Essex County public meetings in 2024
68 substantive meetings from 2024, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Energy Committee
The committee will discuss the finances of the Indian Brook RFP with Greg Duggan. Members will also coordinate the March 3, 2025 Town Showcase & Soup Night and the upcoming annual report.
- Finances of Indian Brook RFP
- Town Showcase & Soup Night on March 3, 2025
- Annual Report due January 17th
- Enhanced Energy Plan
- Upper Main Street Municipal Complex joint meeting on January 15
Police Community Advisory Board
The Police Community Advisory Board will meet to welcome new members and receive an overview of the Essex Police Department from Chief Hoague. The board will also discuss a survey update.
- Latest EPD overview by Chief Hoague
- Survey update
- Approval of 11/17/2024 minutes
Selectboard
The Selectboard will conduct the first of two public hearings regarding proposed amendments to the Town of Essex Charter. The board will also discuss the fiscal year 2026 budget and capital budget plan.
- Public hearing on proposed Town of Essex Charter amendments
- Approval of Clean Water State Revolving Fund Application for Center Road Sewer Forcemain Project
- Vermont Agency of Transportation Stormwater Mitigation Grant Application for Salt Shed
- Discussion on Town dog licensing fees
- Consideration of request to change Conservation and Trails Committee to a commission
Planning Commission
The Planning Commission will conduct a continued public hearing regarding a sketch plan for a residential subdivision. The body will also note a withdrawn application for a subdivision in the Saxon Hill Industrial Park.
- Public hearing for Sterling Homes sketch plan: 28-lot subdivision at 53 Center Road including 26 single-family homes and 1 condominium with 4 duplexes
- Withdrawal of Allen Brook Development preliminary review for a 6-lot subdivision at 75 Thompson Drive
- Review of Town of Jericho Bylaw Amendment Notice
Conservation & Trails Committee
The Conservation & Trails Committee will discuss its fiscal year 2025 work plan and staff support, advise on development application reviews, and consider seeking Conservation Commission status. It will also vote on a Trail Caretaker application and an Arbor Day Foundation Tree City application. Updates on the Riverside Land Project, Tree Nursery Project, and other initiatives will be presented.
- Discussion of Conservation & Trails Committee FY 2025 work plan and staff support
- Advice on Development Application Reviews
- Potential action to seek Conservation Commission status
- Approval of Trail Caretaker application
- Approval of Arbor Day Foundation Tree City application
Economic Development Commission
The Economic Development Commission will call the meeting to order, approve the minutes from its November 21, 2024 session, and discuss several updates. Items include temporary signage, a recap of Small Business Saturday, a review of the EDC project list, and unfinished updates or plans. The meeting concludes with scheduling the next session.
- Approve minutes from November 21, 2024 meeting
- Discuss temporary signage (Ken)
- Recap Small Business Saturday
- Review EDC project list (Rebecca)
- Discuss unfinished updates, projects, and plans
General
The Essex Development Review Board will meet to conduct Land Use Essentials training. The session is scheduled for Thursday, December 5, 2024, at 6:30 PM, and will be held both in person and online.
- Land Use Essentials Training
- Meeting held at 81 Main St., Essex Junction
- Meeting available via Zoom and toll-free audio
Housing Commission
The Essex County Housing Commission will review the resource website development and outline next steps. It will examine a budget request email and discuss lessons from a recent housing conference. The commission will also review housing data for Essex on HousingData.org.
- Review and plan next steps for the housing resource website
- Examine the budget request email
- Discuss learnings from the recent housing conference
- Review Essex housing profile data on HousingData.org
Selectboard
The Selectboard will discuss several consent and business items. It will consider approving an award for a Water and Sewer Rate and Fee Study and authorizing staff to begin a fire department impact‑fee study and related ordinance. The board will continue its work session on the fiscal year 2026 budget and consider a letter to the Vermont Department of Taxes about improper collection of local options tax. A discussion and possible executive session will address the appointment, employment, or evaluation of a public officer or employee.
- Approve award for Water and Sewer Rate and Fee Study
- Approve fire department impact‑fee study and authorize staff to draft impact‑fee ordinance
- Continue work session on fiscal year 2026 budget
- Approve letter to Vermont Department of Taxes regarding improper collection of local options tax
- Discuss appointment, employment, or evaluation of a public officer or employee (potential executive session)
Economic Development Commission
The Economic Development Commission will meet to review budget recommendations and project initiatives. The body will also receive updates on Small Business Saturday and the Explore Essex program.
- Budget Recommendations
- Small Business Saturday November 30, 2024 update
- Explore Essex update
- Project List & Initiatives
Essex Free Library Board of Trustees
The Essex Free Library Board of Trustees will meet on November 20, 2024 at 7:00 pm in the library community room and via Zoom. The agenda includes routine items such as call to order, agenda changes, minutes approval, announcements, and a director’s report. The board will elect officers, receive an update from the Friends group, and review the Patron Code of Behavior policy. The meeting will conclude with adjournment.
- Elect officers
- Friends group update
- Policy review – Patron Code of Behavior
- Review minutes and approve
- Library Director’s report
Police Community Advisory Board
The Police Community Advisory Board will approve the minutes from the October 15, 2024 meeting. It will hear Chief Hoague’s latest overview of the Essex Police Department and discuss that overview with the Town Selectboard from the November 4 meeting. The board will also consider a proposed public‑safety survey task list of five questions.
- Approve minutes from the October 15, 2024 meeting
- Chief Hoague presents the latest Essex Police Department overview
- Discussion of the overview with the Town of Essex Selectboard (Nov 4)
- Public Safety Survey task list – five questions requested
- Reading file: DEA Rx Take Back worksheet and summary
Selectboard
The Essex Selectboard will interview a volunteer for the Chittenden County Communications Union District Board. They will discuss the Winooski Valley Park District and present municipal complex planning for 80 & 90 Upper Main Street. The board will consider approving the Susie Wilson Road scoping study recommendation and charter amendment articles for submission to the Town Clerk. A work session on the fiscal year 2026 budget and discussions about contracts are also on the agenda.
- Interview volunteer for Essex representative on Chittenden County Communications Union District Board
- Presentation on municipal complex planning at 80 & 90 Upper Main Street
- Consider approval of Susie Wilson Road scoping study recommendation
- Consider approval of charter amendment articles for submission to the Town Clerk
- Work session on fiscal year 2026 budget
Selectboard
The Essex Selectboard will convene to approve meeting minutes and hold a work session focused on the fiscal year 2026 budget. The meeting will be held in person and online.
- Approve minutes: November 2, 2024; November 4, 2024
- Work session on fiscal year 2026 budget
Planning Commission
The Planning Commission will hold public hearings on two development proposals: a four‑lot minor subdivision at 9 Colonel Page Road and a 32‑unit Planned Unit Development‑Residential at 18 & 30 Timberlane Drive. A presentation on the Susie Wilson Road corridor scoping alternatives will also be given. The commission will discuss a zoning amendment request for the State of Vermont Women’s Correctional Facility and approve minutes from the October meetings.
- Public hearing on 4‑lot minor subdivision at 9 Colonel Page Road (Agricultural Residential, Floodplain Overlay, Scenic Resource Protection Overlay)
- Public hearing on 32‑unit Planned Unit Development‑Residential at 18 & 30 Timberlane Drive (117 acres, Medium Density Residential R2)
- Presentation of Susie Wilson Road Corridor Scoping Preferred Alternatives
- Internal discussion of State of Vermont Women’s Correctional Facility zoning amendment request
- Approval of minutes from October 10, 2024 and October 24, 2024
Energy Committee
The Essex Energy Committee will consider draft minutes from the October 23, 2024 meeting and address any vacancies. A special presentation on geothermal energy networks and options for the Upper Main Street project will be given, followed by a Q&A. The committee will also view the 2024 Annual Progress Report video and note upcoming energy‑related events.
- Draft minutes from 10/23/2024
- Vacancies on the committee
- Special presentation on geothermal energy networks and options for Essex Upper Main Street (presented by Debbie New and Ann Janda)
- EAN 2024 Annual Progress Report video (https://eanvt.org/2024-annual-report/)
- Upcoming events: South Burlington Energy Event – Road to Nowhere on Nov. 14, 2024; Upper Main Street Municipal Complex joint meeting on Dec. 11
Conservation & Trails Committee
The Conservation & Trails Committee will consider several advisory items, including grant applications for the VT Urban Community Forest Program and the 2025 Recreation Trails Program. Members will vote on reinstating the Trail Caretakers Program and on a new committee charter draft. The agenda also includes authorization to participate in the Vermont Climate Action Plan and an action item on the EMS Project Proposal.
- Approve New Committee Charter Draft
- Action on EMS Project Proposal – Chuck/Betsy
- Approve Advisory to Reinstate Trail Caretakers Program – Duane
- Authorize participation in Vermont Climate Action Plan Attachment
- Advise on VT Urban Community Forest Program Tree Planting Grant Application – April
Economic Development Commission
The Essex Economic Development Commission will meet to approve minutes from October and discuss support for Small Business Saturday, budget recommendations, and temporary signage updates.
- Approval of October 3, 2024 minutes
- Explore Essex - Support Small Business Saturday, November 30, 2024
- Budget Recommendations
- Temporary Signage Update and Recommendations
- EDC Commissioner update to Selectboard
Housing Commission
The Housing Commission will review housing data and the development of a resource website. The body will also hold a discussion regarding its budget request.
- Housing Data Review and Discussion
- Resource Website Development Review
- Housing Commission Budget Request Discussion
Selectboard
The Selectboard will hold a public hearing regarding a November 5 bond vote for pump station and forcemain upgrades. The board will also consider the 2024-2025 Winter Operations Plan and discuss potential charter changes.
- Public hearing on bond vote for Heritage Estates Pump Station and Center Road Forcemain
- Potential action on future management of Tree Farm Recreational Facility
- Approval of 2024 to 2025 Winter Operations Plan
- Potential action to warn public hearings on proposed charter changes
- Approval of letter to Vermont Department of Taxes regarding local options tax collection
Selectboard
The Selectboard is holding a special meeting to conduct a team-building workshop. The board also intends to enter executive session to discuss the appointment, employment, or evaluation of a public officer or employee.
- Selectboard team-building workshop
- Executive session regarding public officer or employee appointment, employment, or evaluation
Energy Committee
The Essex County Energy Committee will review draft minutes and discuss vacancies. It will recap the Essex Explore! effort, consider a solar request‑for‑proposal for the Unsworth parcel, and follow up on charter changes. Members will also review the 2024 Annual Progress Report and discuss upcoming energy events and a possible EV event.
- Solar RFP Proposal for Unsworth Parcel
- Charter Changes: Follow‑Up from Last Meeting
- 2024 Annual Progress Report (video and written report)
- So. Burlington Energy Event – Road to Nowhere, Nov. 14 2024
- Possible EV Event planning based on new data
Board of Civil Authority
The Board of Civil Authority is meeting as the Board of Abatement. The primary purpose of the meeting is to consider a request for tax abatement for a resident unable to pay taxes, interest, and collection fees.
- Tax abatement request from Deborah Norton (continuation from 9/24/24 meeting)
General
The Essex County Housing Commission will review the resource website development and discuss next steps. The commission will receive updates on the Chittenden County Regional Housing Convening, the Essex Municipal Site, and recent housing commission conversations and priorities. No formal decisions are indicated in the agenda.
- Resource Website Development Review and Next Steps
- Update on Chittenden County Regional Housing Convening
- Update on Essex Municipal Site
- Update on Oter Recent HC Conversations/Priorities
Planning Commission
The Planning Commission will hear a presentation and responses to questions regarding a zoning amendment request for the State of Vermont Correctional Facility. The meeting includes a public open forum to discuss the potential amendment.
- State of Vermont Correctional Facility zoning amendment request
Energy Committee
The committee will review a solar RFP proposal for the Unsworth Parcel and discuss the EAN 2024 Annual Progress Report. Members will also follow up on charter changes and recap the Essex Explore! efforts.
- Solar RFP Proposal for Unsworth Parcel
- EAN 2024 Annual Progress Report review
- Charter changes follow-up
- Conceptual planning for a possible 2024 EV event
- Review of draft minutes from 08/14, 08/21, and 09/11/2024
Zoning Board of Adjustment
The Zoning Board of Adjustment will open the meeting, consider any agenda additions or changes, and approve the minutes from the July 2, 2024 meeting. It will then review a conditional use application submitted by Jena Katzman and Tom Atkins to operate a seasonal (May–October) event space at 478 Owls Woods (Parcel ID #2-012-028-000) in the Conservation (C1) District. The proposal seeks to allow up to 150 guests, parking for 75 cars, and up to 16 overnight guests. The board will also address any other business before adjourning.
- Approve minutes from the July 2, 2024 meeting
- Conditional use application for a seasonal event space at 478 Owls Woods (max 150 guests, 75 parking spaces, 16 overnight guests) in the Conservation (C1) District
Selectboard
The Essex Selectboard will vote on a contract for the River Road Forcemain Leak and Air Pocket Detection project. They will also discuss appointing a volunteer to the Economic Development Commission, a stormwater permit amendment for the Pinewood Section H Permit, and proposed charter amendments. Additional topics include shared assessing services with the City of Essex Junction and updates from various town committees.
- Consider approval of contract award for River Road Forcemain Leak and Air Pocket Detection project
- Interview and possible appointment of a volunteer to serve on the Economic Development Commission
- Consider approval of incorporating Pinewood Section H Permit under the Town's State stormwater permit for Three-Acre Permit Compliance
- Consider the recommended Town of Essex Charter amendments from the Charter Review Committee
- Discussion about the future of shared assessing services with the City of Essex Junction
Economic Development Commission
The Essex County Economic Development Commission will review budget recommendations and consider supporting the town's Small Business Saturday event on November 30, 2024. The commission will also receive a commissioner update to the Selectboard, an EDC staff update, and discuss temporary signage recommendations.
- Explore Essex support for Small Business Saturday on November 30, 2024
- Commissioner update to the Selectboard
- Budget recommendations
- EDC staff update
- Temporary signage update and recommendations
Cemetery Commission
The Cemetery Commission will discuss revenue sources and budget requests for fiscal year 2026. The body is also reviewing cemetery maintenance, including turf care and stone repairs.
- Cemetery reorganization
- Turf maintenance and stone repair revenue sources for FY26
- Review of voter approved budget line item access
- Discussion of volunteer stipends
- Work plan items including military grave marking and historical society collaboration
Essex Free Library Board of Trustees
The Essex Free Library Board will review the Strategic Plan Working Group discussion and consider approving the plan. The meeting also includes a Library Director’s Report, a monthly update from the Friends of the Library, and the election of officers. All items are listed on the agenda for this October 16, 2024 meeting.
- Strategic Plan Working Group discussion, summary, and possible approval
- Library Director’s Report
- Monthly Friends of the Library update
- Election of board officers
Police Community Advisory Board
The Essex County Police Community Advisory Board will first approve the meeting agenda and the minutes from September 17, 2024. It will then hear a presentation on the latest Essex Police Department overview by Chief Hoague. The board will discuss the Explore Essex community‑engagement effort, a recent overview with the Essex Junction City Council, and a public‑safety survey task list. Attendance at a Selectboard meeting on November 4 will also be confirmed.
- Approve agenda
- Approve minutes from 09/17/2024
- Latest EPD overview presented by Chief Hoague
- Discussion of Explore Essex / community engagement
- Public Safety Survey task list
Planning Commission
The commission will review an application from Jeffrey and Estelle LeClair to split a parcel at 120 Towers Rd into two lots (11.82 acres and 4.02 acres) within the Low Density Residential (R1) and Scenic Resource Protection Overlay districts. Staff will present bicycle and pedestrian facility design standards. The board will also approve minutes from the September 26, 2024 meeting and address any other business.
- Application: simple parcel subdivision at 120 Towers Rd, creating two lots (11.82 acres and 4.02 acres) in R1 and SRPO districts
- Staff presentation on bicycle and pedestrian facility design standards
- Approval of minutes from the September 26, 2024 meeting
General
The Housing Commission will meet to discuss the development of a resource website and provide updates on the Essex Municipal Site. The body will also review the Chittenden County Regional Housing Convening.
- Resource Website Development review
- Update on Essex Municipal Site
- Update on Chittenden County Regional Housing Convening
Conservation & Trails Committee
The Conservation & Trails Committee will discuss several potential actions, including approving FY26 budget recommendations for tree removal and planting, ratifying changes to the Tree Nursery MOU, and advising on the VT Urban Community Forest Program tree‑planting grant. It will also consider a change to the regular meeting time and an advisory to reinstate the Trail Caretakers Program. Additional updates will be provided on trail projects, forest management, and related reports.
- Approve budget recommendations for tree removal and planting for FY26
- Ratify changes to Tree Nursery MOU
- Approve advisory to reinstate Trail Caretakers Program
- Consider changing regular meeting time
- Advise on VT Urban Community Forest Program tree‑planting grant application
Selectboard
The Selectboard will discuss the management of the Tree Farm Recreational Facility and proposed Town of Essex Charter amendments. The board is also considering several infrastructure projects, including water line replacements and utility design for Upper Main Street.
- Bid award and state revolving fund application for Fort Ethan Allen water line replacement design
- Request for crosswalk on Jericho Road / VT Route 15 near Perry Drive
- Approval of Lead Service Line Replacement Plan
- Grant application to Catalyst Program for Upper Main Street utility design
- Final adoption of Vermont Community Development Program (VCDP) grant eligibility policies
Economic Development Commission
The Economic Development Commission will consider a childcare zoning memorandum that may be voted on. Members will also discuss the Explore Essex Passport program, provide staff and selectboard updates, and review budget recommendations. Additional items include a temporary signage update and open agenda items from prior meetings.
- Childcare Zoning Memorandum to Planning Commission – possible vote
- Discussion of Explore Essex Passport Program
- Budget Recommendations
- Temporary Signage Update and Recommendations
- Review of past agenda open items
Planning Commission
The commission will discuss several agenda items, including authorizing signage for the Pinwheel at 4 Carmichael Street and a letter of support for Green Mountain Transit route #10. A preliminary public hearing will be held for the Allen Brook Development, a six‑lot subdivision at 75 Thompson Drive in the Saxon Hill Industrial Park. The meeting will also include updates on zoning regulations and the Development Review Board, and will approve minutes from the September 12 meeting.
- Authorize Pinwheel signage in the Business-Design Control Overlay District at 4 Carmichael Street
- Letter of support to maintain Green Mountain Transit Essex route #10
- Preliminary public hearing for Allen Brook Development – 6‑lot subdivision at 75 Thompson Drive, Parcel ID 2-072-008-000
- Zoning Regulations Update
- Development Review Board (DRB) Update
Board of Civil Authority
The Board of Civil Authority will discuss three requests to abate taxes for persons who are insolvent or unable to pay, citing 24 V.S.A. §1535(a)(3). It will also approve the June 25, 2024 meeting minutes, authorize election officials to deposit absentee ballots before the November 5 General Election, and designate Justices of the Peace to deliver ballots to ill or disabled voters. A public hearing will be held before these items are acted upon.
- Approve minutes from June 25, 2024
- Authorize election officials to deposit absentee ballots before the November 5 General Election (24 V.S.A. §2546(a))
- Designate Justices of the Peace to deliver ballots to ill or disabled voters (24 V.S.A. §2538(a)(b))
- Request by Monique Lemire (Estate Executor) to abate taxes of a deceased insolvent person (24 V.S.A. §1535(a)(3))
- Request by Cassandra Reyes on behalf of Elaine Mackenzie to abate taxes of a person unable to pay (24 V.S.A. §1535(a)(3))
Economic Development Commission
The Economic Development Commission will review several updates, including a childcare zoning memorandum that may be voted on, and budget recommendations for the town. Other items include partner updates, staff reports, and a temporary signage update. The meeting also includes routine agenda items such as approval of minutes and public comments.
- Childcare zoning memorandum to Planning Commission – possible vote
- Budget recommendations
- Temporary signage update and recommendations
- Partner updates
- EDC staff update
Police Community Advisory Board
The Police Community Advisory Board will discuss a public safety survey task list and develop work plans for the fiscal year. The board also plans to provide an overview of the last 12 months to the City of Essex Junction Council.
- Latest EPD overview by Chief Hoague
- Quarter 1 Board Schedule and fiscal year work plans
- Public Safety Survey task list
- Community Engagement discussion regarding Explore Essex 9/21/24
- Review of 2020 Essex Public Safety & Racial Justice data summary
Selectboard
The Essex Selectboard will interview volunteers for possible appointment to the Development Review Board. It will consider amending the Energy Committee charter to become an Energy and Climate Commission. The board will discuss the Conservation and Trails Committee's recommendation to purchase land on River Road/VT Route 117 for a small boat access point. Additional items include reviewing policies for Vermont Community Development Program grant eligibility and hearing a presentation on Green Mountain Transit's Draft Urban Service Reduction Plan.
- Interview and possible appointment of volunteers to serve on the Development Review Board
- Consider approval of Energy Committee charter amendment to become the Energy and Climate Commission
- Discussion of Conservation and Trails Committee recommendation to purchase land on River Road / VT Route 117 for a small boat access point
- Consider approval of policies for Vermont Community Development Program (VCDP) grant eligibility
- Presentation from Green Mountain Transit about the Draft Urban Service Reduction Plan
Planning Commission
The Essex Town Planning Commission will conduct a site visit with landowner Peter Edelmann d/b/a Eurowest Retail Partners to review an application for a 170‑unit residential development at 21 Essex Way, located in the Mixed‑Use Development Planned Unit Development (MXD‑PUD) zoning district and the Business Design Control (B‑DC) overlay. The public is invited to attend the visit at 5:30 p.m. and to submit written questions for the follow‑up meeting at 6:30 p.m. the same day. The commission will consider the applicant’s description of the proposal during the later meeting.
- Site visit of 170‑unit residential development at 21 Essex Way (MXD‑PUD & B‑DC zones)
- Landowner Peter Edelmann d/b/a Eurowest Retail Partners participating
- Public invited to attend at 5:30 p.m. and submit questions
- Follow‑up meeting at 6:30 p.m. same day to discuss the application
- More information at www.essexvt.org
Planning Commission
The Planning Commission will hold public hearings on two residential sketch plans and review a commercial site plan amendment. The body will also discuss zoning amendment processes for a women's correctional and re-entry facility.
- Sketch plan for 28-lot subdivision at 53 Center Road (Sterling Homes)
- Sketch plan for 170 residential units at 21 Essex Way (Eurowest Retail Partners, LTD)
- Site plan amendment for 4,800 sq ft commercial building at 302 Colchester Road (DiStefano Landscaping)
- Discussion on zoning amendments for a women's correctional and re-entry facility
- Energy Committee presentation
Energy Committee
The Energy Committee will consider the draft minutes from the August 14 meeting and address any vacancies. It will discuss a recap of the CVF, planning for Essex Explore!, and follow‑up on charter changes. Key topics include the solar RFP for the Unsworth parcel, next steps for the new municipal complex, and revised zoning regulations for 2025. The meeting also allows for other business.
- Solar RFP Proposal for Unsworth Parcel
- New Municipal Complex – Next Steps
- Charter Changes: Follow‑Up from Last Meeting
- Revised Zoning Regulations – Comments for 2025
- CVF Recap and Lessons Learned
Conservation & Trails Committee
The Conservation & Trails Committee will approve minutes from the August 13 meeting and discuss a series of action items, including a trail clean‑up date, updates to the Tree Nursery agreement, and the Riverside Boat Access plan. Members will also review the FY26 budget recommendation for tree removal and planting, and consider the EMS Project proposal. Additional reports will cover trail issues, grant applications, and updates to town tree policy.
- Approve Indian Brook Fall Clean‑up Date
- Ratify changes to Tree Nursery MOU
- Approve FY26 budget recommendations for tree removal and planting
- Update and approve next steps for Riverside Boat Access
- Action on the EMS Project proposal
Economic Development Commission
The Economic Development Commission will approve minutes from its August 1 and August 9 meetings, receive updates on the Essex community, staff, and the Selectboard, and consider budget recommendations. The agenda also includes a discussion of child‑care services and a temporary signage update. No formal votes on contracts, rezoning, or ordinances are listed.
- Approve minutes from August 1, 2024 and August 9, 2024 meetings
- Budget recommendations
- Child‑care update
- Temporary signage update and recommendation
- Explore Essex community update
Housing Commission
The Housing Commission will meet to discuss and potentially vote on comments regarding the 53 Center Road Development. The body will also receive updates on a workforce housing project and the development of a resource website.
- Potential vote on comments for 53 Center Road Development
- Update on Workforce Housing Project in Essex Experience
- Update on Resource Website Development
Energy Committee
The Charter Review Committee will approve the minutes from the May 22, 2024 meeting. Members will discuss the Essex Energy Committee charter and consider approving draft amendment documents to be presented to the Selectboard. They will also designate who will present the recommendations and may confirm the next meeting date.
- Approve minutes from May 22, 2024
- Discussion of the Essex Energy Committee charter
- Consider approval of draft amendment documents
- Designate presenter for recommendations to the Selectboard
- Confirm next meeting date if needed
Charter Review Committee
The Charter Review Committee will meet to review comments and questions from the August 19 Selectboard meeting. The committee will also consider whether additional meetings are necessary.
- Approval of July 24, 2024 minutes
- Discussion of August 19 Selectboard meeting feedback
- Determination of need for additional meetings
Essex Free Library Board of Trustees
The trustees will discuss the library director’s upcoming leave, review the library budget, consider a new patron‑privacy law, evaluate a harm‑reduction pack program, and receive updates on the strategic plan and the Friends group.
- Plan for Library Director’s Leave
- Library Budget Discussion
- New Library Patron Privacy Law
- Discussion and Evaluation of Harm Reduction Pack program
- Strategic Plan Working Group and Community Survey Updates
Selectboard
The Essex County Selectboard will meet on August 26, 2024 to conduct standard business, including a public comment period. The primary agenda item is a request to approve wastewater allocation for Little Ones University located at 36 Catamount Lane. No other substantive items are listed.
- Consider approval of wastewater allocation request for Little Ones University at 36 Catamount Lane
Planning Commission
The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a proposed 9‑lot residential subdivision submitted by Alan D. French, located at 60 Colonel Page Road in the Low Density Residential (R1) Zone and Scenic Resource Protection Overlay District. The commission will also discuss a conceptual proposal by David Wright for a roughly 5,000‑square‑foot multi‑tenant commercial building at 50 Gauthier Drive in the Industrial (I) District. In addition, the commission will approve the minutes from the August 8, 2024 meeting and consider any other business.
- Proposed 9‑lot residential subdivision by Alan D. French at 60 Colonel Page Road (R1 zone, SRPO overlay)
- Proposed ±5,000 sq ft multi‑tenant commercial building by David Wright at 50 Gauthier Drive (Industrial district)
- Public hearing on the final plan for the residential subdivision
- Approval of August 8, 2024 meeting minutes
- Potential executive and/or deliberative session per V.S.A. §§ 313 & 312(e)(f)
Police Community Advisory Board
The Police Community Advisory Board will hold its regular meeting on August 20, 2024. The board will consider consent items such as draft minutes and discuss a public safety survey, National Night Out, and a work plan. Members will also vote to elect a new President and Vice President.
- Welcoming Back Gwendolyn
- Voting for New President / Vice President
- Public Safety Survey – Discussion
- National Night Out – Quick Overview
- Work Plan Discussion (if needed)
Selectboard
The Selectboard will discuss land purchase for boat access on River Road and budget goals for fiscal year 2026. The body is also considering the adoption of an Investment Policy and the mailing of ballots for the November 2024 election.
- Approval of warning for November 2024 bond vote for Center Road forcemain project
- Recommendation to purchase land on River Road/VT Route 117 for small boat access
- Discussion of Charter Review Committee recommendations
- Update on 80 & 90 Upper Main Street Planning Project for municipal site
- Consideration of Investment Policy adoption
Economic Development Commission
The Economic Development Commission will call the meeting to order, consider any agenda changes, and hear public comments. It will approve the minutes from the August 1 and August 9, 2024 meetings. The body will discuss business outreach for Paul Maza’s Fresh Produce, an update on Essex, staff reports, child‑care information, and a temporary signage recommendation. The meeting will conclude with scheduling the next session.
- Approve minutes from August 1, 2024 meeting
- Approve minutes from August 9, 2024 meeting
- Business outreach discussion for Paul Maza’s Fresh Produce
- Temporary signage update and recommendation
- Child care update
Cemetery Commission
The Cemetery Commission will meet to approve previous minutes and receive a sexton's report. The body will also review cemetery beautification and maintenance.
- Sexton Report
- Cemetery Beautification and Maintenance Review
Conservation & Trails Committee
The committee will consider development reviews for five properties and take potential action on the FY25 work plan and an EMS project proposal. Members will also discuss land purchase advisories and forest protection under Act 171.
- Development reviews for 60 Colonel Page Road, 50 Gauthier Drive, 21 Essex Way, 53 Center Road, and 132 Thompson Drive
- Adoption of the FY25 Work Plan
- Action on EMS Project proposal
- Adoption of Land purchase advisory draft
- Review of Tree Nursery MOU changes
Economic Development Commission
The Essex County Economic Development Commission will review and vote on a Request for Proposal for an Economic Development Study to recommend to town leadership. The meeting will be held remotely on August 9, 2024.
- Review and vote to recommend Request for Proposal for an Economic Development Study
- Meeting will be held remotely on August 9, 2024
- Meeting ID: 862 6325 0094 | Passcode: 544047
Planning Commission
The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a site plan submitted by Franklin South, LLC for a 50'x60' commercial building at 108 Colchester Rd in the Mixed Use Development District. Commissioners will also discuss a Vermont state request to amend Zoning Regulation Section 4.14(C)(2) ‘Public Facilities’ to include additional locations. The agenda and the July 25, 2024 minutes will be approved, and the meeting may include an executive or deliberative session as allowed by state law.
- Public hearing on site plan for Franklin South, LLC's 50'x60' commercial building at 108 Colchester Rd (Mixed Use Development District)
- Discussion of VT state request to amend Zoning Regulation Section 4.14(C)(2) ‘Public Facilities’
- Approval of the meeting agenda
- Approval of July 25, 2024 minutes
- Potential executive/deliberative session per V.S.A. §§313 & 312(e)(f)
Housing Commission
The Essex County Housing Commission will consider a development review for the property at 53 Center Road. It will also receive an update on the stakeholder meeting for the Essex Municipal Site at Upper Main Street and discuss work‑plan updates and role assignments. Additional items include a review of housing and demographic data.
- Development Review – 53 Center Road
- Stakeholder Meeting Update: Essex Municipal Site at Upper Main Street
- Work Plan Updates from Members
- Housing and Demographic Data Review
- Work Plan Discussion: assign additional roles/responsibilities
Selectboard
The Essex Selectboard will review and potentially adopt the tax rates for fiscal year 2025. It will also consider adopting an Investment Policy, forming a Development Review Board, and discuss a possible November 2024 bond for the Center Road forcemain project. Additional discussion items include contracts and the appointment or evaluation of a public officer or employee, as well as pending civil litigation.
- Consider approval of fiscal year 2025 tax rates
- Consider approval of Investment Policy for final adoption at a future meeting
- Consider approval of a resolution to form the Development Review Board
- Discussion about potential November 2024 bond vote for Center Road forcemain project
- Discussion and potential action on contracts and the appointment or evaluation of a public officer or employee
Economic Development Commission
The Economic Development Commission will meet to review and approve a Request for Proposal for an Economic Development Study. The body will also receive updates on the Explore Essex project and EDC staffing.
- Approval of RFP for Economic Development Study
- Town Sign Project memo and budget discussion
- Temporary signage updates and recommendations
- Business outreach via email and meeting hosting sign-ups
- Child care updates
Planning Commission
The commission will consider several land‑use items, including a boundary line adjustment and a simple parceling at 265 Browns River Road. A presentation on the Bylaw Modernization Grant will be discussed. The meeting’s key agenda item is a public hearing on a 33‑unit Planned Unit Development at 18 & 30 Timberlane Drive.
- Boundary line adjustment for parcels at 265 and 259 Browns River Road in Agricultural Residential and Scenic Resource Protection Overlay districts
- Simple parceling of a 31.77‑acre parcel at 265 Browns River Road into two lots, one for a new single‑family residence
- Presentation by Chittenden County Regional Planning Commission on the Bylaw Modernization Grant
- Public hearing on a 33‑unit Planned Unit Development‑Residential at 18 & 30 Timberlane Drive (117 acres, Medium Density Residential zone)
- Approval of minutes from the July 11, 2024 meeting
Charter Review Committee
The committee is meeting to discuss the Essex Energy Committee Charter and review draft amendment documents. Members will also designate a representative to present recommendations to the Selectboard.
- Discussion of the Essex Energy Committee Charter
- Approval of draft amendment documents for the Selectboard
- Designation of a presenter for recommendations to the Selectboard
Police Community Advisory Board
The Police Community Advisory Board will meet to approve minutes, discuss a public safety survey, and elect a new president and vice president. The meeting will be held in person at 81 Main St. and online via Microsoft Teams.
- Election of new President and Vice President
- Discussion of Public Safety Survey results
- Overview of National Night Out event
- Approval of PCAB Draft Minutes 06182024
- Welcoming back Gwendolyn
Planning Commission
The Planning Commission will hold public hearings regarding a new 9-lot residential subdivision and a 33-unit planned unit development. The commission will also discuss changes to the town center signage template and review a plan amendment for 33 Hanley Lane.
- Public hearing for a 9-lot residential subdivision at 60 Colonel Page Road
- Public hearing for a 33-unit planned unit development at 18 & 30 Timberlane Drive
- Plan amendment to shift building envelope at 33 Hanley Lane
- Discussion of changes to the town center signage template
- Election of officers
Charter Review Committee
The committee will hold a discussion regarding the Essex Energy Committee Charter with its chair. Members will also consider approving draft amendment documents to be presented to the Selectboard and designate who will present recommendations.
- Discussion of the Essex Energy Committee Charter
- Consideration of draft amendment documents for the Selectboard
- Designation of a presenter for recommendations to the Selectboard