Housing Commission

Agendas and Minutes

Agendas are available prior to the meetings. Draft minutes are available after the meetings, and full minutes are available after approval.

View most recent agendas and minutes

Mission

The mission of the Housing Commission is to help ensure that any resident (or aspiring resident) of Essex has access to a home that:

• Is affordable (generally no more than 30% of household income is spent on housing);
• Is a desirable type and size for their household;
• Is located with easy access to basic needs (jobs, schools, food, health care, and cultural experiences) via walking, biking, or public transit;
• Is of sufficient quality to ensure the health, safety, and enjoyment of its residents;
• Meets residents’ special needs, including senior care, ADA-accessibility, recovery housing, and housing for people who are homeless, etc.; and
• Is made available regardless of race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, pregnancy, disability, or status of citizenship, family, and military service.

Purpose

The Commission advises the Selectboard, Planning Commission, and other municipal boards and committees on the housing needs of the community, including review and consultation of policy and zoning changes related to housing. The Commission maintains and analyzes the community’s demographic and housing stock information and provides periodic updates on housing issues to elected officials. The Commission also works to educate the public on housing topics and develops partnerships with developers, non-profits, state agencies, and social service organizations to advance the community’s housing goals.