PEABODY — The City Council unanimously approved $5 million in capital improvements for the city during a special meeting Thursday night.
The funds were requested by Mayor Edward A. Bettencourt Jr., who had received unanimous approval from the Finance Committee earlier in the evening.
The funds were authorized following a late change in plans from Bettencourt, who initially sought $4.8 million for capital improvements which included upgrades for the police, fire and school departments and improvements to city playgrounds.
In the Finance Committee meeting, Bettencourt explained that the increase in the budget request was due to the police department requiring more funds and more money being needed to upgrade playground equipment.
Following the council vote, Bettencourt thanked the councilors for their support.
“I really think it’s going to help each of the departments — not only the work that they do but the morale also,” he said. “I think it’s a great step forward for us to take.”
The approved capital improvements include a new HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) unit at the police station and the purchase of seven new police cruisers. The city also plans to replace a fire ladder truck at an estimated cost of $1 million. The radio systems for both the police and fire departments will also be replaced.
The improvements call for $50,000 to be spent in order to purchase “defensive equipment, tools and training aids.” Police Chief Thomas Griffin said his department was grateful for the city’s support during a time when municipalities across the country are reducing funding for law enforcement.
Some Peabody schools will also see improvements, such as the Thomas Carroll School, which will receive some roof repairs. Peabody Veterans Memorial High School will see upgrades to its chiller system.
The city also plans to purchase two trucks for the public works department and a tool truck for the water department.
Bettencourt said during Thursday’s meeting that the city’s police department is understaffed. He stated his hope that the police department would see a return to a full allotment of officers, explaining that the necessary hires are included in the city budget. The fire department will also be growing, as six firefighters have been hired, which will increase its staffing to normal levels.
Bettencourt also announced that through community preservation money awarded to the city, the Driscoll Rink will have a multifunctional play area which can be used for “futsal” — a type of soccer game played on a hard court — and street hockey. It will still have the capability of being used as an ice-skating rink.
