Salem public meetings in 2025

School Committee

The Building and Grounds Subcommittee will approve minutes, consider the FY27 capital expense request, and discuss the Facility Request Terms and Conditions form. The capital request includes major MEP/HVAC upgrades, interior upgrades, playground renovation, and security/life‑safety projects totaling $4,760,000. The subcommittee also voted to renew Angela’s Daycare contract through June 30 2026.

• Approval of October 27 2025 Building and Grounds Subcommittee minutes
• FY27 Capital Expense Request: $2.3 M for MEP/HVAC, $500 k playground, $825 k security/life safety, $210 k interior upgrades, $925 k other items
• Renewal of Angela’s Daycare contract from Dec 1 2025 to Jun 30 2026
• Review and adoption of Facility Request Terms and Conditions form
• Discussion of short‑term rental terms and need for attorney review

School Committee

The Salem School Committee will hold a special meeting to consider two substantive items: the Graduation Requirements and Competency Determination Policy and the 2026-2027 Program of Studies for Salem High School, New Liberty Innovation School, and Salem Prep High School. The committee will also vote on minutes from the December 15 meeting and recognize members Manny Cruz and Amanda Campbell. The meeting will be held in person with virtual access and interpretation in Spanish and Portuguese.

• Approval of minutes from December 15, 2025 regular meeting
• Recognition of School Committee Members Manny Cruz and Amanda Campbell
• Discussion and possible action on Graduation Requirements and Competency Determination Policy
• Discussion and possible approval of 2026-2027 Program of Studies for Salem High School, New Liberty Innovation School, and Salem Prep High School

City Council

The City Council Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs will meet to discuss claims. No specific claims or dollar amounts are listed in the agenda. The meeting is primarily procedural and focused on a single agenda item.

• Claims (discussion only, no details provided)

Planning Board

The Salem Planning Board will hold a remote meeting on December 18, 2025, to vote on requests related to the Strongwater Crossing/Osborne Hills subdivision at 67 Marlborough Road, including a reduction and new tri-party agreement, release of 14 lots, and an extension of the definitive subdivision plan to July 2029. The board will also vote on extending the special permit for 252 Bridge Street (Crescent Lot) to July 17, 2026. Additionally, the board will hear continuances for three projects: a Dunkin Donuts renovation at 248 Highland Ave, a new Salem Public Schools Welcome Center at 30 Leavitt Street, and solar PV arrays at 37 Winter Island Road.

• Continuance: 248 Highland Ave — Dunkin Donuts drive-through reconfiguration, no building expansion
• Continuance: 30 Leavitt St — new 3,017 sq ft two-story addition for Salem Public Schools Welcome Center
• Continuance: 37 Winter Island Road — installation of eight solar PV ground arrays by Plummer Youth Promise
• Vote on reduction and new tri-party agreement for Strongwater Crossing (67 Marlborough Rd) Phases VI-X, releasing 14 lots
• Vote on extension of special permit decision for 252 Bridge Street (Crescent Lot) to July 17, 2026

Licensing Board

The Salem Licensing Board will meet to continue a hearing regarding Quality Liquors. The board is reviewing complaints that the establishment served intoxicated patrons.

• Hearing with Quality Liquors, 5 Gedney St. regarding complaints of alleged serving to intoxicated patrons

Health

The North Shore Public Health Collaborative will meet to receive updates on epidemiology, training hubs, and community health. The body will also discuss the allocation or status of opioid settlement funds and local public health advocacy.

• Opioid settlement funds
• PHE and training hub updates
• Epidemiology updates
• Local public health advocacy

Salem Youth Commission

The Salem Youth Commission meeting scheduled for Dec 18, 2025 was cancelled. The commission will meet again on Thursday, Jan 22, 2026 from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm. No agenda items were considered at this session.

Council on Aging Board

This is a regular procedural meeting of the Salem Council on Aging & Senior Services Board. The board will approve prior meeting minutes, hear the director's report, and discuss old business including senior housing and continued advocacy. New business includes a report from the Friends of the COA. No votes on specific policies or expenditures are listed on the agenda.

• Approval of November 19, 2025 regular meeting minutes
• Director’s report on senior services
• Old business: discussion on senior housing
• Old business: continued advocacy update
• New business: Friends of the COA report

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on several variance and special permit requests, including a proposal to increase a multifamily dwelling from five to eight units at 170 North Street, a restaurant conversion with no parking at 206 Derby Street, and other dimensional variances. Two continuances from previous meetings are also on the agenda.

• 170 North Street: Variance and special permit to change from 5-unit to 8-unit multifamily
• 206 Derby Street: Variance to convert real estate office to restaurant with zero parking (18 required)
• 99 Leach Street: Variance for a 3.5-story, two-family house on undersized lot
• 14-16 Bridge Street: Continuance for variance to split lot into two undersized lots
• 2-4 Forrester Street: Continuance for variance and special permit for sheds and second-story addition

Historical Commission

The Salem Historical Commission will consider a continuation of the bandstand renovation at 0 Washington Square, a request to review Columbus Avenue seawall design, and numerous Certificates of Appropriateness for historic properties. The commission also plans to set its 2026 meeting schedule and address other business including violations and correspondence.

• 0 Washington Square – bandstand renovation (continuation)
• Columbus Avenue seawall design review under Memorandum of Agreement
• 3 Broad Street – Certificate of Appropriateness for slate roof replacement, gutter repair, and porch balustrade removal
• 373 Essex Street – Certificate of Appropriateness to replace wood shingle roof with asphalt shingles
• 13 Chestnut Street – Certificate of Appropriateness for window alteration and chimney removal

Design Review Board

The Design Review Board will review design proposals for a new ferry terminal and a self-storage facility. The board will also discuss sign lighting for the Courier Hotel and establish its 2026 meeting schedule.

• 10 Blaney Street: Schematic Design Review for a new multi-functional ferry terminal building at Salem Wharf
• 45 Jefferson Avenue: Design Review for a proposed self-storage facility
• 201 Washington Street: Review of Courier Hotel sign lighting
• Approval of October 22, 2025 minutes
• Establishment of the 2026 DRB Schedule

Conservation Commission

The Salem Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on two Notices of Intent under the Wetlands Protection Act: coastal bank stabilization, pathway improvements, and vegetation management at 50 Winter Island Road; and installation of a ground-mounted solar array at 37 Winter Island Road. The commission will also continue discussion on appointing a vice-chair and vote on meeting minutes.

• Public hearing for proposed coastal bank stabilization, pathway improvements, and vegetation management at 50 Winter Island Road (Map 43, Lot 1).
• Public hearing for proposed installation of ground-mounted solar array field with electrical conduits at 37 Winter Island Road (Map 44, Lot 36).
• Continued discussion on appointing a vice-chair.
• Approval of November 18, 2025 meeting minutes.

Public Art Commission

The Public Art Commission will meet to discuss the relaunch of a public art call for artists. The body will also review repairs for the Lady of Reflection and a proposal for a dreamcatcher.

• 400+ Public Art Call For Artist update and relaunch discussion
• Lady of Reflection repairs
• Dreamcatcher proposal

School Committee

The Salem Public Schools Policy Subcommittee will meet to approve prior meeting minutes and review a draft Graduation Requirements and Competency Determination Policy. This policy defines how students will demonstrate mastery in core subjects through course grades and final exams, replacing the previous MCAS-based competency determination following the passage of Question 2 in 2024. The draft includes course requirements for each high school and special provisions for students with disabilities.

• Review of draft Graduation Requirements and Competency Determination Policy to replace MCAS as a graduation condition
• New competency determination based on course grades (2.3 or equivalent) and final exams or culminating projects
• Subject-area course requirements for English, math, science, and history at Salem High, Salem Prep, and New Liberty Innovation schools
• Opportunities for retest or portfolio review for students who do not earn mastery on the first attempt
• Special considerations for students with disabilities, including alternative assessments and IEP team decisions

School Committee

The School Committee will hold a vote on elementary reconfiguration and consider a budget transfer request. The body will also conduct third readings for six district policies regarding nondiscrimination, harassment, and tobacco use.

• Vote on Elementary Reconfiguration
• FY26 Warrants for $733,414.12 (11/26/2025) and $883,108.82 (12/4/2025)
• Budget Transfer Request
• Third readings of Policies AA, AC, AC-R, ACA, ACE, and ADC
• Field trip approval for Salem High School Harvard Model United Nations Delegation to Boston

Licensing Board

The Salem Licensing Board will consider several license applications, including a one‑day liquor license for Roots NS at 35 Congress St. Suite 2350 and a transfer of an annual all‑alcohol restaurant license for DRW Food Enterprises at 189 Washington St. The board will conduct a hearing with Quality Liquors, 5 Gedney St., about complaints of serving intoxicated patrons. An old/new business item will discuss the proposed Nip Ban.

• Application for a One Day Liquor License at 35 Congress St. Suite 2350 for Roots NS
• Application for a Transfer of an Annual All Alcohol Restaurant License at 189 Washington St. for DRW Food Enterprises, LLC
• Application for a Class II Auto Dealers license at 207 Highland Ave for Green Wave LLC d/b/a Wave Electric Vehicles
• Hearing with Quality Liquors, 5 Gedney St., regarding complaints of alleged serving to intoxicated patrons
• Discussion on the proposed Nip Ban

Salem High School Building Committee

The Salem High School Building Committee will consider approving the schematic design submission for the high school project. Members will also review the milestone schedule and confirm spring 2026 meeting dates. The meeting includes a presentation of the schematic design before the vote.

• Vote to approve November 20th and December 3rd, 2025 meeting minutes
• Milestone schedule review and confirmation of spring 2026 meeting dates
• Presentation of schematic design submission at 6:15pm
• Vote to authorize schematic design submission at 6:50pm
• Public comment period at 7:15pm

Salem Redevelopment Authority

The Salem Redevelopment Authority meeting scheduled for December 10, 2025, has been cancelled. No items will be discussed or decided at this meeting.

• Meeting cancelled

Housing Authority Board

The Salem Housing Authority Board will hold a regular meeting via Zoom on December 10, 2025, to consider new business items including a $2,345,000 bid from LeVangie Electric Co., Inc. for electrical and fire alarm work at various developments, a quote for a minisplit installation at 292 Essex Street, and a certificate of final completion for siding replacement at Farrell Court. Unfinished business includes the performance evaluation of Executive Director Cathy Sheehan. The board will also receive department reports and approve previous meeting minutes.

• Bid of $2,345,000 from LeVangie Electric Co., Inc. for EOHLC project 258188 (ARPA TAR meter fed panel, fire alarm, stove replacement) at various developments
• Quote for installation of roof-mounted high-efficiency ductless ASHP minisplit and air handler system at 292 Essex Street
• Certificate of Final Completion for EOHLC project 258187 (selective siding replacement) at Farrell Court 705-3
• Massachusetts State-Aided Housing Insurance Program Participation Agreement
• Cathy Sheehan's performance evaluation (unfinished business)

School Committee

The Curriculum Subcommittee will meet on December 10, 2025 to review proposed changes to the Programs of Study for Salem High School, New Liberty Innovation School, and Salem Prep High School. The subcommittee will also review a draft Competency Determination Policy. The Jan 13, 2025 subcommittee minutes are also up for approval.

• Approval of minutes from Curriculum Subcommittee meeting of Jan 13, 2025
• Review of proposed changes to Salem High School Program of Study
• Review of proposed changes to New Liberty Innovation School Program of Study
• Review of proposed changes to Salem Prep High School Program of Study
• Review of draft Competency Determination Policy

Neighborhood Improvement Advisory Council

The Neighborhood Improvement Advisory Council will meet remotely on December 10, 2025. The agenda includes a special guest presentation by Stacy Kilb, Engagement Coordinator & Energy Coach from the City's Sustainability & Resiliency Department. The council will also approve the November 12 minutes and receive neighborhood association and city updates.

• Special guest: Stacy Kilb, Engagement Coordinator & Energy Coach, City of Salem Sustainability & Resiliency Department
• Approval of November 12, 2025 meeting minutes
• Neighborhood Association updates
• City Updates

The Neighborhood Improvement Advisory Council approved the minutes from the 11/12/25 meeting, including an edit to change “Trains” to “Trails.” The vote was 2 in support with all other members abstaining. No other substantive actions were decided at this meeting.

• Approved 11/12/25 meeting minutes (2 in support, others abstaining)

Sustainability, Energy, & Resiliency Committee

The Salem Sustainability, Energy, and Resiliency Committee will review updates on several grant-funded projects, including downtown networked geothermal, Horace Mann School decarbonization, and a heat resilience grant. They will also revisit their mission statement and discuss SERC Resilient Together actions for 2026.

• Coalition for Green Capital Municipal Investment Fund grant update
• Heaven and Earth Initiative downtown networked geothermal project
• Horace Mann Decarbonization – MA DOER TESI grant
• Barr Foundation Heat Resilience grant in El Punto
• MVP 2.0 process and MAPC resilience audit pilot

The Sustainability, Energy, and Resiliency Committee approved the July 23, 2025 minutes and the November 12, 2025 minutes, each passing with all eligible members voting in favor. The revision of the committee's mission statement was tabled until January pending further review. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved July 23, 2025 minutes (all eligible members in favor)
• Approved Nov. 12, 2025 minutes (all eligible members in favor)
• Mission statement revision tabled until January

Transportation Commission

The Salem Transportation Commission will hear a presentation on the Department of Transportation’s October activities, including resident permit parking, parking enforcement, weekend shuttle services, the Salem Skipper program, BlueBikes, commuter rail, ferry service, and parking overlay permits. The meeting also includes routine items such as roll call, public comments, the director’s update, approval of minutes, and scheduling. No formal decisions are indicated in the agenda.

• Review of October resident permit parking and parking enforcement
• Presentation on weekend shuttle services and Salem Skipper program
• Update on BlueBikes, commuter rail, and ferry service
• Discussion of October parking overlay permits
• Report on Universal Steel fundraising effort

The commission voted to approve the minutes from the November 12, 2025 meeting. The motion passed with five votes in favor and none opposed. The meeting was then adjourned. No other substantive actions were decided.

• Approved November 12, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

Beautification Committee

The Beautification Committee will meet to approve previous minutes and introduce new members. The body will discuss the review and revision of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and receive updates on volunteers from Salem Academy Charter School.

• Review and revision of MOU
• Volunteer updates regarding Salem Academy Charter School
• Updates on Lady of Salem

At the Salem Beautification Committee meeting on Dec. 9, 2025, members voted to approve the old business items from the Nov. 18, 2025 meeting. The approval covered the rain barrel experiment, unsponsored traffic islands, raised hanging baskets, and the contact person for the Academy Charter School. No other motions were recorded as approved, denied, or tabled.

• Approved old business items (rain barrel experiment, unsponsored islands, hanging baskets, contact person) – motion passed

Community Preservation Committee

The December 9, 2025 meeting of the Salem Community Preservation Committee has been cancelled. No items were voted on or discussed.

Cemetery Commission

The Salem Cemetery Commission will approve the minutes from its October 14, 2025 meeting and hear a report on cemetery operations. Commissioners will vote on a 100% design plan for the Dickson Chapel expansion, including sidewalk material choices and crabapple tree transplantation. The body will also discuss October policies addressing seasonal damage to publicly accessible cemeteries and review the current residency policy and fee schedule with input from Tetra Tech.

• Approve commission meeting minutes for October 14, 2025
• Vote to support 100% design plan for Dickson Chapel expansion
• Discuss sidewalk materials and transplant of crabapple trees in construction area
• Discuss October policies for publicly accessible cemeteries due to seasonal damage
• Discuss current residency policy, fee schedule, and Tetra Tech review

The Salem Cemetery Commission approved the minutes from the October 14, 2025 meeting by unanimous roll‑call vote. The commission also voted unanimously to support the primary design plan for the Green Lawn Cemetery walkway, selecting Exposed Aggregate Concrete (#4) with an alternative of tinted plain concrete (#3). No other motions were adopted.

• Approved October 14, 2025 Cemetery Commission minutes (unanimous)
• Approved primary design plan for Green Lawn Cemetery walkway – Exposed Aggregate Concrete #4 (unanimous)

City Seal Task Force

The Salem City Seal Task Force is meeting solely to approve minutes from five previous meetings held in June, September, October, and November 2025. No other business is on the agenda.

• Approval of minutes from June 16, September 15, October 7, October 14, October 23, and November 10, 2025

The task force voted to approve the recorded minutes for meetings held on June 16, September 15, October 7, October 14, and October 23, 2025. All members present voted in the affirmative. No vote was taken on the November 10 minutes because a member was absent and abstained.

• Approved June 16, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved September 15, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved October 7, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved October 14, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved October 23, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Did not approve November 10, 2025 minutes (member absent, abstained)

Salem Cultural Council

The Salem Cultural Council will meet to continue discussing and voting on grant applications. The council will also vote on the minutes from its November 2025 meeting. Public comment will be accepted during the public calls portion.

• Vote on prior meeting minutes (November 2025)
• Discuss grant applications and continue voting process
• Public calls for comments

The council approved the November 3 meeting minutes by unanimous vote. It then voted unanimously to give "No" votes to every grant application listed for the 2025‑2026 cycle, and discussed an appeal process for the applicants. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved November 3 minutes (unanimous)
• Denied all listed 2025‑2026 grant applications (unanimous)

School Committee

The Salem School Committee will hold a special meeting via Zoom. The primary purpose of the meeting is to hold a discussion with the Student Advisory Group.

• Discussion with Student Advisory Group

Scholarship & Education Committee

The Salem Scholarship & Education Committee will hold a remote meeting to discuss routine business, including approval of previous minutes, a financial update, education fund updates, and planning for the 2026 scholarship campaign and season. The agenda also includes a discussion of potential participation in the Salem 400+ Kickoff Event. No specific votes or monetary amounts are listed.

• Approval of September 8, 2025 meeting minutes
• Financial update on current funds
• Education Fund Campaign planning for 2026
• Scholarship Season schedule for 2026
• Discussion of Salem 400+ Kickoff Event participation

The committee approved the September 8, 2025 meeting minutes with four votes in favor. It officially welcomed new members Megan Gonzalez and Gabby Bacha and agreed to send a thank‑you letter to Yuan’s Bistro for its $1,500 contribution. The committee set the scholarship season timeline, including application deadlines and award events, and scheduled the next meeting for January 5, 2026. The meeting was adjourned with a 4‑0‑0 vote.

• Approved September 8, 2025 minutes (4 in favor)
• Welcomed new members Megan Gonzalez and Gabby Bacha
• Decided to send thank‑you letter to Yuan’s Bistro for $1,500 contribution
• Set scholarship season dates (application closes April 26, scholarship night May 4, awards banquet May 14)
• Scheduled January 5, 2026 meeting at 6:30 p.m.
• Adjourned meeting (vote 4‑0‑0)

School Committee

The Salem School Committee will hold a special meeting on December 6, 2025, to discuss elementary school reconfiguration and potential scenarios. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the item is for discussion only. Interpretation in Spanish and Portuguese will be available via Zoom.

• Discussion of Elementary School Reconfiguration and Scenarios

Committee members reviewed five elementary school reconfiguration scenarios, marking preferred and not‑preferred options and scheduling a vote on the proposals for Dec. 15. No formal adoption or rejection of any scenario occurred. A motion to adjourn was approved with six votes in favor and one member absent.

• Motion to adjourn passed (6 yes, 1 absent)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to sign procedural forms, vote on a residential rooftop solar exemption, and then convene before the City Council for a classification hearing to set the fiscal year 2026 tax rate and vote on additional tax rate options.

• Vote on Residential Rooftop Solar Exemption under MGL Ch 59 § 5, Clause 45th
• Classification Hearing before City Council to set FY2026 tax rate
• Vote on additional tax rate options for FY2026

The Board of Assessors set the FY2026 residential tax rate at $10.78 and the commercial rate at $21.89. It approved a Residential Solar Rooftop Exemption and signed the Assessors Notice (State Form‑1) and the 2025 Motor Vehicle Excise Commitment #6. The three tax policy options were not approved, and an overlay surplus appropriation of $575,113.10 was ordered to reduce the gross tax levy.

• Set FY2026 residential tax rate at $10.78
• Set FY2026 commercial tax rate at $21.89
• Granted Residential Solar Rooftop Exemption
• Signed Assessors Notice – State Form‑1
• Signed 2025 Motor Vehicle Excise Commitment #6
• CIP Shift voted at 1.75 (.861738 MRF)
• Did not approve Small Commercial, Open Space, and Residential tax policy options
• Ordered overlay surplus appropriation of $575,113.10 to reduce tax levy

Salem Harbor Port Authority

The Salem Harbor Port Authority will meet via remote participation to receive port and staff updates. The agenda consists of procedural items and a report from the Harbormaster.

• Harbormaster Report
• Port and Staff updates
• Approval of minutes

The board voted unanimously to approve a $12,500 request from the Port Authority Revolving Fund for one staff member to attend the Sea Trade conference in Miami. The board also unanimously approved the minutes from the November 6 meeting. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved $12,500 funding request for Sea Trade conference (unanimous)
• Approved November 6 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourning the meeting (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss carryover matters in committee. The agenda does not list specific items for discussion.

• Discussion of Carryover Matters

The council discharged the ARPA Funds item (#271) and the DeFranzia/Etheridge project (#574) with unanimous votes. A motion to roll over the flag display item (#559) into 2026 also passed unanimously. The request to keep the school‑bus video enforcement report in committee was approved 9‑0.

• Discharged ARPA Funds item #271 (9-0)
• Rolled over flag display item #559 to 2026 (9-0)
• Discharged DeFranzia/Etheridge project #574 (9-0)
• Kept school‑bus video enforcement report item #47 in committee (9-0)

City Council

The City Council Committee on Government Services meets on December 4, 2025, to discuss carryover matters from committee. The agenda contains only one item: a discussion of unresolved items carried over from previous meetings. No specific proposals, votes, or dollar amounts are listed.

• Discussion of carryover matters from previous committee meetings
• No proposed ordinances, contracts, or public hearings listed

The City Council Committee on Government Services unanimously discharged five carry‑over items, including the city seal redesign, HERO Act clause, public guide grace period, trash contract renewal, and Jewish Heritage Month resolution. The committee voted to keep the Home Rule Petition to amend the charter for rank‑choice voting in local elections for further work.

• Discharged city seal redesign item #257 (5-0)
• Discharged HERO Act clause adoption item #483 (5-0)
• Discharged public guide grace period item #578 (5-0)
• Discharged trash contract discussion item #253 (5-0)
• Discharged Jewish Heritage Month resolution item #258 (5-0)
• Kept Home Rule Petition for rank‑choice voting item #319 in committee (5-0)

City Council

The Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs will meet to discuss the granting of licenses for Seaworms. The body will also discuss carryover matters currently in committee.

• Granting of Certain Licenses - Seaworms
• Discussion of Carryover Matters in Committee

The Committee approved a sea worm license for Joe Mendonca. It discharged a resident parking sticker request for 373 and 390 Essex St and moved the broader parking sticker program to next year. Several items, including the Community Benefits Agreement and a Light Shield ordinance, were discharged or carried forward for future consideration.

• Approved sea worm license for Joe Mendonca (4-0)
• Discharged resident parking sticker request for 373 & 390 Essex St (4-0)
• Carried over resident parking sticker program to next year (4-0)
• Kept Home Occupations item in committee for next year (4-0)
• Discharged Community Benefits Agreement Ordinance (4-0)
• Carried forward Light Shield Ordinance to future term (4-0)
• Carried over amendment to extend resident parking beyond October (4-0)
• Carried forward retail marijuana ordinance under rule 29B (3-0)

City Council

The City Council Committee on Public Health, Safety and Environment will meet to discuss carryover matters. The specific items for discussion are listed in the provided back-up documentation.

• Discussion of Carryover Matters in Committee

The committee voted 3‑0 to discharge the noise‑pollution item (#461), the composting ordinance draft (#21), the leaf‑blower ordinance proposal (#137), and the traffic‑calming petition (#390). It also voted 3‑0 to carry over amendment #531, which changes review of 30A traffic recommendations, to the next year under rule 29B. All motions were unanimously approved.

• Discharged #461 noise‑pollution item (3‑0)
• Discharged #21 composting ordinance draft (3‑0)
• Discharged #137 leaf‑blower ordinance proposal (3‑0)
• Discharged #390 traffic‑calming petition (3‑0)
• Carried over amendment #531 to rule 30A traffic recommendations (3‑0)

City Council

The Salem City Council holds a public hearing on allocating the FY2026 property tax levy among four property classes and weighs multiple appropriation orders from the Mayor, including $6.5 million from free cash, $3.87 million for the trash enterprise fund subsidy, and $1.985 million from receipts reserved to reduce the tax rate. The council also considers appointments for assistant building director, tree warden, and board members.

• Public hearing on FY2026 property tax levy classification and exemption options
• Appropriation of $6,528,052.35 from free cash to stabilization, capital improvement, and OPEB funds
• Appropriation of $3,869,101 for the FY2026 trash enterprise fund subsidy
• Appropriation of $1,985,394 from receipts reserved (Witch House, Golf Course, Harbormaster, etc.) to reduce the tax rate
• Appropriation of $265,000 from free cash for Salem Police Department rooftop HVAC project

The City Council adopted a $6,528,052.35 appropriation to special revenue funds, allocating 10% to the Stabilization Fund, 30% to the Capital Improvement Fund, and 5% to Other Post‑Employment Benefits. It also approved multiple appropriations to reduce the FY2026 tax rate, including $1,985,394 from reserved receipts, $1,700,000 from free cash, and $575,113.10 from the overlay surplus. Additional appropriations were made for the Trash Enterprise Fund, police department rooftop HVAC project, HR unemployment compensation, temporary traffic control, and the Salem Library Staff Association contract. The council granted National Grid’s request to install conduits on Valley Street and confirmed several mayoral appointments.

• Approved $6,528,052.35 appropriation to special revenue funds (9 yeas, 0 nays, 2 absent)
• Approved $3,869,101 appropriation to FY2026 Trash Enterprise Fund (9 yeas, 0 nays, 2 absent)
• Approved $1,985,394 appropriation from receipts reserved to reduce FY2026 tax rate (9 yeas, 0 nays, 2 absent)
• Approved $1,700,000 appropriation from free cash to reduce FY2026 tax rate (9 yeas, 0 nays, 2 absent)
• Approved $575,113.10 appropriation from overlay surplus to reduce FY2026 tax rate (9 yeas, 0 nays, 2 absent)
• Approved $265,000 appropriation for police department rooftop HVAC project (9 yeas, 0 nays, 2 absent)
• Approved $250,000 appropriation to HR unemployment compensation account (9 yeas, 0 nays, 2 absent)
• Granted National Grid order to install conduits on Valley Street (motion passed)

Planning Board

The Salem Planning Board will hold public hearings on four items, including a major proposal to demolish existing buildings and construct a four-story, 100,000-square-foot self-storage facility at 45 Jefferson Ave. Other items include a continuance to replace a ground floor parking garage with commercial space and add 10 residential units at 301 Essex Street, a continuance for a new Salem Public Schools Welcome Center at 30 Leavitt Street, and a hearing to install solar arrays at 37 Winter Island Road. The board will also review minutes from previous meetings.

• 45 Jefferson Ave: demolish buildings, build 100,000 sq ft self-storage with 735 units, 11 parking spaces
• 301 Essex Street: modify site plan to remove ground-floor parking, add commercial space, increase units from 20 to 30
• 30 Leavitt Street: demolish portion of existing building, construct 3,017 sq ft two-story addition for school welcome center
• 37 Winter Island Road: install eight solar photovoltaic ground arrays on existing property, no building changes
• Approval of draft minutes from meetings on 11/6, 11/13, and 11/20/2025

The Board voted to continue the public hearings for 301 Essex Street, 30 Leavitt Street, and 37 Winter Island Road. Each motion was approved unanimously. No other actions were taken.

• Continuance of 301 Essex St site‑plan review to Jan 8 2026 (8‑0)
• Continuance of 30 Leavitt St C‑ROD review to Dec 18 2025 (7‑0)
• Continuance of 37 Winter Island Rd solar array review to Dec 18 2025 (8‑0)

Salem High School Building Committee

The Salem High School Building Committee will meet on December 3, 2025, to discuss the project's milestone schedule and receive a presentation of a draft construction estimate. The committee will also vote to approve minutes from its November 20 meeting and take public comment.

• Vote to approve November 20, 2025 meeting minutes
• Review of project milestone schedule and next steps
• Presentation of draft construction estimate
• Public comment period

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals is holding a special meeting to discuss and review the second draft of its rules and regulations and to receive a presentation on comprehensive permits. No public hearings or petitions will be heard at this meeting.

• Presentation on Comprehensive Permit Learning Session
• Review and discussion of second draft ZBA Rules and Regulations
• Meeting held in person at City Hall Annex, 98 Washington Street, with remote access via Zoom
• No public comment due to no petitions being heard

The Salem Zoning Board of Appeals held a special meeting to hear a presentation on Chapter 40B comprehensive permits and to discuss a second‑draft of board rules. No approvals, denials, or policy changes were voted on. The meeting was adjourned by a motion that passed with all members in favor.

• Motion to adjourn passed unanimously (all in favor)

Historical Commission

The Salem Historical Commission will meet to review requests for demolition waivers and design modifications for several properties, including a chapel project and historic homes. The meeting will be held remotely.

• Request for comment on Dickson Chapel west slope project
• Waiver of demolition delay for 2-4 Forrester Street garage
• Waiver of demolition delay for 99 Leach Street garage
• Certificate of Appropriateness for 35 Flint Street security cameras
• Request to modify window design at 6 Botts Court

The Salem Historical Commission found the garage at 2‑4 Forrester Street historically significant, then voted it was not preferably preserved, allowing demolition. It also continued the Forrester Street certificate application to the Jan 7, 2026 meeting, accepted modified fence plans for Pickering Street, and continued the 35 Flint Street security‑camera and cornice restoration application. Additionally, the commission found the garage at 99 Leach Street not historically significant.

• Continue Forrester Street certificate application to Jan 7, 2026 (motion carried)
• Accept modified fence plans for Pickering Street (motion carried)
• Continue 35 Flint Street security‑camera and cornice restoration application (motion carried)
• Find 2‑4 Forrester garage historically significant (motion carried)
• Find 2‑4 Forrester garage not preferably preserved (motion carried)
• Find 99 Leach Street garage not historically significant (motion carried)

Bicycling & Shared Path Advisory Committee

The Bicycling & Shared Path Advisory Committee will hold a remote-only meeting on December 3, 2025. Discussions include the proposed U.S. Bicycle Route 1, staff updates, and bicycling infrastructure items such as the Massachusetts Micromobility Commission recommendations, a bike parking ordinance, and a Winter Biking Workshop on December 18.

• Discussion of Proposed U.S. Bicycle Route 1
• Discussion of Bike Parking Ordinance
• Massachusetts Micromobility Commission Recommendations
• Winter Biking Workshop on 12/18/2025
• Bikeshare data and program updates

The advisory committee unanimously approved a motion for Senior Planner Tom Devine to convey the committee’s support for MassBike’s overall micromobility recommendations and to share member Josh Nagle’s comments. The committee also approved the draft 2026 meeting schedule. In addition, members unanimously approved the minutes from the October 8, 2025 meeting.

• Approved expression of support to MassBike for micromobility recommendations (unanimous)
• Approved draft 2026 meeting schedule (unanimous)
• Approved October 8, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Salem Human Rights Coalition

The Salem Human Rights Coalition will consider approving judges, awards, and other details for the Salem State MLK Jr. Writing Contest, and discuss sponsoring the Salem Film Fest. Reports from the Mayor's Office liaison, clerk, and treasurer will also be presented.

• Approval of judges and awards for the Salem State MLK Jr. Writing Contest
• Discussion and potential sponsorship of the Salem Film Fest
• Reports from Mayor's Office liaison, clerk, and treasurer

Zero Waste Salem

The committee will vote on a new logo with revised colors and discuss rebranding tasks. It will review the successful textile drive (320+ cars), plan a January Styrofoam collection, a Volunteer Fair on Jan 10, 2026 at Salem High School, and a Repair Cafe on Feb 7. New business includes a possible December potluck.

• Vote on new Zero Waste Salem logo with new colors and rebranding tasks
• Textile drive had 320+ cars at Salem High School, exceeding last year's turnout
• January Styrofoam collection event planned
• Volunteer Fair set for Jan 10, 2026 at Salem High School
• Repair Cafe scheduled for Feb 7, 2026

The committee unanimously approved the November 2025 meeting minutes. Members voted to adopt a dark blue and green color scheme for the Zero Waste Salem logo. The December potluck was scheduled for January 15 at 7 p.m. at Lucie's. A logo‑technology transition task force was formed with Nancy, Bruce, Charlie and Alisa, and Alisa was assigned to investigate the disposition of collected Christmas trees.

• Approved November 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adopted dark blue and green as the logo colors
• Scheduled December potluck for Jan 15 at 7 p.m. at Lucie's
• Formed logo technology transition task force (Nancy, Bruce, Charlie, Alisa)
• Assigned Alisa to check what happens to collected Christmas trees

School Committee

The Salem School Committee will hold a regular meeting on December 1, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. at 29 Highland Ave., Room 227, with Zoom access. The superintendent will present an elementary reconfiguration plan and a FY26 budget update, and the committee will conduct second readings of several policies including nondiscrimination and tobacco prohibition. The agenda also includes approval of FY26 warrants totaling over $1.55 million and a budget transfer request.

• Elementary reconfiguration presentation and discussion
• FY26 budget update
• Second readings of policies AA, AC, AC-R, ACA, ACE, and ADC (legal status, nondiscrimination, harassment, sex, disability, tobacco)
• Budget transfer request
• Approval of FY26 warrants: Nov 6 ($519,099.15), Nov 13 ($600,061.82), Nov 20 ($438,580.01)

The committee unanimously approved the meeting agenda. It then unanimously approved the consent agenda, which included the FY26 budget warrants of $519,099.15, $600,061.82, and $438,580.01, as well as the minutes from prior meetings. No other policy decisions were made.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda (unanimous)
• Approved FY26 warrant $519,099.15 (unanimous)
• Approved FY26 warrant $600,061.82 (unanimous)
• Approved FY26 warrant $438,580.01 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of Nov 3, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of Nov 17, 2025 public forum (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of Nov 24, 2025 public forum (unanimous)

Salem Food Policy Council

The Salem Food Policy Council will meet to elect a chair and vice-chair, review subcommittee assignments, and discuss a draft briefing for the mayor. The council will also consider a Local Food Policy Council Program Grant and welcome two new members. Public comment will be heard.

• Election of chair and vice-chair
• Review of draft Mayor briefing
• Local Food Policy Council Program Grant
• Welcome new members Fred Norton and Tara Dhanraj
• Approval of meeting minutes from October 6, 2025

School Committee

The Salem School Committee is holding a public forum on November 25, 2025, at Horace Mann Laboratory School. The meeting consists of opening updates, a public forum where each speaker gets 3 minutes, and closing remarks. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the meeting is solely for public comment.

• Public forum at Horace Mann Laboratory School, 79 Willson Street, Salem
• Each speaker allotted 3 minutes; Spanish and Portuguese interpretation available
• Opening updates and closing remarks on the agenda but no listed substantive items

The committee heard updates on a $4.5‑$5 million budget deficit and elementary reconfiguration plans, but no actions were taken on those items. The only formal action was a motion to adjourn at 7:56 p.m., which was seconded and passed unanimously. No other decisions were recorded.

• Adjourned meeting at 7:56 p.m. (motion passed unanimously)

School Committee

This meeting is a public forum conducted entirely in Spanish for the Salem School Committee to hear public input on school district issues. No votes or decisions are scheduled; it is a listening session only.

• Public forum with 3-minute speaking limit per person
• English and Portuguese interpretation available
• Meeting held in person at Saltonstall School, 211 Lafayette St

The Salem School Committee held a public forum in Spanish on November 24, 2025. No substantive actions or policy decisions were taken. The only formal action was a motion to adjourn, which passed unanimously at 6:47 p.m.

• Motion to adjourn passed unanimously

Board of Public Library Trustees

The Board of Library Trustees will meet to discuss and vote on a camera policy. The board will also review library use, finances, and building updates.

• Discussion and vote on Camera Policy
• Review of finances
• Building update
• Approval of September 18, 2025 minutes

The Board of Trustees unanimously approved the draft minutes from September 18, 2025. They also approved a holiday gift for library staff, noting a required $6,100 transfer. The board unanimously adopted the draft video surveillance policy with added language that no audio will be recorded. No other substantive actions were decided at this meeting.

• Approved draft minutes from September 18, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved holiday staff gift (unanimous)
• Approved video surveillance policy with added audio‑prohibition language (unanimous)

Salem High School Building Committee

The Salem High School Building Committee will vote on field surfacing options and review the schematic design table of contents. Members will also review the total project budget format and soft costs, and hear a report from the Finance Working Group. The meeting includes approval of previous minutes and public comment.

• Vote on options for field surfacing
• Review of Schematic Design Table of Contents
• Review of Total Project Budget format and soft costs
• Report from Finance Working Group
• Vote to approve November 6th meeting minutes

City Council

The City Council Committee on Community and Economic Development will meet on November 20, 2025 to discuss carryover matters. No specific items are listed in the agenda; details are provided in the backup documentation. The meeting will be held in the City Council Chambers at 93 Washington St., Salem, MA, with remote access options available.

• Discussion of carryover matters (specific items listed in backup documentation)

The committee voted unanimously to discharge the Home Rule Petition for Real Estate Transfer Fees, the petition requiring broker fees, and the use of city property for outdoor dining at Witchside Tavern. It also voted to carry over the review of Charlotte Fortin Park and the outdoor dining policy for discussion next year. All motions passed 5-0.

• Discharged Home Rule Petition for Real Estate Transfer Fees (5-0)
• Discharged Home Rule Petition requiring broker fees be paid by the soliciting party (5-0)
• Discharged use of city property for outdoor dining at Witchside Tavern, 263 Derby St (5-0)
• Carried over review of Charlotte Fortin Park vision and plans to next year (5-0)
• Carried over outdoor dining policy review and edits to next year (5-0)

Planning Board

The Salem Planning Board will hold public hearings continued from previous meetings for four properties: a Dunkin' Donuts renovation at 248 Highland Ave, a new Salem Public Schools Welcome Center at 30 Leavitt St, a mixed-use project at 301 Essex St increasing residential units from 20 to 30, and a subdivision at 15 Crosby St. The board will also discuss and vote on a recommendation to the City Council regarding a zoning amendment to increase the number of marijuana retailer licenses, and vote on the 2026 meeting schedule.

• Continuance of hearing for Dunkin' Donuts at 248 Highland Ave: renovate existing building, remove one drive-through lane, add five parking spaces
• Continuance of hearing for Salem Public Schools Welcome Center at 30 Leavitt St: demolish part of existing building, construct 3,017-sq-ft two-story addition
• Continuance of hearing for 301 Essex St: amend site plan to replace ground-floor parking with commercial space, increase residential units from 20 to 30
• Continuance of hearing for 15 Crosby St: definitive subdivision plan to split one lot into two, with a frontage waiver request for Lot B
• Discuss and vote on recommendation to City Council on zoning amendment to increase number of marijuana retailer licenses

The Planning Board voted 7‑1 to recommend that City Council adopt a zoning amendment adding one marijuana retail license above the existing limit and reserving it for a social‑equity applicant. The Board also approved continuances for four pending site‑plan and subdivision applications, moving them to future meetings. All continuance motions passed unanimously.

• Recommend to City Council adopt zoning amendment adding one marijuana retail license, with one reserved for social‑equity applicants (7-1)
• Continuance of 248 Highland Avenue site‑plan and drive‑through permit to Dec 18, 2025 (8-0)
• Continuance of 30 Leavitt Street C‑ROD site‑plan to Dec 4, 2025 (8-0)
• Continuance of 301 Essex Street site‑plan amendment to Dec 4, 2025 (8-0)
• Continuance of 15 Crosby Street subdivision plan to Jan 8, 2026 (8-0)

Health

The North Shore Public Health Collaborative is meeting to discuss updates on public health emergencies and training hubs, workplan and budget, opioid settlement funds, and community updates.

• Discussion of opioid settlement funds
• Workplan and budget updates
• PHE and training hub updates
• Community updates

Council on Aging Board

The Salem Council on Aging & Senior Services Board is holding its regular monthly meeting. The agenda includes approval of October minutes, a director's report, discussion of senior housing and continued advocacy under old business, and a report from the Friends of the COA. No votes on ordinances or contracts are scheduled.

• Approval of October 15, 2025 annual and regular meeting minutes
• Director's report on senior services operations
• Discussion of senior housing under old business
• Friends of the COA report under new business
• Next meeting scheduled for December 17, 2025

The Council on Aging & Senior Services Board approved the October 15, 2025 Annual Meeting Minutes and the October 15, 2025 Regular Meeting Minutes, each by unanimous roll‑call vote. A motion to adjourn the November 19 meeting also passed unanimously. Other items such as senior housing updates and Senior Day planning were discussed but not formally decided.

• Approved October 15, 2025 Annual Meeting Minutes (unanimous)
• Approved October 15, 2025 Regular Meeting Minutes (unanimous)
• Moved to adjourn meeting (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Salem Zoning Board of Appeals will meet remotely to hear variance requests for housing projects and coastal resiliency projects, including a public schools welcome center and several multi-family home additions.

• Variance for 30 Leavitt Street to build a Salem Public Schools welcome center
• Variance for 2 Cedar Street to construct a basement unit and shed
• Variance for 11 Felt Street to build an accessory dwelling unit
• Variance for 14-16 Bridge Street to split property into two lots
• Variance for 2-4 Forrester Street to add a second story to a three-family house

The Salem Zoning Board of Appeals approved a variance for East Wind Investments at 13 Raymond Road, allowing a three‑story, three‑family house. The board also approved a special permit for the City of Salem at 30 Leavitt Street to convert a former community building into a public‑school welcome center with a second‑floor addition. Both motions passed unanimously with five votes in favor and none opposed.

• Approved variance for 13 Raymond Road (5‑0 vote)
• Approved special permit for 30 Leavitt Street (5‑0 vote)

Historical Commission

The Salem Historical Commission is meeting to discuss several Certificates of Appropriateness for property alterations. The body will review restoration work at the Salem Common Bandstand and various residential updates, as well as the National Register eligibility of 300 Derby Street.

• 0 Washington Square: Salem Common Bandstand restoration and improvements
• 300 Derby Street: National Register eligibility opinion
• 301 Lafayette Street: Porch decking application
• 1 Forrester Street: Fencing, gutters, and window replacement
• 59½ Summer Street: Mini splits and new HVAC condenser

The Salem Historical Commission voted to deny the application for mini‑splits and a new HVAC condenser at 59½ Summer Street without prejudice. It also approved several other certificates of appropriateness, including a wood window at 149 Federal Street and porch decking at 301 Lafayette Street. Discussion of the Salem Common Bandstand restoration was continued to the December 17 meeting, and a draft letter on the Camp Naumkeag project was prepared.

• Continued discussion of Salem Common Bandstand restoration to Dec 17 meeting (motion carried)
• Drafted letter to Mayor on Camp Naumkeag concerns (no vote taken)
• Continued 1 Forrester Street COA application (motion carried)
• Continued Pickering Street COA application to Dec 3 meeting (motion carried)
• Denied 59½ Summer Street HVAC application without prejudice (motion carried)
• Approved 149 Federal Street window alteration with Andersen 400 wood window, with oversight (motion carried)
• Approved 301 Lafayette Street porch decking using Vista composite board, with capped‑edge amendment (motion carried)
• Supported drafting National Register eligibility letter for 300 Derby Street (motion carried)

Housing Authority Board

The Board of Directors will meet to review financial statements, personnel changes, and several project updates. The board is seeking proposals for development consulting and legal services.

• Request for proposals for development consulting for 17-27 First Street
• Request for proposals for legal services
• Amendment #21 for Project 258150 electrical upgrades in the amount of $125,000.00
• Certificate of substantial completion for siding and window replacement at Farrell Court
• New hire for Section 8 Housing Coordinator

Design Review Board

The Design Review Board meeting scheduled for Wednesday, November 19, 2025, has been cancelled.

Beautification Committee

The committee will approve October minutes, introduce new members, and review an MOU. Sub-committee reports on Lady of Salem and Traffic Islands will be given. New business includes a discussion of the Traffic Island Fort and Essex Street project. No major decisions or financial items are on the agenda.

• Review and revision of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)
• Volunteer updates from Salem Academy Charter School
• Sub-committee report: Lady of Salem updates
• Traffic Island updates from Charlene
• New business: discussion of Traffic Island Fort and Essex Street

The Salem Beautification Committee reviewed old business items, including the NIAC memorandum of understanding for 2026 and volunteer garden models. Members reported on the status of Lady’s of Salem statues, traffic island signage, and various garden projects. No votes or formal approvals, denials, or adoptions were documented in the minutes.

Conservation Commission

The Salem Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on three wetlands protection projects and discuss meeting schedules and appointments. The meeting will be held remotely via Zoom.

• Public Hearing: 30 Leavitt St - William Peterson (Family Welcome Center)
• Public Hearing: 25 Fairview Road - Greg Cole (driveway and retaining wall)
• Public Hearing: 1 Kernwood St - Stuart O’Conner (riverbank stabilization)
• Discussion: 2026 Conservation Commission Meeting Schedule
• Discussion: Appointing a vice-chair

The Commission approved standard orders of conditions for the Family Welcome Center at 30 Leavitt St and the riverbank stabilization at 1 Kernwood St. It also approved a negative two and negative six determination of applicability for the driveway project at 25 Fairview Rd. A Certificate of Compliance was issued for 54 Osborne Hill Drive. All motions passed unanimously (5‑0).

• Issued Order of Conditions for 30 Leavitt St project (5‑0)
• Issued Order of Conditions for 1 Kernwood St riverbank stabilization (5‑0)
• Approved negative two and negative six determination of applicability for 25 Fairview Rd (5‑0)
• Issued Certificate of Compliance for 54 Osborne Hill Drive (5‑0)
• Closed public hearing for 30 Leavitt St (5‑0)
• Closed public hearing for 25 Fairview Rd (5‑0)
• Closed public hearing for 1 Kernwood St (5‑0)

Public Art Commission

The Salem Public Art Commission will meet remotely to discuss the 400+ Public Art Call for Artists, including a live Q&A session with artists. They will also consider adding an AI disclosure requirement for future public art proposals. The meeting includes approval of October meeting minutes and project updates.

• Live Q&A session for the 400+ Public Art Call for Artists
• Proposed AI Disclaimer requiring applicants to disclose AI use in proposals
• Approval of October 2025 meeting minutes

The Salem Public Art Commission approved the October 21, 2025 meeting minutes with a 5‑0 vote. The commission then adjourned the November 18, 2025 meeting with a 4‑0 vote. No other formal actions or votes were recorded.

• Approved October 21, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Commission on Disabilities

The Salem Commission on Disabilities will approve the June, August, and September meeting minutes. It will hear a presentation by David Kucharsky about a SCOD member’s participation on the Traffic and Parking Commission. The body will discuss a funding request from Beth White of the Early Childcare Center and a follow‑up work proposal from the IHCD presented by Lisa Cammarata. The meeting will also include general announcements and planning for future meetings.

• Approval of June, August, and September meeting minutes
• Presentation by David Kucharsky on SCOD member participation in Traffic and Parking Commission
• Funding request from Beth White of the Early Childcare Center
• IHCD follow‑up work proposal presented by Lisa Cammarata
• Announcements, questions, and ideas for future meetings

The Commission unanimously approved the June, August and September meeting minutes. It also unanimously approved a $10,000 funding request for the Early Childhood Center gardening program. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved June, August & September meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved $10,000 funding for Early Childhood Center garden program (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

School Committee

The Salem School Committee will hold a public forum on November 17, 2025, at Saltonstall School. The committee will hear from residents on issues affecting the school district. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the meeting is solely for public comment.

• Public forum for residents to speak on school district issues, 3 minutes per speaker
• Spanish and Portuguese interpretation available at the meeting
• Meeting held in person at Saltonstall School, 211 Lafayette St, Salem

The Salem School Committee met on November 17, 2025 at 211 Lafayette St. Superintendent Stephen Zrike and Assistant Superintendent Pauley presented slides on elementary reconfiguration. Numerous parents and community members voiced concerns about school closures, the dual‑language program, traffic, equity and budget impacts. No votes, approvals, denials, or other formal actions were recorded in the minutes.

Tree Commission

The Salem Tree Commission will hold a remote meeting on November 17, 2025. Commissioners will hear a report from the Tree Warden, consider a draft letter to the mayor about planting trees at Essex and Cambridge Streets, review a tree‑steward event at Holyoke Square, and approve the minutes from the October 20 meeting. The agenda also includes discussion of community‑outreach handout materials and scheduling of future meetings.

• Tree planting at Essex and Cambridge Streets – draft letter to mayor
• Tree Steward event at Holyoke Square, Saturday, November 8, 2025
• Community outreach handout materials – poster and email attachment
• Approve Tree Commission minutes of October 20, 2025
• Next meeting dates set for Dec 15, 2025 and Jan 19, 2026 (via Zoom)

The commission voted to approve the minutes from the October 20, 2025 meeting. Members also agreed to draft a letter to the mayor about additional tree infrastructure at the Ropes Mansion site, to have it signed by the Tree Commission. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved October 20, 2025 meeting minutes (motion carried on roll call)
• Agreed to draft and send a letter to the mayor from the Tree Commission
• Adjourned the meeting (motion carried unanimously)

Licensing Board

The Licensing Board will hold a remote meeting on November 17, 2025, to decide on several license applications. The main item is a request by Ginger Restaurant to amend its entertainment license at 118 Washington Street. The board will also consider multiple one-day liquor license requests, including one from HEX for a Sabbat event, and four from NS Bartending for various holiday events. Additionally, the Salem Arts Association seeks to amend the date and location of a previously approved one-day liquor license.

• Application to amend Entertainment License at 118 Washington St. by Ginger Restaurant
• One-day liquor license for HEX at 184 Essex St. on Dec 20, 2025 (15 people, 7-8pm)
• Four one-day liquor licenses for NS Bartending: Nov 18 (Salem High Field House), Dec 4 (Salem YMCA), Dec 5 & 7 (First Church, 316 Church St.)
• Amendment of date and location of a one-day liquor license for Salem Arts Association to Dec 4 at 88 Wharf St.

The board approved a one‑day liquor license for HEX at 184 Essex St., pending payment and insurance (vote 2‑0). It also approved four one‑day liquor licenses for NS Bartending’s events, contingent on insurance, payment and police detail (vote 2‑0). The Salem Arts Association’s amendment to move a license to 88 Wharf St. and change the date to Dec. 4 was approved (vote 2‑0). The next meeting was set for Dec 15, 2025.

• Approved one‑day liquor license for HEX, pending payment and insurance (2‑0)
• Approved four one‑day liquor licenses for NS Bartending, pending insurance, payment and police detail (2‑0)
• Approved amendment to move Salem Arts Association license to 88 Wharf St. and change date to Dec 4 (2‑0)
• Set next licensing board meeting for Dec 15, 2025
• Adjourned meeting (2‑0)

Board of Trust Fund Commissioners

The Board of Trust Fund Commissioners is holding a regular meeting to discuss routine requests from the Salem Council on Aging, Post Office box rent, and a market rate study by the Director of Public Services. Also on the agenda is an invitation to a Salem Philharmonic concert and approval of prior meeting minutes. The agenda is largely procedural with no major financial decisions identified.

• Salem Council on Aging routine and emergency requests
• Post Office box rent due
• Raymond Jodoin, Director of Public Services, market rate study
• Invitation to Salem Philharmonic Concert
• Approval of meeting minutes

The Board approved an $825 payment from the Discretionary Fund for a moving‑assistance request, with a unanimous written vote. It also approved $296 for the annual post‑office‑box rent from the Administration Fund and accepted the September 11 meeting minutes, both unanimously. The request for $39,000 from the Meldon Fund for a cemetery market‑rate study was rejected, and the requester will resubmit using only the Perpetual Care Fund.

• Approved $825 moving‑assistance payment from Discretionary Fund (unanimous)
• Approved $296 post‑office‑box rent from Administration Fund (unanimous)
• Approved September 11, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Rejected $39,000 Meldon Fund request for cemetery study; requester will resubmit
• Eastern Bank line items Thought & Work and Read Remainder moved to General Assistance
• Cancelled December Board meeting; next meeting moved to Jan 15 2026

City Council

The Salem City Council and Planning Board held a joint public hearing to discuss an ordinance that would increase the number of marijuana retailer licenses by three. The council voted to close the hearing and refer the matter to the Planning Board for a recommendation.

• Public hearing on ordinance to increase marijuana retailer licenses by three
• Vote to close public hearing and refer to Planning Board
• Meeting held at City Hall, 93 Washington Street, 2nd floor

The council voted to close the joint public hearing. The matter was then referred to the Planning Board for its recommendation. The council subsequently adjourned the meeting. All motions passed with unanimous support.

• Closed the joint public hearing (all in favor)
• Referred the marijuana licensing amendment to the Planning Board for recommendation (all in favor)
• Adjourned the meeting (all in favor)

City Council

The Salem City Council will consider several ordinances and orders, including a water rate increase from $44.20 to $48.20 per 1000 cubic feet per quarter, a prohibition on virtual currency, and multiple parking-related measures. The council will also vote on mayoral appointments to boards and commissions, and consider a motion to close Fire Station 2 on North Street for repairs.

• Ordinance to increase residential water minimum rate from $44.20 to $48.20 per 1000 cubic feet per quarter
• Ordinance to add Section 32 to Chapter 24 prohibiting virtual currency
• Order to waive up to $30 in late parking fines with donation of two non-perishable items from Nov 28–Dec 23
• Order to provide free parking at city lots, garages, and on-street spaces on eight dates in late November and December
• Order authorizing intermittent closure of Fire Station 2 on North Street for repairs

The Council adopted an ordinance increasing the minimum residential water rate from $44.20 to $48.20 per 1,000 cubic feet. It also adopted a virtual‑currency kiosk prohibition ordinance and approved several mayoral appointments with unanimous roll‑call votes. Additional orders authorized a parking‑fee waiver with food‑donation condition, free parking on specific dates, and intermittent closure of Fire Station 2 on North Street. The amendment to traffic‑recommendation rules was referred to the Public Health Safety and Environment Committee.

• Adopted ordinance raising residential water rate to $48.20 per 1,000 cu ft (first passage)
• Adopted ordinance prohibiting virtual‑currency kiosks (first passage)
• Confirmed appointment of Elizabeth Smith as Deputy Auditor, 11 yeas, 0 nays, 0 absent
• Confirmed mayoral appointments to Beautification Committee and Food Policy Council, 11 yeas, 0 nays, 0 absent
• Adopted order waiving up to $30 in parking‑fine late fees with food‑donation condition
• Adopted order making parking free on eight specified dates in November‑December 2025
• Adopted order allowing intermittent closure of Fire Station 2 on North Street
• Referred amendment to traffic‑recommendation rules to the Committee on Public Health Safety and the Environment

Planning Board

The City Council and Planning Board held a joint public hearing to discuss a zoning ordinance amendment. The proposal seeks to increase the number of available marijuana retailer licenses by three.

• Proposed amendment to Zoning Sec. I, Sec 6.10.12 to increase marijuana retailer licenses by three

The council and planning board voted to close the public hearing on the proposed increase of marijuana retailer licenses. They also moved to refer the ordinance amendment to the Planning Board for a recommendation. The meeting was then adjourned at 6:32 p.m. No vote was taken to adopt the amendment.

• Closed the joint public hearing (motion passed, all in favor)
• Referred the licensing amendment to the Planning Board for recommendation (motion passed, all in favor)
• Adjourned the meeting at 6:32 p.m. (motion passed, all in favor)

Salem Redevelopment Authority

The Salem Redevelopment Authority will discuss projects within the Urban Renewal Area and provide an update on the redevelopment of the Historic Courthouses and the Crescent Lot. The body will also review SRA financials and update its sign manual.

• License renewal for East Regiment Outdoor Patio at 30 Church Street
• Project status update for Historic Courthouses and the Crescent Lot
• SRA Sign Manual update
• Review of SRA Financials

The Salem Redevelopment Authority voted 4-0 to adopt an updated sign manual. It also approved a three‑year license renewal for the East Regiment outdoor patio at 30 Church Street with a 4-0 vote. The board set the 2026 November meeting for November 4th, approved the September 10 minutes, and adjourned the meeting unanimously.

• Adopt updated sign manual (4-0)
• Approve 30 Church Street patio license renewal (4-0)
• Set 2026 November meeting date to Nov 4 (4-0)
• Approve September 10, 2025 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Adjourn meeting (4-0)

Community Preservation Committee

The Community Preservation Committee will vote on releasing the draft FY26 Community Preservation Plan and FY25 Annual Report for a public comment period, with final approval possible if only minor comments are received. The committee will also review and vote on Determination of Eligibility applications for proposed projects and discuss a stipend for the CPA Administrator.

• Vote to accept draft FY26 Community Preservation Plan and FY25 Annual Report and release for public comment
• Review and vote on Determination of Eligibility applications for proposed projects
• Discussion of stipend for CPA Administrator
• Approval of minutes from October 14, 2025 meeting
• Public comment session at start of meeting

The CPC approved the October 14 minutes and voted to close the public‑comment portion of the meeting. It accepted the FY25 Community Preservation Plan draft and will release it for public comment, with finalization if no comments are received. The committee also increased the CPA Administrator stipend to $7,000. No eligibility applications were received for review.

• Closed public comment portion (unanimous)
• Approved October 14, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted draft CPA plan and authorized public comment period (unanimous)
• Increased CPA Administrator stipend to $7,000 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:30 pm (unanimous)

Housing Authority Board

The regular Board of Directors meeting of the Salem Housing Authority scheduled for November 12, 2025 has been cancelled. No decisions or discussions will take place at this meeting.

Neighborhood Improvement Advisory Council

The council will meet to approve previous minutes and receive updates from the city and neighborhood associations. Special guest Virginia “Gini” Cherol will provide an update on Salem 400+.

• Update from Virginia “Gini” Cherol, Salem 400+ Coordinator
• Approval of September 10, 2025 minutes
• Neighborhood Association updates
• City Updates

The Neighborhood Improvement Advisory Council voted to approve the minutes from the September 10, 2025 meeting. No other actions, approvals, or denials were recorded in this session; the remainder of the agenda consisted of presentations and informational updates.

• Approved September 10, 2025 meeting minutes (approved)

Sustainability, Energy, & Resiliency Committee

The Salem Sustainability, Energy, and Resiliency Committee will vote to approve the minutes from its July 23, 2025 and October 22, 2025 meetings. The committee will also discuss forming a subcommittee to review a Sustainable Landscaping Guide, plan upcoming guest speakers, and consider a December holiday get‑together. The next meeting is scheduled for December 10, 2025 via Zoom.

• Approve Meeting Minutes – July 23, 2025 and Oct. 22, 2025 minutes
• Form subcommittee to review Sustainable Landscaping Guide?
• Discuss upcoming guest speakers & invitations
• Discuss December Holiday get-together
• Next meeting Dec. 10th on Zoom

The Sustainability, Energy, & Resiliency Committee approved the October 22, 2025 meeting minutes with all members voting yes. There was no quorum to vote on the July 23, 2025 minutes, so that item was not decided. The committee then adjourned the meeting unanimously.

• Approved October 22, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• No quorum to vote on July 23, 2025 minutes (decision deferred)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Transportation Commission

The Salem Transportation Commission will consider staff proposals for a drop‑off/pick‑up zone adjacent to 13 Hawthorne Blvd, as directed by the Planning Board. The commission will also continue reviewing draft resident permit parking criteria that were first discussed at the August 13, 2025 meeting.

• 13 Hawthorne Blvd Drop‑off/Pick‑up Zone – staff presentation and discussion
• Resident Permit Parking Criteria Review – continued discussion of draft criteria

The Transportation Commission voted 5‑0 to approve two 30‑minute temporal parking spaces at 13 Hawthorne Blvd, changing the existing permit‑parking rules. The motion was made by Commissioner Swartz and seconded by Commissioner Turowski. The commission also approved the minutes from the August 13, 2025 meeting. Staff were directed to review the last six months of resident‑permit parking requests against the new criteria.

• Approved two 30‑minute parking spaces on Hawthorne Blvd (5‑0 vote)
• Approved August 13, 2025 meeting minutes (5‑0 vote)
• Directed staff to examine six months of parking requests using proposed criteria

City Seal Task Force

The Salem City Seal Task Force will discuss and vote on its final report, which recommends replacing the current city seal. The meeting also includes responding to an Open Meeting Law complaint regarding email discussions. The task force will also approve minutes from October 30, 2025.

• Discussion and vote on City Seal Task Force Report recommending a new seal (5-1 vote in report, but final vote at this meeting)
• Response to Open Meeting Law Complaint 3 concerning email discussions by Christopher Patzke
• Approval of minutes from October 30, 2025 meeting
• Report recommends new seal avoid human figures or witch imagery, highlight maritime heritage and ties to Aceh

The Salem City Seal Task Force met via Zoom on November 10, 2025. Members voted to approve the October 30, 2025 meeting minutes as amended, with two members voting no and the remainder voting yes. No other substantive actions were decided.

• Approved October 30 minutes as amended (2 nays, rest yes)

Zero Waste Salem

The Zero Waste Salem Committee will vote on a new logo for the group and discuss the upcoming textile drive (Nov 22 at Salem High School) and Styrofoam collection event (Jan 10 at Beverly High School). Other agenda items include debriefing the Nov 8 Repair Cafe, exploring battery recycling options, and considering new tech tools as the committee rebrands.

• Vote on new Zero Waste Salem logo
• Textile drive on Nov 22 at Salem High School parking lot (8 AM–1 PM, collected by Helpsy)
• Styrofoam collection event on Jan 10 at Beverly High School, pending Casella confirmation
• Discussion of Repair Cafe: need for more fixers, especially bike fixers, and outreach to SHS CTE students
• Battery recycling options: Redwood Materials or Staples

The committee approved the October 2025 meeting minutes unanimously. Members voted on a new Zero Waste Salem logo, selecting color D (5 votes) and font 1 (5 votes) as the winner. The group also scheduled a follow‑up meeting for December.

• Approved October 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved new ZWS logo: color D (5 votes) and font 1 (5 votes) as winner

Salem High School Building Committee

The committee will review a capacity study and receive a design progress update for the Salem High School project. They will also vote on the previous meeting's minutes and review the schematic design table of contents. Public comment will be heard.

• Vote to approve October 16, 2025 meeting minutes
• Review of milestone schedule and next steps
• Review of schematic design table of contents
• Overview of capacity study
• Design progress update

Salem Harbor Port Authority

The Salem Harbor Port Authority meets via remote participation to hear port updates, a harbormaster report, and approve previous meeting minutes. The agenda includes public comment and routine administrative items. No votes on contracts, rezonings, or fee changes are scheduled.

• Port Updates
• Harbormaster Report
• Approval of Minutes

The Salem Harbor Port Authority voted unanimously to approve the minutes from the October 6, 2025 meeting. The board then unanimously moved to adjourn the November 6, 2025 meeting. No other substantive actions were decided.

• Approved October 6, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned November 6, 2025 meeting (unanimous)

City Council

The Salem City Council Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs will meet to discuss an amendment to the Zoning Ordinance that would create a new Smart Growth Overlay Subdistrict for Margin, Endicott, and High Streets.

• Discussion of Zoning Ordinance #462
• Amendment to Section 7, Special Residential District Regulations
• Proposal for Margin, Endicott, and High Street Smart Growth Overlay Subdistrict

Planning Board

The Salem Planning Board will continue two public hearings: a subdivision at 15 Crosby Street and a site plan review for a new school welcome center at 30 Leavitt Street. The board will also vote on a request to amend tri-party agreements for Phases 4, 5, and 6-10 of the Strongwater Crossing Subdivision at 57 Marlborough Road. Staff will introduce the Jefferson Avenue Corridor Study and provide updates on previously approved projects. The meeting concludes with approval of minutes from October 15 and 16.

• Continuance of public hearing for Definitive Subdivision Plan at 15 Crosby Street, including a frontage waiver request for Lot A
• Continuance of public hearing for C-ROD Site Plan Review at 30 Leavitt Street for a new Salem Public Schools Welcome Center (3,017 sq ft addition)
• Vote on request to amend Tri-Party Agreements for Strongwater Crossing Subdivision (57 Marlborough Road) Phases 4, 5, and 6-10
• Staff introduction of the Jefferson Avenue Corridor Study
• Review and approval of draft minutes from October 15 joint public hearing and October 16 regular meeting

The Planning Board voted 8-0 to amend the Tri‑Party Agreements for the Strongwater Crossing Subdivision, releasing Rockland Trust and authorizing Planning Director Tom Daniel to sign on the Board’s behalf. The Board also voted 8-0 to continue the public hearings for the 15 Crosby Street subdivision and the 30 Leavitt Street C‑ROD site plan to the November 20, 2025 meeting. Draft minutes from the October 15 and October 16, 2025 meetings were approved unanimously, and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved amendment to Tri‑Party Agreements for Strongwater Crossing Subdivision, releasing Rockland Trust and allowing Tom Daniel to sign (8-0)
• Continued public hearing on 15 Crosby Street subdivision application to Nov 20, 2025 (8-0)
• Continued public hearing on 30 Leavitt Street C‑ROD site plan to Nov 20, 2025 (8-0)
• Approved draft minutes from Oct 15, 2025 Joint Public Hearing (8-0)
• Approved draft minutes from Oct 16, 2025 regular meeting (8-0)
• Adjourned meeting (8-0)

Historical Commission

The Salem Historical Commission will meet remotely on November 5, 2025, to consider several Certificate of Appropriateness applications, including installing security cameras at the public library and restoring the Salem Common bandstand. The commission will also continue discussions on Camp Naumkeag and other pending items.

• 372 Essex Street – Certificate of Appropriateness to install security cameras on public library
• 0 Washington Square – Certificate of Appropriateness for Salem Common Bandstand restoration and improvements
• City of Salem – continued discussion on Camp Naumkeag
• 1 Forrester Street – Certificate of Appropriateness for fencing, gutters, and window replacement (continuation)
• 105 Derby Street – Certificate of Appropriateness for paint colors

The commission approved the City’s application to install security cameras at the public library on 372 Essex Street, with the motion carried unanimously. It also approved the conditional denial stipulations for the 301 Essex Street demolition extension, accepted the withdrawal of a signage application at 160 Federal Street, and approved a window replacement and chimney removal at 142 Federal Street. Several other applications, including the Salem Common Bandstand restoration, Camp Naumkeag, and projects at Forrester and Pickering Streets, were continued to the next meeting.

• Approved security cameras at 372 Essex St library (unanimous)
• Approved stipulations of conditional denial for 301 Essex demolition extension (unanimous)
• Accepted withdrawal of signage application at 160 Federal St (unanimous)
• Approved window replacement at 142 Federal St with deputized member to confirm lites (unanimous)
• Approved removal of rear chimney at 142 Federal St (unanimous)
• Continued Salem Common Bandstand restoration application to next meeting (unanimous)
• Continued Camp Naumkeag application to next meeting (unanimous)
• Continued Forrester Street application to next meeting (unanimous)

Bicycling & Shared Path Advisory Committee

The Bicycling & Shared Path Advisory Committee will meet to discuss bike infrastructure initiatives. Items include a potential bike parking ordinance, bikeshare program data and updates, and bike lane separators. The committee will also hear from Galen Mook of MassBike and consider a youth education program.

• Guest speaker Galen Mook of MassBike
• Discussion of a bike parking ordinance
• Bikeshare program data and updates
• Bike lane separators discussion
• Potential youth education program

The Bicycling & Shared Path Advisory Committee voted to approve the minutes from October 8, 2025. All members present voted in favor. The committee then voted to adjourn the meeting at 8:02 p.m. No other substantive actions were decided.

• Approved 10/8/2025 minutes (all members voted in favor)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:02 p.m. (all members voted in favor)

Affordable Housing Trust Fund

The Salem Affordable Housing Trust Fund Board will hold a public meeting to discuss its activities and priorities for calendar year 2026, including a status report from the General Funding Application Subcommittee and recommendations to the Community Preservation Commission on housing projects. The board will also consider the FY26 Community Preservation Plan, solicit input on the Jefferson Ave Corridor Study Survey, and receive updates on the Housing Roadmap and mayor's housing priorities such as parking minimums and transfer fees.

• Discussion of Trust activities and priorities for 2026, including subcommittee report and Community Preservation Commission recommendations
• Request for comment/input on the FY26 Community Preservation Plan
• Request for participation and distribution of the Jefferson Ave Corridor Study Survey
• Staff update on Mayor's Housing Priorities: parking minimums for multifamily housing, single-room occupancy units, transfer fees, and 40R Smart Growth Overlay Districts
• Recognition of service for Megan Boyle

The board approved the May 6, 2025 meeting minutes. It decided not to form a new subcommittee for its 2026 activities and will act as a whole. The board created a fundraising subcommittee and approved a letter to the Community Preservation Committee. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved May 6, 2025 minutes (all in favor)
• Decided to forgo creating a subcommittee and act as a whole (all in favor)
• Created a fundraising subcommittee (all in favor)
• Approved letter to the Community Preservation Committee (all in favor)
• Adjourned meeting (all in favor)

Zero Waste Salem

The Zero Waste Salem Committee will meet to discuss upcoming waste reduction events and recycling partnerships. The body is scheduled to vote on a new committee logo and address scheduling conflicts for a styrofoam collection event.

• Vote on new ZWS logo
• Planning for Nov 8 Repair Cafe
• Textile Drive at SHS parking lot on Nov 22, 2025
• Styrofoam collection event scheduled for Jan 10, 2026
• Discussion of battery recycling via Redwood Materials or Staples

Salem Cultural Council

The Salem Cultural Council will hold a hybrid meeting to discuss and vote on grant applications. The public can attend in person at City Hall Annex or remotely via Zoom.

• Vote on September 2025 meeting minutes
• Discuss and vote on grant applications
• Public comment period
• Hybrid meeting format (City Hall Annex and Zoom)
• Review meeting protocols and detailed instructions

The Salem Cultural Council approved the October 2025 meeting minutes by unanimous vote. No grant applications or other matters were approved, denied, or tabled. The council discussed a list of 2025‑2026 grant applications but took no action on them. The meeting adjourned at 10:04 PM.

• Approved October 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Motion to adjourn passed

School Committee

The Salem School Committee will hold a regular meeting to discuss elementary school reconfiguration and receive updates from the Massachusetts School Building Authority. The body will also consider several first readings of district policies and a stipend agreement for athletic coaches.

• Approval of FY26 Warrants: 10/23/2025 ($458,765.39) and 10/30/2025 ($382,514.60)
• Approval of Athletic Coaches Stipend Agreement with the Salem Teachers Union
• License renewal for Angela’s Preschool & Daycare
• First readings of policies regarding legal status, nondiscrimination, harassment, and tobacco products
• Approval of Salem High School Basketball Team field trip to Orlando, Florida (Dec 17-22, 2025)

The Salem School Committee approved several items by unanimous vote, including the athletic coaches stipend agreement with the Salem Teachers Union, a renewal of Angela’s Preschool & Daycare license, and first‑reading approvals of multiple policy revisions. The consent agenda was also approved, covering the October 20 meeting minutes, a field trip for the high school basketball team, and FY26 warrants totaling $841,280.99. All motions passed without opposition.

• Approved athletic coaches stipend agreement with Salem Teachers Union (unanimous)
• Approved Angela’s Preschool & Daycare License renewal (Dec 1 2025 – Jun 30 2026) (unanimous)
• Approved Policies AA, AC, AC‑R, ACA, ACE, ADC for first reading (unanimous)
• Approved FY26 warrants: $458,765.39 (10/23/2025) and $382,514.60 (10/30/2025) (unanimous)
• Approved field trip to Orlando, FL for Salem High School basketball team (Dec 17‑22 2025) (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of the Oct 20 2025 School Committee meeting (unanimous)
• Approved agenda for the Nov 3 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda items (unanimous)

School Committee

The Salem School Committee will hold an executive session to discuss a Step 4 grievance filed by AFSCME and to approve the minutes from the October 20, 2025 executive session. No public votes or policy decisions are scheduled during this meeting.

• Executive session to discuss Step 4 AFSCME grievance

City Seal Task Force

The Salem City Seal Task Force will discuss progress on its report and approve minutes from several prior meetings. A final meeting is scheduled for November 10, 2025, to vote on the report.

• Discussion of City Seal Task Force Report progress and updates
• Approval of minutes from June 16, September 15, October 7, October 14, and October 23, 2025
• Final meeting set for November 10, 2025, for report deadline and approval vote

The task force met via Zoom on Oct 30, 2025, completed roll call and approved the June 16 meeting minutes unanimously. Members discussed transcript errors for the September 15 and Sept 23 minutes and agreed to add a disclaimer about AI‑generated spelling mistakes. No other formal actions were voted on.

• Approved June 16 minutes (unanimous)
• Discussed transcript errors for September 15 and September 23 minutes (no vote)
• Agreed to add a disclaimer noting AI‑generated spelling errors

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on four projects subject to the Wetlands Protection Act and Salem Wetlands Ordinance, including an in-ground pool at 4 Nurse Way, groundwater monitoring wells at Collins Cove, a garage addition at 18 Sutton Ave, and the demolition and construction of a Family Welcome Center at 30 Leavitt St. The commission will also consider certificates of compliance for previous projects and a possible violation at 37 March St. The meeting will be held via Zoom.

• Public hearing on in-ground pool at 4 Nurse Way (Map 14 Lot 216)
• Public hearing on three groundwater monitoring wells at Collins Cove
• Public hearing on removal of one-car garage and construction of two-car garage and building additions at 18 Sutton Ave
• Public hearing on razing existing building and constructing City of Salem Family Welcome Center at 30 Leavitt St
• Certificate of compliance requests for 9 Clark Ave (two items) and Pioneer Terrace, and possible violation at 37 March St

City Council

The City Council Committee on Government Services, co-posted with the Committee of the Whole, will consider granting a waiver for two restaurants to keep outdoor dining platforms on Derby Street from November 2025 through May 2026. The waiver would exempt them from the requirement to remove seasonal outdoor dining under the city's 2023 Outdoor Dining Policy. The meeting is scheduled for October 28, 2025, at 6 PM in City Council Chambers.

• Waiver request for Regazza Restaurant Group d/b/a Bambolina at 288 Derby St.
• Waiver request for Hazel Deli LLC d/b/a Witchside Tavern at 283 Derby St.
• Outdoor dining platforms allowed to remain on Derby Street during November 2025–May 2026.
• Discussion based on the City of Salem Outdoor Dining Policy dated December 7, 2023.

The City Council Committee on Government Services and the Committee of the Whole reviewed request #518 to allow Bambolina and Witchside Tavern to keep their outdoor dining platforms on Derby Street from November 2025 through May 2026. Members talked about parking impacts, possible fee structures, snow‑removal access, and trial conditions. No vote or formal decision was documented in the minutes.

School Committee

The Building and Grounds Subcommittee is meeting to review a license for Angela's Daycare and short-term rental terms. The body will also receive an update on Buildings & Grounds efforts and operations via Hero.

• Review of Angela's Daycare License for space at Salem High School (classrooms 118, 119, 124, 125 and playground)
• Review of Short Term Rental Terms
• Buildings & Grounds Efforts and Operations Hero Update
• Approval of August 4, 2025 Building and Grounds Subcommittee Minutes

The subcommittee approved the minutes from its August 4, 2025 meeting. The committee voted to recommend renewing Angela’s Daycare contract from Dec 1 2025 to June 30 2026. The meeting was then adjourned at 6:15 pm.

• Approved August 4 2025 subcommittee minutes (2 votes yes, 1 absent)
• Recommended renewal of Angela’s Daycare contract Dec 1 2025–June 30 2026 (2 votes yes, 1 absent)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:15 pm (2 votes yes, 1 absent)

Licensing Board

The Salem Licensing Board will consider several applications for liquor licenses and other permits. Items include a one-day license for a North Shore CDC fundraiser, a one-day license and entertainment permit for a Haunted Happenings beer garden, a common victuallers license for Cisco Tipico, and a transfer of an annual all-alcohol restaurant and entertainment license for MIDA. The board will also vote on approving meeting minutes from June through September.

• One-day liquor license for North Shore CDC fundraiser at 96 Lafayette St. (Nov 6)
• One-day liquor license and entertainment license for Haunted Happenings beer garden at Federal & Washington St. (Oct 31)
• Common victuallers license for Cisco Tipico at 88 Congress St.
• Transfer of annual all-alcohol restaurant and entertainment license to MIDA Salem at 300 Derby St.
• Change of officers/directors/stock interest for Pamplemousse at 185 Essex St.

The board approved six applications for liquor licenses and related corporate changes, each by a 2‑0 vote. Approvals included a one‑day liquor license for a fundraiser at 96 Lafayette St., a beer and wine garden with entertainment at Federal & Washington St., a common victuallers license at 88 Congress St., a transfer of an all‑alcohol restaurant license at 300 Derby St., and a change of officers and stock interest for Pamplemousse, Inc. at 185 Essex St. The board also approved the minutes from the June‑September meetings.

• Approved one‑day liquor license for North Shore CDC event at 96 Lafayette St. (2‑0)
• Approved beer & wine garden and entertainment license for The Anthem Group at Federal & Washington St. (2‑0)
• Approved common victuallers license for Ciscos Tipico Corp. at 88 Congress St. (2‑0)
• Approved transfer of annual all‑alcohol restaurant license for MIDA Salem at 300 Derby St. (2‑0)
• Approved change of officers/directors/LLC managers and stock interest for Pamplemousse, Inc. at 185 Essex St. (2‑0)
• Approved meeting minutes from June, July, August and September meetings (2‑0)

School Committee

The Policy Subcommittee will hold a virtual meeting on October 24, 2025, to approve minutes from its October 3 meeting and to continue reviewing Section A policies with a representative from the Massachusetts Association of School Committees (MASC). The prior meeting included discussion of new CTE policies and a preliminary review of Section A policies, with several policies recommended for adoption and some sent for attorney review.

• Approval of minutes from the October 3, 2025, Policy Subcommittee meeting
• Section A Policies Review with Alicia Mallon, Field Director of MASC
• Several Section A policies (e.g., AA, AC, ACE, ADC) recommended for adoption as suggested
• Policies AB, AC-R, ADDA, ADDA-R sent for attorney review
• Subcommittee review of policies AD (mission/vision), ADF (wellness), ADFA (nutrition), ADFB (physical activity), ADFC (social/emotional health), and AE (commitment to accomplishment)

The subcommittee approved the minutes from the October 3 meeting. It then voted to approve eight district policies and forward each to the full School Committee for a first reading. All motions passed with two yes votes and one member absent. The meeting was adjourned at 3:42 p.m.

• Approved minutes of October 3, 2025 Policy Subcommittee meeting (2‑0‑1)
• Approved School District Legal Status policy for first reading (2‑0‑1)
• Approved Non‑discrimination policy including harassment and retaliation for first reading (2‑0‑1)
• Approved Harassment and Violence policy for first reading (2‑0‑1)
• Approved Non‑discrimination on the basis of sex policy for first reading (2‑0‑1)
• Approved Non‑discrimination on the basis of disability policy for first reading (2‑0‑1)
• Approved Tobacco Products on School Premises policy for first reading (2‑0‑1)
• Adjourned meeting at 3:42 p.m. (2‑0‑1)

City Seal Task Force

The Salem City Seal Task Force will discuss and vote on whether to change the city seal. They will also respond to two Open Meeting Law complaints filed by Christopher Patzke, vote on a report deadline, and consider closing the JotForm for public input. The meeting includes approval of minutes from three prior meetings.

• Discussion and vote on Task Force's decision on city seal change
• Respond to Open Meeting Law complaints from Christopher Patzke (listening session and meeting minutes)
• Vote on Task Force report deadline suggested as November 3, 2025
• Vote on closing the JotForm and public input
• Approval of minutes from September 15, October 7, and October 14, 2025

The City Seal Task Force met on October 23, 2025 and reviewed two open‑meeting law complaints. Members agreed that the October 14 listening session satisfied the remedy for the first complaint. The board then voted to authorize the Salem Legal Department to submit a response to the Attorney General’s Office on behalf of the Task Force.

• Concluded the October 14 listening session fulfills the remedy for the first open‑meeting complaint
• Authorized Salem Legal Department to submit a response to the Attorney General’s Office (motion moved, seconded, and passed)

City Council

The City Council Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs, co-posted with the Committee of the Whole, will meet on October 23, 2025 at 6:30 PM to discuss granting a secondhand valuables license for Game Zone and an ordinance amendment to increase the number of available retail marijuana licenses under Ch.24 Sec.30. The meeting is in person at City Council Chambers with remote access via Zoom.

• Granting of certain licenses – Secondhand Valuables – Game Zone
• Ordinance to amend Ch. 24 Sec. 30 – Retail Marijuana Establishments (increasing number of available licenses)

City Council

The City Council Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs will meet to discuss granting a license for a secondhand valuables business called Game Zone. No other items are on the agenda.

• Discussion on granting a license for SecondHand Valuables – Game Zone

City Council

The Salem City Council will consider several agenda items, including the adoption of a Smart Growth Overlay District ordinance that adds a new subdistrict for Margin, Endicott, and High Streets. The council will also vote on a payment of $12,802.65 for a FY2025 invoice, accept a $1,500 donation for the city scholarship fund, and grant outdoor‑dining waivers for two Derby Street restaurants. Additional actions include a second passage of a traffic ordinance for Pratt Street parking stickers and various appointments and re‑appointments.

• Adopt Smart Growth Overlay District ordinance for Margin, Endicott, High Street subdistrict
• Approve payment of $12,802.65 for outstanding FY2025 invoice
• Accept $1,500 donation from Yuans Bistro Inc dba Fantasy Island for Scholarship Fund
• Waive outdoor dining removal for Regazza Restaurant Group (288 Derby St) and Hazel Deli LLC (283 Derby St) Nov 2025–May 2026
• Second passage of traffic ordinance amending resident sticker parking on Pratt Street

The council adopted the Smart Growth Overlay District ordinance for Margin, Endicott, and High Streets by a 9‑2 vote, moving it to the Committee on Ordinances. It also confirmed reappointments to several boards, approved a $12,802.65 payment of a prior‑year invoice, accepted a $1,500 donation for the scholarship fund, and appointed Elizabeth Smith as deputy auditor. Additionally, the council granted a license for Secondhand Valuable – Game Zone.

• Adopted Smart Growth Overlay District ordinance (9 yeas, 2 nays)
• Reappointed Julia Beauregard to Beautification Committee (11 yeas, 0 nays)
• Reappointed Jennifer Winsor to Race Equity Commission (11 yeas, 0 nays)
• Reappointed Tara Dhanraj Rodens to Food Policy Council (11 yeas, 0 nays)
• Reappointed Nathaniel Korpusik to Sustainability, Energy and Resiliency Committee (11 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved payment of $12,802.65 for FY2025 invoice from FY2026 budget (11 yeas, 0 nays)
• Accepted $1,500 donation from Yuans Bistro Inc dba Fantasy Island for scholarship fund (adopted)
• Appointed Elizabeth Smith as Deputy Auditor (term expires Jan 31, 2026)

Design Review Board

The board will review the schematic design for a new multi‑functional ferry terminal building at 10 Blaney Street on Salem Wharf. They will also approve the September 25, 2025 meeting minutes and hear any staff updates. The meeting is conducted remotely via Zoom.

• Schematic Design Review – new multi‑functional ferry terminal at 10 Blaney Street, Salem Wharf
• Approval of September 25, 2025 meeting minutes
• Staff updates (if any)
• Upcoming SRA meeting scheduled for November 12
• Upcoming DRB meeting scheduled for November 19

The Design Review Board voted 6-0 to approve the September 25, 2025 meeting minutes. The board then voted unanimously to adjourn the October 22, 2025 meeting. No formal decisions were made on the 10 Blaney Street ferry terminal design, as the board stated it would not vote on that item.

• Approved September 25, 2025 minutes (6-0)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

Sustainability, Energy, & Resiliency Committee

The Sustainability, Energy, and Resiliency Committee will meet to receive city and council updates. The body will discuss the development of the Salem Climate Resiliency Checklist and coordinate future meeting dates and guest speakers.

• Development of Salem Climate Resiliency Checklist
• Approval of July 23, 2025 meeting minutes
• Monthly subcommittee check-in

The committee postponed approval of the July 23, 2025 minutes until November. The SGAR subcommittee was reported as passed into law and closed. Future meeting dates were scheduled for November 12 and December 10, 2025. The meeting was adjourned with a unanimous vote in favor.

• Tabled approval of July 23, 2025 meeting minutes (postponed to November) – no vote tally recorded
• SGAR Subcommittee work passed into law; subcommittee closed – no vote recorded
• Set future committee meeting dates: November 12, 2025 and December 10, 2025 – no vote recorded
• Motion to adjourn passed unanimously (all members voted Yes)

Public Art Commission

The Salem Public Art Commission will hold a remote meeting to discuss and potentially vote on the Hells Gibson State Flower Mural Proposal, review the 400+ Public Art Call For Art, and approve previous meeting minutes. Public comment is accepted via Zoom or email.

• Review of Hells Gibson State Flower Mural Proposal
• Discussion of 400+ Public Art Call For Art
• Approval of September 2025 meeting minutes
• Project updates and other business

The Public Art Commission approved Helen (Hells) Gibson as the muralist to create the “Flowers Grow in Massachusetts” mural at the overpass near the MBTA Transit Station, with a 4‑0 vote. The commission also extended the public input period for the 400+ Call for Artists to late January and set the Phase 2 deadline to January 22. A public Q&A session was scheduled for November 18 at 6:30 pm, and the commission chose public input over direct public voting for the artist selection process.

• Approved September 16, 2025 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved Helen Gibson as muralist for “Flowers Grow in Massachusetts” mural (4-0)
• Decided to hold a public Q&A on November 18 at 6:30 pm
• Decided against public voting in the 400+ Call for Artists, opting for public input
• Extended public input period for the 400+ Call for Artists to late January; Phase 2 deadline set to Jan 22
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Park & Recreation Commission

The Park and Recreation Commission will vote on a permit extension for festivities on Salem Commons and a wedding ceremony request. They will also receive a presentation and vote on the Phase 2 restoration of the Salem Common Bandstand. Other business includes approval of prior meeting minutes.

• Vote on extending permit for festivities on Salem Commons to November 1, 2025
• Dakota Mason's request for a wedding ceremony at Salem Commons Gazebo with amplification on November 7
• Presentation and vote on Salem Common Bandstand Phase 2 Restoration project

The commission approved the September 16, 2025 minutes. It then unanimously approved Dakota Mason’s wedding at the Salem Commons Gazebo and extended the Salem Commons festivities permit by one day. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved September 16, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved use of Salem Commons Gazebo for wedding (unanimous)
• Approved one‑day extension of Salem Commons festivities permit (unanimous)

City Seal Task Force

This meeting of the Salem City Seal Task Force was scheduled for October 20, 2025, but has been postponed because of a clerical error. No decisions or discussions will occur at this time. Updated scheduling will be provided later.

• Meeting postponed; no votes or discussions will take place
• Scheduled items included responding to Open Meeting Law complaints from Christopher Patzke
• Scheduled discussion and vote on changing the city seal
• Scheduled vote on task force report deadline (suggested November 3, 2025)
• Scheduled discussion on closing public input via JotForm

School Committee

The Salem School Committee will meet in person on October 20, 2025, at 29 Highland Ave. The agenda includes an executive session to discuss the lease for New Liberty Innovation School and Salem Prep High School, as well as strategy sessions for collective bargaining with the Salem Teachers Union.

• Executive session to discuss lease for New Liberty Innovation School and Salem Prep High School
• Executive session to conduct strategy sessions for collective bargaining with the Salem Teachers Union
• Approval of executive session minutes from June 2, 2025
• Approval of executive session minutes from September 8, 2025

School Committee

The Salem School Committee will meet to approve FY26 warrants totaling over $3.4 million, field trip permissions, and draft policies regarding Career and Technical Education.

• Approval of FY26 Warrants ($3,422,799.13 total)
• Approval of Field Trip to SkillsUSA Fall State Leadership Conference
• Middle School Pathway Exploration Policy (Draft)
• Recruitment, Admission, and Retention for CTE Programs Policy (Draft)
• Alcohol service approval for Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

The committee approved the consent agenda, which included the minutes from Oct 6, a field‑trip approval and FY26 warrants for $1,251,512.12, $1,250,799.20 and $920,487.81. Members suspended Policy 6203 to fast‑track two CTE policies and then adopted both the Middle School Pathway Exploration CTE Regulations Policy and the Recruitment, Admission, and Retention CTE Programs Policy. They also approved serving alcohol at the Hall of Fame Induction ceremony on Nov 18, 2025 (5‑1‑1 vote) and referred Angela’s Preschool & Daycare license renewal to the Building and Grounds Subcommittee. The meeting was adjourned at 8:12 p.m.

• Approved consent agenda items (minutes, field trip, FY26 warrants) – 6 votes yes, 0 no, 1 absent
• Suspended Policy 6203 to fast‑track CTE policies – 6 votes yes, 0 no, 1 absent
• Adopted Middle School Pathway Exploration CTE Regulations Policy – 6 votes yes, 0 no, 1 absent
• Adopted Recruitment, Admission, and Retention CTE Programs Policy – 6 votes yes, 0 no, 1 absent
• Approved alcohol service at Hall of Fame Induction ceremony – 5 votes yes, 1 no, 1 absent
• Referred Angela’s Preschool & Daycare License Renewal to Building and Grounds Subcommittee – 6 votes yes, 0 no, 1 absent
• Adjourned meeting – 6 votes yes, 0 no, 1 absent

Tree Commission

The Salem Tree Commission will hear a report from the Tree Warden and a presentation on the Greening the Gateway Cities Program. A draft letter to the mayor regarding tree planting at Essex and Cambridge Streets will be discussed. The commission will also consider community outreach efforts and a report on TreeCanopy.US.

• Presentation by DCR Forester David Bresnahan on the Greening the Gateway Cities Program
• Draft letter to mayor on tree planting at Essex and Cambridge Streets
• Community outreach presentation to Essex County Highway Association
• Report on TreeCanopy.US by Jake St. Louis
• Approval of minutes from July 14, 2025, and September 8, 2025

The Tree Commission voted to approve the minutes from the July 14 and September 8, 2025 meetings. Commissioners also agreed to send a draft letter to the mayor and Tom Daniels about tree planting on Essex and Cambridge Streets. Plans were confirmed for 20 tree‑pit plantings in November and additional grant‑funded plantings, and a library‑lawn stewardship activity was scheduled for November 8. The next meetings are set for November 17 and December 15, 2025.

• Approved July 14, 2025 minutes (motion carried; Rieder and Goldfield abstained)
• Approved September 8, 2025 minutes (motion carried; Rieder abstained)
• Agreed to send draft letter to mayor and Tom Daniels regarding Essex/Cambridge St. tree planting
• Confirmed 20 viable tree‑pit plantings to start mid‑November using operational funds
• Planned 25 additional grant‑funded plantings pending nursery availability
• Scheduled Tree Steward activity on library lawn; November 8 work reserved for another location
• Motion to adjourn carried unanimously

Scholarship & Education Committee

The Salem Scholarship & Education Committee will meet remotely on September 8, 2025. The main agenda item is finalizing the launch of the Education Fund Campaign, along with a financial update and discussion of fundraising ideas. The committee will also approve minutes from the previous meeting and consider new business.

• Approval of August 11, 2025 meeting minutes
• Financial update on scholarship and education funds
• Finalize launch of Education Fund Campaign
• Discussion of fundraising ideas and feedback from the city
• New business (no specific items listed)

Salem High School Building Committee

The committee will vote on minutes from a prior meeting (listed as November 25, 2025) and receive updates on the project's milestone schedule, design progress, and finance working group. The meeting also includes introductions of new members Tom Larco and Davida Flynn, public comment, and other business.

• Vote to approve meeting minutes of November 25, 2025
• Milestone schedule review and next steps
• Design progress update for Salem High School project
• Update from Finance Working Group
• Public comment period

Planning Board

The Salem Planning Board will hold public hearings on several development proposals, including a continuance for 301 Essex Street to increase residential units from 20 to 30 and a new hearing for a Dunkin Donuts renovation at 248 Highland Ave. The board will also vote on a recommendation to the City Council regarding a proposed Smart Growth Overlay District on Margin, Endicott, and High Street. Additionally, the board will discuss the FY26 Community Preservation Plan and a request to release a Triparty Agreement for 14-16 Almeda Street.

• 301 Essex Street: proposal to eliminate ground floor parking garage and increase residential units from 20 to 30
• 21 Webb Street: demolish existing parking garage and construct 6-guestroom bed and breakfast with one residential unit
• 30 Leavitt Street: construct new Salem Public Schools Welcome Center with approximately 3,017 sq ft addition
• 248 Highland Ave: renovate Dunkin Donuts by removing one drive-through lane and adding five parking spaces
• Vote on recommendation for Smart Growth Overlay District on Margin, Endicott, and High Street

The Salem Planning Board approved the C‑ROD site‑plan review for 21 Webb Street with a unanimous 9‑0 vote. The board also voted to continue hearings for 301 Essex, 15 Crosby, 30 Leavitt, and 248 Highland Avenue to future meetings, each passing unanimously (the Highland vote was 8‑0). All motions were recorded as roll‑call votes.

• Approved C‑ROD site plan review for 21 Webb Street (9-0)
• Closed public hearing for 21 Webb Street (9-0)
• Continued 301 Essex Street hearing to Nov 20 2025 (9-0)
• Continued 15 Crosby Street hearing to Nov 6 2025 (9-0)
• Continued 30 Leavitt Street hearing to Nov 6 2025 (9-0)
• Continued 248 Highland Ave hearing to Nov 20 2025 (8-0)

Health

The North Shore Public Health Collaborative will meet to receive updates on foundational public health services, workplan and budget, epidemiology, and opioid settlement fund allocations. The meeting also includes community updates and is open to public participation via Zoom.

• Opioid settlement funds update
• Workplan and budget updates
• Epidemiology updates
• Foundational Public Health Services update
• Community updates

Council on Aging Board

The Council on Aging Board will hold its annual meeting to elect officers and review a draft workplan for 2025-2026, followed by a regular monthly meeting. The regular meeting includes discussion of senior housing, continued advocacy, and a report from the Friends of the COA.

• Election of board officers
• Review of draft workplan 2025-2026
• Discussion of senior housing
• Continued advocacy updates
• Friends of the COA report

The Council on Aging Board accepted the previously appointed officers and unanimously approved the draft workplan for 2025‑2026. Both motions were carried without opposition. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Accepted officer appointments (Vice‑Chair John Russell, Secretary Kristin Macek, Treasurer Abigail Butt) – unanimous
• Approved the annual report and draft workplan for 2025‑2026 – unanimous
• Adjourned the meeting – unanimous

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Salem Zoning Board of Appeals will hear five petitions for variances and special permits, including converting a mixed-use commercial office building at 116 Highland Avenue into a seven-family residential building with a smaller office. Other items involve adding units to existing nonconforming structures at 284 Washington Street and 13 Raymond Road, and a new staircase at 43 Rear Walter Street. The board will also review draft rules and regulations and approve minutes from prior meetings.

• 284 Washington Street: Convert nonconforming two-family with office to three-family with office; request variance for 4 parking spaces where 7 required.
• 13 Raymond Road: Extend roof and staircase to turn nonconforming two-family house into three-story three-family house; request variance for three stories.
• 116 Highland Avenue Unit A1: Convert mixed-use commercial building with 3 dwelling units to 7-family residential with smaller office; request variance for lot area per unit.
• 124 Boston Street: Jiankang Spa Body Work seeks special permit to operate personal service establishment; request variance for 5 parking spaces where 9 required.
• Review and Discussion: Draft ZBA Rules and Regulations.

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a special permit for Works by Jesse Debenedictis to replace a rear two‑story staircase with a new staircase, second‑floor deck, and first‑floor covered porch at 43 Rear Walter Street, decreasing the rear setback to 25 feet. The motion passed unanimously with a 5‑0 vote. The board also approved a variance and special permit for Kathleen Sirois to convert a non‑conforming two‑family building with office space into a three‑family building at 284 Washington Street, allowing reduced dwelling unit size. The approval was granted, though the recorded minutes do not specify the vote count.

• Approved special permit for staircase, deck, porch at 43 Rear Walter St (5‑0)
• Approved variance and special permit for three‑family conversion at 284 Washington St (vote not recorded)

Historical Commission

The Salem Historical Commission will meet remotely on October 15, 2025, to act on multiple certificates of appropriateness and demolition delay waivers. Items include requests for window replacements, gutters, fencing, and signage at historic properties. The Commission will also continue its discussion on the FY26 Community Preservation Act Plan.

• 301 Essex Street – Jerrys LLC – Extension of Waiver of Demolition Delay (continued)
• 13 Raymond Road – Eastwind Investments LLC – Waiver of Demolition Delay for roof demolition (continued)
• 160 Federal Street – Salem Schools LLC/North Shore CDC – Certificate of Appropriateness for signage
• 16 March Street – Ana Tejeda and Miguel Pimentel – Waiver of Demolition Delay to demolish garage over 50 years old
• Request for comment on the FY26 CPA Plan (continued from previous meeting)

The commission voted to request the City attend the next meeting. It approved the use of Andersen 400 windows on the third floor of 132 Derby Street, requiring brush painting and removal of storms and half screens. Several applications were continued to the November 5 meeting, including fencing, gutters, windows, demolition‑delay waivers, and signage. The commission also approved half‑round copper gutters with round downspouts at 319 Essex Street.

• Approved request for City to attend next meeting (motion carried)
• Approved use of Andersen 400 windows on third floor, brush‑painting required (motion carried)
• Continued Forrester Street application to November 5 meeting (motion carried)
• Continued 301 Essex Street demolition‑delay waiver to November 5 meeting (motion carried)
• Continued 13 Raymond Road demolition‑delay waiver to November 5 meeting (motion carried)
• Continued 160 Federal Street signage application to November 5 meeting (motion carried)
• Approved half‑round copper gutters with round downspouts at 319 Essex Street (motion carried)
• Continued 1 Forrester Street fencing, gutters and window replacement application to November 5 meeting (motion carried)

City Council

The Salem City Council and Planning Board hold a joint public hearing to consider a zoning amendment creating the Margin, Endicott, and High Street Smart Growth Overlay Subdistrict. The proposed subdistrict would allow mixed-use development including supportive housing, medical clinic, and educational uses, with at least 75% of housing units required to be affordable for households at or below 60% of area median income. The hearing is to receive public comment on the amendment, which aims to encourage sustainable development under M.G.L. Chapter 40R.

• Proposed subdistrict covers 56 Margin St, 54 Margin St, 7 High St, 20 Endicott St, and 24 Endicott St (approx. 0.7 acres)
• Requires 75% of housing units to be affordable for households at or below 60% of Area Median Income
• Maximum density of 115 units per acre; building height up to 55 ft and 4 stories
• Permitted uses include supportive housing, medical clinic, educational use, and private club or lodge
• Maximum parking for supportive housing is 1.75 spaces per unit; other uses 1 space per 1,000 sq ft of gross floor area

The Salem City Council and Planning Board met on Oct. 15, 2025 to discuss amending Section 7 of the Special Residential District Regulations by adding a new Smart Growth Overlay Subdistrict covering properties on Margin, Endicott, and High Streets. Council members, the mayor, planning staff, and representatives from Lifebridge and Harborlight presented information and answered questions. No formal vote or decision was recorded during the hearing.

Planning Board

The Salem City Council and Planning Board held a joint public hearing to discuss a zoning amendment adding a new Section 7.4.8.2 Smart Growth Overlay Subdistrict at 56 and 54 Margin Street, 7 High Street, and 20 and 24 Endicott Street. The proposed subdistrict would allow uses including supportive housing, medical clinic, educational use, and private club/lodge, with a 75% affordable housing requirement for projects with at least six units. The hearing provided opportunity for public comment; no vote was taken.

• Proposed Smart Growth Overlay Subdistrict on approximately 0.7 acres at 56 and 54 Margin St, 7 High St, 20 and 24 Endicott St
• At least 75% of housing units in projects with 6+ units must be affordable to households at or below 60% of Area Median Income
• Maximum density of 115 units per acre, maximum building height of 55 feet and 4 stories
• Maximum lot coverage 75% with 25% minimum open space; no setback requirements
• Parking maximums: 1.75 spaces per unit for supportive housing, 1 space per 1,000 sq ft for other uses

The City Council and Planning Board held a joint public hearing to discuss adding Section 7.4.8.2, a Smart Growth Overlay Subdistrict covering Margin, Endicott, and High Street. The proposal describes permitted uses, affordability targets, parking, height, and lot‑coverage standards, but no vote or formal action was recorded. Councilors, the mayor, and staff presented questions and comments.

Licensing Board

The Salem Licensing Board will consider several applications, including a transfer of the all-alcohol liquor license at 118 Washington Street to Rocket Tot Enterprises (Flying Saucer Pizza) and a vote on assigning a promissory note for the conversion fee. Other items include fortune telling license applications and renewals, a one-day liquor license for a fundraiser at Hamilton Hall, and a mass filing for changes of officers across 17 locations.

• Transfer of all-alcohol liquor license at 118 Washington St to Rocket Tot Enterprises d/b/a Flying Saucer Pizza
• Vote to authorize assignment of promissory note with FSPC Corp for conversion fee to sell all alcohol at same location
• Two new fortune telling sublicenses at 1 Derby Sq, Suite 4 (Sea Wych) – applicants Cassandra Warren and Deanna Burke
• Renewal of store fortune telling license at 2 East India Sq Mall, Suite 112 – A Sacred Place Wellness Center / Daryl Bennett
• One-day liquor license for Hamilton Hall's Annual Holiday Dance Fundraiser at 9 Chestnut St for 350 people

The Salem Licensing Board approved two new store sub‑license fortune‑telling permits for Cassandra Warren and Deanna Burke (3‑0). It also approved the renewal of Lori Bruno’s individual fortune‑telling license pending final paperwork (3‑0). The board voted to change officers, directors and ownership for all 17 Massachusetts locations of a business (3‑0), to transfer an annual all‑alcohol liquor license and its entertainment permission to Rocket Tot Enterprises d/b/a Flying Saucer Pizza (3‑0), and to assign the $36,500 conversion‑fee promissory note to the new owner, Ms. Potter (3‑0).

• Approved two store sub‑license fortune‑telling permits at 1 Debry Square, Suite #4 (Cassandra Warren & Deanna Burke) (3‑0)
• Approved renewal of Individual Fortune‑telling license for Lori Bruno, pending final paperwork (3‑0)
• Approved change of officers/directors/LLC managers and ownership for all 17 Massachusetts locations (3‑0)
• Approved transfer of annual all‑alcohol liquor license and entertainment license to Rocket Tot Enterprises d/b/a Flying Saucer Pizza (3‑0)
• Approved assignment of $36,500 conversion‑fee promissory note to new owner Ms. Potter (3‑0)

City Seal Task Force

This is a public listening session where the City Seal Task Force will hear public comments on the city seal. The session runs from 6:00–7:00 PM in person at City Hall Annex and via Zoom. Each speaker gets up to 3 minutes on a first-come, first-served basis; the Task Force will not respond or discuss comments during the session.

• Public comment on the city seal (open mic format, up to 3 minutes per speaker)
• In-person participants speak first; Zoom participants use 'Raise Hand' feature
• Session runs 6:00–7:00 PM on October 14, 2025
• No formal decisions or discussions on the agenda; only listening

The Salem City Seal Task Force conducted its third and last hybrid listening session on October 14, 2025. Members heard public comments about the city seal and related symbols, but the session was for listening only and did not include any votes, approvals, or other formal actions.

Beautification Committee

The Beautification Committee will meet to vote on leadership positions and review sub-committee reports. Discussions include a memorandum of understanding for traffic islands and planning for a volunteer fair.

• Vote for Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary
• Traffic Island MOU review and revision
• 400+ Kickoff and Volunteer Fair
• Lady of Salem fundraising and tours report
• Website and new committee member updates

The Beautification Committee approved a correction to the September 9 minutes to spend the remaining grant money on the Old Salem Jail site. Members voted unanimously to stop reading the mission statement at each meeting. They set October 18, 2025 as the date to remove sponsor signs and place them at City Hall Annex. New members Anthony and Julia will be sworn in on October 23, 2025.

• Approved correction to spend remaining grant money on Old Salem Jail (motion moved, seconded)
• Voted unanimously to stop reading the mission statement at each meeting
• Set sponsor‑sign removal date for Oct 18 2025, signs to be placed at City Hall Annex
• Scheduled swearing‑in of new members Anthony and Julia on Oct 23 2025

Community Preservation Committee

The Community Preservation Committee will hold its annual public informational hearing, review and vote on determination of eligibility applications, and discuss draft FY26 funding application forms. The meeting also includes a funding availability update and election of officers.

• Annual Public Informational Hearing on community preservation projects
• Review and vote on Determination of Eligibility applications
• Review and vote on draft FY26 eligibility and funding application forms
• Election of Chair and Vice Chair
• Funding availability update

The committee approved the FY26 Community Preservation Act application forms. It accepted the September 9, 2025 meeting minutes. Bart Hoskins was elected Chair and Carole Hamilton was elected Vice Chair. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved FY26 application forms (unanimous)
• Accepted September 9, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Elected Bart Hoskins as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Carole Hamilton as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Cemetery Commission

The Salem Cemetery Commission will vote on a trust fund request for a market rate study by Tetra Tech and the annual operating budget. They will also vote to support the 100% design plan for the Dickson Chaple Expansion IFB and discuss policies for managing damaged headstones. Additionally, a presentation on headstone standardization and foot marker rules for the Burke Lot Expansion will be reviewed.

• Vote to request trust funds for market rate study (Tetra Tech)
• Vote to request funds for annual operating budget
• Vote to support 100% design plan for Dickson Chaple Expansion IFB finalization
• Discussion of damaged headstone management across all cemeteries
• Presentation on Burke Lot Expansion headstone standardization and foot marker policies

The commission unanimously approved the minutes from July 29, 2025 and approved a $129,000 operating budget for FY26. It also approved a Trust Fund request for a market‑rate study to be performed by Tetra Tech, with one member abstaining. The vote on the Dickson Chapel expansion design was postponed pending additional information. A motion to extend public comment on Burke Lot headstone standards was approved.

• Approved July 29, 2025 minutes (unanimous, Phillip abstained)
• Approved Trust Fund Request for Market Rate Study (Tetra Tech) (4 yes, 1 abstain)
• Approved $129,000 annual operating budget request (unanimous)
• Deferred vote on Dickson Chapel Expansion IFB design plan (held off)
• Approved public comment extension of five minutes on Burke Lot policy (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs, co-posted with the Committee of the Whole, will meet on October 9, 2025, to discuss the implementation and efficiency of the new Resident Parking System, including October Resident Parking. The meeting is in-person with remote access options. No votes or proposals are listed; the agenda consists solely of this discussion item.

• Discussion of Implementation and Efficiency of the new Resident Parking System, including October Resident Parking

City Council

The Salem City Council approved a $3.6 million bond order to replace the roof at Bates Elementary School and adopted ordinances amending zoning rules for marijuana retailers. The body also approved street races and various committee reports.

• Bates Elementary roof repair bond order ($3,618,491)
• Ordinance amending marijuana retailer zoning requirements
• Approval of street races for Friends of NEC and Wicked Running Club
• Appointments to Beautification Committee and Race Equity Commission
• Approval of $66,715.12 for Golf Course equipment purchase

The Salem City Council approved a $3,618,491 bond to fund design and replacement of the roof at Bates Elementary School. It also confirmed the appointments of Alex Sanchez to the Parks & Recreation Commission and James R. LeBlanc as Finance Director and Auditor. Additional actions included a $66,715.12 park equipment appropriation, acceptance of a $3,075.70 donation for the Derby Street Mile Road Race, and granting permits for two community road races. The council tabled the No‑Turn‑on‑Red traffic ordinance for later consideration.

• Approved $3,618,491 bond for Bates Elementary School roof repair (9 yeas, 0 nays, 2 absent)
• Appointed Alex Sanchez to Parks & Recreation Commission (9 yeas, 0 nays, 2 absent)
• Appointed James R. LeBlanc as City Finance Director and Auditor (9 yeas, 0 nays, 2 absent)
• Appropriated $66,715.12 for park hydraulic equipment purchase
• Accepted $3,075.70 donation for Derby Street Mile Road Race
• Granted permits for Festivus 5K (Dec 14, 2025) and Wicked Frosty Four (Jan 1, 2026) road races
• Adopted schedule for Council regular meetings on Nov 13 and Dec 4, 2025
• Tabled No‑Turn‑on‑Red traffic ordinance, to be revisited Oct 23, 2025

Zero Waste Salem

The committee will discuss upcoming events including a Repair Cafe and Textile Drive, and review progress on composting in schools, a new logo, and a name-retirement party. They will also consider newsletter ideas and task force updates. No votes or binding decisions are scheduled.

• Composting in schools starting soon — volunteers needed
• String Lights Collection task force formed
• Logo status discussion with Jerrie
• 2026 event dates document now available
• Upcoming events: Repair Cafe Nov 8, Textile Drive Nov 22, Styrofoam collection January

The committee approved the September 2025 meeting minutes with a unanimous vote. No other formal decisions were recorded; members discussed upcoming events, logo options, and volunteer needs. Action items were assigned for follow‑up on the logo, repair‑cafe volunteers, and string‑lights recycling.

• Approved September 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Salem Redevelopment Authority

The Salem Redevelopment Authority meeting scheduled for October 8, 2025, has been cancelled. No other business is listed.

Historical Commission

The Salem Historical Commission will hold a remote meeting on October 8, 2025, to review several Certificate of Appropriateness applications for property alterations. Key items include a waiver of demolition delay for a roof replacement on a building over 50 years old and extensions of existing demolition delay waivers for two properties.

• Waiver of Demolition Delay for demolition of more than 50% of roof at 13 Raymond Road (Eastwind Investments LLC)
• Extension of Waiver of Demolition Delay at 301 Essex Street (Jerrys LLC)
• Extension of Waiver of Demolition Delay at 85 Memorial Drive (City of Salem)
• Certificate of Appropriateness for HVAC condenser and screening fence at 107 Federal Street
• Certificate of Appropriateness for windows and chimney work at 142 Federal Street

Historical Commission

The Salem Historical Commission will consider certificates of appropriateness for changes to historic properties, including fencing, windows, and HVAC condensers. They will also decide on a waiver of demolition delay for a roof at 13 Raymond Road and extensions of existing waivers at 301 Essex Street and 85 Memorial Drive.

• 13 Raymond Road – Eastwind Investments LLC seeks waiver of demolition delay to demolish more than 50% of roof on a building over 50 years old
• 301 Essex Street – Jerrys LLC requests extension of waiver of demolition delay
• 85 Memorial Drive – City of Salem requests extension of waiver of demolition delay
• 59½ Summer Street – Madeline Mitchell and Devon Gollinge – certificate of appropriateness for mini splits after the fact and new HVAC condenser
• 107 Federal Street – Richard Jagolta – certificate of appropriateness for adding condenser and screening fence

The commission approved a condenser installation with a site‑plan requirement at 107 Federal Street and an exterior condenser enclosure at 115 Derby Street. It also approved the replacement of a side door with a window at 142 Federal Street. Several other applications were postponed to future meetings for further review.

• Approved condenser on 107 Federal Street driveway with site‑plan stipulation
• Approved exterior condenser enclosure on 115 Derby Street parapet wall
• Approved side‑door replacement with matching window at 142 Federal Street
• Continued 1 Forrester Street fencing, gutters and window replacement to next meeting
• Continued Pickering Street fence details to November 5, 2025 meeting
• Continued 59½ Summer Street HVAC line‑set issue to November 5, 2025 meeting
• Continued 132 Derby Street window application pending site visit
• Continued 13 Raymond Road demolition‑delay waiver to next meeting

Housing Authority Board

The Salem Housing Authority Board will hold a regular meeting to discuss routine reports, consider a draft Internal Controls Policy, and vote on a final payment of $20,622.89 to Cassidy Landscaping LLC for site improvements and an art project at Pioneer Terrace. The board will also review updated waitlists, financial statements, and proposed policy revisions on sexual harassment and write-offs.

• Final payment of $20,622.89 to Cassidy Landscaping LLC for EOHLC project #258164 Creative Placemaking Grant at Pioneer Terrace
• Consideration of a draft Internal Controls Policy
• Revision to Sexual Harassment Policy and Officer Assignment
• Collection of losses — write-offs through September 30, 2025 per Public Housing Notice 2017-17
• Annual submissions and department reports for September 2025

Bicycling & Shared Path Advisory Committee

The Bicycling & Shared Path Advisory Committee will meet to discuss ongoing bicycling infrastructure projects, including a bike parking ordinance, the Route 114 Corridor Study, and bikeshare program updates. They will also review recent events and seek input on the FY26 Community Preservation Plan. The meeting is open to the public both in-person and via Zoom.

• Discussion of a Bike Parking Ordinance
• Route 114 Corridor Study update
• Bikeshare data and program updates
• Haunted Happenings Parade review (10/2/2025)
• FY26 Community Preservation Plan request for comment/input

The Bicycling & Shared Path Advisory Committee approved the draft minutes from July 2 2025 and September 3 2025. All members voted in favor of each approval. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous vote. No other substantive actions were decided.

• Approved 7/2/2025 draft minutes (all votes)
• Approved 9/3/2025 draft minutes (all votes)
• Adjourned meeting (all votes)

City Council

On October 8, 2025, the Salem City Council Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs, co‑posted with the Committee of the Whole, will meet to discuss two agenda items. The first is an ordinance amendment to Chapter 40, Section 30 concerning the prohibition of public guides stopping on Howard Street. The second is a petition from Peter Vallis regarding a lot on Tinkers Island.

• Ordinance amendment to Chapter 40, Section 30 – Public Guides – Prohibition stopping on Howard St.
• Petition from Peter Vallis concerning a lot on Tinkers Island

The council voted 3‑0 to accept Ordinance #465 as written, establishing a safety rule for Howard Street. The council also voted 3‑0 to return Petition #337 to the full council with a recommendation to deny reinstating Lot 7 on Tinkers Island. The meeting adjourned at 6:38 p.m.

• Approved Ordinance #465 safety measure for Howard St (3-0)
• Denied petition to reinstate Lot 7 on Tinkers Island, recommendation to deny (3-0)

Sustainability, Energy, & Resiliency Committee

The Sustainability, Energy, & Resiliency Committee will meet to hear a presentation on the state of the watershed from Erin Casey of the Ipswich River Watershed Association. The meeting includes a Q&A session and public comment.

• Guest presentation: State of the Watershed – Salem Edition by Erin Casey

City Seal Task Force

The Salem City Seal Task Force will discuss follow-up on the structure of its report, approve minutes from previous meetings, and hear a presentation from Vijay Joyce and Prof. Michael Feener. They will also schedule upcoming listening sessions and regular meetings to finalize the report.

• Approval of minutes from Sept 15, Sept 29, and Sept 30 listening session
• Discussion on report structure follow-up (30 min)
• Presentation by Vijay Joyce & Prof. Michael Feener (25 min + Q&A)
• Scheduling of Oct 14 listening session (hybrid in Annex) and Oct 20 regular meeting
• New business

The City Seal Task Force met via Zoom on October 7, 2025 with a quorum of six members. Members reviewed the September 15 minutes and considered three suggested revisions. A motion was made to approve the minutes as amended, but the minutes do not show a vote result or final approval. No other substantive actions were decided.

Conservation Commission

The Salem Conservation Commission will hold a special meeting to continue a public hearing regarding the relocation of Pioneer Village structures at 58 Memorial Drive. The body will also request public comment on the FY26 Community Preservation Plan.

• Public hearing for Pioneer Village relocation at 58 Memorial Drive
• FY26 Community Preservation Plan – Request for Comment/Input

The Salem Conservation Commission closed the public hearing on the Pioneer Village project with a 4‑0 vote. It then approved an order of conditions that waives the 25‑foot buffer in specified areas, also passing 4‑0. The meeting was adjourned by a unanimous vote. Members discussed input for the FY26 Community Preservation Plan but no formal action was taken.

• Closed public hearing (4‑0)
• Approved order of conditions with waiver of 25‑foot buffer for Pioneer Village (4‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (4‑0)
• Requested Commission members to submit comments on FY26 Community Preservation Plan by Oct 25

Salem Human Rights Coalition

The Salem Human Rights Coalition will consider whether and how to write public statements, review feedback from a Massachusetts tribe on a proposed essay contest, and review the current contest proposal. Reports from the Mayor's Office liaison, clerk, and treasurer are also scheduled.

• Consideration of writing public statements
• Review feedback from Massachusetts tribe on proposed essay contest
• Review current proposal for writing contest
• Reports from Mayor's Office liaison, clerk (minutes), and treasurer (financials)
• Public comment and introduction of guests

The coalition met online via Zoom and discussed how the group should draft public statements, reviewing feedback on a proposed essay‑writing contest from a Massachusetts tribe. Members shared opinions but no motions were voted on or approved. The meeting also included a brief overview of upcoming events and set the next meeting for November 4, 2025.

Salem Cultural Council

The Salem Cultural Council will meet on October 6, 2025, to vote on prior meeting minutes and discuss incoming grant applications for arts and culture funding. The meeting is hybrid and includes a public comment period. No specific grant amounts or project names are listed on the agenda.

• Vote on prior meeting minutes (September 2025)
• Discussion of incoming grant applications and SCC spreadsheet
• Public comment period

The council unanimously approved the September 2025 meeting minutes. It also decided to move the December meeting to the second Monday of the month, scheduling it for December 8.

• Approved September 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Set December meeting date to Dec 8 (second Monday of month)

School Committee

The School Committee will vote on consent items including field trips and $732,520.30 in warrants, then receive the superintendent's report on MCAS results and an elementary school reconfiguration process. Subcommittee reports and budget transfer requests are also on the agenda.

• Field trip to Hershey and Philadelphia for Salem High music students
• Field trip to Cape Cod Fairgrounds for Boys Cross Country team
• Approval of FY26 warrants totaling $732,520.30
• Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) update
• Elementary school reconfiguration presentation planned for November

The committee approved its agenda and consent agenda, which included minutes from the September 24 meeting, two student field trips, and FY26 warrants for $732,520.30. A budget transfer moving $6,000 from a personnel line to a non‑personnel line was also approved. All motions passed with majority votes and no public comment was received.

• Approved agenda (5-2)
• Approved consent agenda, including FY26 warrants $732,520.30 (5-2)
• Approved field trips for Salem High School students (5-2)
• Approved budget transfer request of $6,000 (6-1)
• Adopted minutes of September 24, 2025 meeting (5-2)

Salem Food Policy Council

The Salem Food Policy Council will meet to review updates from city liaisons and discuss a social media campaign. The body will also address volunteer needs for composting in Salem Public Schools and plan for the January 2026 Mayor Report.

• Salem Public Schools composting volunteer needs
• Social media campaign update by Judith Forman
• Planning for Jan. 2026 Mayor Report
• Longest Table debriefing

Salem Harbor Port Authority

This is a routine procedural meeting of the Salem Harbor Port Authority. The board will receive port updates and a Harbormaster report, take public comment, and vote on approval of previous meeting minutes. No specific contracts, ordinances, or financial actions are listed on the agenda.

• Port Updates
• Harbormaster Report
• Public Comment
• Approval of Minutes

The Salem Harbor Port Authority held its October 6, 2025 meeting via remote participation. The agenda included a call to order, port updates, a harbormaster report, public comment, approval of minutes, and adjournment. The minutes record no substantive approvals, denials, or votes.

Housing Authority Board

The Salem Housing Authority Board meets to discuss the role of a subcommittee and review a draft internal controls policy. The agenda is largely procedural with no votes on funding, contracts, or personnel actions.

• Review of draft Internal Controls policy

School Committee

The Policy Subcommittee will discuss and potentially draft two policies related to Career and Technical Education (CTE): a Middle School Pathway Exploration Policy and a Recruitment, Admission, and Retention Policy. They will also review Section A policies with the Massachusetts Association of School Committees (MASC) and approve minutes from a previous meeting. The new CTE regulations require the district to submit the Middle School Pathway Exploration Policy to DESE by November 1, 2025.

• Middle School Pathway Exploration Policy in alignment with new CTE regulations
• Recruitment, Admission, and Retention Policy for CTE programs
• Review of Section A policies with Massachusetts Association of School Committees (MASC)
• Approval of minutes from July 11, 2025 Policy Subcommittee meeting

The subcommittee approved the minutes from the July 11, 2025 meeting. It also approved the Middle School Pathway Exploration Policy and the Recruitment, Admission, and Retention Policy for CTE programs, directing both to the next School Committee meeting. Both motions passed with two votes in favor and one member absent. The next School Committee meeting was set for October 24, 2025.

• Approved minutes of July 11, 2025 meeting (2-1)
• Approved Middle School Pathway Exploration Policy (CTE) to be forwarded (2-1)
• Approved Recruitment, Admission, and Retention Policy for CTE Programs to be forwarded (2-1)
• Scheduled next School Committee meeting for October 24, 2025
• Adjourned meeting (2-1)

City Seal Task Force

The City Seal Task Force is conducting a public listening session to gather community input. The Task Force will not respond to or discuss comments during the meeting, as the purpose is solely to listen to public feedback.

• Public comment period (55 minutes) for in-person and Zoom participants

The task force conducted its second public listening session on September 30, 2025, in a hybrid format at the City Hall Annex and via Zoom. Six community members spoke, with four supporting and two opposing a change to the city seal. The task force did not vote on or adopt any action regarding the seal.

City Seal Task Force

The City Seal Task Force will hear a presentation from Professor Erika Lee (Harvard University) on the historical factors that shaped the city seal and its multiple meanings in 19th-century America. Members will also discuss the structure of their upcoming report and plan future meetings, including two public listening sessions and a special meeting with additional presentations.

• Presentation by Professor Erika Lee on the historical context of the Salem city seal
• Discussion on the structure of the task force's final report
• Approval of minutes from the September 15, 2025 meeting
• Public listening sessions scheduled for September 30 and October 14 (hybrid format)
• Special meeting on October 7 with presentations on Salem-Sumatra relations and seal records in City Hall

The City Seal Task Force voted to postpone approval of the September 19, 2025 minutes, moving the decision to the October 7, 2025 meeting. The motion was introduced by Vijay Joyce, seconded by Dakota Russell, and was unanimously approved by all members present. The meeting continued after confirming quorum.

• Tabled approval of September 19, 2025 minutes to October 7, 2025 (unanimous)

Salem High School Building Committee

The committee will review the project's milestone schedule and receive a design progress update. The meeting includes an introduction of the Shawmut + WT Rich Joint Venture leadership and a report from the Finance Working Group.

• Milestone schedule review
• Introduction of Shawmut + WT Rich Joint Venture leadership
• Design progress update
• Finance Working Group update

Design Review Board

The Design Review Board will review a sign application for The Courier Hotel at 191-211 Washington Street, located in the Urban Renewal Area. No other projects are scheduled for review. The board will also consider approval of minutes from the August 27, 2025 meeting.

• Sign review for The Courier Hotel at 191-211 Washington Street
• Approval of minutes from August 27, 2025 meeting

The Design Review Board voted 6‑0 to approve the Courier Hotel sign design, removing lighting and reducing logo coverage to 20% pending administrative review by Ms. Owens. The board also unanimously approved the August 27, 2025 meeting minutes. No other projects were reviewed at this meeting.

• Approved Courier Hotel sign with lighting removed and logo coverage reduced to 20% (6-0)
• Approved August 27, 2025 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Adjourned meeting (all in favor)

City Council

The Salem City Council will decide on a $3,618,491 bond order to design and replace the roof at Bates Elementary School. They will also vote on multiple board and commission appointments, consider a zoning amendment creating a Smart Growth Overlay SubDistrict on Margin, Endicott, and High streets, and discuss a resolution urging the state to allocate $200 million in Fair Share funds to stabilize public higher education funding.

• Bond order for $3,618,491 to replace the roof at Bates Elementary School (53 Liberty Hill Ave)
• Ordinance to create a Smart Growth Overlay SubDistrict on Margin, Endicott, and High streets – referred to Planning Board
• Appointment of Alex Sanchez to Parks and Recreation Commission (term to May 14, 2029)
• Resolution urging state Legislature to set aside $200 million from Fair Share surtax for public higher education
• Committee report recommending adoption of 'No Turn on Red' ordinance

The council adopted a bond order of $3,618,491 to design and replace the roof at Bates Elementary School, voting 11‑0. A resolution supporting higher‑education funding and urging $200 million from the state was also adopted, voting 11‑0. Several mayoral appointments and board reappointments were confirmed, with Councillor Jerzylo not reappointed (10‑1). The zoning amendment was referred to the Planning Board for a public hearing.

• Approved $3,618,491 bond order for Bates School roof replacement (11 yeas, 0 nays)
• Adopted Higher Education Funding Resolution urging $200 M state allocation (11 yeas, 0 nays)
• Confirmed mayor’s appointments to multiple commissions (11 yeas, 0 nays)
• Reappointed several board members; Councillor Jerzylo not reappointed (10 yeas, 1 nay)
• Accepted $1,200 donation from Yuans Bistro Inc. for Forest River bench
• Appointed Alex Sanchez to Parks & Recreation Commission (informational)
• Appointed Alan Hanscom to Human Rights Coalition and Steven Feldmann to Cultural Council (informational)
• Referred Smart Growth Overlay zoning amendment to Planning Board for hearing

City Council

The City Council Government Services Committee will meet jointly with the Committee of the Whole to discuss marriages performed in City Hall and a proposal to delegate authority to the City Clerk for use of the Council Chamber and Ante Room with the Council President's approval. The meeting is procedural, focusing on internal operations with no fiscal or legislative action expected.

• Discussion on marriages performed in City Hall
• Proposal to delegate authority to City Clerk for use of City Council Chamber and Ante Room with Council President approval

The Government Services Committee adopted a new chamber-use policy that permits wedding ceremonies in the City Council Chamber, limiting guests to eight, requiring open doors and an ADA‑accessible path, and prohibiting food, confetti, and non‑service animals. The committee also voted to amend the existing ordinance to delegate authority over chamber use to the City Clerk. The recommendation was forwarded to the full City Council for approval.

• Approved new chamber-use policy allowing weddings (no vote tally recorded)
• Amended ordinance to delegate chamber‑use authority to the City Clerk (no vote tally recorded)
• Forwarded recommendation to the full City Council for approval

Licensing Board

The Salem Licensing Board will consider several liquor license applications, including a permanent annual all-alcohol license for The GOAT Salem at 311 Derby Street. Also on the agenda are one-day licenses for a Sabbat celebration at 184 Essex St. and a holiday dance fundraiser at 9 Chestnut St., a pledge of license for East Regiment at 30 Church St., and renewal of a fortune telling license at 2 East India Square Mall. The board will also discuss the location of the previously approved Salem Night Faire at Pioneer Village.

• Application for an Annual All Alcohol Liquor License at 311 Derby Street by Salem Goat LLC d/b/a The GOAT Salem
• Application for a One Day Liquor License at 184 Essex St. for a Sabbat Celebration by HEX
• Application for a One Day Liquor License at 9 Chestnut St. for the Annual Holiday Dance Fundraiser by Hamilton Hall
• Application for a Pledge of License to Eastern Bank for Massachusetts Colony Brewers LLC d/b/a East Regiment, 30 Church St.
• Discussion of the Annual Salem Night Faire on October 17,18,24,25 at Pioneer Village, 98 West Ave.

The Licensing Board approved a pledge of license for Eastern Bank, a one‑day liquor license for the Annual Holiday Dance Fundraiser, a renewal of a fortune‑telling license, a psychic fair license pending CORI results, and an annual all‑alcohol license for The GOAT Salem, each by a 2‑0 vote. No action was taken on the one‑day liquor license request for 184 Essex St because no applicant was present. All motions were made by Ms. Evans and seconded by Mr. Santo.

• Approved pledge of license to Eastern Bank for Massachusetts Colony Brewers LLC (2-0)
• Approved one‑day liquor license at 9 Chestnut St for Annual Holiday Dance Fundraiser (2-0)
• Approved renewal of store fortune‑telling license at 2 East India Square Mall, Suite 112 (2-0)
• Approved psychic fair license for Crow Haven Corner, pending CORI results (2-0)
• Approved annual all‑alcohol liquor license at 311 Derby Street for Salem Goat LLC (2-0)
• No action taken on one‑day liquor license at 184 Essex St (no applicant present)

Salem Youth Commission

The Youth Commission will review the UNICEF Child-Friendly City Initiative and civic engagement opportunities. The body will also discuss expectations and the expansion of the commission for the 2025-2026 school year.

• Overview of UNICEF Child-Friendly City Initiative
• Review of SYC expansion for 2025-2026 school year
• Civic engagement guest speakers

School Committee

The School Committee will consider approval of a consent agenda including minutes, a field trip, and FY25/FY26 warrants totaling over $3.4 million. They will also hear a superintendent's report on college counseling, playground committee, and MSBA update, and vote on a motion to authorize disposal of surplus materials.

• Approval of FY26 warrants totaling $3,379,346.51 across five dates
• Approval of field trip to Cardigan Mountain, NH for New Liberty Innovation School students
• Authorization for disposal of surplus materials
• Update on College and Career Counseling from superintendent
• Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) update on final design

The committee approved the meeting agenda and the consent agenda, each passing with five votes in favor and two members absent. A motion to dispose of outdated or broken surplus materials from Salem High School and Collins Middle School was approved by the same vote count. The meeting was then adjourned at 8:35 pm.

• Approved meeting agenda (5‑2)
• Approved consent agenda, including FY25 and FY26 warrants (5‑2)
• Authorized disposal of surplus materials from two schools (5‑2)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:35 pm (5‑2)

City Seal Task Force

The Salem City Seal Task Force had scheduled a public listening session for September 18, 2025, but the agenda notes the session has been postponed and new scheduling will be announced. The session was to be held in person at City Hall Annex, 98 Washington St., and via Zoom, allowing up to 55 minutes of public comment. No decisions or actions were slated; the purpose was to gather public input without discussion. Contact information for ADA accommodations is provided.

• Public listening session (postponed) – open mic for public comment
• In‑person location: City Hall Annex medium conference room, 98 Washington St.
• Zoom link and meeting ID provided for remote participation
• Speakers limited to 3 minutes each, first‑come first‑served
• ADA accommodation contact: 978‑619‑5678, [email protected]

Board of Public Library Trustees

The Salem Public Library Board of Trustees will meet to approve the June 26, 2025 minutes and discuss library use, finances, and building updates via remote participation.

• Approval of June 26, 2025 minutes
• Discussion of library use
• Discussion of finances
• Discussion of building update
• Remote meeting via Zoom

The Board of Trustees unanimously approved the draft minutes from the June 26, 2025 meeting. The trustees decided not to pursue the proposed evening and weekend parking restrictions that were to begin in October. Trustees also assigned actions: Buckley will investigate ownership and copyright issues of unauthorized library merchandise, and will explore a fundraiser at Cinema Salem after the Halloween season.

• Approved draft minutes from June 26, 2025 (unanimous)
• Declined to pursue proposed evening/weekend parking restrictions
• Assigned Trustee Buckley to investigate ownership and copyright of unauthorized library merchandise
• Assigned Trustee Buckley to pursue a fundraiser at Cinema Salem after Halloween season

City Council

The City Council Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs will meet to discuss the 'No Turn on Red' traffic rule. The meeting will be held in person at the City Council Chambers on September 18, 2025.

• Discussion of 'No Turn on Red' traffic rule
• Meeting held at 93 Washington St., Salem, MA
• In-person and remote public access available

The council voted to accept the amendments that change "West Street" to "West Avenue" and "Jefferson Street" to "Jefferson Avenue" in the right‑turn‑on‑red ordinance. The motion passed unanimously 4‑0. A second motion to refer the amended ordinance to the full council with a positive recommendation also passed, 3‑1. A separate motion to delete the Congress‑Derby Street provision failed because it was not seconded.

• Motion to accept West Street to West Ave and Jefferson Street to Jefferson Ave amendments passed 4-0
• Motion to refer the amended ordinance to the full council with a positive recommendation passed 3-1
• Motion to remove the northbound Congress onto eastbound Derby Street provision failed (no second)

Planning Board

The Salem Planning Board will hold public hearings on three site plan reviews and a subdivision. Items include a proposed bed and breakfast at 21 Webb Street, a subdivision at 15 Crosby Street, and a new Salem Public Schools Welcome Center at 30 Leavitt Street. The board will also consider a continuance request for a project at 301 Essex Street to increase residential units from 20 to 30, and vote on a bond release for Woodlands Subdivision.

• 301 Essex Street: continuance request to amend site plan to replace ground-floor parking with commercial space and increase units from 20 to 30
• 15 Crosby Street: definitive subdivision plan to split one lot into two, with a request for frontage waiver for Lot A
• 21 Webb Street: C-ROD site plan review to demolish parking garage and build a 2,800 sq ft bed and breakfast with six guestrooms and one residential unit, plus nine parking spots
• 30 Leavitt Street: C-ROD site plan review for Salem Public Schools Welcome Center, involving partial demolition and a 3,017 sq ft two-story addition with accessible parking
• Woodlands Subdivision bond release vote

The Salem Planning Board voted 8‑0 to continue the public hearings for the 301 Essex Street, 15 Crosby Street, and 21 Webb Street site‑plan review applications to the October 16, 2025 meeting. No other actions were taken on these items. The board discussed other applications but did not approve or deny any proposals.

• Continue 301 Essex Street site‑plan review to Oct 16, 2025 (8‑0 roll call)
• Continue 15 Crosby Street subdivision and frontage waiver to Oct 16, 2025 (8‑0 roll call)
• Continue 21 Webb Street C‑ROD site‑plan review to Oct 16, 2025 (8‑0 roll call)

Health

The North Shore Public Health Collaborative will meet to receive updates on public health emergency (PHE) and training hub activities, epidemiology, workplan and budget, and opioid settlement funds. The meeting also includes community updates. No votes or decisions are explicitly listed on the agenda.

• Opioid settlement funds discussion
• Workplan and budget updates
• PHE and training hub updates
• Epidemiology updates

Council on Aging Board

The Salem Council on Aging & Senior Services Board will meet to review the Director's report and discuss senior housing and Senior Day 2025. The board is also scheduled to hear a report from the Friends of the COA and handle the nomination of board officers.

• Discussion on senior housing
• Discussion on Senior Day 2025
• Friends of the COA report
• Nomination of board officers

The board approved the June 18, 2025 meeting minutes unanimously. Nominations were opened and the board unanimously elected John Russell as Vice‑Chair, Kristin Macek as Secretary, and Abigail Butt as Treasurer. The nominations were then closed and the meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved June 18, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Opened nominations for board officers (unanimous)
• Elected John Russell as Vice‑Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Kristin Macek as Secretary (unanimous)
• Elected Abigail Butt as Treasurer (unanimous)
• Closed nominations (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Salem High School Building Committee

The CM@Risk Sub Committee of the Salem High School Building Committee will interview two respondents (Suffolk and Gilbane) for the Construction Manager at Risk contract. After the interviews, the subcommittee will discuss and deliberate before adjourning.

• Interview with Suffolk at 6:00 pm
• Interview with Gilbane at 7:15 pm
• Subcommittee discussion from 8:15 to 9:15 pm

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Salem Zoning Board of Appeals will meet to consider special permits and variances for property owners seeking to expand homes and businesses, including a request to convert a two-family home into a three-family unit.

• Withdrawn petition for 26 Winter Street to change a three-family home into a nine-guestroom inn
• Request to convert 55 Butler Street U2 from a two-family to a three-family structure
• Expansion of Pegasus Auto Repair at 311-313 Bridge Street
• Variance request for 42 Walter Street to widen an entrance drive to 28 feet
• Review of August 20, 2025 meeting minutes

The Salem Zoning Board of Appeals voted 4‑0 to approve the withdrawal of the special permit and variance petition for 26 Winter Street. It then voted 5‑0 to approve a variance and special permit for 16 Eden Street, allowing the roof to be extended to three stories and permitting specific setbacks. No vote outcome was recorded for the 6 Botts Court petition.

• Approved withdrawal of petition for 26 Winter Street (4‑0)
• Approved variance and special permit for 16 Eden Street (5‑0)

Historical Commission

The Salem Historical Commission will discuss a request to extend the demolition period for Camp Naumkeag at 85 Memorial Drive and consider demolition delay waivers for buildings older than 50 years at 30 Leavitt Street and 25 Highland Street. The agenda also includes several Certificates of Appropriateness for modifications like fencing, gutters, and window replacements, as well as a request for a letter of support for a Historic Tax Credit application for SSU South Campus and a request for comment on the FY26 CPA Plan.

• Request to extend demolition period for Camp Naumkeag, 85 Memorial Drive – continued discussion
• 107 Federal Street – Certificate of Appropriateness for building renovations after the fact, including rear condenser and fence – continuation
• 1 Pickering Street – Certificate of Appropriateness to modify previous approval for perimeter wall – continuation
• Waiver of the Demolition Delay for 30 Leavitt Street (City of Salem) – demolition of more than 50% of roof and wall of building older than 50 years
• Waiver of the Demolition Delay for 25 Highland Street (Bogdan and Lilla Jucewicz) – demolition of more than 50% of roof and front wall of building older than 50 years

The commission moved its next meeting to Oct 8. It approved continuing the demolition application for Camp Naumkeag and approved the Anderson A Series Fibrex windows at 107 Federal Street, specifying brush‑painted, 2‑over‑2 design. It also approved the removal of the brick wall at 1 Pickering Street while continuing fence discussions, and approved fence modifications at 142 Federal Street and a site‑visit for 1 Forrester Street. All motions carried with the recorded vote tallies.

• Changed next meeting date to Oct 8 (no vote recorded)
• Continued demolition period for Camp Naumkeag, 85 Memorial Drive (approved)
• Approved Anderson A Series Fibrex windows at 107 Federal St, brush‑painted 2‑over‑2 (approved)
• Approved removal of brick wall at 1 Pickering St and continued fence discussion (approved)
• Approved fence modification at 142 Federal St as submitted (approved)
• Approved site‑visit to assess fence and windows at 1 Forrester St (approved)

Salem High School Building Committee

The CM@Risk Sub Committee of the Salem High School Building Committee is holding interviews with two construction management at-risk firms: Skanska and Shawmut/Rich. The meeting is a step in selecting a CM@Risk contractor for the high school project. No decisions are being made at this meeting; it is a discussion and interview session.

• Interview with Skanska scheduled from 6:00 pm
• Interview with Shawmut/Rich scheduled from 7:15 pm after a 15-minute break
• Meeting is in person at Salem City Hall Annex, 98 Washington Street
• Part of the procurement process for a CM@Risk contract for Salem High School

Conservation Commission

The Salem Conservation Commission will hold a meeting on September 16, 2025, to continue public hearings on wetlands protection projects. The body will discuss proposed wetland delineations, roadway improvements, and construction projects.

• Continuation of Public Hearing for 329 Highland Ave wetland delineation
• Continuation of Public Hearing for Boston St and Essex St roadway improvements
• Continuation of Public Hearing for 85 Memorial Drive Pioneer Village project
• Public Hearing for 21 Webb St redevelopment and parking area
• Public Hearing for 54 Osborne Hill Drive stone paver installation

The Salem Conservation Commission voted to close the public hearing on the Highland Avenue wetland delineation and the Boston Street/Essex Street complete‑streets project. It also adopted an order of conditions requiring any new trees within jurisdictional wetland areas to be maintained for three years. Additionally, the commission affirmed that the A series flag is not BVW but Forest River.

• Closed public hearing on Highland Ave wetland delineation (6-0)
• Declared A series flag not BVW, identified as Forest River (6-0)
• Closed public hearing on Boston St and Essex St complete‑streets project (6-0)
• Approved order of conditions: three‑year maintenance for new wetland trees (6-0)

Public Art Commission

The Salem Public Art Commission will meet remotely to review a proposal from the MOON artist and discuss the 400+ Public Art Call for Art. The meeting also includes approval of August meeting minutes and project updates. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda beyond these discussions.

• MOON Artist Proposal Review
• 400+ Public Art Call For Art
• Approval of August 2025 meeting minutes
• Project Updates & Other Business

The Public Art Commission approved the August 19, 2025 meeting minutes unanimously. It conditionally approved Justin Valliere’s MOON artist proposal and approved Kacey’s (of KC’s Scraps) MOON artist proposal, each with a 6‑0 vote. The commission set a $500 stipend for 3‑5 finalist submissions and tasked staff to revise the project timeline for a January 2026 public presentation.

• Approved August 19, 2025 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Conditionally approved Justin Valliere’s MOON artist proposal (6-0)
• Approved Kacey (of KC’s Scraps) MOON artist proposal (6-0)
• Agreed on a $500 stipend for 3-5 finalist submissions
• Tasked staff to review and rework the project timeline, including a January 2026 public presentation of finalists
• Adjourned the meeting (6-0)

City Council

The City Council Committee on Government Services will meet to review Salem code Chapter 2, Section 10 regarding the use of the City Council Chambers. The meeting will be held in person at 93 Washington St. and is co-posted with the Committee of the Whole.

• Reviewing Salem code Ch. 2 Sec. 10 – Use of Council Chambers
• Creating a policy concerning the use of City Council Chambers

The Government Services Committee approved all edits and amendments to the City Council Chamber ordinance and accompanying policy. The committee then voted to refer the amended ordinance and policy to the full council with a positive recommendation. Both motions passed unanimously, 4‑0.

• Approved all edits and amendments to the City Council Chamber ordinance and policy (4-0)
• Referred the amended ordinance and policy to the full council with a positive recommendation (4-0)

Commission on Disabilities

The Salem Commission on Disabilities will first approve the June and August meeting minutes. It will then discuss two variance requests: one for the Salem YMCA presented by Charity Lezama and Adaptiv Architecture, and another for the Salem Public Schools Welcome Center at 30 Leavitt Street presented by William Peterson and Derby Square Architects. The meeting will conclude with announcements and scheduling of the next session.

• Approve June and August meeting minutes
• Variance request for Salem YMCA – presented by Charity Lezama, Executive Director, and Robert Freni of Adaptiv Architecture and Planning
• Variance request for Salem Public Schools Welcome Center, 30 Leavitt Street – presented by William Peterson, Derby Square Architects

Park & Recreation Commission

The Park and Recreation Commission will consider several permit requests for events at Salem Commons and other parks, including amplification for a Witches Circle event, wedding ceremonies, and a Constitution vigil. A key item is a request to use Furlong Park Baseball Field for drones on October 31, 2025, replacing the usual fireworks. The commission will also vote on approval for a Lafayette sign in Lafayette Park.

• Christian Day request for amplified sound at Salem Commons for The Witches Circle on Oct 31, 2025, 5-7pm
• Dan Albani wedding ceremony at Salem Common Gazebo on Apr 26, 2026, with amplification 3-4:30pm
• Leslie Smith Rosen vigil for US Constitution at Salem Commons on Sep 17, 2025, amplification 7-8pm
• Approval for Lafayette sign in Lafayette Park requested by preservation planner
• Request to use Furlong Park Baseball Field for drones on Oct 31, 2025, replacing fireworks

The Salem Park and Recreation Commission approved the minutes from the August 19, 2025 meeting. It also approved a wedding ceremony at the Salem Common Gazebo on April 26, 2026, the installation of a Lafayette historical marker in Lafayette Park, and the use of the Furlong Park baseball field for a drone display on October 31, 2025. All approvals were passed unanimously.

• Approved minutes of August 19, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved wedding ceremony at Salem Common Gazebo on April 26, 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved Lafayette historical marker in Lafayette Park (unanimous)
• Approved use of Furlong Park baseball field for drone display on Oct 31, 2025 (unanimous)

City Seal Task Force

The Salem City Seal Task Force will discuss and vote on a timeline for its final report. Members will also hear a presentation on Sumatra's maritime history and its connection to the Salem pepper trade. Upcoming events include a hybrid listening session and a special meeting with Professor Erika Lee.

• Discussion and vote on report timeline for City Seal Task Force
• Presentation by Dr. Michael Feener on Sumatra's maritime history and Salem pepper trade
• Approval of August 28, 2025 meeting minutes
• Upcoming hybrid listening session on September 18 in Annex
• Special meeting on September 29 with Professor Erika Lee

The City Seal Task Force moved to approve the minutes from the August 28 meeting. Dakota Russell made the motion, which was seconded by Vice Chair Rachel Tonthat. The motion carried with one abstention from Norene Gachignard, who was not present at the prior meeting. The approval notes a pending correction about who originally seconded the motion.

• Approved August 28 meeting minutes (motion passed, one abstention)

City Council

The City Council Committee of the Whole will meet to receive an update on the Salem High School building project. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the meeting is solely for discussion.

• Update on Salem High School building project

The City Council Committee of the Whole received a presentation from Mayor Pangallo, Superintendent Dr. Zrike, and High School Building Committee co‑chairs Rick Jones and Nate Bryant about the status, design options, procurement method, projected cost of $456 million, and timeline for the new Salem High School. The discussion covered energy usage, construction‑manager‑at‑risk selection, and potential financing through a future property‑tax increase. No motions were voted on, and no decisions were made during this meeting.

School Committee

The Personnel Subcommittee will meet virtually to conduct a strategy session. The meeting is dedicated to preparing for collective bargaining with the Salem Teachers Union regarding athletic coaches.

• Strategy session for collective bargaining with Salem Teachers Union - Athletic Coaches

The Personnel Subcommittee moved to go into executive session. The motion was made by Member Cornell, seconded by Chair Cruz, and passed with two votes in favor and one member absent. No other actions were taken.

• Entered executive session (2-0 vote, 1 absent)

Salem High School Building Committee

The Salem High School CM Selection Subcommittee will review and score Construction Manager proposals for the high school project. They will also approve prior meeting minutes and allow public comment. The meeting is virtual via Zoom.

• Review and score CM proposals for Salem High School project
• Approve prior subcommittee meeting minutes
• Public comment period

Board of Trust Fund Commissioners

The Board of Trust Fund Commissioners will review routine requests from the Salem Council on Aging and other expenses, and examine interest earned on the Nichols/Read Library fund. The meeting also includes discussion of a 4th quarter report and approval of prior minutes.

• Review of Nichols/Read Library interest earned
• Routine and emergency requests from the Salem Council on Aging
• Postal expense and check processing
• 4th quarter report under other new business
• Approval of prior meeting minutes

The Board unanimously approved two emergency expense requests from the Council on Aging, paying $1,379.66 for medical costs and $235.65 for medication from the Endicott Fund. It also approved a $2,747.49 partial grant payment to Brookhouse Home for Women, to be issued by the Endicott Fund. Additional unanimous approvals were made for postal expenses ($78.00 and $6.06), a $121.02 check order from Deluxe, and a $50.00 Harris Music Award payment, all from the Administration Fund. The Fourth Quarter Report from Eastern Bank was accepted and the Clerk will forward a suggestion to move two programs to the General Assistance Line.

• Approved emergency medical expense $1,379.66 (unanimous)
• Approved emergency medication expense $235.65 (unanimous)
• Approved $2,747.49 partial grant payment to Brookhouse Home for Women (unanimous)
• Approved postal expense payments $78.00 and $6.06 from Administration Fund (unanimous)
• Approved $121.02 payment for Deluxe check order from Administration Fund (unanimous)
• Approved $50.00 Harris Music Award payment from Harris Fund (unanimous)
• Accepted Fourth Quarter Report from Eastern Bank
• Clerk will forward request to move Read Remainder and Thought & Work to General Assistance Line

City Council

The Salem City Council will meet on September 11, 2025, to hold public hearings on utility pole and conduit installations, vote on appointments to multiple boards, and act on financial orders. Key items include retirement buyback payments totaling $203,151.10, a $37,000 appropriation for the October Satellite Shuttle program, and a proposed memorandum of understanding with UNICEF USA to pursue Child Friendly City certification.

• Public hearings for utility poles/conduits on Loring Ave, Bay View Ave, Canal St, Union St, and Lee Fort Ter
• Appointments and reappointments to Affordable Housing Trust, Race Equity Commission, Bicycling & Shared Path Advisory Committee, and other boards
• Retirement vacation sick leave buybacks: Eric Connolly ($56,208), Ellen Kaslaukas ($41,819.20), and six others totaling $203,151.10
• Order to transfer $37,000 for October Satellite Shuttle program from Transportation accounts to Special Events Fund
• Order authorizing Mayor to sign 6-year MOU with UNICEF USA for Child Friendly City certification

The mayor’s eight retirement vacation/sick‑leave buyback orders were adopted under suspension of the rules. Each order authorizes a specific dollar amount to be expended from the Retirement Stabilization Fund. The total approved amount is $203,360.10.

• Approved $56,208.00 buyback for Salem Police Department (Order #425A)
• Approved $41,819.20 buyback for Salem Public Schools (Order #425B)
• Approved $21,208.40 buyback for Salem Public Schools (Order #425C)
• Approved $20,049.60 buyback for Salem Public Schools (Order #425D)
• Approved $20,568.80 buyback for Salem Public Schools (Order #425E)
• Approved $19,248.40 buyback for Salem Public Schools (Order #425F)
• Approved $18,632.70 buyback for Salem Public Schools (Order #425G)
• Approved $5,625.00 buyback for Salem Teachers Union (Order #425H)

Salem Redevelopment Authority

The Salem Redevelopment Authority will review requests for events at Lappin Park and small project reviews for buildings at 128 Washington Street, 216 Essex Street, and 311 Derby Street. The agenda also includes an annual meeting to elect officers and set fiscal year goals.

• Review Flying Saucer tent request for Lappin Park
• Review Art in the Park event at Lappin Park
• Review façade painting at 128 Washington Street
• Review façade modifications at 216 Essex Street
• Review outdoor dining at 311 Derby Street

The Salem Redevelopment Authority voted 5‑0 to approve a weekend tent for Flying Saucer Pizza in Lappin Park and to allow the Art in the Park community event, with the date to be set later. It also approved façade painting for Ba Banh Mi at 128 Washington Street, a boutique‑hotel conversion at 216 Essex Street, and outdoor‑dining and façade changes for The Goat at 311 Derby Street. All approvals were unanimous.

• Approved Flying Saucer Pizza weekend tent in Lappin Park (5‑0)
• Approved Art in the Park event in Lappin Park, date to be determined (5‑0)
• Approved façade painting for Ba Banh Mi, 128 Washington St (5‑0)
• Approved boutique‑hotel conversion at 216 Essex St (5‑0)
• Approved outdoor‑dining extension for The Goat, 311 Derby St (5‑0)
• Approved façade modifications for The Goat, 311 Derby St (5‑0)

Housing Authority Board

The Salem Housing Authority Board will meet on September 10, 2025 to discuss and potentially approve 2025 federal public housing flat rents, payment standards, and a Section 8 utility allowance study. Other business includes revisions to the Section 8 Administrative Plan, a draft internal controls policy, election of a board treasurer, and a new finance coordinator hire. Financial reports and an updated waitlist will also be presented. The meeting is hybrid at 136 Canal Street.

• 2025 Federal Public Housing Flat Rents
• 2025 Payment Standards
• Section 8 Utility Allowance Study
• Revisions to Chapters 4 and 12 of SHA Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Administrative Plan
• Election of Board Officer (Treasurer) and Draft Internal Controls Policy

Neighborhood Improvement Advisory Council

The council will approve the July 9, 2025 meeting minutes and receive updates from neighborhood associations and the city. A special segment will feature Chief Lucas Miller, Capt. Mark Losolfo, and Lt. David Tucker of the Salem Police Department. No public comment period is provided, and the meeting will be held online.

• Approval of July 9, 2025 minutes
• Special guests: Salem Police Department Chief Lucas Miller, Capt. Mark Losolfo, Lt. David Tucker
• Neighborhood Association updates
• City Updates
• Adjournment and scheduling of next meeting on October 8, 2025

The Neighborhood Improvement Advisory Council formally approved the minutes from the July 9, 2025 meeting. No other actions, approvals, or denials were recorded. The council adjourned at 8:43 p.m.

• Approved July 9, 2025 meeting minutes

Beautification Committee

The Beautification Committee will approve July 2025 minutes, hear sub-committee reports on Lady of Salem, traffic islands, litter cleanups, and beautification competitions, and discuss new business including committee roles, newsletter, website, social media, and the Traffic Island program management.

• Keep MA Beautiful Grant update (old business)
• Sub-committee reports on Lady of Salem, traffic islands, litter cleanups, and beautification competitions
• Discussion of committee member roles and responsibilities
• Updates on newsletter, website, email, Google Drive, and social media
• Traffic Island Program management including volunteers, locations, and timing

The Salem Beautification Committee approved a $400 purchase order for volunteer appreciation and a $2,000 purchase order for bulbs and mums, both unanimously. The July 2025 meeting minutes were also approved unanimously. Committee members Kim Parkinson, Ariana Lema-Driscoll, and Brooke Nagle announced they will leave the committee. The committee will move its newsletter, website, email, Google Drive, and social‑media accounts to official city platforms.

• Approved July 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved $400 PO for volunteer appreciation (unanimous)
• Approved $2,000 PO for bulbs and mums (unanimous)
• Kim Parkinson, Ariana Lema-Driscoll, and Brooke Nagle will leave the committee (announced)
• Committee will transition newsletter, website, email, Google Drive, and social‑media to city control (planned)
• Final Monday newsletter will be sent as the last WordPress issue (planned)
• Michael will migrate Google Drive folders to OneDrive (planned)
• Committee will move away from WordPress to the official city website (planned)

Community Preservation Committee

The Community Preservation Committee will vote on a FY25 funding application for City Hall Door Restoration. The meeting also includes public comment and approval of minutes from April 22, 2025.

• Vote on FY25 funding application for City Hall Door Restoration by City of Salem
• Approval of minutes from April 22, 2025
• Next meeting: Annual Public Hearing on October 14, 2025

The committee approved the minutes from the April 22, 2025 meeting. It found the City Hall Entrance Door Restoration application eligible for historic preservation funding. The $9,350 funding request for the door restoration was approved. The meeting was adjourned at 6:15 pm.

• Approved April 22, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Found City Hall Entrance Door Restoration application eligible for historic preservation (unanimous)
• Approved $9,350 funding for City Hall Entrance Door Restoration (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:15 pm (unanimous)

Cemetery Commission

The Salem Cemetery Commission will meet to approve a market rate study for a Trust Fund, revisit residency policies, and discuss headstone management. The agenda includes a presentation on headstone standardization for the Burke Lot expansion.

• Vote to approve Trust Fund Request for Market rate study (Tetra Tech)
• Revisit five-year policy for residency
• Discuss management of damaged headstones
• Presentation on Burke Lot Expansion headstone standardization
• Approval of July 29, 2025 Commission Meeting Minutes

Salem Cultural Council

The Salem Cultural Council will hold a routine hybrid meeting to vote on prior meeting minutes, review new member materials and an outreach plan, and prepare for an upcoming grant question-and-answer call. No major funding decisions, rezonings, or contract awards are on the agenda.

• Vote on approval of August 2025 meeting minutes
• Review of new member materials and outreach plan
• Preparation for grant Q&A call
• Public comment period

The council approved the August 2025 meeting minutes and confirmed the new member outreach documents with unanimous votes. They set a grant Q&A call for September 17, 2025, from 7:30 to 8:15 PM via Zoom. A motion to retain 5% ($1,535) of the grant allocation for administrative expenses was approved unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 9:14 PM.

• Approved August 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved confirmation of new member documents and sharing plan (unanimous)
• Scheduled grant Q&A call for Sep 17, 2025, 7:30‑8:15 PM via Zoom
• Approved retaining 5% ($1,535) of grant funds for administrative expenses (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

School Committee

The Salem School Committee will meet in executive session to discuss contract negotiations with the Superintendent. This is a closed-session meeting for non-union personnel negotiations.

• Contract negotiations with the Superintendent

School Committee

The Salem School Committee will decide on a salary adjustment for the Superintendent and receive a summer programs update along with AI guidance discussion. The agenda also includes subcommittee reports on finance, personnel, building and grounds, curriculum, and policy. Public comment and student representative report are scheduled.

• Approval of salary adjustment for Superintendent
• Summer Programs Update: 11 programs, 600+ students, 1,125 hours, 2,400 meals served
• Artificial Intelligence Guidance and Discussion for educators and students
• Subcommittee reports: Finance, Personnel, Building & Grounds, Curriculum, Policy
• Student Representative Report and Superintendent's Report

The Salem School Committee approved its agenda, referred three policy items to the Policy Subcommittee, and voted to give Superintendent Stephen Zrike a 7% salary increase. All motions passed with six votes in favor and one member absent. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved meeting agenda (6 votes in favor, 1 absent)
• Referred CTE middle school pathway, high school admission criteria, and competency determination policies to the Policy Subcommittee (6 votes in favor, 1 absent)
• Approved 7% salary increase for Superintendent Stephen Zrike (6 votes in favor, 1 absent)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:08 p.m. (6 votes in favor, 1 absent)

Tree Commission

The Tree Commission will hear reports on the Greening the Gateway Cities Program and a DCR grant proposal to replace PEM ginkgo trees as part of a cooling corridors project. They will also receive updates on tree planting at Essex and Cambridge Streets and trenching on Washington Street. The meeting includes approval of prior minutes and community outreach planning.

• Presentation on Greening the Gateway Cities Program by DCR Forester David Bresnahan
• Proposed replacement of PEM ginkgo trees through Cooling Corridors DCR grant 2026
• Update on tree planting at Essex and Cambridge Streets
• Discussion of trenching on Washington Street
• Community outreach at Historic Salem, Inc. Exposition on September 6

The Tree Commission approved the minutes from the August 18, 2025 meeting and tabled the July 14, 2025 minutes. A motion to adjourn the meeting was carried unanimously. Members agreed to revamp the tree‑care flyer and to draft a letter advocating for additional tree pits at the Ropes Mansion site.

• Approved August 18, 2025 Tree Commission minutes (motion carried)
• Tabled July 14, 2025 Tree Commission minutes (no vote recorded)
• Adjourned the meeting unanimously
• Committed to revamp the "Do This, Not This!" flyer (Jessica Choi and David Livingston)
• Committed to draft a letter advocating for additional tree pits (Jacob St. Louis)

Scholarship & Education Committee

The committee will meet to discuss financial and education fund updates. Members will work to finalize the launch of the Education Fund campaign and review fundraising ideas.

• Approval of August 11, 2025 meeting minutes
• Financial update
• Education Fund updates
• Finalization of Education Fund campaign launch
• Review of fundraising ideas and city feedback

The Scholarship & Education Committee approved the August 11, 2025 minutes with three votes in favor. The committee also approved moving forward with QR‑code, poster, and AI‑graphic fundraising ideas, again with three votes in favor. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Approved August 11, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Approved QR‑code, posters, AI‑graphics fundraising ideas (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0-0)

Licensing Board

The Salem Licensing Board will meet to consider applications for one-day liquor licenses for the Salem Nigh Faire and other events, as well as various fortunetelling and food service permits. The meeting will be held remotely on September 8, 2025.

• Four one-day Wine & Malt licenses for Salem Nigh Faire (Oct 17-25)
• Fortunetelling licenses at 92 Bayview Ave and Magic Parlor, 213 Essex St
• Common Victuallers licenses for Dina’s Roast Beef and Dunkin’
• Alteration of premise for Far From the Tree, 102-108 Jackson St
• Vote to rescind approval of a Store Fortune telling License at 133 Washington St

The Licensing Board unanimously approved several Wine & Malt one‑day liquor licenses for events and businesses, including Far From the Tree, East Regiment, Salem Arts Association, and Notch Brewing. It also approved an alteration and new brewer permit for Far From the Tree and a change of ownership for East Regiment Beer Company. The board rescinded a previously granted store fortunetelling license for Sacred Swan. Finally, the board set September 25, 2025 for its next meeting.

• Approved four Wine & Malt one‑day liquor licenses for Far From the Tree (3-0)
• Approved four Wine & Malt one‑day liquor licenses for East Regiment (3-0)
• Approved two Wine & Malt one‑day liquor licenses for Salem Arts Association (3-0)
• Approved four Wine & Malt one‑day liquor licenses for Notch Brewing events (3-0)
• Approved alteration of premise and new brewer permit for Far From the Tree (3-0)
• Approved change of officers, ownership, and manager for East Regiment Beer Company (3-0)
• Rescinded store fortunetelling license and sub‑licenses for Sacred Swan (3-0)
• Set September 25, 2025 as date for second board meeting (unanimous)

Salem Harbor Port Authority

The Salem Harbor Port Authority will meet remotely on September 4, 2025. Agenda items include port updates, a harbormaster report, and a discussion about the October meeting date conflicting with Yom Kippur. The meeting will also include public comment and approval of minutes.

• Discussion of October meeting date / Yom Kippur conflict
• Harbormaster report
• Public comment period
• Approval of minutes

The Salem Harbor Port Authority voted to approve the minutes from the August 7 meeting, with the motion passing unanimously. No other actions were formally decided; updates on a terminated PIDP grant, ferry service changes, and upcoming project plans were discussed but left pending. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved August 7 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council Committees on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs and the Committee of the Whole will meet jointly to discuss a proposed ordinance amendment that would change noise control rules on the Essex Street Pedestrian Mall and adjacent streets. No final vote is scheduled; this is a discussion only.

• Discussion of ordinance amendment to regulate noise on Essex St. Pedestrian Mall and adjacent streets

The Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs voted to amend the noise‑control ordinance, changing the start time from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. in sections 1‑3. The amendment passed unanimously with a 4‑0 vote. The committee also voted to refer the amended ordinance to the full City Council with a positive recommendation, also passing 4‑0. No other actions were taken.

• Amended start time to 10 a.m. in sections 1‑3 (4‑0)
• Referred amended ordinance to full council with positive recommendation (4‑0)

Planning Board

The Salem Planning Board will hold a remote meeting to continue two public hearings: one for an electric substation expansion at 24 Fort Avenue and 67 Derby Street, and another for a site plan amendment at 301 Essex Street that would eliminate a ground-floor parking garage and add 10 residential units. The board will also discuss and vote on a recommendation to the City Council regarding a zoning ordinance amendment related to multifamily parking requirements. Additionally, the board will review draft minutes from July and August meetings.

• Continuance of public hearing for New England Power Company's substation expansion at 24 Fort Avenue and 67 Derby Street
• Continuance of public hearing for 301 Essex Street: amend prior site plan to replace parking with commercial space and increase units from 20 to 30
• Vote on recommendation to City Council for zoning ordinance amendment on multifamily parking
• Staff update on previously approved projects
• Approval of draft minutes from July 24 and August 20 meetings

The Planning Board voted 8-0 to recommend a zoning ordinance amendment that would eliminate multifamily parking minimums, aiming to increase housing units. The board also approved the final decision with changes for the 24 Fort Avenue and 67 Derby Street substation expansion project by a 7-0 vote. Additional actions included approving draft minutes from July 24 and August 20 meetings (7-0, one abstention) and adjourning the meeting by an 8-0 vote.

• Closed public hearing on 24 Fort Ave/67 Derby St (8-0)
• Approved decision with changes for 24 Fort Ave/67 Derby St (7-0)
• Recommended zoning ordinance amendment to eliminate multifamily parking minimums to City Council (8-0)
• Continued agenda to September 18 Planning Board meeting (8-0)
• Approved draft minutes from July 24 and August 20 meetings (7-0, 1 abstention)
• Adjourned meeting (8-0)

Race Equity Commission

The Salem Race Equity Commission will hold a remote meeting on September 4, 2025. The primary action item is a vote to approve the final version of the REC Guide for current and future members. The meeting also includes farewells to departing members, a letter from the mayor, and approval of previous minutes.

• Vote on approving the final version of the REC Guide for current and future members.
• Farewell to current REC members stepping down; new members start in November.
• Update on one-on-one check-ins with Commission members.
• Approval of minutes from the July meeting.
• Public comment period.

Historical Commission

The Commission is reviewing several requests for Certificates of Appropriateness for property modifications. The body will also discuss demolition period extensions for Camp Naumkeag and St. Nicholas Church.

• Request to extend demolition period for Camp Naumkeag, 85 Memorial Drive
• Waiver of the Demolition Delay for St. Nicholas Church, 62 Forrester Street
• Certificate of Appropriateness for EV charger at 398 Essex Street
• Certificate of Appropriateness for HVAC condenser at 115 Derby Street
• Letter of support for CPA application for City Hall entrance door restoration

The Salem Historical Commission approved certificates of appropriateness for 17 ½ River Street and 59½ Summer Street. Members voted to continue the request for a six‑month demolition extension at Camp Naumkeag, to accept the withdrawal of the 26 Winter Street fence application, to approve a flat‑board style fence at 107 Federal Street, and to keep the discussion on window and door details open. All motions carried unanimously among the six voting members.

• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 17 ½ River Street (rear fence) – issued Sep 2 2025
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 59½ Summer Street (architectural shingles) – issued Sep 2 2025
• Continued request for six‑month demolition extension at Camp Naumkeag – motion carried (Murray, Peterson, English, Martinez, Meche, Joyce in favor)
• Accepted withdrawal of 26 Winter Street fence application without prejudice – motion carried (Murray, Peterson, English, Martinez, Meche, Joyce in favor)
• Approved flat‑board style fence at 107 Federal Street, painted to match trim – motion carried (Murray, Peterson, English, Martinez, Meche, Joyce in favor)
• Continued discussion of window type, side door/window, and front door details at 107 Federal Street – motion carried (Murray, Peterson, English, Martinez, Meche, Joyce in favor)

Housing Authority Board

The Board of Directors of Housing Opportunities of Salem, Inc. will meet to discuss new business and administrative matters. The primary item for consideration is an agreement between the organization and the Salem Housing Authority.

• Proposed Administrative Services Agreement between Housing Opportunities of Salem, Inc. and Salem Housing Authority
• Approval of July 16, 2025 meeting minutes

Bicycling & Shared Path Advisory Committee

The committee will discuss bicycling infrastructure and initiatives, including a bike parking ordinance and bikeshare data. The meeting also includes planning for upcoming events and a discussion on bikes on the MBTA.

• Bike Parking Ordinance
• Bikeshare data and program updates
• Energy Fair (9/18/2025)
• Haunted Happenings Parade (10/2/2025)
• Bikes on the MBTA

The committee recorded the mayor's appointment of Craig Bilodeau as a new member. The draft bike‑parking ordinance was finalized with Councilor Cohen and will be submitted to the City Council on September 25. The committee approved its prior meeting minutes and then adjourned the session.

• Mayor appoints Craig Bilodeau to the Committee (reported)
• Approved 4/2/2025 and 5/1/2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting at 7:22 p.m. (unanimous)

Salem Human Rights Coalition

The Salem Human Rights Coalition will meet to receive reports from the Mayor's Office liaison, clerk, and treasurer. Under old business, members will review feedback on a proposed essay writing contest from a Massachusetts tribe and plan next steps regarding contestants and timeline.

• Review feedback on proposed essay writing contest from Massachusetts tribe
• Plan next steps including contestants, involved parties, and timeframe
• Reports from Mayor's Office liaison, clerk (minutes), and treasurer (financials)
• Public comment and introduction of guests
• Upcoming events and next meeting on October 7, 2025

Zero Waste Salem

The Zero Waste Salem Committee will discuss upcoming events including a Book Swap and Repair Cafe, finalize a committee logo, and form a String Lights Collection task force. They will also consider a September potluck and a retirement party for committee members Carol and Bruce.

• Guest speaker: Ward 7 Councillor Andy Varela of Maitland Farm
• Discussion of committee logo design
• String Lights Collection task force formation (Cameron + Charles)
• 2026 calendar of events planning
• Proposed committee name retirement party for Carol and Bruce

The committee approved the August 2025 meeting minutes with a unanimous vote. City website audit suggestions and the String Lights Collection task force were both tabled until the next meeting. Alisa was assigned to consult legal about formally supporting the proposed composting ordinance. The group will continue work on the CHaRM site and implement the student composting program in all Salem schools.

• Approved August 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled City website audit suggestions until next meeting
• Tabled String Lights Collection task force (Cameron + Charles) until next meeting
• Assigned Alisa to consult legal on supporting the composting ordinance
• Continued development of the CHaRM site
• Planned implementation of student composting program in all Salem schools

Salem High School Building Committee

The Salem High School Building Committee Construction Manager Selection Subcommittee is meeting remotely to prepare for upcoming interviews with construction manager candidates. The agenda includes developing topics for presentation and a list of questions to be asked. No decisions or contracts are being made at this meeting.

• Develop topics for construction managers to address during interview presentations
• Develop list of questions for subcommittee members to ask at interviews
• Meeting held via Zoom with remote participation options

City Council

The Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs and the Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss a zoning amendment. The proposal involves adding a Smart Growth Overlay District to the Special Residential District Regulations.

• Proposed amendment to Zoning Ordinance Section 7 to add Section 7.4 Smart Growth Overlay District

The Salem City Council approved several amendments to the Smart Growth Overlay District ordinance. A motion to change Section 7.4.5 to set maximum off‑street parking at 1.75 spaces per unit passed 4‑1. Additional amendments adding a joint planning‑design review provision, landscape definitions, and a tree‑planting requirement each passed unanimously (5‑0). The amended ordinance was then referred to the full council for a second passage with a positive recommendation.

• Amended Section 7.4.5 parking requirements to maximums of 1.75 spaces per unit (4-1)
• Added joint review language to Section 7.4.7.4 for planning and design boards (5-0)
• Added landscape and open‑space definitions to Section 7.4.1 (5-0)
• Added tree‑planting requirement to Section 7.4.8F, Section 3-1 (5-0)
• Referred the amended ordinance to the full council for second passage (5-0)

Design Review Board

The Design Review Board meeting on August 27, 2025 will consider several project proposals in Salem’s Urban Renewal Area. Items include signage and facade modifications for businesses at 128 Washington Street, 311 Derby Street, 288 Derby Street, and 216 Essex Street, as well as a schematic design review at 301 Essex Street. The board will also review pre‑construction documents for an AL Prime Gas Station at 342 Highland Avenue, which is outside the Urban Renewal Area. The agenda includes approval of the July 23, 2025 minutes and any staff updates.

• Signage & small project review at 128 Washington Street (Ba Banh Mi)
• Signage, facade modifications & outdoor dining review at 311 Derby Street (The Goat)
• Rear façade faux storefronts review at 288 Derby Street
• Facade changes for office‑to‑hotel conversion at 216 Essex Street
• Pre‑construction document review for AL Prime Gas Station at 342 Highland Avenue

The Salem Design Review Board voted unanimously to approve signage proposals at 30 Church St., 281 Essex St. (Unit C3), 100 Washington St., 322 Derby St., 75 Washington St., and 128 Washington St. Each motion passed with a 5‑0 vote. Standard conditions and code requirements were attached to the approvals.

• Approved outdoor wall‑mounted sign for Crazy Good Kitchen at 30 Church St. (5‑0)
• Approved blade sign, referred A‑frame to Zoning Board, approved door and temporary wall sign for The Good Witch of Salem at 281 Essex St., Unit C3 (5‑0)
• Approved window signage for Black Cat Curiosity Shoppe at 100 Washington St. (5‑0)
• Approved reduced‑size hanging side sign and 34" wall sign for Rouge Cosmetics at 322 Derby St., pending lighting solution (5‑0)
• Approved door and window signage meeting 20% coverage for Dire Wolf Tavern at 75 Washington St. (5‑0)
• Approved painting strategy, window graphics, and blade sign for Ba Banh Mi at 128 Washington St., with standard conditions (5‑0)

Salem High School Building Committee

The Salem High School Building Committee's subcommittee will review the schedule for selecting a construction manager and develop interview questions. The group will also approve prior meeting minutes and allow for public comment.

• Review schedule for construction manager selection
• Develop interview topics and questions for candidates
• Approve prior subcommittee meeting minutes
• Public comment period included
• Meeting held via Zoom webinar

Commission on Disabilities

The Salem Commission on Disabilities will discuss Common Bandstand accessibility with Facilities Director Michael Crounse and hear about adaptive recreation programs from ADA Coordinator Lisa Cammarata. Old business includes a follow-up on a joint meeting with the Historical Commission and the possibility of discussing outdoor dining accessibility. The meeting also covers approval of prior minutes and announcements.

• Common Bandstand accessibility discussion with City Facilities Director Michael Crounse
• Adaptive recreation presentation by Lisa Cammarata
• Approval of prior meeting minutes
• Follow-up on joint meeting with Historical Commission
• Outdoor dining accessibility discussion (if needed)

The commission voted to table approval of the meeting minutes for later review. Commissioners discussed adaptive recreation and bandstand accessibility but took no formal action. The meeting was adjourned by a unanimous motion at 5:54 p.m.

• Adjourned meeting (motion carried unanimously)
• Approval of meeting minutes tabled (no vote recorded)
• Joint meeting with Historical Commission: no follow‑up needed
• Outdoor dining: no follow‑up discussion needed

City Seal Task Force

The Salem City Seal Task Force will discuss and vote on closing the current public input form and publishing a new one with updated questions, and begin drafting a report for the City Council based on response data. They will also schedule upcoming listening sessions, presentations (including from the Peabody Essex Museum), and special meeting dates in September to gather input before making a final recommendation on the city seal.

• Discussion and vote on closing the Public Input Form and publishing a new form with updated questions
• Beginning to write a report for the City Council with current response data
• Scheduling upcoming outreach and the next listening session(s)
• Scheduling presentations through end of year, including Peabody Essex Museum experts
• Special meeting dates: September 8 and September 29, 2025

The City Seal Task Force approved the August 18, 2025 minutes by unanimous vote. Members unanimously voted to transfer the public input survey from Microsoft Forms to JotForms and add demographic questions. The task force set presentation dates for Professors Michael Feener (9/15) and Erika Lee (9/29) and identified possible listening session dates of 9/8 and 10/14. The meeting was adjourned following a motion by Aditi Ahlawat.

• Approved August 18, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved move of public input form to JotForms (unanimous)
• Scheduled Professor Michael Feener presentation for 9/15
• Scheduled Professor Erika Lee presentation for 9/29
• Identified possible listening session dates: 9/8 and 10/14
• Motion to adjourn meeting passed

Licensing Board

The Salem Licensing Board will meet to vote on selecting two out of five proposals for an all-alcohol license. The meeting will be held via Zoom on August 25, 2025.

• Vote to select two alcohol license proposals from five applicants
• Review and vote on selecting two out of five proposals for an all-alcohol license
• Applicants include Amazing Pizza, Gulu-Gulu, The Goat, Boutique Hotel, and Notch
• Meeting held via Zoom
• Review and vote on selecting two out of five proposals for an all-alcohol license

The Licensing Board considered five proposals for two available annual all‑alcohol licenses. A motion to grant the licenses to Notch Brewing and The Goat was approved by a 3‑0 vote. The board then adjourned the meeting by a 3‑0 vote.

• Motion to award the two annual all‑alcohol licenses to Notch Brewing and The Goat approved (3-0)
• Motion to adjourn the meeting approved (3-0)

Salem High School Building Committee

The Salem High School Building Committee will hear presentations on Project Labor Agreements from two trade groups, then vote on a determination. The meeting also includes a milestone schedule review, design progress update, and updates on the construction manager selection process and finance working group.

• Vote on determination after presentations on Project Labor Agreements from North Shore Building Trades Council and Associated Builders & Contractors
• Approval of July 15, 2025 meeting minutes
• Milestone schedule review and next steps
• Design progress update
• Update on CM (construction manager) selection process and Finance Working Group

City Council

The City Council will vote on multiple orders establishing temporary parking rates and resident permit streets for October 2025, including $40/day lots and $7/hour metered streets. It will also consider a proposal to exempt personal property valued under $1,000 from taxation. Appointments to the Board of Health, Sustainability Committee, and Council on Aging are up for confirmation.

• Temporary October resident permit parking on streets including Dearborn, Dalton Parkway, May, and others from Oct 1 to Nov 1 with specific hours
• Parking lot rates set at $40/day for six lots on weekends in October (Crombie, Old Salem Jail, Crescent, Salem Green, Church Street East and West)
• Personal property tax exemption: accepting MGL Ch. 59 Sec. 5 Clause 54 to set minimum taxable value at $1,000
• Gas-powered leaf blower ordinance recommended to remain in committee (no change)
• Preliminary Election polling places designated for September 16, 2025

Health

The North Shore Public Health Collaborative is meeting to receive updates on public health emergency (PHE) and training hub activities, epidemiology, workplan and budget, and opioid settlement funds. No specific decisions or proposals are listed; the items are informational updates. Community updates will also be shared.

• PHE and training hub updates
• Epidemiology updates
• Workplan and budget updates
• Opioid settlement funds discussion

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Salem Zoning Board of Appeals will consider several variance and special permit requests. A notable item is a proposal to convert a nonconforming three-family house at 26 Winter Street into a nine-guestroom inn, requiring parking and setback variances. Other items include a garage construction at 22 Vista Avenue, dormer additions at 3 Lemon Street and 22 Prescott Street, and a roof extension at 16 Eden Street.

• Special permit to change use of 26 Winter St from three-family to nine-guestroom inn, with variances for parking width, space proximity, and total spaces
• Variance and special permit for a 1.5-story garage at 22 Vista Ave, reducing required rear setback from 5 ft to 2 ft
• Variance and special permit to reconstruct third floor and add dormer at 3 Lemon St
• Variance and special permit for dormer and two-story staircase at 22 Prescott St, reducing rear setback from 19 ft 3 in to 13 ft 9 in
• Variance and special permit to extend roof and reconstruct porches at 16 Eden St, exceeding 2.5-story height limit

The Salem Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously approved three petitions. Michael Kostopoulos received a special permit and variance to build a 1.5‑story garage at 22 Vista Avenue. Juliana Silva was granted a variance and special permit to reconstruct a third floor and add dormers at 3 Lemon Street. Adimir Toska was approved for a variance and special permit to add dormers and a two‑story staircase at 22 Prescott Street. No public comments were received for any of the items.

• Approved special permit & variance for garage at 22 Vista Ave (5-0)
• Approved variance & special permit for third‑floor reconstruction and dormers at 3 Lemon St (5-0)
• Approved variance & special permit for dormers and staircase at 22 Prescott St (5-0)

Historical Commission

The Salem Historical Commission will consider several applications at its August 20, 2025 meeting, including certificates of appropriateness for exterior modifications and demolition delay waivers for buildings over 50 years old. A request for a letter of support for a historic tax credit application at 216 Essex Street is also on the agenda.

• 62 Forrester Street – Waiver of Demolition Delay for demolition of building older than 50 years (St. Nicholas Church)
• 216 Essex Street – Request for letter of support for historic tax credit application
• 7½ Lyme Street – Waiver of Demolition Delay to demolish more than 50% of roof (building older than 50 years)
• 3 Lemon Street – Waiver of Demolition Delay to demolish more than 50% of roof (building older than 50 years)
• 56 Washington Square – Certificate of Appropriateness for roof and gutter work

The commission voted to approve the gutter and downspout application for 10 Broad Street with paint‑matching options and specified downspout locations. It also approved the entry‑stairs element of the 26 Winter Street application, pending additional documentation. Additional approvals included an electrical service upgrade at 17 Fowler Street and a roof replacement at 56 Washington Square, while several other applications were continued or withdrawn without prejudice.

• Approved 10 Broad Street gutter and downspout application (6-0)
• Approved entry‑stairs element of 26 Winter Street application, pending documentation (4-0)
• Approved 17 Fowler Street electrical service upgrade with paint and rigid conduit requirements (6-0)
• Approved roof replacement at 56 Washington Square and withdrew gutter request without prejudice (6-0)
• Continued 26 Winter Street gate removal and fence revision to next meeting (4-0)
• Continued 1 Pickering Street application to next meeting (5-0)
• Continued 107 Federal Street application to next meeting (6-0)
• Accepted withdrawal without prejudice of 7½ Lyme Street demolition waiver (6-0)

City Council

The Salem City Council and Planning Board are holding a joint public hearing to discuss proposed zoning ordinance amendments related to 'Right Sizing' and multifamily parking requirements. The changes affect parking space tables, affordable housing requirements, and parking reductions in several districts. Public comment is being accepted.

• Deleting off-street parking exemption for age-restricted housing in R3 districts
• Replacing parking requirements table for multifamily dwellings
• Amending affordable housing unit percentage to 10% in certain developments
• Removing parking reduction section from housing bonus
• Adding Transportation Demand Management Plan requirement for certain applications

The Salem City Council and Planning Board held a joint public hearing on proposed amendments to the Zoning Ordinance concerning parking and affordable housing. No vote on the ordinance itself was recorded in the minutes. The Council voted on motions to close the public hearing and to adjourn the meeting, but the outcomes of those votes were not noted.

• Councilor Hapworth moved to close the public hearing – vote taken (outcome not recorded)
• Josh Turiel moved to close the public hearing for the Planning Board – vote taken (outcome not recorded)
• Councilor Morsillo moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:28 pm – vote taken (outcome not recorded)
• Chair Rieder moved to adjourn the Planning Board – vote taken (outcome not recorded)

Planning Board

The City Council and Planning Board held a joint public hearing to discuss an ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance. The proposed changes focus on right-sizing multi-family parking requirements and updating affordable housing unit mandates.

• Proposed requirement that at least 10% of dwelling units in certain developments be Affordable Housing Units
• Amendments to Section 5.1.8 Table of Required Parking Spaces to distinguish between single-family, two-family, and multifamily dwellings
• Deletion of the 'Parking Reduction' section from the Housing Bonus provisions
• New requirement for a Transportation Demand Management Plan in certain applications
• Updated parking standards for artist lofts in the NRCC

The City Council voted to close the public hearing and refer the proposed zoning amendment on multifamily parking to the Planning Board for a recommendation. The Council also closed the hearing for the Planning Board and then adjourned the meeting. All motions passed unanimously.

• Closed public hearing (motion by Councilor Hapworth, all in favor)
• Referred ordinance to Planning Board for recommendation (motion by Councilor Hapworth, all in favor)
• Closed public hearing for Planning Board (motion by Mr. Turiel, all in favor)
• Adjourned Planning Board meeting (motion by Mr. Rieder, all in favor)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission voted 4‑0 to continue the Highland Avenue wetland delineation hearing, the Boston St/Essex St streets‑improvement hearing, and the 85 Memorial Drive Pioneer Village hearing to the September 16 meeting. The commission also scheduled a site visit to the Highland Avenue property for September 9 at 4:30 p.m. No other actions were taken.

• Continued Highland Ave wetland delineation hearing to Sept 16 (vote 4‑0)
• Scheduled site visit to 329‑333 Highland Ave for Sept 9 at 4:30 p.m.
• Continued Boston St/Essex St streets‑improvement hearing to Sept 16 (vote 4‑0)
• Continued 85 Memorial Drive Pioneer Village hearing to Sept 16 (vote 4‑0)

Public Art Commission

The Public Art Commission will hold a remote meeting to approve July meeting minutes and discuss several planning items. Topics include participation in the Youth Poet Laureate review panel, Sculpture Garden event planning, and the 400+ Public Art initiative. No votes or contract awards are listed; the agenda is focused on discussion and future planning.

• Review and approval of July 15, 2025 meeting minutes
• Youth Poet Laureate Review Panel Participation
• Sculpture Garden Event Planning
• 400+ Public Art Planning
• Project Updates & Other Business

The Public Art Commission approved the July 15, 2025 meeting minutes by a 5‑0 vote. Members reached consensus to move forward with the granite slab sculpture from Old Town Hall and will draft an RFP by the September meeting, with a final version ready by October. Hannah Gathman volunteered to serve on the Youth Poet Laureate Review Panel, and Julie Barry will submit an IT ticket for SharePoint issues. The meeting was adjourned with a 5‑0 vote.

• Approved July 15, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Consensus to proceed with granite slab sculpture from Old Town Hall
• Plan draft RFP for September meeting
• Prepare final RFP document by October
• Hannah Gathman volunteered for Youth Poet Laureate Review Panel
• Julie Barry to submit IT ticket for SharePoint errors
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Park & Recreation Commission

The Park and Recreation Commission will discuss a potential land sale or acquisition of the property abutting Furlong Park at 16-18 Franklin Street. They will also hear several requests for amplified sound permits for events at city parks, including a Salem Food Policy Council garden tour, a wedding reception at Salem Willows Shell, and an art installation ribbon cutting at Forest River Park. Additionally, the commission will review updated design plans for Pioneer Village, including new historic markers.

• Discussion of potential land sale/acquisition of property abutting Furlong Park at 16-18 Franklin Street
• Request from Salem Food Policy Council for amplified sound at Palmer Cove Garden Tours on Sept 6, 2025 (4:30-7:00pm)
• Wedding ceremony and reception at Salem Willows Shell on Oct 4, 2025 with sound amplification (3:30-9:30pm)
• Ribbon cutting for 'On the House' art installation at Forest River Park Function Room on Sept 14, 2025 with sound (2:00-6:00pm)
• Review of updated Pioneer Village design plans including new historic markers

The Salem Park and Recreation Commission approved the minutes from the July 22, 2025 meeting. It also approved three upcoming events: the Palmer Cove Garden Tour on September 6, a wedding ceremony at the Salem Willows Shell on October 4, and the “On the House” ribbon‑cutting art installation on September 14. A land‑swap proposal for parkland was discussed but no decision was made, and a motion to approve Pioneer Village construction documents was presented without a recorded outcome.

• Approved July 22, 2025 Commission minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Palmer Cove Garden Tour event Sep 6, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved wedding ceremony at Salem Willows Shell Oct 4, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved “On the House” ribbon‑cutting art installation Sep 14, 2025 (unanimous)
• Motion to approve Pioneer Village construction documents (outcome not recorded)

City Seal Task Force

The Salem City Seal Task Force will review and approve minutes from July meetings, hear presentations from experts, and discuss scheduling future listening sessions and presentations. A key item is a discussion and vote on closing the public input form and preparing a report for City Council. The board will also plan September presentations by task‑force member Michael Feener and Professor Erica Lee.

• Approve July 21 and July 14 meeting minutes
• Presentation by Dr. Aditi Ahlawat, Christopher Huang and Christina Kuo
• Discussion and vote to close the public input form
• Schedule September meeting presentations (Michael Feener, Erica Lee)
• Plan listening sessions and outreach through the end of the year

The Salem City Seal Task Force unanimously approved the minutes from the July 21 and July 14 meetings, adding two letters to the latter. Members voted unanimously to move the public‑input form from Microsoft Form to JotForm. A special meeting was scheduled for August 25, 2025 to discuss additional listening sessions and presentations.

• Approved July 21, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved July 14, 2025 listening session minutes with two letters added (unanimous)
• Moved public input form to JotForm (unanimous)
• Scheduled special meeting on 8/25/2025 to discuss further outreach and listening sessions
• Scheduled special meeting on 8/25/2025 to discuss Peabody Essex Museum expert presentations

School Committee

The School Committee will discuss back-to-school priorities, MSBA updates, and financial reports. The body is also scheduled to vote on several FY25 and FY26 warrants.

• FY25 Warrants: $112,359.13 (07/30), $16,694.25 (08/06), and $86,629.33 (08/13)
• FY26 Warrants: $264,258.70 (07/24), $535,415.12 (07/31), $363,263.83 (08/07), and $419,275.34 (08/14)
• Superintendent's update on Back to School priorities
• Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) update
• Reports from Finance, Personnel, Building & Grounds, Curriculum, and Policy subcommittees

The committee approved the meeting agenda and the consent agenda without opposition. The consent agenda included approval of the July 28, 2025 minutes and FY25 warrants totaling $215,682.71 and FY26 warrants totaling $1,582,212.99. No other substantive actions were taken and the meeting was adjourned at 8:08 pm.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of July 28, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved FY25 warrants totaling $215,682.71 (unanimous)
• Approved FY26 warrants totaling $1,582,212.99 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:08 pm (unanimous)

Tree Commission

The Salem Tree Commission will vote on a tree planting project at Essex and Cambridge Streets. They will also hear a presentation on the Greening the Gateway Cities Program and discuss replacing the PEM ginkgo trees through a proposed Cooling Corridors DCR grant. Other items include trenching on Washington Street and a discussion on the Tree Treatment Program.

• Vote on tree planting at Essex and Cambridge Streets
• Discussion of PEM ginkgo tree replacement via Cooling Corridors DCR grant 2026
• Presentation on Greening the Gateway Cities Program by DCR Forester
• Report from Tree Warden Kieran Kavanaugh
• Discussion on Tree Treatment Program

The commission unanimously carried a motion to adjourn the meeting. Approval of the July 14, 2025 minutes was postponed until the September 8, 2025 meeting. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Adjourned meeting (unanimous vote)
• Postponed approval of July 14, 2025 minutes to September 8, 2025
• Scheduled next meetings for September 8, 2025 and October 20, 2025

School Committee

The Personnel Subcommittee will meet in executive session to prepare for collective bargaining with the Salem Teachers Union regarding athletic coaches and for negotiations with non-union personnel regarding the superintendent. The meeting will not return to open session after the executive session. No decisions on policy or spending are on the agenda.

• Executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy with Salem Teachers Union – Athletic Coaches
• Executive session to discuss negotiations with Non-Union Personnel – Superintendent
• Approval of executive session minutes from March 25, 2025

The subcommittee approved the regular session minutes from March 25, 2025. The members then voted to go into executive session. Both motions passed unanimously.

• Approved March 25, 2025 regular session minutes (unanimous)
• Entered executive session (unanimous)

City Council

The Assistant City Clerk will conduct a drawing for ballot positions for the September 16, 2025, City Preliminary Election. This process determines the placement of candidates on the ballot.

• Ballot position drawing for Ward 1 City Councillor
• Ballot position drawing for Ward 2 City Councillor
• Ballot position drawing for Ward 5 City Councillor
• Ballot position drawing for Ward 6 City Councillor

Salem Redevelopment Authority

The Salem Redevelopment Authority will discuss the status of the Courthouse project, vote on a potential amendment to a Purchase and Sale Agreement, and consider an Early Start License for 252 Bridge Street. The meeting will also cover small project reviews for several Essex Street properties and a request for a tent permit at Lappin Park.

• Vote on amendment to Purchase and Sale Agreement for 252 Bridge Street and 32-34 Federal Street
• Vote on Early Start License for 252 Bridge Street
• Review of façade painting at 246 Essex Street, Unit B
• Proposal to modify façade at 216 Essex Street for hotel use
• Extension of premise for outdoor dining at 311 Derby Street

The Salem Redevelopment Authority discussed an early‑start license and PSA amendment for the 252 Bridge Street and 32‑35 Federal Street projects. No formal approvals were recorded. A motion by Chair Rubin to enter executive session to consider the Winn Development proposal was made.

• Motion to enter executive session to consider redevelopment proposal (made by Rubin)

Housing Authority Board

The Salem Housing Authority Board of Directors will meet to discuss several maintenance bids and administrative updates. The board will also consider elections for board officers and a director for Housing Opportunities of Salem, Inc.

• Bid for interior painting of vacant units up to $150,000.00
• Bid for roof replacement at 292 Essex Street
• Bid for EOHLC Project 258150 Electrical Upgrade at Pioneer Terrace 667-4
• Grant award for Aervivo, Inc. to upgrade internet for 665 units across 21 properties
• Proposed revisions to Chapters 4 and 12 of the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program Administrative Plan

Transportation Commission

The Salem Transportation Commission will discuss and review draft proposed criteria for resident permit parking on future eligible streets. The meeting includes public comments, a director's update, and approval of previous minutes.

• Discussion of draft resident permit parking criteria for future street requests

The commission voted 5‑0 to approve the minutes from the July 9, 2025 meeting. No other resolutions, approvals, or denials were recorded; the discussion focused on draft resident‑permit parking criteria but no vote was taken.

• Approved July 9, 2025 meeting minutes (5‑0)

Cemetery Commission

The Salem Cemetery Commission will vote on a trust fund request for a market rate study by Tetra Tech. They will revisit a five-year residency policy and discuss management of damaged headstones. A presentation on headstone standardization and lot numbers for the Burke Lot expansion is also on the agenda.

• Vote on approval of Trust Fund Request for market rate study (Tetra Tech)
• Revisit five-year policy for residency, including definition of residency
• Discussion of how damaged headstones are managed across all cemeteries
• Burke Lot expansion presentation: headstone standardization (upright style only, no slant) and lot numbers
• Proposed policy: flat markers limited to two per lot in Greenlawn; no foot markers in cremation section except veteran markers

Salem Harbor Port Authority

The Salem Harbor Port Authority will meet to receive port and staff updates, including the Harbormaster Report. The agenda consists of procedural items and reports.

• Harbormaster Report

The board voted unanimously to approve the minutes from the June 5, 2025 meeting. A second unanimous vote adjourned the August 7, 2025 meeting. No other formal actions or votes were recorded.

• Approved June 5 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Licensing Board

The Licensing Board will consider an application to add live music to an entertainment license and review responses for two available annual all-alcohol licenses.

• Application by The Cannery at 2 Bridge St. to add live musical performances
• Review of five responses for two Annual All Alcohol licenses available through RFP

The Licensing Board voted to approve the requested amendment to the entertainment license at 2 Bridge St., allowing Thursday and Friday performances from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m., Saturdays from 12 p.m. to 11 p.m., and Sundays from 12 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., contingent on the applicant providing a menu. The Board also decided to continue reviewing the five applications for the two Annual All‑Alcohol licenses and will schedule a follow‑up meeting.

• Approved amendment to 2 Bridge St. entertainment license (subject to menu submission)
• Continued review of Annual All‑Alcohol license applications; next meeting to be scheduled

Bicycling & Shared Path Advisory Committee

The Bicycling & Shared Path Advisory Committee will meet to discuss bicycling infrastructure and initiatives. The agenda includes reviews of bike parking, bikeshare data, and MBTA bike policies.

• Discussion of Bike Parking Ordinance
• Bikeshare data and program updates
• Bikes on the MBTA
• Committee vacancy

Zero Waste Salem

The SalemRecycles Committee will meet in person at City Hall Annex and via Zoom to discuss committee branding, waste-reduction laws, and upcoming events like the Ice Scream Bowl.

• Approval of previous committee minutes
• Discussion on state EPR and waste-reduction laws
• Exploration of string light collection bins
• Recruitment for a graphic artist or illustrator
• Upcoming events: Ice Scream Bowl and Book Swap

The committee unanimously approved the August 5 meeting minutes. Several task forces were created: Nancy will coordinate a second Swap & Drop event; a group of Alisa, Brian, Nancy, and Catherine will plan the September Book Swap and address safety concerns. Charles will confirm the new logo with his wife and Alisa will serve as the point person for logo approval. Nancy will handle newsletter content and vendor updates.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Formed task force (Nancy) to coordinate a second Swap & Drop event
• Assigned task force (Alisa, Brian, Nancy, Catherine) to plan September Book Swap and address room safety
• Assigned task force to improve school communication on supply collections (Alisa leading)
• Designated Charles to confirm new logo with his wife; Alisa to be point person for logo approval
• Directed Brian to contact Beverly about airport site for CHaRM
• Directed Nancy to contact Mass Teacher Resources for September newsletter content
• Directed Nancy to submit updated white‑goods vendor changes for August newsletter

Salem High School Building Committee

The Salem High School CM Selection Subcommittee is meeting to review qualification submissions. The body will vote to establish a short list of candidates for the construction manager role.

• Vote on Construction Manager (CM) short list

Salem Cultural Council

The Salem Cultural Council will hold a hybrid public meeting to vote on the 2025-2026 calendar, appoint co-chairs and a treasurer, and approve prior meeting minutes. The meeting includes public comment via Zoom or in person.

• Final review and vote on the 2025-2026 calendar
• Appointment of Co-Chairs and Treasurer
• Vote on prior meeting minutes from June 2025
• Public comment period for residents

The council approved the June 2025 meeting minutes. It unanimously adopted a 2025‑2026 calendar, moving meetings to 7:30 PM and extending November and December sessions. Members were elected as co‑chairs (John Newhall, Ian McLeod), secretary (Cassandra Warren) and treasurer (Cris Gladly). Additional approvals covered updated project‑priority guidelines, email communication assignments, and a rule that social‑media posts need city‑representative approval.

• Approved June 2025 meeting minutes (unanimously)
• Adopted 2025‑2026 calendar: meeting time changed to 7:30 PM; November and December meetings extended (unanimously)
• Appointed John Newhall and Ian McLeod as co‑chairs (unanimously)
• Appointed Cassandra Warren as secretary (unanimously)
• Appointed Cris Gladly as treasurer (unanimously)
• Approved updates to project‑priority guidelines (unanimously)
• Decided email assignments for council communication (unanimously)
• Confirmed social‑media posts require city representative approval (unanimously)

School Committee

The Building and Grounds Subcommittee of the Salem School Committee is meeting to approve minutes from January and to discuss a facility rental form. The meeting is procedural with no major decisions anticipated.

• Approval of January 27, 2025 Building and Grounds Subcommittee Minutes
• Discussion of a Facility Rental Form

The Building and Grounds Subcommittee approved the January 27, 2025 meeting minutes by a 2‑0 vote. Members discussed revising the facility‑rental form and planning a future meeting on long‑term leases, but no vote was taken on those items. The committee then adjourned the meeting by a 2‑0 vote.

• Approved Jan 27, 2025 minutes (2‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (2‑0)

Salem Food Policy Council

The Salem Food Policy Council will hold a routine meeting to approve June minutes, receive liaison updates from Kerry Murphy and Councillor Andy Varela, appoint a new chair and recruit new members, discuss a Listening Session recap and the Longest Table event, and hear subcommittee reports.

• Appointing new chair and reviewing new member applications/recruitment
• Listening Session recap and Longest Table event discussion
• Subcommittee reports

City Council

The Salem City Council's Administration and Finance Committee, co-posted with the Committee of the Whole, will discuss and potentially vote on accepting a state law provision that allows municipalities to set a minimum taxable value for personal property. The proposal would exempt accounts valued below $1,000 from taxation.

• Proposal to adopt M.G.L. Chapter 59, Section 5, Clause 54, setting a $1,000 minimum threshold for personal property taxation

The City Council Committee on Administration and Finance and the Committee of the Whole met to consider adopting Massachusetts General Law Chapter 59, Section 5, Clause 54, which would set a $1,000 minimum taxable value for personal‑property accounts. The proposal would exempt roughly 187 small businesses from the tax and affect less than 0.05% of the overall levy. No vote or formal decision was recorded in the minutes.

Salem High School Building Committee

The Salem High School Building Committee Selection Subcommittee will meet to review the draft Request for Proposal and schedule. The meeting is open to the public via Zoom.

• Review Draft CM Request for Proposal & RFP Schedule
• Public Comment
• Meeting via Zoom Webinar

Cemetery Commission

The Salem Cemetery Commission will review administrative matters, including approval of June 10, 2025 minutes. Commissioners will revisit the five‑year residency policy and receive updates on headstone cleaning at Broad Street Cemetery, sewer improvements at Greenlawn Cemetery, and the Burke Lot headstone standards. A key agenda item is discussion of trust fund withdrawals with the DPW Director and the Superintendent of Tree and Cemetery, focusing on procedures and intended uses of the funds.

• Approve Commission meeting minutes for June 10, 2025
• Revisit five‑year residency policy (lead by Mr. Johns and Mr. Murphy)
• Broad Street Cemetery headstone cleaning update and rule adjustment
• Sewer improvements planned for Greenlawn Cemetery
• Discussion on trust fund withdrawals with DPW Director and Superintendent

The Cemetery Commission approved the minutes from the June 10 meeting and unanimously adjourned. It postponed the five‑year residency policy discussion until the next meeting. Commissioners voted to approve use of interest income from the Perpetual Care Trust Fund and to request a $39,000 check from the Melden Trust Fund to fund a market‑rate study and standard‑operating‑procedure development for Greenlawn Cemetery. A draft letter of support for the study will be prepared for the next meeting.

• Approved June 10, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Deferred five‑year residency policy discussion to next meeting
• Decided to draft a letter of support for Greenlawn market‑rate study at next meeting
• Approved expenditure of interest income and requested $39,000 from Melden Trust Fund
• Noted $420,000 sewer and drainage improvement project for Greenlawn Cemetery (city‑approved)
• Planned subcontractor scheduling for Broad Street Cemetery headstone cleaning this fall
• Confirmed dogs remain prohibited at Broad Street Cemetery pending dog‑officer review
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

School Committee

The School Committee will meet to approve FY25 and FY26 warrants and a field trip for Carlton 5th graders. The Superintendent will provide updates on the strategic plan, teacher diversification, and the Massachusetts School Building Authority.

• FY25 warrants: $494,163.25 (06/19/2025) and $1,481,713.55 (06/26/2025)
• FY26 warrants: $843,763.69, $359,154.47, $70,618.07, and $78,759.09
• Carlton 5th grade field trip to The Farm School in Athol MA (Sept 22-26, 2025)
• Proposed change to the September 2025 meeting date
• Resolution for July 4, 2025

The Salem School Committee approved the agenda and consent agenda, which included FY25 warrants of $494,163.25 and $1,481,713.55 and FY26 warrants of $843,763.69, $359,154.47, $70,618.07 and $78,759.09. It also approved minutes from prior meetings, a field trip for Carlton 5th‑grade students, and moved the September 22, 2025 meeting to September 24, 2025. The meeting was adjourned at 8:14 p.m.

• Approved agenda (5‑0)
• Approved FY25 warrants of $494,163.25 and $1,481,713.55 (5‑0)
• Approved FY26 warrants of $843,763.69, $359,154.47, $70,618.07, $78,759.09 (5‑0)
• Approved field trip for Carlton 5th‑grade students to The Farm School (5‑0)
• Approved minutes of June 17 2025 meeting and June 21 2025 retreat (5‑0)
• Changed September 22 2025 meeting to September 24 2025 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:14 p.m. (unanimous)

Scholarship & Education Committee

This meeting of the Salem Scholarship & Education Committee is largely procedural, covering approval of past minutes, a financial update, and education fund updates. The main discussion items are planning for the fall and generating fundraising ideas. No specific votes or dollar amounts are listed on the agenda.

• Approval of June 14, 2025 meeting minutes
• Financial update on scholarship and education funds
• Education Fund Updates and planning for the fall
• Discussion of fundraising ideas
• New business

Licensing Board

The Salem Licensing Board will review applications for one-day liquor licenses for multiple events including an art reception, a fundraiser, a haunted speakeasy, and a road race. The board will also consider new and renewed fortuneteller licenses at several locations, as well as a vendor market and entertainment license amendments.

• One-day liquor license for Salem Arts Association opening reception (159 Derby St, Aug 8, 75 people)
• One-day liquor license for Mack Park Farm fundraiser (31 Grove St, Aug 10, up to 200 people)
• Three one-day liquor licenses for Haunted Speakeasy at Hamilton Hall (9 Chestnut St, Oct 18, 25 & 31)
• New Store Fortunetelling License and two sublicensees at 133 Washington St (Sacred Swan)
• Amendment to Entertainment License at The Cannery (2 Bridge St) to add live musical performances

The Licensing Board voted 3‑0 to approve seven one‑day liquor licenses for events ranging from an art reception to a 10,000‑person road race. It also approved a fortuneteller license for The Sea Wych, a vendor market permit for Moon Over Salem, and a common victuallers and entertainment license for El Poblano Taqueria. All motions were approved unanimously; no applications were denied.

• Approved One‑Day Liquor License for Salem Arts Association event (75 people) (3‑0)
• Approved One‑Day Liquor License for Mack Park Farm Fundraiser (200 people) (3‑0)
• Approved three One‑Day Liquor Licenses for Hamilton Hall Haunted Speakeasy (150‑200 people) (3‑0)
• Approved five One‑Day Liquor Licenses for Root NS events (various dates) (3‑0)
• Approved One‑Day Liquor License for 10k Road Race (1000 people) (3‑0)
• Approved Fortuneteller License for Ashley Doucette at The Sea Wych (3‑0)
• Approved Vendor Market and Entertainment License for Moon Over Salem (up to 30 vendors) (3‑0)
• Approved Common Victuallers & Entertainment License for El Poblano Taqueria (3‑0)

Planning Board

The Salem Planning Board will hold a continuance public hearing on a site‑plan application to expand an existing electric substation at 24 Fort Avenue and 67 Derby Street. The board will also consider a subdivision application for 25 Cedarcrest Avenue and a site‑plan amendment for 301 Essex Street that would replace a parking garage with commercial space and add residential units. The meeting includes staff updates on prior projects and approval of draft minutes from June 26 and July 10, 2025.

• Continuance public hearing for substation expansion at 24 Fort Ave (Map 41, Lot 271) and 67 Derby St (Map 41, Lot 339) in Industrial and Coastal Resiliency Overlay districts
• Form A/ANR subdivision application for 25 Cedarcrest Avenue (Map 21, Lots 245 and 243)
• Site‑plan amendment for 301 Essex Street (Map 26, Lot 458) to replace garage with commercial space and add residential units
• Staff update on previously approved projects
• Approval of draft minutes from June 26, 2025 and July 10, 2025

The Planning Board approved Bridgewell LLC’s ANR/subdivision application for 23R-25 Cedarcrest Avenue with an 8‑0 vote. The board also authorized the Planning Director to sign the plan on its behalf, also 8‑0. Two other items—24 Fort Avenue/67 Derby Street and 301 Essex Street—were continued to the September 4, 2025 meeting, each by an 8‑0 vote. Draft minutes from June 26 and July 10, 2025 were approved unanimously.

• Approved ANR subdivision for 23R-25 Cedarcrest Avenue (8-0)
• Authorized Planning Director to sign the plan on board’s behalf (8-0)
• Continued 24 Fort Avenue & 67 Derby Street hearing to Sep 4, 2025 (8-0)
• Continued 301 Essex Street hearing to Sep 4, 2025 (8-0)
• Approved draft minutes from June 26, 2025 (8-0)
• Approved draft minutes from July 10, 2025 (8-0)
• Adjourned meeting (8-0)

Design Review Board

The Design Review Board will review several small project proposals and signage requests within the Urban Renewal Area. The board will also examine schematic designs for residential units and interior layouts at 301 Essex Street.

• A-frame sign for Dire Wolf Tavern at 75 Washington Street
• Sign for The Good Witch of Salem at 281 Essex Street, Unit C3
• Rear façade modification with faux storefronts at 288 Derby Street
• Roof replacement proposal by Salem Housing Authority at 292 Essex Street
• Residential units and interior layout review at 301 Essex Street

The Design Review Board approved several small‑project proposals, including A‑frame signs at 75 Washington St and 281 Essex St, a roof replacement for the Salem Housing Authority building at 292 Essex St, a façade repaint at 246 Essex St, and the closure of the parking‑lot entrance at 76 Lafayette St. The board also voted to continue the review of the 301 Essex St residential‑unit scheme and approved the June 11 and June 25, 2025 meeting minutes. All votes were unanimous except the minutes approval, which was 5‑0 with one abstention.

• Approved A‑frame sign at 75 Washington Street (6-0)
• Approved 40" wide sign at 281 Essex Street Unit C3 (6-0)
• Approved roof replacement at 292 Essex Street (6-0)
• Approved façade repaint at 246 Essex Street Unit B (6-0)
• Approved closure of parking‑lot entrance at 76 Lafayette Street (6-0)
• Continued review of 301 Essex Street residential unit scheme (6-0)
• Approved June 11 and June 25, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0)

Sustainability, Energy, & Resiliency Committee

The Sustainability, Energy, and Resiliency Committee will receive updates on the Mack Park Heat Index and Safety Signage project and the development of a Salem Climate Resiliency Checklist. They will also consider approval of June 30 meeting minutes, discuss guest speakers, and receive city and liaison updates. No binding votes or ordinances are scheduled.

• Approve June 30, 2025 meeting minutes
• SERC feedback on private projects
• Update on Mack Park Heat Index and Safety Signage (Meryl Schultz)
• Development of Salem Climate Resiliency Checklist (John Hayes)
• Discuss upcoming guest speakers including IRWA State of the Watershed Address

The Sustainability, Energy, & Resiliency Committee unanimously approved the June 30, 2025 meeting minutes. The Home Energy Score subcommittee was closed because of funding and staffing constraints. Members decided to forego a separate meeting and hold a potluck gathering on August 20, with Stacy reserving the large pavilion. The meeting was adjourned with a unanimous vote.

• Approved June 30, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Closed Home Energy Score for Home Sales subcommittee (no further action)
• Decided to forego additional meeting and hold potluck gathering on Aug 20
• Stacy to reserve large pavilion for potluck gathering
• Gas leaf blower data flagged for additional review with Alice Merkl
• Motion to adjourn passed with all members in favor (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council Committee on Public Health, Safety and Environment, co-posted with the Committee of the Whole, will meet to discuss an ordinance amending Chapter 24 (Offenses and Miscellaneous Provisions) by adding Section 32 on gas-powered leaf blowers. The proposal would establish new regulations for these devices in Salem.

• Ordinance to amend Ch 24 – Offenses and Miscellaneous Provisions, adding Sec. 32 restricting gas-powered leaf blowers

Council members discussed a proposed ban on gas leaf blowers and related education efforts. A motion to keep the ordinance in committee was made by Cohen, seconded by Jerzylo, and passed unanimously (4-0). The meeting adjourned at 7:33 p.m.

• Motion to keep leaf blower ordinance in committee passed 4-0

Park & Recreation Commission

The Salem Park and Recreation Commission will first approve the minutes from the June 17, 2025 meeting. It will then consider and likely approve amplification requests that extend the operating hours for a series of community events at various city parks. An informational update on the Pioneer Village project will be provided, and the commission will address any old or new business items.

• Approval of June 17, 2025 meeting minutes
• Amplification for World International Ministries at Mary Jane Lee Park – dates July 26, Aug 30, Sep 20 extended to 8:00 p.m.
• Amplification for Soul Dogs Resources and Rescue Center at Salem Willows Field – Saturday, Aug 2, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
• Amplification for B&S Fitness event (Devils Chase/Creepy Clown and Salem Willows Field) – Saturday, Oct 18, 2025 from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
• Update on Pioneer Village project (no voting required)

The Salem Park and Recreation Commission approved the minutes from the June 17, 2025 meeting. It then unanimously approved a series of park use requests, including dates for Mary Jane Lee Park, Salem Willows Field, the Annual Devils Chase/Creepy Clown Road Race, Salem Willows Shell, Furlong Park, and several events at Salem Commons. An update on the Pioneer Village project was presented but no vote was taken. No decisions were made on the Willows Pier ramp estimate or the Little League noise complaint.

• Approved June 17, 2025 Commission minutes (unanimous)
• Approved use of Mary Jane Lee Park on July 26, Aug 30, Sep 20, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved use of Salem Willows Field on Aug 2, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved Annual Devils Chase/Creepy Clown Road Race on Oct 18, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved use of Salem Willows Shell on Sep 20, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved use of Furlong Park on Sep 7, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved Salem Commons events: Fiesta (Sept 27‑28, Oct 11‑13, Oct 18‑19, Oct 25‑31), Haunted Biz Baz (Oct 4‑5), and Haunted Happenings Grand Parade (Oct 2), 2025 (unanimous)
• Presented Pioneer Village design update (no vote)

City Seal Task Force

The City Seal Task Force will vote on making a public feedback form available on the City of Salem's shared drive. Members will also discuss the July 14 listening session, tabling event feedback, and future presentations from historians and stakeholders. The meeting includes approval of minutes from June and July, and updates on postponed presentations.

• Vote on making the public feedback form publicly available on the City of Salem drive
• Discussion of July 14 listening session feedback
• Review and approval of June 16, 2025 meeting minutes
• Tabling events: Touch A Truck on August 3rd at the Willows, Farmers Market Thursdays through September
• Future presentations from historians/stakeholders; Michael Feener's presentation moved to September

The task force approved the June 16, 2025 meeting minutes unanimously. Members voted unanimously to make the public feedback form available on the City of Salem drive. Several presentation dates were adjusted: Michael Feener’s presentation was moved to September, the City Clerk’s July presentation was postponed, and upcoming August and September presentations were scheduled. The task force also approved making the public feedback form publicly accessible.

• Approved June 16, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Made public feedback form publicly available on City of Salem drive (unanimous)
• Moved Michael Feener’s presentation to September
• Postponed City Clerk Ilene Simons presentation originally set for July
• Scheduled Aditi Ahlawat presentation for August meeting
• Scheduled Michael Feener presentation for September meeting
• Approved making the public feedback form publicly available (unanimous)

Salem High School Building Committee

The Salem High School CM Selection Subcommittee will meet to review a draft Request for Proposal (RFP) for a Construction Manager for the high school project. The subcommittee will also consider approving prior meeting minutes and take public comment. This is a key step in the procurement process for the major capital project.

• Review draft CM Request for Proposal for Salem High School project
• Approve prior CM Selection Subcommittee meeting minutes
• Public comment period

Salem High School Building Committee

The Salem High School Building Committee will discuss and vote on approving previous meeting minutes. They will receive updates on the milestone schedule, MSBA-requested changes to the Project Submission Report, design progress, the Construction Manager selection process, and finance working group. Public comment will be taken.

• Vote to approve June 18, 2025 meeting minutes
• Milestone schedule review and next steps
• Summary of MSBA requested updates to PSR submission
• Design progress update
• Update on CM selection process

City Council

The City Council Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs, meeting with the Committee of the Whole, will discuss an amendment to the existing ordinance governing condominium conversions. The discussion will take place on July 17, 2025, at 6:30 PM in the City Council Chambers at 93 Washington St., Salem. No other agenda items are listed.

• Amendment to the ordinance governing condominium conversions

City Council

The City Council is reviewing an ordinance to update zoning and parking requirements and a proposal to allocate funds for fire station repairs. The body is also considering changes to bulky item pickup fees and personal property tax thresholds.

• Appropriation of $51,100 from the General Stabilization Fund for design costs for Salem Fire Department Station 2 repairs
• Proposed ordinance to set bulky item pickup fees at $20 per item and $40 for mattresses or box springs
• Proposal to set a $1,000 minimum taxable value threshold for personal property accounts
• Proposed amendments to the Zoning Ordinance regarding parking spaces, affordable housing units, and the B5 District
• Appointments to the Race Equity Commission, Bicycling and Shared Path Advisory Committee, and Affordable Housing Trust Fund Board

Health

The North Shore Public Health Collaborative is meeting to discuss updates on public health emergency (PHE) and training hub, epidemiology, body art regulations, FY26 workplan, and opioid settlement funds. The meeting also includes community updates. No votes or decisions are explicitly listed on this agenda.

• Body art regulations discussion
• Opioid settlement funds update
• FY26 workplan updates
• PHE and training hub updates
• Epidemiology updates

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Salem Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a remote meeting on July 16, 2025, to hear several petitions. The board will consider a variance and special permit to construct a bed and breakfast at 21 Webb Street, a third-story reconstruction at 3 Lemon Street, and a mudroom addition at 7½ Lyme Street. A garage petition at 22 Vista Avenue has been continued to August 20, and a garage petition at 310 Lafayette Street has been withdrawn.

• Variance and special permit for a 2.5-story bed and breakfast at 21 Webb Street (Coastal Resiliency Overlay District)
• Variance and special permit to reconstruct third floor and add dormer at 3 Lemon Street
• Special permit for mudroom and second-floor addition at 7½ Lyme Street
• Continuance of garage petition at 22 Vista Avenue to August 20, 2025
• Withdrawal of garage petition at 310 Lafayette Street

The Salem Zoning Board of Appeals voted 4‑0 to continue Michael Kostopoulos’s special permit and variance request for a garage at 22 Vista Avenue to the August 20 meeting. It also voted 4‑0 to approve the withdrawal without prejudice of Ken Leisey’s garage permit request at 310 Lafayette Street. Finally, the Board voted 4‑0 to continue Juliana Silva’s variance and special permit for a third‑story addition and dormer at 3 Lemon Street to the August 20 meeting.

• Continued Michael Kostopoulos petition (special permit & variance for garage) to Aug 20 (4-0)
• Approved withdrawal without prejudice of Ken Leisey petition for garage to Aug 20 (4-0)
• Continued Juliana Silva petition (variance & special permit for third‑story/dormer) to Aug 20 (4-0)

Historical Commission

The Salem Historical Commission will consider a waiver of the Demolition Delay for more than 50% roof removal on a pre-1975 house at 22 Prescott Street. The agenda also includes several Certificate of Appropriateness applications for building modifications, fences, and handrails, along with acceptance of a preservation restriction for St. Nicholas Church using CPA funds. Some items are continued, withdrawn, or removed from the agenda.

• 22 Prescott Street – Waiver of Demolition Delay for roof removal on house older than 50 years
• 6 Harrington Court – Certificate of Appropriateness for chimney modifications (continued from previous meeting)
• 21 North Street – Certificate of Appropriateness for new fence and gate
• 31 Washington Square North – Certificate of Appropriateness for new handrails
• St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Greek Catholic Church, 64 Forrester Street – acceptance of preservation restriction as condition of CPA funding

The commission approved a roofing alteration and a faux chimney for 6 Harrington Court, approved gutters and downspouts, and approved a new fence and gate at 21 North Street. It also voted to continue several pending applications, including the 6 Harrington Court deck details and the Pickering Street continuation.

• Approved roofing alteration (GAF Timberline NS charcoal) for 6 Harrington Court – motion carried
• Approved construction of a faux chimney for 6 Harrington Court – motion carried
• Approved gutters and downspouts as applied for – motion carried
• Approved fence and gate at 21 North Street – motion carried
• Continued 6 Harrington Court application for deck, stairs, and railings to next meeting – motion carried
• Continued Pickering Street application to next meeting – motion carried
• Continued 1 Pickering Street application to next meeting – motion carried

Housing Authority Board

The Board of Directors will meet via Zoom to discuss new business. The primary focus of the meeting is a presentation regarding the organization's structure.

• Presentation by Teresa Santalucia, Esq. providing an overview of Housing Opportunities of Salem, Inc.’s organization

Conservation Commission

The Salem Conservation Commission will meet on July 15 to hear public comments on wetlands protection applications and discuss a Highland Ave trails feasibility study. The meeting will be held remotely via Zoom.

• Public hearing for 329 Highland Ave wetlands delineation
• Public hearing for 17 Madeline Ave determination of applicability
• Public hearing for 18 Sutton Ave determination of applicability
• Highland Ave Trails Feasibility Study presentation
• Update on 318 Highland Ave possible violation

The commission voted 4‑0 to postpone the public hearing on the wetland resource area delineation for 329 and 331‑333 Highland Ave to the August 19 meeting. It also closed the public hearing for 17 Madeline Ave, issued a negative determination with erosion‑control conditions for that project, and accepted the applicant’s withdrawal of the 18 Sutton Ave request. The MACC FY26 dues of $560 were approved and the meeting was adjourned.

• Continued Highland Ave wetland delineation hearing to Aug 19 (4‑0)
• Closed public hearing for 17 Madeline Ave (4‑0)
• Issued negative 2, 3, 6 determination for 17 Madeline Ave with erosion‑control condition (4‑0)
• Accepted withdrawal of RDA for 18 Sutton Ave (4‑0)
• Approved MACC FY26 dues of $560 (4‑0)
• Tabled approval of June 17, 2025 minutes (no vote recorded)
• Adjourned meeting (4‑0)

Public Art Commission

The Salem Public Art Commission will meet via remote participation to discuss goal setting and budget allocations for fiscal year 2026. The body will also review project updates and approve minutes from the June 17, 2025 meeting.

• Approval of June 17, 2025 meeting minutes
• Continued discussion on FY26 goal setting and budget allocations
• Project updates

The Public Art Commission approved the June 17, 2025 meeting minutes by a 6‑0 vote. It decided to allocate $30,000 from the FY26 budget toward a 400+ public art project, with an additional $20,000‑$25,000 planned for FY27, for a projected total of about $50,000. Julie Barry will contact the mayor’s office and will preliminarily examine five possible sites, including the ferry dock and Salem Common. A working group to develop project details will be formed with Becky Fisher and Bryan Apito as members.

• Approve June 17, 2025 meeting minutes (6‑0)
• Allocate $30,000 from FY26 budget to 400+ public art project
• Plan to allocate $20,000‑$25,000 from FY27 budget to the same project
• Julie Barry to connect Norene Gachignard, Becky Fisher, and Bryan Apito with the Mayor’s office
• Julie Barry to preliminarily investigate ferry dock, Salem Common, Front Street/Derby Square, Witch City Mall garage, and Church Street median as project locations
• Form a working group to explore 400+ project details; Becky Fisher and Bryan Apito to participate
• Adjourn meeting (6‑0)

Park & Recreation Commission

The Commission will consider multiple requests for event permits and amplification at city parks and public spaces. The meeting also includes an update on Pioneer Village.

• Amplification requests for Mary Jane Lee Park (July 26, Aug 30, Sept 20)
• Amplification requests for Salem Willows Field and Shell (July 19, Aug 2, Aug 16, Sept 20, Oct 18)
• Amplification requests for Salem Commons (Aug 3, Sept 14, Sept 27-28, Oct 2-5, Oct 11-13, 18-19, 25-31)
• Amplification request for Furlong Park (Sept 7)
• Update on Pioneer Village from Mike Crounse and Chris Genter of Ouden-Ello Architects

City Seal Task Force

The City Seal Task Force is holding a virtual public listening session to gather input from residents. No decisions will be made and no discussion from the Task Force will take place during this session.

• Public comment period limited to 3 minutes per speaker

On July 14, 2025 the Salem City Seal Task Force met virtually via Zoom. Members present included Aditi Ahlawat, Rachel TonThat, Regina Zaragoza, Vijay Joyce, Suzanne Barnes, Dakota Russell, Pui Chi Wong, and R. Michael Feener. The meeting consisted of a public‑comment listening session with speakers from Salem and Aceh, but the task force did not discuss or vote on any proposals. No decisions, approvals, denials, or votes were recorded.

Salem High School Building Committee

The subcommittee is meeting to review a draft Request for Proposal (RFP). The body will also review and approve minutes from the previous meeting.

• Review of Draft Request for Proposal

Salem Cultural Council

The Salem Cultural Council will meet to finalize its upcoming annual calendar and appoint leadership roles. The body will also vote on the minutes from the June 2025 meeting.

• Vote on 2025-2026 Calendar
• Appointment of Co-Chairs & Treasurer
• Vote on June 2025 meeting minutes

The council approved the May 2023 meeting minutes with an amendment to correct a name. A motion to appoint John B. Newhall as Council Chair was moved, seconded, and unanimously approved. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved May 2023 minutes with name correction (unanimous)
• Approved John B. Newhall as Council Chair (unanimous)

Tree Commission

The Tree Commission will review reports from the Acting Tree Warden and a DCR Forester. The body will discuss specific tree planting and trenching projects at various city locations.

• PEM ginkgo trees replacement via proposed Cooling Corridors DCR grant 2026
• Tree planting at Essex and Cambridge Streets
• Trenching on Washington Street
• Greening the Gateway Cities Program report
• Discussion on Tree Treatment Program and tree root conditions

The commission approved the minutes from the June 16, 2025 Tree Commission meeting by roll‑call vote. The motion was moved by Kirt Rieder, seconded by Susan Yochelson, and carried. After discussion of various program updates, the commission adjourned the meeting unanimously. No other formal actions were approved.

• Approved Tree Commission minutes of June 16, 2025 (motion carried)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous vote)

School Committee

The School Committee Policy Subcommittee will meet to approve minutes from June 20 and review three policies: lease/rental of school facilities, student activities fund management, and student transportation services. The committee will also discuss a Memorandum of Understanding regarding School Resource Officers. No votes on policy changes are listed; this is a discussion and review session.

• Review of Policy 3204 (lease and rental of school facilities)
• Review of Policy 3304.01 (student activities fund management)
• Review of Policy 3601 (student transportation services)
• Memorandum of Understanding - School Resource Officers
• Approval of minutes from June 20, 2025 Policy Subcommittee meeting

The Policy Subcommittee approved the minutes from the June 20, 2025 meeting (2‑yes, 1 absent). The Chief Procurement Officer was directed to examine M.G.L. Chapter 30B and conduct a market survey on lease rates. Assistant Superintendent Pauley was assigned to work with the Building and Grounds Subcommittee on a rental form, and Superintendent Zrike will send a follow‑up letter to DESE about the school resource officer MOU. The meeting was adjourned with a vote of 2‑yes, 1 absent.

• Approved June 20 minutes (2‑yes, 1 absent)
• Chief Procurement Officer to review M.G.L. Chapter 30B and conduct market survey on lease rates
• Assistant Superintendent Pauley to collaborate with Building and Grounds Subcommittee on rental form
• Superintendent Zrike to send follow‑up letter to DESE regarding MOU
• Adjourned meeting (2‑yes, 1 absent)

Planning Board

The board will continue a public hearing for a site plan review and special permit at 17 Canal Street, where the applicant proposes a six-story building with a 132-room AC Hotel by Marriott, a restaurant and lounge, and a 60-space parking garage. The board will also discuss and vote on releasing a surety bond for the Woodlands Subdivision on Clark Ave, and review draft minutes from a June 18 joint public hearing.

• Continuation of public hearing for a six-story building at 17 Canal Street (Map 34, Lot 301) including a 132-room AC Hotel by Marriott, restaurant, lounge, and 60-space parking garage
• Discussion and vote on releasing surety bond for Woodlands Subdivision (Clark Ave)
• Review and approval of draft minutes from the joint public hearing on June 18, 2025

The Board approved the draft decision for the 17 Canal Street AC Hotel project with a 7‑0 vote, adding language for permeable tree grates and adjusting the TEF payment. A motion to close the public hearing passed unanimously (8‑0). The Board also approved the June 18 draft minutes and adjourned the meeting, each with an 8‑0 vote.

• Approved 17 Canal Street hotel project decision (7-0)
• Motion to close public hearing passed (8-0)
• Approved June 18 draft minutes (8-0)
• Adjourned meeting (8-0)
• Recommended not to release Woodlands Subdivision surety bond (no vote recorded)

Race Equity Commission

The Salem Race Equity Commission will vote to appoint a new representative to the City Seal Task Force, following Vice Chair Alphonse Wright's resignation. The commission will also hear an update on the Opioid Settlement Fund Allocation and discuss potential funding sources, a logo, and a guide for members.

• Vote to appoint Dakota Russell as REC representative to the City Seal Task Force
• Opioid Settlement Fund Allocation Report and invitation to Health Board meeting on September 9
• Vice Chair Alphonse Wright stepping down from the commission
• Recruitment for new commission term
• Discussion of funding sources, logo creation, and approving a guide for REC members

The commission approved the May 1, 2025 meeting minutes unanimously. Vice Chair Alphonse Wright announced his resignation, and the commission will not fill the position now. Members voted unanimously to appoint Dakota Russell as the Race Equity Commission representative on the City Seal Task Force. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved May 1, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Vice Chair Alphonse Wright stepped down (no vote required)
• Appointed Dakota Russell as REC appointee to City Seal Task Force (unanimous roll‑call)
• Motion to adjourn approved (unanimous)

Salem Redevelopment Authority

The Salem Redevelopment Authority will meet remotely to review small project proposals and discuss the status of the Historic Courthouses redevelopment. The meeting will also include a review of the June 11 minutes.

• 292 Essex Street: Roof replacement proposal
• 246 Essex Street, Unit B: Façade painting proposal
• 76 Lafayette Street: Parking lot entrance closure proposal
• 301 Essex Street: Schematic design review for commercial space expansion
• Historic Courthouses and Crescent Lot: Project status update

The Authority voted 4‑0 to approve the Salem Housing Authority’s roof‑replacement project at 292 Essex Street, conditional on Development Review Board (DRB) approval. It also voted 4‑0 to refer the façade‑painting project at 246 Essex Street to the DRB and to approve the parking‑lot entrance closure at 76 Lafayette Street, both pending DRB approval. No other motions were decided.

• Approved 292 Essex St. roof replacement (4-0), subject to DRB approval
• Referred 246 Essex St. façade painting project to DRB (4-0)
• Approved 76 Lafayette St. parking entrance closure (4-0), pending DRB approval

Housing Authority Board

The Salem Housing Authority Board will meet on July 9, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. at Pioneer Terrace Community Room. The board will discuss the Federal Annual Public Housing Agency Plan for Fiscal Year 2025, revisions to the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program Administrative Plan, and audited financial statements for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024. Other business includes a new hire for a Family Self-Sufficiency Coordinator and approval of write-offs for uncollectible losses through June 30, 2025.

• Federal Annual Public Housing Agency Plan for Fiscal Year 2025
• Revisions to Chapter 6.A and 7.A of the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program Administrative Plan
• Audited financial statements for fiscal year ending September 30, 2024
• New hire: State Family Self-Sufficiency Coordinator for Salem and Marblehead Housing Authorities
• Collection of losses write-offs through June 30, 2025 per Public Housing Notice 2017-17

City Council

The City Council Committee on Government Services, co-posted with the Committee of the Whole, will meet to discuss applications for Tree Commission appointees and consider delegating authority to the City Clerk for use of the Council Chamber and Ante Room with the Council President's approval.

• Discussion of Tree Commission appointee applications
• Proposal to delegate authority to City Clerk for use of Council Chamber and Ante Room, subject to Council President's approval

The Council Committee on Government Services and the Committee of the Whole met to interview three applicants for the Tree Commission and to consider a member who is a licensed landscape architect or certified arborist. No votes or formal approvals were recorded for any appointment or for delegating authority to the City Clerk. The meeting consisted mainly of applicant introductions and discussion.

Neighborhood Improvement Advisory Council

The Neighborhood Improvement Advisory Council will hold a remote meeting on July 9, 2025, to approve minutes and hear updates from neighborhood associations and city officials. No public comment will be taken during the session.

• Approval of June 18, 2025 minutes
• Special guest: Virginia 'Gini' Cherol, Salem 400+ Coordinator
• Neighborhood Association updates
• City Updates
• Next meeting scheduled for August 13, 2025

The Neighborhood Improvement Advisory Council approved the minutes from the June 1/8/25 meeting. The council also received a presentation on upcoming Salem 400+ events and provided community updates, but no additional actions were decided.

• Approved June 1/8/25 meeting minutes (motion by B. Colbert, seconded by T. Kusterer)

Transportation Commission

The Transportation Commission will review proposed permanent speed humps in The Point neighborhood and discuss October Parking Overlay regulations. The body will also consider a proposed service zone on Washington Street to assist emergency services.

• Proposed permanent speed humps on Harbor Street, Dow Street, Palmer Street, and Leavitt Street
• Review of proposed October Parking Overlay regulations
• Proposed service zone on the eastern side of Washington Street between Front Street and Essex Street

The Transportation Commission unanimously adopted the updated October Parking Overlay Regulations. It also unanimously recommended to City Council a service‑zone ordinance for the eastern side of Washington Street between Front and Essex Streets. The commission approved its April and June meeting minutes and then adjourned.

• Adopted updated October Parking Overlay Regulations (5‑0)
• Recommended to Council service‑zone ordinance for Washington St. (5‑0)
• Approved minutes for April 9 and June 11 meetings (5‑0)
• Adjourned the meeting (motion by Swartz, seconded by Turowski)

Beautification Committee

The Beautification Committee will meet to approve minutes, review traffic island sponsors, and discuss a Keep MA Beautiful Grant. The body will also receive reports from sub-committees and consider new business items like window boxes and volunteer recruitment.

• Approval of June 2025 minutes
• Review of 2025 Traffic Island Sponsors
• Keep MA Beautiful Grant Update
• Sub-committee reports: Lady of Salem, Traffic Island, Litter Cleanups
• New business: Window Boxes, Grant from KMB, Nip ban