Beverly City Council honors departing councilors Hannah Bowen and Brendan Sweeney

The Beverly City Council on Monday honored two departing councilors with unanimous resolutions and brief remarks.

State Representative Hannah Bowen, who served as a councilor at large from January 2022 until her resignation Oct. 31, 2025, was recognized in Order 290 for her work on zoning changes to allow accessory dwelling units, founding the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee and leadership on the council’s public services committee. Councilors Spang and Feldman read the resolution text before Bowen addressed the chamber, thanking colleagues and urging residents to get involved in local government. Bowen said the work of local officeholders is ‘‘full of thanks’’ and told young people in the room, ‘‘you are welcome here’’ and ‘‘we need you.’’

The council then approved Order 290 by a 9–0 vote.

The chamber also adopted Order 291 honoring At‑Large Councilor Brendan Sweeney, who was recognized for his municipal finance experience, advocacy for the Beverly Fire Department and efforts to expand property tax exemptions for seniors, veterans and people with disabilities. In his remarks, Councilor Sweeney thanked fellow councilors and staff and reflected on the importance of civility in local government. He noted he and his wife, Sydney, are expecting their first child and said he will remain involved in the community after leaving elected office.

Order 291 was approved 9–0.

The mayor and other officials offered brief remarks thanking Bowen and Sweeney for their service. The council recessed briefly afterward to allow attendees to congratulate the honorees and take photographs.

The council’s action was ceremonial and nonbinding; the resolutions were ordered to be placed on the city record. The meeting then proceeded to its scheduled committee work and other business.