Harlan Smith

The board conducted a special meeting to interview candidates for a vacancy on the Selectboard. Discussions focused on the candidates' understanding of public service, their perspectives on incorporating diversity, equity, and inclusion into local government, and their thoughts on the ongoing separation process between the village of Essex Junction and the town of Essex. Additionally, candidates were asked to describe instances where they changed their minds on an issue.

The Selectboard meeting focused on several key items including public concerns regarding potential education property tax increases and a proposed merger between the town and village. There was a discussion on the availability of economic data, specifically unemployment metrics and the health of local businesses during the pandemic, with a suggestion to formalize this data reporting. Additionally, the board addressed concerns regarding the appropriate naming and oversight of municipal social media accounts. The meeting concluded with an interview of a candidate for a position on the Economic Development Commission.

The Commission conducted an election of officers, maintaining the current slate of positions. Key discussion topics included a continued public hearing regarding a proposal to operate a food truck at 217 Sand Hill Road, which involved debates over traffic impact, safety, and operational conditions. The commission also initiated a discussion regarding Planned Unit Development (PUD) regulations and the potential need for regulatory updates to address inconsistencies between current standards and town planning goals.

The Board discussed process changes for public input to allow residents to comment on agenda items earlier in the meeting. The primary focus of the meeting was racial equity, inclusion, and diversity, specifically concerning policing. The Board reviewed a proposal from the firm Creative Discourse to facilitate community listening sessions, conduct equity assessments, and lead collaborative planning to create a concrete action plan for the town. Other agenda items included updates on committee appointments and general business.

The Board discussed agenda amendments, specifically regarding a request from the Village Trustees to schedule a special meeting to review the draft charter and address the 3-3 charter change initiative before the upcoming ballot initiative deadline. Public comments were heard regarding the charter change, the merger conversation, and the status of current town governance. The Board debated the feasibility of scheduling an additional special meeting, expressing concerns regarding the tight timeline and the need for adequate review of the charter revisions proposed by the trustees.