Know Before It's Decided

Essex Board of Selectmen: topics across meetings

48 meetings from Jan. 6, 2025 to Sept. 28, 2026, grouped by what the board decided. Topic tags are assigned by keyword and can miss or over-count; each decision links to its meeting page.

Budget and taxes (152) Licenses and permits (119) Appointments and elections (111) Town property and projects (106) Public safety (58) Roads and traffic (51) Harbor and waterfront (51) Arts, culture and events (35) Other (31) Health and human services (29) Environment and climate (24) Open space and recreation (21) Housing and zoning (19) Schools and education (18) Water, sewer and utilities (12)

Budget and taxes

Sept. 28, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Causeway flooding grant application
The board will work with MassDOT to apply for a federal PROTECT grant to explore ways to prevent Causeway flooding. The local match would be about $21,000.
Sept. 28, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Landing Road bridge load rating
Weston & Sampson will do a technical load rating of the town bridge on Landing Road, using about $38,000 of a $60,000 earmark for bridge study work.
Sept. 28, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Chebacco Lake water quality grant
The town will sponsor the Chebacco Lake and Watershed Association's application for a state DEP 604(b) Water Quality Grant and send a letter of support. Hamilton also supports it.
Sept. 28, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Public Safety Building siding change order
A change order of up to $3,000 to paint new bright white PVC trim to match the existing off-white trim.
Sept. 28, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Routine business
The board approved the weekly warrant of $215,121.33, Sept. 14 minutes, and signed the warrant for the Nov. 3 state election.
Sept. 14, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Movie filming at Police Station
A production company may film a small part of a movie at the Essex Police Station if Town Counsel approves the agreement and it pays a $2,500 fee to the department's cardiac evaluation program.
Sept. 14, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Old harbormaster trailer traded
Perkins Marine may take a surplus harbormaster boat trailer with seized hubs and worn axles in exchange for a $300 fuel credit for the town.
Sept. 14, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Shellfish network grant letter
The board ratified a support letter for a UMass Extension grant for the UMass Amherst Marine Station in Gloucester to build a North Shore shellfish network.
Sept. 14, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Routine business
The board approved the weekly warrant of $137,373.69 and minutes from Aug. 24 and Aug. 28, 2026.
Aug. 24, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Routine business
Approved the weekly warrant of $1,044,930.63 and minutes of Aug. 10 and Aug. 18, and adjourned at 8:57 p.m.
Aug. 10, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Routine business
The board approved a weekly warrant of $346,142.61 and minutes from the July 27, 2026 open meeting and executive session.
July 27, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Bridge study earmark ratified
The board ratified the application for a second state legislative earmark of $60,000 to continue studying three town bridges.
July 27, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Support note on state economic development bill
The board will send Sen. Bruce Tarr a note supporting the Economic Development Bond Bill, noting reservations listed in a Massachusetts Municipal Association alert.
July 27, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Grant applications from town insurer
Ratified a police cardiac wellness grant application, which was awarded, and approved applications for a grant for cooling vests and a loss control grant for Town Hall heating repairs.
July 27, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Routine business
Approved the weekly warrant of $1,117,282.90, minutes of July 13 and July 16, and the warrant for the 2026 state primary, and adjourned at 8:45 p.m.
July 13, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Harbormaster oil spill grant application
The board ratified the Town Planner's application for a $23,333 Marine Oil Spill Prevention and Response grant for Harbormaster training and equipment.
July 13, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Support for Gloucester youth prevention grant
The board ratified the chairman's letter backing Gloucester's application for a federal youth substance use prevention grant.
July 13, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Routine business
Approved FY2026 and FY2027 weekly warrants of $120,424.82 and $314,121.46, minutes from June 22, and a senior commercial shellfish license.
June 22, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Public Safety Building siding contract
Five bids came in from $154,287 to $287,966, with JLN the low bidder. The board voted to offer the contract to the lowest qualified bidder if Town Counsel approves.
June 22, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Town money for Essex Riverday
The board approved using the Town Events Fund for Riverday costs such as a dumpster, police detail and fire watch, plus a possible entertainment license, for June 27 or later this summer.
June 22, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Safety training grant and ethics exemption
The board ratified a state Department of Industrial Accidents grant application for safety training and approved a conflict of interest exemption so a person can serve on the Board of Public Works.
June 22, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Routine business
Approved the weekly warrant of $299,088.65, minutes from June 1 and June 10, and two Centennial Grove pavilion requests, including an Aug. 9 rain date for the First Congregational Church.
June 1, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Climate grant support letter
The board ratified a letter supporting TownGreen's application to the Metropolitan Area Planning Council's Accelerating Climate Resilience Grant Program.
June 1, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Routine business
The board approved the weekly warrant of $195,770.64 and minutes from May 18, 2026.
May 18, 2026: Approved Several votes, see minutes. Routine business
The board approved a weekly warrant of $148,552.93 and accepted a resignation from the Conservation Commission, both unanimously. Prior minutes passed 2 to 0, with Selectman Lee-Viator abstaining.

Showing the 25 newest of 152.

Licenses and permits

Sept. 28, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Conomo Point lease requests
The board approved a lot line change between two leased Conomo Point properties, with no change to lease amounts, and ratified a permit to replace wooden support columns with steel.
Sept. 28, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Museum event licenses
One-day wine and malt and entertainment licenses for the Essex Historical Society and Shipbuilding Museum for events in October and December, including a rain date moved to Oct. 10.
Sept. 14, 2026: Approved Unanimous. One-day licenses for Shipbuilding Museum event
The Essex Historical Society and Shipbuilding Museum got one-day wine and malt and entertainment licenses for Oct. 24, 2026, 6 to 9 p.m., at the shipyard at 66 Main Street.
Sept. 14, 2026: Tabled No vote recorded. Bridge study contract and entertainment policy
A Weston & Sampson contract for more study and design of three town-owned bridges was tabled, as was a review of the outdoor entertainment policy.
Aug. 24, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Riversbend one-day licenses
Approved a one-day wine and malt license for Riversbend on Sept. 12, 2026, and a one-day entertainment license for July 30, 2027, both from 4 to 9 p.m.
Aug. 24, 2026: Continued No vote recorded. Bridge study contract postponed
Review of a contract with Weston & Sampson for more study and design of three town-owned bridges was put off to Sept. 14.
Aug. 10, 2026: Approved Unanimous. New Conomo Point ramp and float plan
The Conomo Point Association's adjusted layout for ramps and floats becomes the official attachment to its license agreement with the town, after review by the Harbormaster.
Aug. 10, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Essex River Day licenses
1623 Studios received one-day wine and malt and entertainment licenses for Essex River Day at Memorial Park on Aug. 29, 2026, from 5 to 9 p.m., with fees waived.
Aug. 10, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Essex County Greenbelt event licenses
Essex County Greenbelt received one-day wine and malt and entertainment licenses for Sept. 26, 2026, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., with a music trio under a tent.
Aug. 10, 2026: Approved Roll call, unanimous. Building permit on town leased land ratified
The board ratified the Town Administrator's approval of a building permit for new insulation at a home on town leased land, subject to the land lease terms.
Aug. 10, 2026: Tabled No vote recorded. Bridge study contract and police contract talks
A possible Weston & Sampson contract for more study and design of three town-owned bridges was tabled pending more information. Police union collective bargaining discussion was also tabled.
July 27, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Essex Riverday date set
The board voted to hold Essex Riverday on Saturday, Aug. 29, 2026. The organizer will apply for any one-day licenses needed.
July 27, 2026: Approved Unanimous. One-day and other licenses
Approved one-day wine and malt and entertainment licenses for Riversbend and the Essex Historical Society and Shipbuilding Museum, waiving fees for some museum events, plus a Class II license for Pike Marine, LLC.
July 27, 2026: Tabled No vote recorded. Conomo Point float change
A proposed change to the float layout under the Conomo Point Association license was tabled until the board learns if the harbormaster boat area has water at low tide.
July 13, 2026: Approved 2 to 0. Woodman's one-day wine and malt licenses
Woodman's Inc. got one-day wine and malt licenses for its Salt Marsh Tent on 12 weekend days from Aug. 1 through Sept. 7, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. One selectman stepped out for the vote.
July 13, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Routine business
Approved FY2026 and FY2027 weekly warrants of $120,424.82 and $314,121.46, minutes from June 22, and a senior commercial shellfish license.
June 22, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Town money for Essex Riverday
The board approved using the Town Events Fund for Riverday costs such as a dumpster, police detail and fire watch, plus a possible entertainment license, for June 27 or later this summer.
June 22, 2026: Approved 2 to 0. One-day licenses and shellfish license
The board ratified a one-day wine and malt license for Woodman's Salt Marsh Tent on June 17 and approved a commercial shellfish student license, with one member abstaining. Another one-day license for a July 18 pavilion event passed unanimously.
June 1, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Liquor license for Toro BBQ Steakhouse
JKE BBQ Steakhouse LLC, doing business as Toro BBQ Steakhouse at 109 Eastern Avenue, got a new annual all alcohol restaurant license. The state Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission must give final approval.
June 1, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Other Toro BBQ licenses
The restaurant also got weekday and Sunday entertainment licenses for recorded music, TVs and occasional acoustic music from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 a.m., plus a common victualler license.
June 1, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Police Classic Car Show
The annual Essex Police Department Classic Car Show is set for Sept. 13, 2026, 1 to 4 p.m. at Shepard Memorial Park, rain date Sept. 20, with a one-day entertainment license and fee waived.
May 18, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Commercial shellfish permits capped at 45
The yearly limit on commercial shellfish permits drops from 94 to 45 to ease harvesting pressure on clams. The state Division of Marine Fisheries had offered only general advice, not a number.
May 18, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Auction and shellfish permits
The board approved an auction permit for Aaron Posnik & Co. on June 10 at 99 Main Street and one senior commercial shellfish permit.
May 18, 2026: Approved 2 to 0. Woodman's one-day wine and malt licenses
Woodman's Inc. received 11 one-day wine and malt licenses for its Salt Marsh Tent area on dates from May 28 to July 26, 2026. Selectman Lee-Viator left the room for this vote.
May 4, 2026: Approved Unanimous. New manager for Marshview Farm General Store
After a public hearing, the board approved a change of manager on the store's alcohol license. It now goes to the state ABCC for final approval.

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Appointments and elections

Sept. 28, 2026: Appointed Unanimous. Probationary firefighters
Three probationary firefighter/EMTs were appointed for terms ending June 30, 2027, pending background, drug and medical checks.
Sept. 28, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Employee and Volunteer of the Year
The board chose this year's Employee of the Year and Volunteer of the Year. Winners will be announced at Fall Town Meeting on Nov. 16.
Sept. 28, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Routine business
The board approved the weekly warrant of $215,121.33, Sept. 14 minutes, and signed the warrant for the Nov. 3 state election.
Sept. 14, 2026: Appointed Unanimous. Two appointments
The board appointed a firefighter/EMT for a term ending June 30, 2027, and a member of the Essex Cultural Council for a term ending June 30, 2029.
Sept. 14, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Routine business
The board approved the weekly warrant of $137,373.69 and minutes from Aug. 24 and Aug. 28, 2026.
Aug. 28, 2026: Appointed Roll call, unanimous. New member for Board of Fire Engineers
The board appointed a 20-year Essex Fire Department member to the vacant seat. A screening committee had interviewed three candidates and recommended him 4 to 1.
Aug. 24, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Routine business
Approved the weekly warrant of $1,044,930.63 and minutes of Aug. 10 and Aug. 18, and adjourned at 8:57 p.m.
Aug. 10, 2026: Appointed Unanimous. Election workers appointed
The board appointed 42 election workers for one-year terms starting Sept. 1, 2026.
Aug. 10, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Routine business
The board approved a weekly warrant of $346,142.61 and minutes from the July 27, 2026 open meeting and executive session.
July 27, 2026: Accepted Unanimous. Board of Fire Engineers resignation
The board accepted a resignation from the Board of Fire Engineers. The member will remain with the Fire Department as a call firefighter and EMT.
July 27, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Routine business
Approved the weekly warrant of $1,117,282.90, minutes of July 13 and July 16, and the warrant for the 2026 state primary, and adjourned at 8:45 p.m.
July 13, 2026: Appointed Unanimous. Affordable Housing Trust reappointment
A member was reappointed to the Affordable Housing Trust for two years, ending June 30, 2028.
July 13, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Routine business
Approved FY2026 and FY2027 weekly warrants of $120,424.82 and $314,121.46, minutes from June 22, and a senior commercial shellfish license.
June 22, 2026: Appointed Unanimous. Yearly town and fire department appointments
The board approved dozens of yearly appointments to town jobs, boards and committees, including KP Law as Town Counsel, and the fire department roster, mostly for terms ending June 30, 2027 or later.
June 22, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Routine business
Approved the weekly warrant of $299,088.65, minutes from June 1 and June 10, and two Centennial Grove pavilion requests, including an Aug. 9 rain date for the First Congregational Church.
June 1, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Liquor license for Toro BBQ Steakhouse
JKE BBQ Steakhouse LLC, doing business as Toro BBQ Steakhouse at 109 Eastern Avenue, got a new annual all alcohol restaurant license. The state Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission must give final approval.
June 1, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Utility pole work at Centennial Grove
National Grid may replace poles leading to the Grove Cottage and remove about 20 trees, if the Conservation Commission approves and the large white pines are kept if healthy.
June 1, 2026: Appointed Unanimous. Board of Public Works seat
The board appointed a new member to a three-year Board of Public Works term ending June 30, 2029, over the incumbent, who had not submitted a resume.
June 1, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Routine business
The board approved the weekly warrant of $195,770.64 and minutes from May 18, 2026.
May 18, 2026: Appointed Unanimous. Board reorganizes
The board elected Selectman Ann O. Cameron as chair and reappointed Selectman Peter D. Phippen as clerk.
May 18, 2026: Approved Unanimous. New police cruiser ordered
The board approved ordering a new police cruiser using money approved at the 2025 Fall Town Meeting.
May 18, 2026: Appointed Unanimous. Chair named to Affordable Housing Trust
Chairman Cameron was appointed to the Affordable Housing Trust for a two-year term ending June 30, 2028.
May 18, 2026: Appointed Unanimous. Two Finance Committee members
The board made two three-year appointments to the Finance Committee, ending June 30, 2029.
May 18, 2026: Approved Several votes, see minutes. Routine business
The board approved a weekly warrant of $148,552.93 and accepted a resignation from the Conservation Commission, both unanimously. Prior minutes passed 2 to 0, with Selectman Lee-Viator abstaining.
May 4, 2026: Approved Unanimous. OpenGov software agreement
The chairman may sign an agreement with OpenGov for work order and asset management software outside a meeting, if Annual Town Meeting approves the funding.

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Town property and projects

Sept. 28, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Public Safety Building siding change order
A change order of up to $3,000 to paint new bright white PVC trim to match the existing off-white trim.
Sept. 28, 2026: Approved Unanimous. CPC promotion contract
The board ratified a Community Preservation Committee contract with Artfluence to promote Community Preservation projects on the town website and social media.
Sept. 28, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Conomo Point lease requests
The board approved a lot line change between two leased Conomo Point properties, with no change to lease amounts, and ratified a permit to replace wooden support columns with steel.
Sept. 28, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Museum event licenses
One-day wine and malt and entertainment licenses for the Essex Historical Society and Shipbuilding Museum for events in October and December, including a rain date moved to Oct. 10.
Sept. 14, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Old harbormaster trailer traded
Perkins Marine may take a surplus harbormaster boat trailer with seized hubs and worn axles in exchange for a $300 fuel credit for the town.
Sept. 14, 2026: Approved Unanimous. One-day licenses for Shipbuilding Museum event
The Essex Historical Society and Shipbuilding Museum got one-day wine and malt and entertainment licenses for Oct. 24, 2026, 6 to 9 p.m., at the shipyard at 66 Main Street.
Sept. 14, 2026: Tabled No vote recorded. Bridge study contract and entertainment policy
A Weston & Sampson contract for more study and design of three town-owned bridges was tabled, as was a review of the outdoor entertainment policy.
Aug. 24, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Conomo Point area lease offers
The board signed cover letters offering one-year seasonal leases for lots at northern Conomo Point, Robbins Island and Beach Circle, under revised leasehold maps.
Aug. 24, 2026: Continued No vote recorded. Bridge study contract postponed
Review of a contract with Weston & Sampson for more study and design of three town-owned bridges was put off to Sept. 14.
Aug. 10, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Letter on new elementary school's 50-year life
The board signed a revised letter to the Massachusetts School Building Authority stating the district and town intend a new Essex Elementary School building to last at least 50 years, with the lease expected to be extended for that time.
Aug. 10, 2026: Approved Roll call, unanimous. Building permit on town leased land ratified
The board ratified the Town Administrator's approval of a building permit for new insulation at a home on town leased land, subject to the land lease terms.
Aug. 10, 2026: Tabled No vote recorded. Bridge study contract and police contract talks
A possible Weston & Sampson contract for more study and design of three town-owned bridges was tabled pending more information. Police union collective bargaining discussion was also tabled.
July 27, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Letter on building address numbers
The board approved a letter, as amended, to about 70 property owners who have not put address numbers on their buildings.
July 27, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Grant applications from town insurer
Ratified a police cardiac wellness grant application, which was awarded, and approved applications for a grant for cooling vests and a loss control grant for Town Hall heating repairs.
July 27, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Public Safety Building contracts
Approved maintenance contracts for mechanical systems at the Public Safety Building and a contract to add a second cooling unit in the police communications room for backup.
July 27, 2026: Approved Unanimous. One-day and other licenses
Approved one-day wine and malt and entertainment licenses for Riversbend and the Essex Historical Society and Shipbuilding Museum, waiving fees for some museum events, plus a Class II license for Pike Marine, LLC.
June 22, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Public Safety Building siding contract
Five bids came in from $154,287 to $287,966, with JLN the low bidder. The board voted to offer the contract to the lowest qualified bidder if Town Counsel approves.
June 22, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Ambulance billing contract renewed
The board approved a new one-year contract with Comstar for third party ambulance billing. The old contract ended at the end of June.
June 22, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Three large pines at Centennial Grove
The board changed an earlier vote so National Grid can remove three large white pines needed for its utility pole replacement project at Centennial Grove.
June 1, 2026: Approved Unanimous. School site assurance letter
The board signed a letter to the Massachusetts School Building Authority promising the Essex Elementary School property stays available to the district for 50 years.
May 18, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Water tower security cameras
The board ratified the Town Administrator's signing of a contract with Ockers to install security cameras at the town water tower site.
April 27, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Museum Yacht Rock fundraiser licenses
Approved one-day entertainment and wine and malt licenses for the Essex Historical Society and Shipbuilding Museum on Aug. 22, 2026, 6 to 9 p.m., if a police officer is present because of a very high tide.
April 13, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Fundraiser and town property uses
The board approved a whiffle ball fundraiser at the Field of Dreams with the fee waived, a hay harvest at 30 Apple Street and three Centennial Grove pavilion rentals.
April 13, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Routine business
The board approved the weekly warrant of $139,581.89, March 23 minutes, a policing agreement typo fix, a welcome letter for new members and ratified a parking lot closure and a building permit.
March 23, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Gravel road at 30 Apple Street
The Board of Public Works may build a gravel road across town land at 30 Apple Street as a second way to reach the transfer station if the Landing Road bridge fails. DPW will check for wetlands first.

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Public safety

Sept. 28, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Public Safety Building siding change order
A change order of up to $3,000 to paint new bright white PVC trim to match the existing off-white trim.
Sept. 28, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Police compensatory time agreement
The board approved a Memorandum of Agreement with the Essex Police Association on the use of compensatory time off.
Sept. 14, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Movie filming at Police Station
A production company may film a small part of a movie at the Essex Police Station if Town Counsel approves the agreement and it pays a $2,500 fee to the department's cardiac evaluation program.
Aug. 28, 2026: Appointed Roll call, unanimous. New member for Board of Fire Engineers
The board appointed a 20-year Essex Fire Department member to the vacant seat. A screening committee had interviewed three candidates and recommended him 4 to 1.
Aug. 10, 2026: Tabled No vote recorded. Bridge study contract and police contract talks
A possible Weston & Sampson contract for more study and design of three town-owned bridges was tabled pending more information. Police union collective bargaining discussion was also tabled.
July 27, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Grant applications from town insurer
Ratified a police cardiac wellness grant application, which was awarded, and approved applications for a grant for cooling vests and a loss control grant for Town Hall heating repairs.
July 27, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Public Safety Building contracts
Approved maintenance contracts for mechanical systems at the Public Safety Building and a contract to add a second cooling unit in the police communications room for backup.
July 27, 2026: Accepted Unanimous. Board of Fire Engineers resignation
The board accepted a resignation from the Board of Fire Engineers. The member will remain with the Fire Department as a call firefighter and EMT.
June 22, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Public Safety Building siding contract
Five bids came in from $154,287 to $287,966, with JLN the low bidder. The board voted to offer the contract to the lowest qualified bidder if Town Counsel approves.
June 22, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Ambulance billing contract renewed
The board approved a new one-year contract with Comstar for third party ambulance billing. The old contract ended at the end of June.
June 22, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Town money for Essex Riverday
The board approved using the Town Events Fund for Riverday costs such as a dumpster, police detail and fire watch, plus a possible entertainment license, for June 27 or later this summer.
June 22, 2026: Appointed Unanimous. Yearly town and fire department appointments
The board approved dozens of yearly appointments to town jobs, boards and committees, including KP Law as Town Counsel, and the fire department roster, mostly for terms ending June 30, 2027 or later.
June 1, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Police Classic Car Show
The annual Essex Police Department Classic Car Show is set for Sept. 13, 2026, 1 to 4 p.m. at Shepard Memorial Park, rain date Sept. 20, with a one-day entertainment license and fee waived.
June 1, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Vacation carryover for police
The police chief and a sergeant may carry 80 hours of vacation time into fiscal year 2027.
May 18, 2026: Approved Unanimous. New police cruiser ordered
The board approved ordering a new police cruiser using money approved at the 2025 Fall Town Meeting.
April 27, 2026: Approved Unanimous. FY2027 insurance renewals
The board approved the fiscal 2027 police and fire accident insurance policies and signed the health, dental and vision insurance renewal for FY2027.
April 27, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Museum Yacht Rock fundraiser licenses
Approved one-day entertainment and wine and malt licenses for the Essex Historical Society and Shipbuilding Museum on Aug. 22, 2026, 6 to 9 p.m., if a police officer is present because of a very high tide.
March 9, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Sale of old fire tanker
The Town Administrator and Fire Chief may sell the old tanker truck to get the most money, following state Chapter 30B rules since it is expected to be worth $10,000 or more.
March 9, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Special State Election warrant signed
The board signed the warrant for the March 31, 2026 Special State Election, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Public Safety Facility, to elect a state representative for the Fifth Essex District.
March 9, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Fire Captain/Fire Prevention Officer position
The recommended Deputy Fire Chief job becomes Fire Captain/Fire Prevention Officer, with the pay range changed from $105,000 to $120,000 to $90,000 to $120,000. It stays a salaried management job without overtime.
Feb. 23, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Full-time Deputy Fire Chief position
The board added a Deputy Fire Chief with a salary range of $105,000 to $120,000 to the fiscal 2027 recommended pay scale. It would be the fire department's first full-time employee.
Jan. 29, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Routine business
The board met in executive session to discuss strategy for negotiations with nonunion personnel. It approved Jan. 5 minutes, two Board of Appeals reappointments, five shellfish permits and a Fire Department appointment, and adjourned at 8:41 p.m.
Dec. 15, 2025: Appointed Unanimous. Three police officers hired
The board appointed one full-time and two part-time police officers, pending drug, medical and standard department screening.
Dec. 15, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Tanker truck radio
The board approved ordering a radio system for the new Fire Department tanker truck.
Dec. 1, 2025: Adopted Unanimous. Revised emergency management plan
The board adopted an updated Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan that the Fire Chief and Police Department worked on for two years.

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Roads and traffic

Sept. 28, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Landing Road bridge load rating
Weston & Sampson will do a technical load rating of the town bridge on Landing Road, using about $38,000 of a $60,000 earmark for bridge study work.
Sept. 14, 2026: Approved Unanimous. One-day licenses for Shipbuilding Museum event
The Essex Historical Society and Shipbuilding Museum got one-day wine and malt and entertainment licenses for Oct. 24, 2026, 6 to 9 p.m., at the shipyard at 66 Main Street.
Sept. 14, 2026: Tabled No vote recorded. Bridge study contract and entertainment policy
A Weston & Sampson contract for more study and design of three town-owned bridges was tabled, as was a review of the outdoor entertainment policy.
Aug. 24, 2026: Continued No vote recorded. Bridge study contract postponed
Review of a contract with Weston & Sampson for more study and design of three town-owned bridges was put off to Sept. 14.
Aug. 10, 2026: Tabled No vote recorded. Bridge study contract and police contract talks
A possible Weston & Sampson contract for more study and design of three town-owned bridges was tabled pending more information. Police union collective bargaining discussion was also tabled.
July 27, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Bridge study earmark ratified
The board ratified the application for a second state legislative earmark of $60,000 to continue studying three town bridges.
July 27, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Three charity bike rides
Approved Coast to the Cure on Sept. 19, Gears for Good on Sept. 20 and Tour de Greenbelt on Sept. 26, 2026.
May 18, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Auction and shellfish permits
The board approved an auction permit for Aaron Posnik & Co. on June 10 at 99 Main Street and one senior commercial shellfish permit.
April 13, 2026: Approved 2 to 0. Moving recycled asphalt to 30 Apple Street
Recycled asphalt from Centennial Grove may be used to top a new DPW road at 30 Apple Street, but only after the Annual Town Meeting. One selectman voted against the first motion and abstained on the amended one.
April 13, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Business licenses and permits
Licenses included a common victualler license for Down River Ice Cream, one-day wine and malt licenses for Woodman's on May 10, 23 and 24, and fuel storage permits for three Main Street businesses.
April 13, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Fundraiser and town property uses
The board approved a whiffle ball fundraiser at the Field of Dreams with the fee waived, a hay harvest at 30 Apple Street and three Centennial Grove pavilion rentals.
April 13, 2026: Denied No vote recorded. Event parking behind tennis courts
The board declined a request to use the dirt area behind the Memorial Park tennis courts for private event parking June 13, citing congestion.
April 13, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Routine business
The board approved the weekly warrant of $139,581.89, March 23 minutes, a policing agreement typo fix, a welcome letter for new members and ratified a parking lot closure and a building permit.
March 23, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Nonresident boat launch permits raised to 12
Twelve people applied for nonresident boat launch and parking permits for 2026. The board raised the limit from 10 to 12, so all will get permits and no lottery is needed.
March 23, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Gravel road at 30 Apple Street
The Board of Public Works may build a gravel road across town land at 30 Apple Street as a second way to reach the transfer station if the Landing Road bridge fails. DPW will check for wetlands first.
Feb. 23, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Licenses
The board approved a 2026 common victualler license for Salty's Pizza & Ice Cream at 2 Martin Street, plus commercial and senior shellfish permits.
Feb. 9, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Town bridge study, phase one
The Chairman may sign a contract with Weston & Sampson Engineers for the first phase study of three town-owned bridges, paid by a state earmark that must be spent by June 30, 2026.
Feb. 9, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Change of manager for The James
After a public hearing, the board approved a new manager for The James at 55 Main Street, on condition of a local CORI check. The request goes to the state ABCC.
Feb. 9, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Letters of support
The board will sign letters supporting the library's effort to bring the carved stone head known as "Old Baldy" back to Essex and Manchester's MVP Action Grant for the Central Street Bridge and Sawmill Brook project.
Jan. 29, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Snow storage at 30 Apple Street
The DPW may stockpile snow at 30 Apple Street this winter if it uses the DPW side entrance and certifies in writing it will fully clean and restore the site in spring.
Jan. 29, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Automatic gate for fuel depot
An electric gate on Landing Road, costing about $25,000, will be installed with leftover fuel depot project money once the town is sure the funds are there.
Jan. 29, 2026: Approved Unanimous. New bridge and gangway at Town Landing
The board approved ordering a new aluminum bridge and aluminum gangway for Town Landing, as specified by the Harbormaster.
Jan. 29, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Grant paperwork for flooding and water main
The chairman may sign papers for a MassDOT LEAP grant to study Causeway flooding and for a $1,092,000 federal earmark to replace the DeSoto Road water main.
Jan. 5, 2026: Approved Unanimous. National Grid pole on Harlow Street
After a public hearing with no public comment, the board approved National Grid's petition to install a pole on Harlow Street.
Dec. 15, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Conomo Point leasehold addition
A family member was added to the leasehold at 134 Conomo Point Road, with no new property rights granted.

Showing the 25 newest of 51.

Harbor and waterfront

Sept. 14, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Old harbormaster trailer traded
Perkins Marine may take a surplus harbormaster boat trailer with seized hubs and worn axles in exchange for a $300 fuel credit for the town.
Sept. 14, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Shellfish network grant letter
The board ratified a support letter for a UMass Extension grant for the UMass Amherst Marine Station in Gloucester to build a North Shore shellfish network.
Aug. 24, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Conomo Point area lease offers
The board signed cover letters offering one-year seasonal leases for lots at northern Conomo Point, Robbins Island and Beach Circle, under revised leasehold maps.
Aug. 10, 2026: Approved Unanimous. New Conomo Point ramp and float plan
The Conomo Point Association's adjusted layout for ramps and floats becomes the official attachment to its license agreement with the town, after review by the Harbormaster.
July 27, 2026: Tabled No vote recorded. Conomo Point float change
A proposed change to the float layout under the Conomo Point Association license was tabled until the board learns if the harbormaster boat area has water at low tide.
July 13, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Harbormaster oil spill grant application
The board ratified the Town Planner's application for a $23,333 Marine Oil Spill Prevention and Response grant for Harbormaster training and equipment.
July 13, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Routine business
Approved FY2026 and FY2027 weekly warrants of $120,424.82 and $314,121.46, minutes from June 22, and a senior commercial shellfish license.
June 22, 2026: Approved 2 to 0. One-day licenses and shellfish license
The board ratified a one-day wine and malt license for Woodman's Salt Marsh Tent on June 17 and approved a commercial shellfish student license, with one member abstaining. Another one-day license for a July 18 pavilion event passed unanimously.
May 18, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Commercial shellfish permits capped at 45
The yearly limit on commercial shellfish permits drops from 94 to 45 to ease harvesting pressure on clams. The state Division of Marine Fisheries had offered only general advice, not a number.
May 18, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Auction and shellfish permits
The board approved an auction permit for Aaron Posnik & Co. on June 10 at 99 Main Street and one senior commercial shellfish permit.
April 13, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Letters of support ratified
The board backed Congressman Moulton's effort to get federal money to finish dredging the Essex River, a TownGreen climate hub grant and an Ipswich River Watershed Association grant application.
March 23, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Nonresident boat launch permits raised to 12
Twelve people applied for nonresident boat launch and parking permits for 2026. The board raised the limit from 10 to 12, so all will get permits and no lottery is needed.
March 23, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Letters of support and animal inspector
The board ratified a letter supporting an MAPC grant for battery storage safety training, a letter for a state Coastal Zone Management federal funding request, and the Inspector of Animals nomination for May 1, 2026 through April 30, 2027.
March 23, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Conomo Point floats license
The Conomo Point Association may attach ramps and floats to the town's stone piers at Conomo Point for the 2026 season.
March 23, 2026: Approved Unanimous. One-day licenses and pavilion rental
The board approved one-day entertainment and wine and malt licenses for Riversbend and Essex County Greenbelt events in May and June, a student shellfish license and a June 6 Centennial Grove Pavilion rental.
March 9, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Shellfish and entertainment licenses
The board approved commercial, student, senior and nonresident shellfish permits, yearly entertainment licenses for Woodman's of Essex and Riversbend, and ClamFest entertainment and alcohol licenses for Oct. 24 in Memorial Park.
Feb. 23, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Licenses
The board approved a 2026 common victualler license for Salty's Pizza & Ice Cream at 2 Martin Street, plus commercial and senior shellfish permits.
Feb. 9, 2026: Approved Several votes, see minutes. Routine business
The board approved Jan. 29 minutes by majority with one abstention, bills and payroll of $313,972.24, and shellfish permits. It met in executive session on non-union personnel negotiations and collective bargaining.
Jan. 29, 2026: Approved Unanimous. New bridge and gangway at Town Landing
The board approved ordering a new aluminum bridge and aluminum gangway for Town Landing, as specified by the Harbormaster.
Jan. 29, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Routine business
The board met in executive session to discuss strategy for negotiations with nonunion personnel. It approved Jan. 5 minutes, two Board of Appeals reappointments, five shellfish permits and a Fire Department appointment, and adjourned at 8:41 p.m.
Dec. 15, 2025: Approved Unanimous. 2026 business license renewals
The board renewed liquor, entertainment, food, antiques, Class II and other licenses for businesses including Woodman's, The Farm, C.K. Pearl, The Shipyard Tavern, Riversbend, The Boathouse, Fairway Pub and Schooners Market.
Dec. 1, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Old Jet Ski traded in
The board accepted a $500 credit from Gaybrook Garage for an inoperative Jet Ski no longer used by police or the harbor department.
Oct. 20, 2025: Accepted Unanimous. Port Security Grant for harbormaster boat
The town accepted a FEMA grant to buy a new harbormaster boat. It requires a 25% town match, and acceptance depends on Fall Town Meeting approving that match.
Oct. 20, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Riversbend wedding entertainment
Riversbend at Essex Marina LLC got a one-day license for an amplified eight-piece band in a tent at 35 Dodge Street on Saturday, Sept. 12, 2026, from 5 to 9 p.m., after agreeing to end earlier.
Sept. 22, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Shipyard Tavern dumpster and access license
The tavern may keep its dumpster on town land. In return, harbor and shellfish staff may use it, and the tavern will keep up the nearby public access area.

Showing the 25 newest of 51.

Arts, culture and events

Sept. 28, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Causeway flooding grant application
The board will work with MassDOT to apply for a federal PROTECT grant to explore ways to prevent Causeway flooding. The local match would be about $21,000.
Sept. 28, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Museum event licenses
One-day wine and malt and entertainment licenses for the Essex Historical Society and Shipbuilding Museum for events in October and December, including a rain date moved to Oct. 10.
Sept. 14, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Movie filming at Police Station
A production company may film a small part of a movie at the Essex Police Station if Town Counsel approves the agreement and it pays a $2,500 fee to the department's cardiac evaluation program.
Sept. 14, 2026: Approved Unanimous. One-day licenses for Shipbuilding Museum event
The Essex Historical Society and Shipbuilding Museum got one-day wine and malt and entertainment licenses for Oct. 24, 2026, 6 to 9 p.m., at the shipyard at 66 Main Street.
Sept. 14, 2026: Appointed Unanimous. Two appointments
The board appointed a firefighter/EMT for a term ending June 30, 2027, and a member of the Essex Cultural Council for a term ending June 30, 2029.
Aug. 10, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Essex County Greenbelt event licenses
Essex County Greenbelt received one-day wine and malt and entertainment licenses for Sept. 26, 2026, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., with a music trio under a tent.
July 27, 2026: Approved Unanimous. One-day and other licenses
Approved one-day wine and malt and entertainment licenses for Riversbend and the Essex Historical Society and Shipbuilding Museum, waiving fees for some museum events, plus a Class II license for Pike Marine, LLC.
June 22, 2026: Approved 2 to 0. One-day licenses and shellfish license
The board ratified a one-day wine and malt license for Woodman's Salt Marsh Tent on June 17 and approved a commercial shellfish student license, with one member abstaining. Another one-day license for a July 18 pavilion event passed unanimously.
May 18, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Community event requests
The First Congregational Church may use the Centennial Grove Pavilion on Aug. 2 from 9 a.m. to noon with the fee waived. The Essex Elementary PTO may hold its Happy as a Clam Race on Sept. 18 at 5 p.m.
April 27, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Museum Yacht Rock fundraiser licenses
Approved one-day entertainment and wine and malt licenses for the Essex Historical Society and Shipbuilding Museum on Aug. 22, 2026, 6 to 9 p.m., if a police officer is present because of a very high tide.
April 27, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Museum opening day fee waived
Approved and waived the fee for a one-day entertainment license for the museum's opening day on May 20, 2026, with an acoustic performance by Essex Elementary School.
April 13, 2026: Denied No vote recorded. Event parking behind tennis courts
The board declined a request to use the dirt area behind the Memorial Park tennis courts for private event parking June 13, citing congestion.
March 23, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Part-time DPW Specialist job description
The board approved the job description for a part-time DPW clerk, called DPW Specialist, amended to mention other software.
Jan. 29, 2026: Denied Voted to deny, no tally recorded. Library merit pay request
The board denied a Library Trustees request for fiscal 2027 merit pay for a part-time assistant librarian. Merit pay has never been given to part-time workers, and current pay was found fair.
Dec. 15, 2025: Appointed Unanimous. Three police officers hired
The board appointed one full-time and two part-time police officers, pending drug, medical and standard department screening.
Oct. 20, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Ales Over ALS fundraiser
The board approved use of the Folsom Pavilion at Centennial Grove on Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025, plus one-day wine and malt and entertainment licenses for 1 to 9 p.m., fees paid after the event.
Oct. 20, 2025: Appointed Unanimous. Essex Cultural Council seat
The board filled a partial term on the Essex Cultural Council ending June 30, 2028.
Oct. 6, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Shipbuilding Museum fundraiser licenses
The Essex Historical Society and Shipbuilding Museum got one-day wine and malt and entertainment licenses for pop-up fundraiser dinners at 66 Main Street on Oct. 10 and 11, 2025, from 5 to 8 p.m.
Sept. 22, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Cultural Council grant signature
The chairman may sign Massachusetts Cultural Council documents for the Essex Cultural Council's yearly allocation of $5,700 outside a meeting.
Sept. 22, 2025: Approved Unanimous. One-day licenses for museum events
The Essex Historical Society and Shipbuilding Museum received one-day wine and malt and entertainment licenses for events on Oct. 18, Oct. 27, Dec. 5 and Dec. 13, 2025.
Sept. 8, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Septic loan program borrowing
The board signed interim loan notes of up to $200,000 with the Massachusetts Clean Water Trust for the community septic loan program, part of $1,000,000 voters approved May 1, 2017.
Aug. 18, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Climate and harbor boat grants
The board said the town will take part in the state's MVP 2.0 climate program this fall. It also ratified the chairman's signature on a federal Port Security Grant application to replace the harbormaster boat.
Aug. 18, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Events and permits
The board approved the Tour de Greenbelt bike ride on town roads on Sept. 20, 2025, moved the Essex River Cultural District event licenses to Sept. 6, 2025, and approved a student shellfish permit.
Aug. 4, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Town pier railing grant
The chairman may sign a loss control grant application to the town's insurer to pay for railings on a high, unprotected part of the Town Landing pier.
Aug. 4, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Greenbelt event license
Essex County Greenbelt Association got a one-day entertainment license for a band on Sept. 20, 2025, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Showing the 25 newest of 35.

Other

Sept. 14, 2026: Approved 2 to 1. Two-step Government Study Committee
A five member committee will first set the process for reviewing how the town is run, then plan a larger committee to do the review. Selectman Lee-Viator voted no, preferring one committee.
Sept. 14, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Legal disclosure for joint cable talks
The board approved a KP Law disclosure so the firm can represent Essex, Rockport and Manchester in upcoming joint cable franchise negotiations.
Sept. 14, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Essex Legion use of Grove Cottage
The Essex Legion may use the Centennial Grove Cottage for meetings and events in exchange for ongoing upkeep and maintenance.
Aug. 24, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Executive session
By roll call, the board met in executive session to discuss collective bargaining, then returned to open session.
July 27, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Executive session
By roll call, the board met in executive session to discuss collective bargaining, then returned to open session.
June 22, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Union agreement with AFSCME
After meeting in executive session to discuss collective bargaining, the board approved a Memorandum of Agreement with the AFSCME union by roll call vote.
June 22, 2026: Approved Unanimous. North Shore IT Collaborative extension
The board approved another six-month extension of its agreement with Danvers and other towns in the North Shore IT Collaborative.
May 18, 2026: Adopted Unanimous. Small Business Week proclamations
The board proclaimed June 1 to June 7, 2026 Small Business Week in Essex and named the owner of Barn Dog Daycamp Small Business Person of the Year.
April 27, 2026: Adopted Unanimous. New flag half-staff policy
Flags will fly at half-staff when declared by the President, the Governor or the Selectmen, and on request when a current employee or a current or former board member dies.
April 13, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Regional IT agreement extended
The board extended the North Shore Regional IT Collaborative agreement for six months, through June 30, 2026, while a longer agreement is drafted.
Feb. 23, 2026: Approved Unanimous. DPW clerk job description
The board approved a revised DPW Administrative Clerk position description, adding that the employee must be self-motivated and able to work independently.
Feb. 9, 2026: Appointed Unanimous. Animal control officers
The board designated an Animal Control Officer and an Assistant Animal Control Officer.
Jan. 29, 2026: Tabled No vote recorded. Assistant librarian job description
A request to revise the assistant librarian position description was held for review by the Town Administrator until the next meeting.
Jan. 29, 2026: Tabled No vote recorded. July 18 cycling fundraiser
A Changing Futures request for a cycling fundraiser in Essex on Saturday, July 18, 2026 was tabled until more information is provided.
Jan. 5, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Computer policies and inventory
The board accepted the updated town computer policies and equipment inventory.
Dec. 15, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Honorary town historian
The board accepted a resident's offer to serve as volunteer, honorary Town Historian and will invite him to a future meeting.
Dec. 1, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Soil pile testing started
The board ratified starting Weston & Sampson's sampling, testing and reporting on a contaminated trench spoil pile at the DPW yard before the ground freezes. Later tasks will be approved in the future.
Nov. 17, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Farnham's winter closure
Farnham's may close from Dec. 31, 2025, through March 6, 2026, for cleaning and repairs.
Oct. 6, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Treasurer/collector clerk job description
The board approved a revised job description for the treasurer/collector's clerk, already approved by the union.
Sept. 8, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Letter backing pancreatic cancer bill
The board will send a letter supporting An Act to Reduce Incidence and Death from Pancreatic Cancer, a bill in the State Legislature.
June 23, 2025: Approved Unanimous. IT collaborative agreement extended
The board signed a six-month extension of the North Shore IT Collaborative agreement with Danvers and other towns, which was set to expire June 30, 2025.
June 23, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Pickleball lines at Centennial Grove
The YMCA may line the basketball court at Centennial Grove for pickleball using chalk or tape that can be removed later.
May 19, 2025: Appointed Unanimous. Board reorganization
Selectman Alva Ingaharro was chosen as chair and Selectman Peter Phippen as clerk of the board.
May 5, 2025: Appointed Unanimous. Assistant animal control officer
The board filled the assistant animal control officer post for a partial one-year term ending Jan. 31, 2026.
March 3, 2025: Approved Unanimous. New town website platform
The board authorized the town administrator to move the website to the vendor's Aurora Standard product for one year, after he confirms all current functions will carry over.

Showing the 25 newest of 31.

Health and human services

Sept. 28, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Senior rides from Manchester
The board ratified an agreement with Manchester for Manchester to provide senior transportation services to Essex.
Aug. 24, 2026: Accepted Unanimous. Free pavers at Senior Center
The board accepted an offer from Rob-Con and Farm Creek to replace a loose stone area outside the Senior Center with pavers at no cost to the town.
July 13, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Routine business
Approved FY2026 and FY2027 weekly warrants of $120,424.82 and $314,121.46, minutes from June 22, and a senior commercial shellfish license.
June 1, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Utility pole work at Centennial Grove
National Grid may replace poles leading to the Grove Cottage and remove about 20 trees, if the Conservation Commission approves and the large white pines are kept if healthy.
May 18, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Auction and shellfish permits
The board approved an auction permit for Aaron Posnik & Co. on June 10 at 99 Main Street and one senior commercial shellfish permit.
April 27, 2026: Approved Unanimous. FY2027 insurance renewals
The board approved the fiscal 2027 police and fire accident insurance policies and signed the health, dental and vision insurance renewal for FY2027.
April 27, 2026: Appointed Unanimous. Animal Health Inspector reappointed
The board reappointed the Animal Health Inspector for one year starting May 1, 2026.
March 9, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Shellfish and entertainment licenses
The board approved commercial, student, senior and nonresident shellfish permits, yearly entertainment licenses for Woodman's of Essex and Riversbend, and ClamFest entertainment and alcohol licenses for Oct. 24 in Memorial Park.
Feb. 23, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Council on Aging pay ranges
The Volunteer and Activities Coordinator range rises to $22 to $27 an hour and the Outreach Coordinator range to $23 to $29 an hour on the fiscal 2027 recommended pay scale.
Feb. 23, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Licenses
The board approved a 2026 common victualler license for Salty's Pizza & Ice Cream at 2 Martin Street, plus commercial and senior shellfish permits.
Feb. 9, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Chebacco Lake study contract
The Chairman may sign a contract with Applied Watershed Sciences LLC and partners to continue studying the lake's health. The study will look at cyanobacteria treatments and the work's benefit to the town.
Jan. 5, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Flood sensor on the Causeway
The Town Administrator may work with the state Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs and partners to place a flooding sensor on the Causeway.
Dec. 15, 2025: Appointed Unanimous. Council on Aging appointment
A new member was appointed to the Council on Aging for a term ending June 30.
Oct. 20, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Regional emergency shelter agreement
The board signed a memorandum of understanding with other Cape Ann communities to create a regional emergency shelter at Gordon College. The Board of Health, Fire and Police support it.
Oct. 20, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Retiree health insurance rates
The board approved retiree health insurance renewal rates for calendar year 2026.
Oct. 20, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Senior housing grant and well change order
The board ratified a $2,000 Title III-B agreement from SeniorCare to help the Council on Aging with housing needs, and a $6,544.85 change order for unexpected brick work on a water well building.
Aug. 4, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Opioid settlements authorized
The chairman may sign new national opioid settlements, including Purdue Pharma. Essex has received about $13,000 so far from earlier settlements, with payments continuing through fiscal 2039.
June 9, 2025: Appointed Unanimous. Yearly appointments starting July 1
The board made appointments to the Board of Registrars, Council on Aging, harbormaster's assistant and three part-time police officers, and reappointed KP Law as town counsel for one year.
June 9, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Licenses
The board approved a senior commercial shellfish permit and ratified a one-day entertainment license for Essex River Cultural District Day at the Shipbuilding Museum on June 28, 2025.
May 5, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Clean Water Trust loan resolution
Lets the Board of Health administrator apply for more state loan money for septic upgrades and sewer connections. The loans are repaid through betterments charged to property owners who take part.
March 24, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Shellfish permits and fuel storage renewals
The board approved commercial, senior, student and nonresident shellfish permits. It renewed fuel storage permits for Perkins Marine Inc. and Laurel Lane LLC.
March 24, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Employee health rates and staff contracts
The board approved FY2026 health insurance rates for active employees, a revised Town Accountant contract and 3% merit pay for the Town Administrator for FY2026.
March 3, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Senior cookout at Centennial Grove
The Friends of the Council on Aging may hold their annual cookout for all Essex seniors on Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., with the rental fee waived.
March 3, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Shellfish permits
The board approved four senior, 14 commercial, three commercial student and one nonresident shellfish permits.
Feb. 24, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Senior transportation grant agreement
The board approved and signed a memorandum of understanding with Manchester and Gloucester for the Seniors on the Go Healthy Aging Transportation Grant.

Showing the 25 newest of 29.

Environment and climate

Sept. 28, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Causeway flooding grant application
The board will work with MassDOT to apply for a federal PROTECT grant to explore ways to prevent Causeway flooding. The local match would be about $21,000.
June 1, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Utility pole work at Centennial Grove
National Grid may replace poles leading to the Grove Cottage and remove about 20 trees, if the Conservation Commission approves and the large white pines are kept if healthy.
June 1, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Climate grant support letter
The board ratified a letter supporting TownGreen's application to the Metropolitan Area Planning Council's Accelerating Climate Resilience Grant Program.
May 18, 2026: Approved Several votes, see minutes. Routine business
The board approved a weekly warrant of $148,552.93 and accepted a resignation from the Conservation Commission, both unanimously. Prior minutes passed 2 to 0, with Selectman Lee-Viator abstaining.
May 4, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Fuel storage permit renewal
Superior Plus Energy Services, doing business as Holden Oil, had its gasoline and fuel storage permit renewed for one year, ending April 30, 2027.
April 13, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Letters of support ratified
The board backed Congressman Moulton's effort to get federal money to finish dredging the Essex River, a TownGreen climate hub grant and an Ipswich River Watershed Association grant application.
March 23, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Gravel road at 30 Apple Street
The Board of Public Works may build a gravel road across town land at 30 Apple Street as a second way to reach the transfer station if the Landing Road bridge fails. DPW will check for wetlands first.
Feb. 9, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Regional climate assessment grant
The Chairman may sign contracts with MAPC or the state for the MVP 2.0 regional assessment shared by all four Cape Ann communities.
Jan. 29, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Grant paperwork for flooding and water main
The chairman may sign papers for a MassDOT LEAP grant to study Causeway flooding and for a $1,092,000 federal earmark to replace the DeSoto Road water main.
Jan. 29, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Support letter for Route 133 culvert project
The board will send a letter supporting a state ResilientCoasts technical assistance request, led by the Ipswich River Watershed Association, to study raising Route 133 and widening its culvert.
Jan. 5, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Flood sensor on the Causeway
The Town Administrator may work with the state Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs and partners to place a flooding sensor on the Causeway.
Jan. 5, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Chainsaw training trees
The Town Administrator may pick a few trees along the electric line path at Centennial Grove for chainsaw tree felling training for town workers.
Jan. 5, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Routine business
The board approved the weekly warrant of $1,070,418.55, Dec. 15 minutes, a license renewal for The Mill at 121 Eastern Avenue, and accepted a Conservation Commission resignation.
Dec. 1, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Grant applications
The chairman may sign LEAP grant documents for causeway flooding help if awarded, and the town planner will apply for a Massachusetts Housing Partnership technical assistance grant to carry out the Housing Production Plan.
Dec. 1, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Business license renewals
Renewals included Great Marsh Restaurant and Brewing, Gaybrook Garage, Sam's Main Street Auto Center, Energy Liquors, Googan's Galley, Dunkin Donuts at 125 Main Street and BB Botanics marijuana retail and cultivation.
Oct. 6, 2025: Appointed Unanimous. Conservation Commission appointment
A new member was appointed to the Conservation Commission for a term ending June 30, 2028.
Aug. 18, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Climate and harbor boat grants
The board said the town will take part in the state's MVP 2.0 climate program this fall. It also ratified the chairman's signature on a federal Port Security Grant application to replace the harbormaster boat.
Aug. 18, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Conomo Point building permits
The board approved two building permits on town-leased land at Conomo Point, one for new siding and one for roof solar panels, both subject to the land lease terms.
June 9, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Climate resilience grant support letter
The board ratified a support letter for a regional Town Green application to the Metropolitan Area Planning Council's Accelerated Climate Resilience Grant.
May 19, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Dead tree removal on town land
The DPW's tree contractor will remove three dead trees on town land after a request. The tree warden supported it and has funding in place.
May 5, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Removal of dead tree on town land
An abutter's request to remove a small dead tree from town property was approved after the tree warden and Public Works signed off. The board prefers that Public Works do the work if possible.
May 5, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Shellfish and fuel storage permits
The board approved a commercial shellfish permit and a gasoline fuel storage permit for Superior Plus Energy Services, doing business as Holden Oil. It also signed Marshview Farm Store's 2025 package store and food licenses after state approval.
April 14, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Other licenses and permits
Approvals included a commercial shellfish permit, a common victualler license for Essex River Cruises & Charters, fuel storage permits for Energy North and Gaybrook Garage, and a gravel pit permit renewal for Curlew Cove Realty Trust.
Feb. 24, 2025: Appointed Unanimous. Council on Aging and Conservation Commission seats
The board filled a partial Council on Aging term ending June 30, 2026, and a partial Conservation Commission term ending June 30, 2027.

Open space and recreation

Sept. 14, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Old harbormaster trailer traded
Perkins Marine may take a surplus harbormaster boat trailer with seized hubs and worn axles in exchange for a $300 fuel credit for the town.
Aug. 10, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Essex River Day licenses
1623 Studios received one-day wine and malt and entertainment licenses for Essex River Day at Memorial Park on Aug. 29, 2026, from 5 to 9 p.m., with fees waived.
July 13, 2026: Accepted Unanimous. Updated Open Space and Recreation Plan
The board accepted the updated Essex Open Space and Recreation Plan.
June 1, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Police Classic Car Show
The annual Essex Police Department Classic Car Show is set for Sept. 13, 2026, 1 to 4 p.m. at Shepard Memorial Park, rain date Sept. 20, with a one-day entertainment license and fee waived.
April 13, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Fundraiser and town property uses
The board approved a whiffle ball fundraiser at the Field of Dreams with the fee waived, a hay harvest at 30 Apple Street and three Centennial Grove pavilion rentals.
April 13, 2026: Denied No vote recorded. Event parking behind tennis courts
The board declined a request to use the dirt area behind the Memorial Park tennis courts for private event parking June 13, citing congestion.
March 23, 2026: Approved Unanimous. FY2027 budget votes
The board recommended the FY2027 Water and Sewer Enterprise fund budgets and the FY2027 Wage & Salary Scale, and approved using Cemetery Department interest accounts as revenue for the FY2027 budget.
March 9, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Shellfish and entertainment licenses
The board approved commercial, student, senior and nonresident shellfish permits, yearly entertainment licenses for Woodman's of Essex and Riversbend, and ClamFest entertainment and alcohol licenses for Oct. 24 in Memorial Park.
Feb. 9, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Letters of support
The board will sign letters supporting the library's effort to bring the carved stone head known as "Old Baldy" back to Essex and Manchester's MVP Action Grant for the Central Street Bridge and Sawmill Brook project.
Jan. 29, 2026: Denied Voted to deny, no tally recorded. Library merit pay request
The board denied a Library Trustees request for fiscal 2027 merit pay for a part-time assistant librarian. Merit pay has never been given to part-time workers, and current pay was found fair.
Dec. 1, 2025: Appointed Unanimous. Open Space Committee members
Two members were appointed to the Open Space Committee for terms ending June 30, 2026.
Nov. 17, 2025: Adopted Unanimous. Single tax rate kept
With the assessors, the board set the residential factor at 1.0, so homes and businesses pay the same rate. It chose not to offer an open space discount, residential exemption or small commercial exemption.
July 7, 2025: Appointed Unanimous. Board and staff appointments
The board filled seats on the Affordable Housing Trust, Cultural Council and Open Space Committee, named two probationary firefighter/EMTs and nine assistant harbormasters, and named the town planner MAPC alternate.
June 23, 2025: Approved 2 to 1. Tennis court fence removal for parking
The board asked the DPW to remove the fence around the Memorial Park tennis court so the space can be used for parking. Selectman Cameron voted no.
June 9, 2025: Approved 2 to 1. Town to oversee tennis court design
The town will run the design and permitting phase of the Memorial Park tennis court project if the Friends group turns over the $56,000 it raised. Chairman Ingaharro voted no.
April 28, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Open space plan grant and consultant
The board ratified paperwork for a $46,700 state grant and allowed the chairman to sign a consultant contract with the Metropolitan Area Planning Council to update the Open Space and Recreation Plan.
April 28, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Paglia Park license renewal
The board voted to sign a renewal of the town's license to use Paglia Park. The current license is up for renewal June 30, 2025.
April 14, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Field of Dreams league fee raised
The yearly per-player fee for leagues using the Field of Dreams goes from $10 to $20.
April 14, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Cemetery funds moved to public works
The board backed a Board of Public Works request to move $13,425 from cemetery accounts into its FY2026 budget, pending Town Meeting approval.
Feb. 10, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Business licenses
Approved: food licenses for Mayflour Confections and Down River Ice Cream; a one-day wine and malt license for Mayflour Confections on Feb. 14, 2025; and one-day licenses for the Chamber's Clam Fest at Memorial Park.
Feb. 10, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Essex River Day licenses
The Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce got one-day wine and malt and entertainment licenses for Essex River Day at Memorial Park on June 14, 2025, from 5 to 10 p.m., but not for the rain date.

Housing and zoning

Aug. 10, 2026: Approved Roll call, unanimous. Building permit on town leased land ratified
The board ratified the Town Administrator's approval of a building permit for new insulation at a home on town leased land, subject to the land lease terms.
July 13, 2026: Appointed Unanimous. Affordable Housing Trust reappointment
A member was reappointed to the Affordable Housing Trust for two years, ending June 30, 2028.
May 18, 2026: Appointed Unanimous. Chair named to Affordable Housing Trust
Chairman Cameron was appointed to the Affordable Housing Trust for a two-year term ending June 30, 2028.
April 13, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Housing Production Plan revisions
The board approved state-suggested revisions to the Essex Housing Production Plan and signed a submission letter so the final version can go to the state.
April 13, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Routine business
The board approved the weekly warrant of $139,581.89, March 23 minutes, a policing agreement typo fix, a welcome letter for new members and ratified a parking lot closure and a building permit.
March 23, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Grant application for inclusionary zoning
The board authorized signing a state Community One Stop for Growth grant application to help write an inclusionary zoning bylaw, after MAPC could not fund the work.
March 9, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Peer review for The Preserve at Essex
The chairman may sign a contract amendment with Weston & Sampson to keep reviewing The Preserve at Essex housing plan for the Planning Board. The applicant pays all costs.
Feb. 9, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Conomo Point work
The board approved a deck and stairs replacement, subject to a site visit and building permit, and ratified an electrical permit for meter and riser replacement.
Dec. 1, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Grant applications
The chairman may sign LEAP grant documents for causeway flooding help if awarded, and the town planner will apply for a Massachusetts Housing Partnership technical assistance grant to carry out the Housing Production Plan.
Oct. 20, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Senior housing grant and well change order
The board ratified a $2,000 Title III-B agreement from SeniorCare to help the Council on Aging with housing needs, and a $6,544.85 change order for unexpected brick work on a water well building.
Sept. 22, 2025: Appointed Unanimous. Affordable Housing Trust seat filled
The board picked one of two candidates for the open Affordable Housing Trust seat, noting the value of adding a renter's view.
Aug. 18, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Conomo Point building permits
The board approved two building permits on town-leased land at Conomo Point, one for new siding and one for roof solar panels, both subject to the land lease terms.
Aug. 18, 2025: Accepted Unanimous. Affordable Housing Trust resignation
The board accepted a member's resignation from the Essex Affordable Housing Trust. The opening will be posted on the town website for at least 30 days.
July 7, 2025: Appointed Unanimous. Board and staff appointments
The board filled seats on the Affordable Housing Trust, Cultural Council and Open Space Committee, named two probationary firefighter/EMTs and nine assistant harbormasters, and named the town planner MAPC alternate.
June 23, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Routine business
The board approved the weekly warrant of $243,945.50, a conflict of interest exemption for a $621.57 ambulance bill, the June 9, 2025, minutes, an insurance renewal and a Conomo Point building permit.
June 9, 2025: Appointed Several votes, see minutes. Selectmen named to outside boards
Chairman Ingaharro was named to the Affordable Housing Trust, Local Emergency Planning Committee and the school district's Number Crunching Committee. Selectman Phippen was named MAPC representative and to the Great Marsh Coalition. Selectman Cameron will meet quarterly with the Chamber.
May 5, 2025: Appointed Unanimous. Reappointments to three town boards
Members were reappointed starting July 1, 2025: three to the Affordable Housing Trust for two years, one to the Economic Development Committee for three years and two to the Finance Committee for three years.
April 14, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Records request and other items
The board forwarded the Finance Committee's records request to the Manchester Essex Regional School District, approved $1,000 more for research on an owner unknown parcel off Route 128, and backed a housing technical assistance funding request.
Jan. 6, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Conomo Point building permit ratified
The board ratified a permit for insulation and weatherproofing at a Conomo Point leased property, noting the lease is not year-round and the work does not change that.

Schools and education

Aug. 10, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Letter on new elementary school's 50-year life
The board signed a revised letter to the Massachusetts School Building Authority stating the district and town intend a new Essex Elementary School building to last at least 50 years, with the lease expected to be extended for that time.
June 22, 2026: Approved 2 to 0. One-day licenses and shellfish license
The board ratified a one-day wine and malt license for Woodman's Salt Marsh Tent on June 17 and approved a commercial shellfish student license, with one member abstaining. Another one-day license for a July 18 pavilion event passed unanimously.
June 1, 2026: Approved Unanimous. School site assurance letter
The board signed a letter to the Massachusetts School Building Authority promising the Essex Elementary School property stays available to the district for 50 years.
April 27, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Museum opening day fee waived
Approved and waived the fee for a one-day entertainment license for the museum's opening day on May 20, 2026, with an acoustic performance by Essex Elementary School.
March 23, 2026: Approved Unanimous. One-day licenses and pavilion rental
The board approved one-day entertainment and wine and malt licenses for Riversbend and Essex County Greenbelt events in May and June, a student shellfish license and a June 6 Centennial Grove Pavilion rental.
March 9, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Shellfish and entertainment licenses
The board approved commercial, student, senior and nonresident shellfish permits, yearly entertainment licenses for Woodman's of Essex and Riversbend, and ClamFest entertainment and alcohol licenses for Oct. 24 in Memorial Park.
Dec. 15, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Annual Town Meeting set
Annual Town Meeting will be Monday, May 4, at 6:45 p.m. at Essex Elementary School. Warrant articles are accepted until 3 p.m. Feb. 26, and town report entries until noon Jan. 29.
Dec. 15, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Acting DPW superintendent
The board approved the Board of Public Works naming its DPW clerk acting superintendent, effective Dec. 8, 2025, until further notice, while keeping her AFSCME union membership.
Oct. 20, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Fall Town Meeting warrant signed
The board set the Fall Town Meeting for Monday, Nov. 17, 2025, at 6:45 p.m. at Essex Elementary School, then opened, filled, closed, approved and signed a 28-article warrant.
Sept. 8, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Public Works superintendent job description
The board approved an updated job description for the Public Works superintendent after the Board of Public Works reviewed it.
Aug. 18, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Events and permits
The board approved the Tour de Greenbelt bike ride on town roads on Sept. 20, 2025, moved the Essex River Cultural District event licenses to Sept. 6, 2025, and approved a student shellfish permit.
Aug. 18, 2025: Tabled No vote recorded. Items put off
The board tabled a dumpster and public access license for Shipyard Tavern, a school district decarbonization grant and a regional sheltering agreement until it gets more information.
July 21, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Happy as a Clam 5k
The Friends of the Essex Elementary School may use town roads for the 17th Happy as a Clam 5k on Friday, Sept. 12, 2025, at 5 p.m.
June 9, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Request for regional school lease
The board told the town administrator to formally ask, on the board's behalf, for a copy of the current lease between Manchester and the regional school district.
June 9, 2025: Appointed Several votes, see minutes. Selectmen named to outside boards
Chairman Ingaharro was named to the Affordable Housing Trust, Local Emergency Planning Committee and the school district's Number Crunching Committee. Selectman Phippen was named MAPC representative and to the Great Marsh Coalition. Selectman Cameron will meet quarterly with the Chamber.
April 14, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Records request and other items
The board forwarded the Finance Committee's records request to the Manchester Essex Regional School District, approved $1,000 more for research on an owner unknown parcel off Route 128, and backed a housing technical assistance funding request.
March 24, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Shellfish permits and fuel storage renewals
The board approved commercial, senior, student and nonresident shellfish permits. It renewed fuel storage permits for Perkins Marine Inc. and Laurel Lane LLC.
March 3, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Shellfish permits
The board approved four senior, 14 commercial, three commercial student and one nonresident shellfish permits.

Water, sewer and utilities

June 22, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Three large pines at Centennial Grove
The board changed an earlier vote so National Grid can remove three large white pines needed for its utility pole replacement project at Centennial Grove.
June 1, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Utility pole work at Centennial Grove
National Grid may replace poles leading to the Grove Cottage and remove about 20 trees, if the Conservation Commission approves and the large white pines are kept if healthy.
March 23, 2026: Approved Unanimous. FY2027 budget votes
The board recommended the FY2027 Water and Sewer Enterprise fund budgets and the FY2027 Wage & Salary Scale, and approved using Cemetery Department interest accounts as revenue for the FY2027 budget.
March 9, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Federal earmark request for water work
The board ratified a House application for federal FY2027 funding to replace the water main feeding the town water tower and improve the tower. The chairman may approve the Senate application once it is final.
Feb. 9, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Conomo Point work
The board approved a deck and stairs replacement, subject to a site visit and building permit, and ratified an electrical permit for meter and riser replacement.
Jan. 29, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Automatic gate for fuel depot
An electric gate on Landing Road, costing about $25,000, will be installed with leftover fuel depot project money once the town is sure the funds are there.
Jan. 29, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Grant paperwork for flooding and water main
The chairman may sign papers for a MassDOT LEAP grant to study Causeway flooding and for a $1,092,000 federal earmark to replace the DeSoto Road water main.
Jan. 5, 2026: Approved Unanimous. Chainsaw training trees
The Town Administrator may pick a few trees along the electric line path at Centennial Grove for chainsaw tree felling training for town workers.
Aug. 18, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Fuel depot construction contract
SRS Petroleum Services, the low bidder of five, won the contract. Town Meeting set aside $393,750, enough for the bid, the electrical work and $25,000 for engineering oversight.
July 21, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Sewer betterment agreement
The board ratified the chairman's signature on a Notice of Betterment Agreement for a private property.
May 5, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Clean Water Trust loan resolution
Lets the Board of Health administrator apply for more state loan money for septic upgrades and sewer connections. The loans are repaid through betterments charged to property owners who take part.
March 24, 2025: Approved Unanimous. Fiscal 2026 pay scale and water and sewer budgets
As the Personnel Board, it recommended the FY2026 wage and salary scale with a 2% cost of living raise for most positions. It approved FY2026 water and sewer budgets with a 2% raise for nonunion staff.

All meetings

Sept. 28, 2026: Essex selectmen backed a federal grant bid to study Causeway flooding, hired engineers to load rate the Landing Road bridge, and told the fire department it must plan to live within its budget plus 2% before a new fire chief is hired.
Sept. 14, 2026: Selectmen voted 2 to 1 to form a Government Study Committee in two steps, reviewed the draft fall Town Meeting warrant and weighed the cost of a full-time fire chief. Town Meeting takes up the elementary school on Nov. 16.
Aug. 28, 2026: At a short early morning meeting, selectmen filled a vacant seat on the Board of Fire Engineers with the candidate a screening committee recommended 4 to 1, a 20-year Essex firefighter who is a certified fire chief.
Aug. 24, 2026: Selectmen met with Sen. Bruce Tarr and Rep. Dru Tarr on school costs and housing, signed seasonal lease offers for Conomo Point, Robbins Island and Beach Circle, and heard that most officials favor a full-time weak fire chief.
Aug. 18, 2026: Meeting jointly with the Board of Fire Engineers, selectmen reached consensus on moving toward a full-time working fire chief instead of the current three member board, but took no formal vote while they wait for cost data.
Aug. 10, 2026: Selectmen signed a revised letter to the state school building agency on a 50-year life for a new Essex Elementary School, agreed to launch a town Facebook page, discussed fire department leadership and a government study committee, and set Fall Town Meeting for Nov. 16.
July 27, 2026: Selectmen set Essex Riverday for Aug. 29, ratified a $60,000 state earmark to keep studying three town bridges, signed the state primary warrant and heard quarterly reports from department heads, including plans for a fall vote on the elementary school.
July 16, 2026: Selectmen, the Board of Fire Engineers and Essex Fire Company leaders weighed four ways to lead the fire department and agreed a "strong" chief is off the table, pending Fire Company members' input. No vote was taken.
July 13, 2026: Selectmen and housing leaders backed a 10-unit affordable housing effort on Southern Avenue and an inclusionary zoning bylaw, accepted the updated Open Space and Recreation Plan, and began planning a review of how town government is structured.
June 22, 2026: Selectmen picked the low bidder to replace siding on the Public Safety Building, renewed the ambulance billing contract, approved a union agreement with AFSCME, let National Grid remove three large pines at Centennial Grove, and made yearly town appointments.
June 10, 2026: At a morning meeting with the Essex Historical Society and Shipbuilding Museum, selectmen agreed the museum can use the Town Landing ramp for river cleanups and green crab trapping, and agreed the museum should not make payments in lieu of taxes.
June 1, 2026: Selectmen approved a full liquor license for Toro BBQ Steakhouse at 109 Eastern Avenue, OK'd National Grid pole work at Centennial Grove with tree limits, and signed a school building assurance letter for the Essex Elementary School project.
May 18, 2026: Essex selectmen chose Ann Cameron as chair, cut the yearly cap on commercial shellfish permits from 94 to 45, ordered a new police cruiser and began forming a senior tax relief committee.
May 4, 2026: Before Annual Town Meeting, selectmen approved a new manager for Marshview Farm General Store's license, heard early bridge inspection results paid for by a $60,000 state earmark, and put off a public forum on sewer debt until Gloucester settles its financing plan.
April 30, 2026: Selectmen met with the Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce about a proposed Downtown Essex Visioning Forum this fall and plans for Small Business Week. No votes were taken other than to adjourn.
April 27, 2026: Selectmen agreed to seek $75,000 for the road across 30 Apple Street at Town Meeting, adopted a new flag half-staff policy, signed FY2027 insurance renewals and asked for state input before cutting the cap on commercial clam permits.
April 13, 2026: Selectmen endorsed the two override articles for the May 4 Town Meeting by a 2 to 1 vote, approved Housing Production Plan revisions and agreed to stop spending on a tennis court rebuild that would cost over $1 million.
March 23, 2026: Essex selectmen signed the Annual Town Meeting warrant, backed FY2027 water and sewer budgets, heard that two tax overrides will be sought, approved a backup road to the transfer station and raised nonresident boat launch permits to 12.
March 9, 2026: Essex selectmen backed a federal funding request for water main and water tower work, chose vinyl siding for the Public Safety Facility, agreed to sell the old fire tanker and reshaped a planned fire officer job with a $90,000 to $120,000 pay range.
Feb. 24, 2026: In a joint meeting with the Finance Committee and Board of Public Works, officials agreed to seek Town Meeting money for DPW work order software, add a $3,000 fuel depot line to the budget, and plan a public forum on paying for Gloucester's sewer upgrade.
Feb. 23, 2026: Meeting a day late because of a blizzard, Essex selectmen added a full-time Deputy Fire Chief at $105,000 to $120,000 to next year's pay scale, raised two senior center pay ranges and allowed a July 18 charity bike race.
Feb. 9, 2026: Essex selectmen approved contracts for a Chebacco Lake study and a first phase study of three town bridges, accepted a regional climate assessment grant, and heard the school budget may need an override of about $230,000.
Jan. 29, 2026: Selectmen set fiscal 2027 pay targets for the town accountant and town clerk, kept their own stipend at $1,000, approved a new bridge and gangway for Town Landing, and backed a $1,092,000 federal earmark for a DeSoto Road water main.
Jan. 5, 2026: Essex selectmen sent their budget requests to the Finance Committee, backed a flood sensor on the Causeway, applied for a grant to keep the town website accessible and approved a new National Grid pole on Harlow Street.
Dec. 15, 2025: Selectmen set Annual Town Meeting for May 4 at 6:45 p.m., hired three police officers, backed naming the DPW clerk acting superintendent, renewed 2026 business licenses and sent tennis court backers to the Board of Public Works.
Dec. 1, 2025: Selectmen authorized buying a new fire tanker truck, started testing of a contaminated soil pile at the DPW yard, adopted a revised emergency management plan and mourned the death of state Rep. Ann Margaret Ferrante.
Nov. 17, 2025: Selectmen and assessors kept a single property tax rate for homes and businesses, renewed 2026 business licenses, and weighed two timelines for voting on the Essex Elementary School project, in 2026 or 2027.
Oct. 20, 2025: Essex selectmen signed a 28-article warrant for the Nov. 17, 2025, Fall Town Meeting, accepted a federal grant for a new harbormaster boat, joined a regional emergency shelter plan at Gordon College and heard department head reports.
Oct. 6, 2025: Selectmen signed a new five-year trash disposal contract with Reworld and a new AFSCME union contract, both pending Town Meeting funding, and heard that the Memorial Park tennis court redesign is estimated at about $1,119,255.
Sept. 22, 2025: Selectmen and the Finance Committee agreed a new fire tanker should go to the fall Town Meeting and a first full-time fire job should wait for May. The board named 30 Apple Street and Story Street as the only possible new school sites.
Sept. 8, 2025: Selectmen decided not to pursue outsourcing ambulance service after the fire chief and firefighters opposed it, approved up to $200,000 in septic loan notes, and backed a state grant application to study sea-level rise on the Causeway.
Aug. 18, 2025: Selectmen awarded the town fuel depot contract to SRS Petroleum Services, approved new police rules, signed an EMS billing deal with Manchester, adopted a law letting wine and malt licenses convert to all-alcohol licenses, and approved a marijuana equity policy.
Aug. 4, 2025: Selectmen signed a ClearGov budgeting software contract, heard the fire chief's five-year outlook and a Finance Committee warning about rising school costs, and got an update on plans for a second Essex River dredging attempt.
July 21, 2025: Selectmen approved licenses for Riversbend, the Happy as a Clam 5k and a sewer betterment agreement, learned recycled asphalt must leave the Centennial Grove lot, and heard quarterly updates from department heads and committees.
July 7, 2025: Selectmen moved public comment to earlier in their meetings, approved a police union side letter, added fire software modules, and asked for tennis court fence removal to go on the fall Town Meeting warrant after an $11,000 estimate.
June 23, 2025: Selectmen approved three liquor license transfers for Main Street businesses, awarded a 10-year lease of 28 Main Street to the Essex Historical Society and Shipbuilding Museum, and voted 2 to 1 to fill a Finance Committee vacancy.
June 9, 2025: Selectmen voted 2 to 1 to take over design and permitting of the Memorial Park tennis court project, asked Manchester for a copy of the school lease, signed the Shea's land lease and made their yearly appointments.
May 19, 2025: Selectmen made the police chief the harbormaster starting July 1, 2025, approved new Centennial Grove rules and rental rates, held the nonresident boat permit lottery and approved $14,000 more in fuel depot design work.
May 5, 2025: Just before Annual Town Meeting, selectmen approved a state Clean Water Trust loan resolution for septic upgrades and sewer connections, renewed the town's MIIA insurance for fiscal 2026 and made committee reappointments.
April 28, 2025: Selectmen hired a consultant for the Chebacco Lake study, accepted a $46,700 state grant to update the Open Space and Recreation Plan, and approved 10 nonresident boat launch permits at $1,000 each, to be awarded by lottery.
April 14, 2025: Selectmen promoted a patrol officer to sergeant, hired a new patrol officer and two probationary firefighters, signed a police union agreement, added a deputy harbormaster job and doubled the Field of Dreams league fee to $20 per player.
March 24, 2025: Selectmen approved a contract promoting a police sergeant to Police Chief, closed and signed the May 5, 2025, Annual Town Meeting warrant, and heard that the school budget will mean an 8.97% increase for Essex and a Proposition 2 1/2 override.
March 3, 2025: Essex selectmen switched a police vehicle order to a faster, cheaper vendor, approved a liquor license transfer to Marshview Farm Store LLC, expanded entertainment licenses at Riversbend and chose a new town website platform.
Feb. 24, 2025: Essex selectmen weighed a stricter order for a dog with a fifth attack on record, signed a regional senior transportation grant agreement, made two board appointments and heard updates on the fuel depot, town website and cable contract.
Feb. 14, 2025: Selectmen interviewed the two finalists for Essex police chief and voted to offer the job to an Essex police sergeant, pending a contract and Town Meeting funding.
Feb. 10, 2025: Essex selectmen set Feb. 14, 2025, interviews with two police chief finalists, heard that a Proposition 2 1/2 override is likely needed to fund the regional school budget, and reviewed a first draft of the Town Meeting warrant.
Jan. 27, 2025: Essex selectmen hired Web Engineering for $15,000 to design a town fuel depot, raised the Town Clerk salary range, and heard that Essex's share of the regional school budget may rise just over $560,000 for FY2026.
Jan. 6, 2025: Selectmen sent the fiscal 2026 budget request to the Finance Committee, backed fire grant applications worth $622,857 and $259,500, and tabled several 2025 license renewals for businesses that had not met town requirements.

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