Newbury public meetings in 2024

Selectboard

The Selectboard and Fire Department Steering Committee met to finalize the construction cost estimate for a new fire station, totaling approximately $1.2 million including financing. They discussed specific costs for systems like a make-up air unit ($26,000) and fire alarm ($7,000), and agreed to leave the make-up air system in the estimate pending further state research. The board plans a public information meeting and an Australian ballot vote on Town Meeting Day, with $600,000 from town funds and $600,000 from a bond. No formal votes were taken; the meeting was for discussion and planning.

• Finalized construction cost estimate at ~$1.2M including financing
• Consensus to keep $26,000 make-up air system in estimate pending state research
• Agreed to schedule public information meeting and Australian ballot vote on Town Meeting Day
• Planned $600,000 town funding and $600,000 bond for the project
• Confirmed septic tank replacement with state approval, leach field untouched
• Noted generator purchase option with electrician installation, service contract to be included

Solid Waste Committee

The Newbury Solid Waste Committee will hold a regular meeting on December 20, 2024. They will elect a chairperson, review the current recycling operation, and discuss possible changes to the layout of bins at the recycling site. The 2025 budget will also be considered.

• Election of chairperson
• Review of current recycling operation
• Possible changes to layout of bins at recycling site
• 2025 Budget discussion

The Newbury Solid Waste Committee met on December 20, 2024, and elected Charlie Mabey as chair. They agreed to test combining cardboard and paper recycling containers after the holidays, and discussed other potential site improvements. No formal decisions were made on budget or other items.

• Elected Charlie Mabey as chair (all in favor)
• Agreed to test combining cardboard and paper gaylords into one container for a few weeks after the holiday season
• Charlie Mabey agreed to serve as alternate representative to NEKWMD board
• Scheduled next meeting for January 10, 2024 at 1:00 p.m.

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will review research on state law for mobile homes, funeral home waste disposal, and shooting ranges/green burials. They will continue work on a zoning uses matrix and address regulations for travel trailers and short-term rentals. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes and a report from TRORC.

• Review of research on mobile homes (state law), funeral home waste disposal, and shooting ranges/green burials
• Continue working on Newbury Zoning Uses matrix prepared by Dennis
• Discuss zoning for travel trailers and short-term rentals
• Tony’s TRORC report
• Approve minutes from November 21, 2024

The Newbury Planning Commission tabled a decision on zoning mobile homes and mobile home parks to study state statutes, and continued work on the land use matrix, deciding to prohibit inns in the Industrial District and gas stations in Newbury Village. The board also discussed short-term rentals, EV charging stations, and other zoning items, with several recommendations deferred to next month.

• Tabled decision on zoning mobile homes and mobile home parks
• Decided inns should not be permitted in the Industrial District
• Decided gas stations should not be permitted in Newbury Village
• Agreed to group site plan review and conditional use definitions near land use matrix
• Discussed but no consensus on requiring flat markers for new cemeteries
• Deferred short-term rental registration recommendations to next meeting
• Deferred travel trailer recommendations to next meeting

Development Review Board

The Newbury Development Review Board approved Application 2024-61 by Julie Baker to operate a dog grooming studio and floral workshop at 35 Main Street North in the Wells River Commercial District. The board closed the hearing and deliberated privately before approving the application. No vote tally was recorded in the minutes.

• Approved Application 2024-61 for dog grooming and floral workshop at 35 Main Street North

Selectboard

The Selectboard will review and vote on a contract with the Caledonia County Sheriff’s Department and consider approving a notice for the sale of the Stagecoach Property. They will also hear public comment regarding rule changes for recreational basketball, discuss highway department matters, and approve minutes from recent meetings.

• Contract with Caledonia County Sheriff’s Department
• Sale of Stagecoach Property – Approval of Notice
• Riley Harness – rule changes for rec. basketball
• Approval of minutes: 12/4/2024 Fire Station special, 12/11/2024 After School Program special, 12/11/2024 regular meeting, 12/11/2024 executive session
• Warrants/Orders

The Newbury Selectboard approved a $10,000 transfer from the After-School Program's account for upfront transition costs as it becomes independent. The board also authorized signing the Griswold property transfer receipt, approved a $11,500 contract with Sullivan & Powers for annual account review, and designated $2,000 from Bailey funds for Common maintenance. Discussion on closing Tucker Mountain Road gates was deferred pending full board attendance.

• Approved $10,000 transfer to After-School Program for transition costs
• Authorized Board Chair to sign Griswold property transfer receipt
• Approved $11,500 contract with Sullivan & Powers for annual account review
• Designated $2,000 from Bailey funds for maintenance of the Common
• Approved minutes of regular meeting Dec 11 with clarification on bank signer
• Approved minutes of special meeting Dec 4 and executive session Dec 11
• Approved warrants totaling $124,876.77

Selectboard

The Selectboard is holding a special meeting to plan the transition of the town's after-school program to an independent nonprofit organization. They will review the status of establishing the nonprofit, refine a draft agreement between the town and Land Learn Fly Inc., and discuss employment letters and a timeline for the transition.

• Check-in on establishment of independent nonprofit organization for after-school program
• Review and refinement of draft agreement between Town of Newbury and Land Learn Fly, Inc.
• Discussion of employment letters: end date from town and hire letter from Land Learn Fly Inc.
• Update on timeline for the transition

The Newbury Selectboard approved a resolution of obligation for remaining ARPA funds totaling $310,693.02, as recommended by the Town Treasurer. The board also authorized the Town Clerk to sign bank accounts, accepted Municipal Energy Resilience Program funding, appointed an Ethics Liaison, and issued liquor permits. Several items were discussed but tabled or deferred, including a decision on petition thresholds for funding increases and a highway garage replacement plan.

• Approved resolution of obligation for remaining ARPA funds of $310,693.02
• Authorized Town Clerk to sign three bank accounts with Woodsville Guaranty Savings Bank
• Accepted Municipal Energy Resilience Program (MERP) funding
• Appointed Chuck Schulze as Town Ethics Liaison
• Issued Class 1 and Class 3 liquor permits to Sarky's Smokehouse and Saloon
• Approved warrants for payment totaling $931,377.90
• Tabled decision on percentage increase triggering petition for funding increases
• Cancelled December 25 meeting; next meeting January 4, 2025

Selectboard

The Selectboard will meet to discuss town department updates and new business. The body is considering the approval of a MERP funding grant agreement and liquor control permits for Sarky’s Smokehouse & Saloon.

• Approval of MERP Funding Award grant agreement
• Liquor Control Permits for Sarky’s Smokehouse & Saloon
• Designation of Town of Newbury Ethics Liaison
• Contract with Caledonia County Sheriff’s Department and review of Newbury Traffic Ordinance
• Updates on Newbury Fire Station Capital Project and sale of Stagecoach Property

Tucker Mountain Town Forest Management Committee

The Tucker Mountain Town Forest Management Committee met on December 9, 2024, and discussed options for the bridge associated with the All Persons Trail, including fiberglass and I-beam alternatives to the more expensive Chinese Woven Bridge. No final decision was made; the Friends of Tucker Mountain will decide on Thursday. The committee approved the minutes from the previous meeting and discussed winter activities and budget items.

• Approved minutes from 11/09/2024 meeting (all in favor)
• Discussed bridge options for All Persons Trail; no decision made
• Noted $190 spent on white cedar for benches
• Adjourned meeting (all in favor)

Recreation Committee

The Recreation Committee will meet to review policies regarding coach selection and background checks. The body will also discuss winter events and sports.

• Policy review of coach selection
• Policy review of background checks
• Discussion of winter events
• Discussion of sports

Planning Commission

The Newbury Planning Commission will hold a regular meeting to discuss updates to the town's zoning regulations, including a review of permitted uses and definitions. No votes or public hearings are scheduled; the agenda consists largely of discussion items and routine reports.

• Discussion of Newbury Zoning Uses matrix prepared by Dennis
• Review of Definitions prepared by Dennis
• Tony's TRORC report (Two Rivers-Ottauquechee Regional Commission)

Selectboard

The Newbury Selectboard will hold a regular meeting to approve minutes, receive staff reports, and discuss new and old business. Key items include the disposition of ARPA funds and 2025 budget planning from the Treasurer, and a vote on a MERP Funding Award grant agreement. The board will also review the town traffic ordinance, consider a contract with the Caledonia County Sheriff’s Department, and receive an update on the Newbury Fire Station capital project.

• Disposition of ARPA funds
• 2025 budget planning review
• MERP Funding Award – approval of grant agreement
• Review of Newbury Traffic Ordinance
• Contract with Caledonia County Sheriff’s Department

Selectboard

The Selectboard is meeting to plan the transition of the town-run After School Program to an independent nonprofit organization. They will review the steps for establishing the nonprofit, including incorporation, IRS tax-exempt status, and setting up financial systems, and then discuss transferring operations, licenses, funds, assets, and staff from the town to the new entity.

• Incorporation with Vermont Secretary of State and creation of bylaws & board of directors
• IRS approval as tax-exempt organization and obtaining a tax ID number
• Transfer of DCF license from town to nonprofit
• Transfer of funds and physical assets from town to nonprofit
• Transfer of After School Program staff employment from town to nonprofit

Selectboard

The Selectboard will consider approving minutes from three October 30 meetings and hear public comment. New business includes a review of the Newbury Traffic Ordinance and an amendment to the Tucker Mountain Town Forest Management Plan from the management committee. The highway department will also provide a report.

• Review of Newbury Traffic Ordinance
• Amendment to Tucker Mountain Town Forest Management Plan
• Approval of minutes from 10/30/2024 special, regular, and executive session meetings
• Public comment period for residents
• Highway department update

Tucker Mountain Town Forest Management Committee

The Tucker Mountain Town Forest Management Committee is meeting to review trail maintenance and signage. The committee will discuss a $5,000 grant from the Byrne Foundation and updates regarding the All Persons Trail.

• Byrne Foundation $5,000 grant
• Bridge and All Persons Trail update
• Trail signs text, design, and mounting
• Volunteer Rewards Program T-shirts
• Tool shed roof completion and trail maintenance

Selectboard

The Selectboard will meet to discuss the selection of a construction manager for the Newbury Village Fire Station. The agenda also includes presentations from the Caledonia County Sheriff’s Office and Community Nursing Connection.

• Newbury Village Fire Station construction manager selection
• Health insurance renewal discussion
• Presentation by Caledonia County Sheriff’s Office
• Presentation by Kristin Barnum of Community Nursing Connection
• Debrief of Community Listening Session

Selectboard

The Selectboard is holding a special meeting to discuss the sharing, use, and management of Newbury Common. The session includes a review of the history of the area's ownership and management provided by Paul Jewett.

• Discussion of sharing, use, and management of Newbury Common

Planning Commission

The Newbury Planning Commission will hold a regular meeting with discussions on the Town Plan Implementation Table and a zoning uses matrix prepared by members. They will also review minutes from September and receive a report from TRORC. No votes or public hearings are scheduled.

• Discussion on Town Plan Implementation Table prepared by Tony
• Discussion and work on Newbury Zoning Uses matrix prepared by Dennis
• Review of minutes from September 19, 2024
• Tony’s TRORC report

Selectboard

The Newbury Selectboard is conducting a community listening session to review results from the 2023 Community Survey and gather public input. The session includes discussion of what residents love and want to change about Newbury, as well as expectations from local government. Next steps include forming a working group to develop a town mission, vision, and values statement, and a call for volunteers for citizen government positions.

• Review of 2023 Community Survey results: what residents love, want to change, and expect from local government
• Public comments on community needs and priorities
• Proposal to form a working group to develop a Town Mission, Vision & Values Statement for the website
• Call for volunteers for citizen government positions
• Discussion of other next steps in response to public comment

Tucker Mountain Town Forest Management Committee

The committee will review multiple grant applications, including a $10,000 grant from the Lintilhac Foundation and submissions to the Reeves Foundation, NH Community Foundation, Athletic Brewing, Community Bank, and Lawson's Sunshine Fund. Old business includes trail signs, brush hogging, tree clearing, and hiring deputies. Projects include trail maintenance, sign installation, and tool shed roof completion. A volunteer rewards program will be discussed as new business.

• Lintilhac Foundation granted $10,000 for the town forest
• Christopher and Dana Reeves Foundation application for $25,000
• New Hampshire Community Foundation application for $15,000 for 2025 and $15,000 for 2026
• Athletic Brewing Company's Two for the Trails Program application for $30,000
• Discussion of hiring deputies to patrol the summit

Selectboard

The Selectboard will meet to discuss town department updates and new business. The agenda includes personnel nominations and updates regarding regional shared services.

• Nomination of Jennifer Dube to the Recreation Committee
• New hire Katelyn Joy for the After School Program
• TRORC Conference Call update on potential shared services
• Update on the Newbury Village Fire Station CM selection process
• October 15 Community Listening Session

Recreation Committee

The Recreation Committee will meet on October 1, 2024, to discuss routine recreational business. Items include a board candidate, ice rink equipment, storage options for department sheds, background check processes, and updates on soccer and basketball programs. Plans for Halloween events and a basketball referee clinic are also on the agenda. The meeting is largely procedural with no major decisions or financial items noted.

• Board candidate discussion
• Ice rink equipment
• Halloween events planning
• Basketball referee clinic
• Transportation of large recreation board equipment

Selectboard

The Newbury Selectboard is holding a regular meeting to approve minutes, hear a presentation from the Community Nursing Association, and receive updates on the Newbury Village Fire Station project and planning for a listening session. Correspondence on road signs on private roads is also on the agenda.

• Presentation from Kristin Barnum – Community Nursing Association
• Newbury Village Fire Station – CM Selection Process Update
• Planning for October 15th Listening Session
• VT 250th Commemoration Planning Group
• Correspondence: Road Signs on Private Roads

Tucker Mountain Town Forest Management Committee

The Tucker Mountain Town Forest Management Committee is discussing grant applications totaling $60,000 from the NH Charitable Foundation and Lintilhac Foundation. They will also consider hiring deputies to patrol the summit and approve a forest management plan. Volunteer days are proposed for October 12, 26, and November 2.

• NH Charitable Foundation grant application, $30,000 over two years
• Lintilhac Foundation grant application, $30,000
• Hiring deputies to patrol the summit
• Forest Management Plan approval (VLT)
• Volunteer days: Oct. 12, 26, Nov. 2

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a regular meeting to review minutes, discuss forming a working group for the capital budget, and receive updates on high-priority actions in the Town Plan. The main discussion item is a comparison table of allowable uses between Newbury and Danville, prepared by Tony. Other administrative items include setting the next meeting date.

• Approve minutes from August 22, 2024
• Discuss forming a working group for the capital budget
• Review input on high-priority actions from the Town Plan Implementation Table
• Discuss Newbury/Danville allowable uses comparison table
• Set next meeting date

Selectboard

The Selectboard Budget Advisory Committee will review year-to-date budget-to-actual reports for the General Fund, Highway Department, After School Program, Fire Department, and Recreation Committee. The committee will also discuss the 2025 budget development timeline and next steps.

• Review of year-to-date budget for General Fund / Highway Department
• Review of year-to-date budget for After School Program
• Review of year-to-date budget for Fire Department
• Review of year-to-date budget for Recreation Committee
• Discussion of 2025 Budget Development Tasks & Timeline

The Newbury Selectboard met with the Budget Advisory Committee to review budget-to-actuals reports through August 2024 for the General Fund, Highway Department, After School Program, Fire Department, and Recreation Committee. Treasurer Mary Collins reported revenues are generally on track, with 20 tax accounts in arrears and a tax sale planned for February 2025. The After School Program is expected to run a surplus, and the board discussed developing a strategy with the program administrator. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational and procedural.

• Reviewed budget-to-actuals reports for General Fund, Highway, After School, Fire, and Recreation
• Planned tax sale for February 2025 due to 20 accounts in arrears
• Discussed addressing After School Program surplus with administrator Paul Jewett
• Affirmed budget development timeline with meetings starting January 2025

Selectboard

The Budget Advisory Committee will review year-to-date budget reports for several town departments. The body will also discuss the timeline and tasks for developing the 2025 budget.

• Review of General Fund / Highway Department budget actuals
• Review of After School Program budget actuals
• Review of Fire Department budget actuals
• Review of Recreation Committee budget actuals
• Discussion of 2025 Budget Development tasks and timeline

The Newbury Selectboard approved hiring Shannon Gendron as Assistant Treasurer at $20/hour, as recommended by the Treasurer. The board also approved minutes from prior meetings, tabled a request for a sign on Deerfield Lane due to budget constraints, and discussed several ongoing items including a Green Mountain Power easement and a MERP grant application.

• Approved hiring Shannon Gendron as Assistant Treasurer at $20/hour
• Approved minutes of September 11 regular meeting with clarification on MERP grant deadline
• Approved minutes of September 11 executive session
• Approved minutes of September 17 executive session
• Tabled request for a sign on Deerfield Lane due to budget constraints

Selectboard

The Newbury Selectboard met in executive session on September 17, 2024, to interview candidates for the Highway Foreman position. Three candidates were interviewed: Josh Grant, Hunter Page, and Michael Hastings. A fourth candidate, Francis Phelps, was unable to attend and his interview was rescheduled for September 19, 2024. No hiring decision was made during this session.

• Conducted executive session interviews for Highway Foreman candidates (no vote recorded)
• Rescheduled Francis Phelps' interview for September 19, 2024

Selectboard

The Newbury Selectboard will review several new business items including a MERP program presentation, a liquor permit for catering, and an agreement between New England Sports (NES) and the town for a recreation committee. Old business includes the Newbury Village Fire Station CM selection process and updates on the Griswold Barn. The board will also consider approval of prior meeting minutes and warrants.

• Presentation of MERP program by Harry Falconer of TRORC
• Discussion with Lime Kiln Cemetery Association
• Department of Liquor Permit for Catering
• Listers errors and omissions review
• Agreement between NES and Town of Newbury for Recreation Committee

The Newbury Selectboard approved the deed for the Griswold barn and agreed to proceed with the property transfer. They also approved a liquor permit for Trail Break, an Errors & Omissions correction by the Listers, and an agreement with Newbury Elementary School for facilities use. The board discussed the After-School Program budget and a potential $260,000 energy grant application, but took no final action on those items.

• Approved deed for Griswold barn property transfer
• Approved liquor permit for Trail Break catering event at Wild Sugar
• Approved Errors & Omissions correction by Listers for solar upgrades and veteran's exemption
• Approved agreement with Newbury Elementary School for Recreation Committee facilities use
• Approved minutes of August 28 and September 4 meetings (Parsons abstained on August 28)

Tucker Mountain Town Forest Management Committee

The Tucker Mountain Town Forest Management Committee will review minutes from the August meeting, discuss trail signs and brush hogging bids, set October volunteer days, and address new projects like tool shed roofing and fire pit cleanup. The public may join via Zoom.

• Review minutes of 8/12/24 meeting
• Choose bid for brush hogging
• Set October volunteer days
• Complete roof of tool shed
• Install profile signs

The Tucker Mountain Town Forest Management Committee approved spending up to $300 for sheriff's deputies to patrol the summit on Friday or Saturday nights, contingent on selectboard permission and deputy availability. They also awarded a brush hogging contract to Chip Spear and discussed vandalism issues, including a damaged maple tree and off-road driving.

• Approved minutes from 8/12/2024 (all approved)
• Awarded brush hogging job to Chip Spear (motion passed)
• Approved up to $300 for sheriff patrols at summit, pending selectboard approval (motion passed)

Selectboard

The Newbury Selectboard met in executive session on September 4, 2024, to discuss personnel matters. No formal decisions were made; the board agreed to speak with the Highway Foreman about department operations.

• Held executive session to discuss personnel matters
• Agreed to speak with Highway Foreman about operations

Selectboard

The Selectboard will hold a regular meeting to approve minutes from prior meetings, hear updates from the Highway Department and After School Program, and conduct new and old business. Old business includes follow-up discussion on the Newbury Village Fire Station and the Griswold Barn. No votes on specific ordinances or contracts are listed; the agenda is largely procedural with two notable discussion items.

• Follow-up discussion on Newbury Village Fire Station
• Discussion on Griswold Barn
• Approval of minutes from 8/21/24 special meeting, regular meeting, and executive session
• Highway Department report
• After School Program report

Selectboard

The Selectboard will hold a regular meeting on August 28, 2024, to approve minutes from previous special, regular, and executive sessions, hear public comment, and receive updates from the Highway Department and After School Program. Under old business, the board will follow up on the Newbury Village Fire Station and discuss the Griswold Barn. New business and warrants will also be addressed.

• Approval of minutes from 8/21/24 Special Meeting of Selectboard and Fire Department Steering Committee, Regular Meeting, and Executive Session
• Newbury Village Fire Station follow-up discussion
• Griswold Barn discussion
• Highway Department and After School Program reports

The Newbury Selectboard voted to hire a construction manager to assist with the bid process and oversee construction of a new fire station, following a special meeting with the Fire Department Steering Committee. The board also approved several agreements, including a corrected facilities use agreement, a grant agreement for Halls Lake Association, and an extended warranty for the Highway Department's tractor. Discussion on the Griswold barn's potential use for affordable housing was tabled until the September 11 meeting.

• Approved minutes of Aug 21 special, regular, and executive sessions
• Approved corrected facilities use agreement with After-School Program and Newbury Elementary School
• Approved grant agreement for Halls Lake Association with Watersheds United, including $500 administrative fee
• Approved extended warranty agreement for Highway Department tractor
• Authorized application for $2,500 passive equipment grant for Highway Garage alarm system
• Voted to hire construction manager for new fire station bid process and oversight
• Tabled Griswold barn discussion until September 11 meeting
• Approved orders for payment totaling $112,057.56

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will work on zoning bylaw revisions, following up on previous tasks and addressing immediate changes needed for the zoning administrator's work. They will also set priority levels for deeper-dive issues such as Conservation District regulations, short-term rentals, and Wells River Village zoning. A discussion on capital budgeting is also on the agenda.

• Follow-up on last month's 'to-do's' for zoning bylaw revisions
• Continue work on Dennis's list of immediate changes needed for zoning administration
• Set priority levels for deeper-dive issues (Conservation District, short-term rentals, Wells River Village zoning, W. Newbury zoning, setback regulations)
• Discussion on capital budgeting plan
• Minutes from July 18, 2024 to be approved

Selectboard

The Newbury Selectboard will consider convening a Budget Advisory Committee in September and discuss the Town Highway Garage. They will also decide on a request for a convex mirror at Scotch Hollow Road and completion of painting at the Town House. The board will finalize a date and agenda for a Community Listening Session and note the adoption of a Memorial Gifting Policy.

• Discussion of convening a Budget Advisory Committee in September
• Request for placement of a convex mirror at Scotch Hollow Road near Old Country Road
• Request for completion of painting at the Newbury Town House
• Community Listening Session – date and agenda to be set
• Memorial Gifting Policy signed and adopted on 8/14/24

Selectboard

The Selectboard and Fire Department Steering Committee will hold a special meeting to discuss the Newbury Fire Station Construction Project, focusing on whether to use a construction manager or general contractor, cost estimates including price per square foot and overall budget, and financing mechanisms. The timeline includes convening a special town meeting to approve financing and the selection process for the construction manager or general contractor.

• Discussion of pros and cons of retaining a Construction Manager vs. General Contractor for the fire station project
• Estimate of cost: price per square foot, overall project budget, and financing mechanisms
• Timeline includes a special town meeting to approve financing, selection process, competitive bid process, and construction timeline

Selectboard

The Selectboard will meet to review town department reports and address new business. Discussions include local agreement rates, permit requests, and a community listening session.

• Permits
• Listers — Errors & Omissions
• Local Agreement Rate
• Revised Memorial Gifting Policy
• Griswold Barn Transfer update

Selectboard

The Newbury Selectboard will consider several capital and property items, including a timeline for the Fire Station capital project, a contract for a Yankee Generator, and a possible transfer of ownership for the Griswold barn. They will also discuss ARPA monies, the Stagecoach Property sale, and a memorial gifting policy.

• Discussion on timeline for Fire Station capital project and Jay Barrett contract
• Yankee Generator Contract
• Discussion of ARPA monies
• Appointing Tony O’Meara to represent the Town at Two Rivers Ottauquechee Regional Planning Commissioners meetings
• Discussion on adding an entrance ramp on the back of the DAR building

Tucker Mountain Town Forest Management Committee

The Tucker Mountain Town Forest Management Committee will review updates on the All Persons Accessible Trail, bridge progress, invasive species eradication, and a capital campaign. They will also discuss an offer for a summit bench, a brush hogging bid, and set volunteer days for upcoming events including Abenaki Day.

• All Persons Accessible Trail and bridge progress update
• Invasive honeysuckle eradication and Japanese knotweed control
• Capital campaign discussion
• Bench offer for summit and bid for brush hogging
• Volunteer days scheduled for July 27, August 2-3, 9-10, 24, 31

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will meet to review and work on revisions to the town's zoning bylaws. The meeting includes a review of the June 20, 2024, minutes.

• Zoning bylaw revisions

Selectboard

The Selectboard held an executive session to discuss Highway personnel and planning for future transitions. A report on a Town Highway truck accident will be requested once it becomes available.

• Executive session regarding highway personnel and future transitions
• Pending report on a Town Highway truck accident

Selectboard

The Newbury Selectboard will meet to set the town tax rate and review highway paving bids. The agenda also includes discussions regarding Tucker Mountain forest policy, tree work contracts, and the potential transfer of ownership for the Griswold barn.

• Setting the town tax rate
• Reviewing highway paving bids
• Appointment of George Peet as Animal Control Officer
• Discussion on Tucker Mountain forest policy and tree work contracts
• Possible transfer of ownership for the Griswold barn

Planning Commission

The Newbury Planning Commission will meet to begin work on revising zoning bylaws. The agenda also includes a TRORC report and honors Frank upon his retirement from the board.

• Beginning work on zoning bylaw revisions
• Frank's TRORC report
• Honoring Frank upon his retirement from the board

Selectboard

The Selectboard held an executive session to conduct an interview for the Recycling Attendant position. The Board voted to offer the position to Charles Mabey.

• Offer of Recycling Attendant position to Charles Mabey

Selectboard

The Selectboard entered an executive session to conduct interviews for the Recycling Attendant position. No decisions were made during this meeting because another interview was scheduled for the following day.

• Interviews for a Recycling Attendant position

Tucker Mountain Town Forest Management Committee

The committee will discuss trail maintenance, volunteer reports, and community service updates. Agenda items include a review of the draft Community Resource Use policy and a gate ordinance change.

• Decision on clearing summit stands
• Review of draft Community Resource Use policy
• $180 expense for July-August porta potty
• Gate ordinance change discussion
• Update on Tucker to Wrights Trail

Selectboard

The Selectboard will review presentations from the Fire Department Steering Committee regarding the fire station project. The meeting includes a period for public comment and a formal vote on the project, followed by a discussion of the payroll tax.

• Vote on the Newbury Fire Station Project
• Presentations from the Fire Department Steering Committee
• Public comments regarding the fire station project
• Discussion of the payroll tax

Selectboard

The Newbury Selectboard will consider several new business items, including a project on Tucker Mountain, sale preparation for the Stagecoach property, and a future meeting on the proposed fire station location. They will also review quotes for the Highway Garage, discuss changes to Open Meeting Law, and act on ATV and other permits.

• Discussion on proposed location of new fire station
• Sale prep for Stagecoach property
• Green Mountain Security quote for Hwy Garage
• ATV permits for Jeremy Longto, Dale Williams, and Steve Cole
• Permits for L&M Battersby, LLC (Newbury Village Store) and Uncommon Jam

Tucker Mountain Town Forest Management Committee

The committee will discuss various forest maintenance tasks, such as clearing brush and stone walls. They will also coordinate upcoming volunteer service days and review updates on invasive honeysuckle eradication.

• Invasive honeysuckle eradication
• Meeting with Vermont Agency of Natural Resources on July 24
• Volunteer day scheduling for June
• Gate opening date change
• Trail Symposium in Killington, Sept. 24-25

Selectboard

The Newbury Selectboard will review minutes from the April 24 regular meeting and hear public comment. New business includes opening Tucker Mountain gates, a request from Halls Lake Association for the town to act as fiscal sponsor for a watershed grant, discussion on the proposed fire station location, and a security quote for the highway garage. Old business covers a Vermont 250 grant application draft, Zoom pricing, and an update on the Orange County Joint Selectboard Committee on Law Enforcement.

• Halls Lake Association applying for a Watershed Grant, requesting town as fiscal sponsor (no paperwork yet)
• Discussion on proposed location of new fire station
• Green Mountain Security quote for Highway Garage
• Draft review of Vermont 250 grant application
• Update on Orange County Joint Selectboard Committee on Law Enforcement

Recreation Committee

The Newbury Recreation Committee is meeting to review previous minutes, receive updates on Little League, recap a recent dance, discuss rental of NRD equipment, and plan the Wells River Picnic. The agenda is largely procedural with no major decisions or financial items listed.

• Little League updates
• Dance recap
• Rental of NRD equipment
• Wells River Picnic planning

Tucker Mountain Town Forest Management Committee

The Tucker Mountain Town Forest Management Committee will meet on April 22, 2024, to review minutes, hear updates from Friends of Tucker, and discuss old and new business. Key topics include the bog bridge update, invasive honeysuckle eradication, and planning for community events like Tucker Mountain Day and volunteer workdays. The meeting is open to the public in person or via Zoom.

• Bog Bridge update and timeline
• Invasive honeysuckle eradication project
• Tucker Mountain Day / Abenaki Day on August 3
• West Newbury Summer Festival parade float: Building Bridges
• Volunteer days for Blue Mountain HS Community Service in Fall 2024

Planning Commission

The Newbury Planning Commission will meet to consider changes to the agenda, approve minutes from March 21, 2024, and interview a prospective new committee member before forwarding a recommendation to the Selectboard. The agenda also includes a discussion on capital budgeting, a report from the Two Rivers-Ottauquechee Regional Commission (TRORC), and other business. The meeting will be held at 6 PM at the Baldwin Memorial Library.

• Interview prospective new committee member and forward recommendation to Selectboard
• Capital budgeting discussion
• Frank’s TRORC report
• Approval of minutes from March 21, 2024

Selectboard

The Selectboard met in executive session to discuss and approve pay raises for highway department employees and the lister office chair, and to authorize the purchase of a new excavator for the highway department using the equipment reserve fund.

• Approved purchase of a new excavator and trailer for the highway department using the equipment reserve fund.
• Approved a pay raise for the highway department, retroactive to early May.
• Approved a $1.00 per hour compensation increase for the lister office chair.
• Set a pay rate for the Road Foreman following a pending evaluation.

Development Review Board

The Development Review Board has no published agenda for this meeting. Residents are directed to review the minutes for any actions taken.

Selectboard

The Newbury Selectboard met in executive session to discuss yearly evaluations of Highway employees. Pay increases will be determined at the next meeting after members meet with the treasurer. The board exited executive session at 9:15 pm.

• Executive session held under 1 V.S.A. 313 for highway employee evaluations
• Pay increase decision postponed to next meeting after treasurer consultation
• Meeting began at 8:50 pm and ended at 9:15 pm

Selectboard

The Selectboard will review and approve minutes from March 27, discuss cost estimates for an excavator and trailer and a new highway truck, and continue capital budget planning. They will also consider appointments to the Planning Commission and Zoning Administrator, a health insurance contract, an ATV permit, a liquor license, and a cemetery mowing contract.

• Cost estimates for excavator and trailer; further discussion on new truck
• Capital Budget Planning
• Appointment of Evangeline James and Tony O'Meara to Planning Commission
• Reappointment of Dennis Marquise as Zoning Administrator
• MVP Health Insurance Contract signing

Recreation Committee

The Newbury Recreation Committee is meeting to discuss routine recreation business, including a recap of the Easter event, updates on Little League and the ice rink, and planning for summer soccer and community events. The agenda contains no votes, ordinances, or budget items.

• Easter Recap
• Little League
• Ice Rink
• Summer Soccer
• Community Events

Tucker Mountain Town Forest Management Committee

The Tucker Mountain Town Forest Management Committee will review meeting minutes, welcome two new members, and discuss operational updates for the town forest that affect local trail access and upkeep. Discussion items include progress on the All Persons Accessible Trail, invasive honeysuckle removal, a bog bridge timeline, and road maintenance. The agenda also lists scheduled volunteer days and community events for spring and summer.

• Update on the All Persons Accessible Trail
• Invasive honeysuckle eradication project status
• Bog bridge update and construction timeline
• Tucker Mountain Road maintenance plans
• Spring/summer volunteer days for trail clearing, stone wall repair, and water bar installation

Selectboard

The Newbury Selectboard will consider a permit to work in the right of way on Tucker Mountain Road, review a Transportation Advisory Committee memo, and discuss the capital budget program, a new agenda format, and a request from Paul Jewett regarding an after-school program.

• Permit to work in the right of way on Tucker Mtn. Rd (Tom Kidder)
• Transportation Advisory Committee (TAC) Rep. memo (Bob)
• Paul Jewett request re: After School Program
• Capital Budget Program discussion
• New Agenda Format discussion

Development Review Board

The Development Review Board has no published agenda for this meeting. Residents are directed to review the meeting minutes for any actions taken.

Planning Commission

The Newbury Planning Commission will meet to approve minutes, interview prospective new committee members and forward recommendations to the Selectboard, and begin discussing a timeline for updating zoning regulations. The meeting also includes a report from the Two Rivers-Ottauquechee Regional Commission (TRORC) and setting the next meeting date.

• Interview prospective new committee members and forward recommendations to Selectboard
• Start looking at timeline for updating zoning regulations
• Frank’s TRORC report
• Approve minutes from February 15, 2024

Selectboard

The agenda for this meeting contains only a single item stating there is no agenda. Residents are directed to review the meeting minutes for any actions taken. No substantive business is listed for discussion or decision.

• No agenda items were provided for this meeting

Selectboard

The agenda for this meeting is not available. The public is directed to review the meeting minutes for any actions or discussions that occurred.

Recreation Committee

The Newbury Recreation Committee will meet to review previous minutes, discuss board positions, and review bylaws. The agenda includes updates on Little League and a basketball season wrap-up, as well as planning for community events such as Easter, a cornhole tournament, and a Valentine Dance. No specific votes or financial items are listed.

• Review of board positions
• Review of bylaws
• Little League discussion
• Basketball wrap-up
• Community events: Easter, cornhole, Valentine Dance

Tucker Mountain Town Forest Management Committee

The Tucker Mountain Town Forest Management Committee is discussing forest management projects including invasive honeysuckle eradication and new signage. Members will also address bog bridge materials, types, and costs. The meeting includes planning for spring trail maintenance and upcoming community service days.

• Bog Bridge type, materials, and cost discussion
• Invasive honeysuckle eradication project update
• New signage wood and style discussion
• Spring trail maintenance scheduling
• May community service day planning

Selectboard

The Newbury Selectboard will meet on March 13, 2024, to discuss old business including reorganization, and new business such as the Town Plan, ASP, and a pound contract. They will also consider a highway employment application, an ATV permit, and correspondence from residents. The agenda includes items on the Orange County Joint Selectboard on Law Enforcement and assistant treasurer bank account authorization.

• Highway employment application
• ATV permit
• Town Plan discussion
• Pound Contract
• Assistant treasurer bank account authorization

Selectboard

The Newbury Selectboard will meet on February 28, 2024, to discuss the Town Plan under policies and ordinances. The agenda also includes appointments for an authorized person, review of minutes, and other routine business. No specific votes or dollar amounts are listed.

• Start discussion of Town Plan
• Appointments for 'authorized person'
• Review of minutes from February 12, 2024

Selectboard

The Newbury Selectboard is meeting to discuss old and new business, including equipment, town buildings, policies, and personnel. New business includes VTbuys, Sullivan and Powers, an Aquatic Nuisance Control application, and authorized signatures for permits. The agenda is largely a list of topics without detailed proposals or decisions.

• VTbuys
• Sullivan and Powers
• Aquatic Nuisance Control application
• Authorized signature/person for permits (Overwt, ATV, drug/alcohol/property permits)

Selectboard

The Selectboard will discuss and review proposals for developing a new town website, receive an update on the Newbury Fire Station capital project, and convene management meetings for the Griswold Barn property and Newbury Common. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes and a tentative update from the Caledonia County Sheriff's Department.

• Review & discussion of web development proposals for town website
• Update on Newbury Fire Station capital project
• Convening management meeting for Griswold Barn property
• Convening follow-up meeting on Newbury Common management
• Caledonia County Sheriff's Department update (tentative)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will work on the Implementation Table and plan for a Selectboard hearing regarding the Town Plan. The agenda also includes a report from Frank's TRORC.

• Work on the Implementation Table
• Plan for the Selectboard Hearing for the Town Plan
• Frank’s TRORC Report

Selectboard

The Selectboard will address old business regarding the West Newbury Cemetery deed and a Declaration of Inclusion. New business includes requests for the use of the Town Common and Town House, as well as the appointment of a new Planning Committee member.

• Discussion of West Newbury Cemetery deed
• Request for High School reunion use of the Common
• Appointment of a new Planning Committee member
• Authorization for use of Town Common and Town House
• Grant discussion for Tucker Mtn

Selectboard

The Selectboard met in executive session to discuss personnel issues related to the Fire Department, Highway Department, and After School Program. They voted to appoint Wally Fischer as Chief of the West Newbury fire station and completed a questionnaire for a former employee's pending employer. No action was taken on the After School Program.

• Appointment of W. Fischer as Chief of the West Newbury fire station
• Completion of a questionnaire for a former employee's pending employer
• No action taken on the After School Program

Tucker Mountain Town Forest Management Committee

The committee will discuss forest management projects and upcoming seasonal activities. Members will prioritize specific tasks for 2024 and review bids for brush hogging and summit clearing.

• Introduction of new member Sarah Storer
• Discussion of invasive honeysuckle eradication project
• Discussion of Tucker Mountain Road maintenance and signage
• Prioritization of 2024 activities including trail work and bog bridges
• Review of bids for brush hogging and summit clearing

Recreation Committee

The Newbury Recreation Committee will meet to review previous minutes, receive a budget meeting update, and discuss several upcoming events and programs. Items include basketball updates and open gym time, baseball/softball updates and field use, the Valentine's Dance, the ice rink, and community events like cornhole and the egg hunt. The meeting is scheduled to adjourn with a bylaw review.

• Budget meeting update
• Basketball updates and open gym time
• Baseball/softball updates and field use
• Valentine's Dance
• Community events: cornhole and egg hunt

Planning Commission

The Newbury Planning Commission will meet to discuss and incorporate any changes to the Town Plan, then consider transmitting the revised plan to the Selectboard. The meeting will also include other business and setting the next meeting date.

• Discuss and incorporate changes to the Town Plan
• Consider transmitting the revised Town Plan to the Selectboard

Selectboard

The Newbury Selectboard convened an executive session under 1 V.S.A. 313 to discuss legal matters related to the Highway Department and personnel issues concerning the After School Program. The Highway Foreman and Selectboard Assistant joined for part of the session. After the closed meeting, the board voted to have the Highway Foreman and Assistant follow up with a local alarm/security company, and the Chair to contact P. Jewett. J. McKelvey will also call the OUUSD superintendent.

• Executive session held for legal reasons related to the Highway Department and personnel for the After School Program
• Highway Foreman and Selectboard Assistant invited to join the executive session
• Voted to have Highway Foreman and Assistant follow up with a local alarm/security company
• Chair to follow up with P. Jewett regarding a call she made
• J. McKelvey to call OUUSD superintendent Randy Gawel

Selectboard

The Newbury Selectboard will review minutes, correspondence, and old business, including a quit claim deed for a cemetery parcel. They will also discuss a highway garage burglary and vandalism, and participate in a Zoom meeting with Orange County Selectboards about law enforcement. The meeting includes an executive session for personnel matters.

• Quit claim deed for small parcel at West Newbury Cemetery
• Highway Garage burglary and vandalism discussion
• Zoom meeting with Orange County Selectboards on law enforcement
• Executive session for personnel

Selectboard

The Selectboard held a special meeting to review and sign the Warning for the Town Report for Town Meeting. The Warning was approved unanimously and the meeting adjourned after 10 minutes.

• Approved and signed the Warning for the Town Report for Town Meeting

Planning Commission

The Newbury Planning Commission will meet to discuss schools in the CD10 district and prepare for the Town Plan Phase 2 Revision Hearing scheduled for February 1, 2024. The agenda also includes meeting prospective new committee members and reviewing minutes from the previous meeting.

• Discussion of schools in CD10
• Planning for the Town Plan Phase 2 Revision Hearing on February 1, 2024
• Meet prospective new committee members
• Minutes from December 21, 2023

Selectboard

The Newbury Selectboard is holding its regular meeting with a mostly procedural agenda. Items include approving minutes, hearing public requests, and discussing old business about authority for J. McK. regarding the fire station, plus correspondence on law enforcement. No major decisions or proposals are detailed in the agenda.

• Discussion of authority for J. McK. regarding fire station
• Correspondence from John Freitag on law enforcement
• Public requests for agenda time from Rick Hausman and Sydney (TRORC)
• Approval of minutes from January 10 meeting

Tucker Mountain Town Forest Management Committee

The committee will review minutes from December, introduce a new candidate, and prioritize activities for 2024. Discussion topics include road maintenance, signage, and upcoming volunteer projects.

• Introduction of Committee Candidate Sarah Storer
• Discussion on Tucker Mountain Road Maintenance
• Prioritization of 2024 activities including Bog Bridges and Wetlands Trail
• Volunteer projects for Japanese Knotweed eradication and trail clearing
• April meeting with Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, Dept. of Fish and Wildlife

Selectboard

The Selectboard held an executive session to discuss personnel matters related to the Highway Department. After the session, the board authorized a pay increase for a winter fill-in member of the Highway Crew. Various budget items were discussed but no decisions were made.

• Executive session held for personnel reasons related to the Highway Dept.
• Pay increase authorized for winter fill-in member of Highway Crew
• Various budget items discussed; no decisions made

Selectboard

The Newbury Selectboard is meeting to handle old and new business, including personnel matters and contract approvals. The board will discuss resignations from the Recreation Committee and Highway Department, and consider contracts for Woodsville Ambulance and Stan Jackson. The agenda is mostly a list of topics with few details provided.

• Review of 12/20/23 meeting minutes
• Discussion of Rec Committee and Highway resignations
• Contracts for Woodsville Ambulance and Stan Jackson
• Roads and bridges/highway updates
• Financial orders review and signing

Recreation Committee

The Newbury Recreation Committee is meeting to review the budget and discuss several upcoming events including basketball, baseball, a Valentine's Dance, and the ice rink. They will also review previous minutes and conduct an end-of-year review.

• Budget review
• Discussion of Valentine's Dance
• Ice rink planning
• End-of-year review
• Officers and open positions