Civic Engagement Thrives in Vermont on Town Meeting Day
Vermonters across the Green Mountain State are gearing up to exercise their civic duty on Tuesday as Town Meeting Day approaches. This annual event allows residents to have a direct impact on their local communities by voting on a variety of issues ranging from road maintenance budgets to zoning changes and even city council races.
In Brattleboro, residents will have the opportunity to vote on whether they want their selectboard to pursue a downtown behavior ordinance. This decision could have a significant impact on the town’s atmosphere and community dynamics. Similarly, in Plainfield, voters will weigh in on a zoning change that could pave the way for a village expansion project, potentially reshaping the town’s landscape.
Financial concerns are also at the forefront of many Vermont school districts this year, with an 11.9 percent increase in employee health care benefits putting pressure on budgets. School officials are faced with the difficult task of making personnel cuts in the hopes that voters will approve their budget proposals. Jeff Fannon, the executive director of Vermont-NEA, has warned that if budgets are not approved, hundreds of positions statewide could be eliminated, impacting both staff and students.
Infrastructure upgrades are another key issue on the ballot this year, with many towns considering significant investments in wastewater management. Burlington, in particular, will be voting on a $152 million wastewater bond, in addition to $20 million for drinking water infrastructure improvements. These projects are crucial to maintaining the city’s water systems and preventing environmental damage, such as spills into Lake Champlain.
City council races are also heating up in Burlington, with three contested races that could shift the balance of power on the council. In the South District, Democratic candidate Ranjit “Buddy” Singh faces off against Progressive opponent Jennifer Monroe Zakaras. The East District sees Progressive Kathy Olwell challenging Democrat Allie Schachter, while in the North District, incumbent Democrat Mark Barlow is up against a write-in challenge from former city councilor Ali Dieng, an independent.
For those who have not yet registered to vote, there is still time to do so. Registration can be completed on the Vermont Secretary of State’s website or at your local town clerk’s office. The outcome of these races and ballot measures will have a lasting impact on the communities and residents of Vermont.
As Town Meeting Day unfolds, Seven Days reporters will be closely following the races and issues that matter most to Vermonters. Stay tuned for updates on the stories we are tracking to see how these decisions will shape the future of the Green Mountain State.
With a mix of local concerns, infrastructure needs, and political dynamics at play, Town Meeting Day promises to be an eventful and impactful day for Vermont communities. Let your voice be heard and make sure to cast your vote on Tuesday to shape the future of your town.
