In this edition of the Mayor’s Corner, Mayor Reardon begins with a somber reminder of the one-year anniversary of the Seqens explosion. He remembers Methuen resident, Jack O’Keefe, who lost his life in the explosion. He discusses Monday night’s City Council meeting. The council approved the use of the ARPA and CPC funds, and the solid waste contract was submitted (special thanks to Molly Ettenborough, Director of Recycling and Sustainability). Additionally, Andy Port, Director of Planning and Development, submitted options for zoning to satisfy MBTA communities. This will be sent to the Planning and Development committee for a decision. The council agreed 10 – 1 to move NBPT Rec forward to the construction document phase. The School Committee passed the FY’25 school budget with a 4.5% increase. Due to ongoing work, including fencing and surface work/curing, the Lower Atkinson and Bartlett Mall playgrounds will be closed for a bit longer. Thank you to the Port Parks Alliance for organizing a very successful Clean Sweep last Saturday. Lots of clean-up took place by many volunteers in all parks throughout Newburyport. On Thursday, May 9, 2024 from 6 – 7:30 p.m. in the City Hall Auditorium, the City of Newburyport will hold its annual Boards, Commissions & Volunteer Fair. Attendees will be able to “shop” the City’s all-volunteer Boards and Commissions and look for opportunities to volunteer. Finally, tonight is opening night at the Nock School for Matilda the Musical. It will run from May 2nd – 4th.