Bennington County public meetings in 2025

Select Board

The Bennington Select Board will meet to discuss the preferred alternative for the VT Route 7 Intersection Scoping Study. The board will also hold a final public hearing regarding Gage Street Recovery Housing and discuss YMCA management agreements.

• Endorsement of preferred alternative for VT Route 7 Intersection Scoping Study
• Final public hearing for Gage Street Recovery Housing - Cornerstone
• Renewal of YMCA Management Agreements

The Select Board endorsed the preferred alternative for the Vermont Route 7 Intersection Scoping Study, which includes three roundabouts, with Nancy White opposed. The board also extended YMCA management agreements for the Bennington Recreation Center and Senior Center for one year each, with Nancy White opposed. A final public hearing was held for the Gage Street Recovery Housing project, but no formal action was taken on it. The board approved the consent agenda, including minutes and warrants, with Sarah Perrin abstaining.

• Endorsed preferred alternative for Route 7 roundabout project (5-1, White opposed)
• Extended YMCA management agreement for Bennington Recreation Center for one year (5-1, White opposed)
• Extended YMCA management agreement for Bennington Senior Center for one year (5-1, White opposed)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes and warrants (Perrin abstained)

Select Board

The Bennington Select Board will meet to discuss a sand filter upgrade for the Waste Water Treatment Facility. The agenda also includes updates from the Bennington YMCA and the Bennington Youth Council.

• Waste Water Treatment Facility Sand Filter Upgrade
• Bennington YMCA Update
• Bennington Youth Council
• Grand List - Errors and Omissions

The Bennington Select Board met on December 8, 2025, and approved the consent agenda (including minutes, warrants, and a liquor license) with a minor correction, a lowered tax bill for a property on Southshire Drive, and a resolution changing the authorized official on an Initial Planning Grant. The board also heard presentations from the Bennington Youth Council, the YMCA, and on the wastewater treatment facility sand filter upgrade, but took no formal action on those items. An executive session on contracts and personnel was held with no action taken afterward.

• Approved consent agenda as amended (minutes, warrants, liquor license) (5-0, two absent)
• Approved lowered tax bill for Parcel 61501400, $59.57 adjustment (5-0, two absent)
• Approved resolution to change authorized official on Initial Planning Grant (5-0, two absent)
• Entered executive session on contracts and personnel (5-0, two absent)

Select Board

The Bennington Select Board will meet to discuss a scoping study for the VT Route 7 intersection involving VHB/VTRANS. The board will also receive a Police Department update and a Manager's report.

• VT Route 7 Intersection Scoping Study (VHB/VTRANS)
• Police Department Update
• Executive Session regarding contracts and personnel

The Bennington Select Board approved an employment agreement appointing Daniel Monks as Town Manager, with the motion carrying 5-1 (Nancy White opposed). The board also approved the consent agenda, heard a police department update, and discussed a VT Route 7 intersection scoping study but did not vote on it, deferring action to a future meeting.

• Approved Town Manager employment agreement for Daniel Monks (5-1)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes and warrants
• Deferred vote on VT Route 7 intersection scoping study options
• Entered executive session on contracts and personnel

Select Board

The Select Board will hear a presentation on the FY27 School Budget and hold a second public hearing to adopt the Proposed New Town Plan. The meeting also includes the appointment of a Town Clerk and an executive session for contracts and personnel.

• Second public hearing on Proposed New Town Plan
• FY27 School Budget presentation
• Appointment of Town Clerk
• Executive session for contracts and personnel
• Consent agenda: minutes, warrants, and licenses

The Bennington Select Board adopted the proposed new Town Plan with clarifications from Attachment #1, including text changes on pages 21 and 27 and map changes on several figures. The motion carried with Nancy White opposed. The board also appointed Kayla Thompson as Town Clerk, approved a $5,000 bonus post-election, and accepted dedication of three roads in the Maplewood subdivision as public highways.

• Adopted Town Plan with clarifications (6-1, White opposed)
• Appointed Kayla Thompson as Town Clerk at $78,000 base salary (unanimous)
• Approved $5,000 bonus for Town Clerk post-March 2026 election (unanimous)
• Accepted dedication of Duffy Drive, Jayne Lane, Hildur Hill as Class 3 highways (unanimous)
• Approved Letter of Attestation for $25,000 Downtown Vitality Grant to BBC (unanimous)
• Closed Franklin Lane on Nov 16 for Francis of Assisi Society event (unanimous, Haley recused)
• Approved minutes of Oct 22 and Oct 27 with amendments (unanimous, with abstentions on Oct 22)

Select Board Special Meeting

The Select Board will meet for a special session. The agenda consists of an executive session to discuss personnel and contracts.

• Executive session regarding personnel
• Executive session regarding contracts

Select Board

The Bennington Select Board will hold a public hearing on the proposed new town plan, which outlines future development and land-use policies for the town. The meeting also includes routine approvals, public comment, and a manager's report.

• Adoption of the Proposed New Town Plan (public hearing)
• Review of Grand List Errors and Omissions
• Manager's Report

The Bennington Select Board held its first public hearing on the proposed new Town Plan, hearing public comments and board discussion but took no vote on adoption. The board also approved a consent agenda, combined two tax parcels, and received the town manager's report, including changes to Senior Center hours. No final decision was made on the Town Plan at this meeting.

• Approved consent agenda including minutes, warrants, and liquor licenses (6-0, Perrin absent)
• Combined Truman Jr. and Jamie Southworth parcels 56511200 and 56511100 into single tax parcel (unanimous)
• Held first public hearing on proposed new Town Plan; no vote taken
• Entered executive session on contracts and personnel; no action taken

Special Meeting Listening Session

The Bennington Select Board is holding a special listening session to gather public input on downtown Bennington issues. This meeting is designed to be accessible, with accommodations available upon request.

• Downtown Bennington Discussion
• Public input session on downtown priorities

The Bennington Select Board held a listening session focused on the Bennington Downtown, hearing a presentation from the Southwestern Vermont Chamber of Commerce and public comments. No formal decisions, votes, or resolutions were made during the meeting, which was procedural in nature. Topics discussed included business challenges, vacant properties, tourism, and infrastructure.

• No formal decisions or votes taken during listening session
• Heard presentation from SVCC on downtown business climate
• Received public comments on vacant properties, tourism, and Main Street issues

Select Board

The Bennington Select Board will meet to review a presentation on vacant properties, discuss the town manager position, and consider water system loan applications. The agenda also includes routine items like approving minutes and public comment.

• Vacant Properties Presentation (6:55 PM - 7:45 PM)
• Town Manager Position discussion (6:40 PM - 6:55 PM)
• Water System Reimbursable Loan Applications (7:45 PM - 8:00 PM)
• Minutes of September 16 & 22, 2025 approval
• Community Policing Advisory Review Board Appointments

The Bennington Select Board voted to appoint Dan Monks as Town Manager, moving him from the acting role to the permanent position. The board also approved two fully reimbursable water system loan applications totaling $5,185,000, and made appointments to the Community Policing Advisory Review Board. Several other items were approved, including consent agenda items and a road closure for a community event.

• Appointed Dan Monks as Town Manager (motion carried, Nancy White abstaining, Tom Haley absent)
• Approved $5,000,000 loan application for Monument Avenue Extension water infrastructure
• Approved $185,000 loan application for water system feasibility study along Middle Pownal Road and lower East Road
• Appointed Scott Richmond and Lani DePonte-Disorda to the Community Policing Advisory Review Board (Nancy White abstaining)
• Approved minutes of September 16 and 22, 2025, with amendments to the September 22 minutes
• Approved warrants as presented
• Approved liquor license renewal for Haberdasher Wine & Provisions
• Approved closing Main Street and Gage Street for the UCS Superhero 5K and Kids' Dash on November 8, 2025

Select Board

The Bennington Select Board will review updates on Cornerstone Housing and a proposed new town plan at this meeting. The board will also hold a public hearing for the Squire House Recovery Residence Community Development Block Grant closeout and schedule public hearings for the new town plan.

• Cornerstone Housing Update
• Squire House Recovery Residence-Community Development Block Grant Closeout Hearing
• Proposed New Town Plan - Submittal to Select Board - Schedule Public Hearings
• Francis of Assisi Society for Animals - Stray Cats discussion
• Town Manager Position Update

The Bennington Select Board approved a $2,000 donation to the Francis of Assisi Society for Animals for stray cat spay/neuter efforts, with two members abstaining. The board also acknowledged receipt of the new Town Plan and scheduled two public hearings for October 27 and November 10, 2025. Road dedication for Maplewood Subdivision was accepted subject to paving and legal conditions. No other substantive decisions were made; remaining items were informational or procedural.

• Approved $2,000 donation to Francis of Assisi Society for Animals (4-0-2, with Adams and White abstaining)
• Acknowledged receipt of New Town Plan and scheduled public hearings for Oct 27 and Nov 10, 2025 (5-1, White opposed)
• Accepted Maplewood Subdivision road dedication subject to HOA paving and legal documents (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes and warrants (unanimous, Perrin absent)

Select Board Special Meeting

The Select Board will meet in executive session to discuss personnel. No other items are listed on the agenda.

• Executive session regarding personnel

The Select Board met, entered executive session, exited, and adjourned without taking any substantive public action. No decisions, approvals, or discussions were recorded in the open minutes.

• Entered executive session (unanimous)
• Exited executive session (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board received updates on the town’s lead service line replacement project and water system improvements, including a presentation on the South End water pressure project and proposed water line extensions to address PFAS contamination. Members also approved minutes and discussed public comment procedures.

• Lead service line replacement project nearing completion with ~300 of ~4,200 lines replaced using $11M state grant
• Proposed water line extensions to Southshire Drive to address PFOA contamination
• South End water pressure project discussed with engineering firm MSK
• Public comment procedures formalized for future meetings
• Minutes of August 21 and 25, 2025 approved with amendments

The Bennington Select Board approved the consent agenda, including minutes, warrants, and liquor licenses, with one abstention. The board received detailed presentations on the lead line replacement project, South End water pressure upgrades, and proposed water line extensions to address PFAS contamination, but took no formal action on these items. The meeting concluded with an executive session on personnel and contracts, with no action taken afterward.

• Approved minutes of August 21 and August 25, 2025, with amendments (Ed Woods abstaining)
• Approved warrants and liquor licenses as presented (unanimous)
• Entered executive session on personnel and contracts (unanimous)
• Exited executive session and adjourned (unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board will consider resolutions regarding the Bennington Battle Monument and opioid settlements. The meeting includes the ratification of an acting town manager and reviews of board vacancies.

• Bennington Battle Monument Resolution
• Opioid Settlements Update - Resolutions
• Ratification of Designation of Acting Town Manager
• Community Policing Advisory Review Board Vacancies
• Appointments to Boards and Commissions

The Select Board approved two opioid settlement resolutions expected to bring the town $85,389 over time, with funds restricted to opioid reduction efforts. The board also approved a resolution supporting the restoration of the Bennington Battle Monument. Appointments were made to three boards, and training requirements were temporarily waived for two Community Policing Advisory Review Board positions. Dan Monks was ratified as Acting Town Manager during Stuart Hurd's medical leave.

• Approved Bennington Battle Monument restoration resolution (unanimous, Ed Woods absent)
• Approved Purdue Pharma/Sackler opioid settlement resolution (unanimous, Ed Woods absent)
• Approved settlement with 8 opioid manufacturers (unanimous, Ed Woods absent)
• Appointed Megan Albert to Historic Preservation Commission (4-1, Nancy White opposed, Ed Woods absent)
• Appointed Bruce Lee-Clarke to Energy Committee (4-1, Nancy White opposed, Ed Woods absent)
• Appointed Scott Fox to Bennington Housing Authority (4-1, Nancy White opposed, Ed Woods absent)
• Waived CPARB Secretary training requirements for 1 year (unanimous, Ed Woods absent)
• Ratified Dan Monks as Acting Town Manager (unanimous, Ed Woods absent)

Special Meeting Listening Session

The Bennington Select Board is holding a listening session to discuss housing in Bennington. The body will review current conditions and ideas for increasing housing supply and improving affordability.

• Discussion on housing supply and affordability

The Bennington Select Board held a listening session focused on housing, hearing a presentation from Community Development Director Shannon Barsotti and public comments. The presentation outlined a municipal housing target of 200 homeowner units and 300 renter units over the next five years, citing workforce retention and affordability challenges. No formal votes or decisions were taken during the session, which was dedicated to public input and discussion.

• No formal votes or decisions taken; session was for public comment and discussion
• Heard housing presentation setting 5-year targets of 200 homeowner and 300 renter units
• Discussed ongoing housing projects including Benn High (39 units) and Energizer Property (up to 200 units)

Select Board Special Meeting

The Select Board is holding a special meeting to conduct interviews during an executive session. No other business items are listed on the agenda.

• Interviews in Executive Session

The Bennington County Select Board met in special session, unanimously adding personnel to the executive session agenda and entering executive session. No substantive decisions were made in open session; the board exited executive session and adjourned without other business.

• Added Personnel to Executive Session agenda (unanimous)
• Entered Executive Session (unanimous)
• Exited Executive Session (unanimous)
• Adjourned (unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board will meet to receive updates on the Multicultural Center, the Police Department, and the skatepark. The board will also review the Manager's Report and hold an executive session regarding personnel.

• Multicultural Center discussion
• Police Department update
• Skatepark update
• Executive session on personnel

The Bennington Select Board held a regular meeting with no substantive votes beyond approving the consent agenda (minutes and warrants). Presentations were given on the Multicultural Center, Police Department, and Skatepark, but no formal decisions were made on these items. The board also entered executive session on personnel, taking no action afterward.

• Approved July 21, 2025 minutes as amended (Sarah Perrin abstaining)
• Approved warrants and July 28, 2025 minutes as presented (Ed Woods abstaining)
• Entered executive session on personnel (unanimous, no action taken)

Select Board

The Select Board will meet to review minutes and warrants and discuss topics for the August 21 Listening Session. The meeting includes a Manager's Report and an Executive Session regarding pending litigation.

• Discussion of topics for August 21 Listening Session
• Executive Session regarding pending litigation

The Select Board approved a settlement in the Chinnici vs. Town of Bennington lawsuit, with funds not to exceed the deductible amount. The vote was 6-1, with Nancy White opposed. The board also approved amended minutes from June 3 and July 14, warrants, and liquor licenses, and added a proclamation for Purple Heart recipients.

• Ratified settlement in Chinnici vs. Town of Bennington, funds not to exceed deductible (6-1, White opposed)
• Approved June 3, 2025 minutes with amendment (Sullivan abstaining)
• Approved July 14, 2025 minutes, warrants, and liquor licenses (unanimous)
• Added agenda item for Governor's Proclamation on Purple Heart recipients (unanimous)

Select Board Special Meeting

The Bennington Select Board is holding a special meeting to conduct a public hearing. The session is focused on a specific case involving Ms. Tiffany Rounds.

• Public hearing regarding Vicious Dog/Ms. Tiffany Rounds

The Bennington Select Board conducted a quasi-judicial hearing to determine whether Tiffany Rounds' dog, Marvyn, should be declared vicious following a July 2, 2025 bite that seriously injured Elethea Whyte. Testimony detailed prior incidents in 2023 involving Marvyn and another dog, including attacks on a beagle and a person. The board heard arguments from both the animal control officer and the owner, then moved into deliberative session at 7:30 PM. No final decision was recorded in the minutes.

• Moved into deliberative session to decide Marvyn's fate (motion carried, Perrin absent)

Select Board

The Select Board will meet to establish municipal tax rates. The board will also discuss public art and the North Bennington Outdoor Sculpture Show (NBOSS).

• Setting of municipal tax rates
• Discussion of North Bennington Outdoor Sculpture Show (NBOSS) and public art
• Scheduling interviews for open positions on boards and commissions

The Select Board approved the FY26 municipal tax rates totaling $1.6107 per $100 of assessed value, a $0.0935 increase, with Nancy White opposed. The board also approved two equipment lease proposals totaling $688,609.79 and a road closure for the 802 Day festival. Several other items were discussed, including a vicious dog hearing and bridge projects.

• Approved FY26 tax rates: General $0.9838, Highway $0.5331, Fire $0.0938, total $1.6107 (6-1, White opposed)
• Approved TD Equipment Lease Proposal A for $442,422.79 (unanimous)
• Approved TD Equipment Lease Proposal B for $246,187.00 (unanimous)
• Approved Franklin Lane closure for 802 Day festival on Aug 2 (unanimous, Haley recused)
• Approved minutes of June 16, 23, 25 and July 2 meetings (various abstentions)
• Approved warrants as presented (unanimous)

Select Board Special Meeting

The Select Board will meet to address liquor licenses and an Open Meeting Law complaint. The agenda also includes two executive sessions for personnel and civil litigation matters.

• Liquor licenses
• Open Meeting Law complaint discussion
• Executive session regarding pending or probable civil litigation
• Executive session regarding personnel

The Bennington Select Board voted that no Open Meeting Law violation occurred in executive sessions discussing personnel appointments for boards and commissions, with Ed Woods abstaining. The board also unanimously approved liquor license renewals as presented. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included two executive sessions for litigation and personnel.

• Found no Open Meeting Law violation in executive sessions for personnel appointments (motion carried, Ed Woods abstaining)
• Approved liquor license renewals as presented (unanimous)

Special Meeting Listening Session

The Bennington Select Board is holding a special listening session. The meeting consists of a discussion regarding the future of the Bennington Battle Monument and an open discussion period.

• Future of the Bennington Battle Monument

The Bennington Select Board held a listening session focused on the future of the Bennington Battle Monument, hearing from state legislators and residents about the need for restoration. No formal decisions were made; the session was for gathering public input. The board discussed supporting a resolution on the ballot and making a formal statement to the state, but no votes were taken.

• No formal decisions made; listening session only
• Discussed potential resolution on ballot to support Monument restoration
• Discussed making formal statement to State on Monument restoration

Select Board

The Bennington Select Board will meet to receive updates on the Energy Committee, Community Café, and the Walloomsac Valley Pathway Extension. The board will also discuss the work plan and budget for the Better Bennington Corporation.

• Better Bennington Corporation work plan and budget
• Walloomsac Valley Pathway Extension update
• Energy Committee update
• Community Café update

The Select Board approved the Better Bennington Corporation's FY25-2026 work plan and projected budget of $100,646.00, a 3.5% increase over last year, with Nancy White absent. The board also approved the consent agenda, including minutes and warrants. No other formal votes were taken; other items were informational updates or discussions.

• Approved Better Bennington Corporation FY25-2026 work plan and budget of $100,646.00 (motion carried, Nancy White absent)
• Approved consent agenda including June 9, 2025 minutes and warrants (motion carried, Nancy White absent)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:03pm (motion carried, Nancy White absent)

Special Meeting - Budget Work Session

The Bennington Select Board is holding a special work session to discuss budgets. The meeting focuses specifically on the Water/Sewer Fund Budgets.

• Discussion of Water/Sewer Fund Budgets

The Select Board approved the FY2026 Water and Sewer Fund budgets and rates at a 2.35% increase, as moved by Sarah Perrin and seconded by Nancy White. The motion carried with Jackie Matts absent. The increase is lower than the originally proposed 3.5% water and 2.98% sewer increases. The meeting included a detailed presentation on water and sewer system projects and priorities.

• Approved FY2026 Water and Sewer budgets and rates at 2.35% increase (motion carried, Matts absent)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:58pm (motion carried, Matts absent)

Select Board

The Select Board will meet to review the Hazard Mitigation Plan and hear from the Alliance for Community Transformation. The board will also address appointments to boards and commissions and discuss contracts in executive session.

• Hazard Mitigation Plan presentation by Dara Zink
• Alliance for Community Transformation (ACT) discussion
• Appointments to Boards and Commissions
• Executive session regarding contracts

The Bennington Select Board approved appointments to several boards and commissions, including CPARB, Energy Commission, Development Review Board, Planning Commission, Housing Authority, and Bennington County Regional Commission, with a 5-1 vote (Nancy White opposed, Ed Woods abstaining). The board also approved Select Board liaisons unanimously, approved warrants, and entered executive session on contracts. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved appointments to boards and commissions (5-1, White opposed, Woods abstaining)
• Approved Select Board liaisons (unanimous)
• Approved warrants (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of May 19, 20, 21, 28, 30, and June 2, 2025 (various votes, some abstentions)
• Removed Energy Commission from agenda (unanimous)
• Approved June 16, 2025 special meeting for water/sewer budgets (unanimous)
• Entered executive session on contracts (unanimous)

Select Board Special Meeting

The Select Board is holding a special meeting to ratify a settlement agreement. The discussion focuses on the Apple Hill and Chelsea Solar projects.

• Ratification of settlement agreement regarding Apple Hill and Chelsea Solar projects

The Bennington Select Board voted 5-1 to ratify a settlement agreement regarding the Apple Hill and Chelsea Solar Projects, resolving ongoing litigation with the Malone family. The terms were not disclosed publicly before the vote, as required by law, and will be released to the press and posted on the town's website the next day. Public comment was not permitted prior to the vote, which drew objections from several citizens.

• Ratified settlement agreement for Apple Hill and Chelsea Solar Projects (5-1, White opposed)

Select Board Special Meeting

The Bennington Select Board is holding a special meeting to address the disbursement of funds for the Ben Hi (Benn High) project.

• Disbursement of funds for Ben Hi (Benn High) project

The Select Board voted 4-1 to disburse $1.6 million to Ben Hi Cornerstone, a non-profit entity, for remediation work at the Ben Hi building. The funds will be overseen by Hale Resources, the project manager and long-term lessee. The board also voted unanimously to add an executive session to discuss a litigation matter, and entered that session after the vote.

• Approved $1.6M disbursement to Ben Hi Cornerstone for remediation (4-1, N. White opposed)
• Added executive session to agenda for litigation discussion (unanimous)
• Entered executive session at 6:18 pm and adjourned at 7:29 pm

Select Board Special Meeting

The Select Board will meet for a special session. The agenda consists of a single item: an executive session for an interview.

• Executive session for an interview

The Select Board voted unanimously to enter executive session to discuss a personnel matter, citing that premature public knowledge would disadvantage the municipality. The board exited the session at 6:30 pm and adjourned with no other business. No substantive decisions were made in open session.

• Entered executive session for personnel matter (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 6:30 pm with no other business

Select Board Special Meeting

The Bennington Select Board will convene a special meeting to enter an executive session to discuss contract and litigation matters. No public business is scheduled for discussion or decision at this meeting.

The Bennington County Select Board met on May 28, 2025, and voted unanimously to enter executive session to discuss litigation and contracts, citing that premature public knowledge would disadvantage the municipality. The board reconvened at 6:30 pm and adjourned immediately with no other business. No substantive decisions were made in open session.

• Voted unanimously to enter executive session for litigation and contracts discussion

Select Board Special Meeting

The Bennington Select Board will meet in an executive session to conduct interviews. The meeting notice includes accessibility contact information but provides no details on the topics discussed.

The Select Board held a special meeting on May 21, 2025, and voted unanimously to enter executive session to discuss a personnel matter. The board reconvened at 8:00 pm and adjourned without taking any other action.

• Voted unanimously to enter executive session for personnel matter

Select Board Special Meeting

The Select Board is holding a special meeting to conduct interviews during an executive session. No other public business is listed on the agenda.

• Interviews in Executive Session

The Select Board met and voted unanimously to enter executive session to discuss a personnel matter, citing that premature public knowledge would place the municipality at a substantial disadvantage. The board exited executive session at 8:00 pm and adjourned with no other business. No substantive decisions were made.

• Voted unanimously to enter executive session for a personnel matter

Select Board

The Bennington Select Board will meet to discuss a Solid Waste Implementation Plan and the Walloomsac Valley Pathway Extension. The board will also consider a resolution affirming constitutional rights and an EMS Week proclamation.

• Solid Waste Implementation Plan
• Walloomsac Valley Pathway Extension
• Resolution Affirming Constitutional Rights
• EMS Week Proclamation

The Select Board adopted a resolution affirming the constitutional rights of all people in Bennington, including due process and equal protection, regardless of citizenship or immigration status. The vote was 5-2, with Sarah Perrin, Tom Haley, Jim Sullivan, Ed Woods, and Jackie Matts in favor, and Nancy White and Clark Adams opposed. The board also approved the 2025 Solid Waste Implementation Plan (6-1, Nancy White opposed) and the Walloomsac Valley Pathway Extension (6-1, Nancy White opposed).

• Adopted Resolution Affirming Constitutional Rights of All People in Bennington (5-2)
• Approved 2025 Solid Waste Implementation Plan (6-1, Nancy White opposed)
• Approved Walloomsac Valley Pathway Extension (6-1, Nancy White opposed)
• Approved Vendors Ordinance Variance for Neil Dumas' 8' x 18' trailer (unanimous)
• Approved EMS Week Proclamation (unanimous)
• Approved Consent Agenda with amended May 12, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Entered executive session for litigation (unanimous)

Select Board

The Bennington Select Board will hold a regular meeting with a consent agenda, public comment, and several discussion items. Key topics include a presentation from the Bennington County Regional Commission on the Walloomsac Valley Path Extension, an update from the Bennington Police Department, and a proposal from South Shire LLC regarding the Bennington Revolving Loan Program.

• Walloomsac Valley Path Extension presentation by Bennington County Regional Commission
• Bennington Police Department operational update
• South Shire LLC request under Bennington Revolving Loan Program
• Approval of minutes from April 28, 2025, and warrants

The Select Board approved a $35,000 Bennington Revolving Loan for Joseph Polito to fund interior and exterior painting and repairs at the South Shire Inn, a historic bed and breakfast. The board also approved a motion to install signs and markings for a Walloomsac Valley Path extension, but withdrew it to allow for more public input at the next meeting. A request to close part of Franklin Lane for a cat rescue event was approved, and Eric Hatch was appointed to the Southern Vermont Communications Union District Board.

• Approved $35,000 Revolving Loan for South Shire Inn repairs (motion carried, White abstained, Perrin absent)
• Approved Walloomsac Valley Path extension motion, then withdrew it for public comment at May 19 meeting
• Approved Franklin Lane closure for Francis of Assisi Cat Rescue event on May 23 (Haley recused)
• Approved appointment of Eric Hatch to Southern Vermont Communications Union District Board
• Approved Consent Agenda including warrants and liquor licenses (Perrin absent)

Select Board

The Bennington Select Board will meet to review the consent agenda and hear reports on local projects. The session includes discussions regarding a listening session and a manager's report. An executive session is scheduled to discuss a contract.

• Expedition to Ticonderoga
• Ninja Path Update
• Listening Session Discussion
• Executive Session regarding a contract

The Select Board voted to authorize town staff to proceed with completing the Ninja Path project, including bid alternates from Belden Construction at $74,000, contingent on feasibility. The board also elected Tom Haley as Chair after a revote, approved a street closure for Garlic Town 2025, and decided to hold listening sessions every other month for six months before reevaluating. The meeting adjourned to executive session for contract and personnel matters, with no action taken afterward.

• Authorized staff to proceed with Ninja Path completion including bid alternates at $74,000 (unanimous, Perrin recused)
• Elected Tom Haley as Chair with 7 votes
• Approved consent agenda with amendment to April 14 minutes
• Approved Depot Street closure for Garlic Town 2025 on Aug 30, 6am-6pm, and parking lot closure Aug 28-30 (unanimous)
• Rescinded quarterly listening sessions, approved every other month for 6 months then reevaluate (unanimous)
• Moved second May meeting to May 19, 2025 (unanimous)
• Entered executive session for contract and personnel (unanimous)

Select Board

The Bennington Select Board will discuss borrowing funds for PFAS contamination at the South End, hold a public hearing on affirming an emergency health order, and review the local emergency management plan. The meeting also includes routine consent agenda items and announcements of board and commission openings.

• PFAS Borrowing for South End (discussion and potential action)
• Public Hearing on Affirm Emergency Health Order
• Local Emergency Management Plan review
• Announcement of Boards and Commissions openings
• Consent agenda: minutes, warrants, licenses

The Bennington Select Board reorganized, electing Tom Haley as Chair and Jim Sullivan as Vice Chair by secret ballot after a contentious debate. The board approved the Local Emergency Management Plan, affirmed an Emergency Health Order for 544 Gore Road, and accepted a $662,757 forgivable loan for PFAS water line design. It also authorized acceptance of a $70,625 grant for a new loader and announced board openings.

• Elected Tom Haley as Chair (4-2-1) and Jim Sullivan as Vice Chair (5-2) by secret ballot
• Approved motion for secret ballot election of Chair and Vice Chair (4-3)
• Approved Consent Agenda minutes of March 24, 2025 (with abstentions)
• Approved warrants and liquor licenses as presented (Haley recused)
• Accepted Local Emergency Management Plan with changes (unanimous)
• Affirmed Emergency Health Order for 544 Gore Road (unanimous)
• Approved $662,757 forgivable loan for South End PFAS water lines (unanimous)
• Authorized acceptance of $70,625 Diesel Emission Reduction Grant (unanimous)

Select Board

The Bennington Select Board will discuss setting fees for electric vehicle charging stations and consider an annex to the Local Emergency Management Plan for cooling shelters. The board is also set to vote on a resolution accepting a Ben Hi Vermont Community Development Program Grant, adopt an Accounting, Auditing, and Financial Reporting Policy, and approve routine consent agenda items including minutes, warrants, and licenses. A public comment period is scheduled.

• Resolution to Accept Ben Hi Vermont Community Development Program Grant
• Discussion of EV Charger Fees
• Annex for Cooling Shelters to the Local Emergency Management Plan
• Accounting, Auditing, and Financial Reporting Policy adoption
• Proclamation for Career Month

The Select Board accepted a $1.25 million Vermont Community Development Program grant for the Benn High redevelopment, with Nancy White opposed. The board also approved fees for the town's two EV charging stations, adopted an accounting policy, and approved street closures for two events. A heat emergency annex was presented but not voted on.

• Accepted $1.25M grant for Benn High redevelopment (6-1, White opposed)
• Approved EV charging fees: $0.20/kWh, $2/hr idle after 2 hours (unanimous)
• Adopted Accounting, Auditing, and Financial Reporting Policy (unanimous)
• Approved Main Street closure for SOBERFEST on Sept 20, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved street closures for Queer Connect Pride Parade on June 14, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved Career Month proclamation for April 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda with corrections (unanimous)

Select Board

The Bennington Select Board will discuss a grant application for a pickleball project and receive an update on the sand filter. The meeting also includes public comment, a consent agenda for approving prior minutes and warrants, and an executive session for litigation.

• Consent agenda: approval of minutes from Feb 19, 21, 24, 27, 2025; warrants; and any licenses
• Discussion of sand filter update (6:25-6:55 PM)
• Pickleball grant application (6:55-7:10 PM)
• Executive session for litigation

The Select Board unanimously approved a Land and Water Conservation Fund grant application for $154,799 (50% of the $309,598 project) to build six new pickleball courts at Willow Park, with the town's match coming from Penny for Parks funds and in-kind work. The board also unanimously approved a $29,700 State Revolving Loan application for a sand filter study and authorized the Town Manager to sign related agreements. Road closures for 2025 events (Mayfest, Harvest Fest, Hemmings Cruise-Ins) were approved unanimously. The board entered executive session for litigation and took no further action.

• Approved LWCF grant application for $154,799 for six pickleball courts at Willow Park (unanimous)
• Approved Step I State Revolving Loan application for $29,700 for sand filter study (unanimous)
• Authorized Town Manager to sign Step I loan application and Engineering Services Agreement (unanimous)
• Approved road closures for Mayfest, Harvest Fest, and Hemmings Cruise-Ins (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of February 19, 21, 24, and 27, 2025 (with some abstentions and one opposed)
• Approved warrants and liquor licenses (unanimous)
• Entered executive session for litigation (unanimous)

Select Board Special Meeting

The Bennington Select Board is holding a special meeting to review two solar energy projects: Chelsea Solar and Apple Hill Solar. This is the only substantive item on the agenda; no other business is scheduled.

• Select Board review of Chelsea Solar project
• Select Board review of Apple Hill Solar project

The Bennington Select Board held a presentation-only hearing on the Chelsea Solar and Apple Hill Solar projects, with no votes or decisions made. The board reviewed project details, including site plans, screening, and environmental impacts, and heard public comments both supporting and opposing the projects. The meeting adjourned without taking any formal action.

• No action taken on Chelsea Solar or Apple Hill Solar projects (presentation only)
• Meeting adjourned at 6:36pm (motion carried)

Town Meeting

The annual Town Meeting heard reports and set Select Board compensation at $1,400 per member for FY2026. Voters will decide on a $17.89 million budget and seven charter amendments at the polls on March 4. The meeting was adjourned to allow for voting on ballot articles.

• Set Select Board compensation for FY2026 at $1,400 per member (voice vote)
• Waived reading of Articles 2-7 (charter amendments) unanimously
• Adjourned to March 4 for voting on budget and charter articles

Select Board Special Meeting

The Select Board will meet in executive session to receive legal advice. The discussion concerns pending or threatened litigation.

• Executive session regarding attorney/client communication on pending/threatened litigation

The Select Board met and unanimously voted to enter executive session for confidential attorney/client communication regarding pending or threatened litigation. No other business was conducted, and the meeting adjourned immediately after.

• Entered executive session for legal advice on pending litigation (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 4:13 pm (unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board will receive a presentation on the FY 24 audit and discuss policies regarding ethics and social service agency appropriations. The meeting includes a presentation from Habitat for Humanity and a review of all board-specific policies.

• FY 24 Audit Presentation
• Policy on Social Service Agency Appropriations
• Ethics Policy review
• Habitat for Humanity presentation
• Review of all policies specific to the Board

The Bennington Select Board approved the Municipal Code of Ethics Investigation and Enforcement of Alleged Violations Policy with an amendment requiring the Chairperson or designee to consult with two other board members when investigating elected or appointed officers. The board also accepted two policies on social service agency appropriations and readopted six policies, including those on tax sale property disposal, sidewalk cafes, department head hiring, zoning changes, local option tax, and displays/signs/art on public property. The board approved a street closure for the Home Brew Festival and entered executive session on contracts.

• Approved Municipal Code of Ethics policy with amendment (6-1, White opposed)
• Accepted Policy on Social Service Agency Appropriations (unanimous)
• Accepted Policy for Agency Appropriations Within the Budget (unanimous)
• Readopted Policy to Dispose of Properties Acquired at Tax Sale (unanimous)
• Readopted Policy on Sidewalk Cafe/Seating Licenses with 'his/her' change (unanimous)
• Readopted Town Manager's Policy on Process to Fill Department Head Positions (unanimous)
• Readopted Policy on Requests for Zoning Changes (unanimous)
• Readopted Policy on Local Option Tax Revenue Expenditures (unanimous)

Select Board Special Meeting

The Bennington Select Board is holding a special meeting to discuss a complaint regarding an alleged Open Meeting Law violation. The board will also enter executive session for confidential attorney-client communication about pending litigation.

• Discussion of Open Meeting Law Violation Complaint
• Executive session for legal advice on pending/threatened litigation

The Select Board unanimously voted that the Town did not violate the Open Meeting Law in response to a complaint by Allco Renewable Energy Limited. The Board also unanimously ratified the actions of Town staff and counsel to intervene in the Apple Hill Solar project at the Public Utilities Commission. Counsel clarified that the Town's appearance seeks clarification, not opposition, including whether the project can be resubmitted after a prior denial.

• Voted unanimously that the Town did not violate the Open Meeting Law
• Ratified unanimously the actions of Town staff and counsel to intervene in the Apple Hill Solar project

Special Meeting Listening Session

This is a special meeting of the Bennington Select Board dedicated to a listening session, providing an opportunity for residents to share their concerns and ideas. No formal decisions or proposals are on the agenda; the meeting is solely for public input.

• Listening session at Bennington Fire Facility, Multi-Purpose Room, 130 River Street

The Select Board conducted a listening session to hear public comments and answer questions. No substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting focused on updates regarding the budget, local infrastructure, and community projects.

• No substantive decisions were made during this listening session

Select Board

The Select Board will hold a public hearing on proposed charter amendments and discuss procedures for the social services ballot. Consent agenda items include minutes from January meetings, warrants, and licenses.

• Public hearing on proposed charter amendments
• Discussion of social services ballot procedure
• Approval of minutes from January 15, 22, 27, and 28, 2025
• Warrants and licenses approval

The Select Board held the second public hearing on proposed charter amendments, including non-citizen voting, youth voting, and police oversight changes. No amendments were approved or denied; they will go to voters on March 4. The board also approved a road closure for the Food Truck Festival and directed staff to draft a Social Services Ballot Policy.

• Closed public hearing on charter amendments; no action taken (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of Jan 15, 2025 with one abstention and one opposed
• Approved minutes of Jan 22, 2025 as amended (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of Jan 27, 2025 as presented (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of Jan 28, 2025 as amended with one opposed
• Approved warrants and liquor licenses (unanimous)
• Approved road closure for Food Truck Festival on Aug 16, 2025 (unanimous with one abstention)
• Directed staff to draft Social Services Ballot Policy by March 31, 2025 (unanimous)

Select Board Special Meeting

The Select Board will hold a public hearing on a corrective action plan for the property at 650 Main Street, known as Benn High. Following the hearing, the board will discuss and potentially act on a development agreement for the same site.

• Public hearing on corrective action plan for 650 Main Street (Benn High)
• Discussion of Benn High development agreement

The Select Board approved a lowered adjusted tax bill for a property on Southshire Drive and updated the authorized officials for an Initial Planning Grant. The board also received presentations regarding the Bennington Youth Council, YMCA operations, and a proposed $4.4M wastewater treatment facility upgrade.

• Approved Consent Agenda including November 24, 2025 minutes
• Approved lowered adjusted tax bill of $59.57 for Parcel 61501400 (245 Southshire Drive)
• Approved resolution changing Authorized Official on Initial Planning Grant to Town Manager Dan Monks
• Designated Tom Haley as Alternate Authorized Official and Shannon Barsotti as Grant Administrator for Initial Planning Grant

Select Board

The Bennington Select Board will hold a public hearing on proposed charter amendments, receive the Bennington Police Department quarterly report, review a CPARB resolution and purchasing policy, and approve the annual town meeting warning.

• Public hearing on proposed charter amendments
• Bennington Police Department quarterly report
• CPARB revised resolution
• Purchasing policy review
• Approve annual town meeting warning

The Select Board approved funding for new police consoles and updated the town's purchasing policy. The board also held a public hearing on proposed charter amendments and approved the 2025 Annual Town Meeting Warning.

• Approved $233,000 from police reserve accounts for communication system consoles (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 Annual Town Meeting Warning (unanimous)
• Accepted revised Community Policing Advisory Review Board Resolution (unanimous)
• Accepted updated Purchasing Policy including new authorized agents (unanimous)
• Recommended Bridget Gallant as Health Officer and Paul Dansereau as Deputy Health Officer (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from January 2, 6, 11, and 13, 2025
• Approved Warrants and Licenses (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing on proposed charter amendments (unanimous)

Special Meeting Listening Session

The Bennington Select Board is holding a listening session to hear from the public. No decisions or proposals are on the agenda; the meeting is solely for gathering community input.

• Listening session for public comment

The Select Board conducted a listening session to hear public concerns and questions. No substantive policy decisions were made during the meeting. The board provided information on upcoming meetings and town processes.

Select Board Special Meeting

The Bennington Select Board is meeting for a special session with only one agenda item: an executive session to discuss contracts. No public decisions or votes are scheduled on the agenda.

• Executive session to discuss contracts

The Select Board met for a special session and voted unanimously to enter executive session to discuss contracts. No other business was conducted.

• Voted unanimously to enter executive session for a matter involving contracts

Select Board

The Bennington Select Board will consider several items including a flood plain restoration project at the Woodford Packers Site, proposed changes to the Community Policing Advisory Review Board resolution, a purchasing policy review, and adoption of a municipal code of ethics policy. The meeting also includes consent agenda items, public comment, and a manager's report.

• Flood Plain Restoration Project at Woodford Packers Site with BCRC
• Proposed changes to the Resolution for Community Policing Advisory Review Board
• Purchasing Policy Review
• Adoption of Municipal Code of Ethics Policy
• Executive Session on litigation

The Select Board approved the consent agenda, which included minutes from December 9, 16, 2024, and January 2, 4, 2025, as well as warrants and liquor licenses. The board also voted to add the finalization of the budget to the meeting agenda.

• Added 'Finalizing the Budget' to the agenda
• Approved Consent Agenda including minutes, warrants, and liquor licenses

Special Meeting - Budget Work Session

The Bennington Select Board is holding a work session to discuss and finalize the FY2026 budget. The agenda includes presentations from the Bennington Free Library, John G. McCullough Free Library, Bennington Rescue Squad, Lake Paran Recreation, North Bennington Recreation, and the Bennington County Regional Commission. The board will also follow up on the January 4th budget meeting and hold an executive session on personnel before finalizing the budget.

• Bennington Free Library budget presentation (8:00-8:30 AM)
• John G. McCullough Free Library budget presentation (8:30-9:00 AM)
• Bennington Rescue Squad budget presentation (9:00-9:30 AM)
• Lake Paran Recreation budget presentation (9:30-10:00 AM)
• Executive session on personnel (11:15-11:30 AM)

The Select Board approved a $2,000 funding increase for the John G. McCullough Free Library and added $3,500 to the Police Budget for CPARB training. The Board denied a $2,700 funding request from Lake Paran Recreation and approved several reserve fund relocations. A requested $18,000 increase for the Bennington Rescue Squad was tabled pending further clarification.

• Approved $2,000 funding increase for John G. McCullough Free Library to $50,000
• Denied $2,700 funding request for Lake Paran Recreation
• Approved $3,500 addition to Police Budget for CPARB Training
• Approved relocation of recommended Reserve Funds
• Denied additional administrative or financial burdens on the elder community for Senior Center use
• Approved 2.5% salary increase for Town Manager to $131,672.53
• Approved 2.5% salary increase for Town Clerk to $102,954.08
• Approved 5.0% salary increase for Treasurer to $18,680.55

Select Board Special Meeting

The Bennington Select Board is holding a special meeting with a single public hearing item: a vicious dog complaint involving Mr. Asher Maduro. No other business is scheduled.

• Public hearing on vicious dog complaint regarding Mr. Asher Maduro

The Select Board conducted a quasi-judicial hearing regarding a dog named Zeus that was reported to have bitten four individuals. The Board heard testimony from animal control, health officers, victims, and the dog owner. No final decision was made during the meeting; the Board entered a deliberative session to determine a written outcome.

• Closed public hearing and entered Deliberative Session (carried)

Special Meeting - Budget Work Session

The Bennington Select Board is meeting for a budget work session to review the FY2026 budgets of the Fire, Police, and Highway departments, and to address other budget questions. No votes or decisions are scheduled; this is a discussion-only session.

• Discussion of Bennington Fire Department FY2026 budget
• Discussion of Bennington Police Department FY2026 budget
• Discussion of Bennington Highway Department FY2026 budget
• Other budget questions open for discussion

The Select Board held a work session to review the FY2026 budget, which shows a combined 5.48% increase across General, Highway, Fire, and Parking funds. No formal votes were taken; the session was informational, with department heads presenting their proposed budgets and answering board and public questions. The board discussed specific items such as police vehicle purchases, a new clinician position, and highway bridge projects, but no decisions were made.

• No formal decisions made; work session only
• FY26 budget increase of 5.48% presented
• Fire Fund budget increase of 0.34% presented
• Police budget increase of 4.7% presented
• Highway budget increase of 7.9% presented
• Discussion on adding police analyst position at $54,080
• Discussion on adding full-time clinician at $100,000
• Discussion on purchasing 2 police SUVs for $133,700

Select Board Special Meeting

This is a special meeting of the Bennington Select Board with only one agenda item: an executive session regarding personnel matters. No public decisions or discussions are scheduled.

• Executive session for personnel matters

The Board discussed whether the existing Social Media Policy applies to personal accounts of elected officials. They agreed to have the Chair contact VLCT for legal clarification on appropriate posting practices. The Board also held an executive session regarding a personnel matter.

• Amended agenda to include Social Media Policy Discussion
• Agreed to seek legal clarification from VLCT regarding social media posts
• Voted unanimously to enter executive session for a personnel matter