Public Meetings - Beverly, Massachusetts

March 18, 2026 The Beverly City Council and School Committee held a joint meeting on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at 6:30 PM. The meeting focused on the FY27 budget process, including presentations from the superintendent of schools, legislative updates, school budget overview, and city budget overview. No public comments were heard. The school committee later voted on a waiver of transportation policy and entered executive session. Legislative Updates - Senator Joan Lovely (written update) provided an overview of the state budget process, noting that Governor Healey filed H2 for FY27 on January 28, 2026. The House budget is expected the week of April 13, 2026, and the Senate budget the week of May 18, 2026. Beverly is a minimum aid district; H2 recommends $16,179,070 in Chapter 70 funding and $7,451,043 in unrestricted general government aid. The senator pledged to advocate for increased state aid. - Representative Manny Bowen (joined remotely) gave an update on state budget priorities, including the push for a $150 per pupil minimum aid increase (up from the governor's proposed $75). She noted that the fair share amendment is funding free school lunches and special education circuit breaker reimbursements. She also discussed pending legislation on early literacy, financial literacy, and a cell phone ban, and mentioned a $1.3 billion federal budget decrease impact on the state. Superintendent's Report – Dr. Peter Cushing - Dr. Cushing presented the North Shore Superintendents Roundtable (NSRT) advocacy efforts, focusing on four areas: sustainable Chapter 70 funding, special education cost stability, transportation funding, and increased unrestricted general government aid. He noted that the Chapter 70 formula is outdated and that Proposition 2½ overrides are unsustainable. - He highlighted the need for updated facilities, including a roof and boiler replacement at Centerville School requiring MSBA funding, and ongoing capital needs for playgrounds, tennis courts, and security cameras. - Dr. Cushing outlined his four FY27 budget priorities: (1) robust and diversified student learning opportunities, (2) comprehensive student supports in a least restrictive environment, (3) long-range strategic planning for student belonging and engagement, and (4) enhanced communication with stakeholders. - He emphasized that the district has reduced 50 FTEs over the last two years (20 in FY24-25, 30 in FY25-26) despite budget increases, and that the district's student needs are more complex. He noted that the district has 76% of its staffing in instructional positions. School Budget Overview – Emma Puglisi, Director of Finance - Ms. Puglisi presented the FY27 budget drivers: contractual obligations, student enrollment (steady over 10 years), special education cost increases, inflation, and limited budget offsets. - The district's high-needs population has grown from 37% in 2016 to 45% in 2026. Out-of-district placements have decreased due to investment in in-district programs, but costs per placement continue to rise. - The level services budget request is $5.8 million, with an additional $1.29 million in critical needs, including 2 special education teachers at the high school, a global application teacher at the middle school, two special education teachers, an assistant principal at the elementary level, and additional paraprofessionals. Total initial request: $7.167 million. - Ms. Puglisi noted that fee revenues cover only 14% of transportation and preschool costs and 26% of athletics costs, and that increasing fees would burden families. City Budget Overview – Brian Ailes, Finance Director - Mr. Ailes reviewed the financial forecast, showing a structural imbalance: expenditures (primarily healthcare, pension, and employee costs) are growing at 6.6% annually while revenues grow at 4.6%, creating a projected $3.9 million gap for FY27. - Updates since the December forecast: Essex Tech assessment increased by $150,000 (17.4% increase over FY26); state assessments (school choice, charter school tuition) increased by $500,000; debt service savings of $250,000; healthcare premiums likely to be 9% (1% = $220,000); city payroll reduced by $200,000 through attrition; new growth from utility project added $350,000; state aid increased by $300,000; interest income and Medicaid revenue revised downward. - Net change from forecast: approximately $60,000 improvement. Outstanding items include pension assessment (potential relief), sanitation contract (likely rate increase), and final school budget request. School Committee Action Items - Waiver of Policy EE (Student Transportation Services): The school committee voted 9-0 to waive policy to allow a small bus (eight passengers plus driver) to transport up to seven students on a band trip. The bus will be equipped with seat belts, and the driver will stay with the group. The district will cover any financial implications. - Executive Session: The school committee voted 9-0 to enter executive session (pursuant to M.G.L. c. 30A, §21(a)(1) and (7)) to discuss the reputation of an employee and to review minutes from February 4, 2026, and March 11, 2026. The committee did not return to open session. Key Outcomes - The joint meeting provided an opportunity for both bodies to hear detailed budget presentations and discuss the FY27 financial outlook. - The school committee approved a waiver of transportation policy for a band trip (9-0). - The school committee voted to enter executive session (9-0). - The city council and school committee will continue budget discussions, with the mayor expected to present a proposed budget to the city council by the end of May 2026.

The Beverly City Council held a regular meeting on Monday, March 16, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers at 191 Cabot Street, with livestream on BEVCAM. The meeting included presentations from the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC) and a trash/recycling update from the Mayor, public hearings, and routine business. The council approved minutes, referred several items to committees, and closed public hearings. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of the Public Services Committee of the Whole meeting on February 2, 2026, and the regular City Council meeting on February 2, 2026, by a 9-0 vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Aisha Sidicki (Ward 3 resident) urged the council to revise its rules requiring speakers to state their home address during public comment, citing an ACLU of Massachusetts letter (March 2024) that such policies chill free speech and endanger vulnerable individuals. She proposed allowing speakers to state only their ward number instead. Discussion Items - Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC) Update: Representatives Carl, Paul Gentili, Jared Porter, and Jonathan Salt presented findings from their analysis of incident data (2020-2025), noting on average a pedestrian incident occurs every 3.5 weeks and a bicycle incident every 6-6.5 weeks. They reported that the city's 40-mile conceptual bike map is 80% complete as of the end of 2026, using paint and signage (unprotected bike lanes). The committee is pursuing a Vision Zero strategic framework focused on low-cost actions to reduce fatalities and serious injuries, including counter units for usage data, walk audits at schools (May 1–June 15, 2026), and a comprehensive report to the council in November 2026. They emphasized coordination with the police, engineering, schools, and state resources. Councilors expressed appreciation and agreed to schedule a further discussion in the Public Services subcommittee. - Trash and Recycling Update (Mayor): The Mayor provided an update on the upcoming trash and recycling contract expiring June 30, 2026. The city issued a Request for Expressions of Interest (RFEI) with responses due later that week. Key goals include reducing trash tonnage, aligning with state waste goals, and incorporating some automation. The city is working with the Department of Environmental Protection and the Waste Reduction Committee. A more detailed update is expected in April. Councilors asked about curbside composting, and the Mayor affirmed it remains a high priority and that they are exploring options with haulers. - Department of Public Services (DPS) Classification Study & Retroactive Pay (Public Hearing on Order 88): Commissioner Collins presented a comprehensive wage and classification study for DPS employees (general labor and foreman units), conducted with consultant HRS over two years. The study revamped job descriptions, created a 20-grade pay scale (up from 10) to better differentiate roles, and set pay at 70% of comparable communities. The effective date is July 1, 2024, requiring retroactive pay. The total request is to transfer $241,250 from the Reserve for Union Negotiations to cover retroactive costs. The union (Joe San Filippo, president) unanimously endorsed the changes. The administration stated the cost for FY26 is partially funded, with additional internal reallocations. City Budget Analyst Jerry Perry recommended referring the matter to the Finance and Property Committee for further analysis, citing the need to review financial and collective bargaining implications. Councilors expressed support for the initiative but agreed to hold the item in committee for due diligence before a vote. The public hearing was closed, and the item referred to Finance and Property. - National Grid Petition (Public Hearing on Order 84): A petition for underground electric conduits on Dodge Street to serve a gate opener at 300 Dodge Street. National Grid representative Michael Cazati described the work as a short job (half a day). The public hearing was closed and referred to Public Services Committee, which later recommended approval (unanimous council vote). Key Outcomes - Approved: Minutes of February 2, 2026 meetings (9-0). - Approved: $8,500 grant from the Department of Fish and Game for free seasonal pump-out boat service (Order 98) – referred from Finance and Property and approved by full council (9-0). - Approved: Renewal of flammable registrations (Order 99) and new secondhand junk dealer license for Kurage Rad Jewelers Corp (Order 100) – both recommended by Legal Affairs and approved (9-0). - Approved: National Grid petition for underground conduits on Dodge Street (Order 84) – recommended by Public Services and approved (9-0). - Referred to Committee: The DPS retroactive pay transfer (Order 88) was closed as a public hearing and referred to Finance and Property Committee for further review, with a recommendation to expedite action at the next meeting. - Announced: Joint City Council and School Committee meeting on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at 6:30 PM at Beverly High School Library to discuss FY27 budgets.

The Beverly City Council held a regular meeting on Monday, March 2, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers. The meeting included resident comments, referral of multiple orders, subcommittee reports, and three continued public hearings for National Grid and GoNet Speed petitions. All votes on reports and motions were unanimous (9-0) unless otherwise noted. Public Comments & Testimony - Aisha Sidikki (Ward 3) spoke on behalf of privacy and data security concerns regarding Flock cameras (license plate readers). She read an excerpt from an ACLU letter urging municipalities to disable nationwide data sharing, amend contract language, and consider ending contracts if data sharing cannot be prevented. She noted that she submitted a public records request for Flock contract and audit reports. She referenced similar cancellations in Natick, Warren, Watertown, and Cambridge. - Council President Flowers acknowledged the concerns and announced that Councillors Rotundo (Legal Affairs) and Spang (Public Services) are organizing a community meeting with the Beverly Police to address Flock camera issues. The meeting is tentatively planned for April 21 before the regular council meeting. Discussion Items - National Grid Petition (Order 65) – Public hearing for installation of underground facilities on Broadway. National Grid requested a continuance to provide additional information. Tiffany Collins (35 Broadway) expressed frustration over years of construction (since 2018) and asked if alternatives to digging up the street could be considered. The hearing was continued to April 6, 2026, at 7:30 PM. - GoNet Speed Petitions (Orders 49, 50, 51) – Three continued public hearings for underground conduit installation on Ashton Street (Order 49), Friend Street (Order 50), and East Street (Order 51). GoNet Speed representative Ms. Mahoney answered questions about the status of pole attachment applications, work orders, and construction methods. Councillors asked about timeframes, impact on existing utilities, and the company's build-out plans. Ms. Mahoney estimated 10-15 total petitions would come before the council. The hearings were recessed to April 21, 2026 (a Tuesday due to a Monday holiday). - Public Comment on East Street Petition (Order 51) – Kent Harrip (187 East Lothrop) described two years of disruptive construction on his street (National Grid and water pipe work) and opposed further construction. He urged the council not to authorize the project. David Mahood (191 Lothrop) asked about the process for pole leasing from Verizon and National Grid. Ms. Mahoney responded that the utility poles are subject to typical co-location processes and that GoNet Speed has good working relationships with pole owners. - Flock Camera Community Meeting – Council President Flowers reiterated that a community meeting with the Beverly Police is being organized by Councillors Rotundo and Spang to discuss resident concerns about Flock cameras. Key Outcomes - Order 89 – Approved appointment of Assistant City Clerk Sarah Kirker as Clerk of Committees (9-0). - Order 86 – Approved $1,300 grant from Commonwealth of Massachusetts MED Project Drug Stewardship Program for medication collection receptacles at police station (from Finance and Property subcommittee; full council approved 9-0). - Order 88 – Set public hearing for March 16, 2026, at 7:45 PM regarding $241,250 interdepartmental transfer for union retroactive costs (9-0). - Order 43 – Approved creation of a temporary special committee to explore options for addressing the 2027 budget deficit (9-0). - Orders 90, 91, 92 – Approved renewal licenses for pawnbroker, secondhand dealer, and flammable registrations for Nion Group, Inc. dba Cash Point (9-0). - Order 87 – Approved three-year mechanic garage space lease with 51 Park Street LLC (9-0). - Orders 68, 69, 70, 71 – Approved reappointments to the Veterans Advisory Committee: Jan Pierce, John Curry, Nicholas Peranos, Kevin Gannon (all 9-0). - Order 72 – Approved reappointment of Commissioner Michael P. Collins to the Parking and Traffic Commission (9-0). - Public Hearings Continued: National Grid petition (order 65) continued to April 6, 2026, at 7:30 PM; GoNet Speed petitions (orders 49, 50, 51) continued to April 21, 2026, at 7:40 PM, 8:00 PM, and 8:20 PM respectively. - Reminders: Councillor Spang announced the National Grid Citizens Advisory Committee meeting on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at 5:00 PM (online). Councillor Rotundo promoted the "All Beverly Trivia" event on Saturday (a Beverly 400 event).

This regular meeting of the Beverly City Council covered routine approvals, public comments, and several public hearings. Key topics included a $160,000 transfer to support the dispatch department, a $150,000 transfer for park improvements, a National Grid infrastructure petition, and discussion of a public hearing on Paradise Camp. The council also approved final passage of a commercial kennel reporting ordinance and referred the wildlife feeding ordinance back to legal affairs. Consent Calendar - Minutes: Approved minutes from the February 9th Public Services Committee of the Whole meeting (7-0). - Mayoral Communications: Referred orders 67-73 (donation from Beverly PVD Elks Lodge, reappointments to Veterans Advisory Committee and Parking & Traffic Commission, eminent domain at 171 Brimble Ave) to appropriate committees. - Other Communications: Referred orders 74-84 (reconsideration of Order 58, secondhand junk dealer license renewal, flammable storage renewals, class 2 dealer license, school district leases for copier and postage machines, National Grid petition on Dodge Street) to committees. - Lease Approvals: Three leases for school district equipment (Ricoh copier, Pitney Bowes postage for middle and high school) approved 7-0. - Reappointments: David Dines and Richard Benevento (with residency waiver) approved to Parking & Traffic Commission (7-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Joyce McMahon (15.5 Rowell Ave) expressed hope that the city would apply the same careful review given to the nuisance cat portion of the proposed wildlife feeding ordinance to the backyard bird feeding provisions. She emphasized the value of bird feeding for community connection and environmental stewardship. - Diana Neath Hamer (12 Pratt Ave) voiced deep concern about Flock surveillance cameras used by the Beverly Police Department, citing ACLU warnings that Flock contracts often allow data sales to federal agencies including ICE. She asked the council to determine if Beverly's contract permits data sale and, if so, to strike that clause or terminate the agreement. - John Taylor (41 Cole St) supported holding a public hearing on the future of Paradise Camp, suggesting the city bookmobile as a convenient venue for community input. Discussion Items - Dispatch Department Funding (Order 53): Finance Director Brian Ailes requested $160,000 from the Reserve for Unforeseen Account to cover overtime from training and turnover, equipment reconfiguration, and maintenance contracts for backup batteries. Budget analyst Jerry Perry noted the reserve would have $65,000 remaining and recommended approval. Council and the chiefs discussed structural overtime, staffing challenges (10 full-time dispatchers plus a supervisor), and plans to better align the FY27 budget. The mayor and chiefs confirmed turnover has been high but expects stability. - Recreation Enterprise Fund Transfer (Order 54): Ailes requested $150,000 from the Recreation Enterprise Fund for park improvements. Parks Director Bruce Doig explained the funds would support playground repairs, bridge replacement at O'Brien Park, and contingency for approved CPC projects. Perry noted the fund has $358,358 in certified retained earnings and supported placing the money in a capital project fund to allow multi-year use. - National Grid Petition (Order 65): Representative Ismail Mikou sought approval for underground conduits on Broadway. Council raised concerns about restoration of newly paved street; Mikou committed to checking if curb-to-curb restoration is possible. The hearing was continued to March 2. - Paradise Camp Public Hearing (Order 61): Councilor St. Hilaire confirmed a requested staff member is undergoing surgery; the public hearing will be scheduled for April. - Animals Ordinance (Order 58): Councilor Houseman filed a motion to reconsider. Assistant City Solicitor Dole withdrew the nuisance cat portion. The entire matter (including bird feeding) was referred back to Legal Affairs. Public Hearings - Order 53 (Dispatch Transfer): Opened at 7:40 PM, recessed, then resumed at 8:25 PM. No public speakers signed up. Testimony from Ailes, Perry, mayor, and chiefs. Closed and referred to Finance & Property. - Order 54 (Recreation Fund Transfer): Opened at 7:55 PM. No public speakers signed up. Testimony from Ailes and Doig. Closed and referred to Finance & Property. - Order 65 (National Grid Broadway): Opened at 8:05 PM. Testimony from Mikou; no public speakers. Continued to March 2 at 7:30 PM. - Order 48 (National Grid): Withdrawn by the petitioner. Key Outcomes - Order 45 (Commercial boarding/training kennel injury reporting) passed final passage 7-0. - Order 53 (Dispatch transfer) approved 7-0 by full council after favorable subcommittee report. - Order 54 (Recreation enterprise fund transfer) approved 7-0. - Order 73 (Eminent domain at 171 Brimble Ave) approved 7-0. - Order 75-77 (License renewals and new license) approved 7-0. - Order 80 (City solicitor's letter on nuisance cats) received and placed on file 7-0. - Order 84 (National Grid on Dodge Street) public hearing set for March 16 at 7:30 PM 7-0. - Continued Hearing: Order 65 (National Grid Broadway) continued to March 2 at 7:30 PM. - Subcommittee Meeting: Legal Affairs will meet March 2 at 6:30 PM to continue discussion on Order 58 (wildlife feeding). - Paradise Camp: Discussion postponed to April. - Adjournment: Motion carried 7-0 at approximately 9:00 PM.

The Beverly City Council held its regular meeting on February 3, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at 191 Cabot Street. The meeting featured a presentation from the Human Rights Committee, four public comments, and public hearings on National Grid and GoNetSpeed utility petitions. The council also considered several appointments, ordinance amendments, and financial transfers. Consent Calendar - Approved meeting minutes from January 20, 2026 (9-0). - Referred multiple orders to committees: Order 53 (transfer $160,000 to dispatch operations) to Finance and Property; Order 54 (transfer $150,000 from Recreation Enterprise Fund for park improvements) to Finance and Property; Order 55 ($2,000 donation from Friends of the Beverly Public Library) to Finance and Property; Order 56 (home rule petition on police chief retirement age) to Legal Affairs; Orders 57–57D (easements and disposition at 80 and 84 Cabot Street) to Legal Affairs; Order 58 (animal control ordinance amendments) to Legal Affairs; Orders 63–64 (motor vehicle license renewals for Elite Collision Center) to Legal Affairs; Order 65 (National Grid petition for Broadway) to Public Services; and Orders 66 (notice of filing) placed on file. - Set public hearings for February 17, 2026 (Tuesday meeting): Order 53 at 7:40 p.m., Order 54 at 7:55 p.m., Order 65 at 8:05 p.m. - Approved reappointments: Corey Buronella (Zoning Board of Appeals), Atha Athenis, Kevin Lillo, Chad Crindell (all to Golf and Tennis Commission) – all 9-0. - Approved license renewals for Elite Collision Center (Class 2 and 3) – 9-0. - Approved the home rule petition for police chief mandatory retirement age (Order 56) – 9-0. - Approved permanent easements and dispositions at 80 and 84 Cabot Street (Orders 57–57D) – all 9-0. - Took first votes on ordinance amendments: commercial boarding kennel reporting (Order 45) and nuisance cats/disposal of impounded cats (Order 58) – both 9-0, with final passage scheduled for next meeting. Public Comments & Testimony Four residents spoke during the public comment period: - Neil Levine (36 Thorndike Street) congratulated council on re-election and urged immediate actions: clarify and publish the city's policy on cooperation with ICE consistent with the governor's executive order; fill vacancies on the Human Rights Committee; and use council's convening power to support community security. - Aisha Sidicki (Ward 3) urged the council to pass a law banning future 287(g) agreements with ICE, citing resident feedback and fear in the community. She read statements from several anonymous residents expressing concerns about racial profiling and family separation. - Carol Rain (27 Pratt Avenue) spoke as an individual (not on behalf of the Human Rights Committee). She praised the Beverly Police Department's de-escalation training and read a poem by Bridget Moy urging protection of all neighbors, including immigrants and transgender people. - Steve Moffitt (302 Eastern Avenue) called for more holistic budget discussions, including reconsidering the downtown height limit, advancing the Bass River Overlay, and evaluating the use of the Beverly Golf and Tennis land. He emphasized that new growth is the biggest way to solve budget shortfalls. Discussion Items Human Rights Committee Presentation Pervee Harley, chair of the Beverly Human Rights Committee, presented an update on the committee's activities over the past two years. She highlighted support for city events, establishment of an intake tool, and counsel to city leadership. Challenges included limited community connection (no city email, reliance on Facebook), capacity constraints, and difficulty meeting quorum requirements (11 seats, 7 filled, quorum of 6). The committee made four specific requests: (1) steady council representation and consistent guidance from the mayor's office; (2) increased membership, including youth representation and use of a skills matrix; (3) modification of quorum requirements to be based on seated members; and (4) consideration of city appointed seats (police and schools), including possible voting proxies and rotation. The council president noted that she has been appointed as the council liaison to the committee. Questions from council focused on the quorum modification process, which Solicitor Old Mixon confirmed could be reconsidered by ordinance change. Public Hearings on Utility Petitions Three petitions from GoNetSpeed to install underground fiber optic conduits on Ashton Street, Friend Street, and East Street were each recessed to the March 2, 2026 meeting after extensive discussion. The GoNetSpeed representative, Heidi Mahoney, explained that the short underground segments would avoid pole replacements and double poles. Councilors raised concerns about the timing of the petitions (licenses from pole owners not yet obtained), potential disruption to recently paved streets (especially Lothrop Street), impact on street tree planting, and the scope of future phases. Residents of East Street and Lothrop Street spoke in opposition, citing ongoing construction fatigue and concerns about disturbing their properties and trees. The council requested that specific questions be compiled and sent to GoNetSpeed via the city clerk, and that the engineering department review the plans for potential conflicts. The first petition (Order 48, National Grid for 300 Dodge Street) was also recessed to February 17, 2026 after clarification of location issues; one resident, Joseph Shearer, expressed concern about the lack of detail on the proposed construction at the property. Public Hearing on Harbor Management Fund Transfer (Order 27) The council held a public hearing on transferring $68,750 from the Harbor Management Authority Fund and $68,750 from the Waterways Improvement Fund to provide the 20% match ($137,500) for a $550,000 Seaport Economic Council grant for reconstruction of the commercial fishing hoist pier at Glover Wharf. Finance Director Bryan Ailes and Budget Analyst Jerry Perry spoke in support. Councilors Spang and Houseman urged approval, noting the project has been a high priority for over a decade. The hearing was closed and the order was approved 9-0. Reappointment of Budget Analyst Jerry Perry (Order 62) The council voted 8-1 to reappoint Jerry Perry as city budget analyst and increase his salary to half of the city finance director's salary as set by charter. Councilor Mulady voted in opposition, expressing concerns that Mr. Perry's fiscal policies (high reserves, spending restraint) have come at the cost of services for schools, senior center, and other programs. Councilor Houseman and Councilor Feldman spoke in favor, praising Mr. Perry's expertise and his clear distinction between providing data and allowing the council to set policy. The salary adjustment is tied to the finance director's salary, and the council president noted the unique nature of the position. Other Business - Referred Order 59 (review of crosswalk removal at Hale and Juniper Streets) and Order 60 (review of signage on Common Lane) to the Parking and Traffic Commission – both 9-0. - Accepted Order 61 (request for public meeting on Camp Paradise at 44 Cole Street) under unfinished business to coordinate with department heads. - Heard reports from subcommittees: Legal Affairs approved the first reading of the animal ordinance amendments; Finance and Property recommended approvals for the harbor grant, transfer requests, and donations. Key Outcomes - Human Rights Committee: Council committed to ongoing dialogue; council president appointed as liaison; questions about quorum modification to be considered; city clerk to compile questions for GoNetSpeed. - GoNetSpeed petitions (Ashton, Friend, East Streets): All three public hearings recessed to March 2, 2026 at 7:30 p.m., 7:40 p.m., and 7:50 p.m. respectively to allow further information gathering. - National Grid petition (Order 48): Recessed to February 17, 2026 at 8:10 p.m. for location clarification. - Harbor grant match (Order 27): Approved 9-0. - Budget Analyst reappointment (Order 62): Approved 8-1. - Home rule petition for police chief (Order 56): Approved 9-0; to be filed with the state legislature. - Ordinance amendments (kennel reporting and nuisance cats): First votes passed 9-0; final readings scheduled for February 17, 2026. - Next regular meeting: Scheduled for Tuesday, February 17, 2026 (due to Monday holiday) at 7:00 p.m. in Council Chambers.

The Beverly City Council held a regular meeting on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers and via BevCam. The meeting included a presentation of the Council President's inauguration remarks, an update on city projects by the Mayor, three public hearings (CPA funding for Independence Park, loan authorization for City Hall renovation, and a debt stabilization fund transfer), comments from residents, and approval of numerous routine items. Key debates centered on the $27.895 million City Hall renovation project amid a projected FY27 operating budget deficit. Consent Calendar - Approval of meeting minutes from December 1, 2025, December 15, 2025, and January 5, 2026 (9-0). - Appointment of Donna Matazzaro as City Accountant (9-0). - Reappointment of Brian Ailes as Director of Municipal Finance (9-0). - Acceptance of an $850,000 grant from MA Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities for housing rehabilitation (9-0). - Donations: $3,000 from Beverly Female Charitable Society for Council on Aging (9-0); $10,000 anonymous donation for Council on Aging (9-0); $100 from David Mandonka for Shaw's gift cards for veterans (9-0); $50 from John Lindall in memory of Daniel Beecher for Beverly Police Department (9-0). - Grants: $163,964 911 support grant (9-0); $69,632.28 911 training grant (9-0); MA DEP Technical Assistance grant (9-0); $2,500 workplace safety grant (9-0); $15,000 Mass Cultural District Investment grant (9-0); acceptance of Mass Tech Collaborative grant for 220 devices (9-0). - License renewals: Tri-City Services taxi delivery (9-0); AJ's mobile detailing (9-0); American Petroleum (9-0); Brito Corp dba Auto Dine (9-0); George Sampson hawkers/peddlers (9-0); Bass River Day Activity Program taxi delivery (9-0). - Appointments/reappointments: John Reynolds to Veterans Advisory Committee (9-0); Joanne Penazuyo, Colleen Michaels, Mary Earl to Library Trustees (9-0 each). - Approval of order for creation of a COVID Memorial Subcommittee (9-0). - Approval of order to set a public hearing for the Seaport Economic Council grant on February 2 at 8:45 PM. - Set public hearings for five National Grid and GoNet Speed petitions on February 2 at various times (all 9-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Mitchell Sorovic (42 Pratt Avenue) spoke against the installation of Flock Safety automated license plate reader cameras on Brimble Avenue, Elliott Street, and Rantoul Street. He argued they are a violation of Fourth Amendment protections against unreasonable search, cited examples of misuse, and called for their immediate removal. - Aisha Sidicki (Ward 3) made two requests: (1) that the Council adopt a land acknowledgement at the start of meetings, offering to read it until then; (2) that the Council formally oppose any 287(g) or task force agreements between the Beverly Police Department and ICE, following the example of the Worcester City Council resolution passed September 30, 2025. - Yuplio Rick Marciano (141 McKay Street) opposed the City Hall renovation project, arguing the city faces a structural deficit and should not take on new debt. He suggested using $2 million from the stabilization fund and $1 million from free cash to address the FY27 budget deficit instead. - Paul Herrick (18 Bay View F, Beverly) initially opposed the project but after the presentation expressed support, stating the building needs improvement. He also suggested exploring the sale of the Family Dollar building across the street with conditions on height limits and demolition. Discussion Items - Council President Flowers' Inaugural Remarks: President Flowers read remarks originally intended for the inauguration, using Amanda Gorman's poem "What We Carry" to encourage creativity, connection, and serious purpose in governance, especially in addressing challenges such as the FY27 budget shortfall, affordable housing, infrastructure, and support for vulnerable communities. - Mayor Cahill's Project Update: - Youth Center: Construction nearly complete; occupancy expected by mid-March 2026 with a dedication ceremony in early April. - Central Fire Station: Building envelope work finished; HVAC heat pumps installed; electrical equipment on order, completion expected late March. - Public Library Main Branch: Contractor Consigli Construction began work on January 20; completion by early June 2026; $2.2 million budget for insulation and air handling unit replacement. - Water Meter Replacement: 250 meters installed to date; full ramp-up to four installers daily in February; target substantial completion by summer 2027. Customers with estimated bills asked to provide readings; city will prioritize broken meters where possible. - Bridge Street Project: Completed from Danvers line to Folger Avenue; temporary Bass River bridge work ongoing. - Rapid Flashing Beacons: Five new beacons installed at high pedestrian locations, fully state-funded. - Brimble Avenue/Dunham Roundabout: $7.4 million state-funded roundabout at Dunham Road and Brimble Avenue; construction expected early summer 2026 with 18-month timeline. Phase two (overpass) design at 10% to enter state TIP. - Three Bridges Project: Temporary bridge under construction; expected open to traffic summer 2027; efforts underway to accelerate by driving piles on both sides. - Auberge Park and Lynch Park: Both coastal parks facing delays due to Mass Historic Commission review; state grants not yet secured but working with state officials. - City Hall Renovation and Addition Project: - Presentation: Mayor Cahill, Colliers (OPM), Fine Gold Alexander (architect), and W.T. Rich (construction manager) presented the $28.395 million project (including $1 million temporary relocation). The project includes renovating the 90-year-old City Hall, demolishing the former police station annex and building a new two-story addition, making the building fully ADA compliant, adding a mother's room, 14 bathrooms (gender-neutral, single-use), seven meeting rooms (from two), and all-electric HVAC with 40% energy use reduction. Construction cost is $553 per square foot. Financing: $25.895 million bond authorization (Order 10) and $2 million from the debt stabilization fund (Order 10A) to reduce borrowing. - Council Debate: Councilors discussed the tension between the project and the projected FY27 operating deficit. Councilor Feldman (Finance Forecasting Committee chair) emphasized operating and capital budgets are separate; debt service at 5% of operating budget is responsible; delaying would add $1.7 million in inflation. Councilor Housman asked about architectural details and IT server room. Councilor St. Hilaire questioned the administration's ability to balance the budget without layoffs or overrides; the Mayor stated all options are on the table and the city will pass a balanced budget, noting it is a challenging process. Mr. Perry (Budget Analyst) recommended approval, stating a one-year delay would cost $1.7 million extra and that the project avoids a debt exclusion override. Councilor Housman highlighted that the structural deficit stems from inflation, not debt service, and that using debt capacity for operating needs would compromise future projects like school roofs. - CPA Out-of-Cycle Funding: The Community Preservation Committee (CPC) recommended $200,000 for Independence Park renovations, including an overlook terrace, ADA path, new stairway, and 14 benches. Funding also from a $60,000 MOTT grant (deadline June 30, requiring out-of-cycle), $20,000 from Beverly Rotary, and $5,000 from Beverly 400+. Approved unanimously. - Order 43: Councilors Feldman and Mulady proposed creating a temporary special committee to explore options for addressing the "looming" 2027 forecasted budget deficit. Referred to the Committee on Legal Affairs. Key Outcomes - CPA Funding for Independence Park: Approved 8-0 (Councilor Retundo recused). - City Hall Loan Authorization (Order 10): Approved 7-2 (two-thirds majority required). Councilors St. Hilaire and one other opposed. - Debt Stabilization Transfer (Order 10A): Approved 7-2. - COVID Memorial Subcommittee: Approved 9-0. - Temporary Special Committee on FY27 Budget Deficit: Referred to Legal Affairs for further action. - Public Hearing Scheduled: Seaport Economic Council grant ($550,000) for Commercial Hoist Pier Reconstruction set for February 2, 2026 at 8:45 PM. - Next Regular Meeting: February 2, 2026, with multiple public hearings and a presentation from the Beverly Human Rights Committee.

On January 5, 2026, the City of Beverly held its inauguration ceremony for Mayor Michael P. Cahill (beginning his seventh term and the city's first four-year mayoral term), the City Council, and the School Committee at Beverly High School. The ceremony included presentations, an invocation, the reading of election results, administration of oaths, and an inaugural address by Mayor Cahill. Immediately following, the City Council held its first meeting of the year, presided over by Vice President Matthew St. Hilaire (elected during the meeting) due to the absence of Council President Julie Flowers (ill). The council approved several appointments, referred orders to committees, and set public hearings for January 20, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were recorded. Discussion Items - Mayor Cahill's Inaugural Address – The mayor acknowledged the city's partners, staff, and family. He highlighted challenges including a projected revenue shortfall for the next fiscal year (starting July 1, 2026), requiring efficiencies and additional revenue from grants, state aid, economic growth, and local taxes. He emphasized commitment to delivering high-quality city services and public education, maintaining infrastructure, ensuring safety and inclusivity, addressing housing affordability, and combating climate change with urgency. He called on the community to join in the shared work of keeping Beverly strong and welcoming. - City Council Organizational Business – The council elected Vice President (Matt St. Hilaire, ward 6) by a vote of 7-0. It then addressed communications from the mayor and council president, including: - Order 10: Authorization of $25,895,000 for renovation/rehabilitation of City Hall and adjacent former police station annex (public hearing set for Jan. 20 at 7:50 p.m.). - Order 10A: Debt stabilization transfer of $2,000,000 for the same project (public hearing set for Jan. 20 at 8:10 p.m.). - Order 11 through 17: Appointments to city accountant, veterans advisory committee, library trustees, municipal finance director, and acceptance of an $850,000 grant from the Mass Executive Office of Housing and Livable Community for housing rehabilitation for low- to moderate-income residents (all referred to appropriate committees). - Orders 1 through 8: Appointments of councilors to various committees and liaison roles (all approved 7-0). - Order 9: Out-of-cycle CPA funding recommendation for independent car renovation (public hearing set for Jan. 20 at 7:30 p.m.). Key Outcomes - Election of Vice President: Matt St. Hilaire elected 7-0 to serve as Vice President of the City Council for the term. - Public Hearings Set: For orders 10, 10A, and 9 on January 20, 2026, at specified times. - All Council Appointments Approved (7-0): - Order 1: Council liaison to Clean Energy Advisory Committee (Scott Houseman, Kathleen Bellman). - Order 2: Council representatives to Financial Forecast Meeting (Scott Houseman, Matthew St. Hilaire). - Order 3: Council President Julie Flowers appointed to Human Rights Committee. - Order 4: Council liaisons to Beverly Police Department Community Advisory Council (Matthew St. Hilaire, Keith Sonya). - Order 5: Council representative to Economic Community Development Council (Steve Crowley). - Order 6: Council liaisons to Beverly Couch Meeting (Steve Crowley, John Alaney). - Order 7: Council liaisons to Harbor Management Authority (Todd Retundo, Danielle saying). - Order 8: Designation of standing chairs for three council subcommittees. - Referrals to Committees: All mayoral appointments (orders 11-17) referred to the appropriate committees for further action. - Adjournment: The council meeting adjourned after completing its business. A reception followed in the high school library.

The Beverly City Council held its final regular meeting of the 2025 term on December 16, 2025, at 7:00 PM in the council chamber. The meeting featured resolutions honoring outgoing Councilors-at-Large Hannah Bowen (now State Representative) and Brendan Sweeney, a public hearing on naming a recreation building, a public comment on land acknowledgements, several reappointments, and final passage of a traffic ordinance amendment. The council also approved minutes from prior meetings, accepted a donation for seniors, and discussed upcoming committee work. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: Approved minutes from six prior meetings (September 15, October 6, October 20, October 27, November 10, and November 17, 2025) with one abstention on the first five sets; all approved unanimously (9–0). - Late File Acceptance: Accepted a late file (Order 295) – a $300 check and $460 in gift cards for the Council on Aging from McLean Middleton Professional Association, referred to Finance and Property. - License Renewals: Approved 2025 motor vehicle dealer, lodging house, and taxi/delivery license renewals (Orders 292, 293, 294) via refer to Legal Affairs and subsequent unanimous committee votes. Public Comments & Testimony - Johanna Carney (323 R. Elliott Street, Ward 1; representing Beverly Social Justice Book Club) requested the council reconsider its 2022 vote on Order 23 and adopt a land acknowledgement at the start of council meetings. She read the city’s existing land acknowledgement statement. Discussion Items - Resolutions Honoring Outgoing Councilors: - Order 290: Resolution congratulating and thanking former Councilor-at-Large Hannah Bowen (now State Representative for 6th Essex District) for her service (two terms, January 2022 – October 2025). Speeches by Councillors Spang and Feldman; Bowen expressed gratitude and optimism about local government, noting the “passing of batons” in civic work. Unanimous approval (9–0). - Order 291: Resolution honoring Councilor-at-Large Brendan Sweeney for his service (one term, 2022–2025). Speeches by Councillors Rotundo and St. Hilaire; Sweeney thanked colleagues and his wife, noted the civility of the council, and encouraged continued collaboration. Unanimous approval (9–0). - Public Hearing (Order 255): Recessed and reopened for input on naming the Beverly Recreation Office building in honor of Gail Jean Carmody (55-year city employee). Bruce Doig, Director of Community Services and Parks, spoke in support. No public speakers. Hearing closed and referred to Legal Affairs, which subsequently recommended approval. - Ordinance Amendment (Order 288): Final passage of a change to Chapter 270 (Vehicles and Traffic) – amending the “Do Not Enter” time restriction at Kernwood Heights from Bridge Street to September 1 through June 30, Monday–Friday, 7:15 AM to 8 AM, to align with elementary school start times. Unanimous approval (9–0). - Unfinished Business: Order 163 held for further information from the mayor’s office; no further action taken. - Committee Reports: - Public Services Committee (Chair not named) approved appointments/reappointments for Council on Aging (Wendy Kelly), Commission on Disabilities (Charles Budra Hall), Board of Health (Cheryl Silva, Rachel Morris), Parks and Recreation (Henry Pizzo), Beverly Airport Commission (Carl Ratalek, William Kosalan, Jason Roulette, Jesse Zuberic, William Kendrick), and received a letter from Paul Gentile on downtown bike/parking (filed). All 3–0. - Finance and Property Committee approved reappointment of Frank Golden to Board of Assessors and appointment of Terry DeBlazy to Board of Assessors. - Legal Affairs Committee approved renaming of recreation building, fire chief reappointment (Peter O’Connor), and all license renewals. - Appointments Approved by Full Council: All reappointments and appointments recommended by committees were approved unanimously (9–0). Key Outcomes - Votes: - Order 290 (Bowen resolution) – 9–0. - Order 291 (Sweeney resolution) – 9–0. - Order 255 (recreation building naming) – 9–0 (after committee recommendation). - Order 288 (traffic ordinance amendment) – 9–0. - Order 269 (Fire Chief O’Connor reappointment) – 9–0. - All committee appointments/reappointments – 9–0. - Next Steps: The next regular meeting is Monday, January 5, 2026, at noon at Beverly High School (swearing-in/inauguration). A financial forecasting report was completed and will be discussed in January. - Other: Council acknowledged the start of Hanukkah and expressed condolences for the shooting in Bondi Beach, Sydney, Australia. Meeting adjourned at approximately 8:45 PM after committee work.

The Beverly City Council held its regular meeting on Monday, December 1, 2025, at 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers. The agenda included public comments, a public hearing on the FY2026 tax levy classification, and action on numerous grants, license renewals, and an ordinance amendment. The council approved a 1.75 tax shift factor, a $900,000 MassDOT grant for a roundabout, grants totaling $6.5 million from MassWorks, a $100,000 earmark for intersection improvements, and a $9,995 cybersecurity grant, among other items. Public Comments & Testimony - Peter Willworth (10 Fawcett Terrace) expressed concern about police payroll costs, noting that 19 of the city’s top 20 earners in 2024 were police officers, with the top earner at $264,000 (salary $126,000 + overtime $28,000 + paid details $109,000). He suggested using civilian flaggers, capping overtime/detail hours, and questioned whether such high earnings impact public safety. He cited an example of two officers assigned to a single detail. - John Taylor (41 Cole Street) praised the council’s conservative financial planning and forecasting but urged against public-private partnerships (citing Chicago’s parking meter deal), bonding for operating costs, and avoiding sudden employee layoffs. He acknowledged a projected $3 million deficit for FY2026. Discussion Items Tax Levy Classification Hearing (Order 254) – Chief Assessor Francis Golden presented the FY2026 classification options. The total taxable value and maximum levy produce a single tax rate of $11.99 per $1,000. The mayor recommended a 1.75 shift (maximum allowed), shifting an additional $11,751,389 from residential to commercial, industrial, and personal property classes. At a 1.75 shift, the residential tax rate would be $10.81 and the commercial rate $20.98. The average single-family tax bill would be $8,833.93 (up 4.83%, an increase of $406.80). The mayor did not recommend adopting a residential exemption or small commercial exemption. Councilors Houseman, Sweeney, and St. Hilaire discussed the impact on small businesses and residents. Budget Analyst Jerry Perry recommended approving the 1.75 shift and not adopting an open space exemption, emphasizing the need for timely approval to avoid cash flow problems. Grants and Infrastructure – Mayor Cahill presented three grants for the Brimble Avenue/Dunham Road roundabout project: $900,000 from MassDOT and two MassWorks grants totaling $6.5 million, covering the full projected construction cost (estimated at $6.5–$7 million). Construction is expected to begin mid-late spring 2026 and take approximately 1.5 years. A separate $100,000 earmark from the Executive Office of Economic Development will support the Corning/Essex/Spring Street intersection, which is awaiting a traffic signal preemption solution from Keolis and the MBTA. Subcommittee Work – The Finance and Property subcommittee approved all grant orders, the cybersecurity grant, and the tax levy recommendations. The Legal Affairs subcommittee approved renewal applications for motor vehicle dealer and taxi licenses, and gave a first reading to an ordinance amendment changing Kernwood Heights entrance restrictions to align with elementary school schedule changes. Key Outcomes - Tax Levy Shift: Approved the 1.75 shift factor (residential factor 90.1849) with an 8-0 vote. Also approved (8-0) not to adopt an open space exemption. - Grant Approvals (all 8-0): - Order 264: $900,000 MassDOT grant for Brimble Ave/Dunham Road roundabout. - Order 266: Two MassWorks grants totaling $6.5 million for the same project. - Order 267: $100,000 earmark for Corning/Essex/Spring Street intersection. - Order 268: $9,995 cybersecurity grant from MIIA. - License Renewals (all 8-0): Class 2 motor vehicle dealer licenses for BM Best Auto Sales, Rile Side Auto, Lion Gas and Auto Services; taxi license for JTB Transit Solutions. - Ordinance First Reading: Order 288 (Kernwood Heights time restriction change) passed 8-0 on first reading; final passage scheduled for December 15 meeting. - Other Approvals: Order 265 (donation of 20 turkeys to veterans) approved 8-0; acceptance of minutes and referral of various appointments and orders to subcommittees. - Next Meetings: Financial Forecasting Committee December 2 and December 9; City Council December 15 (final meeting of term); Swearing-in on January 5, 2026.