The Salem Town Council met on Monday, May 18, 2026, for its regular public meeting. The meeting included employee recognition, Finance Committee appointments, project funding votes, and several community updates.
May Employee of the Month Recognized
The Town recognized Ben Syke, Heavy Equipment Operator with the Department of Municipal Services, as the May Employee of the Month.
Municipal Services Director Wayne Amaral described Ben as a positive and supportive team member who comes to work ready to contribute each day. The Town Council and Town Manager congratulated Ben and thanked him for his service to the community.
Finance Committee Members Appointed
The Town Council interviewed five applicants for the newly established Finance Committee. Councilors noted that all applicants were highly qualified and thanked them for their interest in serving Salem.
Following discussion, the Town Council appointed the following members:
- Kevin Wallace was appointed to a three-year term ending in June 2029.
- Alexei Popov was appointed to a two-year term.
- Camelia Bouzerdan was appointed to a one-year term.
Ethics Committee Findings Accepted
The Town Council received and reviewed findings from the Ethics Committee regarding a complaint. The committee found one unintentional violation related to the duty to disclose, with no violation found regarding conflict of interest or use of influence.
The Town Council voted to accept the findings of the Ethics Committee. The recommendation included that the respondent publicly announce any future business relationships with parties before the Budget Committee and participate in annual ethics training.
Route 111 and Ermer Road Project Funding Approved
The Town Council held a public hearing and voted to accept grant funding from the New Hampshire Department of Transportation Highway Safety Improvement Program for the Route 111 and Ermer Road intersection improvement project.
The grant provides $3,620,893.46, representing 90 percent reimbursement of the total project cost of $4,023,214.96.
The Council also authorized the Town’s 10 percent portion of the project, totaling $402,321.50. The Town’s share will be funded through the Roadway Improvements Capital Reserve Fund, Zone 3 traffic impact fees, and taxation as authorized in the 2026 approved operating budget.
This project will include the reconstruction of the Route 111 and Ermer Road intersection, including a new roundabout. Town officials noted that the project has been accelerated and is moving forward ahead of schedule.
Open Space Master Plan Presented
The Council received an informational presentation on the 2026 Open Space Master Plan. The plan was developed through the Conservation Commission’s Open Space Task Force with assistance from the Rockingham Planning Commission.
The plan includes a natural resources inventory, mapping, open space priorities, and recommendations for future conservation efforts. The presentation highlighted the importance of open space for natural resource protection, recreation, community development, and quality of life.
Salem currently has just under 2,000 acres of open space. The plan identifies ways the Town may continue to protect open space through conservation easements, land purchases, current use incentives, regulations, and outside funding opportunities.
CIP Bylaws Updated
The Town Council approved amended Capital Improvements Program bylaws as recommended by the CIP Committee. The update included revisions to language related to the chairperson’s duties.
Town Manager’s Report
Town Manager Joe Devine provided several community updates.
Mandatory water restrictions began on May 15. Information about watering schedules and restrictions is available on the Town website.
The Town’s Master Plan received a statewide planning award for its strong implementation framework.
MeVa reported a successful first month for the new Route 28 bus service connecting Lawrence, Methuen, and Salem. More than 3,200 riders used the route during its first month of service.
The Town’s Memorial Day Ceremony and Parade will take place on Monday, May 25, 2026. The ceremony will begin at 10:30 a.m. at Pine Grove Cemetery, followed by a procession to Salem Common for the continuation of the ceremony at 11:00 a.m.
The Salem Police Department recently held a promotion ceremony recognizing seven officers.
The Town also recognized National Public Works Week and thanked Department of Municipal Services employees for their work throughout the year.
The Engineering Department received an excellence award for work related to mitigation at the Wastewater Treatment Plant.
Residents are encouraged to visit the Town website for upcoming senior services programs and to register for the Town-Wide Yard Sale, which will take place on Saturday, June 13. Registration is required by May 28 to be included on the map.
The Town also launched a Planning Board activity map on the website. The map allows residents to view upcoming and previous Planning Board applications, meeting materials, and decisions.
Upcoming Meetings
The next Town Council meetings are scheduled for June 1 and June 15. During July and August, the Council will meet once per month to accommodate the summer schedule.
The Town Manager’s Report is available on the Town website. Full meeting recordings are available through Salem Community Television, and meeting materials are available online.
