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CITY OVERVIEW Profile of the City The City of Salem, which was incorporated as a town in 1630 and became a city on March 23,1836, is situated on the Massachusetts coast, 16 miles northeast on Boston. The City has a population of approximately 40,407 and occupies a land area of approximately 8 square miles. The second city in the Commonwealth to be incorporated, it is the Shire City of Essex County. Salem has operated under the Plan B form of government, with a mayor and an eleven-person City Council, seven elected from wards, and four at-large, since 1915. Historic Information Salem was originally founded in 1626 by Roger Conant and a group of settlers from the Cape Ann area. In 1630, the area was incorporated into a town; and the name of Salem from "Sholem," meaning "peace" in the Hebrew language, was adopted. Salem is perhaps best remembered as the site of the infamous hysteria that swept the colonies in the late lTth century. Early in the 18th century, Salem was a thriving commercial port. The protected harbor encouraged trade, but industrial development occurred slowly. During this time, shipbuilding and allied industiies were well established and trading with the West Indies and European ports was extensive. This commerciai .*p*rio., brought about a cultural expansion in the life of the town. The depression following the War of 1812 seriously affected the economy of Salem. Thereafter, the opening of the Erie Canal brought serious new trade competition; and with the building of larger vessels, trading was limited because the harbor was not deep enough to accommodate the larger vessels. As the level of commerce decreased, the growth of industry increased. In 1848, a large cotton mill was established; and after the Civil War several tanneries, shoe and paint factories were founded in Salem. A fire destroyed a large part of the industrial district in 1914, but the area was again built up as a thriving industrial center. Among the many sites of historical interest are the Crowninshield-Bentley House, House of Seven Gables, Pierce-Nichols House, Pickering House, Pingree House, The Peabody-Essex Museum, Pioneer Village, Ropes Mansion House, the V/itch House, and the Salem Maritime National Historical site which was the first national historic site in the United States. Governmental Structure The Mayor is elected for four years in November of unevenly-numbered years. The Mayor is the administrative head of the city and chairman ex-officio of the School Committee, the Board of Library Trustees, and the Board of Trust Fund Commissioners. The Mayor acts with the City Council and School Committee to carry out city business. The Mayor appoints his or her office staff, the City Soliciior, Sec 2 - 1 ---PAGE BREAK--- and the Assistant City Solicitor without City Council confirmation. The appointments of most city department heads, and members of the various boards and commissions, however, require City Council confirmation. The Mayor has the right to veto any order, resolution, or ordinance passed by the Council. However, a veto may be overtumed by a two-thirds vote of all councilors. After reviewing and revising estimates prepared by department heads, the Mayor submits the budget to the City Council for final action. The Mayor approves all municipal payrolls, vouchers, contracts and instruments; and recommends bond issues, legislations and orders to the City Council; and represents the city with other levels of government. As the general administrator of all city departments, the Mayor is consulted by department heads pertaining to the city's welfare. The City Council is primarily the legislative branch of the city government. As the legislative body, the Council conf,rrms appointments made by the Mayor and appropriates all monies necessary to city operation. It can approve, disapprove, or reduce the amount of appropriations, but not add to the appropriation. The Council receives orders of recommendation by the Mayor and petitions from the public, and acts on them after committee study. The City Council also has the power to enact the Ordinances and other regulations. A majority of the City Council constitutes a quorum, and the vote of a majority of all the members of the Council is necessary for the adoption of any motion resolution, or ordinance. In some instance, adoption by a two-thirds vote of the members is required by statute The City provides general governmental services for the territory within its boundaries, including police and hre protection, disposal of garbage and rubbish (for residential properties); public education, including vocational-technical education at the high school level; street maintenance; certain water services, through the Salem and Beverly Water Supply Board; certain sewerage disposal services, through the South Essex Sewerage District; and parks and recreational facilities. Approximately 95 percent of the City is connected to the sewerage system; the entire area of the City is served by the municipal water system. The Salem Housing Authority is responsible for managing 1,462 units of low income housing for the City. Buildings are either owned by the Authority, or are part of the rental subsidy program or the voucher program. Of the 1,462 units, 715 arc included in twelve elderly developments, nine family developments, and one handicapped accessible family developments. These units are owned and operated by the Authority. The principal highways serving the City are state Routes 14, 107, and ll4, all of which provide immediate access to Routes 1 and 128 and other major highways serving the greater Boston area. The City is a member municipality of the Massachusetts Bay Commuter Railroad, which provides passenger and freight service. V/ithin 170 days after the annual organization of the city government (which is ordinarily in early January), the Mayor is required to submit a budget of proposed expenditures for the fiscal year beginning on the next July 1. The City Council may make appropriations for the recommended purposes and may reduce or reject any item. Without recommendation of the Mayor, the City Council may not increase any item or make an appropriation for a purpose not included in the proposed budget (except by a two-thirds vote in case of the failure of the Mayor to recommend an appropriation for such a purpose within 7 days after a request from the City Council, pursuant to state statute). If the Council fails to act on any item of the proposed budget within 45 days, that item takes effect. The City's operating budget for fiscal year 2006 totaled approximately $102 million. Sec 2 - 2 ---PAGE BREAK--- Cultural and Historical Facilities The City of Salem is a historic waterfront community that has a rich cultural heritage, known worldwide for its architecture, maritime history, literary prominence, and hysteria. For this reason, tourism is one of the City's major industries, accommodating almost one million visitors each year. In 1692, infamous witch hysteria created fear and superstition as the fantasies and allegations of a group of young girls led to accusations of against ordinary citizens. Nineteen people were convicted for the crime of and were put to their deaths. 1992 marked the 300th Anniversary of the now famous Salem Witch Trials. The City of Salem commemorated this event with many special exhibits and events planned by the City's Salem V/itch Trials Tercentenary Committee. The major event of the year long commemoration was the design and construction of the Salem Witch Trials Memorial located adjacent to the Charter Street Cemetery. The Memorial design was chosen through a nation-wide design competition. As part of a living memorial, the City also annually awards the Salem Award for Human Rights and Social Justice. The City has numerous facilities of continuing cultural andlor historical significance: Peabody-Essex Museum - The Peabody Essex Museum (PEM) has undertaken the largest museum addition in America. The $100 million expansion allows them to showcase their extensive collection of Oceanic and Asiatic art for the first time. The PEM houses a broad spectrum of artifacts representing centuries of Essex County life and industry, as well as treasures from across the world brought to the region by early navigators. The PEM consists of a downtown campus, four National Historic landmarks and several properties on the National Register of Historic Places. The PEM enjoys an attendance of approximately 135,000 to 150,000 visitors per year. The Salem Maritime National Historic Site - This 9.2 acre site, operated by the National Park Service, ("NPS") is comprised of several buildings, including the original Customs House, as well as several wharves and homes. The NPS has restored the wharves and buildings. The Friendship, a fuIl size replica of one of Salem's historic trading ships was recently completed and is berthed at the site. This $6 million project was 75 percent federally-funded and is expected to become a Sec 2 - 3 ---PAGE BREAK--- major cultural attraction and educational tool. The National Park Service will be relocating the historic Pedrick's Warehouse from Marblehead to Derby Wharf and installing a pile supported dock adjacent to the building, in order to facilitate interpretive display of historic maritime functions. The House of the Seven Gables - The House of the Seven Gables was made famous by Nathaniel Hawthorne's novel of the same name. The site is a complex of the actual house occupied by Hawthorne and several adjacent historic structures. The House of Seven Gables received the prestigious designation of "Museum" status in 2008 and has been designated a National Historic Landmark District. Salem Witch Museum - The Salem V/itch Museum commemorates the famous witch trials that occurred in 1692 through an audio visual presentation. Life-size stage settings, lighting and historically accurate narration recreate the afflicted girls, the trials and the executions of the Salem Witch Trials. The V/itch House - The Witch House was the home of one of the famous Witch Trial judges, Jonathan Corwin. The V/itch House is operated by the City of Salem and is an excellent example of 17th century architecturè. The site recentiy received interior and exterior improvements for handicapped accessibility and historic preservation. witch Dungeon Museum - The witch Dungeon Museum provides a live re- enactment of the Witch Trials for visitors to the City. The presentation is adapted from the 1692transcripts and re-enacted by professional actors. The First Church - The First Church, located on Essex Street, was founded in 1629 and is the oldest continuing Protestant congregation in the country. Chestnut Street - Chestnut Street is a National Historic Landmark consisting of a group of homes of notable architectural significance. The homes are primarily old mansions built by Salem's successful sea captains during the early 19th century. Pickering House - The Pickering House is the oldest house in America to be continuously occupied by the same family. Pioneer Village - Pioneer Village, situated in Forest River Park, is a living-history Museum that depicts life in Salem in 1630. Guides in historical costumes show visitors how early Puritans lived. The site contains a thatched cottage, historic gardens, wigwams, and animals. In 2008, Gordon College began a five-year lease of Pioneer Village. Gordon is restoring the buildings to their former condition and creating an interactive history museum. Curatorial and museum administration internships, special lectures and workshops will also be available through Gordon's use of Pioneer Village. Sec 2 - 4 ---PAGE BREAK--- The Old Burying Point - Located on Charter Street, this is the oldest burying ground in Salem. The site contains the graves of a Mayflower passenger and trial judge John Hawthome, and is the locationof the Witch Memorial. Winter Island Park - Operated by the City of Salem, 'Winter Island is a former U. S. Coast Guard Air and Sea Rescue Station located on Salem Harbor. The site is a seasonal recreation site with RV and tent spaces. The site also has a beach, boat launch, wind surfing, scuba diving, picnic areas and a snack bar. Historic Fort Pickering and Fort Pickering Light are located within the site. 'Winter Island is now home of "sail Salem", a community sailing program that provides free sailing lessons to Salem Children. A committee has also been formed to review was to better use the island and its facilities. Salem'Wax Museum of 'Witches and Seafarers - The Vy'ax Museum, opened in July of 1993, features a multi-media presentation and realistic wax figures depicting pirate and witch stories of Salem's past. The Wax Museum also offers hands-on children's activities. Salem V/itch Trials Memorial - The Salem V/itch Trials Memorial was dedicated on August 5, lgg2 to commemorate the 300th anniversary of the now famous Salem Witch Trials of 1692. The memorial is located adjacent to the Charter Street Burial Ground. Heritage Trail - The many cultural and historic facilities in Salem are connected by the Heritage Trail, a 6 inch red line painted on sidewalks and streets. The Heritage Trail leads to world-renowned museums and historic homes, as well as to restaurants offerìng simple fare to gourmet meals, full service hotels, inns and bed and breakfasts. Salem Common - Salem Common has been public land since Salem's early days. Its eight acres was originally swampy are4 with several ponds and small hills. Salem's military heritage begins in 1636, when the first muster occurred on Salem Common. Today, the National Guard traces its roots to that first muster. Needing a place for regular military drills, it was voted in l7l4 by the commoners to be "forever kept as a training field for the use of Salem". Bakers Island Lighthouse - The tower is located on the north end of the island. The lighthouse was automated in 1972 and was recently turned over to the National Park Service. The National Park Services is looking into providing guided tours of the lighthouse in the future. National Register of Historic Places in1994 Fort Lee - This American Revolution fort was built in 1776 and was added to the Sec 2 - 5 ---PAGE BREAK--- The Phillips House - The Phillips House is the only home on historic Chestnut Street open to the public, and it provides a glimpse into the private world of the Phillips family during the early decades of the twentieth century. Ye Olde Pepper Cand)' Company - This is America's oldest candy company, dating back to 1806, when an English woman, Mrs. Spencer, was shipwrecked and landed in Salem. Mrs. Spencer was assisted financially by residents, and what resulted was the first candy made and sold commercially in America and carried around the world by sea captains and their crew. The tourist attractions described above are included to illustrate the continuously growing tourist economy. These attractions provide jobs, tax revenue and buying power to the City of Salem. Public Projects and Economic Development Activities - Community Development J. Michael Ruane Judicial Center: The new J. Michael Ruane Judicial Center opened at the end of 2011. This new $106 million Court expansion on Federal Street will have a significant positive economic impact on the downtown and the City. MBTA Station and Garage Improvements - Mass Department of Transportation (DOT) has approved funding for station improvements and construction of a garage at the commuter rail station. The design is at 90%o with construction anticipated to start in June 2013 and be completed October 1,2014. The new facility will be a significant asset to the City in terms of economic development. United States Biological: With the support of a TIF approved by City Council, and Planning Board approval in 2010, the construction of a 86,000 square foot biotech facility on Technology way is nearing completion. Jacqueline's Wholesale Baker)¡ - 96 Swampscott Road - Jacqueline's has expanded from 16 employees to 105 with 75 full-time employees in the past six years. With the support of a TIF approved by City Council, they have just made an additional investment of $2.88 million, including acquisition of an adjacent condo space and equipment, which will result in the creation of 35 new jobs and additional tax revenue. St. Joseph's Church Redevelopment: Construction has started on the redevelopment of this site. This affordable housing development is a key project for revitalization of the Point neighborhood and will provide much-needed housing for the city. The project includes the construction of a new building with 51 rental units and is being developed by the Planning Office for Urban Affairs. Peabody Essex Museum - The Peabody Essex Museum is designing a major expansion of their current facility, which will make it one of the top dozen art museums in the country in terms of gallery space. Construction has started on the "enabling work", including construction of a new Sec 2 - 6 ---PAGE BREAK--- mechanical penthouse and other facility modifications that need to be completed before the expansion work can begin. Osborne Hills Subdivision: Currently under construction, the Osborne Hills Subdivision is a cluster development project that includes the construction of 131 single-family homes on approximately 162 acres of land. Single family home construction activity has recently increased. Approximately 93 acres of the project will be permanently protected open space. The project represents one of the largest subdivisions built in Salem in recent history. Witch Hill: The construction of 23 single family homes along the extension of an existing roadway is underway. Riverview Place (formerly Salem Suede): A new development planned for the Salem Suede site, a brownfield, consists of the demolition of the old tannery and construction of l3l residential rental units in three new buildings, one of which will contain first-floor retail space. Variances for the project were granted by the Zoning Board of Appeals in 2008, and the Planning Board completed site plan review in 2010. Environmental assessment is underway. Gateway Center: High Rock Bridge Street, LLC, received Site Plan Approval and Special Permits under the North River Canal Corridor Neighborhood Mixed Use District and Wetlands and Flood Hazard Overlay District in May 2010 for the development of a 3.48-acre parcel located at the corner of Bridge Street and Boston Street to include a mixed-use building with a 20,000 square foot Senior/Community Life Center on the first floor. The City of Salem has entered into an agreement with the developer to purchase the Senior Center as a condominium. In addition, the building will have offrce space on the second and third floors, anticipated to be leased to medical, legal and other professional service providers. The building and site are designed to create a landmark building. Financing was recently approved by the City Council and construction is anticipated to start this year. Legacy Apartment (formerly Salem Oil and Grease site) - the City continues to seek proposed redevelopment of its brownfields sites. This project was approved by the Planning Board in20I2 and consists of three multi-family residential buildings (total of 141 units) and re-use of an existing 17,000 square foot commercial office building. 28 Goodhue The project, located within the North River Canal Corridor area, includes the new construction of a mixed-use residential/commercial building at the site of a former factory. The development will include 44 residential condominiums, 6,000 square feet of commercial retail space and on-site parking. The project was approved by the Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals and construction is expected to start in spring, 2013. Public Art: Over the past two years, the City has been working to increase the amount and quality of public art. Partly in response to public demand, this initiative is being pursued to support the City's identity as an arts and cultural destination. The physical presence of public works of art further Sec 2 - 7 ---PAGE BREAK--- supports the City's efforts to leverage the arts for economic development purposes. The City currently hosts a summer sculpture series and manages a program to transform utility boxes into works of art. In May 2012, a mural by an internationally-renowned artist was installed on the exterior of the downtown parking garage. The City is currently undertaking the development of a master plan for public art funded by the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA). In addition to these activities, the City supports the annual arts festival which draws thousands of participants into downtown in early June. Essex Street Pedestrian Mall - The City is investing in the redesign and improvement of the pedestrian mall in the heart of downtown. Phase I improvements are complete, including removal of landscape beds to make the area more pedestrian friendly and to improve the aesthetics. Construction documents have been prepared for Phase 2, including repair and replacement of cobblestone areas, removal of additional landscape beds, and refurbishing of the fountain at V/ashington Street. Construction will start in the spring 2013. Redevelopment of 5 Broad Street: In March 2010, a reuse feasibility study was completed for a city-owned building located at 5 Broad Street. The building, which currently houses the City's Council on Aging, was declared as surplus property by the City Council. The City hired consultants to examine the redevelopment potential for this property in preparation for its future sale. Proceeds from the sale of this building will be used to off-set the cost of the new senior center. Cit]¡ Hall Handicapped Access: Utilizing American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funding, the City was able to move forward with signif,rcant handicap accessibility improvements at City Hall. These improvements include a new elevator addition with entrance lobby and restroom upgrades. The elevator was open for use in 2010. Salem News Building: This major redevelopment project in Salem's downtown includes the renovation of two buildings and construction of a new building at 155 Washington Street, 26 New Derby and 31 Front Street. The project retains approximately 6,000 square feet of existing retail use and adds an additional 7,500 square feet of new retail, and includes the construction of 3l new residential units. Construction is complete, and a new restaurant, Tavem in the Square, opened in June 2009. Old Salem Jail Complex Redevelopment: In November 2005, the SRA designated New Boston Ventures to redevelop the Old Salem Jail Complex. The developer redeveloped the parcel into include 23 residential units, with one affordable unit, a restaurant, and a jail exhibit. The estimated project cost is over $11 million. This publiclprivate partnership has responded to changing market conditions by incorporating a rental component and using historic preservation tax credits. The first phase comprised of 23 housing units was completed in June 2010, and the restaurant opened in September 2010. An additional 13 units will be constructed in a new building in the near future. Sec 2 - 8 ---PAGE BREAK--- Old Town Hall: In August 2008, Gordon College entered into a lease with the City of Salem to manage and program Old Town Hall. The College and City have collaborated on securing $249,000 in grant funding to make improvements to the building's accessibility, structure, heating system, and interior finishes. Construction was completed in October 20II. As part of the lease agreement, the College opened a museum on Salem's history on the first floor in 201 1. Eaton Place/Former Elks Lodge (17 North Street): With Planning Board Site Plan Approval in December 2009 to add a third and fourth floor, the former assembly hall's conversion into six residential condominiums was completed with special care to restore the structure's historic appearance. 96 Swamoscott Road (Salem Commerce Park): A local property owner purchased alarge, vacant industrial building on Swampscott Road and renovated the space into industrial condominiums. The 170,000 square foot building is located on 13 acres. The property o\ilner was able to attract several new businesses to the space representing a number of new jobs for Salem and a boost to the City's tax revenue. 50 Palmer Street: This project by the Salem Harbor Community Development Corporation (CDC) included the demolition of the existing structure and the construction of a new three-story residential structure with a footprint of 7,300 square feet. The new structure is complete and consists of 15 units of affordable rental housing for low and moderate income households. This project was funded using a partnership of private and public sources, including funds from the City. CVS - Loring/Canal/Jefferson - Construction of a new CVS was approved by the Planning Board in2012 and completed the s¿ìme year. There were significant improvements to this site, which also includes four other commercial businesses. Thorndike Street Subdivision - This 5-lot subdivision was approved by the Planning Board in December 2012 and will be under construction in 2013. 405-419 Highland Avenue Subdivision - This 1l-lot subdivision was approved by the Planning Board in 2010 Scotia Street - This 2-lot subdivision was approved by the Planning Board in 2010. Circle Hill Subdivision - This 3-lot subdivision was approved by the Planning Board in 2011 Sec 2 - 9 ---PAGE BREAK--- AL Prime Gas Station - 175 and 183 Lafayette Street - This project includes the demolition of two existing buildings and the existing gasoline pumps, and the construction of a new convenience store and three new double-sided gasoline puÃpr, reprèsenting additionaì investment in The Point neighborhood. 162 Federal Street - The renovation of a former convent building into eight residential units was approved by the Planning Board in September 2012. Construction is anticipated to start in 2013. 275-281 Essex Street: The development includes the conversion of the four-story 30,000 square foot former C.F Tompkins Furniture Building into a mixed-use retail/residential deveiopment with 3 retail units on the ground floor and 20 housing units on the upper floors. A new retail stãre opened in 2008 and all20 residential condominiums were quickly sold. Salem Main Streets Program: In July 2007, the City, in collaboration with the Salem Chamber of Commerce and the Salem Partnership, revived the Salem Main Streets program. The program works to support the revitalization of downtown Salem as, a vibrant year-round retail, dining and cultural destination through business recruitment, retention, and the promotion of downtown Salem. In 2010, the program continued to support business recruitment and retention while adding an annual downtown arts festival and a weekly farmers market. ln20l1, the hugely successful farmers market was extended through November and December. Salem Affordable Housing Trust Fund: The City adopted an ordinance to create a municipal housing trust fund in October, 2006 Through negotiations with a developer, the Trust Fund received $50,000 and additional funds are expected from negotiated contributions from other large development projects. The Trust held its first meeting in March, 2007 and has developed a set of goals and strategies to increase affordable housing opportunities in Salem. ln 2009, the Trust provided $25,000 to HAWC toward construction of a shelter for abused parents and children. The remainder of the funds was provided to the St. Joseph's redevelopment project for assistance with designated units of affordable housing. Destination Salem: V/ith assistance from a John and Abigail Adams Grant, the City established a new Destination Marketing Organization, which is being led by a qualified Executive Director and a Board of Directors. A well-respected consultant firm presented recommendations for a new targeted marketing effort that will re-position Salem as a premier, year-round travel destination. The City has restored its funding commitment to Destination Salem through its annual allocation of hotel/motel tax revenue. m Still history Ë t It.,.fC .d .t * 1 I I t s( f . ,t:*i Ft, * ,l ' Sec 2 - 10 ---PAGE BREAK--- Salem Downtown Renewal Plan - In January 2012 the Department of Housing and Community Development approved a major plan change to the City's urban renewal plans, creating a consolidated plan, the "Salem Downtown Renewal Plan", wfriôtr updates góals^and objective and design guidelines. This new plan will be in effect for thirty years. Bridge Street Neck Neighborhood Revitalization Plan - This neighborhood master plan for the Bridge Street Neck area was completed in August 2009. The City was recently awarded technical assistance funds from the regional planning ageîcy, MAPC, to undertake implementation of one of the key recommendations of the plan, creation of a mixed use district. Conservation District Study: Utilizing a grant from the Massachusetts Historical Commission, the City has completed a Neighborhood Architectural Conservation District Study as an update to the Salem Preservation Master Plan. The study discusies the City's ability to preserve historically significant neighborhoods not designated as Local Historic Districts. The project includes delineation of potential Neighborhood Architectural Conservation Districts (NACD's) and the creation of a draft Neighborhood Architectural Coniervation District bylaw. Open Space Bertram Field - The Cþ recently received a PARC grant in the amount of $400,000 to install artificial turf at Bertram field and to renovate the tack. The design work is also investigating the possibility of providing an expanded track and new field house. Construction is estimated to begin in FY14. Bike Path: The Boston & Maine Railroad deeded an abandoned railroad right-oÊway to the City of Salem n 1996 for $220,000 and the deed was accepted by the City Council for the conversion into a multi-use trail/bike path. Design, engineering, and permitting of the Salem Bike Path started in 1998 and construction began in late 1999. The Salem Bike Path was formally opened to the public in the fall of 2001. The acquisition, design, engineering, permitting, and consfruction costs totaled 945I,574 and were paid entirely with a Transportation Enhancement Grant from the Massachusetts Highway Deparftnent. The bike path begins at the Lafayette Street entrance near the City of Salem and Town of Marblehead line, and continues north approximately 2,500linear feet alongside the Salem State College Central Campus toward Loring Avenue. Opposite Loring Avenue the bike path continues north approximately 450 linear feet to Canal Street. In its entirety, the existing Salem Bike Path (Phase I) is roughly 3,000 linear feet in length, or a half-mile long. The City recently completed a Priority Bike Route (both on and of road) through a combination of signage and pavement markings to create a safe means of bike circulation from the Marblehead line to V/inter Island. The City and the Salem Bike Path Committee are committed to extending the Salem Bike Path to downtown Salem via an extension of the former Boston & Maine Railroad ROV/ atCanal Street, behind Gardner Mattress and all the businesses on Broadway Street, and a portion of the MBTA's active and abandoned railroad Sec 2 - 11 ---PAGE BREAK--- ROW. This extension, referred to as Phase II, is currently in the design and engineering phase and once completed will connect downtown Salem to downtown Marblehead with an entirely off-road trail. Open Space Plan Update: Working with a consultant and the Open Space and Recreation Plan Committee, the City completed the Open Space and Recreation Plan Update in June 2007. The Plan establishes long-term goals for the preservation, continued protection and maintenance of open space and recreational areas in the City. Completion of the Plan made the City eligible to apply for grants through the State PARC progr¿ìm. The City was successful and has received grants for Peabody Street Park, Furlong Park, and Splaine Park. In 2010 the City received approval from the State to extend the eligibility period of the Five-Year Action Plan component of the Open Space and Recreation Plan to a Seven-Year Action Plan. As a result of this extension, the Plan is now valid until 2014. Splaine Park: The City was recently awarded a$420,946 grant from the State through the PARC program to upgrade Splaine Park. Proposed improvements to the park include the construction of a stone dust bike/walking path along the park perimeter, the enhancement of the two main entrances, the construction of play structures, the installation of a new baseball field and inigation system, and the rebuilding of the bleachers and dugouts. Furlong Park: The City received a $500,000 Parkland Acquisition and Renovation for Communities (PARC) Grant from the State Division of Conservation Services for the restoration of Furlong Park. The 5.5 acre park is located along the North River and contains a baseball field, tennis court, playground, and basketball court. As part of the project these features were renovated and additions to the park included construction of a car top boat launch and stabilization of the eroded embankment that borders the North River. Environmental remediation work was funded with a state grant and is now complete. Park renovations were substantially complete at the end of201 I Peabody Street Park: In July 2010, construction was completed on a new City park along Peabody Street. Previously an abandoned lot, the City of Salem was awarded a $200,000 EPA Brownfields Cleanup Grant in May 2007 and an Urban Self Help grant in the amount of $469,110 to fund its cleanup and revitalization. The City provided a20Yo match. High Street Playground: In Spring, 2010, the City installed a new play structure and fence in this neighborhood playground, utilizing Community Development Block Grant funds. Waterfront Planning and Development Key changes also are rapidly occurring along Salem's shoreline, creating rare waterfront development opportunities. Salem Harbor Power Station Sec 2 - 12 ---PAGE BREAK--- In August 2012, Footprint Power LLC finalizeda deal with Dominion Energy Inc. to purchase the Salem Harbor Power Station. Upon shut-down of the existing power plant in May 2014, will demolish all existing structures and undertake any necessary environmental cleanup. Footprint plans to construct a state-of-the-art 630 megawatt gas-fired plant on a portion of the site. They are currently before the Energy Facilities Siting Board and expect to file an application with the Salem Planning Board in spring 2013. Footprint will open the remaining two-thirds of the 63-acre waterfront property to private and public development opportunities. Salem Harbor Power Station Reuse Study: The City acquired a $200,000 grant from the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center to undertake a study to evaluate the feasibility of redevelopment of the site, which became very timely with the announcement by Dominion Energy that they would be shutting down their Salem Harbor plant in 2014.. The consultants conducted a comprehensive public planning pro.ot and the final report, "A Site Assessment Study on Potential Land Use Options at the Salem Harbor Power Station Site" was released in January, 2012. This assessment is serving as guidance for the potential redevelopment of the site, which is now owned by Footprint power (see above).. of Salem This $18 million to $20 million project calls for construction of a multi-purpose commercial wharf facility with supporting utilities and amenities for cruise ships, commercial fishing, transient, and charter vessels. A terminal building, harborwalk, dredging, and landside improvements are also proposed. The City has f,rnished the design, engineering, and has obtained all the Federal, State, and local regulatory permits for construction. Construction of Phase 1, which consists of installation of utilities, seawall construction, final grading and base paving, began in February 2011 and is complete. Phase 2, which consists of partial construction of the wharf facility, is under construction and will be completed in 2013. The City also received $l million for assoiiated dredging. Once completed, the Salem Wharf will implement the most important recommendation and goal of the City's Municipal Harbor Plan by creating a multi-use commercial wharf facility with deepwater access for ocean-going vessels. This facility will fill a void in Salem Harbor and help move the Port of Salem one step closer to becoming a full service port. South River Dredge: The City obtained $155,000 from the Governor's Seaport Advisory Council for sediment testing, bathometric survey work, cost analysis for dredge disposal options, and preliminary design and engineering of the dredge footprint for the South River Channel and the South River Basin (area west of the Congress Street Bridge). The City has received an additional $275,000 from the Seaport Council to finish the engineering and permitting stage of the dredge project. The Environmental impact report is underway. Once completed, the dredging will provided deeper drafting vessels, transient boats, and dingy boats direct access to downtown Salem. Acquisition of 10 Blaney Street: The City obtained $1.7 million from the Governor's Seaport Advisory Council toward the acquisition of the Blaney Street parcel, the site of the future Salem Wharf, currently owned by Dominion Energy. In June 2010, the City of Salem agreed to terms with Dominion Energy for the sale of the property and the City Council authorized the Mayor to purchase the property for the use as a commercial wharf facility and cruise terminal. The City has purchased the site. Sec 2 - 13 ---PAGE BREAK--- South River Harborwalk The City secured $1,336,000 from the Governor's Seaport Advisory Council for construction and the construction oversight of the South River Harborwalk. The City has contributed 5267/00 of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) for its required 20Yo match. totaling $1.6 million. On July 15, 2010 the South River Harborwalk was completed and unveiled to the public. The Harborwalk is a fully accessible public walkway with pedestrian amenities such as benches, lighting and landscaping along the southern and western banks of the South River Basin. Salem Ferry: The Salem to Boston Ferry is a new transportation option connecting two great cities. Named the Nathaniel Bowditch after the founder of modern maritime navigation and Salem's native son, the ferry is a high-speed catamaran that carries 149 passengers, is entirely ADA accessible and makes the trip from Salem to Boston - where it docks next to the Aquarium - in less than 45 minutes. On the three commuter runs, a second stop is added, located at the V/orld Trade Center dock in Boston Harbor. The City of Salem and the :i 5rìj;';' Massachusetts Bay Transportation Association (MBTA) have an agreement which allows commuters to purchase a pass that can be used both on the Ferry commuter runs and on the commuter train, strengthening the Ferry's viability as a transportation choice for daily commuters. The City of Salem is one of only a few municipalities to own a ferry vessel, which it purchased with a grarÍ from the Mas sachusetts Executive Offrce o f Transportation. Salem Ferr)' Pier: In spring of 2006,the City completed construction of a $600,000 ferry pier consisting of a wooden pier, ADA accessible gangways, steel float, and aluminum dock at the end of 10 Blaney Street for the Salem Ferry. The City has since made numerous improvements to the Salem Ferry Pier including the installation of shore power, dry fire line, potable water lines, and a fuel line utilizing and additional grant from the Seaport Council. This temporary facility will be integrated into the permanent Salem Wharf structure. Grants The Govemor's Seaport Advisory Council submitted and obtained a Port Security Grant from the US Homeland Security Department on behalf of the Ports of Salem and Gloucester for $518,320 to begin implementing security features within each Port to address federal mandates. V/ith the help of the Salem Police Department, the City installed fourteen wireless surveillance cameras around critical waterfront infrastructure in August 2010. The City will continue to work to comply with federal Homeland Security mandates as the Port of Salem continues to grow. Sec 2 - 14 ---PAGE BREAK--- Winter Island Master Plan: The City completed a Master Plan for the renovation and redevelopment of Winter Island Park. The City is now seeking funding to implement the plan's recommendations. Mccabe Marina: The city received a $500,000 grant from the State public Access Board to reconstruct the public boat launch at Mccabe Marine. Construction was completed in July 2010. Salem Harbor Plan update: The update of the city's Municipal Harbor plan, created in 2000 was approved by the EoEEA in 2008. The City worked with a consultant and the Salem Harbor Plan Implementation Committee to update the plan. The Plan outlines a 10 year strategy for port development which guides the future use and character of the Port of Salem. Urban Renewal, Housing and Community Development Despite the current economic climate, Salem is still experiencing significant private investment throughout the City, including the downtown. The City is now seeing a swge in retail and commercial development, helping to boost the tax base. In addition, Salem is continuing to pursue several public facilities improvement projects, as well as numerous transportation improvement projects designed to facilitate traffrc flow to and through the City for residents and visitors alike. Various other projects are being funded by the City, as well as by State and Federal grant monies. The City has a successful track record of administering both State and Federal grants. -J À, \ - it Sec 2 - 15 ---PAGE BREAK--- /Ct Ilnt ûir Co\\ins Cove r0f cðl Salem H MAßBLEHEAD "_kua* o'lêr¡ .Pú' Salem, Massachusetts Street lndex dÀ tr Hayor K¡mb.rloy Dr¡scoll 5WAMp5 SÀLEM dIÀNIBER OI CoMNIERCE . Mlu SÀLEM.CHÅMBER ORG SAI,FM CLIAMB¡]R OF . \I}V SAI-EM{TIAMB}:R ORC Sec 2 - 16 ---PAGE BREAK--- Fire Protection Fire Prevention Civil Defense/Emergency Preparedness Fire Switchboard and Telephone Operations Employee Benefits Hiring/Recruitment Labor Relations In-house Legal Services Licensing City Clerk Human Resources Legal Division Police Patrol Harbormæter Animal Control Claims and Judgments Police Shade Tree Street and Sidewalk Traffic Maintenance/Sign Painting Water/Sewer Maintenance City Council Public Services Cemetery Central Motors Park and Open Space Maintenance Public Property Maintenance Ma¡ket and Tourist Commission Planning Board Salem Redevelopment Authority Mayor Planning and Communify Development Zoning Board ofAppeals Citizens of Salem Information Technology Parking Procurement Community/Planning/ Neighborhood Project Conservation Commission Historical Commission Treasurer X'inance Auditing Assessing Collector School Committee Salem-Beverly Water Board South Essex Sewerage District Water/Sewer Billing Meters Recreation Veterans Affairs Winter Island Plumbing Weights and Measures Engineering Recreation and Community Services Inspectional Services Council on Aging Golf Course Library Building Elechical Health School Superintendent Capital Improvement Plan Engineering and Plan Review Recycling and Conservation Sec 2 - 17 ---PAGE BREAK--- EXECUTIVE DIVISION Mayor LEGISLATIVE DIVISION City Clerk FINANCE DIVISION Assessors Collector IT/GIS Finance Parking Department Purchasing Treasurer LEGAL DIVISION Solicitor HUMAN RESOURCE DIVISION Human Resources FIRE DIVISION Fire POLICE DIVISION Police Harbormaster INSPECTIONAL SERVICE S DIVISION Public Property Licensing Electrical Health Organizational Summary-Department Heads Mayor Kimberley Driscoll Cheryl LaPointe [PHONE REDACTED] [EMAIL REDACTED] [PHONE REDACTED] clapointe(@salem.com Debora Jackson Bonnie Celi Olle Duijvesteijn Sarah Stanton James Hacker V/hitney Haskell Kathleen McMahon Elizabeth Rennard Lisa Cammarata Chief David Cody Chief Paul Tucker Capt. V/illiam McHugh [PHONE REDACTED] 978-619-s620 978-619-s645 [PHONE REDACTED] [PHONE REDACTED] [PHONE REDACTED] 978-619-563s [EMAIL REDACTED] [EMAIL REDACTED] od u i ivestei i n(@salem. com [EMAIL REDACTED] [EMAIL REDACTED] whaskelltOsalem.com [EMAIL REDACTED] [PHONE REDACTED] brennard(@salem.com [PHONE REDACTED] [EMAIL REDACTED] [PHONE REDACTED] [EMAIL REDACTED] [PHONE REDACTED] [PHONE REDACTED] [EMAIL REDACTED] wmchuqh(Osalem.com Thomas St. Piene [PHONE REDACTED] Robert M St. Pierre, Board Chairman [PHONE REDACTED] John Giardi [PHONE REDACTED] Larry Ramdin [PHONE REDACTED] [EMAIL REDACTED] [EMAIL REDACTED] Itsmfin(@salem.com Sec 2 - 18 ---PAGE BREAK--- PLANNING & COMMT]NITY DEVELOPMENT DIVISION Planning Lynn Duncan Organizztional Summa ry-Depa rtment Heads John Tomasz David Knowlton [PHONE REDACTED] [EMAIL REDACTED] [PHONE REDACTED] [EMAIL REDACTED] [PHONE REDACTED] dknowlton(Osalem.com PUBLIC SERVICES DIVISION Public Services Water & Sewer Enterprise ENGINEERING DIVISION Engineering Water, Sewer & Trash Enterprise RECREATION & COMMUNITY SERVICES DIVISION Recreation Karen Partanen Council On Aging Karen Partanen Library Nancy Tracy Veterans Kim Emerling EDUCATION DIVISION School [EMAIL REDACTED] kpartanen(@salem.com liacksontOsalem.com [EMAIL REDACTED] Stephen Russell, Superintendent [PHONE REDACTED] [EMAIL REDACTED] [PHONE REDACTED] [PHONE REDACTED] [PHONE REDACTED] 978-74s-0883 Sec 2 - 19 ---PAGE BREAK--- Mussachusetts Department of Revenue, Division of Local Services At A Glance Repoft for Salem Socioeconomic Gounty School Structure Form of Government 2010 Population 2011 Labor Force 2011 Unemployment Rate 1999 Per Gapita lncome 2009 Population Per Square Mile 2009 Housing Units Per Square Mile 2009 Road Miles EQV Per Capita (2010 EQV/2009 Population) Number of Registered Vehicles (January 2010) Average Age of Vehicles (January 20f 0) 2010 Number of Registered Voters Essex K-12 Mayor Council B) 41,340 23,717 7.2 23,857 5,106.30 2,243.93 98.62 110,451 36,341 10.85 25,515 Gertification Most Recent Next Scheduled 2010 2013 Bond Rati Moody's Bond Rating as of December 2010* S & P Bond Rating as of December 2010* Aa3 A "Blank indicates the community has not been rated by the bond agency Sec 2 - 20 ---PAGE BREAK--- Fiscal Year 2011 Estimated Che Sheet Aid Education Aid General Government Total Receipts Total Assessments Net State Aid 17,760,585 6,206,253 23,966,839 6,618,904 17,347,934 Fiscal Year 2011 Tax Glassification Tax Glassification Residential Open Space Commercial lndustrial Personal Property Total Assessed Values 3,361 ,382,273 0 417,668J02 123,342,500 213,577,900 4,115,970,775 Tax Levy 50,588,803 0 12,145,788 3,586,800 6,210,845 72,532,236 Tax Rate 15.05 0.00 29.08 29.08 29.08 Fiscal Year 2011 Revenues by Source Revenue Source Tax Levy State Aid Local Receipts Other Available Total 72,532,237 28,277,675 25,999,906 1,467,866 128,166,694 Percent of Total 56.59 22.06 20.20 1.15 Sec 2 - 21 ---PAGE BREAK--- At A Glance Repoft for Salem Fiscal Year 2011 Pro ition 21/z Levy Capac New Growth Override Debt Exclusion Levy Limit Excess Gapacity Ceiling Override Capacity 1,104,777 0 0 72,993,129 460,893 102,899,269 29,906,140 Other Available Funds 7t1t2010 Free Cash 750 607 FY20l0 Stabilization Fund 1 FY2011 Overlay Reservc 978,987 Fiscal Year 2011Average Sin le Fami Tax Bill*" Number of Single Family Parcels Assessed Value of Single Family Average Single Family Tax Bill 4,813 296,827 4,467 Sec 2 - 22 ---PAGE BREAK--- At A Glance Report for Salem State Avera e Sin le Family Tax Bill Fiscal Year 2009 Fiscal Year 2010 Fiscal Yea¡ 2011 4,250 4,390 4,537 Sa/em issues propefty tax bills Quañerly. **For the communities granting residential exemptions, DLS does not collect enough information to calculate an average single-family tax bill. ln FYl l those communities are Barnstable, Boston, Brookline, Cambridge, Chelsea, Everett, Malden, Nantucket, Somerville, Somerset, Tisbury, Waltham and Watertown. Therefore, the average single-family tax bill information in this report will be blank. At A Glance Repoñ for Salem Fiscal Year 2010 Schedule A - Actual Revenues and Expenditures General Fund Revenues Expenditures Police Fire Education Public Works General Fund Debt Service Health Ins Pension AllOther 107,978,397 114,565,106 7,322,942 6,721,396 47,258,374 3,262,093 14,886,466 9,422,506 8,168,620 17,522,709 Special Revenue 23,646,045 23,393,525 0 0 10,137,859 557,263 Gapital Projects 2,725,906 4,858,582 0 0 1,032,590 1,411,799 Enterprise Funds 12,155,292 '13,424,697 0 0 0 10,859,726 Trust Revenue 119,246 740,996 0 0 0 0 TotalAll Funds 146,624,886 156,982,906 7,322,942 6,72',1,396 58,428,823 16,090,991 14,886,466 9,422,506 8,168,620 35,941,272 12,698,403 2,414,193 2,564,971 740,996 This data only represents the revenues and expenditures occurring in these funds and does not reflect any transfers to or from other funds. Therefore, this data should not be used to calculate an ending fund balance. Sec 2 - 23 ---PAGE BREAK--- Total Revenues and E ditures Per Capita General Fund special Gapital Enterprise Trust rotalAll Revenue Projects Funds Revenue Funds Revenues 2,612.0 572.0 65.9 294.0 2.9 3,546.8 Expenditures 2,771.3 565.9 117.s 324.7 17.9 3JgrA lf you have questions regarding the data contained in this report, please contact the Municipal Databank/Local Aid Section at (617) 626-2384 or [EMAIL REDACTED]. ma. us. Please note that this is the most recent information available from the DOR website as of this printing on 612712013. Their last update was 9t2312011 Sec 2 - 24 ---PAGE BREAK--- Demographics Profile of General Demographic Charcteristics Geographic Area: Salem, Massachusetts Ghanqe Percent 0.13To -0.13Yo 1.49% 0.70% 0.80% 0.00% 0.12o/o -1.22Yo -0.29Vo -0.93% -3.13o/o 2.650/o 0A7% 0.89% 0.05% 0.14o/o -6.74% 4.40% -0.85o/o Number 933 488 445 1 1,362 627 735 702 202 -374 -71 -303 -477 1,132 198 389 24 136 -2,577 -[PHONE REDACTED] Percent '100.0% 46.5o/o 53.5% 81.3% 37.0% 44.3To 75.3o/o 16.3o/o 12.9Yo 5.2Yo 7.80Â 84.2% 6.5To 1.0o/o 3.3o/o 0.2o/o 8.4o/o 15.6% 84/% 81.5o/o Number 41,340 19,233 22,107 37.6 33,612 15,299 18,313 31,1 31 6,754 5,342 2,135 3,207 34,826 2,694 434 1,344 97 3,455 6,465 34,875 33,694 2000 Percent 100.0% 46.4o/o 53.6% 79.8Yo 36.3Yo 43.5o/o 75.3o/o 16.2o/o 14.1Yo 5.5% 8.7% 87.4o/o 3.9o/o 0.60/0 2.4o/o 0.2o/o 8.2o/o 22.4% 88.8% 82/% Number 40,407 18,745 21,662 36.4 32,250 14,672 17,578 30,429 6,552 5,716 2,206 3,510 35,303 1,562 236 955 73 3,319 9,042 35,866 33.277 Subject Total Population Sex and Age Male Female Median Age (years) 18 years and over Male Female 21 years and over 62 years and over 65 years and over Male Female Race alone or in combination with one or more other races White Black or African American American lndian and Alaska native Asian Native Hawaiia and other Pacific lslander Some other race Hispanic or Latino (of any race) Not Hispanic or Latino White alone Source: US Census Bureau, Census 2000, Census 2010 Sec 2 - 25 ---PAGE BREAK--- Salem's Top Employers Comment . Salem Hospital . NS Children's Hospital . Salem o Charter Professional Services . Outpatient Mental Health a Full & part time ¡ School ¡ Fire ¡ Police . City offices ¡ Full, part, & permanent . Department of Social Services o Essex Country Registry of Deeds o NS Career Center ¡ Probate and Family Court . Salem Disfrict Court ¡ Superior Court . Children and Family Law o Youth Advocacy Department o BAR Assoc. Advocates o Transitional Assistance Dept a 162 if you include summer staff ¡ Youth Services (ACCESS, ALP) . Outpatient Clinic ¡ Emergency Services Total Emplovees 3,1 80 7,467 1,263 5s7 350 344 275 250 255 t66 150 150 140 t45 t42 Nature of Business Health Care Higher Education Municipal Government Health Care Food Market State Government Banking Health Care Cultural/Tourism Social Service Agency Retail Retail Lodging Manufacturer Health Care Company Name North Shore Medical Center Salem State University City of Salem Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital Market Basket Commonwealth of Massachusetts Offices Salem Five Savings Bank Grosvenor Park Nursing Center Peabodv Essex Museum Salem YMCA Wal-Mart Home Denot Hawthorne Hotel Excelitas Northeast Behavioral Health Services Sec 2 - 26 ---PAGE BREAK--- Salem's Top Employers 115 110 103 100 99 90 85 81 80 80 75 75 65 65 53 Retail lnsurance Manufacturer Retail Food Market Retail Manufacturer Food Market Public Utility Service Lodeine Manufacturer Service Retail Federal OfFrce Target Middle-Oak Insurance Co. Thermal Circuits,Inc. Harbor Sweets Shaw's Supermarket Salem Glass Jacqueline's Gourmet Cookies Crosby's Marketplace Dominion/Salem Harbor Station Groom Construction Waterfront Hotel GT Systems McCue Corporation TJ Maxx US Post Office June 2013 Sec 2 - 27