The Essex Selectboard is hosting three facilitated, public forums in August to hear from residents throughout the entire community about how the Town of Essex can prepare for the Village of Essex Junction's coming separation vote and subsequent Vermont Legislative decision on the creation of an independent City of Essex Junction.
The forums will focus on the interim period of the Village's effort, better described as the time between now and when the Vermont Legislature makes a decision on whether or not to approve the Village becoming an independent city (assuming Village voters vote in favor of separating from the Town of Essex).
At the forums, residents can share what they are paying attention to and what they value during the interim period. Discussion is expected to include municipal services, and the cost of paying for those services. Residents will also have an opportunity to share their thoughts beyond the prompts made available by the facilitator and staff.
The Selectboard can use the feedback in the coming weeks and months to help make decisions that best serve the entire community, without favoring one group or another during the interim phase.
Visit www.essexvt.org/publicforums to learn how to participate in the forums or to send your comments to the Town Selectboard.