Methuen public meetings in 2025

City Council

The Methuen City Council is holding a special meeting to vote on overturning three mayoral vetoes. The items include an ordinance on temporary repairs of private ways, a resolution allowing council members to opt into city health insurance, and a resolution of no confidence in the school superintendent and school committee. These are the main decisions on the agenda.

• Vote to overturn mayoral veto of ordinance amending Article IV, Sections 16-28 and 16-29 on temporary repairs and reconstruction of private ways
• Vote to overturn mayoral veto of resolution allowing council members to opt into city health insurance (amended to include school committee members)
• Vote to overturn mayoral veto of resolution calling for no confidence in the Superintendent of Methuen Public Schools and Methuen School Committee

The City Council voted to accept the agenda for the special meeting. The motion passed with six votes in favor and one vote against (Councilor DiZoglio). No other actions or votes were recorded in the minutes.

• Accepted agenda (6-1)

Housing Authority

The Methuen Housing Authority will hold a regular meeting on December 29, 2025, at 6:00 P.M. The primary item for decision is the approval of Amendment #21 to CFA 5001, valued at $723,019. The agenda also includes standard procedural items such as roll call and adjournment, along with a designated period for public comment.

• Consideration of Approving Amendment #21 to CFA 5001, $723,019

Conservation Commission

The Methuen Conservation Commission will hold public hearings to discuss notices of intent and violations. The body is reviewing requests for determinations of applicability and certificates of compliance for several local properties.

• Amendment to Order of Conditions for 99 Cross Street (Mass Cabinets, Inc.)
• Request for Determination of Applicability for 29 Oak Street
• Notice of Violation for 30 Brown Court
• Notice of Violation for 2 Muirfield Lane
• Certificates of Compliance for 12 Cameron Way

The commission opened and then closed the hearing on the amendment to the Order of Conditions for 99 Cross Street (MCC File #25-004) unanimously. It unanimously approved the agenda and the minutes of the 11/20/2025 meeting. It voted unanimously to issue a Negative 3 Determination with eight special conditions for the 29 Oak Street renovation (File #25-020). It also unanimously continued Notice of Violation #25-004 (30 Brown Court) to the Jan 22 2026 meeting and Notice of Violation #25-017 (2 Muirfield Lane) to the Jan 8 2026 meeting.

• Opened hearing on amendment to Order of Conditions for 99 Cross Street (unanimous)
• Closed hearing on amendment to Order of Conditions for 99 Cross Street (unanimous)
• Accepted agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes of 11/20/2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Issued Negative 3 Determination with Special Conditions 1‑8 for 29 Oak Street (unanimous)
• Continued Notice of Violation #25-004 (30 Brown Court) to 1/22/2026 meeting (unanimous)
• Continued Notice of Violation #25-017 (2 Muirfield Lane) to 1/8/2026 meeting (unanimous)

Housing Authority

The Methuen Housing Authority will hold a public hearing on its proposed FY 2027 annual plan and approve routine items such as minutes, correspondence, payments, and financial reports. New business includes decisions on a $72,251.66 change order, a managed IT contract up to $200,000, participation in the state‑aided property insurance program, and changes to the Resident Service Coordinator role and salary.

• Approve Change Order for FISH# 181113 – $72,251.66 (previously tabled)
• Award Managed IT Contract to Intellibeam, LLC – not to exceed $200,000
• Approve participation in Massachusetts State‑Aided Property Insurance Program
• Expand Resident Service Coordinator Portfolio
• Increase Resident Service Coordinator Salary

Housing Authority

The Methuen Housing Authority is holding a public hearing to review its Proposed Annual Plan for Fiscal Year 2027. The plan outlines operations and goals for state-aided public housing.

• Proposed 5-year Capital Improvement Plan
• Proposed Maintenance and Repair Plan
• Current Operating Budget
• Responses to Performance Management Review (PMR) findings
• List of waivers from Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) regulations

Zoning Board

The Methuen Zoning Board of Appeals meeting scheduled for December 17, 2025 was cancelled because no agenda items were submitted. No decisions or discussions will take place at this meeting. The board’s next meeting is set for January 28, 2026.

City Council

The Methuen City Council will hold a public hearing on three Public Service Grant applications. Each grant proposes installing a single JO pole on Washington Street, Pelham Street, and Prospect Street. The council will consider approval of these installations.

• Public Service Grant #31199696 – install one JO pole on Washington Street.
• Public Service Grant #31211482 – install one JO pole on Pelham Street.
• Public Service Grant #31199697 – install one JO pole on Prospect Street.

City Council

The Methuen City Council will consider overturning a mayor's veto to pave five unaccepted roads and vote on several grants and ordinances, including a resolution of no confidence in school leadership.

• TR-25-61: Vote to overturn veto for paving five unaccepted roads
• TR-25-74: Resolution of no confidence in Superintendent and School Committee
• TR-25-69: Accept $30,000 recycling grant
• TR-25-71: Accept $19,231 Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant
• TO-25-18: Ordinance adding Cross Street Planned Residential Development District

The council unanimously approved a motion to move item #7 to before item #4 on the agenda. A second motion to accept the agenda as amended was also approved unanimously. No other substantive measures were voted on during the meeting.

• Motion to amend agenda moving item #7 before item #4 – approved unanimously
• Motion to accept agenda as amended – approved unanimously

Commission on Disability

The Commission on Disability will review accessibility reports from the ADA Coordinator and DPW. Members will discuss community outreach for emergency preparedness and updates to the commission's website.

• Review of proposed font and content for a new two-sided informational flyer
• Follow-up on sidewalk width measurement guidelines for Gleason St. and Railroad St.
• Discussion on policy for acquiring deaf/blind signs in neighborhoods
• Proposed emergency preparedness workshops with MFD, MPD, and EMS
• Discussion on updating the MCOD website with community resources

The commission voted to approve the meeting agenda and the minutes from the previous meeting. The treasurer’s financial report showing $203,491.05 in total funds was accepted. The discussion on a two‑sided flyer was tabled for the next meeting. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Agenda approved (motion passed)
• Previous meeting minutes approved (motion passed)
• Treasurer’s report accepted (motion passed)
• Flyer discussion tabled until next meeting (motion passed)
• Meeting adjourned (motion passed)

Housing Authority

The Methuen Housing Authority will hold a public hearing on December 10, 2025 at 6:00 PM to review its proposed Annual Plan for fiscal year 2027. Residents and the public may submit comments on the plan’s components, which include a five‑year capital improvement plan, a maintenance and repair plan, the current operating budget, responses to the Performance Management Review findings, policy listings, and regulatory waivers. The Authority will consider substantive comments from local tenant organizations and the Resident Advisory Board before finalizing the plan for submission to the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities.

• Five‑year proposed Capital Improvement Plan
• Proposed Maintenance and Repair Plan
• Current Operating Budget
• Responses to Performance Management Review (PMR) findings
• Lists of Authority policies and regulatory waivers

Board of Health

The Methuen Board of Health will meet on December 10, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. The agenda includes discussion and acceptance of emergency bodywork regulations. The meeting also includes a call to order and adjournment. No other agenda items are listed.

• Discussion and acceptance of emergency bodywork regulations

The Methuen Board of Health voted unanimously to adopt the proposed Emergency Bodywork Regulations. The motion was made by Donald Marcus and seconded by Abbey Meyers. The meeting was then adjourned by a unanimous vote.

• Approved Emergency Bodywork Regulations (unanimous yes vote)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous yes vote)

Housing Authority

The board will conduct a public hearing regarding the proposed Annual Plan for Fiscal Year 2027. Members will also consider several contracts and staffing changes for resident services.

• Public Hearing for Proposed Annual Plan for Fiscal Year 2027
• Managed IT Contract award to Intellibeam, LLC not to exceed $200,000
• Change Order for FISH# 181113 for $72,251.66
• Participation in the Massachusetts State-Aided Property Insurance Program
• Proposed expansion of Resident Service Coordinator portfolio and salary increase

City Council

The Methuen City Council and Community Development Board will hold a joint public hearing on December 10, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. The agenda includes an ordinance to amend the Methuen Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance by adding a Cross Street Planned Residential Development District as proposed in new Article XIV. Residents can watch the meeting on local TV channels or via livestream, and a recording will be posted online afterward.

• Joint public hearing of City Council and Community Development Board, Dec 10, 2025, 6:30 p.m., Great Hall, Searles Building, 41 Pleasant St.
• Ordinance to amend the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance by adding Cross Street Planned Residential Development District (new Article XIV).
• Meeting can be viewed on Channel 8 (Comcast) or Channel 32 (Verizon) or livestream at Methuen.gov/livestream.
• Recording will be available on demand within 1–3 business days at https://methuen-ma.viebit.com/index.php?folder=ALL.
• Accessibility assistance contact: Sandy Almonte, ADA/DE! Coordinator, 978‑382‑2123, salmonte@ci.methuen.ma.us.

Community Development Board

The Community Development Board will hold a public hearing to consider amending the city’s Zoning Ordinance to create a Planned Residential Development District at 11 Cross Street. The board will also make a recommendation to the City Council regarding that proposed district. In new business, the board will set a public hearing date for a special permit hotel application at 143 Pleasant Valley Street and discuss a bond reduction for the Geramat Way (23 Hampstead Street) definitive subdivision.

• Public hearing to amend the Zoning Ordinance for 11 Cross Street – creation of a Planned Residential Development District
• Recommendation to the City Council on the proposed Cross Street Planned Residential Development District
• Set public hearing date for 143 Pleasant Valley Street (Special Permit for a hotel)
• Bond reduction discussion for Geramat Way (23 Hampstead Street Definitive Subdivision)
• Acceptance of minutes from July 29, 2025; October 8, 2025; November 12, 2025

The Community Development Board voted unanimously to send a favorable recommendation to the City Council for rezoning 11 Cross Street into a Planned Residential Development District. The Board also set a public hearing for the hotel special permit at 143 Pleasant Valley Street for January 14, 2026. A motion to reduce the Geramat Way bond to $16,002.25 was approved unanimously. Both the City Council and the Board closed their respective public hearings by unanimous vote.

• Board sent favorable rezoning recommendation for 11 Cross Street (unanimous)
• Public hearing for 143 Pleasant Valley Street hotel special permit set for Jan 14, 2026
• Bond for Geramat Way reduced to $16,002.25 (unanimous)
• City Council closed its public hearing (unanimous)
• Community Development Board closed its public hearing (unanimous)

Methuen Lawrence Public Health Partnership

The Public Health Excellence Grant Board will review a Training Hub presentation, a Housing Pamphlet presentation, and an update on grant reporting. The meeting includes a discussion on harm reduction. An open forum will be held to schedule the next meeting.

• Training Hub Presentation
• Housing Pamphlet Presentation
• Grant Reporting Update
• Harm Reduction Discussion
• Open Forum to schedule next meeting

City Council

The City Council will discuss property tax exemptions and the tax levy distribution for Fiscal Year 2026. The meeting also includes a resolution regarding health insurance for council members and a proposed vote of no confidence in the school superintendent.

• Residential exemption of up to 35% of average assessed valuation
• Exemption of up to 25% for Class II - Open Space property
• Partial tax exemption for qualifying small commercial properties
• TR-25-73: Resolution for City Council health insurance participation
• TR-25-74: Resolution calling for a vote of no confidence in the Superintendent of Methuen Public Schools

City Council

The Methuen City Council will hold a public hearing on Dec 8, 2025 to consider changes to property tax classifications for FY 2026. Council members will review proposals for a residential exemption of up to 35% of average assessed value, a 25% exemption for Class II open‑space properties, and a partial exemption for qualifying small commercial properties. They will also determine how the tax levy will be allocated among property classes for the upcoming fiscal year.

• Residential exemption of up to 35% of average assessed valuation
• Exemption of up to 25% for Class II – Open Space properties
• Partial tax exemption for qualifying small commercial properties
• Determination of tax levy percentage for each property class for FY 2026

Conservation Commission

The Methuen Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing on two Notices of Intent for development projects on Pleasant Valley Street and 231 Wheeler Street. It will also consider two emergency certifications for the Howe Street Pumping Station and 64 Maple Street, and several notices of violation for properties on Thayer Street, Linwood Avenue, Lyndale Avenue, Meriline Avenue, and Ayer Street. The meeting includes the election of officers for the January 2026 agenda.

• Notice of Intent – DEP File #219-1310, MCC File #24-016 – Pleasant Valley Street over Bare Meadow Brook (culvert) – TEC, Inc. – City of Methuen
• Notice of Intent – DEP File #219-13XX, MCC File #25-007 – 231 Wheeler Street (Lot 4) – Norse Environmental Services and Civil Design Consultants – O’Brien Homes, Inc.
• Emergency Certification #25-008 – Howe Street Pumping Station – Methuen Department of Public Works
• Emergency Certification #25-009 – 64 Maple Street – Methuen Department of Public Works
• Notice of Violation #24-008/Enforcement Order #25-001 – 25 Thayer Street – Moskal and Cavarallo

The Methuen Conservation Commission unanimously ratified Emergency Certifications #25-008 for Howe Street Pumping Station and #25-009 for 64 Maple Street. It also closed the Pleasant Valley Street culvert hearing and refused to accept the Wheeler Street filing due to incomplete documentation. Several notices of violation were continued to future dates for follow‑up inspections.

• Closed Pleasant Valley Street culvert hearing (unanimous)
• Did not accept Wheeler Street (231 Wheeler St.) filing (unanimous)
• Accepted agenda amendment to defer 11/20/2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Ratified Emergency Certification #25-008 – Howe Street Pumping Station (unanimous)
• Ratified Emergency Certification #25-009 – 64 Maple Street (unanimous)
• Continued Enforcement Order #24-008 (25 Thayer St.) to 1/8/2026 (unanimous)
• Continued Notice of Violation #23-013 (52 Linwood Ave.) to 4/2/2026 (unanimous)
• Continued Notice of Violation #25-012 (13 Lyndale Ave.) to 1/8/2026 (unanimous)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will hold its regular meeting on Dec. 4, 2025 at City Hall. After routine items such as call to order, roll call, and acceptance of the November 6, 2025 minutes, the board will enter an executive session. In that session the board will review abatement and exemption applications under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 59, Section 60.

• Accept minutes from the November 6, 2025 meeting
• Executive session to review abatement and exemption applications pursuant to MGL Chapter 59, Section 60

The Board of Assessors opened the meeting at 8:32 a.m. and unanimously accepted the September 4 2025 minutes. It signed the November excise tax abatements and then unanimously voted to enter executive session at 9:30 a.m. to consider statutory exemption and abatement applications. The meeting adjourned at 9:40 a.m.

• Opened meeting at 8:32 a.m. (unanimous)
• Accepted September 4 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Signed November excise tax abatements (action)
• Entered executive session at 9:30 a.m. to consider exemption and abatement applications (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:40 a.m. (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council is holding a public hearing to discuss two public service grants for utility pole installations. Due to a broken elevator at City Hall, the meeting has been moved to a virtual Zoom format.

• Public Service Grant #31199696: Install one JO pole on Washington Street
• Public Service Grant #31211482: Install one JO pole on Pelham Street

City Council

The Methuen City Council will vote on a five‑year contract with Axon Enterprise for police body cameras and tasers valued at $1,179,176.80. Council members will also consider several resolutions, including a grant acceptance for the Nevins Memorial Library and a resolution to pave five unaccepted roads. Additional items include contract awards for lawn equipment, energy services, and water‑quality investigations, as well as public service grant installations on Washington and Pelham Streets.

• C-26-56: Axon Enterprise contract for police body cameras & tasers, $1,179,176.80 (5‑year)
• TR-25-62: Resolution authorizing acceptance of $99,968.80 grant for Nevins Memorial Library digital equity plan
• TR-25-61: Resolution recommending paving of five unaccepted roads for public safety
• C-26-53 ($157,379.53), C-26-54 ($82,355.00), C-26-55 ($50,000.00): Contracts for lawn equipment, energy advocate, and water‑quality investigations
• Public Service Grants #31199696 (Washington Street) and #31211482 (Pelham Street) to install JO poles

The Methuen City Council unanimously approved the 2026 meeting schedule, including the inauguration ceremony on Jan. 2 at the Methuen Music Hall. Councilors also unanimously appointed Jodie Lamirande to the Board of Health and William Haneffant II as an alternate on the Zoning Board of Appeals. All agenda and minutes approvals were unanimous.

• Approved 2026 City Council meeting schedule (unanimous)
• Approved Jan. 2, 2026 inauguration ceremony at Methuen Music Hall (unanimous)
• Appointed Jodie Lamirande to the Board of Health (unanimous)
• Appointed William Haneffant II as alternate to the Zoning Board of Appeals (unanimous)
• Amended agenda to remove Decorum Schedule item (unanimous)
• Accepted amended agenda (unanimous)
• Accepted November 17, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 meeting schedule vote (unanimous)

Cultural Council

The Methuen Cultural Council will meet virtually on December 1, 2025. The agenda includes a discussion and vote on how to spend the remaining FY26 budget. No financial report or new business is scheduled. The meeting will conclude with miscellaneous items and adjournment.

• Discussion and vote on spending the remainder of FY26 budget
• Roll call and public participation
• Financial report – none
• New council business – none
• Miscellaneous items

The council voted on allocating the remaining $353 of its FY26 budget. A motion to add the $353 to grant FY26‑LCC‑124927 was rejected (2 yes, 3 no). A motion to add the $353 to grant FY26‑LCC‑118923 passed unanimously (5 yes), increasing that grant to $2,853.

• Motion to add $353 to FY26‑LCC‑124927 denied (2 yes, 3 no)
• Motion to add $353 to FY26‑LCC‑118923 approved (5 yes), grant increased to $2,853
• Reconsideration request denied by MA Cultural Council
• Motion to adjourn the meeting approved (5 yes)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will consider two Notices of Intent for projects on Pleasant Valley Street and 109 North Street. It will review requests for determination of applicability for sites at 116 Lowell Blvd., 14 Derry Rd., and 37 Arrowwood St. The commission will also address multiple existing Notices of Violation and Enforcement Orders for properties such as 2 Hayes Street and 5 Riverview Cir. In other business, the commission will vote to release funds from the Receipts Reserved account to cover membership fees for two new appointees.

• Notice of Intent — DEP File #219-1310, MCC File #24-016 — Pleasant Valley Street culvert (TEC, Inc.)
• Notice of Intent — DEP File #219-1318, MCC File #25-006 — 109 North Street (Norberto Galicia, Andover Consultants, Inc.)
• Requests for Determination of Applicability for 116 Lowell Blvd., 14 Derry Rd., and 37 Arrowwood St.
• Review of existing Notices of Violation and Enforcement Orders (e.g., 2 Hayes Street, 5 Riverview Cir., 52 Linwood Ave.)
• Authorize release of funds from Receipts Reserved account for two new Conservation Commission memberships

The Methuen Conservation Commission continued the Pleasant Valley Street hearing to the Dec. 4 meeting and later closed the 109 North Street hearing. The agenda and the minutes from the Nov. 6 meeting were accepted. The commission issued Negative Determinations with Special Conditions for applications at 116 Lowell Blvd, 14 Derry Rd, and 37 Arrowwood St. All votes were unanimous, with Commissioners Lozowski and Lecher abstaining.

• Continue Pleasant Valley Street hearing to Dec. 4, 2025 (unanimous, Lozowski & Lecher abstained)
• Table then untable 109 North Street hearing (unanimous, Lozowski & Lecher abstained)
• Close 109 North Street hearing (unanimous, Lozowski & Lecher abstained)
• Accept agenda as posted (unanimous, Lozowski & Lecher abstained)
• Accept minutes from 11/6/2025 (unanimous, Lozowski & Lecher abstained)
• Issue Negative 2 (State) and Negative 3 (Local) Determinations with Special Conditions 1‑7 for 116 Lowell Blvd (unanimous, Lozowski & Lecher abstained)
• Issue Negative 3 Determination with Special Conditions 1‑7 for 14 Derry Rd (unanimous, Lozowski & Lecher abstained)
• Issue Negative 3 Determination with Special Conditions 1‑7 for 37 Arrowwood St (unanimous, Lozowski & Lecher abstained)

Board of Health

The Methuen Board of Health will review proposed bodywork regulations and receive updates on vaccination efforts and the Methuen Cares Food Pantry. The meeting is scheduled for November 19, 2025.

• Review of proposed bodywork regulations
• Vaccination efforts update
• Methuen Cares Food Pantry update
• Acceptance of September 15, 2025, minutes
• Board Member Appointment and Update

The board accepted the minutes from the September 15 meeting, with one abstention. They appointed Abby Meyers as a new Board of Health member. The board agreed to vote on the Emergency Bodywork Regulations draft at the next meeting in December. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Accepted September 15 minutes (passed, one abstention)
• Appointed Abby Meyers as Board of Health member (appointment announced)
• Agreed to vote on Emergency Bodywork Regulations draft at next meeting
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous yes vote)

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Appeals will meet to discuss a variance application for a proposed office building. The board will determine if the project can proceed despite not meeting specific area and setback requirements.

• Variance request for a 1 Story Office Building (51'-0" X 60'-0") at 37 Jackson Street
• Request for area variance: 8,800 sq. ft. instead of the required 10,000 sq. ft.
• Request for left side setback variance: 12 ft. instead of the required 30 ft.
• Request for rear setback and residential space buffer variance: 15 ft. instead of the required 60 ft.

The Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously approved the October 22, 2025 minutes. They also unanimously accepted the new landscape plan for 37 Jackson Street. The meeting was then unanimously adjourned.

• Accepted October 22, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted new landscape plan for 37 Jackson Street (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Cultural Council

The Cultural Council unanimously accepted the October 20 minutes and approved the $4,400 in grant allocations discussed at the October and November grant meetings. A motion to cancel the December 8 meeting also passed unanimously. The council tentatively accepted the proposed 2026 meeting dates, pending further discussion in January.

• Accepted October 20 minutes (5‑0)
• Approved $4,400 grant allocations (5‑0)
• Cancelled Dec 8, 2025 meeting (5‑0)
• Tentatively accepted 2026 meeting schedule (5‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (5‑0)

City Council

The Methuen City Council will discuss the legal process for accepting 49 state-approved streets and the use of abandoned developer bonds. The body is also reviewing several city contracts and resolutions regarding municipal grants and public access.

• Contract C-26-50 for $100,000 to TEC, Inc. for Oakland Avenue over Methuen Rail Trail superstructure replacement
• Contract C-26-51 with Stertil-Koni USA, Inc. for vehicle lifts
• Resolution TR-25-62 to accept a $99,968.80 grant for Nevins Memorial Library's Digital Equity Plan
• Resolution TR-25-67 to accept a $54,870 Federal Municipal Road Safety Grant
• Ordinance TO-25-20 regarding votes on mail-in ballots for local municipal elections

The council unanimously accepted the agenda and the minutes from the November 5 meeting. It approved appointments for Thomas Giarrosso to the Community Advisory Television Board, Wanda Santos to the Commission on Disability, Alejandro Baez to the Cultural Council (6‑yes, 1 abstention), and Mansour Chaya as an alternate on the Zoning Board of Appeals. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Accepted agenda (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes of Nov 5 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved Thomas Giarrosso appointment to CATV (unanimous)
• Approved Wanda Santos appointment to Commission on Disability (unanimous)
• Approved Alejandro Baez appointment to Cultural Council (6 yes, 1 abstention)
• Approved Mansour Chaya appointment as ZBA alternate (unanimous)

Housing Authority

The Methuen Housing Authority Board will consider three new business items: approving CFA 5010 Amendment A for $79,876, approving Federal Public Housing flat rents, and approving a change order for FISH# 181113 (amount to be determined). The Board will also approve the October 8, 2025 meeting minutes, approve payments for the period 10/1/2025–10/31/2025, and receive various reports. Public participation will be allowed for up to five minutes per speaker.

• Consideration of approving CFA 5010 Amendment A – $79,876.00
• Consideration of approving Federal Public Housing flat rents
• Consideration of approving a change order for FISH# 181113 – amount TBD
• Approval of Regular Meeting Minutes – October 8, 2025
• Approval of payments for period 10/1/2025 – 10/31/2025

Community Development Board

The Community Development Board will hold public hearings regarding a zoning map change and a special permit. The board will also discuss setting a hearing date for a new residential development district on Cross Street.

• Public hearing for 121-133 Pleasant Valley Street proposed zoning map change from RC to BH
• Public hearing for 40 Jackson Street Special Permit for drive-through hours after midnight
• Recommendation regarding 121-133 Pleasant Valley Street zoning
• Setting a public hearing date for 11 Cross Street proposed Zoning Ordinance for a Planned Residential Development District
• Discussion of the 2026 Agenda

The Community Development Board unanimously voted to close the public hearing on the Pleasant Valley Street rezoning proposal. It also unanimously closed the public hearing on the 40 Jackson Street special permit request. A motion was made to allow McDonald’s to extend its drive‑through hours to 2 a.m., with a condition for police review after 90 days, but the minutes do not record a vote on that motion.

• Closed Pleasant Valley Street rezoning public hearing (unanimous)
• Closed 40 Jackson Street special permit public hearing (unanimous)
• Motion to extend McDonald’s hours to 2:00 am – outcome not recorded

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing and consider two Notices of Intent for construction projects: one for a culvert over Bare Meadow Brook on Pleasant Valley Street and another for work at 109 North Street. It will also review three Requests for Determination of Applicability for properties on Lowell Blvd., North Street, and Lyndale Ave. Additional agenda items include several Notices of Violation and a Certificate of Compliance for a project on Cooper Lane.

• Notice of Intent – DEP File #219-1310, MCC File #24-016 – Pleasant Valley Street culvert over Bare Meadow Brook – TEC, Inc.
• Notice of Intent – DEP File #219-1318, MCC File #25-006 – 109 North Street – Norberto Galicia, Andover Consultants, Inc.
• Requests for Determination of Applicability #25-014 (116 Lowell Blvd.), #25-016 (3 North Street), #25-017 (13 Lyndale Ave.)
• Notice of Violation #25-004 – 30 Brown Court – Henrique Alves
• Certificate of Compliance/Bond Release – MCC File #19-010 – 4 Cooper Lane – JR Builders, Inc. & Millennium Engineering, Inc.

The Conservation Commission unanimously approved a Certificate of Compliance and released the bond for the 4 Cooper Lane project. It also issued Negative 3 Determinations with special conditions for two property owners, lifted two Notices of Violation, and continued several pending hearings and violations to future meetings.

• Issued Certificate of Compliance and released bond for 4 Cooper Lane (unanimous)
• Issued Negative 3 Determination with Special Conditions 1‑7 for 3 North Street (unanimous)
• Issued Negative 3 Determination with Special Conditions 1‑6 for 13 Lyndale Ave (unanimous)
• Lifted Notice of Violation for 268 Lowell Street (Karla Gibbons) (unanimous)
• Lifted Notice of Violation for 274 Lowell Street (Michael Bowen) (unanimous)
• Continued hearing for Pleasant Valley Street culvert (DEP #219-1310) to 11/20/2025 (unanimous)
• Continued Notice of Violation #25-004 for 30 Brown Court to 11/20/2025 (unanimous)
• Accepted amendment moving 10/16/2025 minutes reference under Acceptance of Minutes (unanimous)

Commission on Disability

The Methuen Commission on Disability will meet to approve minutes, review reports, and discuss sidewalk repairs and the Blue Envelope initiative. The body will also plan community outreach on emergency preparedness.

• Approval of the Minutes of the last meeting
• Review of a proposed new one-sheet flyer
• Update on the Blue Envelope initiative
• Status on repair and access to sidewalks on Gleason St.
• Discussion on community outreach and emergency preparedness

The commission voted to approve the agenda as written. It also approved the minutes from the previous meeting. The meeting was then adjourned by motion. No other formal actions were taken.

• Agenda approved (motion passed)
• Previous meeting minutes approved (motion passed)
• Meeting adjourned (motion passed)

Board of Assessors

The Methuen Board of Assessors will hold an executive‑session meeting on November 6, 2025. In that session the board will review abatement and exemption applications under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 59, Section 60. The meeting also includes routine items such as accepting the September 4, 2025 minutes and handling new and old business.

• Acceptance of September 4, 2025 Board of Assessors minutes
• Review of Chapter 59, Section 60 abatement and exemption applications (executive session)
• Consideration of new business (no specific items listed)
• Consideration of old business (no specific items listed)

The Board of Assessors unanimously approved opening the meeting at 8:38 a.m. and accepted the September 4, 2025 minutes. It signed excise‑tax abatements for May‑November, Commitment #6 for excise tax 2025, and Commitment #70 for boat tax 2025. The Board also unanimously voted to enter Executive Session at 8:50 a.m. and adjourned at 9:23 a.m.

• Approved opening of meeting at 8:38 a.m. (unanimous)
• Accepted September 4, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Signed excise‑tax abatements for May‑November 2025
• Signed Commitment #6 for 2025 excise tax
• Signed Commitment #70 for 2025 boat tax
• Approved entry into Executive Session at 8:50 a.m. (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:23 a.m.

City Council

The Methuen City Council will discuss a zoning amendment that adds a Cross Street Planned Residential Development District. A resolution will authorize acceptance of a $99,968.80 grant for the Nevins Memorial Library’s Digital Equity Plan. A presentation will explore reallocating $4 million bond funds originally for the Elks property to support an additional building at Greater Lawrence Vocational School. Additional items include contract approvals and updates on city services.

• Presentation on reallocating $4 million bond for Elks property to fund an additional building at Greater Lawrence Vocational School
• Resolution TR-25-62 to accept a $99,968.80 grant for the Nevins Memorial Library’s Digital Equity Plan
• Ordinance TO-25-18 amending the zoning ordinance to add a Cross Street Planned Residential Development District (CROSSLD QOZB, LLC, Parcel 512-124-23)
• Ordinance TO-25-19 amending Article IV for temporary repairs and reconstruction of private ways
• Contract C-26-48 for UTEC mattress recycling (up to $60,000) and Contract C-26-49 for a Chevrolet Tahoe SSV ($54,995.00)

The City Council unanimously accepted the agenda and approved the minutes from the previous meeting. It also unanimously approved appointments to the Cultural Council, Community Development Board, Conservation Commission, Council on Aging, Commission on Disability, and Board of Health Commission.

• Agenda acceptance – unanimously approved
• Approval of previous meeting minutes – unanimously approved
• Olivia Chung appointed to Cultural Council – unanimously approved
• Taana Latu appointed to Cultural Council – unanimously approved
• Lely Melendez-Medina appointed to Cultural Council – unanimously approved
• Shadi Kassis reappointed to Community Development Board – unanimously approved
• Gary Lozowski appointed to Conservation Commission – unanimously approved
• Scott Dukeshire appointed to Council on Aging – unanimously approved

Historic District Commission

The Methuen Historic District Commission will hold public hearings on two Certificate of Appropriateness applications: one to add required egresses to apartments at 257 Lawrence St. #25-15, and another to replace a door at 10 Ditson Place #25-12 for the Leadership & Literacy Foundation. The meeting will also review an updated enforcement spreadsheet and letters, and receive updated renderings for the MX Lindo patio project to meet ADA requirements.

• Public hearing: 257 Lawrence St. #25-15 – add required egresses (Park Lodge) – request by Brad Jones, Jones & Co.
• Public hearing: 10 Ditson Place #25-12 – replace door for Leadership & Literacy Foundation/Methuen Youth & Community Center – request by Michael Luciano
• Enforcement: updated enforcement spreadsheet and issuance of enforcement letters
• Project update: MX Lindo patio – updated renderings for ADA compliance
• Acceptance of meeting minutes from September 28, 2025 and October 2, 2025

The Historic District Commission unanimously approved the Certificate of Appropriateness for 257 Lawrence Street, adding specific conditions for stairs and windows. The commission unanimously tabled the application for 10 Ditson Place until the December 4, 2025 meeting. Enforcement letters were signed and will be sent to the Methuen Family Funeral Home at 333 Lawrence Street and to 36 Hampshire Street. The meeting minutes and adjournment were also approved unanimously.

• Approved August 28 and October 2, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous affirmative vote)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 257 Lawrence St with conditions on stairs and windows (unanimous affirmative vote)
• Tabled Certificate of Appropriateness for 10 Ditson Place until 12/4/2025 (unanimous affirmative vote)
• Signed enforcement letter for Methuen Family Funeral Home at 333 Lawrence St (unanimous affirmative vote)
• Signed enforcement letter for 36 Hampshire St (unanimous affirmative vote)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous affirmative vote)

Zoning Board

The Methuen Zoning Board of Appeals will meet to accept minutes and a 2026 schedule, and to consider a variance request to build a 1-story office building at 37 Jackson Street.

• Acceptance of August 27, 2025 minutes
• Acceptance of 2026 Zoning Board of Appeals meeting schedule
• Variance request for 1-story office building at 37 Jackson Street
• Request to reduce required area from 10,000 sq. ft. to 8,800 sq. ft.
• Request to reduce required left side setback from 30 ft. to 12 ft.

The Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously accepted the minutes from August 27, 2025 and the 2026 meeting schedule. A variance application for a 1‑story office building at 37 Jackson Street was discussed, and the board voted to grant a continuance to the next meeting on November 19. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Accepted August 27, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted 2026 Zoning Board of Appeals meeting schedule (unanimous)
• Granted continuance of variance petition to November 19 meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will consider several municipal contracts, including vehicle and software purchases. The body will also vote on appointments for the Council on Aging and Building Division, and discuss ordinances regarding recycling and public ways.

• Contract C-26-47 for three Ford vehicles totaling $307,690.61
• Contract C-26-45 for Granular Activated Carbon totaling $482,300.00 over two years
• Contract C-26-41 for Microsoft licenses totaling $242,489.73
• Resolution TR-25-57 for Methuen 300 events not to exceed $109,000
• Ordinance TO-25-17 to authorize curbside recycling for eligible condominium associations

The City Council unanimously approved the meeting agenda. A motion to approve the minutes from the October 6, 2025 meeting passed with six votes in favor and one councilor present. No other actions were voted on or decided.

• Agenda accepted – unanimously approved
• Minutes from Oct 6, 2025 approved – 6 yes, 1 present

Cultural Council

The Methuen Cultural Council will meet on October 20, 2025 at Nevins Memorial Library. Members will vote on the minutes from the September 8, 2025 meeting and receive the October 9 financial report. The council will begin reviewing grant applications and make initial cuts to those that do not meet the council's criteria. No other decisions are listed.

• Vote on September 8, 2025 meeting minutes
• Review October 9 MA CC financial report
• Initial review and cuts of grant applications

Conservation Commission

The commission will hold a public hearing to consider a Notice of Intent for a culvert over Bare Meadow Brook on Pleasant Valley Street (DEP File #219-1310, MCC File #24-016). It will also review additional Notices of Intent, a request for applicability determination, an emergency certification, and several ongoing Notices of Violation. Minutes from the October 2 meeting will be accepted, and the commission will receive updates on enforcement orders.

• Notice of Intent – DEP File #219-1310, MCC File #24-016 – Pleasant Valley Street over Bare Meadow Brook (culvert) – TEC, Inc. – City of Methuen
• Notice of Intent – DEP File #219-13XX, MCC File #25-006 – 109 North Street – Norberto Galicia – Andover Consultants, Inc.
• Request for Determination of Applicability #25-015 – 55 Hampshire Rd – Michael Murphy (The Lamar Companies)
• Emergency Certification #25-007 – 123 Milk St. (Veterans Park) – City of Methuen Water Dept.
• Notice of Violation #24-005 – 5 Riverview Cir. – Barry Thornton (continued monitoring of resource area revegetation)

The Methuen Conservation Commission unanimously issued a Negative 3 Determination with special conditions for the vegetation trimming project at 55 Hampshire Road. It also unanimously accepted the Tighe & Bond peer‑review proposal for the Pleasant Valley Street culvert project and continued that hearing to the November 6 meeting. The commission ratified an emergency certification for the water‑main break at Veterans Park and continued two violation items to future meetings. All agenda and prior minutes were accepted unanimously.

• Issued Negative 3 Determination for 55 Hampshire Rd billboard vegetation trimming (unanimous)
• Accepted Tighe & Bond peer‑review proposal for Pleasant Valley Street culvert (unanimous)
• Continued Pleasant Valley Street culvert hearing to 11/6/2025 (unanimous)
• Ratified Emergency Certification for water main break at 123 Milk St (Veterans Park) (unanimous)
• Continued Notice of Violation issue for 5 Riverview Cir to 11/20/2025 (unanimous)
• Accepted agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes from 10/2/2025 (unanimous)
• Continued hearing for Pleasant Valley Street notice of intent to 11/6/2025 (unanimous)

Charter Review Committee

The Charter Review Committee is meeting to continue editing Article 2-8c and proofread the entire charter. The committee will vote on whether to send the final revised Charter to the Collins Center and the solicitor for recommendations.

• Editing of Article 2-8c
• Proofreading of the entire charter
• Vote to send revised Charter to Collins Center and solicitor

Community Development Board

The Community Development Board will hold a public hearing to consider the site plan for 99 Cross Street. It will also review a special permit and site plan modification for 477 & 479 Broadway, and set hearing dates for a zoning map change at 125‑133 Pleasant Valley Street and a special permit at 40 Jackson Street. Old business includes a bond release for the Regency at Emerald Pines.

• 99 Cross Street – site plan approval (public hearing)
• 477 & 479 Broadway – special permit & site plan modification
• 125‑133 Pleasant Valley Street – proposed zoning map change from RC to BH
• 40 Jackson Street – special permit to keep existing drive‑through open after midnight
• Regency at Emerald Pines – bond release

The Community Development Board accepted the May 14 and July 9, 2025 minutes. It unanimously approved the site‑plan for 99 Cross Street, amended a special permit to allow a vinyl fence with a 30‑day repair condition, and set public‑hearing dates for a zoning map change on Pleasant Valley Street and a special permit on Jackson Street. The Board also released $10,000 in bonds and the remaining Regency at Emerald Pines bonds (Phase II $254,400; Phase IA, II, III $190,200). The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Accepted May 14 and July 9, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 99 Cross Street site plan (unanimous)
• Amended Special Permit for 477 & 479 Broadway to allow vinyl fence with 30‑day repair condition (unanimous)
• Released $10,000 bonds (unanimous)
• Set public hearing for 125‑133 Pleasant Valley Street zoning map change on Nov 12, 2025 (unanimous)
• Set public hearing for 40 Jackson Street special permit on Nov 12, 2025 (unanimous)
• Released remaining Regency at Emerald Pines bonds: Phase II $254,400; Phase IA, II, III $190,200 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Housing Authority

The Methuen Housing Authority will meet on October 8, 2025 at the Community Room, 22 Mystic Street. The board will approve several previously tabled meeting minutes and approve payments for September 2025. It will also discuss two new items: a resident‑installed surveillance device policy and the FY2026 payment standard schedule. Additional reports and correspondence will be reviewed but no decisions are noted for those items.

• Approval of June 11, July 29, and September 10, 2025 meeting minutes
• Approval of payments for the period 9/1/2025 – 9/30/2025
• Consideration of the Resident‑Installed Surveillance Device Policy
• Consideration of adopting the F^2026 Payment Standard Schedule
• Correspondence: PHN 2025-12 pre‑qualified CAFO candidates

City Council

The Methuen City Council is holding a public hearing to discuss a public service grant. The meeting focuses on a request for National Grid to relocate a utility pole.

• Public Service Grant #31120485 for National Grid to relocate one JO pole on Old Ferry Road

City Council

The Methuen City Council will vote on a resolution to adopt the city’s 2025‑2030 Housing Production Plan. It will also consider several ordinances, including a Blue Envelope program for autism support and a ban on unattached trailers on public ways. Additional agenda items include approvals of multiple public‑service contracts totaling over $2 million and updates on traffic, IT consolidation, and other council requests.

• Resolution TR‑25‑2 – Adopt the 2025‑2030 Methuen Housing Production Plan
• Ordinance TO‑25‑14 – Blue Envelope Program to support residents with autism in police interactions
• Ordinance TO‑25‑16 – Prohibit unattached trailers on public ways
• Contract C‑26‑34 – ERA Equipment, LLC – Hampstead Street Sidewalk Repairs – $399,337.80
• Contract C‑26‑40 – M.T. Mayo Corporation – Lowell Street Barrier Removal Project – $584,508.00

The Methuen City Council approved three appointments by unanimous vote, with Councilor DiZoglio absent. Nicholas Dore was promoted from temporary to permanent police sergeant. Cheryl Watson Fisher was appointed as an alternate member of the Licensing Board. Haleigh Reisman was appointed as First Assistant City Solicitor.

• Approve Nicholas Dore promotion to permanent police sergeant (unanimously approved)
• Approve Cheryl Watson Fisher appointment as Licensing Board alternate member (unanimously approved)
• Approve Haleigh Reisman appointment as First Assistant City Solicitor (unanimously approved)
• Accept meeting agenda (unanimously approved)

Unaccepted Ways Task Force

The Unaccepted Ways Subcommittee will hear a request from Councilor Patricia Valley to pave unaccepted roads using the Capital Improvement Plan for fiscal year 2026. The meeting will also include an update from the Roadway Task Force with findings and recommendations presented by Michael Welch. The remaining agenda items are standard procedural matters.

• Request to pave unaccepted roads via the Capital Improvement Plan for FY 2026 (Councilor Patricia Valley)
• Roadway Task Force updates, findings and recommendations (presented by Michael Welch)

Conservation Commission

The Methuen Conservation Commission will accept the agenda and minutes, then discuss updates on several Notice of Violation cases. Items include fence condition at 268 Lowell Street, enforcement at 25 Thayer Street, revegetation at 484 Broadway, and other ongoing violations. The commission will also consider two requests for Certificates of Compliance for West Methuen Playstead and 5 Hemlock Court.

• Notice of Violation #23-001 – 268 Lowell Street – fence condition recheck
• Notice of Violation #24-008 – 25 Thayer Street – enforcement order update
• Notice of Violation #24-013 – 484 Broadway – revegetation assessment
• Notice of Violation #25-001 – 2 Hayes Street – enforcement order update
• Request for Certificate of Compliance – West Methuen Playstead (25 Burnham Rd.)

The Conservation Commission accepted the agenda and minutes unanimously (with one abstention). It then voted unanimously, with Commissioner Parsons abstaining, to continue each outstanding Notice of Violation and Enforcement Order to later meetings. No violations were resolved; all were postponed for further inspection or action.

• Continued Notice of Violation 423-001 (268 Lowell St) to 11/6/2025 (unanimous, Parsons abstained)
• Continued Notice of Violation #24-008 (25 Thayer St) to 10/16/2025 (unanimous, Parsons abstained)
• Continued Notice of Violation #24-013 (484 Broadway) to Oct 2026 meeting (unanimous, Parsons abstained)
• Continued Notice of Violation #25-001 (2 Hayes St) to 11/20/2025 (unanimous, Parsons abstained)
• Continued Notice of Violation #25-006 (15 Ayers Village Rd) to 10/16/2025 (unanimous, Parsons abstained)
• Continued Notice of Violation #23-013 (52 Linwood Ave) to 10/16/2025 (unanimous, Parsons abstained)
• Continued Notice of Violation #25-004 (30 Brown Court) to 11/6/2025 (unanimous, Parsons abstained)

Commission on Disability

The Commission on Disability will review a request for $7,500 for MCTV closed captioning and finalize details for Methuen Day. The body will also consider a presentation on implementing the Blue Envelope program to assist Police and EMS with individuals on the Autism Spectrum.

• Update on $7,500 request from MCTV for closed captioning for city meetings
• Final planning for Methuen Day disability information and staffing
• Presentation on the Blue Envelope program for Police and EMS
• Update from DPW on city accessibility issues
• Safe Street Task Force update on intersection safety

The commission moved to approve the agenda, the minutes from the previous meeting, and the Treasurer’s report; the minutes do not record vote outcomes for those motions. A motion to adjourn was made and the meeting was officially adjourned at 7:40 p.m. No substantive policy or funding decisions were adopted.

• Agenda approval motion – outcome not recorded
• Minutes approval motion – outcome not recorded
• Treasurer’s Report approval motion – outcome not recorded
• Adjourned meeting at 7:40 p.m. (motion passed)

Historic District Commission

The commission will hold public hearings on Certificate of Appropriateness applications for 10 Ditson Place, 26 Pleasant Street, and 203 Lawrence Street. It will also review an updated enforcement spreadsheet and provide updates on the sign‑off of 2 Charles Street and the approved signage with new lighting at 255 Broadway.

• Public hearing: Certificate of Appropriateness for 10 Ditson Pl. #25-12 – replace door
• Public hearing: Certificate of Appropriateness for 26 Pleasant St. #25-13 – replace two doors
• Public hearing: Certificate of Appropriateness for 203 Lawrence St. #25-14 – signage
• Updated enforcement spreadsheet (old business)
• Project updates: sign‑off of 2 Charles Street and signage with new lighting approved at 255 Broadway

The Historic District Commission approved the May 22, 2025 minutes and tabled the 10 Ditson Place application until the October 30 meeting. It unanimously approved certificates of appropriateness for a door replacement and signage at 26 Pleasant Street, and adopted a violation‑log and three‑step enforcement letter system. Updates were given on completed projects at 2 Charles Street and 255 Broadway, and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved May 22, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled 10 Ditson Place #25-12 application until 10/30/2025 (unanimous)
• Approved 26 Pleasant Street #25-13 door replacement certificate (unanimous)
• Approved 26 Pleasant Street #25-14 signage certificate (unanimous)
• Adopted violation log and three‑step enforcement letters (unanimous)
• Noted completion and CO for 2 Charles Street project (informational)
• Noted approval of 255 Broadway signage with new lighting conditions (informational)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council and School Committee will hold a joint public hearing. CBIZ auditors will present the findings and recommendations of the Operational and Cultural Audit of Methuen Public Schools. The hearing is scheduled for September 30, 2025 at 6:00 PM in the Great Hall of the Searles Building, 41 Pleasant Street.

• CBIZ auditors present Operational and Cultural Audit findings for Methuen Public Schools
• Joint public hearing of the Methuen City Council and School Committee

City Council

The Methuen City Council special meeting will consider contract C‑26‑32 for pest control and integrated pest management services for all municipal buildings and school facilities. The contract is with Braman Termite and Pest Elimination, located at 101 Clematis Avenue, Waltham, MA 02453, and is valued at $68,815. The agenda also includes roll call, acceptance of the agenda, public participation, and adjournment.

• Approve contract C‑26‑32 with Braman Termite and Pest Elimination for pest control services ($68,815)

The council voted to award a $68,815 contract to Braman Termite & Pest Elimination for integrated pest management of all municipal and school buildings. The motion was made by Councilor Campagnone, seconded by Councilor Surillo, and passed unanimously with one member absent. The contract replaces the former vendor, Pest End, and formalizes services for both city and school facilities.

• Approved $68,815 Braman Termite & Pest Elimination contract for municipal and school buildings (unanimous, 1 absent)
• Accepted meeting agenda (unanimous, 1 absent)

Council on Aging

The Methuen Council on Aging will review the minutes from its May meeting, noting that the June meeting was cancelled. The board will receive a financial report and a director’s report. A discussion will be held on the council’s policy and procedures. The meeting will close with notice of the next meeting on October 24, 2025.

• Review minutes from May meeting
• Financial report
• Director’s report
• Discussion of policy and procedures

The Methuen Council on Aging accepted the May meeting minutes, the financial report, and the director's report, each with unanimous approval. A motion to adjourn the September 26 meeting was also passed unanimously. The next meeting is scheduled for October 24, 2025.

• Accepted May minutes (unanimous)
• Approved financial report (unanimous)
• Accepted director's report (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Appeals meeting scheduled for September 24, 2025 was cancelled because there were no agenda items. No decisions or discussions will take place at this meeting. The next scheduled meeting is on October 22, 2025.

Charter Review Committee

The Charter Review Committee will continue its second round of edits, reviewing Articles 2‑8 and Article 10, and will proof the entire charter. It will then vote on sending the final revised charter to the Collins Center for review and recommendations. The agenda also includes routine items such as call to order, roll call, public participation, and setting the next meeting date.

• Continue second round of edits – review Articles 2‑8 and Article 10
• Proof of the entire charter and revisit specific sections as requested
• Vote to approve sending the final revised charter to the Collins Center for review

Board of Health

The Methuen Board of Health will accept the minutes from its April 16, 2025 meeting, appoint Vanessa Santillan as the Board’s agent, and provide general updates on hiring, training, and the School Safety Task Force.

• Accept minutes from the April 16, 2025 Board of Health meeting
• Appointment of Vanessa Santillan as Agent of the Board of Health
• General update on hiring
• General update on training
• General update on the School Safety Task Force

The Methuen Board of Health unanimously approved the April 16, 2025 meeting minutes, confirmed Vanessa Santillan as the Board's Agent, and then adjourned the September 17, 2025 meeting. No other substantive actions or policy decisions were taken.

• Approved April 16, 2025 minutes (unanimous yes vote)
• Approved appointment of Vanessa Santillan as Agent of the Board of Health (unanimous yes vote)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous yes vote)

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing on a Public Service Grant (No. 31199852) awarded to National Grid. The grant authorizes the installation of one SO pole (P-3386-84) at East Brook Place. Council members will consider the proposal during the meeting.

• Public Service Grant #31199852: National Grid to install one SO pole (P-3386-84) at East Brook Place

City Council

The Methuen City Council will consider several new business items, including a resolution to accept and spend a $50,000 Merrimack River Water Quality Improvements Grant. It will also act on contracts for a 911 dispatch console ($62,356.02) and a $50,000 service agreement with the Merrimack Valley Planning Commission, and adopt ordinances for autism support and a winter parking ban. Additional agenda items include updates on traffic, school field maintenance, and other councilor requests.

• Resolution TR-25-52 – Accept and expend $50,000 Merrimack River Water Quality Improvements Grant (Mayor request)
• Contract C-26-30 – Motorola Solutions, Inc. for 911 Dispatch Console – $62,356.02
• Contract C-26-31 – Service contract with Merrimack Valley Planning Commission – $50,000.00
• Ordinance TO-25-14 – Blue Envelope Program to support residents with Autism Spectrum Disorder in police interactions
• Ordinance TO-25-15 – Amendment to the Winter Parking Ban

The council examined evidence that Councilor Joel Faretra may have moved to Manchester, NH, including social media posts and server login records. The city solicitor explained that the charter requires a council vote to declare a seat vacant if a member is not a resident. No vote or formal decision was recorded during this meeting.

• No formal decision or vote taken on Councilor Faretra's eligibility

Charter Review Committee

The Charter Review Committee will meet to conduct a second round of edits to the city charter. The committee intends to review Article 7 and potentially Articles 6, 8, and 9.

• Second round of edits for Article 7
• Potential edits for Articles 6, 8, and 9
• Approval of minutes from July 2, 2025 and August 14, 2025

Housing Authority

The Methuen Housing Authority will consider approving final completion certificates for two projects and awarding contracts for HVAC maintenance, boiler repair, and hardwood floor refinishing, with each contract not to exceed $50,000. The meeting will also include the approval of minutes, payments, and various agency reports.

• Approval of Certificate of Final Completion for Project #181134
• Approval of Certificate of Final Completion for Project #181132
• Awarding HVAC Maintenance and Repair Contract to Eric C. Shaw Mechanical LLC (not to exceed $50,000)
• Awarding Preventive Maintenance Boiler Contract to Eric C. Shaw Mechanical (not to exceed $50,000)
• Awarding Hardwood Floor Sanding and Refinishing Service Contract (not to exceed $50,000)

Commission on Disability

The Methuen Commission on Disability will meet on September 9, 2025 at City Hall. Commissioners will approve the previous minutes, hear the Treasurer’s, ADA Coordinator’s, and DPW reports, and discuss accessibility updates. A key item is the request to allocate $7,500.00 to MCTV for closed captioning of all city meetings for up to three years. Additional topics include a new public flyer, website updates, and planning for a table at Methuen Day.

• Request to allocate $7,500.00 to MCTV for closed captioning of city meetings for up to three years
• Follow‑up with SePac representative regarding the commission’s table at Methuen Day
• Update from DPW on city accessibility issues
• Input on a new one‑sheet flyer about the Commission on Disability
• Discussion of proposed changes and updates to the MCOD website

The commission approved its agenda and the minutes from the prior meeting. Commissioners confirmed they will work with SEPAC to hold Methuen Day on October 4, with 2–3‑hour volunteer shifts. The meeting was adjourned.

• Agenda approved (motion passed)
• Previous meeting minutes approved (motion passed)
• Collaboration with SEPAC for Methuen Day on Oct 4 confirmed
• Volunteer shifts of 2–3 hours deemed manageable
• Meeting adjourned (motion passed)

Cultural Council

The Methuen Cultural Council will meet to approve past meeting minutes, set goals for the state cultural council, and review its $39,300 FY’26 grant allocation. The council will also discuss administrative updates and grant season announcements.

• Vote on minutes from August 11, 2025 meeting
• Review $39,300 FY’26 grant allotment ($29,475 for grants, $7,860 for council programming, $1,965 for administrative expenses)
• Discuss goals and priorities for the Massachusetts Cultural Council (MA CC)
• Announce grant season (September 2–October 16) and voting meetings (October–December)

The council accepted the minutes from the August 11, 2025 meeting unanimously. A motion to cancel the October meeting was passed unanimously, leaving the November 10 meeting as the next voting session. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Accepted August 11 minutes (5-0)
• Cancelled October meeting (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings regarding a culvert project on Pleasant Valley Street. The body will also discuss several ongoing enforcement actions and notices of violation at various residential and commercial addresses.

• Notice of Intent for Pleasant Valley Street Over Bare Meadow Brook (Culvert)
• Enforcement #24-005 at 48 Kensington Ave
• Notice of Violation #23-011/Enforcement Order #23-006 at 510 Lowell Street
• Notice of Violation #23-013 at 52 Linwood Ave
• Approval of 2026 Conservation Commission Meeting Dates

The Methuen Conservation Commission accepted the agenda and the August 21 minutes by unanimous vote. It then unanimously voted to continue a series of notices of violation and enforcement matters to later meetings, scheduling follow‑up inspections for October 2025, October 16, 2025, and June 2026.

• Accepted agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes of 8/21/2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Continued Pleasant Valley Street culvert hearing to Oct 16 2025 (unanimous)
• Continued Enforcement #24-005 (48 Kensington Ave) to June 2026 (unanimous)
• Continued Enforcement #23-006 (510 Lowell St) to June 2026 (unanimous)
• Continued Notice of Violation #23-013 (52 Linwood Ave) to Oct 2 2025 (unanimous)
• Continued Notice of Violation #23-014 (40 Atkinson St) to June 2026 (unanimous)
• Continued Notice of Violation #24-005 (5 Riverview Cir) to Oct 16 2025 (unanimous)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to accept minutes from May 1, 2025. The meeting includes an executive session to review abatement and exemption applications under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 59, Section 60.

• Review of abatement and exemption applications in executive session

The Board of Assessors unanimously opened the meeting, accepted the May 1 2025 minutes, and signed Excise Tax Commitments #3 and #4 along with the yearly Letter of Authorization. The board also voted unanimously to enter executive session at 8:50 a.m. to consider statutory exemption and abatement applications. The meeting adjourned at 9:40 a.m.

• Opened meeting at 8:35 a.m. (unanimous)
• Accepted May 1 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Signed Excise Tax Commitment #3 for 2025
• Signed Excise Tax Commitment #4 for 2025
• Signed yearly Letter of Authorization
• Entered Executive Session at 8:50 a.m. to consider statutory exemption and abatement applications (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will consider several contracts for infrastructure and software, as well as funding for police and EMTs from the Opioid Settlement Stabilization Fund. The body will also discuss ordinances regarding unlawful camping, school bus violation monitoring, and door-to-door solicitation.

• Appropriation of $100,000 for two patrol officers and $100,000 for two EMTs from the Opioid Settlement Stabilization Fund
• Contract for Bobrek Engineering & Construction for landfill monitoring for three years ($156,000)
• Contract for Bobrek Engineering & Construction for Hampstead Street sidewalk repairs and ADA improvements ($80,000)
• Ordinance to establish a school bus violation detection monitoring system
• Ordinance to regulate unlawful camping on public property

The council unanimously approved the agenda and accepted the minutes from the July 23 and August 4 meetings. It also confirmed the promotion of Captain Jeff Slattery to Deputy Chief of the Methuen Fire Department. Additionally, the council unanimously appointed Lieutenant Richard Talbot to Captain.

• Accepted agenda (unanimously approved)
• Approved July 23 minutes (7-0)
• Approved August 4 minutes (unanimously approved)
• Appointed Jeff Slattery as Deputy Chief (unanimously approved)
• Appointed Richard Talbot as Captain (unanimously approved)

Historic District Commission

The Methuen Historic District Commission will hold public hearings on five certificate-of-appropriateness applications for new signage, deck demolition, an addition, and a door-color change at properties in the city’s historic district.

• 42 Hampshire St: new signage (Nalda Guevara)
• 163 Broadway: deck demolition and addition (Ivone Tharion)
• 90 Broadway: change of door color (Patti Eldred)
• 233 Lawrence St: new signage (Methuen Memorial Chapel, Inc.)
• 255 Broadway: new signage (Brianna Goodwin)

The commission unanimously approved certificates of appropriateness for new signage at 42 Hampshire St., 233 Lawrence St., and 255 Broadway, as well as a free‑standing sign at 255 Broadway pending a wall‑sign alternative. It also approved a red door for 90 Broadway and an addition with light‑gray siding at 163 Broadway. Additionally, two upcoming meeting dates were rescheduled, and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved sign for 42 Hampshire St. #25-06 (unanimous)
• Approved door color change to red for 90 Broadway (unanimous)
• Approved sign for 233 Lawrence St. #25-09 (unanimous)
• Approved free‑standing sign for 255 Broadway, pending alternative wall sign (unanimous)
• Approved addition with light‑gray siding for 163 Broadway (unanimous)
• Rescheduled September 25 meeting to October 2 (unanimous)
• Rescheduled October 23 meeting to October 30 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Appeals will review a special permit request to expand an auto body business and a fence ordinance waiver. The board will also vote on the acceptance of previous meeting minutes.

• Special Permit for M.K. Howe Street Realty Trust to build a 50 ft. x 90 ft. addition with 20 bays at 348 Howe Street
• Fence ordinance waiver for a 6 ft. PVC privacy fence at 23 Stillwater Rd

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved conditions for a special permit allowing an auto body shop at 348 Howe Street, including storage inside the garage and operating hours of Monday‑Friday 8 am‑5 pm. The Board also approved a fence ordinance waiver for a 6‑ft white PVC privacy fence at 23 Stillwater Road. Both actions were approved by unanimous vote.

• Approved conditions for special permit at 348 Howe Street (unanimous)
• Approved fence ordinance waiver for 6‑ft PVC fence at 23 Stillwater Rd (unanimous)

Methuen Lawrence Public Health Partnership

The Methuen-Lawrence Public Health Partnership will meet to review the FY26 workplan and budget. The board will also discuss grant reporting terms and provide updates on shared staff hiring.

• FY26 Workplan and Budget review
• Grant reporting terms and due dates
• Shared staff hiring updates

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a Notice of Intent for 75 Calumet Rd. The body will also review requests for determinations of applicability and monitor several ongoing enforcement orders and notices of violation.

• Public hearing: Notice of Intent for 75 Calumet Rd. & Parcel 1113-109X-16
• Request for Determination of Applicability: 21 Winstead Ave. and 123 Milk St.
• Enforcement and violation updates for 31 Salem Street, 945 Riverside Drive, 109 Milk Street, 40 Atkinson Street, 30 Brown Court, and 22 Lowell Boulevard
• Certificate of Compliance and Request for Insignificant Change for 56 Gill Ave.
• Grant of Pedestrian Easement for 799 Lowell Street

The Methuen Conservation Commission accepted the withdrawal of a DEP application and issued Negative 2 and Negative 3 determinations for projects at 21 Winstead Ave. and 123 Milk St., each with six special conditions. It also lifted two enforcement orders, continued several notices of violation, approved an insignificant change and a certificate of compliance for 56 Gill Ave., and released a pedestrian easement certificate for 799 Lowell Street.

• Accepted withdrawal of DEP File #219-13XX application (unanimous)
• Issued Negative 2 Determination for 21 Winstead Ave. with six special conditions (unanimous)
• Issued Negative 3 Determination for 123 Milk St. with six special conditions (unanimous)
• Lifted Enforcement Order #22-001 for 31 Salem Street (unanimous)
• Lifted Enforcement Order #22-061 for 945 Riverside Drive (unanimous)
• Continued Notice of Violation #23-006 for 109 Milk Street to June 2026 (unanimous)
• Issued Certificate of Compliance for 56 Gill Ave. with conditions 4, 5 & 7 (unanimous)
• Released pedestrian easement certificate for 799 Lowell Street (unanimous)

Commission on Disability

The Methuen Commission on Disability will meet to approve minutes, receive reports on accessibility issues, and discuss an update to the commission's website. The body will also consider a funding request from MCTV for closed captioning services.

• Approval of the Minutes from the last meeting
• ADA Coordinator’s Report and recent See Click Fix reports
• Update from DPW on accessibility issues
• Report on Updating MCOD website
• Funding request from MCTV for closed captioning

The commission voted to approve a $7,500 grant to Methuen Community Studios to add closed captioning to all city government meetings. The motion passed and the proposal will be forwarded to the mayor’s office for final approval and expenditure. Earlier agenda and minutes motions also passed, and the meeting was adjourned.

• Agenda accepted – motion passed
• Previous meeting minutes approved – motion passed
• Grant of $7,500 for closed captioning approved – motion passed
• Proposal to be sent to mayor’s office for final approval – action assigned
• Meeting adjourned – motion passed

Charter Review Committee

The Charter Review Committee will meet to review recommended language from solicitors. The committee also intends to begin a second round of edits for Chapters 4, 5, and 6 of the charter if time permits.

• Review of solicitor recommended verbiage S2-8 and S3-7a
• Second round of edits for Charter Chapters 4, 5, and 6

The Charter Review Committee approved several charter amendments, including a change to Section 4‑3 that lengthens the post‑service employment prohibition for School Committee members from one to two years (4‑yes, 1‑no). The committee also approved amendments to Section 4‑1(b) on member residency eligibility and adopted Section 4 as amended. Additional changes were made to Section 6‑5 regarding certification requirements, and the committee committed to review Sections 6‑9 and 7‑4 at the next meeting.

• Agenda accepted unanimously
• Section 4‑1(b) eligibility amendment approved unanimously
• Section 4‑3 employment prohibition extended to two years (4‑yes, 1‑no)
• Section 4 accepted as amended unanimously
• Section 5 accepted as presented unanimously
• Section 6‑5 second paragraph amended per Collins Center memo
• Committee will review Sections 6‑9 and 7‑4 at next meeting
• Next meeting scheduled for September 11, 2025

Cultural Council

The Cultural Council will meet to approve minutes from the June 16, 2025 meeting. Members will receive updates on the FY25 budget, finance, and grants, and discuss a council-sponsored event scheduled for September 6, 2025.

• Vote on approval of June 16, 2025 meeting minutes
• Update on FY25 budget, finance, and grants
• Planning for September 6, 2025 council sponsored event

The council approved the June 16 minutes as amended (5‑yes, 1 absent). A motion to pay the band $1,200 passed (3‑yes, 2 recused, 1 absent). Members voted to elect Ellen Baranowski as chair (4‑yes, 1 recused, 1 absent). A motion to keep the 2025 goals and priorities unchanged also passed (5‑yes, 1 absent).

• Approved June 16 minutes as amended (5 yes, 1 absent)
• Approved payment of $1,200 to the band (3 yes, 2 recused, 1 absent)
• Elected Ellen Baranowski as chairperson (4 yes, 1 recused, 1 absent)
• Kept 2025 goals and priorities unchanged (5 yes, 1 absent)

Conservation Commission

The scheduled meeting for August 7, 2025, has been cancelled. All listed agenda items will be continued to the August 21, 2025 meeting.

• Request for Determination of Applicability #25-012 — 21 Winstead Ave.
• Enforcement Order #22-001 — 31 Salem Street
• Notice of Violation #22-001 — 945 Riverside Drive Condominiums
• Notice of Violation MCC #23-006 — 109 Milk Street
• Certificate of Compliance — 56 Gill Ave.

Commission on Disability

The meeting scheduled for August 7 was cancelled. The original agenda included reports from the ADA Coordinator and DPW, as well as a funding request from MCTV for closed captioning.

• Funding request from MCTV for closed captioning
• ADA transition Plan update
• DPW update on city accessibility issues
• MCOD website update report

City Council

The Methuen City Council will hold its regular meeting to decide on several financial resolutions, including a $2.94 million transfer to the Health Insurance Trust, and to vote on new ordinances such as traffic-rule changes and regulations on unlawful camping. Councilors will also hear updates on city contracts, school-related issues, and a presentation on the Route 495/Route 110 bridge replacement project.

• $846,012 contract for two 2026 fire apparatuses with Allegiance Fire & Rescue
• $190,824.60 copier purchase from Toshiba America Business Solutions over 5 years
• $55,946.25 contract with Advizex for Microsoft 365 migration to government cloud
• TR-25-38: $2,935,850 appropriation from General Stabilization Fund to Health Insurance Trust
• TO-25-12: Ordinance to regulate unlawful camping on public property

The City Council accepted the meeting agenda with six votes in favor and two members absent. It also approved the minutes from the June 23, June 25, and July 7 meetings, each receiving a majority of yes votes. No other substantive actions or policy decisions were taken at this session.

• Agenda accepted (6 yes, 2 absent)
• June 23, 2025 minutes accepted (6 yes, 2 absent)
• June 25, 2025 minutes accepted (7 yes, 1 absent)
• July 7, 2025 minutes accepted (6 yes, 1 present, 1 absent)

Housing Authority

The Methuen Housing Authority is meeting to consider several contracts and project approvals. The board will discuss a large-scale financial assistance contract and smaller maintenance and renovation awards.

• Contract for Financial Assistance (CFA 5001) for $357,000,000
• Preventive and On-Call Drain Contract to Drains By James, Inc not to exceed $50,000
• Project #181157 award to Kitchen & Floor Décor for $79,750
• Certificate of Substantial Completion for Project #181132

Community Development Board

The Community Development Board will meet via Zoom to conduct a regular meeting. The primary action item is a vote regarding a Historic Preservation Special Permit.

• Historic Preservation Special Permit vote for 47 Lowell Street

The Community Development Board voted unanimously to approve the Historic Preservation Special Permit for the project at 47 Lowell Street. The approval follows revisions to the landscape plan that address drainage and planting concerns. The board also moved to adjourn the meeting, which was approved unanimously.

• Approved Historic Preservation Special Permit for 47 Lowell Street (unanimous vote)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous vote)

Conservation Commission

The Methuen Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing to update rules and regulations regarding newly issued FEMA maps. The body will also review several notices of intent and a request for determination of applicability. Multiple enforcement orders and notices of violation are scheduled for discussion.

• Public hearing to update Rules and Regulations for newly issued FEMA maps
• Notice of Intent for culvert at Pleasant Valley Street Over Bare Meadow Brook
• Request For Determination of Applicability for 25 Hampshire Rd. (Estes Express)
• Notice of Intent for 99 Cross Street
• Enforcement and violation reviews for 47 Tedesco Rd, 22 Lowell Boulevard, and 26 Phoebe Street

The Conservation Commission unanimously accepted updates to its Rules and Regulations to reflect the new FEMA flood maps. It also unanimously issued a Negative 2 Determination with six special conditions for the 25 Hampshire Road project. Earlier hearings were continued or closed: the Pleasant Valley Street culvert hearing was continued to September 4, 2025, and the hearings for 99 Cross Street and 109 North Street were closed. The agenda was accepted with an amendment removing the July 10 minutes.

• Continue Pleasant Valley Street hearing to 9/4/2025 (unanimous)
• Close 99 Cross Street hearing (unanimous)
• Close 109 North Street resource area delineation hearing (unanimous)
• Accept agenda with amendment removing 7/10/25 minutes (unanimous)
• Accept updated Rules and Regulations for new FEMA maps (unanimous)
• Issue Negative 2 Determination with Special Conditions 1‑6 for 25 Hampshire Rd (unanimous)

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Appeals will consider several variance requests for residential properties and signage. The board will also review a special permit application to expand a non-conforming auto body and repair business.

• Special permit for a 50 ft. x 90 ft. addition with 20 bays at 348 Howe Street
• Variance for subdividing land into two lots at 64 Merrimack Road
• Variance for a 32 sq. ft. exterior wall sign at 141 Tenney Street
• Variance for lot width and coverage for a new dwelling at 2 East Capital Street

The board denied the 80‑ft frontage variance request for 64 Merrimack Road after a roll‑call vote of all No. It approved a 4 × 8 ft exterior wall sign at 141 Tenney Street with a unanimous Yes vote. The board also unanimously accepted the minutes from April 23 and May 8, 2025, and accepted a new plot plan for 348 Howe Street.

• Denied 80‑ft frontage variance for 64 Merrimack Road (all members voted No)
• Approved 4 × 8 ft exterior wall sign at 141 Tenney Street (all members voted Yes)
• Accepted minutes of April 23, 2025 and May 8, 2025 (unanimous)
• Accepted new plot plan for 348 Howe Street (unanimous)

City Council

The Methuen City Council will meet to vote on several city contracts and a fund transfer. The agenda includes expenditures for school curriculum, stadium lighting, and school facility repairs.

• Contract C-26-13 for English Language Arts Curriculum with First American Equipment Finance for $1,073,546.96
• Contract C-26-14 for LED Lighting at Nicholson Stadium with Coviello Electric, Inc. for $46,299
• Contract C-26-15 for Virus Protection with ePlus Technology, Inc. for $27,841.31
• Resolution TR-25-40 to transfer $400,000 from the Marsh Grammar School Boiler Project to the Comprehensive Grammar School Water Heater Project
• Contract C-26-16 for Water Heater Replacement at the Comprehensive Grammar School with Boston Mechanical Services, LLC for $365,032

Charter Review Committee

The Charter Review Committee is meeting to review specific recommended verbiage from solicitors. The committee also intends to begin a second round of edits for Chapters 4, 5, and 6 of the charter if time permits.

• Review of solicitors recommended verbiage S2-8 and S3-7a
• Proposed second round of edits for Ch 4, 5 and 6

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Appeals will meet in Executive Session to engage in mediation regarding the case Patel v. Methuen ZBA, et al (Land Court Docket No. 25 MISC 000190). The Board will reconvene in a public session afterward to take any required action on resolved issues.

• Mediation for Land Court Docket No. 25 MISC 000190 (Patel v. Methuen ZBA, et al)

Unaccepted Ways Task Force

The committee will hear updates and recommendations from the Roadway Task Force regarding city and MASSDOT list discrepancies. The City Solicitor will provide a recommendation on whether to use an ordinance or resolution. The group will also discuss Crestshire Lane.

• Roadway Task Force updates, findings, and recommendations from Michael Welch
• Plan to address discrepancies between city and MASSDOT lists
• City Solicitor recommendation on Ordinance or Resolution
• Discussion of Crestshire Lane

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will review two new notices of intent and a certificate of compliance. The body will also address eight ongoing enforcement orders and notices of violation.

• Notice of Intent for 99 Cross Street (Greenman-Pedersen Inc.)
• Abbreviated Notice of Resource Area Delineation for 109 North Street
• Enforcement and Violation hearings for 91 Sevoian Drive, 22 Lowell Boulevard, 39 Tyler Street, 2 Hayes Street, 52 Linwood Ave, 15 Ayers Village Road, 25 Hampshire Rd, and 30 Brown Court
• Certificate of Compliance for 66 Washington Street
• Discussion of updating Rules and Regs with new FEMA information

The Conservation Commission accepted the Notice of Intent file for 99 Cross Street and the Abbreviated Notice of Resource Area Delineation file for 109 North Street, both by unanimous vote. Both items were also continued to be heard at the July 24, 2025 meeting. The agenda and the June 26, 2025 minutes were each accepted unanimously.

• Accepted Notice of Intent file for 99 Cross Street (unanimous)
• Continued hearing for 99 Cross Street to 7/24/2025 (unanimous)
• Accepted Abbreviated Notice of Resource Area Delineation file for 109 North Street (unanimous)
• Continued hearing for 109 North Street to 7/24/2025 (unanimous)
• Accepted the 7/10/2025 agenda (unanimous)
• Accepted the minutes of 6/26/2025 (unanimous)

Community Development Board

The Community Development Board will meet to discuss zoning issues and Form A plans. The board is scheduled to vote on the adoption of Multi-family Overlay District Design Guidelines.

• Adoption of Multi-family Overlay District Design Guidelines
• Historic Preservation Special Permit for 47 Lowell Street

The Community Development Board adopted the draft Multi‑Family Overlay District Design Guidelines. The board also tabled the May 14, 2025 meeting minutes and the historic preservation special permit for 47 Lowell Street because not enough members were present. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Adopt Multi‑Family Overlay District Design Guidelines – unanimous of members present
• Table May 14, 2025 meeting minutes – unanimous of members present
• Table 47 Lowell Street historic preservation special permit – unanimous of members present
• Adjourn meeting – unanimous of members present

City Council

The Methuen City Council will vote on several funding transfers and a $2.9 million appropriation from the General Stabilization Fund to support the Health Insurance Trust. The body will also consider multiple city appointments and various public service contracts.

• Appropriation of $2,935,850 from General Stabilization Fund for Health Insurance Trust
• Contract for boiler replacement at Marsh Grammar School for $693,000
• Contract for Waste Management of Londonderry for FY2026 hauling and disposal for $649,320
• Ordinance banning possession and sale of e-cigarettes and vaping devices to minors
• Appointments for Fire Chief, Director of Council on Aging, and three police officers

The City Council accepted the agenda for the July 7, 2025 meeting by a unanimous vote. No other substantive actions or votes were recorded in the provided minutes.

• Accepted agenda – unanimous

City Council

The City Council is reviewing a three-year employment agreement for David A. Toto to serve as Fire Chief. The contract outlines compensation, duties, and benefits effective July 11, 2025.

• Annual salary of $266,120.18
• Contract term from July 11, 2025, to July 11, 2028
• Professional liability insurance with limits of $1,000,000.00
• Provision of a city-funded motor vehicle for professional and personal use
• Annual leave including 15 sick days, 4 weeks of vacation, and 1 week of personal time

City Council

The Methuen City Council will hold a public hearing regarding a public service grant. The body is discussing the installation of a utility pole to support a new EV charging station.

• Public Service Grant WR# 30943339 for National Grid and Verizon to install JO pole (P-71-50) on Pleasant Valley Street at the intersection of Jackson Street

Charter Review Committee

The Charter Review Committee will review additional comments and answers from the Collins Center. The committee also plans to begin a second round of edits for Chapters 3, 4, and 5 of the charter.

• Review of comments and answers from the Collins Center
• Second round of edits for Charter Chapters 3, 4, and 5

The committee approved several charter amendments. Section 2‑2’s organization clause was revised unanimously. Article 3‑2(i) was changed to remove the word “only” and delete a sentence, also unanimously. A new subsection 3‑3(b) governing mayoral appointments to boards was added, passing 4‑1. Motions to accept the agenda and approve prior meeting minutes also passed.

• Agenda accepted – unanimously approved
• Minutes of May 15, 2025 regular meeting approved – unanimously approved
• Minutes of May 15, 2025 public hearing approved – unanimously approved
• Minutes of June 11, 2025 meeting approved – 3 yes, 2 abstentions
• Amend Section 2‑2 (Organization) – unanimously approved
• Amend Article 3‑2(i) to strike “only” and delete third sentence – unanimously approved
• Amend Article 3‑2(a) – 4 yes, 1 no (Jennifer Kannan)
• Add Article 3‑3(b) on board/commission appointments – 4 yes, 1 no (Dennis DiZoglio)

Conservation Commission

The Methuen Conservation Commission will discuss several notices of violation and enforcement actions. The body is also reviewing requests for determination of applicability and certificates of compliance for various local properties.

• Determination of Applicability requests for 54 Addison Ave. Ext. and 6 Hudson Street
• Enforcement and violation reviews for 48 Kensington Ave., 22 Lowell Boulevard, 39 Tyler Street, 2 Hayes Street, and 15 Ayers Village Road
• Certificates of Compliance for 580 Howe Street, 1 Fellowship Way, 178 Dracut St., 55 Hampshire Rd., 799 Lowell Street, and 46 Old Ferry Rd.
• Authorization of $560.00 for MACC Dues
• Authorization of funds for Conservation Markers ($400 for 100 or $625 for 250)

The Methuen Conservation Commission unanimously accepted the agenda and the June 5 minutes. It then issued Negative 3 Determinations with special conditions for the projects at 54 Addison Avenue and 6 Hudson Street. The board also ratified two emergency certifications addressing beaver‑related drainage problems, and approved an amendment to an existing enforcement order while continuing several pending items to future meetings.

• Accepted agenda (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes of 6/5/2025 (unanimous)
• Issued Negative 3 Determination for 54 Addison Ave with six conditions (unanimous)
• Issued Negative 3 Determination for 6 Hudson Street with five conditions (unanimous)
• Ratified Emergency Certification #25-003 for 5‑9 Harris Street (unanimous)
• Ratified Emergency Certification #25-004 for 42 Oakmeadow Lane (unanimous)
• Amended Enforcement Order #24-005 and continued it to 9/4/2025 (unanimous)
• Continued several enforcement and violation items to future meetings (unanimous)

City Council

The Methuen City Council will meet to vote on several contracts for school infrastructure and city building repairs. The items include flooring, heating, and technology upgrades.

• General Mechanical Contractors: $693,000 for boiler replacement at Marsh Grammar School
• TRANE U.S., Inc.: $191,514 for a Climate Changer Air Handler at the CGS
• Atkinson Carpet and Flooring: $139,888 for flooring at Timony School
• SHI Capital: $122,281.78 annually for 1,090 Chromebooks and licenses (48-month lease)
• Ambient Temperature Corporation: $40,033.96 for emergency heating repairs at Searles Estate

The council voted 8‑yes to accept the agenda and then approved two Capital Improvement Program contracts: a $139,888 carpet and VCT tile replacement at Timony School and a $693,000 boiler replacement at Marsh Grammar School. Both motions passed with eight votes in favor and one member absent.

• Accepted agenda (8 yes, 1 absent)
• Approved $139,888 carpet removal and VCT tile installation at Timony School (8 yes, 1 absent)
• Approved $693,000 boiler replacement at Marsh Grammar School (8 yes, 1 absent)

Zoning Board

The Methuen Zoning Board of Appeals will review two variance applications. The board will discuss requests to deviate from zoning ordinances regarding lot frontage and sign size.

• Variance request for 64 Merrimack Road to subdivide land into two lots with 80 ft. frontage and width
• Variance request for 141 Tenney Street for a 32 sq. ft. exterior wall sign

With only three members present, the Zoning Board of Appeals could not vote on the two variance petitions presented. The board proceeded to adjourn, and a motion to adjourn was approved unanimously.

• Motion to adjourn passed unanimously
• No vote on Armano Realty variance petition (insufficient members)
• No vote on Harvey Sign variance petition (insufficient members)

City Council

The Methuen City Council will conduct a second read of the FY2026 Municipal Budget. The council is scheduled to deliberate and vote on the budget during this special meeting.

• Vote on the FY2026 Municipal Budget

The council voted on the FY2026 municipal budget, approving allocations for most city departments. Most items passed unanimously, while a few faced dissenting votes. Two motions failed: a $10,000 cut to IT expenses and funding for the Greater Lawrence Technical School.

• Approved City Council personnel and other expenses ($256,844) – unanimous
• Approved Mayor’s Office budget ($401,299) – unanimous
• Approved Police Department budget ($15,275,201) – unanimous
• Approved Fire Department budget ($14,277,517) – unanimous
• Approved Public Works budget ($8,601,481) – 8 yes, 1 no
• Approved Employee Benefits group health insurance ($17,457,712) – 7 yes, 2 no
• Failed motion to reduce IT other expenses by $10,000 – 2 yes, 7 no
• Failed motion to fund Greater Lawrence Technical School ($5,853,720) – 4 yes, 5 no

City Council

The Methuen City Council is meeting to deliberate and vote on the first read of the FY2026 Municipal Budget. This special meeting serves as a continuance of the budget process.

• First read and vote on the FY2026 Municipal Budget

City Council

The Methuen City Council will hold a special meeting to vote on several fund transfers and expenditures. The council is reviewing budget adjustments for personnel services and a specific grant for the Comprehensive Grammar School.

• TR-25-27: Transfer of $252,795 in General Fund budgets for contracts and Collective Bargaining Agreements
• TR-25-14: Expenditure of $5,000 from the Edwin J. Castle Fund for the Comprehensive Grammar School
• TR-25-33: Transfer of $1,000 within City Council budgets for year-end personnel expenditures
• C-25-92: Agreement with Paul T. O'Neill for City Solicitor Position

The City Council accepted the meeting agenda and approved several budget transfers, including $252,795 (TR‑25‑27) and $5,000 from the Edwin J. Castle Fund (TR‑25‑14). It also approved a $1,000 transfer for City Council personnel expenses (TR‑25‑33) and an EPA request. The City Solicitor contract (C‑25‑92) was removed from the table.

• Accepted agenda (8 yes, 1 absent)
• Approved $252,795 budget transfer (TR‑25‑27) (8 yes, 1 absent)
• Approved $5,000 Edwin J. Castle Fund expenditure (TR‑25‑14) (8 yes, 1 absent)
• Approved $1,000 City Council expense transfer (TR‑25‑33) (8 yes, 1 absent)
• Approved EPA request (8 yes, 1 absent)
• Removed City Solicitor contract C‑25‑92 from table (8 yes, 1 absent)

City Council

The Methuen City Council will deliberate and vote on the first read of the FY2026 Municipal Budget. This special meeting is scheduled for June 23, 2025, with a possible continuance on June 24, 2025.

• First read and vote on the FY2026 Municipal Budget

The council unanimously approved the City Council personal services and other expenses. The Mayor's personal services budget and the revised total budget were each approved by a 5‑yes to 4‑no vote. Legal Services and the Legislative & Executive totals were approved unanimously, while a $15,725 reduction to City Clerk expenses passed 5‑4.

• Approved City Council Personal Services $254,344 (unanimous)
• Approved Mayor Personal Services $398,299 (5 yes, 4 no)
• Approved New Mayor Personal Services $383,299 (5 yes, 4 no)
• Approved Total Other Expenses $18,000 (8 yes, 1 no)
• Approved New Total $401,299 (5 yes, 4 no)
• Approved Legal Services total $649,168 (unanimous)
• Approved Legislative and Executive total $1,843,518 (8 yes, 1 no)
• Reduced City Clerk other expenses by $15,725 (5 yes, 4 no)

Commission on Disability

The Commission on Disability will meet to discuss accessibility issues and receive reports from the ADA Coordinator and the Department of Public Works.

• ADA Coordinator's report and See Click Fix reports
• DPW update on city accessibility issues
• Status update on light repairs on Merrimack Street

The commission voted to accept the minutes from the previous meeting. It then approved the Treasurer’s report showing a current budget of $106,613.05 and available funds of $28,644.00. Finally, the body moved to adjourn the meeting, which was carried.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (motion by Mr. Hatch, second by Mr. McCormick)
• Approved Treasurer’s report (motion by Mr. Gosselin, second by Ms. Blood)
• Adjourned the meeting (motion by Mr. Hatch, second by Ms. Blood)

City Council

The Methuen City Council is holding a public hearing to gather input on the FY2026 Water & Sewer Enterprise Fund. Residents may provide testimony in person or submit written comments to the Assistant Clerk.

• Public hearing regarding the FY2026 Water & Sewer Enterprise Fund

The council approved the meeting agenda with an 8‑yes vote and then voted to adjourn the session, also by an 8‑yes vote. No substantive policy or budget actions were taken.

• Agenda accepted (8‑yes, 1 absent)
• Motion to adjourn passed (8‑yes, 1 absent)

City Council

The Methuen City Council is holding a public hearing to receive input on the FY2026 Water & Sewer Enterprise Fund. Residents can provide testimony in person or submit written comments to the Assistant Clerk.

• Public hearing regarding the FY2026 Water & Sewer Enterprise Fund

The Methuen City Council unanimously accepted the meeting agenda. A motion to extend public participation by 15 minutes was also unanimously approved. No other substantive budget actions were taken during this hearing.

• Accepted agenda (unanimous)
• Extended public participation by 15 minutes (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will deliberate and vote on the first read of the City of Methuen’s FY2026 Municipal Budget. This special meeting is scheduled for June 16 and June 17.

• First read and vote on the FY2026 Municipal Budget

Cultural Council

The Methuen Cultural Council will meet to review the FY'25 budget and grants. Members will discuss updates from the Mayor's meeting regarding a special project.

• Updates on MCC Special Project budget of $7,860
• Update on FY'25 budget, finance, and grants
• Vote on approval of May 19, 2025 meeting minutes

The Cultural Council approved the minutes from the May 19, 2025 meeting. It voted to change the scheduled time for the September 6 event to 11 AM‑3 PM. The council also agreed to fundraise for the 300th Anniversary Committee with a 50/50 raffle and to pay the band $1,100 for the performance. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved May 19, 2025 minutes (5 yes, 1 absent)
• Amended event time to 11 AM‑3 PM (5 yes, 1 absent)
• Agreed to run a 50/50 raffle for 300th Anniversary Committee fundraising
• Approved payment of $1,100 to band for event performance
• Adjourned meeting (5 yes, 1 absent)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will meet to discuss the FY 26 budget. The committee intends to provide a recommendation to the City Council regarding the budget.

• Election of the chair of the finance committee
• FY 26 budget discussion
• Finance committee recommendation to council

Housing Authority

The Methuen Housing Authority will meet to review administrative plans and safety project completions. The board is deciding on a new parking policy and updates to the Section 8 Administrative and ACOP plans.

• Certificate of Substantial Completion for Project #181132: Federal Pacific Panel and Fire Alarm Safety System
• Approval of Parking Policy
• Approval of Section 8 Administrative Plan & ACOP Plan for HOTMA Changes
• Approval of payments for the period 05/01/2025 – 5/31/2025

Charter Review Committee

The Charter Review Committee will review additional comments and answers from the Collins Center. If time permits, the committee will begin a second round of edits for Chapters 1, 2, 3, and 4 of the charter.

• Review of comments and answers from the Collins Center
• Second round of edits for Charter Chapters 1, 2, 3, and 4

The Methuen Charter Review Committee approved Article I as previously amended. It also approved amendments to Section 2.1 that increase the number of precincts from 12 to 15 and move historical references to the chronology section. Additional unanimous approvals included title changes to President/Vice President, a new school‑department employment prohibition, and revisions to vacancy‑filling procedures.

• Approved Article I as previously amended (unanimous)
• Approved amendment to Section 2.1(a) increasing precincts from 12 to 15 and moving historical references to chronology (unanimous)
• Approved amendment to Section 2.1(c) moving historical references to chronology (unanimous)
• Approved amendment to Section 2.2 wording on seniority for presiding councilor (unanimous)
• Approved change of titles “Chairman” and “Vice Chairman” to “President” and “Vice President” (unanimous)
• Approved addition of School Department employment prohibition in Section 2‑5 (unanimous)
• Approved amendment to Section 2.6 on vacancy‑filling procedures (unanimous)
• Approved all amendments in Section 2.7 (unanimous)

City Council

The Methuen City Council will hold a special meeting to discuss the appointment of a City Solicitor. The council will review a resolution and an agreement regarding Paul T. O'Neill for the position.

• TR-25-32: Resolution appointing Paul T. O'Neill as City Solicitor
• C-25-92: Agreement with Paul T. O'Neill for City Solicitor position

The council accepted the meeting agenda. Councilors voted to appoint Paul T. O’Neill as City Solicitor. The agreement for his contract was tabled pending proper pay‑scale documentation. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Accepted agenda (8 yes, 1 absent)
• Appointed Paul T. O’Neill as City Solicitor (8 yes, 1 absent)
• Tabled City Solicitor contract agreement (6 yes, 2 no, 1 absent)
• Motion to adjourn passed (no vote tally recorded)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings regarding a Notice of Intent and an amendment to an Order of Conditions. The body will also discuss seven ongoing enforcement actions and notices of violation.

• Notice of Intent for 175 Pelham Street (DEP File #219-1315)
• Amendment to Order of Conditions for 15 Myrtle Street (MCC File 24-012)
• Notice of Violation for 60 Pond Street (Notice #23-009)
• Notice of Violation for 25 Hampshire Rd. (Notice #25-005)
• Order of Conditions/Bond for 175 Pelham Street

The Conservation Commission accepted the meeting agenda and the May 15 minutes, both by unanimous vote. It closed the hearing on the 175 Pelham Street Notice of Intent and unanimously accepted the amendment to the order of conditions for 15 Myrtle Street (MCC File #24-012). Several enforcement and violation items were unanimously continued to future meetings for further review.

• Accepted agenda with amendment to add May 15 minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes of the 5/15/2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Closed hearing on Notice of Intent for 175 Pelham Street (unanimous)
• Accepted amendment to order of conditions for 15 Myrtle Street (unanimous)
• Continued Enforcement #24-005 (48 Kensington Ave.) to 6/26/2025 (unanimous)
• Continued Notice of Violation #23-015 (64 Sycamore Rd.) to June 2026 (unanimous)
• Continued Notice of Violation #23-009 (60 Pond St.) to June 2026 (unanimous)
• Continued Notice of Violation #25-002 (39 Tyler St.) to 6/26/2025 (unanimous)

City Council

The Methuen City Council will hold a public hearing to discuss a public service grant. The meeting focuses on a proposal for National Grid to install underground facilities.

• Public Service Grant WR #31064078: National Grid installation of underground facilities at Elsmere Avenue and Edgewood Avenue

City Council

The City Council will vote on the appointment of a new City Solicitor and an ordinance clarifying the Law Department's authority. The body is also considering several million dollars in free cash transfers for employee benefits and school costs.

• Appointment of Paul T. O’Neill as City Solicitor and related employment agreement
• Transfer of $900,000 in free cash to cover FY25 special education costs
• Transfers of free cash totaling $1.65 million for compensated absences, unemployment, worker's compensation, and injured in the line of duty reserves
• Acceptance of three State 911 Department grants totaling $380,000
• Grant for National Grid to install underground facilities at Elsmere Avenue and Edgewood Avenue

The City Council voted 7‑1 to approve Public Service Grant WR #31064078 for National Grid to install underground facilities at Elsmere Avenue and Edgewood Avenue. The agenda was amended to move citation presentations after the pledge of allegiance, the council waived its rules, and the amended agenda was accepted, all unanimously.

• Approved Public Service Grant WR #31064078 for underground utilities at Elsmere & Edgewood (7‑1, 1 absent)
• Amended agenda to move citation presentations after pledge of allegiance (unanimous)
• Waived council rules for the meeting (unanimous)
• Accepted the amended agenda (unanimous)

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging met to approve financial reports and a workout room policy. The Interim Director provided updates on facility maintenance and recent center events.

• Approval of workout room policy
• Approval of financial reports
• Planned electrical work in the kitchen and electrical panel updates
• Planned exterior cleaning of the building
• Appointment of Domenic Alaimo as maintenance

The Council on Aging approved the minutes from the April 25, 2025 meeting, accepted the current finances, and adopted the updated workout‑room policy. All three items were approved unanimously. The next meeting is scheduled for June 20, 2025.

• Approved April 25, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved finances (unanimous)
• Approved workout room policy (unanimous)

Historic District Commission

The commission will hold public hearings to determine if proposed exterior changes meet historic standards. Two properties are seeking Certificates of Appropriateness for repairs and improvements.

• Public hearing for 30 East St. regarding siding, gutters, and exterior repairs for St. Basil Salvatorian Center
• Public hearing for 36 Park St. regarding windows, deck, and exterior repairs for Hildo Compres

City Council

The Methuen City Council will hold a public hearing to discuss a public service grant. The meeting focuses on the installation of a utility pole on Berkeley Street.

• Public service grant for National Grid and Verizon to install JO pole (P-3398-50) on Berkeley Street

City Council

The Methuen City Council will meet May 19 at 7 p.m. in the Great Hall, Searles Building. The session is largely procedural, with routine minutes, proclamations, and councilor requests. The most consequential items are seven resolutions to transfer a total of $2.55 million from Free Cash to reserves and school budgets, plus four new equipment and service contracts totaling $350,067.80.

• Seven free-cash transfers totaling $2.55M: $650K to Compensated Absences Reserve, $200K to Injured in the Line of Duty Reserve, $500K to Unemployment Reserve, $300K to Worker’s Compensation Reserve, and $900K to Methuen Public Schools for special education costs
• Four new contracts: $90,102.38 annual lease for 810 iPads and cases, $45,263.90 for a Ford Explorer, $185,000 for a Case 590SN tractor loader backhoe, and $29,704.12 for a Hyundai Sonata
• Public Service Grant #30992841: National Grid to install a new JO Pole on Berkeley Street
• Two zoning-related ordinances removed from the table: floodplain overlay update and accessory dwelling unit allowance
• Citation presentations for Eliana Valdez, DMD of La Rose Bleue Dental Studio and Crystal Castro, MHS senior attending Harvard

The council approved the meeting agenda without opposition. No other motions or votes were taken; the remainder of the session consisted of public comments on school funding and mental‑health services.

• Accepted meeting agenda (unanimous)

Cultural Council

The Methuen Cultural Council will meet to review the FY24/25 budget and grants. Members will discuss and vote on ideas for a special project funded by a $7,860 budget.

• Discussion and vote on April 14, 2025 meeting minutes
• Update on FY24/25 budget, finance, and grants
• Ideas for MCC Special Project with a $7,860 budget

The Cultural Council voted 5‑yes to accept the minutes from the April 14, 2025 meeting. The council also voted 5‑yes to adjourn the May 19 meeting. Action items were assigned to follow up on two outstanding FY24 grants and to plan a special community‑culture event at Forest Lake, but no further formal decisions were recorded.

• Approved April 14, 2025 minutes (5‑yes, 1 absent)
• Adjourned meeting (5‑yes, 1 absent)

Charter Review Committee

The Charter Review Committee will review answers from the Collins Center representative and the Acting Solicitor regarding charter questions, and may begin a second round of edits on Chapters 1, 2, and 3. They will also approve minutes from the April 10, 2025 meeting and confirm the next meeting date.

• Review Collins Center representative's answers and general questions with Acting Solicitor
• Begin second round of edits on Charter Chapters 1, 2, and 3 (time permitting)
• Approve minutes of April 10, 2025 Public Hearing and Regular meeting
• Public participation period
• Confirm next meeting date and time

The Charter Review Committee approved its agenda after a motion by Sharon Pollard, seconded by Dennis DiZoglio, with a unanimous vote. The committee also approved the minutes from the April 10, 2025 public hearing by a unanimous vote. No substantive charter changes were decided at this meeting.

• Agenda accepted (unanimous)
• Minutes of April 10, 2025 public hearing approved (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Methuen Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on two Notices of Intent: a culvert replacement over Bare Meadow Brook on Pleasant Valley Street (continued from March 20) and a project at 175 Pelham Street by Grieco Automotive Group. They will also review three Requests for Determination of Applicability at 101 Lindberg Ave., 3 Pearl St., and 201 Aberdeen Rd., and discuss ongoing enforcement actions including an enforcement order at 15 Gleason Street and violations at 2 Hayes Street and 25 Hampshire Road.

• Notice of Intent for Pleasant Valley Street culvert over Bare Meadow Brook (continued from 3/20/2025)
• Notice of Intent for 175 Pelham Street – MDR FL Realty LLC / Grieco Automotive Group
• Request for Determination of Applicability 25-005 at 101 Lindberg Ave. – Outfront Media
• Enforcement Order #24-007 at 15 Gleason Street – Advenced Operations, LLC (continued)
• Notice of Violation #25-001 at 2 Hayes Street – Donna Zappala (continued)

The Conservation Commission unanimously continued the Pleasant Valley Street hearing to July 24, 2025 and the 175 Pelham Street hearing to June 5, 2024. It accepted the Notice of Intent for 175 Pelham Street and the meeting agenda and minutes. The Commission also unanimously issued a Negative 3 Determination with six special conditions for Outfront Media’s work at 101 Lindberg Ave.

• Continue Pleasant Valley Street hearing to 7/24/2025 (unanimous)
• Accept Notice of Intent for 175 Pelham Street (unanimous)
• Continue 175 Pelham Street hearing to 6/5/2024 (unanimous)
• Accept agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Accept minutes of 5/1/2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Issue Negative 3 Determination for Outfront Media at 101 Lindberg Ave with Conditions 1‑6 (unanimous)

Housing Authority

The Methuen Housing Authority will consider approving several financial items including payments for April 2025, change orders for capital projects, and awarding on-call heating and plumbing contracts. The board will also discuss certifications for lead paint compliance and compensation forms, adopt revised income limits, and consider entering executive session for labor negotiations.

• Change Order 0004 for JFK Window & Siding Replacement: $25,263.14
• Change Order 0002 for Federal Pacific Panel and Fire Alarm Safety System: -$15,164.10
• Awarding On-Call Heating Contract to Kannan & Pricone Plumbing & Heating, Inc.
• Awarding On-Call Plumbing Contract to Kannan & Pricone Plumbing & Heating, Inc.
• Adopting 2025 Revised Public Housing Income Limits for MSA Lawrence

City Council

The Methuen City Council and Community Development Board will hold a joint public hearing to consider an ordinance amending the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance to allow accessory dwelling units (ADUs) to be built by-right in single-family zoning districts. If approved, homeowners could add ADUs without needing a special permit. The hearing takes place on May 14, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. in the Great Hall of the Searles Building.

• TO-25-7: Ordinance to allow accessory dwelling units (ADUs) by-right in single-family zoning districts (sponsored by the Department of Economic and Community Development)

Community Development Board

The Community Development Board will hold a public hearing on a proposed amendment to the Methuen Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance to allow accessory dwelling units (ADUs) by right in single-family zoning districts. A continued public hearing will update the floodplain overlay district to reference current FEMA maps. The board will also consider a historic preservation special permit for 47 Lowell Street and a recommendation on the ADU amendment.

• Public hearing: amend zoning to allow ADUs by right in single-family districts
• Continued hearing: update Floodplain Overlay District to reference current FEMA maps
• Continued hearing: 47 Lowell Street – Historic Preservation Special Permit
• Recommendation on ADU zoning amendment under zoning issues
• Regency at Emerald Pines bond reduction under old business

The Board held a public hearing on amending the Methuen Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance to permit accessory dwelling units (ADUs) by right in all single‑family residential zones and voted unanimously to send a favorable recommendation to the City Council. The Board also closed the public hearing on the Floodplain Overlay District amendment and approved several agenda motions, all by unanimous vote.

• Unanimous vote to send a favorable recommendation to City Council on ADU ordinance (by right in single‑family zones)
• Unanimous vote to close the public hearing on Floodplain Overlay District amendment
• Unanimous motion to amend the agenda by taking item 7a out of order
• Unanimous motion to resume the original agenda
• Unanimous City Council vote to close the public hearing on ADU ordinance

Zoning Board

This special meeting of the Methuen Zoning Board of Appeals is solely to vote to enter executive session to discuss strategy with legal counsel regarding the pending lawsuit Jay Patel v. Methuen Zoning Board of Appeals (Mass. Land Court Docket 25 MISC 000190). There will be no public participation, and after the executive session the board will adjourn without reconvening in open session.

• Vote to enter executive session under M.G.L. Ch. 30A, §21(a)(3) for litigation strategy concerning Jay Patel v. Methuen Zoning Board of Appeals

The board moved to enter executive session to discuss strategy for pending litigation (Jay Patel v. Methuen Zoning Board of Appeals). The motion was made by Clerk Vincenzo Pesce and seconded by Vice Chairman Nicholas Boucher. All five members present voted yes. The board entered executive session at 7:24 PM.

• Entered executive session (5-0 unanimous)

City Council

The Methuen City Council will consider several contracts, including a $403,458 Lower Broadway Pedestrian Safety & Transit Improvements Project and an $80,000 school wildlife sanitation cleanout. They will also debate an ordinance updating door-to-door solicitation rules and a resolution concerning the Greater Lawrence Technical School. Councilors have requested updates on school audit, traffic issues, fiscal transparency, and other city matters.

• C-25-84: Dagle Electrical Construction Corp. for Lower Broadway Pedestrian Safety & Transit Improvements Project, $403,458
• C-25-82: Pest-End, Inc. for wildlife sanitation/cleanout at 5 schools, $80,000
• C-25-87: Island Tech Services for outfitting 4 police vehicles, $56,214
• TO-25-5: Ordinance to amend door-to-door solicitation requirements (sponsored by Councilors Valley, Soto, Saffie)
• TR-25-19: Resolution supporting letter to delegation regarding GLTS financial and administrative practices

The council accepted the meeting agenda (8‑yes, 1 absent). It approved the April 7 minutes after removal from the table (8‑yes, 1 absent) and approved the April 22 minutes (7‑yes, 2 not voting). The remainder of the session consisted of reports, public comments, and updates with no new approvals or denials.

• Agenda accepted (8 yes, 1 absent)
• April 7 minutes removed from table (8 yes, 1 absent)
• April 7 minutes approved (8 yes, 1 absent)
• April 22 minutes approved (7 yes, 2 not voting)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will hold a regular meeting to approve minutes from April 3 and then immediately move into executive session to review abatement and/or exemption applications under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 59, Section 60. The board will not reconvene in open session after the executive session.

• Executive session to review Chapter 59 abatement and exemption applications (limited by state law to assessors and certain parties)
• Approval of minutes from April 3, 2025 meeting
• No other public business items listed

The Board of Assessors signed the excise tax abatements for April 2025. It also signed Commitment #2 for the 2025 excise program. The board entered an Executive Session at 8:50 a.m. to consider statutory exemption and abatement applications, with a unanimous 3‑0 vote. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved April 2025 excise tax abatements (unanimous)
• Approved Commitment #2 for 2025 excise (unanimous)
• Entered Executive Session at 8:50 a.m. to consider exemption and abatement applications (3-0)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings to discuss a new request for determination of applicability. The body will also review several continued enforcement actions and notices of violation regarding various properties.

• Request for Determination of Applicability 25-006 for 24 Copley Drive
• Enforcement #24-005 for 48 Kensington Ave.
• Notice of Violation #23-001 for 268 Lowell Street
• Notice of Violation #23-004 for Hampshire Rd. (Parcel IDs 212-127-35 & 212-127-33A)
• Notice of Violation #23-010 for 26 Phoebe Street

The Conservation Commission accepted the agenda and the April 17 minutes by unanimous vote. It issued a Negative 3 Determination for a retaining‑wall project at 24 Copley Drive, also unanimously. The Commission adopted an Enforcement Order with multiple conditions for the 22 Lowell Boulevard site. Several other enforcement items were postponed to future meetings for further review.

• Agenda accepted (unanimous)
• April 17 minutes accepted (unanimous)
• Negative 3 Determination issued for 24 Copley Drive (unanimous)
• Enforcement Order issued for 22 Lowell Blvd with conditions (unanimous)
• Enforcement #24-005 (48 Kensington Ave) continued to 5/15/2025
• Notice of Violation #23-001 (268 Lowell St) continued to 10/2/2025
• Notice of Violation #23-004 (VP Hampshire Rd) continued to 7/24/2025
• Notice of Violation #24-013 (484 Broadway) continued to 6/5/2025

Council on Aging

The Methuen Council on Aging is meeting for a routine monthly session. The agenda includes standard items such as reflection, welcome, approval of minutes, a financial update, and general discussion, with no specific proposals or public hearings listed.

The Council on Aging approved the minutes from the April 4 meeting, the financial report, and the FY 2025 budget, each with unanimous support. A motion to adjourn was also approved unanimously. The next meeting is scheduled for May 30, 2025.

• Approved April 4 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved financial report (unanimous)
• Approved FY 2025 budget (unanimous)
• Approved motion to adjourn (unanimous)

Zoning Board

The Board will vote to enter executive session to discuss strategy in pending litigation (Jay Patel v. Zoning Board, Mass. Land Court). Then they will consider a variance application from Dana Kilroy for seven variances to construct a mixed-use structure in a BH zone on Center Street, including reduced lot dimensions and off-street parking.

• Executive session on pending litigation (Jay Patel v. Methuen ZBA, Docket 25 MISC 000190)
• Variance application 2025-05 by Dana Kilroy for seven variances on lot area, frontage, setbacks, and coverage
• Proposed mixed-use building at Center Street (Map-716, Parcel-113, Lot-4) in BH zone
• Parking variance: 9 spaces required, only 5 proposed
• Acceptance of March 26, 2025 meeting minutes

The Zoning Board of Appeals voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the March 26, 2025 meeting. No vote or formal decision was made on the variance request for 40 ft × 100 ft Center Street parcel; the matter was discussed but left pending. The planned executive session was cancelled and will be rescheduled.

• Accepted March 26, 2025 minutes (unanimous)

City Council

The Methuen City Council and Community Development Board will hold a joint public hearing on an ordinance to amend the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, updating the Floodplain Overlay District as required by FEMA and the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation. The amendment is necessary to ensure continued resident eligibility for the National Flood Insurance Program.

• Public hearing on ordinance amending the Floodplain Overlay District for FEMA compliance
• Update required to maintain Methuen's participation in the National Flood Insurance Program

Community Development Board

The Community Development Board will hold a public hearing to discuss amending Section V-W of the Floodplain Overlay District. The board will then make a recommendation regarding the proposed amendment to align with current FEMA maps, studies, and zones.

• Public hearing on amending Section V-W Floodplain Overlay District (FOD) to reference current FEMA maps and studies

The board held a public hearing to update the Floodplain Overlay District to reflect current FEMA maps; no public comments were made. The City Council motion to adjourn was passed unanimously, followed by a unanimous adjournment motion by the Community Development Board.

• City Council motion to adjourn – passed unanimously
• Community Development Board motion to adjourn – passed unanimously

City Council

The Methuen City Council will discuss and vote on an ordinance to allow accessory dwelling units by-right in single-family zoning districts, a resolution to declare the Scarles Estate at 209 Lawrence Street as surplus property for sale with historic preservation restrictions, and multiple financial transfers from free cash totaling over $1.9 million. The council will also consider contracts for water plant equipment, police vehicles, and stadium lighting, as well as updates on traffic, property, and other administrative matters.

• Ordinance to allow accessory dwelling units (ADUs) by-right in single-family zones (TO-25-7)
• Resolution to sell the Scarles Estate at 209 Lawrence Street as surplus property with historic preservation conditions (TR-25-16)
• Transfer of $927,704 from free cash to general fund budget lines for unanticipated FY25 expenses (TR-25-17)
• Transfer of $978,900 from free cash for snow and ice expenditures (TR-25-18)
• Emergency waiver for replacement of sluice gates and traveling screens at water intake ($335,850) and contract for police vehicles ($141,301)

Councilors approved the agenda after a motion by Clr. Campagnone and a second by Clr. Surillo, with all members voting yes. The remainder of the meeting consisted of public comments and no further actions were taken.

• Accepted agenda (unanimous)

City Council

The Methuen City Council and the Searles Estate Task Force will hold a joint workshop to discuss a draft request for proposals (RFP) for the Searles Estate, as outlined in Resolution TR-25-16. This is a discussion item only; no votes are scheduled.

• Discussion of draft RFP for Searles Estate (Resolution TR-25-16)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings and discuss several enforcement actions and notices of violation. The body is reviewing compliance and permit intents for various residential and commercial addresses.

• Notice of Intent for 9 West Bedford Street (Elizabeth Mahoney — Waitt Construction)
• Enforcement #24-005 for 48 Kensington Ave. (Frank Sergi)
• Notice of Violation #24-010 for 22 Lowell Boulevard (Jim Katib — Meisner Brem Corporation)
• Notice of Violation #23-013 for 52 Linwood Ave. (Ana Diaz)
• Notice of Violation #25-001 for 2 Hayes Street (Donna Zappala) and #25-002 for 39 Tyler Street (Wanderson Pimentel)

The Commission voted unanimously to close the hearing on the Notice of Intent for 9 West Bedford Street, requiring the applicant to submit an updated plan before any work begins. The hearing had been continued from the April 3 meeting after the applicant’s representative arrived late. The Commission also unanimously accepted the agenda and the minutes from the April 3 meeting. Several enforcement and violation items (Enforcement Order #24-005, Notices of Violation #24-010, #23-013, #24-008) were continued to the May 1 meeting.

• Closed 9 West Bedford St hearing pending revised plan (unanimous)
• Accepted agenda as posted (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes of 4/3/2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Continued Enforcement Order #24-005 (48 Kensington Ave) to 5/1/2025
• Continued Notice of Violation #24-010 (22 Lowell Blvd) to 5/1/2025
• Continued Notice of Violation #23-013 (52 Linwood Ave) to 5/1/2025
• Continued Notice of Violation #24-008 (25 Thayer St) to 5/1/2025

Board of Health

The Methuen Board of Health will discuss and decide on a variance request for 468 Merrimack Street. They will also accept minutes from the February 18, 2025 meeting and hold a question-and-answer session with the Water Department.

• Discussion and decision on variance at 468 Merrimack St.
• Acceptance of minutes from February 18, 2025
• Water Department Q&A

The Board of Health unanimously approved the minutes from the February 18, 2025 meeting. It also unanimously approved a variance for a septic system repair at 468 Merrimack Street, allowing the proposed setbacks. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Approved minutes from February 18, 2025 BOH meeting (unanimous yes vote)
• Approved variance for 468 Merrimack Street septic repair (unanimous yes vote)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous yes vote)

Cultural Council

The Methuen Cultural Council will meet to approve minutes from March 10, receive an update on the FY24 budget, and review the recent MCC Welcome Reception. Members will also discuss ideas for a special project using $7,860 in allocated funds.

• Approval of minutes from March 10, 2025 meeting
• Update on FY24 budget and finances
• Review of MCC Welcome Reception – what worked and what to change
• Discussion of ideas for MCC Special Project using $7,860 budget
• Reports from council members

The Cultural Council approved the minutes from the March 10, 2025 meeting with a 5‑yes vote and one member absent. The board voted to table the discussion of a $7,860 special project budget until May, also by a 5‑yes vote with one absent. The meeting was adjourned by a 5‑yes vote, one member absent.

• Approved March 10, 2025 minutes (5 yes, one absent)
• Tabled MCC special project budget $7,860 discussion (5 yes, one absent)
• Adjourned meeting (5 yes, one absent)

Charter Review Committee

The Charter Review Committee unanimously accepted its agenda and later unanimously adjourned the meeting. No charter revisions or other substantive actions were approved, denied, or tabled during this session.

• Accepted agenda (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Charter Review Committee

The Charter Review Committee is holding a public hearing to receive resident input on proposed revisions to the Methuen City Charter. The committee has published an edited version of the charter for review. No voting or decisions are scheduled; the meeting is solely for public comment.

• Public hearing on revisions to the City Charter (view edited Home Rule Charter posted online)

Housing Authority

The Methuen Housing Authority will hold a regular meeting to approve payments, receive reports, and consider several new business items, including a $916,349.09 contract amendment, a landscaping maintenance contract award to D&J Landscaping, and a design contract for Project 181155. The board will also discuss a voluntary sick leave bank policy and enter executive session for labor negotiations.

• Consider approving CFA 5001 Amendment #19 for $916,349.09
• Consider awarding landscaping maintenance contract to D&J Landscaping, LLC
• Consider awarding design contract for Project 181155 to Shekar and Associates, Inc.
• Consider adopting a Voluntary Sick Leave Bank Policy
• Housing Choice Voucher CY 2025 Short Fall Notice and PHN 2025-04 Blanket Waiver discussed

City Council

The Methuen City Council will discuss the disposition of the Searles Estate and vote on several high-value municipal contracts. The body will also consider budget transfers for snow removal and unanticipated expenses, along with updates to zoning and solicitation ordinances.

• Resolution to declare Edward F. Searles Estate at 209 Lawrence Street as surplus property for sale
• Contract for 2025 Fire Apparatus from Allegiance Fire & Rescue for $642,723.00
• Contract for MARK43 Data Analytics Implementation totaling $777,271.86
• Five-year contract with CATALIS TAX & CAMA, Inc. for property certification for $499,400.00
• Proposed transfers of $927,704 for unanticipated expenses and $978,900 for snow and ice expenditures

The Council voted unanimously to accept the agenda for the April 7, 2025 regular meeting. No other motions or votes were recorded in the minutes excerpt.

• Accepted agenda (unanimous vote)

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will meet to review minutes and finances. The body will also conduct a policy review specifically regarding the workout room.

• Policy review of the workout room

The council approved revisions to the workout‑room policy after a motion by Don Marcus, seconded by Katy Abraham, with all members in favor. Other agenda items such as the March minutes, budget acceptance, and the interim director report were discussed but no vote outcomes were recorded. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved wording changes to policy (unanimous support)
• Motion to adjourn passed

Conservation Commission

The Methuen Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on Notices of Intent, including a proposal for construction at 9 West Bedford Street (DEP File #219-13XX). The board will also consider enforcement orders for properties on Tedesco Road, Kensington Avenue, Linwood Avenue, and Thayer Street, as well as certificates of compliance for sites on Cox Lane and Dracut Street, and a Request for Determination of Applicability at 3 Riverview Circle.

• Notice of Intent for 9 West Bedford Street (Waitt Construction, DEP #219-13XX)
• Request for Determination of Applicability at 3 Riverview Circle (Jason McGrath)
• Enforcement Order #24-004 restoration plan at 47 Tedesco Rd (continued)
• Enforcement #24-005 at 48 Kensington Ave (continued)
• Certificates of Compliance for 6 Cox Lane and 110 Dracut St

The Conservation Commission unanimously accepted the Notice of Intent for 9 West Bedford Street and will continue its hearing at the April 17 meeting. It also unanimously issued a Negative 2 Determination with six special conditions for the 3 Riverview Circle patio project. The commission continued Enforcement Order #24‑004 for 47 Tedesco Road to the July 24, 2025 meeting. Agenda and prior minutes were accepted without dissent.

• Accepted agenda (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes of 3/20/2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Accepted Notice of Intent for 9 West Bedford St (unanimous)
• Continued hearing for 9 West Bedford St to 4/17/2025 (unanimous)
• Issued Negative 2 Determination with conditions for 3 Riverview Circle (unanimous)
• Continued Enforcement Order #24-004 for 47 Tedesco Rd to 7/24/2025 (unanimous)

Commission on Disability

The Commission on Disability will meet to receive reports from the ADA Coordinator and the Department of Public Works. The body will discuss accessibility issues and the status of light repairs on Merrimack Street.

• ADA Coordinator’s report and See Click Fix reports
• DPW update on city accessibility issues
• Update on light repairs on Merrimack Street

The Commission on Disability approved the meeting agenda and the prior meeting minutes. The treasurer’s report showing a $106,613.05 balance was accepted. The commission then adjourned the meeting. No other substantive actions were decided.

• Approved agenda (motion passed)
• Approved meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Accepted treasurer’s report with $106,613.05 balance (motion passed)
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to approve minutes from March 2024 and enter an executive session to review abatement and exemption applications under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 59, Section 60. No new or old business items are listed on the agenda. The board will not reconvene in open session after the executive session.

• Approval of meeting minutes from March 20, 2024
• Executive session to review abatement and exemption applications (MGL Ch. 59, Sec. 60)

The Board of Assessors unanimously approved opening the meeting, accepted the March 20, 2025 minutes, and entered executive session to consider statutory exemption and abatement applications. The monthly abatement reports were reviewed and signed. No other business was acted upon.

• Opened meeting at 8:48 a.m. (unanimous)
• Accepted March 20, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Reviewed and signed monthly abatement reports
• Entered executive session at 9:00 a.m. to consider exemption and abatement applications (unanimous; votes: Janet Yes, Thomas Yes)

Finance Committee

The Methuen Finance Committee will meet via Zoom to discuss the city’s fiscal year 2025 end-of-year forecast and the preliminary outlook for fiscal year 2026. The committee will also review the city’s fiscal transparency webpage and consider updates to trash and recycling tipping fees or the trash contract. No decisions are listed on the agenda.

• FY 25 end-of-year forecast review
• FY 26 budget forecast discussion
• Trash and recycling tipping fees or contract review

Zoning Board

The Methuen Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on a special permit application for 50-52 Hampshire Street. The applicant seeks to construct a new mixed-use building after fire damage and expand an existing nonconforming business use from 1,400 to 4,000 square feet.

• Special Permit Application 2025-04 by Freeman Real Estate LLC to rebuild at 50-52 Hampshire Street after fire damage and extend nonconforming business use (Section IX-D of zoning ordinance)

The Zoning Board unanimously approved the February 26, 2025 meeting minutes. It also unanimously accepted the updated, state‑land‑surveyor‑stamped plans for 50‑52 Hampshire Street. No vote was taken on the applicant’s special permit request, which remains pending pending further information.

• Accepted February 26, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted updated plans with MA land surveyor stamp (unanimous)

Unaccepted Ways Task Force

The Unaccepted Ways Committee will discuss the distinctions between committees and task forces. The meeting includes updates and recommendations from the Roadway Task Force provided by Michael Welch.

• Roadway Task Force updates, findings, and recommendations from Michael Welch
• Discussion regarding Sugar Hill Circle and Crestshire Lane

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will conduct a continued public hearing regarding a culvert project on Pleasant Valley Street. The body will also review a request for determination of applicability and a notice of violation.

• Public hearing: Pleasant Valley Street Over Bare Meadow Brook culvert (DEP File #219-1310)
• Request for Determination of Applicability 25-003: 18 Stillwater Rd.
• Notice of Violation 24-010: 22 Lowell Boulevard
• Order of Conditions/Bond: 61 Ormonde Rd.
• Update on House Docket No. 592

The Methuen Conservation Commission unanimously accepted the meeting agenda and the minutes from the March 6, 2025 meeting. It voted to continue the Pleasant Valley Street culvert hearing to May 15, 2025 and to continue the Notice of Violation 24‑010 to the April 17, 2025 meeting. The commission also issued a Negative 3 determination with six special conditions for the proposed addition at 18 Stillwater Rd.

• Accepted agenda (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes of 3/6/2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Continued Pleasant Valley Street culvert hearing to 5/15/2025 (unanimous)
• Issued Negative 3 determination for 18 Stillwater Rd with special conditions #1‑6 (unanimous)
• Continued Notice of Violation 24‑010 to 4/17/2025 (unanimous)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will hold a regular meeting with procedural items: call to order, roll call, and acceptance of minutes from March 6, 2024. New business is listed as 'noe' and there is no old business. The board will then enter executive session to review abatement and/or exemption applications under state law, and will not reconvene in open session. The agenda is largely procedural with no specific dollar amounts or public hearings.

• Acceptance of minutes from March 6, 2024
• Executive session to review abatement and exemption applications under MGL Chapter 59, Section 60
• No new business listed (agenda states 'noe')
• Meeting will not reconvene after executive session

The Board of Assessors opened the meeting at 8:38 a.m. and unanimously accepted the March 6, 2025 minutes. A motion to enter executive session at 8:50 a.m. to consider statutory exemption and abatement applications was passed unanimously, and the meeting was adjourned at 8:55 a.m.

• Opened meeting at 8:38 a.m. (unanimous)
• Accepted March 6, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Entered executive session to consider exemption and abatement applications (unanimous, 2‑0)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:55 a.m. (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will discuss updates to the Floodplain Overlay District and consider several municipal appointments. The body will also review a contract for a 311 citizens request line and a collective bargaining agreement for dispatchers and parking officers.

• Contract C-25-66 with CIVICPLUS, LLC for 311 Citizens Request Line for $26,082.00
• Ordinance TO-25-3 to update the Floodplain Overlay District for FEMA and state compliance
• Resolution TR-25-14 to authorize $5,000 from the Edwin J. Castle Fund for the Comprehensive Grammar School
• Ordinance TO-25-2 regarding the denial or suspension of city contracts for failure to pay municipal taxes
• Reappointments of the City Clerk, Chief Information Officer, and Director of Economic and Community Development

The Methuen City Council approved a three-year wage and salary schedule amendment for department heads (TO-24-17) with a 6-2 vote, and unanimously tabled a similar amendment for unaffiliated positions (TO-24-19). The council also unanimously approved a resolution allowing the Methuen Retirement System to increase the cost-of-living base from $19,000 to $20,000, and approved a contract with CivicPlus for the 311 citizen request line. An ordinance requiring denial or suspension of city contracts for failure to pay municipal taxes was approved 8-1.

• Approved 3-year wage schedule for department heads (6-2)
• Tabled wage schedule for unaffiliated positions (unanimous)
• Approved $26,082 CivicPlus 311 contract (unanimous)
• Approved retirement COLA base increase to $20,000 (unanimous)
• Approved contract denial ordinance for tax delinquents (8-1)
• Tabled floodplain overlay ordinance for public hearing (unanimous)
• Approved NEPBA 117 collective bargaining agreement (unanimous)
• Approved $5,000 from Edwin J. Castle Fund for Comprehensive Grammar School (unanimous)

Charter Review Committee

The Charter Review Committee will hold an open discussion regarding the process of reviewing the Charter and questions for the Collins Center. The committee will also review Articles 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11.

• Discussion of questions for Collins Center
• Review of Charter Articles 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11

The Methuen Charter Review Committee reviewed Articles 7-11 of the proposed charter, voting to adopt numerous changes from the 2019 revised charter, including election signature requirements, citizen petition procedures, and recall provisions. They tabled Section 9-2 (citizen initiative measures) for further review and referral to the call-in center. The committee also scheduled a public hearing for March 27, 2025.

• Adopted motion to change Section 7-1 election date to reflect 2019 Charter (unanimous)
• Adopted motion to require 150 signatures with minimum 25 from each district for nomination (unanimous)
• Adopted motion to rename Article 9 to 'Citizen Participation Mechanisms' (unanimous)
• Adopted motion to add 'business' to seven-day deadlines in Section 9-1, then later struck it (unanimous)
• Tabled Section 9-2 for further review and referral to call-in center (unanimous)
• Adopted motion to incorporate Section 9-4 (ineligible measures) from 2019 Charter (unanimous)
• Adopted motion to incorporate Section 9-5 (recall) from 2019 Charter, with amendments (unanimous)
• Adopted motion to add 'seated' to quorum definition in Section 10-7 (unanimous)

Housing Authority

The Methuen Housing Authority will meet to review financial statements and reports for January 2025. The board will consider the approval of CFA 5010 in the amount of $79,876.00.

• Consideration of approving CFA 5010 for $79,876.00
• Correspondence regarding Methuen #181162 Vacant Unit Award for $127,385.00
• Approval of payments for the period 01/01/2025 – 1/31/2025

Cultural Council

The Methuen Cultural Council will meet virtually to review budget and finance updates. The body is discussing the reconsideration of grants for both fiscal years 2024 and 2025.

• Reconsideration of 2024 grants
• Update on reconsideration of FY25 grants
• Planning for MCC Welcome Reception food and invitations
• Approval of February 10, 2025 meeting minutes

The Methuen Cultural Council voted unanimously to allow the council chair, Jennifer Loiselle, to grant any extension requests for 2024 grants without needing special meetings or votes. The council also unanimously approved the minutes from the February 10, 2025 meeting. A discussion on reconsidering FY25 grants was tabled. The meeting was procedural, with no public participation.

• Approved the February 10, 2025 meeting minutes (5 yes, 1 absent)
• Approved allowing the council chair to grant 2024 grant extension requests without special meetings (5 yes, 1 absent)
• Tabled the update on reconsideration of FY25 grants
• Adjourned the meeting at 7:05 PM (5 yes, 1 absent)

Conservation Commission

The Methuen Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a Notice of Intent for 61 Ormonde Rd. The body will also consider a Certificate of Compliance for 8 Cox Lane.

• Notice of Intent (DEP #219-1313) for 61 Ormonde Rd.
• Certificate of Compliance (DEP File #219-564) for 8 Cox Lane

The Methuen Conservation Commission voted unanimously to issue an Order of Conditions with 50 special conditions for the expansion of a yard and construction of a patio and shed at 42 Atkinson Street. The commission also closed the hearing for a Notice of Intent for a new single-family dwelling at 61 Ormonde Rd., continued discussion on proposed state legislation, and issued a Certificate of Compliance for 6 Cox Lane.

• Issued Order of Conditions with 50 special conditions for 42 Atkinson St. project (unanimous)
• Closed hearing on Notice of Intent for 61 Ormonde Rd. single-family dwelling (unanimous)
• Issued Certificate of Compliance for 6 Cox Lane (unanimous)
• Accepted agenda with amendment changing street number from 8 to 6 Cox Lane (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes of 2/20/2025 meeting (unanimous)

Commission on Disability

The Commission on Disability will hold a routine meeting covering standard administrative items: approval of minutes, treasurer's report, and public participation. Updates will be presented by the ADA coordinator regarding recent See Click Fix reports and by DPW on city accessibility issues. Old business includes onboarding new commission members, while new business covers training opportunities and strategic planning.

• ADA Coordinator's Report and See Click Fix reports
• Update from DPW on accessibility issues in the city
• New commission members (old business)
• Training Opportunities and Strategic Planning (new business)

The Commission on Disability voted to add non-working traffic lights to its agenda and send a formal letter to the police chief, mayor, and state office of advocacy. The commission also approved the agenda and minutes with corrections, and discussed sidewalk work and member training.

• Approved agenda with correction to Searles Building (motion passed)
• Approved minutes with date correction to 2025 (motion passed)
• Added traffic light issue to agenda (motion passed)
• Commission to send formal letter about traffic lights to chief, mayor, and state office of advocacy

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will hold a regular meeting to approve prior minutes and discuss old and new business, then enter executive session to review abatement and exemption applications under state law. The board will not reconvene in open session after the closed portion.

• Executive session to review Chapter 59 abatement and exemption applications (MGL c. 59, §60)

The Board of Assessors met and approved the minutes from the January 9, 2025 meeting. They signed two excise tax commitments: commitment #7 for end-of-2024 bills and commitment #1 for the beginning of bill year 2025. The board also discussed Holy Family property now being tax-exempt due to ownership by Lawrence General. The meeting then moved into executive session for statutory exemption and abatement applications.

• Approved minutes from January 9, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Signed excise tax commitment #7 for end of 2024 bills
• Signed excise tax commitment #1 for beginning of 2025 bills
• Entered executive session for exemption and abatement applications (unanimous roll call)

Finance Committee

The Methuen Finance Committee will meet to receive updates on free cash reserves, the FY25 mid-year financial report, and the FY26 budget forecast. They will also discuss the snow and ice budget, trash and recycling tipping fees, and the trash contract. The committee will elect a new chair and set the next meeting date.

• Free cash/reserves update
• FY25 mid-year report and FY26 forecast
• Snow and ice budget update
• Trash and recycling tipping fees and trash contract discussion
• Election of new committee chair

City Council

The Methuen City Council will hold its regular meeting on March 3, 2025, at 7 p.m. in the Great Hall of the Searles Building. The meeting includes routine procedural items, appointments, and reports, with notable decisions on a $104,000 engineering contract for pedestrian curb ramp improvements and a $96,360 grant for police mental health services.

• $104,000 contract with TEC, Inc. for pedestrian curb ramp improvements along Lowell Street at 14 intersections
• $96,360 grant acceptance for Critical Incident Stress Management Program
• Resolution TR-25-10 requesting an opt-in recycling program for condominiums, businesses, and HOAs
• Order TR-25-11 authorizing borrowing for FY2025 Capital Improvement Plan costs
• Reappointment of Janet McLennan to the Board of Assessors and Ronald Bertheim as Constable

The Methuen City Council approved a borrowing order for the FY25 Capital Improvement Plan, a resolution requesting the mayor develop an opt-in recycling program for condominium associations, and a grant acceptance for police stress management. The council also approved contracts for engineering services on Lowell Street sidewalk improvements and a school transportation reimbursement agreement. Appointments included a fire lieutenant promotion and reappointments to the Board of Assessors and as Constable.

• Approved FY25 Capital Improvement Plan borrowing order (unanimous)
• Approved resolution for opt-in recycling program for condominium associations (8-1)
• Approved $104,000 engineering contract for Lowell Street pedestrian curb ramp improvements (unanimous)
• Approved $36,000 MOU for school transportation reimbursement (unanimous)
• Promoted Jody Ste. Marie to permanent Fire Lieutenant (unanimous)
• Reappointed Janet McLennan to Board of Assessors (8-1)
• Reappointed Ronald Bertheim as Constable (unanimous)
• Accepted $96,360 Critical Incident Stress Management grant (unanimous)

Council on Aging

This is a routine monthly meeting of the Methuen Council on Aging. The agenda includes standard items such as approval of minutes, a financial report, and a director's update. A notable discussion item is a review of the Fitness Room Policy. The next meeting is scheduled for March 28, 2025.

• Review of Fitness Room Policy
• Financial report and director's update
• Approval of previous meeting minutes

The Methuen Council on Aging approved the January meeting minutes and accepted work by Carol Delano for the senior center. The board is awaiting city guidance on interviews for the Maintenance and Director positions, with applications closed February 18. New programs were discussed, including grief sessions and health screenings, but no formal votes were taken on them.

• Approved January meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Accepted Carol Delano's work for the center (motion by Al D’Agata, seconded by Don Marcus)

Charter Review Committee

The Methuen Charter Review Committee will continue its review of the city charter, focusing on Articles 5, 6, and 7. The meeting includes public participation and discussion of the review process. No votes on specific proposals are scheduled.

• Open discussion on the process of reviewing the Charter
• Review of Articles 5, 6, and 7 of the city charter
• Public participation period
• Approval of minutes from February 13, 2025
• Confirmation of next meeting date and time

The Methuen Charter Review Committee voted to adopt the 2019 draft language for Articles 5, 6, and 7, covering other elected officials, financial procedures, and administrative departments, with several amendments. They also discussed engaging the Collins Center for Public Management for charter review services, with concerns raised about the $15,000 flat fee, and agreed to seek further guidance on certain sections. The next meeting is scheduled for March 13, 2025.

• Adopted 2019 draft Article 5 (Other Elected Officials) into original charter (unanimous)
• Adopted 2019 draft Article 6 (Finance and Fiscal Procedures) into original charter (unanimous)
• Adopted 2019 draft Article 7 (Administrative Departments) into original charter (unanimous)
• Amended Section 6-2 to add 'chief administrative and financial officer and the school business manager and chief administrative officer' (5-1)
• Amended Section 6-4(c) to add social media notification requirement (unanimous)
• Amended Section 6-4(c) to change 'enactment' to 'approved budget' (unanimous)
• Amended Section 6-6(a) and 6-7 to change date from March 30 to April 30 (unanimous)
• Amended Section 7-2(b) to add 'a charter' before 'objection' (unanimous)

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on three applications: a variance for a single-family dwelling on Sevoian Drive, a special permit for a Take 5 Oil Change at 465-469 Broadway, and a variance for an open deck at 33 Newbury Ave. The board will also review minutes from January 22 and old business item 2025-01.

• Variance request by Robert Ahern to build a single-family home on Sevoian Drive (lot area 24,830 sq ft vs required 25,000; frontage 25 ft vs 100 ft; width 70 ft vs 100 ft) in Residential B zone.
• Special permit request by Jay Patel for Take 5 Oil Change (Motor Vehicle Light Service) at 465 & 469 Broadway in Business Highway zone.
• Variance request by Joseph and Antoinette Sheehan for an open deck too close to rear setback (6 ft vs 15 ft) and exceeding lot coverage (33% vs 25%) at 33 Newbury Ave in Residential D zone.

The Methuen Zoning Board of Appeals denied a variance for a single-family dwelling on Sevoian Drive (4-0), denied a special permit for a Take 5 Oil Change at 465/469 Broadway (3-1), and approved a variance for an existing deck at 33 Newbury Ave (4-0). All votes required a unanimous decision due to a 4-member quorum.

• Denied variance for dwelling at Sevoian Drive (4-0)
• Denied special permit for Take 5 Oil Change at 465/469 Broadway (3-1)
• Approved variance for existing deck at 33 Newbury Ave (4-0)
• Accepted new site plan for Sevoian Drive application (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Methuen Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on three Notices of Intent for projects affecting wetlands, including a culvert replacement over Bare Meadow Brook on Pleasant Valley Street. The commission will also consider two Requests for Determination of Applicability for water main improvements and a residential project, and continue enforcement actions on two properties. All items are up for decision or discussion.

• Notice of Intent DEP #219-1310: Pleasant Valley Street culvert over Bare Meadow Brook (city project, continued from 2/6/25)
• Notice of Intent DEP #219-1312: 42 Atkinson Street (continued from 1/16/25)
• Notice of Intent DEP #219-13XX: 61 Ormonde Road – new filing
• Request for Determination of Applicability: Route 213 Water Main Improvements (continued from 2/6/25)
• Enforcement cases: 48 Kensington Ave. and 25 Thayer Street (both continued)

The Methuen Conservation Commission issued Negative 3 Determinations of Applicability for two projects: the Route 213 water main improvements and a septic system upgrade at 110 Dracut Street, both with special conditions. The Commission also continued hearings on three Notices of Intent, including the Pleasant Valley Street culvert project and the 61 Ormonde Rd. single-family dwelling, and closed the hearing for 42 Atkinson Street. An enforcement order for 48 Kensington Ave. and a notice of violation for 25 Thayer Street were both continued to the April 3, 2025 meeting.

• Issued Negative 3 Determination for Route 213 water main improvements with 7 special conditions (unanimous)
• Issued Negative 3 Determination for septic upgrade at 110 Dracut St. with 6 special conditions (unanimous)
• Closed hearing for Notice of Intent at 42 Atkinson St. (unanimous)
• Continued Notice of Intent for Pleasant Valley St. culvert to 3/20/2025 (unanimous)
• Continued Notice of Intent for 61 Ormonde Rd. to 3/6/2025 for revised materials (unanimous)
• Continued Enforcement Order #24-005 for 48 Kensington Ave. to 4/3/2025 (unanimous)
• Continued Notice of Violation #24-008 for 25 Thayer St. to 4/3/2025 (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes of 1/16/2025 meeting (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will meet to discuss a contract for the cleaning of the Tenney Grammar School. The meeting includes a proposal to transfer funds from Free Cash to cover the expense.

• Contract C-25-63 with Complete Cleaning Co., Inc. for $53,000.00 for cleaning of the Tenney Grammar School
• TR-25-13: Resolution to transfer $53,000 from Free Cash to Accounting Expenses

The Methuen City Council approved a $53,000 contract with Complete Cleaning Co., Inc. for a deep cleaning of Tenney Grammar School, along with a transfer of $53,000 from Free Cash to fund it. The contract and transfer were both approved by a 7-0 vote (two councilors absent). The cleaning is scheduled to begin the next morning, with the goal of completing 90% of the school by Sunday evening.

• Approved $53,000 cleaning contract with Complete Cleaning Co., Inc. for Tenney Grammar School (7-0, 2 absent)
• Approved transfer of $53,000 from Free Cash to Accounting Expenses for the cleaning (7-0, 2 absent)
• Adopted an EPA (Emergency Purchase Authorization) for the cleaning (7-0, 2 absent)

Community Advisory Board (Cable)

The Methuen Cable Advisory Board is holding a public hearing on Verizon's application for renewal of its cable license. The meeting will include roll call, public participation, and adjournment.

• Public hearing on Verizon application for renewal license

Board of Health

The Methuen Board of Health will consider and vote on a variance for keeping livestock at 40 Darius St., discuss a shared services update, and hold a Q&A with the Water Department. Minutes from December 10, 2024, are also up for approval.

• Discussion and decision on keeping of livestock variance at 40 Darius St.
• Discussion on shared services update
• Water Department Q&A
• Acceptance of minutes from December 10, 2024

The Methuen Board of Health unanimously approved a variance for keeping livestock at 40 Darius St., following a final review. The board also accepted the minutes from the December 10, 2024 meeting. No other substantive decisions were made; a water department Q&A was rescheduled.

• Approved livestock variance at 40 Darius St. (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from Dec 10, 2024 meeting (unanimous)

City Council

The Methuen City Council will hold its regular February 18 meeting to accept minutes, hear department reports, and act on several grants and contracts. Key decisions include accepting a $1.75 million inter-municipal public-health grant and using $175,000 from the Public Safety Stabilization Fund for additional fire-department staffing.

• Contract C-25-61: BMI Mechanical, Inc. repair of High Service Vertical Turbine for $29,887
• Contract C-25-62: Methuen–Lawrence Public Health Partnership inter-municipal agreement for $1,754,541.18
• Resolution TR-25-7: Accept Fiscal Year 2025 Shannon Community Safety Initiative Grant
• Resolution TR-25-8: Use $175,000 from Public Safety Stabilization Fund for Fire Department personnel services
• Resolution TR-25-10: Request Mayor to develop an opt-in recycling program for condominiums, businesses, and HOAs

The Methuen City Council approved the FY2025 Capital Improvement Plan borrowing of $6.7 million, a resolution to develop an opt-in recycling program for condominium and homeowner associations, and several grants and contracts. The council also approved a $175,000 transfer from the Public Safety Stabilization Fund for fire department overtime. All votes were 6-0 with three members absent.

• Approved $6.7M FY2025 Capital Improvement Plan borrowing (6-0)
• Approved resolution to develop opt-in recycling program for condo/hoa associations, amended to remove 'business owners' (6-0)
• Approved $175,000 from Public Safety Stabilization Fund for fire department personnel (6-0)
• Approved $1,754,541.18 inter-municipal health partnership agreement with Lawrence (5-0-1)
• Approved $29,887 contract to BMI Mechanical for water pump rebuild (6-0)
• Approved $56,875.50 Shannon Community Safety Initiative grant (6-0)
• Approved $96,360 Critical Incident Stress Management grant (6-0)
• Approved reclassifying $340,000 between enterprise capital projects (6-0)

Charter Review Committee

The Charter Review Committee will hold a meeting to discuss the process of reviewing the city charter and to review Articles 3-4. They will also approve minutes from previous meetings and accept the agenda. This is a procedural meeting with no specific financial or zoning items.

• Open discussion on process of reviewing the Charter
• Review of Charter Articles 3-4
• Approval of minutes from Jan 9 and Jan 23, 2025
• Public participation period

The Methuen Charter Review Committee reviewed Article 4 of the Home Rule Charter, approving several amendments based on a 2019 draft. Changes include updated eligibility language, term limit wording, organization procedures, prohibitions, compensation, charter objection, general powers, vacancy filling, and budget hearing sections. The committee also agreed to forward the prohibitions section to the UMASS Collins Center for review on extending the prohibition from 1 to 2 years. No changes were made to the Mayor's role as School Committee Chair.

• Approved minutes of Jan 9 and Jan 23 meetings, with amendment to change 'his' to 'their' in Section 3-1(a)
• Approved amendment to Section 4-1(b) Eligibility adding 2019 CRC draft language
• Approved amendment to Section 4-1(c) Election and Term adding 2019 CRC draft language
• Approved amendment to Section 4-2(a) Organization using 2019 CRC draft language and deleting 'chair' reference
• Approved amendment to Section 4-2(b) Powers and Duties using 2019 CRC draft language
• Approved replacement of Section 4-3 Prohibitions with 2019 CRC draft language, forwarded to UMASS Collins Center for review
• Approved adoption of 2019 CRC draft language for Sections 4-5 Compensation, 4-6 Charter Objection, 4-7 General Powers and Duties, 4-8 Filling of Vacancies, and 4-9 Budget Hearing
• Agreed to make no changes to Section 4-1(a) regarding Mayor as School Committee Chair

Housing Authority

The Board will review and potentially approve budget revisions for FY 2025 and the budget for FY 2026 state and federal programs. The meeting includes the annual review of the Executive Director and the consideration of two construction contracts.

• FY 2025 Budget Revision – State Programs
• FY 2026 Budget State and Federal Programs
• Flooring contract award to Talty Floors, Inc
• Edgewood Avenue Selective Bathroom Renovation Project #181113 award to Serrano & Serrano Construction, Inc
• Donation to the Tenant Association from Methuen Development Corporation

Community Development Board

The Community Development Board will hold a continued public hearing for a Historic Preservation Special Permit at 47 Lowell Street. Other items include endorsing plans for 344A Hampshire Road, holding board elections, and discussing a bond reduction for Regency at Emerald Pines. Routine business includes approving minutes from prior meetings and a consent agenda.

• Continued public hearing: 47 Lowell Street – Historic Preservation Special Permit
• Endorse plans for 344A Hampshire Road
• Community Development Board elections
• Regency at Emerald Pines bond reduction
• Consent agenda and approval of minutes from December 2024 and January 2025

The Community Development Board voted unanimously to keep its current slate of officers until next year's election and to allow the chair or vice chair to sign plans on behalf of the board. It also tabled a historic preservation special permit for 47 Lowell Street to the next meeting and authorized the chairman to sign plans for 344A Hampshire Road after the appeal period passed. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Kept current slate of officers until next year's election (unanimous)
• Authorized chair or vice chair to sign plans on behalf of board (unanimous)
• Tabled historic preservation special permit for 47 Lowell Street (unanimous)
• Authorized chairman to sign plans for 344A Hampshire Road (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes of December 11, 2024 (unanimous)

Economic Development

The Economic Development Committee will consider removing from table and reviewing three ordinances to establish the Searles Estate Commission and a related Revolving Fund. The agenda also includes discussions on updating the outdated Methuen Business Directory, leveraging highway and casino traffic for business growth, and a proposal for a comprehensive economic masterplan. Updates from the Department of Economic and Community Development and the Merrimack Valley Chamber of Commerce are also scheduled.

• TO-24-12: Ordinance Authorizing Establishment of Searles Estate Commission
• TO-24-13: Ordinance Authorizing Searles Estate Revolving Fund
• TO-24-14: Ordinance on Commission composition, appointment, term
• Discussion on updates to outdated Methuen Business Directory
• Proposal for a citywide Economic Masterplan

Unaccepted Ways Task Force

The Methuen Unaccepted Ways Subcommittee will meet to discuss updates on the list of unaccepted roadways, legal aspects of accepting roads, and MassDOT updates. The committee will also elect a new chair and review items ready for council consideration.

• Election of new committee chair
• Councilor updates on the road list of unaccepted ways
• Legal discussion on accepting roadways led by Councilor Soto
• MassDOT updates from community member Mike Welch
• Review of items ready to go before the full City Council for acceptance

Cultural Council

The Methuen Cultural Council will discuss and vote on an extension request for a 2024 project grant of $475. They will also receive updates on FY25 grant responses and budget, reconsider previously awarded FY25 grants, and discuss how to allocate 20% ($7,860) for special projects and 5% ($1,965) for administrative costs in 2025.

• Vote on extension for project FY24-LCC-59473 'A Musical Journey Through the Years' ($475)
• Reconsideration of FY25 grants
• Discussion on spending $7,860 special projects allowance (20% of budget)
• Discussion on spending $1,965 administrative costs allowance (5% of budget)
• Approval of January 13, 2025 meeting minutes

The Methuen Cultural Council unanimously approved extending a 2024 grant and voted to supplement three FY25 grants with additional funds, totaling $7,913. They also discussed plans for a special projects event on March 22, 2025, and noted a $17,131 rollover into 2026, with MassCC requesting they spend at least $7,131 more.

• Approved minutes from January 13, 2025 meeting (6-0)
• Extended FY24 grant 'A Musical Journey Through the Years' ($475) (6-0)
• Supplemented Methuen YWCA Theater Group grant by $544 (6-0)
• Supplemented Music Hall Days grant by $394 (6-0)
• Supplemented Welcome to CGS grant by $6,975 (6-0)
• Approved invitation for March 22 special projects event (6-0)

Commission on Disability

The Commission on Disability will meet to receive reports from the ADA Coordinator and the Department of Public Works regarding accessibility issues in the city. The body will also discuss the appointment of new commission members.

• ADA Coordinator's report and See Click Fix reports
• DPW update on city accessibility issues
• Discussion of new commission members

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to conduct regular business and enter an executive session. During the executive session, the board will review abatement and exemption applications as permitted by Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 59, Section 60.

• Review of abatement and exemption applications in executive session

City Council

The Methuen City Council will hold a remote special meeting on February 6, 2025, called by the mayor, to enter executive session. In closed session, they will discuss deployment of security personnel or devices, investigate criminal misconduct allegations, and vote on a contract with Alliance Detective and Security Service Inc. for $51,822.00 in security services. The meeting will not reconvene in open session.

• Vote on contract (C-25-60) with Alliance Detective and Security Service Inc. for $51,822.00 in security services
• Executive session to discuss deployment of security personnel or devices (Exemption 4)
• Executive session to investigate/discuss charges of criminal misconduct (Exemption 5)
• Meeting called by Mayor Beauregard under Home Rule Charter Section 3-5(b)
• Meeting held virtually via Zoom; no open session reconvening

Conservation Commission

The Methuen Conservation Commission will hold public hearings and discuss infrastructure projects. The body is reviewing a water main project on Route 213 and a continued culvert project on Pleasant Valley Street.

• Notice of Intent for Pleasant Valley Street Over Bare Meadow Brook culvert (MCC File #24-016)
• Request for Determination of Applicability 25-001 for Route 213 Water Main Improvements

City Council

The Methuen City Council will consider resolutions authorizing $175,000 from the Public Safety Stabilization Fund for the Fire Department and amending a borrowing order to reclassify $340,000 between enterprise capital projects. The Council also has a resolution urging the Massachusetts Legislature to honor the vote on Question 1, and will discuss updates on the school audit, traffic on Pelham Street, Murphy's Farm, and the fiscal transparency page. Appointments to the Community Advisory Board and Commission on Disability are on the agenda.

• Resolution TR-25-8: Use $175,000 from Public Safety Stabilization Fund for Fire Department personnel
• Order TR-25-9: Amend borrowing Order No.5754 to reclass $340,000 between enterprise capital projects (FY2023 CIP)
• Resolution TR-25-7: Accept FY2025 Shannon Community Safety Initiative Grant (Police Dept.)
• Resolution TR-25-5: Urge Mass. Legislature to honor constituents' vote on Question 1
• Ordinance TO-25-1: Add Building Maintenance Worker position to AFSCME A wage plan

The Methuen City Council approved several items, including a $175,000 transfer from the Public Safety Stabilization Fund for Fire Department personnel costs, a resolution urging the state legislature to honor Question 1, and a reclassification of $340,000 in capital improvement funds. The Council also approved appointments to the Community Advisory Board and Commission on Disability, despite public concerns about the commission's compliance with disability representation laws. A resolution to commence a Solicitor search was approved 7-2.

• Approved $175,000 from Public Safety Stabilization Fund for Fire Dept personnel (unanimous)
• Approved reclassifying $340,000 between enterprise capital projects (unanimous)
• Approved resolution urging MA Legislature to honor Question 1 (unanimous)
• Approved Solicitor search commencement (7-2)
• Approved Shannon Grant acceptance (unanimous)
• Approved appointments to Community Advisory Board (unanimous)
• Approved reappointment of Ashley Smallwood to Commission on Disability (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Sean McCormack to Commission on Disability (unanimous)

City Council

The Methuen City Council will vote to appoint Assistant City Solicitor Paul T. O'Neill as acting City Solicitor on a temporary basis, and consider a resolution to begin a search for a permanent City Solicitor. The meeting includes a public participation period.

• Appointment of Assistant City Solicitor Paul T. O'Neill as acting City Solicitor on a temporary basis
• Resolution TR-25-6 authorizing the commencement of a search for a permanent City Solicitor

Charter Review Committee

The Methuen Charter Review Committee will meet to continue its review of the city charter. The agenda includes an open discussion on the review process, a detailed review of Articles 3 through 5, and approval of minutes from the previous meeting. No votes on policy or budgets are scheduled.

• Open discussion on process of reviewing the Charter
• Review of Articles 3-5 of the city charter
• Approval of minutes from January 9, 2024 meeting

The Charter Review Committee unanimously approved multiple amendments to Article 3 (Executive Branch), including replacing gender-specific terms with gender-neutral language throughout the charter and adding a definition for 'qualified voter.' They also voted to change the mayor's salary review period to every 5 years (6-1) and to table the minutes from the previous meeting. The committee deferred decisions on several sections, including the mayor's term length and vacancy procedures, for future discussion.

• Approved motion to replace 'he' with 'The Mayor' throughout the charter (unanimous)
• Approved motion to delete gender terms and use gender-neutral terms (unanimous)
• Approved motion to add definition of 'qualified voter' to definitions page (unanimous)
• Approved motion to amend mayor's salary review to every 5 years (6-1)
• Approved motion to review mayor, council, and employee salaries every 5 years (unanimous)
• Approved motion to table minutes of Dec 12, 2024 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved motion to replace Section 3-4 with language from Home Rule Petition TR-21-45 (unanimous)
• Approved motion to amend Section 3-6 veto language to 'within 10 business days' (unanimous)

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Appeals will consider variance requests for an industrial addition and a single-family home. The board will also elect its leadership and enter an executive session to discuss pending litigation.

• Sarno Realty, Inc. variance request for an 8,886 sq. ft. addition at 99 Cross Street
• Robert Ahern variance request for a single-family dwelling at Sevoian Drive
• Election of Chairman, Vice-Chairman, and Clerk
• Executive session regarding Alan Kamal v. Methuen Zoning Board of Appeals litigation

The Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously approved two variances for Sarno Realty Inc. to construct a 36' x 169' two-story addition at 99 Cross Street, including relief from side setback and lot coverage requirements. The board also granted a continuance for a separate variance application by Robert Ahern for a single-family dwelling on Sevoian Drive, allowing time to address abutter concerns. The board voted to enter executive session to discuss pending litigation.

• Approved dimensional setback variance for Sarno Realty addition at 99 Cross St. (5-0)
• Approved lot coverage variance for Sarno Realty addition at 99 Cross St. (5-0)
• Granted continuance for Robert Ahern variance application for Sevoian Drive dwelling (4-1)
• Voted unanimously to enter executive session for pending litigation (Alan Kamal v. Methuen ZBA)

Registrars of Voters

The Board of Registrars of Voters unanimously approved the 2025 Election Calendar, election dates, early voting dates, and polling locations. They also unanimously appointed five assistant registrars. The meeting was brief and procedural, with no substantive policy decisions.

• Approved 2025 Election Calendar (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 Election dates (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 Early Vote Dates in City Clerk customer service area (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 Polling Locations (unanimous)
• Appointed Tammy DiGrazia, Marie Messina, Micheal Rubino, Beth Rizzo, and Jashley Valera as assistant registrars (unanimous)

Board of Health

The Methuen Board of Health will discuss and decide on a variance request for keeping livestock at 40 Darius Street. They will also discuss a shared services update and hold a Q&A session with the Water Department. The meeting will open with approval of the December 10, 2024 minutes.

• Discussion and decision on Keeping of Livestock-Variance at 40 Darius St.
• Acceptance of minutes from December 10, 2024
• Discussion: Shared Services Update
• Department: Water Department Q&A

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging Board will meet to review the Director's report and current financials. The agenda also includes a review of board policies.

• Director's Report
• Financials review
• Policy Review

City Council

The Council will consider appointing KP Law as temporary City Solicitor and vote on several contracts and resolutions, including a $267,205 engineering contract and a $140,000 school audit transfer. Councilors also request updates on Old Ferry Road warehouse, trash ordinance, and school bus service.

• Appointment of KP Law as temporary City Solicitor until a permanent solicitor is selected
• Professional Engineering Services contract with McClure Engineering for $267,205.00
• Agreement with CBIZ Advisors for $140,000
• Resolution to transfer $140,000 from Free Cash for School Department operational audit
• Resolution to adopt the 2024-2029 Housing Production Plan

The Methuen City Council tabled a motion to appoint KP Law as temporary City Solicitor due to budget and contract concerns, voting 6-3 to postpone. The council approved a $140,000 contract with CBIZ Advisors for a school operational audit, funded by Free Cash pending certification, and a $267,205 engineering contract with McClure Engineering for Old Ferry Road. Several licenses and resolutions were also approved.

• Tabled appointment of KP Law as temporary City Solicitor (6-3)
• Approved $140,000 school audit contract with CBIZ Advisors (unanimous)
• Approved $267,205 engineering contract with McClure Engineering (unanimous)
• Approved $140,000 transfer from Free Cash for school audit, pending certification (unanimous)
• Approved $220,000 grant for Nevins Memorial Library (unanimous)
• Approved $36,000 recycling grant from MassDEP (unanimous)
• Approved renewal of Vehicle for Hire licenses for Elkhoury's Transport and M&M&I Transportation (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 Preliminary Municipal Election Date (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Methuen Conservation Commission will hold public hearings and discuss enforcement actions. A continued Notice of Intent for work at 42 Atkinson Street is on the agenda, along with a continued enforcement order at 15 Gleason Street. The commission will also consider an emergency certification for Bare Meadow Brook and a request for an insignificant change to a drainage project at 0 East Capitol Street.

• Notice of Intent (DEP #219-1312) for 42 Atkinson Street – continued from 1/2/25
• Enforcement Order #24-007 at 15 Gleason Street – continued from 1/2/2025
• Request for Insignificant Change (DEP #219-1304) for 0 East Capitol Street – Lowell Street Drainage Improvements Project
• Emergency Certification #25-001 for Bare Meadow Brook near 42-50 Oak Meadow Lane

The Methuen Conservation Commission met on January 16, 2025, and took several actions. It continued a Notice of Intent hearing for 42 Atkinson Street to February 20, 2025, and continued an enforcement order for 15 Gleason Street to May 15, 2025. The Commission approved a request for an insignificant change to the Lowell Street Drainage Improvements Project, issued funds for the Conservation Officer's notary renewal, and issued an Emergency Certification for debris removal in Bare Meadow Brook. All votes were unanimous.

• Continued Notice of Intent for 42 Atkinson Street to 2/20/2025 (unanimous)
• Continued Enforcement Order #24-007 for 15 Gleason Street to 5/15/2025 (unanimous)
• Approved insignificant change for Lowell Street Drainage Improvements Project (unanimous)
• Issued funds for Conservation Officer notary renewal (unanimous)
• Issued Emergency Certification #25-001 for Bare Meadow Brook debris removal (unanimous)

Historic District Commission

This is a joint annual meeting of the Methuen Historical Commission and Historic District Commission. The agenda consists only of updates on each commission's activities and other business, with no specific decisions, public hearings, or concrete items listed. The meeting is held remotely via Zoom.

• Update on Historical Commission activities
• Update on Historic District Commission activities

Historical Commission

This is a procedural joint meeting of the Methuen Historical Commission and Historic District Commission. The agenda consists only of updates on each commission's activities and other business, with no specific decisions or public hearings listed.

• Update of Historical Commission Activities
• Update of Historic District Commission Activities
• Meeting conducted via Zoom; no in-person attendance

Cultural Council

The Methuen Cultural Council will discuss and vote on extending two 2024 projects for the Methuen Historical Society. The body will also review FY25 grant responses and discuss the allocation of special project and administrative funds for 2025.

• Vote on extension for FY24-LCC-70675 “Making Methuen History Available” ($1200)
• Vote on extension for FY24-LCC-71918 “Creation of the Exhibit Room at the Museum” ($1926)
• Discussion on spending 20% special projects allowance ($7860)
• Discussion on spending 5% administrative costs allowance ($1965)

The Methuen Cultural Council voted to fully fund five previously approved grants and reconsidered five originally denied grants, approving full funding for them. The council also granted an extension for two 2024 Methuen Historical Society projects with an April 30, 2025 deadline. Discussions were held on using special project and administrative funds for a welcome reception and a cultural festival.

• Approved minutes from Dec 2 and Dec 23 meetings (6-0)
• Granted extension for FY24-LCC-70675 and FY24-LCC-71918 with April 30, 2025 deadline (6-0)
• Voted to fully fund grants 9, 13, 18, 23, 33 (6-0)
• Voted to fully fund grants 26, 27, 30, 31, 37 (5-0, 1 abstention)

City Council

The City Council will hold a special meeting to reappoint the City Solicitor as required by the City Charter. The decision must be made by January 15 of each odd-numbered year. Public participation is also on the agenda.

• Reappointment of the City Solicitor per Section 2-8 of the Methuen City Charter

The Methuen City Council voted 6-3 against re-appointing Ken Rossetti as City Solicitor, with Councilors Saffie, DiZoglio, and Faretra voting in favor. A subsequent motion to appoint KP Law as City Solicitor was not voted on, and the meeting adjourned after a failed motion to adjourn (5-4) and a unanimous vote to adjourn. Rossetti noted he continues to serve under a holdover provision until a successor is appointed.

• Re-appointment of City Solicitor Ken Rossetti denied (6 no, 3 yes)
• Motion to appoint KP Law as City Solicitor not voted on
• Motion to adjourn failed (5 no, 4 yes)
• Motion to adjourn approved (unanimous)

City Council Housing Committee

The Methuen City Council Housing Committee will discuss the new Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) law and the housing shortage in Methuen. The committee will also review the city's plans for ADU requirements. Public participation is allowed during the meeting.

• Discussion on new ADU law
• Review of housing shortage in Methuen
• City's plans for ADU requirements
• Public participation period

Charter Review Committee

The Charter Review Committee will hold its regular meeting including approval of prior minutes and public participation. The main agenda item is an open discussion on the charter review process, followed by a review of Articles 1-3 of the city charter. This is a working session to examine and potentially propose changes to the city's foundational document.

• Approve minutes of December 12, 2024 meeting
• Open discussion on process of reviewing the Charter
• Review Articles 1-3 of the City Charter

The Charter Review Committee reviewed and voted on amendments to Articles 1 and 2 of the Home Rule Charter, including changes to council composition, eligibility language, prohibitions, vacancies, quorum, and council staff. Several amendments passed unanimously or by roll call, while others were tabled for further guidance from the Collins Center. The committee also discussed the overall charter review process and plans to present changes to the City Council.

• Amended Section 1-4 to delete a sentence restricting council involvement in administrative business (unanimous)
• Amended Section 2-1(a) to update precinct composition for three districts (unanimous)
• Amended Section 2-1(b) to change 'him' to 'their' (unanimous)
• Amended Section 2-2 to change organization rules for chair election (4-3)
• Amended Section 2-4 to add 'legislative' before 'powers' (unanimous)
• Amended Section 2-5 to extend prohibition period from 1 to 2 years (5-2)
• Amended Section 2-6 to change vacancy declaration from Council Chair to City Clerk (unanimous)
• Amended Section 2-8 to delete City Accountant position and adjust Clerk/Solicitor terms (various votes)

Board of Assessors

This is a routine procedural meeting of the Board of Assessors. The board will vote on minutes from December 2024 and then enter an executive session to review property tax abatement and exemption applications as allowed by state law. No public votes on tax matters are scheduled in open session.

• Executive session to review abatement and exemption applications per MGL Chapter 59, Section 60

The Methuen Board of Assessors met on January 9, 2025, with two members present (Chair McLennan absent). They approved the October 2, 2024 minutes and discussed the upcoming end of the Catalis contract (June 30, 2025), starting the bidding process for fiscal 2026 software. They also noted the billing file for fiscal 2025 was rolled and anticipated more commercial abatements. No substantive decisions were made beyond approving minutes and entering executive session.

• Approved minutes from October 2, 2024 meeting (unanimous)
• Discussed starting bidding process for fiscal 2026 software (no vote)
• Entered executive session for statutory exemption and abatement applications (unanimous roll call)

Commission on Disability

The Methuen Commission on Disability will hold a regular meeting to approve minutes, receive the treasurer's and ADA coordinator's reports, and hear an update from the Department of Public Works on city accessibility issues. The commission will also vote on new officers and consider other business related to the welfare of residents with disabilities.

• Update from DPW on accessibility issues in the city
• Voting on Commission Officers
• ADA Coordinator's report and See Click Fix reports
• New commission members (old business)
• Public participation (max 5 minutes)

The Commission on Disability elected new officers, approved amended minutes from December, and discussed several updates including a DDS grant for sidewalk and ramp planning. No substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting was largely procedural and informational.

• Elected Ashley Smallwood as chair, Brad Gosselin as secretary, Kevin Hatch as treasurer, Eileen Lee as vice chair (all unanimous)
• Approved amended minutes from December 5, 2024 (motion passed)
• Granted excused absence to Deb Blood for February meeting
• Moved vote of officers to beginning of agenda (motion passed)

Housing Authority

The Methuen Housing Authority meets on January 8, 2025 to elect board officers, approve $610,150.10 in December payments, and consider several new business items including change orders, a project completion certificate, and annual plans. The board will also receive updates on executive director goals, housing programs, and financial statements. Public participation is permitted.

• Approval of payments for December 1–31, 2024 totaling $610,150.10
• Consideration of Change Order 0003 and Certificate of Substantial Completion for Project 181134
• Award of smoke and carbon monoxide alarm installation at Jade Street Complex to L.W. Bills Company
• Consideration of FY 2026 State Annual Plan and FY 2025 Federal Annual Plan
• Election of Board of Commissioner Officers for the year

Community Development Board

The Community Development Board will hold continued public hearings for a frontage exception lot special permit at 344A Hampshire Road and a historic preservation special permit at 47 Lowell Street. The board is also scheduled to vote on adopting the Housing Production Plan and discuss a bond reduction for Regency at Emerald Pines.

• Continued public hearing for 344A Hampshire Road – Frontage Exception Lot Special Permit
• Continued public hearing for 47 Lowell Street – Historic Preservation Special Permit
• Vote to adopt the Housing Production Plan
• Regency at Emerald Pines bond reduction discussion

The Community Development Board approved a Frontage Exception Lot Special Permit for 344A Hampshire Road, allowing subdivision into two lots despite reduced frontage. The board also adopted the 2024-2029 Housing Production Plan and released a $40,600 bond for Liam's Lane. Several items were tabled, including the December 11, 2024 minutes and a historic preservation permit for 47 Lowell Street.

• Approved Frontage Exception Lot Special Permit at 344A Hampshire Road (unanimous)
• Adopted Housing Production Plan 2024-2029 (unanimous)
• Released final bond of $40,600 for Liam's Lane (unanimous)
• Tabled minutes of December 11, 2024 (unanimous)
• Tabled Historic Preservation Special Permit for 47 Lowell Street to February 12 meeting (unanimous)
• Tabled bond reduction for Regency at Emerald Pines to February meeting (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of October 9, 2024 (unanimous)

City Council

The Methuen City Council will elect its chairman, vice-chairman, and acting mayor, and reappoint the council clerk and city solicitor. The council will also consider adopting the 2024-2029 Housing Production Plan, appoint a temporary police sergeant to permanent, and vote on several resolutions including a $140,000 school audit transfer, a $126,000 fitness equipment contract, and multiple grants.

• Election of council chairman, vice-chairman, and acting mayor
• Adoption of the 2024–2029 Housing Production Plan
• Appointment of Matthew Morel from temporary to permanent police sergeant
• Contract with National Fitness Campaign for $126,000 in outdoor fitness equipment
• Resolution to transfer $140,000 from free cash for a school operational audit

The Methuen City Council elected Councilor Marsan as Chair and Councilor Soto as Vice-Chair, and adopted amended Council Rules including changes to executive session, public participation, and gender-neutral language. The reappointment of City Solicitor Kenneth Rossetti was tabled pending an outside legal opinion on his term length. The Council also approved several appointments, contracts, and resolutions, including a $126,000 outdoor fitness equipment contract and a resolution requiring proof of licensure for appointments.

• Elected Councilor Marsan as Council Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Councilor Soto as Vice-Chair (8-1)
• Adopted amended Council Rules (unanimous)
• Tabled reappointment of City Solicitor Kenneth Rossetti (5-4)
• Reappointed Council Clerk Linda Gagnon (unanimous)
• Appointed Matthew Morel as permanent Police Sergeant (8-0)
• Approved $126,000 outdoor fitness equipment contract (8-0)
• Approved resolution requiring proof of licensure for appointments (8-0)

Conservation Commission

The Methuen Conservation Commission will hold continued public hearings on three Notices of Intent for work affecting wetlands and waterways: a culvert project on Pleasant Valley Street over Bare Meadow Brook (DEP #219-1310), a project at 14 First Avenue (DEP #219-1311), and work at 42 Atkinson Street (DEP #219-1312). The agenda also includes new Requests for Determination of Applicability for three properties and several enforcement orders and notices of violation from previous meetings.

• Notice of Intent #24-016 (DEP #219-1310): Pleasant Valley Street over Bare Meadow Brook culvert project (City of Methuen, continued from 12/5/24)
• Notice of Intent #24-015 (DEP #219-1311): 14 First Ave project (Stowers Associates Inc., continued from 12/5/24)
• Notice of Intent #24-017 (DEP #219-1312): 42 Atkinson Street project (Robert Miller, continued from 12/5/24)
• New Requests for Determination of Applicability: 21 Old Ferry Rd, 55 Bumpy Lane, 4 Country Lake Rd
• Enforcement Order #24-007 (15 Gleason St) and Notices of Violation #24-009 (48 Kensington Ave) and #24-008 (25 Thayer St) continued from 12/5/24

The Methuen Conservation Commission held a hybrid meeting on January 2, 2025, and took several actions. It continued two public hearings (Pleasant Valley Street culvert and 42 Atkinson Street) to future dates, closed the hearing for 14 First Ave., and issued Orders of Conditions with a $1,800 bond for that project. The Commission also issued Negative Determinations of Applicability for three properties (21 Old Ferry Rd., 55 Bumpy Lane, 4 Country Lake Rd.) and a Certificate of Compliance with bond release for Cooper Lane. All votes were unanimous.

• Continued Pleasant Valley Street culvert hearing to 2/6/2025 (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing for 14 First Ave. addition/deck (unanimous)
• Continued 42 Atkinson Street hearing to 1/16/2025 (unanimous)
• Issued Order of Conditions for 14 First Ave. with $1,800 bond (unanimous)
• Issued Negative 2 Determination for 21 Old Ferry Rd. fuel tank removal (unanimous)
• Issued Negative 3 Determination for 55 Bumpy Lane addition (unanimous)
• Issued Negative 3 Determination for 4 Country Lake Rd. shed (unanimous)
• Issued Certificate of Compliance and bond release for Cooper Lane roadway (unanimous)