Beverly official outlines budget cuts and potential layoffs amid funding pressures

The Beverly City Council held a budget meeting on June 9, 2025, where significant concerns regarding potential budget cuts and their implications for city services were discussed. The meeting highlighted the challenges faced by the city in managing its finances, particularly in light of previous budget cuts that resulted in the loss of nine positions.

City officials expressed apprehension about the possibility of further cuts, emphasizing that any additional reductions would be "extremely painful." The council noted that the current budget had already been trimmed, with some capital line items, such as equipment and paving, being zeroed out. This has raised concerns about the city's ability to maintain essential services, including snow removal and street maintenance.

Officials acknowledged the pressure from rising costs and the need to carefully evaluate each budget line item. They stressed the importance of protecting city staff, who have invested significant time and effort into their roles. The council indicated that layoffs would be a last resort, as they aim to preserve the talent and resources already in place.

The discussion underscored the ongoing financial challenges faced by Beverly, with officials committed to finding solutions that would allow the city to continue functioning effectively despite budget constraints. The meeting concluded with a commitment to explore all options before considering further staff reductions.