Lynn M. Paradis

The meeting addressed various topics including animal control, concerns about the Bushey Road/Highgate Road intersection, and highway department matters such as roadside mowing, tree removal, and road preparation for paving. The board also discussed a land swap, the Old Town Garage site, setting the 2025 tax rate, and updates on Swanton Promotion. Additionally, there were discussions regarding the agenda for the next meeting and correspondence related to Maple Grove.

The meeting included discussions on law enforcement with updates from the Swanton Police Department and the Swanton Health Officer. The board addressed a request from residents of Maple Grove Estates Road regarding town takeover, reviewed a library insulation project, and discussed highway department matters, including bids for a surplus dump truck and a new work truck. Updates were provided on the LVRT project and land swap, along with discussions on welcome signs, library issues, and the Ron Kilburn Railroad Museum building. The board also covered community and economic development, including downtown safety improvements and the Promote Swanton initiative. A resident raised concerns about the installation of guardrails along South River Street.

The meeting included discussions and decisions on several key areas. The 2023 Town Financial Audit was reviewed, and it was determined that transitioning to GASBY financial accounting practices was not necessary. The Cemetery Commission shared plans for a roadside marker and dedication for Corporal Leonard Lord. The board reviewed and approved various expenditures, including general, highway, special, and library orders, as well as payroll orders. The Highway Department discussed paving quotes for Maquam Shore and County Road, and a motion was passed to approve the contract contingent on state approval of a grant. The board also discussed and made decisions regarding the adoption of an updated Purchasing Policy and Whistleblower Protection Policy, the signing of a contract for Missisquoi Valley Rescue, Inc., and the ratification of the appointment of Attorney Vaughn Comeau for tax sales. Additionally, the board discussed State Drive access, Promote Swanton updates, FEMA buyout, proposed zoning fee increases, Swan Pond updates, and the Town Office painting RFP. An executive session was held, and subsequent action was taken to authorize spending for cleanup and securing a property on Fourth St.

The meeting included discussions on law enforcement, including a review of the Swanton Police Department's June incident analysis and a report from the Swanton Health Officer regarding a property on 33 4th St. A public hearing was held to discuss proposed amendments to the Swanton Land Use and Development Regulations and Zoning Map. The board reviewed a Road Takeover Policy and discussed updates on the LVRT trailhead project. Amendments to the Purchasing Policy and the Whistleblower Protection Policy were adopted. The board also discussed proposed changes to Zoning Fees and a request for contribution to the Swanton Block Party. The appointment of a new member to the DRB was approved, and the Planning Commission vacancy was addressed. The meeting also touched on Land Trust Development and Community and Economic Development initiatives, including a joint meeting regarding a Local Option Tax.

The Selectboard discussed the MVU/Route 78 Sidewalk project and accepted TCE's proposal for funding contingent on receiving a schedule. An update was given on the Fourth Street property. Members deliberated on public comments from the ARPA fund meeting. A request from Mr. Dale Lavalley for the Town to take over Shetland Lane was discussed, with the board expressing the need for the road to meet A76 standards. The board reviewed the Housing Initiative meeting and the cancellation of the Welcome Center meeting. An update on the Beebe Road culvert project was provided. General, Highway, Library, and Payroll Orders were approved. The board approved funds for upgrading systems at the Town Hall to retrieve voice mail through email. Correspondence was reviewed, including emails regarding ARPA funds and the Swanton Public Library. An executive session was held to discuss personnel, legal, and real estate matters, and Mike Backus was appointed.