Lawrence public meetings in 2025

Licensing Board

The Lawrence Licensing Board will consider two applications for one-day all-alcohol licenses. The board will also review incident reports regarding underage drinking and a disturbance, and one request to change a business address.

• One-day all-alcohol license application for Pig and Pork INC at 5-9 Mill St.
• One-day all-alcohol license application for St Joseph Church at 241 Hampshire St.
• Incident report #25006466 regarding underage drinking at Punta Cana (592-594 Essex St.).
• Incident report #25006046 regarding a disturbance at Flow Lounge.
• Address change request for Luzon LLC from 276 Essex St. to 76 Bennington St.

Greater Lawrence Sanitary District

The Greater Lawrence Sanitary District commission will consider several routine items, including payment of invoices and approval of the November 19, 2025 meeting minutes. They will receive an update on the request for qualifications for a community assessment study and discuss meeting dates for 2026. The key decision is a vote on transferring capital projects related to a Vac Truck B.

• Payment of invoices (item 2)
• Approval of November 19, 2025 board meeting minutes (item 3)
• Update on RFQ for Community Assessment Study (item 4)
• Discussion and vote on meeting dates for 2026 (item 5)
• Discussion and vote on Capital Projects Transfer for Vac Truck B (item 6)

City Council

The Lawrence City Council will review several budget authorizations, including a $268,180 grant to secure 204 beds for winter shelter and warming centers and a $250,000 waste‑reduction project for a hazardous‑waste facility. The agenda also contains a rezoning proposal to change land off Bay State Road and Jordan Street from General Industrial to Open Space Recreation. Additional items include utility pole installations on Mt Vernon Street and a transfer of $124,253 from the free‑cash fund to uniform replacement.

• $268,180 grant award to secure 204 winter shelter and warming‑center beds (Budget & Finance Committee)
• $250,000 authorization for Waste Reduction Project for a permanent household hazardous waste facility
• $124,253 transfer from Free Cash to Uniform Replacement (Fire Department)
• Rezoning a portion of city land off Bay State Road and Jordan Street from General Industrial (I‑2) to Open Space Recreation (OCR)
• Install one JO pole and one mid‑span pole on Mt Vernon St at Crestwood Circle (National Grid, public hearing Jan 20 2026)

City Council

The Lawrence City Council will consider authorizing a $250,000 expenditure for a permanent household hazardous waste facility and approve various budget transfers, including $144,000 for water and sewer asset management and $268,180 for winter shelter beds. The meeting will be hybrid, held at City Hall on December 16, 2025.

• Authorize $250,000 for Waste Reduction Project
• Approve $144,000 Asset Management Planning Grant
• Authorize $268,180 for Winter Overnight Shelter
• Approve $124,253 transfer from Free Cash to Uniform Replacement
• Approve $72,818.90 transfer from Free Cash to Motor Vehicles

Board of Health

The Lawrence Local Board of Health will approve minutes from the November 18 meeting, receive a public health update from Dr. Gorn, and hear a tobacco product sales report. New business includes a proposal for Planet Fitness at 280 Merrimack St and a paramedical tattooing business, as well as tobacco permit suspension hearings for four market locations. All items listed under old business are tabled. The meeting will also schedule the next Board of Health session.

• Tobacco permit suspension hearing – 296-296A Lawrence Street, Raquel’s Supermarket (File #TOB24-000065)
• Tobacco permit suspension hearing – 158-162 Union Street, Camila Market dba El Barrio Market (File #TOB24-000082)
• Tobacco permit suspension hearing – 117 Newbury Street, Jimenez Supermarket (File #TOB24-000079)
• Tobacco permit suspension hearing – 352 Hampshire Street, Blanco Arriba Meat Market (File #TOB24-000081)
• Proposed Planet Fitness at 280 Merrimack St (includes tanning facility and prepackaged food items)

Budget & Finance Committee

The Budget & Finance Committee will consider several financial actions, including transfers from the Free Cash account and authorizations to expend grant funds. Items include a $268,180 grant to secure 204 beds for winter overnight shelters and warming centers, a $144,000 asset management planning grant with matching funds, and a proposal for AI-enabled drone and gunshot detection technology. The committee will also review collective bargaining agreements for SEIU Local 888 with associated fund transfers. Decisions will affect city departments such as Fire, Police, Water and Sewer, and DPW.

• 467/25 – Transfer $124,253.00 from Free Cash to Uniform Replacement (012211-5581) – Fire Department (Patrick Delaney)
• 468/25 – Transfer $72.818.90 from Free Cash to Motor Vehicles (012230-5853) – Fire Department (Patrick Delaney)
• 469/25 – Authorization to expend $144,000 for Asset Management Planning Grant CWSFR No. 18979, with $66,000 cash match and $30,000 in‑kind services – Water and Sewer (William C. Hale III)
• 470/25 – Program proposal for AI‑enabled drone and gunshot detection technology for public safety – Police Department (Rosa Shephard)
• 471/25 – Authorization to expend $268.180 Grant Award from Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities to secure 204 beds for winter overnight shelter and warming centers – Homeless Initiatives (Milagro Grullon)

Lawrence Alliance for Education [LAE]

The Lawrence Alliance for Education board meeting will consider several votes, including the superintendent’s evaluation and a new Career Technical Education (CTE) policy for middle schools. Committee reports on policy, budget, finance, and curriculum will be presented, followed by a superintendent report on assessments, uniform policy, and facilities. Public comment will be accepted before the votes, and the meeting will adjourn after the decisions are recorded.

• Vote on Superintendent’s Evaluation
• Vote on Middle School Career Technical Education (CTE) Policy
• Vote on Policy Book Update: Sections A‑C
• Vote on Facilities Rental
• Vote on Donation to Parthum Middle School from XtremeCraze

Ordinance & Intergovernmental Relations Committee

The Ordinance & Intergovernmental Relations Committee will review several parking proposals, including resident parking on Lansdowne Court and child‑care parking at 556 Howard St. It will also consider removing handicapped parking spaces on 76 Inman Street and 25 Durham Street. Additionally, the committee will vote on a resolution honoring Gustavo Varela, a Lawrence Tech student‑athlete. All items are scheduled for the Dec 9, 2025 meeting.

• 474/25 Resident Parking — Lansdowne Court
• 475/25 Child Care Parking — 556 Howard St (Prince and Princess Daycare)
• 476/25 Remove Handicapped Parking — 76 Inman Street
• 477/25 Remove Handicapped Parking — 25 Durham Street
• 478/25 Resolution Honoring Gustavo Varela, Lawrence Tech student‑athlete

Lawrence Housing Authority [LHA]

The Lawrence Housing Authority will hold its regular meeting on Tuesday, December 9, 2025 at 5:15 p.m. at the Authority office, 353 Elm Street, Lawrence, MA. The notice does not list any specific agenda items or decisions to be made at this meeting.

Lawrence Housing Authority [LHA]

The Lawrence Housing Authority will hold a public hearing on December 9, 2025, to review its Proposed Annual Plan for Fiscal Year 2027. The plan includes a capital improvement plan, maintenance schedule, and operating budget, and residents can submit comments before the hearing.

• Public hearing on Proposed Annual Plan for Fiscal Year 2027
• Review of Proposed Capital Improvement Plan (5-year)
• Review of Proposed Maintenance and Repair Plan
• Review of Current Operating Budget
• Public comments accepted until hearing closes

Prospect Hill Historical District Commission

The Prospect Hill Historical District Commission is meeting to review requests for Certificates of Appropriateness. Both requests are related to the Lawrence Lead Paint Program.

• Certificate of Appropriateness request for 10 Oakwood Avenue
• Certificate of Appropriateness request for 91-95 East Haverhill Street

City Council

The Lawrence City Council will hold public hearings on several handicapped and child care parking requests and longevity pay for employees. The body will also consider new proposals for AI-enabled drone and gunshot detection technology and various grant expenditures.

• Proposal for A.I. Enabled Drone and Gunshot Detection Technology for Public Safety
• Authorization to expend $268,180 grant for 204 winter overnight shelter and warming center beds
• Appropriation transfer of $537,382.67 from Retained Earnings to Airport Accounts
• Authorization to expend $256,500 in MASS Save Grant Funds
• Rezoning of city land off Bay State Road and Jordan Street from General Industrial (I-2) to Open Space Recreation (OCR)

The Lawrence City Council approved three budget items, including a $537,382.67 transfer to airport accounts, a $256,500 MASS Save grant, and a $50,000 handball‑court grant. It also passed motions to table three documents, to re‑open public participation, and to let the City Attorney respond to an Open Meeting Law complaint. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved $537,382.67 airport appropriation transfer (unanimous)
• Approved $256,500 MASS Save grant expenditure (unanimous)
• Approved $50,000 FY26 handball‑court grant (unanimous)
• Motion to table three documents passed (unanimous)
• Motion to re‑open public participation passed (unanimous)
• Motion to allow City Attorney to respond to state on OML complaint passed (unanimous)

City Council

The Lawrence City Council will vote on a motion to confirm the location of future council meetings as required by City Council Rule #2. No committee reports, public hearings, or other business are listed on the agenda. The meeting itself will be held in person at South Lawrence East School Auditorium, 165 Crawford Street, and will also be available via a Zoom link.

• Vote to confirm location of upcoming City Council meetings (Rule #2) – presented by Council President Jeovanny Rodriguez

The council suspended Rules #6 and #12 to bypass committee referral. It then suspended Rule #2 to change the meeting location to 165 Crawford Street, SLE School. The meeting was adjourned after the motions passed.

• Suspended Rules #6 & 12 (YES: 8, Absent: 1) – passed
• Suspended Rule #2 to move meeting to 165 Crawford Street, SLE School (YES: 8, Absent: 1) – passed
• Adjourned meeting (YES: 8, Absent: 1) – passed

Conservation Commission

The commission will consider a request for determination for a project at 577‑595 ½ Broadway submitted by Greenman‑Pederson, Inc. on behalf of Cafua Management Company. The commission will also review a notice of intent for a project at 20 International Way submitted by Zenzo Matogo for Impact Church, Inc., referenced by DEP File No. 195‑0226. No other agenda items are listed.

• Request for determination – 577‑595 ½ Broadway (Greenman‑Pederson, Inc. for Cafua Management Company)
• Notice of intent – 20 International Way (Zenzo Matogo for Impact Church, Inc., DEP File No. 195‑0226)
• Board business – correspondence and adjournment

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hear petitions for special permits and site plan approvals for four new projects. The meeting also includes continued cases for properties on S. Broadway and Haverhill St.

• 280 Haverhill St: Proposed 4-story, 27-unit multifamily building
• 262-278 Lowell St: Proposed 6-story mixed-use building and 11-story residential building with parking garage
• 49 Blanchard St: Proposed redevelopment of existing structure into a 61-unit multi-family residential building
• 435-435A Winthrop Ave: Site Plan Approval to use retail space as a dine-in restaurant
• Continued cases for 132-134 S. Broadway and 125 Haverhill St

Licensing Board

The Lawrence Licensing Board will meet to discuss several new and transferred license applications. The board is reviewing requests for alcohol licenses and a wholesale license.

• Wholesale to Wholesale License application for Elite Drive PC at 375 Common St.
• One Day All Alcohol License application for St Anthony Maronite Church at 70 Lawrence St. for December 12-14, 2025.
• License transfer application from My Family Mini Market to El Primo Mini Market Corporation at 251 Ferry St.
• New All Alcohol License application for Colonial Sports Bar INC. (DBA Barahona Sports Bar) at 283 Broadway.

Lawrence School Committee

The Lawrence School Committee will hold a hybrid meeting to receive public comments, hear reports from its sub‑committees, and review several pending items. Among the items are updates on the district’s strategic plan, graduation requirements, and curriculum proposals. The committee will also discuss the FY26 budget for Lawrence Public Schools. New business includes an update to the committee’s rules.

• 2025 LPS FY26 budget proposal – Committeeman Guzman & Committeewoman Mariano
• 2025 Graduation Requirements Proposal for Lawrence Public Schools – Committeeman Guzman
• 2025 Proposal: Integration of Financial Literacy Courses into LPS Curriculum – Committeeman Roa
• 2025 Update to Rules of the Lawrence School Committee – Committeeman Guzman
• 2025 LAE Amendment to Section E: Support Services – Immigration and Customs Enforcement Request – Committeeman Guzman

City Council

The Lawrence City Council meeting on Dec 2, 2025 will consider a range of items including budget transfers, grant authorizations, rezoning, and public‑safety initiatives. A key item is the authorization to expend $268,180 from a grant awarded by the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities to secure 204 beds for the city’s winter overnight shelter and warming centers. Other notable actions include transferring $124,253.00 from the free‑cash fund to uniform replacement and $72,818.90 to motor‑vehicle expenses for the fire department, and rezoning land off Bay State Road and Jordan Street from General Industrial to Open Space Recreation. The council will also hear multiple public‑hearing items on handicapped parking and other traffic matters.

• Auth to expend $268,180 grant for 204 winter shelter beds – Milagro Grullon, Homeless Initiatives Coordinator
• Transfer $124,253.00 from FREE CASH to Uniform Replacement – Patrick Delaney, Fire Chief
• Transfer $72,818.90 from FREE CASH to Motor Vehicles – Patrick Delaney, Fire Chief
• Rezoning off Bay State Road and Jordan Street from General Industrial (I‑2) to Open Space Recreation – Dan McCarthy, Acting Planning Director
• Appropriation transfer $537,382.67 from Retained Earnings to various airport accounts – Francisco Urena, Airport Manager

City Council

The regular meeting of the Lawrence City Council scheduled for Tuesday, December 2, 2025 was cancelled. As a result, none of the listed agenda items will be voted on or acted upon. The agenda had included public hearings on handicapped parking, committee reports, and several financial transfers and authorizations. Residents should note that no decisions will be made at this meeting.

• Rezoning a portion of city land off Bay State Road and Jordan Street from General Industrial to Open Space Recreation
• Transfer $124,253.00 from FREE CASH to Uniform Replacement
• Authorization to expend $144,000 for Asset Management Planning Grant with $66,000 cash match and $30,000 in‑kind services
• Authorization to expend $268,180 grant to secure 204 beds for winter overnight shelter and warming centers
• Transfer $72,818.90 from FREE CASH to Motor Vehicles

Ordinance & Intergovernmental Relations Committee

The Ordinance & Intergovernmental Relations Committee will consider a request to re‑zone the parcel at 128 Parker Street from R‑2 to B‑1. Several new handicapped parking designations are on the agenda, including 446 Haverhill St, 41 Juniper St, and 15 Brook Street. The committee will also review the installation of a JO pole on Beacon Street near Andover Street. Items from prior meetings remain tabled for future consideration.

• 458/25 – Re‑zone 128 Parker Street (Map 101, Parcel 101‑55) from R‑2 to B‑1
• 459/25 – Handicapped parking request for 446 Haverhill St
• 460/25 – Handicapped parking request for 41 Juniper St
• 461/25 – Handicapped parking request for 15 Brook Street
• 464/25 – Install JO pole on Beacon Street near Andover Street (REF # 31204878)

Retirement Board

The Retirement Board will conduct an annual PRIM review and process superannuation requests for seven individuals. The board will also address a tabled item regarding a Cola Base Increase and review monthly expenses and warrants.

• Annual PRIM review
• Superannuation requests for Heather Abreu, Felix Garcia, Porfirio Matias, Robert DiBenedetto, Elizabeth Olivier, James Bizeur, and John Dushame
• Tabled item: Cola Base Increase
• PRIT wire redemption
• Monthly expenses warrants

Lawrence Alliance for Education [LAE]

The Lawrence Alliance for Education will meet to discuss and vote on collective bargaining matters. The body is also scheduled to vote on a Middle School Career Technical Education (CTE) policy.

• Vote on Collective Bargaining
• Vote on Middle School Career Technical Education (CTE) Policy
• Executive session regarding Collective Bargaining

Budget & Finance Committee

The Budget and Finance Committee is considering several funding authorizations and a tax increment exemption agreement. The body is also reviewing a large list of tabled items dating back to 2015, including the FY26 municipal budget.

• Appropriation transfer of $537,382.67 from Retained Earnings to airport accounts
• Authorization to expend $256,500 in MASS Save Grant Funds
• Tax Increment Exemption (TIE) Agreement for 216 Canal Street LLC
• Authorization to expend $50,000 for FY26 Earmark Grant for handball courts
• Authorization to expend $250,000 for a permanent household hazardous waste facility

Library Trustees

The Lawrence Library Board of Trustees will approve the October 30, 2025 meeting minutes. Trustees will hear the Director’s Report. The board will review and vote on updates to the Meeting Room Policy, a Passport Application Agency Site proposal, and revisions to subcommittee structures and the Board of Trustees bylaws.

• Approve October 30, 2025 meeting minutes
• Director’s Report
• Review and approve Meeting Room Policy update (2/27/2025)
• Review Passport Application Agency Site proposal (5/1/2025)
• Discuss new subcommittees and revise Board of Trustees bylaws (10/30/2025)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings to review dimensional variance requests for residential projects. The board will consider new cases and continued items regarding property development and lot subdivisions.

• Petition for 27-unit residential building at 280 Haverhill St
• Petition for 1,860 sq. ft. single family home at 327 High St
• Petition to subdivide lot and construct a single-family dwelling at 11 Tewksbury St
• Continued items for 414-420 Essex St, 10-12 McKinley Ave, and 11 Devonshire St
• New cases for 132-134 S. Broadway, 5B Stevens St, and 12 Saratoga St

The board approved a 27‑unit residential building at 280 Haverhill Street with conditions. It denied applications at 414‑420 Essex Street and 11 Devonshire Street. It withdrew the 10‑12 McKinley Street application without prejudice. Several other cases were continued for further work.

• Denied 414‑420 Essex St (2‑3)
• Withdrawn without prejudice 10‑12 McKinley St (5‑0)
• Denied 11 Devonshire St (1‑4)
• Continued 132‑134 S. Broadway (5‑0)
• Continued 5B Stevens St (5‑0)
• Approved 280 Haverhill St (5‑0)
• Continued 327 High St (5‑0)
• Continued 11 Tewksbury St (5‑0)

Airport Commission

The Lawrence Municipal Airport Commission will receive routine reports from its Finance, Lease, and Airport Security committees. Commissioners will approve the minutes from the October 16, 2025 meeting. The commission will request a status update on the Certificate of Completion filing for the Northeast Storage Facility. They will discuss the land‑use change proposal for the airport’s north parcel that borders the Merrimack River, based on a review by Stantec Inc.

• Approve minutes from the October 16, 2025 meeting
• Finance, Lease, and Airport Security Procedures reports
• Status update request on Certificate of Completion filing for Northeast Storage Facility
• Discussion of land‑use change proposal for the north parcel of the airport abutting the Merrimack River (Stantec Inc. review)
• Airport Manager’s report for 135 North Ramp Road

Bellevue Cemetery Board

The Bellevue Cemetery Board will review routine reports, accept the September 3, 2025 meeting minutes, and address unfinished business items. New business includes planning the Christmas Tree Lighting on December 7, 2025, and the distribution of Christmas wreaths on December 1, 2025. The meeting will conclude with scheduling the next board meeting for January 15, 2025.

• Acceptance of September 3, 2025 meeting minutes
• Unfinished Business: Receiving Tomb
• Unfinished Business: Horse Driven Hearst
• Christmas Tree Lighting scheduled for Sunday, December 7, 2025 at 3:45 pm
• Christmas wreath distribution on December 1, 2025

Greater Lawrence Sanitary District

The Greater Lawrence Sanitary District Commission will vote on paying outstanding invoices, including an AECOM invoice dated November 6, 2025. It will also approve the minutes from the October 29, 2025 board meeting and receive updates on the RFQ for a community assessment study, capital projects, and the Executive Director’s report.

• Payment of invoices (including AECOM invoice dated Nov 6 2025 for construction engineering services)
• Approval of October 29 2025 regular board meeting minutes
• Update on RFQ for Community Assessment Study
• Capital projects update
• Executive Director’s report

City Council

The November 18 meeting includes public hearings on the proposed anti‑camping ordinance and the FY 2026 property tax classification, as well as reviews of pending stop‑sign and parking requests. Council members will vote on allocating $2,316,507.60 from free cash for a Department of Public Works capital improvement project, transferring $500,000 from ARPA funds to the Lawrence Food Resiliency Fund, moving $537,382.67 from retained earnings to airport accounts, and authorizing $256,500 from a MASS Save grant. Additional items include a rezoning request for 128 Parker Street, approval of a tax increment exemption for 216 Canal Street LLC, and several handicapped‑parking designations.

• Allocate $2,316,507.60 from free cash for DPW Capital Improvement Project (Item 340/25)
• Appropriation Transfer $500,000 from ARPA Funds to Lawrence Food Resiliency Fund (Item 450/25)
• Appropriation Transfer $537,382.67 from Retained Earnings to various airport accounts (Item 454/25)
• Authorize expenditure of $256,500 from MASS Save Grant Funds (Item 455/25)
• Public hearing on Proposed “Anti‑Camping” Ordinance (Item 551/24)

The council approved a $2,316,507.60 allocation from free cash for the Department of Public Works capital improvement project. It also approved a $680,038 federal REACH grant and a $226,944 Elder Affairs formula grant, each by unanimous voice vote. Earlier, the council suspended rules to pull three school‑committee appointment items, tabled them, then reinstated and approved the DPW funding and grant items.

• Approved $2,316,507.60 DPW capital improvement allocation (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved $680,038 REACH grant from Federal Dept of Health and Human Services (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved $226,944 formula grant from Executive Office of Elder Affairs (unanimous voice vote)
• Motion to suspend rules and pull three school‑committee appointment items (7‑0; 2 absent)
• Motion to table the three school‑committee items (unanimous voice vote)
• Motion to untable DOC #340/25 (unanimous voice vote)
• Motion to approve DOC #340/25 (unanimous voice vote)

City Council

The Lawrence City Council will hold a public hearing on November 18, 2025 at the South Lawrence East School Auditorium, 165 Crawford Street, at 7:00 p.m. The hearing will gather testimony and input on a proposed split tax rate that would shift the FY 2026 property tax burden between residential properties and commercial, industrial, and personal property classes. Taxpayers may present comments in person or submit written comments to the City Clerk’s office at 200 Common Street, Room 107, by 5:00 p.m. on the same day.

• Public hearing on FY 2026 property tax classification (split tax rate)
• Proposed shift of tax burden between residential and commercial/industrial/personal property classes
• Written comments accepted until 5:00 p.m. Nov 18, 2025 at City Clerk’s office, 200 Common Street, Room 107
• Venue: South Lawrence East School Auditorium, 165 Crawford Street, 7:00 p.m.

Board of Health

The Lawrence Board of Health will receive a public health update and a report on tobacco activities. The board is scheduled to discuss a water quality report and three business proposals. Several items regarding property violations and hookah regulations remain tabled.

• Water Quality Report from the Executive Director of the Merrimack River Watershed Council
• Mobile Phlebotomy Business Proposal from AS Precision Labs
• Paramedical Tattooing Business Proposal from Renew’d Skin
• Proposed Planet Fitness at 280 Merrimack St including tanning and prepackaged food
• Tobacco Product Sales updates from Tobacco Control Director Cesar Pungirum

Personnel Committee

The Personnel and Administration Committee will review applicants and select an appointee for a School Committee Member position. This item is presented by Personnel Director Caryl Garcia and is expected to involve an executive session.

• Review of applicants and selection of appointee for School Committee Member

Personnel Committee

The Personnel Committee will review applicants and choose appointees for three School Committee positions: Education, Finance, and Legal. These selections will be made in an executive session. The agenda also notes several items that were tabled from previous meetings.

• Review applicants and select appointee for School Committee Member – Education
• Review applicants and select appointee for School Committee Member – Finance
• Review applicants and select appointee for School Committee Member – Legal

Budget & Finance Committee

The Budget & Finance Committee will consider several authorizations to expend and transfer funds, including a $680,038 REACH grant from the Federal Dept of Health and Human Services, a $226,944 formula grant from the Executive Office of Elder Affairs, a $9,000 Title III grant, a $400,000 appropriation transfer to Legal Services for litigation, a $209.70 Amazon invoice payment, and a $500,000 ARPA transfer to the Lawrence Food Resiliency Fund. All items are listed under New Business for this meeting.

• $680,038 REACH Grant authorization (Federal Dept of Health and Human Services)
• $226,944 Formula Grant from the Executive Office of Elder Affairs
• $400,000 appropriation transfer from Stabilization Reserve Fund to Legal Services for litigation
• $500,000 ARPA transfer to the Lawrence Food Resiliency Fund
• $209.70 payment of prior year Amazon invoice

Ordinance & Intergovernmental Relations Committee

The Ordinance & Intergovernmental Relations Committee will meet virtually on November 12, 2025. Members Marc Laplante, Celina Reyes, and Gregory Delrosario will discuss extending Contract #8012/8012A with the Resource Development Team for a term longer than three years. The agenda also includes several parking ordinance actions and utility pole installations.

• 436/25 – Extend Contract #8012/8012A with Resource Development Team for a term longer than three years
• 437/25 – Handicapped Parking at 197 Crawford Street
• 445/25 – Install JO Pole on East Haverhill Street near Young Avenue (REF #31197559)
• 443/25 – Child Care Parking at 11 Platt Street
• 417/25 – Dedicate square honoring Lt. Margaret Sheehan at the intersection of Saratoga and Lawrence Streets

Lawrence Alliance for Education [LAE]

The Lawrence Alliance for Education will meet to vote on collective bargaining and updates to the policy book. The body will also consider a donation to Parthum Middle School and a Middle School Career Technical Education policy.

• Vote on Collective Bargaining
• Vote on Middle School Career Technical Education (CTE) Policy
• Vote on Policy Book Update: Sections A-C
• Vote on donation to Parthum Middle School from XtremeCraze
• Vote on Facilities Rental

Personnel Committee

The Lawrence Personnel Committee will review applicants and select appointees for three School Committee member positions: Education, Finance, and Legal. These selections are listed as items 451/25, 452/25, and 453/25 and are expected to be discussed in executive session. The meeting is conducted virtually via Zoom.

• 451/25 – Review applicants and select appointee for School Committee Member (Education)
• 452/25 – Review applicants and select appointee for School Committee Member (Finance)
• 453/25 – Review applicants and select appointee for School Committee Member (Legal)

Redevelopment Authority

The Lawrence Redevelopment Authority will meet to review the Facade Improvement Grant Program and discuss the allocation of $250,000 for small enterprises. The agenda includes updates on redevelopment projects, property sales, and a legal strategy session regarding the transfer of city property.

• LRA Gap Loan Program - $250,000 allocation
• LRA Self-Sufficiency & Credit Repair Program - $125,000 funding
• Technical Assistance Grant - $25,000 to Merrimack Valley Chamber of Commerce
• Sale of 300 Canal Street, Unit Hydro
• Discussion of legal strategy concerning transfer of city property to LRA

The Lawrence Redevelopment Authority conducted a workshop to review potential boundary changes and redevelopment ideas for the Urban Renewal Plan. Members discussed various sites and concepts, but no formal actions on the plan were taken. The meeting was then adjourned by a unanimous vote.

• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Redevelopment Authority

The Lawrence Redevelopment Authority Board will hold a workshop to review and discuss possible boundary changes and redevelopment opportunities in the Urban Renewal Area. The session will cover the planning process, identify key redevelopment sites, and consider how revised boundaries could support housing, economic development, and downtown revitalization. No formal action is scheduled for this meeting.

• Workshop to review Urban Renewal Area boundaries and redevelopment opportunities (no formal action)

The Lawrence Redevelopment Authority approved issuing requests for proposals for both the Credit Builder Loan Program and the Microenterprise Loan Program, authorizing the Executive Director to manage the procurement process. The board also accepted the corrected financial statements, approved the meeting minutes, and adjourned the meeting.

• Motion to move Executive Director's report to end of meeting – approved unanimously
• Motion to approve issuance of an RFP for the Credit Builder Loan Program – approved unanimously
• Motion to approve issuance of an RFP for the Microenterprise Loan Program – approved unanimously
• Motion to accept the financial statements with corrections – approved unanimously
• Motion to approve meeting minutes – approved unanimously
• Motion to adjourn the meeting – approved unanimously

Lawrence Housing Authority [LHA]

The Lawrence Housing Authority has scheduled a regular session for November 10, 2025. The provided agenda contains only procedural notice of the meeting and lists no specific discussion items or decisions.

City Council

The Lawrence City Council will consider several budget authorizations, including $405,377 for a 911 support grant and two $23,846 address‑verification grants. A rezoning proposal will move land off Bay State Road and Jordan Street from General Industrial to Open Space Recreation. The council will also hold public hearings on multiple handicapped and child‑care parking requests and vote on adopting a new floodplain map with an ordinance amendment.

• Approve $405,377 expenditure for PSAP 911 Support and Incentive Grant (Budget & Finance Committee).
• Approve two $23,846 expenditures for FY23 and FY24 SORB Address Verification Grants (Budget & Finance Committee).
• Rezoning a portion of city land off Bay State Road and Jordan Street from General Industrial (I‑2) to Open Space Recreation (Planning Director).
• Public hearings on handicapped and child‑care parking requests at locations such as Elizabeth Street, 1 Linden Street, 336 Howard St., 2 Fairmont St., and 80 Coolidge St.
• Adopt new FIRM Floodplain Map and amend the City’s Floodplain Management Ordinance (Chapter 15.32).

City Council

The November 6 meeting will consider approving a $4 million bond to acquire real‑property on Andover Street. Council members will also vote on rezoning a portion of Bay State Road and Jordan Street from General Industrial to Open Space Recreation. The Budget and Finance Committee will present an authorization to expend $405,377 for a PSAP 911 Support and Incentive Grant. A new Floodplain Map and amendment to the Floodplain Management Ordinance will be adopted. Additionally, the council will hold public hearings on multiple handicapped‑parking and child‑care‑parking requests across the city.

• Approve $4 M bond for purchase of real property on Andover Street – John Lavoie, GLTS Superintendent
• Rezoning Bay State Road and Jordan Street from General Industrial (I‑2) to Open Space Recreation – Dan McCarthy, Acting Planning Director
• Authorize $405,377 expenditure for PSAP 911 Support and Incentive Grant – Rosa M. Shepherd, Police Dept.
• Adopt new floodplain map and amend the Floodplain Management Ordinance – Daniel McCarthy, Planning Director
• Public hearings for numerous handicapped and child‑care parking sites (e.g., 361/23 Elizabeth St, 345/25 336 Howard St, 380/25 Erving Ave)

The City Council voted 7‑0 to amend the previously authorized $4,000,000 bond, allowing the funds to be used for a new medical‑oriented addition at the Greater Lawrence Technical School campus instead of purchasing the Elks Lodge property. The Council also approved three police‑related grant expenditures totaling $452,069 and adopted the meeting minutes unanimously. Motions to suspend the rules and to reconsider the bond amendment were each approved 7‑0 before the final amendment vote.

• Approved amendment to $4M GLTS bond for new facility (7 Yes, 1 Absent)
• Approved suspension of rules to reconsider bond amendment (7 Yes, 1 Absent)
• Approved motion to reconsider bond amendment (7 Yes, 1 Absent)
• Approved $405,377 PSAP 911 Support and Incentive Grant (7 Yes, 1 Absent)
• Approved $23,846 FY23 SORB Address Verification Grant (7 Yes, 1 Absent)
• Approved $23,846 FY24 SORB Address Verification Grant (7 Yes, 1 Absent)
• Approved the meeting minutes from September 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved motion to suspend rules and pull grant documents from Committee (7 Yes, 1 Absent)

Planning Board

The Lawrence Planning Board will consider two special‑permit petitions during its public meeting. Britos Management LLC proposes constructing four residential units atop a commercial space at 132‑134 S. Broadway, located in a B‑2 Business Zoning District. Esperanza Realty Corp proposes renovating a single‑family building into six residential units at 125 Haverhill St, also in a B‑2 Business Zoning District.

• Special permit petition by Britos Management LLC for 132‑134 S. Broadway to add four residential units atop a commercial space (B‑2 Business Zoning District).
• Special permit petition by Esperanza Realty Corp for 125 Haverhill St to convert a single‑family building into six residential units (B‑2 Business Zoning District).

Licensing Board

The Lawrence Licensing Board will hold roll call, approve the prior meeting's minutes, and consider three new license applications. Two applications request wholesale‑to‑wholesale licenses for auto‑sales businesses at 181 Canal St and 33 Water. The third seeks a common‑vicinity license for Solace Brazilian Steakhouse & Bar at 97‑101 Essex St, formerly El Cesar Restaurant.

• Wholesale‑to‑Wholesale License for Campos Auto Sales Inc., office space only, 181 Canal St.
• Wholesale‑to‑Wholesale License for Icelso Cars for Sale, office space only, 33 Water.
• Common Vic License for Solace Brazilian Steakhouse & Bar, 97‑101 Essex St (former El Cesar Restaurant).

Commission on Disability

The Lawrence Commission on Disability will meet to discuss accessibility improvements and staffing. The body is reviewing requests for reasonable accommodations and the status of various grants.

• Proposal to improve City Hall entrance accessibility
• Request for a ramp for a Bradford St. public housing resident
• Letter of support for Northeast Independent Living Program grant application
• Status of grant from Massachusetts Office on Disability
• Joint project with DPW to fund handicapped curb cut renovations

Library Trustees

The Library Board of Trustees will approve the minutes from the August 28, 2025 meeting. Trustees will review a request to approve the Library’s City Council Semi‑Annual Report. The board will discuss updates to the Meeting Room Policy and consider designating the Main Library as a secondary location for the Police and Fire Departments. Additional items include a strategic plan update and a passport application agency site proposal.

• Approve August 28, 2025 meeting minutes
• Approve Library’s City Council Semi‑Annual Report
• Review and approve updates to Meeting Room Policy
• Consider Main Library as secondary location for Police and Fire Departments
• Discuss Passport Application Agency Site proposal

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Lawrence Zoning Board of Appeals will consider several variance and special permit petitions at its public hearing on October 30, 2025. Items include residential dimensional and parking variances for properties on McKinley Ave, East Street, S. Broadway, Stevens St, and Saratoga St, as well as an industrial variance and special permit for New England Power Co. at 41 Glenn St. The board will decide whether to grant the requested changes to zoning requirements.

• Petition by Yahayra Almonte for a dimensional variance to build a two‑family dwelling (4,050 sq ft) on 10‑12 McKinley Ave (R‑2 zone)
• Petition by Ken Daher for a dimensional variance to build a single‑family dwelling (6,212 sq ft) on 11 Devonshire St (R‑2 zone)
• Petition by Britos Management LLC for a parking variance to build four units without parking at 132‑134 S. Broadway (B‑2 zone)
• Petition by Amauris Ovalles for parking and dimensional variances to build a three‑story, six‑unit building at 12 Saratoga St (R‑3 zone)
• Petition by New England Power Co. for a variance and special permit to resurface a 3.25‑acre laydown yard and add an 8 ft chain‑link fence at 41 Glenn St (I‑1 zone)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Lawrence Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing to consider several variance and special‑permit petitions. Petitioners request dimensional or parking variances for properties on McKinley Ave, Devonshire St, S. Broadway, Stevens St, Saratoga St, Glenn St, Common St, and Haverhill St. All requests involve changes to residential, business, or industrial zoning districts. The board will review the applications and gather public input.

• Yahayra Almonte – dimensional variance to subdivide 10‑12 McKinley Ave (R‑2) for a two‑family dwelling (4,050 sq ft)
• Ken Daher – dimensional variance to subdivide 11 Devonshire St (R‑2) for a single‑family dwelling (6,212 sq ft)
• Britos Management LLC – parking variance to build four units without parking at 132‑134 S. Broadway (B‑2)
• Amauris Ovalles – parking and dimensional variances for a three‑story, six‑unit building at 12 Saratoga St (R‑3)
• New England Power Co. – variance and special permit to resurface a 3.25‑acre laydown yard and add an 8 ft chain‑link fence at 41 Glenn St (I‑1)

The Zoning Board of Appeals voted on eleven items. Two petitions were continued, one was withdrawn with prejudice, and several projects were approved—some with conditions. Notably, the 71-75 Common Street development was approved pending a parking‑garage land purchase. All votes were unanimous (5‑0).

• Continued 414-420 Essex Street (5-0)
• Petition 89-95 Essex Street withdrawn with prejudice (5-0)
• Approved 8-10 Elm Street with 2 conditions (5-0)
• Approved 41 Glenn Street with no conditions (5-0)
• Approved 71-75 Common Street with parking‑garage condition (5-0)
• Approved 125 Haverhill Street with no conditions (5-0)
• Continued 10-12 McKinley Street (5-0)
• Continued 5B Stevens (5-0)

Retirement Board

The Lawrence Retirement Board will meet in person on October 29, 2025 at 8:30 AM. An executive session will address the matter of Theresa Fay’s accidental death, and new business includes superannuation items for Rafael Vega and Clifford Fairbanks, a legal contract covering 01/01/2026‑12/31/2032, a MACRS winter conference, and a quarterly update on the office budget. Tabled items include discussion of a Cola Base Increase and various financial and administrative matters such as make‑up payments, liability requests, retiree payroll, and approval of minutes.

• Legal Contract – effective 01/01/2026 to 12/31/2032
• Quarterly update on office budget
• Discussion of Cola Base Increase
• Superannuation matter for Rafael Vega
• Superannuation matter for Clifford Fairbanks

Greater Lawrence Sanitary District

The Greater Lawrence Sanitary District will discuss and vote on an amendment for engineering services with Kleinfelder. The body will also receive updates on a Community Assessment Study RFQ and capital projects.

• Vote on Amendment No. 11 with Kleinfelder for Engineering Services Related to Interceptor CCTV Inspections
• Discussion of Methuen/Lawrence Sewer Interconnections
• Update on RFQ for Community Assessment Study
• Payment of invoices, including an AECOM invoice for MCC/PC Upgrades Project construction engineering services

Ordinance & Intergovernmental Relations Committee

The Ordinance & Intergovernmental Relations Committee will consider a slate of new business items, including a street renaming, multiple handicapped and resident parking changes, and a dedication of a square honoring Lt. Margaret Sheehan. The meeting is conducted virtually and broadcast via Zoom, Facebook, and YouTube. Items that were previously tabled from earlier dates will also be reviewed.

• Rename a portion of Orchard Street to Jackson Terrace — Diomaris Nieves (428/25)
• Dedicate a square honoring Lt. Margaret Sheehan at Saratoga and Lawrence Streets — Councilors Vivian Marmol and Wendy Luzon (417/25)
• Remove handicapped parking at 18 Fulton Street — Felipe Hidalgo (425/25)
• Install JO Pole on Berkeley Street near Montgomery Street (REF #31193102) — Dave Johnson, National Grid (407/25)
• Resident parking designation on Saratoga Street between Stearns Ave and Arlington St — Councilors Celina Reyes and Gregory Delrosario (429/25)

Budget & Finance Committee

The committee will hold a public hearing on Fiscal Year 2026 property tax classifications. Members will also consider several grant expenditures for the Police Department and review a list of tabled items dating back to 2015.

• Public hearing for Fiscal Year 2026 Property Tax Classification
• Authorization to expend $405,377 for PSAP 911 Support and Incentive Grant
• Authorization to expend $23,846 for FY23 SORB Grant Address Verification Program
• Authorization to expend $23,846 for FY24 SORB Grant Address Verification Program
• Authorization to expend $250,000 for Waste Reduction Project household hazardous waste facility

Licensing Board

The Lawrence Licensing Board will consider three items of new business. Beraldi Enterprises seeks to transfer its liquor license to Route 28 LLC DBA Sam's Food Store, moving from 282 Merrimack St. to 383‑385 Broadway. Club 254 Sport Bar & Grille Inc. will surrender its liquor license for the premises at 168‑172 Broadway. La Nueva Empanada is applying for an entertainment license at 144‑146 So Union.

• License transfer request: LL25-000045 – Beraldi Enterprises to Route 28 LLC DBA Sam's Food Store (282 Merrimack St. → 383‑385 Broadway)
• License surrender: Club 254 Sport Bar & Grille Inc. ABCC License 06383‑RS‑0594 at 168‑172 Broadway
• Entertainment license application: ENT25-000005 – La Nueva Empanada at 144‑146 So Union

City Council

The Lawrence City Council meeting will consider several budget authorizations, including a $1,054,800 MVP Grant from the Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs, a $179,190.49 PSAP 911 Training Grant, and a $299,861 2026 Shannon Grant. Council members will also discuss a rezoning of land off Bay State Road and Jordan Street from General Industrial to Open Space Recreation, and adopt a new floodplain map with an amendment to the Floodplain Management Ordinance. Additional items include multiple parking and stop‑sign proposals and public‑safety grant authorizations.

• Authorization to expend $1,054,800 MVP Grant – Daniel McCarthy, Planning Director
• Authorization to expend $179,190.49 PSAP 911 Training Grant – Rosa M. Shepherd, Police Dept.
• Authorization to expend $299,861 2026 Shannon Grant – Rosa M. Shepherd, Police Dept.
• Rezoning a portion of city land off Bay State Road and Jordan Street from General Industrial (I‑2) to Open Space Recreation – Dan McCarthy, Acting Planning Director
• Adopt new FIRM Floodplain Map and amend the City’s Floodplain Management Ordinance – Daniel McCarthy, Planning Director

The council approved a $1,054,800 MVP grant to improve flood mitigation and waived the 30‑day hold. It also approved a donated police vehicle, a $179,190.49 911 training grant, a $299,861 Shannon grant, a $10,000 annual stipend for council members, and a $10,000 annual stipend for school‑committee members. All motions passed with seven yes votes and one absent member.

• Approved $1,054,800 MVP Grant (DOC #391/25) – passed (7 YES, 1 ABSENT)
• Approved donation of vehicle to Police Department (DOC #390/25) – passed (7 YES, 1 ABSENT)
• Approved motion to reconsider vehicle donation and send thank‑you letter (DOC #390/25) – passed (7 YES, 1 ABSENT)
• Approved $179,190.49 PSAP 911 Training Grant (DOC #397/25) – passed (7 YES, 1 ABSENT)
• Approved $299,861 2026 Shannon Grant (DOC #398/25) – passed (7 YES, 1 ABSENT)
• Approved $10,000 annual stipend contract for council members (DOC #394/25) – passed (7 YES, 1 ABSENT)
• Approved $10,000 annual stipend for school‑committee members (DOC #528/24) – passed (7 YES, 1 ABSENT)

Airport Commission

The commission will approve the minutes from its September 17 and October 3, 2025 meetings. It will receive reports from the Finance, Lease, and Airport Security committees and consider Falcon Air’s request for a license to use additional ramp space.

• Approve minutes from September 17, 2025 meeting
• Approve minutes from October 3, 2025 meeting
• Finance Committee report
• Lease Committee report
• Falcon Air request for additional ramp space license

Bellevue Cemetery Board

The Bellevue Cemetery Board will meet on Thursday, October 16, 2025 at 6:00 PM at the cemetery office, 170 May Street, Lawrence. The agenda includes routine reports, a review of financial statements, and unfinished business items such as receiving a tomb and a horse‑driven hearse. New business items cover planning the Christmas Tree Lighting on Sunday, December 7 at 3:45 PM and the Christmas wreath display on December 1, 2025. The next board meeting is scheduled for Thursday, November 20, 2025 at 6:00 PM.

• Receiving Tomb
• Horse‑driven Hearst
• Christmas Tree Lighting – Sunday Dec 7 at 3:45 pm
• Christmas Wreaths – Dec 1 2025

The Bellevue Cemetery Board approved adding a perpetual care fee, ranging from $300 to $500, to be charged on future grave sales. The board also decided to send cards and gift cards to support injured employee Carlos Espejo, continue searching for an antique appraiser and finalize insurance coverage, request detailed trust‑account deposit records, and obtain additional bids for cemetery cleanup work. The next meeting will be scheduled before Thanksgiving to accommodate scheduling conflicts.

• Approved perpetual care fee for future grave sales
• Approved sending cards and gift cards to injured employee Carlos Espejo
• Approved continuing search for qualified antique appraiser and finalizing insurance
• Approved request for detailed trust‑account deposit records from city financial staff
• Approved seeking additional competitive bids for cemetery cleanup
• Approved setting next meeting date before Thanksgiving

Redevelopment Authority

The Lawrence Redevelopment Authority is reviewing funding allocations for small enterprises and credit repair. The body will also discuss a solar project at Riverfront Industrial Park and the Director of Planning and Development Strategy position.

• Allocation of $250,000 for LRA Gap Loan Program to support small enterprises
• Funding of $125,000 for LRA Self-Sufficiency & Credit Repair Program
• $25,000 Technical Assistance Grant to the Merrimack Valley Chamber of Commerce
• Solar Voltaic Project at Riverfront Industrial Park, Parcel 6B-3
• Sale of 300 Canal Street, Unit Hydro

The Lawrence Redevelopment Authority voted to approve a $25,000 technical assistance grant to the Merrimack Valley Chamber of Commerce. The Board unanimously tabled three proposed funding initiatives: a $250,000 Gap Loan Program, a $125,000 Self‑Sufficiency & Credit Repair Program, and a solar project at Riverfront Industrial Park. Additional unanimous motions allowed Carlos Matos to remain Acting Director, authorized an RFP for the sale of 300 Canal Street, approved the meeting minutes, and adjourned the meeting.

• Approved $25,000 grant to Merrimack Valley Chamber (unanimous)
• Tabled $250,000 LRA Gap Loan Program (unanimous)
• Tabled $125,000 Self‑Sufficiency & Credit Repair Program (unanimous)
• Tabled Solar Voltaic Project at Riverfront Industrial Park (unanimous)
• Allowed Carlos Matos to continue as Acting Director (unanimous)
• Authorized Attorney Brian Corrigan to draft RFP for 300 Canal St. sale (unanimous)
• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Personnel Committee

The Personnel and Administration Committee will review the appointment of Jacqueline Marmol to the Board of Registrars. The committee will also address several tabled items including a personnel director hiring update and a proposed ordinance for a Manager of Financial and Administrative Services.

• Appointment of Jacqueline Marmol to the Board of Registrars
• Personnel Director hiring update
• Confirmation of Sheila Cabrera to the ZBA
• Proposed ordinance for Manager of Financial and Administrative Services (02.64.060)
• Report on Board and Commissions

Budget & Finance Committee

The Budget and Finance Committee is meeting to discuss several grant expenditures and the acceptance of a donated vehicle. The committee will also review a large list of tabled items, including the Fiscal Year 2026 Municipal Budget and opioid settlement funds.

• Authorization to expend $1,054,800 MVP Grant from Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs
• Authorization to expend $299,861 2026 Shannon Grant
• Authorization to expend $179,190.49 PSAP 911 Training Grant
• Acceptance of donated vehicle from NICB to the Lawrence Police Dept.
• Review of Fiscal Year 2026 Municipal Budget (Tabled)

Ordinance & Intergovernmental Relations Committee

The Ordinance & Intergovernmental Relations Committee will consider authorizing a three‑year contract with Groundwork Lawrence for O’Connell Park renovations, approving a posting and hire for a Finance Officer position, granting a junk‑dealer permit for Auto Recycles Group at 48‑50 Medford Street, and reviewing several handicapped and resident parking permits and utility pole installations. Additional items include a Halloween hayride event at Campagnone Common and a dedication of a square honoring Lt. Margaret Sheehan.

• 394/25 – Authorize a contract over 3 years with Groundwork Lawrence for O’Connell Park Renovations
• 395/25 – Authorization to post, advertise and fill the vacant Finance Officer position
• 396/25 – Junk Dealer Permit for Auto Recycles Group, LLC at 48‑50 Medford Street
• 407‑412 – Installation of JO poles on Berkeley, Winthrop, Marlborough, Brookfield, Shepard, and Andover Streets (National Grid)
• 415/25 – Hayride for Halloween Event at Campagnone Common on Oct 24, 2025

Board of Health

The Lawrence Local Board of Health will review a public health update from Chairman Dr. Joel Gorn and a tobacco product sales report from Tobacco Control Director Cesar Pungirum. New business includes a proposal from The Beautiful Way Non‑Profit Foundation for city collaboration, a discussion of rising illegal tobacco sales by street vendors, and an appeal concerning the Home & More DBA Hookah Outlet at 8 SO Broadway Street. Several old‑business items, such as the Fiesta Carnival camping issue and workplace smoke‑consumption policies, are listed as tabled.

• Proposal for collaboration with The Beautiful Way Non‑Profit Foundation (presented by Rajiv Chopra, PhD)
• Report of significant increase in illegal tobacco sales by street vendors
• Tobacco violation appeal for 8 SO Broadway Street, Home & More DBA Hookah Outlet (File #TOB24-000074)
• Fiesta Carnival illegal camping on the Tombarello Hazardous Waste Site (tabled)
• Discussion of private vs. public workplace smoke consumption (tabled)

Lawrence Housing Authority [LHA]

The Lawrence Housing Authority will hold a regular session on Tuesday, October 14, 2025 at 5:15 p.m. at its office, 353 Elm St., Lawrence, MA. The notice provides contact information for Executive Director Efrain Rolon. No specific agenda items are listed in the notice.

Lawrence Alliance for Education [LAE]

The Lawrence Alliance for Education will vote on the district's Strategic Plan and MCAS Competency Determination revisions. The body will also receive reports on school construction updates and end-of-year finances.

• Vote on Strategic Plan
• Vote on MCAS Competency Determination Revisions
• Vote on Facilities Rental
• MSBA Construction update on school completion and punch list
• End-of-Year financial report

Lawrence Alliance for Education [LAE]

The Lawrence Alliance for Education will vote on the district Strategic Plan and MCAS competency determination revisions. The body will also receive reports on school construction, enrollment, and end-of-year finances.

• Vote on Strategic Plan
• Vote on MCAS Competency Determination Revisions
• Vote on Facilities Rental
• MSBA Construction update regarding school completion and punch lists
• End-of-Year financial report

Licensing Board

The Lawrence Licensing Board will approve minutes, consider old business, and discuss new business items. New business includes three applications for Section 12 Restaurant All Alcohol Beverages licenses at 431‑435 Essex St. and 13 South Broadway St., plus a corporate inclusion request for G&A Auto Sales.

• License LL25-000044 – El Criollo R & D LLC – Section 12 restaurant alcohol license at 431‑435 Essex St. (representative: Rafael A. Reinoso Guzman)
• License LL25-000021 – Michael’s Bistro LLC – Section 12 restaurant alcohol license at 431‑435 Essex St. (representative: Shawn Salama / owner‑manager Michael Agricola)
• License LL25-000040 – Alli Bar Restaurant – Section 12 restaurant alcohol license at 13 South Broadway St. (representative: Amiris Rodriguez)
• License MV25-000015 – G&A Auto Sales Corporation – request to include a corporation in G&A Auto Sales (representative: Arismendy More)

City Council

The City Council will review several funding authorizations, including grants for public safety and energy projects. The body is also considering numerous parking requests and an appointment to the Board of Registrars.

• Authorization to expend $1,208,942.73 for the 2026 MA Municipal Public Safety Staffing Grant
• Authorization to expend $1,054,800 MVP Grant from Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs
• Authorization to expend $122,938.71 for Winter Protocols and fire victim placement
• Appointment of Jacqueline Marmol to the Board of Registrars
• Rezoning of city land off Bay State Road and Jordan Street from General Industrial to Open Space Recreation

The Lawrence City Council unanimously approved three budget expenditures: $122,938.71 for winter emergency protocols, $1,208,942.73 for a 2026 municipal public‑safety staffing grant, and $32,865.53 for prior‑year police bills. The council also renewed the City Clerk contract and withdrew a series of pending ordinances. All motions passed by unanimous voice vote.

• Approved $122,938.71 winter protocol and fire‑victim placement grant (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved $1,208,942.73 2026 MA municipal public‑safety staffing grant (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved $32,865.53 payment of prior‑year police bills (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved renewal of City Clerk contract (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved minutes from August 12 and August 19, 2025 (unanimous voice vote)
• Withdrew Ordinance 2.160 Non‑Union Classification Plan Schedule A (unanimous voice vote)
• Withdrew proposal to rename “Broadway” to “Juan Pablo Duarte Blvd.” (unanimous voice vote)
• Withdrew multiple pending ordinances listed in items 63/23, 133/23, 146/23, 147/23, 148/23, 166/23 (unanimous voice vote)

City Council

The Lawrence City Council will consider a motion to confirm the location for the October City Council meetings, as required by City Council Rule #2. No committee reports or public hearings are scheduled. The meeting will be held at South Lawrence East School Auditorium, 165 Crawford Street, with hybrid participation.

• Vote to confirm location of October City Council meetings per City Council Rule #2

The council voted 8-0 to suspend Rule #2, which requires a majority vote to change meeting location. They then approved moving the next regular council meeting to 165 Crawford Street in the South Lawrence East School Auditorium by unanimous voice vote. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous voice vote.

• Suspended Rule #2 (8-0)
• Approved next regular meeting at 165 Crawford Street, South Lawrence East School Auditorium (unanimous voice vote)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous voice vote)

Airport Commission

The Lawrence Municipal Airport Commission will meet to discuss the effects of the 2025 government shutdown on airport operations. The body will also address capital improvement projects and an upcoming visit from the MA Joint Committee on Transportation Chair.

• Impact of 2025 Government Shutdown at the Lawrence Municipal Airport
• Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) Request Meeting
• Approval of seasonal participants for Airport Wildlife Management Program
• Greater Lawrence Technical School event request for October 15, 2025
• Visit of the MA Joint Committee on Transportation, Chair

Planning Board

The Lawrence Planning Board will review several development petitions, including a 21-unit apartment building, a medical facility conversion, and a subdivision plan. The meeting will also address a zoning variance request and a site plan modification.

• 52 Walnut Street: 21-unit apartment building special permit
• 98-100 Water Street: Medical facility renovation and conversion
• 2-8 Birch Drive: Definitive plan for three duplexes
• 11 Tewksbury Street: Request to re-petition a denied variance
• 71-75 Common Street: Request to modify a previously approved site plan

Lawrence School Committee

The Lawrence School Committee will hold a hybrid meeting with public input and sub‑committee reports. Committee members will consider several pending items, including a proposal to change graduation requirements, a plan to add financial‑literacy courses, the FY26 budget, and the district strategic plan. New business includes a quarterly update by Superintendent Carrero and a research question on the impact of the state takeover.

• 2025 Graduation Requirements Proposal for Lawrence Public Schools (item 0001)
• 2025 Proposal: Integration of Financial Literacy Courses into LPS Curriculum (item 0007)
• 2025 Lawrence Public School FY26 (item 0015)
• 2025 LPS Strategic Plan (item 0011)
• 2025 School Committee Quarterly Update #4 by Superintendent Carrero (item 0021)

Commission on Disability

The Commission on Disability will meet to discuss a joint project with the DPW for handicapped curb renovations and improvements to the City Hall entrance. The body will also review staffing requirements and reports on sensory movie nights.

• Joint project with DPW to fund renovation of adding handicapped curbs
• Proposed improvements to make City Hall entrance more accommodating
• Discussion of Commission staffing as required by City Ordinance
• Report on ADA issue at the bridge at 300 Canal St.
• Status update on the purchase of a device for the City Council to accommodate people who are deaf

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Lawrence Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on September 25, 2025. It will consider two continued items for 414‑422 Essex Street (Emilio King) and 89‑95 Essex Street (Opalos Café, LLC). It will also discuss a new petition by Eugenio Garcia requesting a dimensional variance to construct a three‑unit dwelling with six off‑street parking spaces at 8‑10 Elm Street, which is in an R‑3 residential district.

• Continued item: 414‑422 Essex Street – applicant Emilio King
• Continued item: 89‑95 Essex Street – Opalos Café, LLC
• New case: Dimensional variance petition by Eugenio Garcia for 8‑10 Elm Street to build a 3‑unit dwelling with 6 off‑street parking spaces (R‑3 zone)

Licensing Board

The Lawrence Licensing Board will consider three applications for one‑day alcohol permits. Each request seeks to serve a specific event at a listed address on a set date and time. The board will decide whether to grant the permits.

• License LL25-000043 – St. Joseph Church – One‑day all‑alcohol license for 241 Hampshire St., event on Nov 8 2025, 6 pm‑11 pm
• License LL25-000042 – Groundwork Lawrence – One‑day wine and malt beverage license for 15 Union St., event on Nov 20 2025, 5 pm‑10 pm
• License LL25-000041 – Flamboyan Production – One‑day wine and malt license for 15 Union St., event on Sep 26 2025, 7 pm‑11 pm

Ordinance & Intergovernmental Relations Committee

The Ordinance & Intergovernmental Relations Committee will consider a slate of parking and traffic items. Proposals include new handicapped parking permits at several addresses, resident‑only parking zones, and a one‑way street conversion on Hillside Avenue. The committee will also review removal of a handicapped space and a no‑parking restriction on Erving Avenue.

• 374/25 Hillside Ave — One Way [from Yale Street to Haverhill Street in a Southerly direction] – Councilors Celina Reyes, Gregory Delrosario, Ana Levy, Modesto Maldonado
• 382/25 Handicapped Parking – 69 Berkeley Street – Elizabeth Santiago
• 387/25 Remove Handicapped Parking – 5 Durant Street – Councilor Wendy Luzon
• 380/25 No Parking – Erving Ave [between Hampshire St and Bennington St from 7 p.m. — 7 a.m.] – Councilor Celina Reyes, Councilor Ana Levy, DPW Dept., Rocky Clean River Project
• 298/25 Install One JO Pole and one mid‑span pole on Mt Vernon St at Crestwood Circle – Dave Johnson, National Grid

Retirement Board

The Retirement Board will meet to discuss the 12/31/2024 financial statements audit by CBIZ and a request for proposals for legal services. The board will also address member stipends and specific disability and death benefit claims.

• Year End 12/31/2024 Financial Statements Audit by CBIZ
• RFP for legal services for contract ending 12/31/2025
• Retirement Board member and treasurer stipend
• Thomas Baggett Inv. Ord/Acc Disability claim
• Theresa Fay accidental death tabled item

Housing Committee

The Housing Committee will discuss the adoption of the city's new Housing Production Plan. The meeting also includes a large volume of tabled items regarding the declaration of surplus properties and real property dispositions.

• Adoption of the City’s new Housing Production Plan
• Amendment to Zoning Ordinances to allow Accessory Dwelling Units
• Declaration of surplus property for multiple sites including 113 Exchange St, 2 Mossgiel View Place, and 46 Cedar St
• Disposition of real property at 389 Water Street and 22 Hancock Street
• Grant of utility easement to Eversource Gas Company at 1-9 Hoffman Street

Personnel Committee

The Personnel Committee will consider renewing the City Clerk contract (item 388/25). Several other items are listed as tabled, including a personnel director hiring update, an appointment to the Zoning Board of Appeals, a proposed ordinance for a Manager of Financial and Administrative Services, and a report on boards and commissions. No minutes are required for council approval.

• 388/25 Contract Renewal, City Clerk — Council President Jeovanny Rodriguez
• 543/24 Personnel Director Hiring Update — Council VP Stephany Infante (tabled)
• 462/24 Confirm Appointment to the ZBA, Sheila Cabrera — Mayor Brian A. DePeiia and City Attorney Tim Houten (tabled)
• 323/24 Proposed New Ordinance for “Manager of Financial and Administrative Services” (02.64.060) — Jorge Jaime, DPW Director (tabled)
• 49/20 Report on Board and Commissions — Council Rodriguez (tabled)

Budget & Finance Committee

The Lawrence Budget & Finance Committee will vote on several authorizations to spend city funds. Items include a $1,208,942.73 grant for 2026 municipal public safety staffing, $122,938.71 for winter protocols and temporary fire‑victim placement, $32,865.53 for prior‑year police bills, a $250,000 waste‑reduction hazardous‑waste facility project, and a $400,000 ARPA transfer to support small businesses. The committee will also review the FY2026 municipal budget, the annual audit report, and other financial updates.

• 364/25 Authorization to Expend $1,208,942.73 for 2026 MA Municipal Public Safety Staffing Grant
• 361/25 Authorization to Expend $122,938.71 for winter protocols and temporary placement of fire victims
• 202/25 Authorization to Expend $250,000 for a permanent household hazardous waste facility
• 568/24 Transfer $400,000 from ARPA/Free Cash to Small Business via the Prospering Lawrence Grant
• 76B/24 Resolution amending reimbursement requirement, allocating $150,000 to Greater Lawrence Family Health Center and $100,000 to Lawrence General Hospital

City Council

The Lawrence City Council will hold a public hearing to approve vote‑by‑mail procedures for the local elections scheduled on September 16, 2025 and November 4, 2025. No committee reports or new business items are on the agenda.

• Approve vote‑by‑mail for the September 16, 2025 local election
• Approve vote‑by‑mail for the November 4, 2025 local election

The Lawrence City Council approved a motion to opt out of vote‑by‑mail for the November 4 municipal election, with a roll‑call vote of 6 yes, 1 abstain, and 1 present. The motion was made by Councilor Wendy Luzon and seconded by Council Vice President Stephany Infante. The council also passed a motion to adjourn the meeting by unanimous voice vote.

• Opt out of vote‑by‑mail for Nov. 4 municipal election approved (YES:6, Abstain:1, Present:1)
• Motion to adjourn meeting approved unanimously

City Council

The Lawrence City Council will hold a public hearing on a proposed ordinance prohibiting unauthorized camping in public spaces. The meeting also includes numerous requests to modify handicapped parking zones and several committee reports.

• Public hearing on proposed 'Anti-Camping' ordinance
• Requests to modify handicapped parking at 69 Berkeley Street
• Requests to modify handicapped parking at 46 Cross Street
• Requests to modify handicapped parking at 122 Myrtle Street
• Authorization to expend $139,805.00 in grant funds

City Council

The Lawrence City Council will discuss a rezoning of city land off Bay State Road and Jordan Street from General Industrial to Open Space Recreation. Committee reports include authorizations to spend $139,805 from a public‑health grant and $95,765.20 from a transportation trust fund. Several public‑hearing items on handicapped parking, child‑care parking, and an anti‑camping ordinance will be heard, and new business items such as contract renewals and a $164,750 four‑year contract with Credere Associates will be considered.

• Rezoning a portion of city land off Bay State Road and Jordan Street from General Industrial (I‑2) to Open Space Recreation – Dan McCarthy, Acting Planning Director
• Authorization to expend $139,805.00 grant funds from MA Dept of Public Health for active transportation projects – Elecia Miller
• Authorization to expend $95,765.20 from the Commonwealth Transportation Infrastructure Enhancement Trust Fund – Jorge Jaime
• Four‑year contract, $164,750, with Credere Associates LLC – Dan McCarthy, Planning Director
• Contract renewal for City Clerk – Council President Jeovanny Rodriguez

The council unanimously approved two grant expenditures: $139,805 from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health for active transportation and safe routes, and $95,765.20 from the Commonwealth Transportation Infrastructure Enhancement Trust Fund for street line markings. It also un‑tabled and approved two four‑year contracts, each for $164,750, and approved a block of handicapped‑parking changes for several streets. Several pending traffic‑study and related ordinance items were withdrawn.

• Approved $139,805 health grant (unanimous)
• Approved $95,765.20 transportation line‑marking funding (unanimous)
• Un‑tabled and approved $164,750 Credere Associates contract (unanimous)
• Un‑tabled and approved $164,750 TRE Environmental contract (unanimous)
• Approved block of handicapped‑parking changes for multiple streets (unanimous)
• Approved waiver of preamble reading for legal notices (unanimous)
• Withdrawn traffic‑study documents for Swan Street, East Haverhill, etc. (unanimous)
• Withdrawn installation‑fence and parking‑stipend items (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Lawrence Conservation Commission will consider requests for determination and notices of intent for several local sites. The meeting includes a presentation on the Stevens Pond Dam Study.

• Request for Determination: Merrimack River-Above Stone Dam for City of Lawrence Water Department
• Notice of Intent-Extension: 216 Canal Street
• Request for Determination: Wedgewood Road (Map 75/Lot 2) for Gerogetowne North Condominium II
• Notice of Intent: 20 International Way for Impact Church, Inc.
• Presentation: Stevens Pond Dam Study by Tighe & Bond

Redevelopment Authority

The Lawrence Redevelopment Authority will hold its regular meeting on September 18, 2025, at 255 Essex Street (also via remote participation). The board will receive updates on draft development agreements with selected developers and on a major amendment to the urban renewal plan. Additional agenda items include reviews of bylaws, insurance policies, staffing, and various project proposals.

• Update on draft development agreements with selected developers for redevelopment projects
• Update on major urban renewal plan amendment
• Amendments to LRA By‑laws
• LRA insurance review and policy development
• Hiring of a Project Manager

Redevelopment Authority

The Lawrence Redevelopment Authority will discuss its legal approach to transferring city property to the Authority under the Lawrence TBD Urban Renewal Plan. The discussion is slated for an executive session as permitted by state open‑meeting law. No decisions are recorded at this time.

• Discuss legal strategy for city‑property transfer to LRA under the TBD Urban Renewal Plan (executive session anticipated)

The Authority voted to move Item G, the Urban Renewal Plan Amendment presented by James Carras, out of Old Business. Members also approved the removal of several agenda items, including amendments to the bylaws and a consulting contract with Hem Vora. The board approved discussion of disciplinary procedures, adopted the meeting minutes, and adjourned the session, all by unanimous vote.

• Moved Item G. Urban Renewal Plan Amendment (James Carras) out of Old Business – approved unanimously
• Removed agenda items A (Amendments to LRA By‑laws), Consulting Contract with Hem Vora, Meetings with abutters of City‑owned properties, RFO process and public participation, Hiring of Project Manager, Request for Minor Plan Change (Amendment #2), LRA enrollment in PERAC/Lawrence Retirement System – approved unanimously
• Approved discussion of disciplinary procedures under Robert’s Rules of Order – approved unanimously
• Approved the meeting minutes – approved unanimously
• Adjourned the meeting – approved unanimously

Airport Commission

The Lawrence Municipal Airport Commission will meet to discuss the Airport Holt Road North Parcel. The body will also receive reports from the Finance and Lease committees and review airport security procedures.

• Discussion regarding Airport Holt Road North Parcel
• Report on 135 North Ramp Road NACC OOC
• Finance Committee report
• Lease Committee report
• Review of Airport Security Procedures

Planning Board

The Lawrence Planning Board will review three ongoing cases for properties at 186 Mt. Vernon St., 123 Lawrence St., and 640 Essex St. It will consider a petition from Reyes LLC to modify a special permit for 75‑85 Manchester St., increasing the approved units from 14 to 18. The board will also hear a request from Greater Lawrence Community Action Council to extend a special permit for 59‑71 Merrimack St., originally approved on March 6, 2024.

• Continued case: 186 Mt. Vernon St. (Bernardo DeLeon)
• Continued case: 123 Lawrence St. (Cafú Realty Trust)
• Continued case: 640 Essex St. (Brother United LLC/Edwin Solano)
• Petition to modify special permit for 75‑85 Manchester St. to increase units from 14 to 18
• Extension request for special permit at 59‑71 Merrimack St.

Greater Lawrence Sanitary District

The Greater Lawrence Sanitary District Commission will consider several items, including a vote to award a bid for construction of MCC upgrades. The meeting will also address payment of invoices, a capital projects update, and the Executive Director’s report. An executive session is scheduled to discuss collective bargaining with Teamsters Local 25 and Local 170.

• Vote on award of bid for construction of MCC upgrades
• Payment of invoices
• Capital projects update
• Executive Director’s report
• Executive session to discuss collective bargaining with Teamsters Local 25 and Local 170

Licensing Board

The Lawrence Licensing Board will conduct roll call, approve the minutes from the previous meeting, consider any tabled matters, and discuss several incident reports involving shootings and a license for Aqua Lounge. The discussion includes incident report numbers 25005004, 25004080, and 2500206, as well as ABCC License #03643-GP-0594 for Aqua Lounge at 151-153 Essex St.

• Incident Report #25005004 – shooting report dated 9/13/2025
• Incident Report #25004080 – possession of ammunition on 08/2/2025
• Incident Report #2500206 – shots fired on 4/26/2025
• ABCC License #03643-GP-0594 for Aqua Lounge, 151-153 Essex St.
• Approval of minutes from the September meeting

Lawrence Housing Authority [LHA]

The Lawrence Housing Authority has scheduled its regular session for Thursday, September 11, 2025 at 5:15 p.m. The meeting will be held at the Authority’s office, 353 Elm Street, Lawrence, MA. No specific agenda items are listed in the notice. The notice provides contact information for the Executive Director.

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee will meet to discuss a large volume of tabled new business items. These include reviews of police department audits, parking ordinances, and city-wide speed limit proposals.

• Audit of the Lawrence Police Department for Fiscal Year 2025
• Proposal to establish a city-wide maximum motor vehicle speed of 25mph
• Review of parking ordinances, regulations, and the city's towing list
• Speed Limit Pilot Project Act
• Review of the Lawrence Police Department's use of license plate readers

Lawrence Alliance for Education [LAE]

The Lawrence Alliance for Education board will consider several reports from its subcommittees, vote on a land transfer at 47 Hamlet Street, approve LPS facility rentals, and review the final draft of the LPS Strategic Plan and MCAS competency revisions. The meeting also includes public comment and a superintendent update.

• Transfer of land at 47 Hamlet Street
• Approval of LPS facilities rentals
• Adoption of meeting minutes from June 11, 2025
• Review of final draft LPS Strategic Plan
• Revisions to MCAS competency determination

Licensing Board

The Lawrence Licensing Board will review several new license applications, including a request by Calderon Supermarket for a seasonal outdoor cooking tent at 296 Broadway. Other applications include a coffee and tobacco permit for Ateneo Dominicano at 1 Jackson St. on September 12, 2025, and a common vending license for Papi Pica Pollo Inc. at 105 So Union St. The board will also consider a previously tabled one‑day alcohol license for the Portuguese American Holy Ghost Fraternity at 34‑38 Common St. for September 21, 2025. The meeting will begin with roll call and approval of minutes before addressing old and new business.

• License #SPE25-000007 – Calderon Supermarket: tent for outdoor cooking (chicken, hamburgers, sausages, hot dogs) at 296 Broadway, summer season
• License #LL25-000039 – Ateneo Dominicano: coffee & tobacco service at 1 Jackson St. on Sep 12, 2025, 7:00 pm‑9:00 pm
• License #VIC25-000084 – Papi Pica Pollo Inc.: common vending license at 105 So Union St., former Evergreen Restaurant
• License #LL25-000034 (tabled): one‑day all‑alcohol license for Portuguese American Holy Ghost Fraternity at 34‑38 Common St., Sep 21, 2025, 12:00 pm‑11:00 pm

Budget & Finance Committee

The Budget and Finance Committee is reviewing several authorizations to expend grant funds for public safety, transportation, and health protocols. The meeting also includes a large list of tabled items, including the Fiscal Year 2026 Municipal Budget and the Annual Audit Report.

• Auth to Expend $1,208,942.73 for 2026 MA Municipal Public Safety Staffing Grant
• Auth to Expend $139,805.00 for Active Transportation, Safe Routes to School and Parks & Open Spaces
• Auth to Expend $122,938.71 for Winter Protocols and temporary placement of Fire Victims
• Auth to Expend $95,765.20 from Commonwealth Transportation Infrastructure Enhancement Trust Fund
• Tabled item: Fiscal Year 2026 Municipal Budget

Ordinance & Intergovernmental Relations Committee

The Ordinance & Intergovernmental Relations Committee is meeting to discuss new and tabled business. Items include various parking requests, business license issuances, and two multi-year contracts.

• 4-year contract for $164,750 with Credere Associates LLC
• 4-year contract for $164,750 with TRE Environmental
• Proposed changes to Noise Ordinance [09.04.040] enforcement provisions
• Proposed ordinance establishing minimum residency requirements for political candidates
• One-way street proposals for Hillside Ave and Ames Street

Board of Health

The Board of Health will discuss public health updates, tobacco control, and specific fire incidents. The body is reviewing a variance request for a subsurface sewage disposal system and addressing illegal street vendor sales.

• Fire incidents at Lowell St (8/5/25) and Winfield Alloys at 15 Medford St (8/27/25)
• Subsurface Sewage Disposal System Title 5 Variance for 606 Canal Street
• Medical Waste Management inquiry for applicant guidance
• Report on illegal sales activities by street vendors
• Summary of Aug 28th Methuen–Lawrence Shared Services Grant Meeting

Lawrence School Committee

The Lawrence School Committee will hold a hybrid meeting to review sub-committee reports and discuss 2025 budget proposals, including the FY26 budget and a strategic plan. The meeting will also cover the integration of financial literacy courses and a proposed job description for appointed members.

• 35 electric buses
• 2025 LPS Strategic Plan
• 2025 Lawrence Public School FY26 budget
• 2025 Proposal: Integration of Financial Literacy Courses
• 2025 Appointed School Committee Members Job Description

Bellevue Cemetery Board

The board did not achieve a quorum, so no official minutes or votes were recorded. Members discussed fountain repairs, cemetery grant applications, facility maintenance, Wi‑Fi upgrades, and upcoming community events. Action items were identified, and a formal vote on these matters will be scheduled for the next meeting.

City Council

The council approved the minutes from the August 6 and August 26 meetings by unanimous voice vote. It then declared DOC #378/25 an emergency, suspended the rules, and sent the item directly to the full council without committee referral, also by unanimous voice vote. The council will await further findings from the fire department before taking additional action on the Winfield Alloy junk‑yard license.

• Approved August 6, 2025 and August 26, 2025 minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Declared DOC #378/25 emergency and suspended rules (unanimous voice vote)
• Postponed further action on Winfield Alloy license pending fire‑department findings

Zoning Board of Appeals

The board continued hearings for 414‑420 Essex Street and 89‑95 Essex Street and withdrew the 122‑126 Weare Street petition. It denied the 20 Brookline Street petition, approved the 31 Garfield Street petition, denied the 109 Mount Vernon Street petition, and approved 34 Walnut Street and 52 Walnut Street petitions with conditions. The board also granted a six‑month variance extension for GLCAAC and allowed a Tewksbury Street petitioner to appear before the Planning Board.

• Continuance of 414‑420 Essex Street hearing (5‑0)
• Continuance of 89‑95 Essex Street hearing (5‑0)
• Withdrawal of 122‑126 Weare Street petition (5‑0)
• Denial of 20 Brookline Street petition (5‑0)
• Approval of 31 Garfield Street petition (5‑0)
• Denial of 109 Mount Vernon Street petition (1‑4)
• Approval of 34 Walnut Street petition with conditions (4‑1)
• Approval of 52 Walnut Street petition (4‑1)

City Council

The City Council is holding a special meeting on August 26, 2025. The agenda includes a communication regarding the resignation of District A City Councilor Fidelina Santiago. No other business or public hearings are scheduled.

• Resignation letter of District A City Councilor Fidelina Santiago

The City Council unanimously accepted Councilor Fidelina Santiago’s letter of resignation. City Attorney Timothy Houten explained that, per the City Charter, the District A seat will remain vacant until after the November election, keeping the council at eight members. The council then unanimously approved a motion to adjourn.

• Accepted Councilor Fidelina Santiago’s resignation (unanimous voice vote)
• District A seat to remain vacant until after November election per City Charter
• Motion to adjourn passed (unanimous voice vote)

Budget & Finance Committee

The Budget and Finance Committee will consider allocating $2.3 million for a DPW capital improvement project and authorize up to $500,000 for Eversource street repairs. The meeting also includes a review of the Fiscal Year 2026 municipal budget and the submission of the FY 24 financial statements.

• Allocate $2,316,507.60 from Free Cash for DPW Capital Improvement Project
• Authorize up to $500,000 for Eversource Street Repair Reimbursement
• Review Fiscal Year 2026 Municipal Budget
• Submit FY 24 Financial Statements and FY24 Reports on Federal Award Programs
• Review Lawrence Redevelopment Authority’s Financials

Redevelopment Authority

The Lawrence Redevelopment Authority voted unanimously to increase its grant to the Downtown Lawrence Association by $38,500, bringing total festival funding to $120,000 for the September 13 event. The board also voted unanimously to adjourn the meeting. Unused funds will be returned and future festival funding will be reconsidered in 2026.

• Approved additional $38,500 festival funding, total $120,000 (unanimous)
• Approved meeting adjournment (unanimous)

City Council

The council unanimously approved the July 1 and July 7 meeting minutes and removed a recognition document from the table. It confirmed the appointment of Anne‑Marie Nyhan‑Doherty to the Lawrence Cultural Council. The council voted to name the Lawrence Rail Trail after State Rep. Frank Moran and barred any future renaming. It also approved a junk‑dealer permit for Brandon Tetler of Winfield Alloy.

• Approved July 1 & July 7 minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Un‑tabled DOC #170/19 recognition of Lawrence Academic Achievers (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved appointment of Anne‑Marie Nyhan‑Doherty to Cultural Council (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved naming of Lawrence Rail Trail for Rep. Frank Moran, prohibiting future renaming (8‑yes, 1‑absent)
• Approved Junk Dealer Permit for Brandon Tetler, Winfield Alloy (6‑yes, 1‑no, 1‑present, 1‑absent)

City Council

The Lawrence City Council held a special meeting, heard public comments, and referred eight city‑owned parcel transfer proposals to the Housing and Economic Development Committees for further review. No approvals were made on the proposals. The council then unanimously voted to adjourn the meeting by voice vote.

• Referred eight parcel transfer proposals to Housing and Economic Development Committee
• Motion to adjourn passed unanimously by voice vote

City Council

The council approved six sets of past meeting minutes with an 8‑1 vote. A motion to take DOC #170/19 off the table passed by unanimous voice vote. Motions to recess and to come out of recess both passed unanimously. The Personnel Committee presented a motion to approve the appointment of Patrick Delaney as Fire Chief, which was seconded but the vote result was not recorded.

• Approved six sets of minutes (8-1)
• Un‑tabled DOC #170/19 (unanimous voice vote)
• Recess motion passed (unanimous voice vote)
• Return from recess motion passed (unanimous voice vote)
• Motion to approve appointment of Patrick Delaney as Fire Chief (seconded, outcome not recorded)

Redevelopment Authority

The Lawrence Redevelopment Authority unanimously approved a $40,000 increase for the Downtown Lawrence Association’s fall 2025 festival series. It also approved a $1,500 scholarship for a Boys & Girls Club intern, recommended Carlos Matos for a board seat, and moved the Executive Director contract item out of old business. Additional motions approved invoice payments and the meeting minutes.

• Approved $1,500 scholarship for Boys & Girls Club intern (unanimous)
• Recommended Carlos Matos to Mayor for LRA board appointment (unanimous)
• Approved $40,000 additional funding for downtown festival series (unanimous)
• Moved Executive Director contract item out of Old Business (unanimous)
• Approved payment of invoice #94 from Mini Split Solutions at 50% (unanimous)
• Approved payment of invoice #00001326 from Bernie Ber at 50% with conditional remainder (unanimous)
• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved adjournment of the meeting (unanimous)

Redevelopment Authority

The Lawrence Redevelopment Authority approved a $1,500 scholarship for a Boys & Girls Club intern, recommended Carlos Matos to the mayor for appointment to the vacant board seat, and approved an additional $40,000 grant for downtown festival events. The board also moved the executive‑director contract item out of old business, approved payment of two invoices, and adopted the meeting minutes. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved $1,500 scholarship for Boys & Girls Club intern (unanimous)
• Recommended Carlos Matos to Mayor for LRA board appointment (unanimous)
• Approved $40,000 additional funding for Downtown Lawrence Association festival series (unanimous)
• Moved LRA Executive Director contract item out of Old Business (unanimous)
• Approved payment of invoice #94 from Mini Split Solutions at 50% (unanimous)
• Approved payment of invoice #00001326 from Bernie Ber at 50% with conditional remainder (unanimous)
• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

City Council

The Lawrence City Council adopted the new Floodplain Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) and amended the city's Floodplain Management Ordinance (Doc #245/25) with a unanimous vote. A motion to table the application for CDBG and HOME grants (Doc #233/25) passed 5‑4, delaying the decision. The Year End Transfers between departmental accounts (Doc #265/25) and the related committee report were both approved unanimously.

• Approved new Floodplain Insurance Rate Map and ordinance amendment (Doc #245/25) – Approved (9-0)
• Motion to Table CDBG/HOME grant application (Doc #233/25) – Passed (5-4)
• Accepted Committee Report for Year End Transfers (Doc #265/25) – Approved (9-0)
• Approved Year End Transfers between departmental accounts (Doc #265/25) – Approved (9-0)

Redevelopment Authority

The Lawrence Redevelopment Authority unanimously approved a partnership with the Downtown Lawrence Association to support the Lawrence festivals. The board also unanimously accepted amended by‑laws, authorized the chair to sign a Notice of Activity and Use Limitations (NAUL), and gave the executive director authority to assess and review LRA property holdings. All motions were approved without dissent.

• Approved partnership with Downtown Lawrence Association for Lawrence festivals (unanimous)
• Accepted amended by‑laws (unanimous)
• Authorized LRA Chair to sign NAUL on behalf of LRA (unanimous)
• Authorized Executive Director to assess LRA property holdings (unanimous)
• Authorized Executive Director to review proposals from property owners for potential sales (unanimous)
• Authorized use of city consultant for LRA projects, with LRA covering expenses (unanimous)
• Moved items 1‑3 to table until Executive Director’s arrival (unanimous)
• Moved Item 6 out of order (unanimous)

City Council

The council took DOC #242/25 off the table and unanimously approved the DPW Recycling Revolving Fund with a $150,000 limit. It also approved the Bellevue Cemetery Revolving Fund ($95,000) and the Library Programs Revolving Fund ($50,000), each by unanimous voice vote. All three approvals were accompanied by friendly amendments to waive the 30‑day waiting period.

• Took DOC #242/25 off table – passed by unanimous voice vote
• Approved DPW Recycling Revolving Fund $150,000 – passed by unanimous voice vote
• Took DOC #236/25 off table – passed by unanimous voice vote
• Approved Bellevue Cemetery Revolving Fund $95,000 – passed by unanimous voice vote
• Took DOC #240/25 off table – passed by unanimous voice vote
• Approved Library Programs Revolving Fund $50,000 – passed by unanimous voice vote

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Lawrence Zoning Board of Appeals continued several pending applications, approved two projects with conditions, and denied two requests. The 625 Howard Street variance was approved with five conditions by a 5‑0 vote. The 45‑47 Saunders Street proposal was approved with three conditions by a 4‑1 vote. Variance requests for 383‑385 Broadway (liquor use) and 11 Tewksbury Street (subdivision) were denied by 0‑5 votes.

• Continued case 1 – 199‑229 Broadway variance (motion to continue)
• Continued case 2 – 374‑374A Haverhill Street off‑street parking permit (motion to continue)
• Continued case 3 – 414‑422 Essex Street variance (motion to continue)
• Continued case 4 – 89‑95 Essex Street liquor variance (motion to continue)
• Approved 625 Howard Street two‑family variance with five conditions (vote 5‑0)
• Denied 383‑385 Broadway liquor‑use variance (vote 0‑5)
• Approved 45‑47 Saunders Street two‑family duplex with three conditions (vote 4‑1)
• Denied 11 Tewksbury Street subdivision variance (vote 0‑5)

Redevelopment Authority

The Authority approved motions to untable Item a (by‑law amendments) and Item b (Unit Hydro Maintenance) with unanimous votes. A motion to reschedule the meeting was also approved unanimously. A motion to table final approval pending procurement clarification was withdrawn. The Executive Director will seek written guidance from the Inspector General’s Office on sole‑source procurement.

• Motion to untable Item a (by‑law amendments) approved unanimously
• Motion to untable Item b (Unit Hydro Maintenance) approved unanimously
• Motion to reschedule the meeting approved unanimously
• Motion to table final approval pending procurement clarification withdrawn

Planning Board

The board voted 5‑1 to send the Housing Production Plan to the City Council with a favorable recommendation. Several project applications were approved without conditions, while others were continued to future meetings or withdrawn. The board also approved the abandonment of Empire Street and a rezoning of a lot behind 103 Genesee Street. All motions were passed unanimously unless otherwise noted.

• Housing Production Plan sent to City Council with favorable recommendation (5-1 vote)
• 186 Mount Vernon St hearing continued to future meeting (unanimous vote)
• 123 Lawrence St case continued (unanimous vote)
• 663 Andover St project approved without conditions (unanimous vote)
• 577 Broadway project approved without conditions (unanimous vote)
• 148‑154 Bailey St withdrawal approved (unanimous vote)
• 640 Essex St project tabled for future consideration (unanimous continuation vote)
• Empire Street abandonment recommendation approved (unanimous vote)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The board approved the 262‑278 Lowell Street variance, attaching six conditions including adding an extra parking level, by a 4‑0 vote. It also approved a Dunkin’ Donuts drive‑thru at 577 Broadway with no conditions (4‑0) and approved a variance for 88‑92 Oxford Street without conditions (4‑0). Several other applications were granted continuances, with motions to continue passing unanimously.

• Approved 262‑278 Lowell St. variance with six conditions (4‑0)
• Approved 577 Broadway Dunkin’ Donuts drive‑thru with no conditions (4‑0)
• Approved 88‑92 Oxford St. variance with no conditions (4‑0)
• Motion to continue 414‑420 Essex St. approved unanimously
• Motion to continue 89‑95 Essex St. approved unanimously
• Motion to continue 199‑229 Broadway approved unanimously
• Motion to continue 20 Brookline St./Midland lot 55 approved unanimously
• Motion to continue 383‑385 Broadway (Route 28 LLC) approved unanimously

Redevelopment Authority

The Lawrence Redevelopment Authority approved several motions unanimously, including taking Unit Hydro Maintenance and Item J out of order, adopting the most cost‑effective HVAC proposal, and starting advertising for available units. The board also approved a motion to convene a meeting with Winn Group, developers, and city officials to find solutions to the parking issues tied to the PAC 10 project, and then moved the session into executive session. Action items were assigned to draft a parking agreement, review bylaw amendments, and finalize the HVAC contract.

• Took Item B (Unit Hydro Maintenance) out of order – approved unanimously
• Accepted most cost‑effective HVAC proposal – approved unanimously
• Initiated advertisement for available units – approved unanimously
• Took Item J (meetings with abutters) out of order – approved unanimously
• Convened a meeting between Winn Group, developers, city officials to solve parking challenges – approved unanimously
• Closed public meeting and entered executive session – approved unanimously
• Executive Director and Attorney to draft parking agreement (action assigned)
• Board members to review bylaw amendments before next meeting (action assigned)

City Council

The council unanimously approved the minutes from the April 1 and May 6, 2025 meetings, with one councilor abstaining. A resolution honoring retired Firefighter Ronald Lavallee was also adopted by unanimous voice vote. Motions to recess and to come out of recess each passed unanimously. The confirmation of Maurice Aguiler as chief of police was presented but no vote outcome was recorded in the minutes.

• Approved April 1 and May 6, 2025 minutes (unanimous voice vote, one abstention)
• Approved resolution honoring retired Firefighter Ronald Lavallee (unanimous voice vote)
• Motion to recess passed (unanimous voice vote)
• Motion to come out of recess passed (unanimous voice vote)

Bellevue Cemetery Board

The board approved spending $5,000 for a monument honoring unknown individuals and $8,500 to repair the historic crematory sign. It also authorized Groundworks Lawrence to conduct a tree inventory, approved a dedication plaque for the water fountain, and tabled road paving until full quotes are received. All motions passed unanimously.

• Table April 2025 minutes (All in Favor)
• Approve Groundworks Lawrence tree inventory and mapping (All in Favor)
• Approve dedication plaque for water fountain honoring Mayor DePefia (All in Favor)
• Approve $5,000 monument for unknown burials (All in Favor)
• Approve $8,500 repair of historic crematory sign (All in Favor)
• Table paving of cemetery roads pending full quote review (All in Favor)
• Accept Director of Cemetery Service Report (All in Favor)
• Adjourn meeting (All in Favor)

City Council

The council approved the minutes from April 15 and April 29, 2025. It approved a $50,000 Mosaic Municipal Matching Grant and accepted and approved the Creating a Thriving Lawrence program committee report. The council took Document #163/25 (Police Chief nominee confirmation) from the tabled matters and referred it to the Personnel Committee. It also approved two appropriation transfers of $5,000 and $5,200.

• Approved April 15 and April 29, 2025 minutes (8 YES, 1 absent)
• Approved $50,000 Mosaic Municipal Matching Grant (8 YES, 1 absent)
• Accepted Committee Report on Creating a Thriving Lawrence program (8 YES, 1 absent)
• Approved Committee Report on Creating a Thriving Lawrence program (8 YES, 1 absent)
• Took Document #163/25 from tabled matters (8 YES, 1 absent) and referred to Personnel Committee
• Approved $5,000 appropriation transfer from Business and Economic Development travel to Office Supplies (8 YES, 1 absent)

Library Trustees

The trustees approved the February 27, 2025 minutes and the Library Director's Report, which included a $9,000 communications‑specialist contract. A motion to approve the Parker Manor restoration was initially passed but later withdrawn. The board then unanimously tabled all Old Business agenda items, delaying further action on those items.

• Approved February 27, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Library Director's Report, including $9,000 communications contract (unanimous)
• Approved Parker Manor Restoration proposal (unanimous)
• Withdrew Parker Manor Restoration motion (unanimous)
• Tabled Old Business items a–d (Parker Manor, policy updates, secondary police/fire location, strategic plan) (unanimous)

City Council

The council voted to remove the nomination of Maurice Aguiler for chief of police from the Personnel Committee. A later motion to table the nomination was also approved. Earlier, the council suspended Rule 18, recessed, and came out of recess. The motion to adjourn failed due to lack of a second.

• Motion to suspend Rule 18 passed (YES:7, ABSENT:1, PRESENT:1)
• Motion to recess passed (YES:8, ABSENT:1)
• Motion to come out of recess passed (YES:8, ABSENT:1)
• Motion to discharge DOC #163/25 from Personnel Committee passed (YES:6, NO:2, ABSENT:1)
• Motion to table DOC #163/25 passed (YES:7, ABSENT:1, President vote not recorded)
• Motion to adjourn failed (no second)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The board denied a request for 27 residential units on Bailey Street by a 2‑3 vote. It approved variances with conditions for projects on Essex Street, Norris Street, High Street, and Forest Street. Several other applications were continued to a May 29, 2025 hearing.

• Case 12 (148‑154 Bailey St): Denied dimensional variances for 27 units (vote 2‑3)
• Case 2 (640 Essex St): Approved variance with conditions (washer/dryer, permanent parking license, HVAC specs) (vote 3‑2)
• Case 5 (37 Norris St): Approved variance with conditions (setbacks, fencing, landscaping) (vote 4‑1)
• Case 7 (168‑170 High St): Approved variance with conditions (vote 5‑0)
• Case 14 (50 Forest St): Approved variance with conditions (snow removal plan, attic stairs) (vote 5‑0)
• Case 1 (262‑278 Lowell St): Continued hearing to May 29, 2025
• Case 3 (577 Broadway): Continued hearing (unanimous)
• Case 13 (20 Brookline St & Midland St Lot 55): Continued both petitions to May 29, 2025

Redevelopment Authority

The Lawrence Redevelopment Authority unanimously approved travel for the Executive Director and a board member to attend a federal delegation meeting in Washington, D.C. It also approved an oversight and reimbursement policy for the use of its 255 Essex Street facility. Additional unanimous motions authorized taking the Unit Hydro Maintenance item out of order and soliciting quotes for dehumidification systems. All motions were carried unanimously.

• Approved travel to Washington D.C. delegation (unanimous)
• Approved oversight and reimbursement policy for 255 Essex Street facility (unanimous)
• Approved taking Unit Hydro Maintenance item out of order (unanimous)
• Approved soliciting and comparing quotes for unit hydro dehumidification systems (unanimous)

Bellevue Cemetery Board

The board voted unanimously to table all agenda items. It then approved waiving all fees for the burial of Gustavo Soro. The board also approved obtaining an updated architectural/engineering proposal for converting the receiving tomb into a columbarium. All other pending matters, including staffing, maintenance, finance, electrical work, and barn repairs, were tabled.

• Table all agenda items (All in Favor)
• Waive all burial fees for Gustavo Soro (All in Favor)
• Approve obtaining updated proposal from architect/engineer Benjamin (All in Favor)
• Assistant Superintendent position posting (tabled)
• Grounds & Maintenance matter (tabled)
• Finance Committee matter (tabled)
• Electrical line to receiving tomb (tabled)
• Wooden barn repairs (tabled)

City Council

The council unanimously approved the minutes from three 2024 meetings. It adopted two resolutions honoring Lawrence High School’s theater program and varsity wrestler. It also confirmed appointments of Saviel Ortiz and Dioisio Cruz to the Municipal Airport Commission.

• Approved minutes of May 21, June 4, June 18 2024 (9-0)
• Adopted Resolution DOC #139/25 recognizing Lawrence High School theater program (9-0)
• Adopted Resolution DOC #140/25 recognizing Lawrence High School varsity wrestler (9-0)
• Untabled DOC #97/25 appointment of Saviel Ortiz to Airport Commission (9-0)
• Approved appointment of Saviel Ortiz to Airport Commission (9-0)
• Untabled DOC #98/25 appointment of Dioisio Cruz to Airport Commission (9-0)
• Approved appointment of Dioisio Cruz to Airport Commission (9-0)
• Passed motion to recess (9-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals reviewed a petition to approve a special permit for the New England Training Center. Members voted, resulting in three votes for approval with conditions and two votes against, which did not meet the required supermajority, so the petition was denied. A motion to adjourn the meeting was subsequently approved.

• Petition for New England Training Center special permit denied (3 Yes with conditions, 2 No)
• Motion to adjourn approved

City Council

The Lawrence City Council approved the Preaching Event (DOC #115/25) to be held July 17‑18, 2025 at O’Connell Park. It also re‑appointed William Collins and Sharon Birchall to the Municipal Airport Commission and withdrew two parking‑area proposals. Two other airport‑commission appointments were tabled, and a zoning amendment for Jackson Street was sent to a public hearing.

• Approved DOC #115/25 Preaching Event (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved DOC #95/25 Re‑appointment of William Collins to Airport Commission (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved DOC #96/25 Re‑appointment of Sharon Birchall to Airport Commission (unanimous voice vote)
• Tabled DOC #97/25 Appointment of Saviel Ortiz to Airport Commission (unanimous voice vote)
• Tabled DOC #98/25 Appointment of Dioisio Cruz to Airport Commission (unanimous voice vote)
• Withdrawn DOC #252/25 No Parking area, 402 Lowell Street (unanimous voice vote)
• Withdrawn DOC #494/25 No Parking area, 160 Garden Street (unanimous voice vote)
• Ordered public hearing for DOC #574/25 Amend Zoning on Jackson Street (unanimous voice vote)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Lawrence Zoning Board of Appeals met on March 27, 2025. It continued consideration of twelve variance applications without a decision. It approved a special permit and liquor variance for 431 Essex Street, passing the motion 4‑0 with three conditions. It also approved a dimensional variance for 23‑27 Hancock Street, passing 4‑0 with five conditions.

• Continued variance for 262‑278 Lowell Street
• Continued variance for 640 Essex Street
• Continued variance for 577 Broadway
• Continued variance for 123 Lawrence Street
• Continued variance for 168‑170 High Street
• Continued variance for 88‑92 Oxford Street
• Approved liquor special permit for 431 Essex Street (4‑0, 3 conditions)
• Approved dimensional variance for 23‑27 Hancock Street (4‑0, 5 conditions)