Beverly City Council Budget Meeting (Public Hearing) 06/22/2026

The Beverly City Council held a special budget meeting and public hearing on June 22, 2026, to discuss the proposed fiscal year 2027 budget. The meeting focused primarily on the referral of the budget back to the full council for public hearing and subsequent final vote. Public comments addressed concerns about school funding disparities, the proposed $30 million building renovation, trash fees, and the need for better budget transparency and community involvement. Several speakers urged the council to support the School Committee's budget recommendations and expressed frustration with the mayor's unilateral control over school appropriations. The council also discussed the budget process and encouraged public engagement in future budget planning. The meeting concluded with a vote to enter executive session to discuss collective bargaining negotiations and litigation strategy related to the Beverly Police and Firefighters unions.