Michael Ketchum

The primary discussions included a review of the Whitcomb Welfare Fund to determine if a Non-Profit organization meets qualifying needs (physiological or safety/security) and how many Stockbridge residents it assists, requiring submission of 990s and Financials, which was unanimously approved. The status of eight Stockbridge Scholarship recipients totaling $11,000 for the fall semester was reviewed, with checks scheduled for availability by Friday. Publicity plans for Trustee programs were discussed, including follow-up on draft materials and coordinating mailing formats with the post office. Future meeting dates were adjusted from Mondays to Tuesdays to resolve scheduling conflicts for certain members.

Key discussions included the review of plans for a possible temporary bridge installation and a Section 4(f) document requiring the Town of Stockbridge signature, potentially involving White River park access. The clerk proposed moving mitigation money designated for a paving project to a separate account, which was tabled pending the presence of the full board. The board also addressed the suggested amendment to the purchase order policy to include an emergency purchase exemption, which was also tabled. Additionally, a question was raised regarding snow plowing on Blackmer Blvd, and various orders were reviewed and signed.

Key discussions during the meeting centered on the Land Use Maps, specifically comparing the Two Rivers Planning Commission map viewing portal's 2020 designations with the current Act 181 land use designation maps, with a focus on town center designations and efforts to align boundaries with parcel boundaries. Participants also reviewed and suggested changes to the wording of the Town Survey, including the potential addition of a question regarding mixed-use residential development. An encouragement was given for attendees to participate in the upcoming Select Board meeting on March 19 for further discussion.

The meeting addressed several key areas, including planning for a draft survey questionnaire, which prompted a decision to invite the author to the next session for discussion. A significant portion of the agenda focused on updating the Zoning Bylaws. The commission decided to submit the current bylaws and land-use maps to the Two Rivers-Ottauquechee Regional Commission (TRORC) for a 'desk review' to ensure compliance with state regulations and the Town Plan. Specific focus areas for the update include light industry zoning near the school, reviewing updated land-use maps, and addressing regulations pertaining to density and short-term rentals (Airbnb, VRBO). The commission also made motions regarding the submission for desk review and decided to invite the Zoning Administrator to future meetings for input. Other administrative items involved the Planning Commission Zoom account and key access for a member.

Key discussion points included adding an instruction to pick up town records from the former attorney's office, and declining a late request to add a resolution regarding Freedom of the Press to the town meeting warning. The board agreed to schedule Kevin Gaiger from Two Rivers Ottaquechee for the February 19, 2026 agenda to discuss Act 250 and housing. The board signed and approved a purchasing policy addendum and a new purchase order template, stipulating that purchases over $400 require prior selectboard approval. The 2026 CAI Taxmap contract was approved, and the board reviewed correspondence from the State regarding FEMA project reimbursement. The road report covered receiving the permit for Mt. Hunger work, coordinating tree work to avoid disturbing bats, maintenance issues with truck chain components, and obtaining quotes for Backhoe tires. The board also verified the rate increase for Listers and planned a pre-town meeting preparation session.