Town of Woodstock

The Select Board held a meeting to discuss the renovation of the main wastewater treatment plant. The presentation outlined the aging infrastructure and deficiencies of the existing facility, the project needs for future growth and environmental compliance, and the recommendation of an aerobic granular sludge process for the renovation. Discussion covered the proposed timeline for the bond vote, technical aspects of the new wastewater treatment technology, and the proposed site plan for the facility upgrades.

The meeting agenda included discussions on tax collection dates and rates for Town General, Highway, School, and State Education Taxes for FY 2026-2027. Specific votes were proposed regarding the annual salaries/rates for Town Officers (Select Board, Treasurer, Constable, Town Clerk, Moderator). A major item involved voting on the appropriation for FY 2026-2027 operating costs totaling $8,842,940.41, with $7,204,230.40 to be raised by taxation. Further articles addressed appropriations for the Sewer Department ($1,574,615.23) and Water Department ($900,113.22) for FY27. The meeting also addressed paying Trustees of Public Funds and funding the Annual Audit for the Public Trust Funds. On March 3rd, the agenda included the election of various Town Officers, a vote on issuing general obligation bonds up to $35,000,000.00 to finance the upgrading of the Woodstock Main Wastewater Treatment Facility, and numerous appropriations for local community services and organizations, including the Norman Williams Public Library, Ottauquechee Health Foundation, WCTV, Windsor County Mentors, Green Mountain RSVP, Senior Solutions, Public Health Council of the Upper Valley, HCRS, Mt Ascutney Hospital and Health Center, Spectrum Teen Center, The Family Place, Pentangle Arts, and Upper Valley Adult Day Care/The Thompson Senior Center. An article also proposed tax exemptions for the Norman Williams Public Library parking lot.

The meeting of the Conservation Commission included discussions and votes on multiple proposals. One proposal involved modifying the size of an already-approved deck. Concerns were raised about the continuing development of hard structures off natural ground and water absorption, potentially worsening flooding. Another proposal focused on replacing steps, where the discussion revolved around maintenance and the type of rock to be used. The commission also reviewed a proposal for an addition to a house, including water runoff mitigation and potential impact from flooding. Finally, there was a discussion regarding an addition on steep slopes, with the commission considering the placement and potential issues related to the terrain.

The meeting discussed and approved the application for a yoga studio, Shambala Farm Yoga, including its sign design. There were clarifications made regarding the music volume during classes to ensure it does not disturb other tenants in the building. Additionally, the meeting minutes from December were reviewed and approved with a correction to the full name of a public attendee.

The meeting included discussions about a slate roof replacement, specifically addressing concerns about leaks and the possibility of replacing it with asphalt. There was also a discussion regarding an addition to a property, including its dimensions and impact on the existing structure and neighboring properties. The committee also addressed window replacements, ensuring they are consistent with the historic style of the building.