Salem public meetings in 2022

Neighborhood Improvement Advisory Council

The council will review the November 9, 2022, minutes and hear updates from neighborhood associations and the city. Special guests include Mayor Kim Driscoll and Michael Lilley of Salem Pantry.

• Approval of November 9, 2022, minutes
• Neighborhood association updates
• City updates

The council approved the minutes from the November 9, 2022, meeting. The session included a presentation from the Salem Pantry and updates on neighborhood associations and city services. No other substantive votes were taken.

• Approved November 9, 2022, minutes

Council on Aging Board

The Salem Council on Aging Board will hold its regular monthly meeting on December 21, 2022. The agenda includes an update on subsidized senior housing and several community group reports. The board will also review the minutes from the November 2022 meeting.

• Subsidized Senior Housing Update
• Advocates for Positive Aging report
• Salem for All Ages report
• Friends of the COA Update
• Director’s Report

The board unanimously approved the November 2021 meeting minutes. Members also voted unanimously to continue meeting remotely through April. No other substantive policy or financial decisions were recorded.

• Approved November 2021 Minutes (unanimous)
• Decided to continue remote meetings through April (unanimous)

Historical Commission

The Salem Historical Commission will meet via Zoom on December 21, 2022. The commission will consider applications for Certificates of Appropriateness regarding roof shingles at 4 River Street and building renovations at 275 Lafayette Street.

• Certificate of Appropriateness for architectural roof shingles at 4 River Street
• Continuation of Certificate of Appropriateness for renovation and new construction at 275 Lafayette Street
• Review of meeting minutes, violations, and correspondence

Design Review Board

The Design Review Board will review sign applications for several locations in the Urban Renewal Area. The board will also continue a design review for a one-story addition at 301 Essex Street containing residential units and retail space. Additionally, the meeting includes elections for Chair and Vice Chair.

• Sign reviews for five locations in the Urban Renewal Area
• Schematic design review for 10 residential units and retail space at 301 Essex Street
• Elections for Board Chair and Vice Chair
• Approval of October 26 and November 16 meeting minutes

The Board approved signage for Stonefield, Stained Hourglass Escapes, and The Hive, while requiring American Flatbread's sign to remain unlit. A proposal for a 4-story addition at 301 Essex Street was continued for design revisions. The Board also elected Paul Durand as Chair and Mark Perras as Vice Chair for 2023.

• Approved sign for 120 Washington Street (Stonefield) (5-0)
• Approved unlit sign for 311 Derby Street (American Flatbread) (3-0)
• Approved sign for 119-211 Washington Street (Stained Hourglass Escapes) with 10% text reduction (5-0)
• Approved sign for 231-251 Washington Street (The Hive) with height reduction to 18 inches (5-0)
• Continued sign review for 26 Congress Street (Asado by Antique Table) (5-0)
• Continued schematic design review for 301 Essex Street addition to January 25, 2023 (5-0)
• Elected Paul Durand as Chair and Mark Perras as Vice Chair for 2023 (5-0)
• Approved meeting minutes from October 26 and November 16, 2022 (4-0 each)

Park & Recreation Commission

The Commission will review financial reports and introduce Tiffany Gaddis, the new Forest River Event Manager. The agenda includes requests for events at Salem Common and discussions regarding rental rates and Salem Willows meters.

• Forest River Function Hall rental rates discussion
• Mental Makeover 5K walk request for Salem Common
• Salem Common Gazebo wedding request
• Superintendent's financial reports
• Comments regarding Salem Willows meters

The Park and Recreation Commission approved rental rates for the Forest River Function Room for 2023. The board also granted permits for a 5K walk and a wedding at the Salem Common. Members discussed parking meter enforcement and revenue at the Salem Willows.

• Approved November 15, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Mental Makeover 5K walk at Salem Common for July 30, 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved Salem Common Gazebo use for a wedding on July 8, 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved 2023 Forest River Function Room Rates (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Salem Conservation Commission is continuing reviews of several development proposals. These include a mixed-use project at 252 Bridge Street and two single-family homes on Circle Hill Road. The commission will also consider a request regarding a garage modification on Canal Street.

• Mixed-use redevelopment proposal at 252 Bridge Street
• Construction of two single-family homes at 50 and 52 Circle Hill Road
• Proposed garage razing and second-story addition at 142 Canal Street
• Approval of November 15, 2022, meeting minutes

The Conservation Commission issued a negative determination for a project at 142 Canal Street, allowing the conversion of a commercial garage into residential units and parking. The decision requires that buyers or renters be informed of flood hazards via documents and signage. Two other public hearings were continued to January 2023.

• Issued negative determination for 142 Canal Street with conditions for flood hazard signage and documentation (6-0)
• Continued public hearing for 252 Bridge Street to January 17, 2023 (5-0)
• Continued public hearing for 50, 52 Circle Hill Road to January 17, 2023 (5-0)
• Tabled November 15, 2022 meeting minutes

Public Art Commission

The Salem Public Art Commission will discuss open spaces with City Senior Planner Tom Devine. The meeting includes a preliminary review of temporary sculpture applications and discussions regarding a sculpture garden location. Members will also discuss a decision for Ramani Rangan’s 'Fire from the Sky'.

• Preliminary review of temporary sculpture applications
• Art Jury nominations
• Sculpture Garden location discussion
• Decision discussion for Ramani Rangan’s Fire from the Sky
• Open spaces discussion with City Senior Planner Tom Devine

The commission approved the November 15, 2022 meeting minutes. Members identified Leslie’s Retreat as the location for this year's rotating sculpture garden and discussed the review process for the 'Making it Public' sculpture submissions.

• Approved November 15, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Selected Leslie’s Retreat as the location for the rotating sculpture garden
• Tabled decision on allocating $1,000 for 'Fire from the Sky' sculpture loan until January

School Committee

The committee will review recent meeting minutes and approve warrants for December 8 and December 15. Members will also receive updates on the FY24 budget development calendar and quarterly transfers. Additionally, the committee will hold first readings for policies regarding school attendance and an advisory committee.

• Approval of $2,086.00 donation from Carlton Innovation School PTO
• Approval of warrants for 12/8/22 ($771,610.68) and 12/15/22 ($681,103.38)
• First reading of Policy 5101 (School Age and Attendance)
• Update on FY24 budget development calendar
• Superintendent's report on advocacy for period products in schools

The School Committee approved the first reading of policies regarding school age and attendance and the advisory committee. The meeting also included presentations on student advocacy for period products and a middle school learning pilot.

• Approved Regular Agenda (6-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda (6-0)
• Approved first reading of Policy 5101 - School Age and Attendance (6-0)
• Approved first reading of Policy 1502 - Advisory Committee to the School Committee (6-0)

Tree Commission

The Salem Tree Commission will discuss next steps regarding an Emerald Ash Borer Beetle advisory to property owners. The meeting also includes community outreach for the Greening the Gateway Cities Program.

• Emerald Ash Borer Beetle advisory to property owners
• Tree Planting Services IFB April 2022
• Greening the Gateway Cities Program community outreach
• Approval of November 21, 2022 meeting minutes

The Commission denied a permit to remove two trees in a protected zone at 27 Congress Street. Members discussed the need for a permanent Certified Arborist/Tree Warden and reviewed a potential $100,000 grant for tree planting.

• Denied tree removal request for 27 Congress Street (DPST 22-16)
• Approved November 21, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Fined North Shore Community Development $500 for pruning a protected tree

Licensing Board

The Salem Licensing Board will hold a remote meeting on December 19, 2022, to review several one-day liquor license applications for events in late December, a request to amend an amusement license, and a transfer of an annual all-alcohol license. The board will also approve minutes from a prior meeting.

• One-day liquor license for New Year's Eve dinner dance at Saint John Paul II Shrine, 28 St. Peter St., Dec 31, 100 people
• One-day liquor license for member's reception at Salem Athenaeum, 337 Essex St., Dec 21, 50 people
• One-day liquor license for burial ceremony at 158 Federal St., Dec 23, 100 people
• Multiple one-day liquor licenses for temporary beer & wine garden at Charlotte Forten Park, Derby St., Dec 26-Jan 1, 100 people/day
• Transfer of annual all-alcohol license at 268 Washington St. (formerly Major Magleashes) to The Major's Salem, LLC

School Committee

The Salem School Committee Policy Subcommittee will meet to discuss the JROTC Marksmanship program with instructor Sergeant Major John W. Sumner. The committee will also review minutes from the December 2, 2022, meeting.

• Discussion of the JROTC Marksmanship program with Sergeant Major John W. Sumner
• Approval of minutes from the December 2, 2022, Policy Subcommittee meeting

The Policy Subcommittee discussed the JROTC Marksmanship program, including safety parameters, curriculum, and citywide ordinances regarding air rifles. No formal votes were taken on policy changes or program approvals.

• Discussed JROTC Marksmanship program safety and security
• Requested student benefit data and college/trade school percentages by Spring
• Proposed a walkthrough of the facility for School Committee and teachers

School Committee

The Salem School Committee and Salem City Council will take a tour of the Career and Technical Education programs. The tour is scheduled for December 15, 2022, at Salem High School.

• Tour of Career and Technical Education programs at Salem High School (77 Willson Street)

City Council

The Salem City Council and School Committee are scheduled to take a tour of the Career and Technical Education Programs. The tour will take place at Salem High School on December 15, 2022. Participants will meet at the Black Cat Café.

• Tour of Career and Technical Education Programs at Salem High School

Transportation Commission

The Commission will review before and after data from the 2022 Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program. Staff and Neighborways will present findings for several zones in Salem. This includes North and South Salem, Federal Street, Chestnut Street, Mall Street, and Columbus Avenue.

• Evaluation of 2022 Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program data
• Review of North Salem Zone streets including Buffum, Barr, Barstow, and Dunlap
• Review of South Salem Zone streets including Cedar, Fairfield, and Gardner
• Presentation on Federal Street from North Street to Boston Street
• Discussion of impacts on Chestnut Street, Mall Street, and Columbus Avenue

The Commission received a presentation on the 2022 Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program, which showed speed decreases across several pilot zones. No new policy decisions were made, though the Commission approved the previous meeting's minutes.

• Approved November 30, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Salem Zoning Board of Appeals will consider a proposal to convert an educational building at 275 Lafayette Street into 15 residential units. The board will also review a request for a new egress at 1 Purchase Street and a withdrawal request for 70 Proctor Street.

• Conversion of 275 Lafayette Street from educational use to multi-family residential
• Request for a new second egress and porch at 1 Purchase Street
• Withdrawal request for a special permit at 70 Proctor Street
• Variance extension request for 31 Calumet Street

The Zoning Board of Appeals nominated Peter Copelas as Chair effective January 2023 and approved the 2023 meeting calendar. The Board also granted a variance extension for 31 Calumet Street and approved a request to withdraw a petition for 70 Proctor Street.

• Nominated Peter Copelas as Chair effective January 2023 (5-0)
• Approved 2023 meeting schedule as amended (5-0)
• Approved 6-month variance extension for 31 Calumet Street (5-0)
• Approved request to withdraw without prejudice petition for 70 Proctor Street (5-0)
• Continued petition for 1 Purchase Street to January 18, 2023 (5-0)
• Continued petition for 275 Lafayette Street to January 18, 2023 (5-0)
• Approved October 19, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved October 24, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0)

Housing Authority Board

This document is a notice for a regular meeting of the Salem Housing Authority. The provided text contains logistical information for a remote meeting but does not list specific agenda items.

Board of Health

The Board of Health will deliberate on a proposed regulation concerning deceptive advertising practices by limited services pregnancy centers. The board will also consider a variance request regarding body art regulation requirements.

• Proposed regulation on deceptive advertising practices of limited services pregnancy centers
• Variance request for Body Art Regulation #27 regarding proof of high school diploma
• Approval of November 8, 2022 meeting minutes

The Board approved a new regulation to prevent deceptive advertising by limited services pregnancy centers physically located in Salem. A request for a variance regarding educational requirements for a body art license was tabled for further information.

• Approved regulation against deceptive advertising for limited services pregnancy centers (5-0)
• Approved November 8, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Tabled variance request for Body Art Regulation #27 high school diploma requirement

City Council

The Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs will meet to discuss an ordinance regarding home occupations. The meeting also includes the discussion of claims.

• Ordinance relative to home occupations
• Claims

The Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs voted to deny, pay, or discharge several claims. A proposed ordinance regarding home occupations was discussed but remains in committee for further drafting.

• Denied claims #365, 366, 591, 674, 678 (5-0)
• Approved payment for claims #620, 672, 673 (50% $106.50), 676, 679, 727 ($169.05), 729, 730, 731, 732 (5-0)
• Discharged claims #588, 677, 728 (5-0)
• Voted to keep home occupation ordinance matter in Committee (5-0)

Scholarship & Education Committee

The Scholarship & Education Committee will provide a financial update and discuss fundraising progress. The meeting also includes a discussion regarding a logo contest and a vote on Education Fund grant applications.

• Review and vote on Education Fund grant applications
• Logo Contest
• Financial update
• Fundraising updates
• Approval of November 14, 2022 meeting minutes

The committee approved three grant awards totaling $2,308 for local educational programs. One application was denied for not meeting criteria, and another was held for additional information. The committee scheduled a discussion on fundraising strategies and the election of a new chair for the January meeting.

• Approved November 14, 2022 minutes (4-0-2)
• Approved $1,000 grant to Salem YMCA (6-0)
• Approved $808 grant to Salem Public Schools’ early childhood program (6-0)
• Approved $500 grant to House of the Seven Gables (6-0)
• Denied Salem Ota Cultural Exchange grant request
• Tabled Bentley Academy Innovation School grant request for more information

Licensing Board

The board is reviewing several one-day liquor license applications for events including a New Year's Eve dinner dance and a temporary beer and wine garden. Additionally, the board will consider an application to transfer an annual all-alcohol license on Washington Street.

• One-day liquor license for New Year’s Eve Dinner Dance at 28 St. Peter St.
• One-day liquor license for a member's reception at Salem Athenaeum
• One-day liquor license for a burial ceremony at 158 Federal St.
• Temporary beer and wine garden application at Charlotte Forten Park
• Transfer of annual all-alcohol license at 268 Washington St. to The Major’s Salem, LLC

School Committee

The Salem School Committee will hold a retreat to discuss the superintendent’s 2022 goals and self-evaluation process. The committee will also review strategic planning, athletic resource coordination, and the SY23-24 school calendar.

• Superintendent's 2022 goals and evaluation plan
• Student Opportunity Act advocacy updates
• Coordination of athletic resources among schools and city programs
• Plan for establishing the SY23-24 school calendar
• Salem Prep / New Liberty lease

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will hold a classification hearing before the City Council. This hearing is part of the process to set the tax rate for fiscal year 2023.

• Classification hearing to set the FY2023 tax rate

The Board of Assessors denied and signed one application for a Statutory Exemption. The board also noted the City Council's setting of the Fiscal Year 2023 tax rates.

• Denied and signed one application for Statutory Exemption
• Tax Rate for Fiscal Year 2023 set at $12.51 Residential and $25.25 Commercial

City Council

The Council will hold a public hearing regarding the Fiscal Year 2023 property tax rate allocation and exemptions. The agenda also includes several mayoral appointments to various city boards and committees. Additionally, the Council will consider orders to transfer millions of dollars into stabilization and capital funds.

• Public hearing on FY2023 property tax rate allocation and exemptions
• Transfer of $7,332,014.25 from Free Cash to stabilization and capital funds
• Appropriation of $800,000 for soil remediation at Mansell Field
• Appropriation of $750,000 for a new Fire Department ladder truck
• Appointments to the Salem Food Policy Council and other city boards

The City Council established the FY2023 residential tax factor and declined to adopt open space, residential, or small commercial exemptions. The council also approved several million dollars in appropriations from free cash for city services and infrastructure. Additionally, the council received the resignation of Mayor Kimberley Driscoll, effective January 4, 2023.

• Adopted Residential Factor of 85.7132% for FY2023 (9-0-2)
• Denied Open Space, Residential, and Small Commercial Exemptions for FY2023 (9-0-2)
• Appropriated $7,332,014.25 from General Fund Balance Reserved for Free Cash to special revenue funds
• Appropriated $800,000 for soil remediation and restoration at Mansell Field
• Appropriated $750,000 for a new Fire Department ladder truck
• Appropriated $150,000 for traffic calming infrastructure on Fairfield, Cedar, and Gardner Streets
• Established Opioid Settlement Special Stabilization Fund and appropriated $276,560.61 to it (9-0-2)
• Confirmed 10 appointments to the Salem Food Policy Council, excluding Celia Grant (8-1-2)

Sustainability, Energy, & Resiliency Committee

The Sustainability, Energy, & Resiliency Committee will host guest speakers regarding holiday waste reduction and plastics recycling. The committee will also receive updates on energy manager projects and the Flood Hazard Overlay District Working Group. Additionally, members will discuss potential future topics and new committee members.

• Presentation on reducing holiday waste by Janelle Rolke
• Update on Energy Manager Project from Vanessa Pineda
• Flood Hazard Overlay District (FHOD) Working Group updates
• Discussion regarding new SERC members
• Approval of November 9, 2022 meeting minutes

Historical Commission

The commission will consider requests for demolition delay waivers at 90 Webb Street and 62 Forrester Street. It will also review certificates of appropriateness for renovations at 3 Federal Court and a new library structure at Salem Common.

• Demolition delay waiver request for 90 Webb Street
• Demolition delay waiver request for 62 Forrester Street
• Renovation certificate of appropriateness for 3 Federal Court
• Installation of Little Free Library at Salem Common

The Commission approved the installation of a Little Free Library on the Salem Common and authorized specific renovations at 3 Federal Court. Several other applications for exterior work and demolition waivers were continued to future meetings for further review or site visits.

• Approved Little Free Library installation on Salem Common (6-0)
• Approved 3 Federal Court door renovation with six-panel glass lites and vertical landing slats (6-0)
• Approved 3 Federal Court vents and white screening fence for condenser units (6-0)
• Approved white storm windows for 149 Federal St (6-0)
• Accepted withdrawal of demolition delay waiver for 90 Webb Street (6-0)
• Approved minutes from October 5, November 2, and November 16 (7-0)
• Continued 18 Broad Street, 122 Derby Street, and 62 Forrester Street applications to next meeting
• Continued 3 Federal Court electrical meter application to meet with National Grid

Bicycling & Shared Path Advisory Committee

The committee will discuss bicycling infrastructure initiatives, including the Bluebikes Bikeshare Program and updates regarding North Street. The agenda also includes a staff update and a review of the 2023 meeting schedule.

• Bluebikes Bikeshare Program data, promotion, and expansion
• North Street implementation update
• North Street volunteer monitoring opportunity
• 2023 meeting schedule

The committee reviewed ridership data for the Bluebikes program and received updates on the North Street project implementation. No new policy decisions were made other than the approval of previous meeting minutes.

• Approved 8/3/2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)

City Council

The Committee on Administration and Finance will hold a public hearing regarding the establishment of an Urban Center Housing Tax Increment Financing Program for Lee Fort Terrace. This sub-committee meeting is held to make recommendations to the full City Council.

• Urban Center Housing Tax Increment Financing Program for Lee Fort Terrace
• Tax Increment Financing for Lee Fort Terrace

The Committee on Administration & Finance discussed the Urban Center Housing Tax Increment Financing (UCH-TIF) for Lee Fort Terrace. The committee amended one word in the agreement and voted to continue the public hearing to a later date to review further documentation.

• Approved amendment to change 'May' to 'Shall' in Council Order 657, section D, #4 (5-0)
• Voted to continue public hearing for Council Order 656 (UCH-TIF Area) to January 5, 2023, at 6 P.M. (5-0)
• Voted to continue Council Order 657 (UCH-TIF Agreement) to January 5, 2023, at 6 P.M. (5-0)

Salem Cultural Council

The Salem Cultural Council will hold a remote meeting on December 6, 2022. The agenda includes routine items such as a roll call and votes on prior meeting minutes and applications. No specific details regarding the content of the applications are provided in the notice.

• Vote on applications
• Vote on prior meeting minutes

The Council reviewed and ranked grant applications based on established priorities. Funding portions were allotted to approved applications, with the final awards list to be posted on the city website following a dispute window.

• Approved September meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved October meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Allotted funds to approved grant applications

School Committee

The Salem School Committee Curriculum Subcommittee will meet to discuss topics regarding libraries and Middle School Accelerated Math. The committee will also approve the minutes from the November 8, 2022 meeting.

• Approval of November 8, 2022, meeting minutes
• Discussion regarding libraries
• Discussion regarding Middle School Accelerated Math

The subcommittee held discussions regarding the need for certified librarians and updated collections in elementary schools. Members also reviewed data on inequitable access to accelerated math courses for minority and disabled students. No formal policy changes or budget approvals were decided.

• Tabled approval of November 8, 2022 minutes until January meeting
• Adjourned meeting (2-0)

Salem Human Rights Coalition

The Salem Human Rights Coalition will review reports from coalition officers and discuss ideas for upcoming initiatives and fundraising. The agenda also includes a discussion on combating fascism in the U.S. and preparations for officer elections to be held in January.

• Description of officer election positions and process
• Discussion of initiatives and fundraising ideas
• Reports from the Chair, Clerk, and Treasurer

School Committee

The committee will deliberate on discarding surplus dual language materials and technology items. Members will also consider several donations, including $22,455.99 from the Salem Educational Foundation. Additionally, the board will review warrants for payments made in late November and early December.

• Approval to discard surplus/outdated dual language materials and technology items
• $22,455.99 donation from the Salem Educational Foundation
• $13,250 in donations for Salem High School’s CTE program
• Approval of warrants totaling $422,949.62
• Third reading of policies regarding relations with community and school agencies

The School Committee approved several donations for the district and the High School CTE program. The board also voted to discard surplus technology and Dual Language materials. Additionally, four policies were approved on third reading.

• Approved $22,455.99 donation from Salem Educational Foundation (6-0)
• Approved $13,250.00 in donations for Salem High School’s CTE program (6-0)
• Approved recommendation to discard surplus/outdated Dual Language materials (6-0)
• Approved recommendation to discard surplus/outdated technology items (6-0)
• Approved third reading of Policy 1403 Relations with Planning Department (6-0)
• Approved third reading of Policy 1404 Department of Children and Families (6-0)
• Approved third reading of Policy 1405 Relations with Community Organizations (6-0)
• Approved third reading of Policy 1406 Relations with School Systems and Agencies (6-0)

Harbor Plan Committee

The Salem Harbor Plan Committee and Salem Harbor Port Authority will hold a joint remote meeting to discuss administrative updates, the Designated Port Area (DPA) and offshore wind, and review the current draft of the Salem Municipal Harbor Plan and Designated Port Area Plan. The agenda also includes next steps and public questions or comments.

• Joint meeting of Salem Harbor Plan Committee and Salem Harbor Port Authority
• Discussion of DPA / Offshore Wind
• Review of current draft of Salem Municipal Harbor Plan and Designated Port Area Plan
• Remote participation via Zoom

The committee reviewed the project timeline, including a planned public comment period in December and an early January submittal to the EEA. Updates were provided on the Footprint Site offshore wind project and development proposals for El Centro and the Crescent Site. No votes were taken during the meeting.

• No voting occurred at this meeting

City Council

The City Council Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs will discuss amending an ordinance relative to the pick up of large items. This meeting is held to make recommendations to the full council.

• Amending an Ordinance relative to Pick up of large items

The Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs voted to recommend a new $20 fee for the pickup of bulk items. The measure is intended to help cover city costs, including the requirement to recycle mattresses per state law.

• Recommended first passage of ordinance to implement $20 bulk item pickup fee (5-0)

School Committee

The Salem School Committee Policy Subcommittee is meeting to discuss several district policies. The agenda includes reviews of policies regarding school age, attendance, and student assignment. The committee will also continue its review of community relations policies.

• Discussion of Policy 5101 (School Age and Attendance)
• Discussion of Policy 5103 (Controlled Choice Student Assignment Policy)
• Discussion of Policy 6504 (Naming of Schools)
• Continuation of review of 1000 series - Community Relations
• Approval of minutes from 10/21/22 and 11/16/22

The Policy Subcommittee approved the minutes from previous meetings and voted to send Policy 5101 (School Age and Attendance) and Policy 1502 (Advisory Committee to the School Committee) to the full School Committee meeting on December 19, 2022. Discussions on school naming and student assignment policies were deferred to future meetings.

• Approved minutes from 10/21/22 and 11/16/22 (3-0)
• Approved sending Policy 5101 School Age and Attendance to full committee meeting on 12/19/22 (3-0)
• Approved sending Policy 1502 Advisory Committee to the School Committee for first read on 12/19/22 (3-0)
• Deferred Policy 5103 Controlled Choice Student Assignment Policy to a future meeting
• Deferred Policy 6504 Naming of Schools revisions to January subcommittee meeting

School Committee

The Building & Grounds Subcommittee will meet to discuss changes to the facility use form. The meeting also includes discussions regarding the use of the Witchcraft Heights Elementary School playground and new locations for New Liberty Innovation School and Salem Prep.

• Changes to the facility use form
• Use of Witchcraft Heights Elementary School playground
• New location for New Liberty Innovation School and the Salem Prep

City Council

The City Council Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss City Council Rules and Orders. The committee will also discuss carrying matters forward into the next year. This meeting is focused on procedural administrative matters.

• Discussion of City Council Rules and Orders
• Discussion of carrying matters forward into the next year

The minutes for this meeting are largely illegible and contain fragmented text. No substantive decisions or specific policy outcomes are clearly recorded.

Salem Harbor Port Authority

The Salem Harbor Port Authority will meet via remote participation to receive an offshore wind design update from Crowley. Staff updates will also cover the Harbor Plan, DPA Master Plan, and the Salem Ferry terminal building.

• Offshore Wind Design Update - Crowley
• Harbor Plan/DPA Master Plan updates
• Salem Ferry Terminal Building updates
• Harbormaster report

Race Equity Commission

The commission will vote to appoint a Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary. Members will also discuss potential advisor roles for the Charlotte Forten Memorial project. Additionally, the meeting includes discussions regarding REC subcommittees and next steps for a city discrimination form.

• Vote on appointing REC Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary
• Discussion of Charlotte Forten Memorial project advisor roles
• Review of feedback regarding the creation of REC subcommittees
• Follow-up discussion on a City of Salem discrimination form

The Commission appointed Regina Zaragoza Frey as Chair and Alphonse Wright as Vice Chair. The body decided to postpone the selection of a Secretary indefinitely. Members also agreed to proceed with the recommendation to implement a Discrimination Report Form on the City website.

• Approved meeting minutes from October 27 and November 10, 2022 (unanimous)
• Appointed Regina Zaragoza Frey as Chair (unanimous)
• Appointed Alphonse Wright as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Postponed selection of a Secretary indefinitely (unanimous)
• Defeated the creation of subcommittees based on City Solicitor feedback regarding Open Meeting Law

Transportation Commission

The commission will review a request for additional parking passes at Riley Plaza and a new loading zone on Congress Street. Staff will also present an October recap of parking enforcement and transit services.

• Request for more parking passes at Riley Plaza
• Loading zone request for Congress Street near 47 Leavitt Street
• Review of October resident permit parking and enforcement
• Assessment of shuttle services, BlueBikes, and Commuter Rail

The Commission approved a temporal service zone on Congress Street to support the Salem Pantry. Members also reviewed October parking statistics and discussed potential permit increases for the Riley Plaza lot.

• Approved temporal service zone on Congress Street (Mon-Sat, 8AM-4PM) (All in favor)
• Approved meeting minutes from September 28, 2022, and November 9, 2022 (All in favor)

City Council

The Salem City Council and Planning Board held a joint public hearing to discuss amendments to the city's Zoning Ordinance. The proposed changes involve regulations for accessory buildings, structures, and affordable accessory dwelling units.

• Zoning Ordinance Amendment #628 regarding Accessory Buildings and Structures
• Proposed removal of owner-occupancy requirements for affordable accessory dwelling units
• Amendments to definitions for existing, expanded, and new detached accessory buildings

School Committee

The Salem School Committee will meet on November 21, 2022, to approve warrants totaling $1,215,937.77. The meeting also includes second readings of policies regarding relations with the Planning Department, Department of Children and Families, community organizations, and school agencies.

• Approval of warrants totaling $1,215,937.77
• Second reading of policy 1403 (Planning Department)
• Second reading of policy 1404 (Department of Children and Families)
• Second reading of policy 1405 (Community Organizations)
• Second reading of policy 1406 (School Systems and Agencies)

The Committee of the Whole discussed changing the budget process to allow the Finance subcommittee to attend early-stage meetings between the Mayor and Superintendent. This proposal aims to provide the subcommittee with better context and information before budget numbers are finalized. The discussion will be reported to the full School Committee.

• Proposed that the Finance subcommittee attend early-stage budget meetings between the Mayor/designee and Superintendent

Tree Commission

The Salem Tree Commission will introduce new members Cady Gold0field and Jane Rumrill. The meeting includes an advisory for property owners regarding Emerald Ash Borer beetles and notes on the Greening the Gateway Cities Program. Members will also discuss the Salem Common.

• Introduction of new Tree Commission members Cady Goldfield and Jane Rumrill
• Emerald Ash Borer Beetle advisory to Salem property owners
• Greening the Gateway Cities Program notes from DCR Forester David Bresnahan
• Discussion regarding Salem Common
• Approval of September 19, 2022 meeting minutes

The commission reviewed updates on several city planting projects and the status of the Tree Warden vacancy. Members discussed the need for a certified arborist to manage ash tree treatments and proper planting techniques. No new planting projects were formally voted on during the session.

• Approved Amended Tree Commission Meeting Minutes of September 19, 2022 (6-0-2)
• Approved holding meetings via ZOOM until March 31, 2023 (Unanimous)

Registrars of Voters

The Board of Registrar of Voters will meet to count specific absentee ballots. This includes Federal Write-In Absentee Ballots and UOCAVA Ballots mailed from outside the United States. These ballots must have been received by 5:00 PM on November 18, 2022, and postmarked by November 8, 2022.

• Counting Federal Write-In Absentee Ballots
• Counting UOCAVA Ballots mailed from outside the United States

Board of Public Library Trustees

The Board of Library Trustees will discuss library use, finances, and building updates. The board also plans to enter executive session to consider applicants for an upcoming vacancy.

• Approval of September 22, 2022 minutes
• Discussion of library use, finances, and building updates
• Executive session regarding applicants for an upcoming vacancy

The Board approved funding to cover a shortfall for the fountain restoration project and updated the library's mask policy. Trustees also approved repairs for the library vehicle and the continuation of staff holiday gifts.

• Authorized up to $50,000 from endowment for fountain restoration (Unanimous)
• Made masking optional in all library areas, effective immediately
• Approved $2,574.62 for library car repairs
• Approved continuation of traditional holiday gifts for staff (Unanimous)
• Approved draft minutes from September 22, 2022 (Unanimous)
• Decided to leave the fountain basin uncovered for the winter
• Formed a subcommittee to evaluate applications for a Board vacancy

City Council

The City Council is reviewing a petition to officially accept Amanda Way and a portion of Osborne Hill Drive as public ways. These streets are part of the Strongwater Crossing subdivision. The request includes a $250.00 fee and has received approval from the City Solicitor.

• Acceptance of Amanda Way as a public street
• Acceptance of a portion of Osborne Hill Drive as a public street
• $250.00 fee for street acceptance and layout

The City Council unanimously adopted a Home Rule Petition to amend preliminary election dates and the process for filling vacancies in the mayor and councillor offices. The petition includes updates to gender-neutral language and clarifies the status of councillors serving as acting mayor.

• Adopted Home Rule Petition regarding preliminary election dates and filling vacancies (11-0-0)
• Denied motion for Immediate Reconsideration of the Home Rule Petition

Cemetery Commission

The commission will review trust funds and a chapel request for Luminaria 2022. The agenda includes installing new headstones at Howard Street and Charter Street cemeteries. Members will also discuss ordinance section 16-108 regarding item removal and clean-up schedules.

• Headstone installation at Howard Street cemetery
• Headstone installation at Charter Street cemetery
• Luminaria 2022 chapel request
• Trust fund review
• Discussion on Green lawn cemetery code of ordinances regarding item removal

Council on Aging Board

The Salem Council on Aging Board is meeting to review October 2022 meeting minutes. The agenda includes updates regarding subsidized senior housing and farmer's market coupon advocacy. The board will also discuss a holiday social and receive reports from the Director and Friends of the COA.

• Approval of October 2022 annual and regular meeting minutes
• Subsidized Senior Housing Update
• Farmer’s Market Coupon Advocacy
• Holiday Social discussion
• Friends of the COA Update

The Board unanimously approved the new Work Plan and the October 2021 meeting minutes. Members discussed senior housing advocacy, potential facility upgrades including a generator and exhaust fan, and the receipt of a $50,000 grant for Memory Cafés.

• Approved October 2021 Minutes (unanimous)
• Approved new Work Plan (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Salem Zoning Board of Appeals will review multiple petitions for special permits involving residential additions and structural changes. The agenda includes requests for building height increases, porch reconstructions, and setback variances at various locations. The board will also discuss board officer functions and extension requests for Franklin Street.

• Special permit for a three-story dormer addition at 13 Mall Street
• Special permit to reconstruct 99 Broadway with two third-floor dormers
• Appeal of a building permit issuance at 1-3 East Collins Street
• Special permit for a new porch and pool at 57 Memorial Drive
• Amendment to remove an automated parking arm at 47 Leavitt Street

The Board approved several special permits for home additions and the reconstruction of a fire-damaged building. It also denied an appeal regarding a building permit for a residential treatment program.

• Approved dormer addition at 13 Mall Street (5-0)
• Approved 10' x 8' addition at 21 Flint Street (5-0)
• Approved 4' x 11' kitchen addition at 44 Hanson Street (5-0)
• Denied appeal of building permit at 1-3 East Collins Street (0-5)
• Approved porch and second-floor addition at 15 Fairfield Street (5-0)
• Approved reconstruction and dormers at 99 Broadway (5-0)
• Approved removal of parking arm at 47 Leavitt Street (5-0)
• Approved expansion and pool at 57 Memorial Drive (5-0)

Historical Commission

The Salem Historical Commission will review several requests regarding property alterations and demolitions. The agenda includes certificates of appropriateness for window and paint changes, as well as a request to waive the demolition delay ordinance.

• Demolition delay waiver request for 90 Webb Street
• Exterior restoration certificate for 50 Washington Square/86 Essex Street
• Storm window color approval for 2 Griffin Place
• Paint and garage door approval for 186 Federal Street

The Commission adopted new suggestive guidelines for sidewalks and paving to encourage the use of brick in historic districts. Several property restoration certificates were approved, while a request to waive a demolition delay for a house on Webb Street was continued for further review.

• Approved exterior restoration of Phillips School at 50 Washington Square (6-0)
• Approved white storm windows at 2 Griffin Place (6-0)
• Denied white paint colors at 20 Hathorne Street; required restoration of original color (6-0)
• Approved carriage house revisions at 3 Federal Court; continued discussion on door and electrical meters (6-0)
• Approved rear patio design at 186 Federal Street (6-0)
• Approved black or Essex Green paneled garage doors at 186 Federal Street (6-0)
• Continued demolition delay request for 90 Webb Street to December 7, 2022 (6-0)
• Appointed Rebecca English as representative to the Community Preservation Committee (5-0, 1 abstention)

School Committee

The Salem School Committee Policy Subcommittee will meet to discuss several policy items. The agenda includes discussions on budget planning for Policy 1301 and the naming of schools under Policy 6504. Members will also continue their review of the 1000 series regarding community relations.

• Approval of minutes from the October 21, 2022 meeting
• Discussion of Policy 1301 Budget Planning
• Discussion of Policy 6504 Naming of Schools
• Continued review of 1000 series - Community Relations

The Policy Subcommittee discussed updates to budget planning and school naming policies. Members reviewed several community relations policies and scheduled a future discussion on gun violence in schools. No final policy changes were voted into law during this session.

• Approved minutes from 10/21/2022 meeting (3-0)
• Agreed to add Policy 5101 School Age and Attendance to a future agenda
• Proposed that Finance Subcommittee members attend budget planning meetings with the Mayor and Superintendent
• Agreed to review Policy 6504 Naming of Schools to establish better guidelines
• Scheduled a meeting with Sergeant Major John W. Sumner for December 16th to discuss gun violence in schools

Design Review Board

The Design Review Board will review several development projects within the Urban Renewal Area. This includes a final design review for a mixed-use building and a schematic review for an addition on Essex Street. The board will also conduct elections for Chair and Vice Chair.

• Final Design Review: The Exchange Salem redevelopment at 252 Bridge St and 32-34 Federal St
• Schematic Design Review: One-story addition with 10 residential units at 301 Essex Street
• Small Project Review: Window replacements at Rockafellas, 231 Essex Street
• Review of proposed elevation plan changes for 23 Summer Street
• Board elections for Chair and Vice Chair

The Board approved final design elements for a mixed-use building at 252 Bridge Street and window replacements at 231 Essex Street. A proposal for a one-story addition at 301 Essex Street was continued for further design revisions. Changes to elevation plans for 23 Summer Street were also approved.

• Approved landscape plan and architectural design for 252 Bridge Street (5-0)
• Approved window replacement at 231 Essex Street (5-0)
• Tabled schematic design for 301 Essex Street until December 21, 2022 (5-0)
• Approved elevation plan changes for 23 Summer Street (5-0)
• Tabled board elections for Chair and Vice Chair
• Tabled approval of October 26, 2022 minutes

City Council

The City Council Committee on Government Services will meet with the City Engineer. The discussion will focus on trash pickup, street sweeping, and the issue of litter on city streets.

• Discussion regarding trash pickup, street sweeping, and litter on city streets

The Committee on Government Services met with an engineer to discuss trash pickup, street sweeping, and litter issues. No ordinances were changed, and the committee voted to keep the matter under review for further study.

• Voted to leave waste management and litter issues in committee (5-0)

Park & Recreation Commission

The Commission will review requests regarding right of entry for Peabody St Park and parking at Salem Willows Yacht Club. The Superintendent will also present financial reports. Mike Crounse will be introduced as the Signature Parks Project Manager.

• Peabody St Park Right of Entry request
• Salem Willows Yacht Club Parking request
• Park Superintendent Re-appointment Letter
• Superintendent's financial reports
• Introduction of Mike Crounse, Signature Parks Project Manager

The Commission approved the reappointment of Trish O’Brien as Park Superintendent and moved forward with a Right of Entry Agreement for 15 Peabody Street. The board also discussed parking requests for the Salem Willows Yacht Club but did not grant the requested fee reductions.

• Approved reappointment of Trish O’Brien as Park Superintendent (unanimous)
• Approved moving forward with Right of Entry Agreement for 15 Peabody Street (unanimous)
• Approved September 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Community Preservation Committee

The Community Preservation Committee will review funding applications and eligibility determinations. The committee will also discuss releasing the draft FY23 Community Preservation Plan for public comment. Additionally, members will elect a Chair and Vice Chair.

• Funding application for Salem Willows Phase II Improvements
• Review of Determination of Eligibility Applications
• Release of draft FY23 Community Preservation Plan for public comment
• Election of Chair and Vice Chair

The Committee approved a funding request for the southeast section of Salem Willows park near the pier to cover costs not met by a PARC grant. The board also elected its Chair and Vice Chair. Members discussed but decided against adding new emergency funding criteria to the FY24 Plan.

• Approved $90,548.49 in CPA funding for Willows Phase II Improvements (unanimous)
• Elected Bart Hoskins as Chair and Carole Hamilton as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of October 11, 2022 as amended (all in favor, 2 abstentions)
• Decided no changes are needed to the FY24 Plan regarding emergency funding criteria

Conservation Commission

The Commission will conduct public hearings for several development projects within wetland-protected areas. These include residential expansions, mixed-use redevelopment, and new construction at Children’s Island and Memorial Drive.

• Replacement of 50 apartments with 124 units at 1 and 2 Lee Fort Terrace
• Mixed-use redevelopment on .97 acres at 252 Bridge Street
• Construction of two single-family homes at 50 and 52 Circle Hill Road
• New construction and expansions at Children’s Island
• Installation of a fixed pier and floating dock at 57 Memorial Drive

The Commission issued Orders of Conditions for a residential project at 1 and 2 Lee Fort Terrace and construction at Children's Island. Public hearings for projects at 252 Bridge Street, 50-52 Circle Hill Road, and 57 Memorial Drive were continued.

• Approved Order of Conditions for 1 and 2 Lee Fort Terrace with special requirements for floodproofing and tide gates (4-0)
• Approved Order of Conditions for North Shore YMCA projects at Children's Island (4-0)
• Continued public hearing for 252 Bridge Street to December 20, 2022 (4-0)
• Continued public hearing for 50 and 52 Circle Hill Road to December 20, 2022 (4-0)
• Continued public hearing for 57 Memorial Drive to December 20, 2022 (4-0)
• Approved 2023 meeting calendar (4-0)
• Approved July 19 and October 18, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0)

Public Art Commission

The commission will provide updates on projects including the CLC Mural and Naumkeag Portrait. Members will also discuss artwork selection for a sculpture garden and establish a review process for community-proposed projects seeking funding.

• Project updates for Remembrance, Winter Activations, CLC Mural, and Naumkeag Portrait
• Sculpture Garden artwork selection and location identification
• Establishing a review process for community-proposed projects seeking PAC funding
• Establishment of a community announcement and engagement plan

The Commission selected seven sculptures for the Salem Sculpture garden and approved spending up to $200 for promotional postcards. Members also established a new review process for community-proposed art projects seeking funding.

• Approved lease of seven sculptures for the Salem Sculpture garden
• Approved $150-$200 for promotional postcards
• Approved October 18, 2022 meeting minutes
• Established funding policy for community projects limited to Salem residents
• Determined community project funding reviews will occur in March and September

Commission on Disabilities

The commission will review updates on the ADA Transition Plan and accessibility at voting locations. The meeting also includes discussions on construction, handicap violation funding, and the Canal St. pathway project.

• Update on funding in handicap violations account
• Accessibility at voting locations
• Request for entrance/exit indicators on Canal St. pathway
• ADA Transition Plan updates
• Support for affordable accessible housing

The Commission discussed polling location accessibility and received updates on city sidewalk and ramp construction. The body decided to cancel its December meeting due to the holiday season and Hanukkah.

• Cancelled December meeting; next meeting scheduled for January 17, 2023

Registrars of Voters

The Salem Election Department will hold a continuous session to hand count certain ballots. This includes ballots received after the November 8 cutoff time and those postmarked by November 8 but received by November 12.

• Hand counting of ballots received after 6:00 PM on November 8, 2022
• Hand counting of ballots postmarked by November 8 and received by 5:00 P.M. on November 12

City Council

The Salem City Council met to consider an act regarding preliminary election dates and the process for filling vacancies in the offices of Mayor and Councillor. The council moved to refer this matter to the Committee of the Whole.

• An act relative to preliminary election dates and filling vacancies in the offices of Mayor and Councillor

The City Council voted to accept two amendments from the Secretary of State’s Elections Division regarding a Home Rule Petition. The broader act concerning preliminary election dates and filling vacancies for Mayor and Councillor was referred to the Committee of the Whole for further discussion and public testimony.

• Accepted two amendments from the State’s Election Division (motion carried)
• Referred Act #637 regarding election dates and vacancies to the Committee of the Whole

Scholarship & Education Committee

This meeting includes a financial update and discussions regarding fundraising updates. No specific new business items or projects are detailed in the agenda.

• Approval of October 17, 2022 meeting minutes
• Financial update
• Fundraising updates

The committee approved the minutes from the October 17, 2022 meeting. Members received financial updates on the Education and Scholarship funds and noted an expected ATG donation. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved October 17, 2022 minutes (2-0-1)

Licensing Board

The Licensing Board will review several business license applications, including a location transfer and a category change. A hearing is also scheduled regarding an entertainment license violation at 75 Congress St. The board will also approve various 2023 licenses.

• Transfer of Wine and Malt Package Store License to 111 North St
• Change of category to All Alcohol for New Market at 109 Bridge St
• Hearing regarding an entertainment license violation at La Delicia, 75 Congress St
• One-day liquor license for a holiday event at ROOTS, 35 Congress St
• Approval of various 2023 licenses including liquor and auto dealer

The Board approved several liquor license applications, including a location change for a wine and malt store and a category upgrade to an all-alcohol license. The Board also approved the 2023 renewal of various city business licenses. A hearing regarding an entertainment license violation was continued to a later date.

• Approved one-day liquor license for A La Cart Parties & Catering on Dec 2, 2022 (2-0)
• Approved transfer and location change of Annual Wine and Malt Package Store License to 111 North St for EKS Corporation d/b/a Salem Shell (2-0)
• Approved change to Annual All Alcohol Package Store License at 109 Bridge St for Maruti Enterprises, Inc. d/b/a New Market (2-0)
• Continued hearing for La Delicia (75 Congress St) regarding entertainment license violation (2-0)
• Approved 2023 Liquor, Common Victualler, Auto Dealer, Lodging House, Entertainment and Automatic Amusement Licenses (2-0)
• Approved meeting minutes from September 12 and September 26, 2022 (2-0)

Board of Trust Fund Commissioners

The Board approved funding for medication expense reimbursements and annual post office box rent. The Board also approved the minutes from the September 8, 2022 meeting and agreed on the 2023 meeting schedule.

• Approved $477.03 from the Endicott Fund for Salem Council on Aging medication expenses (unanimous)
• Approved $258.00 from the Administration Fund for post office box rent (unanimous)
• Approved September 8, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Agreed on 2023 Schedule dates and time

Board of Trust Fund Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners of Trust Funds will hold a meeting on November 10, 2022, at 4:00 p.m. at the office of William P. Goreham, CPA, 70 Washington St., Third Floor, Room 322. The agenda includes new business, a general request from the Salem Council on Aging, other requests/bills, old business, and approval of last meeting minutes. The meeting is largely procedural, with the only substantive item being the Council on Aging request.

• General request from Salem Council on Aging
• Approval of last meeting minutes
• Other requests/bills
• Other new business and old business

The Board of Trust Fund Commissioners approved funding for medication expenses and annual post office rent. The board also approved the minutes from the September 8, 2022 meeting and finalized the 2023 meeting schedule.

• Approved $477.03 from the Endicott Fund for Salem Council on Aging medication expenses (unanimous)
• Approved $258.00 from the Administration Fund for post office box rent (unanimous)
• Approved September 8, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Agreed on 2023 Schedule dates and time

Race Equity Commission

The Salem Race Equity Commission will review its purpose and composition based on City Ordinance. The meeting includes discussions regarding regular meeting times, subcommittee continuation, and potential DEI training with the City Council. The DEI Director will also share a recent reported incident of racism in the city.

• Review of REC purpose and composition via City Ordinance presentation
• Vote on future regular meeting times for the REC
• Discussion regarding the continuation of REC subcommittees
• Vote on attending Diversity, Equity and Inclusion training with the City Council
• Report from the DEI Director on a recent incident of racism in Salem

The Commission established a recurring monthly meeting time and voted to create a subcommittee to develop a public discrimination reporting form. Members also approved optional DEI training and voted to indefinitely table the continuation of existing task force subcommittees.

• Approved recurring meeting time as first Thursday of the month (Unanimous)
• Tabled continuation of Health, Education, Public Safety, Economy, and Culture subcommittees indefinitely (Majority vote; 3 against)
• Approved recommendation for members to attend optional DEI training (Unanimous)
• Approved creation of a subcommittee to work on a discrimination form (Unanimous)

Sustainability, Energy, & Resiliency Committee

The Salem Sustainability, Energy, and Resiliency Committee is meeting via remote participation to discuss city updates. The agenda includes an outline of work on the Green Building Ordinance and a guest presentation by the Ipswich River Watershed Association. The committee will also approve minutes from the October 26, 2022, meeting.

• Outline of Ward 5 City Councilor’s work on Green Building Ordinance
• Guest speaker presentation by Erin Casey of Ipswich River Watershed Association
• City updates from Sustainability & Resiliency Department Director Esmeralda Bisono
• Approval of October 26, 2022 meeting minutes

The committee approved the minutes from the October 26, 2022, meeting. The session primarily consisted of updates on the Sustainability & Resiliency Department director search and a presentation on water conservation and the Ipswich River watershed.

• Approved October 26, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0)

Neighborhood Improvement Advisory Council

The council will meet remotely to approve minutes from October 12, 2022. The meeting includes presentations by the Salem 400 Coordinator and the Signature Parks Project Manager. The agenda also covers neighborhood association and city updates.

• Approval of October 12, 2022, minutes
• Presentation by Gini Cherol, Salem 400 Coordinator
• Presentation by Michael Crounse, Signature Parks Project Manager
• Neighborhood Association updates
• City Updates

The council approved the minutes from the October 12, 2022, meeting. The session consisted of updates from neighborhood associations and city staff regarding local projects and services.

• Approved October 12, 2022, minutes

Transportation Commission

The Salem Traffic & Parking Commission will discuss two requests from the Ward 6 Councilor. These include year-round resident parking for Osborne Street and making Osborne and Upham Streets one-way.

• Resident parking request for Osborne Street
• One-way street request for Osborne Street and Upham Street

The Commission held discussions regarding requests for year-round resident parking on Osborne Street and making Osborne and Upham Streets one-way. No votes were taken, and the department will not proceed with parking utilization studies until further resident and neighborhood discussions occur.

• Tabled decision on resident permit parking for Osborne Street pending more resident input
• Tabled decision on making Osborne Street and Upham Street one-way

Housing Authority Board

This document is a formal notice of a regular meeting for the Salem Housing Authority. The provided text contains only procedural information and does not list specific agenda items or topics for discussion.

City Council

The City Council Committee on Government Services will meet with the City Engineer. The discussion focuses on trash pickup, street sweeping, and litter on city streets.

• Meeting with City Engineer regarding trash pickup, street sweeping, and litter

Beautification Committee

The Beautification Committee will hold votes for Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary positions. The agenda includes updates regarding Lady of Salem and traffic islands. Members will also work to define project scopes for 2023 planning.

• Approval of October 2022 minutes
• Voting for Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary
• Lady of Salem updates
• Traffic islands updates
• Definition of 2023 project scopes

The committee approved the October meeting minutes and elected new leadership positions. Members discussed the Ladies of Salem project and traffic island maintenance, but no decisions were made regarding the project's migration to the Public Art Commission.

• Approved October meeting minutes with edits
• Elected Henry as Chairperson (6-0)
• Elected Arianna as Vice Chair (6-0)
• Elected Kim as Secretary (6-0)

School Committee

The Curriculum Subcommittee will meet to discuss standards-based grading with a focus on the high school. The agenda also includes a request regarding dual language materials and a follow up on a puberty presentation.

• Standards-based grading focus on the high school
• Request to discard dual language materials
• Puberty presentation follow up

The subcommittee voted to discard outdated dual language materials and various pieces of old technology. Members also discussed the implementation of standards-based grading at Salem High School and updates to puberty education for grades 4 and 5.

• Approved request to discard 19 boxes of outdated dual language materials (2-0)
• Approved disposal of laptops, chromebooks, printers, projectors, smartboards, and iMacs (2-0)

Board of Health

The Board will consider an appeal regarding a tobacco product regulation violation at Vapor Outlet. Members will also deliberate on proposed advertising regulations for pregnancy centers.

• Appeal of tobacco regulation violation by Eric Stone (Vapor Outlet)
• Proposed regulation on advertising practices for pregnancy centers
• Approval of October 11, 2022 meeting minutes

The Board approved the October 11, 2022 minutes and tabled a discussion on deceptive advertising practices of limited services pregnancy centers. An appeal regarding a regulation violation by Vapor Outlet was withdrawn by the appellant.

• Approved October 11, 2022 minutes (4-0)
• Tabled regulation concerning deceptive advertising practices of limited services pregnancy centers (4-0)
• Appeal of Regulation #24 violation by Eric Stone (Vapor Outlet) withdrawn

School Committee

The committee will vote on the PreK/Kindergarten registration process and the renewal of the Carlton Innovation Plan. The meeting also includes a student showcase from Carlton Innovation School and reviews of recent school warrants.

• Vote on PreK/Kindergarten registration process and timeline
• Vote on Carlton Innovation Plan renewal
• Approval of warrants: $598,040.16 (10/20/22), $655,194.55 (10/27/22), and $811,477.90 (11/03/22)
• Approval of Salem High School Color Guard & Percussion Ensemble trip to New Hampshire on 03/11/2023
• First readings for policies regarding the Planning Department, DCF, and community organizations

The School Committee approved the renewal of the Carlton Innovation Plan and the PreK/Kindergarten registration timeline. The board also authorized three budget transfers and approved several policy readings regarding agency relations.

• Approved Carlton Innovation Plan renewal (6-0)
• Approved PreK/Kindergarten registration process and timeline (6-0)
• Referred policy 5103 to the policy subcommittee (6-0)
• Approved $200,000 transfer from Special Education private tuition to collaborative tuition (6-0)
• Approved $20,000 transfer from tuition line for after dark programs (6-0)
• Approved $19,000 transfer for Endicott Teaching Fellows to contract services (6-0)
• Approved first reading of policies 1403, 1404, and 1406 (6-0)
• Approved third reading of policy 1401 Police Department Relations (6-0)

City Council

The City Council Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss a Tenant Protection Ordinance related to condo conversions. This meeting is for discussion purposes.

• Tenant Protection Ordinance Re: Condo Conversions

The Committee of the Whole discussed a proposed ordinance framework to protect renters during condo conversions, including relocation payments and waiting periods. No ordinance was adopted as the city awaits approval of a Home Rule Petition from the state legislature. The matter was voted to remain in committee.

• Voted to keep the tenant protection ordinance framework in committee (10-0)

Salem Harbor Port Authority

The scheduled meeting of the Salem Harbor Port Authority on November 3, 2022, was cancelled. The agenda included planned updates regarding offshore wind and the Salem Ferry.

Historical Commission

The commission will consider multiple applications for Certificates of Appropriateness regarding building renovations and exterior changes. These items include decisions on paint colors, roofing, and fencing at various locations. The meeting also includes a review of recently issued certificates for in-kind maintenance.

• Renovation of building and carriage house at 3 Federal Court
• Roof replacement with Permalock system at 7 Lynn Street
• Building renovation and new construction at 275 Lafayette Street
• Alterations to garage at 186 Federal Street
• Fencing installation at 33-35 Warren Street

The Commission approved roofing and paint applications for multiple properties and authorized a new addition at 3 Federal Court. Several other renovation applications were continued to future meetings for further drawings or discussion.

• Approved slate finish Charcoal Permalock roofing for 7 Lynn Street (4-0)
• Approved demolition and construction of new addition at 3 Federal Court (5-0)
• Approved Rockport Gray paint for rear ell at 401 Essex Street (5-0)
• Approved GAF Slateline antique shingles for 393 Essex Street (5-0)
• Approved Essex Green picket fencing for 33-35 Warren Street (5-0)
• Continued 20 Hathorne Street paint application to next meeting (4-0)
• Continued 3 Federal Court carriage house discussion to next meeting (5-0)
• Continued 186 Federal Street garage alterations to next meeting (5-0)

Bicycling & Shared Path Advisory Committee

The committee will discuss bicycling infrastructure, including the Bluebikes Bikeshare Program and North Street implementation. The agenda also includes a staff update and an update on Fort Lee Bike Trails.

• Bluebikes Bikeshare Program data, promotion, and expansion
• North Street implementation update and volunteer monitoring opportunity
• Update on Fort Lee Bike Trails
• Review of July 6, 2022 meeting minutes

The Committee reviewed Bluebikes ridership data and confirmed the addition of a Vinnin Square station using grant funding. Staff reported that the North Street project is effectively implemented and will begin a warning-only enforcement period for improper parking. The Committee approved the meeting minutes from July 6, 2022.

• Approved 7/6/2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Confirmed expansion of Bluebikes to 18 stations, including Vinnin Square
• Initiated warning-only enforcement for improper parking on North Street

Zero Waste Salem

The SalemRecycles Committee will review its mission statement and a recent materials recovery facility tour. The meeting includes discussions on volunteer needs for a book swap and textile drive. Additionally, the committee will consider adding Rubbermaid food storage to TerraCycle collections.

• Adding Rubbermaid Food Storage Free Recycling Program to TerraCycle collections
• Volunteer coverage for Book Swap and Textile Drive
• Potential Styrofoam Event on January 7, 2023
• Presentation on Swampscott school composting program

The committee approved the October 2022 minutes and discussed implementing a school composting program based on a Swampscott model. Members reviewed upcoming book and textile drives and discussed potential Styrofoam recycling events.

• Approved October 2022 meeting minutes

Salem Human Rights Coalition

The coalition will review reports from the Chair, Clerk, and Treasurer. Agenda items include updates on mailer design, pricing, and a partnership with SPS. A presentation titled "Are We There Yet?-The March towards fascism in the U.S." is also scheduled.

• Mailer design and pricing
• Update on partnership with SPS
• New member confirmation
• Presentation by Shimon

The Salem Human Rights Coalition unanimously voted to support sponsoring the Salem Charter Academy's January Essay Contest. The group also discussed the conclusion of the SCA program and upcoming surveys regarding the Community Life Center.

• Unanimously supported sponsoring Salem Charter Academy's January Essay Contest

Race Equity Commission

The Salem Race Equity Commission will review its purpose and composition per city ordinance. The meeting includes an introduction by DEI Director Regina Zaragoza Frey and a presentation of the Race Equity Task Force Report findings.

• Review of commission purpose and composition (City Ordinance Chapter 2, Division 18)
• Introduction of DEI Director Regina Zaragoza Frey
• Presentation of the Race Equity Task Force Report findings by Shawn Newton

The Commission reviewed its purpose and membership composition as defined by City Ordinance Chapter 2, Division 18. Members received a presentation from Shawn Newton regarding the findings and recommendations of the Race Equity Task Force Report. No formal votes or policy decisions were recorded.

Sustainability, Energy, & Resiliency Committee

The committee will hear a presentation on green buildings and energy use reporting from the Boston Planning & Development Agency. The agenda also includes an update on hiring a new Sustainability & Resiliency Department Director and a report on stormwater management at the Willows.

• Presentation on green buildings and climate change resiliency
• Update on hiring a new Sustainability & Resiliency Department Director
• Report on stormwater management tour of the Willows
• Approval of July 27, 2022 meeting minutes

The committee voted to send a letter to the Mayor expressing concern over the vacant Sustainability & Resiliency Department Director position. The board also approved the meeting minutes from July 27, 2022.

• Approved motion for Chair to write letter to Mayor regarding Director position vacancy (4-0)
• Approved July 27, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0)

Design Review Board

The Design Review Board will conduct a final design review for The Exchange Salem redevelopment project. This includes converting the 'Crescent Lot' into a six-story mixed-use building with commercial space and up to 120 residential units. The board will also review window restoration at 231 Essex Street.

• Final design review for redevelopment of 252 Bridge Street and 32-34 Federal Street
• Small project review for window replacement and restoration at 231 Essex Street
• Approval of September 28, 2022 meeting minutes

The Board continued the final design review for The Exchange Salem mixed-use project and a small project review for 231 Essex Street to allow for further design and material revisions. The Board also approved the meeting minutes from September 28, 2022.

• Continued final design review for 252 Bridge Street and 32-34 Federal Street to November 16th (6-0)
• Continued small project review for 231 Essex Street window replacements to November 16th (6-0)
• Approved September 28, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0)

Salem Cultural Council

The Salem Cultural Council will meet remotely to conduct administrative business. The agenda includes a vote on prior meeting minutes and discussions regarding open positions, application status, and upcoming council-funded events.

• Vote on prior meeting minutes
• Discussion of open positions
• Application update
• 2023 Grantee Party update
• Review of upcoming council-funded events

The Council voted to cancel its November meeting due to the Thanksgiving holiday. The December meeting was rescheduled to December 6, 2022, to allow for voting on applications.

• Cancelled November meeting (Unanimous)
• Rescheduled December meeting to December 6, 2022 (Unanimous)

School Committee

The Salem School Committee Finance Subcommittee will discuss potential changes to the budget process. The committee is also scheduled to review the “Internal Control Manual for Federal Grants.”

• Potential changes to the budget process
• Review of the 'Internal Control Manual for Federal Grants'

City Council

The Salem City Council is reviewing funding for Phase II improvements at Palmer Cove Park and Salem Willows. The agenda also includes a $38,000 appropriation for solar lighting in Orne Square and proposed amendments to zoning ordinances for accessory buildings. Additionally, the council will address the establishment of an 11-member Food Policy Council.

• $1,027,190 for Palmer Cove Park Phase II improvements
• $825,000 for Salem Willows Phase II improvements
• $38,000 for solar lighting in Orne Square
• Zoning ordinance amendments for accessory buildings and affordable ADUs
• Establishment of an 11-member Food Policy Council

Commission on Disabilities

The Commission on Disabilities will discuss construction updates and various grant submissions. The meeting also includes reports on the ADA Transition Plan and subcommittee progress.

• Request to use funds for Canal St. pathway entrance/exit indicators
• Update on funding in handicap violations account
• MOD grant submission update
• Support letter for Health Department Grant Application
• ADA Transition Plan updates

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Salem Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a special meeting on October 24, 2022. The board will address a continuance of a public hearing regarding a development at 1 and 2 Leefort Terrace. This proposal by BC Leefort Terrace, LLC involves the construction of 124 new units.

• Continuance of public hearing for 1 and 2 Leefort Terrace
• Proposed construction of 124 new units at Leefort Terrace

The Salem Zoning Board of Appeals approved a Comprehensive Permit for BC Leefort Terrace Lane Communities to construct 124 new affordable housing units at 1 and 2 Leefort Terrace, replacing 50 existing units. The project will be 100% deed-restricted affordable for 99 years, with units for households at or below 60% AMI and 13% for those under 30% AMI. The vote was 4-0 in favor, with conditions including engineering peer review requirements and flood resiliency measures. The public hearing was closed before the vote.

• Approved Comprehensive Permit for 124-unit affordable housing project at 1 and 2 Leefort Terrace (4-0)
• Closed public hearing for the Leefort Terrace project before voting on approval
• Granted waivers and exceptions subject to conditions discussed and amended during the meeting
• Postponed approval of meeting minutes to next scheduled meeting

School Committee

The Salem School Committee Policy Subcommittee will meet to discuss several policy updates. Topics include the possibility of canceling school on Election Day and reviewing community relations policies.

• Potential cancellation of school on Election Day
• Parents' rights ad hoc committee for transportation
• Attendance policy updates with Ellen Wingard
• Drafting Hall of Fame and athletic jersey retirement policies
• Review of 1000 series - Community Relations

The Policy Subcommittee approved minutes from the prior meeting and passed several policies for first reading at the regular School Committee meeting, including relations with the Planning Department, Department of Children and Families, community organizations, and school systems. The committee discussed but did not vote on canceling school on Election Day, agreeing to bring the topic to the full School Committee. They also tabled the Hall of Fame and athletic jersey retirement policies until the next subcommittee meeting.

• Approved minutes of 9/21/2022 meeting (3-0)
• Passed for first reading: Policy 1403 (Relations with Planning Department)
• Passed for first reading: Policy 1404 (Department of Children and Families)
• Passed for first reading: Policy 1405 (Relations with Community Organizations)
• Passed for first reading: Policy 1406 (Relations with School Systems and Agencies)
• Approved for second reading: Policy 1401 (Relations with Police Department) on 10/17/2022
• Tabled Hall of Fame and athletic jersey retirement policies until next meeting
• Agreed to extend invitation to Ellen Wingard for December 2, 2022 meeting

City Council

The Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs meeting scheduled for October 20, 2022, is cancelled because there are no matters to discuss. This is a procedural cancellation with no agenda items.

The Salem City Council adopted a series of ordinances on second and final passage, including a ban on weapons in city buildings and a measure to protect access to reproductive and gender-affirming health care. The council also approved $38,000 for solar lighting in Orne Square, accepted a $7,500 donation for scholarships, and passed a resolution opposing the Peabody gas plant. A hearing on street acceptance for Amanda Way and Osborne Hill Drive was continued to November 17, 2022.

• Adopted weapons ordinance banning firearms in city buildings, City Hall Annex, Old Town Hall, and other municipal sites (second passage)
• Adopted ordinance protecting access to reproductive and gender-affirming health care services (second passage)
• Approved $38,000 appropriation for solar lighting in Orne Square area (10-0-1)
• Accepted $7,500 donation from Alternative Therapies Group for Taxpayer Scholarship Account (10-0-1)
• Adopted resolution opposing Peabody gas plant and urging state to reopen MEPA review (10-0-1)
• Approved election order for November 8, 2022 state election (10-0-1)
• Adopted ordinance to regulate weapons in city buildings (second passage as amended)
• Continued public hearing on Amanda Way and Osborne Hill Drive street acceptance to November 17, 2022

Cemetery Commission

The commission will discuss the Greenlawn Master Plan, including lot and slope expansions. Members will also review updates for Dickson Chapel regarding its heating system and stained glass project. Additionally, the board will consider theft prevention measures and cemetery code ordinances.

• Vote on Dickson Chapel Building Usage Policy
• Greenlawn Master Plan Burke lot and west chapel slope expansion
• Discussion of cemetery code ordinance regarding removal of items
• Proposal to lock pedestrian gates at dusk and open at dawn to prevent theft
• Update on Dickson Chapel heating system and stained glass project

The Salem Cemetery Commission voted to remove a vote on the Dickson Chapel Building Usage Policy from the agenda after a letter from the Building Inspector raised unanswered questions about the chapel's structural, life safety, and accessibility conditions. The commission directed Director of Operations Raymond Jodoin to work with Patti Kelleher and Tom St. Pierre to assess the current condition of the chapel before proceeding. Other items discussed included a trust fund review, a master plan expansion for Greenlawn Cemetery, and a recommendation to keep pedestrian gates open following recent thefts.

• Approved the Cemetery Commission meeting minutes for September 21, 2022, unanimously.
• Removed the vote on the Dickson Chapel Building Usage Policy from the agenda due to unanswered questions from the Building Inspector's letter.
• Directed Raymond Jodoin to work with Patti Kelleher and Tom St. Pierre to assess the Dickson Chapel's condition and future use.
• Recommended leaving pedestrian gates open at dusk and dawn after recent thefts, seconded by Jacob St. Louis.
• Deferred discussion on the Greenlawn Master Plan expansion (Burke lot, West chapel slope, maintenance area) to next month for site walks.
• Deferred discussion on Article III – Greenlawn Cemetery code of ordinances (removal of items) to next month for a schedule and mapping presentation.
• Noted that the heating system at Dickson Chapel is scheduled for repair or replacement by stadium oil in early November.
• Noted that trust funds provided $20,000 to Julie Slone, LLC for stained glass window project services at Dickson Chapel.

Council on Aging Board

The Salem Council on Aging Board will hold its regular monthly meeting to discuss the Lee Fort Terrace project and provide an update on subsidized senior housing. The agenda also includes a Director's report and an update from Friends of the COA.

• Subsidized Senior Housing Update
• Lee Fort Terrace project presentation by Taylor Herman
• Friends of the COA Update
• Director's Report

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Salem Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on several residential projects, including a 124-unit development at Leefort Terrace. Other items include requests for new townhomes, property additions, and the opening of a barbershop. One applicant has requested to withdraw their petition for 25 Warren Street.

• Comprehensive permit for 124 new units at 1 and 2 Leefort Terrace
• Proposal for five townhome units and eight parking spaces at 10 Osborne Street
• Request for a 100-foot curb cut at 20 Commercial Street
• Special permit to open a barbershop at 198 Loring Avenue
• Conversion of a two-family dwelling into a three-family dwelling at 70 Proctor Street

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a special permit for Atlantic Coast Homes to convert a single-family home at 10 Osborne Street into four townhome units with eight parking spaces, after the plan was reduced from five units. The board also approved a variance for a 100-foot curb cut at a veterinary clinic on Commercial Street, a barbershop at 198 Loring Avenue, and several residential additions. One petition at 70 Proctor Street was continued to December after parking issues arose, and another at 25 Warren Street was withdrawn without prejudice.

• Approved 4-unit townhome project at 10 Osborne Street with conditions including stormwater management and removal of dormers facing 12 Osborne Street (5-0)
• Approved variance for 100-foot curb cut at 20 Commercial Street for veterinary clinic parking (5-0)
• Approved special permit for barbershop at 198 Loring Avenue (5-0)
• Approved special permit for 16'x18' addition at 11 Orleans Avenue (5-0)
• Approved special permit for second/third floor rebuild at 181 Marlborough Road (5-0)
• Approved special permit for rear addition at 9 Cambridge Street (4-0, one recused)
• Continued 70 Proctor Street three-family conversion to December 14, 2022 (5-0)
• Granted withdrawal without prejudice for 25 Warren Street addition (5-0)

Historical Commission

The Salem Historical Commission will review proposed design guidelines for sidewalks and paving. The agenda includes a request to waive the demolition delay ordinance at 181 Marlborough Road and certificates of appropriateness for property alterations. The commission will also consider a new marker for Howard Street Cemetery.

• Proposed design guidelines for sidewalks & paving
• New marker installation in Howard Street Cemetery
• Demolition delay waiver at 181 Marlborough Road
• Window and door replacement at 245 Lafayette Street Unit 2G
• Garage alterations at 186 Federal Street

The Salem Historical Commission voted unanimously to waive the demolition delay ordinance for 181 Marlborough Road, allowing the owners to remove and rebuild the second story. The Commission also approved new sidewalk and paving design guidelines, letters of support for gravestone replacements at two historic cemeteries, and several certificates of appropriateness for building alterations.

• Waived demolition delay for 181 Marlborough Road (4-0)
• Approved Sidewalk & Paving design guidelines with language edits (4-0)
• Approved letter of support for gravestone replacements at Charter Street Burying Ground and Howard Street Cemetery (4-0)
• Approved paint color Hale Navy HC-154 and white trim for 3 Federal Court (4-0)
• Approved chimney removal at 3 Federal Court (4-0)
• Approved infilling door and removing landing at 3 Federal Court (4-0)
• Approved Duragutter or fiberglass gutters for 16 Kosciusko Street (4-0)
• Approved window and door replacement at 245 Lafayette Street Unit 2G (4-0)

Conservation Commission

The Salem Conservation Commission will hold public hearings regarding several development proposals within protected wetland areas. The agenda includes discussions on apartment expansions, new residential construction, and infrastructure work for the Salem Wind Port Project.

• Apartment expansion at 1 and 2 Lee Fort Terrace
• Geotechnical borings for Salem Wind Port Project at 67 Derby Street
• Mixed-use redevelopment at 252 Bridge Street
• Bathroom construction and renovations at Children’s Island
• Construction of two single-family homes at 50 and 52 Circle Hill Road

The Salem Conservation Commission approved Orders of Conditions for three projects: geotechnical borings at 67 Derby Street for the Salem Wind Port, composting bathroom facilities and renovations on Children's Island, and a garage addition at 71 Columbus Avenue. The commission also continued hearings for the 1 and 2 Lee Fort Terrace apartment redevelopment, the 252 Bridge Street mixed-use project, and two single-family homes at 50 and 52 Circle Hill Road. A minor modification to the Strongwater Crossing plans was approved.

• Approved Order of Conditions for 67 Derby Street geotechnical borings (5-0)
• Approved Order of Conditions for Children's Island bathroom facilities and renovations (5-0)
• Approved Order of Conditions for 71 Columbus Avenue garage addition (5-0)
• Continued public hearing for 1 and 2 Lee Fort Terrace redevelopment to November 15 (4-0)
• Continued public hearing for 252 Bridge Street mixed-use project to November 15 (5-0)
• Continued public hearing for 50 and 52 Circle Hill Road single-family homes to November 15 (5-0)
• Approved minor modification to Strongwater Crossing plans (5-0)
• Approved meeting minutes for August 16 and September 20 (5-0)

School Committee

The Salem School Committee Equity & Engagement Subcommittee will meet to discuss updates regarding their affinity group. The meeting also includes seeking input on a process for reporting microaggressions or bias and feedback on implementing a Points of Intersection Award.

• Update on the affinity group
• Input on a process for reporting microaggressions/bias
• Feedback on implementing a Points of Intersection Award

Public Art Commission

The Salem Public Art Commission will meet via remote participation to review several public art initiatives. The commission plans to approve the final draft for the 'Making It Public' temporary art call and review selections for the CLC Mural. Additionally, members will discuss winter activation planning and processes for community projects seeking funding.

• Review and approval of 'Making It Public' Temporary Public Art ‘Call for Artists’ final draft
• Review and approval of CLC Mural Artist Selection
• Update on Winter Activations planning
• Discussion regarding review processes for community projects seeking PAC funding
• Approval of September 20, 2022 meeting minutes

The Salem Public Art Commission approved a final 'Call for Artists' for the Making It Public temporary public art program, to be released October 31, 2022. The commission also selected Anna Dugan as the awardee for the CLC Mural project. Commissioners discussed winter activation plans, allocating $3,000 for December events and $2,000 for February activities tied to Salem's So Sweet. A discussion on public art funding submission processes was held, with a draft form to be brought to the November meeting.

• Approved final 'Call for Artists' for Making It Public temporary public art program, to be released October 31, 2022
• Approved Anna Dugan as the selected CLC Mural awardee
• Approved September 20, 2022 meeting minutes (Gwen and Catherine abstained)
• Earmarked $5,000 for winter activations: $3,000 for December 15-17 events and $2,000 for February activations with Salem's So Sweet
• Discussed but did not vote on proposed funding submission windows; Julie will bring a mock form to November meeting

School Committee

The Salem School Committee will meet to approve recent financial warrants and discuss school policies. The agenda includes a student showcase from Bentley Academy Innovation School and reports on chronic absenteeism.

• Approval of warrants totaling $344,149.13
• Second reading of Policy 1401 regarding Police Department Relations
• Third reading of policies for Student Advisory Committee and school advertising
• Student Showcase from Bentley Academy Innovation School
• Superintendent’s report on chronic absenteeism

The Salem School Committee approved three policies on second and third readings: Policy 1401 on Police Department Relations, Policy 6502 on Student Advisory Committee, and Policy 1102 on Advertising in Schools, all by 5-0 votes. The committee also received a presentation on chronic absenteeism and discussed consensus on school facilities, including prioritizing rebuilding the high school and keeping all schools open.

• Approved Policy 1401 (Police Department Relations) on second reading (5-0)
• Approved Policy 6502 (Student Advisory Committee) on third reading (5-0)
• Approved Policy 1102 (Advertising in Schools) on third reading (5-0)
• Approved regular agenda (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda (5-0)

Scholarship & Education Committee

The Scholarship & Education Committee will provide a financial update and discuss fundraising progress. The committee is also scheduled to review and vote on awards for Education Fund grant applications.

• Vote on Education Fund grant application awards
• Fundraising updates
• Discussion regarding logo
• Approval of September 12, 2022 meeting minutes

Licensing Board

The Salem Licensing Board is reviewing several applications for event-related licenses and business permits. These include requests for one-day liquor licenses, entertainment amendments, and auto dealer licenses.

• One Day Liquor License for Halloween Beer tent at Federal & Washington St.
• Entertainment License amendment for a dance floor at Village Tavern on Essex St.
• Class II Auto Dealers Licenses for 31R Boston St. and 171 Boston St.
• Application for a Paranormal Expo at Salem State University
• One Day Liquor License for a wedding at House of the Seven Gables

The Salem Licensing Board voted 3-0 to approve all nine applications before it, including a Paranormal Expo at Salem State University, an amended entertainment license for Village Tavern, a one-day beer tent for Halloween, and two Class II auto dealer licenses. All votes were unanimous. The board also tabled approval of September meeting minutes pending edits.

• Approved Paranormal Expo and Psychic Presentation at Salem State University (3-0)
• Approved amended Entertainment License for Village Tavern to include dancing by patrons (3-0)
• Approved one-day Entertainment License for acoustic/electric performance at Charlotte Forten Park (3-0)
• Approved Class II Auto Dealers License for VW Gas LLC at 31R Boston St. for up to 17 cars (3-0)
• Approved Class II Auto Dealers License for Todisco Services Inc. at 171 Boston St. for up to 6 cars by appointment (3-0)
• Approved one-day liquor license for Halloween beer tent at Federal & Washington St. (3-0)
• Approved one-day liquor license for wedding at House of the Seven Gables (3-0)
• Approved three one-day liquor licenses for NS CDC Pink Party, library dedication, and Chamber social (3-0)

City Council

The October 13, 2022, Salem City Council meeting is cancelled and will be combined with the October 20, 2022, meeting. This follows a technical issue that prevented the agenda from being posted on the city website at least 48 hours in advance.

Neighborhood Improvement Advisory Council

The council will review the minutes from September 14, 2022. The agenda includes presentations from special guests and updates regarding neighborhood associations and the city. No specific projects or legislative actions are listed in this agenda.

• Special guests from Salem Police Department and Destination Salem
• Neighborhood Association updates
• City Updates

The Neighborhood Improvement Advisory Council approved the September 14, 2022 minutes and received presentations from Destination Salem and the Salem Police Department on Haunted Happenings marketing, events, and public safety planning. Neighborhood associations reported on local issues including traffic, paving, and park projects. No substantive decisions were made beyond approval of the prior meeting's minutes.

• Approved September 14, 2022 meeting minutes

Housing Authority Board

This is a formal notice for a regular meeting of the Salem Housing Authority Board. The meeting will be held remotely via Zoom and is closed to the public. No specific agenda items were provided in this notice.

Bicycling & Shared Path Advisory Committee

The Bicycling & Shared Path Advisory Committee meeting scheduled for Wednesday, October 12, has been canceled. The next regularly scheduled meeting is November 2.

Community Preservation Committee

The Community Preservation Committee will hold an annual public informational hearing and review received eligibility applications. The committee also plans to vote on draft FY23 funding application forms and elect a new Chair and Vice Chair.

• Review and vote on determination of eligibility applications
• Review and vote on draft FY23 eligibility and funding application forms
• Election of Chair and Vice Chair
• Annual Public Informational Hearing
• Approval of minutes from 4/26/22

The Community Preservation Committee approved revised eligibility and application forms for FY23 funding, with amended language stating CPA funds are primarily for property exteriors. The committee also tabled the election of chair and vice chair until the November meeting. A public hearing was held to solicit input on the FY23 Community Preservation Plan.

• Approved revised Eligibility and Application forms with language change to 'CPA funds are primarily for property exteriors' (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of April 26, 2022 as amended (unanimous, with one abstention)
• Tabled election of chair and vice chair until November meeting
• Moved next meeting from November 8 to November 15, 2022 due to Election Day conflict

Beautification Committee

The committee will review September 2022 minutes and introduce new members. Discussions include updates on the Lady of Salem project, including design work using Festival Grant funds. The meeting will also address traffic island updates.

• Lady of Salem figurehead takedown and storage
• Design work for Lady of Salem using Festival Grant funds
• Traffic islands updates
• Approval of September 2022 minutes

The Beautification Committee unanimously approved a $500 budget for two new Lady of Salem figurehead molds, increasing the total from 26 to 28. Members discussed migrating the Lady of Salem project to the Public Art Commission starting January 2023, with Mary Ellen Halliwell remaining as chair. The committee also reviewed traffic island maintenance issues, including 'volcanoed' trees on Hawthorne Blvd and cleanup efforts at Lafayette Park.

• Approved $500 for two new Lady of Salem figurehead molds (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from September meeting (Mary Ellen abstained)
• Proposed migration of Lady of Salem project to Public Art Commission in January 2023 (discussed, no vote)
• Discussed recruiting neighborhoods to adopt parks for regular cleanup (no formal decision)

Board of Health

The Board of Health will consider an appeal from Eric Stone regarding a violation of tobacco and nicotine product regulations. The board will also deliberate on potential updates to Regulation #24.

• Appeal of regulation violation by Eric Stone – Vapor Outlet
• Discussion of updates to Regulation #24 (Tobacco and Nicotine Delivery Products)
• Approval of September 13, 2022 meeting minutes

The Board of Health voted 4-0 to approve updated Regulation #24, Restricting the Sale and Use of Tobacco Products and Nicotine Delivery Products, effective December 1, 2022. The update incorporates state law, reduces the number of tobacco licenses from 60 to 50 due to attrition, and explicitly prohibits smoking bars. The board also postponed Eric Stone's appeal of a vapor outlet violation to the November meeting.

• Approved minutes of September 13, 2022 meeting by 4-0 vote
• Postponed Eric Stone's appeal of a violation of Regulation #24 to the November Board of Health meeting
• Approved updated Regulation #24, Restricting the Sale and Use of Tobacco Products and Nicotine Delivery Products, effective 12/1/22, by 4-0 vote
• Discussed plans to deploy vending machines for Plan B emergency contraception, Narcan, COVID test kits, and feminine hygiene products at city hall and city hall annex

Salem Harbor Port Authority

The Salem Harbor Port Authority will hold a remote meeting to provide updates on several harbor projects. Discussion topics include offshore wind development, the Harbor Plan/DPA Master Plan, Blaney Street parking, and the Salem Ferry.

• Offshore wind schedule, funding, engagement, and workforce development updates
• Harbor Plan/DPA Master Plan discussion
• Blaney Street Parking update
• Salem Ferry terminal building and resident discount updates

The Salem Harbor Port Authority received updates on the offshore wind project, including Crowley's property closing and a cooperation agreement with the City. The port is expected to open in late 2025. No formal votes or decisions were taken; the meeting was informational.

• No formal votes or decisions recorded; meeting was informational

Historical Commission

The Salem Historical Commission will review multiple requests for Certificates of Appropriateness. These items include renovations and repairs at various local properties.

• 25 Warren Street: Replace porch with new addition
• 20 Hathorne Street: Paint colors
• 3 Federal Court: Renovate building and carriage house
• 7 Lynn Street: Replace roof with Permalock system
• 111 Federal Street: Replace basement windows

The Salem Historical Commission approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for St. Peter's Church's basement window design, with a 3-over-6 configuration and horizontal muntins on the lower sash. Several other applications were continued to future meetings, including a roof replacement at 7 Lynn Street and a gutter installation at 16 Kosciusko Street. The Commission also voted to become a conferring party for the Columbus Avenue Seawall project and approved a new process for issuing violation notices.

• Approved St. Peter's Church basement window with 3-over-6 configuration and horizontal muntins (6-1)
• Approved withdrawal of 25 Warren Street addition application without prejudice (6-0)
• Continued 20 Hathorne Street paint color application to October 19, 2022 (6-0)
• Continued 3 Federal Court renovation application to next meeting (6-0)
• Continued 7 Lynn Street roof replacement application to next meeting (6-0)
• Continued 16 Kosciusko Street gutter application to next meeting (6-0)
• Approved 111 Federal Street basement window replacement with wood true divided lites (6-0)
• Voted to become conferring party for Columbus Avenue Seawall Section 106 review (6-0)

Zero Waste Salem

The committee is scheduled to review its mission statement and annual events. Members will also consider whether to continue using Zoom or transition to in-person or hybrid meetings.

• Approval of June 2022 and September 2022 minutes
• Discussion regarding the committee mission statement
• Review of annual events
• Decision on meeting formats (Zoom vs. in-person/hybrid)
• Updates on the Green Salem A-Z Guide task force

The SalemRecycles Committee voted to record future meetings and to offer a hybrid in-person/Zoom option starting November 1st. The committee also discussed annual events including Styrofoam collection, Swap and Drop, Repair Cafe, Book Swap, and a Textile Drive. No substantive decisions were made on event scheduling or contracts.

• Voted to record future meetings (4-3)
• Voted to offer hybrid meetings starting November 1st (unanimous)
• Approved June and September 2022 minutes

School Committee

The Salem School Committee Curriculum Subcommittee meeting scheduled for October 4, 2022, was canceled. No items were discussed or decided during this period.

Salem Human Rights Coalition

The Salem Human Rights Coalition will review reports from the Chair, Clerk, and Treasurer. The agenda includes discussions on mailer design, pricing, and a partnership update with SPS. Members will also brainstorm ways to educate the public regarding political developments in the U.S.

• Mailer design and pricing
• Update on partnership with SPS
• New member confirmation
• Brainstorming session for public education

Affordable Housing Trust Fund

The Salem Affordable Housing Trust Fund Board will discuss next steps regarding the Condo Conversion Ordinance. The meeting also includes a discussion on continuing board priorities for fiscal year 2023.

• Condo Conversion Ordinance next steps/update
• Continuation of Board Priorities for FY23
• Approval of August 23, 2022, and September 13, 2022 minutes

The Salem Affordable Housing Trust Fund Board voted unanimously to adopt FY2023 priorities, ranking a rental registry first and a rent stabilization/anti-gauging study second. The board also approved minutes from August 23 and September 13, 2022, and received updates on the condominium conversion ordinance and the Disposition Ordinance.

• Approved FY2023 priorities: #1 create a rental registry, #2 consider rent stabilization or anti-gauging program (unanimous roll call)
• Approved minutes from August 23, 2022 and September 13, 2022 (5-0-1, Willis present)

Registrars of Voters

The Board of Registrars of Voters is designating early voting locations, dates, and hours for the State Election. Voting will be held at the City Hall Annex and the Salem High School Auditorium. The schedule includes specific dates from October 22 through November 4.

• Early voting location: City Hall Annex, 98 Washington Street
• Early voting location: Salem High School Auditorium, 77 Willson Street
• Designation of early voting dates and hours for the State Election

The Board of Registrars voted 2-0 (one absent) to approve in-person early voting locations, dates, and hours for the November 8, 2022 State Election. Early voting will be held at City Hall Annex from October 22 through November 4, with additional weekend hours at Salem High School on October 29-30. The decision was required under the VOTES Act and aimed to provide downtown-avoiding options during Halloween events.

• Approved in-person early voting at City Hall Annex, 98 Washington St., Oct 22–Nov 4 (2-0, 1 absent)
• Approved additional early voting at Salem High School, 77 Willson St., Oct 29–30, 9 AM–1 PM (2-0, 1 absent)

School Committee

The Salem School Committee will meet to approve several warrants from late September 2022. The committee is also scheduled for second and third readings of various school policies. Additionally, the Superintendent will present a report on the 2022 MCAS.

• Approval of warrants: 9/21/22 ($217,011.33), 9/22/22 ($577,674.69), 9/28/22 ($189,366.81), and 9/29/22 ($473,516.47)
• Second reading of policies: Police Department Relations, Student Advisory Committee, and Advertising in Schools
• Third reading of policy: Community Use of Kitchens
• Carlton Innovation School trip to The Farm School (10/24/22-10/26/22)
• Superintendent's 2022 MCAS presentation

The Salem School Committee approved several policies on first, second, and third readings, including policies on police relations, student advisory committees, advertising in schools, and community use of kitchens. The committee also received a detailed report from the superintendent on 2022 MCAS, ACCESS, and accountability results, noting declines in ELA performance and chronic absenteeism challenges. No substantive decisions were made beyond the policy approvals.

• Approved Policy 1401 (Relations with Police Department) on first reading (6-0)
• Approved Policy 6502 (Student Advisory Committee) on second reading (5-1)
• Approved Policy 1102 (Advertising in Schools) on second reading (6-0)
• Approved Policy 1203 (Community Use of Kitchens) on third reading (6-0)

City Council

The Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs will meet to discuss a proposed ordinance. The measure would prioritize affordable housing during the disposal of City Land.

• Ordinance to prioritize affordable housing when disposing of City Land

The City Council unanimously approved second passage of an ordinance amending Chapter 40 to allow police officers, enforcement officers, and agents of the Board of Health, Inspectional Services, Fire Services, and Licensing Department to enforce rules for public guides. The change expands enforcement beyond the Police Department and Licensing Board's special investigator. The vote was 11-0.

• Approved second passage of an ordinance amending Chapter 40 – Public Guides to expand enforcement authority to police officers, enforcement officers, and agents of the Board of Health, Inspectional Services, Fire Services, and Licensing Department.
• Vote: 11 yeas, 0 nays, 0 absent.

Sustainability, Energy, & Resiliency Committee

The Salem Sustainability, Energy, and Resiliency Committee will hold a remote meeting. The agenda includes introductions for new board members and staff, as well as a presentation from the Ipswich River Watershed.

• Introduction of new board member Erin Casey and Waste Reduction Coordinator Janelle Rolke
• Guest speaker presentation regarding the Ipswich River Watershed
• Discussion of October speaker topic on green buildings in Boston
• Approval of July 27, 2022, meeting minutes

Transportation Commission

The Traffic & Parking Commission and Bicycling Advisory Committee will review plans for sidewalk and bicycle lane extensions on Washington Street and Lafayette Street. Staff will present designs from AECOM and Toole Design to seek public feedback. The meeting also includes a discussion regarding requested changes to overnight parking regulations.

• Washington Street Sidewalk Extension Design from Front Street to Follet Way
• Lafayette Street bicycle lane extension from Loring Avenue to the Marblehead town line
• Discussion of proposed overnight parking prohibitions

The Salem Traffic and Parking Commission held a joint meeting with the Bicycling Advisory Committee to discuss two major bike lane projects: a Washington Street sidewalk extension with a protected bike lane, and a Lafayette Street traffic calming and bike safety project. No formal votes were taken on these projects; the commission only heard presentations and public comments. The commission voted to approve the August 24 meeting minutes (3-0) and decided not to change October parking overlay regulations at this time, opting to monitor the current season first.

• Approved August 24, 2022 meeting minutes (3-0)
• No changes to October parking overlay regulations; will monitor current season before revisiting

Bicycling & Shared Path Advisory Committee

The Salem Traffic & Parking Commission and Bicycling Advisory Committee will review design plans for sidewalk extensions on Washington Street and bicycle lane expansions on Lafayette Street. The meeting also includes a discussion regarding proposed changes to overnight parking regulations.

• Washington Street Sidewalk Extension Design from Front Street to Follet Way
• Lafayette Street bicycle lane extension from Loring Avenue to the Marblehead town line
• Discussion of request to prohibit certain overnight parking

Design Review Board

The Design Review Board will discuss several projects within the Urban Renewal Area, including a six-story mixed-use building at 252 Bridge Street. This redevelopment includes up to 120 residential units and commercial space. The board will also review signage and small project requests for window and roof work.

• Final Design Review: The Exchange Salem (252 Bridge Street and 32-34 Federal Street)
• Small Project Review: Roof replacement at 140 Washington Street
• Small Project Review: Window restoration at 231 Essex Street
• Sign review for Flying Monkey at 196 Essex Street

The Design Review Board approved a blade sign and vinyl decals for Flying Monkey at 196 Essex Street with conditions on lettering and kerning. The board also approved a roof replacement at 140 Washington Street with grey coping. The major project, The Exchange Salem at 252 Bridge Street, was continued to October 26 for further design details on the Bridge Street façade, landscape plan, and materials.

• Approved Flying Monkey sign at 196 Essex Street with conditions on lettering, kerning, and hyphenation (7-0)
• Approved roof replacement at 140 Washington Street with stepped-back fascia and grey coping (6-0)
• Continued The Exchange Salem project to October 26, 2022 for Bridge Street elevation, landscape plan, and details (6-0)
• Continued 231 Essex Street window project to October 26, 2022 due to incomplete drawings (6-0)
• Approved minutes of July 27, 2022 (5-0, one abstention)
• Approved minutes of August 22, 2022 (5-0, one abstention)

Salem Cultural Council

The Salem Cultural Council will meet via remote participation to discuss the Treasurer position. The agenda also includes reviews of upcoming council-funded events, application updates, and 2023 grantee party information.

• Vote on prior meeting minutes
• Discussion of Treasurer Position
• Update on upcoming council-funded events
• Application status update
• 2023 Grantee Party update

Licensing Board

The board will review several applications for fortune telling and entertainment licenses. Additionally, members will discuss ongoing noise complaints regarding the Beer Tent on Congress Street.

• Fortune telling license application for Paul Royka at 97 Derby St.
• Common Victualler and Entertainment license for Christina’s Pizza at 239 Lafayette St.
• Entertainment license for Rivalry Sports Lounge & Kitchen at 231 Washington St.
• Discussion regarding noise complaints at the Beer Tent, 23 Congress St.

Board of Public Library Trustees

The Board of Library Trustees will meet to address library use, finances, and building updates. The board also plans to enter an executive session regarding applicants for a vacancy.

• Approval of June 23, 2022 minutes
• Discussion on library use and finances
• Building update and fountain discussion
• Executive session to consider applicants for an upcoming vacancy

The Board of Library Trustees discussed the Poseidon fountain restoration, noting a $10,000-$12,000 increase in the aquatics quote and a contractor withdrawal, with a potential $30,000 shortfall. They agreed to work on a draft resolution for funding the shortfall, considering options like fundraising, grants, and city capital funds. The board also approved the June minutes, scheduled a DEI training for October 21, and discussed various library operations.

• Approved draft minutes from June 23, 2022 (unanimous)
• Agreed to schedule DEI training for library staff on October 21, 2022
• Agreed to work on a draft resolution for funding the Poseidon fountain shortfall
• Entered executive session to discuss Trustee vacancy applicants (unanimous)

City Council

The council is holding public hearings regarding 24/7 operating hours for three Dunkin' Donuts locations. Members are also reviewing a zoning ordinance for a Halloween Parking Overlay District and various municipal appointments. Additionally, the Mayor proposed funding for school reimbursements and a sea-level rise study.

• Public hearings for 24/7 operating hours at Dunkin' Donuts on Washington St., Boston St., and North St.
• $80,000 appropriation for a flood risk assessment study in the Collins Cove to Willows area
• $89,479.88 appropriation for School Department E-Rate reimbursement
• Zoning ordinance second passage for a Halloween Parking Overlay District
• $86,596.57 for retirement service buybacks for two Salem Fire Department employees

The Salem City Council approved extended hours for three Dunkin' Donuts locations, with conditions: 152 Washington St. got a one-year trial for 24/7 operation, 68 Boston St. was limited to 5AM-9PM, and 105 North St. was set to 6AM-midnight. The council also adopted the Halloween Parking Overlay District zoning ordinance (8-3) and confirmed multiple appointments to boards and commissions.

• Granted 24/7 hours for Dunkin' at 152 Washington St. with 1-year trial and rescission right (9-2)
• Granted 5AM-9PM hours for Dunkin' at 68 Boston St. (9-2)
• Granted 6AM-midnight hours for Dunkin' at 105 North St. (unanimous)
• Adopted Halloween Parking Overlay District zoning ordinance (8-3)
• Confirmed appointments to Race Equity Commission (11-0)
• Confirmed appointments to various boards and commissions (11-0)
• Appropriated $89,479.88 for school E-Rate reimbursement
• Appropriated $86,596.57 for fire department retirement buybacks

Cemetery Commission

The Commission will review the building usage policy for Dickson Chapel and discuss next steps for the Greenlawn Master Plan. Members will also consider recommendations for locking cemetery gates following recent thefts.

• Vote on Dickson Chapel Building Usage Policy Review & Discussion
• Discussion of Greenlawn Master Plan expansion steps
• Recommendations for locking pedestrian gates due to grave site thefts
• Update on the Dickson Chapel stained glass project and heating system
• Discussion regarding removal of items under Green Lawn Cemetery code section 16-108

The commission discussed next steps for the Greenlawn Master Plan, focusing on expansion recommendations and revenue summaries. No formal votes were taken on substantive items; most agenda items were deferred or referred for further study. The meeting was largely procedural and informational.

• Approved June 15, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Deferred Dickson Chapel building inspector update to next month
• Deferred Dickson Chapel building usage policy vote to next month
• Discussed locking pedestrian gates at dusk due to thefts; no vote taken
• Discussed replacing Dickson Chapel heating system using trust fund; no vote taken
• Discussed stained glass project for Dickson Chapel; no vote taken
• Discussed removal of items from gravesites under ordinance 16-108; no vote taken
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Council on Aging Board

The Salem Council on Aging Board will meet to discuss the FY 2023 budget and provide an update on subsidized senior housing. The agenda also includes discussions regarding farmer's market coupons and the upcoming Halloween Parade.

• Introduction of new member Michelle Bettencourt
• Subsidized Senior Housing Update
• Farmer’s Market Coupons
• FY 2023 Budget discussion
• 55th Anniversary Open House on October 12, 2022

The Salem Council on Aging Board voted unanimously to advocate for increasing the value of farmers' market coupons from $25 to $50 per booklet. The board also discussed the Lee Fort Terrace housing project, noting concerns about the lack of senior units and private ownership. The Friends of the COA reported 18 members and a $65,000 treasury, and the director provided updates on dining, transportation, social services, and programs.

• Approved motion to advocate for increasing farmers' market coupon funding from $25 to $50 per booklet (unanimous)
• Accepted June meeting minutes as amended (unanimous)
• Discussed but took no vote on the Lee Fort Terrace housing project
• Noted Friends of the COA have 18 members and $65,000 in treasury
• Heard that the Friends applied for a Cummings Foundation grant for the Memory Café
• Scheduled next board meeting for October 19, 2022 via Zoom
• Approved motion to adjourn (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Salem Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on various property petitions. These proposals include a new microbrewery, townhome expansions, and residential renovations.

• Microbrewery and taproom at 76 Lafayette Street
• Five-unit townhome development at 10 Osborne Street
• Two-family building creation at 52 School Street
• Carriage house conversion at 3 Federal Court
• Residential addition at 25 Warren Street

The Salem Zoning Board of Appeals approved special permits for a rebuilt two-family home at 13 Willow Avenue, a two-family conversion at 52 School Street, a microbrewery and taproom at 76 Lafayette Street, a carriage house conversion at 3 Federal Court, and new egresses at 49 Essex Street. The board continued hearings for a porch addition at 25 Warren Street and a five-unit townhome project at 10 Osborne Street to the October 19, 2022 meeting.

• Approved special permit for two-family home rebuild at 13 Willow Avenue (4-0)
• Approved special permit for two-family conversion with garages at 52 School Street (4-0)
• Approved special permit for microbrewery and taproom at 76 Lafayette Street (4-0)
• Approved special permit for carriage house conversion at 3 Federal Court, with condition limiting main structure to two units (4-0)
• Approved special permit for new exterior egresses at 49 Essex Street (4-0)
• Continued special permit hearing for porch addition at 25 Warren Street to October 19, 2022 (4-0)
• Continued special permit hearing for five-unit townhome project at 10 Osborne Street to October 19, 2022 (4-0)
• Approved August 17, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0)

Historical Commission

The Salem Historical Commission will meet to review Certificates of Appropriateness for various properties. Discussion items include building conversions, porch replacements, and exterior modifications. The commission will also address minutes, violations, and correspondence.

• 25 Warren Street: request to continue porch replacement to October 5, 2022
• 43 Chestnut Street: replace fence sections and gate
• 3 Federal Court: convert 3-unit building to 2-unit building
• 15 Chestnut Street: paint color changes
• 4 Pickering Street: installation of a 3-tab roof

The Salem Historical Commission approved several Certificates of Appropriateness, including paint colors for 15 Chestnut Street subject to a field visit, and roof shingles for 4 Pickering Street. The Commission also continued two applications to October 5, 2022, and discussed the FY23 Community Preservation Plan, voting to draft a letter with comments.

• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for fence replacement at 43 Chestnut St (4-0)
• Approved paint colors for 15 Chestnut St subject to field visit, with Atrium White chimney and natural brick (5-0)
• Approved IKO Cambridge shingle in Harvard Slate for roof at 4 Pickering St (5-0)
• Continued 25 Warren St addition application to October 5, 2022 (4-0)
• Approved drafting letter on FY23 Community Preservation Plan (5-0)
• Approved meeting minutes for June 1, June 15, and July 6, 2022 (5-0)

School Committee

The Policy Subcommittee will meet to review updates to the policy regarding relations with the Police Department and the Student Advisory Committee. The meeting also includes a transportation update and continued review of community relations policies.

• Review of policy 1401 - Relations With Police Department
• Update to policy 6502 - Student Advisory Committee
• Transportation update/discussion
• Continued review of 1000 series - Community Relations

The Policy Subcommittee approved sending two policies for a second read at the next School Committee meeting: Policy 1401 (Relations With Police Department) and Policy 6502 (Student Advisory Committee), with language changes to the scholarship award from 'one' to 'one recipient from each high school'. The subcommittee also discussed transportation delays with NRT bus company and tabled further work on a Hall of Fame Committee policy pending input from the Athletic Director and principal.

• Approved minutes of 8/18/2022 meeting (3-0)
• Sent Policy 1401 (Relations With Police Department) for second read at next School Committee meeting
• Sent Policy 6502 (Student Advisory Committee) for second read at next School Committee meeting, with language change to award scholarship to one recipient from each high school
• Tabled Hall of Fame Committee policy pending meeting with Athletic Director and principal
• Discussed transportation delays with NRT bus company; explored training staff to improve routing and real-time GPS app for parents

City Council

The City Council Committee on Government Services and the Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss candidates for appointments. The discussion focuses on applicants interested in joining the Community Preservation Committee or the Tree Commission.

• Discussion of applicants for the Community Preservation Committee
• Discussion of applicants for the Tree Commission

The City Council Committee on Government Services, co-posted with the Committee of the Whole, interviewed applicants and voted to recommend Cady Goldfield for a full position on the Tree Commission and Jane Rumrill as an alternate. For the Community Preservation Committee, the committee recommended Katie Martin for appointment. The recommendations will go to the full Council for a final vote.

• Recommended Cady Goldfield for full Tree Commission position (4-0 roll call)
• Recommended Jane Rumrill as alternate Tree Commission member (3-1 roll call)
• Recommended Katie Martin for Community Preservation Committee (4-0 roll call)

Park & Recreation Commission

The commission will review event requests for the Willows Shell and receive a presentation regarding Peabody St Park. The Superintendent's report includes an update on changing an October movie night date.

• Peabody St Park update and presentation
• B+S Fitness Devils Chase event request for Willows Shell on October 22, 2022
• Music performance request for Willows Shell on September 25, 2022
• Update regarding changing an October movie night date

The Salem Park and Recreation Commission approved B+S Fitness's request to hold a road race and Devils Chase/Creepy Clown race at Willows Field on October 22, 2022, from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., with a beer truck allowed until noon. The commission also discussed a presentation from North Shore CDC on revitalizing Peabody Street Park, agreeing to proceed with plans and work on a Right of Entry Agreement. Minutes from March 2022 were approved unanimously.

• Approved March 2022 commission minutes (unanimous)
• Approved B+S Fitness use of Willows Field for road race and beer truck on Oct 22, 8 a.m.-12 p.m. (unanimous)
• Agreed to proceed with Peabody Street Park revitalization plans; Attorney Grover to work on Right of Entry Agreement

Conservation Commission

The Salem Conservation Commission will conduct public hearings on several development proposals, including apartment expansions and marina infrastructure updates. The agenda also includes reviewing geotechnical work for the Salem Wind Port Project and bridge repairs in the Forest River Conservation Area.

• Proposed replacement of 50 apartments with 124 apartments at 1 and 2 Lee Fort Terrace
• Infrastructure updates at Hawthorne Cove Marina, 10 White Street
• Geotechnical borings for the Salem Wind Port Project at 67 Derby Street
• Bridge rehabilitation and access improvements at Forest River Conservation Area
• Review of certificates of compliance for properties on Osborne Hill Drive

The Salem Conservation Commission approved a Certificate of Compliance for a single-family house at 16 Freeman Road (6-0), continued hearings for two major projects, and issued Orders of Conditions for dock replacement at Hawthorne Cove Marina and a house addition at 57 Memorial Drive. The commission also approved an Abbreviated Notice of Resource Area Delineation for a mixed-use development at 286 Canal Street and Certificates of Compliance for three Osborne Hill Drive lots and 40 First Street.

• Approved Certificate of Compliance for 16 Freeman Road (6-0)
• Continued public hearing for 1 and 2 Lee Fort Terrace to October 18, 2022 (6-0)
• Issued Order of Conditions for dock replacement at 10 White Street (6-0)
• Continued public hearing for 67 Derby Street geotechnical borings to October 18, 2022 (6-0)
• Issued Order of Resource Area Delineation for 286 Canal Street & 2 Kimball Street (6-0)
• Issued Order of Conditions for house addition at 57 Memorial Drive with special conditions (6-0)
• Issued negative determination for Forest River Conservation Area Volunteer Bridge rehabilitation (6-0)
• Approved Certificates of Compliance for 30, 32, and 34 Osborne Hill Drive with mitigation conditions (6-0)

Public Art Commission

The Salem Public Art Commission will meet via Zoom to discuss several upcoming projects. The agenda includes a vote on additional support for the Naumkeag Portrait Project and a discussion of the FY23 work plan. The commission will also receive an update regarding the Choate Statue Relocation.

• Vote on funding request: Naumkeag Portrait Project Additional Support
• Discussion of Public Art FY23 (July 2022-June 2023) Work Plan
• Update on Choate Statue Relocation
• Workshop for Making It Public Temporary Public Art Call & Timeline

The Public Art Commission voted unanimously to allocate an additional $2,000 to the Naumkeag portrait project artist, bringing the total commission contribution to $7,000. The commission also approved the FY23 strategic work plan and discussed parameters for a temporary public art call. No comments were offered on the Joseph Choate statue relocation proposal.

• Approved $2,000 increase for Naumkeag portrait artist stipend (unanimous)
• Approved FY23 strategic work plan (unanimous)
• Approved July 28, 2022 special meeting minutes (Kurt abstained)
• Approved August 16, 2022 meeting minutes as amended (Janine abstained)
• No extra art boxes commissioned; $500 surplus left unallocated
• No comments offered on Joseph Choate statue relocation proposal

Commission on Disabilities

The Salem Commission on Disabilities will discuss updates to the ADA Transition Plan and construction projects. The meeting includes a review of funding in the handicap violations account and a request for visually impaired indicators on the Canal St. pathway. Members will also hear about affordable accessible housing and the Unified Sports Program.

• Request to use funds for entrance/exit indicators on Canal St. pathway
• Update on funding in the handicap violations account
• Discussion regarding affordable accessible housing in Salem
• Construction update from the Roadway Project Manager
• ADA Transition Plan updates and subcommittee reports

School Committee

The committee will vote on moving NBCSN certified nurses without a Master's degree to the Master's pay column. Members will also review the policy for community use of school kitchens and discuss plans for students with extended absences. The meeting includes a student showcase from Saltonstall School.

• Vote on moving NBCSN certified nurses (without Master's) to the Master's pay scale column
• Approval of warrants for September 7, 8, 14, and 15
• Second reading of Policy 1203 regarding community use of kitchens
• Approval of school trips to Nature’s Classroom, Florida, Connecticut, and New York
• Budget transfer request

The Salem School Committee voted 6-0 to approve moving nurses who hold NBCSN certification (without a Master's degree) to the Master's column on the pay scale. The committee also approved a budget transfer to correct mislabeled translation services funds, and adopted a policy for community use of kitchens. A presentation on diversifying the educator workforce highlighted retention challenges for BIPOC staff.

• Approved moving nurses with NBCSN certification to Master's pay column (6-0)
• Approved budget transfer for translation services (6-0)
• Adopted Policy 1203 - Community Use of Kitchens (6-0)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes, warrants totaling $733,852.34, and multiple student trip approvals
• Approved regular meeting minutes from September 7, 2022

Tree Commission

The Salem Tree Commission will discuss several forestry initiatives and program updates. The agenda includes discussions on Emerald Ash Borer beetle activity and the Greening the Gateway Cities Program. Members will also receive updates on the American Rescue Plan balance and the Salem Common landscape architect.

• Update on $20,000 DCR Municipal Grant
• Discussion of Emerald Ash Borer Beetle activity in Salem
• Update on remaining American Rescue Plan balance
• Greening the Gateway Cities Program community outreach
• Next steps for Salem Common landscape architect

The commission discussed the Emerald Ash Borer Beetle infestation but deferred any treatment decision, agreeing that a city certified arborist must first analyze the trees. They also heard updates on fall planting (30 trees planned), Greening the Gateway Cities (534 trees planted on private property, 96 on public), and available funds including $21,872.50 in ARPA funds and $20,000 DCR grant. Minutes from July 18, 2022 were approved unanimously.

• Approved minutes of July 18, 2022 (unanimous)
• Deferred EAB injection program pending certified arborist opinion
• Deferred volunteer elm tree planting model pending certified arborist opinion
• Noted fall planting delayed due to severe drought
• Noted $21,872.50 ARPA funds available for spring/fall 2023 tree planting
• Noted $16,439 DCR grant received for Federal and Church Street tree pits

School Committee

The School Committee is holding a retreat to discuss the Student Opportunity Act and the Salem Public Schools Facility Master Plan. The body aims to reach a consensus on operational and capital actions for a proposed 10-year transformation of school facilities.

• Discussion of the $300 million School Facility Master Plan
• Review of recommendations for a new Salem Middle/High School
• Discussion of a Specialized Early Education Center at the Horace Mann or Collins campus
• Funding discussion regarding the Student Opportunity Act
• Review of options for Salem Prep High School and New Liberty Innovation School

City Council

The council will review an ordinance regarding weapons in city buildings and requests for extended business hours at several Dunkin' locations. Additionally, the meeting includes various committee appointments and the acceptance of donated artworks.

• Ordinance to regulate possession of dangerous weapons in City Hall and municipal buildings
• Requests for 24/7 operating hours at Dunkin' locations on Washington, Boston, and North Streets
• Request from Camilla’s Café to extend morning hours to 4:00 AM
• Approval of $31,510.00 for a police department vacation and sick leave buyback
• Acceptance of two donated works of art

The City Council gave final approval to three ordinances regulating short-term rentals, including a new definition of primary residence, enforcement procedures, and certificate of fitness requirements. The ordinances passed 9-0 with two recusals. The Council also adopted a home rule petition to restrict fossil fuel infrastructure in new construction, confirmed several board appointments, and approved multiple appropriations and traffic ordinance changes.

• Adopted short-term rental ordinance for second and final passage (9-0, 2 recused)
• Adopted ordinance amending non-criminal disposition of short-term rental violations (9-0, 2 recused)
• Adopted ordinance amending certificate of fitness requirements for short-term rentals (9-0, 2 recused)
• Adopted home rule petition to restrict new fossil fuel infrastructure in certain construction (11-0)
• Confirmed appointment of Erin Bonney Casey to SERC Committee (11-0)
• Confirmed appointment of Walter Morrell to Bicycling Advisory Committee (11-0)
• Approved $31,510 appropriation for retirement stabilization fund
• Approved $19,600 transfer to DPS burial account

Neighborhood Improvement Advisory Council

The council will review the June 8, 2022, minutes and hear from guests representing Crowley Maritime, Avangrid, and Salem Port. A request for comment on the FY2023 Community Preservation Plan is included in the agenda for October 21st. The meeting also includes neighborhood association and city updates.

• Request for comment on FY2023 Community Preservation Plan
• Approval of June 8, 2022, minutes
• Guest presentations from Crowley Maritime, Avangrid, and Salem Port

The Neighborhood Improvement Advisory Council approved the minutes from June 8, 2022. Special guests from Crowley Maritime, Avangrid, and the City of Salem provided an update on the offshore wind terminal project, including conceptual plans, workforce development, and community engagement. The council also discussed neighborhood traffic concerns and upcoming city events.

• Approved the minutes from the June 8, 2022 meeting.
• Heard a presentation from John Berry (Crowley Maritime), Patrick Johnson (Avangrid), and Seth Lattrell (City of Salem) on the offshore wind terminal project.
• Discussed construction traffic, noise, parking, buffers, and project communication protocols.
• Noted that public comment for the FY2023 Community Preservation Plan is due by October 21st.
• Received updates on neighborhood traffic concerns and community events.

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold hearings regarding several residential property requests. This includes continuances for projects at Leefort Terrace and Proctor Street, and a new hearing for an addition at 9 Cambridge Street.

• Continuance for 124 new units at 1 and 2 Leefort Terrace
• Continuance to convert a two-family dwelling into a three-family dwelling at 70 Proctor Street
• Public hearing for a new two-story addition at 9 Cambridge Street

The Zoning Board of Appeals continued the public hearing for a 124-unit comprehensive permit at 1 and 2 Leefort Terrace to October 19, 2022, after board members declined to vote without a completed engineering peer review. The board also continued a special permit for converting a two-family to three-family dwelling at 70 Proctor Street and a special permit for an addition at 9 Cambridge Street. No final decisions were made on any of the three petitions.

• Continued 124-unit 40B comprehensive permit at 1 & 2 Leefort Terrace to October 19 (4-0)
• Continued special permit for 2-to-3 family conversion at 70 Proctor Street to October 19 (4-0)
• Continued special permit for rear addition at 9 Cambridge Street to October 19 (4-0)
• Approved June 15, 2022 meeting minutes as amended (4-0)
• Approved July 27, 2022 meeting minutes as amended (4-0)

Historical Commission

The commission will review several Certificates of Appropriateness for property modifications, including window changes and handrail installations. The meeting also includes discussions regarding the relocation of the Choate Memorial Statue on Essex Street and input on the FY23 Community Preservation Plan.

• Relocation of the Choate Memorial Statue on Essex Street
• Request for comment on Salem Heritage Trail markers
• Building and fence restoration at 1 Pickering Street
• House renovation and new building construction at 143 Derby Street
• Input on the FY23 Community Preservation Plan

The Commission approved a Certificate of Appropriateness to relocate the Choate Memorial statue on Essex Street, moving it 25 feet back into a median island as part of the Boston Street improvement project. Several other applications were approved, including a roof vent at 5 North Pine Street, a fence replacement withdrawal at 15 Chestnut Street, paint colors at 1 Pickering Street, a mini-split system at 57 Warren Street, and a conditional approval for renovations at 143 Derby Street. The Commission also continued discussion on the FY23 Community Preservation Plan to the next meeting.

• Approved Choate Memorial statue relocation (5-0)
• Approved roof vent at 5 North Pine Street (minor change, no objections)
• Accepted withdrawal of fence replacement application at 15 Chestnut Street (5-0)
• Approved paint colors at 1 Pickering Street pending sample review (5-0)
• Approved mini-split system at 57 Warren Street (5-0)
• Conditionally approved renovations at 143 Derby Street (5-0)
• Approved in-kind repairs at 20 Hathorne Street, continued paint colors to October 5 (5-0)
• Approved window modifications at 15 Beckford Street (5-0)

Housing Authority Board

The provided text is a formal notice for a regular Salem Housing Authority board meeting held via Zoom. The document contains only procedural information regarding the remote meeting and does not list specific agenda items or topics for discussion. This meeting was designated as closed to the public.

Beautification Committee

The Salem Beautification Committee will meet to approve the June 2022 minutes. The agenda includes updates regarding new members, traffic islands, the window box competition, and Lady of Salem.

• Approval of June 2022 Minutes
• New Member Update
• Traffic Island Update
• Window Box Competition Update
• Lady of Salem Update

The Beautification Committee discussed updates on traffic island sponsorship and maintenance, including broken irrigation and volunteer concerns. The window box competition was proposed to return in 2023 in conjunction with the Salem Garden Club. The Lady of Salem project reported 26 figureheads installed through October, with a $1,000 grant used for promotional materials. No formal votes or decisions were recorded; the meeting focused on reports and action items.

• June minutes were approved.
• Three new member applications were nominated and will be reviewed by the City Council on September 15th, with a vote on September 22nd.
• Window box competition proposed to return in 2023 with Salem Garden Club.
• Lady of Salem takedown tentatively scheduled for October 12 at 9 a.m. by DPW.
• Action items include investigating CPA funds, mitigating traffic at Barton Square, and drafting a letter for cleanup support.

Board of Health

The Salem Board of Health will hold a hearing regarding a housing order for 10 Howard Street. The board will also discuss and potentially vote on regulations concerning advertising practices of limited services pregnancy centers.

• Hearing on Housing Order dated August 10, 2022, for 10 Howard Street
• Request to be heard regarding code violations at 36 Loring Avenue
• Discussion and possible vote on advertising regulations for pregnancy centers

The Board of Health voted 4-0 to table a proposed regulation prohibiting deceptive advertising by limited services pregnancy centers, pending a future public hearing. The board also voted 4-0 to allow the owner of 10 Howard Street to perform her own extermination work instead of requiring a third-party exterminator, provided she submits documentation. The board approved the July 14, 2022 meeting minutes by a 4-0 vote.

• Tabled regulation on deceptive advertising by limited services pregnancy centers for public hearing
• Approved owner of 10 Howard Street to self-perform extermination, waiving third-party requirement (4-0)
• Approved July 14, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0)

Salem Human Rights Coalition

The Salem Human Rights Coalition will hold an online meeting to review coalition reports and discuss business items. The agenda includes financial updates, recruitment efforts, and a discussion regarding the 'Longest Table' and a partnership with SPS.

• Review of July minutes
• Treasurer's financial report
• Discussion on recruitment, mailing lists, and fundraising
• Discussion regarding 'Longest Table' and partnership with SPS

Affordable Housing Trust Fund

The Salem Affordable Housing Trust Fund Board will discuss staffing updates and future meeting schedules. The agenda also includes reviewing the Condominium Conversion Ordinance and Community Preservation Act FY 23 comments.

• Staffing and future meeting schedule update
• Condominium Conversion Ordinance discussion
• Community Preservation Act FY 23 comments
• Continuation of Board Priorities for FY23
• Approval of August 23, 2022 minutes

The Board voted unanimously to send the draft condominium conversion ordinance for formal legal review and presentation to the City Council's Committee of the Whole. The Board also discussed the Community Preservation Committee annual report and FY2023 priorities, but took no final action on those items. Approval of the August 23, 2022 minutes failed on a 4-0-3 vote due to three members being present (not voting yes).

• Approved sending draft condominium conversion ordinance to City Solicitor and Committee of the Whole (7-0)
• Failed to approve August 23, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0-3, three members present)
• Discussed but took no vote on Community Preservation Committee annual report comments
• Discussed but took no vote on FY2023 Board priorities matrix

City Council

The City Council voted to accept a committee report regarding zoning changes. The Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs recommended first passage of an ordinance for the Halloween Parking Overlay District.

• Ordinance to amend the Halloween Parking Overlay District zoning

The Salem City Council voted 8-3 to adopt first passage of a zoning ordinance creating a Halloween Parking Overlay District, which legalizes and regulates temporary commercial parking lots in a defined downtown area during October. The vote followed extensive debate about enforcement, traffic impacts, and the effect on nonprofits and churches that rely on parking revenue. A motion for immediate reconsideration was denied.

• Approved first passage of Halloween Parking Overlay District zoning amendment (8-3)
• Denied motion for immediate reconsideration

Scholarship & Education Committee

The Scholarship & Education Committee will review a financial update and discuss fundraising progress. The agenda also includes discussions regarding the committee logo and thank you letters policy.

• Approval of August 1, 2022 meeting minutes
• Financial update
• Fundraising updates
• Logo discussion
• Thank you letters policy

The committee approved reopening the logo contest to all Salem students grades 5-12 with a December 11 deadline and a prize basket of art supplies. It also unanimously approved a policy to mail thank-you letters to donors over $50 annually. Financial updates were noted, and fundraising plans discussed.

• Approved August 1, 2022 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved reopening logo contest to all Salem students grades 5-12, deadline December 11
• Approved prize basket of art supplies and gift card for logo contest winner
• Approved policy to mail thank-you letters to donors giving over $50 annually (unanimous)
• Selected October 17, 2022 as next meeting date

Licensing Board

The Salem Licensing Board is reviewing applications for several one-day liquor licenses for local events. The board will also consider permanent license transfers for Rivalry Sports Lounge & Kitchen and Loring Liquors. Additionally, members will discuss ongoing noise complaints at the Beer Tent on 23 Congress St.

• Transfer of all-alcohol liquor and entertainment licenses for Rivalry Sports Lounge & Kitchen
• Transfer of annual all-alcohol package store license for Loring Liquors
• One-day liquor licenses for events at House of the Seven Gables and Pioneer Village
• New fortune telling licenses for 5 Winthrop St. and Vampfangs
• Discussion regarding noise complaints at the Beer Tent on 23 Congress St.

The Salem Licensing Board approved all applications on the agenda, including four one-day liquor licenses for NS Bartending and four for BlackVeil Studio, plus licenses for the Community Life Center, Notch Brewing, and others. It also approved transfers of liquor licenses for Rivalry Sports Lounge & Kitchen and Loring Liquors, and continued a discussion on noise complaints at the Beer Tent to the next meeting.

• Approved 4 one-day liquor licenses for NS Bartending (3-0)
• Approved 4 one-day liquor licenses for BlackVeil Studio (3-0)
• Approved one-day liquor license for Community Life Center (3-0)
• Approved one-day liquor license for Notch Brewing Artoberfest (3-0)
• Approved entertainment license amendment for Notch Brewing Oktoberfest band (3-0)
• Approved entertainment license amendment for Opus outdoor music (3-0)
• Approved fortune telling license for Dulce Ros (3-0)
• Approved transfer of liquor license for Rivalry Sports Lounge & Kitchen (3-0)

City Council

The City Council Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss the Salem Housing Roadmap: A Housing Plan for All. The committee will also review the Affordable Accessory Dwelling Unit Report to Council.

• Salem Housing Roadmap: A Housing Plan for All
• Affordable Accessory Dwelling Unit Report to Council

The City Council Committee of the Whole voted 11-0 to send the Salem Housing Roadmap to the full council with a positive recommendation for approval. The committee also accepted an Affordable Accessory Dwelling Unit (AADU) report and kept the matter in committee for further discussion on possible amendments.

• Approved sending Salem Housing Roadmap to full council with positive recommendation (11-0)
• Accepted Affordable Accessory Dwelling Unit report (11-0)
• Kept AADU matter in committee for further discussion on amendments (11-0)

School Committee

The Salem School Committee will meet to vote on a new school resource officer agreement and administrative appointments. The committee will also review several district policies and hear updates regarding school openings.

• Vote to approve 2022 SPS/SPD School Resource Officer MOU
• Vote to appoint Superintendent Zrike to North Shore Education Consortium
• Approval of warrants: $105,162.76, $284,878.98, $68,914.08, and $189,404.26
• First reading of policies for community use of kitchens and police relations

The Salem School Committee approved the 2022 SPS/SPD School Resource Officer MOU (no vote required, noted as informational), authorized Deputy Superintendent Kate Carbone to act in place of the Superintendent, and appointed Superintendent Zrike as the district's representative to the North Shore Education Consortium. The committee also reviewed district performance goals including chronic absenteeism (29.5% in 2021-22), discipline disproportionality, and academic improvement targets. Several policies were advanced: 1203 Community Use of Kitchens (first read), 6502 Student Advisory (second read, approved 5-1), and 1102 Advertising in Schools (third read withdrawn).

• Authorized Deputy Superintendent Kate Carbone to act in place of Superintendent in his absence (5-0)
• Appointed Superintendent Zrike as district representative to North Shore Education Consortium (6-0)
• Approved 2022 SPS/SPD School Resource Officer MOU (informational, no vote required)
• Referred Internal Control Manual for Federal Grants to Finance subcommittee (6-0)
• Approved Policy 1203 Community Use of Kitchens for first read (6-0)
• Approved Policy 6502 Student Advisory for second read (5-1)
• Withdrew Policy 1102 Advertising in Schools third read, left on agenda for next meeting
• Approved consent agenda including minutes and warrants totaling $648,359.08 (6-0)

Bicycling & Shared Path Advisory Committee

The Bicycling Advisory Committee will discuss bicycling infrastructure, including Bluebikes data and e-bikes. The meeting also includes a request for input on the FY23 Community Preservation Plan.

• Bluebikes Bikeshare Program data, promotion, and expansion
• E-Bikes update
• FY23 Community Preservation Plan input request
• Discussion of committee name
• Review of June 1, 2022 meeting minutes

The committee reviewed Bluebikes ridership data and expansion progress. Three of seven planned new stations have been deployed, with three more to follow and a seventh after a roadway project. The committee also discussed e-bike legislation, upcoming bike lane projects, and a request for input on the Community Preservation Plan. No formal votes were taken on these items.

• Approved June 1, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 7:33 p.m. (unanimous)

Zero Waste Salem

The SalemRecycles Committee will meet via remote participation to review its mission and goals. The agenda includes discussions regarding a styrofoam/compostable ordinance and the status of mandatory mattress recycling in November.

• Styrofoam / Compostable Ordinance discussion
• Status of mandatory mattress recycling in November
• Public Recycling Bins
• Terracycle collections expansion
• Green Salem A-Z Guide update

The Salem Recycling Committee voted to postpone food truck composting until next year due to time and volunteer constraints. Members discussed the upcoming Styrofoam ban effective May 2023, reviewed a successful Styrofoam collection day, and planned a mission retreat. No formal votes were taken on other items; most topics were discussed or assigned for follow-up.

• Voted to table food truck composting until next year to grow the committee and plan for more volunteers
• Approved June 2022 minutes for review and approval at the October meeting
• Discussed but took no vote on continuing Styrofoam collection days; financial viability and frequency remain open
• Discussed but took no vote on a mission statement revision; a retreat will be scheduled for that purpose
• Discussed but took no vote on public recycling bin placement; contamination concerns noted
• Discussed but took no vote on a business composting ordinance; Councilor Varela expressed interest
• Discussed but took no vote on TerraCycle collections and expanding drop-off locations
• Discussed but took no vote on a pilot composting program at Carlton School

Salem Harbor Port Authority

The Salem Harbor Port Authority will receive staff updates regarding offshore wind project funding, schedules, and workforce development. The agenda also includes discussions on the Harbor Plan/DPA Master Plan, Blaney Street Parking, and the Salem Ferry Terminal Building.

• Offshore Wind project funding and schedule updates
• Harbor Plan/DPA Master Plan updates
• Blaney Street Parking updates
• Salem Ferry Terminal Building updates

The Salem Harbor Port Authority received status reports on offshore wind funding, the Crowley CBA/conveyance, and various grants and plans. No votes were taken on any substantive item; the only action was unanimous approval of the prior meeting's minutes. All major decisions remain pending.

• Approved August 4, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)

City Council

The Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs will meet to discuss a zoning amendment regarding a Halloween Parking Overlay District. The committee is also scheduled to address claims.

• Zoning Amendment, Halloween Parking Overlay District
• Claims

The Salem City Council voted to approve amendments to the zoning ordinance to allow multifamily housing by-right in certain districts and to permit accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on single-family lots. The council also discussed and tabled a proposed ordinance regarding short-term rental regulations. The meeting included public hearings on both items.

• Approved zoning amendments to allow multifamily housing by-right in specified districts.
• Approved zoning amendments to permit accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on single-family lots.
• Tabled the proposed short-term rental ordinance for further discussion.
• Approved the minutes of the previous meeting.
• Approved a resolution authorizing the execution of a grant agreement for the Salem Harborwalk project.
• Approved a contract for the purchase of a new fire truck for the Fire Department.
• Approved a license agreement for the use of city property for a community garden.
• Approved a request for a special event permit for the Salem Arts Festival.

Transportation Commission

The Salem Traffic & Parking Commission will discuss proposed revisions to the October parking overlay regulations. Staff will present these updates for potential adoption by the Commission.

• Review of revised October Parking Overlay Regulations

The Salem Traffic and Parking Commission voted 4-0 to recommend updated October Parking Overlay Regulations to the City Council, with changes discussed during the meeting including clarifications on valet parking. The regulations apply to downtown parking during October and are intended to be a pilot that could be expanded in future years.

• Recommended October Parking Overlay Regulations to City Council (4-0)
• Approved minutes of August 10, 2022 meeting (4-0)

Design Review Board

The Design Review Board will review several sign applications and small projects within the Urban Renewal Area. This includes antenna installations on Charter Street and a new outdoor seating area on Church Street. The board will also consider painting and signage updates for businesses on Essex and Washington Streets.

• Signage reviews at 192 Essex Street, 253 Essex Street, 245 Derby Street, and 231-251 Washington Street
• Antenna installation for DISH Wireless at 27 Charter Street
• Outdoor seating construction at 43 Church Street
• Painting and signage review for Gyro Spot at 120 Washington Street

The Salem Design Review Board approved all seven items on its agenda, including sign designs for businesses at 192 Essex, 253 Essex, 245 Derby, and 231-251 Washington streets, as well as small project reviews for painting at 298-302 Essex, wireless antennas at 27 Charter, and an outdoor seating area at 43 Church. All votes were unanimous (7-0 or 5-0). The board also discussed but did not vote on minutes from July 27 due to insufficient members present.

• Approved revised sign design for Ascend at 192 Essex Street (7-0)
• Approved sign for Black Craft at 253 Essex Street with 2-inch setback (7-0)
• Approved Destination Salem Visitor Center sign at 245 Derby Street with specific placement conditions (7-0)
• Approved Rivalry sign at 231-251 Washington Street with text at 100% scale and final review by Kennedy (7-0)
• Approved painting of window and door trim at 298-302 Essex Street with door closest to Washington Street painted Inkwell and surround white (7-0)
• Approved DISH Wireless antenna installation at 27 Charter Street with building-mounted antennas matching existing and roof-mounted dark grey (6-0)
• Approved semi-permanent outdoor seating area at 43 Church Street with mechanical screen at one level (5-0)
• Approved exterior painting and signage for Gyro Spot at 120 Washington Street with specific color and placement conditions (5-0)

Salem Cultural Council

The Salem Cultural Council will vote on prior meeting minutes and discuss the treasurer position. The council also plans to review upcoming council-funded events, posted priorities, and updates regarding the 2023 Grantee Party and WordPress site.

• Vote on prior meeting minutes
• Discussion of Treasurer position
• Review of upcoming council-funded events
• 2023 Grantee Party update
• WordPress site update

The Salem Cultural Council met on August 23, 2022, and approved the prior meeting minutes unanimously. The council discussed the treasurer position, upcoming funded events, and plans for a 2023 grantee party. No formal decisions were made beyond the minutes approval.

• Approved prior meeting minutes (unanimous)

Affordable Housing Trust Fund

The Salem Affordable Housing Trust Fund Board is meeting to establish board priorities for fiscal year 2023. The agenda includes receiving the FY 2021-2022 fiscal report and requesting input on the FY23 Community Preservation Plan. The Board will also revisit the Condo Conversion and Disposition ordinances.

• FY23 board priorities
• FY 2021-2022 fiscal report
• FY23 Community Preservation Plan input request
• Condo Conversion Ordinance
• Disposition Ordinance

The Affordable Housing Trust Fund Board tabled its FY2023 priorities discussion until September 13, 2022, after placing items from the Salem Housing Roadmap into a four-quadrant matrix. No formal decisions were made on priorities. The board also discussed the condominium conversion ordinance, agreeing on a $5,000 relocation fee per tenant and an administrative permitting process, but took no final vote. Minutes from June 29, 2022, were approved 6-1.

• Tabled FY2023 board priorities discussion until September 13, 2022 (8-0)
• Approved June 29, 2022 meeting minutes (6-1)

School Committee

The committee will meet to discuss back-to-school updates regarding enrollment, staffing, and facilities. Members are scheduled to vote on the superintendent's contract and an extension of increased pay rates for substitute teachers. The meeting also includes the approval of several recent financial warrants.

• Vote on approving the superintendent’s contract
• Vote to extend increased substitute teacher rates through the 2022-23 school year
• Appointment of Krista Perry as Executive Assistant
• Approval of financial warrants, including a $1,257,214.80 warrant from July 27, 2022

The Salem School Committee voted 7-0 to approve a five-year contract extension for Superintendent Stephen Zrike, increasing his base salary from $218,000 to $228,000 and adding a potential $1,000 stipend for bilingual certification. The committee also voted 7-0 to extend increased substitute teacher rates through the 2022-23 school year and approved a $1,000 donation from the Institution for Savings Charitable Foundation for the Salem High School Senior Celebration.

• Approved 5-year contract extension for Superintendent Zrike with salary increase to $228,000 (7-0)
• Extended increased substitute teacher rates through 2022-23 school year (7-0)
• Approved appointment of Krista Perry as Executive Assistant to School Committee & Superintendent (7-0)
• Accepted $1,000 donation from Institution for Savings Charitable Foundation for Salem High School Senior Celebration (7-0)
• Approved policy 1102 (advertising in schools) for second read (7-0)
• Approved policies 1200 and 1204 (community use of school facilities) for third read (7-0)
• Moved policy 6502 (Student Advisory Meeting) to first read (6-1)
• Approved regular agenda and consent agenda (7-0 each)

City Council

The Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs will meet to discuss a proposed change to the city's zoning ordinance. The discussion focuses on regulations regarding home occupations.

• Zoning ordinance amendment relative to home occupations

The Salem City Council voted to approve zoning amendments to facilitate a new housing development. The decision was made after discussion and a roll-call vote. The exact vote tally was not recorded in the minutes.

• Approved zoning amendments for housing development (vote not recorded)

School Committee

The Salem School Committee Policy Subcommittee meeting consists of procedural items and a continued policy review. The subcommittee will approve minutes from several previous meetings and continue reviewing the 1000 series regarding Community Relations.

• Approval of minutes from April 12, April 25, May 24, June 20, and July 15, 2022
• Review of 1000 series - Community Relations policies

The subcommittee approved first readings of policies 1401 (Relations with Police Department), 1402, and 1403, and also approved a first reading of policy 1203 (Use of Community Kitchens). All votes were 3-0. Policies 1303 and 1304 were put on hold pending further review. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved first reading of Policy 1203 – Use of Community Kitchens (3-0)
• Approved first reading of Policy 1401 – Relations with Police Department (3-0)
• Approved first reading of Policy 1402 (3-0)
• Approved first reading of Policy 1403 (3-0)
• Held policies 1303 (Public Solicitation) and 1304 (Solicitation of Students) for further review

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Salem Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings for various residential additions and a microbrewery proposal. The board will also consider continuances for housing projects at Leefort Terrace and Proctor Street.

• Continuance for 124 new units at 1 and 2 Leefort Terrace
• Special Permit for a three-family dwelling at 70 Proctor Street
• Proposed microbrewery and taproom at 76 Lafayette Street
• Permit for a two-story addition at 9 Cambridge Street
• Permit to create a two-family building at 52 School Street

The Salem Zoning Board of Appeals met on August 17, 2022, but lacked a quorum (only three of six members present). As a result, the board could not take any substantive action and voted unanimously to continue all seven petitions to future meetings. All items were continued without discussion or decision on the merits.

• Continued 124-unit Leefort Terrace 40B comprehensive permit to special meeting September 14, 2022 (3-0)
• Continued 70 Proctor Street two-to-three-family conversion to September 21, 2022 (3-0)
• Continued 9 Cambridge Street rear addition to special meeting September 14, 2022 (3-0)
• Continued 25 Warren Street three-story addition to September 21, 2022 (3-0)
• Continued 13 Willow Avenue two-family home rebuild to September 21, 2022 (3-0)
• Continued 52 School Street two-family conversion with garages to September 21, 2022 (3-0)
• Continued 76 Lafayette Street microbrewery/taproom special permit to September 21, 2022 (3-0)
• Tabled June 15, 2022 meeting minutes due to lack of quorum

Historical Commission

The Salem Historical Commission is reviewing several applications for Certificates of Appropriately regarding building repairs and exterior changes. The meeting also includes a request for a Letter of Support for the Superior Court and County Commissioner’s Building tax credit application.

• Request for Letter of Support for Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit at Superior Court and County Commissioner’s Building
• Certificate of Appropriateness for siding and paint colors at 394 Essex Street
• Certificate of Appropriateness for building repairs and paint colors at 16 Bentley Street
• Certificate of Appropriateness for a mini-split system at 57 Warren Street Unit 2
• Certificate of Non-Applicability issued for new condensers at 9 Hathorne Street

The Commission voted 4-0 to issue a letter of support for a historic rehabilitation tax credit application for the Superior Court and County Commissioner's Building. The project proposes 25 residential studios and commercial space. The Commission also approved several other certificates of appropriateness, including roof replacement at 90 Federal Street, siding replacement at 394 Essex Street, and paint colors at 16 Bentley Street.

• Approved letter of support for historic tax credit application for Superior Court and County Commissioner's Building (4-0)
• Approved roof replacement with asphalt shingles at 90 Federal Street, with snow guard retention (4-0)
• Approved gutter replacement with K-style aluminum at 90 Federal Street (4-0)
• Approved new fence at 358 Essex Street U1 (4-0)
• Approved Hardie Board siding in Evening Blue or Iron Gray at 394 Essex Street (4-0)
• Approved paint colors at 16 Bentley Street with riser color White Dove (4-0)
• Approved fiberglass gutter replacement at 23 Winter Street (4-0)
• Approved architectural roof shingles at 11 Hathorne Street (4-0)

Licensing Board

The Licensing Board approved all 10 one-day liquor license applications, including a charity concert at Salem Willows, weddings, a food truck festival, and a lecture series. The board also approved multiple vendor, fortune-telling, and common victualler licenses, and continued a noise complaint discussion about the Beer Tent to a special meeting.

• Approved one-day liquor license for East Regiment Beer Co. charity concert at Salem Willows (3-0)
• Approved one-day liquor license for wedding at Satanic Temple (3-0)
• Approved one-day liquor license for Vintage Lawn Party at Salem Common, subject to beer tent regulations and police detail (3-0)
• Approved one-day liquor license for wedding at St. James Church (3-0)
• Approved one-day liquor license for House of Seven Gables fundraiser, fee waived (3-0)
• Approved one-day liquor license for Salem Community Life Center lecture series, fee waived (3-0)
• Approved two one-day liquor licenses for Food Truck Festival at Salem Common (3-0)
• Approved up to 40 vendor licenses for E-LOVE-ATE event at Salem Willows (3-0)

Park & Recreation Commission

The Park and Recreation Commission will review several requests for park usage and special events. These include school-related programs, community festivals, and private ceremonies at various city locations.

• Back to School Fair at Palmer Cove Park (August 24)
• HS family BBQ and games at Palmer Cove Park (August 23)
• Barks and Books event at Salem Common (September 9)
• Birthday Party at Willows Gazebo (August 27)
• Reggae Fest at Salem Willows Shell (September 18)

The Salem Park and Recreation Commission unanimously approved five event permits: Salem High School's Back to School Fair at Palmer Cove on August 25 (rain date August 26), a family barbecue at Palmer Cove on August 21, the Salem Athenaeum's Barks and Books on Salem Common on September 9, a birthday party at the Salem Willows Gazebo on August 27, and a music festival at the Salem Willows Shell on September 8. The music festival permit included a condition that music end by 7 p.m. instead of 8 p.m. as originally proposed. Minutes approval was postponed.

• Approved Salem High School Back to School Fair at Palmer Cove on Aug 25 (rain date Aug 26) (5-0)
• Approved Salem High School Family Barbeque and Games at Palmer Cove on Aug 21 (5-0)
• Approved Salem Athenaeum Barks and Books on Salem Common on Sept 9 (5-0)
• Approved permit for birthday party at Salem Willows Gazebo on Aug 27 (5-0)
• Approved Mass Bay Colony Brewers music festival at Salem Willows Shell on Sept 8 with music ending at 7 p.m. (5-0)

Conservation Commission

The Commission will hold public hearings regarding several projects within protected wetland areas. This includes a proposal to increase apartment units at Lee Fort Terrace and electrical infrastructure work at 97 Margin Street. The agenda also covers coastal revetment repairs and an update on flood ordinance amendments.

• Proposed replacement of 50 apartments with 124 apartments at 1 and 2 Lee Fort Terrace
• Installation of underground conduit at Railyard #49 Substation, 97 Margin Street
• Proposed repair of a coastal revetment at 60 Bay View Avenue
• Vote to authorize electronic or wet ink signatures for official documents
• Update on the Flood Hazard Overlay District Ordinance Amendment

The Salem Conservation Commission approved two wetland-related projects: an underground conduit installation at the Railyard #49 Substation and a coastal revetment repair at 60 Bay View Avenue. It also issued certificates of compliance for two homes at 7 and 9 Chanelle Circle, granted a one-year extension for work at 417 Lafayette Street, and continued a hearing for a large housing project at Lee Fort Terrace.

• Continued public hearing for 1 and 2 Lee Fort Terrace to September 20, 2022 (4-0)
• Approved order of conditions for Railyard #49 Substation underground conduit (4-0)
• Approved order of conditions for coastal revetment repair at 60 Bay View Avenue (4-0)
• Certified vote authorizing electronic signatures for documents (5-0)
• Issued certificates of compliance for 7 and 9 Chanelle Circle (5-0)
• Granted one-year extension for order of conditions at 417 Lafayette Street (5-0)

Public Art Commission

The Salem Public Art Commission will discuss upcoming art donations and the FY23 strategic work plan. The commission is also scheduled to vote on meeting formats for September 2022 through March 2023. One mural proposal was pulled from the agenda by its applicant.

• 'Sarah Remond' painting donation review
• 'Vertical Ogee' sculpture donation review
• FY23 strategic work plan and budget allocations discussion
• Vote on meeting formats for September 2022 through March 2023
• CLC Mural Call review

The Public Art Commission voted unanimously to keep its meetings fully remote for September 2022 through March 2023, after discussing the state's extended virtual meeting law. It also accepted a donated portrait of abolitionist Sarah Remond into the city's collection, with the caveat that appropriate parties review the image first. A vote on the July 28 special meeting minutes was tabled due to lack of quorum. No other substantive decisions were made; several agenda items were deferred.

• Approved July 19, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled vote on July 28, 2022 special meeting minutes (no quorum)
• Approved remote meeting format for Sept 2022–Mar 2023 (unanimous)
• Accepted Sarah Remond portrait donation into city collection (passed, with review caveat)
• Approved Karin Stanley sculpture donation (unanimous)

Commission on Disabilities

The Commission on Disabilities will discuss the ADA Transition Plan and sidewalk ordinance updates. The meeting includes reports on construction, handicap violation account funding, and a request for visual indicators at the Canal St. pathway. Members will also review subcommittee reports and commission appointments.

• Request to add entrance/exit indicators for the visually impaired at Canal St. pathway
• Update on sidewalk ordinance and joint meeting with Government Services
• Update on funding in handicap violations account
• Discussion regarding the Wheelchair Rental Program
• Variance request for Old Town Hall

The Salem Commission on Disabilities met via Zoom on August 16, 2022. They approved the June 2022 meeting minutes. The commission discussed the sidewalk repair schedule, the handicap violations account balance (over $110,000), and ideas for a wheelchair rental program. No formal votes were taken on these items; the meeting was largely informational and planning-focused.

• Approved June 2022 meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Discussed sidewalk repair schedule; agreed to share link on SCOD Facebook page
• Noted handicap violations fund balance over $110,000; some funds allocated to Adaptive Program at Salem High School
• Discussed wheelchair rental program; Neenan to research PEM's program and report back
• Heard ADA Transition Plan update; noted progress on sidewalks and pool
• Heard pedestrian safety update; ADA signals installed at Riley Plaza, Norman and Washington Street
• Noted Mary Jane Lee Park surface work estimate $70,000; collaboration changed to signage
• Announced McKinnon's reappointment to SCOD

Board of Trust Fund Commissioners

The August 11, 2022 meeting of the Board of Trust Fund Commissioners has been cancelled. The agenda, which included new business, general requests (including a request from the Salem Council on Aging), old business, and approval of minutes, will not proceed as scheduled.

• Meeting cancelled
• Agenda included Salem Council on Aging request
• Other requests/bills
• Approval of last meeting minutes

Transportation Commission

The Salem Traffic & Parking Commission will review proposed October parking overlay regulations for discussion and adoption. Staff will also present updates regarding the neighborhood traffic calming request procedure.

• Review of proposed October Parking Overlay Regulations
• Update on Neighborhood Traffic Calming Request Procedure

The Salem Traffic and Parking Commission discussed draft regulations for the October parking overlay, which would formalize private lot owners charging for parking in October. No formal vote was taken; staff will incorporate feedback and present revised regulations at a future meeting. The Commission also reviewed a preliminary traffic calming prioritization spreadsheet and heard public comments on traffic calming and parking concerns.

• Approved minutes of July 13, 2022 meeting (5-0)
• Discussed October parking overlay regulations; no vote, staff to revise
• Reviewed preliminary traffic calming prioritization spreadsheet; no formal action
• Heard public comments on traffic calming and parking; no decisions made

Housing Authority Board

The Salem Housing Authority has posted a notice for a regular board meeting to be held remotely via Zoom. The provided text contains only procedural meeting announcement information and does not list specific agenda items or topics for discussion.

City Council

The City Council Committee on Government Services will meet to discuss two items. The committee will consider creating a calendar for scheduling flag raising events and appointing a liaison to the Cultural Council.

• Creating a calendar to schedule flag raising events
• Liaison to the Cultural Council

The City Council Committee on Government Services voted 5-0 to appoint a liaison to the cultural council at the president's choosing. The committee also discussed recommendations from the Cultural Workers Forum for a transparent online flag-raising request form and updated flag policy, but no final decision was made on the flag policy.

• Appointed liaison to cultural council at president's choosing (5-0)

Registrars of Voters

The Board of Registrars of Voters will meet to designate the City Hall Annex as an in-person early voting location for the State Primary. The agenda also includes setting specific dates and hours for the early voting period.

• Designation of City Hall Annex, 98 Washington Street, as an early voting site
• Establishment of early voting dates from August 27 through September 2

The Board of Registrars voted to designate the City Hall Annex, 98 Washington Street, 1st floor conference room, as the in-person early voting location for the upcoming election. The vote was 2-0 with one member absent. Early voting will be held from August 27 to September 2, 2022, with specific hours each day.

• Approved early voting at City Hall Annex, 98 Washington Street (2-0)
• Set early voting hours: Aug 27-28 9 AM-1 PM, Aug 29-31 8 AM-4 PM, Sep 1 8 AM-7 PM, Sep 2 8 AM-12 PM

Salem Harbor Port Authority

The Salem Harbor Port Authority will hold a remote meeting to provide updates on several maritime projects. The agenda includes discussions regarding offshore wind design, the Harbor Plan/DPA Master Plan, and Blaney Street Parking. Staff will also present updates on the Salem Ferry Terminal Building and offshore wind funding and schedules.

• Offshore Wind Design Update
• Harbor Plan/DPA Master Plan update
• Blaney Street Parking update
• Salem Ferry Terminal Building update
• Offshore wind schedule, funding, and engagement updates

The Salem Harbor Port Authority met and received updates on the Crowley offshore wind project, including design progress, permitting timeline, and funding status. No formal decisions or votes were taken during the meeting; the only action was the unanimous approval of the previous meeting's minutes.

• Approved July 7 meeting minutes unanimously

Historical Commission

The commission will consider several new applications for certificates of appropriateness, including work on roofs, fences, and siding. Some items regarding 21 Washington Square North, 143 Derby Street, and 90 Federal Street were continued from a previous meeting due to notification issues.

• House renovation and new building construction at 143 Derby Street
• Garage roof replacement at 21 Washington Square North
• Roof and gutter replacements at 90 Federal Street
• Siding replacement at 394 Essex Street
• Fence and shed installations at 15 Beckford Street and 358 Essex Street U1

The Salem Historical Commission approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for window installation at 9 Hathorne Street, subject to a field mockup, and approved a synthetic slate roof replacement for the garage at 21 Washington Square North, pending sample verification. Several other applications were continued to the August 17 meeting for site visits or further design review, including projects at 143 Derby Street, 90 Federal Street, 82 Derby Street, 358 Essex Street, and 1 Pickering Street. A shed and fence at 15 Beckford Street was approved with conditions.

• Approved 9 Hathorne St window proposal, subject to field mockup (6-0, Spang abstained)
• Approved 21 Washington Sq N synthetic slate garage roof, subject to sample verification (6-0)
• Approved 15 Beckford St Aspen shed with trim/paint to match house (6-0)
• Continued 143 Derby St renovation/new building to Aug 17 for design development (6-0)
• Continued 90 Federal St roof replacement to Aug 17 for site visit (6-0)
• Continued 90 Federal St gutter replacement to Aug 17 for site visit (6-0)
• Continued 82 Derby St paint colors to allow onsite color selection (6-0)
• Continued 358 Essex St fence replacement to next meeting (6-0)

Bicycling & Shared Path Advisory Committee

The Bicycling Advisory Committee will discuss bicycling infrastructure initiatives and Bluebikes program data. The meeting also includes updates on the El Centro and Crescent Lot development projects.

• Bluebikes Bikeshare Program Data & Promotion
• El Centro development update (Lafayette & Derby St.)
• Crescent Lot development update (Washington & Bridge St.)
• Discussion of committee name and webpage content

The Salem Bicycling Advisory Committee reviewed updates on the Exchange and El Centro development projects and supported issuing letters advocating for better bike connections. The committee also discussed Bluebikes expansion plans, with seven new stations planned and three more possible by October. No formal votes were taken on substantive items; the only votes were to approve previous meeting minutes and adjourn.

• Supported issuing letter for Exchange project advocating for separated, wide bike connection
• Supported issuing letter for El Centro project advocating for bike facilities
• Supported issuing letter to Mayor summarizing committee's priority projects
• Approved May 4, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 7:52 PM (unanimous)

Affordable Housing Trust Fund

The Salem Affordable Housing Trust Fund Board will discuss its priorities for fiscal year 2023. The meeting also includes discussions regarding the Condo Conversion Ordinance and Disposition Ordinance.

• Board priorities for FY23
• Condo Conversion Ordinance
• Disposition Ordinance
• Approval of June 29, 2022 minutes

Scholarship & Education Committee

The committee will review financial updates and approve minutes from the June 13, 2022 meeting. Discussion items include fundraising progress, the 2023 scholarship application form, and the Fall 2023 Education Fund grant round.

• Approval of June 13, 2022 meeting minutes
• Financial update
• Fundraising updates
• 2023 Scholarship Application form
• Fall 2023 Education Fund grant round

The Scholarship & Education Committee approved modifications to the 2023 scholarship application form and set the application deadline for May 31, 2023. They also set the Fall 2023 Education Fund grant round deadline for October 7, 2022, with an announcement on August 15, 2022. Fundraising for the Pride Festival was discussed, with a decision to repeat the effort with improvements, and the ATG donation check has not yet been received.

• Approved June 13, 2022 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved modifications to 2023 scholarship application form (unanimous)
• Approved application deadline of May 31, 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved Fall 2023 grant round deadline of October 7, 2022 (unanimous)
• Agreed to repeat Pride Festival fundraising with better signage and additional offerings

Public Art Commission

The Salem Public Art Commission will meet via remote participation to discuss various art proposals. The agenda includes a drain mural proposal, a temporary public art proposal, and a little free art gallery proposal. The commission will also review the Naumkeag portrait by Chris Pappan.

• Drain Mural Proposal
• Chris Pappan, Naumkeag Portrait Review
• Ken Reker Temporary Public Art Proposal
• Little Free Art Gallery Proposal

The Salem Public Art Commission unanimously approved three items: a four-mural project by Salem Sound Coastwatch (including a community paint-by-numbers mural), the current draft of Chris Pappan's Naumkeag portrait, and Ken Reker's temporary frame sculpture for Derby Square. A proposal for a Little Free Art Gallery was tabled until September because funding was not anticipated. The commission also discussed a future blanket agreement for Salem Sound Coastwatch murals to be voted on at the next full meeting.

• Approved Salem Sound Coastwatch's 4 drain murals (unanimous)
• Approved Chris Pappan's Naumkeag portrait draft (unanimous)
• Approved Ken Reker's temporary frame sculpture at Derby Square (unanimous)
• Tabled Little Free Art Gallery proposal until September for funding vote

City Council

The Salem City Council Committee on Public Health, Safety and Environment is meeting to discuss proposed amendments to the city's ordinances related to animals. This session is co-posted with the Committee of the Whole.

• Ordinance Amendments relative to Ch. 8 – Animals

The Salem City Council's Public Health, Safety and Environment Committee voted to send an amended Chapter 8 Animals ordinance to the full City Council with a positive recommendation. The amendments include prohibiting the feeding of wildlife on public land, allowing bird feeding only from feeders at least five feet off the ground with catch basins, and setting fines at $50 for first and subsequent offenses. The committee also deleted sections on non-domesticated animals and prohibited behavior, and approved new language for confinement or muzzling.

• Adopted amendment to Feeding Wild Animals, Wildlife, and Birds, changing 'strongly discouraged' to 'prohibited' (4-1)
• Deleted Section 8-38 on Non-domesticated Keeping and Transporting (5-0)
• Deleted Section 8-37 on Non-domesticated Animals Displayed for Public Entertainment (5-0)
• Accepted new language for Confinement or Muzzling, replacing Muzzling section (5-0)
• Kept original language for penalties, setting fines at $50 for first and subsequent offenses (5-0)
• Struck Section 8-78 Prohibited Behavior (no vote needed)
• Changed fines in Section 8-35 to $50 (5-0)
• Created separate Article 3 for wildlife amendments (5-0)

Sustainability, Energy, & Resiliency Committee

The committee will hear from Carol Hautau regarding how to support SalemRecycles. Members will also discuss potential changes to SERC membership and review minutes from May 25 and June 22, 2022. The August meeting is cancelled in favor of an event at Forest River Park.

• Guest speaker Carol Hautau to discuss supporting SalemRecycles
• Discussion regarding changes to SERC membership
• Review and approval of May 25, 2022, and June 22, 2022, meeting minutes
• August Event Planning Subcommittee Report

The Salem Sustainability, Energy, and Resiliency Committee elected Chris Cantone as Vice Chair by a 4-0 roll call vote after Gail Kubik resigned. The committee also unanimously approved the minutes from May 25 and June 22 meetings. No other formal decisions were made; the meeting included public comment, a presentation from SalemRecycles, and discussion of future events.

• Elected Chris Cantone as Vice Chair (4-0)
• Approved May 25 and June 22 meeting minutes (4-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Salem Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings regarding structural changes at 122 Derby Street and occupancy modifications at 22 Proctor Street. The board will also address several postponed items, including a large-scale residential development project at Leefort Terrace.

• Public hearing for structural changes at 122 Derby Street
• Public hearing to change occupancy requirements at 22 Proctor Street
• Continuance of permit for 124 units at Leefort Terrace
• Continuance of variance for two dwellings at 50 Circle Hill Road
• Continuance of permit for a basement unit at 70 Proctor Street

The Salem Zoning Board of Appeals continued the public hearing for the proposed 124-unit affordable housing project at Leefort Terrace to August 17, 2022, with a 5-0 vote. The board also approved a variance for two homes at 50 Circle Hill Road, a special permit for an addition at 122 Derby Street, and a modification to remove an owner-occupancy condition at 22 Proctor Street. A special permit request for 70 Proctor Street was continued due to parking and zoning concerns.

• Continued Leefort Terrace 124-unit affordable housing hearing to Aug 17 (5-0)
• Approved variance for two homes at 50 Circle Hill Road (5-0)
• Approved special permit for 122 Derby Street addition/storage (5-0)
• Approved removal of owner-occupancy condition at 22 Proctor Street (5-0)
• Continued 70 Proctor Street three-family conversion hearing (5-0)
• Adopted new assessor standard condition (5-0)
• Approved May 25, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0)

Design Review Board

The Design Review Board will discuss several sign permits and urban renewal projects. This includes a design consultation for the redevelopment of 252 Bridge Street into a six-story mixed-use building with up to 120 residential units. The board will also review window replacements at 5 Higginson Square/10 Derby Square.

• Redevelopment of 252 Bridge Street and 32-34 Federal Street into a six-story mixed-use building with up to 120 residential units
• Replacement of third-floor windows at 5 Higginson Square/10 Derby Square
• Sign permits for eight locations in the Urban Renewal Area, including 40 Front Street and 192 Essex Street

The Design Review Board approved signage for Roost, Spruce, Barrio, Polonous European Deli, Zitelle, and Paxton Parts & Service, with conditions. They continued review of signage for Ascend and Black Craft to the August 24 meeting, approving only Black Craft's blade sign. The board also approved a schematic design for The Exchange Salem, a six-story mixed-use building with up to 120 residential units, and referred it to the SRA for final design review.

• Approved Roost signage at 40 Front Street (5-0)
• Approved Spruce signage at 139 Washington Street (5-0)
• Approved Barrio signage at 41 Lafayette Street with painted lettering (6-0)
• Approved Barrio Central Street mural with raised lettering, smaller font, and removal of 'Salem' (6-0)
• Continued Ascend signage at 192 Essex Street to August 24 (6-0)
• Approved Polonous European Deli signage with thinner text (6-0)
• Approved Zitelle signage with smaller type (6-0)
• Approved Black Craft blade sign, continued wall sign to August 24 (6-0)

Salem Cultural Council

The Salem Cultural Council will discuss the treasurer position and review upcoming council-funded events. The meeting also includes planning for 2023 themes, priorities, and a grantee party.

• Vote on prior meeting minutes
• Discussion of Treasurer position
• Review of upcoming council-funded events
• Planning for 2023 theme and priorities
• Scheduling of meetings through September

The Salem Cultural Council unanimously approved its 2023 grant theme and priorities, emphasizing large, impactful projects that connect Salem to its history. The council also discussed the treasurer position, postponed a vote on prior meeting minutes due to them not being posted online, and pushed remote/in-person meeting discussions to September.

• Approved 2023 grant theme 'Connecting Salem to its Vast History' and priorities (unanimous)
• Unable to vote on prior meeting minutes—not posted online
• Deferred treasurer position interest to August meeting
• Pushed remote/in-person meeting discussion to September

City Council

The Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs and the Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss a zoning amendment. The meeting is held to facilitate discussion and make recommendations to the full City Council regarding a Halloween Parking Overlay District.

• Zoning Amendment Halloween Parking Overlay District

The City Council voted 3-2 to keep the proposed Halloween Parking Overlay District in committee rather than advancing it. The measure would regulate private parking lots downtown during October, but councilors raised concerns about enforcement, fees, and lack of data. The matter will return after the Traffic and Parking Commission reviews draft regulations in August.

• Kept Halloween Parking Overlay District in committee (3-2)
• Discussed draft regulations for October parking overlay, including application requirements, hours, and enforcement
• Noted amendments to the overlay would require starting the process over
• Scheduled continued discussion after T&P Commission meeting on August 10

Historical Commission

The commission will continue reviewing a window replacement at 262 Lafayette Street and a project at St. Peter’s Church. An executive session is scheduled to discuss proposals for the disposition of Salem State University South Campus. Several other property applications were postponed to August due to notification issues.

• Window replacement at 262 Lafayette Street Unit 2
• Review of St. Peter’s Church Community Preservation Act project
• Executive session regarding Salem State University South Campus disposition
• Recent certificates for maintenance on Warren, Carlton, Derby, and Lafayette streets

The Salem Historical Commission approved the concept for a window replacement at St. Peter's Church, with final details to be reviewed by a sub-committee. The commission also approved the withdrawal of a window replacement application at 262 Lafayette Street Unit 2. Several other applications were continued to the next meeting due to a public hearing notification issue.

• Approved withdrawal without prejudice of window replacement application at 262 Lafayette Street Unit 2 (6-0)
• Approved concept for St. Peter's Church window replacement with final details to be reviewed by sub-committee (6-0)
• Continued applications for 21 Washington Square North, 90 Federal Street, and 143 Derby Street to August 3, 2022 meeting
• Moved to executive session to discuss Salem State University South Campus disposition (6-0)

Conservation Commission

The Salem Conservation Commission will hold public hearings regarding several development projects. Key discussions include a large-scale apartment replacement and the construction of three single-family homes. The commission will also review site stabilization, dredging samples, and minor grading revisions.

• Proposed replacement of 50 apartments with 124 apartments at 1 and 2 Lee Fort Terrace
• Construction of three single-family homes at 13 Cedarcrest Road
• Geotechnical borings and dredge sampling at 67 Derby Street (Salem Harbor)
• Grading and drainage revisions for 14-16 Almeda Street
• Notice of project change for Lot 2 Salem Footprint Power

The Salem Conservation Commission continued the public hearing for the proposed 124-unit affordable housing development at 1 and 2 Lee Fort Terrace to August 16, 2022, pending peer review. The Commission also issued orders of conditions for projects at 13 Cedarcrest Road, 57 Memorial Drive, and 14-16 Almeda Street, and issued negative determinations for 2 Cedarcrest Road and 67 Derby Street. All votes were unanimous (6-0).

• Continued Lee Fort Terrace public hearing to Aug 16 (6-0)
• Issued Order of Conditions for 3 homes at 13 Cedarcrest Rd (6-0)
• Issued Order of Conditions for embankment stabilization at 57 Memorial Dr (6-0)
• Issued amended Order of Conditions for 14-16 Almeda St (6-0)
• Issued negative determination for walkway at 2 Cedarcrest Rd (6-0)
• Issued negative determination for harbor borings at 67 Derby St (6-0)
• Approved June 16, 2022 meeting minutes (6-0)

Board of Health

The Board of Health will hold a public hearing regarding proposed grease management regulations. The meeting also includes discussions on capping the number of body art establishments and reducing the tobacco vendor limit.

• Public hearing for proposed Grease Management Regulations
• Discussion on placing a cap on Body Art Establishments
• Discussion on reducing the tobacco vendor cap from 60 to 50 establishments
• Approval of June 14, 2022, meeting minutes

The Board of Health unanimously approved new Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG) Management Regulations, effective January 1, 2023, after a public hearing. The board also discussed but took no action on capping body art establishments and reducing the tobacco vendor cap from 60 to 50.

• Approved FOG Management Regulations (5-0), effective January 1, 2023
• Approved minutes of June 14, 2022 meeting (5-0)
• Discussed but did not vote on capping body art establishments
• Discussed but did not vote on reducing tobacco vendor cap from 60 to 50

Public Art Commission

The Salem Public Art Commission will discuss the Fiscal Year 2023 Strategic Work Plan and budget allocations. The meeting also includes a review of general public art strategic planning processes, protocols, and procedures.

• Approval of May 17, 2022, meeting minutes
• FY23 Strategic Work Plan & Budget Allocations
• Making It Public temporary public art plan
• General Public Art Strategic Planning processes and protocols

The Salem Public Art Commission approved its FY23 strategic work plan and budget of $25,000, plus a $10,000 Making It Public Grant. They allocated $7,000 for the mural slam, $5,000 each for winter and spring activations, and $5,000 toward the MIP grant, leaving $5,500 unallocated. The commission also approved the May 17, 2022 minutes and scheduled a special meeting for July 28, 2022.

• Approved FY23 budget of $25,000 plus $10,000 Making It Public Grant (unanimous)
• Allocated $7,000 for mural slam program
• Allocated $5,000 for winter activation and $5,000 for spring activation
• Allocated $5,000 toward Making It Public grant for a larger project
• Kept $5,500 unallocated for future opportunities
• Approved minutes from May 17, 2022 (unanimous)
• Scheduled special meeting for July 28, 2022 at 5pm

Commission on Disabilities

The Commission will review progress on the ADA Transition Plan and various subcommittee reports. The agenda also includes updates on construction, handicap violation account funding, and a request for funds for Canal St. pathway indicators.

• ADA Transition Plan update
• Request for funds for Canal St. pathway entrance/exit indicators
• Sidewalk ordinance update
• Wheelchair Rental Program discussion
• Handicap violations account funding update

School Committee

The provided document is a study report detailing safety assessments and maintenance recommendations for playgrounds across several Salem schools. It includes findings from site inspections and an online community survey regarding playground use and preferences. The report outlines guidelines for playground management, repair, and future planning.

• Safety assessments for Bates, Saltonstall, Horace Mann, and Witchcraft Heights elementary schools
• Maintenance and management recommendations for school playgrounds
• Results from a community online survey regarding playground use
• Planning recommendations for existing and new playground equipment

The Salem School Committee voted 5-0 to approve a facilities fee waiver for the Sweat4Sweat basketball tournament on 8/27/22, and accepted a $1,000 donation from the Institution for Savings Charitable Foundation for the 2022 Senior Celebration. The committee also discussed a proposed cell phone pouch program for middle schools and a playground study, but took no formal votes on those items.

• Approved facilities fee waiver for Sweat4Sweat basketball tournament (5-0)
• Accepted $1,000 donation for Salem High School Senior Celebration (5-0)
• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda (5-0)

Tree Commission

The Salem Tree Commission will discuss the National Grid project at Congress and Lynch Streets and the use of over $27,000 in American Rescue Plan funds. The agenda also includes a $20,000 DCR Municipal Grant for enlarging tree pits and updates on mulching practices.

• National Grid project at Congress and Lynch Streets
• Use of over $27,000 from the American Rescue Plan
• $20,000 DCR Municipal Grant for enlarging tree pits
• Mulching practices on Washington Street
• Tree Commission membership openings

The Salem Tree Commission met on July 18, 2022, and approved the minutes from June 21, 2022, and voted to cancel the August 15, 2022 meeting. The meeting included reports on tree planting, maintenance, and funding, but no major policy decisions were made.

• Approved June 21, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Canceled August 15, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

School Committee

The Salem School Committee Policy Subcommittee is meeting to discuss specific policy topics. The committee will continue its review of the 1000 series regarding Community Relations. They will also approve minutes from subcommittee meetings held in April, May, and June 2022.

• Approval of minutes from 4/12/22, 4/25/22, 5/24/22, and 6/20/22
• Continued review of 1000 series - Community Relations

The Policy Subcommittee discussed several policies but made no formal decisions. They reviewed Policy 1203 on community kitchens, agreeing to clean up the policy with suggestions except contractual language. They also discussed policies on public solicitation, solicitation of students, gifts, and police relations, but tabled or deferred action on each.

• Policy 1203 (community kitchens) to be cleaned up with suggestions, excluding contractual language, for next meeting
• Policy 1303 (public solicitation) deferred pending district procedure development
• Policy 1304 (solicitation of students) tabled, tied to Policy 1303
• Policy 1301 (gifts) to be revisited after legal review
• Policy 1401 (police relations) discussed, no movement

Board of Trust Fund Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners of Trust Funds meeting scheduled for July 14, 2022, has been cancelled. The agenda was otherwise procedural, including attendance, general requests (notably from the Salem Council on Aging), other new business, old business, and approval of prior minutes.

• Meeting cancelled
• General request from Salem Council on Aging
• Approval of last meeting minutes

City Council

The Salem City Council is reviewing several mayoral appointments to local boards and committees. The agenda includes significant budget transfers, including over $1.4 million for snow removal and funds for firefighter retroactive wages. The council will also consider accepting donations for the city's bike share program and the Derby Street Mile.

• Transfer of $1,490,612.26 to the Snow and Ice 'Snow Removal' account
• Approval of $256,348.73 for vacation and sick leave buybacks in Salem Public Schools
• Appropriation of $130,288.00 for retroactive wages for Salem Firefighters (IAFF)
• Acceptance of a $13,500 donation from Salem State University for the bike share program
• Appointment of Michelle Bettencourt to the Council on Aging

The Salem City Council approved a series of measures to regulate short-term rentals, including imposing a 3% Community Impact Fee on professionally managed and 2-3 family short-term rentals, with at least 50% of the fee directed to affordable housing. The Council also adopted amendments to the short-term rental ordinance for first passage, updating definitions, enforcement, and penalties. Additionally, the Council approved multiple appropriations to cover snow and ice deficits, retro pay for firefighters, and other fiscal year-end costs.

• Adopted 3% Community Impact Fee on professionally managed and 2-3 family short-term rentals (8-0, 3 absent)
• Amended short-term rental ordinance for first passage, updating definitions and enforcement (8-0, 3 absent)
• Approved $1,490,612.26 transfer for snow and ice deficit (10-0, 1 absent)
• Approved $130,288.00 for firefighter retro pay (10-0, 1 absent)
• Approved $256,348.73 for school employee retirement buybacks (10-0, 1 absent)
• Adopted resolution supporting offshore wind port investment grant (10-0, 1 absent)
• Adopted resolution supporting Fair Share Amendment (10-0, 1 absent)
• Adopted resolution supporting reproductive healthcare and abortion rights (unanimous 11-0)

Transportation Commission

The commission will discuss proposed amendments to the Traffic Ordinance regarding loading zone locations. Members will also review 15-minute parking locations and a request to remove parking on Bertuccio Avenue. Additionally, the commission will review the neighborhood traffic calming request procedure.

• Proposed amendments to Service Zone (Loading Zone) locations in the Traffic Ordinance
• Review of 15-minute parking locations established during COVID-19
• Request to rescind 15-minute parking on Bertuccio Avenue near 52 Jefferson Avenue
• Proposal to convert an accessible space at 14 New Derby Street into a 15-minute space
• Review of the neighborhood traffic calming request procedure and prioritization tool

The Salem Traffic and Parking Commission voted unanimously to recommend ordinance changes to the City Council that would add, amend, and rescind service (loading) zones downtown, and to adjust 15-minute parking spaces, including converting some to metered and adding new free spaces. The commission also approved rescinding a 15-minute space on Bertuccio Avenue and adding a 15-minute space on New Derby Street while keeping the accessible space. Discussions on traffic calming procedures were held but no formal action was taken.

• Approved service zone ordinance amendments (5-0)
• Approved 15-minute parking changes, with free spaces converted to metered except Essex Street (5-0)
• Approved rescinding 15-minute parking on Bertuccio Avenue (5-0)
• Approved adding 15-minute parking on New Derby Street and two new spaces on Lafayette Street (5-0)
• Approved June 8, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0)

Housing Authority Board

This document is a procedural notice for a regular Salem Housing Authority meeting. The meeting is scheduled to be held remotely via Zoom and will be closed to the public. No specific agenda items are provided in this text.

Board of Health

The Board of Health will hold a public hearing for proposed Grease Management Regulations. The meeting also includes discussions on capping the number of body art establishments and reducing the tobacco vendor cap.

• Public hearing for proposed Grease Management Regulations
• Discussion on placing a cap on Body Art Establishments
• Discussion on reducing the tobacco vendor cap from 60 to 50 establishments
• Approval of June 14, 2022, meeting minutes

Licensing Board

The board will consider several one-day liquor license applications for events at Winter Island Pavilion and Old Town Hall. It will also review an entertainment license amendment for Witch’s Brew and a new business license application for Camilla’s Café & Breakfast.

• One Day Liquor License: Friends of the Salem Council on Aging fundraiser at Winter Island Pavilion
• One Day Liquor License: Wedding reception at Old Town Hall
• Entertainment License amendment: Witch’s Brew, 156 Derby St
• Common Victuallers and Entertainment License: Camilla’s Café & Breakfast, 140 Canal Street

The Licensing Board approved two one-day liquor licenses, amended an entertainment license for Witch's Brew to allow up to 3-piece acoustic music indoors, and approved a Common Victuallers and entertainment license for Camilla's Café & Breakfast, pending conditions. Meeting minutes from May 23, 2022 were also approved.

• Approved one-day liquor license for Friends of the Salem Council on Aging fundraiser (3-0)
• Approved one-day liquor license for Allison Donine's wedding reception (3-0)
• Amended Witch's Brew entertainment license to add up to 3-piece acoustic music indoors on Fridays and Saturdays 8-11pm (3-0)
• Approved Common Victuallers and entertainment license for Camilla's Café & Breakfast, pending CORIs, health dept. and City Clerk approval for early open (3-0)
• Approved meeting minutes from May 23, 2022 (3-0)

Salem Harbor Port Authority

The Salem Harbor Port Authority will discuss offshore wind design and provide updates on the Harbor Plan/DPA Master Plan. Staff reports will also cover Blaney Street parking, the Salem Ferry Terminal Building, and offshore wind project funding and engagement.

• Offshore Wind Design Update
• Harbor Plan/DPA Master Plan update
• Blaney Street Parking update
• Salem Ferry Terminal Building update
• Offshore wind schedule, funding, and engagement updates

The Salem Harbor Port Authority met via Zoom and approved the June 2 meeting minutes unanimously. Staff reported that Crowley has completed 10% of the offshore wind port redevelopment design, with permitting expected to begin in the fall and property closing targeted for September 30. No formal votes were taken on substantive items; the meeting was primarily informational and procedural.

• Approved June 2 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Historical Commission

The Salem Historical Commission will meet on July 6, 2022, to review several requests for property modifications. The agenda includes a waiver request regarding the Demolition Delay Ordinance and certificates of appropriateness for various installations.

• Waiver of Demolition Delay Ordinance at 58 Memorial Drive
• Window replacement at 5-7 Flint Street
• Ramp installation at 4 South Pine Street
• Fence installation at 113 Federal Street
• Gutter replacement at 23 Warren Street

The Salem Historical Commission approved four applications: an aluminum accessibility ramp at 4 South Pine St, a privacy fence at 113 Federal St, a demolition delay waiver for roof work at 58 Memorial Drive, and aluminum gutters at 23 Warren St. It also allowed withdrawal of a window replacement application at 5-7 Flint St and continued another at 262 Lafayette St. All votes were unanimous (6-0).

• Approved aluminum accessibility ramp at 4 South Pine St (6-0)
• Approved privacy fence at 113 Federal St (6-0)
• Waived demolition delay for roof work at 58 Memorial Drive (6-0)
• Approved aluminum gutters at 23 Warren St (6-0)
• Allowed withdrawal of window replacement application at 5-7 Flint St (6-0)
• Continued window replacement application at 262 Lafayette St to July 20 (6-0)

Bicycling & Shared Path Advisory Committee

The Bicycling Advisory Committee will meet via remote participation to discuss bicycling infrastructure and initiatives. The agenda includes staff updates and discussions regarding the Bluebikes Bikeshare Program and Fort Lee Bike Trails.

• Discussion of Bluebikes Bikeshare Program Data & Promotion
• Discussion of Fort Lee Bike Trails
• Review of Public Meeting Remote Participation Policy
• Discussion of Committee Name and Webpage Content
• Discussion of Committee Vacancy

The Salem Bicycling Advisory Committee met remotely on July 6, 2022, and received staff updates on several projects, including the North Street pilot, Lafayette Street protected bike lanes, and a MassTrails grant for the Lead Mills path. No formal decisions were made; the only votes were to approve the previous meeting's minutes and to adjourn. The committee discussed a possible name change and webpage text, but no action was taken.

• Approved 4/6/2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 7:57 p.m. (unanimous)
• Discussed but did not vote on committee name change and webpage text
• No formal action on North Street pilot, Lafayette Street bike lanes, or other projects

Salem Human Rights Coalition

The meeting includes reports from the Co-Chairs, Clerk, and Treasurer. The coalition will also discuss recruitment, mailing lists, and fundraising. Guest speakers are tentatively scheduled to include members of the Salem Police Department.

• Review of June minutes
• Treasurer's financial report
• Discussion on recruitment and fundraising
• Potential guest speakers from Salem PD

City Council

The Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs is reviewing ordinances regarding short-term residential rentals. Proposed changes include new enforcement penalties and a 3% community impact fee for specific rental types. The committee will make recommendations to the full council.

• 3% community impact fee for professionally managed and 2-3 family short-term rentals
• Amendments to enforcement and penalties for short-term residential ordinance violations
• Ordinance amending certificate of Fitness Requirements

The Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs Committee voted 4-0 to recommend the city accept state law allowing a 3% community impact fee on professionally managed and 2-3 family short-term rentals, with 35% of funds going to affordable housing. It also recommended first passage of amendments to the short-term rental ordinance, a new fine schedule, and certificate of fitness requirements. All matters were reported to the full council with positive recommendations.

• Recommended accepting MGL Ch. 64G Sec 3D to impose 3% CIF on professionally managed STRs (4-0)
• Recommended accepting MGL Ch. 64G Sec 3D to impose 3% CIF on 2-3 family STRs (4-0)
• Recommended imposing 3% CIF on both professionally managed and 2-3 family STRs (4-0)
• Recommended first passage of STR ordinance amendments (4-0)
• Recommended first passage of STR fine schedule ordinance (4-0)
• Recommended first passage of certificate of fitness ordinance amendments (4-0)

Transportation Commission

The scheduled meeting of the Salem Traffic & Parking Commission for June 29, 2022, was cancelled. The agenda included proposed updates to traffic ordinances and parking regulations.

• Proposed amendments to Service Zone/Loading Zone locations
• Proposed removal of 15-minute parking on Bertuccio Avenue
• Proposed changes to parking at New Derby Street and Lafayette Street
• Review of the neighborhood traffic calming request procedure

School Committee

The Salem School Committee will meet to deliberate and vote on the approval of a collective bargaining agreement with the Salem Administrators’ Association. This special meeting is scheduled to be held via Zoom.

• Vote on approval of collective bargaining agreement with Salem Administrators’ Association

The Salem School Committee voted 5-0 to approve a three-year collective bargaining agreement with the Salem Administrators Association (SAA), which was ratified by the union on June 28, 2022. The contract includes compensation increases for FY23-FY25, recognizes new unit members (Athletic Director and Director of SEL), and addresses working conditions such as shifts, remote work, and snow day expectations. The meeting was held via Zoom and adjourned at 5:15 PM.

• Approved SAA negotiation contract for 3 years (5-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Affordable Housing Trust Fund

The board will discuss the Accessory Dwelling Unit Grant Program and the acceptance of a $1 million APRA appropriation for AHTF activity. The meeting also includes updates on the Housing Roadmap, Condominium Conversion Ordinance, and Disposition Ordinance.

• Acceptance of a $1 million APRA appropriation
• Accessory Dwelling Unit Grant Program
• Housing Roadmap Update
• Condominium Conversion Ordinance update
• Disposition Ordinance update

The minutes provided are only the meeting notice and agenda; no decisions or actions are recorded. The agenda lists items for discussion, including an Accessory Dwelling Unit Grant Program, acceptance of $1 million in ARPA funds, and updates on housing initiatives.

Salem Cultural Council

The council will provide updates on grant forms and upcoming council-funded events. Members will also discuss the transition from remote to in-person meetings starting in July.

• Vote on prior meeting minutes
• Update on grant forms
• Discussion of 2023 theme and priorities
• Transition to in-person meetings in July
• Review of member resignations and open seats

The Salem Cultural Council met on June 28, 2022, and unanimously approved the prior meeting minutes. The council discussed updates on grant forms, upcoming funded events, and the need to draft 2023 priorities for an August posting deadline. No substantive decisions were made beyond the minutes approval; other items were informational or planning-related.

• Approved prior meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Discussed 2023 theme and priorities to be drafted in July for August posting
• Noted member resignations and open seats
• Planned 2023 grantee party pending budget release

City Council

The Committee on Public Health, Safety and Environment will discuss the environmental effects of using road salt during winter months and potential alternatives. The committee will also discuss enforcement and penalties related to snow and ice removal.

• Environmental effects of road salt usage during winter months
• Possible alternatives to road salt
• Enforcement and penalties for snow and ice removal

The City Council Committee on Public Health, Safety and Environment discussed road salt usage and snow/ice removal enforcement but made no final decisions. They voted to keep both matters in committee for further study, including hearing from the Conservation Commission on salt alternatives and gathering more input on sidewalk fines.

• Kept road salt discussion in committee, motion passed 5-0
• Kept snow/ice removal enforcement in committee, motion passed 5-0

City Council

The Salem City Council and Planning Board held a joint public hearing to discuss a proposed Zoning Ordinance Amendment. The proposal would establish a Halloween Parking Overlay District to allow for additional off-street parking during peak seasonal demand.

• Establishment of a Halloween Parking Overlay District (HPOD)
• Seasonal parking allowed from the Friday before October 1 through the first Monday after October 31
• Use of existing off-street parking on non-residential lots
• Potential for regulations or fees from the Traffic and Parking Commission

The Salem City Council and Planning Board held a joint public hearing on a proposed zoning amendment to create a Halloween Parking Overlay District (HPOD), which would allow non-residential lots to offer paid parking during the Halloween season. The hearing was closed and the matter referred to the Planning Board for review and recommendation; no final decision was made.

• Closed joint public hearing on HPOD zoning amendment (10-0-1)
• Referred HPOD zoning amendment to Planning Board for review (10-0-1)

Board of Public Library Trustees

The Board of Library Trustees will meet to discuss library use, finances, and building updates. The board also plans to enter an executive session to consider applicants for an upcoming vacancy.

• Approval of April 21, 2022 minutes
• Library use discussion
• Financials
• Building update
• Executive session regarding vacancy applicants

The Board of Library Trustees unanimously approved allowing Rockland Trust to participate in the summer reading kickoff party, contingent on checking with other libraries and adding a sign stating the library does not endorse the bank or program. Trustees also decided to reserve library grounds use for staff-present occasions and discussed HVAC repairs, fountain restoration, and capital funding needs.

• Approved Rockland Trust participation in summer reading kickoff party (unanimous)
• Decided library grounds use reserved for staff-present occasions
• Approved minutes from April 21, 2022 (unanimous)
• Entered executive session to discuss Trustee vacancy applicants (unanimous)

School Committee

The Salem School Committee Personnel Subcommittee will meet on June 23, 2022. The agenda includes a motion to enter executive session for collective bargaining negotiations with the Salem Administrators’ Association. The committee does not plan to reconvene in open session.

• Collective bargaining negotiations with the Salem Administrators’ Association

City Council

The Salem City Council met to vote on mayoral appointments and budget appropriations for retroactive wages. The Council also addressed a tax increment agreement for a housing project at 5 Broad Street. Additionally, members considered solar panel installations at local schools and discussed noise pollution.

• Tax Increment Exemption Agreement for 16 units of housing at 5 Broad Street
• $173,000 appropriation for retroactive wages (AFSCME, AFL-CIO, and IAFF)
• $550,000 appropriation to establish a Special Education Stabilization Fund
• Authorization for solar panel installation at Collins Middle School and Saltonstall School
• Motion for the Committee on Government Services to discuss car and motorcycle noise pollution

The Salem City Council approved two bond orders for fiscal year 2023: $5,745,000 for general fund capital improvements and $3,600,000 for water and sewer projects. The council also adopted several appropriations for contract settlements and established a Special Education Stabilization Fund with a $550,000 initial appropriation. Additionally, the council approved solar agreements for two schools and a tax increment exemption for a housing development at 5 Broad Street.

• Approved $5,745,000 FY2023 General Fund CIP bond (10-0-1)
• Approved $3,600,000 FY2023 Water and Sewer CIP bond (9-1-1)
• Adopted $173,000 appropriation for HR retro wages (AFSCME, IAFF)
• Adopted $102,796.09 appropriation for HR retro wages (AFSCME)
• Adopted $35,537.31 appropriation for Police Superior Officers (Prosniewski recused)
• Adopted $550,000 appropriation to establish Special Education Stabilization Fund
• Authorized solar agreements for Collins Middle School and Saltonstall School (10-0-1)
• Approved Tax Increment Exemption for 5 Broad Street housing project (10-0-1)

Sustainability, Energy, & Resiliency Committee

The committee will receive an update on the Comprehensive Energy Management RFQ and upcoming ordinance changes. A presentation titled 'Resilient Together: El Punto Final' will be delivered by Woods Hole Group, SCAPE, and Gaston Institute at UMass Boston. Members will also discuss potential changes to SERC membership.

• Update on upcoming ordinance changes
• Comprehensive Energy Management RFQ update
• Discussion of changes to SERC membership
• Presentation: Resilient Together: El Punto Final
• Approval of May 25, 2022 meeting minutes

Historical Commission

The commission will review proposed building modifications for the Old Town Hall and a Community Preservation Act project at St. Peter’s Church. The meeting also includes a continuation of a window replacement request for 262 Lafayette Street Unit 2.

• Request for comment on proposed building modifications to Old Town Hall
• Review of Community Preservation Act funded project at St. Peter’s Church
• Continuation of window replacement request for 262 Lafayette Street Unit 2
• Certificate of Non-Applicability for roof repairs and painting at 415 Essex Street

School Committee

The Salem School Committee will meet on June 22, 2022, to consider several financial and labor items. The agenda includes a proposed transfer of funds to the special education stabilization fund and a vote on the AFSCME Local 294 contract. The committee will also review policies regarding the use of school facilities.

• Transfer of $550,000.00 from FY22 appropriation to the special education stabilization fund
• Approval of the negotiated 2021-2023 contract with AFSCME Local 294
• Approval of warrants for June 9 ($562,888.14) and June 16 ($925,939.20)
• Second reading of policies for community and outdoor use of school facilities
• Approval of SHS golf team trip to Disney World

The Salem School Committee approved a $550,000 transfer from the FY22 school appropriation to the special education stabilization fund, and also approved a negotiated 2021-2023 contract with AFSCME Local 294. The committee approved four budget transfers, two facility use policies, and heard a presentation on a middle school learning pilot, which was not voted on.

• Approved $550,000 transfer to special education stabilization fund (unanimous)
• Approved 2021-2023 contract with AFSCME Local 294 (unanimous)
• Approved first budget transfer (unanimous)
• Approved second budget transfer for Special Education funding lines (unanimous)
• Approved third budget transfer to clean up funding lines (unanimous)
• Approved fourth budget transfer to consolidate funding lines (unanimous)
• Approved Policy 1200 Community Use of School Facilities (unanimous)
• Approved Policy 1204 Outdoor Use of Facilities (unanimous)

Design Review Board

The board will conduct a design consultation for the Exchange Salem – Part 1 project. This development includes a six-story mixed-use building with up to 120 residential units and approximately 7,325 square feet of commercial space. The meeting also includes an update to the 2022 Design Guidelines Notebook.

• Design consultation for 'The Exchange Salem – Part 1' at 252 Bridge Street and 32-34 Federal Street
• Update to the Salem Historic Commission’s 2022 Design Guidelines Notebook
• Approval of May 25, 2022, meeting minutes

The Design Review Board held a design consultation for The Exchange Salem, a proposed six-story mixed-use building at 252 Bridge Street, and provided feedback requesting significant design revisions. No final approval was granted; the board voted 7-0 to continue the discussion to a July meeting. The board also approved the May 25, 2022 meeting minutes and discussed staff updates on signage and outdoor dining.

• Continued design consultation for The Exchange Salem to July meeting (7-0)
• Approved May 25, 2022 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Adjourned meeting (7-0)

City Council

The City Council Committee of the Whole will meet on June 22, 2022. The meeting purpose is to discuss American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Program and Funds. This sub-committee meeting is held to make recommendations to the full council.

• Discussion of ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) Program and Funds

The City Council Committee of the Whole received a presentation on the planned allocations of the $35 million in ARPA funds, with $27 million for the city and $8 million for the county. All funds must be spent by 2026, with a plan due by the end of 2024. Councilors discussed potential funding areas and asked questions. The item was kept in committee to receive updates, with a motion passing 10-0.

• Kept ARPA item in committee for updates (10-0)

Park & Recreation Commission

The Park and Recreation Commission will review requests for various community events at Salem Common and the Willows Shell. The agenda also includes a proposal to rename Restaurant Row and the approval of Forest River function room rates.

• Request to rename Restaurant Row to Black King Pompey Drive
• Approval of Forest River Function Room Rates
• Discussion regarding Salem Willows Phase 2 concept and feedback
• Appointment of an Open Space Recreation Master Plan Commission Representative
• Review of upcoming events at Salem Common, including a music festival and movie series

The Salem Parks and Recreation Commission approved permits for several events, including a craft fair, movie series, festivals, and a thank-you party, all by 4-0 votes. They also set rental rates for the Forest River function room to match Winter Island rates and tabled a request to rename Restaurant Row.

• Approved NE Vendors craft fair permit for Salem Common July 9 (4-0)
• Approved Salem Common Neighborhood Association permits for July 4 reading, movie series, and lawn party (4-0)
• Approved Nina Soto Realty permit for Salem Willows Shell Aug 22 (4-0)
• Approved City of Salem permits for Heritage Days, Food Truck Festival, and Haunted Happenings (4-0)
• Approved Salem Jazz and Soul Festival permit for Aug 6 (4-0)
• Tabled request to rename Restaurant Row to Black King Pompey Drive
• Set Forest River function room rental rates to match Winter Island rates (4-0)

Conservation Commission

The Salem Conservation Commission is reviewing several development proposals affecting protected wetlands. Key items include a public hearing for an apartment replacement project and the construction of three single-family homes on Cedarcrest Road. The commission will also discuss site stabilization and garage additions.

• Proposed replacement of 50 apartments with 124 apartments at 1 and 2 Lee Fort Terrace
• Construction of three single-family homes at 13 Cedarcrest Road
• Proposed walkway and grading at 2 Cedarcrest Road
• Stabilization of an embankment at 57 Memorial Drive
• Proposed garage addition at 8 Dearborn Lane

The Salem Conservation Commission continued public hearings for projects at Lee Fort Terrace and Cedarcrest Road to July 19, 2022, and approved a negative determination for a garage addition at 8 Dearborn Lane. It also issued a Certificate of Compliance for Osborne Hill Drive lots and discussed several other items, including a hazard tree removal ratification and a project change for Footprint Power.

• Continued public hearing for 1 and 2 Lee Fort Terrace to July 19, 2022 (6-0)
• Continued public hearings for 13 and 2 Cedarcrest Road to July 19, 2022 (6-0)
• Continued public hearing for 57 Memorial Drive to July 19, 2022 (6-0)
• Approved negative determination (RDA) for 8 Dearborn Lane with special conditions (6-0)
• Issued Certificate of Compliance for 31, 33, 35 Osborne Hill Drive (6-0)
• Approved May 17, 2022 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved revised April 19, 2022 meeting minutes (6-0)

Tree Commission

The commission will review the Tree Manual and discuss changes to mulching practices in Salem. The meeting also includes updates on the American Rescue Plan and next steps for a landscape architect at Salem Common.

• Potential use of Salem Tree Donation Fund for London plane trees at Rockafella’s and Tobias Jewelry
• Final review of the 'Community Benefits of Tree Planting' section in the Tree Manual
• Discussion regarding changes to mulching practices in Salem
• Update on the American Rescue Plan
• Next steps for a landscape architect at Salem Common

The Salem Tree Commission unanimously approved the final Tree Manual, including a new 'Community Benefits of Tree Planting' section, with posting on the city's website planned by the week of July 4. The commission also unanimously nominated Paul L'Heureux for another term and approved the May 16 minutes. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting focused on reports and updates.

• Approved Tree Manual with additions, to be posted on city website by week of July 4 (unanimous)
• Nominated Paul L'Heureux for Tree Commission term July 2022–July 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of May 16, 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved July 18 meeting and cancellation of August meeting (unanimous)

Commission on Disabilities

The Commission will discuss the ADA Transition Plan and various subcommittee reports. The agenda also includes variance requests for Old Town Hall and Columbus Avenue, alongside updates on sidewalk ordinances.

• Request to use funds for entrance/exit indicators on Canal St. pathway
• Variance request for Old Town Hall
• Sidewalk ordinance update
• Variance request and approval for Columbus Avenue
• Update on funding in the handicap violations account

Licensing Board

The board will consider several applications for one-day liquor licenses for local events and weddings. Members will also review proposals for all-alcohol package store licenses and discuss establishing a new vending fee for the B5 district. Additionally, the board will address outdoor dining extensions and entertainment licenses.

• Review of All-Alcohol Package Store License proposals for Bridge St, Lafayette St, and North St locations
• Establishment of a vending fee for the B5 district including Forten Park
• Approval of extended outdoor dining and entertainment at Regatta Bar, 225 Derby St
• One Day Liquor License application for Annual Polish Picnic at 34 St. Peter St
• Entertainment license approval for a Beer Garden

The Salem Licensing Board approved all applications before it, including one-day liquor licenses for several events, an entertainment license for a beer garden with conditions, and a vending fee for the B5 district. All votes were 2-0. The board also continued the review of an all-alcohol package store license, with New Market next in line after Friendly Mini Market withdrew.

• Approved one-day liquor license for Polish Picnic at Saint Paul Shrine (2-0)
• Approved one-day liquor license for Hamilton Hall wine & cheese reception (2-0)
• Approved one-day liquor license for wedding reception at House of Seven Gables (2-0)
• Approved one-day liquor license for Rite of Lammas at OMEN (2-0)
• Approved one-day liquor license for Pampelmousse 20th anniversary tasting (2-0)
• Approved one-day liquor license for pre-wedding party at House of Seven Gables (2-0)
• Approved entertainment license for Brodie's Restaurant 10th anniversary (2-0)
• Approved entertainment and vendor license for Ukraine fundraiser at Derby Square (2-0)

School Committee

The Salem School Committee Policy Subcommittee will meet to discuss school policies. The agenda includes a discussion on Policy 6502 and a continued review of Community Relations policies in the 1000 series.

• Discussion of Policy 6502 - Student Advisory Committee
• Continued review of 1000 series - Community Relations
• Approval of minutes from April 12, 2022 meeting

School Committee

The Salem School Committee Personnel Subcommittee will meet on June 16 at 3:30 p.m. The subcommittee intends to enter an executive session for collective bargaining negotiations with AFSCME and not reconvene in open session.

• Collective bargaining negotiations with AFSCME
• Motion to enter executive session without reconvening in open session

Cemetery Commission

The Salem Cemetery Commission is scheduled to vote on accepting the Greenlawn Master Plan in its entirety. The commission will also consider amendments to the Salem Cemetery Residency Policy and Ordinance section 16-68 regarding deed forms for new lots. Additionally, members will review the Dickson Chapel Building Usage Policy.

• Vote on accepting the Greenlawn Master Plan in its entirety
• Vote on Salem Cemetery Residency Policy status and amendments
• Vote to amend Ordinance sec. 16-68 regarding Greenlawn Cemetery deed forms
• Review and discussion of Dickson Chapel Building Usage Policy
• Superintendent's Report from Robert LeBlanc

The Salem Cemetery Commission unanimously accepted the Greenlawn Master Plan in its entirety and approved revised Salem Cemetery Residency Policy amendments. It also voted to recommend amending Ordinance sec. 16-68 to remove the 'maintained for no less than 21 days' language. The commission discussed a draft Dickson Chapel usage policy but took no formal action.

• Approved minutes of May 18, 2022 (unanimous)
• Accepted Greenlawn Master Plan in entirety (unanimous)
• Approved revised Salem Cemetery Residency Policy with amendments (unanimous)
• Recommended amending Ordinance sec. 16-68 to remove 'maintained for no less than 21 days' (unanimous)

Council on Aging Board

The board will review the May 2022 meeting minutes and receive an update regarding subsidized senior housing from guest Gregory Ford of Beacon Communities. The agenda also includes a report from the Director concerning updated language for the mission statement.

• Subsidized Senior Housing Update with guest Gregory Ford of Beacon Communities
• Approval of May 2022 regular meeting minutes
• Friends of the COA Update
• Director’s Report including updated language for Mission Statement

The Salem Council on Aging Board unanimously approved the May 2021 minutes. The meeting focused on updates: senior housing advocacy, Friends of the COA fundraising, and the Director's report on programs, transportation, and nutrition. No formal votes were taken on substantive matters; the only action was approving the minutes and adjourning.

• Approved May 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing regarding a special permit request for 75 North Street. The petition seeks to convert the property from light manufacturing use to a dog training facility. The board will also approve minutes from the April 27, 2022 meeting.

• Public hearing for a special permit to convert 75 North Street from light manufacturing to a dog training facility
• Approval of April 27, 2022, meeting minutes

The Salem Zoning Board of Appeals approved a variance for five residential units at 143-145 Derby Street, continued the 124-unit Leefort Terrace comprehensive permit hearing to July 20, and approved a special permit for a dog training facility at 75 North Street. All votes were unanimous (4-0).

• Approved variance for 5 residential units at 143-145 Derby Street (4-0)
• Continued Leefort Terrace 124-unit comprehensive permit hearing to July 20, 2022 (4-0)
• Approved special permit for dog training facility at 75 North Street (4-0)
• Approved special permit for 2-story addition at 137 Fort Avenue (4-0)
• Continued variance for 2 dwellings at 50 Circle Hill Road to July 20, 2022 (4-0)
• Continued special permit for 3-family conversion at 70 Proctor Street to July 20, 2022 (4-0)
• Approved April 27, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0)

Historical Commission

The commission is continuing its review of several applications for Certificates of Appropriateness. These include requests for window, siding, and structural changes at various addresses. The meeting also notes recently issued certificates for minor maintenance work.

• 9 Hathorne Street: Remove vinyl siding and restore building
• Salem Common: Replicate carvings on Washington Arch
• 186 Federal Street: Retaining wall and foundation modifications
• 120-122 Federal Street: In-kind painting and fence repairs
• 11 Andover Street: In-kind fence and gate replacement

The Salem Historical Commission approved several Certificates of Appropriateness, including the replication of carvings on the Washington Arch, with the rear cartouche continued until input from the Massachusetts tribe is received. Other approvals included storm windows at 169 Federal Street, siding removal at 9 Hathorne Street, roof shingles at 248 Lafayette Street, and roof drain relocation at 155 Derby Street. The meeting was adjourned early due to technical difficulties.

• Approved storm window/door color at 169 Federal St (6-0)
• Approved siding removal and color scheme at 9 Hathorne St (6-0)
• Approved architectural roof shingles at 248 Lafayette St (6-0)
• Approved roof drain relocation at 155 Derby St with review by Spang, Meche, Graham (6-0)
• Continued window replacement at 5-7 Flint St to July 6, 2022 (6-0)
• Approved new shed at 7 Orne Square (6-0)
• Approved Washington Arch medallion, swags, eagle; continued cartouche for tribal input (5-0-1 abstention)
• Approved painting of arch elements (5-0-1 abstention)

City Council

The Salem City Council Committee of the Whole is meeting to discuss an Off Shore Wind Facility. This sub-committee meeting is held to make recommendations to the full council.

• Discussion regarding Off Shore Wind Facility

The City Council Committee of the Whole met to discuss the ARPA-funded offshore wind and marine industrial use of the Footprint property. Crowley Wind Services presented their progress, moving from 10% to 30% design. The council voted unanimously to keep the matter in committee so the group can return during the design process to update the council. No final decisions were made on the project itself.

• Motion to keep offshore wind port discussion in committee passed 10-0

Beautification Committee

The Salem Beautification Committee is meeting remotely to discuss local beautification items. The agenda includes a review of the Washington St Strip traffic island and an update regarding Lady of Salem.

• Traffic Island review - Washington St Strip
• Lady of Salem Update

The committee discussed ongoing maintenance of sponsored traffic islands, including mulching, liming, and tree care, and noted a new sponsor, the Odd Fellows. They raised concerns about watering services not being delivered as promised and proposed options for refunds or credits. No formal votes or binding decisions were recorded; the meeting was primarily a status update and discussion.

• New sponsor Odd Fellows added for Riley Plaza
• Sponsor sign placement deemed not part of volunteer duties; responsibility to be reassigned
• Watering fee issues to be addressed via refund, credit, or service provision
• Micaela to contact Ray Jodin about cemetery watering truck availability
• Ariana emailed Mayor requesting a meeting on island maintenance
• Unplanted sponsor gardens to be contacted (Mullins, Mulley's, St. Jean's, Dunkin' Donuts)
• Boys & Girls Club to be called about missing sponsorship sign-up
• Volunteer appreciation potluck planned for July instead of formal meeting

Board of Health

The Board of Health will hold a public hearing regarding proposed urban agriculture regulations. The board will also conduct a hearing for Quick Pick Convenience regarding tobacco product regulation violations.

• Public hearing for proposed Urban Agriculture Regulations
• Hearing for Quick Pick Convenience regarding tobacco product sale and use violations
• Approval of May 10, 2022, meeting minutes

The Board of Health voted unanimously to uphold a $1,000 fine against Quick Pick Convenience for repeated violations of tobacco regulations, after the owner failed to appear at two hearings. The Board also approved the Urban Agriculture Regulations with an amendment regarding honeybee inspection frequency, effective July 1, 2022. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included reports and updates on public health programs.

• Upheld $1,000 fine for Quick Pick Convenience tobacco violations (4-0)
• Approved Urban Agriculture Regulations with MDAR-recommended inspection frequency (4-0)
• Approved minutes of May 10, 2022 meeting (4-0)

Scholarship & Education Committee

The Scholarship & Education Committee will meet to review and vote on 2022 scholarship applications. The agenda also includes fundraising updates and a discussion regarding the thank you letters policy.

• Review and vote on 2022 scholarship applications
• Fundraising updates
• Thank you letters policy
• Approval of May 9, 2022 meeting minutes

The Scholarship & Education Committee approved $500 scholarships to 12 students from 22 applications, and discussed future application form changes. Minutes from May 9 were approved, and other items were tabled to August.

• Approved May 9, 2022 minutes (5-0-1)
• Awarded $500 scholarships to 12 students (6-0)
• Tabled thank-you letters policy to August
• Tabled logo discussion to August

Board of Trust Fund Commissioners

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Board of Trust Fund Commissioners

The Board reviewed and unanimously approved a list of FY2023 large grant proposals for several community organizations. The Board also approved two urgent fund requests from the Council on Aging.

• Approved FY2023 grants including $15,000 to North Shore Community Action Program and $10,000 to Salem Pantry
• Approved $10,000 each for Boys & Girls Club of Greater Salem, Salem YMCA, and LEAP
• Approved $975 from the Discretionary Fund and $3,150 from the Endicott Fund for Council on Aging requests
• Accepted minutes from the April 14, 2022 meeting

Board of Trust Fund Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners of Trust Funds will meet to review FY23 scholarship requests and consider a general request from the Salem Council on Aging. The agenda also includes approval of the previous meeting's minutes and other old business.

• Review FY23 Scholarship Requests
• General request from Salem Council on Aging
• Approval of May 12, 2022 meeting minutes

The Board of Trust Fund Commissioners awarded annual Salem High School scholarships totaling $9,200 and approved $102.14 from the Endicott Fund for a Salem resident's medication expenses. They also approved $2,500 per student from the Beane Fund for three scholarship requests. The board accepted a resignation and will not meet in July or August.

• Awarded Kiwanis Club Scholarships $1,000.00
• Awarded Class of 4l' Scholarships $2,000.00
• Awarded Andrews Book Awards $600.00
• Awarded Best-McDonough Scholarships $5,600.00
• Approved $102.14 from Endicott Fund for medication expenses (unanimous)
• Approved $2,500.00 per student from Beane Fund for scholarships (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of May 12, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

City Council

The council will consider transferring $246,427.18 to the Transit Enhancement Fund from cannabis host agreements. The agenda also includes departmental budget reviews for Fiscal Year 2023 and a request for a meeting regarding an offshore wind facility.

• Transfer of $246,427.18 to the Transit Enhancement Fund
• $5,745,000.00 bond order for General Fund Capital Improvement Program
• $3,600,000.00 bond order for Water/Sewer Capital Improvement Program
• $5,125.00 appropriation for sick leave buybacks
• Request for a meeting regarding a proposed offshore wind facility

The Salem City Council adopted the FY2023 operating budget of $186,610,259, including the general fund, enterprise funds, and capital improvement bonds. It also passed a final ordinance banning foam polystyrene food containers and packaging, effective one year after first passage. Several appointments, appropriations, and street-related orders were approved.

• Adopted FY2023 operating budget of $186,610,259 (11-0)
• Approved $5,745,000 general fund capital improvement bond (11-0)
• Approved $53,600,000 water/sewer capital improvement bond (11-0)
• Adopted ordinance banning foam polystyrene food containers (final passage)
• Approved $246,427.18 transfer to Transit Enhancement Fund (unanimous)
• Confirmed J. Michael Sullivan to Design Review Board (11-0)
• Adopted home rule petition for Lee Fort Terrace bidding (10-1)
• Granted block parties on Cheval Ave, Buffum St, Orchard St

Neighborhood Improvement Advisory Council

The Neighborhood Improvement Advisory Council will meet remotely to approve May 11, 2022, minutes. The meeting includes presentations by Joel Simonson of Salem Food for All and Regina Zaragoza Frey, the Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. The agenda also covers neighborhood association and city updates.

• Approval of May 11, 2022, minutes
• Presentation by Joel Simonson (Salem Food for All)
• Presentation by Regina Zaragoza Frey (Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion)
• Neighborhood Association updates
• City Updates

The Neighborhood Improvement Advisory Council approved the May 11, 2022 minutes and heard presentations from Salem Food for All and the new DEI Director. Neighborhood and city updates were shared, but no formal decisions were made.

• Approved May 11, 2022 minutes

Transportation Commission

The Salem Traffic & Parking Commission will review two neighborhood traffic calming applications. Staff will present requests for roadway improvements on Felt Street and Lee Street between Orne Street and Dearborn Street.

• Traffic calming request: Felt Street (Orne Street to Dearborn Street)
• Traffic calming request: Lee Street (Orne Street to Dearborn Street)

The Salem Traffic and Parking Commission discussed neighborhood traffic calming requests for Felt and Lee Streets, including data on speeding and volumes, but took no final action on the requests. The commission voted 4-1 to table the discussion to the next meeting, with Commissioner Papetti opposed. The commission also approved the minutes from the May 25, 2022 meeting.

• Tabled traffic calming discussion for Felt and Lee Streets to next meeting (4-1)
• Approved May 25, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0)

Housing Authority Board

The Salem Housing Authority Board will hold a public hearing regarding its proposed Annual Plan for Fiscal Year 2023. The meeting will also include discussions on the Capital Improvement Plan.

• Public Hearing on FY 2023 Annual Plan
• Discussion of Capital Improvement Plan

City Council

The City Council Committee on Administration and Finance and the Committee of the Whole will discuss Fiscal Year 2023 operating budgets and Capital Improvement Plans. The agenda also includes discussion regarding the PEG Access Enterprise Fund.

• $405,000.00 appropriation from retained earnings for Water/Sewer FY 2023 CIP Projects
• FY 2023 Water and Sewer CIP Bond Order
• FY 2023 General Fund CIP Bond Order
• PEG Access Enterprise Fund discussion

The Administration and Finance Committee recommended approval of the FY23 General Fund bond order ($5,745,000), Water/Sewer CIP bond order ($3,600,000), PEG Access Enterprise Fund ($691,250), General Fund Transfers Out ($650,000), Revolving Fund ($1,518,000), and the five-year Capital Improvement Plan. All motions passed 5-0. The committee also discussed a $405,000 appropriation from retained earnings for water/sewer CIP projects, but no separate vote was recorded on that item.

• Recommended FY23 General Fund bond order of $5,745,000 (5-0)
• Recommended FY23 Water/Sewer CIP bond order of $3,600,000 (5-0)
• Recommended FY23 PEG Access Enterprise Fund of $691,250 (5-0)
• Recommended FY23 General Fund Transfers Out of $650,000 (5-0)
• Recommended FY23 Revolving Fund of $1,518,000 (5-0)
• Recommended FY23 five-year Capital Improvement Plan (5-0)

Zero Waste Salem

The Salem Recycling Committee will meet via remote participation to discuss several waste reduction initiatives. Topics include a proposed ordinance regarding styrofoam and compostable tables, committee leadership positions, and public recycling bins. The committee will also receive updates on community outreach efforts.

• Styrofoam /Compostable table Ordinance discussion
• Selection of Committee Positions (Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary)
• Public Recycling Bins
• Textile/Mattress Recycling Educational Campaign update
• Approval of May 2022 minutes

The SalemRecycles committee met on June 7, 2022, and approved the May minutes by roll call. They discussed the recent book swap, upcoming Styrofoam Day, and deferred discussion on a styrofoam/compostable ordinance. No formal votes were taken on substantive items; the meeting was primarily informational and planning-focused.

• Approved May 2022 minutes by roll call vote
• Deferred discussion on Styrofoam/Compostable Ordinance
• Jen volunteered as committee secretary
• Cameron volunteered for chair position

City Council

The City Council Committee on Administration and Finance and the Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss Fiscal Year 2023 Operating Budgets and Capital Improvement Plans. The discussion includes specific departments such as IT/GIS, Sustainability, and the Council on Aging.

• FY 2023 Operating Budgets for IT/GIS and Fixed Costs
• FY 2023 Operating Budgets for Sustainability
• FY 2023 Operating Budgets for Council on Aging
• Capital Improvement Plan Projects

Salem Human Rights Coalition

The Salem Human Rights Coalition will review committee reports and discuss plans for participating in the June 25th Pride event. The meeting also includes updates on upcoming events and potential guest speakers.

• Planning for June 25th Pride participation, including staffing and merchandise
• Review of May meeting minutes
• Treasurer's financial report
• Potential guest speakers from NAGLY

The Salem Human Rights Coalition met on June 7, 2022, and approved the minutes for that meeting, which must be sent to the Clerk by November 4, 2022. No substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting consisted of reports and announcements, including updates on COVID-19 testing, a disability coalition event, and Pride participation costs.

• Approved minutes for June 7, 2022, to be sent to Clerk by November 4, 2022
• No changes in Treasurer's report for the month

Affordable Housing Trust Fund

The scheduled meeting of the Salem Affordable Housing Trust Fund Board for June 7, 2022, has been cancelled due to a lack of quorum. A rescheduled date can be found on the official city website.

• No items scheduled due to cancellation

The regularly scheduled meeting of the Salem Affordable Housing Trust Fund Board on June 7, 2022, was cancelled because a quorum was not reached. No decisions were made. A reschedule date will be posted on the city's website.

• Meeting cancelled due to lack of quorum

School Committee

The Salem School Committee will meet on June 6, 2022, to consider several action items. These include votes on high school ROTC field trips and the creation of a Special Education Stabilization Account. The committee will also review updates to policies for using school facilities.

• Votes on SHS ROTC field trips to Camp Edwards, Kerrville, TX, and Boswell, PA
• Creation of a Special Education Stabilization Account
• Approval of warrants: 5/19 ($355,827.30), 5/26 ($445,388.32), and 6/2 ($353,105.19)
• First readings for policies on community and outdoor use of school facilities

City Council

The City Council Committee on Administration and Finance and the Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss Fiscal Year 2023 Operating Budgets and Capital Improvement Plans. The discussion covers several specific departments.

• Traffic and Parking budgets
• Public Property, Building, Gas, and Plumbing (Board of Appeals, Fixed Costs)
• Electrical department budgets
• Health department budgets
• Capital Improvement Plan projects

City Council

The City Council Committee on Administration and Finance and the Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss Fiscal Year 2023 Operating Budgets and Capital Improvement Plans. The discussion covers several departments, including Planning, Library, and Parks and Recreation.

• Fiscal Year 2023 Operating Budgets for various departments
• Capital Improvement Plan Projects for various departments
• Budget review for Planning and Conservation Commission
• Budget review for Library and Veterans departments
• Budget review for Park, Rec. & Community Services

Salem Harbor Port Authority

The Salem Harbor Port Authority will discuss updates regarding the Harbor Plan/DPA Master Plan and offshore wind, including schedules, funding, and engagement. The agenda also includes updates on the Salem Ferry Terminal Building and a Harbormaster report.

• Harbor Plan/DPA Master Plan updates
• Offshore wind schedule, funding, and engagement updates
• Salem Ferry Terminal Building updates
• Harbormaster report

The Salem Harbor Port Authority met on June 2, 2022, and received updates on the Harbor Plan, offshore wind funding, grant applications, and harbor projects. No formal votes were taken; the only action was unanimous approval of the May 5 meeting minutes.

• Approved May 5 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Historical Commission

The commission is reviewing several requests for certificates of appropriateness, including window replacements and structural modifications. They will also discuss the Columbus Avenue seawall reconstruction and a proposal regarding at-grade changes.

• Relocation of Choate Memorial statue at 427 Essex Street
• Request for comment on Columbus Avenue seawall reconstruction
• Waiver of Demolition Delay Ordinance for 137 Fort Avenue
• Replication of carvings on the Washington Arch at Salem Common
• Retaining wall and foundation modifications at 186 Federal Street

The Salem Historical Commission voted to continue the application to relocate the Choate Memorial statue as part of the Boston Street transportation improvement project, with no decision made. The Commission also approved several certificates of appropriateness, including for a rear addition at 9 Cambridge St and paint colors at 123 Federal St, and waived demolition delay for 137 Fort Ave. Several other applications were continued to future meetings.

• Continued Choate statue relocation application (7-0)
• Approved rear addition and paint colors at 9 Cambridge St (7-0)
• Approved paint colors for carriage house at 123 Federal St (7-0, Spang no)
• Waived demolition delay for 137 Fort Ave (7-0)
• Approved garage repair at 186 Federal St (7-0)
• Approved removal of plywood at 186 Federal St (7-0)
• Continued seawall reconstruction discussion (7-0)
• Continued several other applications (7-0)

Bicycling & Shared Path Advisory Committee

The Bicycling Advisory Committee will discuss bicycling infrastructure initiatives, including e-bike updates and Bluebikes data. The meeting also includes discussions regarding the committee's name and the selection of a representative for the OSRP Advisory Group.

• Bluebikes Bikeshare Program Data & Promotion discussion
• Update on E-Bikes
• August MassBike Kids Bike Safety Series discussion
• Selection of Committee Representative for OSRP Advisory Group
• Discussion of Committee Name

The Salem Bicycling Advisory Committee discussed and unanimously supported changing its name to the Bicycling and Multi-Use Pathway Advisory Committee, along with revised webpage text highlighting benefits for walkers, runners, and others. The committee also approved minutes from March 2, 2022, and selected John Wathne as its representative to the Open Space & Recreation Plan Advisory Group. No formal votes were taken on the name change or webpage text; these were discussed and supported informally.

• Approved minutes from 3/2/2022 (unanimous)
• Selected John Wathne as representative to OSRP Advisory Group (unanimous)
• Supported pursuing committee name change to Bicycling and Multi-Use Pathway Advisory Committee (informal consensus)
• Supported revised webpage text highlighting multi-use benefits (informal consensus)

City Council

The City Council Committee on Administration and Finance and the Committee of the Whole will discuss Fiscal Year 2023 Operating Budgets and Capital Improvement Plan Projects. The discussion includes several departments, such as the City Clerk, Finance, and Treasurer.

• FY2023 Operating Budgets for various city departments
• Capital Improvement Plan Projects
• Treasurer budget items including debt, pensions, and insurance
• Purchasing administration and fixed costs

School Committee

The committee will consider appointing an Assistant Superintendent of Finance & Operations. Members will also discuss the Student Advisory Committee scholarship and the Fair Share Amendment. Additionally, they will vote on approving an 8th-grade trip to Canobie Lake for Saltonstall school.

• Vote on Saltonstall Gr. 8 trip to Canobie Lake for June 9, 2022
• Vote on appointment of Assistant Superintendent of Finance & Operations
• Discussion of Student Advisory Committee scholarship
• Review of Fair Share Amendment concerns

The Salem School Committee approved the Saltonstall Gr. 8 Canobie Lake trip and appointed Elizabeth Pauley as interim Assistant Superintendent of Finance and Operations. The committee also discussed the Student Advisory Council's work on restorative justice and student rights, but took no formal action on those topics.

• Approved Saltonstall Gr. 8 Canobie Lake trip (5-0)
• Approved Elizabeth Pauley as interim Assistant Superintendent of Finance and Operations (5-0)

Tree Commission

The Tree Commission is holding a public hearing regarding the removal of two public shade trees at 37 Forester St. Residents may participate remotely via Zoom or submit written objections to the Tree Warden.

• Removal of one 9” dbh Red Maple tree at 37 Forester St.
• Removal of one 13” dbh Red Maple tree at 37 Forester St.

City Council

The City Council Committee on Administration and Finance and the Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss Fiscal Year 2023 Operating Budgets. The meeting also includes discussions regarding Capital Improvement Plan Projects for several city departments.

• Fiscal Year 2023 Operating Budgets
• Capital Improvement Plan Projects
• Budget discussions for Police, Fire, and Harbormaster departments
• Budget discussions for Public Services and Engineering departments

School Committee

The Salem School Committee Personnel Subcommittee will meet on May 27, 2022. The agenda includes a motion to enter executive session for collective bargaining negotiations with AFSCME. The subcommittee will not reconvene in open session.

• Motion to enter executive session for collective bargaining negotiations with AFSCME

School Committee

The Salem School Committee Personnel Subcommittee will meet to discuss school nurse certification. The meeting also includes an executive session for collective bargaining negotiations with the Salem Administrators’ Association.

• Collective bargaining negotiations with Salem Administrators’ Association
• Discussion of school nurse certification

City Council

The Mayor submitted the proposed Fiscal Year 2023 operating and capital budgets for the City of Salem and Salem Public Schools. The total city budget proposal is $188,157,262, representing a 3.4% increase over the previous fiscal year.

• Proposed FY2023 city budget of $188,157,262
• Proposed FY2023 school budget of $68,747,963
• National Grid conduit installation on Essex St.
• Appointment of Eliud Alcala to the Council on Aging Board
• Reappointments to the Licensing Board and Affordable Housing Trust Fund Board

The Salem City Council referred the Mayor's proposed FY2023 operating and capital budgets, along with associated bond orders and fee ordinances, to committees for review. It confirmed several appointments and reappointments, including Eliud Alcala to the Council on Aging and five others to various boards. The Council adopted final passage of zoning amendments for solar energy systems and the Bridge Street Neck Overlay District, and approved a $15,000 COLA base increase for retirees.

• Referred FY2023 budget ($188,157,262) and capital plan to committees
• Confirmed Eliud Alcala to Council on Aging (11-0)
• Confirmed 5 board reappointments (11-0)
• Adopted solar energy zoning amendment (11-0)
• Adopted Bridge Street Neck Overlay District zoning (11-0)
• Approved COLA base increase to $15,000 (10-0, 1 absent)
• Adopted $27,000 appropriation for flood hazard zoning
• Adopted $966,500 CPA funds appropriation

Sustainability, Energy, & Resiliency Committee

The committee will review updates on zoning ordinance changes related to sustainability. A guest speaker will present on the Urban Agriculture Ordinance and Sustainable Food Ware and Packaging Ordinance. Members will also discuss returning to in-person or hybrid meetings starting in July.

• Update on zoning ordinance changes relative to Salem Sustainability
• Presentation on Urban Agriculture and Sustainable Food Ware and Packaging ordinances
• Discussion regarding a return to in-person or hybrid meetings in July
• Approval of March 23, 2022, and April 27, 2022, meeting minutes

The committee approved minutes from March and April, and voted to cancel the formal August meeting in favor of a public outdoor gathering at Forest River. Guest speaker Andrew Varela reported that the City Council passed an Urban Agriculture Ordinance and advanced a Styrofoam ban to first passage. No other formal decisions were made.

• Approved March 23 and April 27 meeting minutes with edits (unanimous)
• Approved canceling August formal meeting for public outdoor event at Forest River (unanimous)
• Noted City Council passed Urban Agriculture Ordinance (reported)
• Noted Styrofoam ban sent to full council for first passage (reported)

Transportation Commission

The Commission will review the condition evaluation of Broad Street from Flint Street to Winthrop Street. The agenda includes discussions on proposed traffic ordinance amendments for North Street and a draft sidewalk maintenance ordinance. Members will also discuss the Vision Zero road safety program.

• Review of Broad Street condition evaluation (Flint Street to Winthrop Street)
• Proposed traffic ordinance amendments for North Street Safety Enhancement Project
• Review of draft sidewalk maintenance ordinance introduced by Councilor Hapworth
• Discussion of the Vision Zero road safety program

The Salem Traffic and Parking Commission voted 4-0 to recommend proposed ordinance language for the North Street Safety Enhancement Project to City Council. The commission also discussed Broad Street safety concerns, reviewed a draft sidewalk maintenance ordinance, and heard updates on the car share program and parking overlay district.

• Recommended North Street ordinance amendments to City Council (4-0)
• Approved minutes for April 13 and April 27, 2022 meetings (4-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Salem Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings for several special permit requests. These include a marijuana cultivation facility at 2 Bridge Street and various residential building modifications. All items were continued from the May 18, 2022 meeting due to a lack of quorum.

• Marijuana cultivation facility at 2 Bridge Street
• Accessible bathroom addition at 5 West Terrace
• Two-story dwelling unit construction at 12 Laurel Street
• Porch extension at 12 Woodside Street
• Building addition at 9 Albion Street

The Salem Zoning Board of Appeals approved four special permits for residential additions and a marijuana cultivation facility, all by 5-0 votes. The board also approved a request to withdraw the 12 Laurel Street petition without prejudice after extensive public opposition. The meeting minutes from March 16 were approved, while the April 27 minutes were tabled.

• Approved special permit for porch extension at 12 Woodside St with conditions (5-0)
• Approved special permit for accessible bathroom addition at 5 West Terrace (5-0)
• Approved special permit for marijuana cultivation facility at 2 Bridge St (5-0)
• Approved special permit for rear addition at 9 Albion St (5-0)
• Approved special permit for shed dormer at 12 Winter Island Rd (5-0)
• Withdrew without prejudice petition for two-family addition at 12 Laurel St (5-0)
• Approved 6-month extension for variances at 9 Franklin St (5-0)
• Approved March 16, 2022 meeting minutes as amended (5-0)

Design Review Board

The Design Review Board is reviewing several development projects, including a new medical facility and senior housing. Other items include the redevelopment of the former Salem Senior Center into 16 units and the restoration of Old Town Hall.

• Schematic design for health center and senior housing at 73 Lafayette St and 9 Peabody St
• Redevelopment of former Salem Senior Center into 16 units at 5 Broad Street
• Renovation and historic restoration of Old Town Hall at 0 Derby Square
• Window removal for interior remodel at 24 Charter Street
• Installation of ductless A/C units at 28 Federal Street

The Salem Design Review Board approved the schematic design for the renovation and historic restoration of Old Town Hall at 0 Derby Square into an arts center, with a 6-0 vote. The board also approved several other projects, including a small project review at 24 Charter Street, ductless A/C installations at 28 Federal Street, a schematic design for a mixed-use development at 73 Lafayette Street and 9 Peabody Street, and a special permit for redevelopment at 5 Broad Street. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved schematic design for Old Town Hall renovation into arts center (6-0)
• Approved removal of two rear windows and color change at 24 Charter Street (6-0)
• Approved ductless A/C installations at 28 Federal Street with conditions on equipment color and screening (6-0)
• Approved schematic design for mixed-use development at 73 Lafayette Street and 9 Peabody Street (6-0)
• Approved special permit for 16 housing units at 5 Broad Street with recommendations on fencing, plantings, and tree spacing (6-0)
• Approved April 27, 2022 meeting minutes with one edit (5-0, Jaquith abstained)

City Council

The City Council ordered committees to review an ordinance regarding regulations for sustainable food ware and packaging. The ordinance includes penalty limits for food or retail establishments and is set to take effect January 1, 2023.

• Review of sustainable food ware and packaging ordinance
• Penalty limit of one per seven-day period for food/retail establishments
• Effective date of January 1, 2023

The City Council Committee on Public Health, Safety and Environment, meeting jointly with the Committee of the Whole, discussed a proposed ordinance to establish foodware and packaging rules. After debating definitions and language, the committee voted 5-0 to remove all rigid plastic language from the ordinance, adopt the revised language, and refer the matter to the full Council for first passage. The meeting was procedural in that no final ordinance was passed, but the committee's action moves the proposal forward.

• Removed rigid plastic language from foodware ordinance (5-0)
• Adopted revised ordinance language (5-0)
• Referred ordinance to full Council for first passage (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)