The Salem Town Council met on Monday, February 9, 2026, to address a full agenda that included community concerns, committee appointments, employee recognition, financial actions, major capital project updates, and an in-depth discussion of the 2026 budget.

The Council voted unanimously to seal the minutes from a nonpublic session under RSA 91-A:3, II(d), and approved the public meeting minutes from February 2, 2026, with one abstention due to absence. The February 9 consent agenda was also approved unanimously.

Public Comment: Water Quality and Infrastructure at Arlington Pond

During public comment, Howie Glenn, President of the Arlington Pond Protective Association, addressed the Council regarding ongoing water quality efforts at Arlington Pond and concerns about access to municipal water infrastructure in the area. Mr. Glenn highlighted the Association’s long-standing partnership with the Town, its financial contributions toward water quality improvements, and the importance of continued collaboration to address cyanobacteria and runoff issues. Town leadership acknowledged the comments and indicated that the matter would be discussed further with Town staff.

Recreation Advisory Committee Appointments

The Council conducted interviews for two vacancies on the Recreation Advisory Committee. Applicants Elissa Cadillic and Joanne Parcellin shared their backgrounds and interest in serving the Salem community.

Following the interviews, the Council voted unanimously to appoint both candidates. Elissa Cadillic was appointed to a term expiring in April 2028, and Joanne Parcellin was appointed to a term expiring in April 2027.

Employee of the Month: Ashley Andrews

Police Chief Joel Dolan recognized Ashley Andrews, a dispatcher with the Salem Police Department, as the February 2026 Employee of the Month. Chief Dolan praised Ms. Andrews for her professionalism, communication skills, teamwork, and dedication, including her willingness to assist during major incidents even while off duty. The Council congratulated Ms. Andrews and thanked her for her outstanding service to the community.

Fire Department Swearing-In

Fire Chief Craig Lemaire formally swore in Cameron McNally as a full-time Fire Alarm Operator for the Salem Fire Department. Mr. McNally, who began his role in September 2025, was recognized for his successful transition into dispatch operations and commitment to public safety.

Financial Actions and Resolutions

The Council approved several financial items, including:

• Authorization of $45,000 in police public safety impact fees to offset the 2026 police station construction bond payment.
• Authorization of up to $25,000 from the Town Facility Maintenance and Improvement Capital Reserve Fund for emergency furnace replacement at the Depot Train Station.
• Acceptance of a $21,925 grant from the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services and a $1,925 donation from the Arlington Pond Protective Association for invasive aquatic weed treatment at Arlington Pond.

All items were approved unanimously, with required public hearings conducted where applicable.

Municipal Building Advisory Committee Update

Finance Director Nicole McGee provided an update on major municipal building projects. Highlights included progress on the new Police Station, which is nearing completion with an anticipated move-in later this year following staff training.

Ms. McGee also provided an update on the South Fire Station project, noting that the Council previously endorsed demolition and reconstruction as the most cost-effective option. The Council agreed to explore design options that include a potential third apparatus bay and longer bay lengths to better meet operational needs.

Additionally, Ms. McGee shared progress on the Municipal Building Advisory Committee’s work to develop a long-term capital plan using a Building Condition Index that evaluates the condition of Town facilities.

2026 Budget and Default Budget Explanation

Ms. McGee also delivered a detailed presentation explaining the 2026 default budget and how it compares to the proposed operating budget. She clarified that while the default budget appears significantly lower in expenditures, much of the difference reflects one-time projects and revenue offsets that are not included in the default calculation. Overall, the projected tax rate difference between the proposed operating budget and the default budget is estimated at approximately $50 annually for a $500,000 home.

Winter Weather Operations Update

Municipal Services Director Wayne Amaral, provided an update on winter operations, noting that the Town has experienced a more severe winter than anticipated. Snow and ice control costs are tracking higher than recent years, and staff may need to seek additional funding later in the season. Council members commended the Municipal Services team for their continued hard work and responsiveness during winter storms.

Town Manager’s Report and Closing

Assistant Town Manager Colleen Mailloux reminded residents that Town Hall will be closed on Presidents’ Day, February 16, and encouraged participation in the 2026 Resident Survey, which is now open on the Town’s website.

The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote to adjourn. The next Town Council meetings are scheduled for March 2 and March 16, 2026.

The complete Town Council meeting, including all discussion and presentations, is available to view online, along with the Town Council meeting materials and the February 9, 2026 Town Council meeting recording.