The City of Essex Junction will hold its Annual Meeting on Tuesday, April 8, 2025. Polls will be open for in-person voting from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM at the Blue Ribbon Pavilion Building at the Champlain Valley Fairgrounds, 105 Pearl Street.
This year's ballot will include three articles that impact the community's budget, infrastructure, and governance. Residents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with these articles before voting.
Article 1: General Fund Budget Approval
The first ballot item asks residents to approve or not approve a General Fund budget of $12,419,241. Of this amount, $11,405,931 is anticipated to be raised through taxation. The proposed budget represents a 3% increase or $415,117 over the previous fiscal year's budget of $12,004,124. If approved, the estimated property tax rate will rise to $1.0120 from $0.9861, representing a 2.6% increase. For property owners, this would result in an increase of $73 for properties valued at $280,000.
Article 2: Bond for Pump Station Retrofits
The second ballot item asks residents to approve or not approve the City securing a bond of up to $3,800,000 to finance the retrofitting of three pump stations on West Street, Maple Street, and River Street. These pump stations ensure efficient wastewater transport to the wastewater treatment facility. These stations have exceeded their expected lifespan, increasing the risk of failures and costly repairs. Upgrades will enhance energy efficiency, meet future demands, and improve community safety.
Article 3: Election of City Officers
The final article includes the election of one City Council member (three-year term), one Library Trustee (five-year term), and one Champlain Water District Commissioner (three-year term). This year, residents will elect a CWD Commissioner for the first time, as this position was previously shared with the Town of Essex.
Ballots and Informational Hearing
Residents should note that ballots for the City and School District elections will not be sent automatically. To request a mailed or absentee ballot, voters can log into their My Voter Page or contact the Clerk's Office via email or phone. Early voting will also be available in the City Clerk's office starting March 20.
Additionally, an Informational Hearing will take place on Tuesday, March 25, at 6:30 PM, online via Zoom and in person at 145 Maple Street. This meeting will provide residents with an opportunity to learn more about the ballot articles and ask questions. No voting will take place during this meeting.
Residents with questions about voting in the upcoming annual meeting can email the City Clerk's office at clerks@essexjunction.org or call 802-878-6944, option 7.