Beverly City Council Budget Meeting 06/11/2026

The Beverly City Council held a Budget Meeting on June 11, 2026, during which multiple city departments presented and discussed their proposed budgets for fiscal year 2027. Key procurement-related discussions included budget allocations and staffing changes across departments such as the Library, Solicitor's Office, Police Department, Parks and Recreation, and Public Services including Engineering and Enterprise Funds (Airport, Golf and Tennis, Water and Sewer). The Library reported a budget reduction of over $100,000, resulting in reduced service hours and a decrease of 1.8 full-time equivalent positions. The Solicitor's Office noted a reduction from three to two and a half full-time attorneys and a decrease in outside counsel expenses. The Police Department's budget was approximately $11.2 million, with a recommended reduction of two officers despite being understaffed relative to FBI recommendations; concerns were raised about overtime costs and vehicle maintenance. Parks and Recreation highlighted grant-funded capital projects totaling millions, including playground renovations and AED purchases, while noting a small increase in utilities due to restroom trailers. Public Services and Engineering discussed a 2.1% budget decline excluding a consolidation of electrical bill payments and a significant increase in trash fees, with 99 total positions and efforts to fill vacancies. Enterprise funds were reviewed, with water and sewer rates increasing by 5.54%, and sanitation costs rising due to new contracts. The Airport enterprise fund noted increased contracted services for stormwater testing and vegetation management, with ongoing efforts to secure funding for an aeronautical museum. The meeting concluded with scheduling of a follow-up session to cover additional community services and veteran services budgets. Motions to adjourn were passed unanimously.