Essex Board of Selectmen Meeting | October 5, 2026

The October 5, 2026, Essex Board of Selectmen meeting focused on the proposed Essex Elementary replacement project, fire department staffing, and preparation for fall Town Meeting. The school project’s estimated total cost was reported as $95,351,985, with an estimated Massachusetts School Building Authority contribution of $20,405,325 and a remaining district cost of $74,946,660. Essex’s estimated share of that remaining cost is $24,998,728 under the regional agreement, although the Town Meeting article must state the full project amount. Bids are anticipated in 2028; members discussed cost escalation, tariffs on steel, and the possibility that bids could exceed estimates. No project contract or bid was approved at this meeting. The town also received a $65,000 community planning grant to help implement and refine inclusionary-zoning provisions.

The board discussed a proposed full-time fire chief position and a possible funding gap of about $50,000, including potential savings or revenue from ambulance billing; no final funding decision was made. Members continued work on the job description and hiring process, and appointed a selectman to the preliminary screening committee. The board approved the weekly warrant for $396,283.91 and approved the chairman’s signature on the Essex Cultural Council’s annual funding allocation. Other spending-related matters—including the school project authorization and fire department funding—were still under consideration, with further decisions expected at a future meeting.