Danvers Select Board- 11/5/26

The November 5, 2026 Danvers Select Board meeting included several spending- and infrastructure-related updates. The board voted 5–0 to accept gifts comprising two memorial benches, an $870 donation toward two trees, and a Friends of the Rail Trail-funded paver patio of approximately 470 square feet near Maple Street. A resident also requested a $9,000 flashing beacon at Maple Street and Burley Avenue; no board action was taken on that request. In a police department update, the chief reported a $38,040 FY2027 roadway safety grant award for traffic and pedestrian enforcement, helmets, and a bike rodeo, along with a $97,000 Department of Mental Health grant for a clinician-supported diversion program. He reported that new firearms and related equipment were paid for with about $54,000 in federal drug-seizure funds, at no cost to the town. The staffing study recommended adding 11 officers over five fiscal years; the chief’s proposed staffing plan was estimated at about $1.2 million in FY2027 salaries alone, excluding benefits and other costs. Body-worn cameras were discussed as a potential future expense estimated at $400,000–$600,000 over five years, but no staffing or equipment purchase was approved.

The board continued its public hearing on FY2027 property-tax classification to November 17 by a 4–1 vote, postponing its decision on the residential factor and related options; no tax allocation decision was made. The town manager reported that water-service work on Wenham Street was complete and temporary milling and paving were scheduled, with final paving dependent on conditions. No contract awards, bid approvals, or new procurement solicitations were identified in the meeting.