Bruce Nason

The committee discussed updates on EV charger applications, the Municipal Energy Resilience Program (MERP) for Holly Hall and other town facilities, and reviewed progress on by-law updates. Plans were explored for Thermal Energy Networks (TENS) in the Main Street area and a potential energy audit for the Bristol school district's geothermal systems. Additionally, the committee coordinated upcoming community outreach activities, including participation in the July 4 parade and the Harvest Festival.

The meeting focused on the impact of current Covid-19 operating guidelines and the status of facility closure. Operational plans during the shutdown were reviewed, including projects such as facility maintenance, digitizing archives, and creating accessibility videos. The budget for the skatepark was adjusted, moving funds to the maintenance line to support ongoing improvements, with the support of the Selectboard. Additionally, the group discussed a slate of upcoming seasonal community events and a partnership with the Vermont Youth Center Alliance to implement a new data collection system to aid in future grant applications.

The commission reviewed and approved a zoning permit application for Handy Properties to modify a building front by removing a breezeway partition and covering the concrete area with a wooden boardwalk to restore the original building front and improve accessibility. Additionally, the commission reviewed a project for the installation of a bus shelter on private property near Walgreens, which will include an asphalt ramp to ensure ADA accessibility and will be managed by Tri-Valley Transit.

The board will review a request for a 2-lot subdivision sketch plan and continue a conditional use review for proposed hiking and biking trails. Administrative matters include the execution of approved plats for a 2-lot subdivision.

The meeting agenda focuses on the implementation of tasks related to the Planning Commission Crossover and the Enhanced Energy Plan. Key discussion items include project updates on the Holly Hall and Library MERP, funding opportunities through the Addison County Energy Navigators, and the deployment of Level 2 and Level 3 electric vehicle chargers. Additionally, the committee will review the ToolShip project and receive updates on legislative and community-related energy initiatives.