To the Editor,
I enjoyed reading Edward Neal’s July 14th Letter to the Editor (The Cricket, July 19) regarding the “schizophrenic nature of the Selectmen’s policies toward businesses.” Mr. Neal brought up some great points.
I can’t speak to the mental health of the town fathers, but offer the following observations:
Economic activity in Essex faces headwinds. We’ve seen the recent demise of the Essex Merchants Group and the shuttering of at least two businesses on the causeway. The antique business is driven more by online sales than foot traffic. Businesses and events that contributed to the town’s economy, such as the Essex River Race and the ERBA kayak rental, no longer exist.
In turn, town government’s economic policies vacillate between restrictions and missteps. Out of towner boat launching, lake swimming and food trucks are prohibited. Zoning regulations are becoming increasingly arduous and byzantine. No Essex business dares, in the words of Paul Simon, disturb the sounds of silence.
The causeway lighting project has collapsed in a costly debacle. As Mr. Neal asked, what is the point of having an Economic Development Committee if the Selectmen and Planning Board are actively working to limit or prohibit business activity within the Town?
Our town’s current policies could be summarized as a four-point plan: No, nein, nada, neinte.
It’s not all bad news - there are some fantastic new businesses in town—the James, Mayflour, Googan’s Galley, We Dream in Color. The Lark Fine Foods is gaining nationwide renowned for its products. We as local citizens can—and should—support these local merchants.
The hope is that the Town of Essex will follow suit.
Rob Fitzgibbon
Essex
