By PAIGE CARR

Staff writer

Peabody Police Chief Bruce Burke voiced a request for a third part-time police officer to council members at Monday’s meeting.

“You’re getting ready to fill the position for a third city worker for the third time,” he said. “In 2011 I lost a full-time cop. If we fill the city worker position, I’d like a third part-time officer.”

Council members discussed past conversations centered around the same amount of city workers as officers, as brought up by Burke, and agreed it was a viable request.

“I know it’s more work,” Mayor Larry Larsen said. “But if you could please give us a budget showing two part-time officers and another showing three part-time officers, I agree it’s deserving of a re-look.”

Burke responded positively to the mayor’s request.

“That’s no problem at all,” he said. “I’m not afraid of work.”

Council members also heard from representatives of Peabody Dreamers Club relative to the upcoming Sunday Cruises. Travis Foth requested blocking off additional portions of downtown streets for more parking spaces, along with council purchasing flags used for the event. Council members approved both requests unanimously.

Council revisited the topic of the city’s financial contribution for refurbished air packs for the fire department. While the line item in the budget only shows $3,200, and the total price of four packs is $6,800, Larsen and council members conversed about ways to make up the difference.

Larsen again noted their support of the fire department to Fire Chief Mark Penner, and asked for additional time to review the suggestions on the table before coming to a conclusion.

The meeting concluded with a 20-minute executive session for non-elected personnel. Following the session, they approved hiring Rachel Wattson as pool manager.