Finance Committee examines public safety budget pressures and staffing changes ahead of FY27. Chair Jodi Harris and the Committee conducted a comprehensive review of Police, Fire, Ambulance, and Harbormaster departments, with Police confirming that full staffing has reduced incidental overtime.
The Essex Board of Selectmen took action on several key items, approving a manager change and authorizing study contracts. The board unanimously approved Ingrid Dowling as new manager of The James on Main Street, pending a Criminal Offender Record Information check, and authorized Chairman Alva A.
Essex Board of Selectmen advances bicycle charity event, defers senior tax relief warrant article to fall.
Essex Open Space Committee reviewed planning maps and survey results for its 2026 recreation plan update. Chair Julie Scofield led the working session, which included participation from Town Planner Valarie Massard and Metropolitan Area Planning Council staff Evelyne St-Louis and John Cruz. The
Essex Planning Board advances review of Preserve at Essex 36-lot residential subdivision. The Planning Board reported progress on The Preserve at Essex, an open space residential development on Essex Park Road with a public hearing scheduled for March 4. Chair Lisa O'Donnell worked with Town
Essex Council on Aging approves prior minutes, receives grant confirmation. The board unanimously approved its January 6 meeting minutes and received confirmation that $8,000 in formula grant funding will arrive in three installments. Director Tess Leary reported that staff wage-range increase
Essex Board of Public Works unanimously approves sewer capacity increase for Martin Street renovation. Chairman Nick Ellis and Commissioner Dexter Doane supported the sewer flow increase for 113 Martin Street, where the owner is converting kitchen space to bedroom. Board staff reported ongoing work
Council on Aging strategic planning refines financial security objectives. The Strategic Planning Committee, chaired by Curt Siebert, met to establish action plans for Goal 1 of its strategic plan: providing financial security education to seniors. Tess Leary, Council on Aging Director, attended,
Essex Board of Selectmen unanimously approve salary increases and infrastructure authorization votes. Town Administrator Brendhan Zubricki won Board approval for a $80,000 target salary for the Town Accountant in fiscal year 2027, contingent on contract negotiation. The Board also unanimously
Community Preservation Committee rejects splash pad proposal, advances town ramp project. Committee members voted 4-0, with Chair Michele French recused, to deny an YMCA splash pad at Centennial Grove, citing long-term maintenance obligations, liability exposure, and unknown environmental impacts.
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