20:57The primary focus of the meeting was the application for a full liquor license and an entertainment license for the Larkin Event Center. Proponents of the license emphasized that culinary students would participate in event food service, although clarified that students would not handle alcohol. Concerns were voiced about the proximity of alcohol to educational facilities, with one board member acknowledging initial discomfort but expressing trust in the school’s management, stating, “I trust you with our kids nine months a year.”

30:28Legal considerations were also scrutinized, with a letter from the town clerk referencing Massachusetts law that restricts alcohol service within 500 feet of schools and churches. However, representatives contended that the school’s unique role as the applicant might permit an exemption. Neighborhood relations were another focal point, as residents expressed dissatisfaction over traffic, noise, and light pollution associated with the center. One resident recounted issues with student speeding and inadequate responses from the school, particularly concerning parking violations that had necessitated a resident-only parking area.

01:10:50The board heard public comments from residents like Barbara Santerella and Kathleen Sherber, who voiced frustrations about the school’s responsiveness and the impact of its operations on their neighborhoods. Concerns about the baseball field blocking emergency vehicle access and new floodlights shining into homes were brought to the board’s attention. Residents also questioned the necessity of storing alcohol on school premises and suggested hiring licensed caterers might better manage alcohol service.

01:13:32Additional concerns centered on the operational structure of the center. Suanne Patton expressed uncertainty over the relationship between the school and the LLC managing the venue, seeking clarity on guest capacity, event management, and alcohol policy. The potential for unrestricted operational freedom was a recurring theme, with residents emphasizing the need for oversight and accountability.

01:29:33The board acknowledged these concerns, highlighting the need for clarity before advancing the application. It was agreed to table the discussion until the first meeting in June, granting time for further information gathering and community engagement.

01:37:27Beyond the event center discussions, the board received a report on the Resilient Danvers initiative, presented by Planning Director Brian Sinsky. The initiative aims to enhance transportation and land use in line with climate action goals. Sinsky outlined efforts to promote zero-carbon mobility, improve pedestrian infrastructure, and accelerate electric vehicle adoption. A new bus route connecting key locations in Danvers is planned for February 2026, alongside a pilot vanpool program and ongoing rail trail expansion.

Community members and board members alike expressed enthusiasm for these initiatives, with discussions centering on how to promote an active downtown presence and ensure pedestrian and cyclist safety. The meeting also touched on the potential return of a bus route, garnering optimism about the benefits for local development and mobility.

02:05:19The meeting concluded with updates on the recent town election, which saw a 13.8% turnout. The Select Board expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts of poll workers and town departments in ensuring a seamless election process. The town manager announced the arrival of Jill Cahill as the new town manager, and the board celebrated a $60,000 grant for a mentoring program for middle school students.