The committee responsible for reviewing proposals for a new town manager chose Community Paradigm Associates, citing their top-ranked evaluation. The procurement officer, Judy Smith, was tasked with finalizing the contract with the chosen firm. Board members confirmed that references for the firm were checked, ensuring confidence in the decision, though no formal vote was necessary for the endorsement. This process was conducted under the guidance of state law and overseen by the Inspector General’s office to guarantee fairness and transparency.

In addition to the town manager search, the board reviewed several community-oriented issues. The town manager provided updates on regional brush fires, where Danvers crews were offering mutual aid, and discussed a potential state of emergency declaration to enhance firefighting efforts. The board also heard about draft goals for fiscal year 2026, inviting members to propose additional items. A tax classification hearing is scheduled for December 3, with a detailed report to be discussed.

Public safety and community engagement were significant focal points during the meeting. Concerns were raised about juvenile crime, with a resident advocating for monthly updates from the police chief instead of the current quarterly reports. Recent incidents of vandalism and disturbances involving juveniles were cited, prompting discussions on the implications of the Criminal Justice Reform Act, which affects how juvenile offenses are addressed.

Another concern addressed was the residency requirement for the new town manager. A resident voiced opposition to any potential changes to this requirement, stressing the importance of having a manager living within the community. The board clarified that no decision had been made regarding this issue, which remains under review by the Town Manager Review Committee.

The meeting also saw discussions on police staffing and community presence. A call was made for police officers to engage more with the community, particularly in areas frequented by youth, to mitigate concerns about juvenile behavior. It was highlighted that having a police force that is more visible and proactive could enhance community safety.

Emails from a resident, Keith Lucy, were mentioned, containing strong language and urging resignations, with some messages threatening to publicize a family member’s past actions. These emails were acknowledged as part of public records, available for review by interested parties.

Additionally, the board addressed the notification process for road closures due to construction. Suggestions were made to improve signage and communication methods to minimize disruptions for residents and businesses. The meeting concluded with updates on the Resilient Danvers Workshop, focusing on energy, buildings, public health, and solid waste management. Staff are expected to provide updates on these initiatives over the coming months.