August 6, 2026
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Chester, Deep River, & Essex Vol. XXVI Iss. 32
Questions Raised Over Kelsey Hill Development By Aaron Rubin Staff Writer
A large agricultural development under construction on Kelsey Hill Road has sparked questions from Deep River officials and nearby residents over how the project was approved, whether the permitting process was sufficiently transparent, and what
impacts it could have on the surrounding neighborhood. According to public documents from the Deep River Building Department, multiple town bodies last year collectively approved the construction of what is described as a “Christmas tree production” facility in a residential zone that will be operated by the Killingworth-based small business Running
Brook Farms. The property, located at 245 Kelsey Hill Road near Valley Regional High School, was acquired in 2023, according to public documents, which outlined to Deep River a long-term vision for the property that includes “Christmas tree production, nursery Laurie Giannotti is helping preserve stock cultivation, forestry products, firewood a legacy.........................................2 See Questions Raised page 6
Dancing in the Garden
National Champions Astra Studio caps 10th season with national title.................................11
A crowd dances in the garden during Righteous Continental's performance Aug. 1 at the Concerts in the Garden amphitheater at Leif Nilsson Spring Street Studio and Gallery in Chester. The BYOB summer concert series draws audiences for outdoor live music in an intimate garden setting.
Photo by Laura Matesky/ Valley Courier
Art in Conversation Two artists reinterpret museum treasures in a fresh Lyman Allyn exhibition.....................................19
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