The Peabody City Council Industrial & Community Development Committee convened on June 12, 2025, to discuss key developments regarding Centennial Park and the city's ongoing efforts to enhance its industrial capabilities. The meeting began with a motion that was quickly passed without opposition, setting the stage for the evening's agenda.

The primary focus of the meeting was the Centennial Park resolution, presented by Andrew Levin, a senior planner in the community development department. Levin informed the council that the city had received a $65,000 site readiness grant from MassDevelopment earlier this year. This grant is intended to fund a mini master plan for Centennial Park, which includes a critical property known as 0 Centennial, a 1.7-acre lot currently housing the city's water tower.

Levin explained that the resolution under consideration is essential for the city to comply with the grant's requirements. If the city decides to sell the 0 Centennial lot within the next 30 years, it would be obligated to repay the grant amount to MassDevelopment. The council was asked to vote on this resolution to facilitate the next steps in the planning process.

Councilor Turco raised questions about the progress of zoning changes related to the industrial park, referencing discussions from a year and a half prior. Levin assured the council that the site readiness grant includes collaboration with R&D Consultants, who will assist in assessing current conditions and developing a comprehensive strategy for Centennial Park. This strategy will encompass zoning considerations, infrastructure needs, and transportation access, ensuring that the park meets modern business requirements.

Following Levin's presentation, Councilor Cherko moved to adopt the resolution, which was read in detail, outlining the terms of the grant and the conditions for repayment. Councilor Walton expressed support for the resolution, emphasizing the importance of Centennial Park's future for the city of Peabody.

The committee concluded the meeting with a unanimous vote in favor of the resolution, marking a significant step forward in the city's development plans for Centennial Park. The council's actions reflect a commitment to enhancing the industrial landscape of Peabody, with further steps anticipated as the planning process unfolds.