PEABODY — The City Council received an official report from Mayor Edward A. Bettencourt Jr. regarding entrance at City Hall.
Currently, the only access to City Hall is through the Chestnut Street entrance.
Councilor Anne Manning-Martin read a statement from the mayor regarding current entrances to City Hall, which stated “As mayor I’m committed to ensuring that City Hall remains a welcome and accessible place for all residents and visitors. I am proud that we were among the first cities in Massachusetts to completely reopen to the public during the COVID pandemic. I continue to be concerned, however, by increased reports of violence and threatening behavior in schools and other local state and federal facilities. This summer we have already had two incidents at City Hall which required a response from the Peabody Police. Fortunately, both situations were headed off by security personnel at the Chestnut Street entrance. Particularly during these tumultuous times, we must strive to achieve a prudent balance between convenience and public safety. I know that the council shares my commitment to keep those who visit and work at City Hall and all our municipal facilities safe. While I anticipate that our current City Hall access protocols will continue for the foreseeable future, I welcome your feedback for suggestions and improvements.”
Additionally at Thursday’s City Council meeting, a special permit was approved for a property at 29 Newbury St. LA Holdings, LLC, will be an automobile service station without the sale of gasoline. Repairs, body work, painting, and automotive sales will take place.
Seaside Movers, LLC, of 63 Fulton St. also had a special permit request. The property is changing from a carpet cleaning service to storage for a moving company.
Councilor Stephanie Peach confirmed the rules that Seaside Movers must operate under.
“The hours are 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday with no Sunday operating hours, and on the chance that there is storage overnight, if any furniture, that a rodent control plan is put in place,” said Peach.
Dorothy Irrera can be reached at [email protected].
