Town Council — June 15, 2026

Wayne Amorell highlighted Welch's ability to manage large capital projects and day-to-day responsibilities despite the engineering division operating without a full staff.

Todd Welch was officially recognized as the June employee of the month.

Councillor Withrow proposed adding language to prevent agencies receiving town funding from also submitting citizens' petitions (warrant articles) for the same services to avoid 'double dipping.' Staff agreed this could be included as an amendment.

Resolution 2026-11 was adopted with the added language regarding citizens' petitions.

The policy aims to formalize past practices, requiring organizations to be Salem-based and providing safety guidelines (e.g., one group per day, staying in designated areas). The goal is to provide written guidance and ensure safety without excluding existing local groups.

Resolution 2026-12 and Policy 2026-4 were adopted, waiving the second reading requirement.

Chief Dolan explained that it is customary in law enforcement for a retiring K-9's handler to take them on as a pet. He noted that K-9 Dash has served Salem since 2015.

The Council authorized the Town Manager to formalize the release/purchase of K-9 Dash to Officer Paul Benoit.

Proponents argued the land protects the Arlington Pond watershed and aligns with the Town Master Plan, noting the purchase would use conservation funds with no impact on taxpayers. Opponents raised concerns about losing potential property tax revenue, the lack of urgency given the owner's intent not to develop, and potential parking/maintenance issues for neighbors. A debate ensued regarding whether the land is truly 'unbuildable' due to steep terrain and septic requirements.

The Council voted to authorize the Conservation Commission to purchase the lots (Map 22, lots 10-785 through 10-791).

A title search and a Phase One environmental site assessment will be conducted.

The committee reported accomplishments including new signage and a holiday schedule. They discussed removing the small business hauling license due to lack of use and historical abuse, clarifying bulky item permit limits to prevent excessive items, the potential for a 'swap shop,' lack of bids for the disposal contract RFQ, ongoing ash disposal challenges, feasibility of charging for mattresses, and becoming more self-sufficient through C&D fees. Staffing constraints were noted throughout.

The committee will continue working on an SOP for the public, addressing ash disposal and disposal contracts, and re-issue the RFQ for the disposal contract.

The committee will bring a recommendation to remove the small business hauling license to the Council in the near future and continue research into the transfer station contract.

The town is seeking a waiver from Salem Municipal Code (Chapter 477, Article 14) because the police facility is classified as commercial property, which normally requires a separate well for irrigation.

The Town Council approved the waiver 9-0.

The presentation addressed the misconception that Tuscan Village would lower taxes, clarifying that while it significantly expands the tax base, rising costs in school and municipal budgets offset much of the benefit. Data showed Tuscan Village generates approximately $9.87 million in annual property taxes, representing about 7.3% of Salem's total tax levy. Council members debated whether the reported 'savings' for residents were net or gross figures and discussed the communication gap regarding expectations set by previous officials.

The report was provided for informational purposes to clarify the relationship between development, tax base, and the tax rate.

It was announced that the Salem Police Department is fully staffed with 70 officers. A new website tool was introduced to allow residents to see exactly how their tax dollars are distributed across departments. Additionally, concerns were raised regarding a recent accident at the intersection of North Main and Bluff.

The council was briefed on staffing and the new transparency tool.

The Town Manager will provide an update on the recent accident at North Main and Bluff.

Speaker S32 proposed organizing a gathering at the Field of Dreams or along Geremonty, potentially featuring food trucks and music, to celebrate Independence Day.

The council expressed support for the idea.

Speaker S32 will coordinate the details and gauge interest.