ESSEX, CT — The Essex Board of Selectmen unanimously approved $17,953.75 to remove the old boiler from the Centerbrook Meetinghouse during its Oct. 7 meeting, while postponing consideration of two proposed ordinances and discussing concerns about electric bicycle safety on town roads.
The board also approved its 2027 meeting and holiday schedules and received an update on capital projects following voter approval of a referendum.
Selectman Bruce Glowac reported receiving a $17,953.75 quote from Riggio and Sons to remove the existing boiler from the Centerbrook Meetinghouse.
Board members discussed obtaining quotes for a replacement boiler. Glowac said he would contact four vendors to solicit proposals.
Selectman Stacia Libby moved to approve the $17,953.75 expenditure for removal of the existing boiler, with the cost covered by previously encumbered funds.
Glowac seconded the motion, which passed unanimously, 3-0.
The board did not approve the purchase or installation of a replacement boiler.
The selectmen voted unanimously to postpone consideration of a proposed Delay of Demolition Ordinance.
Glowac introduced the motion, which First Selectman Norman Needleman seconded.
The board also voted 3-0 to table a proposed Do Not Solicit Ordinance. Glowac made the motion, and Needleman seconded it.
During the selectmen's general discussion, board members raised concerns about unsafe operation of electric bicycles on town roads.
The discussion included a suggestion that riders younger than 16 participate in a certification program.
Needleman said Essex police were speaking with e-bike riders who were not following traffic laws.
Glowac suggested that the town provide additional e-bike safety education, including information distributed through municipal social media accounts.
He also said parents should receive information about safe e-bike operation.
The board did not vote on a certification program or adopt new e-bike regulations.
Glowac reported that a capital referendum had passed, allowing work on approved projects to begin.
Needleman said he had met with Public Works Director Ryan Welch to develop a spreadsheet for tracking the projects.
The selectmen also discussed whether to rename the Capital Committee as the Building Committee.
They decided to retain the Capital Committee name.
The board unanimously approved its 2027 meeting schedule.
Glowac made the motion, which Libby seconded.
The selectmen also voted 3-0 to approve the town's 2027 holiday schedule. Libby introduced the motion, and Glowac seconded it.
Libby reported that the town's America 250th anniversary committee, referred to as the SemiQ Committee, would have a table at the Ivoryton Pumpkin Festival.
She said committee funds would be used to purchase items for the festival.
The selectmen unanimously approved the minutes of their Sept. 16 meeting.
No appointments or resignations to municipal boards and commissions were considered, and no public hearing or town meeting was scheduled.
Needleman, Libby and Glowac attended the meeting. Finance Director Tracey Celentano was also present.
The meeting began at 5:04 p.m. and adjourned at 5:31 p.m.
All recorded votes were unanimous, with the three selectmen present.
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