Gloucester City Council Meeting | June 9, 2026

The Gloucester City Council meeting held on June 9, 2026, focused extensively on the proposed fiscal year 2027 budget, with significant public testimony emphasizing the impact of budget cuts on the school system. The council discussed and unanimously approved several procurement-related items, including acceptance of $200 in donations for veterans services, authorization to enter into a five-year contract with two two-year extensions for solid waste and recycling services, and approval of ambulance service billing and collection policies including the write-off of approximately $725,000 in uncollectible ambulance bills. Additionally, the council approved a supplemental appropriation of $174,143 to the waterways stabilization fund. Public comments and council discussions highlighted concerns about the disproportionate budget cuts to education, the need for creative revenue generation such as a potential Proposition 2 1/2 override, and the challenges faced by seniors with increased trash fees. The meeting also included votes on special council permits related to housing developments. Overall, the meeting underscored the community's focus on balancing fiscal constraints with the need to adequately fund essential city services, particularly education and public safety.