Swampscott Development News
GatherGov Agents listens to meetings 24/7 delivering the latest real estate development updates, legislation, and news.
Development News from the latest meeting
Select Board - 6/17/26
Published: Jun 17, 2026
Debate Over Hawthorne Property Development: Open Space vs. Mixed-Use Sparks Community Discussion
During a public comment session, residents and committee members voiced strong opinions regarding the future development of the Hawthorne property. The Open Space and Recreation Plan Committee and the Tree Committee advocated for the property to be developed primarily as open parkland, citing community preferences, potential revenue from tourism, and the precedent of successful open spaces in neighboring towns. They also emphasized removing the existing building due to its condition and impact on coastal access. Conversely, some speakers supported mixed-use development, including entertainment venues, citing the need for revenue and the success of current downtown businesses and the proposed Performing Arts Center. Concerns were raised about the financial implications of developing the entire site as a park and the potential to miss revenue-generating opportunities. The discussion highlighted the division between prioritizing open space versus development for economic benefit.
Town Administrator Nickerson Receives Strong Six-Month Performance Review, Excelling in Fiscal Management and Staff Relations
The Select Board conducted a six-month performance review for Town Administrator Nickerson. The review, based on feedback from prior and current board members, indicated strong overall performance, with particular praise for personal characteristics and fiscal management. Strengths noted include excellent judgment, professionalism, clear communication, ability to learn quickly, initiative in identifying improvements, positive working relationships with staff, and fiscal oversight. Areas for continued growth include broader community engagement, quicker response times to residents, further delegation of responsibilities, more direct and proactive addressing of challenges, and improved visibility with internal management areas. The board acknowledged the challenging nature of the role and the positive shift in Town Hall's atmosphere attributed to the Town Administrator.
Swampscott Considers Second Trash Barrels and Every-Other-Week Recycling to Optimize Solid Waste Contract
The Select Board is considering changes to the solid waste and recycling contract, including the potential for a second trash barrel and a shift to every-other-week recycling pickup. Negotiations with Republic Services are ongoing, with the town aiming to finalize pricing for a second barrel by July 7th. Public information sessions have been held, and a form will be available to gauge resident needs for different barrel sizes and waste management preferences. The proposed shift to every-other-week recycling is projected to save the town approximately $150,000-$170,000 annually. This change is common in surrounding communities, and a phased rollout (potentially starting January) is being considered to allow residents time to adjust.
Swampscott Adopts 2035 Master Plan Guiding Future Development and Community Vision
The Select Board and Planning Board discussed and endorsed the Swampscott Master Plan 2035. This plan, developed over 18 months with extensive public input, provides a framework for future town decisions regarding planning, policy, and investment. It outlines a shared vision for the community across eight planning elements including economic development, land use, housing, transportation, open space, public services, historic resources, and climate. Key priorities for the next three years focus on infrastructure, connectivity, housing affordability, and economic vitality. The plan emphasizes community consensus and does not create legal obligations but guides decision-making. An implementation committee is recommended to keep the plan's goals active. Several public comments highlighted the importance of open space, particularly at the Hawthorne property, while others supported mixed-use development and revenue generation. The plan was adopted by the Planning Board and endorsed by the Select Board.
Swampscott Select Board Approves Entertainment License for Performing Arts Center at Hawthorne Site
The Select Board granted an entertainment license for the Swampscott Center for the Performing Arts, located at the former Hawthorne restaurant site. This approval follows previous discussions and addresses concerns raised by the board and community members regarding noise, crowd control, parking, and sound mitigation. The applicant, represented by the venue's operator, assured the board that professional sound engineers would manage acoustics, and that events would be contained within the property lines, with double doors closed during performances. The venue plans to host ticketed events with nationally recognized entertainers and community functions. They aim to be a good neighbor and are open to community feedback. The license was approved with a motion and second, and passed unanimously.
Get Weekly Development News of Swampscott
Get it now for $25/year. Stay ahead of market moving news.
From $25/year
The Swampscott News archive
Select Board - June 17, 2026
Zoning Board of Appeals - 6/16/26
Town of Swampscott Pride Celebration 2026
Zoning Board of Appeals - June 16, 2026
Zoning Board of Appeals - 6/16/26
Solid Waste Advisory Committee - Trash Public Forum - June 15, 2026
Get it now for $25/year. Stay ahead of market moving news. Get your edge today.
GatherGov Market Intelligence
For Owners & Developers
See entitlement risk and deploy capital where there is the highest probability of return
For AEC
Win more projects by discovering opportunities before your competitors do.
Frequently Asked Questions About Swampscott ,Massachusetts Real Estate Development
Get Weekly Development News of Swampscott, Massachusetts | From $25/year