The Peabody City Council on June 26 voted unanimously to accept the provisions of Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 59, Section 5(k), enabling municipalities to reduce real‑property tax obligations for residents over age 60 in exchange for volunteer service.

Under the accepted statute, a city may reduce a qualifying taxpayer's bill by up to the equivalent of the Commonwealth's minimum wage per hour for hours worked, with a statutory cap per year (the law text referenced $1,500–$2,000 caps in different clauses depending on local choices). The statute requires municipalities to maintain records of hours and tax reductions, provide copies to assessors and taxpayers before bills are issued, and allows local rules to set procedures and limits.

Mayor Bettencourt told the council the item "would allow us to start working on" a potential program, citing models he has reviewed in other municipalities and saying the city will bring a detailed proposal back to the council before any program is implemented. He and Director of Finance Mister Gingras said typical local approaches include a cap (for example, $1,000 per year in some communities), qualified placements at senior centers, libraries, city hall or other municipal operations, and a requirement that the city and finance office track hours and reductions.

Council questions focused on oversight and limits. Councilor Terkel asked about caps and a potential flood of applicants; the mayor replied caps, qualifying criteria and program rules would be recommended and can be structured to limit exposure. Councilor Rosignol asked which city offices would oversee the program; the mayor suggested the Finance Department and Mayor's Office would administer it and that senior center staff would be involved for placements at that facility.

Ending: The council's acceptance of the statute is a required step to create a program; Mayor Bettencourt said he will return with a detailed proposal including eligibility, caps, placements and administrative procedures for council approval before implementation.