Public Meetings - Peabody, Massachusetts

The Peabody City Council met on Thursday, January 22, 2026, starting at 7:30 PM in the Frank E. Elvigan Auditorium and via Zoom. The meeting covered a license revocation hearing, two special permit applications, an entertainment license, continuances, and numerous motions. Votes were conducted by roll call; Councilor Corvo was absent for the final votes (9-0) after dropping offline. No members of the public spoke during any hearing. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke in favor or opposition during any hearing or general comment period. Show Cause Hearing – Revocation of Class II Motor Vehicle License (PK Motors) - Background: The hearing was called to determine whether to revoke the Class II motor vehicle license held by Christine Fisher, d/b/a PK Motors, 195 Washington Street, following her conviction for money laundering conspiracy. The city solicitor, Elizabeth Lashway, presided. - Continuance Request: A letter from Fisher’s attorney (Stephen Naiman) requested postponement until all appeal rights were exhausted. Councilor Gamash moved to deny the continuance; the motion carried 10-0. - Testimony: Captain David Bonfonti stated the investigation began in 2016, led to a 2022 indictment for money laundering conspiracy, and involved drug dealing and funneled drug money through PK Motors to purchase properties. He called the operation “unacceptable” and a felony. - Outcome: The council voted 10-0 to revoke the license. Special Permit – Simply Lawn Care Services, LLC - Application: Simply Lawn Care Services (owner Brandon Muse) sought a special permit for office and shop space, and storage of equipment/materials at 147 Summit Street, Suite 13B, in the IP zoning district. The business had been operating for three years without a permit; this was a compliance application. - Discussion: Councilor Welton presented conditions from the Health Department (nuisance prevention plan for odors/pests) and Conservation Commission (outdoor items must be protected). Hours of operation were clarified: office Mon-Fri 8 AM–4 PM, shop/yard Mon-Fri 7 AM–7 PM, Saturday 9 AM–6 PM, no Sunday work. - Outcome: The council closed the hearing (10-0) and then approved the special permit with the noted conditions (10-0). Entertainment License – Full Circle Diner (Sisters Inc., d/b/a Full Circle Diner, 136 Newbury Street) - Application: Request for non-live entertainment (TV, internet radio) and live entertainment (three-piece band, up to four instruments, three performers, two amps) for listening and dancing. - Discussion: Councilor Gamash noted a correction to the occupancy permit number (75) and that the applicant agreed to a maximum of two nights per month (Friday or Saturday), with live entertainment ending at 12:30 AM. The diner would remain open 7 AM–3 PM for dining, with entertainment from 9 PM–12:30 AM. - Outcome: The hearing was closed (9-0) and the license approved with conditions: non-live entertainment Mon-Sat 6 AM–12:30 AM, live entertainment max two nights per month (Fri or Sat), all entertainment ends by 12:30 AM, and the band specifications (9-0 vote). Councilor Corvo was absent. Other Hearings – Continuances - 4C (153 Lowell Street): Continued to February 22, 2026, at the petitioner’s request due to incomplete paperwork (9-0). - 4E: Continued to February 22, 2026, because required information from Community Development was not yet submitted (9-0). Motions, Orders, and Resolutions - Mayoral Appointments: Councilor Gamash read a list of appointments (reappointments) under suspension of the rules. Councilor Manning Martin objected, citing council rules that mayoral communications should be received and referred to the next meeting, and noting that many terms had already expired (Dec 31, 2025). Councilor Gamash withdrew the motion, and the council voted 9-0 to receive the appointments and refer them to the next meeting. - Class II License Transfer (9B): Set for a future public hearing (9-0). - Sidewalk Shoveling and Snowstorm: Councilor Gamash reminded residents to shovel sidewalks near schools and bus stops, noting the city ordinance only covers the downtown business area. He also mentioned city worker hour limitations during prolonged storms. - Social Services Division Update: Councilor Turko moved to schedule a status update from the Social Services Division (including the new resource center at Higgins Middle School) for the first meeting in March; motion carried 9-0. - Business Permits Reminder: Councilor Welton reminded new business owners that signing a lease does not equate to obtaining a business permit; a separate special permit process is required. - Late Communications: - Councilor Rosignal moved to receive Late 1 (fee dispute for Sir Charles Limousine) and made several subsequent motions: - Request the Building Commissioner to explain why a $300+ fine for Sir Charles Limousine was dismissed (9-0). - Request reasons why the business operated without a license and without paying fines (9-0). - Request the City Clerk not renew Sir Charles Limousine’s license for 2026 until all back fines are paid, and ask the Building Department to ensure the business is not operating (9-0). - Request the Building Commissioner provide a list of all other fees dismissed or cancelled in 2025 (9-0). - Request a response from the Building Commissioner by the next meeting (February 12, 2026) (9-0). - Councilor Rosignal also moved to send Item 8A (a special permit) back to the Building Commissioner due to insufficient parking per ordinance (the applicant did not own the parking property). The motion included a request for expedited review by February 12 to avoid constructive approval (9-0). - Received Item 9A (Galinero, 89 Main Street) and set a public hearing (9-0). - Moved to hold Greg’s Mediterranean Restaurant’s entertainment license pending response on Item 8A (9-0). - City-Owned Land Application Process: Motion to have the city solicitor review the city’s application process for city-owned land and advise on compliance with state Chapter 30B (9-0). - Amend Parking Ordinance: Councilor Peach moved to prohibit parking on both sides of Sabino Farm Road from No. 27 to the dead end (9-0). - Replace Dead End Sign: Motion to have DPS replace the dead end sign on Sabino Farm Road (9-0). - Adjournment: Meeting adjourned with a 9-0 vote. Key Outcomes - License Revoked: Christine Fisher’s Class II motor vehicle license (PK Motors) revoked 10-0. - Special Permit Approved: Simply Lawn Care Services LLC approved with conditions (10-0). - Entertainment License Approved: Full Circle Diner entertainment license approved with conditions (9-0). - Continuances Granted: Two hearings continued to Feb 22, 2026. - Mayoral Appointments: Referred to next meeting (9-0). - Building Commissioner Inquiries: Multiple motions passed requesting explanations and actions regarding dismissed fines and unlicensed operations (all 9-0). - Ordinance Amendment: New parking restriction on Sabino Farm Road approved (9-0). - Sign Replacement: Dead end sign on Sabino Farm Road to be replaced (9-0).

The Peabody Planning Board met on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at 7:00 PM in City Hall Wigan Auditorium. The meeting included approval of prior minutes, endorsement of a land division plan, election of officers for the upcoming year, seating reorganization, and introduction of a new board member. Consent Calendar - Minutes of December 4, 2025: Approved unanimously by all present members (motion by Mr. Chairman, second by Dr. Otto). - Correspondence: A memo from William Pelletz, Director of Public Services, regarding Raising Canes at 15th Sylvan Street was received. The board noted this was already approved by the Planning Board and was sent to the Conservation Commission for informational purposes. Discussion Items - AR Land Court 309 Lowell Street (Map 62, Lot 005): Attorney John Kelty presented on behalf of Cosmo and Al Evangelitis and Joe Evangelitis. The property is a 66,340-square-foot parcel with a single-family home and barn, accessed via a driveway from Lowell Street. The proposed Form A (Approval Not Required) plan (dated December 23, 2025) divides the property into three lots: Lot A, Lot One, and Lot Two, all within the R2 zoning district. A utility easement is shown to bring sewer from Lowell Street, as no sewer is present on North Shore Road. Attorney Kelty plans to coordinate with the Department of Public Services regarding curb cuts on North Shore Road, potentially using a common driveway to limit curb cuts and improve safety near the intersection. The board accepted a late narrative from Attorney Kelty (motion to receive, seconded, all in favor). - Election of Officers: - Chairman: Tom Betancourt was nominated and elected unanimously (motion by Mr. Ford, seconded by Mr. Samos and Dr. Otto; roll call: all seven members voted yes). - Vice Chairman: John Ford was nominated and elected unanimously (motion by Mr. Chairman, seconded; Mr. Ford accepted; roll call: all members voted yes). - Secretary: Joe Gagnon was nominated and elected unanimously (motion by Mr. Chairman, seconded; Mr. Gagnon accepted; roll call: all members voted yes). - Seating Reorganization: Numbers were drawn by the chairman to assign seating order. Results: Dennis Feld (1), Mr. Ford (4), Mr. Samos (5), Dr. Otto (3), Mr. Gagnon (1? re-draw: Mr. Gagnon drawn as 1, but list shows multiple – actual drawn order: Mr. Feld first, then Mr. Ford 4, Mr. Samos 5, Dr. Otto 3, Mr. Gagnon 1, Mr. Gonzali 6, Mr. French 2, Mr. Saliba 7). - New Member Introduction: Jeff Saliba, new Planning Board member, introduced himself. He is a Peabody resident since 2015, business manager for Heat and Frost Insulators and Allied Workers Local 6, financial secretary, licensed addiction counselor, certified employee assistance professional, and serves on the state's apprenticeship council. He expressed eagerness to serve the community. - Other Matters: Dr. Judith Otto announced that her legal name for 31 years is Judith Otto Cachotti and requested the change be noted. Key Outcomes - Endorsement of 309 Lowell Street Plan: The board voted unanimously (7-0) to endorse the Approval Not Required plan (Form A plan F14677) dividing the 66,340-square-foot property into three lots. The plan requires additional coordination with Public Services for curb cuts and easements. - Officers Elected: Tom Betancourt (Chairman), John Ford (Vice Chairman), and Joe Gagnon (Secretary) were elected for the upcoming year. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote (motion by Dr. Otto, seconded).

The Peabody City Council held its regular meeting on Thursday, January 8, 2026, in person at City Hall and remotely via Zoom, with President Michael Higgins (Ward 6) presiding and all 11 councilors present. The council approved an online-only fortune teller’s license, continued one hearing to January 22, 2026, processed routine license renewals and appointments, referred several matters for further review, and debated but rejected a motion to reopen all City Hall entrances to pre-pandemic access. No agenda or minutes were available; this summary is based on the meeting transcript. Public Hearing — Fortune Teller’s License - Applicant Mary Bellastracy, 1 Southwick Road, Peabody, requested a fortune teller’s license for an online-only business under MGL Chapter 140, Section 1851, and Section 16-20.75 of the Peabody City Code. She described it as a spiritual self-help website with free content, paid one-on-one spiritual mentoring, and a link to her book, based on what she called her 2020 spiritual awakening. - No members of the audience or Zoom participants spoke in favor of or in opposition to the application. - Councilor Daigle spoke in support, calling the application thorough and noting the applicant keeps an eye on the neighborhood; he saw no traffic impact. Councilor Welton confirmed all services would be provided online/remotely. - The council closed the public hearing and approved the license by an 11–0 roll call vote. Continued Hearing - Item 4C’s petitioner was not present and had not contacted the council. Councilor Gamash moved to continue the hearing to the council’s January 22, 2026 meeting; the motion carried 11–0. Consent Calendar / Routine Approvals - Appointments to the Community Development Authority: Gary Boer, 36 Emily Lane, and Brian Benagro, 3 Mulberry Drive, each for one-year terms expiring December 31, 2026; approved 11–0. - Class 2 Motor Vehicle License 2026 renewals for Ad Pro Motorsports, Alex Auto Sales, King Motors, and Wilson Square Garage; approved. - Late Item 2, as amended: approved the entertainment license renewal for “Suit Sharing’s,” 373 Lowell Street, while items A and C for Tri-City Services were held at Councilor Peach’s request because of issues with parking on public streets. - Entertainment license renewal for The Roadhouse Pub, 55 Pulaski Street; approved. - General license 2026 taxi renewals for Salem Taxi Company and Witch City Taxi; approved. - Late Item 1 was received and referred to the Public Safety Committee. - Committee appointments: Councilor Turko and Councilor Rosignal as primaries, and Councilor Wendy Latoff and Councilor Peach as alternates, on the Community Preservation Commission; Councilor Welton was appointed to the vacant Disabilities Commission seat. Discussion Items - Communication 8A: The council received a letter from Audrey Gordon and Rich Reid concerning 194 Newbury Street, also known as 190 Rear Newbury Street. The letter stated that a permit granted by the council in 2023 was for condominiums, but the property is now being marketed as apartments, and the writers oppose apartments. Council referred the communication to the Legal Affairs Committee for the next meeting and also asked that correspondence be sent to Attorney Conn for his opinion on whether a show-cause hearing is appropriate; the motion carried 11–0. - PILOT agreements: Councilor Manning Martin moved to request all payment-in-lieu-of-tax agreements from the mayor or auditor to help council prepare for budget discussions; approved. - Special permit: The council received Item 8E and scheduled a public hearing for a special permit for 101 Lynn Street; approved. - Abandoned billboards: Councilor Rosignal moved to have Attorney Conn and Kurt Bellavance from Community Development update language on penalties, procedures, fines, and fee structures for abandoned and updated billboards; approved. - Commercial vehicle parking: Councilor Peach moved to refer discussion of Peabody’s commercial-vehicle parking ordinance to the Legal Affairs Committee, with Captain Richards or a traffic division representative invited to discuss possible amendments and enforcement; approved. Peach noted increased problems in Ward 3, partly because Danvers and Salem ban commercial vehicles on streets. - Senior center expansion: Councilor Peach noted a letter from Representative Walsh regarding a long-standing approved bond for the senior center expansion and said he would share more information with the council. City Hall Entrances Debate - Councilor Corvo moved that City Hall entrances be returned to their pre-pandemic configuration, including the front, back, and two side doors, with the request that the mayor make the change effective immediately. - Several councilors expressed caution. Councilor Gamash said the mayor should have an opportunity to respond and requested a roll call. Councilor Rosignal agreed, saying the council should not act unilaterally without discussing safety implications with the mayor. Councilor Manning Martin replied that the mayor still has time to accept, reject, or veto a council motion. Councilor Turko recalled the restriction was imposed for COVID-related public-health reasons, not public safety. Councilor Welton said he favored the idea but preferred to hear from the mayor or security about upkeep and unintended issues. - Councilor Gamash also asked for information about people barred from entering City Hall or the mayor’s office because of threats, including the number of instances, not names. Councilor Corvo asked how such cases were handled pre-2020; Gamash said he did not know but that the mayor’s office has distributed photos of barred individuals since the one-door policy took effect. - A motion to move the question carried 8–3. The main motion then failed 7–4 on a roll call vote, with Councilors Turko, Manning Martin, Ladoff, and Corvo voting yes. Key Outcomes - Approved the online-only fortune teller’s license for Mary Bellastracy (11–0). - Continued item 4C to January 22, 2026 (11–0). - Referred Communication 8A to Legal Affairs and requested Attorney Conn’s review (11–0). - Approved Community Development Authority appointments (11–0). - Rejected the motion to reopen all pre-pandemic City Hall entrances (7–4). - Made committee appointments and referred billboard-language and commercial-vehicle-parking matters for further review.

The Peabody City Council convened on December 11, 2025, first in the Legal Affairs Subcommittee and then for the regular City Council meeting. The subcommittee reviewed a home rule petition and a land sale request; both items were later approved by the full council. The regular meeting included appointments to city boards, a hearing on a junk dealer's license (later withdrawn), approval of numerous 2026 license renewals, and farewell remarks to three departing councilors. All votes were unanimous unless noted. Public Comments & Testimony - Joel Whitman (abutting property owner at Walnut Street, via Zoom): Stated he has operated a multi-business facility since 1985, expressed no opposition to the flea market applicant if operations are confined to the applicant's own land and conducted in a city‑agreeable manner, and deferred to the council's judgment on downtown planning. - David Whitman (son of Joel): Present in the audience; no additional testimony recorded. Discussion Items - Item A – Home Rule Petition (Pre‑Employment Physical Exam Records for Public Safety): Mayor Bettencourt presented a home rule petition to allow PERAC (Public Employee Retirement Administration Commission) to accept alternative documentation in lieu of pre‑employment physical exam records for police and firefighter disability retirements, as records often date back 20–40 years and are no longer available. The petition was developed jointly with the fire union (President Corey Desman) and the police union. The subcommittee voted 5‑0 to advance it to the full council, which later approved 11‑0 to send it to the state legislature. - Item B – Purchase of City‑Owned Land (Paper Street/Mechanic Street): Attorney John Kelty represented Megan and Michael Lynch, who live adjacent to city lots (Map 75, lots 1, 2, 3). They seek to buy the land to rebuild a garage that had been on the property for decades. An appraisal valued the three parcels at $4,000, $4,710, and $4,800 (total $13,510). Councilor McGinn provided history on the property and confirmed no departmental objections. The subcommittee voted to declare the parcels surplus and refer the matter to community development for the disposal process (flow chart policy); the full council later approved 11‑0. - Appointments (Item 7A): Mayor Bettencourt nominated four individuals: Kevin Venagro (Historical Commission, full term, replacing Frank Hardy), Bob Dunn (Historical Commission alternate), Darrell Ann McCarthy (Liquor Licensing Board, 3‑year term), and Jeffrey Saliba (Planning Board, 1‑year term, replacing the late Peter Avernides). All were approved 11‑0. - Hearing – Junk Dealer’s License (Item 4B): Constellation Gemini LLC (dba Peabody Flea Market) applied for a junk dealer’s license to operate an indoor community flea market at 20 Wallace Street. Attorney Kelty stated the market would be indoor only, Wednesday–Sunday, 8 AM–6 PM, with no alcohol or outdoor storage. Councilor Peach objected, noting the property had been used as an outdoor flea market without permits over the summer, raised concerns about zoning, parking, and alignment with downtown redevelopment plans, and stated a special permit would likely be required. After discussion, the applicant withdrew without prejudice (11‑0). - Hearing – Special Permit (Item 4C): Continued to January 2026 at the applicant’s request, with no opposition. - Motion on Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs): Councilor Gamash moved that the building inspector and community development (ICD) provide an update on ADU zoning, including responses to outstanding questions from a prior committee meeting. The motion passed unanimously. - Conservation Restrictions (Items 8D and Late 4): Councilor McGinn moved to approve two conservation restrictions for 86.01± acres of open space land to Essex County Greenbelt Association, as required by state law. Approved 11‑0. - PK Motors License Revocation Hearing (Item 8F): Councilor McGinn moved to schedule an evidentiary hearing to consider revoking the Class 2 motor vehicle license of Christine Fisher (doing business as PK Motors) following her federal conviction for money laundering conspiracy. Approved unanimously. The hearing date was not set. - License Renewals (Items 9A–9G, Late 8A–8C): Councilor Turko read and moved approval of numerous 2026 license renewals: Class 1 motor vehicle (9A), Class 2 motor vehicle (9B), Class 3 motor vehicle (9C, including Holiday Inn Suites after confirming fire and health department sign‑offs), entertainment licenses (9D), general licenses (9E), innholder licenses (9F), lodging house licenses (9G), and late renewals for auto transport and used car dealers. All were approved by voice votes with no opposition. Key Outcomes - Home rule petition: Approved 11‑0 and transmitted to the Massachusetts General Court for enactment. - City‑owned land sale: Lots 1, 2, 3 on Paper Street declared surplus; referred to community development for disposition process. - Appointments: Four individuals appointed to city boards; all votes 11‑0. - Flea market license: Withdrawn without prejudice; no further action. - ADU update: Building inspector and ICD directed to report back to council (likely January 2026). - Conservation restrictions: Approved 11‑0; council president authorized to execute. - PK Motors hearing: Scheduled; no date set. - License renewals: All approved en masse. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at an unspecified time after farewell remarks to Councilors Gould, McGinn, and Melville, who will not return for the new term.

The Peabody City Council held a special meeting on December 9, 2025, at 6 PM in the Frank Alvigni Auditorium and via Zoom, presided over by Council President Julie Daigle. The primary agenda was the adoption of the fiscal year 2026 tax classification percentages for real and personal property. The meeting opened with a presentation from Mayor and Finance Director Mike Jingris, followed by public comments, council deliberation, and multiple votes on tax rates, budget transfers, and community preservation allocations. Public Comments & Testimony - Deanne Healy, representing the Peabody Area Chamber of Commerce, urged the council to consider the burden on commercial properties from the split tax rate. She noted that the 170% CIP factor subsidizes residential rates by roughly $1,000 per average home, and that higher assessments do not equate to increased cash flow for businesses. She expressed concern that triple net leases pass tax increases directly to small businesses, potentially undermining revitalization efforts. - Laura Meisenhelter, representing North Shore Community Action Programs (NASCAP) and on behalf of landlords Fran and Rick Tower of RTW Realty LLC at 119 Rear Foster Street, read a letter opposing further commercial tax increases. The letter cited a history of absorbing costs and warned that repeated hikes threaten small business stability and contradict city goals of attracting and retaining businesses. Discussion Items - Mayor's Fiscal Overview: Mayor reported that health insurance costs are projected to rise 15–20% this year, with retiree health up 17% and pension obligations of $14.3 million. He highlighted the city's economic strength, noting a 11.7% increase in commercial/industrial values (first time outpacing residential growth in decades) and proposed a slightly lower average residential tax increase of $415 (down from $497 anticipated in June). He also proposed reducing the CIP factor from 1.75 to 1.70 and not tapping $2 million from reserves. - Finance Director's Presentation: Mike Jingris presented detailed financial data: - Fiscal 2025 closed with revenues of $205.79M and expenses of $204.86M, yielding a net surplus of $926K. Fund balance remained at $11.7M. - Enterprise funds: skating rink had a $33K deficit, golf course retained earnings of $1.9M, water/sewer had a $1.3M shortfall due to billing software issues and timing of collections. - Free cash certified at $9.88M; stabilization fund at $3.8M; total reserves $13.6M. - Total property values increased 6.8% to $12.82B; residential values up 5.8%, commercial up 10.1%, industrial up 9.6%. - Proposed tax levy of $142.16M (up 5.5% over prior year). The CIP factor of 170% shifts $17.1M from residential to CIP, lowering the average residential bill by $1,045 and raising the average CIP bill by $15,956. - Average single-family home value: $644,900; average CIP value: $666,300. Peabody remains among the lowest in Essex County for single-family tax bills ($6,411 anticipated). - Excess levy capacity projected at $8.1M after fiscal 2026. - Council Questions and Debate: - Councilor Gamash: Asked about a $100K decrease in veterans' benefits line item; finance team explained it reflects a shift in payment methodology (direct payments instead of reimbursements), not a reduction in benefits. - Councilor Peach: Inquired about the rationale for reducing the CIP factor to 1.70. Mayor explained it provides fiscal flexibility to absorb future health insurance increases and potential debt service from the high school project, while preserving reserves. - Councilor Manning Martin: Raised concerns about self-insured workers' compensation costs, asked why the city doesn't switch to a fully-insured model for predictability. Finance team noted the pay-as-you-go approach has historically saved money, but agreed to review data. She also questioned the lease for the school administration building (now on a year-to-year basis) and requested an update on the children's museum lease, moving that a presentation be made to the council in February 2026. - Councilor Turco: Praised the mayor for listening to council's request to avoid using $2M in free cash. He raised significant issues with water/sewer billing: software problems have led to inaccurate bills, delayed readings (e.g., a Ward 1 resident had a $8,000 erroneous bill, another had a $27 bill for a family of five). He noted the $259K deficit in the water fund must be covered from the general fund and wondered about the lack of timely billing. He also questioned the need to increase water rates when billing accuracy is unresolved. He asked about the remaining $1.4M in the school lunch revolving fund and why it isn't returned to free cash. - Councilor McGinn: Cautioned that strong interest income and back-tax collection from the treasurer are one-time windfalls not likely to repeat. He noted the gap between budgeted CIP revenue and actual was approximately $2M due to the unexpected 11.7% value increase. He asked about the impact of future debt exclusion for the high school project. He also highlighted that the share of levy shifted to CIP has declined from 13.44% in 2022 to 12.07% in 2026. He moved to close the public hearing. Key Outcomes - Tax Classification Vote: The council voted 10-1 (Councilor Manning Martin opposed) to adopt a residential factor of 0.854200, equivalent to a 170% CIP factor for fiscal 2026. - Additional Exemptions: Unanimously voted (11-0) to: - Not grant an open space discount. - Not adopt a residential exemption. - Not adopt a small commercial exemption. - Adopt the maximum allowable optional real estate exemptions under Chapter 126 (detailed in the mayor's November 21, 2025 communication). - Budget Transfers: Approved multiple transfers (all 11-0): - $945,000 from various revolving accounts (cable fees, Tilly's, parking meter, school lunch, museum fees) to offset the FY26 tax rate. - Annual CPC transfers: $554,161.74 to historic preservation, community housing, and open space; $277,080.86 set-aside reserves; plus $10,000 CPC administrative transfer. - $200,000 loan from CPC community housing to Emerald Development Housing for a 116-unit affordable rental project on Farm Avenue (zero interest, 30-year deferred payment, secured by secondary mortgage). - $80,000 bridge loan to NASCAP for rental assistance (zero interest, three-year repayment). - $50,000 from CPC unreserved to community housing. - Comcast and RCN quarterly cable transfers: $187,544.16 and $14,909.67 respectively, to pay Peabody TV. - $101,740.64 from bond premium reserve to pave the Kennedy Fields parking lot (shared with Covenant Christian Academy).

The Peabody Planning Board convened on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at 7:00 PM at PBD City Hall, Wigan Auditorium, 24 Low Street. The meeting included approval of previous minutes and a continued discussion on a site plan application for 103 Foster Street, resulting in conditional approval with specific conditions. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The board unanimously approved the minutes from the November 6, 2025, and November 20, 2025, meetings via separate motions. Discussion Items - 103 Foster Street – Site Building Permit Plans (Continued from November 20, 2025): - The applicant's attorney, John Kelty, and engineer Gene Christie (Tai Bond) presented a revised plan (dated December 2, 2025) that reduced the curb cut opening to 30 feet to improve pedestrian safety, while maintaining two 13-foot travel lanes. - The board accepted two late submissions: the revised plan and a memo from the Department of Public Services (DPS) dated December 4, 2025, containing comments and conditions. - DPS conditions required the applicant to: (a) perform a camera inspection of the culvert at the property entrance prior to building permit issuance, and (b) inspect and record the pre-existing condition of the existing canal wall, with a follow-up inspection after construction to ensure no damage occurred. - A key issue was the requirement for floor drains in each of the 18 units per plumbing code. Because the property lies in a flood zone, standard MDC drains were deemed unsuitable. The building commissioner and DPS agreed to a solution: install a sealed tight tank that would be periodically emptied, setting a new standard for flood-zone construction. - Board member Dennis Feld noted that the landscaping buffer requirement (Section 10-104D) may require a variance from the Zoning Board of Appeals because the proposed fence alone does not meet the code (which requires landscaping in addition to a fence). The applicant acknowledged the need to discuss this with the building department. - Other minor clarifications were made regarding guardrails and interior plumbing details. Key Outcomes - Unanimous Approval of Minutes for November 6 and November 20, 2025. - Conditional Approval of Site Plan for 103 Foster Street: The board voted unanimously to approve the site plan application and plans (dated November 24, 2025, and supplemental plan dated December 2, 2025) with the condition that no building permit issues until the applicant satisfies all conditions and comments in the DPS memo dated December 4, 2025. - The meeting adjourned shortly after the vote.

The Peabody City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at 7:30 PM in the Frank Elwigan Auditorium (24 Lowell Street) and via Zoom, presided over by Council President Julie Daigle. All councilors were present except Councillor Manning Martin. The meeting covered a continuation of a prior item, a public hearing for a special permit, and several motions and resolutions. Hearings - Item 4A – Continuation: A motion to continue this item to the December 11, 2025 meeting carried 10-0. - Item 4B – Special Permit (49-51 Lowell Street): Attorney John Kelty, representing 4951 Lowell Holdings LLC, presented revisions to the plan requested at the prior meeting: adding a trash dumpster area, a landscaped area for downtown design compliance, and a double catch basin in the parking area. Councillor McGinn reported that conditions were worked out with the applicant and departmental responses (Community Development, Conservation Commission, DPS) were addressed. The public hearing was closed, and a motion to approve the special permit with conditions (including site plan dated November 13, 2025; delivery vehicle restrictions; no overnight storage; dumpster screening; no outdoor storage; compliance with downtown design standards; landscape buffer; sign compliance; hours 7 am to 6 pm Monday–Saturday) carried 10-0. Motions, Orders, and Resolutions - Councillor Gamash moved under suspension of rules to receive and set up a special permit hearing (Item 8A) – carried by voice vote. - Councillor McGinn moved to receive and refer items 7A-I to the tax classification hearing – carried. - Received late communication one (clarification that Item 8B is duplicate and off agenda). - Councillor McGinn moved to receive Item 9A in lieu of a public hearing – carried. - Co-motion with Councillor Gamash to receive Item 9B and set a public hearing – carried. - Received late communication two and approved the fee listing attached to it (recodification closure) – roll call 10-0. - Councillor Rosignal moved to receive and send Item 7H to legal affairs – carried. - Councillor Rosignal moved to receive and adopt Item 10A as advertised – roll call 10-0. - Councillor Daigle (President) moved to request a report from finance/police on all fees collected under Chapter 19 (parking permit and ticket fees) for budget review – carried. - Councillor Turco co-motioned with Councillor Welton to request DPS ask PMLP to install a street light at 32 Aberdeen Avenue – carried. Councilor Comments - Councillor Higgins thanked DPS Director Will Pollett and Kevin Kelly for repairing a water main leak on Winona Street without requiring a work order. - Councillor Welton thanked the Mayor’s office and Parks & Rec (Brian Grant) for installing a memorial bench for Jason Bernard at Brown School; also congratulated Peabody Youth Football Spartans on their league championship. - President Daigle reminded everyone of the city’s holiday stroll (Saturday, November 29) with trolleys and a tree lighting at 4:30 PM. - Many councillors wished everyone a Happy Thanksgiving. Key Outcomes - Continued Item 4A to December 11, 2025. - Approved special permit (Item 4B) for 49-51 Lowell Street with conditions (10-0). - Approved the fee listing from late communication 2 (10-0). - Adopted Item 10A as advertised (10-0). - Initiated a report on parking fees (Chapter 19) for upcoming budget. - Directed DPS to request street light installation at 32 Aberdeen Avenue. - Meeting adjourned.

The Peabody Planning Board convened on November 20, 2025, at 7 p.m. in City Hall Wigan Auditorium. The meeting began with the approval of minutes, which were not printed and were carried to the next meeting. The board then addressed two continued items: an endorsement of an AR plan for 1-3 Circle and a continuance request for 103 Foster Street. Discussion Items - 1-3 Circle AR Plan: Attorney John Kelty presented a revised plan showing easements for the electric light pole, as requested at the previous meeting (November 6, 2025). Board members discussed the location of the easements—noting they are small squares in the middle of the lot—and raised potential future issues if the properties, currently under common ownership, are sold separately. Kelty explained there is no immediate intent to record the plan. A motion was made to endorse the plan dated November 10, 2025. The vote was unanimous. - 103 Foster Street: Attorney Kelty requested a further continuance to December 4, 2025, to allow time to respond to the peer review memorandum from the Department of Public Services, which was received the day before. The board granted the continuance unanimously. (Note: The transcript recorded the requested date as "December 4th, 2024," but given the meeting date in 2025, this appears to be a verbal slip; the intended continuation is to December 4, 2025.) Key Outcomes - Unanimous approval of the AR plan for 1-3 Circle (plan dated November 10, 2025). - Unanimous grant of continuance for 103 Foster Street to the December 4, 2025 meeting. - Meeting adjourned unanimously.

The evening began with the Municipal Safety Committee, followed by the Finance Committee, and then the regular City Council meeting. Key topics included an intersection safety update, e-bike enforcement challenges, parking violations near intersections, budget transfers for bike path projects, and several special permit hearings. Public Comments & Testimony - Leslie Cordemanch (210 Washington Street) expressed concerns about e-bikes ridden by children, lack of helmet use, and dangerous behavior on sidewalks and streets. She advocated for registration and age requirements. Discussion Items Intersection of Lowell, King, and Endicott Streets - Captain Richards presented accident data from 2020–2025: 2020: 9, 2021: 11, 2022: 14, 2023: 7–8, 2024: 4, 2025: 6. The 2025 accidents included three rear-enders (driver inattention), two impatient left turns, and one e-bike collision. Improvements (lane striping, new mast arm traffic lights) were credited with reducing accidents. Councillors expressed support for the investment. E-Bikes Enforcement - Captain Richards explained that e-bikes are not classified as motor vehicles but as bicycles, and are prohibited on all sidewalks (downtown main streets have bicycle sidewalk bans). Three classes exist (Class 1 & 2: 20 mph, Class 3: 28 mph). Enforcement is difficult due to riders fleeing, police safety concerns about pursuits, and staffing shortages. The Independence Greenway lacks clear e-bike ordinances; Jennifer Davis (Parks & Rec) prefers e-bikes be prohibited there. Councillors discussed registration, education, parental responsibility, and using business security cameras for identification. The committee agreed to work on ordinance amendments to address e-bikes on the bike path. - Councillor Welton noted older adults using e-bikes assistively and suggested not banning all e-bikes. - Councillor Melville recommended a reporting mechanism to identify rider homes. Parking Too Close to Intersections - Captain Richards confirmed the 20-foot no-parking law (ticket $50). Enforcement is hampered by staffing, but a concerted ticketing effort will be made. Councillor Peach made a motion (approved later) to request a city solicitor opinion on empowering the fire department to issue tickets for parking violations near hydrants and intersections. Councillor McGinn highlighted impacts on trash truck access in narrow streets. Key Outcomes - Municipal Safety Committee (vote later in full council): Motion to request city solicitor opinion on fire department parking enforcement powers passed. - Finance Committee: - Approved transfer of $160,000 from CPC open space to CPC Bikeway Independence Greenway Extension Project (unanimous, 5-0 committee, later 10-0 full council). - Approved transfer of $160,000 from CPC unreserved fund balance to CPC open space (unanimous). - Regular Council – Special Permit Hearings: - Item 4A (Kitty's Nail Spa, 5 Andover St): Approved 10-0, Monday–Sunday 9:30am–7pm. - Item 4B (Brennan Buckley yoga/Pilates, 635 Lowell St): Approved 10-0 with condition of hours 5am–9pm daily. - Item 4C (Pujal Shresta liquor wholesale, 119 Rear Foster St): Approved 9-0 (Councillor Melville recused) with conditions including no blocking right-of-way, trash inside, IPM plan, hours 10am–6pm daily. - Item 4D (288 Washington St LLC dental, Saturday hours): Approved 10-0 to amend special permit allowing Saturday 9am–4pm. - Item 4E (Tedisco Towing, class 2 license, 147A Summit St): Approved 10-0 with condition of no more than 10 used cars on lot. - Items 4F, 4G, 4H: Continued to November 25, 2025 or withdrawn as noted. - Motions, Orders, Resolutions: - Approved special event application for Brazil Brazilia Research Foundation 5K run (9/19/2025) 10-0. - Approved special event City of Peabody Holiday Stroll (11/29/2025). - Approved utility contract license for New England Construction Managers. - Approved various ordinance amendments for stop signs and parking restrictions (roll call votes). - Approved communication from building commissioner transferring special permit (8B). - Denied community development department request to stop sending project communications to council (8-0). - Several co-motions for curb repair, parking signage, erosion review, and traffic studies referred to DPS and police. - Reports of Committees: Presented by Councillor Manning Martin (Safety) and Councillor McGinn (Finance). - Adjournment: Motion carried.