Essex County public meetings in 2025

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission meeting on Dec 30, 2025 will consider a possible modification to a memo to the Selectboard concerning the Local Option Tax. The commission will also address routine agenda items, public comments, and set the date for the next meeting.

• Discuss and potentially act on modifying the memo to the Selectboard regarding the Local Option Tax

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission will review several items, including a potential grant program, a memo to the Selectboard about a Local Option Tax, and strategies for publicizing business expansion. Members will also consider priorities from the Town Plan Action Plan, current development applications, and an update on the TPMA Economic Development Study. The meeting includes routine agenda items such as approval of minutes and partner updates.

• Discuss potential Economic Development Grant Program
• Finalize memo to Selectboard re: Local Option Tax
• Discuss suggestions for publicizing business expansion
• Review current development applications
• Update on TPMA Economic Development Study

Police Community Advisory Board

The Police Community Advisory Board will review and approve the minutes from the November 18, 2025 meeting. It will discuss the department’s workplan, announce gift‑card winners, and consider a new Essex Police Department policy and its update. The board will also review draft policies on donations, fundraising, and internal affairs before entering an executive session.

• Approve minutes from the November 18, 2025 meeting
• Discuss and adopt a new Essex Police Department policy
• Review the department workplan
• Announce gift‑card winners
• Review draft donations & fundraising policy and Internal Affairs policy

Selectboard

The Selectboard will discuss the 80-90 Upper Main Street municipal complex project and potential ballot items for the March 2026 Town Meeting. The meeting includes work sessions on the fiscal year 2027 operating budget and the 2027-2031 capital budget program.

• Potential action on grant match for 80-90 Upper Main Street municipal complex
• Consideration of Wastewater Pump Station Operations Contract
• Discussion of Local Option Tax questions for the March 2026 ballot
• Potential adoption of an updated Fund Balance Policy
• Final approval of updated Computer Use and Artificial Intelligence Policy

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission will review the Farmers' Market, discuss a Local Option Tax request from the Selectboard, and consider a proposed Temporary Signage Ordinance. The meeting will also include updates from partners and a reading file.

• Farmers' Market review with Essex Parks and Recreation
• Local Option Tax request from Selectboard
• Proposed Temporary Signage Ordinance discussion
• Reading file: Waterbury Article and Hinesburg LOT Article
• Invitation from Planning Commission to discuss priorities

The Economic Development Commission voted unanimously to advise the Selectboard not to place a Local Option Tax on the ballot, citing six reasons. It also approved agenda changes, the November meeting minutes, and set future meeting dates. The temporary signage ordinance was held with no further action, and meeting times were moved to the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.

• Approved agenda changes (5-0)
• Approved November 5, 2025 minutes as amended (4-0-1)
• Approved November 20, 2025 minutes as amended (5-0)
• Advised Selectboard not to place Local Option Tax on ballot (5-0)
• Took no further action on Temporary Signage Ordinance (4-0-1, Signorello abstained)
• Changed meeting times to 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month (4-1)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission, together with the Conservation & Trails, Economic Development, Energy, and Housing Commissions, will discuss the action items outlined in Chapter 1 of the Town Plan. The meeting also includes standard procedural items such as call to order, agenda approval, and public comment, but no specific decisions or votes are listed.

• Discussion of Action Plan items in Chapter 1 of the Town Plan with multiple commissions

The commission voted 6‑0 to approve the minutes from the October 16, 2024 meeting. A motion to adjourn the December 11, 2025 meeting also passed 6‑0. No other formal decisions or votes were recorded; the remainder of the agenda consisted of discussion of various action items.

• Approved October 16, 2024 minutes (6-0)
• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

Conservation & Trails Committee

The Conservation & Trails Committee will advise the Development Review Board on three development applications (55 Thompson Drive, 45 River Road, and Pinewood Manor Inc.). It will also decide how to prioritize items for the upcoming Planning Commission meeting using the Town Plan. Additional actions include appointing a new Tree City contact and reviewing funding and work‑plan adjustments.

• Advise DRB on Development Application – 55 Thompson Drive
• Advise DRB on Development Application – 45 River Road
• Advise DRB on Development Application – Pinewood Manor Inc.
• Decide priorities for Planning Commission meeting based on Town Plan
• Appoint new Tree City contact – Hans

The committee approved the minutes from the October 29, 2025 meeting with a 7‑0‑1 vote. It unanimously approved recommendation memos to the Development Review Board for the 55 Thompson Drive, 45 River Road, and Pinewood Manor development applications. The committee also approved a list of five priority Town Plan action items to be presented to the Planning Commission on December 11, 2025, and then adjourned the meeting.

• Approved October 29, 2025 minutes (7-0-1)
• Approved recommendation memo for 55 Thompson Drive (8 in favor)
• Approved recommendation memo for 45 River Road (8 in favor)
• Approved recommendation memo for Pinewood Manor Inc. (8 in favor)
• Approved list of five priority Town Plan action items (motion passed)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous voice vote)

Selectboard

The Essex Selectboard will review and discuss the fiscal year 2027 budget during a work session. The meeting also includes routine items such as approving the December 1, 2025 minutes and a public comment period. No executive session is planned.

• Approve minutes from December 1, 2025
• Work session on fiscal year 2027 budget
• Public comments on consent items and other matters
• Reading file: board member comments and upcoming meeting schedule
• No executive session anticipated

The Town of Essex Selectboard met on December 5, 2025 and unanimously accepted the consent agenda, which included approval of the December 1, 2025 minutes. A work session was held to review the FY 2027 budget with updates from fire, police, community development, recreation, library, IT, and other departments. No formal votes or approvals on specific budget items were recorded, and no public comments were received.

• Accepted consent agenda (5-0)
• Approved December 1, 2025 minutes (as part of consent agenda)

Development Review Board

The Development Review Board will consider a site plan amendment for additional residential units and a request for a subdivision sketch extension. One scheduled public hearing for a warehouse project has been postponed.

• Final Site Plan Amendment for 8 additional units at 1 Kana Lane
• Extension request from Sterling Construction for subdivision sketch approval at 53 Center Road
• Rescheduled public hearing for a 41,250 square foot warehouse at 55 Thompson Drive

The Development Review Board unanimously approved the amended agenda and the November 6, 2025 minutes. It granted Sterling Construction a twelve‑month extension on its sketch‑plan approval for the subdivision at 53 Center Road. The board also opened and later closed a public hearing on the Kana Properties amendment, adopted revisions to project conditions, and adjourned the meeting.

• Approved amended agenda (7‑0)
• Approved November 6, 2025 minutes (7‑0)
• Approved 12‑month extension for Sterling Construction subdivision sketch plan (unanimous consensus)
• Opened public hearing on Kana Properties amendment (7‑0)
• Closed public hearing on Kana Properties amendment (7‑0)
• Revised condition line 73 and related conditions (7‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (7‑0)

Board of Abatement

The Board of Abatement will consider two requests for relief from charges. Wendy Hoffman, as estate executor, seeks abatement of sewer, water, utility, or service charges under V.S.A. §1535(a)(10). Bryan Caims, doing business as Champlain Oil Company, seeks tax abatement for a clear or obvious error under V.S.A. §1535(a)(4). The meeting also includes routine items such as approving the agenda and the draft minutes from 10/29/2025.

• Approve the agenda
• Approve Draft Minutes dated 10/29/2025
• Consider Wendy Hoffman's request to abate utility charges (V.S.A. §1535(a)(10))
• Consider Bryan Caims' request to abate taxes due to a clear error (V.S.A. §1535(a)(4))
• Public hearing segment

The Board voted 12‑0 to approve the full abatement request of $11,676.11 submitted by Bryan Cairns, dba Champlain Oil Company. It voted 12‑2 to deny Wendy Hoffman's request to reduce her water and sewer overage charges. All procedural motions (agenda, minutes, deliberation entry/exit, adjournment) passed unanimously or near‑unanimously.

• Approved agenda as presented (14‑0)
• Removed October 29, 2025 minutes from consent items (14‑0)
• Tabled October 29, 2025 minutes (14‑0)
• Entered deliberative session (14‑0)
• Exited deliberative session (14‑0)
• Denied Wendy Hoffman water/sewer abatement request (12‑2)
• Approved full abatement request for Bryan Cairns, Champlain Oil Co., $11,676.11 (12‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (13‑0)

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission will review the town’s farmers’ market with Parks and Recreation, consider a Local Option Tax request from the Selectboard, and discuss a proposed temporary signage ordinance. It will also consider a possible vote on a revised mission statement and hear updates on current development applications. The commission was invited by the Planning Commission to attend the December 11 meeting to discuss priorities from the Action Plan chapter of the Town Plan.

• Farmers' Market Review with Essex Parks and Recreation
• Local Option Tax request from Selectboard
• Proposed Temporary Signage Ordinance discussion
• Possible vote on Mission Statement
• Invitation to attend Planning Commission meeting on Dec 11

Housing Commission

The Essex County Housing Commission will review a Housing Needs Assessment and make a decision on it. Members will also discuss early 2026 priorities, potential zoning regulation updates to support housing development, and an invitation from the Planning Commission to attend its December 11 meeting. Additional items include debriefs of recent community events and a reading of the Keystone Trails Project Draft Plan.

• Housing Needs Assessment conversation and decision
• Discussion of potential zoning regulation updates to support housing development
• Invitation to attend Planning Commission meeting on December 11, 2025
• Early 2026 priorities for the Housing Commission
• Reading of Keystone Trails Project Draft Plan

The commission approved minutes from the September 2 and October 21, 2025 meetings. It voted not to conduct a new Housing Needs Assessment and will focus on specific affordable‑housing actions. Several follow‑up actions were assigned, including attending a Planning Commission meeting and shifting the commission’s meeting time.

• Approved minutes from September 2, 2025 and October 21, 2025
• Decided not to pursue an updated Housing Needs Assessment at this time
• Anna will attend the December 11, 2025 Planning Commission meeting
• Anna to add discussion of a Roundtable/Housing Night at the next commission meeting
• Lois to invite Wisdom House representatives to a future commission meeting
• Brittany to circulate draft zoning regulations for review
• Noah to lead the commission’s review of the zoning regulations
• Shifted regular meeting time to 12:00 PM on the first Tuesday of each month

Selectboard

The Essex Selectboard will discuss items with the Planning Commission, the Police Community Advisory Board, and the Chittenden Solid Waste District. It will consider contracts for Taser Conducted Electricity Weapons and for Body and In‑Car Cameras. The board will also consider adopting the Keystone Trail Connectivity Project Plan and finalizing the Handbook for Boards, Committees and Commissions and their Staff Representatives.

• Consider approval of contract for Taser Conducted Electricity Weapons (CEW)
• Consider approval of contract for Body Cameras and In‑Car Cameras
• Consider adoption of the Keystone Trail Connectivity Project Plan
• Final adoption of Handbook for Boards, Committees and Commissions and their Staff Representatives
• Review draft Fiscal Year 2027 Operating Budget (available)

The board approved the consent agenda, including November 17, 2025 minutes and two check warrants, with a 5‑0 vote. It also approved contracts for new police tasers and for body‑worn and in‑car cameras, each passing 5‑0. The Keystone Trail Connectivity Project Plan was adopted by a 4‑1 vote, and the Handbook for Boards, Committees and Commissions was adopted as amended with a 5‑0 vote.

• Approved consent agenda (minutes and check warrants) – 5-0
• Approved taser contract with Axon, Inc to begin FY27 – 5-0
• Approved body camera contract with Motorola Solutions, Inc – 5-0
• Adopted Keystone Trail Connectivity Project Plan – 4-1
• Adopted amended Handbook for Boards, Committees and Commissions – 5-0
• Amended handbook: removed “as time permits” from page 11 – 3-2
• Amended handbook: added chair attendance requirement on page 10 – 3-2

Development Review Board

The Development Review Board will meet to conduct business and review minutes. The primary agenda item is training presented by the Vermont League of Cities and Towns (VLCT).

• DRB Training presented by VLCT
• Approval of minutes from October 2, 2025 and November 6, 2025
• Review of VLCT Response on Consent Process
• Review of upcoming DRB Application Schedule

The Development Review Board unanimously approved the meeting agenda. It also approved the minutes from October 2, 2025, and the November 6, 2025 minutes (continuing approval to the December 4 meeting). The board adjourned the meeting at 9:11 p.m. No other actions were decided.

• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Approved October 2, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Approved November 6, 2025 minutes, continuation to Dec 4 (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Economic Development Commission

The commission will hear a presentation from Aviatron, represented by Eliane Barrett, Senior Executive Administrator. Commissioners will also review the Essex Keystone Connectivity Draft Plan. The meeting includes standard agenda items such as public comments, any agenda changes, and scheduling the next meeting.

• Aviatron presentation by Eliane Barrett, Senior Executive Administrator
• Reading of the Essex Keystone Connectivity Draft Plan
• Public comments segment
• Agenda additions or changes
• Scheduling of the next meeting

The commission voted 4-0 to approve the meeting agenda. The members heard a presentation from Aviatron about its relocation, workforce, and facility. Commissioners agreed to review the town’s sign ordinances and discuss possible changes with zoning staff. No other formal actions were taken.

• Agenda approved (4-0)
• Commissioners will review sign ordinances and discuss with zoning staff (planned)

Essex Free Library Board of Trustees

The Board will review and consider updates to its bylaws, examine the upcoming budget, and discuss the results of an ADA accessibility assessment. Additional items include a library director’s report, a friends group update, and public comments.

• Review Bylaws
• Budget Review
• ADA Assessment
• Library Director’s Report
• Friends update

The trustees approved the meeting minutes and accepted the revised bylaws with changes. They voted to lower the proposed increase in staff hours from 19.5 to 9.5 hours, with the revised figure to be presented to the Selectboard. The ADA assessment and other items were discussed but no formal actions were taken.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted bylaws changes (unanimous)
• Reduced staff hour increase to 9.5 hours (decision to present to Selectboard)

Police Community Advisory Board

The Essex County Police Community Advisory Board meeting will approve prior meeting minutes and discuss several business items, including the PCAB handbook, recent survey data, the board's workplan, upcoming community events, and an update from the Essex Police Department. These items are presented for review and possible action by the board.

• Approve minutes from September 16, 2025 and October 21, 2025
• Review the PCAB handbook
• Examine recent survey data
• Discuss the PCAB workplan
• Plan upcoming community events

The Police Community Advisory Board approved the meeting minutes, the board handbook, and agreed that the recent survey data is useful. Members will each develop three work‑plan ideas for the next meeting and the board approved creating a social‑media account to reach the community. The chief will present a new discipline policy at the next meeting.

• Agenda approved
• Minutes for September and October meetings approved
• Board handbook approved
• Survey information deemed helpful
• Each member to propose three work‑plan ideas for next meeting
• Social‑media account approved
• Chief to bring new discipline policy for board review at next meeting

Selectboard

The Essex Selectboard will discuss several items, including a proposal to allow a cannabis drive‑through on Center Road. They will also review a contract for electronic document management and a preliminary Computer Use and Artificial Intelligence policy. Additional topics include a resolution honoring Robert Paluba and discussion of real‑estate purchase or lease options.

• Consider approval of a cannabis drive‑through on Center Road
• Consider approval of contract for electronic document management
• Consider preliminary approval of Computer Use and Artificial Intelligence Policy
• Consider approval of Resolution of Appreciation for Robert Paluba
• Discussion about negotiating or securing real estate purchase or lease options

The board removed agenda item 6g and approved the consent agenda, including the November 10, 2025 minutes and check warrant #_18306‑11/07/25. It voted 5‑0 to approve a cannabis drive‑through at 100 Center Road, making it the first such facility in Vermont. The board also approved the adoption of twelve town trails as official municipal trails. Finally, the board gave preliminary approval to the Computer Use and Artificial Intelligence Policy, with final approval to follow.

• Removed agenda item 6g (electronic document management contract) – motion passed 5‑0
• Approved consent agenda (including minutes and check warrant #_18306) – motion passed 5‑0
• Approved cannabis drive‑through at 100 Center Road – motion passed 5‑0
• Adopted 12 trails as official Town of Essex trails – motion passed 5‑0
• Preliminary approval of Computer Use and Artificial Intelligence Policy – motion passed 5‑0

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission and Development Review Board will hear a presentation on the Sand Hill Road Truck Traffic Study. They will also discuss potential updates to zoning and subdivision regulations. The meeting includes routine items such as approving the October 23, 2025 minutes and allowing public comments on non‑agenda topics.

• Presentation – Sand Hill Road Truck Traffic Study
• PC and DRB discussion about zoning and subdivision regulations
• Approve minutes from the October 23, 2025 meeting
• Public comments on items not on the agenda
• Potential executive session per 1.V.S.A. § 313

The commission unanimously approved the meeting agenda (7‑0). The minutes from the October 23, 2025 meeting were approved with a 6‑0‑1 vote, with Johnathan Schumacher abstaining. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously (7‑0). No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved agenda (7-0)
• Approved October 23, 2025 minutes (6-0-1, one abstention)
• Adjourned meeting (7-0)

General

The Essex Town Cemetery Commission will consider and vote on the Cemetery Regulations Project for fiscal years 2026 and 2027, including removal of unsightly vegetation. The meeting will also approve the October 8, 2025 minutes, review the FY26 revenue report, and receive updates on the sexton, tree removal, and the Select Board. A support letter for Green Space will be adopted.

• Vote on Cemetery Regulations Project for FY26‑FY27 (includes vegetation removal quotes)
• Approve October 8, 2025 meeting minutes
• Review FY26 revenue report (donations, interest, plot sales, budget)
• Adopt support letter for Green Space
• Updates: sexton, tree removal, Select Board

The Essex Cemetery Commission approved the minutes from the October 8, 2025 meeting (4‑0). It then accepted a bid from L&D Property Maintenance LLC to cut bushes and shrubs in Mountain View, not to exceed $2,500 (4‑0). No public comments were received and the agenda was approved without changes.

• Approved October 8, 2025 minutes (4-0)
• Accepted L&D Property Maintenance LLC bid for bush and shrub removal, up to $2,500 (4-0)

Energy Committee

The Energy Committee will discuss the Active Transportation Plan and gather input from Katherine Sonnick. It will review the 2026 work plan and the Enhanced Energy Plan concept. The committee will consider funding priorities and asks for 2026, and will continue work on the Unsworth Property solar project. Additional brief items include a Drive Electric Vermont webinar and an Energy Action Network progress report.

• Active Transportation Plan – discussion/input with Katherine Sonnick
• 2026 Work Plan – review of attached template
• Enhanced Energy Plan – discussion of work group concept
• Funding Priorities / Asks for 2026 – update from Shawn
• Unsworth Property – continuation with solar consultants

The Energy Committee approved the minutes from the October 8, 2025 meeting with a unanimous vote. Members were assigned several follow‑up tasks, including contacting a high‑school teacher about a STEM internship, awaiting the Active Transportation Plan, and gathering energy usage data for 2026. The committee also scheduled the next meeting for December 11, 2025.

• Approved minutes from 10/08/2025 (unanimous)

Selectboard

The Essex Selectboard will approve consent items including check warrants and bid awards for metering and dam projects. The board will discuss infrastructure design at Upper Main Street and potential Local Option Tax funding.

• Approve check warrants #18298-18305
• Award Pearl Street Metering Manhole Project
• Discuss Local Option Tax potential
• Review Indian Brook Dam Rehabilitation Assessment
• Approve Winter Operations Plan 2025-2026

The board voted 5‑0 to remove business item 6.d. from the agenda. A motion to approve the consent agenda also passed 5‑0, which included approval of the October 20 and November 3 meeting minutes, several check warrants, and the listed projects and grant applications. No other substantive votes were recorded.

• Motion to strike business item 6.d. from agenda – approved (5‑0)
• Consent agenda approved (5‑0), covering:
• – Approval of October 20 and November 3 meeting minutes
• – Approval of check warrants #18298, #18303, #18304, #18305
• – Approval of bid award for Pearl Street Metering Manhole Project
• – Approval of wastewater allocation request for 53 Center Road
• – Approval of grant application for State of Vermont Recreation Trails Program at Indian Brook Park
• – Approval of grant funding for Public Works Truck‑Mounted Traffic Control Message Board

Development Review Board

The Development Review Board will discuss several residential development proposals and a boundary line adjustment. Multiple previous applications have been withdrawn, rescheduled, or continued to future dates.

• Conceptual discussion for 8 residential units at 21 Upper Main Street
• Boundary line adjustment of 0.05 acres between 320 and 323 Lost Nation Road
• Final PUD Plan Amendment for 4 additional units at 1 Leclerc Woods
• Withdrawn application for buildings G, G1, and H at 3 & 10 Commonwealth Ave and 10 Carmichael Street
• Application for 8 additional units at 1 Kana Lane rescheduled to December 4, 2025

The Development Review Board approved a final PUD plan amendment for Leclerc Woods, LLC that adds four new units to the existing development. The board also approved a boundary line adjustment between 320 and 323 Lost Nation Road. The agenda was approved, but the minutes from October 2, 2025 were not approved and require corrective action.

• Agenda approved (6-0)
• Minutes of Oct 2, 2025 not approved – corrective action required
• Boundary line adjustment between 320 and 323 Lost Nation Road approved (6-0)
• Public hearing opened for boundary line adjustment (6-0)
• Public hearing closed for boundary line adjustment (6-0)
• Final PUD Plan Amendment for Leclerc Woods approved (6-0)
• Public hearing opened for Leclerc Woods PUD amendment (6-0)
• Public hearing closed for Leclerc Woods PUD amendment (6-0)

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission will consider a proposed Temporary Signage Ordinance, which may be voted on. The commission will also discuss the EDC mission statement, which could be subject to a vote. Additional items include partner updates, a quarterly business bulletin, a South Burlington economic study, and staff updates on regional studies.

• Proposed Temporary Signage Ordinance – possible vote
• EDC Mission Statement – discussion and possible vote
• Partner update from Greater Burlington Industrial Corp.
• Introduction of Quarterly Business Bulletin and updated web pages
• Discussion of South Burlington Economic Development Study

The commission unanimously approved agenda amendments and the October 1 and October 16 meeting minutes. Members elected Irene Wrenner as chair, also unanimously. They approved a motion to advise the Development Review Board on the Shenk parcel application to preserve a 50‑foot roadway buffer. All votes were 4‑0.

• Approved agenda amendments (vote 4-0)
• Approved October 1, 2025 minutes (vote 4-0)
• Approved October 16, 2025 minutes (vote 4-0)
• Elected Irene Wrenner as Chair (vote 4-0)
• Approved advice to DRB on Shenk parcel 50‑foot buffer (vote 4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (vote 4-0)

Selectboard

The Selectboard will review several consent items, including a bid award for the Pearl Street Metering Manhole Project and a wastewater allocation request for 53 Center Road. They will also consider grant applications for the State of Vermont Recreation Trails Program at Indian Brook Park and funding for a truck‑mounted traffic control message board. Business items include discussions on a draft matching‑grant plan for infrastructure at 80 and 90 Upper Main Street, a potential Local Option Tax, and approval of the Winter Operations Plan for 2025‑2026 and replacement of Truck #112 for FY 2026.

• Approve bid award of Pearl Street Metering Manhole Project
• Approve wastewater allocation request for 53 Center Road
• Approve grant application for State of Vermont Recreation Trails Program at Indian Brook Park
• Approve grant funding for Public Works Truck Mounted Traffic Control Message Board
• Approve Winter Operations Plan for 2025‑2026

The board voted to adjourn the regular meeting because of technical problems with the hybrid format. The motion also scheduled a special meeting for November 10. The motion was approved unanimously, 5‑0.

• Adjourned meeting and set special meeting for Nov 10 (5-0)

Board of Abatement

The Board of Abatement will meet to consider requests to abate taxes. The board will deliberate on whether to grant these requests based on specific legal criteria.

• Tax abatement request from Bibens Eric II, dba Ace Hardware regarding clear or obvious error
• Tax abatement request from Anne C. Bassett based on inability to pay
• Tax abatement request from Tiana & Alex Smith based on inability to pay

The Board approved the agenda and the October 7 minutes unanimously. All three tax‑abatement requests were denied by a 13‑0 vote. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved agenda (13-0)
• Approved October 7 minutes (13-0)
• Denied Bibens Eric II (Ace Hardware) tax abatement request (13-0)
• Denied Anne C. Bassett tax abatement request (13-0)
• Denied Tiana & Alex Smith tax abatement request (13-0)
• Adjourned meeting (13-0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will discuss its priorities and workplan. The body will also consider asking the Selectboard to reconsider opting into Tier 1B status.

• Discussion of Planning Commission Priorities and Workplan
• Consideration of request to Selectboard regarding Tier 1B status

The Planning Commission approved the meeting agenda and the October 9 minutes, each by a 5‑0 vote. The commission voted 5‑0 to remove all areas east of Essex Center and the mixed‑use north and south zones from the current recommendation. Members agreed to have the Chair attend the next Selectboard meeting to ask for reconsideration of the town’s Tier 1B status. The meeting was adjourned by a 5‑0 vote.

• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Approved October 9 minutes (5-0)
• Removed east of Essex Center and mixed‑use north/south zones from recommendation (5-0)
• Commission agreed Chair will ask Selectboard to reconsider Tier 1B status (no vote recorded)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Housing Commission

The Housing Commission will debrief on Community Day and prepare a memo for the Selectboard. The body will also discuss its upcoming schedule and provide feedback on a draft handbook for board, committee, and commission members.

• Debrief of Community Day
• Review of draft memo for Selectboard meeting
• Feedback on draft Handbook for Board, Committee & Commission Members

The commission could not approve the September 2, 2025 meeting minutes because a quorum was not present, so approval will be sought at the November meeting. The debrief of Community Day was postponed to the November meeting. Several actions were assigned: Anna will submit an updated memo to Brittany by the end of the week, will poll members for a new meeting time starting November 4, and members will send final handbook comments to Brittany by October 24.

• September 2, 2025 minutes not approved (quorum missing)
• Debrief of Community Day postponed to November meeting
• Anna to submit updated memo to Brittany by end of week
• Anna to email poll for alternate meeting times starting Nov 4
• Housing Commission members to send final handbook comments to Brittany by Oct 24

Police Community Advisory Board

The Police Community Advisory Board will meet to discuss CJC Victim Services and a handbook approval. The board will also review a survey update and upcoming community events.

• CJC Victim Services discussion
• Handbook approval
• Survey update
• Upcoming community events for 2025 and 2026

The board could not approve the agenda or the September meeting minutes because the session was a working meeting. It also did not approve the town handbook, which will be reconsidered at a future meeting. The board agreed to end the community survey on November 1, 2025, and the liaison will review the results for the next meeting.

• Agenda not approved (working meeting)
• September meeting minutes not approved (working meeting)
• Town handbook approval deferred to next meeting
• Survey end date set to November 1, 2025
• Chief to consult Traffic Safety Officer on Route 128 concerns
• Board to discuss survey data, workplan, events, handbook, and EPD update at next meeting

Conservation & Trails Committee

The Conservation & Trails Committee will discuss trail adoption, easements, and reconstruction plans for the Indian Brook White Trail. The body will also review the Conservation Fund Survey results and the committee's work plan.

• Indian Brook White Trail Reconstruction Plans
• Proposed Trail Adoption and Easements
• Conservation Fund Survey Results
• Tree Nursery Project update
• Keystone Trail Project update

The committee formally adopted four trail systems into the town’s trail network. It also approved support for the Indian Brook White Trail reconstruction and agreed to assist with future grant writing. Additional actions included submitting a recommendation to the Selectboard about staff responsibilities, presenting the Conservation Fund Survey results, and authorizing investigation of a trail easement between Windridge Road and Pinewood Park. All motions passed unanimously (6‑0).

• Adopt four town trails into the trail system (6‑0)
• Support Indian Brook White Trail reconstruction project and assist with grant writing (6‑0)
• Submit recommendation to Selectboard expressing concern about staff responsibilities (6‑0)
• Submit Conservation Fund Survey results to Selectboard (6‑0)
• Approve minutes from September 9, 2025 meeting (6‑0)
• Investigate securing trail easement between Windridge Road and Pinewood Park (6‑0)

Selectboard

The Essex Selectboard will discuss resident traffic safety concerns and a request for speed bumps on Tanglewood Drive and Glenwood Drive. The board will also hear presentations on the Chittenden County Regional Planning Commission annual report and Town Meeting TV's FY2025 report and FY2027 budget request. Additional items include a resolution affirming commitment to fairness, freedom, and community safety, and a possible executive session on pending civil litigation.

• Discussion and potential action on speed bump request for Tanglewood Drive and Glenwood Drive
• Presentation of Chittenden County Regional Planning Commission's annual report
• Presentation of Town Meeting TV's FY2025 annual report and FY2027 budget request
• Consideration of Resolution affirming commitment to fairness, freedom, and community safety
• Potential executive session to discuss pending civil litigation or prosecution

The board accepted the consent agenda, including approval of the October 6 minutes and check warrant #_18297‑10/03/25, with a 5‑0 vote. They made traffic safety a high‑priority goal, directing Public Works to work with the Police Department on traffic‑calming measures, also by a 5‑0 vote. The board then approved moving forward with research, location, and installation of temporary traffic‑calming measures on Tanglewood Drive for the spring, passing 4‑1 with one dissent.

• Accepted consent agenda (5-0)
• Approved October 6 minutes (as part of consent agenda)
• Approved check warrant #_18297‑10/03/25 (as part of consent agenda)
• Made traffic‑calming a high priority for Public Works with Police (5-0)
• Approved research and installation of temporary traffic‑calming measures on Tanglewood Drive (4-1)

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission is meeting for a business outreach visit at Prolytix. The commission will also review a proposed temporary sign ordinance and a proposed EDC Mission Statement via the reading file.

• Business outreach visit to Prolytix at 57 River Rd, Unit 1021
• Review of proposed temporary sign ordinance
• Review of proposed EDC Mission Statement

The Economic Development Commission approved the agenda with a 4‑0 vote. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously. No other items were acted upon; two proposals were received but held for future discussion.

• Approved meeting agenda (vote 4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (vote 4-0)

Development Review Board

The Development Review Board will vote on a final site plan amendment that would add eight residential units to the third floor of the existing building at 1 Kana Lane. It will also hear a continued application for a 10‑home Planned Unit Development on Timberlane Drive and discuss a withdrawn mixed‑use project at Commonwealth and Carmichael Streets. A conceptual discussion of a possible new residential project at 21 Upper Main Street will be continued.

• Final Site Plan Amendment – Kana Properties LLC seeks eight additional units at 1 Kana Lane (Parcel ID 2-010-074-000) in R3 and B‑DC districts
• Continued PUD‑R application – Pinewood Manor Inc. proposes 10 single‑family homes at 18 & 30 Timberlane Drive (Parcel IDs 2-084-001-000 & 2-085-001-001) in R2 district
• Withdrawn site plan amendment – Rick Bove’s mixed‑use project at 3 & 10 Commonwealth Ave and 10 Carmichael St (Parcel IDs 2-091-001-301, 2-091-001-701, 2-091-001-010) in MXD‑C and B‑DC districts
• Conceptual discussion – Dousevicz Inc. project at 21 Upper Main Street (Parcel ID 2-090-001-000) in MU‑PUD and B‑DC overlay

Essex Free Library Board of Trustees

The Essex Free Library Board will consider updates to its Handbook for Board, Committee & Commission Members and staff, and will review the Internet and Computer Use Policy. These items are presented for discussion and possible adoption. The meeting also includes routine reports, announcements, and a public comment period.

• Review Handbook for Board, Committee & Commission Members and their Staff Representatives
• Review Internet and Computer Use Policy
• Library Director’s Report
• Friends of the Library update
• Public comment (Public to Be Heard)

The trustees approved the October 15 meeting minutes after a motion and second. They also approved the revised Internet and Computer Use Policy with noted changes, including free printing of the first ten pages and new language on workstation use. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved meeting minutes (motion by Marie, seconded by Mallori)
• Approved revised Internet and Computer Use Policy (motion by Pam, seconded by Ellen)

Conservation & Trails Committee

The committee will provide advice to the Selectboard on trail adoption, easements, and the Indian Brook White Trail reconstruction plans. Members will also review the Conservation Fund survey results and the committee work plan.

• Indian Brook White Trail Reconstruction Plans
• Proposed Trail Adoption and Easements
• Conservation Fund Survey Results
• Tree Nursery Project update
• Keystone Trail Project update

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will meet to discuss a zoning change request regarding the Women's Correctional Facility. The meeting includes a period for public comment on this item.

• Zoning change request for Women's Correctional Facility

The commission voted to approve the meeting agenda unanimously (6‑0). They also approved the September 25 minutes with resident‑submitted changes by a 5‑0‑1 vote, with one member abstaining. No other motions were decided during the meeting.

• Approved agenda (6-0)
• Approved September 25 minutes with changes (5-0-1)

Energy Committee

The committee will review lessons from a Community Day event and discuss comments for the Essex Board Handbook. Members will also discuss the Enhanced Energy Plan and the 2026 work plan and funding priorities.

• Review of Community Day tabling from September 20th
• Discussion of comments for the Essex Board Handbook and Appendix
• Development of the 2026 Work Plan
• Discussion of the Enhanced Energy Plan and work group concept
• Review of the September 30th Active Transportation Plan survey

The committee voted to approve the minutes from the 09/10/2025 meeting. No other formal decisions, approvals, or denials were recorded; the remainder of the agenda consisted of discussion topics and assigned action items.

• Approved minutes from 09/10/2025 (unanimous)

Cemetery Commission

The Cemetery Commission will consider several actions, including approving the FY27 budget, authorizing tree removal, and adopting a support letter for green space. It will also review the September 10, 2025 meeting minutes, receive a sexton update, and discuss the Cemetery Regulations Project for FY26‑FY27. A revenue report for FY26 will be presented, and the Select Board handbook will be reviewed.

• Approve FY27 budget – items: head stone repair, tree/bush/plot maintenance, perimeter tree removal, general repairs and purchases
• Tree removal – action item
• Cemetery Regulations Project for FY26‑FY27 – ID non‑compliant plots, remove unsightly vegetation, notification plan, signage, needed regulation changes
• Support letter for green space – action item
• Approve September 10, 2025 minutes – action item

The Cemetery Commission approved the FY27 budget at $10,750, raising the overall budget by $300 to $6,300 and the tree‑removal expense line to $5,300. It also accepted the town’s offer to split a $30,000 tree‑removal cost and authorized the sale of a cemetery lot to two non‑residents. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved August 13, 2025 minutes (5‑0)
• Approved September 10, 2025 minutes (5‑0)
• Accepted Selectboard offer to split $30,000 tree removal cost (5‑0)
• Allowed Colleen and Gary Foster to purchase a lot in Mountain View Cemetery (5‑0)
• Approved Selectboard Handbook as is (5‑0)
• Approved FY27 budget of $10,750, increasing total budget to $6,300 and tree removal expense to $5,300 (5‑0)

Board of Civil Authority

The Board of Civil Authority will meet to discuss and potentially provide feedback to the Selectboard regarding a draft Handbook for Board, Committee & Commission Members and their Staff Representative.

• Draft Handbook for Board, Committee & Commission Members and their Staff Representative

The Board accepted the meeting agenda unanimously (10-0). It approved the August 11, 2025 minutes unanimously (10-0). A motion to move the Board of Abatement changes onto Tammy Getchell was approved unanimously (10-0). The meeting was then adjourned unanimously (10-0).

• Approved agenda (10-0)
• Approved August 11, 2025 minutes (10-0)
• Approved motion to move Board of Abatement changes onto Tammy Getchell (10-0)
• Adjourned meeting (10-0)

Board of Abatement

The Essex County Board of Abatement will approve the August 11, 2025 draft minutes. It will review a request from Yvette Blair to abate taxes, interest, and collection fees for persons unable to pay, citing V.S.A. §1535(a)(3). The board will also discuss providing feedback to the Selectboard on a draft handbook for board, committee and commission members and their staff.

• Approve August 11, 2025 draft minutes
• Consider Yvette Blair's request to abate taxes, interest, and collection fees for persons unable to pay (V.S.A. §1535(a)(3))
• Discuss feedback on draft Handbook for Board, Committee & Commission Members and staff

The Board accepted the agenda and approved the August 11, 2025 minutes unanimously. A request to abate taxes for Yvette Blair was tabled by a 15‑0 vote. The Board then adopted a series of amendments to its handbook, adding staff representatives, an ethical behavior clause, and revising language on recusal, agenda preparation, quorum and other sections. The finalized changes were ordered forwarded to Tammy Getchell via the Town Clerk.

• Accept agenda as presented (15-0)
• Approve August 11, 2025 minutes (15-0)
• Table Yvette Blair tax‑abatement hearing (15-0)
• Add “staff representatives” as required signers in handbook (10-0)
• Ensure handbook page numbers match table of contents (10-0)
• Include “ethical behavior” clause on handbook page five (10-0)
• Revise agenda‑determination wording to require staff assistance (9-1)
• Forward all handbook changes to Tammy Getchell via Town Clerk (10-0)

Selectboard

The Essex Selectboard will discuss several business items, including a Vermont Agency of Transportation grant to fund design and construction of a multi‑use path on VT Route 15 between Orleans Road and VT Route 289. They will also consider a liquor license application for Essex Colonial Mart, an extension of the shared‑service assessing agreement with Essex Junction, and a contract with HowardCenter Community Outreach. A discussion of pending or probable civil litigation is slated for executive session.

• Consider approval to accept VTrans grant for design and construction of multi‑use path on VT Route 15 (Orleans Rd to VT 289)
• Consider approval of Essex Colonial Mart liquor license application
• Discussion and potential approval of extension of shared service agreement with Essex Junction for Assessing Services
• Consider approval to authorize the Town Manager to execute a contract with HowardCenter Community Outreach
• Discussion about pending or probable civil litigation or prosecution (executive session)

The board approved a second‑class liquor license for Essex Colonial Mart (5‑0). It authorized the Town Manager to accept a Vermont Agency of Transportation grant for designing and building a shared‑use path along VT Route 15 (3‑2). The board also accepted the consent agenda (5‑0), added Business Item 6e to the agenda (5‑0), and approved the amended minutes for August 18 (4‑1) and September 15, 2025 (5‑0).

• Approved second‑class liquor license for Essex Colonial Mart (5‑0)
• Authorized Town Manager to accept VT Agency of Transportation grant for VT Route 15 shared‑use path (3‑2)
• Accepted consent agenda as amended (5‑0)
• Added Business Item 6e to agenda (5‑0)
• Approved amended minutes of August 18, 2025 (4‑1)
• Approved amended minutes of September 15, 2025 (5‑0)

Development Review Board

The Development Review Board will consider two consent agenda site‑plan amendments: a 372‑square‑foot main building addition at the River Valley Therapeutic Residence on 260 Woodside Dr, and an 8‑foot path on parcels at 70 and 74 Essex Way. A public hearing will continue discussion of a clubhouse redevelopment at the Links at Lang Farm Golf Course and a parking‑lot expansion at 3 Bushey Lane. The board will also discuss feedback on a draft handbook for board and committee members.

• Site plan amendment: 372 sq ft addition to River Valley Therapeutic Residence, 260 Woodside Dr (Open Recreation O1 District)
• Site plan amendment: 8‑ft path on parcels 70 & 74 Essex Way (Mixed Use Development‑Planned Unit Development District)
• Public hearing: redevelopment of clubhouse at Links at Lang Farm Golf Course, 127 Stinson Drive (approx. 3,600 sq ft pro shop/restaurant)
• Public hearing: parking‑lot expansion and stormwater upgrades at 3 Bushey Lane (Industrial I1 District)
• Business item: discuss feedback to Selectboard on draft handbook for board, committee & commission members

The Development Review Board approved the October 2 meeting minutes (6‑0). It approved a site‑plan amendment for River Valley Therapeutic Residence (6‑0) and removed the Essex Way application from the consent agenda (6‑0). The board also approved the Why Not, LLC clubhouse and restaurant project (6‑0) and the Cameo Holdings parking‑lot expansion with a friendly amendment (6‑0).

• Approved October 2 meeting minutes (6‑0)
• Approved River Valley Therapeutic Residence building addition (6‑0)
• Removed Essex Way application from consent agenda (6‑0)
• Approved Why Not, LLC clubhouse and restaurant at 127 Stinson Drive (6‑0)
• Approved Cameo Holdings parking‑lot expansion at 3 Bushey Lane with amendment to 19 spaces and deletion of Conditions 7 & 8 (6‑0)

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission will discuss a draft Economic Development Study presented by TPMA Consultant Lindsay Bloos. The body will also review the State Designation Program and the commission's mission statement.

• Draft Economic Development Study presentation by TPMA Consultant Lindsay Bloos
• Feedback on draft Handbook for Board, Committee & Commission Members
• Discussion of State Designation Program utilization in Essex
• Review of Colchester mapping software for business information
• Discussion of EDC interaction with Planning Commission and Development Review Board

The commission voted to approve agenda changes, including the chair's resignation and welcoming a new commissioner. It then approved corrected minutes from September 3 and September 18. Finally, the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved agenda changes (chair resignation, new commissioner intro, cancel item 6C) – vote 3-0, 1 not voting
• Approved September 3, 2025 minutes with corrections – vote 4-0
• Approved September 18, 2025 minutes with corrections – vote 4-0
• Adjourned meeting – vote 3-0

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a zoning roundtable discussion regarding a proposal for 48 Upper Main Street. The body will also review a draft handbook for board, committee, and commission members to provide feedback to the Selectboard.

• Zoning change proposal for 48 Upper Main Street
• Review of draft Handbook for Board, Committee & Commission Members and their Staff Representatives

The Planning Commission approved its agenda and the minutes with changes by unanimous votes of 7‑0. Commissioners authorized Chair Knox to provide the Selectboard with details of Al Senecal’s zoning change request and related sewer‑core considerations. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved agenda (7-0)
• Approved minutes with changes (7-0)
• Authorized Chair Knox to brief Selectboard on Senecal zoning proposal
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission is meeting for business outreach. The primary business item for discussion is L'ivresse.

• Business item: L'ivresse
• Reading file: Temporary Signage Ordinance

The commission unanimously approved the meeting agenda with a 5-0 vote. The meeting was then adjourned, also by a unanimous 5-0 vote. No other formal actions or approvals were recorded.

• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Development Review Board

The Development Review Board will meet to discuss training and review its operational procedures. The agenda also includes the approval of minutes from the September 4, 2025 meeting.

• Review and approval of operational procedures
• Training discussion
• Approval of September 4, 2025 meeting minutes

The Development Review Board approved the meeting agenda and the September 4, 2025 minutes, each by a 7‑0 vote. The board tabled further discussion of operational procedures pending legal review. It decided to hold one main meeting each month, add additional meetings as needed, and equip all future meetings with Town TV microphones for better audio. The board also planned joint meetings with the Planning Commission and to prepare questions for a November 6 attorney session.

• Approved agenda (7-0)
• Approved September 4, 2025 minutes (7-0)
• Tabled operational procedure discussion pending reassessment
• Scheduled one main DRB meeting per month with additional as needed
• Adopted Town TV with microphones for all future meetings
• Planned joint meetings with Planning Commission on specific issues
• Prepared questions for VLCT attorney meeting on November 6

Essex Free Library Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees will meet to elect officers and welcome new trustees. Members will review the budget and identify library policies to establish or review for FY26.

• Election of officers
• Budget review and consideration of new budget items
• Identification of FY26 library policies

The board approved the previous meeting’s minutes. New officers were elected: Janet Watts as Chair, Marie Froeschl as Vice Chair, and Pam Blake as Secretary. Ellen Knowles and Mallori Longevin were welcomed as new trustees. The board identified confidentiality, technology, and safety policies for FY26 review, and Caitlin will email the current technology policy before the next meeting.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (all agreed)
• Elected Janet Watts as Chair (all agreed)
• Elected Marie Froeschl as Vice Chair (all agreed)
• Elected Pam Blake as Secretary (all agreed)
• Welcomed new trustees Ellen Knowles and Mallori Longevin
• Identified confidentiality policy for FY26 review
• Identified technology policy for FY26 review
• Caitlin will email technology policy for next meeting

Police Community Advisory Board

The Police Community Advisory Board will meet to conduct regular business and receive an update from the Essex Police Department (EPD).

• EPD update

The Police Community Advisory Board approved the meeting agenda and the August meeting minutes. The board also approved a motion to adjourn, ending the session at 6:35 p.m. No other policy actions were taken.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved August meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved motion to adjourn (unanimous)

Selectboard

The Essex Selectboard will interview candidates for volunteer positions on the Housing Commission and Economic Development Committee. The board will also discuss the updated Capital Budget for fiscal year 2026 and consider approving a bonus for the Town Manager.

• Interviews for Housing Commission and Economic Development Committee volunteers
• Consider approval of updated Capital Budget for fiscal year 2026
• Discussion on extension of shared service agreement with Essex Junction for Assessing Services
• Consider approval of bonus for Town Manager
• Discussion on pending or probable civil litigation

The board appointed Lois Whitmore to the Housing Commission by a 5‑0 vote and appointed Anne Miller to the Economic Development Commission by a 4‑1 vote. A motion to table approval of the August 18 minutes failed 4‑1. The board also approved a request for staff to identify amendments to the Chapter 10 Water Use Ordinance by a 5‑0 vote.

• Appointed Lois Whitmore to Housing Commission (5-0)
• Appointed Anne Miller to Economic Development Commission (4-1, Kendall Chamberlain nay)
• Tabled approval of August 18, 2025 minutes (4-1, Andy Watts nay)
• Motion to reconsider water waiver failed (2-3, Tracy Delphia, Andy Watts, Kendall Chamberlain nay)
• Requested staff to identify amendments to Chapter 10 Water Use Ordinance (5-0)
• Approved consent items including check warrants (5-0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will discuss a zoning change request for the Women's Correctional Facility with Building and General Services and the Department of Corrections. The meeting also includes approval of minutes from the August 28, 2025 meeting, consideration of proposed steep‑slope language, and routine public hearing and executive‑session notices.

• Women's Correctional Facility zoning change request – discussion with BGS and DOC
• Approve minutes from August 28, 2025 meeting
• Proposed steep‑slope language reading file
• Public hearing segment
• Notice of potential executive session per 1.V.S.A. § 313

The commission voted 7‑0 to approve the meeting agenda. It then approved the August 28, 2025 minutes with a 6‑0‑1 vote (one abstention). The meeting was adjourned unanimously. No formal decision on the women’s correctional facility zoning change was made.

• Approved agenda (7-0)
• Approved August 28, 2025 minutes (6-0-1)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Cemetery Commission

The Essex Town Cemetery Commission will review the FY26 revenue report and begin developing the FY27 budget, including funding for head stone repair and tree, bush, and plot maintenance. The meeting will also address cemetery regulations adherence, a tree removal request, and a support letter for green space. Minutes from the August 13, 2025 meeting will be approved and a sexton update will be given.

• FY27 Budget Development – head stone repair
• FY27 Budget Development – tree/bush/plot maintenance
• Revenue Report – FY26
• Tree Removal
• Support Letter for Green Space

The Cemetery Commission approved the agenda with no changes. The minutes from the previous meeting were not approved because a quorum was not present. The commission decided the green‑space support letter will be rewritten and the addendum removed, with Kariella Tabone preparing the new version for the next meeting. Members also agreed to identify non‑compliant plots and notify owners by fall.

• Agenda approved (no changes)
• Minutes from prior meeting not approved due to lack of quorum
• Support letter for green space to be rewritten and addendum removed (Kariella Tabone)
• Commission will identify non‑compliant plots and notify owners by fall
• Tree removal project vote postponed until full commission present

Energy Committee

The committee will review lessons learned from the 2025 Champlain Valley Fair and discuss the Enhanced Energy Plan. The meeting also covers upcoming community outreach and transportation planning.

• Debrief of 2025 Champlain Valley Fair
• Community Day tabling on September 20th at Foster Road Park
• Discussion of Enhanced Energy Plan
• Active Transportation Plan meeting on September 30th at Essex Middle School
• Discussion of Essex Energy Charter

The Energy Committee unanimously approved the minutes from 08/25/2025. Members discussed the Champlain Valley Fair and set several action items for next year's fair. Planning for Community Day on September 20 was detailed, with specific responsibilities assigned to members. Additional tasks include revising the Energy Plan draft and preparing talking points for the Active Transportation Plan open house.

• Approved minutes from 08/25/2025 (unanimous vote)
• Assigned Katie Shattuck to contact Efficiency Vermont for additional postcards
• Assigned Will Dodge to deliver remaining pamphlets to Natalee Braun and contact Button Up
• Assigned Katie Shattuck and Natalee Braun to set up Community Day booth on Sep 20, 2025
• Assigned Dottie Bergandahl and Rod Williams to handle second shift and takedown at Community Day
• Assigned Shawn McNamara to secure a table for Community Day
• Assigned Will Dodge to prepare a revised Energy Plan draft with simplified numbers for the October meeting
• Assigned Will Dodge to develop talking points for the Essex Active Transportation Plan open house

Conservation & Trails Committee

The Conservation & Trails Committee will advise the Development Review Board on several development applications at 3 Bushey Lane, 260 Woodside Drive, 58 Center Road, 70 & 74 Essex Way, 127 Stinson Drive, and 21 Upper Main Street. The committee will also receive updates on the Conservation Fund Survey, the CTC work plan, and several ongoing projects such as the Tree Nursery, Keystone Tail, and the CTC Google Drive. Additional items include reports from Planning Commission and DRB meetings and a reading file with items like a Native American language dictionary addition and a wildlife overpass.

• Advise DRB on Development Applications – 3 Bushey Lane; 260 Woodside Drive; 58 Center Road; 70 & 74 Essex Way; 127 Stinson Drive; 21 Upper Main Street
• Update/action on Conservation Fund Survey
• Review/Adjust/Approve CTC Work Plan
• Update on Tree Nursery Project
• Update on Keystone Tail Project

The Conservation & Trails Committee approved its agenda, elected Erin De Vries as clerk, and adopted the minutes from the August 5 meeting. It passed unanimous recommendations to adopt a trail easement at 58 Center Road to link the Keystone Connectivity Project and to require the Essex Way trail follow the Vermont Town Forest Trail Design Guide. The decision on tree‑plaque funding was postponed.

• Approved agenda with additions (6-0)
• Elected Erin De Vries as committee clerk (6-0)
• Approved August 5 minutes as amended (6-0)
• Recommended trail easement at 58 Center Road for Keystone Connectivity (6-0)
• Recommended Essex Way trail follow Vermont Town Forest Trail Design Guide (6-0)
• Postponed final decision on tree plaques (no vote)
• Assigned Duane to amend August 5 minutes to add Hans Nedde (action item)
• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

Development Review Board

The Essex Town Development Review Board will tour the property at 45 River Road with landowner Ray Ely, dba Ely Family, LLC. The visit concerns a Subdivision and Site Plan Amendment for a proposed duplex and addition to the existing River Road Beverage & Redemption building in the Mixed Use Development (MXD) District. The public may attend and submit questions for the follow‑up meeting at 6:30 p.m. the same day.

• Site visit at 45 River Road (Parcel ID 2-024-006-001)
• Review of Subdivision and Site Plan Amendment for a duplex addition
• Location: Mixed Use Development (MXD) District
• Public invited to attend and submit questions
• Follow‑up meeting scheduled for 6:30 p.m. after inspection

Development Review Board

The Development Review Board will consider a minor subdivision and site plan amendment for a River Road property, as well as a plan amendment to add units to a Leclerc Woods development. A public hearing for the River Road project has been removed.

• Public hearing for Ely Family LLC minor subdivision at 45 River Road
• Site plan amendment for River Road Beverage & Redemption Center addition
• Final PUD Plan Amendment for Leclerc Woods to add four units
• Approval of minutes from May 29, July 17, July 31, and August 21, 2025

The Development Review Board approved the agenda and prior meeting minutes, each by a 7-0 vote. The board opened the public hearing on the Ely Family LLC minor subdivision with a unanimous 7-0 vote. After discussion, the board unanimously voted to continue the application to November 6, 2025. The board also agreed to contact the Planning Commission about slope concerns.

• Approved agenda (7-0)
• Approved May‑Aug 2025 minutes with corrections (7-0)
• Opened public hearing on Ely Family LLC application (7-0)
• Continued the application to Nov 6, 2025 (7-0)
• Agreed to reach out to Planning Commission regarding slope issues

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission will approve minutes from its August 21, 2025 meeting and discuss several studies, including the CATMA Workforce Transportation Study and the South Burlington Economic Development Study. Commissioners will also consider a possible ordinance on temporary signage and review the methodology for upcoming development applications. An update to the commission's mission statement will be discussed as well.

• Approve minutes from August 21, 2025 meeting
• CATMA Workforce Transportation Study – scope and survey questionnaires
• South Burlington Economic Development Study – discussion
• Temporary signage – possible ordinance discussion
• Upcoming development applications – methodology review

The commission unanimously approved the agenda changes, the August 6 and August 21 meeting minutes, and a new process to approve minutes only at business meetings. A motion to add a standing agenda item for development applications also passed unanimously. The temporary signage ordinance was introduced for individual review, and the mission statement will be revised.

• Approved agenda changes (3-0)
• Approved August 6, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Approved August 21, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Approved process to approve minutes only at business meetings (3-0)
• Added standing agenda item for development applications (3-0)
• Approved motion to adjourn (3-0)

Housing Commission

The Essex County Housing Commission will continue its discussion of the Housing Needs Assessment and how to involve the Selectboard in the next steps. Commissioners will also arrange details and materials for a tabling event at the upcoming Essex Community Day. No formal decisions or votes are noted on the agenda.

• Housing Needs Assessment discussion and plan to loop in Selectboard (continued)
• Prepare details and materials for tabling event at Essex Community Day

The Housing Commission approved the August 5, 2025 meeting minutes. Members assigned actions to add a discussion to the October 6 Selectboard meeting and to prepare materials for the September 20 community day. The commission also decided to keep its current meeting schedule.

• Approved minutes from August 5, 2025 meeting
• Brittany to request Housing Commission discussion be added to Oct 6 Selectboard meeting
• Anna to assemble and submit questions to Selectboard in advance of Oct 6 meeting
• Lauren to share updated 1‑pager draft with commission members
• Anna to propose tabling schedule for Sept 20 community day event
• Anna will provide table and tent for Sept 20 event
• Anna to contact CCRPC for information on affordable‑housing incentives
• HC members agreed to keep current meeting day and time

Planning Commission

The Essex County Planning Commission will convene to discuss zoning amendments, including fences, home occupations, and uses in the RPD-I district. The meeting will also include a working group update on RPD-I buffers and a public hearing.

• Discussion on zoning amendments (fences, home occupations, RPD-I uses)
• Working Group update on RPD-I Buffer
• Public hearing
• Approval of July 10, 2025 minutes
• Potential executive session

The commission voted 4-0 to approve the meeting agenda and later voted 4-0 to approve the July 10, 2025 minutes with suggested changes. No other actions were formally decided; the remaining agenda items involved discussion of zoning topics without a vote.

• Approved agenda (4-0)
• Approved July 10 minutes with changes (4-0)

Energy Committee

The Essex Energy Committee will approve the minutes from the August 13, 2025 meeting. It will discuss final planning items for the Champlain Valley Fair, including script, shifts, furniture, decorations, deliverables, protocol, setup, and takedown. The committee will also set the agenda for its September meeting.

• Approval of minutes from 08/13/2025
• Final planning for Champlain Valley Fair (script, shifts, furniture, decorations, deliverables, protocol, setup, takedown)
• Setting agenda for September meeting

The Energy Committee unanimously approved the minutes from the August 13, 2025 meeting. It then finalized arrangements for the Champlain Valley Fair, assigning tasks such as updating the volunteer list, retrieving banners, and contacting Burlington Electric for materials. The next meeting was set for September 10, 2025 at 7:00 pm.

• Approved minutes from 08/13/2025 (unanimous)
• Finalized Champlain Valley Fair booth planning (no vote recorded)

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission will hear public comments, consider the Vermont Construction Academy business item, and review reading files for the Milton EDC and a Tree Farm project. No specific decisions are listed; the agenda indicates discussion and information review.

• Vermont Construction Academy (business item)
• Milton EDC (reading file)
• Tree Farm (reading file)

The Economic Development Commission unanimously approved the meeting agenda (4-0). Approval of the previous meeting minutes was postponed until the September 3, 2025 meeting. No other actions were taken. The commission then adjourned the meeting unanimously (4-0).

• Approved agenda (4-0)
• Postponed approval of minutes to 9/3/2025
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Conservation & Trails Committee

The Conservation & Trails Committee will hold a special meeting to discuss a conceptual review application. The session is scheduled for August 21, 2025.

• Conceptual Review Application for 55 Thompson Drive

Development Review Board

The Development Review Board will review its rules and conflict‑of‑interest policy, approve minutes from prior meetings, and hold a public hearing on a site‑plan to convert the existing clubhouse at 127 Stinson Drive into a 3,600‑sq‑ft pro shop and restaurant. The board will also discuss conceptual proposals for a 41,250‑sq‑ft warehouse at 55 Thompson Drive with a front‑yard buffer waiver, and Phase III of the Greystone Industrial Park at 123 Old Colchester Road, which includes three warehouses and a pump station.

• Public hearing: redevelopment of the clubhouse at 127 Stinson Drive into a 3,600‑sq‑ft pro shop and restaurant (Mixed Use Development‑Planned Unit Development district)
• Conceptual discussion: 41,250‑sq‑ft warehouse and parking at 55 Thompson Drive, request waiver of 50‑ft front yard buffer (Resource Preservation District‑Industrial)
• Conceptual discussion: Phase III of Greystone Industrial Park at 123 Old Colchester Road, proposing three warehouse buildings and a pump station (Industrial and Agricultural Residential districts)
• Review of DRB Rules of Procedure and Conflict of Interest Policy
• Approval of minutes from meetings dated April 3, 2025 through August 7, 2025

The Development Review Board approved the agenda and several past meeting minutes unanimously. It then voted 7-0 to open a public hearing on the proposed 3,600‑sq‑ft clubhouse and restaurant at 127 Stinson Drive. The board also voted 7-0 to continue that public hearing on October 2, 2025.

• Approved agenda (7-0)
• Approved April 3, June 5, June 26, and August 7, 2025 minutes (7-0)
• Opened public hearing on clubhouse redevelopment at 127 Stinson Drive (7-0)
• Continued public hearing to Oct 2, 2025 (7-0)
• Requested changes to DRB Rules of Procedure and Conflict of Interest Policy

Police Community Advisory Board

The Police Community Advisory Board will meet to elect a Chair, Vice Chair, and Clerk. The board will also receive an update on the status of the PCAB survey and an update from the Essex Police Department.

• Motions for Chair, Vice Chair, and Clerk
• Update on PCAB survey status
• Essex Police Department (EPD) update

The board approved the meeting agenda and the July meeting minutes. Gwendolyn Evans was appointed chair and Christina Hagestad vice chair. The board then moved to adjourn, which was approved.

• Agenda approved
• July meeting minutes approved
• Gwendolyn Evans appointed chair
• Christina Hagestad appointed vice chair
• Motion to adjourn approved

Selectboard

The Selectboard will consider a waiver for a municipal water system connection and discuss budget goals for fiscal year 2027. The board is also scheduled to discuss a shared service agreement with Essex Junction for assessing services.

• Request for waiver of requirement to connect to municipal water system
• Selectboard budget goals for fiscal year 2027
• Extension of shared service agreement with Essex Junction for Assessing Services
• Negotiating or securing of real estate purchase or lease options
• Labor relations agreements with employees

The board accepted the consent agenda, approving the August 4 minutes and two check warrants. A motion to grant a waiver for a private well at 61 Old Stage Road failed on a 2‑2 vote. The board also authorized several executive‑session discussions on real‑estate, labor agreements, shared‑service extensions, and pending litigation. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved consent agenda (4-0)
• Approved minutes of August 4, 2025 (4-0)
• Approved check warrants #18288 and #18289 (4-0)
• Denied waiver request for well at 61 Old Stage Road (2-2, vote fails)
• Authorized executive session to discuss real estate purchase/lease options (4-0)
• Authorized executive session to discuss labor agreements with employees (4-0)
• Authorized executive session to discuss extension of shared service agreement with Essex Junction (4-0)
• Authorized executive session to discuss pending or probable litigation (4-0)

Cemetery Commission

The Cemetery Commission will develop the FY27 budget, reviewing allocations for head stone repair, tree trimming, mowing efficiency, and tree removal. It will also consider a stone cleaning project and a support letter for green space. Revenue reports for FY25 and FY26 will be presented, and the commission will approve the June 18, 2025 minutes.

• FY27 budget development – head stone repair, tree trimming, mowing efficiency, tree removal
• Stone cleaning project
• Support letter for green space
• Revenue report for FY25 and FY26
• Approval of June 18, 2025 minutes

The Cemetery Commission approved the June 18, 2025 minutes. A motion was adopted to hold future meetings on the second Wednesday of each month. The support letter for a green‑space project was postponed because a member was absent. Members agreed to hold an on‑site meeting on Sept 2 to review regulation concerns.

• Approved June 18, 2025 minutes (seconded by Caroline Ashley)
• Accepted proposal to meet second Wednesday of each month (motion passed)
• Postponed support letter for green space due to member absence
• Agreed to schedule on‑site meeting on Sept 2 to review cemetery regulation concerns

Energy Committee

The Essex Energy Committee will approve minutes from July 9, 2025, appoint a chair and vice‑chair, and address remaining vacancies. It will also discuss next steps for the Champlain Valley Fair, including volunteer staffing and information‑table setup, and set the agenda for the September meeting.

• Approve minutes from 07/09/2025
• Appoint chair and vice‑chair
• Fill remaining committee vacancies
• Plan volunteer staffing and info table for Champlain Valley Fair
• Set agenda for September meeting

The committee approved the July 9 minutes with a unanimous vote. Will Dodge was appointed chair and Dottie Bergandahl vice‑chair. Members agreed to investigate concrete and asphalt standards for town roads as part of the Energy Plan. A follow‑up meeting for the Champlain Valley Fair booth was scheduled for August 22.

• Approved July 9 minutes (unanimous)
• Appointed Will Dodge as Chair
• Appointed Dottie Bergandahl as Vice‑Chair
• Agreed to study concrete and asphalt standards for town roads
• Scheduled next meeting for August 22, 2025 at 7 pm to plan Fair booth

Conservation & Trails Committee

The Conservation & Trails Committee will review updates on several projects, including Riverside Park, the Keystone Trail, and a tree nursery. It may hold an executive session to discuss a real‑estate transaction for Riverside Park under V.S.A. § 313(a)(2). The committee will also advise the Development Review Board and the Planning Commission on pending applications.

• Potential executive session to discuss Riverside Park real‑estate transaction (V.S.A. § 313(a)(2))
• Advice to Development Review Board on a development application
• Update on Keystone Trail Project
• Update on Tree Nursery Project
• Review and adjust CTC Work Plan

The Conservation & Trails Committee added three agenda items, approved the July 8, 2025 minutes, and entered an executive session, all with unanimous votes. It approved the purchase of four commemorative plaques honoring Horseford Nursery’s tree donations for $240, directing staff to make the purchase. The committee also adopted recommendations to the Development Review Board for several projects, formalized a clerk transition, and set up a new committee‑managed Google Drive while keeping official records on town servers.

• Added agenda items (new Trail Coordinator, new Clerk, plaque credit) – 7-0
• Approved July 8, 2025 minutes – 7-0-1
• Entered executive session – 8-0
• Approved staff purchase of 4 commemorative plaques for $240 – 8-0
• Sent memo recommending DRB not permit building on slopes >20% for 55 Thompson Drive – 8-0
• Sent memo recommending DRB not permit building on slopes >20% for 45 River Road – 8-0
• Formalized clerk transition to Erin De Vries effective Sept 9 – no vote
• Established committee‑managed Google Drive with admin access – consensus

Board of Abatement

The Board of Abatement will meet to review a request for tax abatement. The board will determine if taxes should be abated for persons who died insolvent or are unable to pay taxes, interest, and collection fees.

• Tax abatement request from Monique Lemire (Estate Executor) and Robert P. Lemire, Jr.

The Board accepted the agenda unanimously. It approved a motion to send a list of potentially challenged voters to Town Clerk N. Rogers, also unanimously. The meeting was then adjourned by a unanimous vote.

• Agenda approved (14-0)
• Send list of potentially challenged voters to N. Rogers (14-0)
• Adjourn meeting (14-0)

Board of Civil Authority

The Board of Civil Authority will conduct a biennial review of its checklist as required by Vermont Statutes 2150. It will also audit the checklist and district boundaries in accordance with Act 70, Section 18. These items are scheduled as the primary business items for the meeting.

• Biennial Review of Checklist per 17 § V.S.A. 2150
• Audit of Checklist & District Boundaries per Act 70, Section 18

The Board of Civil Authority approved the meeting agenda with a 14‑0 vote. It also approved a motion to send a list of potentially challenged voters to Town Clerk Nanette Rogers, also 14‑0. The meeting was adjourned by a 14‑0 vote. The clerk reported three voters are in the wrong district and has contacted the Secretary of State for correction.

• Approved agenda as presented (14-0)
• Approved motion to send list of potentially challenged voters to Nanette Rogers (14-0)
• Adjourned meeting (14-0)

Development Review Board

The Essex Town Development Review Board will conduct a site visit for a Planned Unit Development-Residential application at 18 & 30 Timerlane Drive. The public is invited to attend the inspection at 42 Stonebrook Circle.

• Site visit for PUD-R application at 18 & 30 Timerlane Drive
• Public invited to ask questions at 6:30 p.m. meeting
• Proposal for 10 single-family homes on individual lots

Development Review Board

The Development Review Board will hold public hearings on two residential and commercial development proposals. The board will also review its rules of procedure and conflict of interest policy.

• Proposed 10 single family homes at 18 & 30 Timberlane Drive (Pinewood Manor Inc.)
• Proposed construction of Buildings G, G1, and H at 3 & 10 Commonwealth Ave and 10 Carmichael Street
• Proposed 21 one-bedroom units, 9 two-bedroom units, and 7,600 sq ft of commercial space in Building H
• Proposed completion of Carmichael Street and initial work on the Town Green
• Review of DRB Rules of Procedure and Conflict of Interest Policy

The Development Review Board moved Agenda Item 5 after Item 6 and approved the agenda, each by a 7‑0 vote. The board then unanimously voted (7‑0) to continue the Pinewood Manor Planned Unit Development application to an October 16, 2025 hearing date, keeping the public hearing open. No other substantive actions were decided.

• Moved Agenda Item 5 after Item 6 (7‑0)
• Approved agenda (7‑0)
• Continued Pinewood Manor PUD application to Oct 16, 2025 hearing (7‑0)
• Public hearing remains open

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission will review the next steps for the Economic Development Study Report. Commissioners will hear an introduction and discussion of the Community Housing and Infrastructure Program (CHIPS ACT) presented by State Representative Abby Duke. The commission will also discuss the Tree Farm joint venture with the City of Essex, including a site visit and its economic impact.

• Economic Development Study Report – update on next steps (presented by Lindsay Bloos)
• Community Housing and Infrastructure Program (CHIPS ACT) – introduction and discussion (State Rep. Abby Duke)
• Tree Farm joint venture – site visit and review of economic impact with the City of Essex

The commission unanimously approved agenda changes (4‑0) and approved the July 17 minutes with amendments (4‑0). The TPMA Economic Development Study was deferred because the consultant was ill, with a draft expected in September. Commissioners agreed to draft a recommendation on longer‑term agreements for the Tree Farm facility for the next meeting. The meeting was adjourned unanimously (3‑0).

• Approve agenda changes (4-0)
• Approve July 17 minutes with amendments (4-0)
• Defer TPMA Economic Development Study (no vote recorded)
• Commissioner to draft Tree Farm recommendation for next agenda
• Adjourn meeting (3-0)

Housing Commission

The Essex County Housing Commission will discuss the town’s housing needs assessment and review recent state and regional housing reports. Members will consider the DHCD update on Vermont housing and the CCRPC Future Land Use Map version 2.0. No formal actions are listed on the agenda.

• Housing Needs Assessment Discussion
• DHCD Update on Housing in Vermont – CCRPC
• CCRPC Future Land Use Map Version 2.0

The commission approved the minutes from the July 1, 2025 meeting. Members discussed updating the Housing Needs Assessment and agreed to create a brief infographic‑style communications tool. Brittany Johnson was assigned to contact the Selectboard about its new housing goal, and members were tasked with promoting the vacant commission seat and registering for the Sept 20 Essex Community Day.

• Approved July 1, 2025 meeting minutes
• Assigned Brittany Johnson to contact the Selectboard about its new housing goal
• Decided to develop a brief infographic communications tool on housing data
• Tasked members to promote the vacant commission seat and recruit a new member
• Registered the Housing Commission for Essex Community Day on Sept 20
• Noted Future Land Use Map Version 2.0 has no changes for Essex

Selectboard

The Essex Selectboard will meet to approve minutes and check warrants, discuss fiscal year 2026 tax rates, and consider opting into Act 181 Tier 1B status. The meeting includes a public hearing and an anticipated executive session regarding labor relations and civil litigation.

• Approve check warrants #18285-18287
• Consider approval of fiscal year 2026 tax rates
• Consider opting into Act 181 Tier 1B status
• Discussion about labor relations agreements
• Discussion about pending or probable civil litigation

The board accepted the consent agenda, approving the July 14, 2025 minutes and three check warrants (5‑0). It set the fiscal year 2026 tax rates at a total municipal rate of $0.7919 per $100 of assessed value (5‑0). The resolution to request Act 181 Tier 1B status was rejected (2‑3). The Saxon Hill Forest Management Plan was approved (5‑0), while the proposed handbook for boards, committees and commissions was not adopted (2‑3).

• Accepted consent agenda, approving July 14 minutes and three check warrants (5‑0)
• Approved FY2026 tax rates: General 0.07397, Local Agreement 0.0022, Capital 0.0500, total 0.7919 (5‑0)
• Rejected resolution to request Act 181 Tier 1B status for Essex West and Town Center (2‑3)
• Approved Saxon Hill Forest Management Plan (5‑0)
• Failed to adopt Handbook for Boards, Committees and Commissions (2‑3)

Development Review Board

The Development Review Board will consider a consent agenda item to adjust the boundary between 79 Fleury Road (Parcel ID 2-058-001-006) and 85 Fleury Road (Parcel ID 2-058-001-003). The adjustment would transfer 1.42 acres from 79 Fleury Road, reducing its size to 0.31 acres, and increase 85 Fleury Road to 2.16 acres. The board will also hold public hearings on a proposed 8‑lot commercial subdivision at 15 Leo Drive and a Planned Unit Development‑Residential at 68 Pinecrest Drive.

• Boundary adjustment: 79 Fleury Rd conveys 1.42 acres to 85 Fleury Rd
• Preliminary subdivision: 8‑lot commercial project at 15 Leo Drive
• Planned Unit Development‑Residential: up to 18 units at 68 Pinecrest Drive

The Development Review Board approved the agenda and consent agenda unanimously (5‑0 each). It then approved the 8‑lot commercial subdivision at 15 Leo Drive with a directive to review street‑tree requirements (5‑0). The board also approved the 9‑unit Planned Unit Development at 68 Pinecrest Drive as written (5‑0). Approval of the meeting minutes was tabled.

• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda (5-0)
• Approved 8‑lot commercial subdivision at 15 Leo Drive with street‑tree instruction (5-0)
• Approved 9‑unit Planned Unit Development at 68 Pinecrest Drive as written (5-0)
• Tabled approval of minutes

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission will approve minutes from the July 2, 2025 meeting, hold a public comment period, and discuss the Tree Farm Recreational Facility. The agenda also includes partner updates and a reading of a resident letter. The meeting is in person at 23 Old Rochester Rd, Essex, VT.

• Approve minutes from July 2, 2025 meeting
• Discuss Tree Farm Recreational Facility (see http://www.treefarmsports.com/)
• Public comment period
• Partner updates
• Reading of resident letter

The Economic Development Commission approved the minutes from the July 2, 2025 meeting with minor amendments, voting 3-0. The commission also voted unanimously to adjourn the July 17, 2025 meeting at 9:10 a.m. Vice Chair Signorello agreed to contact an investment group to discuss potential development of the Tree Farm Recreational Facility.

• Approved July 2, 2025 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Adjourned July 17, 2025 meeting (3-0)
• Vice Chair Signorello to contact investment group about Tree Farm facility development

Development Review Board

The Development Review Board will conduct a continued public hearing regarding a site plan for a distribution facility. The board will also elect officers and note a withdrawn application for 56 Tanglewood Drive.

• Public hearing for Scannell Properties, LLC regarding a 107,000 square foot distribution facility at 637 Kimo Drive
• Waiver request for the RPD-I 50' buffer at 637 Kimo Drive
• Withdrawn application to amend or rescind approval for 56 Tanglewood Drive
• Rescheduled preliminary subdivision for an 8-lot commercial project at 15 Leo Drive

The board elected Ian Carroll as Chair, Sharon Zukowski as Vice‑Chair, and Stephanie Bixby as Clerk, with the motion passing 6‑0. The agenda was approved after removing three items, also by a 6‑0 vote. After a public hearing on the 107,000‑sq‑ft distribution facility at 637 Kimo Drive, the DRB moved into a deliberative session (5‑1) and later closed the hearing (6‑0). Chairman Carroll announced the application was denied by a majority, leaving the matter open for further vote.

• Elected officers (Chair, Vice‑Chair, Clerk) – passed 6‑0
• Approved agenda with changes – passed 6‑0
• Moved into private deliberative session – passed 5‑1
• Closed public hearing – passed 6‑0
• Denied Scannell Properties' distribution facility application – majority decision

Police Community Advisory Board

The Police Community Advisory Board will approve minutes from June 17, 2025, and discuss a draft survey and an Essex Police Department update. The meeting will be held in person at 81 Main St. and online via Zoom.

• Approve minutes from June 17, 2025
• Review PCAB Draft Survey
• Receive EPD Update

The board approved the June meeting minutes. It decided to move forward with an English‑only community survey, pending an ADA compliance check of the Google Forms version, and will review demographics after 30 days before considering translation. Gift cards will be offered to ten survey participants, with Jenny contacting them. The board also agreed to have a table at the National Night Out event in August, and the motion to adjourn was approved.

• Approved June meeting minutes (consent item)
• Decided to launch community survey in English only, pending ADA compliance check
• Planned to review survey demographics after 30 days before any translation
• Agreed to provide gift cards to 10 survey participants; Jenny will contact them
• Offered a PCAB table at National Night Out in August; Jenny will support
• Motion to adjourn approved

Selectboard

The Essex Selectboard will consider several consent items, including approval of recent meeting minutes and check warrants. It will also discuss and potentially approve the continuation of police cost sharing with the City of Essex Junction on a per‑capita basis. Additional items include a recreation needs assessment contract, a sewer allocation for 110 Center Road, and a purchase of a tow‑behind generator.

• Approve minutes from the June 16, 2025 meeting
• Approve check warrants #18281‑06/13/25, #18282‑06/20/25, #18283‑06/27/25, #18284‑07/03/25
• Consider approval of BerryDunn to perform a Recreation Needs Assessment
• Consider approval of additional sewer allocation for 110 Center Road
• Consider approval to continue sharing police costs with City of Essex Junction on a per‑capita basis

The board approved the FY 2026 work plan and the Town Manager’s FY 2026 goals, each by a 4‑1 vote. It also approved continuing per‑capita police cost sharing with the City of Essex Junction (4‑1) and authorized a contract with the Essex Police Employee Association Lodge #004 for 2025‑2028 (5‑0). A resolution honoring Travis Sabataso was adopted unanimously.

• Adopted Resolution in Appreciation of Travis Sabataso (5-0)
• Approved FY 2026 work plan with priority levels (4-1)
• Approved Town Manager goals for FY 2026 (4-1)
• Approved continuation of per‑capita police cost sharing with City of Essex Junction (4-1)
• Authorized contract with Essex Police Employee Association Lodge #004 for 2025‑2028 (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda, including June 16, 2025 minutes and check warrants (5-0)
• Entered executive session to discuss contracts and labor relations (5-0)
• Entered executive session to discuss pending civil litigation (5-0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will meet to elect officers and adopt operating rules. The body will discuss zoning requests and a Selectboard request for clarification on the Mixed Use District. The meeting also includes a review of the Women's Correctional Facility next steps timeline.

• Election of officers and adoption of rules of procedure
• Zoning requests including big zoning changes and resident requests
• Selectboard request for clarification on Mixed Use District (Tier 1B Status)
• Women's Correctional Facility next steps timeline

The Planning Commission elected its officers (Chair, Vice‑Chair, Clerk) and adopted the Rules of Procedure, each by a 7‑0 vote. The agenda and the June 12 minutes were approved (agenda 7‑0, minutes 6‑0). The commission also set a series of action items, most notably scheduling a larger forum with state officials in September or October at Essex High School to discuss the proposed women’s correctional facility.

• Elected officers – Josh Knox Chair, Georgia Lavigne Vice‑Chair, Jonathan Schumacher Clerk (7‑0)
• Adopted Rules of Procedure (7‑0)
• Approved meeting agenda (7‑0)
• Approved June 12, 2025 minutes (6‑0)
• Scheduled a state forum on the women’s correctional facility for September/October at Essex High School
• Established monthly working group meetings on the 4th Thursday to review zoning requests
• Directed staff to create a framework/template for resident zoning change submissions
• Directed staff to create a zoning amendment webpage for public comments

Energy Committee

The Essex Energy Committee will approve minutes from the May 14 meeting, welcome a new member, and address remaining vacancies. It will discuss staffing and information needs for the Champlain Valley Fair, resume the enhanced energy plan discussion, consider a revised committee charter, and review the Unsworth parcel opportunity and related net‑metering RFP. The meeting concludes with any other business.

• Approval of minutes from 05/14/2025
• Welcome of new member Rod Williams
• Champlain Valley Fair – staffing and info table planning
• Energy Committee Revised Charter
• Unsworth Parcel Opportunity / RFP / Colchester Net Metering Offset Opportunity

The Energy Committee approved the minutes from the May 14, 2025 meeting with no corrections. Members assigned tasks for the Champlain Valley Fair information table, including Katie forwarding a signup sheet, Shawn providing equipment, and several members contacting agencies for materials. The committee will revisit the Enhanced Energy Plan, charter revision, and Unsworth Parcel net‑metering opportunity at the September 2025 meeting.

• Approved minutes from 05/14/2025 (unanimous)
• Katie to forward the fair signup spreadsheet and staffing request to agencies
• Katie to contact Efficiency Vermont about rebate status
• Shawn to bring tables, chairs, and extension cords for the fair info table
• Will to seek a monitor from GMP for the fair table
• Geetha to contact VT Electric Co‑op and VT Gas Systems for materials
• Natalee to contact CVOEO and request expertise from Henry Bonges and Brad Cook

Conservation & Trails Committee

The Conservation & Trails Committee will discuss several business items, including advising the Development Review Board on applications and deciding how the board will communicate with the Planning Commission. They will also review the CTC Work Plan and receive updates on trail mapping, the Riverside Park, and the Keystone Trail Project. A reading file will present photos of the Indian Brook cleanup and a court decision favoring the Wheeler Park project. The meeting includes a proposed executive session to discuss a real estate transaction under V.S.A. § 313(a)(2).

• Advise DRB on Development Applications
• Decide future communication method for DRB and Planning Commission
• Review and adjust CTC Work Plan
• Potential Executive Session to discuss Real Estate Transaction (V.S.A. § 313(a)(2))
• Court favors Wheeler Park project in appeal

The Conservation & Trails Committee elected Ken Signorello as Chair (8‑0) and Bino Cummings as Vice Chair (7‑1). Duane Millar Barlow was re‑elected Clerk (8‑0) and the agenda and amended minutes were approved unanimously (8‑0). The committee adopted four development‑related motions: relocate the water line (8‑0), add a third tree per property (8‑0), bury power lines (8‑0), and connect Leo Drive to Saxon Hill Road (7‑1).

• Ken Signorello elected Chair (8‑0)
• Bino Cummings elected Vice Chair (7‑1)
• Duane Millar Barlow elected Clerk (8‑0)
• Agenda approved with additions (8‑0)
• Amended minutes approved (8‑0)
• Relocate water line to town right‑of‑way (8‑0)
• Add third tree per property to reduce spacing (8‑0)
• Bury power lines/utilities (8‑0)

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission will meet to elect officers and review the 2025 Work Plan. The body will discuss a study regarding the economic impact of the town's correctional facility and a proposed business onboarding web page.

• Study of Economic Impact of Correctional Facility in Town
• Proposed new business onboarding web page
• 2025 Commission Work Plan
• NWVT Economic Report
• Election of officers

The Economic Development Commission elected Igor Polenov as Chair, Ken Signorello as Vice Chair, and Keith Dunbar as Clerk, each unanimously. The agenda was amended to place the TPMA update first and approved unanimously. The commission voted 4-0 to not stand by the correctional‑facility impact study findings. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Igor Polenov elected Chair (unanimous 4-0)
• Ken Signorello elected Vice Chair (unanimous 4-0)
• Keith Dunbar elected Clerk (unanimous 4-0)
• Agenda amendment to move TPMA update to first item approved (unanimous 4-0)
• Minutes from June 4, 2025 approved with minor correction (unanimous 4-0)
• Commission does not stand by correctional facility study findings (unanimous 4-0)
• Adjournment motion approved (unanimous 4-0)

Housing Commission

The Housing Commission will meet to elect officers and review its work plan. The body will also discuss an update to the Housing Needs Assessment.

• Election of officers
• Housing Needs Assessment update discussion
• Review of work plan

The commission voted to keep the current officers (Chair Anna Brouillette, Vice‑Chair Lauren Ressue, Clerk Carolyn Ellenberger) for the upcoming year. The agenda was approved as presented and the minutes from the June 3, 2025 meeting were approved. Members were assigned tasks to review regional housing needs assessments and to develop goals for an updated Housing Needs Assessment, with a budget request to be prepared before September. No members of the public spoke at the meeting.

• Retained current officers for the upcoming year (unanimous)
• Approved agenda with no changes
• Approved minutes from June 3, 2025 meeting
• All members to review Essex and neighboring housing needs assessments for August meeting
• Lauren and Carolyn to define goals and questions for the Housing Needs Assessment (discussion at August meeting)
• Noah to coordinate zoning regulation updates with town planner Kent Johnson
• Plan to submit budget request for assessment update before September
• Brittany to register the commission for Essex Community Day and confirm Rupesh’s re‑application

Development Review Board

The Development Review Board will conduct a public hearing continuing from the May 29 meeting. The hearing concerns the site‑plan application by Scannell Properties, LLC for an approximately 107,000 sq ft distribution facility with parking at 637 Kimo Drive (Parcel ID 2‑074‑004‑013) located in the Resource Preservation District‑Industrial. The application includes a request to waive the district’s 50‑foot buffer requirement.

• Public hearing on site‑plan for Scannell Properties, LLC (≈107,000 sq ft distribution facility) at 637 Kimo Drive
• Parcel ID 2‑074‑004‑013 in the Resource Preservation District‑Industrial
• Waiver request for the RPD‑I 50‑foot buffer (ZR Table 2.14(9)(c))
• Proposal includes associated parking
• Continuation of discussion from May 29, 2025 meeting

The Development Review Board approved the agenda as amended with a 7‑0 vote and added an ‘Other Business’ item. The board continued the public hearing on the Scannell Properties site plan for 637 Kimo Drive, but no decision on the application was made. No other substantive actions were voted on during the meeting.

• Approved agenda as amended (vote 7-0)
• Added ‘Other Business’ to agenda (added, no vote recorded)
• Continued public hearing on 637 Kimo Drive site plan (no decision)
• Board member suggested closing public hearing; attorney objected (no vote recorded)

Energy Committee

The Essex Energy Committee will meet to discuss the resumption of the Enhanced Energy Plan and a revised committee charter. The body will also review the Unsworth Parcel opportunity and Colchester Net Metering Offset. Administrative items include missing minutes and committee vacancies.

• Unsworth Parcel Opportunity / RFP / Colchester Net Metering Offset Opportunity
• Enhanced Energy Plan discussion resumption
• Energy Committee Revised Charter
• Champlain Valley Fair volunteers
• Committee vacancies

Board of Civil Authority

The Board of Civil Authority will approve the minutes from the October 18, 2024 meeting. It will also review four separate requests to abate taxes, interest, and collection fees for named individuals and a limited liability company under V.S.A. §1535(a)(3). The meeting includes the usual call to order, agenda approval, and public hearing time.

• Approve minutes: October 18, 2024
• Tax abatement request for Steve & Allyson West
• Tax abatement request for Dynamic Ideas LLC
• Tax abatement request for Afia Ahmed & Ajit Kumar
• Tax abatement request for Caitlyn Bain & Zachary Moyse

The board denied Steve and Allyson West’s request for a $573.53 tax abatement because they did not provide proof of postmark. The board approved a $275.83 abatement for Caitlyn Bain and Zachary Moyse after amending the original $300.83 request to exclude a $25 processing fee. The board denied Dynamic Ideas LLC’s request for a $938.08 abatement, citing lack of a valid reason. The board also denied Afia Ahmed and Ajit Kumar’s abatement request, with the motion passing unanimously.

• Denied Steve & Allyson West’s $573.53 abatement (12-1)
• Approved Caitlyn Bain & Zachary Moyse’s $275.83 abatement (13-0)
• Denied Dynamic Ideas LLC’s $938.08 abatement (13-0)
• Denied Afia Ahmed & Ajit Kumar’s abatement request (13-0)

Cemetery Commission

The commission approved the May 14, 2025 meeting minutes with a 5‑0 vote. No other actions were decided; the water line restoration is scheduled to start June 20, and tree removal options remain under consideration. Several agenda items were deferred to future meetings.

• Approved May 14, 2025 minutes (5-0)

Police Community Advisory Board

The Police Community Advisory Board will approve minutes from May 20 and discuss a draft survey and an Essex Police Department update. The meeting will be held in person at 81 Main St. and online via Zoom.

• Approve minutes from May 20, 2025
• Review PCAB Draft Survey
• Receive EPD Update

The Police Community Advisory Board approved the agenda and the May meeting minutes. The board approved revisions to the PCAB survey, directing Alyssa March to make changes, translate it, and have beta testers review it before the next meeting. A motion to adjourn was made, seconded and approved.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved May meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved revisions to PCAB survey (unanimous)
• Directed Alyssa March to revise, translate, and beta‑test the survey (unanimous)
• Approved motion to adjourn (unanimous)

Selectboard

The Selectboard will hold a public hearing and consider the final adoption of amendments to the Impact Fee Ordinance. The body will also discuss a resolution to withdraw from the Green Mountain Transit Authority in fiscal year 2027.

• Public hearing and final adoption of Impact Fee Ordinance amendments
• Approval of Schedule A for Fire and Recreation Impact Fees
• Resolution to withdraw from Green Mountain Transit Authority in fiscal year 2027
• Grant application to Vermont Agency of Transportation for multi-use path along VT Route 15
• Wastewater allocation for 56 Tanglewood Drive

The board approved the final amendments to the town’s impact‑fee ordinance (5‑0) and adopted Schedule A for fire and recreation impact fees (5‑0). It authorized staff to submit a Vermont Agency of Transportation grant application for a VT 15 shared‑use path (4‑1). It approved an additional wastewater allocation of 200 gallons per day for 56 Tanglewood Drive (4‑1). The board also appointed members to several boards and committees (5‑0).

• Adopt final amendments to Impact Fee Ordinance (5‑0)
• Adopt Schedule A for fire and recreation impact fees (5‑0)
• Authorize staff to submit VTrans grant application for VT 15 shared‑use path (4‑1)
• Approve additional wastewater allocation for 56 Tanglewood Drive (4‑1)
• Appoint members to Conservation and Trails Committee, Economic Development Commission, Energy Committee, and others (5‑0)
• Appoint members to Essex Free Library Board (4‑0‑1)
• Enter executive session to discuss public‑official appointments (5‑0)
• Extend meeting to 11:30 p.m. (5‑0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will consider a recommendation for Tier 1B status. Members will also discuss amendments to zoning regulations regarding steep slopes and RPD-I buffers.

• Recommendation for Tier 1B status
• Zoning Regulation Amendments: Steep Slopes
• Zoning Regulation Amendments: RPD-I Buffer
• Handbook for Board, Committee and Commission Members

The commission unanimously approved the meeting agenda with a 6‑0 vote. The minutes from the May 8 meeting were also approved. No other motions or votes were recorded during the session.

• Approved agenda (6-0)
• Approved May 8 minutes

Conservation & Trails Committee

The Conservation & Trails Committee will discuss updates on several projects, including Riverside Park, the Tree Nursery Project, and the Keystone Trail Project. It will advise the Development Review Board on development applications and review the committee's work plan. The meeting includes a decision to approve the marketing plan for the Conservation Fund survey.

• Approve marketing plan for Conservation Fund survey
• Advise Development Review Board on development applications
• Review and adjust Conservation & Trails Committee Work Plan
• Update on Riverside Park
• Update on Keystone Trail Project

The Conservation & Trails Committee approved an amended agenda and corrected the May 13 minutes. It adopted guidance to send to the Planning Commission on a zoning change request. Finally, the committee voted to endorse six recommended changes to the RPD‑I 50‑foot buffer requirements.

• Approved amended agenda with item swap and new item 6.a.1 (6‑0)
• Approved May 13 meeting minutes with three corrections (7‑0)
• Submitted guidance to the Planning Commission on RPD‑I zoning request (7‑0)
• Endorsed six buffer recommendations for RPD‑I as presented (7‑0)

Selectboard

The Selectboard will discuss departmental work plans for fiscal years 2025 and 2026 and its own work plans for fiscal year 2025. It will review resident survey results and consider approving updated Selectboard values. The board will also review and consider approving long‑term goals for the next 5‑8 years and assign priority levels to work items for fiscal year 2026.

• Review and consider approval of Selectboard values
• Review and consider approval of Selectboard long‑term goals for the next 5‑8 years
• Assign priority levels to work items
• Discussion of departmental work plans for fiscal years 2025 and 2026
• Discussion of Selectboard work items for fiscal year 2026

Development Review Board

The Development Review Board will hold a continued public hearing regarding a proposed 2-lot simple parcel subdivision. The board is reviewing a request for a waiver for the property located at 56 Tanglewood Drive.

• Public hearing for 2-lot simple parcel subdivision and waiver at 56 Tanglewood Drive (Parcel ID 2-044-059-002)

The Development Review Board approved its agenda (6‑0) and the May 1, 2025 minutes (6‑0). The board voted to close the public hearing (6‑0) and agreed to formally request the Planning Commission review the second‑access requirement for large subdivisions. Finally, the board approved the two‑lot subdivision at 56 Tanglewood Drive with specific deed language and waiver conditions, passing 4‑2.

• Approved agenda (6-0)
• Approved May 1, 2025 minutes as written (6-0)
• Motion to close public hearing passed (6-0)
• Board resolved to request Planning Commission examine second‑access requirement
• Approved 2‑lot subdivision at 56 Tanglewood Dr with waiver edits (4-2)

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission will hold a remote meeting with Lindsay Bloos of the TPMA. Commissioners will discuss planning a June tour for a TPMA consultant to introduce the organization to Essex. The commission will also present its 2025 workplan to the Selectboard for review.

• Remote meeting with Lindsay Bloos, TPMA
• Discussion – planning tour for TPMA consultant's introduction to Essex in June
• Presentation to Selectboard on EDC 2025 Workplan
• Approval of draft minutes from 5/15/25 EDC meeting

The Economic Development Commission approved agenda additions, including a MIT report on prison economic impact, with a 3‑0 vote. It approved the May 15, 2025 meeting minutes and the 2025 workplan, adding a volunteer committee for the Explore Essex program. The commission also scheduled the prison impact report for discussion at the next meeting and adjourned the session unanimously.

• Approved agenda additions (MIT prison impact report) – vote 3‑0
• Approved minutes from May 15, 2025 meeting – vote 3‑0
• Scheduled MIT prison impact report for next meeting agenda – agreed
• Approved 2025 EDC workplan with volunteer committee amendment – vote 3‑0
• Encouraged attendance at June 9‑10 strategic planning sessions – noted
• Adjourned meeting – vote 3‑0

Housing Commission

The Housing Commission will meet on June 3, 2025 to consider a proposed change to the town’s fire impact fee ordinance. The commission will also approve the minutes from its May 6, 2025 meeting. Additional agenda items include routine public hearing time, call to order, and member updates.

• Continue discussion of fire impact fee ordinance change
• Approve minutes from May 6, 2025 meeting
• Public hearing segment for resident comments

The Housing Commission approved the May 6, 2025 meeting minutes. It expressed support for Option A of the fire impact fee ordinance and recommended automatic exemption for affordable and low‑income housing projects. The commission assigned tasks: Lauren will draft a recommendation to the Selectboard by June 16, Kent will follow up on the 2025 budget request, Anna will invite a speaker on affordable housing for the August meeting, and the Housing Needs Assessment update was placed on the July 1 agenda.

• Approved minutes from May 6, 2025 meeting
• Supported fire impact fee Option A and recommended automatic exemption for affordable/low‑income housing
• Assigned Lauren to draft recommendation to Selectboard (due June 16)
• Assigned Kent to follow up on outcome of 2025 budget request
• Assigned Anna to invite a speaker on affordable housing for August meeting
• Added Housing Needs Assessment update to July 1 meeting agenda

Selectboard

The Essex Selectboard will interview volunteers for the Free Library Board and the Conservation & Trails Committee. It will discuss the town’s fire and recreation impact fee schedule and the allocation of costs in the police services agreement with the City of Essex Junction. The board will also review updates on a charter amendment, the water and sewer fund budget, opioid settlement funding, and road construction on VT Route 128. An executive session is anticipated to address contract matters.

• Interview volunteer for Essex Free Library Board of Trustees (Ellen Knowles)
• Interview volunteer for Conservation & Trails Committee (Erin De Vries)
• Discussion of fire and recreation impact fee schedule
• Discussion of cost allocation in Police Services Agreement with City of Essex Junction
• Construction update: Essex to Fairfax road work on VT Route 128

The Selectboard approved the May 19, 2025 meeting minutes and two check warrants by a 5‑0 vote. It adopted a finding that public knowledge of contracts would disadvantage the town, also by 5‑0. The board then entered an executive session to discuss contracts, exited the session later, and adjourned, each action passing 5‑0.

• Approved May 19, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Approved check warrants #18277 and #18278 (5-0)
• Found public knowledge of contracts would place town at disadvantage (5-0)
• Entered executive session to discuss contracts (5-0)
• Exited executive session (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Development Review Board

The Development Review Board will hold a continued public hearing regarding a site plan application for Scannell Properties, LLC. The board is reviewing the proposed construction of a distribution facility and an associated buffer waiver request.

• Site plan application for 107,000 square foot distribution facility at 637 Kimo Drive
• Waiver request for the RPD-I 50' buffer

The board voted 7‑0 to approve the meeting agenda. It continued the hearing on Scannell Properties’ 107,000‑sq‑ft distribution facility site plan and asked Public Works to re‑examine the traffic study. Public comments were accepted, and the meeting adjourned at 9:02 p.m.

• Approved agenda (7‑0)
• Continued hearing on Scannell Properties site plan
• Requested Public Works re‑examine traffic study
• Public comments accepted

Essex Free Library Board of Trustees

The Essex Free Library Board will discuss three main items: updating the handbook for board, committee and commission members and their staff representatives; creating a committee to evaluate the library director; and reviewing the town's work plan for the library. Additional items include a report from the library director and an update from the Friends group. The meeting also includes standard agenda items such as announcements, public comments, and approval of minutes.

• Review of Handbook for Board, Committee & Commission Members and their Staff Representatives
• Convene committee for director’s evaluation
• Review of town work plan for the library
• Friends update

The trustees approved the previous meeting minutes unanimously. They created a director‑evaluation working group composed of Iris, Marie and Janet, to be completed in early June. Caitlin was tasked with informing the Town about wording in the board handbook. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Formed director‑evaluation working group (Iris, Marie, Janet) – due early June
• Assigned Caitlin to inform Town about handbook wording

Police Community Advisory Board

The board will first approve the minutes from the April 15, 2025 meeting. It will then consider questions for a new PCAB survey and receive an update from the Emergency Power Division. Public comments on consent items are also scheduled before an executive session.

• Approve minutes from the April 15, 2025 meeting
• Review and discuss PCAB survey questions
• Receive update from the Emergency Power Division (EPD)
• Public comments on consent items and items not on the agenda
• Executive session

The Police Community Advisory Board approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from the April meeting. The board also approved the motion to adjourn, ending the session at 7:12 p.m. No vote tallies were recorded.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved April meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved motion to adjourn (unanimous)

Selectboard

The Selectboard will hold a public hearing on the proposed Fiscal Year 2026 Water/Sewer operating budget and capital plan. Consent items include approval of minutes, check warrants, an auditor, participation in the Municipal Roads Grants‑in‑Aid Program, and a 3rd class liquor license renewal with an outdoor consumption permit. Business items cover approvals of the FY 2026 Water/Sewer operating and capital budgets, the Chittenden Solid Waste District budget, the Parks & Recreation program fund budget, and the first passage of amendments to the Impact Fee Ordinance with a follow‑up hearing scheduled for June 16. Additional discussions will address Green Mountain Transit membership for FY 2027, real‑estate options, and potential civil litigation.

• Public hearing on FY 2026 Water/Sewer operating budget and capital plan
• Consider approval of FY 2026 Water/Sewer Operating Budget
• Consider approval of FY 2026 Water/Sewer Capital Budget
• Consider adoption of Essex Parks & Recreation FY 2026 Program Fund Budget
• Consider approval of first passage of amendments to the Impact Fee Ordinance with a public hearing set for June 16

The board approved the Fiscal Year 2026 water and sewer operating budget, adopting higher water and sewer rates. It also approved the FY2026 water and sewer capital budget. The consent agenda, including minutes from May 5 2025 and check warrants, was approved unanimously.

• Approved minutes from May 5 2025 (3‑0)
• Approved check warrants #18274, #18275, #18276 (3‑0)
• Approved consent agenda as corrected (3‑0)
• Approved FY2026 water and sewer operating budget with rate increases (3‑0)
• Approved FY2026 water and sewer capital budget (3‑0)

Economic Development Commission

The Essex County Economic Development Commission will hold a business outreach meeting on May 15, 2025 at Glavel, 131 Red Pine Circle. The agenda includes a public hearing, approval of minutes from the May 7, 2025 meeting, and a meeting with Rob Convey with a tour of Glavel. No specific decisions are listed; the items are procedural. The commission will also schedule its next meeting.

• Public hearing (open to community)
• Approval of minutes from May 7, 2025 meeting
• Meeting with Rob Convey and tour of Glavel
• Agenda additions/changes
• Scheduling of next meeting

The Economic Development Commission approved the May 7, 2025 meeting minutes with an amendment clarifying impact‑fee schedule options, voting unanimously (4‑0). A motion to adjourn the May 15 meeting was also passed unanimously (4‑0). The meeting included a tour of Glavel’s glass‑recycling facility and discussion of zoning and transportation issues, but no formal actions were taken on those topics.

• Approved May 7 minutes with amendment (4-0)
• Approved adjournment of meeting (4-0)

Cemetery Commission

The Essex Town Cemetery Commission will approve the April 2, 2025 meeting minutes and address an Open Meeting Law violation. Commissioners will discuss updates from the sexton and consider changes to the plot buy‑back policy. Additional items include a supporting letter to the selectboard about Green Space, cemetery beautification and maintenance updates, website pricing changes, and tree removal.

• Approval of April 2, 2025 minutes
• Plot buy‑back policy changes
• Supporting letter to selectboard regarding Green Space
• Cemetery beautification and maintenance updates (flags, road repair, sign cleaning, water spicket repair, columbarium landscaping)
• Website change – corner post prices

The commission approved the minutes from the April 2, 2025 meeting by a 4‑0 vote. It also approved up to $6,000 to replace the water spickets at Mountain View Cemetery, also by a 4‑0 vote. No other actions were decided at this meeting.

• Approved April 2, 2025 minutes (4-0)
• Approved up to $6,000 for water spicket replacement at Mountain View Cemetery (4-0)

Energy Committee

The Essex Energy Committee will review draft minutes and discuss the resumption of the Enhanced Energy Plan with Ann Janda and Katherine Sonnick. The meeting also covers updates on the Upper Main Street Complex Review, the Vermont Climate Action Plan, and the Unsworth Parcel Opportunity.

• Review draft minutes from 04/09/2025
• Resume Enhanced Energy Plan discussion with Ann Janda and Katherine Sonnick
• Update on Upper Main Street Complex Review
• Update on VT Climate Action Plan Public Fora
• Update on Unsworth Parcel Opportunity / RFP

The committee adopted the draft minutes from April 9, 2025 after a spelling correction. Members assigned several action items, including contacting the Vermont Department of Historic Preservation about solar panel placement, updating the Enhanced Energy Plan, recruiting volunteers for the Champlain Valley Fair booth, and sending updates on various projects. No formal approvals, denials, or votes were recorded.

Conservation & Trails Committee

The committee will review and provide advice on forest management plans for Saxon Hill and the Tree Farm. Members will also discuss updates on trail mapping, the Tree Nursery Project, and the Keystone Trail project.

• Review and advice on Saxon Hill Forest Management Plan
• Review and advice on Tree Farm Forest Management Plan
• Approval of marketing plan for Conservation Fund Survey
• Update on Keystone Trail project
• Update on Tree Nursery Project

The Conservation & Trails Committee approved the agenda and minutes unanimously. It voted 6‑0 to join the Association of Conservation Commissions, paying a $50 fee. A revised recommendation to advise developers on a reforestation plan for the 50‑foot buffer passed 6‑1. The Saxon Hill Forest Management Plan and a recommendation to amend the Tree Farm Forest Management Plan were each approved unanimously.

• Approve amended agenda (6-0)
• Approve meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approve application for Association of Conservation Commissions membership ($50 fee) (6-0)
• Revise buffer‑zone recommendation to advise reforestation with salt‑tolerant species (6-1)
• Approve Saxon Hill Forest Management Plan (7-0)
• Recommend amendment to Tree Farm Forest Management Plan to include missing parcel (7-0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will review Public Works comments regarding town service impacts for the Women's Correctional Facility. The body will also receive updates on steep slope development and RPD-I zone buffer research. Additionally, the commission will discuss draft land use maps and housing targets for the CCRPC.

• Review of Public Works comments on Women's Correctional Facility town service impacts
• Update on steep slope development regulations and best practices
• Research on buffer zones in the RPD-I zone
• Review of CCRPC draft future land use map and housing targets
• Discussion of other Zoning Regulations Amendments

The commission voted to approve the meeting agenda, with a 5‑0 vote. No other motions were voted on; the remainder of the meeting consisted of public comments and discussion of zoning, the proposed women's correctional facility, steep‑slope regulations, and Tier 1B status. The commission assigned follow‑up tasks, including preparing a steep‑slope model regulation and drafting a Tier 1B overlay map for review at the June meeting.

• Motion to approve agenda passed 5‑0
• Commissioner Williams assigned to prepare a model regulation for steep slopes
• Katherine Sonnick and Maya Balassa assigned to draft a Tier 1B overlay map
• Planning Commission to review Tier 1B designation areas at June meeting
• Planning Commission to discuss holding two meetings per month at next meeting

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission will hold a remote meeting with TPMA to discuss an economic development study. It will also meet with Town Manager Greg Duggan and Deputy Town Manager Karen Adams to consider changes to the fire impact fee ordinance. The agenda also includes routine items such as approving minutes from the April 17, 2025 meeting and partner updates.

• Remote meeting with TPMA regarding Economic Development Study
• Meeting with Greg Duggan, Town Manager, and Karen Adams, Deputy Town Manager on fire impact fee ordinance changes
• Approve minutes from April 17, 2025 meeting

The Economic Development Commission approved the April 17 minutes with two amendments, voting 3-0. It endorsed the town's fire impact fee ordinance using Option A, also by a 3-0 vote. The commission changed the May 15 meeting time to 11:00 AM, again unanimously. All motions passed without dissent.

• Approved April 17 minutes with amendments (3-0)
• Endorsed fire impact fee ordinance – Option A (3-0)
• Changed May 15 meeting time to 11:00 AM (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Housing Commission

The Town of Essex Housing Commission will meet to discuss a Fire Impact Fee Ordinance. The meeting includes a period for the public to be heard.

• Discussion of Fire Impact Fee Ordinance

The commission moved the Housing Needs Assessment review to a hold status, to be revisited at the June 3 meeting. Noah motioned to approve the amended agenda and later to adjourn; both motions were seconded. Lauren and Anna were tasked with preparing comments for the Selectboard (due June 16) and CCRPC (due May 19). Noah will request additional time to discuss the fire impact fee ordinance and gather comments.

• Noah motioned to approve the amended agenda; Carolyn seconded
• Noah motioned to adjourn the meeting; Carolyn seconded
• Housing Needs Assessment Review placed on hold (to be revisited June 3)
• Lauren and Anna to prepare comments for Selectboard (due 6/16) and CCRPC (due 5/19)
• Noah to request additional time for fire impact fee discussion and collect comments

Selectboard

The Essex Selectboard will interview candidates for the Conservation & Trails Committee and the Tree Warden position. The board will also discuss the Fiscal Year 2026 Water/Sewer Operating Budget and potential adoption of the FY26 Water/Sewer Capital Budget.

• Interviews for Conservation & Trails Committee volunteers
• Consider reappointment of Tree Warden
• Discussion on FY26 Water/Sewer Operating Budget
• Discussion on FY26 Water/Sewer Capital Budget
• Consider approval of Human Services Funding recommendations

The board voted 4-1 to approve the renewal of first‑ and third‑class liquor licenses for town businesses. It also approved contributions to human‑services agencies, adopted focus areas for the FY26 funding cycle, and adopted FY26 goals for the Parks & Recreation Program Fund, each by a 5-0 vote. Additionally, the board reappointed Chuck Vile as Tree Warden (5-0) and authorized a warning public hearing for the FY26 water and sewer budget (4-1). The consent agenda was accepted unanimously.

• Accept consent agenda (5-0)
• Reappoint Chuck Vile as Tree Warden (5-0)
• Approve liquor license renewal applications (4-1, Kendall Chamberlin dissenting)
• Approve contributions to human services agencies (5-0)
• Approve FY26 human services focus areas (5-0)
• Adopt FY26 Parks & Recreation program goals (5-0)
• Warn public hearing for FY26 water and sewer budget (4-1, Kendall Chamberlin dissenting)
• Approve check warrants #18272 and #18273 (no vote recorded)

Development Review Board

The Development Review Board will consider a consent item to subdivide a 4.21‑acre parcel at 56 Tanglewood Dr into two lots. It will also hold a public hearing on a site‑plan application for an approximately 107,000‑sq‑ft distribution facility with parking at 637 Kimo Drive in the Resource Preservation District‑Industrial. The board will approve the agenda and minutes from the April 3, 2025 meeting, and note the possibility of an executive or deliberative session.

• Consent item: Simple Parcel Subdivision – 56 Tanglewood Dr (Parcel ID 2-044-059-002) – split 4.21 acre parcel into 3.21 acre lot with residence and 1.00 acre lot for future residential development.
• Public hearing: Site‑plan application – 637 Kimo Drive (Parcel ID 2-074-004-013) – proposed 107,000 sq ft distribution facility with parking and a waiver request for a 50‑ft buffer in the Resource Preservation District‑Industrial.
• Approve agenda for the May 1, 2025 meeting.
• Approve minutes from the April 3, 2025 meeting.
• Notice of potential executive and/or deliberative session per V.S.A. §§ 313 & 312(e)(f).

The Development Review Board approved the meeting agenda with a 7‑0 vote. The subdivision application for 56 Tanglewood Dr was pulled off the consent agenda because a waiver was required. Due to Zoom audio problems, the board could not discuss the Tanglewood Drive and Kimo Drive applications and will reschedule them for a future meeting.

• Approved meeting agenda (7-0 vote)
• Pulled 56 Tanglewood Dr subdivision off consent agenda (waiver needed)
• Cancelled discussion of Tanglewood Drive and Kimo Drive applications (technical issues)
• Scheduled Tanglewood Drive and Kimo Drive applications for future date

General

The Conservation & Trails Committee will meet to elect a new Vice Chairperson and provide updates on several trail and park projects. The body will also advise the Development Review Board on applications and review a marketing plan for the Conservation Fund Survey.

• Election of new Vice Chairperson
• Approval of marketing plan for Conservation Fund Survey
• Updates on Riverside Park, Tree Nursery, and Keystone Trail projects
• Review of CCRPC Draft Future Land Use Map
• Potential executive session regarding a real estate purchase or lease option

The Conservation and Trails Committee approved the amended agenda and the March 11 minutes, each by an 8‑0 vote. Members elected April Peterson as the new Vice Chair, also by an 8‑0 vote. The committee approved the Arbor Day celebration plans, the application to join the Association of Vermont Conservation Commissions, and the Indian Brook Cleanup dates, all unanimously.

• Approve amended agenda (8-0)
• Approve March 11 minutes (8-0)
• Elect April Peterson as Vice Chair (8-0)
• Approve Arbor Day event arrangements (8-0)
• Approve application to join Association of Vermont Conservation Commissions (8-0)
• Approve Indian Brook Cleanup dates (8-0)

Selectboard

The Selectboard will discuss the first approval of an updated Impact Fee Ordinance and the authorization of a public hearing. The body is also deciding on a paving program bid award and the replacement of Truck #104.

• First approval of an updated Impact Fee Ordinance
• Fiscal Year 2026 Paving Program Bid Award
• Replacement of Truck #104 for Fiscal Year 2025
• Final adoption of changes to Tax Sale Policy
• 1st, 2nd and 3rd class liquor license renewal applications

The board approved awarding the FY2026 paving contract to Frank W. Whitcomb Construction Corp. for $373,196. It also approved the purchase of a replacement vehicle and plow equipment for plow truck #104, and approved several liquor‑license renewal applications. Additionally, the board appointed representatives to the Chittenden County Regional Planning Commission and its advisory committees.

• Approved FY2026 paving contract to Frank W. Whitcomb Construction Corp., $373,196 (5-0)
• Approved purchase of replacement vehicle and plow equipment for plow truck #104 (5-0)
• Approved liquor‑license renewal applications for listed businesses (4-1)
• Amended agenda to move Consent Item #5F to Business Item #6c (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda as corrected (5-0)
• Appointed Andy Watts as CCRPC Representative and Tracey Delphia as Alternate (5-0)
• Appointed Aaron Martin as CCRPC Transportation Advisory Committee Representative and Annie Costandi as Alternate (5-0)
• Appointed Annie Costandi as CCRPC Clean Water Advisory Committee Representative and Lea Sanguinetti as Alternate (5-0)

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission will welcome Mike Sands, owner of The Cup & Leaf, which opened in January 2025. Commissioners will discuss the EDC's response to a request for more information from the Planning Commission. They will also review an email sent to the EDC by a resident. No formal decisions are noted on the agenda.

• Welcome Mike Sands, Owner, The Cup & Leaf (opened January 2025)
• Discussion – EDC's response to Planning Commission's request for more information
• Review of email to EDC from a resident

The commission approved the amended agenda and the minutes from the April 4 meeting, each by a 3-0 vote. A motion was passed directing Chair Igor Polenov to research and compile economic data supporting the proposed zoning change for the women's correctional facility, also by a 3-0 vote. The meeting was then adjourned by a 3-0 vote.

• Approved amended agenda (3-0)
• Approved April 4 minutes (3-0)
• Approved motion for Chair Igor Polenov to research economic data on women's correctional facility zoning change (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Essex Free Library Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees will review the Patron Code of Behavior weapons policy and the Collection Development Policy. The board will also take action regarding the loss of IMLS funds and discuss issuing library cards to town employees.

• Review of Patron Code of Behavior - Weapons Policy
• Review of Collection Development Policy
• Board action regarding loss of IMLS funds
• Discussion of issuing cards to town employees

The trustees approved the meeting minutes. They adopted the State Collection Development Policy with a minor wording change. They approved issuing library cards to town employees. Alan Ramsey will draft a public statement about the loss of IMLS funds.

• Approved meeting minutes (motion by Pam, seconded by Bonnie)
• Adopted State Collection Development Policy with minor change (motion by Bonnie, seconded by Janet)
• Approved issuance of library cards to town employees (motion by Bonnie, seconded by Janet)
• Alan Ramsey to draft public statement on loss of IMLS funds

Police Community Advisory Board

The Police Community Advisory Board will meet to review survey questions and receive an update from the Essex Police Department (EPD). The board will also review a new EPD survey sample.

• PCAB Survey Questions
• EPD update
• Review of new EPD survey sample

The Police Community Advisory Board approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from the March meeting. The board discussed survey questions and departmental updates, including hiring efforts and a Teen Police Academy. A motion to adjourn was made, seconded, and approved, ending the meeting at 7:29 pm.

• Approved meeting agenda
• Approved March meeting minutes
• Approved motion to adjourn

Planning Commission

The commission will review presentations on how the proposed women's correctional facility will affect town services and consider community comments. They will also discuss forming working groups, examine the CCRPC draft future land‑use map, and review the draft housing targets. The agenda includes approval of the meeting agenda and minutes from the March 13, 2025 meeting.

• Review impacts of the Women’s Correctional Facility (presentations and community comments)
• Discuss formation of working groups
• Review CCRPC Draft Future Land Use Map
• Review CCRPC Draft Housing Targets
• Approve minutes from March 13, 2025 meeting

The Planning Commission unanimously approved the meeting agenda (6‑0) and the March 13, 2025 minutes with a single amendment (6‑0). It created two working groups—Team Steep Slopes and Team Buffer—to study slope regulations and buffer zones in the RPDI area. The commission also directed staff to seek clarification on whether Essex can opt into Tier 1B status for specific areas and to review the CCRPC draft future land‑use map, providing feedback by the next meeting.

• Approved agenda (6‑0)
• Approved March 13 minutes with amendment (6‑0)
• Formed Team Steep Slopes working group
• Formed Team Buffer working group
• Directed staff to seek clarification on Tier 1B status for specific areas
• Assigned commission to review and provide feedback on CCRPC draft future land‑use map by next meeting

Energy Committee

The committee is meeting to follow up on items from the March 17 Selectboard meeting and resume discussions on the Enhanced Energy Plan. Members will also review the committee's revised charter and an EV demo project with GMP.

• Unsworth Parcel Opportunity / RFP
• Colchester Net Metering Offset Opportunity
• Upper Main Street Complex Review
• Energy Committee Revised Charter
• EV Demo Project With GMP

The Energy Committee approved the draft minutes from February 12, 2025 unanimously. The committee noted one remaining vacancy and will continue outreach for an additional member. Several action items were assigned for projects such as the Unsworth parcel, net‑metering credit, Upper Main Street complex, and charter revision.

• Approved draft minutes from 02/12/2025 (unanimous)

Conservation & Trails Committee

The Conservation & Trails Committee will consider internal matters such as electing a new Vice Chairperson and advising the Development Review Board on development applications. It will also discuss planning for a Spring Work Day at Indian Brook Park, updates on the Keystone Trail Project, and a potential real estate purchase or lease option in an executive session. Additional updates include the Tree Nursery Project, Arbor Day Celebration, and the marketing plan for a Conservation Fund Survey.

• Elect a new Vice Chairperson
• Advise DRB on Development Applications
• Plan Spring Work Day at Indian Brook Park
• Update on Keystone Trail Project
• Potential discussion on real estate purchase or lease option

Selectboard

The Essex Selectboard will vote on several consent items, including the adoption of the Local Emergency Management Plan and the approval of the Annual Financial Plan for Town Highways. It will also review liquor license renewal applications and grant the Fire Chief authority to issue municipal complaint tickets. Business items include proposed rules for orderly conduct, updates to the Tax Sale Policy, and several volunteer committee appointments.

• Consider adoption of Local Emergency Management Plan
• Approve Annual Financial Plan for Town Highways
• Approve 1st, 2nd and 3rd class liquor license renewal applications
• Approve Town Fire Chief privileges to issue municipal complaint tickets
• Consider approval of Rules and Regulations for Orderly Conduct of Business

The board elected Tracy Delphia as Chair, Kendall Chamberlin as Vice‑Chair, and Shannon Jackson as Clerk, each by a 5‑0 vote. It accepted the amended consent agenda and appointed Katie Shattuck to the Energy Commission, both unanimously. The board also adopted the Communications Policy and the Conflict of Interest Policy with unanimous votes, and approved the liquor license renewal applications by a 3‑2 vote.

• Elected Tracy Delphia as Chair (5-0)
• Elected Kendall Chamberlin as Vice‑Chair (5-0)
• Elected Shannon Jackson as Clerk (5-0)
• Accepted amended consent agenda (5-0)
• Appointed Katie Shattuck to Energy Commission (5-0)
• Approved Communications Policy (5-0)
• Adopted Conflict of Interest Policy (5-0)
• Approved liquor license renewal applications (3-2)

Housing Commission

The Housing Commission will approve the minutes from its March 4, 2025 meeting. It will introduce a new member and provide orientation. Staff will discuss file‑sharing tools and troubleshoot issues. The commission will review the Chittenden County RPC housing targets.

• Approve minutes from March 4, 2025 meeting
• Introduce and orient new Housing Commission member
• Discuss file‑sharing conversation and troubleshooting
• Review Chittenden County RPC housing targets

The commission welcomed a new member and reviewed topics such as a new file‑sharing tool, housing unit targets, zoning changes, sewer‑core development, affordable‑housing costs, and a municipal complex. Members assigned follow‑up tasks, including research on file storage, outreach to Chittenden County RPC, and gathering housing data. No votes or formal approvals were recorded.

Development Review Board

The Essex Town Development Review Board and landowner Kenan Heco will conduct a site visit to examine an application for a four‑lot minor subdivision at 9 Colonel Page Road. The proposal would split the property into four lots, three of which would host new single‑family homes. The public is invited to attend the visit and submit questions for the follow‑up meeting at 6:30 p.m. the same day.

• Site visit for 4‑lot minor subdivision application at 9 Colonel Page Road (Parcel ID 2‑014‑036‑000)
• Property located in Agricultural Residential, Floodplain Overlay, and Scenic Resource Preservation Overlay districts
• Lot 1 includes existing house and barns on 7.76 acres
• Lot 2 proposes a single‑family dwelling on 3.03 acres
• Lot 3 proposes a single‑family dwelling on 4.13 acres; Lot 4 remains undeveloped (45.4 acres)

Development Review Board

The Development Review Board will hold a public hearing to finalize a minor subdivision of four lots at 9 Colonel Page Road, located in the Agricultural Residential, Floodplain Overlay O2, and Scenic Resource Protection Overlay districts. The board will also hold a conceptual discussion of Dousevicz Inc.'s proposal to build two 4‑plex residential buildings (8 units) at 21 Upper Main Street in Mixed Use‑Planned Unit Development and Business‑Design Control overlays. Additional agenda items include approving minutes from prior meetings, reviewing public letters on a 637 Kimo Drive application, and addressing any executive or deliberative session matters.

• Public hearing – final review of 4‑lot minor subdivision at 9 Colonel Page Road (Parcel ID 2-014-036-000) in AR, Floodplain Overlay O2, and SRPO districts
• Conceptual discussion – Dousevicz Inc. project at 21 Upper Main Street (Parcel ID 2-090-001-000) to construct two 4‑plex residential buildings (8 units) in MU‑PUD and BDC overlays
• Approve minutes from Jan 16, Mar 6, and Mar 20, 2025 meetings
• Reading file – letters from the public on 637 Kimo Drive application
• Potential executive/deliberative session per V.S.A. §§ 313 & 312

The Development Review Board approved its agenda (6‑0) and then closed the public hearing on the Kenan Heco subdivision (6‑0). The board voted to approve the four‑lot minor subdivision at 9 Colonel Page Road, adding specific amendments to the application, with the motion passing 6‑0. No other substantive actions were recorded.

• Approved agenda (6-0)
• Closed public hearing on Kenan Heco subdivision (6-0)
• Approved 4‑lot subdivision at 9 Colonel Page Road with changes (6-0)

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission will discuss a correspondence to the Planning Commission concerning a correctional facility and may vote on it. The meeting also includes routine items such as a call to order, agenda changes, a public hearing segment, and approval of the draft minutes from the March 20, 2025 meeting.

• Correspondence to Planning Commission regarding correctional facility – discussion and possible vote
• Approval of draft minutes from the March 20, 2025 meeting

The commission approved the amended agenda and the March 20 meeting minutes, each by a 3‑0 vote. It approved a revised letter to the Planning Commission about the correctional facility and directed staff to send it. The commission set the next meeting to begin at 11:00 AM, tentatively at Sandy Pines Kennel with Glavel as backup, and adjourned the session by a 3‑0 vote.

• Approved agenda amendments (3-0)
• Approved March 20 minutes (3-0)
• Approved and forwarded revised correctional facility letter to Planning Commission (3-0)
• Set next meeting start time to 11:00 AM
• Tentatively scheduled next meeting at Sandy Pines Kennel, backup Glavel
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Cemetery Commission

The Essex Town Cemetery Commission will discuss cemetery beautification and maintenance, including a donation of flags and holders. It will consider a refund request for the St. Amore lot and review the Cemetery Fund “Columbarium Fund”. The commission will also examine plot occupancy and the possibility of reserving town green space for future cemetery use. Updates from the sexton and town showcase will be presented, and the next meeting date will be set.

• Cemetery Fund “Columbarium Fund” – discussion of fund
• St. Amore lot refund email – review of refund request
• Reserving Town green space for future cemetery use – consideration
• Cemetery Beautification and Maintenance – flags and holders donation
• Plots and Maimun Occupancy – review of plot usage

The commission approved the October 16, 2024 meeting minutes by a 5‑0 vote. Ms. Brown stepped down as secretary and Ms. Tabone was accepted as the new secretary without objection. The commission decided to transfer the balance from the Columbarium fund into the regular cemetery fund.

• Approved October 16, 2024 minutes (5-0)
• Accepted Kariella Tabone as new secretary (unanimous)
• Moved Columbarium fund balance to regular cemetery fund (decision)

Economic Development Commission

The Essex County Economic Development Commission will consider a presentation from John Leo & Sons. It will discuss and possibly vote on the commission’s meeting schedule. The Planning Commission has asked the EDC to follow up on the economic impact of a correctional facility relocating to the Town of Essex.

• John Leo & Sons presentation
• Discussion and possible vote on meeting schedule
• Planning Commission request to assess economic impact of correctional facility relocation

The Economic Development Commission unanimously approved the meeting agenda, confirming Keith Dunbar as the TPMA liaison. It also approved moving the regular monthly meeting to the first Wednesday from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. The commission approved a revised letter for the Planning Commission on the correctional facility relocation. All motions passed with a 4‑0 vote.

• Approved agenda with Dunbar as TPMA liaison (4-0)
• Approved minutes from March 6, 2025 meeting (4-0)
• Finalized Keith Dunbar as TPMA liaison (4-0)
• Moved first regular monthly meeting to first Wednesday 11 AM‑1 PM (4-0)
• Approved review and revision of letter to Planning Commission on correctional facility relocation (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Development Review Board

The Development Review Board will consider site plan applications for three industrial projects. Two projects involve new construction on Kimo Drive, while one is a re-approval for a facility on Thompson Drive.

• Re-approval of 106,372 sq ft warehouse at 35 Thompson Drive
• Site plan for 33,600 sq ft commercial warehouse at 572 Kimo Drive
• Site plan for ~107,000 sq ft distribution facility at 637 Kimo Drive
• Waiver requests for RPD-I 50' buffer at 572 and 637 Kimo Drive

The Development Review Board unanimously approved the amended agenda. It also unanimously re‑approved the consent agenda for the 35 Thompson Drive warehouse. After a public hearing, the board approved the Allen Brook 33,600‑sq‑ft warehouse plan with several conditions, passing 4‑1. The board opened and later closed the public hearing for that application and opened a hearing for the Scannel Properties proposal.

• Approved amended agenda (5-0)
• Re‑approved 35 Thompson Drive consent agenda (5-0)
• Opened public hearing for Allen Brook site plan (5-0)
• Closed public hearing for Allen Brook site plan (5-0)
• Approved Allen Brook warehouse plan with landscape and lighting amendments (4-1)
• Opened public hearing for Scannel Properties warehouse proposal (5-0)

Energy Committee

The committee will follow up on items from the March 17 Selectboard meeting and resume discussions on the Enhanced Energy Plan. The meeting also includes planning for the Champlain Valley Fair and an EV demo project with GMP.

• Unsworth Parcel Opportunity / RFP
• Colchester Net Metering Offset Opportunity
• Upper Main Street Complex Review
• Enhanced Energy Plan discussion
• EV Demo Project with GMP

Police Community Advisory Board

The Police Community Advisory Board will meet to discuss PCAB survey questions. The board will also review survey feedback from Jenny.

• Discussion of PCAB Survey Questions
• Review of survey feedback from Jenny

Selectboard

The Selectboard will hold a public hearing on the proposed Code of Ethics Investigation and Enforcement Ordinance and will vote on several consent items, including minutes, check warrants, a bid award for the Center Road Forcemain Replacement Project, and liquor license renewals. Business items include interviewing a volunteer for the Housing Commission, accepting Stantec's Upper Main Street Planning Report, approving a grant for infrastructure planning at the new municipal complex, and reviewing a request for proposals for a solar photovoltaic system on town land. An executive session is anticipated to discuss the appointment or evaluation of a public officer and possible real‑estate purchase or lease options.

• Public hearing on Code of Ethics Investigation and Enforcement Ordinance
• Consider approval of bid award for Center Road Forcemain Replacement Project
• Consider approval of Request for Proposals for solar photovoltaic system at 29 Indian Brook Road
• Consider acceptance of Northern Borders Regional Commission Grant for Upper Main Street municipal complex
• Consider approval of 1st, 2nd and 3rd class liquor license renewal applications

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will receive a presentation on a truck traffic study for Sand Hill Road. Members will also discuss questions regarding the State of VT Women's Correctional and Reentry Facility and review the commission's work plan.

• Presentation on Sand Hill Road truck traffic study
• Discussion on State of VT Women's Correctional and Reentry Facility
• Review of Planning Commission work plan and creation of workgroups or subcommittees

Conservation & Trails Committee

The committee will discuss development applications for 572 Kimo Drive, 637 Kimo Drive, and 21 Upper Main Street. Members will also review the CTC Work Plan and the marketing plan for the Conservation Fund Survey. An executive session is scheduled to discuss a potential real estate purchase or lease option.

• Site Plan review for 572 Kimo Drive
• Site Plan review for 637 Kimo Drive
• Conceptual discussion for 21 Upper Main Street
• Approval of Marketing Plan for Conservation Fund Survey
• Executive session regarding real estate purchase or lease option

Economic Development Commission

The Essex County Economic Development Commission will consider appointing a liaison to work with TPMA Consulting on the Economic Development Study. The meeting also includes routine items such as approving minutes from the February 6, 2025 meeting and hearing public comments. No other business items are listed.

• Approve minutes from February 6, 2025 meeting
• Appoint commission liaison with TPMA Consulting for Economic Development Study
• Public comments hearing

Development Review Board

The Development Review Board will consider a consent item to adjust the boundary between 247 and 251 River Road, exchanging 0.82 acres for 2.53 acres. It will hold public hearings on a final minor subdivision at 9 Colonel Page Road, proposing four lots, and a final subdivision at 75 Thompson Drive in the Saxon Hill Industrial Park, proposing five lots with a new 30‑foot road. The board will also approve minutes from its January 16 and February 6 meetings.

• Boundary line adjustment between 247 and 251 River Road (exchange of 0.82 acres and 2.53 acres).
• Final minor subdivision at 9 Colonel Page Road – 4‑lot proposal in AR, O2, and SRPO districts.
• Final subdivision at 75 Thompson Drive – 5‑lot proposal in PRD‑I, I, and C1 districts with new 30' curbed road.
• Approval of minutes from the January 16, 2025 and February 6, 2025 meetings.

Housing Commission

The Essex County Housing Commission will approve minutes from its February 4, 2025 meeting and discuss several agenda items. Topics include reflections from the Town Showcase, a continued review of the 2025 Housing Commission Work Plan, an update on Act 181 and the Future Land Use Map focus group, member and staff updates, and a reading of off‑site construction opportunities.

• Approve minutes from the February 4, 2025 meeting
• Continue review of the Housing Commission Work Plan for 2025
• Update on Act 181 and Future Land Use Map focus group
• Member and staff updates
• Reading file: Off‑Site Construction Opportunities

Selectboard

The Selectboard will hold an informational hearing to review and discuss articles for the 2025 Town Meeting Warning. These items include a proposed budget and several charter amendments.

• Article I: Proposed budget for fiscal year July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026 in the amount of $16,365,963
• Article II: Appropriation of 1% of the General Fund Budget to the Essex Human Services Contributions Fund
• Article III: Proposal to increase the Capital Reserve Fund by adding two cents to the tax rate
• Articles IV-X: Proposed charter amendments regarding the Town Moderator, Selectboard minutes, appointments, and the Department of Real Estate Appraisal
• Article XI: Election of Moderator (1 vacancy), Selectboard (2 vacancies), and Champlain Water District Commissioner (1 vacancy)

Selectboard

The Essex Selectboard will vote on a proposed Code of Ethics Investigation and Enforcement Ordinance and consider a grant agreement for the Upper Main Street Municipal Complex. The board will also discuss contracts with the Essex Police Employees Association and review winter operations.

• Vote on Code of Ethics Investigation and Enforcement Ordinance
• Consider Vermont Community Development Program Grant Agreement
• Review Upper Main Street Municipal Complex presentation
• Discuss contracts with Essex Police Employees Association
• Approve check warrants #18258-18260

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission will discuss several operational items, including a motion to appoint a liaison with TPMA Consulting for the Economic Development Study. It will also hear updates on the farmers' market, a search for new commission members, and plans for a town showcase and soup night. Additional items include creating a shared Google Drive and reviewing a resident letter.

• Motion to appoint a commission liaison with TPMA Consulting for the Economic Development Study
• Farmers' Market involvement discussion
• Search for new commission membership
• Creation of a Google Drive for commission use
• Planning for Town Showcase & Soup Night on March 3 at Essex Middle School

Essex Free Library Board of Trustees

The Board will review and approve the prior meeting minutes and hear the Library Director’s report. It will then discuss several agenda items, including preparation for the upcoming town meeting, a policy review of patron confidentiality, an update on a possible new library in the municipal complex, and a Friends of the Library update. No final decisions are indicated in the agenda.

• Town Meeting Preparation
• Policy Review: Patron Confidentiality
• Update on potential new library in municipal complex
• Friends update
• Library Director’s Report

Police Community Advisory Board

The Board discussed the launch of incident mapping and online reporting on the police department website. Members also reviewed and voted on specific questions for a proposed public safety survey.

• Launch of incident mapping on the police department website
• Implementation of three online report types to replace hard copies
• Review and approval/denial of questions for the Public Safety Survey
• Planned meeting with Survey Monkey to discuss setup and costs

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will discuss the process for developing a future land use map and community engagement plan with CCRPC. The body will also review a state letter regarding a zoning change request for the State of VT Women's Correctional and Reentry Facility.

• Act 181 Future Land Use Map development and engagement plan
• State of VT Women's Correctional and Reentry Facility zoning change request
• Creation of workgroups or subcommittees
• VGS Notice
• Economic Development Commission Resolution

Energy Committee

The Essex Energy Committee will review several items, including the upcoming SB meeting on the Unsworth Parcel opportunity, planning for the Town Showcase & Soup Night on March 3, 2025, and the results of the Colchester net‑metering offset. It will also discuss the Upper Main Street Municipal Complex EEI in March, provide an update on the heat project, and consider an EV demonstration project with GMP.

• Upcoming SB meeting regarding the Unsworth Parcel opportunity
• Planning for Town Showcase & Soup Night scheduled for March 3, 2025
• Colchester net‑metering offset opportunity and results
• Upper Main Street Municipal Complex EEI discussion in March
• EV demonstration project with GMP

Conservation & Trails Committee

The Conservation & Trails Committee will advise the Development Review Board on several development applications, including a final subdivision at 132 Thompson Drive and a boundary line adjustment at 247 and 251 River Road. It will also consider approval of the Conservation Fund Survey and Execution Plan and a revised Tree Nursery Project memorandum of understanding. Additional updates will be given on the Keystone Trail project, the Arbor Day Foundation Tree City application, and the CTC work plan.

• Advise DRB on Development Applications: Final Subdivision - 132 Thompson Drive; Boundary Line Adjustment - 247 and 251 River Road; Site Plan - 572 Kimo Drive; Site Plan - 637 Kimo Drive; Final Minor Subdivision - 9 Colonel Page Road
• Approve Conservation Fund Survey and Execution Plan
• Approve revised Tree Nursery Project MOU
• Update on Keystone Trail project
• Review and adjust CTC Work Plan

Economic Development Commission

The Essex County Economic Development Commission will discuss awarding a contract for an economic development study and consider temporary signage regulations. The agenda also includes updates on small business initiatives and a complaint regarding the Open Meeting Law.

• Award of RFP for Economic Development Study to TPMA
• Temporary Signage - Discussion and Possible Action
• Women's Correctional Facility Siting - Discussion
• Note Outdoor Gear Exchange leaving Essex
• Opening Meeting Law Complaint

Development Review Board

The Development Review Board will hold a public hearing on a preliminary plan submitted by Pinewood Manor Inc. for a 32‑unit Planned Unit Development‑Residential that includes 17 single‑family homes, 15 triplex units, and about 88 acres of open space on 18 & 30 Timberlane Drive. The project is located in the Medium Density Residential (R2) zone on parcels 2-084-001-000 and 2-085-001-001. The board will also consider agenda approvals, minutes from the January 16, 2025 meeting, and other business.

• Public hearing on Pinewood Manor 32‑unit PUD‑R at 18 & 30 Timberlane Drive
• Approve agenda
• Approve minutes from Jan 16, 2025 meeting
• Potential executive/deliberative session per V.S.A. §§313 & 312
• Public comments on the preliminary plan

Housing Commission

The Essex County Housing Commission will approve the minutes from its January 7, 2025 meeting. It will then review the Housing Commission Work Plan for 2025. Finally, the commission will discuss a Town Showcase Opportunity.

• Approve minutes from the January 7, 2025 meeting
• Review of Housing Commission Work Plan for 2025
• Discussion of Town Showcase Opportunity

Selectboard

The Selectboard will discuss the fiscal year 2026 capital budget and a five-year plan. The body will also hold a public hearing regarding the Center Road Forcemain Environmental Review and consider a Code of Ethics ordinance.

• Public Hearing for Center Road Forcemain Environmental Review
• Approval of fiscal year 2026 capital budget and five-year plan
• First approval of an ordinance for Code of Ethics Investigation and Enforcement
• Approval of 2025 Certificate of Highway Mileage
• Discussion regarding delinquent properties and Tax Sale process

Selectboard

The Selectboard will hold public hearings on the Fiscal Year 2026 municipal budget and the Fiscal Year 2026 capital budget with its five‑year plan, then consider approvals for those budgets and a ballot question to increase the capital tax rate. They will also review consent items such as wastewater allocation for 27 Butternut Court, a stormwater project bid for the Church of Latter‑day Saints, and an appeal letter for the 2024 Equalization Study results. Additional discussion topics include municipal ethics requirements and potential real‑estate purchase or lease negotiations.

• Public hearing on Fiscal Year 2026 Municipal Budget
• Public hearing on Fiscal Year 2026 Capital Budget and Five‑Year Plan
• Consider approval of Fiscal Year 2026 municipal budget
• Consider approval of Fiscal Year 2026 capital budget and five‑year plan
• Consider approval of Town Meeting ballot question proposing increase to capital tax rate

Energy Committee

The Essex Energy Committee will review the Upper Main Street Municipal Complex and outline next steps. It will discuss the Enhanced Energy Plan scheduled for February 5 at 10 am and consider a Colchester net‑metering offset opportunity. Additional agenda items include follow‑up on the Unsworth parcel, an electric‑vehicle demo project with GMP, and updates from the CCRPC. Administrative items such as draft minutes, workflow discussion, and vacancy notices are also on the agenda.

• Upper Main Street Municipal Complex and next steps
• Enhanced Energy Plan discussion (Feb 5, 10 am)
• Colchester net‑metering offset opportunity
• Follow‑up on Unsworth parcel opportunity
• Follow‑up on EV demo project with GMP

Police Community Advisory Board

The Essex County Police Community Advisory Board will approve the minutes from the December 17, 2024 meeting. It will hear Chief Hoague’s review of the 2024 Essex Police Department performance. The board will discuss a public safety survey and related question templates. Public comments on consent items are also scheduled.

• Approve minutes from 12/17/2024
• 2024 EPD review presented by Chief Hoague
• Discussion of Public Safety Survey
• Reading file: EPD 2024 Review
• Reading file: Survey question templates

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission will approve the minutes from its Jan. 2, 2025 meeting and then discuss several items, including Small Business Saturday, temporary signage with possible action, and the State of Vermont Women’s Correctional and Re‑Entry Facility. The commission will also review and approve its activities for the annual report. A regional economic conditions summary will be read.

• Approve minutes from the January 2, 2025 meeting
• Discuss Small Business Saturday
• Discuss temporary signage and potential action
• Discuss State of Vermont Women's Correctional and Re‑Entry Facility
• Review and approve EDC activities for the Annual Report

Development Review Board

The Development Review Board will hold a public hearing to preliminarily review the Allen Brook Development, a 6‑lot subdivision on Parcel B at 75 Thompson Drive (Parcel ID 2-072-008-000) in the Industrial (I) Zone. The board will also consider adopting new operating procedures and approve minutes from the January 2, 2025 meeting. Other business and a possible executive or deliberative session may be addressed.

• Preliminary Plan – Allen Brook Development: 6‑lot subdivision of Parcel B, Saxon Hill Industrial Park, access via new 30' curbed road off River Road (currently Kimo Drive), 75 Thompson Drive, Parcel ID 2-072-008-000, Industrial (I) Zone
• Review and approve Development Review Board Rules and Procedures
• Approve minutes from the January 2, 2025 meeting
• Public hearing for the Allen Brook Development
• Potential executive and/or deliberative session per V.S.A. §§313 & 312(e)(f)

Essex Free Library Board of Trustees

The Essex Free Library Board of Trustees will meet on Jan 15, 2025 at 7:00 pm in the library community room and via Zoom. The agenda includes routine items such as approving minutes, announcements, the Director’s report, a trustee annual report, a policy review on patron confidentiality, and an update from the Friends group. No specific decisions or contracts are listed.

• Approve previous meeting minutes
• Review Library Director’s report
• Trustee annual report
• Policy review – patron confidentiality
• Friends group update

Conservation & Trails Committee

The Conservation & Trails Committee will advise on the Kent development application, approve the annual report content and the Arbor Day Foundation Tree City application, and discuss the Riverside Land Project, Tree Nursery Project, Arbor Day Celebration planning, commission proposal, and trail mapping. An executive session is scheduled to consider a possible real estate purchase or lease option.

• Advise on Development Application – Kent
• Approve Arbor Day Foundation Tree City Application
• Discuss Riverside Land Project
• Discuss Tree Nursery Project
• Executive session on potential real estate purchase or lease option

Planning Commission

The Essex County Planning Commission will consider adopting new operating procedures for the commission. The meeting also includes a presentation of the 80/90 Upper Main Street Preferred Master Plan and a discussion of the commission's work plan. Minutes from the December 12, 2024 meeting will be approved, and community letters about the State of Vermont Women's Correctional and Reentry Center will be read.

• Presentation of the 80/90 Upper Main Street Preferred Master Plan
• Potential adoption of Planning Commission operating procedures
• Discussion of the Planning Commission work plan
• Approval of minutes from the December 12, 2024 meeting
• Reading of community letters regarding the State of Vermont Women's Correctional and Reentry Center

Housing Commission

The Housing Commission will meet to review budget request updates and website changes. The body will also discuss its workplan and goals for 2025.

• Budget request update
• Website updates review
• 2025 goals and workplan discussion

Selectboard

The Selectboard will consider and adopt the Fiscal Year 2026 Municipal Budget and Capital Budget, each with a public warning hearing. They will also hold a second public hearing on proposed amendments to the Town Charter. Additional items include discussion with Green Mountain Transit about FY 2026 dues, a purchase of a replacement Parks and Recreation truck, and appointment of members to meet city councilors about the Tree Farm facility.

• Second public hearing on proposed amendments to the Town of Essex Charter
• Consider adopting the Fiscal Year 2026 Municipal Budget (public warning hearing)
• Consider adopting the Fiscal Year 2026 Capital Budget (public warning hearing)
• Discussion with Green Mountain Transit about FY 2026 dues and service levels
• Consider purchase of replacement vehicle for Parks and Recreation Truck 34

Economic Development Commission

The Essex County Economic Development Commission meeting on January 2, 2025 will review temporary signage, recap Small Business Saturday, present the EDC project list, and address unfinished updates or plans. No formal decisions are indicated; the items appear for discussion. Standard agenda items such as call to order, agenda changes, public hearing, and approval of minutes are also included.

• Temporary signage discussion
• Recap of Small Business Saturday
• Presentation of EDC project list
• Discussion of unfinished updates/projects/plans

Development Review Board

The Development Review Board will meet to elect officers and review its rules of procedure. The meeting includes time for public comment and potential executive or deliberative sessions.

• Election of officers
• Review and approval of Development Review Board Rules of Procedure