Marc L. Johnston

The board opened sealed bids for the town garage insulation and roofing project and discussed the potential purchase of the elementary school property from the regional school district, ultimately voting to decline the offer. Key updates included reports from the highway and law enforcement liaisons, with adjustments made to the sheriff's contract. The board also received an update on the MERP grant, reviewed upcoming historical marker dedications and regional plan notices, and conducted an executive session to finalize personnel compensation.

The board discussed and moved to accept the Town Plan as presented and submit it to the Selectboard for further action. The meeting concluded after scheduling the next session.

The Selectboard discussed and acted upon several town matters, including the opening of a sealed bid for the Town Garage Insulation and Roofing Project. The board voted to decline an offer from the Taconic and Green Regional School District to purchase the elementary school property. Updates were provided regarding highway maintenance, paving grants, and the MERP grant. The board amended the Bennington County Sheriff's contract to adjust hours and budget, and held an executive session to address contractual matters and employee compensation.

The meeting included an update on the School Working Advisory Group's due diligence process and the scheduling of a special informational meeting. Updates were provided regarding highway liaison activities, including garage repairs, road maintenance, and the acquisition of new and existing highway vehicles. The Board discussed changes to the law enforcement contract with the Bennington Sheriff's Department. Approval was granted for an I.T. support proposal from RCS Consulting. Additionally, the Board reviewed town garage repair progress under the MERP grant, discussed the town grand list and an upcoming Board of Civil Authority appeal hearing, and received an update on the external audit process.

The Sunderland Municipal Plan serves as a comprehensive framework to guide the Town of Sunderland, Vermont, in its future actions, programs, policies, and implementation measures. The plan's core objectives include managing environmental risks such as pollution and flood hazards, and preserving natural resources and working lands. It seeks to maintain the town's rural and agricultural character while enabling housing growth and designated commercial and light industrial activities. Further priorities encompass efficient municipal management, contributing to regional amenities, encouraging recreational use of the Green Mountain National Forest and Batten Kill, and significantly reducing fossil fuel reliance through energy conservation and renewable energy development. The plan also emphasizes enhancing community spaces, food access, and outdoor recreation, aiming to foster a vibrant, resilient, and engaged community that balances development with the protection of its unique natural and historical assets.