Daily brief · Swampscott, MA
Police Budget Up 6.9% Under New Union Contract
October 2, 2026
Top story
Swampscott Police Budget Rises 6.9% Under New Union Contract
The town has posted its updated agreement with Massachusetts Coalition of Police Local 417, which runs through June 30, 2028, and calls for 8% in wage increases over three years plus an annual 2% stipend. The Police Department's budget rose 6.9% in the warrant approved at May Town Meeting. Department records show vacation, personal, sick and longevity days account for 1,374 of the 4,380 shifts each year, and Chief Ruben Quesada has said overtime will need to continue to keep the same level of service.
Swampscott Tides
Archer Woods Walking Trail Network Complete
Town officials announced October 1 that the trail system through the 10-acre Archer Woods conservation area is finished. It has four public access points and preserved woodland paths.
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Cross Country Teams Prepare for Championship Meets
After hosting Masconomet, Swampscott High's girls team stands at 4-0 and the boys at 2-2. Both teams face Winthrop next week as they prepare for conference and state championship meets.
Swampscott Tides
Topsfield Fair Opens Today with Giant-Pumpkin Weigh-Off
The 208th Topsfield Fair opens Friday, October 2, for an 11-day run, with the giant-pumpkin weigh-off tonight. Swampscott's Thomas Keenan placed third last year with a 2,000-pound pumpkin.
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Swampscott Football Plays at Salem Tonight
Swampscott's varsity football team plays a conference game at Salem tonight, Friday, October 2, at 6:30 p.m.
MaxPreps
Danvers JV Field Hockey Visits Swampscott Today
Danvers JV field hockey plays at Swampscott today, Friday, October 2, at 5:45 p.m.
MaxPreps
Elementary PTO's Mad Scientist Program Meets Today
The Swampscott Elementary School PTO's Mad Scientist program runs today from 2:20 to 3:20 p.m. Students in K–4 do experiments with chemical reactions, diffusion and states of matter.
Swampscott PTO
Music and Movement Program for Children at Library Today
The Swampscott Public Library hosts the CFCE Music and Movement Program today from 10:00 to 10:45 a.m. in the second-floor meeting room. Young children join interactive rhythm and play activities.
Swampscott Public Library
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