Gloucester City Council approves summer events and discusses grocery store closure impacts

The Gloucester City Council convened on March 11, 2025, to discuss various community events and address pressing local issues. The meeting began with a committee report, setting the stage for a series of approvals and discussions.

One of the primary agenda items was the approval of road closures for the upcoming Saint Peter's Fiesta, scheduled for June 25 to June 29. The council also addressed a special event application for a reenactment of the Battle of Bunker Hill at Stagefort Park on June 20, which has been relocated from Chelsea due to its significance as the 250th anniversary of the battle. This event will transform Stagefort Park into a historical zone for the weekend, free of charge.

Additionally, the council approved street closures for Gloucester's block parties, set for July 12, August 9, and August 29. Another event, the Gloucester Community Safety Day, is planned for September 27, 2025, with potential rain dates.

During the meeting, Councilor Gilman proposed a joint meeting with the school committee to discuss upcoming special education budgeting challenges for fiscal year 2026. This initiative received support from both Senator Tarr and Mayor Vergas.

The council also addressed the recent closure of Shaw's supermarket on Railroad Avenue, which has raised concerns about food accessibility in the downtown area. Councilor Grace highlighted the unfortunate impact of this closure on the community and questioned whether proactive measures were taken to attract new grocery stores. Councilor Nolan emphasized the importance of community support for local businesses, urging residents to shop at stores like Shaw's to ensure their sustainability.

In a show of appreciation, Councilor Nolan recognized the efforts of the Gloucester fire department and police department in managing a recent challenging fire incident, commending their professionalism and collaboration with neighboring communities.

The meeting concluded with a brief recess before returning to further discussions. Overall, the council's deliberations reflected a commitment to community engagement and addressing local needs, particularly in light of recent challenges faced by residents.