Beacon City Council appoints Derek Sherman and Ryan Cross as new police officers

The Beacon City Council made significant strides in addressing public safety and community engagement during its meeting on January 22, 2025, with the appointment of two new police officers and discussions on local tax exemptions.

In a move to bolster the police department amid ongoing staffing challenges, the council unanimously approved the appointments of Derek Sherman and Ryan Cross as police officers. Sherman, a 21-year-old from Marlborough, currently serves as a police dispatcher and holds an associate's degree in criminal justice. Cross, 31, hails from Suffolk and has a background in project management, also holding an associate's degree in criminal justice. Both candidates were sworn in during the meeting, marking a hopeful step towards enhancing public safety in Beacon.

Additionally, the council set the stage for public hearings on proposed local laws aimed at updating property tax exemptions for senior citizens and disabled individuals with limited income. These changes would align local tax exemption amounts with county standards, potentially increasing eligibility for many residents. The public hearings are scheduled for February 3, allowing community members to voice their opinions on these important financial matters.

The meeting also included a consent agenda that reappointed five members to the Conservation Advisory Commission, reflecting the council's commitment to environmental stewardship. Public comments highlighted community concerns regarding local development projects and the need for updated city planning to protect Beacon's waterfront and natural resources.

As Beacon continues to evolve, these appointments and legislative efforts signal a proactive approach to both public safety and community welfare, setting a positive tone for the year ahead.