June 11, 2026
.com
Chester, Deep River, & Essex Vol. XXVI Iss. 24
Voters Approve Region 4 Budget on Second Vote By Aaron Rubin Staff Writer
By a narrow margin, tri-town voters approved the Region 4 School District’s proposed $25 million budget at a second referendum on total expenses for John Winthrop Middle School and Valley Regional High School.
The voting ratio was 1,292-1,018, according to figures provided by the Town of Deep River. A varying voting breakdown was observed among the three towns. Most Essex voters approved the budget by a ratio of 633189, while Chester residents approved by a closer ratio of 390-264. Most Deep River voters voted no by a ratio of 269-565, according to figures provided by the town.
The referendum was held on June 2 following an initial vote last month that saw voters reject the proposed budget. Subsequent meetings following the initial vote, which included a public forum, eventually saw the Region 4 Board of Education repropose the same budget that had initially been See Voters Approve page 9
Rev. Elmer Hardy Jr. is celebrating one year at his new home in Winthrop......................................2
Firing Up Tradition Giving Back James Guyer, front, and Nick Burns, both members of Boy Scout All-conference catcher Carley Troop 13, carry wooden planks Spearrin helps coach the next loaded with shad to the fire during generation of players....................11 the Essex Rotary Shad Bake at Safe Harbor Essex Island on June 6. The spring tradition, which dates to 1958, draws attendees for a shad bake dinner and live music. Students from the Valley Regional High School Rotary Club assist with setup, service and cleanup during the event.
Photo by Laura Matesky/ Valley Courier
Postcards from Afar Susan Cornell continues her threepart series chronicling her journey to Alaska.....................................20
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