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Essex Budget Unanimously Approved

Essex’s $23,741,574 2016-’17 budget, which is up $489,639 or 2.11 percent, passed with unanimous support from the approximately 50 voters attending the town meeting at Town Hall on May 9.

Facing challenges presented by uncertain revenue from the state, town Finance Director Kelly Sterner said overall the town came in with a reasonable budget that was supported by the residents.

“There is still uncertainty in regard to revenue coming from the state for this coming fiscal year and we experienced a couple of spots where there was an increase in debt services because of a bond anticipation note, as well as additional costs associated with the increase in cost for the resident state trooper, but overall I think everything went well and we have good numbers.”

A lot of time and effort goes into the budget each year, with planning efforts beginning in January. This year, the budget that was presented at the public hearing, which took place on April 14, was the same budget the residents voted on and approved, with no changes.

“We try to put forth a reasonable budget with increases as low as possible,” said Sterner.

“This is a well-thought-out and very responsible budget,” added First Selectman Norm Needleman.

The new mill rate will be set by the Board of Finance at its next meeting on Thursday, May 19 at 7 p.m. at the Town Hall.

For a more in-depth look at the budget, visit the Essex town website at www.essexct.gov.