Beauregard Announces End to Furloughs, More School Funding
METHUEN — Mayor D.J. Beauregard announced legislation Tuesday to eliminate unpaid employee furloughs and increase investment in public education, even as the city confirmed a temporary furlough program will close City Hall and most administrative offices on Fridays through Labor Day.
TOWN HALL
Mayor Beauregard's announcement of legislation to end furloughs and boost school funding was the day's top item from the city, though it comes alongside confirmation that City Hall and most administrative offices will already be closed on Fridays beginning July 10 through Labor Day, part of the FY2027 budget's temporary furlough program. The two announcements, posted the same day, offer residents a mixed picture: relief promised down the road paired with near-term reduced office hours.
Separately, Mayor Beauregard and Methuen Public Employee Committee President Kara Blatt jointly announced ratification of a health insurance agreement that will transition city employees, retirees, and their families to the GIC (Group Insurance Commission), a shift billed by the city as a landmark deal for municipal benefits.
The Department of Public Works Water Division carried out emergency repairs Wednesday to the water distribution system on Burnham Road at Riverside Drive, addressing an active issue in the system.
The city also announced it is recruiting poll workers for the September 1 and November 3 elections, with interested residents encouraged to call 978-983-8515. Additionally, free Summer Eats meals remain available for children and teens 18 and under at four Methuen locations this summer, with no registration, ID, or proof of income required.
Note also for planning purposes: Wednesday's Community Development Board meeting was cancelled.
SCHOOLS
Methuen Public Schools has not posted new district-specific news beyond the mayor's announcement of increased education investment tied to the furlough-ending legislation. The district's FY26 approved budget and its 2024-2027 strategy for improvement remain posted as ongoing reference points for families following budget and planning matters.
COMMUNITY & ARTS
No new library exhibit, program, or lecture announcements were available in today's window from Nevins Library.
COMING UP
The Methuen Independence Day Fireworks Celebration is scheduled for Saturday, July 11.
A Circle of Hope Family Support Group meeting is set for Monday, July 20.
The Cultural Council Meeting scheduled for Monday, July 13, has been cancelled.
The Conservation Commission meets Thursday, July 16, followed by the Zoning Board of Appeals on Wednesday, July 22, and both the Methuen Retirement Board and Historic District Commission on Thursday, July 23.
City administrative offices will be closed on Fridays beginning July 10 through Labor Day under the temporary furlough program tied to the FY2027 budget.