Peabody public meetings in 2024
52 substantive meetings from 2024, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Retirement
The board unanimously approved forwarding an accidental disability retirement application for Arthur Davis to PERAC for a medical panel, approved three superannuation retirements, and accepted eight new members. They also adopted a local policy against third-party payments from retirement allowances and approved a $2.1M pension payroll warrant. The required FY2026 appropriation of $17,691,658 was noted and will be forwarded to the City Council and Mayor.
- Forwarded Arthur Davis accidental disability retirement application to PERAC for medical panel (5-0)
- Approved superannuation retirements for Manuel Silveira, Aristides Ataide, and William Jackson (5-0)
- Approved eight new members including Christopher Patterson, Caitlin Fitzpatrick, and Cora Medeiros (5-0)
- Approved refunds for Carrie Joyce ($9,883.86 net), Isabella Wanjiru ($12,057.46 net), and Thomas Karolides ($3,262.64) (5-0)
- Approved transfers for Mark Saia ($187,730.63), Paula Harris ($28,985.61), and Ricardo DaSilva ($64,466.91) (5-0)
- Approved $2,122,320.84 pension payroll warrant and multiple administrative warrants (5-0)
- Adopted local policy prohibiting third-party payments from retirement allowances (5-0)
- Received and approved October 2024 cashbooks showing $211.4M market value (5-0)
City Council
The City Council voted to adopt a zoning amendment creating a Multi-Family Overlay District (MFOD) on approximately 121.3 acres, replacing the former Designated Development District Residential Overlay. The new district allows multi-family housing as of right in two subdistricts (0 Dearborn/7 Dearborn and 1 Brooksby Village Drive) with a total capacity of up to 2,336 units, to comply with Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 40A Section 3A (MBTA Communities Act). The vote was unanimous (10-0).
- Adopted zoning amendment creating Multi-Family Overlay District (MFOD) (unanimous)
- Deleted Section 6.6.8 Designated Development District Residential Overlay
- Deleted Section 3.2.15 DDOD and inserted new Section 3.2.15 MFOD
- Inserted new Section 6.17 Multi-Family Overlay District with dimensional standards, parking requirements, and development standards
- Approved minutes from November 26, 2024 meeting (unanimous)
- Received communications from City Solicitor and Senior Planner regarding MBTA Communities Act (unanimous)
City Council
The Peabody City Council held a special meeting to adopt the Fiscal 2025 Tax Classification. The council approved a residential factor of .852036 (175% CIP) by a 9-1 vote, with Councillor Manning-Martin opposed. The council also approved multiple fund transfers to reduce the tax rate and support various city programs, all by unanimous votes.
- Adopted residential factor of .852036 for FY2025 (9-1; Manning-Martin opposed)
- Approved $1M transfer from Free Cash to reduce tax levy (10-0)
- Approved $1,538,308 in transfers from various fees to FY2025 budget (10-0)
- Approved $1.1M transfer from APPA funding to FY2025 operating budget (10-0)
- Approved not granting Open Space discount (10-0)
- Approved not adopting residential exemption (10-0)
- Approved not adopting small commercial exemption (10-0)
- Approved multiple Community Preservation and ARPA fund transfers (10-0)
Planning Board
The Planning Board voted 9-1 to recommend that the City Council adopt a new Multifamily Overlay District and amend the Zoning Map to comply with state MBTA 3A law. The proposal would allow by-right multifamily housing on parcels at Dearborn Road and Brooksby Village Drive, with a potential net increase of 138 units. The board also held a public hearing on a tree removal request from Salem Country Club along Forest Street, but no decision was recorded.
- Recommended adoption of Zoning Overlay District for MBTA 3A compliance (9-1)
- Recommended approval of amended Zoning Map with new Overlay District (9-1)
City Council
The Peabody City Council approved the revival of the Adopt-a-Cemetery program, which allows residents or organizations to sponsor care for 24 cemeteries. An amendment changed 'weapons' to 'unlicensed weapons' in the application rules. The council also set public hearings for a new bowling alley and entertainment license for Gametime Lanes & Entertainment, and referred multiple fund transfers and a zoning amendment to the Tax Classification Hearing.
- Approved Adopt-a-Cemetery program with amendment to use 'unlicensed weapon' (10-0)
- Set public hearing for new bowling alley license for Gametime Lanes & Entertainment
- Set public hearing for new entertainment license for Gametime Lanes & Entertainment
- Referred multiple fund transfers and zoning amendment to Tax Classification Hearing
- Requested Republic Services representative appear before council regarding trash and recycling
- Requested mayor fine Republic Services for contract violations
- Requested 5th Street added to paving list for next year
- Approved banner request for Progeria Research Foundation
Board of Health
The Peabody Board of Health held hearings and unanimously approved four applications for body tattooing permits. Michael Christie received permits for a tattoo establishment at 474 Lowell Street and to perform tattooing, both pending a positive inspection. Manuel Pinales, Sean Maribito, and Courtney Langton each received permits to perform tattooing at 4 Lake Street, with Langton's permit conditioned on submitting proof of a current bloodborne pathogen course. Bijaya Gurung's hearing was continued to a future meeting.
- Approved Michael Christie's permit to operate a body tattoo establishment at 474 Lowell Street, pending positive inspection (unanimous)
- Approved Michael Christie's permit to perform body tattooing, pending positive inspection (unanimous)
- Approved Manuel Pinales' permit to perform body tattooing at 4 Lake Street (unanimous)
- Approved Sean Maribito's permit to perform body tattooing at 4 Lake Street (unanimous)
- Approved Courtney Langton's permit to perform body tattooing at 4 Lake Street, pending submission of bloodborne pathogen course documentation (unanimous)
- Continued Bijaya Gurung's hearing to a future meeting (no vote taken)
Planning Board
The board unanimously endorsed an ANR plan for 120, 122, and 124 Summit Street, allowing lot line shifts to resolve a building encroachment issue. A drainage modification for 128 Newbury Street was also approved 7-0. A site plan review for a car wash at 15 Newbury Street was continued to December 5, 2024.
- Endorsed ANR plan for 120, 122, 124 Summit Street (7-0)
- Approved drainage modification for 128 Newbury Street (7-0)
- Continued site plan review for 15 Newbury Street car wash to 12/5/2024
Retirement
The Peabody Retirement Board unanimously approved an accidental disability retirement for Albert Lopes IV after reviewing medical panel certificates. The board also approved a corrected superannuation retirement for Catherine Tassinari, accepted a Mass PRIM briefing, and approved 12 new members. All votes were unanimous.
- Approved accidental disability retirement for Albert Lopes IV (5-0)
- Approved recalculating Catherine Tassinari's superannuation under Option A (5-0)
- Approved 12 new retirement board members (5-0)
- Approved $2,109,752.90 pension payroll warrant (5-0)
- Approved $201 in miscellaneous bills (5-0)
- Approved $17,891.87 in board and staff payroll (5-0)
- Approved September 2024 cashbooks (5-0)
- Approved PERAC correspondence and 2024 Appropriation Data Questionnaire (5-0)
Planning Board
The Planning Board continued the site plan review for a proposed car wash at 15 Newbury Street to December 5, 2024, after the applicant requested more time to complete a peer review on water. The board unanimously approved the continuance. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting also included approval of prior minutes and no ANR/Land Court items.
- Approved minutes of October 17, 2024 (unanimous)
- Continued site plan review for 15 Newbury Street car wash to December 5, 2024 (unanimous)
Planning Board
The board continued the site plan review for a proposed car wash at 15 Newbury Street to November 7, 2024. Minutes from October 3 were unanimously approved. A continuance request for 67 Pulaski Street (Pioneer Charter School) was discussed but no vote was recorded.
- Approved minutes of October 3, 2024 (unanimous)
- Continued site plan review for 15 Newbury Street car wash to November 7, 2024
- Discussed continuance request for 67 Pulaski Street (Pioneer Charter School) — no action taken
Commission on Disability
The Peabody Commission on Disability met on October 10, 2024, and discussed updating the commission webpage with new resources, including assistive listening device information and a community projects tab. They also addressed accessibility complaints about sidewalk curb cutouts on Foster Street and a missing handicap parking spot at the Forrest Street lot. No formal votes or decisions were recorded.
- Approved September 9, 2024 meeting minutes (motion by Tom Gould, second by Robert Caldwell)
- Discussed adding a new webpage tab for community projects affecting seniors, strollers, and disabled citizens
- Discussed adding information on assistive listening devices and access to the webpage
- Discussed investigating resident lock box programs in other communities
- Discussed posting adaptive sports events on the webpage and Facebook page
- Discussed addressing sidewalk curb cutout placement on Foster Street and Summer Street with DPS
- Discussed adding a handicap parking spot to the Forrest Street parking lot
- No update on budget or AAB variance applications
City Council
The Peabody City Council approved using $68,387.30 from the Ride Share Transportation Trust as matching funds for multiuse path projects, and approved several appointments and a motor vehicle license transfer. A discussion on housing expansion (Section 3A) was kept in committee for more details. The council also adopted traffic ordinance amendments and a resolution recognizing Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month.
- Approved $68,387.30 from Ride Share Transportation Trust for multiuse path matching funds (10-0)
- Approved appointments: Celeste Sullivan to Cemetery Commission, Sharon Cameron as Human Services Director, Kevin Vinagro to Historical Commission (all 10-0)
- Approved Class 2 Motor Vehicle License transfer to Xpress Motor Group at 98 Foster Street with conditions (10-0)
- Adopted traffic ordinance amendments for Gardner Road and Fulton Street (both 10-0)
- Approved resolution recognizing Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month and October 15 as Remembrance Day (unanimous)
- Approved taxi driver licenses for Dennis Fry and Elsie Simions (unanimous)
- Approved block party on Roland Road for October 26 (unanimous)
- Kept housing expansion (Section 3A) in committee for further details
Conservation Commission
The Peabody Conservation Commission closed the public hearing and issued a standard Order of Conditions with special conditions for the new Public Safety Headquarters at 6 Allens Lane and 85 Perkins Street. The commission also approved a new in-ground pool at 41 Beacon Boulevard and a single-family home at 0 Blackstone Street, each with specific conditions. Several other items were continued or withdrawn.
- Approved Order of Conditions for Public Safety Headquarters with special conditions including perpetual O&M plan and annual maintenance reports (6-0)
- Approved withdrawal of NOI for 24 ½ North Central Street (4-2)
- Continued hearing for 10 & 12 Munroe Street to next meeting (6-0)
- Continued hearing for 0 Hardy Street to November meeting (4-2)
- Continued hearing for 29 Glendale Avenue to November meeting (4-2 after initial 3-1 failure)
- Approved Order of Conditions for in-ground pool at 41 Beacon Boulevard with special conditions on pool draining and well permits (6-0)
- Approved Order of Conditions for single-family home at 0 Blackstone Street with tree preservation condition (6-0)
- Continued hearing on amendment to Order of Conditions for 60 Pulaski Street to November meeting (6-0)
Planning Board
The Peabody Planning Board approved two Approval Not Required (ANR) plans: one for 59 Pine Street to adjust a lot line for a dwelling, and another for 128 Newbury Street involving multiple parcels. The board also granted a continuance to November 7, 2024, for a site plan review of a proposed car wash at 15 Newbury Street. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Approved ANR plan for 59 Pine Street (7-0)
- Approved ANR plan for 128 Newbury Street (7-0)
- Granted continuance for 15 Newbury Street car wash site plan review to November 7, 2024 (unanimous)
Board of Health
The Peabody Board of Health approved three permits: body tattooing permits for Trang (Tina) Tran and Carl Grace, and a permit for Edward Martins to keep 10 chickens at 25 Davis Terrace. The board also discussed draft tobacco control regulations that would prohibit tobacco sales to anyone born after January 1, 2004, but deferred action to a future meeting.
- Approved body tattooing permit for Trang (Tina) Tran (unanimous)
- Approved body tattooing permit for Carl Grace (unanimous)
- Approved permit to keep 10 chickens at 25 Davis Terrace for Edward Martins (unanimous)
- Approved minutes of August 15, 2024 (unanimous)
- Deferred review of CBD product regulations to November public hearing
- Discussed but took no vote on proposed tobacco control regulations
City Council
The Peabody City Council voted unanimously to uphold code enforcement findings against Peterbuilt, LLC at 168-172 Washington Street, giving 45 days to comply with condition 8 of Special Permit 24-2017 or face additional fines. The council also approved $250,000 in fund transfers for PFAS removal pilot study planning and appointed Jennifer Kowal as North Shore Children's Museum Executive Director. Several other items were referred to committees or set for public hearings.
- Upheld code enforcement findings for Peterbuilt, LLC at 168-172 Washington Street, 45 days to comply with Special Permit condition 8 (10-0)
- Approved $250,000 transfer for PFAS removal pilot study planning (10-0)
- Approved $126,111.97 in fund transfers for School Health Salaries, Police Dispatch Salaries and Overtime (10-0)
- Appointed Jennifer Kowal as North Shore Children's Museum Executive Director through 12/31/2025 (10-0)
- Approved banner request for Bishop Fenwick High School (unanimous)
- Referred purchase of city-owned land at 0 Birch Street to Legal Affairs Committee (unanimous)
- Set public hearing for Class 2 Motor Vehicle License transfer for Xpress Motor Group at 98 Foster Street (unanimous)
- Referred traffic safety issues at Lynn Street/Bartholomew Street and Lynn Street/Fairview Avenue to Municipal Safety Committee (unanimous)
Commission on Disability
The Peabody Commission on Disability discussed several accessibility issues, including three problem areas in South Peabody, crosswalk concerns at Ross Park, and a tree stump at Lynn Street. The Central Street project is on hold during a redesign. The meeting was largely informational with no formal votes taken.
- Approved July 11, 2024 meeting minutes
- Discussed South Peabody accessibility issues; DPS to address
- Discussed Ross Park crosswalk; DPS suggests relocating and adding ramp
- Discussed tree stump at 7/11 on Lynn Street; DPS to assess
- Discussed Bell Inn issues: shower, railing, signage; no action yet
- Noted Pellana added van-accessible parking but needs signage
- No update on MOD grant application
- Next meeting scheduled for October 10, 2024
Conservation Commission
The Peabody Conservation Commission continued a public hearing on a new Public Safety Headquarters at 6 Allens Lane and 85 Perkins Street to allow time for further comments from relevant departments. The commission also issued full Certificates of Compliance for two projects: a dwelling replacement at 15 and 17 Elginwood Road and bank stabilization at 181 Lynnfield Street. All other agenda items were continued to future meetings, and tree permit applications were approved.
- Continued public safety HQ hearing to future meeting (7-0)
- Issued Full Certificate of Compliance for 15 and 17 Elginwood Road (6-1)
- Issued Full Certificate of Compliance for 181 Lynnfield Street (6-1)
- Approved tree permit applications for 46 Diane Road, 2 John Road, and near 1 Essex Center Drive (6-1)
- Accepted Riverwalk Project exploratory boring notice at 21 Caller Street (6-1)
- Approved minutes from June 12 meeting (6-1)
Planning Board
The Planning Board approved a site plan review for the renovation and addition to the existing commercial building at 10 Lowell Street (Brodie's Pub), with a vote of 5-1. The board also continued the 15 Newbury Street car wash application to October 3, 2024, and heard a presentation on AT&T's wireless facility at 41 Cross Street / 75 Prospect Street, which already has a building permit.
- Approved site plan for 10 Lowell Street renovation and addition (5-1)
- Continued 15 Newbury Street car wash application to October 3, 2024 (unanimous)
- Approved minutes of August 15, 2024 meeting (unanimous)
⚠️ FEMA flood zone AE at this address
🏢 Building at this address: 4 m tall
Planning Board
The Peabody Planning Board approved a site plan review for MRG Construction Management Inc. to renovate and add a vertical addition to the existing commercial building at 10 Lowell Street. The project includes a new two-story Brodie's pub with salon suites above, a passenger elevator, sprinkler and fire alarm systems, and ADA-compliant access. The vote was 6-0. A separate application for a car wash at 15 Newbury Street was continued to the September 5, 2024 meeting.
- Approved site plan review for 10 Lowell Street renovation and addition (6-0)
- Continued car wash application at 15 Newbury Street to September 5, 2024
🏢 Building at this address: 4 m tall
Planning Board
The Board unanimously continued a site plan review for a proposed car wash at 15 Newbury Street to September 5, 2024, at the applicant's request. It also received a late add of architectural renderings and heard a presentation on the City of Peabody's proposed $69 million Public Safety Headquarters at 6 Allens Lane, but took no vote on that project at this meeting.
- Approved minutes of July 18, 2024 meeting (unanimous)
- Granted continuance of 15 Newbury Street car wash site plan review to September 5, 2024 (unanimous)
- Received late add of five architectural renderings for 6 Allens Lane project (unanimous)
Board of Health
The Peabody Board of Health held three hearings: two tattoo permit applications and one appeal of a public health nuisance order. The board unanimously upheld penalties against property owner Jason Bugg for ongoing trash and rodent issues at 116 Foster St., despite his appeal citing proactive steps. Two tattoo permits were granted: one apprentice-only permit for Anisa Contreras at Intricate Ink, and one full permit for Emily Belanger, both unanimously approved.
- Granted apprentice-only body tattooing permit to Anisa Contreras at Intricate Ink (unanimous)
- Granted full body tattooing permit to Emily Belanger (unanimous)
- Upheld Order to Correct Violations and penalties for 116 Foster St. (unanimous)
- Approved minutes of June 24, 2024 (unanimous)
Planning Board
The Peabody Planning Board unanimously approved two Approval Not Required (ANR) plans: one combining lots at 74 Glenway Ave. to resolve an encroachment, and another transferring a 3.4-acre lot at 0 River Road to Sabino Farm Road, LLC. The board also continued its review of a site plan for a 39,000 sq. ft. self-storage facility at 0 Newbury Street, accepting a late memo from Community Development and requiring full payment of $695,227.90 in back taxes before a building permit can be issued.
- Approved ANR plan at 74 Glenway Ave. combining Lot B with adjacent land (9-0)
- Approved ANR plan at 0 River Road transferring Lot A to Sabino Farm Road, LLC (9-0)
- Approved minutes from June 6 and June 20, 2024 meetings (unanimous)
- Accepted late communication from Community Development for 0 Newbury Street site plan (unanimous)
- Continued site plan review for Circle Storage at 0 Newbury Street to future meeting
- Required applicant to pay $695,227.90 in back taxes before building permit issuance
Commission on Disability
The meeting was largely procedural, with no formal votes or decisions. Members discussed accessibility issues at Ross Park and three locations in Lynn Street area, and agreed to forward complaints to the Department of Public Services for review. The next meeting is scheduled for September 12, 2024.
- Approved June 13, 2024 meeting minutes (motion by Tom Gould, seconded by Christine Gray)
- Discussed Ross Park accessibility complaint; DPS to review for compliance
- Identified three South Peabody accessibility issues (Lynn Street stump, Overlea Lane crosswalk, Lynn Street guard rail); photos to be sent to DPS
- No action on parking meters; Parking Clerk to attend fall meeting
City Council
The Peabody City Council approved a special permit for a laundromat at 118-120 Central Street and a special permit for McGovern Auto Group for automotive sales and repairs at 64-70 Andover Street, both unanimously. A zoning amendment to allow multi-family dwellings in the GB district was withdrawn without prejudice after committee discussion. The council also voted to draft an ordinance prohibiting left turns at the Casco Road/Lynnfield Street intersection due to safety concerns.
- Approved special permit for laundromat at 118-120 Central Street (11-0)
- Approved special permit for McGovern Auto Group for automotive sales/repairs at 64-70 Andover Street (11-0)
- Withdrew zoning amendment to add multi-family by special permit in GB district, without prejudice (11-0)
- Approved appointment of Jaclyn Ciardi as Recreation Supervisor (11-0)
- Voted to draft ordinance amendment prohibiting left turns at Casco Road entering Lynnfield Street and Lynnfield Street entering Casco Road (11-0)
- Approved utility contractor licenses for Tufts Construction Inc. and Robles Excavating Inc. (unanimous)
- Approved block party permits for Margin Terrace/Adams Avenue, Donna Street, and Glen Drive (unanimous)
- Approved taxi driver license for Rex Kent (unanimous)
City Council
The City Council voted 11-0 to amend parking regulations, including allowing eight-hour sessions at the Railroad Avenue lot, creating employee parking passes, and establishing street-sweeping restrictions on Main Street. It also authorized the mayor to acquire easements and award $153,700 in damages for the Peabody Greenway Bikeway Extension Project. A public hearing on a zoning amendment to allow multi-family dwellings in the GB district was recessed until July 11, 2024.
- Approved downtown parking ordinance changes (11-0): eight-hour limit at Railroad Avenue lot, employee parking passes, street-sweeping restrictions on Main Street
- Authorized mayor to acquire easements and award $153,700 for Peabody Greenway Bikeway Extension Project (11-0)
- Recessed public hearing on zoning amendment for multi-family dwellings in GB district until July 11, 2024 (unanimous)
- Referred zoning amendment to Industrial & Community Development Committee (unanimous)
- Approved amending Section 19-141 to change Monroe Street one-way direction (11-0)
- Approved emergency sidewalk repair at 103 Lynn Street (11-0)
- Approved no-parking restriction at 1 and 2 Nancy Avenue from April 15 to July 1 (unanimous)
- Adopted ordinance amending Section 19-48 on car carrier by motor vehicle (11-0)
Board of Health
The Peabody Board of Health held hearings and unanimously approved permits for three tattoo artists (Pedro Martin Gonzalez, Bao Tran, and Renato Cleber Dos Santos), a tattoo establishment (Mahalo Tattoo at 145 Summit St.), and a permit to keep 10 hens at 9 Parkview Lane. The tattoo establishment permit for Mahalo Tattoo was approved pending a site inspection. A hearing for a tattoo artist and establishment at 243 Andover St. was continued briefly and then held; no vote was recorded in the provided minutes.
- Approved tattoo permit for Pedro Martin Gonzalez (unanimous)
- Approved tattoo permit for Bao Tran (unanimous)
- Approved tattoo permit for Renato Cleber Dos Santos and tattoo establishment permit for Mahalo Tattoo at 145 Summit St., pending inspection (unanimous)
- Approved permit to keep 10 hens at 9 Parkview Lane for Zulmira Sousa (unanimous)
- Hearing for Jessica Duran (tattoo artist) and Carla Evans (establishment at 243 Andover St.) was continued and then held; no vote recorded in minutes
City Council
The Peabody City Council voted 10-0 to adopt the Fiscal Year 2025 City of Peabody Operating Budget totaling $197,352,196, along with the Water & Sewer Enterprise Budget ($21,646,000) and the Recreation Enterprise Budget ($2,844,400, amended to reduce the skating rink personnel budget by $50,000). The Council also approved multiple fund transfers, including $1.85M to close FY2024 accounts and several Community Preservation Act transfers for cemetery restoration, open space, and scanning preservation. Additionally, the Council adopted state law clauses 22G and 22H to expand property tax exemptions for veterans and their surviving family members.
- Approved $197,352,196 FY2025 operating budget (10-0)
- Approved $21,646,000 Water & Sewer Enterprise budget (10-0)
- Approved $2,844,400 Recreation Enterprise budget, amended to cut skating rink personnel by $50,000 (10-0)
- Approved $1,853,450 in transfers to close FY2024 accounts (10-0)
- Approved $24,700 CPC transfer for cemetery restoration (10-0)
- Approved $11,405.56 CPC transfer for scanning preservation payroll records (10-0)
- Approved $219,675 CPC transfer for lake and pond restoration to open space (10-0)
- Adopted MGL Chapter 59, Section 5, Clauses 22G and 22H for veteran property tax exemptions (10-0)
City Council
The Peabody City Council approved the creation of three new city positions: Assistant Director of Facilities ($100,410), Assistant Clerk of Elections ($84,825), and Assistant City Auditor ($74,588). The council also approved salary increases for the City Solicitor and Director of Finance & Administration to $150,698 each. Two special permits were granted: one for a bodywork spa at 145-A Summit Street and one to legalize an existing third-floor apartment at 10 Kenwood Road, both unanimously.
- Approved special permit for bodywork spa at 145-A Summit Street (11-0)
- Approved special permit to legalize third-floor apartment at 10 Kenwood Road (11-0)
- Approved creation of Assistant Director of Facilities position at $100,410 (9-2)
- Approved creation of Assistant Clerk of Elections position at $84,825 (11-0)
- Approved creation of Assistant City Auditor position at $74,588 (9-2)
- Approved salary increases for City Solicitor and Director of Finance & Administration to $150,698 (11-0)
- Took no action on three applications to purchase city-owned land at 35 Swampscott Road, 50 Sabino Farm Road, and 0 Outlook Avenue (unanimous)
Conservation Commission
The Peabody Conservation Commission approved a standard Order of Conditions for the Independence Greenway extension from Essex Center Drive to Endicott Street, a 1.3-mile project along a former railroad right-of-way. The commission also granted three-year extension permits for aquatic maintenance at Cedar Pond Village and Huntington Woods Condominiums, and issued a Full Certificate of Compliance for a property at 1 Mount Pleasant Drive. A continued hearing for a townhouse redevelopment at 24½ North Central Street was discussed but not voted on.
- Approved standard Order of Conditions for Independence Greenway extension (7-0)
- Granted 3-year extension permit for Cedar Pond Village aquatic maintenance (7-0)
- Granted 3-year extension permit for Huntington Woods Condominiums aquatic maintenance (7-0)
- Issued Full Certificate of Compliance for 1 Mount Pleasant Drive (7-0)
- Withdrew Enforcement Order for 1 Mount Pleasant Street with erosion controls left in place (7-0)
- Continued partial Certificate of Compliance for 7 Dearborn Road (7-0)
- Continued public hearing for 18 Carell Road road extension (7-0)
- Elected Stewart Lazares as Chairman, Michael Rizzo as Vice Chairman, Michael Vivaldi as Secretary (7-0)
Board of Health
The Peabody Board of Health approved a body tattooing permit for Erin Oliver, upheld a trash violation at 29 Hourihan St., rescinded a violation at 20 Wallis St., and granted a variance from lifeguard requirements at Jayden Apartments. The board also discussed tobacco enforcement and received an informational presentation on flavored vaping products.
- Approved body tattooing permit for Erin Oliver (2-0)
- Upheld Order to Correct for trash at 29 Hourihan St. (2-0)
- Rescinded Order to Correct for debris at 20 Wallis St. (2-0)
- Granted variance from lifeguard requirement at Jayden Apartments, 7 Dearborn Rd. (2-0)
- Approved minutes from April 2024 meeting (2-0)
City Council
The City Council approved a $9.125 million bond order for capital projects including $6 million in water line replacements, $2.25 million in school improvements, and other items. The council also denied the sale of city-owned land at 2 Linda Jean Lane after reconsideration, and approved $1.855 million in fund transfers for police and fire overtime and snow removal using ARPA funds and free cash.
- Approved $9.125M bond for capital projects (9-0)
- Denied sale of city-owned land at 2 Linda Jean Lane (7-2 after reconsideration)
- Approved $1.855M in fund transfers for police/fire overtime and snow removal (9-0)
- Approved special permit for office-to-residential conversion at 13 Margin Street (10-0)
- Requested building commissioner enforce violations at 27 Emily Lane and 2 Linda Jean Lane (9-0)
- Amended car carrier ordinance to hold delivery recipients liable (9-0)
- Continued public hearing for Roland Cika application to June 13, 2024 (unanimous)
- Requested bond payment breakdown from finance director and treasurer (unanimous)
Planning Board
The Peabody Planning Board approved an ANR plan for 8 Elm Street to create a new lot for a home, with a 9-1 roll call vote. The board also approved a site plan for a McGovern Automotive Group dealership at 64 Andover Street (9-0) and continued a car wash proposal at 15 Newbury Street to June 20, 2024. A site plan review for Circle Storage at 0 Newbury Street was continued to June 6, 2024.
- Approved ANR plan for 8 Elm Street lot creation (9-1)
- Approved site plan for McGovern Automotive dealership at 64 Andover Street with landscaping waiver and fencing condition (9-0)
- Continued Circle Storage site plan review at 0 Newbury Street to June 6, 2024
- Continued GR Development car wash proposal at 15 Newbury Street to June 20, 2024
- Approved minutes of April 18 and May 2, 2024 meetings (unanimous)
Board of Health
The Peabody Board of Health held hearings and unanimously approved a variance from the Food Code for a restaurant at 1 Main St. to open garage-style windows, with conditions. It also granted permits for body tattooing to Diane Dancewicz, Hanh Tran (provisionally pending inspection), and Sopheak Khorn (provisionally pending inspection). The board approved minutes from prior meetings and received an update on rodent control efforts.
- Approved variance from Food Code for 1 Main St. to allow opening windows (unanimous)
- Granted body tattooing permit to Diane Dancewicz (unanimous)
- Granted body tattooing permit to Hanh Tran, provisionally pending inspection (unanimous)
- Granted body tattooing establishment permit for Luxe Beauty Spa at 130 Newbury St., provisionally pending inspection (unanimous)
- Granted body tattooing permit to Sopheak Khorn, provisionally pending inspection (unanimous)
- Granted body tattooing establishment permit for Beauty Boost at 215 Newbury St., provisionally pending inspection (unanimous)
- Approved minutes from February 22, 2024 and March 12, 2024 meetings (unanimous)
Commission on Disability
The Commission on Disability approved minutes from its March 14 meeting and received updates on the Central Street project, parking meters, and a proposed sensory Braille trail. No budget or formal decisions were made beyond the minutes approval.
- Approved minutes from March 14, 2024 meeting (motion by Robert Caldwell, seconded by Kayla Bentas)
Planning Board
The Board approved a corrected ANR plan for 0 Prospect Street, fixing a measurement error of less than 1/8 inch found by the Land Court. They also granted continuances for site plan reviews at 8 Centennial Drive and 0 Newbury Street to April 18, 2024. A site plan modification was approved to add Tesla charging stations at the Starbucks on Newbury Street.
- Approved ANR plan correction for 0 Prospect Street (8-0)
- Granted continuance for 8 Centennial Drive site plan review to April 18, 2024 (unanimous)
- Granted continuance for 0 Newbury Street site plan review to April 18, 2024 (unanimous)
- Approved site plan modification for Tesla charging stations at Starbucks on Newbury Street (8-0)
- Approved late add from City Treasurer regarding tax title properties at 0 & 128 Newbury Street (unanimous)
- Directed communication with City Solicitor, Attorney Keilty, Treasurer, and Assessor on tax title issue (8-0)
City Council
The City Council voted unanimously to amend the city code to cap secondhand automobile licenses at 50 and to add stop signs at two intersections. Several communications and licenses were received and approved, including a transfer of a special permit for D&D Auto Sales and new entertainment licenses for Brodie's Pub and Copa Cabana Steakhouse, with public hearings set.
- Amended Section 16-29(c) to cap secondhand auto licenses at 50 (11-0)
- Added stop sign on Lincoln Street northeastbound at Hourihan Street (unanimous)
- Added stop sign on School Street southwestbound at Franklin Street (unanimous)
- Approved banner request for St. Clare of Assisi Catholic Community (unanimous)
- Approved transfer of Special Permit 28-2012 for D&D Auto Sales & Repair Corp. (unanimous)
- Set public hearing for new entertainment license for Brodie's Pub (unanimous)
- Set public hearing for new entertainment license for Copa Cabana Steakhouse (unanimous)
- Requested Health Department recommendations on updating fine schedule (unanimous)
City Council
The Peabody City Council voted 10-1 to appropriate $69.2 million for a new public safety facility at Allen's Lane, covering design and construction costs. The bond order was recommended by the Finance Committee after presentations from the Mayor, architects, and police and fire chiefs. Councillor Manning-Martin opposed, citing concerns about the location and timing of financing.
- Approved $69.2M bond order for new police station and public safety headquarters (10-1)
- Received Finance Committee report on the bond order (unanimous)
- Received late communications from Superintendent Dr. Vadala and Principal Bucey in support (unanimous)
- Received late communication from union business manager Jeffrey Saliba in support (unanimous)
Planning Board
The board unanimously approved continuances for two large-scale site plan reviews: a 710,560-square-foot warehouse redevelopment at 8 Centennial Drive and a 39,000-square-foot self-storage project at 0 Newbury Street. Both were continued from March 7 and will be taken up at the April 4 meeting. The board also approved minutes from the March 7 meeting and received a letter from the Peabody Historical Commission regarding two family cemeteries near the Newbury Street site.
- Approved continuance for 8 Centennial Drive warehouse redevelopment to April 4 (unanimous)
- Approved continuance for 0 Newbury Street self-storage project to April 4 (unanimous)
- Approved minutes of March 7, 2024 meeting (unanimous)
- Received Historical Commission letter about two family cemeteries near 0 Newbury Street
Board of Health
The Peabody Board of Health unanimously approved permits for Joseph Rodgers to perform body tattooing at Lake Street Tattoo and for Arturo Luna at Speakeasy Gallery. The board also upheld violation orders and $100 fines against Renee Morse for unsanitary conditions at 10 Overlook Trail, where dogs were allowed to urinate and defecate on a deck, causing a public nuisance. The board approved minutes from the January 25, 2024 meeting and received an update on rodent control related to the Central Street project.
- Approved permit for Joseph Rodgers to perform body tattooing at Lake Street Tattoo (unanimous)
- Approved permit for Arturo Luna to perform body tattooing at Speakeasy Gallery (unanimous)
- Upheld violation order for 10 Overlook Trail property (unanimous)
- Upheld $100 fines for 10 Overlook Trail property (unanimous)
- Approved minutes from January 25, 2024 meeting (unanimous)
Planning Board
The Peabody Planning Board met for nine minutes and approved continuances for two site plan reviews: 8 Centennial Drive (four warehouses, 1,000 employees) and 0 Newbury Street (self-storage facility). Both were continued to March 21, 2024, at the applicants' request. The board also approved prior meeting minutes, created a subcommittee to review its rules and regulations, and scheduled a developer update for April 4.
- Approved minutes of February 15, 2024 (unanimous)
- Continued site plan review for 8 Centennial Drive to March 21, 2024 (unanimous)
- Continued site plan review for 0 Newbury Street to March 21, 2024 (unanimous)
- Created subcommittee to review Planning Board rules and regulations
- Scheduled Birch Hill Subdivision developer update for April 4, 2024
Conservation Commission
The Peabody Conservation Commission voted unanimously to continue an enforcement order against Salem Country Club for tree removal and woodchip dumping in buffer zones. The club is in compliance on most conditions but must still submit photographic documentation and a spring 2024 tree inspection report.
- Continued enforcement order against Salem Country Club for tree removal and woodchip dumping in buffer zones (6-0)
- Required revised restoration report with before/after photos for condition J compliance
- Required spring 2024 tree reinspection and written report for condition K compliance
- Scheduled site visit for mid-May 2024
Board of Health
The Peabody Board of Health approved two tattoo permits, conditionally approved a variance for Springhill Suites pool and spa lifeguard requirement, and held a hearing on a permit suspension for Family Fare Restaurant. All votes were unanimous.
- Approved Karen Georgina Tejada Avelor's permit for body tattooing (apprentice, micropigmentation) at Prettyology (unanimous)
- Approved David Duncan's permit for body tattooing at Lake St. Tattoo (unanimous)
- Conditionally approved Springhill Suites Peabody's variance from lifeguard requirement at pool and spa, pending review and with condition that pool closes if video monitoring fails or is understaffed (unanimous)
- Held hearing on permit suspension for Family Fare Restaurant, 474 Lowell St.; no vote taken
Planning Board
The Peabody Planning Board approved a conditional permit for an 82,790 sq ft building addition at 140 Summit Street, with 13 conditions from the Engineering Department. The board also approved two ANR plans: one for a 5-lot subdivision on Blaney Avenue and one for a land sale at 27 Emily Lane, contingent on City Council approval. Several other items were continued to future meetings, including a major warehouse redevelopment at 8 Centennial Drive and a storage facility at 0 Newbury Street.
- Approved conditional permit for 140 Summit Street addition with 13 conditions (6-0)
- Approved ANR plan for 5 lots on Blaney Avenue (6-0)
- Approved ANR plan for 27 Emily Lane land sale, contingent on City Council decision (6-0)
- Granted extension for 8 Centennial Drive site plan review to March 14, 2024
- Granted extension for 0 Newbury Street storage facility review to March 15, 2024
- Approved minutes of January 18 and February 1, 2024 meetings
- Directed staff to request presentation on 23-lot subdivision on Birch Street and Villa Lane for lack of progress
Conservation Commission
The Peabody Conservation Commission voted unanimously to extend a stormwater system maintenance permit for 100 Brooksby Village Drive for three years, and ratified an emergency certificate for a sewer main break at Johnson Street and the Peabody bike path. The commission also issued a partial certificate of compliance for 7 Christopher Terrace, continued multiple public hearings, and approved a standard order of conditions for a single-family home at 0 Pearl Street with special conditions.
- Approved 3-year extension of DEP File No. 55-769 for stormwater system at 100 Brooksby Village Drive (4-0)
- Ratified Emergency Certificate for sewer main break at Johnson Street and Peabody bike path (4-0)
- Issued Partial Certificate of Compliance for 7 Christopher Terrace (5-0)
- Continued public hearing for 181 Lynnfield Street to March meeting after site visit (5-0)
- Continued public hearing for 24 ½ North Central Street (5-0)
- Continued public hearing for 0 Hardy Street (5-0)
- Continued public hearing for 18 Carell Road (5-0)
- Approved Standard Order of Conditions for 0 Pearl Street with 7 special conditions (4-1)
Planning Board
The Planning Board voted 5-0 to recommend a permit for a 26-unit apartment complex at 54 Prospect Street, with conditions from the Engineering and Community Development departments. The board also continued three other site plan reviews to February 15, 2024, and received a presentation on the city's Master Plan.
- Approved site plan review for 54 Prospect Street apartment complex (5-0)
- Continued 8 Centennial Drive warehouse redevelopment to February 15, 2024
- Continued 140 Summit Street warehouse addition to February 15, 2024
- Continued 0 Newbury Street storage facility to February 15, 2024
Board of Health
The Peabody Board of Health unanimously approved three apprentice tattoo permits (Intricate Ink Tattoo, Timeless Ink, Lake St. Tattoo) and a variance from the Federal Food Code for Satanic Hot Sauce. All decisions were unanimous.
- Approved Monique Law's apprentice tattoo permit for Intricate Ink Tattoo (unanimous)
- Approved Byron Lemus's apprentice tattoo permit for Timeless Ink (unanimous)
- Approved Stephanie Ward's micropigmentation and apprentice tattoo permits for Lake St. Tattoo (unanimous)
- Approved Jordan Aguirre's variance from Federal Food Code 3-502.11 for Satanic Hot Sauce (unanimous)
City Council
The Peabody City Council approved a special permit to enclose and convert a deck into a year-round function room at 29-31 Lynnfield Street, with a 9-1 vote (Councillor Manning-Martin opposed; Councillor Melville recused). The council also approved the sale of 4,161 square feet of city-owned land at 2 Linda Jean Lane for $15,000 (11-0), and approved $74,905 in fund transfers for voting booth and software upgrades (11-0). Several license renewals and reappointments to boards and commissions were also approved unanimously.
- Approved special permit to enclose deck as year-round function room at 29-31 Lynnfield Street (9-1)
- Approved sale of 4,161 sq ft city-owned land at 2 Linda Jean Lane for $15,000 (11-0)
- Approved $35,572.71 transfer for voting booth upgrades and $39,332.33 for software upgrades (11-0)
- Approved 2024 license renewals for All Motors, Su Chang's, Witch City Taxi, and others (unanimous)
- Approved outdoor dining license renewal for The Bell Inn (unanimous)
- Approved entertainment license renewals for Eatery 58, Jade's Restaurant, Trackside Bar & Grill (unanimous)
- Approved reappointments to Board of Health, Cable Commission, Cemetery Commission, and other boards (unanimous)
- Requested police officer assignment at each polling precinct for 2024 elections (unanimous)
Planning Board
The Peabody Planning Board unanimously approved continuances for three site plan review applications: 54 Prospect Street (North Point apartments), 8 Centennial Drive (warehouse redevelopment), and 140 Summit Street (Christianbook building addition). The board also elected officers for 2024, with Thomas Bettencourt as Chairman, John Ford as Vice-Chairman, and Peter Arvanites as Secretary. No final decisions were made on the site plans.
- Approved continuance for 54 Prospect Street site plan review to February 1, 2024 (unanimous)
- Approved continuance for 8 Centennial Drive site plan review to February 15, 2024 (unanimous)
- Approved continuance for 140 Summit Street site plan review to February 1, 2024 (unanimous)
- Elected Thomas Bettencourt as Chairman for 2024 term (unanimous)
- Elected John Ford as Vice-Chairman for 2024 term (unanimous)
- Elected Peter Arvanites as Secretary for 2024 term (unanimous)
- Approved minutes of January 4, 2024 meeting (unanimous)
City Council
The Peabody City Council unanimously approved a large slate of 2024 license renewals for motor vehicle dealers, entertainment venues, innholders, and other businesses, subject to all paperwork being in order. The council also referred several items to committees, including a legal review of city-owned property at 2 Linda Jean Lane and a request to investigate vehicle sales at Elite Motor Cars. A Class 2 Motor Vehicle License for 180 Newbury Street was ordered reverted to the city.
- Approved 2024 license renewals for multiple Class 2, Class 3, entertainment, innholder, and general licenses (unanimous)
- Approved taxi/limousine driver license for Michael Campbell (unanimous)
- Referred communication regarding 2 Linda Jean Road to Legal Affairs Committee (unanimous)
- Referred communication regarding city-owned property at 2 Linda Jean Lane to Legal Affairs Committee (unanimous)
- Requested Building Commissioner investigate number of vehicles for sale at Elite Motor Cars, 93 Lynn Street (unanimous)
- Approved reversion of Class 2 Motor Vehicle License for 180 Newbury Street to city possession (9-0)
- Referred car carrier ordinance amendment to Legal Affairs Committee (unanimous)
- Set public hearing for Special Permit application at 29-31 Lynnfield Street (unanimous)
Conservation Commission
The Peabody Conservation Commission approved three Certificates of Compliance, including one for an above-ground pool at 71 Lake Street with a new perpetual condition requiring chlorine-free standing for 7 days before draining. The commission also issued a Negative Determination for renovations at 10-14 Lowell Street with conditions to protect Goldthwaite Brook, and continued multiple public hearings for further review.
- Approved Full Certificate of Compliance for 71 Lake Street pool with new condition #49 requiring 7-day chlorine-free standing before draining (6-0)
- Approved Full Certificate of Compliance for 9 Clark Road addition and deck (6-0)
- Approved Full Certificate of Compliance for 18 Carell Road road extension, marking file expired (6-0)
- Issued Negative Determination for 10-14 Lowell Street renovations with conditions including daily vacuuming of platforms (5-1)
- Continued public hearing for 18 Carell Road road extension to next meeting (6-0)
- Continued public hearing for 0 Pearl Street single-family home, requesting revised plans and site visit (6-0)
- Continued public hearing for 29 Glendale Avenue single-family home at applicant's request (6-0)
- Continued public hearing for 8 Centennial Drive redevelopment pending peer review (6-0)
⚠️ FEMA flood zone AE at this address
🏢 Building at this address: 4 m tall
Planning Board
The Peabody Planning Board unanimously approved continuances for three site plan applications — 54 Prospect Street, 8 Centennial Drive, and 140 Summit Street — to January 18, 2024, after receiving extension requests from Attorney John Keilty. The board also approved the December 7, 2023 meeting minutes and postponed the election of officers to the next meeting. A board member expressed frustration over repeated continuances for the same projects.
- Approved minutes of December 7, 2023 meeting (unanimous)
- Granted continuance to Jan. 18 for 54 Prospect Street site plan review (unanimous)
- Granted continuance to Jan. 18 for 8 Centennial Drive site plan review (unanimous)
- Granted continuance to Jan. 18 for 140 Summit Street site plan review (unanimous)
- Postponed election of board officers to Jan. 18 meeting (unanimous)