METHUEN — The city will be getting more than $600,000 for a host of projects and groups along with millions in general funding from the state’s $57 billion budget.
Methuen will be receiving at least $665,000 for various projects as part of the state’s fiscal 2025 budget. The city will also be getting $6.6 million in generalized state aid, according to a news release from state Sen. Pavel Payano, D-Lawrence.
The school district, which relies heavily on state aid, will be receiving $68.6 million in Chapter 70 funding. Although the funding represents a 6% increase over last year, it’s a smaller increase than the previous year and has forced officials to cut as many as 41 positions from the district, though almost entirely through unfilled positions.
The Greater Lawrence Health clinic will be getting a good chunk of the project money with $250,000 to expand its mobile health program. The center recently launched a new mobile health clinic with the help of a donation from the Arbella Insurance Foundation.
While the nonprofit MAN Inc will get $150,000 to “enhance entrepreneurial opportunities in the Methuen Arlington neighborhood.” The nonprofit offers programs to low and moderate income families in the area, including art therapy, yoga, karate, movies and crafts, a homework center and summer programming.
“With the FY25 budget now officially signed, I am particularly proud of the investments we have secured for Methuen,” Payano said. “This budget not only addresses the immediate needs of our community but also lays a foundation for future growth.
“From significant funding for education and workforce development to critical support for healthcare and housing, these allocations will have a lasting impact on our residents.”
The city will be getting another $50,000 to purchase Care Solace, a software that serves to help people access mental health resources, according to the group’s website.
“It will allow every resident to access a licensed mental health professional within 72 hours, allowing Methuen to lead the way when it comes to helping citizens secure quality mental health resources,” Rep. Ryan Hamilton, D-Methuen, said.
The budget also includes $20,000 for the Methuen Youth Basketball Summer league.
“Our support for the Methuen Youth Basketball Association’s summer tournament highlights our belief in our young people’s potential. These earmarks aren’t just funding allocations; they’re a promise to safeguard our community’s well-being, drive economic growth, and ensure everyone has access to the resources they need to thrive,” Rep. Francisco Paulino, D-Methuen, said.
The Merrimack Valley Prevention and Substance Abuse Project will also be getting $25,000.
Other funding includes:
- $75,000 for Youth Development Organization for STEM, arts, and leadership development.
- $50,000 for Merrimack Volleyball Academy for youth sports activities.
- $20,000 for Olive In July Inc. to support disabled children, young adults, and low to moderate- income families in Lawrence and Methuen.
- $25,000 for the Methuen Senior Activity Center.
“This budget exemplifies our legislative delegation’s commitment to ensuring Methuen remains a vibrant and equitable place for all its citizens,” Payano said.
“I am grateful for the collaborative efforts of my legislative colleagues, and together we will continue to champion the needs of our district.”