Swampscott, Massachusetts Development News
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Select Board - 7/7/26
Published: Jul 7, 2026
Hawthorne Site Development: Swampscott Select Board Prefers Lease Over Sale, Debates Residential Use and Parking
The Select Board engaged in a preliminary discussion regarding the development of the Hawthorne site, identifying key decision points for the Request for Proposals (RFP) process. The board expressed a strong preference for a long-term lease rather than selling the property. There was significant discussion and mixed opinions regarding residential use, with most members leaning against it due to concerns about parking and density, though some remained open to considering it if it were crucial for a viable development proposal. Other topics explored included municipal parking, building reuse versus demolition (requiring further information), environmental standards (noting the town's existing stretch energy code), and synergy with the hotel and commercial corridor. Key areas requiring deeper conversation and further information before finalizing the RFP include residential use, parking, building reuse, and open space.
Swampscott Residents Voice Parking Enforcement Concerns on Ingalls Terrace; Public Hearing Planned
The Select Board discussed concerns regarding resident parking enforcement on Ingalls Terrace, with residents reporting issues with beachgoers and overnight parking leading to congestion and safety concerns, particularly for emergency vehicle access. The current 'no parking' signs are perceived as ineffective, and there's a lack of enforcement, with few tickets issued. The board acknowledged that parking enforcement is a broader town-wide issue, not limited to Ingalls Terrace or Cedar Hill, and involves confusion around resident and recreation parking stickers. They decided to schedule a public hearing to include input from residents and the Police Chief to discuss enforcement strategies and potentially revise parking regulations, including signage and potential new methods like hashing or zoning.
Swampscott Considers New Trash/Recycling Fees and Moves Towards Every-Other-Week Recycling Pickup
The Select Board received an update on the recycling and solid waste contract and discussed proposed fees for additional trash and recycling bins. The town is transitioning to new barrels, with deliveries expected around July 20th and old barrels to be picked up curbside in early August, with options for reuse or DPW drop-off. A fee of $3.50 per bag for trash (up from $3) and $180 annually for an extra 35-gallon trash barrel are proposed, with the latter intended to cover tonnage, service costs, and administrative burdens. For recycling, an additional 96-gallon barrel is proposed at $100 annually, with revenue from recycling sales offsetting costs. The board also discussed a potential shift to every-other-week recycling pickup, with a proposed implementation date of January 1st, which passed with a split vote.
Swampscott Select Board Approves Year-End Budget Transfers and Discusses Water/Sewer Rate Increases
The Select Board discussed and approved fiscal year-end transfers totaling approximately $285,000, which is lower than previous years. The largest transfer in was to the fire department for overtime costs, influenced by increased labor for DPW related to a trash strike and fire department expenses, including the ladder truck purchase which slightly exceeded its bid. Savings were noted in employee benefits, primarily health insurance, and solid waste expenses due to a contract not being fully fulfilled during the strike. The board also initiated discussions on fiscal year 2027 water and sewer rates, with a recommendation for a 4% increase in sewer rates and a 3% increase in water rates, aiming to maintain retained earnings above the 20% policy minimum to support future capital projects and avoid large rate swings.
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The Swampscott News archive
Select Board - July 7, 2026
Select Board - 6/17/26
Select Board - June 17, 2026
Zoning Board of Appeals - 6/16/26
Town of Swampscott Pride Celebration 2026
Zoning Board of Appeals - June 16, 2026
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