Governor Phil Scott delivers FY 2025 budget address
In his eighth budget address, Governor Phil Scott proposed strategic investments and funding current services, while growing at a sustainable rate. The budget proposal does not impose any new taxes or fees. The all-in $8.6 billion budget projects a relatively modest 3.57% increase in the General Fund over last year. The components of the Fiscal Year 2025 budget include a $2.3 billion General Fund, a $2.4 billion Education Fund and a $353 million Transportation Fund. Most of the transportation budget is financed by a federal match. It is unusual but not unprecedented for the Ed Fund to exceed the General Fund budget. Scott’s budget includes a 10% increase in the Ed Fund and a 6% increase in the T-Fund. The GF benefits from an extra $30 million more in revenue based on projections presented by state economists last week. They also predicted that there would not be a recession in the coming year.
State revenue projections remain positive if less robust, economy ‘durable’
State economists still remain somewhat bullish on the Vermont tax revenue outlook despite what they anticipate to be a slowing of the US and state economies in the next few years and a quieting of the personal income tax, which has been robust the previous few years. Reflecting the economy’s durability, total revenues for the three major funds forecast herein closed the first half of FY24 slightly above July projections (+1.7% and +$25.2M). That generally positive revenue for the first half of fiscal year 2024 was a reflection of generally upbeat receipts in the Personal Income Tax (at +$18.6 million or +3.6% on cumulative consensus first half expectations of $523.9 million) and strong receipts in Net Interest revenues. The state economists do not expect a recession in the coming year.
Unemployment rate up tenth to 2.2%, Labor Force increases
The Vermont Department of Labor has reported that the December 2023 unemployment rate was 2.2 percent. This reflects an increase of one-tenth of one percentage point from November. The civilian labor force participation rate was 64.6 percent in December, an increase of two-tenths of one percentage point from the prior month’s revised estimate. Along with a significant rise in the Labor Force of 1,005, the total Employed increased by 810, while the total Unemployed rose slightly by 195. The unemployment rate increase was largely due to an increase in the Labor Force, which is the denominator in the calculation. The comparable United States rate in December was 3.7 percent, no change from the revised November estimate. Vermont has the fourth lowest jobless rate in the nation.
Governor Phil Scott delivers 2024 State of the State Address
Governor Phil Scott delivered his annual State of the State address January 4 to a joint session of the General Assembly, opening his eighth legislative session as governor. The governor outlined challenges and opportunities for the state in the coming year. And having already started working with legislators on key initiatives, he dedicated his address to highlighting why it is so critical for them to prioritize three key issues: public safety, affordability, and housing. Those issues demand our immediate attention because “Vermonters are seeing, feeling, and living them every single day. And because these issues are critical to reversing our demographic trends,” Scott said.
Over 300 ‘Motel Program’ occupants to receive return of deposit money
Attorney General Charity Clark has resolved an investigation into security deposit withholdings at five motels housing Vermonters through the State’s Transitional Housing Program (also referred to as the “motel program”). The settlement provides $300,000 in restitution for qualified former occupants of the program who stayed in motels owned by Anil Sachdev or by companies he controls, along with injunctive relief requiring proper notice in the future should deposit monies be held at some future time, and confirmation of billing and expenses for repairs deducted from deposit monies. The five motels that are subjects of the settlement are all owned by Anil Sachdev or by companies he controls. These include: The Comfort Inn (Rutland), EconoLodge (Montpelier), Hilltop Inn (Berlin), Pine Tree Lodge (Rutland), and Quality Inn (Brattleboro).
State settles $16.5M EB-5 fraud claim for $850,000
A decision by the state’s insurance carrier not to provide coverage for legal claims made by defrauded foreign investors in projects in the Northeast Kingdom will leave taxpayers footing the bill for nearly all of the $16.5 million consolidated settlement reached last summer. The settlement resolves any and all current and future claims.
The state and the insurance carrier, AIG, reached a settlement in September 2023 in which AIG agreed to pay $850,000 to resolve the “EB-5 claims.”
Vermont Attorney General Charity Clark’s office told VermontBiz that, “The State of Vermont made a claim with AIG and it was denied. The State’s contract with AIG had an arbitration clause, and the State was pursuing arbitration before ultimately settling.”
Welch hails $3.7 million in USDA investments for Vermont farmers, rural businesses
Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont) celebrated the announcement of $3.7 million in grants from U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to seven clean energy projects across Vermont. The investments are funded through USDA’s Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) and will work to reduce energy costs, increase revenue, boost job opportunities in rural communities, and bolster competition for U.S. farmers and agricultural producers.
Pioneer partners with NOMAD to launch new zero-emission, mobile EV charging platform
Pioneer Power Solutions, Inc (Nasdaq: PPSI), a leader in the design, manufacture, service and integration of electrical power systems, distributed energy resources, power generation equipment and mobile electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions, has announced that it is launching its first zero-emission platforms. Developed in partnership with NOMAD Transportable Power Solutions, Inc, the leading domestic manufacturer of zero-emission, utility-scale mobile energy storage, Pioneer’s Zero Emission e-Boost (“ZEeB”) and EXZELCR platforms set a new bar in meeting the growing demand for low-carbon, mobile, e-Boost solutions with grid-gap solutions.
USDA funds more than $950K in TAGs to support Rural Energy for America Program applicants
US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development State Director for Vermont and New Hampshire, Sarah Waring, has announced $951,197 in Technical Assistance Grants (TAGs) to help rural small businesses and agricultural producers apply for funding through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP). As directed by the Biden-Harris Administration, REAP, which increases energy efficiency and decreases costs for thousands of rural U.S. businesses each year, received $1.05 billion through the end of fiscal year 2024 under the bipartisan Inflation Reduction Act, and doubled its maximum project funding levels. The Agency has announced more than $5.1 million in REAP grant funding throughout the Twin States. This includes: Farm Credit East - $200,000; Pecos Wind Energy – Two REAP TAGs, $152,050 each; and Ecology Action - $100,027.
Gun deaths rose again in 2022, though firearm-related suicides dropped
Vermont documented a record number of gunshot fatalities in 2022, even though firearms-related suicides declined for the first time in four years. A total of 92 Vermonters died of gunshots, continuing a years-long upward trend: 68 were by suicide, 21 by homicide, and three were accidental or could not be determined.
Vermont once again leads United list of top moving destinations 2023
Vermont has topped the list of Top Moving Destinations of 2023 according to the 2023 National Movers Study by United Van Lines, the nation’s largest household goods mover. In 2023, more residents moved into Vermont than out of the state, with 65% of moves being inbound. Vermont also ranked first last year. The study showed that of moves to Vermont, moving to be closer to family (29%) led the reason for relocating to the state, followed by a lifestyle change (20%). The study also revealed a continued trend that Americans are moving to more affordable, lower-density areas across the country, and movers are also becoming more strategic with their planning, as relocation continues to be driven by factors such as the price of housing, regional climates, urban planning and job growth. Most of the other top states were in the South or Plains.
Scott announces $3.5 million in afterschool expansion grants
Governor Phil Scott and the Vermont Agency of Education have announced funding to expand high-quality afterschool and summer programs in Vermont. This $3.5 million grant program is open to Vermont schools, as well as other municipal, private and non-profit partners who can offer accessible, enriching activities to youth. There will be a particular emphasis on scaling and starting programs in communities that currently have limited options. The grants may be used to expand existing afterschool programs, create new programs, or create comprehensive afterschool centers. Eligible recipients of the grant include Vermont school systems, but also community-based organizations. Private businesses, and municipal and non-profit organizations may apply.
$1.6 million grant program for Vermont meat and produce businesses opens
The Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets (VAAFM) has announced a new grant program targeting Vermont meat and/or produce growers and processors which will open for applications on January 19, 2024. The new Meat and Produce Agriculture Development Grants (Meat and Produce ADG) program will award funding between $35,000 and $300,000 with no match requirement. Applications close on February 26, 2024. This one-time funding is intended to strengthen the viability and resiliency of Vermont operations and businesses performing production and processing activities. Approximately $1,600,000 will be awarded to eligible operations and businesses through a single competitive grant application process. These funds were allocated by the Vermont State Legislature in the 2024 fiscal year budget.
VHCB invests $9.2M to support flood resilience, housing, land conservation
At its December meeting, the Vermont Housing & Conservation Board (VHCB) invested in farm, natural land, and affordable housing projects that increase economic vitality and build strong communities throughout Vermont. Funding was approved to support the creation of 88 units of permanently affordable apartment housing in three Vermont communities through a total investment of $4.76 million, and an additional $1 million investment in funds to support housing developments statewide. The Board also voted to invest $3.2 million in the conservation of 409 acres in ten communities, and $300,000 to advance flood resilience efforts. Among the conservation projects funded was Vermont Outright’s initiative to purchase a summer camp on Lake Sunset, fulfilling its long-held vision to create a permanent gathering space dedicated to LGBTQ+ youth in Vermont and beyond.
Norwich University puts hold on naming new president
Alan DeForest, Chairman, Norwich University Board of Trustees issued a state in January saying: “Dear Norwich Community, I want to provide an update regarding the presidency of our great university. As you know, the Board of Trustees last week announced the nomination of retired USMC Lieutenant General John Broadmeadow ‘83 to be the next president of Norwich University. Shortly after his nomination, John became aware of an emerging medical concern, and he informed the leadership that he will undergo a series of medical tests that will determine the extent of the diagnosis, treatment plans, and anticipated start date.
“Acting President Dr. Karen Gaines will remain in her post until at least Spring. The board has total confidence in Karen and her leadership team and is grateful to her for stepping up during this time of transition. The town hall events and meetings will be rescheduled, allowing for a deliberate engagement with our Norwich constituencies.”
Putney Paper Mill closes, 127 jobs lost
Vermont Labor Commissioner Michael Harrington gave the following statement regarding the announcement of layoffs at Putney Paper Mill operated by Soundview Vermont Holdings LLC. According to the Brattleboro weekly The Commons, the paper mill has operated next to Sacketts Brook in downtown Putney for more than 150 years - a tradition that came to an abrupt end on January 16 with its sudden closure by its current owner, New Jersey–based Soundview Vermont Holdings LLC. All 127 workers were laid off.
House bill would expand Vermont Medicaid by age, income and need
House Democrats have introduced H.721, a bill that will make health insurance more affordable by expanding Dr. Dynasaur and would support Vermonters of all ages who are struggling to pay for and access health care. The bill would expand Medicaid eligibility, especially in regard to income, while extending the traditional age limit to 26, like the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare). The bill is sponsored by more than 80 members of the House of Representatives, including Democrats, Progressives, Republicans, and Independents. The House Committee on Health Care is scheduled to start testimony on the bill on January 12. Senators Ruth Hardy and Virginia Lyons introduced a companion bill in the Senate (S.240).
Senate fails to override Scott’s veto of ‘Bottle Bill’
The Vermont state Senate has failed in its attempt to override the governor’s veto of legislation that would have modernized the state’s 52-year-old Bottle Bill program. Seventeen of the 30 senators voted to override, with 20 required in order to achieve the two-thirds necessary for the override to succeed. The House overrode the veto on January 4 by a vote of 112 to 32, with 100 votes needed. The bill, H.158, would have updated the legal definitions of “beverage” and “container” to expand the types of products in the existing 5-cent deposit system by 2027. Wine bottles would be added to the list and have a 15-cent deposit.
Vermont announces continuous Medicaid eligibility for children under age 19
Vermont has extended Medicaid coverage for children under the age of 19. The extended coverage means that once children qualify for Medicaid, even if they no longer qualify, they typically will not lose coverage until their annual enrollment period. Having health insurance is a protective factor that keeps the door open to health care services and helps Vermonters avoid expensive medical bills. The coverage change means that children who qualify for Medicaid will be covered by Medicaid insurance for longer in many cases. This would be a major benefit for preventing harmful gaps in health coverage for children. Research has consistently shown that access to health care leads to improved health and well-being for children and promotes health equity.
Legal online sports betting officially launches in Vermont
The Department of Liquor and Lottery have selected DraftKings, FanDuel and Fanatics Sportsbook to operate sports betting in the state beginning January 11. Legalized mobile betting is expected to generate at least $7 million in new state revenue this year.
Scott and Pieciak announce Resilience Implementation Strategy Initiative
Governor Phil Scott and Treasurer Mike Pieciak have announced a joint effort to develop a comprehensive Resilience Implementation Strategy by July 1, 2025. This timing will coincide with an update to Vermont’s Climate Action Plan, enabling a more coordinated and balanced approach to addressing both the mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions and accelerate efforts to adapt to the consequences of climate change.
Since Tropical Storm Irene, in 2011, state agencies, municipalities, and partner organizations have implemented a range of policies and programs that make Vermont more resilient in the face of our changing climate.
Smugglers’ Notch hit with fines after 3-year-old’s drowning in water tank
After Tate Holtzman went missing at a Smugglers’ Notch Resort day camp last summer, staff discovered a dark, water-filled hole about two feet across in the grass near a picnic table. The realization dawned on them. Lifeguards arrived. Staff eventually rescued the 3-year-old from the pitch-black hole — a bottleneck entrance to an underground water storage tank that’s 12 by 6 by 6 feet — that afternoon, July 6, 2023. Holtzman died days later in the hospital, his death ruled a drowning. That tank entrance was supposed to be clearly marked with danger signs and have a secure cover held shut with metal bolts — but the Cambridge resort failed on both fronts, according to a Vermont Occupational Safety and Health Administration investigation that resulted in tens of thousands of dollars in fines this past fall. However, law enforcement determined there would be no criminal charges. The family is still considering a civil suit.
U-Haul Migration Trends: Texas, Florida top growth states again in 2023, Vermont 12th
Texas netted the largest number of movers in one-way U-Haul equipment in 2023, marking the third consecutive year it has finished atop the U-Haul Growth Index. Florida ranks right behind Texas among growth states for the third year in a row, followed by North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee. Idaho, Washington, Arizona, Colorado and Virginia round out the top 10 states for growth. Vermont ranked 12th, up from 30th in 2022. Vermont was the only Northeastern state in the top half of the ranking.
Vermont minimum wage to increase to $13.18 on January 1, 2024
The Vermont Department of Labor has announced an increase to the State’s minimum wage. Beginning January 1, 2024, the State’s minimum wage will become $13.67 per hour. This is an increase of $0.49 from the current minimum wage of $13.18. This annual adjustment also impacts the minimum wage for tipped employees. The Basic Tipped Wage Rate for service, or “tipped employees,” equals 50% of the full minimum wage. On January 1, 2024, the tipped minimum wage will increase from $6.59 to $6.84 per hour.
High levels of cancer-causing radon gas detected in 21.7% of Vermont homes
Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer and the “State of Lung Cancer” report reveals that it is detected at high levels in about 21.7% of homes in Vermont. During January for National Radon Action Month, the American Lung Association in Vermont is urging everyone to help save lives by testing their home for radon and mitigating if high levels are detected. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas emitted from the ground. Radon is odorless, tasteless and colorless, and can enter a home through cracks in floors, basement walls, foundations and other openings. Radon can be present at high levels inside homes, schools and other buildings. It is responsible for an estimated 21,000 lung cancer deaths every year and is the leading cause of lung cancer in people who have never smoked.
Final round of Community Recovery and Revitalization Program award winners
Governor Phil Scott and the Department of Economic Development (DED) have announced the fourth and final round of Community Recovery and Revitalization Program (CRRP) grant winners. The 40 approved projects are expected to support 1,810 existing jobs, enable the creation of 117 new jobs, build or rehabilitate 75 housing units, and add 60 new childcare slots. The 40 projects are receiving a combined proposed award amount of $10,595,644, which is expected to support $104,542,158 in total project costs. The awards are going to projects in 13 counties and the following 31 towns: Arlington, Brandon, Bellows Falls, Bennington, Berlin, Brattleboro, Burlington, Charlotte, Colchester, East Burke, Fairlee, Greensboro, Hinesburg, Johnson, Lyndon, Manchester, Middlebury, Milton, Newport City, Putney, Rockingham, Rutland, Shelburne, Sheldon, South Hero, Springfield, Starksboro, Strafford, Swanton, Vergennes, and Wolcott.
UVM Health Network to reduce budget, cut wait times in surgical centers
Responding to growing patient demand for care, a national workforce shortage, and persistent cost and budgetary pressures facing rural health care providers, The University of Vermont Health Network is focused on four strategic pillars to guide its work in the 2024 fiscal year, which began in October. Prioritize patient access to surgical services at UVM Medical Center, Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital and Central Vermont Medical Center – to both address long-standing patient wait times and generate a positive margin. And reduce $20 million in expenses for administrative services that support operations for all health care partners in the Network, including the elimination of 130 open positions.
February launch of Vermont Family and Medical Leave Insurance Program
Governor Phil Scott and The Hartford, a leading provider of employee benefits and leave management, will begin offering the Vermont Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FMLI) program for employers on February 15. Employers with two or more employees will have the opportunity to design a plan to fit the needs of their employees and business, with benefits beginning on July 1. The FMLI benefits provide partial income replacement for workers who need to take care of a family member with a serious health condition, bond with a new child, tend to their own serious health condition, care for a military service member’s serious injury or illness, or address certain needs related to a family member’s covered active military duty or call to active duty.
State reaches $2.3 million settlement over former dry cleaner hazmat site in Hartford
Attorney General Charity Clark has announced a $2,350,733 settlement with the estate of a former owner of a dry cleaner site, resolving over a decade of litigation with the State. The settlement resolves claims brought by the Attorney General’s Office on behalf of the Agency of Natural Resources (ANR) for remediation of hazardous materials emanating from a former dry cleaner site at 7 Union Street in Hartford, Vermont.
Vermonters working in state for the federal government get pay bump
Following a push from the Vermont Congressional Delegation, the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is increasing pay for federal employees in Vermont who support Vermonters through their work at places like the White River Junction VA Medical Center. The locality pay increase applies to federal employees in Addison, Lamoille, and Washington Counties in Vermont who will now receive the same locality pay as federal employees living in the Burlington Locality Pay area – and to Orange and Windsor counties in Vermont who will now receive the same locality pay as employees living in the Boston area. The classification changes will mean that more than 1,000 federal employees will now receive more competitive pay rates that took effect on January 1, 2024.
$12.4M in funding available to help property owners meet water quality regulations
The Agency of Natural Resources (ANR) has announced the new 3-Acre Permit Obtainment Assistance Program. The program offers $12.4 million in ARPA funds to help property owners comply with a regulation, known as the 3-Acre Permit, that aims to clean up Vermont’s waters by capturing and treating stormwater runoff. The 3-Acre Permit contains requirements to capture and treat polluted stormwater runoff from impervious surfaces like roads, parking lots, and roofs before it reaches rivers, streams, lakes, and ponds. There are over 700 sites that need to obtain this permit and implement its requirements to treat runoff, most of which are located in the Lake Champlain and Lake Memphremagog watersheds.
Vermont Flood Response & Recovery Fund commits $12.3 million for flood recovery
The VT Flood Response & Recovery Fund at the Vermont Community Foundation has committed $12.3 million in grants and awards to help Vermont build back from catastrophic flooding that swept through the state last summer. The funds have helped farmers who lost crops and equipment, communities that saw their downtowns swamped, renters and homeowners who experienced extensive property damage, and businesses that faced costly renovations to reopen. Thanks to the generosity of people all over Vermont and beyond, the Flood Fund has raised $12.7 million to advance Vermont’s recovery from one of the worst weather disasters in state history and develop strategies to mitigate flood damage in the future. Of the $12.3 million allocated from the fund, $7 million has been distributed and another $5.3 million has been committed.
Doug Hoffer releases audit of Burlington Downtown TIF District
State Auditor Doug Hoffer has released a new audit report of Burlington’s Downtown Tax Increment Financing (TIF) district. TIF districts allow municipalities to designate an area for public infrastructure improvements, incur debt to pay for the work, and use a portion of the area’s property tax revenue growth, which would normally go to the Education Fund and the municipality, to pay back the debt. Since 2017, Burlington has spent nearly $8 million of bond proceeds on improvement projects and more than $4 million of tax increment for debt payments and related costs. Burlington Mayor Miro Weinberger recognized that the audit provided helpful feedback which has led to improvements, but he rejected the conclusion of the city’s “missteps” in how the city financed the bond payments and that the city exceeded its regulatory funding cap.
Radio Vermont Group to sell to local owner
The Radio Vermont Group has announced the sale of its radio assets WDEV AM 550 and FM 96.1; WLVB FM 93.9; WCVT FM 101.7; W243AT-FM 96.5; W252CU-FM 98.3; and W273AM-FM 102.5 to Mermel & McLain Management LLC of Manchester, Vermont. The radio stations broadcast to Central Vermont, Burlington, and most of the NEK. The sale was announced to employees this morning. Ashley Jane Squier joined GM Steve Cormier, Myers Mermel, and Scott Milne to publicly announce the.
Over $650K awarded to support Vermont’s agricultural and forestry sector
The Working Lands Enterprise Initiative announces 14 awards totaling $652,211 to maintain and grow the agricultural and forestry sectors in Vermont. Another $2.3 million in Working Lands Enterprise Initiative grants to directly to businesses will be announced in the spring. The Working Lands Enterprise Board (WLEB) strategically invests in working lands businesses that can influence their value chain, create jobs, boost sales, increase production or efficiencies, adapt to climate change, improve management of working lands acreage, and contribute to community equity. The WLEB also invests in service providers who work directly with working lands businesses to support them as they grow, pivot, and adapt to an ever-changing marketplace. In 2022, responding to the need to support producer association groups that represent and promote Vermont products, the WLEB introduced a grant opportunity specifically for Vermont’s producer associations.
Southern Vermont CUD becomes one of the first to universal service coverage
The Southern Vermont Communications Union District (SoVT CUD) has become one of the first CUD’s in the state to reach universal service coverage. Through a partnership with Fidium, SoVT CUD will reach universal service coverage just 13 months after receiving a grant from the Vermont Community Broadband Board in October 2022. Multi-gigabit service is now available to every home and business in its 14-town service area: Arlington, Bennington, Dorset, Landgrove, Londonderry, Manchester, Peru, Pownal, Rupert, Sandgate, Shaftsbury, Sunderland, Winhall and Woodford. In total, more than 33,000 residents, including 2,400 previously unserved, now have access to multi-gig fiber service.
DAIL awards second innovative housing pilot planning grant to Champlain Housing Trust
The Department of Disabilities, Aging, and Independent Living (DAIL) is pleased to award Champlain Housing Trust (CHT) one of three Act 186 pilot planning grants to develop new and innovative housing options for individuals with developmental disabilities. Act 186 of 2022 appropriated $500,000 for housing and residential service pilot planning grants. DAIL has awarded Champlain Housing Trust a grant of up to 173,500 for this work. CHT has been successfully creating housing in Chittenden County for 40 years, has greatly benefited local communities, and has impacted the lives of many individuals. CHT has joined forces with Howard Center and Champlain Community Services to create a valuable partnership that collaborates with parents on the Developmental Disabilities Housing Initiative (DDHI).
Construction to begin on generational transformation of Main Street in Burlington
Mayor Weinberger has announced that beginning as early as February 5, 2024, the transformative Great Streets project is expected to begin construction on Main Street in downtown Burlington. This project will create a more vibrant and welcoming downtown for Burlington’s residents, businesses, and visitors and will strengthen public infrastructure for a more resilient future. Construction will be phased over the next three construction seasons, with initial work on the ravine sewer bypass beginning next month. The concept for Great Streets Main Street is about balancing all uses of the public right of way and will include a wider sidewalk space that can be used by businesses, an 8-foot tree belt, a protected bike lane, parallel parking, flexible space for seating and public art, and better stormwater management with pervious paver belts, rain gardens, and tree wells to infiltrate runoff.
VTSU will use $1.9M grant to improve access to Higher Ed for rural students
According to the 2020 census, Vermont is the most rural state in the US, with 65% of the population living in rural areas and 76% of grade 9 to 12 students attending rural high schools. Rural students are currently less likely than their urban counterparts to enroll in and graduate from four-year education programs. In Vermont, only 59% of rural students enroll in higher education, compared to 67% of urban and suburban students This jeopardizes both the prospects for the students to enter high-wage jobs and also for the Vermont workforce, which has a strong need for highly skilled workers in a variety of fields. The U.S. Department of Education recently awarded VTSU $1.9 million dollars over four years through the Rural Postsecondary and Economic Development program—the latest is a series of welcome grants obtained by VTSU.
UVM Medical Center submits plan to purchase Fanny Allen campus
The University of Vermont Medical Center has submitted a certificate of need (CON) to the Green Mountain Care Board, seeking approval to purchase the Colchester-based Fanny Allen Campus from its current owners for $17.3 million. The CON submission comes as Fanny Allen’s current owners, Covenant Health, a Catholic health care system that currently holds the property through Fanny Allen Holdings, say they will sell the 22-acre campus which UVM Medical Center currently leases. UVM Health Network and Medical Center leaders say securing the hospital’s Fanny Allen-based operations is critical to ensure continuity of care for thousands of patients who access clinical services located on the campus and to improving long-term financial stability for the region’s only tertiary care facility.
Delegation announces $1M investment to expand opportunity for organic producers
The Vermont Congressional Delegation, Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vermont), Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont), and Representative Becca Balint (D-Vermont) have announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has awarded the Northeast Organic Farming Association of Vermont (NOFA-VT) over $1 million through USDA’s Organic Market Development Grant (OMDG) Program. The $1 million grant from USDA will be matched locally for a total of $2 million to expand the market for organic maple and dairy. NOFA-VT, in partnership with Vermont Way Foods (VWF) and Food Connects (FC), will use the funding to expand market access for Vermont’s organic producers by developing wholesale markets, new dairy, maple, and other Vermont organic products to be marketed under the Vermont Way Foods brand, and by increasing consumer awareness of the value of buying Vermont organic agricultural products.
VC3 acquires DominionTech, information technology provider
VC3, a leading managed service provider serving municipalities and commercial businesses based in South Carolina, has announced the acquisition of Williston’s DominionTech, an IT services provider supporting Vermont and New Hampshire businesses. By acquiring this highly reputed regional company, VC3 significantly expands its presence in New England.
18-month investigation and unprofessional conduct prosecution
Vermont Secretary of State Sarah Copeland Hanzas has announced the Vermont Board of Pharmacy has approved a substantial fine as part of a settlement between the Secretary of State’s Office of Professional Regulation (OPR) and Walgreens, the national pharmacy chain and Vermont’s largest chain pharmacy. The $275,000 fine is the result of a myriad of complaints, an 18-month investigation, and subsequent prosecution regarding the corporation’s practices across the chain’s Vermont locations. Charges were initially filed in June 2022 in response to 70 complaints regarding unsafe conditions across Walgreens’ 32 Vermont locations.
Governor appoints Ed McNamara Public Utility Commission Chair
Governor Phil Scott has appointed Ed McNamara as chair of the Public Utility Commission (PUC). McNamara most recently served as general counsel for the Agency of Natural Resources (ANR), where he worked on a range of legal issues reflecting the significant regulatory diversity covered by the Agency. McNamara replaces Anthony Roisman, who was appointed by Scott in 2017.
Caldwell promoted to president of Community National Bank
On January 17, 2024, the Board of Directors of Community National Bank, the wholly owned subsidiary of Community Bancorp, appointed Christopher L. Caldwell, age 58, to the position of President of the Bank, effective immediately. Kathryn M. Austin, who previously held the combined titles of Bank President and Chief Executive Officer, will continue to serve as the Bank’s Chief Executive Officer. No changes were made to the Company’s officers. Caldwell’s appointment follows the Bank’s leadership succession planning process in preparation for the planned retirement of Austin. Austin will retain her positions as Chief Executive Officer of the Bank and as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company until her retirement at year-end 2024.
DMV official put on leave while FBI investigates
Wade Cochran, director of the enforcement and safety division at the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles, has been placed on paid leave pending an unspecified external investigation, according to officials. Agency of Transportation Secretary Joe Flynn said DMV Commissioner Wanda Minoli placed Cochran on leave. Flynn declined to provide any details. Cochran, 48, of Waterford, declined comment. The FBI is conducting the investigation, which stems from an alleged incident before Cochran’s hiring at the DMV last August.
DAIL awards the third and final innovative housing pilot planning grant of $169.5K to Riverflow Community Inc
The Department of Disabilities, Aging, and Independent Living (DAIL) has awarded Riverflow Community Inc one of three Act 186 pilot planning grants to develop new and innovative housing options for individuals with developmental disabilities. Act 186 of 2022 appropriated $500,000 for housing and residential service pilot planning grants. DAIL has awarded Riverflow Community Inc. a grant of up to 169,500 for this work. The Riverflow Community project aims to plan a housing and service project in Monkton, spread across 30 acres. The project will strive to provide accommodation and services for a minimum of 15 people with developmental disabilities.
PUC announces Clean Heat Standard fuel dealer annual registration
If your business sells fossil-based heating fuel—including oil, propane, natural gas, coal, and kerosene—into or in Vermont, you must register with the Vermont Public Utility Commission. Complete your registration form online at puc.vermont.gov. Registrations are due by January 31, 2024, and are required by Act 18, which was enacted last year to design a potential Clean Heat Standard to address fossil-fuel emissions from Vermont’s heating sector.
Liz Robert retires from Terry Precision Cycling
After 14 years as President and Owner/CEO of Terry Precision Cycling, Liz Robert has announced her retirement from the day-to-day operations of the business. She will continue in an advisory role and remain on the Terry Board of Directors with the Flagg Bicycle Group who purchased the company in November of 2021. Nik Holm, Director of Operations for Terry, will become interim President, effective January 9, 2024. Holm joined the company 11 years ago and has become a pro in supply chain strategy, inventory management, marketplace development, operations, wholesale oversight and product development.
HHAV supports House approval of Budget Adjustment Act to continue emergency housing
The following statement can be attributed to Frank Knaack, executive director of the Housing & Homelessness Alliance of Vermont, regarding the vote by the House on the Budget Adjustment Act to include funds to continue to house all cohorts currently housed under the General Assistance Emergency Housing program. "With today's vote in the House, Vermont is one step closer to ensuring that people currently housed through its general assistance emergency housing program can maintain safe and secure housing."
Report reveals Vermont must focus on ending the sale of all flavored tobacco to save lives
A new report from the American Lung Association urges Vermont lawmakers to focus on funding tobacco prevention programs as well as ending the sale of flavored tobacco products to reduce the burden of tobacco use in the state. The 2024 “State of Tobacco Control” report evaluates state and federal policies on actions taken to eliminate tobacco use and recommends proven-effective tobacco control laws and policies to save lives. Vermont received a less that perfect report card, with two F grades, one B grade and two A grades for policies to improve statewide efforts to prevent and reduce tobacco use.
Vermont Campus Voting Challenge launched
Colleges and universities can now participate in the Vermont Campus Voting Challenge, a new nonpartisan initiative was announced by Vermont’s Secretary of State Sarah Copeland Hanzas, in partnership with the nonpartisan nonprofit the ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge. All higher education institutions in Vermont are invited to be a part of the Challenge. Participating colleges and universities will be eligible for awards based on achieving their campus goals for the November 5, 2024, election.
For gasoline prices, summer is right around the corner
Average gasoline prices in Vermont are $3.15 per gallon, down 4 cents per gallon from last week, down 15 cents/g from last month and 39 cents/g from this time last year, according to GasBuddy. The lowest price in the state was $2.79/g in Brattleboro, while the highest was $3.40/g in Lyndonville. The national average price of gasoline increased 1 cent per gallon in the last week, averaging $3.10/g. The national average price of diesel has fallen 2.1 cents in the last week and stands at $3.87 per gallon.
DEC releases Vermont Clean Water Initiative 2023 Performance Report
The Department of Environment Conservation (DEC) has released the Vermont Clean Water Initiative 2023 Performance Report. It highlights water quality progress achieved through public investment. By investing $420 million in clean water over the past eight years, the State has cut pollution going into Vermont’s waters. In the report, DEC details progress to reduce phosphorus pollution in Lakes Champlain and Memphremagog. Excess phosphorus can cause toxic cyanobacteria blooms that impact recreation and aquatic life. To restore water quality, it is key to cut phosphorus. Since the passage of Vermont’s Clean Water Act in 2015, Vermont has created and expanded a number of regulatory and incentive-based programs to drive implementation of clean water projects. Together, these projects have kept about 94,580 pounds of phosphorus out of Lake Champlain. This is 20% of the total reduction needed to restore the lake’s water quality.
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