By Nancy Reardon
MethuenLife Writer
Mayor David “DJ” Beauregard Jr., gave his State of the City address before a full house at the Methuen Senior Activity Center last month, focusing on his commitment to infrastructure, historic preservation, education and more.
*Roads, parks and safer schools: Beauregard’s Fiscal Year 2025 Capital Improvement Plan aims for safer streets, sidewalks and public buildings and parks.
“Our plan includes new police vehicles, upgraded public works equipment, and cutting-edge technology to enhance public safety in our schools and throughout our city,” he stated.
*Searles Estate: The city purchased the historic property of Methuen millionaire Edward F. Searles for $3.25 million and Beauregard’s Searles Estate Future Use Advisory Committee has already started brain-storming.
“By securing this property, we are not making an investment for financial gain but ensuring that this vital piece of our city’s history is preserved for generations to come,” the mayor said.
*Cleaner, stronger schools: Beauregard aggressively tackled grammar school rodent infestations and the city is “beginning to replace outdated infrastructure such as old carpeting and boilers and improving school security with upgraded alert systems,” he said. “Additionally, we have initiated a performance audit of the School Department – not to point fingers, but to identify areas for improvement and ensure excellence in education.”
*Going greener: The city has hired a new sanitation program coordinator “dedicated to streamlining operations, improving efficiency, and ensuring that residents receive the reliable service they deserve,” the mayor said, noting the kick-off of a curbside textile recycling program to reduce waste disposal costs.
He also mentioned the launch of the Safe Streets for All initiative to combat dangerous intersections and speeding, streamlining permitting services for new businesses, incoming affordable housing units and working with Lawrence General Hospital now that it has acquired Holy Family.
With these goals in mind, Beauregard said he’s continuing the work of his late predecessor: “I am proud to report on our progress as we continue (Mayor Neil Perry’s) legacy of fiscal responsibility and use our financial stability to move Methuen forward in ways that benefit every resident.”
The full address is available On Demand at methuentv.org.
