Owen Astbury

The discussion focused on the procedures for the upcoming Australian Ballot vote concerning several articles, including the budget, required officers, and bonds for wastewater system improvements, boiler system improvements, and a new school building. It was determined that the white/budget ballot would be processed through the tabulator, while the bond ballots would be separated by color for participation tracking before being commingled and counted at the district office. Procedures for staffing and closing polls for both the School and Town Meetings were also reviewed.

The meeting included entering into an executive session concerning personnel matters and contract discussion, resulting in the termination of the Data Clerk's employment. Key operational discussions involved the Highway Report, noting ongoing plowing, sanding, and equipment maintenance, and the annual adoption of Roads and Bridges Standards to ensure qualification for federal and state funding. Financial matters included the review and signing of expense and payroll warrants. Excess weight permits were approved. Old business addressed follow-up with Simon Operating Services regarding the wastewater treatment facility, with plans to continue site visits with alternative companies. New business focused on awarding the bid for the Southgate House energy grant work to Heritage Restoration for insulation and weatherizing, noting that no bids were received for the Highway Garage energy portion. A pre-conference meeting was scheduled to discuss the replacement of bridges on VT Route 100.

The document is the 2025 Annual Report for the Town of Bridgewater, covering the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. Key topics include reports from the Selectboard on road repairs following the 2023 floods, the purchase of a new grader using surplus funds, and energy efficiency projects. The Selectboard also reported on the successful transition from local elected Listers to a hired Assessor. The report contains detailed financial statements for the General Fund, Highway Fund, and Sewer Fund, as well as budget summaries and warnings for upcoming Town Meeting Day activities. The report also dedicates a section to community members lost over the past years.

The meeting included a significant discussion and decision regarding Bridge #26 on Mountainside Road. Following a presentation by VTRANS detailing six options from doing nothing to full replacement or permanent closure, the Board voted to proceed with a permanent bridge closure and removal, which was the lowest-cost solution presented. Other topics included an update on road maintenance, including salt supply status and the expected delivery of a new grader. The Treasurer presented financial reports, and the Board approved engaging RHR Smith for the FY26 audit. Approvals were also given for liquor and tobacco applications for Isah's Grab n Go and for upgrading the town office computer system, including the relocation of a recently purchased computer to the town garage. Additionally, the Board signed a Certificate of No Appeal or Suit Pending and granted permission to the Fire Department/Auxiliary to use a field for an Easter Egg hunt. The Board acknowledged receiving notice of service discontinuation from Simon Operating Service and received an update on the Windsor County Sheriff's Department leadership transition.

The commission discussed the town plan revision process, including plans for outreach and material distribution at the Town Meeting. It was determined that revisions would be presented as a public working draft with ongoing modifications. New regulations concerning marginalized and inequitable areas (Goal 15) were reviewed for inclusion in the updated plan. The commissioners also reviewed and suggested edits to the Critical Natural Areas section.