September 2026

• City Council Budget & Finance Committee

  Thursday, September 17, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  Committee recommendations to the City Council

  • Recommended, 3 in favor to 0 opposed, that the City Council approve payment of $51,317.23 in prior year school invoices and obligations from the School CFO's memo dated August 31, 2026, to be paid with FY2027 General Fund, School Department budgeted funds.
  • Recommended, 3 in favor to 0 opposed, that the City Council approve payment of $440.94 in prior year invoices to West Marine Pro (invoice #4841388 for $367.45 and invoice #4839637 for $73.49), to be paid with FY2027 General Fund, Police Department – Ordinary Maintenance budgeted funds.
  • Recommended, 3 in favor to 0 opposed, that the City Council accept a FY2027 State 911 Department Emergency Medical Dispatch Grant of $42,528.96, running September 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027, with no local match.

• City Council Planning & Development Committee

  Wednesday, September 16, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  Committee recommendations to the City Council

  • Recommended, 3 in favor and 0 opposed, that the City Council permit National Grid to install one JO pole 3006 with sidewalk anchor at 17 Conant Ave, Gloucester, MA, subject to six DPW conditions (PP#2026-004).
  • Recommended, 3 in favor and 0 opposed, that the City Council accept the withdrawal of the Special Council Permit application of 187 Atlantic Ave Holdings, without prejudice (SCP#2026-008).
  • Recommended, 3 in favor and 0 opposed, that the City Council approve the Preservation Restriction Agreement between Historic New England and Richard B. Samuelson and Natalie Tresha Samuelson for the Haskell House at 11 Lincoln Street.
  • Recommended, 3 in favor and 0 opposed, that the City Council approve the Preservation Restriction Agreement between Historic New England and a future private purchaser for the Temple-Hayden Cottage and Barn at 62, 62R, 64, and 66 Eastern Point Boulevard.
  3 procedural steps: minutes, continuances, referrals

  • Continued CC#2026-012 (Memhard) zoning amendment to October 7, 2026.
  • Continued the Building Commissioner's memo on a Zoning Ordinance Section VI definitions amendment to December 2, 2026.
  • Continued SCP2026-007 (Seaside Legal Solutions, P.C.) to October 7, 2026.

• City Council Ordinances & Administration Committee

  Monday, September 14, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  Committee recommendations to the City Council

  • Appoint Philip Schwarz to the Open Space & Recreation Advisory Committee, term ends 2/15/2027. (3–0)
  • Amend Chapter 22 'Traffic and Motor Vehicles,' Sections 22-270 and 22-291, regarding Rogers Street parking, voted 3 in favor, 0 opposed; a public hearing on this matter will be held September 22, 2026.
  1 procedural step: minutes, continuances, referrals

  • Continued CC#2026-017, the shopping cart ordinance amendment, to the October 19, 2026 Ordinance & Administration meeting.

• School Committee

  Wednesday, September 9, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  • Approved the Preschool Handbook, with minor changes made by the committee, unanimously.
  • Approved the O'Maley Middle School Science Center FY 27 FC2518 MA FairShare Earmark Grant of $60,000, unanimously.
  • Approved the FY 27 FC0240-IDEA-Part B Grant of $998,031, FC0262-IDEA-Part C Grant of $28,774, FC0305-Title I Part A Grant of $639,855, FC0140-Title II Part A Grant of $89,250, FC0180-Title III Part A Grant of $45,674, and FC0309-Title IV Part A Grant of $49,235, unanimously.
  1 procedural step: minutes, continuances, referrals

  • Approved the consent agenda, including the June 24, 2026 and August 26, 2026 minutes, warrants, transfers, a donation, and gifts, unanimously.

• City Council

  Tuesday, September 8, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  • Council voted 9-0 to appoint Rosalie Nicastro to the Council on Aging, term ends 2/15/2029.
  • Council voted 9-0 to appoint Peter Thompsen to the Historic District Commission, term ends 2/15/2028.
  • Council voted 9-0 to refer CC#2026-020 (Rogers Street parking/tow-away zone ordinance amendment) to the Ordinances & Administration Committee.
  • Council voted 9-0 to accept $216 in donations for the Archives Department.
  • Council voted 9-0 to accept $550 in donations for Veterans Services.
  7 more decisions

  • Council voted 9-0 to accept $777.86 in donations for Elder Services.
  • Council voted 9-0 to accept the $164,320 State Formula Grant for the Council on Aging.
  • Council voted by roll call 9-0 to approve Supplemental Appropriation #2027-SA-2 for $3,100.
  • Council voted 9-0 to approve the five-year taser lease contract with Axon Enterprise for $60,211.32.
  • Council voted 9-0 to approve the new trash and recycling program fee schedule starting October 1, 2026.
  • Council voted 9-0 to amend the City Clerk Fee Schedule to add a $100 door-to-door sales permit.
  • Council voted by roll call 9-0 to adopt the decision granting Special Council Permit SCP2026-003 for the Gloucester Main LLC development at Main Street #150.

  Committee recommendations to the City Council

  • Committee recommended (2-0, 1 absent) appointing Rosalie Nicastro to the Council on Aging, term ends 2/15/2029.
  • Committee recommended (2-0, 1 absent) appointing Peter Thompsen to the Historic District Commission, term ends 2/15/2028.
  • Budget & Finance Committee recommended (3-0) accepting $216 in donations for the Archives Department.
  6 more recommendations

  • Budget & Finance Committee recommended (3-0) accepting $550 in donations for Veterans Services.
  • Budget & Finance Committee recommended (3-0) accepting $777.86 in donations for Elder Services.
  • Budget & Finance Committee recommended (3-0) accepting a $164,320 State Formula Grant for the Council on Aging.
  • Budget & Finance Committee recommended (3-0) approving Supplemental Appropriation #2027-SA-2 for $3,100 for early voting staff.
  • Budget & Finance Committee recommended (3-0) approving a five-year taser lease contract with Axon Enterprise for $60,211.32.
  • Budget & Finance Committee recommended (3-0) approving the new trash and recycling program fee schedule starting October 1, 2026.
  3 procedural steps: minutes, continuances, referrals

  • Continued public hearing PH2026-015 (Deacon Farm Lane public way layout) to October 13, 2026.
  • Continued public hearing PH2026-022/SCP2026-007 (Seaside Legal Solutions application) to October 13, 2026.
  • Continued public hearing PH2026-018/CC#2026-012 (RC-40 lot area zoning amendment) to October 13, 2026.

• City Council Budget & Finance Committee

  Thursday, September 3, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  Committee recommendations to the City Council

  • Recommended, 3 in favor 0 opposed, that the City Council accept $216 in cash donations to support the Archives Department.
  • Recommended, 3 in favor 0 opposed, that the City Council accept $550 in cash donations to support Veterans Services.
  • Recommended, 3 in favor 0 opposed, that the City Council accept $777.86 in cash donations to support Elder Services.
  • Recommended, 3 in favor 0 opposed, that the City Council accept a $164,320 Massachusetts State FY2027 Council on Aging Formula Grant for Elder Services.
  • Recommended, 3 in favor 0 opposed, that the City Council approve Supplemental Appropriation #2027-SA-2 for $3,100 to pay Early Voting staff.
  2 more recommendations

  • Recommended, 3 in favor 0 opposed, that the City Council approve a five-year lease with Axon Enterprise Incorporated for tasers totaling $60,211.32.
  • Recommended, 3 in favor 0 opposed, that the City Council approve the trash & recycling program fee schedule beginning October 1, 2026.

• Conservation Commission

  Wednesday, September 2, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  • Approved NOI 028-3154 18 Juniper Road with conditions, approved by Cook, Sargent, Iliades, and Vetere.
  • Issued a negative determination for RDA 1852 8 Thatcher Road with conditions, approved by Cook, Sargent, Iliades, and Vetere.
  • Approved the alternatives analysis for NOI 028-3155 49 Crafts Road, approved by Sargent, Iliades, and Vetere.
  • Approved RCOC 028-2639 59 Leonard Street, approved by Cook, Sargent, Iliades, and Vetere.
  13 procedural steps: minutes, continuances, referrals

  • Approved the August 19, 2026 meeting minutes as amended, 4-0 (Cook, Sargent, Iliades, Vetere).
  • Approved entering Executive Session to discuss litigation strategy, 4-0 (Cook, Sargent, Iliades, Vetere).
  • Continued NOI 028-3135 37 Rocky Neck Avenue Unit B-1 to November 18, 2026, approved by Cook, Sargent, Iliades, and Vetere.
  • Withdrew NOI 028-3036 3, 6, & 7 Welch Lane and R Woodman Street without prejudice, waived the local fee for refiling, and allowed use of the open third party review, approved by Cook, Iliades, and Vetere (Sargent recused).
  • Continued NOI 028-3135 37 Rocky Neck Avenue Unit B-1 to October 7, 2026, approved by Cook, Sargent, Iliades, and Vetere.
  • Continued NOI 028-3135 37 Rocky Neck Avenue Unit B-1 to September 16, 2026, approved by Cook, Sargent, and Iliades (Vetere recused).
  • Continued NOI 028-3129 24 Kondelin Road to October 7, 2026, approved by Cook, Sargent, and Iliades (Vetere recused).
  • Continued NOI 028-3142 Tommy's Island to September 16, 2026, approved by Cook, Sargent, Iliades, and Vetere.
  • Continued NOI 028-XXXX 7 Sumac Lane to September 16, 2026, approved by Cook, Sargent, Iliades, and Vetere.
  • Continued NOI 028-3147 12 Woodward Avenue to September 16, 2026, approved by Cook, Sargent, Iliades, and Vetere.
  • Closed the public hearing for NOI 028-3154 18 Juniper Road, approved by Cook, Sargent, Iliades, and Vetere.
  • Closed the public hearing for RDA 1852 8 Thatcher Road, approved by Cook, Sargent, Iliades, and Vetere.
  • Continued NOI 028-3155 49 Crafts Road to September 16, 2026, approved by Cook, Sargent, Iliades, and Vetere.

• City Council Planning & Development Committee

  Wednesday, September 2, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  Committee recommendations to the City Council

  • Recommended, by a vote of 2 in favor, 0 opposed, 1 absent, that the City Council accept the draft Housing Compass Plan as submitted by the Community Development Director and presented on September 2, 2026.
  3 procedural steps: minutes, continuances, referrals

  • Continued SCP#2026-008 (187 Atlantic Ave Holdings, LLC earth fill and removal special permit) to the September 16, 2026 Planning & Development Committee meeting.
  • Continued CC#2026-012 (Memhard) to September 16, 2026.
  • Continued SCP2026-007 (Seaside Legal Solutions, P.C.) to September 16, 2026.

August 2026

• City Council Ordinances & Administration Committee

  Monday, August 31, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  Committee recommendations to the City Council

  • Voted 2 in favor, 0 opposed, 1 absent, to recommend that the City Council appoint Rosalie Nicastro to the Council on Aging, term ends 2/15/2029.
  • Voted 2 in favor, 0 opposed, 1 absent, to recommend that the City Council appoint Peter Thompsen to the Historic District Commission, term ends 2/15/2028.
  • Voted 2 in favor, 0 opposed, 1 absent, to recommend that the City Council amend Gloucester Code of Ordinances Chapter 9 'TRASH, RECYCLING AND LITTER' as proposed, with a public hearing set for September 22, 2026.
  1 procedural step: minutes, continuances, referrals

  • Continued CC#2026-017 (Benson), the proposed shopping cart regulations ordinance, to the October 13, 2026 Ordinance & Administration meeting.

• Zoning Board of Appeals

  Thursday, August 27, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  • Determined there is not an increase in the nonconformity for Peter Woodhouse's accessory structure at 6 Munsey Ln., 4-0 (Mr. Nimon recused).
  • Approved the application of Bobbi and Ben Orlando for an addition at 24R Lyndale Ave., 5-0.
  • Approved the application of Brian and Brittany Sohns for a front entry at 877 Washington St., 5-0.
  • Approved the application of George Grant to demolish and rebuild at 25 Marina Dr. as a two family home, 5-0.
  • Approved the application of David and Kellie D'Angelo for a front porch at 6 Collins Ave., 5-0.
  4 procedural steps: minutes, continuances, referrals

  • Continued the application of R. Bartholemew M Driscoll and Heather E M Driscoll for a deck at 8 Angle St. to the September 10, 2026 meeting, 5-0.
  • Continued the application of Jamie and Benjamin Cevelo for an addition at 21 Walnut St. to the 9/24/2026 meeting, 5-0.
  • Continued the application of 36 Whittemore St LLC for a pickleball court complex at 36 Whittemore St. to the October 8, 2026 meeting, 5-0.
  • Continued the application of Patricia Doherty to add a second story at 1000 Washington St. to the September 10, 2026 meeting.

• School Committee

  Wednesday, August 26, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  • Approved the GHS School Improvement Plan unanimously.
  • Approved the Superintendent's Goals as presented at the meeting of August 12, 2026, unanimously.
  • Approved the Student Handbooks with amendments made during discussion, unanimously.
  • Approved prior year expenses totaling $51,317.23, unanimously.
  • Approved the FY2027 EEC Commonwealth Preschool Partnership Initiative Grant of $423,733, unanimously.
  1 more decisions

  • Approved the FY2027 FC 589 Civics Teaching and Learning Grant of $40,000, unanimously.
  1 procedural step: minutes, continuances, referrals

  • Approved the consent agenda, including the School Committee Minutes of August 12, 2026, warrants, transfers, and a donation, unanimously.

• City Council

  Tuesday, August 25, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  • Voted 7-0-2 to accept the Mariners Medal Committee's recommendation for recipients of the Mariners Medal.
  • Voted by roll call 7-0-2 to adopt the decision for Special Council Permit SCP2026-006 at Dory Road #11, Map 262, Lots 16, 26 and 32 in the Business Park District, permitting a building height of 47.9 feet.
  • City Council voted 7-0-2 to approve payment of the prior year invoice (#10800) to Boston Board Up Services LLC in the amount of $3,592.90 using FY2027 Inspectional Services – Ordinary Maintenance funds.
  • City Council voted 7-0-2 to confirm the appointment of election officers as recommended in the Mayor's August 4, 2026 memo.

  Committee recommendations to the City Council

  • Budget & Finance Committee voted 3-0 to recommend approval of payment of a prior year invoice (#10800) to Boston Board Up Services LLC in the amount of $3,592.90.
  • Ordinances & Administration Committee voted 2-0-1 to recommend confirming the appointment of election officers as listed in the Mayor's August 4, 2026 memo.
  4 procedural steps: minutes, continuances, referrals

  • Continued PH2026-022 (SCP2026-007, Seaside Legal Solutions) to the September 8, 2026 City Council meeting.
  • Continued PH2025-052 (RZ2025-007, flagpole definitions) to the December 8, 2026 City Council meeting.
  • Continued PH2026-018 (CC#2026-012, RC-40 lot area requirement) to the September 8, 2026 City Council meeting.
  • Continued PH2026-015 (Deacon Farm Lane public way petition) to the September 8, 2026 City Council meeting.

• Sawyer Free Library Board

  Thursday, August 20, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  • Approved the bylaws with the agreed-upon history language; motion passed unanimously.

• Conservation Commission

  Wednesday, August 19, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  • Approved NOI 028-3141 28 King Phillip Road with conditions; approved by Cook, Iliades, and Vetere, Sargent voted no.
  • Approved NOI 028-3146 Keystone Road from Essex Avenue to Winterhaven Road with conditions, approved by Cook, Sargent, Iliades, and Vetere.
  • Approved NOI 028-3145 195 Atlantic Street with conditions, approved by Cook, Sargent, Iliades, and Vetere.
  • Approved NOI 028-3151 197 Atlantic Street with conditions, approved by Cook, Sargent, Iliades, and Vetere.
  • Issued a negative determination for RDA 1849 4 Becker Circle, approved by Cook, Sargent, Iliades, and Vetere.
  10 more decisions

  • Issued a negative determination for RDA 1850 51 Rocky Neck Avenue, approved by Cook, Sargent, and Iliades (Vetere recused).
  • Issued a negative determination for the Gregg Shupe driveway request (recorded in the minutes as RDA 1850 51 Rocky Neck Avenue), approved by Cook, Sargent, Iliades, and Vetere.
  • Approved NOI 028-3150 10 Dennison Street with conditions, approved by Sargent, Iliades, and Vetere.
  • Approved NOI 028-3149 59 Leonard Street with conditions, approved by Sargent, Iliades, and Vetere.
  • Approved NOI 028-3152 84 Causeway Street with conditions, approved by Sargent, Iliades, and Vetere.
  • Approved NOI 028-3127 13-37 Sunset Hill Road, 6R & 18 Riverview Road (Pole's Hill) to maintain the property as proposed with conditions, approved by Sargent, Iliades, and Vetere.
  • Approved RCOC 028-2704 3 Leonard Street with an additional continuing condition, approved by Sargent, Iliades, and Vetere.
  • Approved RCOC 028-2781 and RCOC 028-2845, both at 77 Wingaersheek Road, approved by Sargent, Iliades, and Vetere.
  • Approved RCOC 028-3134 69 Rogers Street, approved by Sargent, Iliades, and Vetere.
  • Ratified the motion for administrative penalties for EO-24-01 137 Wingaersheek Road, approved by Sargent, Iliades, and Vetere.
  10 procedural steps: minutes, continuances, referrals

  • Approved the August 5, 2026 meeting minutes as amended, by Members Cook, Sargent, Iliades, and Vetere.
  • Continued NOI 028-3125 490R Washington Street to the meeting of October 21, 2026, approved by Cook, Sargent, Iliades, and Vetere.
  • Continued NOI 028-3129 24 Kondelin Road to September 2, 2026, approved by Cook, Sargent, and Iliades; Chair Vetere recused.
  • Continued NOI 028-3142 Tommy's Island to the September 2, 2026 meeting, approved by Cook, Sargent, Iliades, and Vetere.
  • Continued NOI 028-XXXX 7 Sumac Lane to the September 2, 2026 meeting, approved by Cook, Sargent, Iliades, and Vetere.
  • Continued NOI 028-3147 12 Woodward Avenue to the September 2, 2026 meeting, approved by Cook, Sargent, Iliades, and Vetere.
  • Continued NOI 028-XXXX 18 Juniper Road to the September 2, 2026 meeting, approved by Cook, Sargent, Iliades, and Vetere.
  • Continued NOI 028-XXXX 740R Washington Street to the September 16, 2026 meeting, approved by Cook, Sargent, Iliades, and Vetere.
  • Continued NOI 028-XXXX 49 Crafts Road to the meeting of September 2, 2026, approved by Sargent, Iliades, and Vetere.
  • Continued NOI 028-3148 103 Essex Avenue to the meeting of September 2, 2026, approved by Sargent, Iliades, and Vetere.

• Zoning Board of Appeals

  Thursday, August 13, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  • Approved the consent agenda authorizing the Chair to sign decisions for 24 Kondelin Rd., 9 Linden Ave., 354 Essex Ave., 49 Reynard St., and 14-16 Links Rd., 4-0.
  • Approved the application of Phillip and Carolyn Coplas for a special permit to construct a second story addition to 5 Dune Ln., Map 256, Lot 42, 4-0.
  • Approved the application of Richard and Donna Tadler for a variance to construct a pool at 40 Eastern Point Blvd., Map 135, Lot 10, 4-0.
  3 procedural steps: minutes, continuances, referrals

  • Approved withdrawal without prejudice of the application of 272 Washington St. LLC for a comprehensive permit to construct a multi-family (62 units) at 272 Washington St., Map 85, Lot 47, 4-0.
  • Continued the application of R. Bartholemew M Driscoll and Heather E M Driscoll for a special permit and/or variance to construct a deck at 8 Angle St., Map 2, Lot 37, to the August 27, 2026 meeting, 4-0.
  • Continued the application of Seaver Properties LLC for a special permit and/or variance to exceed maximum building height at 3 Deacon Farm Ln., Map 109A, Lot 91, to the September 10, 2026 meeting, 4-0.

• Sawyer Free Library Board

  Thursday, August 13, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  • Passed a motion for Tracy Bowen to prepare the first draft of future minutes from the Zoom recording, with Steven editing before Committee approval.
  • Approved amendments to the draft letter to Mr. Falcetano, unanimously.
  • Approved the letter as amended and authorized Julia to mail it to Mr. Falcetano at his PO box, unanimously.
  2 procedural steps: minutes, continuances, referrals

  • Approved the minutes for the June 4, 2026 meeting as presented.
  • Approved the minutes for the July 9, 2026 meeting as presented.

• School Committee

  Wednesday, August 12, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  • Approved the consent agenda, including acceptance of a $64.43 donation to Gloucester High School from FY 2026 Ohiopyle Prints - Spirit Wear Commission, by unanimous roll call vote.
  • Approved the Superintendent to be on the Northshore Education Consortium Board, by unanimous roll call vote.
  • Approved acceptance of the FY27 FC 310 McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Grant of $25,000, by unanimous roll call vote.
  • Approved acceptance of the GHS FY 27 FC 400 Perkins - Strengthening Career and Technical Education Grant of $36,760 and the O'Maley FY27 FC 646 21st Century Community Learning Center Grant of $111,331, by unanimous roll call vote.

• EDIC

  Tuesday, August 11, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  • Approved, in concept, signage at the entrance to Kondelin Road stating no uncovered loads and no queuing, subject to further Board consideration and final Board approval of design and placement; roll call vote taken, all in favor.
  1 procedural step: minutes, continuances, referrals

  • Approved the June 9, 2026 meeting minutes, all in favor per roll call vote.

• City Council

  Tuesday, August 11, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  • Accepted the consent agenda 8-0-1.
  • Accepted cash donations and a gift card totaling $4,500 for the Community Impact Unit Youth Anglers Program, 8-0-1.
  • Accepted, by roll call 5-3-1 (Benson, Grace, Page opposed), a $17,000 MassDevelopment grant amendment for the 65 Rogers Street (I4C2) Visioning and RFP Development project, with a $3,000 local match.
  • Confirmed the appointment of election officers for the September 1, 2026 and November 3, 2026 elections, 8-0-1.
  • Permitted National Grid to install underground facilities on Wheeler Street with listed conditions, 8-0-1.
  8 more decisions

  • Opened and continued the RC-40 zoning amendment petition (PH2026-018) to the August 25, 2026 meeting.
  • Approved by roll call 8-0-1 a $2,500,000 loan order for municipal vehicle and equipment acquisition.
  • Failed 0-8-1 (roll call) a motion to reconsider the loan order vote.
  • Amended Chapter 12 "Marshlands" fee schedule, 8-0-1.
  • Amended, as further amended, the Licensing Commission definition in Chapter 11 to include only the city clerk, chief of police, and fire chief, 8-0-1.
  • Amended Chapter 11 to add one parking placard for the Plum Cove Beach vendor spot, 8-0-1.
  • Amended Chapter 11 "Hawkers, Peddlers, Transient Vendors and Special Events" as recommended and amended, 8-0-1.
  • Adopted the Warrant for the September 1, 2026 State Primary Election, 8-0-1.
  2 procedural steps: minutes, continuances, referrals

  • Continued the Building Commissioner's request to pay a 2019 invoice with FY2027 funds to the August 25, 2026 meeting.
  • Continued the Deacon Farm Lane public way petition (PH2026-015) to the August 25, 2026 meeting.

• Sawyer Free Library Board

  Friday, August 7, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  • Approved voting John Day and Wendy Frontiero in as members.
  • Approved empowering Jenny to refine and submit the Destination Development Capital Grant Application before the August deadline, via roll call.
  1 procedural step: minutes, continuances, referrals

  • Approved the July 10, 2026 minutes as amended, via roll call.

• City Council Budget & Finance Committee

  Thursday, August 6, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  • No motion was offered on the Auditor's report regarding accounts having expenditures which exceed their authorization.

  Committee recommendations to the City Council

  • Accept cash donations and a gift card totaling $4,500 to support the Community Impact Unit for the Youth Anglers Program. (3–0)
  • Approve payment of a prior year invoice (#10800, dated December 24, 2019) to Boston Board Up Services LLC in the amount of $3,592.90, to be paid with FY2027 General Fund, Inspectional Services – Ordinary Maintenance funds. (3–0)
  • Accept a $17,000 amendment to the Community One Stop for Growth Grant from MassDevelopment, with a $3,000 local match, to support the 65 Rogers Street (I4C2) Visioning and RFP Development project. (3–0)

• Conservation Commission

  Wednesday, August 5, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  • Approved NOI 028-3130 11, 17, & R Dory Road with conditions mentioned in this and previous meetings.
  • Approved AMD 028-1653 36 Atlantic Street with conditions mentioned in this and previous meetings.
  • Approved NOI 028-3144 62 Woodward Avenue with conditions mentioned in this and previous meetings.
  • Approved RCOC 028-2772 498 Washington Street with a continuing condition that plants be replaced if they fail within the next year.
  • Approved RCOC 028-3109 64 Rocky Neck Avenue.
  19 procedural steps: minutes, continuances, referrals

  • Approved the July 15, 2026 meeting minutes as amended, 5-0.
  • Continued NOI 028-2976 171 & 281R Magnolia Avenue to the September 16, 2026 meeting.
  • Continued NOI 028-3127 13-37 Sunset Hill Road, 6R & 18 Riverview Road (Pole's Hill) to the August 19, 2026 meeting.
  • Continued NOI 028-3036 3, 6, & 7 Welch Lane and R Woodman Street to the September 2, 2026 meeting.
  • Continued NOI 028-3132 13 Concord Street to the September 2, 2026 meeting.
  • Closed the public hearing for NOI 028-3130 11, 17, & R Dory Road.
  • Continued NOI 028-3135 37 Rocky Neck Avenue Unit B-1 to the September 2, 2026 meeting.
  • Closed the public hearing for AMD 028-1653 36 Atlantic Street.
  • Continued NOI 028-3141 28 King Phillip Road to the August 19, 2026 meeting.
  • Continued NOI 028-XXXX 7 Sumac Lane to the August 19, 2026 meeting.
  • Continued NOI 028-3142 Tommy's Island to the August 19, 2026 meeting.
  • Withdrew without prejudice NOI 028-XXXX 11 Forest Lane.
  • Closed the public hearing for NOI 028-3144 62 Woodward Avenue.
  • Continued NOI 028-3147 12 Woodward Avenue to the August 19, 2026 meeting.
  • Continued NOI 028-XXXX 18 Juniper Road to the August 19, 2026 meeting.
  • Continued NOI 028-XXXX Keystone Road from Essex Avenue to Winterhaven Road to the August 19, 2026 meeting.
  • Continued NOI 028-3145 195 Atlantic Street to the August 19, 2026 meeting.
  • Continued NOI 028-XXXX 197 Atlantic Street to the August 19, 2026 meeting.
  • Continued NOI 028-XXXX 740R Washington Street to the August 19, 2026 meeting.

• City Council Planning & Development Committee

  Wednesday, August 5, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  Committee recommendations to the City Council

  • Amend Sec. 22-270 and Sec. 22-291 to add Wheeler Street parking prohibition/tow-away zone. (2–0)
  • Amend Sec. 22-284 to change the Main Street loading zone location. (2–0)
  • Amend Sec. 22-279 to delete the Eastern Avenue 30-minute parking spaces. (2–0)
  2 procedural steps: minutes, continuances, referrals

  • Continued the Rackliffe Street fire lane ordinance amendment (CC#2026-014) to the August 17, 2026 Ordinance & Administration meeting.
  • Adjourned the meeting at 6:30 p.m., 2 in favor, 0 opposed, 1 absent.

• City Council Ordinances & Administration Committee

  Monday, August 3, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  Committee recommendations to the City Council

  • Amend GCO Ch. 22 Sec. 22-270 and Sec. 22-291 to add Wheeler Street parking restrictions. (2–0)
  • Amend GCO Ch. 22 Sec. 22-284 to change the Main Street loading zone from #134 to #124. (2–0)
  • Amend GCO Ch. 22 Sec. 22-279 to delete the Eastern Avenue 30-minute parking spaces near pole #2741. (2–0)
  1 procedural step: minutes, continuances, referrals

  • Continued CC#2026-014, the Rackliffe Street fire lane amendment, to the August 17, 2026 Ordinance & Administration meeting.

July 2026

• Zoning Board of Appeals

  Thursday, July 30, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  • Approved the consent agenda decisions for 18 Brierwood Ct., 383 Western Ave., 6 River Rd., 16 Dune Ln., 1 Western Ave., 11 Walker St., and 35 Presson Point Rd., 5-0.
  • Approved the application of Historic Cape Ann LLC for a special permit to exceed maximum building height to construct a two family at 14-16 Links Rd., Map 73, Lot 17 & Map 75, Lot 58, 5-0.
  • Denied (failed) the motion to determine there is not an increase in nonconformity at 23 Cliff Rd., Map 179, Lot 26, In Favor: 2, In Opposition: 3.
  • Approved the application of Andrew Marchand for a special permit to expand a deck at 23 Cliff Rd., Map 179, Lot 26, 5-0.
  • Approved the application of Katherine Low for a variance to construct a shed at 49 Reynard St., Map 107, Lot 8, 5-0.
  5 more decisions

  • Approved the application of Maria and Bruce Figurido for a special permit and/or variance to convert a two family to a three family at 354 Essex Ave, Map 229, Lot 42, 5-0.
  • Approved the application of John Murphy for a special permit to reconstruct and expand a front porch at 9 Linden Ave., Map 169, Lot 52, 5-0.
  • Denied (failed) the application of Ronald and Melanie Gelineau appealing the Building Commissioner's denial of a request for zoning enforcement at 12 Andrews Ct., Map 237, Lot 119, In favor: 0, In opposition: 4, with Mr. Wilson abstaining.
  • Determined there is not an increase in nonconformity for the application of Robert Rogers to demolish and rebuild a shed at 16 Ryan Rd., Map 193, Lot 66, 5-0.
  • Determined there is no increase in nonconformity for the application of Thomas Zappala to reconstruct a deck at 6 Waterman Rd., Map 257, Lot 79, 5-0.
  1 procedural step: minutes, continuances, referrals

  • Continued the application of 272 Washington St. LLC for a comprehensive permit under G.L. c. 40B for a 62-unit multi-family development at 272 Washington St., Map 85, Lot 47, to the August 13, 2026 meeting, 5-0.

• Traffic Commission

  Thursday, July 30, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  • Approved amending Sec. 22-287 to add two handicapped parking spaces on Witham Street, 4 to 0.

  Committee recommendations to the City Council

  • Amend Sec. 22-279 to delete the 30-minute parking restriction on Eastern Avenue in front of #18, 4 to 0.

• Sawyer Free Library Board

  Tuesday, July 28, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  • Approved welcoming Leora Ulrich into the meeting via roll call.
  • Approved welcoming Joe Grella and Jeremy Melvin into the meeting via roll call.
  • Approved the Treasurer's Report as presented via roll call.
  • Approved transferring $50,000 to the City for Early Learning Center staffing via roll call.
  • Agreed the Executive Committee will meet to draft a payment plan for the City to be reviewed at the next Board meeting.
  1 procedural step: minutes, continuances, referrals

  • Approved the June 23, 2026 minutes as amended, with Dawn, Christine A, Kathleen, and Steve abstaining.

• City Council Budget & Finance Committee

  Thursday, July 23, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  Committee recommendations to the City Council

  • Accept a $375,000 grant from the Peter and Elizabeth C. Tower Foundation. (3–0)
  • Accept a $23,040 2025 MEMA EMPG grant. (3–0)
  • Accept a $2,500 Essex National Heritage Commission Grant. (3–0)
  • Accept $275 in cash donations to support Veterans Services. (3–0)
  • Amend the Gloucester Wetlands Ordinance fee structure in Chapter 12 "Marshlands,". (3–0)
  1 more recommendations

  • Approve a $2,500,000 loan order for municipal equipment, school bus, and fleet acquisition. (3–0)

• City Council Planning & Development Committee

  Wednesday, July 22, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  • Permitted the road closure of Nautilus Road for the Lone Gull 10K Road Race on September 20, 2026 (rain date September 27, 2026), voted 3-0.
  • Permitted street closures for the Fishbox Derby race on September 20, 2026 (rain date September 27, 2026), voted 3-0.
  • Amended the main motion on SCP2026-003 to add a condition requiring vegetative screening (plantings up to 7 feet) between the applicant's property and 6 Hancock Street, voted 3-0.

  Committee recommendations to the City Council

  • Grant an easement to Massachusetts Electric Company at 50 Essex Avenue. (3–0)
  • Recommended, as amended, that the City Council grant special permits to Gloucester Main LLC for a 40-unit mixed-use development at 150 Main Street (SCP2026-003), voted 3-0.
  1 procedural step: minutes, continuances, referrals

  • Continued the SCP2026-007 application (4 Day Court) to the August 5, 2026 Planning & Development Committee Meeting, voted 3-0.

• City Council Ordinances & Administration Committee

  Monday, July 20, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  Committee recommendations to the City Council

  • Appoint Robert Gordon to the Economic Development & Industrial Corporation, term ends 7/1/2029, voting. (2–0)
  • Confirm the appointment of election officers as listed in the Mayor's memo dated July 2, 2026, voting. (3–0)
  • Amend Gloucester Code of Ordinances Chapter 12 "Marshlands" to update the Wetlands Ordinance fee structure, voting. (3–0)
  • Amend Gloucester Code of Ordinances Chapter 11 "Hawkers, Peddlers, Transient Vendors and Special Events," voting. (3–0)
  • Voted by roll call 0 in favor, 3 opposed on the motion to recommend amending Chapter 9 to add a ban on miniature single-use alcohol containers ("nips"); the recommendation did not pass.
  1 procedural step: minutes, continuances, referrals

  • Continued CC#2026-015 (Memhard), an amendment to Ch. 22 parking regulations on Eastern Avenue, to August 3, 2026.

• Conservation Commission

  Wednesday, July 15, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  • Issued a negative determination for RDA 1847 35 Dory Road, approved 5-0.
  • Approved AMD 028-3060 84 Thatcher Road with conditions, 5-0.
  • Approved NOI 028-3136 10 Leverett Street with conditions, 5-0.
  • Issued a negative determination for RDA 1845 2 Fortune Lane with a native mitigation planting condition, approved 5-0.
  • Issued a negative determination for RDA 1848 69 Leonard Street, approved 5-0.
  8 more decisions

  • Approved NOI 028-3137 21 Forest Lane with a native planting condition, approved 5-0.
  • Approved NOI 028-3140 121 Wingaersheek Road with conditions, approved 5-0.
  • Approved NOI 028-3143 2 Clarendon Street with conditions, approved 5-0.
  • Approved NOI 028-3139 21 Ferry Hill Road with conditions, approved 5-0.
  • Approved NOI 028-3138 67 Crafts Road with conditions, approved 5-0.
  • Found a violation of the Enforcement Order for use of motorized vehicles on the beach path at 137 Wingaersheek Road, approved 5-0.
  • Found a second violation of the Enforcement Order for failure to maintain the three-foot path width at 137 Wingaersheek Road, approved 5-0.
  • Imposed the maximum penalty of $2,000 for each of the two violations at 137 Wingaersheek Road ($4,000 total), approved 4-1 with Co-Chair Vetere voting no on the amount.
  12 procedural steps: minutes, continuances, referrals

  • Approved the June 17, 2026 meeting minutes as amended, 5-0.
  • Continued NOI 028-3036 3, 6, & 7 Welch Lane and R Woodman Street to August 5, 2026, approved 4-0 (Member Sargent recused).
  • Continued NOI 028-3125 490R Washington Street to August 19, 2026, approved 5-0.
  • Continued NOI 028-3132 13 Concord Street to August 5, 2026, approved 5-0.
  • Continued NOI 028-3127 13-37 Sunset Hill Road, 6R & 18 Riverview Road (Pole's Hill) to August 5, 2026, approved 4-0 (Co-Chair Vetere recused).
  • Continued NOI 028-3129 24 Kondelin Road to August 19, 2026, approved 4-0.
  • Continued NOI 028-3130 11, 17, & R Dory Road to August 5, 2026, approved 5-0.
  • Continued NOI 028-3135 37 Rocky Neck Avenue Unit B-1 to August 5, 2026, approved 5-0.
  • Continued AMD 028-1653 36 Atlantic Street to August 5, 2026, approved 5-0.
  • Continued NOI 028-3141 28 King Phillip Road to August 5, 2026, approved 4-0.
  • Continued NOI 028-XXXX 7 Sumac Lane to August 5, 2026, approved 4-0.
  • Continued NOI 028-3142 Tommy's Island to August 5, 2026, approved 4-0.

• City Council

  Tuesday, July 14, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  • Appointed Mark T. Vadala to the Affordable Housing Trust, term ends 2/16/2028, 9-0.
  • Appointed Thomas Markert to the Board of Health, term ends 2/16/2028, 9-0.
  • Appointed Christopher Leahy to the Open Space & Recreation Advisory Committee, term ends 2/15/2029, 9-0.
  • Appointed Vito Giacalone to the Mariners Medal Committee, term ends 2/14/2030, 9-0.
  • Appointed David Leveille to the Mariners Medal Committee, term ends 2/14/2030, 9-0.
  18 more decisions

  • Appointed Joseph A. Orlando to the Mariners Medal Committee, term ends 2/14/2029, 9-0.
  • Appointed Mary Fay "Miffy" Somers to the Mariners Medal Committee, term ends 2/14/2028, 9-0.
  • Approved Supplemental Appropriation #2026-SA-22 for $4,000 for the Talbot Rink overtime account, by roll call 9-0.
  • Approved Supplemental Appropriation #2026-SA-23 for $30,000 to create a City Council Management Audit fund, by roll call 9-0.
  • Approved Supplemental Appropriation #2026-SA-24 for $29,947.42 for future election expenses, by roll call 9-0.
  • Approved Supplemental Appropriation #2026-SA-25 for $75,000 for the Employee Wellness Program, by roll call 9-0.
  • Approved Supplemental Appropriation #2026-SA-26 for $12,000 for the Wayfinding Signs project, by roll call 9-0.
  • Approved Supplemental Appropriation 2027-SA-1 for $45,000 to replace AC components at O'Maley Innovation Middle School, by roll call 9-0.
  • Accepted a $680,963 federal Community Development Block Grant, by roll call 9-0.
  • Accepted a $16,800 State Recycling Dividends Program grant, by roll call 9-0.
  • Accepted a $50,000 Library Early Learning Center Grant, by roll call 9-0.
  • Approved Special Budgetary Transfer 2026-SBT-20 totaling $1,444,231.35 to cover Fiscal Year 2026 account deficits, 9-0.
  • Permitted National Grid to install underground facilities on Corliss Avenue, 9-0.
  • Granted a license to Essex by the River, LLC for an open-air parking lot at 2 Beachland Avenue with 14 conditions, 9-0.
  • Approved Special Permit SCP2026-006 letting Applied Materials, Inc. build to a height of 47 feet 9 inches at 11 Dory Road, by roll call 9-0.
  • Voted to reconsider the June 23, 2026 vote on CC#2026-009, by roll call 9-0.
  • Amended GCO Ch. 22 Sec. 22-280 and Sec. 22-279 to change Main Street parking spaces and hours, 9-0.
  • Accepted amendments to the Purple Heart proclamation, 9-0.
  3 procedural steps: minutes, continuances, referrals

  • Referred CC#2026-015 (Eastern Avenue parking ordinance change) to the Traffic Commission, 9-0.
  • Continued PH2026-011 (Gloucester Main LLC special permit application) to the July 28, 2026 meeting.
  • Continued PH2026-015 (Deacon Farm Lane public way petition) to the July 28, 2026 meeting.

• Sawyer Free Library Board

  Friday, July 10, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  • Approved authorizing Jenny to share the Fire Alarm/Electric Panel RFP with Lifestyles Electric, Annese Electrical Services, 128 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric, and Spittle Electric, via roll call.
  1 procedural step: minutes, continuances, referrals

  • Approved the June 5, 2026 minutes as amended, via roll call.

• Zoning Board of Appeals

  Thursday, July 9, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  • Approved the consent agenda, authorizing the Chair to sign decisions for 51 Wingaersheek Rd. and 4 Stewart Ave., 5-0.
  • Approved the application of DLM Properties LLC for a variance to relocate and construct an 8' fence at 24 Kondelin Rd., Map 197, Lot 13, 5-0.
  • Approved the application of Erin and James Watson for a special permit to add an addition converting a single family home to a 2 family at 11 Walker St., Map 236, Lot 1, 5-0.
  • Approved the application of Sue Ann Madruga for a variance to construct a shed at 383 Western Ave., Map 201, Lot 14, 5-0.
  • Determined that the application of Kevin Blatchford to enlarge a deck and add a mudroom at 3 Fuller St., Map 166, Lot 43 is not an increase in non-conformity, 5-0.
  2 more decisions

  • Approved the application of David and Laura McSweeney for a special permit and variances to construct a retaining wall at 6 River Rd., Map 118, Lot 69, 5-0.
  • Approved the application of Katherine Lamson Trustee for a variance to construct a pool at 35 Presson Point Rd., Map 229, Lot 69, 5-0.
  3 procedural steps: minutes, continuances, referrals

  • Approved the minutes from the 6/11/2026 and 6/25/2026 meetings, 5-0.
  • Withdrew without rejudice the application of Nicholas and Christine Gikas for a special permit and/or variance at 29 Flume Rd., Map 169, Lot 47, 5-0.
  • Continued discussion on the 40B fees and application to a later meeting, 5-0.

• Sawyer Free Library Board

  Thursday, July 9, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  • Motion to redo and resend the June 4, 2026 minutes next week was approved, unanimous.
  • Decision on Mr. Falcetano's request for a rebuttal program was deferred to the August 13 meeting.
  • Straw poll showed a lack of support for holding the fall event at the Meetinghouse.
  • Motion to shift the fall event topic to Artificial Intelligence was approved, unanimous.
  2 procedural steps: minutes, continuances, referrals

  • Motion to approve the June 4, 2026 minutes failed.
  • Motion to approve the June 25, 2026 minutes was approved, unanimous.

• City Council Budget & Finance Committee

  Thursday, July 9, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  Committee recommendations to the City Council

  • Approve Special Budgetary Transfer 2026-SBT-20 (initially misstated as 2026-SBT-22) totaling $1,444,231.35, with later corrections noted for two line amounts. (3–0)
  • Approve Supplemental Appropriation #2026-SA-22 for $4,000 from the Talbot Rink Enterprise Fund to cover an overtime deficit. (3–0)
  • Approve Supplemental Appropriation #2026-SA-23 for $30,000 to create the City Council Management Audit fund. (3–0)
  • Approve Supplemental Appropriation #2026-SA-24 for $29,947.42 for future election expenses. (3–0)
  • Approve Supplemental Appropriation #2026-SA-25 for $75,000 for the Employee Wellness Program. (3–0)
  5 more recommendations

  • Approve Supplemental Appropriation #2026-SA-26 for $12,000 for the Wayfinding Signs project. (3–0)
  • Approve Supplemental Appropriation 2027-SA-1 for $45,000 to replace critical components of the O'Maley Middle School AC unit. (3–0)
  • Accept a $680,963 federal CDBG grant from HUD for Program Year 2026/Fiscal Year 2027. (3–0)
  • Accept a $16,800 state Recycling Dividends grant from Mass DEP. (3–0)
  • Accept a $50,000 private Library Early Learning Center Grant. (3–0)

• City Council Planning & Development Committee

  Wednesday, July 8, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  Committee recommendations to the City Council

  • Permit National Grid's petition PP#2026-002 to install underground facilities on Corliss Avenue, with six DPW conditions. (3–0)
  2 procedural steps: minutes, continuances, referrals

  • Continued SCP2026-003 (Gloucester Main LLC mixed-use development application) to July 22, 2026.
  • Continued RZ2026-001 / CC#2026-012 (Memhard zoning amendment) to July 22, 2026.

• City Council Ordinances & Administration Committee

  Monday, July 6, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  Committee recommendations to the City Council

  • Appoint Mark T. Vadala to the Affordable Housing Trust, term ends 2/16/2028. (3–0)
  • Appoint Thomas Markert to the Board of Health, term ends 2/16/2028. (3–0)
  • Appoint Christopher Leahy to the Open Space & Recreation Advisory Committee, term ends 2/15/2029. (3–0)
  • Appoint Vito Giacalone to the Mariners Medal Committee, term ends 2/14/2030. (3–0)
  • Appoint David Leveille to the Mariners Medal Committee, term ends 2/14/2030. (3–0)
  2 more recommendations

  • Appoint Joseph A. Orlando to the Mariners Medal Committee, term ends 2/14/2029. (3–0)
  • Appoint Mary Fay "Miffy" Somers to the Mariners Medal Committee, term ends 2/14/2028. (3–0)
  1 procedural step: minutes, continuances, referrals

  • Continued the proposed ordinance amendment (CC#2026-013) banning miniature single-use alcohol containers to the July 20, 2026 Ordinance & Administration Meeting.

June 2026

• Committee for the Arts

  Tuesday, June 30, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  Committee recommendations to the City Council

  • Unanimously that the two O'Maley Fish Sculptures be accepted by the city on artistic merit, as long as there is a risk assessment plan by the city to inspect, maintain, and insure the sculptures.

• Historical Commission

  Monday, June 29, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  • Elected GHC officers (Julie as Secretary, Maggie Debbie as Vice-chair, Susan as Chair); Bob moved, Ralph seconded, all in favor.
  • Cancelled the July 27th GHC meeting, as voted on 6/1/25.
  • Approved the Land Acknowledgment/DAR Bronze Plaque; Bob made a motion, Maggie seconded, all in favor.
  • City Council approved the Preservation Restriction for Barbara Lambert's 1640 house at 27 Vine St on June 23, the 11th Preservation Restriction for Gloucester.
  • City Council approved the Demolition Delay item on 5/26/26, with 31 days to process before it becomes official.
  7 more decisions

  • Accepted the wording for the new historic house plaque application at 1245 Washington St, Lanesville; Bob made a motion, Ralph seconded, all in favor.
  • Approved GLO.1337 North Shore Arts as historically significant for CPC funding; Bob made a motion, Maggie seconded, all in favor.
  • Approved GLO.199 Giles Chapel/Rocky Neck Cultural Ctr as historically significant for CPC funding; Bob made a motion, Ralph seconded, all in favor.
  • Approved GLO.1420 Gloucester Stage as historically significant for CPC funding; Bob made a motion, Maggie seconded, all in favor.
  • Approved GLO.1055 Davis-Freeman House/Wellspring as historically significant for CPC funding; Bob made a motion, Ralph seconded, all in favor.
  • Approved GLO.BG Manship estate as historically significant for CPC funding; Bob made a motion, Ralph seconded, all in favor.
  • Approved the UU Cemetery as historically significant for CPC funding; Bob made a motion, Tim seconded, all in favor.

• Board of Commissioners of Trust Funds

  Monday, June 29, 2026 · Minutes (opens in new tab)

  • Voted to authorize disbursement of the balance of the Ornamental Tree Fund to DPW per the mayor's request, with all approved.
  1 procedural step: minutes, continuances, referrals

  • Approved the minutes of the May 15th meeting, as amended, with all in favor.

• Download all decisions (CSV)

From minutes posted on the city's Archive Center (opens in new tab) and the School Committee website (opens in new tab), for meetings since Sunday, June 28, 2026.