The appointment of Jill Cahill as the new town manager became a focal point of the meeting. After an extensive hiring process, which included interviewing multiple candidates and narrowing down from 31 applicants to three finalists, the board decided on Cahill. Board members praised Cahill’s credentials, which include a Master’s in Public Administration and a Bachelor’s in Political Science. Her strengths in strategic planning, economic development, public safety, and active listening were highlighted, along with her ability to build strong relationships. The board expressed gratitude for both candidates’ interest and dedication to public service, but ultimately, the consensus leaned towards Cahill. The board member who led the subcommittee for the hiring process was recognized for their leadership and hard work.

In addition to Cahill’s appointment, the board discussed significant proclamations, including recognizing May 2025 as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. This initiative aims to raise awareness about the safety of over 1,500 motorcyclists in Danvers, especially as more riders take to the roads in spring. The board emphasized the need for cooperation among all road users to reduce accidents and fatalities. A representative from the American Legion Riders expressed gratitude for this attention to safety.

The meeting also addressed the town’s environmental efforts through the proclamation of Arbor Day, focusing on the role of trees in improving community health and air quality. Renee Hunter, a civil engineer, from the Department of Public Works, discussed the Climate Action Sustainability Preservation and Resiliency (CASPER) plan. Hunter elaborated on the need for a comprehensive tree inventory and management plan, stressing the importance of trees in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change impacts. Hunter detailed how trees contribute to urban heat reduction, stormwater management, and biodiversity. The board discussed the potential for public engagement and creating accessible maps to enhance community awareness.

Community engagement was a recurring theme, highlighted by discussions on the police department’s activities and public safety efforts. Updates on a CVS robbery investigation and traffic enforcement statistics were provided. The department reported 51 arrests, 47 summonses, and 4,755 calls for service from January 1 to March 13. Concerns about staffing levels and ongoing efforts to fill vacancies were noted. The police chief emphasized the importance of de-escalation training and community interaction, addressing how societal perceptions of law enforcement influence relations with the public.

Public comment focused on the Beverly airport expansion, with residents urging the board to address the increased traffic and its impacts. A resident expressed frustration over delays in addressing these concerns, referencing a denial from the Massachusetts Environmental Protection Agency regarding an appeal on airport conditions.

The meeting concluded with updates on the local dispatch center’s operations and police training initiatives. The dispatch center, operating 24/7, services police, fire, and ambulance responses, with state grants offsetting costs. Concerns were raised about the potential transition to a regional dispatch center, which could result in losing local control and community familiarity. The police department outlined its annual training curriculum, addressing topics such as crisis intervention and mental health training. The chief confirmed ongoing efforts to support officers through training and internships, while noting the necessity of maintaining mental health resources amid proposed state budget cuts.