and nearly $1 million in reductions tied to teacher positions. Urged the council to fully fund revenue needed to avoid deeper cuts. - Caleb McCauley (300 Cent Avenue): Criticized the process, stating the mayor had not spoken to the school superintendent before presenting the budget, and that the trash contract vote came before the city budget was finalized. Called for a post-budget review to improve transparency and proactivity. - Aya Sidicki (Ward 3): Delivered a land acknowledgement. Requested the council amend its rules to allow speakers to give only their ward number (not full address) to protect safety of marginalized groups. Cited her experience at the May 26 trash meeting where she felt unsafe as the only person of color in the room. Encouraged reconsideration after budget season. - Additional public comments were taken during the five public hearings (see below). Public Hearings 1. Order 127 – Naming of Roadway “Matt Ziegler Way” (7:30 PM) - Proposal: To name the road leading into Beverly Golf and Tennis in honor of Jan Ernst Matzeliger, inventor of the automatic shoe lasting machine. - Speakers: Abby Battis (Director of Historic Beverly, 10 Stanley Street) and Dr. Kenan McKenzie-DeFranzer (NAACP North Shore, immediate past Ward 2 School Committee) both expressed strong support, noting Matzeliger's contributions to the shoe industry and United Shoe Machinery, and the importance of recognizing a Black immigrant inventor in Beverly's 400th year. - Outcome: Hearing closed; referred to Committee on Legal Affairs. Later that evening, the council approved the order (8-0). 2. Order 138 – Transfer $2,400,000 for Road and Sidewalk Capital Fund (7:45 PM) - Proposal: Transfer from certified free cash to the road and sidewalk capital fund to support FY27 paving. - Finance Director Brian Ailes explained this is a year-end transfer using positive revenue variances. The city's free cash balance is $10.5 million; after all requested transfers, remaining balance would be $5.1 million, with an anticipated $8.5 million after positive revenue variances. Councilor St. Hilaire questioned the sustainability of using free cash for this purpose rather than operating budget. Mayor Cahill noted that $2.4 million would cover most targeted streets; additional state Chapter 90 funds ($1.5 million expected) and National Grid mitigation funds also available. - Public Speakers: Tony Musante (12 Willow Street) asked for accounting of National Grid payments for road repairs; Yuplio Marciano (141 McKay Street) questioned state gas tax return and excise tax allocation. - Outcome: Hearing closed; referred to Finance & Property. Later approved by full council (9-0). 3. Order 139 – Transfer $209,923 to OPEB Trust (8:00 PM, recessed then reopened) - Proposal: Annual transfer of 2% of certified free cash to the Other Post-Employment Benefits (OPEB) trust. Finance Director noted the city's OPEB liability is $300 million; the trust currently holds about $2 million. Councilor Housman asked about increasing contributions once the pension is paid off (2032-2033). - Public Speaker: Jerry Rathy (Beverly Commons) urged support for veterans, opposing the proposed staffing cut in the Council on Aging (part-time position elimination). Councilor Housman clarified the council can only cut expenditures, not add money. - Outcome: Approved by full council (9-0). 4. Order 140 – Transfer $1,179,728 to Snow and Ice Budget (8:15 PM, recessed then reopened) - Proposal: Cover deficit from winter storms; the city budgeted $800,000 but overspent due to a harsh winter. Mr. Ailes noted typical moderate winters are covered, but this year no flexibility to shift funds from other DPS accounts. - Public Speaker: Yuplio Marciano asked if the FY28 budget will again include $800,000 for snow; confirmed yes. - Outcome: Approved by full council (9-0). 5. Order 141 – Transfer $1,600,000 for Automated Trash Carts (8:30 PM) - Proposal: Purchase, assemble, and deliver new carts for the fully automated trash and recycling collection contract beginning July 1, 2026. The order covers 26,000 carts (with breakdown: 13,000 95-gallon recycling, 1,000 65-gallon recycling, 500 35-gallon recycling, 300 95-gallon trash, 13,000 64-gallon trash, 500 35-gallon trash). Default sizes: 65-gallon trash, 95-gallon recycling. - Public Speakers (five): Tony Musante (questioned using free cash, waste of existing barrels, lack of communication); Yuplio Marciano (asked about cheaper vendors, if no vote would halt contract); Terry Mayle (180 Hill Street) (asked why not extend Republic contract, concerns about bin sizes and lack of clarity); Caleb McCauley (noted Casella not present at meetings); Emma Basso (99 Love It) (questioned ordering without knowing actual need, storage of extras). - Council Discussion: Mayor Cahill explained the city is committed to automation; the contract with Casella begins July 1 regardless of cart purchase. Carts will be delivered June 18–30. Residents have until August 15 to opt for different sizes. Multifamily units can request fewer carts if needed. Councilor Feldman urged better communication earlier. Councilor St. Hilaire asked for timeline; Mayor confirmed order placed June 2 if approved. - Outcome: Subcommittee approved (3-0); full council approved (8-1). Motion to reconsider failed (0-9). Key Outcomes - FY27 Budget Process Kicked Off: Budget hearings begin Thursday, June 4 at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers; final budget meeting on Wednesday, June 17. - Trash Cart Purchase Approved (Order 141): $1.6 million transferred from free cash to purchase carts (8-1 vote). - Free Cash Transfers Approved: Orders 138 ($2.4M for roads/sidewalks), 139 ($209,923 for OPEB), 140 ($1.18M for snow/ice) all passed 9-0. - Road Naming Approved (Order 127): Road to Beverly Golf and Tennis named Matzeliger Way (8-0). - ADU Zoning First Vote (Order 119): First reading of accessory dwelling unit ordinance amendments passed 9-0; final passage at next meeting. - Trash Fee Second Vote Postponed: Order 142 (trash fee ordinance) will be taken after Ward 5 community meeting; Councilor Crowley is drafting an amendment for veterans reduction. - Other Approvals: Multiple donations and grants accepted (orders 153, 154, 155); reappointments and appointments referred to committees and later approved. - National Grid Removals: Scheduled to begin July 2026, with completion expected by April 2027.

The Beverly City Council held a special meeting on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at 6:30 PM to continue discussion on Order 142, a proposed amendment to the city's trash fee structure. The meeting included public comment, a legal analysis of the city hall project, budget projections, and ultimately a vote on a modified fee schedule. The meeting adjourned at approximately 9:00 PM. Public Comments & Testimony - Over 20 residents signed up to speak, with many expressing strong opposition to the proposed 325% increase (from $100 to $425). Common concerns included affordability for fixed-income seniors and working families, unfair billing for multi-unit dwellings, lack of senior and veteran discounts, potential for increased illegal dumping and rodent issues, and the timing of votes before all ward meetings had occurred. - Kathleen Bayer (26 Atlantic Avenue) detailed that her six-unit condo association would be charged $1,680 (6 units × $280) despite putting out only two 32-gallon trash bins per week, calling the fee "excessive and unfair." - Ed Stabler (4 West Beach Lane) urged rejection of the fee hike and free cash transfer, calling the city hall project "fiscally irresponsible" and proposing cuts to non-essential positions, consultants, and travel. - Many speakers supported Councilor St. Hilaire's call for fiscal restraint and suggested eliminating the city hall project to avoid fee increases. Several questioned why the city could not cut spending before raising fees. - Some residents requested clearer communication from the city and more time for public input before a vote. Discussion Items - City Hall Project Legal Analysis: City Solicitor Beth Oldmixon provided a written response to Vice President St. Hilaire's questions regarding the authority to cancel the city hall renovation project. She stated that the mayor, as chief executive and procurement officer, has the authority to cancel subject to existing contracts. The city council's ability to reconsider appropriation votes had expired (72-hour window). She noted $3.5 million already expended on the project. - Budget Analyst Report: Budget analyst Jerry Perry urged the council to make a decision that evening, stating that further delay would complicate budget preparation. He estimated that the proposed amendment (reducing the fee to $300) would create a $1.4 million shortfall, equivalent to approximately 20 full-time employees when accounting for unemployment costs. He provided hypothetical cuts such as eliminating the library (over $2 million) or fire apparatus (16 employees), but emphasized these were not recommendations. - Mayor's Response: Mayor Cahill addressed numerous questions from the public and council. He detailed the city's budget challenges, including state aid cuts from 24% to 13% of the operating budget, rising health care costs (9% increase proposed), and pension obligations. He outlined proposed cuts of 10.3 FTEs (including sustainability director, assistant finance director, DEIB coordinator reduction) even with the full fee increase. He also explained the need for the city hall renovation, citing ADA non-compliance, lack of HVAC, overcrowding, and the need to move health department out of the senior center. He discussed the Dollar Tree property purchase, electric bus grants, and the automated trash collection system's inevitability due to industry changes. - Council Debate: Councilors debated the appropriate fee structure. Councilor Retundo proposed an amendment setting the standard fee at $300, a $200 opt-down for smaller 35-gallon bins, and a $400 opt-up for larger 95-gallon bins. Councilor Spang seconded. Councilor Crowley proposed reducing the standard fee to $200 and opt-down to $100, but this was not formally moved. Councilor St. Hilaire opposed any increase, arguing the council had not yet received the full budget and community meetings were incomplete. Councilor Houseman supported sending a message to the administration by passing a modified fee, noting that the second vote could still be changed. Councilor Feldman inquired about the timeline for the second vote and was advised it need not occur on June 1st. Key Outcomes - Vote on Councilor Retundo's Amendment: The council voted 7-2 to amend the proposed ordinance to set the residential trash fee at $300 per dwelling unit, with a reduced fee of $200 for those opting to use a single 35-gallon receptacle and an increased fee of $400 for those opting for a 95-gallon receptacle. This amendment passed with Councilors St. Hilaire and Houseman voting against (recorded as 7-2 in favor). - Next Steps: The ordinance requires a second vote after being published for at least 10 days. The council will also hold a public hearing on June 1st regarding the proposed $1.6 million free cash transfer for purchasing trash containers. The mayor's full FY27 budget will be presented on June 1st. Further ward meetings are scheduled: Ward 4 on May 27th (Cove School), Ward 6 on May 28th, and Ward 5 on June 2nd. - Other Announcements: The mayor agreed to provide information on possible income limits for hardship waivers (potentially raising from 30% to 40% of area median income) and to work with councilors on a veterans' discount policy. The city's waste reduction committee will facilitate donating usable barrels to avoid waste. Bulk item pickup will be available from households at set prices (to be posted).

The Beverly City Council met on May 19, 2026, to issue a life-saving proclamation, honor exemplary youth, review Community Preservation Committee (CPA) funding recommendations, and debate a proposed trash fee ordinance. The meeting included public comment, a public hearing, subcommittee reports, and extensive deliberation over the trash fee increase, which was ultimately tabled to a special meeting on May 26. Proclamations & Awards - Order 137 (Joint Proclamation): Mayor Michael P. Cahill and the Council recognized Marie Parisi, a YMCA teacher, for performing abdominal thrusts on a choking preschool student on December 16, 2025. The Council declared May 18, 2026 as "Marie Parisi Day" in Beverly. Approved 9-0. - Exemplary Youth Awards: Five young people were honored for overcoming adversity and demonstrating leadership: Morgan Schmorrow (elementary), Lil Contos and Maddie St. Pierre (middle school tie), and Jack Bryson Barrow (high school). The program, established in 1996 and reignited in 2024, recognizes youth ages 7–19. Public Comments & Testimony - Kayla McCauley (3 Henderson Ave) raised "four hard truths" about trash consumption, contract transparency, school funding, and affordability. She expressed concern that the trash fee increase and reduced school funding might make her family question staying in Beverly, but said she is "still willing to fight" and urged the Council not to let children suffer due to mismanagement and trash inflation. - Erin Altman (6 Iverson) expressed respect for the Council and said voters made clear last fall they want creative solutions to close the funding gap and fully fund schools. She supported the new trash fee as one solution, argued the city has subsidized trash collection for years, and called accusations that city leaders do not care about residents "unfair and unproductive." She said continuing the current system is not financially or environmentally sustainable and called the fee "a vote for our teachers, our schools, and the city's long-term stability." Public Hearing: CPA Funding Recommendations (Order 133) - Derek Beckwith, CPC Chair, presented the 13th round recommendations. The CPA had a balance of $2,938,525.98, but $529,998.58 was restricted to open space projects, leaving about $2.4 million available. Eight applications requested about $2.7 million, creating a $289,000 shortfall. Two applicants reduced costs: the Beverly Housing Authority cut the Garden City Towers sprinkler project by $477,884, and the Central Cemetery project was rephased. - Recommended projects (total $1,795,866): Gillis Park Basketball Court Replacement ($130,155); Ahern Park Goldway Playground Renovation ($250,000); Gilbert Park Bartlett Gardens Renovation ($240,000); Garden City Towers Fire Protection Sprinkler Installation ($825,645); Affordable Housing Trust ($64,004); Central Cemetery Tomb House Study ($23,390); Central Cemetery Fence and Gates Phase 1 ($237,000); Garden School outbuilding roof replacement ($25,672). - No members of the public signed up to speak. Councilor Crowley asked whether the reduced sprinkler project had been reviewed by the Fire Chief; Beckwith said it will be. The hearing was closed and referred to the Finance and Property Committee. Trash Fee Ordinance Discussion (Order 142) - The Legal Affairs subcommittee voted 3-0 to report out an amendment reducing the proposed trash fees from $425 (65-gallon) and $280 (35-gallon) to $300 and $210, respectively. The ordinance requires two votes. - Mayor Cahill explained that the city signed a contract with Casella for $5.46 million per year, a 38% increase from the current $3.9 million. He detailed the automated collection program, elimination of overflow bags, new bulk item fees, and options for hardship waivers and senior discounts. He defended the City Hall renovation project, stating that debt service is at 5% of the operating budget and that canceling the project would not solve recurring deficits. - Councilor St. Hilaire strongly opposed any increase, proposing to cancel the City Hall project, eliminate positions, and cut spending elsewhere. Councilor Feldman supported the fee as part of necessary cuts and revenues, citing a $4 million deficit this year and $7 million in two years. Councilor Spang said she needed more information about trade-offs. Councilor Rotundo suggested exploring every-other-week recycling to save $400,000–$500,000 annually. - Budget Analyst Mr. Perry advised the Council to make a decision before the Mayor's June 1 budget submission, noting the city must pass a balanced budget by June 30. He warned that canceling the City Hall project would waste $3.5 million already spent. - Councilor Feldman proposed folding the fee decision into the June budget process to preserve the Council's ability to shape cuts. After extensive debate, President Flowers proposed scheduling a special meeting for Tuesday, May 26 at 6:30 PM for public comment and further discussion. Councilor Rotundo withdrew his motion, and no vote was taken on the ordinance. Key Outcomes - Approved 9-0: Order 137 (proclamation), minutes of the March 2, 2026 Legal Affairs meeting, Orders 138–141 (setting public hearings), Orders 143–145 and 149 (donations and Apple lease), Order 132 (bicycle/pedestrian advisory appointment), Orders 59, 60, and 150 (crosswalk, signage, taxi license). - CPA project votes: All eight project recommendations passed; the two Central Cemetery items passed 8-0 (Councilor Housman recused), all others passed 9-0. - Public hearings set for June 1, 2026: 7:45 PM (roads/sidewalks transfer), 8:00 PM (OPEB), 8:15 PM (snow/ice), 8:30 PM (trash carts). - Special meeting scheduled for May 26, 2026 at 6:30 PM to discuss the trash fee ordinance and take public comment. The proposed amended rates are $300 (65-gallon) and $210 (35-gallon), versus the original request of $425/$280. - Referred to city solicitor: Research into the process for rescinding or reconsidering the City Hall project, at Councilor St. Hilaire's request. - Adjourned 9-0.

The Beverly City Council met on Monday, May 4, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the City Council Chamber. The meeting included resolutions honoring Eagle Scouts and retired firefighters, three public hearings, public comments, a presentation from the South Essex Sewerage District (SESD), and several subcommittee reports. All council members were present (8-0). The meeting was adjourned after approving multiple orders. Consent Calendar - Approved Order 130 honoring retired Firefighter John P. Murray and Deputy Chief Russell C. Halloran (8-0). - Approved Order 131 honoring five Eagle Scouts from Troop 4: Sebastian Brulette, Graham Denin, Ben Walsh, Joseph McManus, and Noah Boudreau (8-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Alyssa McGill (age 15, 182 Brimble Ave) spoke in favor of opening a nature center at Camp Paradise, citing concerns about runoff from a nearby dump and the need for environmental education. - Diana Nehamer (12 Pratt Ave) raised concerns about Flock license plate reader cameras, stating that data is shared with out-of-state law enforcement tens of thousands of times per month, violating Fourth Amendment rights. She presented a petition with over 100 signatures calling for cancellation of the contract. - Jessica Kegel (8 May St), director of Kestrel Educational Adventures, advocated for a free public nature center at Camp Paradise, noting that wetlands are being damaged (e.g., salt dumping, compost near amphibian breeding ponds). She was accompanied by Dr. Dorothy Borse, an aquatic ecologist. Public Hearings - Order 119 (ADU Zoning Amendments): Assistant Planning Director Ken Clausen presented proposed revisions to align the city's ADU ordinance with the state's Affordable Homes Act (Chapter 150). Key changes: removing owner-occupancy requirement, eliminating parking requirements within half a mile of transit, and allowing ADUs on non-conforming lots without ZBA action. No public speakers. Referred to Legal Affairs. - Order 129 (National Grid Underground Facilities): National Grid representative Sabida Mahaber Sheehy explained this is an upgrade to existing infrastructure on Chase Street/West Dane Street. Work will take about four hours and involve digging. Approved (8-0). - Order 124 (Interdepartmental Transfer for Fire Department Overtime): Finance Director Brian Ailes requested a $190,000 transfer from six underspending areas to cover fire department shift coverage costs for FY2026. Fire Chief Peter O'Connor attributed overtime to unexpected injuries (12 personnel out for extended periods) and two firefighters leaving for other departments. Budget Analyst Jerry Perry noted this is the fourth consecutive year of such transfers and recommended a higher overtime budget for FY2027. Approved (8-0). Presentation: South Essex Sewerage District (SESD) - Chairman Mike Parsons, Executive Director Dave Michelson, and General Counsel Kristen Kohlack presented the district's financial challenges. SESD faces a $1.5–2 million increase in residuals disposal costs and a $390 million capital improvement plan over 10 years, including a critical pipeline under Salem Harbor. They are seeking a Prop 2.5 exemption to raise their operating budget ceiling from $26M to $30.5M and debt relief for capital projects. The Collins Center projected Beverly's assessment could increase from $5.3M to $760,000 in operating costs and an additional $2M in capital debt service by FY32. Budget Analyst Jerry Perry expressed concerns about the lack of financial oversight in the draft legislation and recommended more guardrails. No council action was taken; this was an initial presentation. Discussion Items - Subcommittee meetings were held: Finance and Property approved setting a public hearing for CPA projects (May 18 at 7:45 PM), approved the prior year invoice ($796.59), recommended a 3% salary increase for City Clerk Ms. Kent, and approved the $190,000 transfer. Legal Affairs approved the appointment of Matthew Hergut to the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee and a secondhand junk dealer license. Public Services approved the National Grid petition and GoNet Speed petition with 11 conditions (vote 7-1, Councillor Rotundo opposed due to process concerns). Key Outcomes - Approved: Order 130, 131, 112 (appointment to Human Rights Committee), 129, 124, 134, 135, 136, and 50 (GoNet Speed with conditions). - Referred: Order 119 to Legal Affairs; Order 133 to set a public hearing; Order 132 to Public Services; Order 59 and 60 to Legal Affairs; Order 127 (naming Met Ziegler Way) remains in process. - No action: SESD presentation was informational; further discussion to follow. - Future meetings: Ward 2 community meeting on trash/recycling on May 7 at 7 PM in Council Chambers; Ward 1 meeting on May 6 at Ayers Ryal Side School.

Note: The transcript of the meeting indicates a date of April 29, 2026, but the provided metadata specifies May 1, 2026. This summary uses the provided date. The Beverly City Council held a special remote meeting on May 1, 2026, at 6:00 PM (per transcript) to conduct a procedural vote to set a public hearing for Order 127. The meeting was fully remote, requiring roll call votes. Councilors present: Crowley, Feldman, Houseman, Rotundo, Sonia, Spang, Flowers (7). Malady and St. Hilaire were absent. Discussion Items - Order 127 Public Hearing Setting: Councilor Rotundo, who filed the order, explained that the special meeting was called to expedite the process for a meaningful recognition. The council voted to set the public hearing for Order 127 for the June 1, 2026 regular meeting at 7:30 PM. This will allow for publication of the full order and a 30-day public comment period before the hearing. Key Outcomes - Vote: Motion to set the public hearing for Order 127 passed 7-0 (roll call: Crowley yes, Feldman yes, Houseman yes, Rotundo yes, Sonia yes, Spang yes, Flowers yes; Malady and St. Hilaire absent). - Next Steps: The public hearing will be held on June 1, 2026 at 7:30 PM; written comments will be accepted for 30 days prior. - Adjournment: Motion to adjourn passed 7-0. No other business was discussed.

The Beverly City Council held its regular meeting on April 21, 2026, addressed public comments on Flock safety cameras, approved routine orders, and continued three public hearings on Go Net Speed petitions for underground fiber installations. Subcommittees met, and the council approved several appointments, donations, and a National Grid petition. Public Comments & Testimony - Mitchell Sorovic (42 Pratt Avenue) criticized the city's use of Flock Safety license plate readers, calling the company a data broker that monetizes personal data. He cited Denver's cancellation of its Flock contract and urged the council to cancel Beverly's contract immediately. - Aisha Sidicki (Ward 3) gave a land acknowledgment, then discussed the earlier police-community meeting on Flock. She requested community representation in meetings with the mayor and Flock, recommended enabling the Flock Transparency Portal (citing Norwell, MA as an example), and noted that hundreds of searches in 2025 involved immigration-related queries. She expressed concern that out-of-state police departments (e.g., Houston PD with over 50,000 monthly searches) could access Beverly data, potentially on behalf of ICE. Consent Calendar - Order 118 (handicap parking sign at 23 Front Street) was read for final passage and approved 8-0. - Orders 125 and 126 (donations to Council on Aging and Veterans Department) were approved via committee reports. - Several appointments and reappointments to city boards were approved unanimously (8-0): William Finch to Historic District Commission, Julia Work Vienne, Barbie Papaleos, and others to Waste Reduction Committee; Brenda Wong Murphy, Amanda Bittner, and Alex Weatherup to Cultural Council. Discussion Items - Interdepartmental Transfer for Fire Department (Order 124): The council referred a $190,000 transfer to the Finance and Property Committee for a public hearing on May 4, 2026. Chief Peter O'Connor was present. - Road Naming – Matt Ziegler Way (Order 127): Councilor Retundo introduced a request to name the road into Beverly Golf and Tennis after Jan Ernst Matt Ziegler. The matter was referred to Legal Affairs; the solicitor explained a 30-day public comment period is required before a public hearing can be set. - Go Net Speed Public Hearings (Orders 49, 50, 51): Three continued hearings for underground fiber on Ashton Street, Friend Street, and East Street. Councilors questioned Go Net Speed representatives (Mr. Teed) about construction methods (directional boring vs. open trenching), soil testing for ledge, depth (24-36 inches), impact on trees, and coordination with residents. Councilor Housman proposed attaching a condition requiring test borings for ledge. Councilor Spang asked about life cycle and warranties. Public commenter David Mahood (191 Lowthrop Street) raised questions about product circularity, end-of-life responsibility, and warranties, noting his neighbors' fatigue with disruption but openness if it improves service. Go Net Speed stated conduit could last 30+ years and replacement would not require excavation. All three hearings were closed and referred to the Committee on Public Services. - National Grid Petition (Order 65, Broadway): The committee recommended approval with eight conditions. Councilor St. Hilaire thanked all parties for reaching a positive conclusion regarding newly paved street conditions. Approved 8-0. - National Grid Petition (Order 129, Chase Street & West Dane Street): A public hearing was set for May 4, 2026 at 7:50 PM. Key Outcomes - Approved Orders: Order 118 (handicap parking) finalized; Orders 125 and 126 (donations) approved; appointments and reappointments approved unanimously. - Public Hearings Set: $190,000 fire department transfer (May 4, 8 PM); National Grid on Chase/West Dane (May 4, 7:50 PM); road naming for Matt Ziegler Way (future date after 30-day comment period). - Go Net Speed Petitions: All three public hearings closed and referred to Public Services Committee for further deliberation; potential conditions (test borings, no trenching) to be considered. - Next Meeting: May 4, 2026 at 7 PM in Council Chambers.