June 5, 2025 Chester, Deep River, & Essex Vol. XXV Iss. 23
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Voters Approve $19.5 Budget at Referendum 27, at the Deep River Public Library, with polls open from noon to 8 p.m. The approved budget reflects a 2.71% increase over current year spending. It Voters approved the town’s proposed $19.5 includes $5.39 million for general governmillion budget for the 2025–’26 fiscal year in ment operations and $14.14 million for the a referendum, passing the spending package Board of Education, which oversees Deep by a vote of 272 to 145. River Elementary School and the town’s The referendum took place Monday, May share of the Region 4 school district.
By Christian Maldonado Staff Writer DEEP RIVER
The new budget also includes modest increases to several department budgets, including public works and emergency services. Some of the increased costs are tied to infrastructure and equipment, along with adjustments for salary and benefits. Of the town’s 3,764 registered voters (as of See Voters Approve page 7
Bites by the River Karen Kirkutis, owner of the One Board Blonde Chick mobile charcuterie cart, prepares a tasting platter during RiverFare 2025 at the Connecticut River Museum in Essex on May 29. The fundraising event featured gourmet bites, craft cocktails, live music, and a silent auction under a tent on the museum’s lawn.
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Theresa Zwart-Ludeman brings decades of experience and a traveler’s eye to her artwork...........2
State Champion Team The Shoreline Spartans girls’ rugby team, which includes athletes from all across the shoreline, recently won the state championship.........14
Bringing Bluebirds Home A local couple is helping bring bluebirds back to Madison..................25