City of Amesbury

Key discussions centered on moving forward with the Invasives Demonstration Project at Woodsom Farm, pending written confirmation from the Department of Public Works (DPW) and deferral of field work until spring due to weather. The Committee reviewed the status of the 2020-2027 Open Space and Recreation Plan (OSRP) update, noting that while a revised document was posted online in 2022, formal resubmission to the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) was incomplete; steps were defined to address remaining EEA conditions. Updates were provided on the Community Preservation Committee (CPC) process, which is still in the information-gathering phase. A significant discussion involved coordination, planning, and oversight with community groups, specifically exploring how to establish a formal partnership model, potentially leveraging community volunteers for trail stewardship in a manner similar to models used elsewhere, and establishing approval guidelines for work on city land. Finally, updates from the Planning Board touched upon the Riverwalk extension project status.

Key discussions included appointing a note-taker, who volunteered for the role. The committee addressed leadership structure by confirming Bryan Riley as the official liaison to the Amesbury Cultural Council, capable of attending ACC meetings in the chair's absence. Financial updates covered the status of a fundraiser money transfer and confirmation of the Poet Laureate's stipend payment. The Poet Laureate shared ideas for poetry-themed events, such as 'Poetry in the Pines,' 'Evening with the Poets,' and a 'Karaoke Night' fundraiser, alongside potential youth activities including a poetry contest. Planning for the New Poet Laureate Inauguration/Reception at the Amesbury Public Library was confirmed. Finally, the committee reviewed and proposed amendments to the Poet Laureate Support Guidelines concerning Whittier Home involvement, which will require approval by the Amesbury Cultural Council. The presentation of a plaque for the Poet Laureate was deferred to a later date.

The agenda for the upcoming meeting includes several critical financial matters, such as the approval of vendor and ACH payments for January 2026, and a review of the December 2026 financials. Correspondence and committee reports cover the Vacancy Report, Pest Control Report, HUD Housing Choice Voucher Program (HCV) Report for January 2026, and Property Tour/Updates. Significant discussion is allocated to Capital Improvement projects, including approvals for the lowest bid for project #007120 (Macy building envelope) and updates on forced account/unit turnover, along with reviews of various ARPA-funded projects and the approval of a fire pump and related ventilation systems. The Executive Director's report will also be presented.

The agenda for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program Public Hearing focuses on the discussion of the FY 2026 Application Grant across several areas, including the Housing Rehabilitation Program, Affordable Housing Programs, Social Services Programs, and Administration. The hearing will also provide an update on the CDBG Program in Amesbury for FY 2020 and FY 2021, and an overview of the Social Service Request for Proposals.

Key discussions focused on financial status, case approvals, and revisions to governing documents. The balance as of December 31, 2025, was reported. Case 2026-08-02 was reviewed and approved, allocating $90 to the Pain and Wellness Center in Peabody, MA. Minor revisions were proposed for the Bylaws, including updating the City Hall address, eliminating the requirement to send minutes to the Library, and adding a low-income category to eligibility requirements. The Application document will also be updated to reflect the correct City Hall address and to include eligibility for prescribed medical equipment.