July 16, 2026
.com
Chester, Deep River, & Essex Vol. XXVI Iss. 29
Essex Adopts New POCD By Aaron Rubin Staff Writer
Essex’s new Plan of Conservation and Development (POCD) sets its sights on preserving the town’s nationally recognized charm and rich cultural history while balancing that focus with the need for new
housing, commercial development, and infrastructure improvements in the village centers. The new POCD was adopted by the Planning and Zoning Commission at its July 7 meeting following a well-attended public hearing and other public comment periods that informed its numerous development
recommendations. Those recommendations span a range of categories, from maintaining Essex’s small-town character — an “overwhelmingly consistent theme,” according to the POCD — and avoiding “over-commercialization” and excessive density, to See Essex Adopts page 8
Jenny O’Leary is finding her voice..............................................2
Just Looking Brian Dombroski looks over a 1965 Chris-Craft Sea Skiff for sale during the Vintage Treasures Antique & Classic Boat Show at the Connecticut River Museum in Essex on July 11. Dombroski, who normally enters a boat in the show, attended this year as a spectator. The show, featuring antique and classic wood and fiberglass boats, was hosted by the Southern New England chapter of the Antique and Classic Boat Society and the museum.
Photo by Wesley Bunnell/ Valley Courier
Top Honor Leandri caps a standout career with Shoreline Conference Player of the Year award.........................12
Remembering the Revolution A local man’s invention helped pioneer undersea warfare............20
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