Peabody's new Mayor Ted Bettencourt was our guest Tuesday for an hourlong live chat with Patch readers. The question-and-answer session covered a lot of ground in the city.

Here are some of the highlights from the chat:

Suzan J: I would like to know [your] thoughts and opinions on the new reconstruction of Peabody Square. [Are you] going to keep the current plans the same or [do you] want to make changes to the plans. I personally think this project is going to be a big failure. I have presented a configuration proposal to the mayor's office and I was told it wouldn't work. I would like you, Mr. Mayor, to look at my plan with fresh eyes. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Mayor Bettencourt: Thank you for the question Suzan. I am committed to making improvements to our downtown. I think for too long our downtown has struggled. Our residents and the business community need help. What we have currently is not working and change is necessary. The project would be the biggest to our city's infrastructure in many years and the costs are significant. We are working on the engineering designs now and examining the financial impacts. I have not seen your proposal but any thoughts are welcome.

Leo: What vision do you have for Route 1? Let me re-phrase, what kind of new uses would you like on Route 1?

Mayor Bettencourt: I see some improvements with the demolishing of the old Carriage House hotel and the soon to be opened Red's Sandwich Shop. I would like restaurants and retail stores. Also, office buildings with office suites.

Rich: I am concerned about recent hires for city solicitor and treasurer... Are jobs being given out based on political support or because of qualifications? Are there going to be any independent voices at City Hall or does everyone 'owe' someone something?

Mayor Bettencourt: Hi Rich. Thanks for the question. I am hiring people who are honest, hard-working and will represent the city in fine fashion. Politics does not enter into it. I have many people now working here who supported my opponent in last year's election. I want the best people.

Julia: What are the top priorities for the new superintendent? What changes is he looking to make?

Mayor Bettencourt: To me, the top qualifications for our new superintendent was to me a excellent communicator and someone who wants to make a commitment long term to this city. Not just someone who is looking to build their resume. I am currently in talks with Joe Mastrocola now over a contract but I am excited by his enthusiasm and his strong desire to be a part of the long term future of this city.

Rich: Do you have a plan to significantly improve the school system? Would you be willing to increase taxes if it meant a dramatic improvement in the schools?

Mayor Bettencourt: The first action that needed to be taken was the hiring of a superintendent who will make a true commitment to our city. The next focus from me will be the middle school. Pouring money into something does not always guarantee the best results. But I believe the proper balance can be struck. Am I afraid to raise taxes? No, but all options must be explored first.

[Editor's Note: The following comment is related to a recent issue where an autistic boy was unable to take skating lessons at the Peabody rink because his parents or a therapist were not allowed on the ice.]

TannerCity: I saw you on the news last night talking about the skating rink. It seems the rink/instructors are taking the blame on this but why was that policy there to begin with?

Mayor Bettencourt: Hi TannerCity. The rink manager has told me the policy was put in place years ago because of concern that many children would want their parents on the ice with them which would cause a distraction to the class instruction.

WPeabs: How will you work with the police department to reduce crime in our city?

Mayor Bettencourt: WPeabs. Great name! Two of the most important issues any mayor deals with is educating our youth and making sure our streets are safe. I want to make sure that the police have the tools and training they need. Peabody is a big city in many ways and deals with big city problems. Nothing is more important than public safety.

Angie: We live over in South Peabody, our parks are a mess, where do we start on getting some clean up?

Mayor Bettencourt: Our parks definitely need a lot of work and I am not satisfied with the current condition. We have just hired a new Park and Recreation Director and the condition of the parks are a top priority for both of us. You will see improvement.

Bob: Hi Mayor. Any thoughts at this point on plans for Crystal Lake?

Mayor Bettencourt: Hi Bob. I believe Crystal Lake could be a gem for this city. I would love to have some areas for passive recreation - picnic benches, etc. It would fit in nicely with the bike path. It is a beautiful area that I don't want to lose.

Guest: Mayor, what is your position regarding helping people in the city of Peabody lose weight and become healthy, given that 60% of the population is either overweight or obese?

Mayor Bettencourt: That stat is troublesome. We are actually working on some initiatives with our health director to tackle this very topic.

Click here for a complete transcript of Tuesday's live chat with Mayor Bettencourt.