Council approves Blue River Diamonds junk‑dealer renewal after notice confusion

The Peabody City Council on June 25 approved a renewal application for a junk‑dealer license for Blue River Diamonds, permitting the sale and purchase of secondhand items at 210 Andover Street.

Applicant Neil Van Dam said his business has operated at the North Shore Mall for about 10 years and that renewal notices were likely sent to the mall address rather than directly to him, which led to missed renewals. "I had no prior knowledge of it," Van Dam said, explaining he would update contact information to prevent future lapses.

Councilor Daigle said she spoke with Van Dam and supported approval; other councilors said they considered the matter a routine renewal and thanked the applicant for clarifying the notice issue. The council closed the public hearing and approved the license by roll call, 11–0.