Development News for Beverly, Massachusetts

City Council Approves Major Free Cash Transfers for FY27 Budget, Capital Projects, and Operational Needs

The City Council reviewed and approved several budget-related transfers from the city's certified free cash balance to various funds, including capital improvements, snow and ice removal, and post-employment benefits. Mayor Cahill presented the proposed fiscal year 2027 operating budget, highlighting investments in schools and staffing reductions, with the budget relying on a finalized trash fee increase. Council discussed the allocation of free cash, maintaining a balance of 3-8% of the annual operating budget, and the sustainability of funding for roads and sidewalks. A significant portion of free cash was allocated to paving projects, snow and ice removal costs from the past winter, and to the OPEB Trust fund to cover future retiree benefits.

City Council Approves $1.6 Million for New Trash Carts Amidst Resident Concerns

The City Council approved a transfer of $1.6 million from the city's certified free cash balance to purchase, assemble, and deliver new trash carts for residents. This purchase is in preparation for the city's new fully automated trash and recycling collection contract with Casella, which begins on July 1st. Residents have been informed about options to opt down to smaller trash carts or opt up to larger ones, with deadlines for changes extended to August 15th. Concerns were raised by residents and council members about the communication process, the timing of the purchase before all resident needs are finalized, the disposal of old carts, and the potential for unused carts. Mayor Cahill addressed concerns regarding cart allocation for multi-family units and assured that Casella would manage cart assembly and distribution, and purchase excess carts from the city. The vote to approve the cart purchase passed 8-1.

Residents Voice Concerns Over Budget Process, Trash Contract, and Communication

During the City Council meeting, a resident, Kayla McCauley, expressed concerns about the process leading up to the trash contract vote and the proposed budget. McCauley highlighted a perceived lack of communication between the mayor and the superintendent of schools prior to the budget discussion and questioned the rush in passing the trash contract before the school budget was finalized. The resident urged the council to examine the process to identify areas for improvement and ensure greater transparency and proactivity in community matters, particularly given the city's 400th anniversary. Another resident, Aisha Siddecki, reiterated a previous request to amend council rules to allow residents to state their ward instead of their address for safety and to encourage participation from marginalized groups, citing the trash fee meeting as an example where she felt unsafe speaking without anonymity.

Street Renamed 'Matt Ziegler Way' to Honor Inventor's Impact on Beverly's Industrial History

The City Council held a public hearing and voted to approve the naming of the road leading into Beverly Golf and Tennis as Matt Ziegler Way, in honor of Jan Ernst Matt Ziegler. Ziegler was an inventor whose automatic shoe-lasting machine revolutionized the footwear industry and contributed to the growth of the shoe industry on the North Shore, including in Beverly through the United Shoe Machinery Corporation. Speakers emphasized that naming the road honors not only a remarkable inventor but also recognizes his significant impact on the industrial legacy that shaped Beverly. The decision also serves to correct historical omissions in recognition, particularly for a Black immigrant inventor who faced systemic barriers during his time.