Development News for Peabody, Massachusetts

City Council Approves New Trash Fee and Water/Sewer Rate Increases

The City Council finance committee discussed and ultimately voted to approve a new trash fee ordinance. The proposed fee of $200 per dwelling unit for residential structures of four units or less was established to take effect on July 1, 2026. The fee aims to stabilize the city's finances, avoid larger tax increases, and maintain essential services. Several amendments and considerations were discussed, including discounts for seniors, veterans, and individuals with disabilities, as well as exemptions for properties with alternative waste disposal methods. A five-year freeze on the fee was included in the ordinance, set to expire on June 30, 2031. The committee also addressed water and sewer rate increases, approving an 8% water and sewer rate hike for FY2027, followed by 5% increases for FY2028 and FY2029. An administrative fee of $25 per quarter for residential accounts and $50 per quarter for commercial accounts was also approved. The early payment discount for water bills was removed, and the committee voted to repeal the section of the ordinance related to it.