Scott signs education financing bill H.850, no pay hike for lawmakers
Governor Phil Scott has signed H.850, An act relating to transitioning education financing to the new system for pupil weighting. Scott signed the bill in Washington, DC, where he is attending the National Governors Association annual meeting. The new law seeks to reduce property tax increases this year, which could reach 20 percent without action by local school districts. Without the new language, school districts would have had their hands tied in their budget requests before voters, by either hiking property tax rates or cutting budgets, or both. The new bill will at least un-tie their hands, but does not by itself reduce tax increases.
Because of cost crunches here and in other areas of the budget, Vermont lawmakers have shelved a plan to increase their own salaries by about 42 percent as they struggle to address substantial statewide property tax increases.
Dr Levine takes heat from ACLU, Baruth over open meeting ‘violation’ in opioid funds
A letter sent from ACLU Vermont to the Vermont Department of Health accuses VDH Commissioner Mark Levine, MD, of violating the Open Meeting Law in regard to the Opioid Settlement Advisory Committee. The ACLU maintains that Dr Levine changed the spending priorities after the committee had decided how to spend some $2.6 million of the opioid settlement funds. Senate Pro Tem Baruth added that “Commissioner Levine’s logic does not pass the straight-face test.” Governor Scott’s office fired back, saying the law was followed and that, “Health Commissioner Mark Levine, MD, was inappropriately smeared this week without any consultation with State statute to verify the facts. In January, Dr. Levine acted on his authority to make recommendations to the Legislature as part of Governor Scott’s budget recommendation on how to spend $4.9 million in funds available through an opioid settlement.”
GlobalFoundries gets $1.5 billion for Malta, NY, plant, Vermont to benefit
The U.S. Department of Commerce has announced $1.5 billion in planned direct funding for GlobalFoundries (Nasdaq: GFS) as part of the U.S. CHIPS and Science Act. This investment will enable GF to expand and create new manufacturing capacity and capabilities to securely produce more essential chips for automotive, IoT, aerospace, defense, and other vital markets. The investment includes modernization of GF’s longest continuously operated fab and the nation’s first and largest Trusted 200mm facility in Essex Junction, Vermont. The $125 million project will upgrade existing facilities, expand capacity as well as create the first U.S. facility capable of high-volume manufacturing of next-generation gallium nitride (GaN) semiconductors for use in electric vehicles, power grids, data centers, 5G and 6G smartphones and other critical technologies.
UnitedHealthcare agrees to contract with UVM Health Network
The University of Vermont Health Network has reached a multi-year agreement with UnitedHealthcare to maintain coverage for patients with UnitedHealthcare commercial insurance plans. The agreement runs through March 31, 2026, and secures access to UVM Health Network facilities and physicians for patients who are covered through one of the nation’s largest insurance carriers. This new agreement comes at the end of a two-month extension to the previous contract, which the UVM Health Network sought in order to allow patients and employers more time to make alternative plans.
Scott to expedite over $100M in available mitigation project funding to communities impacted by flooding
Governor Phil Scott has directed the State Flood Recovery Office to simplify the application process and provide technical assistance to eligible applicants to expedite the distribution of mitigation funds to communities impacted by the July 2023 storms, flooding, and landslides. Over $100 million is available to municipalities to help mitigate the impacts of future disasters. The flooding that devastated Vermont last summer left behind more than $1 billion in response, recovery, and social support costs. The funding available through the federal Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, managed by Vermont Emergency Management, will finance projects like roadway elevation, redesigned floodplains, home buyouts, upsized culverts, improved roadways and bridges, and others that will lessen the impacts of flooding in the future, reducing recovery costs.
State Medicaid pharmacy claims contractor experiences cyber attack and outages
Change Healthcare, which operates Vermont’s Medicaid pharmacy claims system, has experienced a significant cyber security issue this week which has impacted pharmacies and providers across Vermont and New England. Optum Solutions, the parent company of Change Healthcare, is working to resolve the current service outages and continues to update the Department of Vermont Health Access. This outage is expected to continue through the weekend, and Optum has not provided a timeline for when full service will be restored. The Department has issued instructions to Medicaid enrolled pharmacies, providers, and members on how to best maintain pharmacy access while this issue is ongoing.
Keurig Dr Pepper will close Williston plant, consolidate in Essex Jct
Keurig Dr Pepper February 29 issued a statement saying that they were closing their Williston manufacturing plant and moving those operations to their Essex Jct facility. The move would be executed during "the second quarter of 2024." The statement said all Williston employees will have "the opportunity to continue with the company at the Essex site." The large plant in Williston included a roasting facility and was well known for the rich smell of coffee when in operation. The Essex Jct plant will be the last of several facilities KDP has operated over the last 43 years in several locations and under the Green Mountain Coffee Roasters and Keurig brands. In total they have approximately 800 employees based in Vermont, of which 150 team members are currently in Williston.
Home Health & Hospice secures over $1 million in grants for innovative health care initiatives
UVM Health Network - Home Health & Hospice (HHH) is pleased to announce the receipt of two grants from the Vermont Agency of Human Services, totaling $1.18 million. Vermont received funding through the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 to enhance, expand, and strengthen home and community-based services (HCBS) and allocated a portion of those funds to offer grants to HCBS providers that serve Medicaid members. This funding, made possible by the federal government and distributed via VT AHS, recognizes the importance of home and community-based services to supporting the health needs of our population.
UVM’s Leahy Institute issues $1.7M in grants to tackle challenges faced by rural communities
Vermont organizations representing a broad spectrum of diverse interests including community school building, clean energy, flood resilience, regenerative agriculture and health care access will be lifted by a wave of support this spring when the first round of grant funding is administered by the University of Vermont’s Leahy Institute for Rural partnerships (LIRP). LIRP officials has announced that the institute has issued grants totaling over $1.7 million in funding to more than a dozen deserving projects around the state. The Leahy Institute for Rural Partnerships, officially launched late last year, is funded through a multi-year award from the USDA’s National Institute for Food and Agriculture (NIFA).
Victoria Bronner named president of Bank of Burlington
Bank of Burlington has announced the appointment of Victoria Bronner as President, a position previously held by Chief Executive Officer, Geoffrey Hesslink. Bronner joined the Bank as the Chief Operating Officer in March of 2023, a position she will continue to hold in addition to this new appointment. In this role, Bronner will oversee all aspects of the Bank’s operations and staff. Bronner was part of the initial formation of Bank of Burlington and assisted with regulatory approvals, capital raise, and business planning.
Weinberger and CityPlace partners announce progress, new investor, state’s tallest building
Mayor Miro Weinberger and CityPlace Partners have announced recent progress and next steps at the CityPlace mixed-use housing development in downtown Burlington. After 15 Months of construction, the South Building is “topped out” at 10 stories, will be the tallest building in Vermont when complete, and is on track for completion in one year. Further, CityPlace Partners have finalized their building program for the entire site and last week received a permit amendment from the Department of Permitting and Inspection allowing for a minimum of 350 residential units including 70 permanently affordable units (approximately 340,000 sf), a maximum of 350 hotel rooms in two separate hotels (approximately 186,000 sf), 40,000 sf of retail, and 172,000 sf of parking.
Postal Service Plans to Route Vermont Mail Through Connecticut
The U.S. Postal Service is considering a plan that would route some of the letters mailed in Vermont through Hartford, Conn. — even those sent from one Vermont town to another, Seven Days reports. Letter-sorting operation would move from facilities in Essex Junction and White River Junction to Hartford, 250 miles south of Vermont’s largest city, for all mail going out of state, while some operations would remain at the Vermont sites.
Governor Scott requests major disaster declaration for December 2023 flooding
Governor Phil Scott has made a formal request to President Joe Biden for a Major Disaster Declaration to help communities in Essex, Lamoille, Orange, Orleans, Rutland, Windham, and Windsor counties recover costs for repair of public infrastructure damage caused by rainfall and severe flooding on December 18 & 19, 2023. If granted, a federal Major Disaster Declaration unlocks Federal Emergency Management Agency Public Assistance Program funding to reimburse municipalities for 75% of eligible costs like debris removal, road and public building repairs, and staff overtime responding to and cleaning up after the storm.
Breeze Airways inaugurates service to Orlando from Burlington
Breeze Airways, the U.S.’ only NLCC, or ‘Nice Low Cost Carrier,’ has launched a new service from Burlington to Orlando just two weeks after launching at Patrick Leahy International with service to Tampa. Fares for the new route start from just $69* one way, if purchased by February 19 for travel from February 26 to August 30. Breeze will also start nonstop service to Raleigh-Durham along with one-stop BreezeThru service to Jacksonville in May.
Bourne’s Energy sold to Dead River Company
Cetane Associates has announced that Dead River Company, based in Maine, has acquired Bourne’s, Inc, a full-service propane, heating fuels, and pellets delivery business located in Morrisville, Vermont. The transaction was completed on February 1, 2024. Financial terms were not released. Bourne’s Energy has a rich family history in the delivered fuels business. Established in 1947 by Robert and Julie Bourne in Morristown, Vermont, the business initially operated as a modest heating oil delivery service. Over the years, the business grew and evolved under Bob’s leadership, expanding its services to include repair work in the 1960s. In 1973, Bob’s son, Peter Bourne, joined the company, eventually taking ownership in 1988. Mike Bourne, Peter’s brother, became part owner in the 1990s, and the company would begin propane delivery operations in 1994. Bourne’s Energy has continued to grow, acquiring and integrating various businesses and diversifying its product range to include biodiesel, propane autogas, and wood pellets.
Addison County Prosecutor Facing DUI Charge Takes Paid Medical Leave
The top prosecutor in Addison County is taking paid medical leave after she was arraigned in mid-February on a criminal DUI charge that stems from her alleged conduct at an active crime scene, according to Seven Days. Eva Vekos will be out for a “short duration during this time of great tumult,” her attorney, David Sleigh, wrote in a press release.
Foreign national pleads guilty in cybercrime including UVMMC attack
A Ukrainian national pleaded has guilty to his role in two separate and wide-ranging malware schemes involving tens of millions of dollars in losses. The cyberattacks included the one against the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington in October 2020, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. The UVMMC attack affected about 5,000 computers and cost the hospital about $30 million in recovery and repair. Medical staff reverted to using paper charts, but there were no negative medical consequences reported as a result of the cyberattack. Nor did the hospital pay out any ransom or even receive a demand for it. According to court documents, Vyacheslav Igorevich Penchukov, also known as Vyacheslav Igoravich Andreev and Tank, 37, of Donetsk, Ukraine, helped lead a wide-ranging racketeering enterprise and conspiracy that infected thousands of business computers with malicious software known as “Zeus” beginning in May 2009.
Scott appoints Kate Gallagher as superior court judge
Governor Phil Scott has announced that he has appointed Kate T. Gallagher, of Williston, as a superior court judge. Gallagher has worked for the State of Vermont for almost 20 years, serving in the Civil Division of the Vermont Attorney General’s Office and as Commissioner of the Vermont Department of Human Resources. Before her work in Vermont, she was a partner in private practice in New Jersey, focusing on commercial litigation, products liability, and personal injury defense.
EPA announces nearly $43 million for Vermont water infrastructure upgrades
The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced nearly $43 million from President Biden’s Investing in America agenda for Vermont drinking water and clean water infrastructure upgrades. This includes $6.4 million to the Town of St. Johnsbury for the construction of a new water treatment plant. The funding is part of the over $50 billion investment in water infrastructure upgrades from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law—the largest such investment in American history. This announcement will support essential water infrastructure that protects public health and treasured water bodies across the state. Almost half of this funding will be available as grants or principal forgiveness loans, ensuring funds reach underserved communities most in need of investments in water infrastructure.
Burlington & Cool Schools Penguin Plunge raises over $675,000 for Special Olympics Vermont
The 29th Annual Burlington & Cool Schools Penguin Plunge presented by Community Bank was held February 10th at the Burlington Waterfront. 1,000 people plunged into the frigid waters of Lake Champlain on an unseasonably warm day to show their support for Special Olympics athletes in Vermont. The Penguin Plunge is the largest fundraising event for Special Olympics Vermont, and this year, a record-breaking $675,000 was raised to support sports training and competition opportunities across local and school programs, health screenings, and leadership opportunities for children and adults with intellectual disabilities in Vermont.
Vermont joins $1.5 million multistate settlement against crypto platform, TradeStation
The Vermont Department of Financial Regulation (DFR) recently entered into a settlement with TradeStation Crypto, Inc. (TradeStation) to resolve Vermont’s securities investigation into TradeStation’s crypto interest-earning program. TradeStation, a Florida corporation formed in 2018, provides crypto-asset-related financial services to retail and institutional customers in the United States, including investing and trading services. From August 2020 to June 2022, TradeStation offered a crypto interest-earning program to Vermont investors. Under this program, investors passively earned interest on crypto assets by loaning them to TradeStation.
Milestone for UVM-developed cancer drug
Since 2017, the Cunniff Lab at the University of Vermont (UVM) Cancer Center with support from industry partner, RS Oncology, has been making significant strides to launch a new therapy for the treatment of mesothelioma. Only two therapies have been approved for the treatment of mesothelioma since 2004, which affects about 3,000 people a year in the United States and approximately 40,000 people worldwide. Linked to occupational asbestos exposure, mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer arising primarily from the outer lining of the lungs with a dismal five-year survival rate of only five to 10 percent. Having successfully completed the Phase 1 dose escalation portion of its MITOPE trial (NCT05278975), RS Oncology initiated the successful dosing of the first patient in the Phase 2 dose expansion portion of its United Kingdom multicenter study.
How ‘Climate Change’ is Impacting the Maple Syrup Industry
As New England winters get warmer, Vermont maple producers are innovating in the face of climate change. In the depths of winter, sugar on snow is a yearly treat many Vermonters eagerly anticipate. But with winters warming and snow barely on the ground in some parts of the state, climate change presents a host of challenges for Vermont’s iconic maple industry. Loss of suitable growing conditions, coupled with increasing pressure from invasive insects and plants, are creating “real threats,” says University of Vermont maple specialist Mark Isselhardt. But maple syrup has never been a predictable crop, he says, and producers are adopting new strategies, from improved technologies to boost production, to forest management practices to keep the sap flowing in our warmer, wetter future.
State Trooper Michelle Archer nominated prestigious national award
Vermont State Police Trooper Michelle Archer has been selected as one of four finalists across the United States and Canada for the International Association of Chiefs of Police/Motorola Solutions Trooper of the Year Award. The prestigious award “recognizes four state troopers and provincial police officers who have demonstrated bravery, courage, leadership, and professionalism in the previous year,” according to the IACP. Trooper Archer was nominated by Vermont State Police Director Col. Matthew T. Birmingham following her lifesaving rescue in December of an 8-year-old girl who had fallen through thin ice into a pond in Cambridge. “I can think of no one who is more deserving of this honor than Trooper Archer.”
Mike Major resigns from Vermont Criminal Justice Council after ‘appalling incident’
The Vermont Criminal Justice Council has issued the following statement. “Earlier today, during the general discussion portion of the Vermont Criminal Justice Council’s regularly scheduled public meeting, a Council member, Mike Major, made an offensive statement that was insulting to our invited guests from Migrant Justice, to our other Council members, and to the organizations and communities that our Council members represent... The Council accepted Mr. Major’s resignation from his seat on the Council which he tendered during the meeting. Mr. Major had been serving as the representative of the Vermont Police Association.”
Businesses for Climate Action call for paradigm-shifting legislation at the Vermont State House
Leadership from Vermont Businesses for Social Responsibility (VBSR), Vermont Public Interest Research Group (VPIRG), Seventh Generation, SunCommon, and more called for bold climate action this legislative session at the State House in Montpelier. On February 1, as part of a Businesses for Climate Action Lobby Day, over 60 of Vermont’s business leaders from a broad array of industries spent the day urging legislators, other businesses, and the people of Vermont to champion legislation that reduces greenhouse gas emissions and strengthens the state’s resiliency to a changing climate.
New data shows FTC received 3,767 fraud reports from Vermont consumers in 2023
The Federal Trade Commission received 3,767 fraud reports from consumers in Vermont in 2023, according to newly released data. Vermont consumers reported losing a total of $8,805,393 to fraud, with a median loss of $400. The FTC’s Consumer Sentinel Network is a database that receives reports directly from consumers, as well as from federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, the Better Business Bureau, industry members, and non-profit organizations. Reports from around the country about consumer protection issues—including identity theft, fraud, and other categories—are a key resource for FTC investigations that stop illegal activities and, when possible, provide refunds to consumers. Across all types of reports, the FTC received a total of 5,934 reports from consumers in Vermont in 2023.
Burlington begins construction of the Great Streets Main Streets project
The City of Burlington has begun construction for the transformational Great Streets Main Street project. He was joined by key partners: Public Works Director Chapin Spencer whose department is managing the project, Ward 8 City Councilor Hannah King, DPW Commission Chair Peggy O’Neill-Vivanco, and Executive Director of the Flynn Theatre Jay Wahl, along with many City employees and community members, including Burlington High School students from the City-Lake semester program who had provided input during the design process, and employees of SD Ireland, the contractor for this project.
Education Agency releases Annual Snapshot, significant equity gaps exist
The Agency of Education (AOE) has updated the Annual Snapshot. The snapshot is an online tool that shows quantitative data about Vermont schools and helps communities to better understand how their schools are performing and find opportunities for growth and improvement. The Annual Snapshot reports a school’s current performance, improvement over the past year and success in achieving an equitable education for all students.
Suicide prevention with Howard Center's free firearm cable lock distribution in Vermont
Building on the success of last year’s launch, Howard Center is continuing its initiative to distribute free firearm cable locks as part of its comprehensive suicide prevention strategy in Chittenden County. Recognizing the critical link between suicide and firearm access, the program aims to encourage safer firearm storage practices. With firearms involved in over half of the suicides in Vermont, preventive measures are key to firearm safety. The majority of suicides occur within minutes or hours following the onset of suicidal thoughts. By increasing the number of barriers, such as secure firearm storage, individuals may have more time to seek help.
Sanders: GAO report finds DOD fails to take basic steps to combat contractor fraud
According to a new report, commissioned by Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and released by the Government Accountability Office (GAO), the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) has failed yet again to take basic steps to combat fraud in its massive contracting enterprise. Among other findings, the report showed the DOD often fails to even utilize the bare minimum of publicly available data to vet information provided by contract bidders. These shortcomings are costing taxpayers billions in misused funds.
Ag Secretary Vilsack urged to support Vermont-focused Farm Bill priorities
In a Senate Agriculture Committee hearing, Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) urged U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack to help Vermont farmers impacted by natural disasters like this summer’s brutal flooding and May freeze. He discussed the need to streamline and expand programs to make crop insurance more responsive to farmers following natural disasters, bolster conservation and climate resiliency funding, make rural renewable energy programming more accessible, and support farmers with more technical assistance in times of disaster.
Vermont gasoline prices 10 cents lower than national average
Average gasoline prices in Vermont are $3.23 per gallon, unchanged from last week. Prices are 5 cents/g higher than a month ago and 19 cents/g lower than a year ago. While prices are holding now, they are soon expected to rise again, just as prices across the nation largely already have done. The Vermont average price per gallon is 10 cents/g lower than the US average at $3.33/g.
Welch presses Bureau of Prisons director on plan for residential re-entry center in Vermont
In a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing, Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) pressed U.S. Bureau of Prisons (BOP) Director Colette Peters on why Vermont remains one of only two states without a Residential Reentry Center (RRC), despite unanimous support for an RRC from the Vermont Congressional Delegation and other federal stakeholders in Vermont’s legal community. At a September committee hearing, Director Peters announced the development of an RRC but later stated she misspoke and intended to place another type of facility in Vermont. Crucially, Director Peters said she would reconsider her decision if the Vermont Delegation presented support for the facility, which it did in a December letter to the BOP. At the same time, Judge Geoffrey Crawford, Chief Judge for the U.S. District Court for the District of Vermont, sent Director Peters a letter expressing the federal judiciary’s strong support for a residential facility in Vermont.
DMV: Several vehicles damaged on icy section of VT Route 105 in Bloomfield
On 2/28/24 at approximately 2:30 a.m., DMV Enforcement Inspectors were dispatched to a single vehicle commercial motor vehicle crash on Vermont Route 105 in Bloomfield. The tractor trailer was traveling east on VT 105 when it encountered black ice on a sharp curve. The vehicle left the roadway, and the trailer overturned. The tractor trailer was towed due to disabling damage. Three other vehicles subsequently were involved in crashes at the site.
Retreat Farm invests in the next generation of agricultural entrepreneurs
The Retreat Farm announced the opening of the Retreat Farm Market in June 2024. Located in the former Grafton Village Cheese Company facility, this high-traffic location sees over 90,000 visitors annually, providing a unique opportunity to showcase the intersection of the land, farmers, and food production. The 2,300-square-foot Retreat Farm Market will be part of a new Food Center at Retreat Farm that highlights regional food producers dedicated to stewarding the land and their communities through environmental leadership, employee commitment, community giving, and workplace culture. Since acquiring the facility from the Windham Foundation in 2022, Retreat Farm has drawn on expertise from a regional advisory committee and local partners to develop the museum-inspired retail concept and food center. Partners include the Brattleboro Food Co-Op and Food Connects.
Nuclear Decommissioning Citizens Advisory Panel to talk spent fuel with delegation
The Federal Nuclear Waste Policy Committee of the Vermont Nuclear Decommissioning Citizens Advisory Panel will meet on March 4, 2024, from 12:00 Noon to 1:00 PM. As permitted by ACT 1 of the 2023 Vermont Legislature, this meeting will be conducted solely as a webcast and teleconference. At this meeting, representatives from Vermont’s Congressional Delegation will discuss current and recent bills before Congress regarding spent nuclear fuel policies. FNWP Committee members will provide feedback on these policy proposals and share concerns raised at recent VT NDCAP meetings about spent fuel legislation. The Panel’s 2023 Annual Report will also be discussed with the Delegation representatives.
NOMAD Transportable Power Systems brings American-made, towable electricity
NOMAD Transportable Power Systems of Waterbury has released the NOMAD PATHFINDER, a 200 kW/220 kWh system that brings unrivaled flexibility and application opportunities in the transportable power sector. The PATHFINDER is a complete battery energy system. For towing, the system and trailer total less than 10,000 pounds. The system can be a completely off-grid asset, charged by solar through 10 kW DC input.
Over $710,000 awarded to increase urban tree canopy across Vermont
The Vermont Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation's Urban & Community Forestry Program (VT UCF) has announced the recipients of its 2024 grant program, supporting three key categories: Communities Caring for Canopy, Growing Urban Forests in the Face of Emerald Ash Borer, and Urban & Community Forestry Grants. This year, VT UCF is awarding over $710,000, marking the largest amount the program has ever distributed, made possible with funding from the USDA Forest Service.
Scott continues push for affordability at weekly press conference
At his weekly press conference, Governor Phil Scott highlighted his concerns about additional costs associated with new proposals in the Legislature given the new budget reality the state faces. The Governor concluded by reminding Vermonters of the importance of making their voices heard. "As we prepare to head into Town Meeting Week – roughly halfway through the session – I want to remind you of the priorities I laid out in January: public safety, housing and affordability. As I said in the State of the State, these are issues that are affecting Vermonters every day, so we have an obligation to prioritize them for the people we serve."
UVMHN: Primary care providers use eConsults to get specialist opinions quickly
As a primary care physician of more than 25 years, Marie Sandoval, MD, has seen many routine patient visits unearth a serious health concern requiring follow-up care and specialist expertise. In November 2023, when one of Dr. Sandoval’s patients mentioned feeling tightness in his chest and shortness of breath when he exercised, Dr. Sandoval ordered an electrocardiogram and stress test of his heart. His results were concerning, and Dr. Sandoval needed the insight of a cardiologist. In the past, Dr. Sandoval, a physician at Adult Primary Care in South Burlington, would have needed to refer her patient to an in-person cardiology appointment. The patient would have had to schedule that appointment and wait until it arrived to find out what, if anything, was wrong. But instead, Dr. Sandoval simply submitted an eConsult, and in less than 24 hours got detailed guidance from Kevin Carey, MD, a cardiologist colleague at the UVM Health Network.
Senate passes S.209 'ghost guns' bill
The Vermont Senate gave preliminary approval to S.209, a bill to support public safety through the prohibition of unserialized firearms, on a tripartian vote of 26-3-1. The bill would address the increase in sales of “ghost guns,” which are unserialized, untraceable homemade firearms often made from kits or through 3D printing. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, the number of ghost guns recovered by law enforcement agencies “increased by more than 1,300 percent from 2016 to 2022. Because “ghost guns” do not have serial numbers, they are also untraceable and inhibit law enforcement’s ability to solve gun-related crimes.
UVM presents simplified logo as part of new brand positioning: 'For People and Planet'
After a yearlong creative development process, the University of Vermont has announced refreshed and refined branding, including new positioning and the first major revision to its primary logo in more than 30 years. “For people and planet” is the core of UVM’s new positioning, reinforcing the distinctive excellence of the institution’s academic and research activities centered on human health, thriving communities, and the environment. The university offers some 50 majors and dozens of graduate degrees that span these areas. The university partnered with Generation Communication and Branding of Hudson, New York, to develop the positioning and new logo system. The collaboration included a steering committee and a working group comprised of faculty and staff. Additionally, dozens of group and individual interviews included students, alumni, deans, trustees, and university leadership. The cost of the engagement with Generation was $145,650, co-funded by UVM and the UVM Foundation.
Change Healthcare issues pharmacy cyberattack update
Change Healthcare, which operates Vermont's Medicaid pharmacy claims system, experienced a significant cyber security issue last week. In an earlier press release, the Department of Vermont Health Access (DVHA) had confirmed that this issue has impacted pharmacies and providers across Vermont and New England. The Department has since learned that this cyber security issue has caused service interruptions in all 50 states, and that more provider types than just pharmacies have been impacted. In a filing, Change Healthcare said it is still "experiencing a cyber security issue, and our experts are working to address the matter."
Grafton Village Cheese opening Proctorsville location
One of the Green Mountain State's best-known cheesemakers is moving many of its functions from Brattleboro to a new home. The Grafton Village Cheese Company, established in the eponymous town in 1892, expects to launch operations at the location, alongside Vermont 103 in Proctorsville, on March 9. The new facility will cut, pack, and warehouse cheese made at the company's production plant in Grafton and will also include a retail outlet. The company's post-production functions have been located in leased space alongside Route 30 in Brattleboro for 11 years. Brattleboro's Retreat Farm acquired that property in 2022, terminating the lease. The Retreat, a private mental-health institution, will expand its functions into the space being vacated by the cheese company.
Ann Clark Ltd awarded STEP grant to support expansion into export markets
Ann Clark Ltd, a Vermont-based gourmet baking supply company, was awarded a STEP grant by the Vermont Department of Economic Development for the second consecutive year. The Rutland company plans to use the grant funds to continue its expansion into international markets in Canada, Germany, France, Italy, and the United Kingdom after seeing profitable growth since 2023 due to the grant’s support. Ann Clark will increase its digital advertising on Amazon’s international websites, targeting each of its export market countries. The company pays close attention to international holidays and markets its cookie cutters and baking products with local customs in mind. For instance, goose-shaped cookies are part of St. Martin’s Day celebrations in Germany, fish shapes (“Poisson d’Avril”) are a popular item for April Fool’s Day in France, and Sky Blue food coloring excels in the UK whenever Manchester City FC wins the Premier League.
Vermont DOC launches Corrections Investigative Unit
The Vermont Department of Corrections (DOC) this week launched the Corrections Investigative Unit (CIU), a new team charged with conducting internal investigations and improving transparency. This unit, consisting of a director and two-full time investigators, will investigate critical incidents (e.g., deaths in custody, escape attempts), Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) compliance, threats and safety, intelligence operations, and culture and workplace experiences. CIU was statutorily established in 2021 by the Vermont General Assembly to bolster transparency with the public and fill operational gaps within Vermont’s correctional system. Per statute, CIU will coordinate with investigative and law enforcement agencies and the Department of Human Resources (DHR). DHR will maintain authority over employee misconduct allegations.
Livian grows in Vermont with $126M sales boost
Livian, a real estate team acceleration platform, has added four more real estate teams, totaling more than 126 million in annual sales volume. “We’re bringing together the best minds in the industry to elevate our services and redefine the future of real estate,” said Adam Hergenrother, CEO, Livian. “Together, we are poised to create unparalleled opportunities and set new standards of success in the world of real estate brokerage.” As of Dec. 31, Livian has 61 real estate teams in 27 states, comprising more than 475 agents nationwide.
Rutland County Head Start ribbon cutting Feb. 29, county’s for infants and toddlers
This year’s Leap Day marks a huge leap forward for early childhood education in Rutland County. Thanks to the tireless work of local community leaders and legislators, Rutland County Head Start has expanded to offer the nationally recognized program for infants and toddlers to Rutland County families. The new program was also made possible through grant support provided by The Bowse Trust and Let’s Grow Kids. Rutland City Mayor Mike Doenges, representatives from the offices of Vermont’s legislative delegation, and other community leaders will be on hand to celebrate Rutland County’s first ever Early Head Start (EHS) program with a ribbon cutting ceremony on February 29th, at 78 Meadow Street in Rutland.
Sanders releases report exposing depth of retirement crisis
Ahead of this morning’s hearing in the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee on the retirement crisis in America, Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vermont), chairman of the committee, released a new report exposing the depth of the crisis, while also exploring solutions that will allow all Americans to retire with dignity and security – not just the very wealthy. Key findings from the report include: Nearly half of Americans 55 and older have no retirement savings; 52 percent of Americans 65 and older are living on less than $30,000 annually and one in four survive on less than $15,000 per year.
PAI: State of Working Vermont 2023 report illustrates regressive income tax
Public Assets Institute in Montpelier this week released its State of Working Vermont 2023. PAI said in the report that Vermont is facing challenges old and new—from housing shortages and a child mental health crisis to more frequent floods and pandemics. The new problems are far more costly to fix than anything we’ve seen before. The good news, PAI said, is that the state has the resources to address its problems and invest in its future. Policymakers need to tap that capacity by changing the way Vermont raises and spends money. While still not totally progressive, Vermont’s tax system is less regressive than it was five years ago and less regressive than most other states’ systems. Any tax increase should take fairness among taxpayers into consideration.
Welch introduces new bills to bolster SNAP benefits for SS recipients and student loan borrowers
US Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont) has introduced the COLAs Don’t Count Act, and the Student Loan Deduction Act of 2024, bills that would exempt annual cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) and student loan payments from impacting the benefits of the families and individuals who utilize the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) for food assistance. This would help ensure participants of SNAP are not losing benefits to the added costs of inflation and can more accurately report their available income after the expense of student loans is paid.
Governor reacts to House bill with potential billion-dollar rate hike
Governor Phil Scott has issued the following statement regarding H.289, which could cost Vermonters $1 billion over the next decade. “As Vermonters stare down an enormous increase in property taxes that I’ve worked to get ahead of for years, a $100 million payroll tax passed by the Legislature, a 20% increase in DMV fees, potentially hundreds or thousands of dollars more a year for the Legislature’s clean heat standard, and more, the last thing Vermonters can take is the risk of another billion dollars of costs being imposed on them by this Legislature. There is clearly a more affordable and equitable alternative to H.289. We can and should do better.”
Common Good Vermont launches 2024 Nonprofit Training and Consulting Certificate program
Common Good Vermont is now accepting applications for this year’s Nonprofit Training and Consulting Certificate. This program supports nonprofit consultants, facilitators, and community builders. It is designed for: employees of nonprofits or public entities who provide training to nonprofit organizations or bring together community members, legislators, or nonprofit professionals to connect, engage, or problem solve and independent consultants and/or trainers working with nonprofits or individuals interested in working with nonprofits as a trainer or consultant.
GMP alerting customers about sudden surge of scam calls
Green Mountain Power (GMP) is alerting customers about a sudden surge of scam calls. Dozens of customers have reported a caller threatening immediate power shut off unless they pay up right away. This is a scam, and GMP is urging customers to be safe and hang up. “We work with our customers, we’re here to help, and we would never threaten immediate shut off or demand payment over the phone. If someone is claiming to be GMP and demanding payment, just hang up. It is a scam,” said Liz Hart, Manager of Customer Care for GMP.
RRMC opens Vermont Prevention Lead Organization grant application process
Rutland Regional Medical Center (RRMC) and its partners invite eligible community partners to apply for the Region 2 Vermont Prevention Lead Organization (VPLO) grant. Funds from $10,000 to $50,000 will be awarded through a competitive process with the objective of expanding prevention efforts for all substances and all ages/populations. As the Prevention Lead, Rutland Regional is guiding substance use prevention activities and sub-granting funds to community partners located in Addison and Rutland counties. Funding will start July 1, 2024, and must be used by June 30, 2025, there will be no carryover of funds. All written applications are due by 12pm on March 26, 2024. A funding workshop overview will be held on February 28, 2024, from 1pm-2:30pm. This workshop will be recorded and available for review and reference.
Universal Health Care Caucus to meet Feb 28
The untenability and unaffordability of our current healthcare system is undeniable. An estimated 44% of Vermonters under the age of 65 are underinsured and cannot afford to use the insurance benefits for which they pay exorbitant premiums. It has been difficult to both increase access and control cost in a system designed for the few to profit off of the suffering of the many. Regardless of income, assets, health status, or any other social determinant, all people deserve affordable, high-quality, comprehensive health care as a public good.
Vermont Federal Credit Union named a VHFA Top Performing Lender in 2023
Vermont Federal Credit Union has again secured its position as a Top Performing Lender by the Vermont Housing Finance Agency (VHFA) in 2023. Tim Daniska, Chief Lending Officer at Vermont Federal Credit Union, expressed his enthusiasm about this achievement, stating, "Our mortgage team is committed to helping Vermonters achieve their dream of owning a home, and this recognition is a testament to our dedication."
VMEC releases 2023 Impact Report
VMEC, Vermont Manufacturing Extension Center, has released its annual impact report. As Vermont’s only singularly-focused resource for manufacturers, VMEC is the official representative of the MEP (Manufacturing Extension Partnership) National Network in the Green Mountain State. Since its inception in 1995, VMEC’s federal partner, NIST, the National Institute of Standards and Technology, has used an independent third-party organization to conduct surveys of VMEC clients as well as other MEP Centers across the U.S. and Puerto Rico.
Medicaid Data Aggregation & Access Program launches to empower home and community-based providers
The Vermont Agency of Human Services has launched the Medicaid Data Aggregation & Access Program (MDAAP), which is designed to support eligible providers in implementing health information technology to better manage records and to facilitate care coordination through data sharing electronically with the Vermont Health Information Exchange (VHIE). MDAAP is tailored for Vermont mental health providers, substance use disorder treatment providers, and long-term services and supports providers who were ineligible for previous federal electronic health record (EHR) incentive programs.
VDH: COVID cases continue slow decline
The Vermont Department of Health reported last week that COVID-19 cases again fell to their lowest level since early November and hospitalizations also were down for nearly the same timeframe. There were again 4 fatalities, which is slightly fewer than they've been in about two months. The pandemic death total now stands at 1,128 as of February 17, 2024 (the most recent data available). Total reported deaths in January were 28, which is the highest monthly total in nearly a year, and 11 so far in February. The VDH reported February 21, 2024, that COVID-19 hospitalizations were down 3 last week to a statewide total of 25. COVID-19 activity remains in the "Low" range, according to the VDH. Reported cases last week were 180, down 30 for the week. Of the total deaths to date, 910 have been of Vermonters 70 or older. There have been 3 deaths of Vermonters under 30 since the beginning of the pandemic.
DCF relocates Burlington office
The Vermont Department for Children and Families Economic Services Division (ESD) is excited to announce the relocation of its Burlington office from 119 Pearl Street to 128 Lakeside Avenue. The move comes as the State sells the Zampieri State Office Building at 119 Pearl Street in Burlington, which currently houses ESD’s local office and the Department of Health. ESD’s transition will occur over the weekend of March 8, with the new office ready to serve the community on March 11. There are no changes in services expected during this time.
Manufacturing leaders testify on state of the industry
Several business leaders from across Vermont convened for an afternoon of testimony before the House Commerce and Economic Development Committee on February 23, 2024. The hearing underscored the critical role of manufacturing as an economic driver of Vermont’s economy, while also highlighting the opportunities and challenges unique to manufacturing in Vermont. The committee’s Chair also recognized Chris Carrigan, Vice President of Business Development, for his 16 years of service to the industry. In his opening testimony, Chris Carrigan elevated the Vermont Chamber’s work on supportive tax policies and transforming the state into a supply chain hub by bringing buyers, suppliers, and partners together.
Vermonter dies in prison in Mississippi
The Vermont Department of Corrections has announced the death of Alfred Brochu, an incarcerated individual at Tallahatchie County Correctional Facility (TCCF). Alfred Brochu, 71, of Newport, Vermont, was found unresponsive in his cell at 12:14pm (CST) on February 25. TCCF medical staff immediately began life-saving measures and called for emergency medical services. Mr. Brochu regained consciousness and was taken by ambulance to Northwest Delta Regional Medical Center (NDRMC) in Clarksdale, Mississippi, where he was listed in critical condition. Mr. Brochu passed away at NDRMC at 12:32am (CST). Mr. Brochu’s death does not appear suspicious at this time. Mr. Brochu was incarcerated in 2003 and serving a Life Without Parole sentence on charges of Aggravated Murder.
Suspect arrested in St Johnsbury homicide
A suspect has been arrested in connection with the Jan. 23, 2024, fatal shooting of 38-year-old Christina Chatlos in St. Johnsbury. The suspect, a 15-year-old male from Springfield, Massachusetts, will be charged as an adult in Vermont with second-degree murder. He is accused of fatally shooting Chatlos during a confrontation outside 510 Portland St. in St. Johnsbury. The suspect initially was taken into custody after the shooting on an unrelated warrant from the state of Massachusetts. He was extradited there and remained in juvenile custody as the investigation into the St. Johnsbury homicide progressed. On Feb. 26, 2024, the Massachusetts State Police arrested the suspect on the Vermont murder warrant. He was expected to make an initial appearance in juvenile court in Hampden County, Massachusetts.
Shupe to step down as executive director of VNRC
by Brian Shupe, Executive Director, VNRC I’m writing to let you know that after nearly 13 years in what is arguably the best job in Vermont, I’ve decided to step down as the executive director of VNRC. While I’m looking forward to the next chapter in my life, the honor and pleasure of having worked closely with such talented and dedicated colleagues, and a committed and supportive Board, makes this a bittersweet decision for me. In what has truly been a team effort, VNRC has grown stronger and more effective since I assumed this role in October 2011, and we have a long list of accomplishments.
Vermont Superior Court judgment supports mix-use Putney housing development
The Vermont Superior Court Environmental Division has once again rejected an appeal by opponents of the proposed housing community on Alice Holway Drive in Putney. The ruling by Superior Court Judge Thomas S. Durkin states that, “to find that the project is subject to Act 250 jurisdiction…merely because of the presence of a Class III road, would be an irrational and impermissibly strict reading of the statute that stymies the legislature’s intent to encourage mixed income housing in designated areas.” The Judgement Order granted Windham & Windsor Housing Trust’s motion for summary judgement in the case, and denied the summary judgement motion by the Appellants. This latest decision is the third ruling in a lengthy legal process that began in March 2022 when an appeal was filed contesting the permit and delaying progress of the 25-unit mixed income development.
Gasoline prices hold steady at $3.24
Average gasoline prices in Vermont are $3.24 per gallon, unchanged from last week. The lowest price in the state February 25 was $2.95/g while the highest was $3.39/g, a difference of 44.0 cents per gallon. The national average price of gasoline has fallen 1.9 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $3.24/g. While prices are holding now, they are soon expected to rise again.
Governor announces launch of Rural Industry and Development Program
Governor Phil Scott and the Vermont Department of Economic Development (DED) have launched the Rural Industry and Development Program (RIDP) to increase the amount of move-in ready industrial space, in an effort to shorten the timeline for the permitting and building of sites that businesses can confront when moving to, or relocating within, Vermont. In 2022, DED received a dozen inquiries from companies headquartered in Canada and Germany looking for move-in ready industrial sites. Those potential employers were from the aerospace, manufacturing, construction, and tech sectors. Collectively, they could have brought 284 jobs to Vermont, but they never came because they could not find suitable industrial capacity. RIDP provides $5,000,000 in grant funding to regional and local development corporations located in areas that can accommodate business growth.
Weinberger announces next steps for developing Moran FRAME
Burlington Mayor Miro Weinberger has announced the completion of a six-month public engagement and design process for the Moran FRAME that resulted in a striking new concept for the future of the now revived northern waterfront. Implementing this bold, long-term community vision would require new partnerships, philanthropic and grant support, and other financing. To support these efforts, the Administration will add amenities and infrastructure on site using already committed ARPA funds and continue the City’s partnership with Friends of the FRAME, a local non-profit organization that has supported community programming on-site throughout 2023. The mayor, CEDO, and design team presented a physical model and other design materials of the new Phase 2 concept to the public at a special event at Burlington City Arts February 8.
EPA to review cleanups at six Vermont Superfund sites this year
The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will conduct comprehensive reviews of completed cleanup work at six National Priorities List (NPL) Superfund sites in Vermont this year. Each individual site will undergo a legally required Five-Year Review to ensure that previous remediation efforts at the sites continue to protect public health and the environment. Once the Five-Year Review is complete, its findings will be posted to EPA’s website in a final report. In 2024 EPA will conduct Five-Year Reviews at the below listed sites. The included web links provide detailed information on site status as well as past assessment and cleanup activity.
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