Hartford public meetings in 2021

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard is meeting to consider adding an exception to the town's face covering rule. The only substantive item on the agenda is a motion regarding this exception; the rest of the meeting is procedural.

• Consideration of additional exception to Hartford Face Covering Rule (motion)

The Hartford Selectboard held an emergency meeting on December 17, 2021, and voted 5-1 to add an exception to the Hartford Face Covering Rule. Under the exception, masks are not required in parts of a theater or athletic arena where performers, exercisers, or players are separated from the public or audience by space, a physical barrier, or a ventilation system. Member Collins cast the lone no vote. The meeting adjourned at 6:21 PM.

• Approved an additional exception to the Hartford Face Covering Rule for performers, exercisers, or players separated from the public by space, a barrier, or ventilation (5-1, Collins opposed)
• Adjourned the meeting at 6:21 PM (all in favor)

Energy Commission

The Hartford Energy Commission is meeting to review and approve past meeting minutes, discuss participation options, and receive updates on the Window Dressers program and the Climate Action Plan (CAP). They will also consider re-establishing subcommittees or working groups to focus on specific initiatives.

• Review and approve draft minutes from past meetings
• Discussion on full-time HEC participation vs. volunteer
• Window Dressers plan update; first dedicated meeting on 1/6/22
• CAP update on Building and Energy, Transportation and Land Use
• Proposal to bring back subcommittees/working groups

The Hartford Energy Commission reestablished three subcommittees focused on building integrity, transportation, and land use. Members also discussed updates regarding the Window Dressers program and the town's Climate Action Plan.

• Reestablished Building Integrity and Energy Efficiency subcommittee
• Reestablished Transportation subcommittee
• Reestablished Energy and Land Use subcommittee

White River Junction Design Review Committee

The Hartford Design Review Committee will meet to consider two design review applications. These include a proposal for an outside theater and improvements to a municipal parking facility.

• Northern Stage application for an outside theater at 76 Gates Street
• Town of Hartford application for improvements to South Main Street municipal parking facility
• Approval of September 30, 2021, meeting minutes

The Hartford Design Review Committee approved a permanent outdoor theater application for Northern Stage at 76 Gates Street. The committee also approved a design review application for improvements to a municipal parking facility on South Main Street. Additionally, the committee approved minutes from the September 30, 2021, meeting.

• Approved Northern Stage permanent outdoor theater application (unanimous)
• Approved Town of Hartford municipal parking facility improvements (unanimous)
• Approved September 30, 2021, meeting minutes (4-0-1)

West Hartford Library Trustees

The West Hartford Library Board is meeting for its regular monthly session. The agenda consists of standard procedural items including reports from the secretary, treasurer, and director, along with old and new business. No specific actions or decisions are listed.

• Secretary's Report
• Treasurer's Report
• Director's Report
• Old Business
• New Business

The Board of Trustees approved closing the library between Christmas and New Year's Day and authorized the library director to switch to curbside-only service in January if needed. Trustees also approved funding for a new library website and a holiday bonus for the director. A discussion regarding administrative scheduling was tabled until the next meeting.

• Approved November 2021 meeting minutes
• Approved $200 for new library website subscription
• Approved library closure between Christmas and New Year's Day
• Authorized director to switch to curbside-only service starting 1/2/2022
• Approved $300 holiday bonus for the library director
• Tabled discussion on administrative scheduling

Historic Preservation Commission

The Hartford Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to approve minutes from November 17 and 24, review its official charge, and make announcements. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Review of the HHPC's Charge
• Approval of minutes from November 17 and 24 meetings
• Hybrid public meeting script
• Next meeting scheduled for January 19

The Historic Preservation Commission approved the minutes of its November 17 and November 24 meetings as written. Members agreed to have the commission review new Planning Commission applications that could affect historic resources, with staff to coordinate with the Zoning Administrator. The commission also agreed to go in person to a Planning Commission meeting to discuss its charge. No other substantive decisions were made; the rest of the meeting covered announcements and scheduling.

• Approved November 17 and November 24 meeting minutes as written (unanimous)
• Agreed to include the HHPC in review of new applications with potential to impact historic resources; staff to coordinate with Zoning Administrator Jo-Ann Ells
• Agreed to attend a Planning Commission meeting in person to discuss the HHPC charge
• Adjourned at 5:50 p.m. (motion by Robin Adair Logan, seconded by Pat Stark, approved)

Tree Board

The Hartford Tree Board will review minutes from November and discuss several business items, including a possible new member, advertising for the Tree Warden position, and updates on grants and tree identification. They will also address the emerald ash borer found in Veteran's Park and consider treatment options for ash trees at Hartford High School. The board will plan for 2022, including electing officers and scheduling meetings.

• Possible new member Meg Riege
• Advertising for Tree Warden position
• Emerald ash borer found in Veteran's Park; treatment options for ash trees at HHS
• Quechee Green tree replacement status
• Election of officers for 2022

The Hartford Tree Board approved its November 16, 2021 minutes unanimously and elected officers for 2022: Jeff Arnold as Chair, Karen Watson as Vice-Chair, David Barrell as treasurer, and Clare Forseth as secretary, all by unanimous vote. The Board set its 2022 schedule: every third Tuesday at 5 pm at Town Hall, except December, when it will meet the second Tuesday at 5 pm. Much of the meeting was discussion and follow-up planning — advertising the open Tree Warden position, responding to the emerald ash borer (EAB) finding in White River Junction, replacing trees on the Quechee Green, and a proposed '2022, The Year of the Tree' proclamation — with no other formal votes recorded.

• Approved November 16, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Elected Jeff Arnold Chair for 2022 (unanimous)
• Elected Karen Watson Vice-Chair for 2022 (unanimous)
• Elected David Barrell treasurer for 2022 (unanimous)
• Elected Clare Forseth secretary for 2022 (unanimous)
• Set 2022 meetings: third Tuesday at 5 pm at Town Hall, except December (second Tuesday, 5 pm)
• Decided to invite area forestry experts to discuss steps after the EAB finding in White River Junction (no vote recorded)

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will vote on the final FY2023 budget, a decision on Gates Street, a tree warden appointment, VCDP policies, and a mask mandate. The budget, if approved, would raise taxes by $495,315 and set a tax rate of 1.0562. The meeting also includes appointments to the Energy Commission and Town and School District Committee, plus a consent agenda for payroll, minutes, and warrants.

• Final FY2023 general fund budget of $19,039,964.40, with $14,919,637.40 raised by taxes
• Gates Street decision motion
• Mask mandate motion
• Appointment of Jesse Pollard to Hartford Energy Commission (3-year term)
• Appointment of Nikki Boyle to Town and School District Committee (2-year term)

The Hartford Selectboard approved the fiscal year 2023 general fund budget of $19,054,743.67, with $14,934,416.67 to be raised by taxes, on a 5-2 vote (Brown and Collins opposed). The board also approved five other FY2023 enterprise fund budgets (solid waste, White River Water, Quechee Water, White River Wastewater, Quechee Wastewater), all unanimously. In other decisions, the board directed the Public Works Director to proceed with a one-way downhill design for Gates Street (5-2, Hoyt and Collins opposed), adopted a mask mandate without an enforcement clause (6-1, Collins opposed), and approved Tree Warden budget and honorarium increases. Two appointments were made: Jesse Pollard to the Hartford Energy Commission and Nikki Boyle to the Town and School District Committee.

• Approved FY2023 general fund budget of $19,054,743.67 (5-2, Brown & Collins opposed)
• Approved FY2023 solid waste fund budget of $930,398.07 (unanimous)
• Approved FY2023 White River Water Fund budget of $1,169,821.30 (unanimous)
• Approved FY2023 Quechee Water Fund budget of $470,288.51 (unanimous)
• Approved FY2023 White River Wastewater Fund budget of $1,786,126.21 (unanimous)
• Approved FY2023 Quechee Wastewater Fund budget of $1,160,499.50 (unanimous)
• Directed Public Works Director to proceed with one-way downhill design for Gates Street (5-2, Hoyt & Collins opposed)
• Adopted mask mandate without enforcement clause (6-1, Collins opposed)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Hartford Parks and Recreation Commission will review community survey questions regarding the Community Center and receive updates on the pool project. The meeting also includes approval of the 2022 meeting calendar.

• Community Center review and survey questions
• Pool Project updates
• 2022 Meeting Calendar approval

The commission approved the minutes from the November meeting. Members also discussed potential community center projects and received updates on the ongoing pool construction project.

• Approved November meeting minutes

Inactive Boards

The Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter (HADCES) is meeting to review previous minutes and discuss encampment policy models from Oakland, Montpelier, and Burlington. The committee will also receive updates on RV policy planning and review its update for the Town’s Annual Report.

• Review of encampment policies from Oakland, Montpelier, and Burlington
• Updates on RV policy planning commission workshop
• Review of HADCES update for the Town’s Annual Report

The committee discussed the legality of unhoused individuals sleeping in public spaces and the need for coordination with other town committees. No final policy decisions were made, and members agreed to clarify the proposal at the next meeting.

• Approved minutes of 11/18/21

Inactive Boards

The Climate Action Steering Team met to discuss its constitution, purpose, and goals. Members also addressed the allocation of responsibilities and integration with the VECAN Plan.

• Discussion of Constitution & Purpose
• Review of Goals & Strategies
• Integration with VECAN Plan
• Allocation of Responsibilities

The Hartford Climate Action Steering Team approved minutes from its November 23, 2021 meeting, revised its Statement of Purpose and Constitution, and assigned members to review different sectors of the Climate Action Plan. The committee also agreed to use Google docs for organizing committee work and tasked Dana with drafting a report for the Selectboard.

• Approved minutes of the November 23, 2021 meeting
• Agreed to set up a Google docs page and folder structure for committee work
• Revised the wording of the Statement of Purpose
• Updated the last section of the Constitution regarding delegates
• Decided to review Climate Action Plan sectors and bring priority items to the next meeting
• Tasked Dana with drafting the report to be presented to the Selectboard

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Selectboard reviewed and voted on several budget items for the FY23 fiscal year. This included selecting a budget option that utilizes unassigned funds and approving funding for parking meters.

• Approved FY23 budget with a 5.17% property tax increase, costing $110.50 more on a $250,000 house
• Allocated $1,216,194 from the unassigned fund to support the FY23 budget
• Increased Selectboard training budget from $3,500 to $9,000
• Approved up to $200,000 in the budget for parking meters

The Hartford Selectboard approved a FY23 budget that allocates $1,216,194 from the unassigned fund and raises property taxes 5.17% over FY22, which the minutes describe as a $110.50 increase on a $250,000 house. Members also voted to raise Selectboard training funding from $3,500 to $9,000 and to add up to $200,000 for parking meters. The meeting adjourned at 9:00 P.M.

• Approved FY23 budget using newer proposal, allocating $1,216,194 from unassigned fund for 5.17% property tax increase (5-2)
• Approved increasing Selectboard training from $3,500 to $9,000 (5-2)
• Approved adding up to $200,000 to budget for parking meters after friendly amendment raised it from $175,000 (6-1)
• Adjourned Selectboard meeting at 9:00 P.M. (all in favor)

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

This is the 2021 annual report of the Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion (HCOREI), summarizing the committee's activities over the past year. It notes the adoption of an updated charge, new members, a new chair, and the formation of four working groups. The report is informational and does not include specific decisions or proposals for the upcoming meeting.

• Adopted an update to the committee's charge
• Welcomed new members Ally Tufenkjian and Havah Walther; John Hall elected chair
• One open seat on the committee
• Co-hosted Juneteenth event and tabled at Hartford Community Coalition Block Party
• Policy working group prepared a recommendation for the selectboard on policy management

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on four applications: a sketch plan for a multi-family dwelling and shelter/day use facility by Saint Paul's Episcopal Church, The Haven, and Twin Pines Housing Trust; a lot line adjustment on Wildlife Road; a demolition of two structures on Gates Street; and a subdivision amendment to remove a sprinkler requirement on Bliss Road. Administrative matters include minutes, permits, and public comment.

• Sketch plan for multi-family dwelling and shelter/day use facility on Hartford Avenue, White River Junction
• Lot line adjustment between 1469 and 1481 Wildlife Road (Application #21-12)
• Demolition of two structures at 160 Gates Street, White River Junction (Application #21-11, continued)
• Subdivision amendment to remove sprinkler system requirement on Bliss Road (Application #21-13)
• Public hearing begins at 6:30 p.m. at Hartford Town Hall

The Planning Commission approved Application #21-11 to demolish two structures at 160 Gates Street in White River Junction, with John H. and Robin Adair voting no. It also approved a lot line adjustment at 1469 and 1481 Wildlife Road and granted a waiver removing a required sprinkler system for a new dwelling on Bliss Road by a 4-3 vote. A sketch plan presentation for a proposed Haven/Twin Pines/St. Paul's Episcopal Church project with 18 one-bedroom units received informal, non-binding comments only.

• Approved demolition of two structures at 160 Gates Street, White River Junction (5-2; John H. and Robin Adair voted no)
• Approved lot line adjustment between 1469 and 1481 Wildlife Road, with an addition to the Findings of Fact (unanimous)
• Approved waiver removing the sprinkler system requirement for a new dwelling on Bliss Road (4-3)
• Approved November 1, 2021 minutes with two corrections (unanimous)
• Received sketch plan presentation for a proposed Haven/Twin Pines/St. Paul's Episcopal Church project; informal, non-binding comments only, no decision
• Noted an administrative permit issued to VERMOD to relocate a model dwelling unit
• Scheduled next Public Hearing for January 10, 2022

Conservation Commission

The Hartford Conservation Commission is meeting to discuss and decide on several items, including a timber harvest, a formal relationship with the Upper Valley Mountain Bike Association, and a recreation plan for the Town Forest. They will also review a private landowner conservation outreach effort and consider designating 2022 as the 'Year of the Tree'. The agenda includes routine items like approving minutes and setting the 2022 meeting schedule.

• Timber harvest in Town Forest
• Formal relationship with Upper Valley Mountain Bike Association
• Town Forest Recreation Plan adopted by Selectboard on 11/2
• Maanawaka Conservation Area posting
• Designation of 2022 as 'Year of the Tree'

The Commission unanimously endorsed the Tree Board's proposal to make 2022 "The Year of the Tree" and accepted the 2022 meeting schedule. Members also agreed to hold a community meeting and tour in January regarding the Town Forest timber harvest.

• Endorsed Tree Board proposal to make 2022 "The Year of the Tree" (unanimous)
• Accepted 2022 Conservation Commission meeting schedule
• Approved November 1, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Agreed to hold hybrid community meeting and walking tour on timber harvest in January

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion will vote on a student liaison membership change and the annual town report, and will discuss feedback on the revised Strategic Equity Plan timeline. The agenda also includes discussion of a school district welcoming packet and new business.

• Motion to recommend student liaison membership change to charge
• Motion on annual town report
• Feedback on revised Strategic Equity Plan timeline
• Discussion of school district welcoming packet

The Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion approved the draft for the Annual Town Report. Members discussed the Strategic Equity Plan timeline and the creation of a school district welcoming packet for new families.

• Approved 11/17/21 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved and submitted draft for Annual Town Report (unanimous)

Hartford Business Revolving Loan Fund

The Hartford Business Revolving Loan Fund and Hartford 2020 VCDP Revolving Loan Fund Committee is meeting to approve minutes, enter executive session to review the October 2021 loan summary and potential loans, then vote on any actions. They will also discuss loan purposes and objectives, marketing, and set the 2022 meeting schedule.

• Approval of September 1, 2021 meeting minutes
• Executive session to review October 2021 loan summary report
• Update on potential loans
• Discussion of loan purposes and objectives for HBRLF and VCDP RLF
• 2022 meeting schedule

The Hartford Business Revolving Loan Fund Committee approved the minutes from its September 1, 2021 meeting, entered executive session to review a confidential loan summary report with no actions taken, discussed loan guidelines and marketing materials, and approved its 2022 meeting schedule with the March meeting moved to March 9.

• Approved minutes from the September 1, 2021 special meeting (unanimous)
• Entered Executive Session to review October 2021 Loan Summary Report and potential loan applications (no actions taken)
• Approved 2022 meeting schedule with the March meeting moved to March 9th (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting at 9:25 a.m. (unanimous)

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Selectboard will consider motions regarding solid waste consulting, debris removal, and a historic preservation grant. The meeting also includes information updates on cannabis regulations, the town cemetery, and COVID-19 masking.

• Motion to approve a $9,121 Certified Local Government historic preservation grant
• Motion to accept Sanborn Head as the most qualified firm for solid waste services
• Motion regarding construction and demolition debris removal contracts
• Motion regarding COVID-19 vaccine and masking policies
• Information update on cannabis regulations from TRORC

The Selectboard approved a construction debris removal contract and selected a firm for solid waste consulting. The board also authorized a historic preservation grant application but voted against requiring face coverings in public buildings.

• Approved submission of 2022 Certified Local Government Program grant application (Unanimous)
• Selected Sanborn Head for Solid Waste Consulting, Engineering, and Environmental Monitoring Services (6-1)
• Awarded contract to United Construction Corporation for debris removal up to $77,800 (Unanimous)
• Rejected motion to require face coverings inside public buildings (2-5)
• Approved consent agenda including payroll and manifests (Unanimous)
• Tabled Tree Warden budget increase until December 7 meeting

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission will hold a workshop to discuss amending the Zoning Regulations to allow Recreational Vehicles to be used as sleeping quarters. The meeting is scheduled for November 29, 2021, at 6:00 p.m. at Hartford Town Hall, 171 Bridge Street, White River Junction, Vermont.

• Workshop to discuss amending Zoning Regulations to allow Recreational Vehicles as sleeping quarters

The Hartford Planning Commission held a public hearing and workshop on November 29, 2021, to informally discuss amending the Zoning Regulations to allow recreational vehicles (RVs) to be used as sleeping quarters for more than 14 days per year. Staff presented a November 18, 2021 memo and an October 6, 2021 letter from Fire Marshal Tom Peltier. Commissioners and the public discussed safety, definitions, permits, and potential impacts, but no decision or vote was recorded. Staff and the ad hoc group will regroup and schedule another workshop.

• No vote or formal decision recorded; meeting was an informal workshop discussion
• Staff and ad hoc group to regroup and schedule another workshop

Historic Preservation Commission

The Hartford Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to approve minutes, discuss a 2022 Certified Local Government (CLG) grant application, and review its advisory role to the Planning Commission. The meeting is open to the public in person or remotely.

• 2022 CLG Grant Application
• Procedural review of HHPC advisory role to Planning Commission
• Approval of September 15th meeting minutes

The commission approved increasing the local match for the 2022 CLG Grant application from 40% to 51.5% to improve competitiveness. Members also discussed increasing coordination and advisory input between the HHPC and the Planning Commission.

• Approved minutes of September 15, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Agreed to increase 2022 CLG Grant local match from 40% to 51.5%
• Agreed to seek more coordination between HHPC and Planning Commission
• Agreed to have staff inquire how other Vermont CLGs handle Planning Commission applications
• Agreed to have staff discuss including HHPC in application reviews with Zoning Administrator Jo-Ann Ells
• Agreed to review the HHPC charge

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard is holding a special budget meeting to review the proposed FY2023 budget, with presentations from the Department of Public Works on highway, water, wastewater, and solid waste funds, and a separate presentation on parking meters. The board is also considering approval of the second half of a liquor license for the American Legion. No votes are scheduled on the budget, which is for information only.

• Highway budget proposed at $3,180,878.69, up $442,448.69 from FY2022
• Proposed addition of two highway equipment operators and two seasonal maintenance staff
• Quechee Main Street culvert project: $300,000 in FY2023, total estimated $600,000, requesting $100,000 additional
• Parking meter equipment estimated at $200,000, with no current funding source
• Liquor license approval for Hartford Post 26, American Legion Inc., 27 Farmvu, White River Junction

The Hartford Selectboard approved the second half of a third-class liquor license for Hartford Post 26, American Legion Inc. The board also received presentations on the Public Works and Enterprise Funds budget and reached a consensus allowing the Town Manager to gather more information regarding parking meters in downtown White River Junction.

• Approved second half of third-class liquor license for Hartford Post 26, American Legion Inc. (5-1-1)
• Consensus reached for Town Manager to gather more info on downtown WRJ parking meters

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Climate Action Steering Committee (CAST) met to establish its internal structure and meeting objectives. The committee discussed leadership roles, including team and sector leads, and outlined a timeline for a Year 1 Implementation Plan due in February 2022.

• Discussion of CAST leadership structure including Team Lead and Sector Leads
• Establishment of Year 1 Implementation Plan deadline for February 2022
• Planning of CAST meeting schedule through February

The Climate Action Steering Team met on 11/23/21 to organize itself for implementing the Hartford Climate Action Plan, which the Selectboard adopted on August 24, 2021 and backed with a resolution on September 7, 2021. Members reviewed a draft purpose statement and agreed on sector leads, but the minutes record no votes, budget approvals, or formal motions. The group adjourned at 7:05 and planned to schedule another meeting via a poll.

• John Reid agreed to serve as Team lead (agenda-setting and meeting facilitation)
• Molly Smith and Ashton Todd agreed to lead Building and Transportation sectors
• Carolyn Hooper Goetinck, Laura Simon, and Lee Michaelides agreed to lead Food and Greenspace sectors
• Dana Clawson asked to revise the purpose statement to specify 7 team members and that the team exists throughout CAP implementation
• No funding, budget, or formal motions were decided at this meeting

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Hartford Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to discuss routine business, including approval of previous minutes and a director's report. They will receive updates on the Community Center and Pool projects, and review the community survey results. No new business is listed.

• Community Center updates
• Pool project updates
• Community survey review

The Hartford Parks and Recreation Commission met on November 18, 2021, approved the September 9 minutes, and received updates on the pool project, WABA, and a future community center. The Commission agreed to review a community survey on a community center at its next meeting. No substantive decisions beyond approving prior minutes and setting future agenda items were recorded. The pool project continues but may face a delay in its spring finish due to late delivery of tanks and pool lining.

• Approved September 9 meeting minutes
• Agreed to review community center survey at next meeting
• Adjourned at 6:24 pm

Inactive Boards

The Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter will review previous minutes and welcome a new member. The committee will discuss RV policy updates, potential sheltering policies on public lands, and the current state of housing shortages.

• Review of RV policy planning commission workshop updates
• Discussion of Montpelier “sheltering on public lands policy” recommendation
• Discussion regarding Vermont Municipal Planning Grant potential
• Planning for the Town's Annual Report due 12/31/21

The Hartford Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter approved its prior meeting minutes and heard updates on a zoning regulation amendment and a proposed public lands policy. A working group reached agreement on a proposal to go to the Planning Commission on November 29, and the committee discussed vetting a Montpelier public lands policy with environmental groups. The committee also reviewed homelessness data and a possible Vermont Municipal Planning Grant steering committee, but took no formal votes on these items.

• Approved minutes of the 10/28/21 meeting (passed without objection)
• Adjourned the meeting (all in favor)

Energy Commission

The Hartford Energy Commission is meeting to review minutes, discuss the Window Dressers plan including volunteer roles, location, customer recruitment, and fundraising, and hear about the EV Ambassador Program. They will also plan the December newsletter and set the 2022 meeting calendar.

• Window Dressers plan update: volunteer roles, location, customer recruiting, grants/fundraising
• EV Ambassador Program discussion
• December HEC Herald ideas
• HEC 2022 meeting calendar
• Review and approve draft minutes

The Hartford Energy Commission met on November 18, 2021, and discussed logistics for the Window Dressers program, including filling all volunteer roles and considering two possible locations (Damon Hall in Hartland and the UCC church in Hartford Village). The Commission decided to meet on the 4th Thursday of most months at 5:00pm in a hybrid format, except November and December when it will meet on the 3rd Thursday. Recruitment and an EV ambassador program were discussed, and the November HEC Herald will be distributed on November 20. No formal motions or votes were recorded.

• Set meeting schedule: 4th Thursday of most months, 3rd Thursday in November and December, at 5:00pm, hybrid format
• Window Dressers volunteer roles filled: Dana (local coordinator), Sarah (volunteers), Molly (outreach), Kathy and Sally (food), Todd (measuring)
• Window Dressers locations under consideration: Damon Hall in Hartland and UCC church in Hartford Village; former Elks (Cornerstone) to be checked
• Window Dressers leaders to meet virtually first Thursday each month at 5pm, starting January 6
• November HEC Herald to go out November 20; December articles due December 16

Historic Preservation Commission

The Hartford Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to discuss routine business including minutes, budget, and several preservation projects. Items include a community meeting for the Taft's Flat survey, railroad station improvements, demolition standards, and a 2022 CLG grant application. The agenda is largely procedural with no final decisions listed.

• Taft's Flat Intensive Level Survey: Community Meeting
• Railroad Station Improvements
• Demolition Standards Update
• 2022 CLG Grant Application
• HHPC Budget Update

The Commission approved the October 20, 2021 meeting minutes and scheduled a special meeting for November 24 to discuss a performing arts project for a CLG grant application. Members discussed a resident's request to advise the Planning Commission on a demolition application at 160 Gates Street but took no formal action.

• Approved October 20, 2021 meeting minutes
• Scheduled special meeting for November 24, 2021 at 1:00 p.m.

West Hartford Library Trustees

The West Hartford Library Board of Trustees reviewed the town budget, COVID-19 protocols, and library operations. They approved paying a staff member for working on Veterans Day and closing on Thursdays before Christmas and New Year's. The board also discussed the director's plan to step down and initial interest from another member to take over.

• Year-to-date expenditures $10,158.51 (21.92% of budget), balance $36,182.49
• Masking required for all patrons due to rising COVID-19 cases
• Community Room use limited; no new meetings or programming
• Police notified after car damaged library parking lot and driveway
• Board approved paying Sandie for Veterans Day and closing on Thursdays before Christmas and New Year's

The West Hartford Library Trustees approved paying Sandie Cary for working on Veteran's Day, when the library was open and drew 26 patrons while other Hartford-area libraries were closed. The board also approved closing the library on the Thursdays before Christmas and New Year's Day, since both holidays fall on Saturdays. Director Emily Clough announced her intent to step down within the next few months, and Laura Brooks expressed initial interest in the role; further discussion was tabled to the next meeting. The board also approved the October 2021 meeting minutes and heard reports on the budget, rising Covid-19 cases, and damage to the parking lot and driveway caused by an erratic driver, which was reported to police.

• Approved October 2021 meeting minutes
• Approved paying Sandie Cary for working Veteran's Day, which was not on the holiday schedule
• Approved closing the library on the Thursdays preceding Christmas and New Year's Day
• Tabled discussion of the Director transition until the next meeting

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion will consider a motion to recommend that the town contract with a consultant for a Community Safety Review, prompted by multiple police use-of-force incidents including the fatal shooting of Joseph John Howard. The committee will also vote on a student liaison membership change and hear updates from working groups. The agenda includes a recommendation to fund the review through unassigned funds from the 2020-21 budget or the FY2022-23 budget.

• Motion to recommend contracting a consultant for a Community Safety Review
• Recommendation to fund review via unassigned funds from 2020-21 or FY2022-23 budget
• Discussion of police use-of-force incidents, including fatal shooting of Joseph John Howard
• Motion to change student liaison membership to charge
• Updates from RHRR, Education, and Strategic Equity Plan working groups

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion voted unanimously to accept a revised recommendation that the Town contract with a qualified consultant to produce a Community Review of Public Safety. The recommendation will go to the Select Board for inclusion on its November 30 agenda. The committee also approved prior meeting minutes and discussed a proposal to add school liaisons as voting members, with draft charge changes to be considered at the next meeting.

• Approved prior meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted revised recommendation for a Community Review of Public Safety (unanimous)
• Recommendation to be sent to Select Board for Nov. 30 agenda
• Student liaison voting membership change discussed; draft changes to be considered at next meeting

Tree Board

The Hartford Tree Board is meeting to discuss updates on the Quechee Rotunda project, including public notice and tree removal, and a maple sugaring grant at DBS. They will also cover the Tree of the Month, a recap of the Shade Tree Seminar, ideas for tree-related publicity, the Tree Warden replacement, recruitment for a new board member, and identifying trees on public lands.

• Update on Quechee Rotunda project: notice to public and tree removal
• Update on maple sugaring grant at DBS
• Tree of the Month selection
• Recap of Shade Tree Seminar
• Tree Warden replacement update

The Hartford Tree Board approved its October 19, 2021 minutes unanimously. The board discussed the Quechee Rotunda tree project, a maple sugaring grant at DBS, Tree of the Month candidates, publicity ideas, and the need for a Tree Warden replacement. No other formal decisions were recorded; the meeting adjourned at 5:40 pm.

• Approved October 19, 2021 minutes unanimously

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will hear the FY21 audit presentation and a financial update, consider re-appointments to the Tree Board and Design Review, and new appointments to the Conservation Commission and Zoning Board. The board will also discuss a contract for an executive search consultant in executive session. The agenda includes routine items like public comment, consent agenda, and reports.

• FY21 audit presentation and motion
• Financial update for Q1 FY22 (as of 9/30/2021)
• Re-appointments: Clare Forseth (Tree Board), Anita Hamalainen (Design Review)
• New appointments: Ted Levin (Conservation Commission), Stephanie Gile (Zoning Board)
• Executive session on executive search consultant contract

The Selectboard voted to engage the International Association of Chiefs of Police to conduct a nationwide search for a Police Chief. The board also accepted the FY 2021 draft audit and filled several municipal board appointments.

• Engaged International Association of Chiefs of Police for Police Chief search (unanimous)
• Accepted Independent Auditor’s Report on FYE 2021 Draft Financial Statements (unanimous)
• Re-appointed Clare Forseth to Hartford Tree Board (unanimous)
• Re-appointed Anita Hamalainen to Hartford Design Review Committee (unanimous)
• Appointed Ted Levin to Hartford Conservation Commission (unanimous)
• Appointed Stephanie Gile to Hartford Zoning Board of Adjustment (unanimous)
• Agreed by consensus to remove sign ordinance from Town Manager's current tasks
• Approved payroll, meeting minutes, and A/P manifests via Consent Agenda (unanimous)

Sister Cities Committee

The Hartford Sister City Committee is meeting to discuss ongoing activities with its French sister city, Cenon. Items include follow-up on a September Zoom meeting, a photo update, a logo contest, and a new high school connection. The committee will also consider requesting funding in the town budget and updating information for the Hartford Town Report.

• Follow-up on Cenon-sponsored Zoom meeting of Sister Cities on September 26
• Photo update from Hartford to Cenon
• Hartford-Cenon Sister City logo contest update
• New high school connection with Cenon lycée and technical school
• Request for funding in the town budget

The committee decided to keep the Student Logo Contest open until December 17 and agreed to cancel the December meeting. Members discussed ongoing coordination with Cenon and the preparation of a report for the Hartford Select Board.

• Approved minutes from previous meeting
• Extended Student Logo Contest deadline to Dec. 17
• Approved skipping December meeting; next meeting set for Jan 18
• Confirmed $6,000 budget request accepted by Select Board

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Climate Advisory Committee is meeting to review and approve previous minutes, appoint a delegate to the Climate Action Steering Team, and discuss potential ballot articles to recommend to the Selectboard for the March 2022 Town Meeting. They will also begin reviewing amendments to the committee's charge and set 2022 meeting dates.

• Appoint CAC delegate to Climate Action Steering Team
• Discuss potential ballot articles for March 2022 Town Meeting
• First review of amendments to CAC charge
• Review and approve Oct. 13 meeting minutes
• Set 2022 meeting dates and times

The committee appointed Carolyn Hooper as the delegate to the Climate Action Steering Team. Members discussed potential ballot initiatives and the 2022 meeting schedule, but no further actions were taken.

• Accepted Oct. 13, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Appointed Carolyn Hooper as CAC delegate to Climate Action Steering Team (unanimous)

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Selectboard is conducting a special budget meeting to review information regarding the Police and Fire Department budgets. The session includes presentations on departmental expenditures, staffing proposals, and funding sources for the upcoming fiscal year.

• Police Department budget review including $1,164,176 proposed for FY 2023
• Fire Department budget review including $4,202,973 proposed for FY 23
• Fire Department Station 2 staffing proposal involving $152,183 in overtime
• Proposed 65% funding for a Public Safety Mechanic totaling $70,444
• Discussion of unfunded 2011 ambulance replacement estimated at $270,000-$300,000

The Hartford Selectboard met on November 9, 2021 and received information-only budget presentations from the Police Department (R. Cormier) and Fire Department (S. Cooney). No consent agenda items were taken up, and no substantive motions other than adjournment were recorded. The board adjourned at 9:00 PM on a motion by Ally Tufenkjian, seconded by Kim Souza, passing unanimously. Public comments covered police training transparency, a requested apology from the Chair, and concerns about unpermitted shelters and a committee's Zoom account.

• Adjourned the Selectboard meeting at 9:00 PM (motion by Ally Tufenkjian, seconded by Kim Souza, all in favor)
• Received Police Department FY2023 budget review as information only (no vote recorded)
• Received Fire Department FY2023 budget review as information only (no vote recorded)
• No consent agenda items were presented

Board of Civil Authority

The Hartford Board of Civil Authority is meeting to discuss and potentially recommend action on the 2022 legislative apportionment proposal, as well as consider the use and installation of a secure ballot drop box. The board will also handle other business and adjourn.

• Discuss possible use and installation of secure ballot drop box
• Review and discuss 2022 legislative apportionment proposal
• BCA recommendation to the Legislative Apportionment Board

The Board of Civil Authority voted to recommend that the Legislative Apportionment Board leave Hartford's voting districts unchanged. The board also approved the installation of a secure ballot drop box.

• Approved installation of a secure ballot drop box through the Secretary of State’s Office (unanimous)
• Recommended that the LAB leave Hartford's current voting districts unchanged per the Alternate LAB Plan (unanimous)

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion will discuss commissioning an independent review of the Hartford Police Department's use-of-force policies and practices, following multiple incidents this year including the fatal shooting of Joseph John Howard. The committee will also consider funding options for a Community Safety Review and Needs Assessment Report, and will address other agenda items such as welcoming a student liaison and a retrospective on a policy recommendation to the Selectboard.

• Review of HPD use-of-force policies after fatal shooting of Joseph John Howard
• Potential allocation of wellness coordinator funds for a Community Safety Review
• Possible use of unused FY2021-22 officer salaries to fund the review
• Discussion of HCOREI representatives as panel participants in schools
• Strategic Equity Plan working group check-in

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion approved meeting minutes from September 15, 2021, and October 6, 2021. The committee also discussed student liaisons, policy recommendations to the Selectboard, strategic planning, and public safety policies. A motion to support a needs assessment similar to Brattleboro's received no second.

• Approved meeting minutes from 9-15-2021 and 10-6-2021
• Adjourned the meeting upon motion by Ann

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will vote on adopting the 2021 Town Forest Recreation Management Plan, authorizing a $28,000 contract for urgent HVAC repairs at the Quechee Wastewater Treatment Plant, and approving applications for two state grants to update zoning and the Town Plan's Housing Chapter. The board will also consider appointing Scott Sablan to the Ad Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter and award a winter salt bid. Public comment and reports from town departments are also on the agenda.

• Adopt 2021 Hartford Town Forest Recreation Management Plan
• Authorize $28,000 contract with Alliance Building Automation for Quechee Wastewater Plant HVAC repairs
• Apply for FY22 Vermont Bylaw Modernization Grant (consortium with 7 towns, $66,000 project)
• Apply for 2022 Vermont Municipal Planning Grant to update Housing Chapter of Town Plan
• Appoint Scott Sablan to Ad Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter

The Selectboard approved the 2021 Town Forest Recreation Management Plan and authorized several grants and contracts. The board also appointed a member to the Ad Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter and awarded a winter salt contract. A decision on the future of Gates Street was deferred until December 14.

• Adopted 2021 Hartford Town Forest Recreation Management Plan (Unanimous)
• Authorized up to $28,000 for Quechee Wastewater Plant HVAC repairs with Alliance Building Automation (Unanimous)
• Approved FY22 Municipal Resolution for Bylaw Modernization grant (Unanimous)
• Approved FY22 Municipal Resolution for Municipal Planning Grants and matching funds (Unanimous)
• Authorized purchasing agreement with Cargill Inc. for winter deicing salt (Unanimous)
• Appointed Scott Sablan to the Ad Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter (Unanimous)
• Tabled decision on Gates Street and Fairview Terrace repairs until December 14

Conservation Commission

The Hartford Conservation Commission is meeting to discuss the Climate Action Plan with guests, plan a winter 2022 timber harvest, and address multiple Town Forest items including a potential partnership with the Upper Valley Mountain Bike Association. They will also review budgets, conservation area inspections, and outreach efforts.

• Climate Action Plan discussion with guests Dana Clawson and Erik Krauss
• Winter 2022 Timber Harvest planning
• Formal relationship with Upper Valley Mountain Bike Association for Town Forest
• FY 2022/2023 HCC Budget Update
• Maanawaka Conservation Area annual inspection and posting

The Commission recommended a revised Memorandum of Understanding with the Upper Valley Mountain Bike Association and approved allowing a local career technology class to process firewood from the Town Forest. Members also agreed to pursue a grant for a water bottle refilling station at Town Hall.

• Recommended acceptance of revised MOU with Upper Valley Mountain Bike Association (5-0)
• Approved HACTC Natural Resources Class to remove downed trees for off-site firewood processing (5-0)
• Agreed to hold off on pursuing a conservation easement until timber harvest is completed
• Agreed to apply for a Green-Up Vermont Water Bottle Refilling Station Grant
• Approved October 4, 2021 meeting minutes by unanimous consent

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter is meeting to review and discuss the 2-23-20 report on homelessness, consider an RV policy, and discuss adopting a sheltering-on-public-lands policy. The meeting includes public comment via Zoom.

• Review of 2-23-20 report on homelessness and current landscape
• Discussion of RV policy and planning commission meeting
• Discussion of adopting Burlington/Montpelier sheltering on public lands policy
• Passage of minutes from 10/14/2021 meeting

The Hartford Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter approved minutes from 10/14/21 as amended, delegated Bryan Luikart to oversee updating the 2020 Hartford Committee on Homelessness Final Report, and voted to have Simon Dennis, Ally Tufenkjian, and Martha Hafner compile and revise Montpelier and Burlington policies decriminalizing sleeping in public spaces for possible adaptation in Hartford. The committee also discussed a pending zoning amendment request to allow RVs as sleeping quarters and a future Planning Commission work session, but took no final action on those items. The meeting adjourned at 6:13.

• Approved 10/14/21 minutes as amended, including community guidelines document (all in favor)
• Delegated Bryan Luikart to oversee revision of the Feb 2020 Hartford Committee on Homelessness Final Report (all in favor)
• Delegated Simon Dennis, Ally Tufenkjian, and Martha Hafner to compile and revise Montpelier and Burlington policies on decriminalizing sleeping in public spaces for Hartford (all in favor)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:13 (all in favor)

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission will consider applying for two Vermont state grants: one to hire a consultant to update the Housing Chapter of the Town Plan, and another to join a consortium of seven towns to review zoning regulations for more housing opportunities. The meeting is a workshop, so these are discussion and decision items, not final votes.

• Consider 2022 Vermont Municipal Planning Grant to update Housing Chapter of Town Plan
• Consider 2022 Bylaw Modernization Grant with Randolph, Bethel, Rochester, Woodstock, Strafford, Thetford
• Grant would fund Two Rivers-Ottauquechee Regional Commission zoning review
• Housing grant includes Steering Committee and two community forums

Resilient Hartford

The Resilient Hartford committee is meeting to review the October 16th planting at the Clifford Park Food Forest and discuss next steps. They will also discuss the Fiscal Year 2022/2023 Resilient Hartford budget. The meeting includes approval of the September 22nd minutes and scheduling of the next meeting.

• Review of 10/16 Guild Planting at Clifford Park Food Forest
• Discussion of next steps for Clifford Park Food Forest
• Fiscal Year 2022/2023 Resilient Hartford budget discussion
• Approval of September 22nd meeting minutes

The Resilient Hartford committee accepted the September 22, 2021 minutes by unanimous consent and discussed ongoing food forest projects, flood hazard regulations, and the proposed Fiscal Year 2022/2023 budget. The committee also discussed forming a Climate Action Steering Committee and heard updates on a traditional Abenaki Garden project.

• Accepted September 22, 2021 meeting minutes by unanimous consent
• Agreed to set up a date to install remaining fencing for nut trees once purchased
• Agreed to consider increasing the size of the riparian buffer at Clifford Park
• Agreed to have Matt Osborn contact Laura Simon about serving on the Climate Action Steering Committee

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard is holding a special budget meeting to review proposed FY2023 budgets for several departments, including Information Technology, Assessment, Town Manager's Office, Town Clerk, and various committees and services. The meeting is for information only, with no consent agenda or formal votes scheduled. Key proposals include adding a Helpdesk Technician in IT, increased health insurance costs in the Assessor's office, and changes to cemetery funding.

• IT proposes adding Helpdesk Technician, increasing salaries from $117,407.80 (FY22) to $217,117.15 (FY23)
• Assessor's office budget increases from $206,376 to $249,420, with health insurance rising $25,833
• Town Manager's Office proposes $48,000 increase in contract services for communications, peer support, and compensation study
• Cemetery funding moves from direct appropriations to local option tax, with Quechee Cemetery increasing $9,500
• Social service appropriations remain level-funded, with changes requiring petition process

The Hartford Selectboard reviewed several department budgets for Information Technology, Assessor, Town Manager Group, Town Clerk, and Selectboard-related appropriations. The board voted unanimously to include an annual $6,000 contribution for the Sister City Committee in the FY23 budget. The board also adjourned the meeting at 9:05 PM.

• Added $6,000 to the FY23 budget for the Sister City Committee (Passed, all in favor)
• Adjourned the meeting at 9:05 PM (Passed, all in favor)

Energy Commission

The Hartford Energy Commission is meeting to approve draft minutes from August, welcome a new member, and discuss updates on the Window Dressers plan, including volunteer roles and location. They will also brainstorm ideas for the November HEC Herald newsletter. The meeting is largely routine business and planning.

• Approval of draft minutes from 2021-08-26
• Welcome new member Dana
• Window Dressers plan update: volunteer roles and location
• November HEC Herald ideas

The Hartford Energy Commission met on October 21, 2021 but lacked a quorum, so no Act 92 business could be conducted. Members discussed organizing the Window Dressers weatherization program, including recruiting volunteers and finding space, and heard that the Climate Advisory Committee is seeking liaisons for a Climate Action Plan Steering Committee. No motions, votes, or formal decisions were recorded.

• No quorum present; no Act 92 business conducted
• No motions, votes, or formal actions recorded
• Window Dressers roles assigned: Sarah (volunteers), Dana (lead), Molly (outreach), Todd (measuring); food coordinator still needed
• Measuring teams targeted to be in place by end of January
• Climate Advisory Committee seeking liaisons from HEC, Resilient Hartford, CAC, and Conservation Commission
• Climate Action Plan draft expected to Selectboard by end of January; plan ready by end of February
• Next meeting scheduled for November 18

Historic Preservation Commission

The Hartford Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to discuss routine business including approving minutes, a budget update for FY 2022/2023, and planning a community meeting for the Taft's Flat survey. They will also review demolition standards grant closeout and a Selectboard presentation, and discuss a 2022 CLG grant application.

• Fiscal Year 2022/2023 HHPC Budget Update
• Taft's Flat Intensive Level Survey: Community Meeting Date
• Demolition Standards: Grant Closeout & Selectboard Presentation
• 2022 CLG Grant Application

The Commission agreed to hold a community meeting regarding the Taft's Flat project on November 10, 2021, at 6:30 p.m. Members also approved spending approximately $90 for a Valley News advertisement to promote the event. No other formal actions were taken due to a lack of a quorum.

• Approved $90 for Valley News advertisement
• Scheduled Taft's Flat community meeting for Nov 10 at 6:30 p.m.

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will consider several motions, including adopting municipal policies for a $43,970 Cornerstone Community Center planning grant, a parking ordinance, and proposed ordinances. They will also discuss the Town Forest Recreational Plan and receive an informational update on an emergency shelter committee. The meeting includes routine items like payroll approval and an executive session for legal matters.

• Appointment of Laura Brooks to West Hartford Library Board of Trustees
• Adoption of Municipal Policies and Codes for $43,970 VCDP Planning Grant for Cornerstone Community Center
• Parking Ordinance motion
• Proposed Ordinances motion
• HCOREI Policy Recommendation motion

The Selectboard approved the final signing of a parking ordinance effective October 23, 2021. The board also directed the Town Manager to improve policy transparency and continue drafting ordinances for sign regulations and firearm discharge.

• Appointed Laura Brooks to West Hartford Library Board of Trustees (unanimous)
• Approved signing of parking ordinance on October 26, 2021 (unanimous)
• Directed Town Manager to draft ordinances for sign regulations and firearm discharge (unanimous)
• Approved HCOREI recommendation to create a 'Policy on Policies' and digital storage system (unanimous)
• Approved payroll, A/P manifests, and meeting minutes via Consent Agenda (unanimous)
• Tabled Cornerstone Grant Adoption & Grant Policies & Procedures

West Hartford Library Trustees

This is a routine monthly board meeting of the West Hartford Library Trustees. The agenda consists of standard reports from the secretary, treasurer, director, and friends group, followed by old and new business, with no specific action items listed.

• Secretary's Report
• Treasurer's Report
• Director's Report
• Friend's Report
• Old and New Business

The West Hartford Library Trustees approved a motion allowing the Director discretion and judgment if new meeting or programming needs arise, amid continued Covid-19 limits on indoor programming. The board also approved September 2021 minutes with a date correction, and noted that the Select Board appointed Laura Brooks to fill the seat vacated by Gerda Gofberg. Discussion of the cost of a new library website was tabled for more research, and planning will begin for an educational session on the library's history and bylaws. The town's review of the library budget is scheduled for 10/26/2021 at 6:00 PM.

• Approved September 2021 minutes with a correction to a date in the Treasurer's Report (July 1 to 9/21/2021)
• Approved allowing the Director discretion and judgment if new meeting or programming needs arise
• Tabled discussion of the cost of a new West Hartford Library website for additional research
• Noted Select Board appointment of Laura Brooks to the Board of Trustees, filling the seat vacated by Gerda Gofberg

Tree Board

The Hartford Tree Board is meeting to review minutes and discuss several tree-related matters, including a tree identification walk, progress on the Quechee Rotunda, an Arbor Day Grant project at Dothan Brook School, and suggestions for Tree of the Month. They will also identify trees on public land needing attention and address the Tree Warden opening.

• Quechee Rotunda removal progress and public notice
• Arbor Day Grant project: planting trees at Dothan Brook School
• Tree Warden position vacancy and division of tree care in parks
• Tree of the Month suggestions for 2022
• Review of September 21, 2021 minutes

The Hartford Tree Board approved the September 21, 2021 meeting minutes with a correction. Members also discussed a tree identification walk, the Quechee Rotunda project progress, the Arbor Day Grant tree plantings at Dothan Brook School, 2022 Tree of the Month suggestions, public tree identification, and the Tree Warden opening.

• Approved September 21, 2021 minutes with correction

Sister Cities Committee

The Hartford Sister Cities Committee is meeting to discuss routine business, including approving minutes, following up on a Cenon-sponsored Zoom meeting, and reviewing the Hartford-Cenon Sister City logo contest guidelines. They will also discuss collecting materials for a bulletin board at the Quechee Gorge Visitor's Center and a new high school connection with Cenon's lycée and technical school.

• Follow-up on Cenon-sponsored Zoom meeting of Sister Cities on September 26
• Photo update from Hartford to Cenon
• Review guidelines for Hartford-Cenon Sister City logo contest
• Collect brochures and magazines for bulletin board at Quechee Gorge Visitor's Center
• New high school connection with Cenon lycée and technical school

The committee approved a prize structure for a logo contest involving local schools, offering a $75 gift certificate for the winner and $50 gift certificates for three runners-up. Members also discussed the need to formally request $6,000 in town budget funding and planned to coordinate a committee photo for the Visitors Center bulletin board. Discussion regarding a photo update for Cenon was tabled until the November meeting.

• Approved September meeting minutes
• Approved $75 prize for logo contest winner
• Approved three $50 prizes for logo contest runners-up

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter is meeting to review and potentially adopt community guidelines for emergency shelters, discuss RV policies, and receive updates on warming shelters and mutual aid concepts. The agenda includes electing a new chair and reviewing relevant zoning regulations.

• Adoption of community guidelines
• Review of RV definition and policy update
• Update on The Haven and warming shelter
• Mutual Aid concept with VFW
• Election of new Chair

The Hartford Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter approved its September 30 minutes as amended, elected Bryan Luikart as chair, and adopted community guidelines. It voted unanimously to recommend that the Hartford Selectboard consider a policy similar to Burlington's "Sheltering On Public Lands" policy. The committee also heard an update that the Haven cannot run a warming shelter at its current location due to safety hazards and is not proceeding with a Valley Bible Church site.

• Approved September 30 minutes as amended, correcting Lannie Collins's name (unanimous)
• Elected Bryan Luikart as committee chair (unanimous)
• Adopted community guidelines as amended (unanimous)
• Recommended Hartford Selectboard consider a policy analogous to Burlington's "Sheltering On Public Lands" policy (unanimous)
• Adjourned at approximately 6:45 PM (unanimous)

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Climate Advisory Committee is holding a regular meeting to discuss potential ballot articles to recommend to the Selectboard for the March 2022 Town Meeting. They will also review amendments to their charge and receive updates on the Climate Action Reserve Fund and state/federal funding. The meeting includes public comments and approval of previous minutes.

• Discuss potential ballot articles for March 2022 Town Meeting
• First review of amendments to CAC charge
• Status of Climate Action Reserve Fund update
• State and federal funding related to climate change update
• Review and approve meeting minutes from Sept 13

The Hartford Climate Advisory Committee met to discuss potential ballot articles for the March 2022 Town Meeting and the formation of a Climate Action Plan implementation team. The committee also approved minutes from their September 13 meeting and received updates regarding Climate Reserve Funds and grant opportunities.

• Approved September 13 meeting minutes unanimously
• Adjourned the meeting at 7:08 pm

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

This is a special budget meeting where the Hartford Selectboard reviews proposed FY 2022-2023 budgets for the Finance, Planning & Development, and Parks & Recreation departments. The meeting is for information only, with no consent agenda or votes scheduled. The board will hear presentations from department directors on their budget requests.

• Finance total budget $481,001, up $15,163 from FY2021-2022
• Planning & Development proposed budget $560,091, down $42,452 from approved FY2020-2021
• Parks & Recreation total expenses $1,570,007, with $1,031,436 to be raised by taxes
• Parks & Recreation requests $50,000 for equipment replacement program
• New pool operation budget $152,552

The Hartford Selectboard met on October 12, 2021, for budget review presentations from Finance, Planning/Zoning, and Parks & Recreation. The only substantive action was approving a $3,000 increase to the Hartford Conservation Commission budget to replenish its funds. Public comments covered the Gates Street closure, town employees working from home, and a career center program. The meeting adjourned at 8:00 PM.

• Approved $3,000 increase to Hartford Conservation Commission budget (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:00 PM (unanimous)

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion is meeting to discuss and review education and policy recommendations, check in on the Strategic Equity Plan, and welcome a student liaison. The meeting is open to community input.

• Review education recommendations
• Review final policy recommendations and slide deck
• Strategic Equity Plan working group check-in
• Welcome student liaison Ahadi
• Town Report

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion reviewed and edited slides for an upcoming Selectboard presentation, discussed updates from local schools, and planned future working meetings. The September 15th minutes and education recommendations were tabled for the next meeting.

• Tabled September 15th meeting minutes to the next meeting
• Tabled education recommendations to the next meeting
• Reviewed and edited slides for a planned October 19th Selectboard presentation
• Adjourned the meeting

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard is meeting to discuss and gather feedback on draft demolition delay standards for historic buildings, which would require review before demolition. The board will also consider appointments to the Climate Action and Design Review Committees, hear the Town Manager's report, and discuss a Declaration of Equity & Inclusion and the FY23 budget. The meeting includes public comment and a consent agenda for routine approvals.

• Draft Demolition Delay Standards for historic buildings - public feedback
• Appointment of Carolyn Hooper to Climate Action Committee (3-year term)
• Appointment to Design Review Committee: Michelle Boleski or Sara Ferguson
• Declaration of Equity & Inclusion - motion
• FY23 Budget - information

The Selectboard approved a formal declaration of equity, inclusion, and justice and filled two committee vacancies. The board also approved the consent agenda, including payroll and previous meeting minutes.

• Adopted the Hartford, Vermont Declaration of Equity, Inclusion, and Justice (unanimous)
• Appointed Carolyn Hooper to the Climate Action Committee for a three-year term (unanimous)
• Appointed Sara Ferguson to the Design Review Committee for a three-year term (unanimous)
• Approved payroll ending 10/2/2021 (unanimous)
• Approved meeting minutes of 9/21/2021 (unanimous)
• Approved A/P Manifest of 10/1/2021 and 10/5/2021 (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Hartford Conservation Commission is meeting to discuss a winter 2022 timber harvest, elect a vice chair, and review multiple town forest items including a potential partnership with the Upper Valley Mountain Bike Association and the Town Forest Recreation Plan. They will also update the FY 2022/2023 budget and hear reports on outreach and clean-up efforts.

• Winter 2022 Timber Harvest discussion
• Election of Vice Chair
• Formal relationship with Upper Valley Mountain Bike Association
• FY 2022/2023 HCC Budget Update
• Wetlands question from Harvest Lane resident

The commission recommended accepting a bid from Long View Forest for a timber harvest in the Town Forest, including the use of the north landing. The board also elected a new vice chair and discussed various Town Forest management plans.

• Recommended acceptance of Long View Forest bid using north landing and new turnaround (6-0)
• Elected Katie Mann as vice chair (unanimous)
• Approved August 30, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Agreed to begin recruiting for an open HCC position

Inactive Boards

The Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter is meeting to review minutes, discuss group norms, and draft recommendations for the Select Board. They will also receive updates on the RV policy and subcommittee progress. The meeting is open to the public with in-person and Zoom options.

• Drafting Select Board recommendations on emergency shelter
• RV policy update
• Subcommittee updates
• Review and passage of meeting minutes (including cancelled 9/16/21 meeting)

The committee approved minutes from its September 2nd and September 16th meetings. Members discussed proposed community guidelines for future meetings and received updates regarding RV zoning regulations and potential locations for a cold weather shelter.

• Approved September 2nd meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved September 16th meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

White River Junction Design Review Committee

The Hartford Design Review Committee voted 0-3 (with one abstention) to deny Ken Parker's application to demolish two structures at 160 Gates Street, White River Junction, citing financial hardship concerns. The committee discussed the balance between downtown revitalization and historic preservation, with some members questioning the financial hardship criteria. The application will be heard by the Planning Commission on November 1, 2021.

• Application to demolish two structures at 160 Gates Street, lot 45-0151-000, in CB and Design Review zoning districts
• Motion to approve demolition under Zoning Regulations section 260-46(12)(b)(2) failed 0-3
• Jonathan Schechtman abstained due to conflict of interest as Historic Preservation Commission Chair
• Committee changed meeting time from 9AM to 5PM
• Minutes of September 23, 2021 and January 16, 2021 approved

The Committee denied an application to demolish two structures at 160 Gates Street based on claims of financial hardship. The Committee also approved minutes from two previous meetings and changed its future meeting time.

• Denied demolition of two structures at 160 Gates Street (0-3, 1 abstention)
• Approved September 23, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved January 16, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Changed future meeting time from 9AM to 5PM

Board of Civil Authority

The Hartford Board of Abatement is meeting to hear four property tax abatement requests. Each applicant will present evidence, and if they do not appear, the board will decide based on submitted forms. The meeting concludes with deliberations and other business.

• Kate Heaton/William Page (Terrace Communities, LLC) — 2820 Christian St., Parcel ID 4-31-1
• Denis and Brenda Carpenter — 42 Harper Savage Ln., Parcel ID 2-59
• Perry Seale (for Eli Mercer) — 222 Campbell St., Parcel ID 31-29-1
• Martha Hetnik — 218 Willow Circle, Parcel ID 13-43-18

The Board reviewed four abatement hearings, denying three requests and granting one. The approved abatement was based on applicant hardship and inability to pay.

• Denied abatement request for Terrace Communities, LLC (unanimous)
• Denied abatement request for Denis and Brenda Carpenter (15-2)
• Approved full year tax abatement of $335.59 for Martha Hetnik (unanimous)
• Denied abatement request for Eli Mercer (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider three applications: amendments to the Red Barn Farms Planned Development, a Planned Development for an adult homeless shelter, and site development plan approval for the same shelter. The meeting also includes a sketch plan review for the South Main Street parking lot expansion and other administrative matters.

• Sketch plan review for reconstruction and expansion of South Main Street parking lot in downtown White River Junction
• Application #21-06: amendments to Red Barn Farms Planned Development for house sites #1 and #2 on Galaxy Hill Lane, Quechee
• Application #21-07: Planned Development for Adult Homeless Shelter at 851 Fairview Terrace, White River Junction
• Application #21-08: Site Development Plan Approval for Adult Homeless Shelter at 851 Fairview Terrace
• Public comment and administrative permits review

The Hartford Planning Commission approved application #21-06 to amend the Red Barn Farms Planned Development, changing building envelopes for house sites #1 and #2 on Galaxy Hill Lane in Quechee. The commission also approved the minutes of June 14, 2021, and reviewed administrative permits. A sketch plan for reconstruction and expansion of the South Main Street parking lot in White River Junction was presented for feedback only, with no decision made.

• Approved application #21-06 amending Red Barn Farms Planned Development building envelopes for house sites #1 and #2 (motion passed)
• Approved minutes of June 14, 2021 (6-1, Colin abstaining)
• Closed public hearing on application #21-06
• Reviewed administrative permits: Wentworth Way site plan changes, Gates Street art gallery/library, two food trucks on Route 5 North, cabins at Quechee State Park, grill/corn at Quechee Gorge Village
• Scheduled next public hearing for November 1st
• Commissioners indicated availability for October 18th 6PM meeting to review two grants

Watson Dog Park

This is a routine meeting of the Upper Valley Dog Park Supporters group. Members will review and approve the minutes from the August 28 meeting and plan the upcoming Dogaween event, including volunteer assignments and remaining maintenance tasks.

• Review and approve minutes from August 28, 2021
• Dogaween planning: volunteer sheet and division of responsibilities
• Schedule remaining maintenance for Dogaween

The group approved minutes from their previous meeting and organized a 'Dogaween' event scheduled for October 23, 2021. Members also discussed park maintenance, including painting ramps and cleaning benches, and initiated a review of town ordinances regarding firearms in the park.

• Accepted August 28 meeting minutes
• Scheduled Dogaween party for October 23, 2021
• Authorized memorial plaque for Wendy Smith

White River Junction Design Review Committee

The Hartford Design Review Committee will meet to consider administrative matters and one application. They will review conceptual plans for the reconstruction and expansion of the South Main Street parking lot in downtown White River Junction, and an application by Ken Parker for design review approval to demolish two structures at 160 Gates Street. The meeting is open to the public, with options to attend in person or by phone.

• Sketch plan review of conceptual plans for South Main Street parking lot reconstruction and expansion
• Application by Ken Parker for demolition of two structures at 160 Gates Street, lot 45-0151-000
• Approval of minutes from January 16, 2020

The Hartford Design Review Committee reviewed a sketch plan for reconstruction and expansion of the South Main Street parking lot in White River Junction, including 37 additional parking spaces, and heard an application by Ken Parker to demolish two structures at 160 Gates Street. The Committee did not make a decision on the demolition application; instead, it unanimously agreed to hold a site visit at 9AM on Thursday, September 30, 2021, followed by a meeting at Town Hall. Minutes from January 16, 2020, were tabled.

• Site visit at 160 Gates Street set for 9AM, Thursday, September 30, 2021, followed by a meeting at Town Hall (unanimous)
• Minutes of January 16, 2020 tabled
• No decision made on Ken Parker's application to demolish two structures at 160 Gates Street

Energy Commission

The Commission will review previous meeting minutes and receive an update on the Environmental Sustainability Coordinator position. Members will also discuss the Window Dressers plan and upcoming FY '23 budget items.

• Environmental Sustainability Coordinator position update
• Window Dressers plan update
• FY '23 Budget discussion
• Printing of EV buyer's guide

The Hartford Energy Commission met on September 23, 2021, but lacked a quorum, so no Act 92 business or minutes were taken and no formal votes were held. The group discussed a planned Window Dressers weatherization build for next fall and agreed by consensus to use the same budget amounts as last year, including $4,500 in contracted services to work with Window Dressers. Dana Clawson was noted as due to start as Sustainability Coordinator in October. The meeting adjourned at 6:10pm, with the next meeting set for October 28, 2021.

• No quorum present, so no Act 92 business or formal votes taken
• Budget approved by consensus (no formal vote) using same amounts as last year: Travel $565, Supplies $670, Contracted Services $4500, Advertising $320, Postage $150
• Contracted Services of $4500 designated to work with Window Dressers
• Next meeting set for October 28, 2021; Molly will email to set an alternate date

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Hartford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on Application #08-21 by The Valley Bible Church (owner) and The Upper Valley Haven (applicant) for Conditional Use Approval to operate an adult homeless shelter at 851 Fairview Terrace, White River Junction, within a proposed Planned Development. The board will also handle administrative matters including approval of minutes, review of administratively approved projects, and scheduling the next hearing.

• Conditional Use Application #08-21 for an Adult Homeless Shelter at 851 Fairview Terrace, White River Junction
• Public hearing under section 260-16 of Hartford Zoning Regulations
• Minutes of July 14, 2021 to be considered
• Review of projects that received administrative approval

Resilient Hartford

The Resilient Hartford committee is meeting to review the Clifford Park Food Forest design presentation and recent tree planting, and to schedule an October planting date. They will also discuss the Fiscal Year 2022/2023 Resilient Hartford budget. The meeting includes routine items like approving minutes and announcements.

• Review of 9/9 Clifford Park Food Forest design presentation
• Review of 9/18 tree planting at Clifford Park
• Scheduling October tree planting date
• Discussion of Fiscal Year 2022/2023 Resilient Hartford budget

The committee approved a budget for the next fiscal year that shifts funds toward contracted services and materials to support the Food Forest project. Members also scheduled a guild planting event for October 16th and reached a consensus to resume Potato Fest or a similar harvest event.

• Approved FY2022/2023 budget of $1,760 (5-0)
• Approved August 25, 2021 meeting minutes by unanimous consent
• Scheduled Food Forest guild planting for October 16th
• Reached consensus to resume Potato Fest or another fall harvest event

West Hartford Library Trustees

This is a routine monthly meeting of the West Hartford Library Board with standard agenda items including reports from the secretary, treasurer, director, and friends group, plus old and new business. No specific decisions or discussion items are listed in the agenda.

• Secretary's Report
• Treasurer's Report
• Director's Report
• Friend's Report
• Old and New Business

The West Hartford Library Trustees approved the 2022-2023 budget unanimously, which includes a 5.3% increase ($48,819) for the Director's salary, courier and shipping expenses, and 3% inflation on book and supply purchases. They also voted to close the library from October 12-14, 2021, due to a lack of volunteers, and approved appointing Laura Brooks to the board, pending town approval. The board approved the August 2021 minutes without correction and noted a balance of $36,929.21 as of September 21, 2021, with final approval pending reconciliation with the town report.

• Approved 2022-2023 budget with 5.3% increase ($48,819) (unanimous)
• Approved closing library October 12-14, 2021 due to lack of volunteers
• Approved appointing Laura Brooks to board, pending town approval
• Approved August 2021 minutes without correction

Tree Board

The Hartford Tree Board will review minutes from August and discuss several tree-related projects, including a fall tree identification walk, progress on the Quechee Rotunda with potential grant funding for tree removal and replacement, planting a sycamore in the Wilder Picnic Area, and the Arbor Day Grant project. They will also consider suggestions for Tree of the Month and identify trees needing attention, as well as discuss the Tree Warden position.

• Quechee Rotunda tree removal and replacement, with possible grant from Growing Urban Forests in the Face of Emerald Ash Borer
• Planting a sycamore in Wilder Picnic Area, cost $400 from NNurseries, Parks & Rec to pay half
• Arbor Day Grant project with Nicole Raney: planting maple tree (one vs two, Spring 2022 vs Fall 2021) and equipment purchase
• Tree identification walk scheduled for October 16, 10 am to 12 pm
• Discussion of Tree Warden responsibilities and filling the position

The board approved a revised description of Tree Warden responsibilities. Members also voted to request a budget increase from the selectboard for tree maintenance and a stipend for the Tree Warden.

• Accepted August 17, 2021 minutes as written
• Approved edited description of Tree Warden responsibilities (unanimous)
• Approved motion to request $10,000 budget for tree maintenance/planting and $2,500 Tree Warden stipend from selectboard (unanimous)

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard is holding a listening session to receive information on fire, police, and emergency services, and to discuss an update on unpermitted structures. The board will also consider a liquor license renewal and a reappointment to the Energy Commission. The agenda includes public comment and a consent agenda with routine approvals.

• Liquor license renewal for Perry Hospitality Group (Quechee Inn at Marshland Farms)
• Reappointment of Lynn Bohi to the Energy Commission for a three-year term
• Update on unpermitted shelters on non-town-owned property
• Public safety presentation by S. Cooney and B. Vail
• Consent agenda: payroll, minutes, and A/P manifests

The Selectboard approved a third-class liquor license renewal for The Quechee Inn at Marshland Farms and reappointed Lynn Bohi to the Energy Commission. The board also approved a consent agenda covering payroll, meeting minutes, and accounts payable manifests.

• Approved third-class liquor license for The Quechee Inn (5-0-1-1)
• Reappointed Lynn Bohi to Energy Commission (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including payroll and A/P manifests (unanimous)

Inactive Boards

The Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter is meeting to discuss committee norms and terminology. The committee will also review updates from subcommittees and discuss next steps regarding RV planning and zoning regulation changes.

• Discussion of committee norms and terminology
• Next steps on RV planning and zoning regulation changes
• Subcommittee updates

The Hartford Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter meeting scheduled for September 16, 2021, was cancelled because a Zoom link issue prevented attendees from joining using the link in the agenda. The meeting was neither called to order nor adjourned, and no substantive decisions were made. The committee's next meeting is scheduled for September 30, 2021.

• Cancelled September 16, 2021 meeting due to Zoom link issues (no vote taken)

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion will continue its policy goals discussion, review recommendations, and discuss the status of the town's work toward its Strategic Plan. The committee will also review education recommendations and plan for the town report. The agenda includes motions on these items, but no final decisions are listed.

• Continue policy goals discussion and review recommendations
• Review education recommendations
• Discuss status of town's work towards Strategic Plan
• Town Report plan
• New Business

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion approved a recommendation to the Selectboard regarding the management and accessibility of town policies. The committee also established a working group to focus on the town's strategic plan. Discussion regarding education recommendations was tabled due to an absence.

• Approved August meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved policy recommendation regarding town ordinance accessibility (unanimous)
• Tabled education recommendations discussion (unanimous)
• Created a working group for the town strategic plan (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Hartford Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to discuss its FY2022/2023 budget, a community meeting for the Taft's Flat survey, demolition standards grant closeout, and a demolition application for 160 Gates Street. The meeting includes public participation options via Microsoft Teams or phone.

• Fiscal Year 2022/2023 HHPC Budget
• Taft's Flat Intensive Level Survey: Community Meeting
• Demolition Standards: Grant Closeout & Selectboard Presentation
• 160 Gates Street Application for Demolition

The Historic Preservation Commission approved the July 21, 2021 minutes and voted 4-0 to accept the current $3,265 budget as its proposed budget for fiscal year 2022/2023, following the Town Manager's recommendation of level spending. It also voted 4-0 to ask that $3,000 unspent from a demolition standards contract be returned to the HHPC account rather than the General Fund. The commission discussed a remote community meeting on the Taft's Flat survey and an October 5 Selectboard presentation on draft demolition standards, but took no action on those items.

• Approved July 21, 2021 HHPC meeting minutes as written (unanimous)
• Accepted current $3,265 budget as proposed 2022/2023 budget (4-0)
• Requested $3,000 in unspent demolition standards funds be returned to the HHPC account (4-0)
• Agreed to hold a remote community meeting on the Taft's Flat survey in October or November
• Adjourned the meeting at 6:11 p.m.

Inactive Boards

The Climate Advisory Committee will meet to elect a chair, vice chair, and clerk. Members will also discuss priorities for the fall 2021 and winter 2022 seasons and outline a committee work plan.

• Election of committee officers (chair, vice chair, clerk)
• Review and approval of meeting minutes from Feb. 23, March 10, August 11, and Sept 1
• Discussion of fall 2021/winter 2022 priorities and work plan

The Climate Advisory Committee approved minutes from its February 23, March 23, August 11, and September 1 meetings, all unanimously. Erik Krauss agreed to continue as chair, with members saying they would revisit officer roles in about six months. The committee discussed fall and winter priorities, including the new Environmental Sustainability Coordinator, possible federal infrastructure funding, and ballot language for next March, but took no votes on those items. Members agreed to plan a special meeting in late October or early November.

• Approved February 23 and March 23 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved August 11 meeting minutes as amended (unanimous)
• Approved September 1 meeting minutes as amended (unanimous)
• Erik Krauss to continue as committee chair; roles to be revisited in about 6 months
• Agreed to revisit the constitution section of the committee charge at the next regular meeting
• Agreed to generally plan for a special meeting in late October/early November
• Adjourned at 7:08 pm

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Hartford Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to approve August minutes and receive the Director's Report. Old business includes updates on the Community Center, Pool Project, and Community Survey. No new business is listed, and the agenda is otherwise procedural.

• Community Center updates
• Pool Project updates
• Community Survey updates
• Approval of August 2021 meeting minutes

The Hartford Parks and Recreation Commission approved its August meeting minutes at its September 9, 2021 meeting. The Commission received a director's report noting over $10,000 in donations for the Brian Hanson Scholarship Fund from Balloon Festival parking, and discussed the community survey (completed and under review) and the pool project, which may face a spring completion delay due to late tank delivery. No other substantive decisions were recorded; the meeting adjourned at 5:55 p.m.

• Approved August meeting minutes
• Adjourned at 5:55 p.m.

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will consider several motions, including awarding a $171,372 contract for a new sidewalk tractor, approving changes to conflict of interest and purchasing policies, and discussing a climate resolution and budget guidance. The board will also hear updates on the Christian Street Cemetery and the Health Office, and receive the Town Manager's report.

• Sidewalk tractor purchase: $171,372 for Prinoth SW50 from Chadwick-Baross
• Contracts for snow plowing, South Main St. lighting, and sidewalk tractor
• Changes to Conflict of Interest and Purchasing Policies
• Climate Resolution motion
• Budget Guidance motion

The Hartford Selectboard approved the purchase of a new sidewalk tractor, awarded snowplowing and electrical contracts, and adopted a climate action plan resolution. The board also amended its conflict of interest and purchasing policies to align with federal regulations and approved a liquor license for China Moon Buffet.

• Approved $171,372 purchase of Prinoth SW50 sidewalk tractor (6-1)
• Awarded 2022-2023 snowplowing contract to Potter Construction (7-0)
• Awarded $114,340.20 electrical contract to MDL Electric (7-0)
• Adopted resolution implementing Climate Action Plan (7-0)
• Amended conflict of interest and purchasing policies (7-0)
• Approved First Class Liquor License for China Moon Buffet (5-0-1)
• Approved consent agenda including payroll and minutes (7-0)

Inactive Boards

The Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter will meet to review previous minutes and discuss policy updates. Members will also receive updates from subcommittees and discuss upcoming projects.

• Passage of previous meeting minutes
• RV policy update
• Discussion on next projects
• Subcommittee updates

The committee approved the minutes from the August 19, 2021 meeting. Members discussed RV zoning regulation amendments and potential locations for a warming shelter, but no further formal actions were taken.

• Approved 8/19/21 meeting minutes

Board of Civil Authority

The Board of Civil Authority is meeting to conduct the 2021 biennial voter checklist review as required by state law. The board will consider motions to authorize the clerk to challenge identified voters and to batch purge voters from the checklist. This is a routine procedural meeting focused on voter list maintenance.

• Review of voter checklist per 17 V.S.A. 2150(c)
• Motion to authorize clerk to challenge identified voters per 17 V.S.A. 2150(d)(3)
• Motion to authorize clerk to batch purge per 17 V.S.A. 2150(d)(5)

The Board conducted a review of 7,820 voter names on the Master Checklist. Members authorized the Town Clerk to issue challenge letters to identified voters and purge those challenged prior to November 2018 who failed to respond or vote.

• Authorized Town Clerk to issue Challenge Letters to voters identified during the review (Unanimous)
• Authorized Town Clerk to purge voters challenged prior to November 2018 who have not responded or voted (Unanimous)
• Authorized Town Clerk to file Certification of Completion of Biennial Purge with the Secretary of State by September 20, 2021 (Unanimous)

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Climate Advisory Committee will consider and respond to feedback on a resolution to adopt the Town of Hartford Climate Action Plan, which outlines steps toward carbon neutrality and net-zero emissions. The resolution directs the Town Manager to develop an implementation plan, establish a staff team, create annual reports, amend procurement policies, and fund a Climate Action Reserve Fund. The committee will also review minutes and make agenda changes.

• Resolution adopting the Hartford Climate Action Plan
• Directs Town Manager to create implementation project plan by December 2021
• Requires annual GHG emissions reporting starting July 2021
• Amends procurement policies by February 2022
• Establishes funding for Climate Action Reserve Fund in FY22/23 budget

The committee held a discussion regarding the draft Resolution Implementing the Climate Action Plan ahead of its scheduled presentation to the Selectboard. No formal votes were taken, and no changes were made to the draft resolution during the meeting. Members agreed to present the document to the Selectboard on September 7, noting that the board retains the authority to amend the text.

• Adjourned meeting at 6:02 pm

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion will consider amendments to a Declaration of Equity, Inclusion, and Justice and vote on recommending its adoption to the Selectboard. The committee will also review a Hartford Block Party application, discuss resource library recommendations, and draft policy goals related to the Strategic Plan.

• Amend and approve Declaration of Equity, Inclusion, and Justice
• Review Hartford Block Party application and plan
• Review two recommendations regarding Resource Library
• Draft and discuss policy goals with timeline for Strategic Plan implementation
• Discuss open committee seat

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion approved an amended Declaration of Equity, Inclusion, and Justice for presentation to the Selectboard, expected on the Selectboard agenda in early October. The committee also voted to host a table at the Hartford Block Party, postponed discussion of a resource library, and moved to publicize an open committee seat. Minutes from the 8/4/21 meeting passed unanimously; the 8/18/21 meeting lacked a quorum.

• Approved minutes from 8/4/21 unanimously; no quorum for 8/18/21 meeting
• Approved amended Declaration of Equity, Inclusion, and Justice for Ally to finalize for Selectboard presentation (unanimous)
• Approved applying for and hosting a table at the Hartford Block Party (unanimous)
• Postponed discussion of resource library recommendations until next committee meeting (unanimous)
• Moved to ask Lana to post committee vacancy on town website and town Facebook page (unanimous)
• Moved to adjourn (no vote tally recorded)

Hartford Business Revolving Loan Fund

The Hartford Business Revolving Loan Fund and Hartford 2020 VCDP Revolving Loan Fund Committee is meeting to review the July 2021 loan summary, discuss potential loans in executive session, and consider marketing strategies and loan application fees. The agenda includes approval of prior minutes and other business.

• Review of loan summary report for July 2021
• Update on potential loans (executive session)
• Discussion of marketing for HBRLF and VCDP RLF
• Discussion of loan application fees

The Hartford Business Revolving Loan Fund Committee approved the August 4, 2021 minutes and agreed to keep the current loan fees — a $100 application fee and a $200 documentation fee — for now, planning to revisit them in six to twelve months. The committee also agreed an updated marketing brochure was ready to use and discussed where to distribute it. Members went into executive session to review the July 2021 confidential loan summary and potential applications, taking no action. No loan applications were approved or denied.

• Approved August 4, 2021 HBRLF/VCDP special meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Agreed to keep $100 application fee and $200 documentation fee for now, to revisit in 6-12 months
• Agreed updated marketing brochure was ready to use
• Entered executive session on July 2021 loan summary and potential applications; no actions taken
• Adjourned at 9:15 a.m. (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Hartford Conservation Commission is meeting to discuss a winter 2022 timber harvest, the fiscal year 2022/2023 budget, and several town forest items including a formal relationship with the Upper Valley Mountain Bike Association. They will also hear about the Hurricane Hill Run and a White River Partnership fall clean-up. The agenda includes many routine items such as minutes approval and announcements.

• Winter 2022 Timber Harvest discussion with guest AJ Follensbee
• Fiscal Year 2022/2023 Budget discussion
• Formal relationship with Upper Valley Mountain Bike Association for Town Forest
• White River Partnership Fall Clean-Up on Saturday, September 11th
• Wetlands question from Harvest Lane resident

The Hartford Conservation Commission approved a $6,755 budget for fiscal year 2022/2023, which includes $3,000 for a conservation fund reserve and $300 for the Hartford Salamander Team. The commission also approved a request for the Hurricane Hill Run to use a small portion of the Town Forest, allowed the Hartford Area Career Technology Center's Natural Resources Class to use the Town Forest for Game of Logging training, and agreed to sit down with the Upper Valley Mountain Bike Association to discuss a memorandum of understanding. Additionally, the commission agreed to participate in the September 11 Source to the Sea clean-up and decided not to participate in the Hartford Community Coalition Block Party due to rising Covid-19 cases.

• Approved FY2022/2023 budget of $6,755 (5-0)
• Approved Hurricane Hill Run request to use Town Forest (unanimous)
• Approved Natural Resources Class use of Town Forest for Game of Logging training (unanimous)
• Approved sitting down with UVMBA to discuss MOU (4-0, Tom Kahl abstained)
• Agreed to participate in Source to the Sea clean-up on September 11
• Agreed not to participate in Hartford Community Coalition Block Party due to Covid-19
• Approved minutes of July 12, 2021 meeting (unanimous consent)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:09 p.m. (unanimous)

Watson Dog Park

The Upper Valley Dog Park Supporters are meeting to review minutes and reports, and to schedule maintenance tasks including replacing patio bricks and repairing benches and dog ramps. This is a routine organizational meeting for park volunteers.

• Review and approve July 24, 2021 minutes
• Treasurer's report
• Schedule patio brick replacement
• Schedule bench repair, staining, and polyurethane
• Schedule dog ramp repair and painting

The supplied meeting document is an agenda for an upcoming September 25, 2021 meeting and includes a review of previous minutes from August 28, 2021, Dogaween planning, and new business. The record does not contain information regarding any substantive decisions, votes, or formal actions taken during the session.

• Reviewed minutes from August 28, 2021
• Discussed Dogaween planning and volunteer division
• Scheduled remaining maintenance

Energy Commission

The Hartford Energy Commission is meeting to review minutes and plan upcoming activities, including a Window Dressers update and the HCC Block Party on September 10. They will also discuss ideas for the September HEC Herald and items for the next meeting.

• Review and approve draft minutes from 2021-07-22
• Window Dressers plan update and volunteer ideas
• HCC Block Party plan for September 10
• September HEC Herald ideas, including Ashton's piece on carbon offsets in travel
• Laura Seaton questions for next meeting

The Hartford Energy Commission approved a partnership with the Hartland Energy Committee to conduct a Window Dressers home insulation build. Members discussed recruitment strategies for volunteers, plans for an Electric Vehicle ambassador program, and preparations for the upcoming HCC Block Party.

• Tabled July meeting minutes due to lack of quorum
• Approved partnership with Hartland for Window Dressers build

Resilient Hartford

The Resilient Hartford committee will review recent design workshops and commission meetings regarding the Clifford Park Food Forest. The agenda includes planning for a community design meeting and a scheduled tree planting event.

• Review of August 4 Design Workshop
• Review of August 12 Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting
• Community Design Meeting scheduled for September 1
• Tree Planting scheduled for September 18

The Resilient Hartford committee accepted its July 28 minutes by unanimous consent and reviewed recent outreach: an August 4 design workshop at the West Hartford Library with ten attendees and an August 12 Parks and Recreation Commission meeting where the food forest project was presented. The committee agreed to hold a community meeting on the design plan Thursday, September 9, and to keep the tree planting on Saturday, September 18 from 9:00 a.m. to noon. It also agreed to put formal consideration of endorsing the town Climate Action Plan on its September 22 agenda, after being told the Selectboard adopted the plan the previous night.

• Accepted July 28, 2021 minutes by unanimous consent
• Agreed to schedule community meeting on the Design Plan for Thursday, September 9
• Agreed to hold tree planting Saturday, September 18, 9:00 a.m. to noon
• Agreed Karen Ganey, Kye Cochran and Cat Buxton will handle tree planting preparations
• Agreed to maintain social distancing at the planting and to stake out the tree/guild area
• Agreed to have a Resilient Hartford table at the Hartford Community Coalition Block Party on September 10
• Agreed to place possible endorsement of the Climate Action Plan on the September 22 agenda
• Matt Osborn agreed to set up a Clifford Park site visit with the engineer and floodplain officials

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Selectboard will review preliminary plans for the South Main Street Parking Lot project and consider a new ordinance for town-owned parking lots. The meeting also includes a motion regarding the Climate Action Plan and a contract for breathing apparatus.

• South Main Street Parking Lot improvement plans (estimated cost $1,500,000)
• Proposed Town Owned Parking Lots Ordinance limiting parking to 7 days per space
• Final review of the Climate Action Plan
• Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus Contract
• Review of the Charge of the Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter

The Selectboard adopted the town's Climate Action Plan and approved a $100,026 contract for breathing apparatus. The board also approved language for a Town Owned Parking Lots ordinance and passed the consent agenda.

• Adopted Climate Action Plan (6-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved $100,026 contract for self-contained breathing apparatus from Municipal Emergency Services (unanimous)
• Approved language for Town Owned Parking Lots ordinance (unanimous)
• Approved Consent Agenda including payroll, 8/17/2021 minutes, and A/P manifests (unanimous)

West Hartford Library Trustees

The West Hartford Library Board is holding a regular meeting with standard agenda items: reports from the secretary, treasurer, director, and Friends group, plus old and new business. No specific decisions, proposals, or dollar amounts are listed in the agenda.

• Secretary's Report
• Treasurer's Report
• Director's Report
• Friend's Report
• Old and New Business

The Board of Trustees voted against a motion to remove the Pledge of Allegiance from its by-laws. The board also approved the July 2021 meeting minutes and noted a change in the Treasurer role.

• Approved July 2021 meeting minutes
• Defeated motion to omit Pledge of Allegiance from by-laws (3-2, 1 abstaining)
• Doug Eisler assumed Treasurer responsibilities
• Gerda Gofberg resigned from the Board of Trustees

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter is meeting to review its minutes, receive an RV policy update, and discuss the committee's role and continued future. Members are asked to come prepared to weigh in on whether the committee should continue.

• RV policy update from Becca and Simon
• Discussion on the role and continued future of the ad-hoc committee
• Updates from subcommittees
• Passage of minutes from previous HADCES meeting

The Hartford Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter met on 8/19/21 and approved the minutes of its 8/05/21 meeting; all members present voted in favor. The rest of the meeting was discussion only: an update on possible RV zoning regulation amendments to allow stays longer than the current 14 days per year, fire code and sanitation options, and the committee's role. No zoning changes, budgets, or other substantive actions were decided. The committee's work is scheduled to be discussed at the Selectboard meeting on Tuesday, August 24th at 6:00 PM.

• Approved the 8/05/21 meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Adjourned the meeting at 6:17 PM (all in favor)

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion will meet to consider amending and approving a Declaration of Equity, Inclusion, and Justice, and to draft policy goals with a timeline for the Strategic Plan. They will also discuss an open committee seat and receive working group updates. The meeting is open to community input.

• Amend and/or approve Declaration of Equity, Inclusion, and Justice
• Move to recommend adoption of declaration to Selectboard
• Draft and discuss policy goals for Strategic Plan implementation
• Discuss open committee seat
• Preview recommendation re: Resource Library

Tree Board

The Hartford Tree Board is meeting to review July minutes and discuss several tree-related matters, including appointing a Deputy Tree Warden, planning a fall tree sale and identification walk, and organizing informal tree identification gatherings. The board will also consider the removal of a tree at Quechee Green, a removal and replacement on Maxfield, and a possible donated American Elm for a town-owned area near Wilder Picnic Area.

• Tree Warden replacement and instating a Deputy Tree Warden
• Quechee Green tree removal with presentation/notice to residents
• Maxfield tree removal and replacement
• Possible donation of an American Elm for planting near Wilder Picnic Area entrance
• Fall tree sale and tree identification walk planning

The Hartford Tree Board met on August 17, 2021 and accepted the July 20, 2021 minutes as written. The board decided to hold its fall tree sale in the spring instead, and set the Tree Identification Walk for October 16, 2021 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on the Quechee River Loop. A decision on planting a new tree on town-owned land near the Wilder Picnic Area entrance, including a possible donated tree, was tabled to the September meeting. The board also discussed starting a search for a new tree warden once Dana officially resigns, and plans to hold a public informational meeting about removing and replacing 6 trees on the Quechee Green.

• Accepted July 20, 2021 minutes as written
• Moved the fall tree sale to spring; nursery trees to be held over winter
• Set Tree Identification Walk for Oct 16, 2021, 10-12 pm, Quechee River Loop
• Tabled decision on planting a tree near Wilder Picnic Area entrance to September meeting
• Jeff and David to organize a board outing for tree identification practice
• Jeff to write tree warden responsibilities description and coordinate with Parks and Recreation
• Kathy to contact Karen McNall about a work order for Maxfield tree removal and replacement

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard is meeting to review June financials, discuss municipal leasing options, consider an encumbrance request, and vote on a Clean Water Revolving Loan Fund contract for stormwater/sewer improvements. The agenda also includes updates on the Gates Street closure and board budget guidance. The meeting is open to the public and available via Zoom.

• June Financials – information
• Municipal Leasing Overview – information
• Encumbrance Request – motion
• CWSRF Step 2 Contract – motion for $31,700 loan for South Main/North Main/Gates Streets stormwater/sewer improvements
• Gates Street Closure Update – information

The Hartford Selectboard approved the 2021 Encumbrance Request for items previously approved in operating budgets plus additional COVID expenses, with all members in favor. The board also voted 6-0, with Lannie Collins abstaining, to adopt CWSRF loan documents, sign Exhibits C and D, and designate Town Manager Tracy Yarlott-Davis as authorized representative and Chair Dan Fraser as alternate. The consent agenda, including payroll, minutes, and the A/P manifest, was approved unanimously, and the meeting adjourned at 9:10 PM. The minutes also included a Town Manager's report on emergency ordinance procedures and ongoing Vermont State Police investigations, but no action was taken on those items.

• Approved 2021 Encumbrance Request for previously approved budget items and additional COVID expenses (all in favor)
• Adopted CWSRF loan documents, signed Exhibits C and D, designated Tracy Yarlott-Davis as authorized representative and Dan Fraser as alternate (6-0, Lannie Collins abstained)
• Approved consent agenda including payroll ending 8/7/2021, minutes of 7/27/2021 and 8/12/2021, A/P manifest of 8/6/2021 and 8/10/2021, and meeting dates of 9/7/2021 and 9/21/2021 (all in favor)
• Adjourned the Selectboard meeting at 9:10 PM (all in favor)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will meet with the Ad Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter to receive informal, non-binding feedback. The discussion concerns a proposal to amend Zoning Regulations regarding the use of recreational vehicles for sleeping quarters.

• Informal feedback session on proposed Zoning Regulation amendments
• Discussion regarding recreational vehicles as sleeping quarters

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard is holding a special organizational meeting to reorganize board positions and discuss liaison assignments to various town committees and commissions. The agenda includes motions for reorganization and closing, with liaison assignments being informational only. The meeting is open to the public.

• Reorganization of board positions (motions required)
• Discussion of liaison assignments to boards and commissions
• Open liaison positions: Climate Advisory Committee, HCOREI, Hartford Community Coalition, School Board
• Liaison assignments listed for Advance Transit, Aquatics Center, Conservation Commission, and others

At a special organizational meeting on August 12, 2021, the Hartford Selectboard elected Dan Fraser as Chair and Joe Major as Vice Chair, and elected Kim Souza as Clerk. All votes were unanimous. Liaison assignments to committees were discussed but not finalized; they are set to be finalized at the regular selectboard meeting on Tuesday, August 17. The meeting was otherwise procedural and adjourned at 6:15 PM.

• Elected Dan Fraser as Chair and Joe Major as Vice Chair (all in favor)
• Elected Kim Souza as Clerk of the Selectboard (all in favor)
• Discussed but did not finalize liaison assignments; finalization set for August 17 regular meeting
• Motion to close the meeting at 6:15 PM passed (all in favor)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Hartford Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to discuss updates on the Clifford Park Food Forest, Community Center, Pool Project, and a community survey, along with a risk management review. No new business is listed, and the agenda is primarily procedural with status updates.

• Clifford Park Food Forest update
• Community Center updates
• Pool Project updates
• Community Survey updates
• Risk management review

The Hartford Parks and Recreation Commission approved the updated Risk Management Manual and voted to support the Clifford Park Re-imagined community food forest project as presented. The commission also approved the June meeting minutes. No other substantive decisions were recorded; the rest of the meeting consisted of staff reports and a presentation.

• Approved June meeting minutes
• Approved updated Risk Management Manual
• Supported Clifford Park Re-imagined food forest project as presented
• Adjourned at 6:47 pm

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Climate Advisory Committee is meeting to review feedback on the Climate Action Plan and decide on a recommendation to the Selectboard. They will also discuss the Sustainability Coordinator position and the Climate Action Reserve Fund, along with other town business updates.

• Review and approve past meeting minutes
• Climate Action Plan: update and next steps, including public feedback and recommendation to Selectboard
• Updates on Sustainability Coordinator position
• Updates on Climate Action Reserve Fund
• Status updates on communications and committee membership

The committee reviewed and amended six draft recommendations regarding the Climate Action Plan. Members decided to present these recommendations to the Selectboard as a formal resolution during the August 24, 2021 meeting.

• Approved substance of six draft climate recommendations as amended
• Decided to present recommendations to the Selectboard in the form of a resolution
• Agreed to recommend incorporating scope 1-3 considerations into existing procurement policy
• Agreed to recommend that the Selectboard continually contribute to the Climate Action Reserve Fund

Inactive Boards

The Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter is meeting to review and approve minutes, receive updates from the Select Board and Town Manager, and discuss an RV policy update. Subcommittee updates and next steps are also on the agenda. This is a routine working meeting with no major decisions listed.

• RV policy update (Becca & Simon)
• Report on Select Board and Town Manager updates (Ally)
• Passage of minutes of HADCES meeting
• Updates from subcommittees

The Hartford Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter approved its 7/22/21 minutes and discussed next steps on changing RV regulations. Chair Becca White and Secretary Simon Dennis will hold an informal feedback meeting with the Planning Department on proposed RV regulation language, then formally bring a proposal to the Planning Commission. The committee also heard updates on rental health and safety issues and The Haven's outreach to unhoused residents. No formal policy decisions were made beyond approving prior minutes and setting these next steps.

• Approved 7/22/21 minutes (all in favor)
• Agreed Becca White and Simon Dennis will meet informally with Planning Department on RV regulation changes
• Agreed to formally propose RV regulation changes to Planning Commission after that feedback
• Becca White and Ally Tufenkjian to consider whether to hold an additional meeting with the Town Manager
• Adjourned at 5:48 PM (all in favor)

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion will review and potentially recommend a Declaration of Equity, Inclusion, and Justice to the Selectboard, and will also discuss education and policy goals. The meeting includes routine items like approving minutes and welcoming community input.

• Review and recommend Declaration of Equity, Inclusion, and Justice to Selectboard
• Review and adopt committee education goals for Fall 2021
• Draft and discuss policy goals
• Approve meeting minutes from July 7, 2021

The committee approved its education goals for the coming year, which include developing a resource library and increasing collaboration with other DEI efforts. Discussion on policy goals was tabled, and the committee planned to review the Declaration of Equity, Inclusion, and Justice at the next meeting.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved education goals (unanimous)
• Tabled discussion on policy goals

Inactive Boards

The Climate Action Team is meeting to review feedback received on the draft Climate Action Plan (CAP). Members will hold breakout sessions to reach consensus on incorporating changes into the final plan. The goal is to finalize the CAP for Selectboard approval.

• Review of comments on Draft Climate Action Plan
• Breakout session on Transportation/Land Use, Waste Management, and Local Food
• Breakout session on Buildings and Energy, and Climate Health and Safety
• Breakout session on Water and Waste Water, Greenspace/Tree, and Climate Economy

Resilient Hartford

The Resilient Hartford group is holding the third design workshop for the Clifford Park Food Forest at the West Hartford Library. The agenda includes recapping previous workshops, discussing design and species selection, and seeking community input and Parks and Recreation Commission approval. This is a working session, not a final decision-making meeting.

• Recap of Design Workshops I & II
• Design Process and Species Selection discussion (70 min)
• Community Meeting for public input
• Parks and Recreation Commission Approval sought
• Next steps and adjournment

The group discussed design goals, species selection, and potential layouts for a food forest. No formal votes were taken; the meeting focused on planning and addressing flood regulation requirements.

Hartford Business Revolving Loan Fund

The Hartford Business Revolving Loan Fund and Hartford 2020 VCDP Revolving Loan Fund Committee will hold a special meeting to approve the June 2nd minutes and discuss marketing of the two revolving loan funds. The meeting is open to the public in person or via Zoom.

• Approval of June 2nd, 2021 minutes
• Discussion of marketing for HBRLF and VCDP RLF

The Hartford Business Revolving Loan Fund Committee met on August 4, 2021 and approved the minutes from its June 2, 2021 meeting unanimously. The committee reviewed a draft trifold marketing brochure for the HBRLF and VCDP-RLF, discussed whether one brochure could cover both funds, and suggested wording and layout changes. Chair Ryan Scelza will continue revising the draft and bring it back at the September meeting. No loan applications, awards, or funding decisions were made.

• Approved minutes from the June 2, 2021 HBRLF/VCDP Committee meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

Resilient Hartford

The Resilient Hartford committee is meeting to review minutes from past meetings and discuss the Clifford Park Food Forest project, including updates from design workshops, website, and fundraising. The meeting includes a review of the July 13 and 21 design workshops and planning for the next workshop on August 4.

• Review of Clifford Park Food Forest design workshops from July 13 and 21
• Update on Clifford Park Food Forest project by Matt and Kye
• Website update by Ruth Fleishman
• Fundraising committee update by Marsha
• Next design workshop scheduled for August 4

The committee approved minutes from seven previous meetings. Members discussed flood regulation requirements for the Clifford Park food forest project and identified potential grant opportunities for funding.

• Approved minutes from April 28, May 6, May 12, May 19, June 2, June 23, and July 13 meetings (unanimous)

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will meet to consider several motions, including a State of Vermont Building Communities Grant and a Gates Street item, and to discuss the Bond Bank, Parks & Rec updates, and a Strategic Equity and Inclusion Plan. They will also consider reappointing David Crocco to the Parks and Recreation Commission. The agenda includes routine items like payroll approval and an executive session for legal matters.

• Motion on State of Vermont Building Communities Grant
• Motion on Gates Street
• Reappointment of David Crocco to Parks and Recreation Commission (3-year term)
• Discussion of Vermont Bond Bank financing options
• Presentation of Fire Department Life Saving Awards

The Hartford Selectboard voted 4-1 (Brown opposed) to support the Town Manager and Public Works Director in temporarily closing Gates Street between Fairview Terrace and Maplewood Terrace for an undetermined time due to retaining wall movement and safety hazards. The board also approved submitting a grant application and letter of support for up to $25,000 from the state Recreational Facilities Grants Program toward spray deck features for the new municipal pool, and reappointed David Crocco to the Parks and Recreation Commission for a three-year term. The consent agenda, including payroll, minutes, and the A/P manifest, was approved, and the board entered executive session to discuss attorney-client communications before adjourning at 10:05 PM.

• Approved closing Gates Street between Fairview Terrace and Maplewood Terrace temporarily for safety issues (4-1, Brown opposed)
• Approved submitting a letter of support and grant application for up to $25,000 from the Recreational Facilities Grants Program for pool spray deck features (unanimous)
• Reappointed David Crocco to the Parks and Recreation Commission for a three-year term ending July 26, 2024 (unanimous)
• Approved the consent agenda: payroll ending 7/24/2021, minutes of 7/6/2021, A/P manifest of 7/23/2021 and 7/27/2021 (unanimous)
• Entered executive session at 9:35 PM to discuss confidential attorney-client communications under Title 313(a)(1)(F) (unanimous)
• Closed executive session at 10:04 PM (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting at 10:05 PM (unanimous)

Watson Dog Park

The Upper Valley Dog Park Supporters are meeting to review minutes, hear reports on fundraising, grants, and finding a stone mason, and discuss setting up a Facebook page. They will also consider refurbishing a park bench and whether the town will share plowing costs.

• Review and approve minutes from June 19-25, 2021
• Report on fundraising and grants
• Finding a stone mason
• Setting up a Facebook page
• Refurbishing park bench and town sharing plowing costs

The Upper Valley Dog Park Supporters met on July 24, 2021 and decided to do patio brick repair work themselves rather than hire a mason, since several memorial bricks remain blank and the patio does not need extending. Attendees agreed to have Ali set up a new Facebook page with Jace and Jim as administrators. The group also discussed snowplowing cost-sharing with the Town of Hartford, which the town declined, and heard treasurer figures including $800.00 from the June 26 yard sale and $2,500.00 in membership dues. No formal votes or binding actions by a public body were recorded.

• Decided to do patio brick repair work themselves instead of hiring a mason
• Agreed to have Ali set up a new Facebook page; Jace and Jim to be administrators
• Accepted June 19 and June 25 meeting minutes as read with no corrections
• Heard treasurer's report: $800.00 yard sale total ($681.00 merchandise, $119.00 donations), $2,500.00 in dues, $500.00 donation
• Town of Hartford declined to share snowplowing costs; Jerry to hold further discussion and a petition may be needed for the ballot
• Ali to ask Scott at town hall whether the group is registered as non-profit and to look into a PayPal account for dues
• Jerry to inquire why the porta-potty is on the premises after he cancelled it

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter is meeting to review past minutes and continue planning. The main business is next steps on RV planning and zoning regulation changes, along with updates from subcommittees. This is a working session, not a final decision-making body.

• Review of meeting minutes from 7/8/2021
• Next steps on RV planning and zoning regulation changes
• Updates from subcommittees

The Hartford Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter approved its 7/08/21 minutes and discussed, but did not decide, RV zoning regulation amendments and the town's complaint-based encampment policy. The committee agreed Ally Tufenkjian would report to the Selectboard on RV policy, and Becca White said she would request Department of Public Works support for removing trash bags at campsites. Members also discussed winding down the State of Emergency Hotel Voucher Program toward General Assistance guidelines, and noted the parcel off Hemlock Ridge is off limits for a campsite due to a nearby day care.

• Approved 7/08/21 minutes (all in favor)
• Agreed Ally Tufenkjian would report to the Selectboard on RV zoning policy
• Agreed Becca White would request DPW support for removing trash bags at campsites (all in favor)
• Adjourned at 6:12 PM (all in favor)

Board of Civil Authority

This meeting agenda is a notice for voting tabulator testing, not a regular decision-making session. Election officials will test the voting tabulators at the Hartford Town Clerk's Office on July 22, 2021, from 9am to 11am. No other business is listed.

• Voting tabulator testing at Hartford Town Hall, 171 Bridge St., White River Jct., VT 05001

Energy Commission

The commission will review minutes from the May 28, 2021, meeting and discuss updates regarding the Window Dressers plan and the Lynn/Bugbee project. Members will also address recruitment and brainstorm ideas for the August HEC Herald.

• Review and approve draft minutes from 2021-05-28
• Window Dressers plan update
• Lynn; Bugbee update
• Recruitment discussion
• August HEC Herald ideas

The commission held a procedural meeting to discuss recruitment efforts for the Window Dressers program and plan content for the August and September editions of the HEC Herald. No formal votes were taken or substantive policy decisions finalized during this session.

• Discussed recruitment strategies for Window Dressers program
• Assigned newsletter topics for August and September HEC Herald
• Scheduled next meeting for August 26 as a hybrid session

West Hartford Library Trustees

This is a regular meeting of the West Hartford Library Board, consisting of standard reports from the secretary, treasurer, director, and Friends group, followed by old and new business. No specific decisions or proposals are listed on the agenda.

• Secretary's Report
• Treasurer's Report
• Director's Report
• Friends' Report
• Old and New Business

The West Hartford Library Trustees approved storing and sharing library information on Google Drive, limited to material already public on the town website. They also approved letting Sandie Cary make final decisions on how a $2,166 state Department of Libraries grant for post-Covid recovery is spent, with Cary and Emily Clough to submit the required application. Doug Eisler was approved to take on Treasurer duties pending notice from the Town of Hartford, following Gerda Gofberg's resignation effective 9/1/2021. A motion to amend the by-laws to omit the Pledge of Allegiance from future meetings was tabled to the next meeting.

• Approved omitting the Pledge of Allegiance from this meeting
• Approved June 2021 minutes without correction
• Approved Sandie Cary to make final decisions on spending the $2,166 state Department of Libraries grant
• Approved Doug Eisler to assume Treasurer responsibilities pending notice from the Town of Hartford
• Approved storing and sharing library information on Google Drive, limited to what is public on the town website
• Tabled a motion to amend by-laws (Sec 4 Art C) to omit the Pledge of Allegiance from all future meetings

Historic Preservation Commission

The Hartford Historic Preservation Commission is meeting remotely to discuss several items, including the closeout of the Taft's Flat intensive level survey, an update on demolition standards, and a demolition application for 160 Gates Street. The meeting also includes approval of previous meeting minutes and routine announcements.

• Taft's Flat Intensive Level Survey: project closeout and community meeting
• Demolition Standards update/discussion
• 160 Gates Street application for demolition
• Approval of minutes from May 10, May 19, June 3, and July 8, 2021

The commission approved minutes from four previous meetings and revised draft demolition standards to remove size and height exemptions. Members also agreed to postpone a community meeting regarding the Taft’s Flat Intensive Level Survey until after Labor Day.

• Approved minutes from May 10, May 19, June 3, and July 8, 2021 (unanimous)
• Agreed to include partial demolitions in demolition standards
• Agreed to remove height exemption for buildings less than 15 feet
• Agreed to eliminate the small building exemption for structures under 400 square feet
• Agreed to rename the standards section 'Demolition Delay'
• Agreed to change 'HPC' to 'HHPC' in the standards
• Agreed to skip the August 18 meeting unless the 160 Gates Street application progresses

Tree Board

The Hartford Tree Board is meeting to discuss several tree-related items, including planting a memorial tree for the COVID-19 pandemic, replacing dying trees at Maxfield Sports Complex, and reviewing the board's bylaws. They will also consider a possible donated tree for the Wilder Picnic Area entrance. The board previously attended a webinar on new tree warden statutes and the shade tree ordinance.

• Memorial tree for COVID-19 pandemic: star magnolia at Lyman Point after hazardous pines removed
• Replace dying trees near parking lots at Maxfield Sports Complex
• Review of bylaws by Jeff and Leif
• Possible donated tree (Dan Ramirez) for town-owned land before Wilder Picnic Area entrance

The Hartford Tree Board met on July 20, 2021 and accepted its June 15, 2021 minutes as written. The Board discussed, but did not formally decide, several items: asking the Selectboard to appoint a deputy tree warden, revising the Tree Board Bylaws and Comprehensive Tree Policy to match new tree warden statutes, and drafting a Tree Preservation Policy — with the intent to present all three to the Selectboard together. It also discussed a possible memorial tree for the end of the COVID-19 pandemic, replacing dying trees at Maxfield Sports Complex and on the Quechee Green, and a possible donated tree near the Wilder Picnic Area entrance. No motions, votes, or approvals are recorded in these minutes.

• Accepted June 15, 2021 minutes as written
• No formal decisions recorded on deputy tree warden, bylaws, or tree policies — discussion only
• Board intends to present bylaws, tree policy revisions, and a Tree Preservation Policy to the Selectboard together (not yet presented)
• Discussed possible star magnolia memorial tree at Lyman Point after hazardous pines are removed; no date set
• Scott Hausler asked the Board to inspect six dead or dying trees on the Quechee Green and report back
• Discussed replacing dying trees near Maxfield Sports Complex parking lots; removal already scheduled
• Scott Hausler to contact Dan Ramirez about a possible donated tree near the Wilder Picnic Area entrance

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Hartford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on a setback waiver application from The Waldorf School for a roof at 80 Bluff Road in Quechee. The board will also handle administrative matters including approval of previous meeting minutes and public comment.

• Application #06-21 by The Waldorf School for a setback waiver under section 260-52 for a roof on lot 12-0071-000, 80 Bluff Road, Quechee
• Approval of minutes from June 9 and June 23, 2021 meetings
• Review of projects that received administrative approval
• Public comment period

The Zoning Board of Adjustment approved a setback waiver for a roof at 80 Bluff Road to provide cover for woodworking classes. The board also approved minutes from June 9 and June 23, 2021.

• Approved setback waiver for The Waldorf School roof at 80 Bluff Road (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of June 9, 2021, and June 23, 2021

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Selectboard will consider appointing Colin Butler to the Planning Commission and review motions regarding the budget calendar and the American Rescue Plan. The meeting also includes reports on recent storm damage, municipal hiring challenges, and upcoming special elections.

• Appointment of Colin Butler to the Planning Commission for a three-year term
• Motion regarding the Town Budget Calendar
• Motion regarding the American Rescue Plan
• Special Election for two Selectboard positions on August 10, 2021
• Update on Gates Street and recent microburst storm damage

The Hartford Selectboard approved the fiscal year 2023 budget calendar and accepted its allocation of Coronavirus Local Fiscal Recovery Funding through the American Rescue Plan. The board also appointed Colin Butler to a three-year term on the Planning Commission and approved the consent agenda, which included payroll, meeting minutes, accounts payable manifests, and future meeting dates.

• Appointed Colin Butler to a three-year term on the Planning Commission (July 13, 2021 to July 12, 2024)
• Approved the fiscal year 2023 budget cycle calendar
• Accepted the allocation of Coronavirus Local Fiscal Recovery Funding (ARPA) from the US Treasury, appointed Dan Fraser as Authorized Representative, Gail Ostrout as Primary Contact, and Tracy Yarlott as Secondary Contact
• Approved the Consent Agenda including payroll ending 7/10/2021, meeting minutes from 6/15/2021, 6/29/2021, and 7/6/2021, A/P manifests of 7/9/2021 and 7/13/2021, and meeting dates

Conservation Commission

The Hartford Conservation Commission is meeting to review fiscal year expenditures, discuss cleanup of the Old River Road dump site, and address multiple town forest items including a winter 2022 timber harvest, a potential partnership with the Upper Mountain Bike Association, and an integrated management plan. They will also consider a conservation easement and other routine business.

• Review of FY2020/2021 conservation expenditures and balances
• Old River Road dump site cleanup discussion
• Winter 2022 timber harvest in Town Forest
• Formal relationship with Upper Valley Mountain Bike Association
• Conservation easement discussion

The Conservation Commission voted to recommend re-advertising the town forest timber sale with a north landing option and a mill scale pricing structure instead of a lump sum bid. The commission also approved the minutes from their June 7, 2021 meeting by unanimous consent and discussed fiscal year expenditures, trail maintenance, and various conservation projects.

• Approved minutes of the June 7, 2021 Conservation Commission meeting by unanimous consent
• Approved a motion to recommend rebidding the timber sale with a north landing option and a mill scale price (7-0)

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter is meeting to review recent changes to housing and voucher programs, discuss next steps on RV planning and zoning regulation changes, and receive updates from subcommittees. The meeting is open to the public via Zoom.

• Review of July 1st changes to housing and voucher programs
• Next steps on RV planning/zoning regulation changes
• Updates from subcommittees
• Passage of minutes from 6/24/2021 meeting

The Hartford Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter met on July 8, 2021 and approved the minutes of its June 24, 2021 meeting. The committee received updates on the voucher program, including that sites are full with an estimated 20 campers, and discussed RV zoning regulation amendments still under review by the Planning Department and Fire Marshal. The Town's complaint-based approach to encampments was reaffirmed, and the committee agreed to request Department of Public Works support for removing trash bags, with the next meeting set for July 22.

• Approved the 6/24/21 minutes (all in favor)
• Agreed to request Town support from the Department of Public Works for removing trash bags (all in favor)
• Adjourned the meeting at 6:05 PM (all in favor)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Hartford Parks and Recreation Commission meeting scheduled for July 8, 2021 has been cancelled due to scheduling conflicts. The next scheduled meeting will be held on August 12, 2021. No other business is listed on this agenda.

• Meeting cancelled due to scheduling conflicts
• Next meeting scheduled for August 12, 2021

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion is meeting to review Lebanon City Council's proposal to establish a DEI commission, and to discuss remaining education, outreach, and policy goals for 2021. The committee will also discuss current alliances with other community groups. This is a working meeting with no formal votes scheduled.

• Review Lebanon City Council's proposal to establish a DEI commission
• Review remaining education and outreach goals for 2021
• Review remaining Town and School policy goals for 2021
• Discuss current alliances with other community groups

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion met on July 7, 2021. It approved its prior meeting minutes, elected Sara Campbell as vice-chair, and agreed to cancel its July 21 meeting, with the next meeting set for August 4. The committee also passed a motion that working group recommendations must be formally brought to HCOREI for discussion and, if approved, then formally made by HCOREI to the appropriate board or boards. Members discussed Lebanon's proposal to establish a DEI commission, remaining 2021 education and outreach goals, and town and school policy goals, but took no other recorded votes on those items.

• Approved 7/16/21 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Passed motion that working group recommendations go formally to HCOREI, and if approved, are formally made by HCOREI to the appropriate board/s (unanimous)
• Resolved to cancel the 7/21/21 HCOREI meeting; next meeting 8/4/21
• Elected Sara Campbell as HCOREI Vice-Chair (unanimous)
• Adjourned (Joe moved to adjourn)

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will vote on setting the Fiscal Year 2022 municipal tax rate. The proposed rate is $1.0283 per $100 of property value, which is an increase from the FY2021 rate of $1.0138. The total town appropriation to be raised by taxes is $14,439,102.

• Set FY2022 municipal tax rate to $1.0283 per $100 (motion)
• Approve A/P manifest for 7/2/2021 (consent agenda)
• Total town appropriation: $14,439,102
• Education homestead tax rate: $1.6324; non-homestead: $1.7272
• Community appropriations totaling $224,177, including $81,750 for Advance Transit and $51,000 for Visiting Nurse and Hospice

The Selectboard approved the municipal tax rates for the 2021-2022 fiscal year, establishing a total town tax rate of $1.0284. The board also approved the manifest of July 2, 2021, before adjourning the meeting.

• Approved FY2022 municipal tax rates (5-0)
• Approved manifest of 7/2/2021 (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:15 PM (5-0)

Sister Cities Committee

The Hartford Sister City Committee is holding a routine business meeting. The agenda includes electing officers, approving prior minutes, and receiving updates on signs, school connections, a school board liaison, and the relationship with Cenon, France. No major decisions or public hearings are scheduled.

• Election of officers
• Update on sign project
• Update on school connection program
• School board liaison update
• Update on Cenon, France partnership

The Hartford Sister City Committee approved its previous meeting minutes and postponed the election of committee officers until its August meeting. Members discussed a School Board liaison, an update on Cenon and the need to get a new Sister City agreement in French signed by the Selectboard, a high school exchange, and Sister City signage. No other substantive decisions were recorded; the meeting adjourned at 5:50 p.m.

• Approved previous meeting minutes
• Postponed election of committee officers to August meeting
• Discussed School Board liaison (no action recorded)
• Discussed Cenon and need for Selectboard to sign new Sister City agreement in French (no action recorded)
• Discussed high school exchange (no action recorded)
• Discussed Sister City signage (no action recorded)
• Adjourned at 5:50 p.m.

Energy Commission

The Hartford Energy Commission is meeting to review and approve draft minutes from May 28, discuss the Window Dressers plan, hear a recruitment update from Gina Blus, and brainstorm ideas for the July HEC Herald. The agenda is mostly routine business and planning, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Review and approve draft minutes from 2021-05-28
• Discussion of Window Dressers plan
• Recruitment update by Gina Blus
• July HEC Herald ideas

The Hartford Energy Commission met on June 30, 2021 and discussed the Window Dressers weatherization program, volunteer recruitment, and upcoming newsletter articles. No motions, votes, or formal decisions are recorded in the minutes. The meeting adjourned at 5:31 p.m.

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will hear an information-only presentation on the draft Climate Action Plan, which aims for net-zero emissions by 2030 and carbon neutrality for municipal operations by 2027. The board will also vote on several motions, including a new liquor license, appointments, and various public works and financial items. The meeting includes public comment and consent agenda items.

• New First Class liquor license for River Roost Brewery LLC, 230 South Main St, White River Jct
• Re-appointment of Tobias Dayman to the Planning Commission (July 29, 2021 – July 28, 2024)
• Motion on dispatch console for Police
• Motion on sludge hauling & grease removal (DPW)
• Motion on 2022 dump truck bid award (DPW)

The Hartford Selectboard approved a new first-class liquor license for River Roost Brewery, re-appointed Tobias Dayman to the Planning Commission, and authorized several contracts: dispatch consoles from Xybix Systems for $76,290.36 plus $7,364 for carpeting, sludge hauling to Sterns Septic Service for $46,320, wastewater line cleaning to N.A. Manosh Inc. for $12,925 (White River Junction) and $21,825 (Quechee), and a 5-year lease for two dump trucks from Reed Truck Services. The board also voted to cancel the Town's payment of online payment fees, extended a $9.2 million line of credit with Mascoma Bank to March 28, 2022, closed the Covid Committee, and approved a corrected Special Election Warning for August 10, 2021. A request to close Currier Street for the July 2 First Friday event was not acted on due to missing insurance and notification plans; it will be reviewed for August.

• Approved new First Class Liquor License for River Roost Brewery, LLC (3-0, 1 abstained, 1 recused)
• Re-appointed Tobias Dayman to Planning Commission (all in favor)
• Authorized Town Manager to award dispatch console project to Xybix Systems for $76,290.36 plus $7,364 carpeting (all in favor)
• Authorized contract with Sterns Septic Service for sludge hauling and grease removal at $46,320 (all in favor)
• Authorized contract with N.A. Manosh Inc. for wastewater line cleaning, TV inspection, and reporting at $12,925 (White River Junction) and $21,825 (Quechee) (all in favor)
• Authorized 5-year lease for 6-wheel and 10-wheel dump trucks from Reed Truck Services (4-1, Brown opposed)
• Authorized canceling Town payment of online fees from Invoice Cloud (all in favor)
• Approved extension of $9.2 million line of credit with Mascoma Bank to March 28, 2022 (all in favor)

Inactive Boards

The Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter is meeting to review and discuss updates on the town's encampment policy and RV policy, along with subcommittee updates and next steps. The agenda is largely procedural, with no final decisions listed.

• Encampment policy update from Town Manager
• RV policy update
• Subcommittee updates
• Review and passage of meeting minutes

The Hartford Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter approved the minutes from the May 27, 2021 meeting. Members also discussed town encampment enforcement, recreational vehicle zoning regulations, church site requirements, impending hotel evictions, and potential micro-dwelling parcels before adjourning.

• Approved minutes of 5/27/21 meeting (all in favor)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Hartford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a continued public hearing to determine whether Earl Bushor has lost his non-conforming use status for a motor vehicle repair facility at 1198 Maple Street. The hearing was originally opened on June 9, 2021, and will include a site visit at 4:00 PM and a remote/in-person hearing at 6:00 PM.

• Application #04-21 by Brian Bowen, Dale Perzanowski, and Meredith Liben
• Determination of loss of non-conforming use under section 260-54
• Property at 1198 Maple Street, lot 32-0042-001, Hartford Village
• Site visit at 4:00 PM and hearing at 6:00 PM at Hartford Town Hall

The Zoning Board of Adjustment denied an application requesting a determination that the property at 1198 Maple Street had lost its non-conforming use status as a motor vehicle repair facility. The Board concluded there was insufficient evidence to prove the use had been discontinued for more than 181 days. Consequently, the property retains its grandfathered status for vehicle repair and maintenance.

• Closed public hearing (4-0)
• Entered deliberative session (4-0)
• Denied application #04-21 (0-4)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Resilient Hartford

The Resilient Hartford committee is meeting to approve minutes from four prior meetings and to discuss the Clifford Park Food Forest project, including a review of a June 9 workshop, an update from Cat Buxton, and planning next steps. The meeting is in-person at Hartford Town Hall, with possible telephone access.

• Approval of minutes from April 28, May 6, May 19, and June 2, 2021
• Review of Clifford Park Food Forest June 9 workshop
• Update on Clifford Park Food Forest by Cat Buxton
• Discussion of next steps for Clifford Park Food Forest

The committee approved the creation of a wiki-style website to inform the public about the Clifford Park Food Forest. Members agreed to a protocol for inspecting organic materials and discussed a phased design schedule for planting.

• Approved the creation and maintenance of a Food Forest wiki website
• Agreed to a protocol for accepting and inspecting organic materials at Clifford Park
• Agreed to a community information display for the West Hartford Library

Assessor: Grievance Hearings

The Hartford Town Assessor will hold grievance hearings on June 21-23, 2021, for property owners appealing their assessed values. Hearings are scheduled in person, by phone, or virtually, and additional mailed/emailed grievance applications will be reviewed. This is a routine administrative process for property tax appeals.

• In-person hearings for properties on Harper Savage Ln, Wood Road, Bennington Ln, and Bliss Rd
• Phone hearings for properties on Greeley Shunpike and Hillside Rd
• Virtual hearings for properties on Harper Savage Ln and Bliss Rd
• Mailed/email grievances for properties on Hillcrest Terr, Acorn St, Jericho St, Hidden Ln, Wood Rd, Passumpsic, and Pomfret Rd

Hartford Assessor Joe Turner and Assistant Assessor Cristina Tardie held grievance hearings June 21-23, 2021, and issued written decisions dated June 25, 2021. Fourteen of the fifteen listed properties had their 2021 assessed values reduced, most after the owners submitted appraisal, inspection, or repair documentation. One property (Dubuque Family Revocable Trust of 2011, 824 Pomfret Rd) kept the same value of $88,700 after a tax map update split the parcel into two lots totaling 21.30 acres. Two scheduled hearings were cancelled — one for Brown David + Judith at 416 Wood Road and one for Dubuque — with documentation handled by email or prior conversation.

• Brown David + Judith, 416 Wood Road: value reduced from $831,500 to $539,700 after appraisal, home inspection report, and repair quote; hearing cancelled, documentation emailed
• Carpenter, Denis and Brenda, 42 Harper Savage Ln: value reduced from $42,100 to $2,300, revalued as residual land because lot is unbuildable due to well setbacks
• Dubuque Family Revocable Trust of 2011 / Dubuque Kim, 824 Pomfret Rd: value unchanged at $88,700; survey 261A split parcel into two lots (2-1 at 10.6 acres and new lot 2-1-1 at 10.7 acres), 21.30 acres total; phone hearing cancelled
• Kent, Jeffrey, 657 Bliss Rd: value reduced from $290,900 to $272,300 after review of sketch and land value
• Laro, David, 249 Hillcrest Terrace: value reduced from $189,200 to $144,300; property placed at 60% complete under construction, reinspection planned for 2022
• Liddy, Jessica, 76 Acorn St: value reduced from $148,600 to $147,700; outbuildings removed
• Main, Donald and Beth, 1301 Hillside Rd: value reduced from $669,100 to $601,600; building quality and depreciation adjusted, land value reviewed for lack of view
• Miller, Jeffrey and Jessica, 3703 Jericho St: value reduced from $843,500 to $740,100; building quality and depreciation adjusted

Watson Dog Park

The Upper Valley Dog Park Supporters group is meeting to handle routine organizational business: voting in new members and officers, approving minutes from September 2020, and discussing fundraising. They will also cover an internet connection, dispute resolution, brick masonry work, and a memorial for Wendy Smith.

• Vote in new members
• Vote in new officers
• Approve minutes from September 2020
• Discuss fundraising
• Memorial for Wendy Smith

The Upper Valley Dog Park Supporters met June 19 and June 25, 2021 at Watson Park, 1120 Maple Street. They voted in a slate of officers for 2021-2022, voted to keep the group's website active for now, and voted to purchase a plaque in memory of Wendy Smith to be placed on a bench in the small dog park. The treasurer reported an account balance of $2,380.00. Fundraising, a PayPal donation option, a new Facebook page, patio bricks, public relations, and possible town cost-sharing for winter plowing were discussed; no other formal decisions were recorded.

• Voted in 2021-2022 officers: Jace Bunnell (small dog park president), Jim Leavitt (large dog park president), Julie McPherson (vice president), Nancy Hutchins (secretary), Anne Rodia (treasurer), Lorna Ricard (membership coordinator), Jerry Pendleton (maintenance director), Wrigley Witmer (public relations coordinator), Allie Brokenshire (fundraising/event coordinator), Travis Hosna (tech coordinator)
• Accepted September 2020 minutes as read, with no corrections or additions
• Voted to keep the UVDP website active for the time being
• Voted to purchase a plaque in memory of Wendy Smith, to be placed on the bench in the small dog park where Wendy sat

West Hartford Library Trustees

The West Hartford Library Board will hold a meeting to review reports from the Secretary, Treasurer, Director, and Friends group. The agenda includes discussions on old and new business, though specific topics were not listed.

• Secretary’s Report
• Treasurer’s Report
• Director’s Report
• Friends of the Library Report

The Trustees approved the May 2021 meeting minutes with a minor correction. The board reviewed year-to-date expenditures and discussed the purchase of computers and a printer before the end of the year.

• Approved May 2021 meeting minutes with a minor correction

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion is meeting to continue discussions on how to better engage community members across different identities, receive a presentation on the Juneteenth events schedule, and discuss future plans and goals for the committee. The agenda includes time for community input and new business.

• Discussion on meeting people where they are (race, sexuality, intersectionality)
• Juneteenth Subcommittee presentation of events schedule by Sara Campbell
• Discussion on future plans and goals for HCOREI

The Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion voted to create a workgroup to draft a formal Declaration of Inclusion for the town. Members also finalized the lineup for a Juneteenth event and scheduled the next meeting to be held in person.

• Approved June 2, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Appointed John Hall as chair following Allene Swienckowski's departure
• Approved formation of a workgroup to craft a Declaration of Inclusion for the town (unanimous)
• Approved holding the July 7 meeting in person at the town hall using John Hall's Zoom account (unanimous)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Hartford Historic Preservation Commission is meeting remotely to discuss updates to demolition standards and the Taft's Flat intensive level survey, along with routine items like approving minutes and announcements. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific decisions or public hearings listed.

• Demolition Standards Update
• Taft's Flat Intensive Level Survey Update
• Approval of May 19, 2021 meeting minutes

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Pool Review Advisory Group is meeting to discuss a site visit conducted by Scott Hausler to view progress on the pool project. The agenda contains only this single item, with no decisions or proposals listed.

• Site visit by Scott Hausler to view progress

The Hartford Pool Review Advisory Group met on June 16, 2021, with four members present. Member Hausler gave an onsite tour of the developing facility, and the group reviewed landscape design, awnings, water supply, pool design, mechanical design, and facility management. No votes or decisions were recorded, and the next meeting date was left to be determined.

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will consider several motions, including a $24,000 one-year contract with HCRS for a Peer Support Advocate, approval of the special election warning for August 10, 2021, and various public works bids and awards. The board will also discuss the Strategic Equity and Inclusion Plan and receive the Town Manager's report on town hall reopening and other updates.

• Contract with HCRS for Peer Support Advocate services, $24,000 for one year
• Approval of special election warning for August 10, 2021, to fill two Selectboard vacancies
• 2021 Street Paving and Reclamation RFP approval
• Aggregate and Winter Sand Bid Award
• Calcium Chloride and Magnesium Chloride Bid Award

The Selectboard approved a one-year, $24,000 contract with HCRS for peer support services and authorized the purchase of two pickup trucks from Key Chevrolet. They also approved a second-class liquor license for Modern Country Store LLC and accepted bids for street paving and aggregate materials. A special election warning was approved for August 10, 2021, to fill two Selectboard seats.

• Approved second-class liquor license for Modern Country Store LLC (3-1-1)
• Appointed Veronica Golden to West Hartford Library Trustees (unanimous)
• Authorized $24,000 one-year contract with HCRS for peer support (unanimous)
• Approved language for Special Election warning for Aug 10, 2021 (unanimous)
• Accepted Blaktop, Inc. proposal for 2021 street paving (unanimous)
• Authorized aggregate purchase from Twin State Sand and Gravel (unanimous)
• Authorized Magnesium Chloride purchase from Innovative Municipal Products Inc. (unanimous)
• Awarded purchase of two 3/4 ton pickup trucks to Key Chevrolet (unanimous)

Tree Board

The Hartford Tree Board is meeting to discuss routine business, including a recap of EAB Day, updates on ash tree injections, and reports from the Tree Warden. They will also discuss trees on the Quechee green and, if time permits, a memorial tree for the COVID pandemic and a review of bylaws.

• EAB Day May 22nd recap
• Ash tree injections update
• Trees on the Quechee green
• Memorial Tree for Covid pandemic (time permitting)
• Review of bylaws (time permitting)

The board approved the amended minutes from the May 18 meeting. Members discussed upcoming ash tree inoculations by Timber Tender and proposed planting a memorial tree for the covid pandemic. Other items, including the review of bylaws, were postponed to the July meeting.

• Approved amended May 18, 2021 minutes

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission will hold a public hearing regarding an application by Execusuite, LLC. The applicant seeks to add a self-storage facility as a Conditional Use in the property's Master Plan and obtain Site Development Plan Approval.

• Public hearing for self-storage facility at 136 South Main Street
• Application #21-05 by Execusuite, LLC
• Review of April 5, 2021, minutes
• Review of administrative permits

The Hartford Planning Commission approved Application #21-05 by Execusuite, LLC to add a self-storage facility as a Conditional Use and for Site Development Plan Approval at 136 South Main Street in White River Junction. The vote was 5-1, with John H. opposed citing parking and safety concerns. The Commission also approved the April 5, 2021 minutes unanimously and noted that the July 19, 2021 public hearing was cancelled because no applications were received.

• Approved minutes of April 5, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved Application #21-05 for self-storage facility at 136 South Main Street (5-1, John H. opposed)
• Noted July 19, 2021 public hearing cancelled due to no applications
• Granted administrative permits for Northern Stage outdoor theater, Quechee Gorge Village farm stand, food prep/wholesale/catering/retail at former Singleton's, and VINS waterfowl rehab enclosure

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Hartford Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to discuss updates on the Community Center, Pool Project, and Community Survey, and to review risk management. New business includes a proposal for the Clifford Park Community Garden. The meeting is largely a status update and discussion session, with no final votes or decisions listed on the agenda.

• Community Center updates
• Pool Project updates
• Community Survey updates
• Risk management review
• Clifford Park Community Garden discussion

The commission approved the inclusion of the Health Officer's office in the Risk Management plan. Members received updates on the pool construction project and the ongoing community survey.

• Approved May meeting minutes
• Approved adding Health Officer's office to Risk Management plan

Inactive Boards

The Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter is holding a routine meeting to review past minutes, receive updates from members and subcommittees, and discuss the Planning Commission's work. The agenda is largely procedural, with no new decisions or proposals listed.

• Review and passage of minutes from the 5/13/2021 meeting
• Update from members and subcommittees
• Update on Planning Commission work
• Discussion of next steps

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Hartford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a remote public hearing on June 9, 2021, to consider three applications: a setback waiver for a shed, conditional use approval for a self-storage facility, and a determination of non-conforming use status for a motor vehicle repair facility. The board will also handle administrative matters such as approving minutes and receiving public comment.

• Setback waiver application #05-21 by Marcia Gauvin for a shed at 24 Hazen Street, White River Junction (R-1M district)
• Conditional use application #06-21 by Execusuite, LLC for a self-storage facility at 136 South Main Street, White River Junction (Planned Development)
• Non-conforming use determination for Earl Bushor's motor vehicle repair facility at 1198 Maple Street, Hartford Village (continued from May 5)
• Public hearing begins at 6:30 p.m.; remote participation via phone or video

The Board approved a setback waiver for a shed at 24 Hazen Street and a conditional use permit for a self-storage facility at 136 South Main Street. A hearing regarding the non-conforming use status of a motor vehicle repair facility was continued pending a site visit and further evidence.

• Approved setback waiver for shed at 24 Hazen Street (unanimous)
• Approved conditional use for self-storage facility at 136 South Main Street (unanimous)
• Continued hearing for 1198 Maple Street motor vehicle repair facility to June 23, 2021
• Approved May 5, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Climate Advisory Committee is meeting to review and approve past meeting minutes, discuss a draft Climate Action Plan, and review a community input website. The agenda also includes status updates on communications, the Climate Action Reserve Fund, and new committee members. This is a regular working meeting focused on ongoing climate planning efforts.

• Review draft Climate Action Plan
• Review Community Review & Input website
• Approve meeting minutes from Feb. 23 and March 10
• Status update on Climate Action Reserve Fund

Conservation Commission

The Hartford Conservation Commission will discuss a possible conservation easement for the Town Forest with the Upper Valley Land Trust. The meeting also covers various Town Forest topics including timber harvesting, mountain bike association relations, and recreation management.

• Possible conservation easement for the Town Forest
• Winter 2022 Timber Harvest discussion
• Formal relationship with Upper Valley Mountain Bike Association
• Recreation Management Plan presentation to the Selectboard
• 2021 Private Landowner Conservation Outreach

The Conservation Commission heard a presentation from the Upper Valley Land Trust about a possible conservation easement for the Hartford Town Forest, with estimated costs of $16,000-$20,000. The commission approved corrected minutes from May 3 and discussed advertising a Winter 2022 timber harvest RFP, with proposals due July 6. No formal decisions on the easement or timber harvest were made; most items were updates and volunteer task assignments.

• Approved May 3, 2021 minutes with a correction by unanimous consent
• Added White River Partnership's offer to assist with Old River Road dump cleanup to the agenda
• No vote taken on conservation easement for Hartford Town Forest; UVLT presented process and costs
• No vote taken on Winter 2022 timber harvest; RFP to be advertised with proposals due July 6

Conservation Commission

The Hartford Conservation Commission is meeting to discuss and decide on several items related to the Town Forest, including a winter 2022 timber harvest, a recreation management plan presentation to the Selectboard, and an integrated management plan. They will also consider a formal relationship with the Upper Valley Mountain Bike Association and hear reports on Green-Up Day and other activities.

• Winter 2022 Timber Harvest discussion
• Recreation Management Plan presentation to Selectboard
• Formal relationship with Upper Valley Mountain Bike Association
• Trails Work Day preparations (May 22)
• 2021 Private Landowner Conservation Outreach

The Hartford Historic Preservation Commission and Planning Commission held a remote community discussion on June 3, 2021, about possible demolition delay standards for historic buildings. No ordinance was adopted or voted on; the committee said it is leaning toward a demolition delay approach for buildings at least 100 years old and is seeking public feedback before drafting language. A revised draft is expected to go to the Selectboard sometime in the summer, followed by public hearings with the Planning Commission and Selectboard. The meeting adjourned at 7:57 p.m.

• No formal decisions or votes were recorded; meeting was a community discussion only
• Committee indicated it is leaning toward a demolition delay approach rather than a design review district
• Committee recommendation discussed: use building age (100 years or older) rather than National Register district status, applied town-wide
• Next steps: revised draft to Hartford Selectboard sometime in summer, then public hearings with Planning Commission and Selectboard

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion is meeting to discuss how to better engage community members, hear updates on Juneteenth event planning, and receive reports from its working groups. The agenda includes time for community input and subcommittee breakout sessions.

• Discussion on meeting people where they are instead of insisting where they should be
• Juneteenth Subcommittee presentation of events schedule by Sara Campbell
• Breakout into working groups: Juneteenth, Education, Policy, Harassment
• Reports from working groups
• Approval of consent agenda (April 21 meeting minutes)

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion approved the previous meeting's consent agenda and discussed strategies for community engagement. They planned logistics for a Juneteenth event and decided to resume in-person meetings in a hybrid format starting July 7. A proposal to break into working groups was tabled.

• Approved consent agenda from 5/24/21 meeting (unanimous)
• Tabled proposal to break up into working groups
• Decided to resume in-person meetings in hybrid format starting July 7
• Set deadline for Juneteenth invitee lists for next Wednesday

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Ad Hoc Committee on Coronavirus Response (HADCCR) is meeting to review and approve minutes from April 28, and to receive information about a new charge approved by the Selectboard that reconstitutes the committee with seven members who live or work in Hartford, including the town health officer. The agenda also includes town and workgroup updates, and public comment.

• Review and approval of minutes for 4.28.21
• Info only: new charge approved by Selectboard, new membership constitution (seven members, including town health officer)
• Town updates
• Workgroup updates
• Public comment

The committee approved the minutes from May 28, 2021, and received updates on vaccination rates, food access, and mask distribution. Members discussed challenges regarding town administration communications and staffing for local businesses.

• Approved minutes of 5/28/21
• Scheduled next meeting for August 3

Hartford Business Revolving Loan Fund

The committee will meet to review the April 2021 loan summary report and receive an update on a prior loan commitment. The meeting includes an introduction from the new GMEDC Executive Director and a discussion regarding loan fund marketing.

• Review of April 2021 loan summary report
• Update on a prior loan commitment
• Loan Fund Marketing discussion

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Selectboard will discuss a proposed August 10 special election to fill vacancies following two resignations. The Town Manager also provided an update on delaying Phase Two of the Main Street construction project until spring 2022.

• Proposed special election date of August 10, 2021, with an estimated cost of $6,000-$7,000
• Main Street Phase Two construction rescheduled to spring 2022
• Listening session regarding White River Junction downtown parking
• Approval of the fiscal year 2022 Fee Schedule
• Appointment of Joe Major to the Advance Transit Board

The Hartford Selectboard approved setting a special election for August 10, 2021, following two member resignations, with an estimated cost of $6,000 to $7,000. The board also received an update that Phase Two of the Main Street White River Junction construction project is rescheduled to begin in spring 2022, and hosted a listening session on downtown parking. Additionally, the board approved the consent agenda and adjourned at 8:30 PM.

• Approved setting the Special Election date for Tuesday, August 10, 2021 (Unanimous)
• Approved the consent agenda including payroll, meeting minutes, and accounts payable manifests (Unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting at 8:30 PM (Unanimous)

Energy Commission

The Hartford Energy Commission will review and approve the April 22 minutes, discuss the TRORC Energy Report card with Geoff Martin, and receive updates from its work groups. They will also consider options for a window dressers event, plan the June newsletter, and say farewell to a member.

• Review and approve draft minutes from 2021-04-22
• TRORC Energy Report card discussion with Geoff Martin
• Updates from Climate Action Team, Building Integrity Work Group, Transportation Work Group
• Window dressers event options: own event, send 5 families to Norwich/Hanover, or recruit volunteers
• June HEC Herald ideas

The Hartford Energy Commission met on May 27, 2021, and reviewed the Two Rivers Ottauquechee Regional Commission energy report card, which gave Hartford a C+ overall (Thermal B+, Electric Energy use A, Transportation D, Renewable Energy Generation D). The commission decided not to host a full Window Dressers build this year due to low volunteer numbers, but members favored volunteering with Norwich and Hanover, which offered spaces for Hartford participants. The draft Climate Action Plan will open for public review from June 4 to June 24 and is tentatively set to go to the Selectboard on June 29. The commission also discussed June HEC Herald articles and noted three open seats after Martha's resignation and Fred's departure.

• Postponed approval of April minutes due to lack of quorum
• Decided not to host a full Window Dressers build in Hartford this year due to low HEC numbers
• Favored volunteering with Norwich and Hanover for Window Dressers, with Norwich saving 5 spaces for Hartford
• Set June 4–24 public review period for draft Climate Action Plan; tentative Selectboard presentation June 29
• Discussed June HEC Herald articles on home efficiency, heat pumps, Juneteenth, Pride month, and EVs; deadline June 16
• Noted three HEC openings following Martha's resignation and Fred's graduation/departure

Inactive Boards

The Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter will review the current encampment policy and receive updates from the Select Board and Planning Commission. Guests from the Agency of Human Services are scheduled to attend the meeting.

• Review of encampment policy
• Guest presentation by Agency of Human Services Field Services Directors
• Updates from Select Board and Planning Commission

The Hartford Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter voted to authorize Chair Becca White to forward suggested amendments to the Hartford Policy on Unhoused Encampments to Tracy and the Selectboard Chair, with topographical and grammatical corrections as needed. The committee also approved the amended minutes of 5/13/21. Members discussed a letter on regulatory amendments, a micro-dwelling development, and rescheduling the next meeting; no other formal decisions were recorded.

• Approved 5/13/21 minutes as amended (all in favor)
• Authorized Becca White to forward suggested amendments to the Hartford Policy on Unhoused Encampments to Tracy and the Selectboard Chair (all in favor)
• Decided to reschedule the next meeting normally set for 6/10/21; scheduling to be handled offline via a poll
• Adjourned the meeting at 6:28 PM (all in favor)

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Climate Action Team is meeting to review a high-level overview of the draft Climate Action Plan (CAP) and conduct breakout sessions on topics like transportation, energy, and waste. The team will refine the draft for public review and Selectboard consideration. This is an ongoing working meeting, not a final decision-making session.

• Review of draft Climate Action Plan (CAP)
• Breakout sessions on Transportation/Land Use, Waste Management, Local Food
• Breakout sessions on Buildings and Energy, Climate Health and Safety
• Breakout sessions on Water and Waste Water, Greenspace/Tree, Climate Economy
• Next steps: refine draft CAP for public review and Selectboard

The Climate Action Team met to review a draft plan and discuss methods for soliciting public input. No formal decisions were made as there was no quorum of the Climate Advisory Committee present.

• Discussed options for soliciting public feedback on the plan and priority actions
• Set June 16 as the end of the comment period for Team members
• Scheduled public feedback website launch for June 4 through June 23
• Tentatively scheduled review of draft plan with Selectboard and public for June 29

Inactive Boards

The Climate Advisory Committee is meeting to review the draft Climate Action Plan. The committee will also receive status updates regarding communications, the Climate Action Reserve Fund, and new committee members.

• Review of draft Climate Action Plan
• Status update on Climate Action Reserve Fund
• Review and approval of February 23 and March 10 meeting minutes

West Hartford Library Trustees

This is a regular meeting of the West Hartford Library Board, consisting primarily of standard reports from the secretary, treasurer, director, and Friends group, followed by old and new business. No specific decisions or proposals are listed on the agenda.

• Secretary's Report
• Treasurer's Report
• Director's Report
• Friend's Report
• Old and New Business

The Board approved a pay increase for the Library Director and authorized the purchase of a computer and printer. Emily Clough was appointed as the new Board of Trustees Chair following the resignation of Judy Roberts.

• Approved Library Director hourly rate increase to $18.00 effective 7/1/2021 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of a printer and computer using approximately $6,000 in remaining budget
• Approved Emily Clough as new Board of Trustees Chair (unanimous)
• Approved April 2021 meeting minutes
• Approved Treasurer's Report showing YTD expenditures of $30,862
• Tabled discussion on Wednesday Farmer's Market until June meeting

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion is meeting to hear a presentation from the OQS Family Equity Team, receive a Juneteenth events schedule, and break into working groups on Juneteenth, education, policy, and harassment. The agenda is largely discussion and input-focused, with no formal votes or decisions listed beyond approving the consent agenda.

• Approve consent agenda (April 21 meeting minutes)
• OQS Family Equity Team presentation by Amelia Donahey, Rebecca Whitney, Christina Hall
• Juneteenth events schedule presented by Sara Campbell
• Break into working groups: Juneteenth, Education, Policy, Harassment

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion voted unanimously to approve amended minutes from April 21, 2021 and minutes from May 5, 2021. The committee heard a presentation from the Ottaquechee School Family Equity Team on a draft upstander program for 5th graders entering middle school, and provided feedback. Members also discussed planning for Juneteenth 2021, including presentations, a DJ, a land acknowledgement, promotion, and a need for volunteers. No new business was raised, and the meeting adjourned.

• Approved amended minutes from 4/21/21 and minutes from 5/5/21 (unanimous)
• No new business raised
• Motion to adjourn made by Joe

Historic Preservation Commission

The Hartford Historic Preservation Commission is meeting remotely to discuss updates to demolition standards and the Taft's Flat intensive-level survey, along with approving minutes and making announcements. The agenda includes standard procedural items and project updates.

• Demolition Standards Update
• Taft's Flat Intensive Level Survey Update
• Approval of April 21, 2021 meeting minutes
• Compliance with Act 92 meeting script

The commission discussed a town-wide demolition delay proposal and the close-out process for the Taft’s Flat Intensive Level Survey grant. Members agreed to adopt a recruitment process for a new commission member similar to the Planning Commission's method. No formal votes were recorded for the demolition or survey items.

• Agreed to seek a qualified candidate for the commission opening using a process similar to the Planning Commission
• Decided to postpone review of April 21, 2021 minutes until June 16

Tree Board

The Tree Board will review the April 20, 2021 minutes and receive a report from the Tree Warden. Members will also confirm tasks for EAB Day and discuss trees located on the Quechee Green.

• Review and approval of April 20, 2021 Minutes
• Tree Warden report
• EAB Day task confirmation
• Discussion of trees on the Quechee Green
• Potential review of bylaws

The board approved the amended April 20, 2021, meeting minutes. Members confirmed their individual contributions for EAB Day on May 22. Several agenda items, including the Tree Warden report and bylaw review, were postponed to the June meeting.

• Approved amended April 20, 2021 minutes (unanimous)

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Selectboard is reviewing the FY2022 fee schedule and a Step Two application for the South Main Street Clean Water State Revolving Fund. The meeting also includes reports on March 2021 financials, emergency shelter updates, and the town's COVID-19 committee charge.

• Motion to approve FY2022 Fee Schedule
• Motion for South Main Street Clean Water State Revolving Fund Step Two Application
• Appointment of Joe Major to the Advance Transit Board (two-year term)
• Review of March 2021 financial reports
• Discussion of COVID-19 Committee Charge Revision

The Hartford Selectboard adopted the fiscal year 2022 fee schedule, authorizing the Town Manager to implement new rates effective July 1, 2021, with increases to ice rentals at WABA, water and wastewater fees, and emergency dispatching contracts. The board approved filing a $31,700 Clean Water State Revolving Fund Step II application for the South Main, North Main and Gates Street utility and roadway TIF project. It also appointed Joe Major to the Advance Transit Board for a two-year term and approved the revised Ad hoc Committee on COVID-19 charge. The board accepted the consent agenda and adjourned at 8:00 PM.

• Adopted FY2022 Fee Schedule; authorized Town Manager to implement new rates effective July 1, 2021 (all in favor)
• Approved filing $31,700 CWSRF Step II application for South Main, North Main and Gates Street TIF project; authorized Town Manager to execute documents (all in favor)
• Appointed Joe Major to Advance Transit Board for two-year term beginning May 18, 2021 and ending May 17, 2023 (4 in favor, 1 abstained)
• Approved Ad hoc Committee on COVID-19 Charge as amended (all in favor)
• Accepted Consent Agenda: payroll ending 5/15/2021, minutes of 5/4/2021, A/P manifest of 5/14/2021 & 5/18/2021 (all in favor)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:00 PM (all in favor)

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The HCOREI Education Subcommittee is meeting to discuss member updates and next steps for a resource library. The agenda also includes an update regarding the Diversity Coordinator.

• Resource Library Next Steps
• Diversity Coordinator Update

Inactive Boards

The Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter will meet to discuss updates regarding encampment policy and the Planning Commission. Members will also receive updates from various subcommittees.

• Encampment Policy from Town update
• Planning Commission Update
• Subcommittee updates

The Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter met on 05/13/21 and approved the 4/29/21 minutes as amended to add Jon Chaffee as present. The committee discussed the Town Policy on Encampment and agreed members will draft a bulleted list of suggested amendments at the next meeting, which Becca White will present to the Selectboard for 15 minutes. Becca White also reported that the Planning Department is not currently in support of the regulatory amendments process, and she will bring the matter before the Selectboard. No formal decisions were made on the encampment policy, regulatory amendments, or micro-dwelling development.

• Approved 4/29/21 minutes as amended to list Jon Chaffee as present (all in favor)
• Agreed committee members will draft suggested amendments to the Town Policy on Encampment at the next meeting
• Becca White to present a 15-minute report to the Selectboard at its next meeting
• Becca White to bring the regulatory amendments matter before the Selectboard
• Adjourned meeting at 6:10 PM (all in favor)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Commission will review the April 2021 meeting minutes and receive a report from the Director. The meeting includes a park tour of Maxfield, Clifford, Quechee Falls, Quechee Green, and Dewey Landing.

• Approval of April 2021 meeting minutes
• Director’s Report
• Park tour: Maxfield, Clifford, Quechee Falls, Quechee Green, and Dewey Landing

The commission met to review director reports and approve previous minutes. No substantive new business was decided or voted upon during the meeting.

• Approved March meeting minutes

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion is meeting to discuss planning for a Juneteenth event. The discussion includes selecting a location, time, and speakers, as well as reporting on outreach to various organizations.

• Discussion of Juneteenth event logistics including place, time, and speakers
• Reports on outreach to various organizations

Resilient Hartford

The Resilient Hartford organization is holding a special meeting to conduct planning for a Clifford Park community meeting. The agenda consists of a compliance statement and this planning session.

• Planning meeting for the Clifford Park Community Meeting

The organization coordinated the agenda, roles, and outreach for a community meeting scheduled for May 12. Members discussed the project's goals, including the formation of a Steering Committee and resident involvement in design and maintenance. Three upcoming workshop dates were also discussed.

• Scheduled community meeting for May 12 at 6:30 p.m.
• Established roles for meeting welcome, background, and project introduction
• Identified workshop dates for Soil Health (May 26), Species & Design (June 9), and Design Planning (June 30)

Inactive Boards

The town is launching a pilot series of listening sessions to facilitate discussion between residents, staff, and officials. These sessions are intended for learning and sharing experiences rather than making policy or funding decisions.

• June 1, 2021: Downtown Parking session (likely remote)
• July 13, 2021: Capital Improvement Projects for FY23 Budget Cycle
• September 7, 2021: Fire, Medical, Police, Dispatch, and Wellness
• November 2, 2021: Solid Waste

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Hartford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings regarding two specific property applications. The board will also review minutes from the April 7, 2021, meeting and address administrative matters.

• Setback waiver application for a garage and deck at 234 Highland Ave, Wilder
• Non-conforming use status determination for a Motor Vehicle Repair Facility at 1198 Maple Street

The Zoning Board of Adjustment approved application #03-21 by Tracey and Thomas Sherry for a setback waiver under section 260-52 for a garage and deck at 234 Highland Ave in Wilder, with conditions that the garage be a maximum of 16 feet tall with a gable roof and a north-south ridgeline. The vote was unanimous among the quorum present. The Board also continued application #04-21 to its June 9, 2021 hearing at the applicants' request because only a quorum was available, and approved the minutes of April 7, 2021.

• Approved application #03-21: setback waiver for garage and deck at 234 Highland Ave, Wilder, with conditions (garage max 16' tall, gable roof, north-south ridgeline) (unanimous)
• Continued application #04-21 to the June 9, 2021 hearing (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of April 7, 2021 as drafted (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 7:10 p.m. (unanimous)

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The subcommittee will receive updates from its members and gather feedback regarding the resource library. The meeting is scheduled for a brief 20-minute session.

• Subcommittee member updates
• Resource library feedback and suggestions

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The committee will review the April 21 meeting minutes and hear a presentation from the OQS Family Equity Team. Subcommittee chairs will also report on their progress and future goals.

• Approval of April 21 meeting minutes
• Presentation by OQS Family Equity Team members Amelia Donahey, Rebecca Whitney, and Christina Hall
• Subcommittee progress and goal reports

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion approved its April 21, 2021 minutes with an amendment adding the Racial Harassment and Discrimination Response Subcommittee charge. The committee discussed planning for Juneteenth 2021, including seeking speakers and engaging students, and reviewed subcommittee reports on town policy outreach, racial harassment response, and school equity efforts. No new business was raised, and the meeting adjourned. The minutes record no other substantive decisions beyond the minutes amendment.

• Approved April 21, 2021 minutes with amendment adding Racial Harassment and Discrimination Response Subcommittee charge (unanimous)
• Adjourned (Sara moves, Joe seconds)

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Selectboard will review information regarding on-street dining and summer construction. The board is also scheduled to vote on a contract for the Senior Center Heat Pump Phase 2 and authorization for bond and loan fund signature changes.

• Senior Center Heat Pump Phase 2 Contract Award-Planning (motion)
• Authorization to Change all Bond and State Revolving Loan Funds Signature (motion)
• On-Street Dining information session
• Local Liquor Control Board renewal for Tuckerbox at 1 South Main Street
• Summer Construction information session

The Selectboard awarded a $62,264 contract for heat pump installation at the Bugbee Senior Center. The board also updated authorized representatives for various bond and loan funds and approved a liquor license renewal.

• Approved $62,264 contract to Arc Mechanical Contractors for Bugbee Senior Center Phase 2 heat pumps (Unanimous)
• Approved Outside Consumption Liquor License for Tuckerbox for three parking spaces (4-0, 1 recused, 1 abstained)
• Authorized Dan Fraser and Tracy Yarlott as representatives for State Revolving Loan Funds and VMM Bond Bank (5-0, 1 abstained)
• Approved payroll ending 5/1/2021, A/P manifests for 4/30/2021 and 5/4/2021, and 4/20/2021 minutes (Unanimous)
• Approved Selectboard meeting dates for 6/1, 6/15, and 6/29/2021 (Unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Commission will discuss various Town Forest management items, including timber harvest and recreation plans. Members will also review reports on Green-Up Day, climate action, and private landowner conservation outreach.

• Winter 2022 Town Forest timber harvest discussion
• Upper Valley Mountain Bike Association relationship discussion
• Green-Up Day report
• Climate Action Plan report
• 2021 Private Landowner Conservation Outreach

The Hartford Conservation Commission voted 6-0 to endorse a proposed memorandum of understanding with the Upper Valley Mountain Bike Association for managing Town Forest trails, and agreed to work on the specific language. The commission also agreed to let Tim Schaal begin making new trail signs before the Selectboard adopts the Recreation Management Plan, and approved a Story Walk and Scavenger Hunt request from the Quechee Library. Most other items were reports or assignments to staff and members, including preparing timber harvest bid documents and a hemlock MOU for Town approval.

• Endorsed MOU with Upper Valley Mountain Bike Association for Town Forest trail management (6-0), with specific language still to be worked out
• Agreed Tim Schaal may begin making new trail signs before the Selectboard adopts the Recreation Management Plan
• Approved Quechee Library request for a Story Walk and Scavenger Hunt at the Town Forest
• Approved April 5, 2021 minutes as written by unanimous consent
• Agreed to schedule Trails Day for Saturday, June 19
• Agreed to a virtual trail maintenance signup similar to 2020
• Agreed to ask the Upper Valley Land Trust its preference on whether the June 7 meeting is held in person and outside

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion will review reports regarding racial harassment response research. The agenda includes updates on meetings with Chief Ann Vail-John and social media research.

• Report on meeting with Chief Ann Vail-John
• Reports on contacts from Pat and Ann
• Report on social media from Michelle

The sub-committee heard reports from members regarding a meeting with Police Chief Brad Vail, research into the Attorney General's Civil Rights Division, and interstate comparisons on handling bias and harassment. No formal votes or substantive decisions were recorded in the minutes.

• Invited Chief Brad Vail to attend the full HCOREI meeting

Inactive Boards

The Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter will meet to review previous minutes and receive updates. The committee will hear reports from the Planning Commission and various subcommittees.

• Review and passage of April 15, 2021, meeting minutes
• Planning Commission update from Becca and Simon
• Review of policy from Town Manager and Select Board

The Hartford Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter approved its April 15, 2021 meeting minutes and discussed the new encampment policy, hotel voucher program changes, and micro-dwelling developments. The committee took no other formal votes before adjourning.

• Approved meeting minutes from 4/15/21 (all in favor)
• Adjourned the meeting at 6:14 PM (all in favor)

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The HCOREI Policy Sub-Committee is meeting to review and discuss the Town of Hartford Personnel Policy. This meeting is focused on a single policy review item.

• Review and discussion of Town of Hartford Personnel Policy

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion Policy Sub-Committee met and decided that member Kim Souza would email the town manager to ask about the status of several personnel policy items. These include updating the 2013 General Personnel Policy, creating an accessible policy repository, setting a process for revising policies, defining a grievance policy, and reviewing a social media policy. No formal votes or binding decisions were recorded; the meeting was a sub-committee discussion.

• Decided Kim Souza would email the town manager to ask status of personnel policy updates
• Discussed whether reviewing specific policies is the right approach

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Ad Hoc Committee on Coronavirus Response will hold a meeting on April 28, 2021. The agenda includes a charge review and town updates, but there are no minutes to approve from the previous meeting.

• Charge review

The Hartford Ad Hoc Committee on Coronavirus Response voted unanimously to ratify its charge and send it to the Selectboard for ratification. Members discussed reducing meeting frequency to once a month rather than disbanding, and Kristi said she would bring a $600 request for 3 banners and 25 yard signs to the Selectboard along with an agenda change. The committee also discussed a possible vaccine question panel but agreed to revisit it later, and adjourned at 4:44.

• Ratified committee charge and sent it to Selectboard for ratification (unanimous)
• Agreed to consider reducing meetings to once a month instead of disbanding
• Kristi to bring $600 banner and yard sign request to Selectboard
• Vaccine question panel idea deferred for future discussion
• Adjourned at 4:44 (unanimous)

Board of Civil Authority

The Board of Abatement will meet to conduct a closed deliberative session. This session is for discussing the remaining tax abatement hearings from March 29, 2021.

• Deliberative session regarding March 29, 2021, tax abatement hearings

The Hartford Board of Civil Authority met April 26, 2021 and voted on eight tax abatement requests after a deliberative session. Six requests were approved unanimously, including one for the Town of Hartford itself, which passed 9-7. Two requests were denied unanimously. Chair Sue Buckholz recused herself from the JD Farrow Associates, LLC matter, and Assessor Joe Turner and Clerk Lisa O'Neil recused themselves from the Town of Hartford vote.

• Denied Qutopia, LLC (1403 Quechee West Hartford Rd) abatement request unanimously
• Approved JD Farrow Associates, LLC (5187 Route 14) abatement request unanimously (Chair Buckholz recused)
• Approved Milka Semova (138 Talbert St.) abatement request unanimously
• Approved Hartford Vermont Acquisitions, Inc. (1567 Route 14) abatement request unanimously (Assessor Turner recused)
• Approved Martha Hetnik (218 Willow Circle) abatement request unanimously
• Denied George Zitka/Heijn Haryati (62 Confier Rd.) abatement request unanimously
• Approved Cassie Kolok (160 Greeley Shunpike Rd) abatement of taxes and sewer unanimously
• Approved Town of Hartford (0 Sykes Mountain Avenue/Sykes Round-A-Bout Parcel 4A) abatement request 9-7 (White absent; O'Neil and Turner recused)

Energy Commission

The Energy Commission will review previous meeting minutes and receive updates from several sub-groups. These updates include reports from the Climate Advisory Committee, Building Integrity Work Group, and Transportation Work Group.

• Review and approve draft minutes from 2021-03-25
• Update on BIPOC statement
• Climate Advisory Committee activity update
• Building Integrity Work Group activity update
• Transportation Work Group update regarding e-bike lending program

The Hartford Energy Commission met on April 22, 2021, and approved the March minutes as amended. The commission discussed the hiring process for an Energy Coordinator, with a draft job description to be reviewed by the Town Manager and Selectboard approval needed; the RFP is expected in May. Updates were given on the Climate Advisory Committee's draft plan, a building integrity pilot, and an e-bike loan program. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved March minutes as amended (motion passed)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Commission will review minutes from previous meetings and receive updates on several local projects. Discussions include the VA Cut-off Road bridge and updates to demolition standards and the Taft’s Flat Intensive Level Survey.

• VA Cut-off Road (Hartford Village) Bridge Update
• Demolition Standards Update
• Taft’s Flat Intensive Level Survey Update
• Review of February 17 and March 10 meeting minutes

The commission approved minutes from February and March meetings and agreed to participate in a statewide initiative to document old sugarhouses. Members also agreed to draft a memo to the Planning Commission regarding the benefits of demolition standards.

• Approved February 17, 2021 meeting minutes with corrections (unanimous)
• Approved March 10, 2021 meeting minutes as written (unanimous)
• Agreed to participate in the Vermont Sugarhouse Project
• Agreed to create a memo for the Planning Commission on demolition standards benefits

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion voted to create a Racial Harassment and Discrimination Response Research subcommittee and a Juneteenth subcommittee. Members also discussed the town's online resource library, affordable housing, and education disparities.

• Established Racial Harassment and Discrimination Response Research subcommittee
• Established Juneteenth subcommittee for an event at Lyman Park
• Discussed updates to the HCOREI webpage and online resource library
• Discussed state-level affordable housing efforts and Act 250
• Reviewed education disparities and the hiring of a district Diversity Coordinator

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion voted unanimously to establish a Racial Harassment and Discrimination Response Research Subcommittee and a Juneteenth Subcommittee. It also approved amended minutes from April 27, 2021, and tabled its mission statement review and a welcome for the OQS Family Equity Team. Discussion items included the committee webpage, an online resource library, affordable housing, and subcommittee reports.

• Approved April 27, 2021 minutes with an amendment, unanimously
• Established Racial Harassment and Discrimination Response Research Subcommittee, unanimously
• Created Juneteenth Subcommittee, unanimously
• Tabled welcome for OQS Family Equity Team; will reschedule
• Tabled review of HCOREI mission statement and norms; will revisit 5/5/21

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Selectboard will consider endorsing design alternatives for the US 4/5 intersection and adopting the 2021 Local Emergency Management Plan. The meeting also includes updates on the VA Cut-off Road Bridge and the town's Climate Action Plan.

• US Route 4/5 Intersection Scoping Study alternatives presentation
• Adoption of the 2021 Local Emergency Management Plan
• VA Cut-off Road Bridge update
• Nostalgia Café LLC liquor license application
• Re-appointment of Denise Welch-May and Dave Sherman

The Hartford Selectboard endorsed VTrans's conceptual design for the US Route 4/5 intersection, which includes a short-term 'road diet with ramp removal' and a long-term roundabout, on a 5-1 vote. The board also adopted the Local Emergency Management Plan, re-appointed two members to town committees, approved an Arbor Day proclamation, and approved three liquor licenses for local businesses. The Town Manager reported that the Police Chief position is under review and a national search will follow, and that the town is negotiating a new community wellness contract.

• Endorsed VTrans conceptual design for US Route 4/5 intersection (5-1, Brown opposed)
• Adopted the 101 Local Emergency Management Plan (unanimous)
• Re-appointed Denise Welch-May to Design Review Committee, term April 20, 2021–April 19, 2024 (unanimous)
• Re-appointed Dave Sherman to Planning Commission, term April 20, 2021–April 19, 2024 (unanimous)
• Approved Arbor Day proclamation for May 1, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved Nostalgia Café LLC liquor license (4-0, 1 abstained, 1 recused)
• Approved Public House at Quechee Gorge LLC liquor license renewal (4-0, 1 abstained, 1 recused)
• Approved Public House Diner Inc. 1st Class liquor license (4-0, 1 abstained, 1 recused)

Tree Board

The Tree Board will review previous minutes and discuss several administrative and environmental updates. Topics include the acceptance of an Arbor Day Grant and updates on the Shade Tree Preservation Plan and EAB treatment.

• Acceptance of Arbor Day Grant
• Shade Tree Preservation Plan update
• EAB treatment update
• Nursery space expansion status
• Discussion on the need for a Deputy Tree Warden

The Hartford Tree Board approved its March 16, 2021 minutes unanimously and accepted a $1,100 Arbor Day grant from the Vermont Urban Community and Forestry Program — $100 more than requested — to plant 2 sugar maples and build a maple sugaring program at Dothan Brook School. The Board approved $60 for 2 soaker hoses for the expanded nursery and agreed to contribute an undetermined amount to the grant if needed. Discussion items included the Shade Tree Preservation Plan, a proposed Covid Memorial Tree, Emerald Ash Borer treatment at Veteran's Park, and a possible deputy tree warden; no decisions were recorded on those items.

• Approved March 16, 2021 minutes unanimously
• Accepted $1,100 Arbor Day grant ($100 more than requested) for 2 sugar maples and a maple sugaring program at Dothan Brook School
• Agreed to contribute an undetermined amount to the grant if necessary
• Approved $60 to buy 2 soaker hoses for the expanded nursery
• Tabled Leif's Tree Warden School presentation to the May meeting

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion will review reports on tracking racial harassment, abuse, and threats. The committee will also discuss suggestions for an upcoming meeting and next steps regarding research.

• Reports on tracking racial harassment, abuse, threats, and potential hate crimes
• Discussion of suggestions for the Hall, Raynolds Vail meeting
• Review of upcoming Fair & Impartial Policing (FIP) meeting

The Racial Harassment Response Research subcommittee of the Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion met on 4/16/21 and discussed a draft mission statement to be presented at the 5/5 HCOREI meeting. Members shared reports: Pat described a Valley News article on militia and anti-government groups in Vermont, Michelle reported little current social media activity, and Ann described an upcoming meeting with Chief Vail. The group also discussed a FIP State Police meeting and set a to-do list, but scheduled no next meeting until member John Hall's availability is confirmed. No formal decisions or votes were recorded.

• No formal decisions or votes recorded; meeting was discussion and reporting only
• Draft subcommittee mission statement discussed for possible request at 5/5 HCOREI meeting
• Michelle Boleski added to FIP State Police meeting invite
• Next meeting not scheduled pending confirmation of John Hall's availability
• To-do items assigned: Ann to check with Human Rights Commission, Pat to check with Attorney General's Civil Rights division, Michelle to look into 'Exposing Statewide Racists' and monitor local social media

West Hartford Library Trustees

The West Hartford Library Board will hold a meeting via Zoom. The agenda includes reports from the Secretary, Treasurer, Director, and Friends group, as well as old and new business.

• Secretary’s Report
• Treasurer’s Report
• Director’s Report
• Friends Report

The West Hartford Library Trustees approved opening the library to small meeting groups following all Covid rules, with programming to continue virtually or outdoors only. The board also approved buying Scholastic paperbacks to hand out to children attending HCC's free summer lunches, and approved the March 2021 minutes and the treasurer's report. Director Judy Roberts announced she will resign from the board after the May meeting, and a new director will need to be approved and appointed before then. The board discussed, but did not decide, whether the town's request for a W9, COI and on-site inspection before releasing shelving payment is valid.

• Approved March 2021 minutes without correction
• Approved treasurer's report: YTD expenditures $28,054.97 at end of February, about 60% of yearly budget, roughly $18,000 remaining
• Approved purchase of paperbacks from Scholastic Books to hand out to children coming for HCC summer lunches
• Approved opening library to small meeting groups following all Covid rules; programming to continue virtually or outdoors only
• Discussed town request for W9, COI and on-site inspection by Scott Hausler to release shelving payment; board questioned validity and asked board members to contact the town — no decision recorded
• Proposed use of $1500 technology grant from Friends of the West Hartford Library for a computer and/or devices for patron loan — no vote recorded
• Announced Judy Roberts will resign as Director on the board after the May meeting; new director to be approved and appointed before May meeting

Inactive Boards

The Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter met to review previous meeting minutes and discuss a draft letter regarding RV and campground regulations. The committee also received updates from various subcommittees.

• Review of draft letter on RV and campground regulations
• Subcommittee updates

The Hartford Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter voted unanimously to approve a letter to the Planning Commission recommending changes to town zoning rules for campgrounds and recreational vehicles. The letter proposes lowering the campground threshold from two to four tents, trailers, or movable dwellings, and adding an exception allowing RVs to be used as sleeping quarters beyond 14 days per year by people who have experienced homelessness within the past three months. The committee also discussed a micro-dwelling development on Christian Street and noted that Hartford currently has no mechanism to allow a single experimental alternative dwelling without zoning regulation amendments.

• Approved minutes of 3/18/21 and 4/1/15 (unanimous)
• Approved letter to Planning Commission recommending campground and RV zoning changes, as amended (unanimous)
• Amended letter to remove clause 'by the service continuum' and add sentence about awareness of amendment process
• Adjourned meeting at 6:18 PM (unanimous)

Inactive Boards

The Climate Action Team is meeting to review specific actions against screening criteria. Members will participate in breakout sessions focused on various sectors including transportation, waste, and energy.

• Sub-team breakout: Transportation/Land Use, Waste Management, and Local Food
• Sub-team breakout: Buildings and Energy, Climate Health and Safety
• Sub-team breakout: Water and Waste Water, Greenspace/Tree, and Climate Economy
• Review of actions to estimate performance against screening criteria

The Hartford Climate Advisory Committee's Climate Action Team met on April 14, 2021, but no formal minutes were taken because there was no quorum of the CAC present. The meeting was a working session where sub-teams continued screening, refining, and scoring climate actions against three criteria. No votes or formal decisions were recorded; next steps are for members to return scored spreadsheets to Ted Redmond by 4/20 for averaging.

Inactive Boards

The Climate Advisory Committee is meeting to provide status updates on several initiatives. Discussions include the development of a Climate Action Plan and a presentation regarding a municipal carbon neutrality roadmap.

• Review and approval of February 23 and March 10 meeting minutes
• Status update on Climate Action Plan development
• Status update on municipal carbon neutrality roadmap presentation
• Discussion of internal and external communications content

The committee met to evaluate and score actions for the Climate Action Plan in breakout groups. No formal decisions were made as there was no quorum present.

Inactive Boards

The committee will review previous minutes and receive updates from the town and various subcommittees. A specific request for funding from the Communications subcommittee is on the agenda.

• Review and approval of 3.31.21 Minutes
• Communications subcommittee funding request
• Charge review

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The HCOREI Policy Sub-Committee is meeting to evaluate diversity, equity, and inclusion statements and existing policies. The group is also discussing research regarding police advisory boards and town-wide policy management.

• Evaluation of DEI Statement, Mission, and Policy
• Review of existing policies and VLCT Policy Samples
• Research summary on Police Advisory Board and complaint access
• Discussion of potential recommendations for a 'Policy on Policies'
• Review of HR and Social Media policies

The HCOREI Policy Sub-Committee met on 4/12/21 with four members present and discussed policy evaluation tasks, research on other towns' practices, and potential recommendations to the Town of Hartford. No motions, votes, or formal decisions are recorded in these notes. Items such as creating a policy on policies, cataloging existing policies, and adjusting HR policy were listed as discussion topics or homework, not actions taken.

Inactive Boards

The committee will hold an introductory meeting and receive a status update. Members of the Bread Loaf Team are scheduled to attend.

• Introduction of Committee
• Status update
• Attendance by Bread Loaf Team

The Hartford Pool Project Review Committee met to discuss project updates, receiving a report from Breadloaf Construction that permitting is underway and construction is scheduled to run from May 2021 to November 2021. The committee reviewed on-site clean-up plans, construction impact minimization with schools, and design details. No substantive votes or formal decisions were recorded in the minutes.

• Received update on pool construction schedule from Breadloaf Construction
• Discussed pump house on-site clean-up
• Discussed construction impact mitigation with schools and parking lot

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Commission will review the Director's report and discuss updates regarding the Community Center and the Pool Project. The meeting also includes a review of risk management and planning for a park tour.

• Community Center updates
• Pool Project update
• Risk management review
• Park tour scheduled for May 13

The commission approved the March meeting minutes and received reports on upcoming summer programming and facility maintenance. No substantive new policies were decided, though members scheduled a review of risk management guidelines for June.

• Approved March meeting minutes
• Scheduled Risk Management guidelines discussion for June meeting

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Hartford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing regarding a conditional use application. The applicant proposes converting 16 motel efficiencies into multi-family dwellings at Woodstock Road in Quechee.

• Conditional Use Approval application #02-21 by Quechee Gorge Friendship Inn, Inc.
• Conversion of 16 motel efficiencies to multi-family dwellings
• Proposed lot 13-0033-002, Woodstock Road, Quechee
• Election of Board Officers
• Review of March 3, 2021, minutes

The Zoning Board of Adjustment approved an application to convert 16 motel efficiencies into multi-family dwellings on Woodstock Road in Quechee. The board also approved the March 3, 2021 minutes and retained existing officers.

• Approved Application #02-21 for conversion of 16 motel efficiencies to multi-family dwellings (unanimous)
• Approved March 3, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved retention of existing officers: Steve (Chair), Chris (Vice Chair), and Alice (Clerk) (unanimous)

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The committee will discuss town responses to bigotry and harassment, review its mission statement, and discuss subcommittee goals. The meeting includes a guest appearance by Laura Perez from SNSC and a reflection on recent training for the Selectboard and School Board.

• Approval of March 17, 2021, meeting minutes
• Discussion of town responses to bigotry, harassment, and threats
• Review of HCOREI mission statement and norms
• Discussion of new subcommittee procedures regarding Open Meeting Law
• Review of subcommittee goals and benchmarks

The committee unanimously approved the March 17, 2021, meeting minutes with one amendment. The session included a presentation on the intersection of race and disability and a review of the committee's mission statement.

• Approved March 17, 2021 meeting minutes with amendment to add Ann Raynolds to Data Research group (Unanimous)

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Selectboard will hold a public hearing and vote on a $48,850 planning grant for the Cornerstone Community Center at 14 Elk Street. The grant would use $43,970 in VCDP funds to prepare for future facility improvements and historic preservation.

• Public hearing for Cornerstone VCDP planning grant
• Re-appointment of three members to the Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion
• Motion regarding ambulance write-offs
• Motion regarding COVID Committee reimbursement
• Liquor license renewals for VFW Club #2571, Quechee Pizza Chef, and Big Fatty’s BBQ

The Hartford Selectboard approved a resolution authorizing a VCDP planning grant application for the Cornerstone Community Center, which is considering about $500,000 in renovations. The board also authorized writing off $93,239.54 in uncollectable ambulance debt, added $500 to the coronavirus committee's mask budget, and renewed liquor licenses for three businesses. All votes were unanimous except the liquor license renewals, which had recusals and one abstention.

• Approved resolution for VCDP grant application authority for Cornerstone Community Center (unanimous)
• Authorized write-off of $93,239.54 in uncollectable ambulance debt (unanimous)
• Allocated additional $500 to Ad Hoc Committee on Coronavirus (unanimous)
• Reappointed Sara Campbell, John Hall, and Allene Swienckowski to Racial Equity and Inclusion Committee (unanimous)
• Approved Volunteer Appreciation Proclamation 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved 1st Class liquor license renewal for VFW Club #2571 (4-0, 2 recused, 1 abstained)
• Approved 1st Class and Outside Consumption liquor license renewal for Quechee Pizza Chef (5-0, 1 recused, 1 abstained)
• Approved 1st, 2nd, 3rd Class and Outside Consumption liquor license renewal for Big Fatty's BBQ (5-0, 1 recused, 1 abstained)

Conservation Commission

The Commission will elect 2021 officers and discuss the Integrated Town Forest Management Plan. Members will also address town forest maintenance, timber harvesting, and the Climate Action Plan report.

• Election of 2021 Officers
• Integrated Town Forest Management Plan discussion
• Winter 2022 Timber Harvest planning
• Green-Up Day preparations
• Climate Action Plan Report

The Conservation Commission voted 6-0 to keep Tom Kahl as chair, Dana Hazen as vice-chair and Jon Bouton as treasurer. It agreed to seek Town approval of revised timber harvest bid documents, with bidding planned for late April and May, and to keep Green-Up Day bag distribution at April 19. Most other items were updates or volunteer assignments, including trail work, wayfinding signs, a possible conservation easement and a $300 grant application.

• Re-elected Tom Kahl chair, Dana Hazen vice-chair, Jon Bouton treasurer (6-0)
• Approved March 1, 2021 minutes as written by unanimous consent
• Agreed to seek Town approval of revised 2022 timber harvest bid documents, with bids due in late May
• Agreed to keep Green-Up Day bag distribution starting April 19
• Agreed the Commission should sponsor an online trail maintenance program
• Agreed to change the trail sign location at the junction of Simonds Way and Legacy Trail
• Agreed to invite Upper Valley Mountain Bike Association to the May 3 meeting to discuss a formal relationship
• Agreed to have Upper Valley Land Trust discuss a possible Town Forest conservation easement at the June 7 meeting

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission will hold a public hearing regarding land use applications. Items include a lot line adjustment on Gifford Road and two applications from Quechee Gorge Friendship Inn, Inc. regarding subdivision and motel conversion.

• Lot line adjustment at 371 Gifford Road (Application #21-02)
• Subdivision of lot 13-0033-000 into three lots at 5817 Woodstock Road (Application #21-03)
• Conversion of 16 motel efficiencies into multi-family dwellings at 5817 Woodstock Road (Application #21-04)
• Election of Commission Officers
• Review of March 8, 2021, minutes

The Hartford Planning Commission approved minutes from March 8, 2021, and kept its current officers (Bruce Riddle as Chair, John Reid as Vice Chair, Toby Dayman as Clerk). In public hearings, the Commission unanimously approved Application #21-02 for a lot line adjustment at 371 Gifford Road, Application #21-03 to subdivide lot 13-0033-000 into three lots and amend the Planned Development Master Plan at 5817 Woodstock Road in Quechee, and Application #21-04 for site development plan approval to convert 16 motel efficiencies into multi-family dwellings on proposed lot 13-0033-002 on Woodstock Road in Quechee. The Commission also noted that the May 10 public hearing was cancelled because no applications were filed.

• Approved minutes of March 8, 2021 (unanimous)
• Kept current officers: Bruce Riddle Chair, John Reid Vice Chair, Toby Dayman Clerk (unanimous)
• Approved Application #21-02: lot line adjustment at 371 Gifford Road, R-1 district (unanimous)
• Approved Application #21-03: subdivide lot 13-0033-000 into three lots and amend Planned Development Master Plan at 5817 Woodstock Road, Quechee, as amended (unanimous)
• Approved Application #21-04: site development plan to convert 16 motel efficiencies into multi-family dwellings at proposed lot 13-0033-002, Woodstock Road, Quechee (unanimous)
• Noted May 10 public hearing cancelled because no applications were filed

Inactive Boards

The Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter will discuss updates regarding public and private sites. Members will also discuss potential subcommittee reorganization and alternative housing opportunities.

• Review of March 18, 2021, meeting minutes
• Planning Commission update
• Update on public and private sites
• Discussion of potential subcommittee reorganization
• Discussion of alternative housing opportunities

The Hartford Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter voted to table approval of its 3/18/21 minutes, with Simon Dennis to review and resubmit them. The committee discussed a possible zoning amendment, a planned development sketch, fire suppression requirements, and site options including 100 Arboretum Ln and Christian Street. Members volunteered for three sub-groups: micro-dwelling development, experimental alternative dwellings, and a three-unit RV cluster. No final decisions were made on shelter sites or zoning changes.

• Tabled approval of 3/18/21 minutes; Simon Dennis to review and resubmit
• Volunteered for Micro-Dwelling Development: Jon, Bryan, Simon, Ally
• Volunteered for Experimental Alternative Dwelling (EAD): Jon, Martha, Simon, Bryan; Jon to chair
• Becca and Simon to follow up with Bruce Riddle on Three-Unit RV Cluster
• Adjourned meeting at 6:17 PM (unanimous)

Inactive Boards

The committee will review the minutes from the March 17, 2021, meeting. Members will also receive updates from subcommittees, including a funding request for the Slow the Spread/Communications group.

• Review and approval of 3.17.21 Minutes
• Slow the Spread/Communications funding request

The Hartford Ad Hoc Committee on Coronavirus Response voted to ask the Selectboard to reimburse Becky Chollet $475.09 for past mask bag purchases, with Becky abstaining and all others in favor. The committee also authorized its communications subgroup to create and submit a budget for new signage to Dan for a future agenda. Members discussed rising COVID-19 cases, the voucher system continuing through 2021, and possible Charge revisions to be reviewed at the next meeting. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved asking Selectboard to reimburse Becky Chollet $475.09 for mask bag expenses (all in favor, Becky abstained)
• Authorized communications subgroup to create and submit a budget for new signage to Dan for a subsequent agenda (all in favor)
• Agreed to review recommended Charge revisions at the next meeting

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission will meet with the Ad Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter. The meeting will provide informal, non-binding feedback regarding a proposed micro-dwelling project as a Planned Development.

• Sketch Plan Review for a proposed micro-dwelling project

The Planning Commission held an informal, non-binding discussion with the Ad Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter regarding a proposed micro-dwelling project. No formal decisions were made; the meeting focused on the feasibility of using a Planned Development application for transitional housing.

Board of Civil Authority

The Board of Abatement will hold a hearing to consider several individual and corporate requests for tax abatements. Applicants are scheduled to present evidence for their specific properties, or the Board may decide based on submitted forms.

• Abatement request: 72 Wood Rd. (Steven Leninski)
• Abatement request: 365 Lyman Batcheller Rd, #7E (Amanda and Nyles M. Oppenheimer)
• Abatement request: 1403 Quechee-West Hartford Rd (Qutopia, LLC)
• Abatement request: 6985 Woodstock Rd. (David J. Lovell)
• Abatement request: 5187 Route 14 (JD Farrow Associates, LLC)

The Board held hearings for 11 tax abatement requests but adjourned before completing all deliberations. Two decisions were reached: one request for fee abatement was approved, and one request for late fee abatement was denied.

• Approved abatement of $2,579.48 in fees and costs for Steven Leninski (Unanimous)
• Denied abatement of late fees for Amanda and Nyles M. Oppenheimer (19-2)

Energy Commission

The Energy Commission will review updates from the Climate Advisory Committee, the Building Integrity Work Group, and the Transportation Work Group. The meeting also includes a discussion on the E-bike lending program and a pending BIPOC statement requiring Selectboard approval.

• Update on Climate Advisory Committee activity
• Update on Building Integrity Work Group activity
• Update on Transportation Work Group and E-bike lending program
• Review of BIPOC statement for Selectboard approval
• Review and approval of February 25, 2021, minutes

The Hartford Energy Commission approved February minutes as amended and discussed logistics for a four-bike lending program arriving April 18, including storage, librarian training, and a loan schedule. It also received updates on a Town Meeting article that passed with $60,000 for climate projects, building efficiency work, and an EV webinar. No other substantive motions or votes were recorded.

• Approved February minutes as amended (motion passed)
• Moved e-bike discussion to beginning of agenda
• Agreed to seek Selectboard approval before posting BIOPC statement on HEC webpage
• Set e-bike loan schedule from April 19 to May 8-9
• Planned librarian training for e-bike checkouts
• Articles for HEC Herald due April 8

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Board of School Directors held a community engagement meeting focused on anti-racism, equity, and inclusion. The board also approved a three-year contract for the current auditing firm, RH Smith, and processed several staff appointments and retirements.

• Approved a three-year contract for auditing firm RH Smith
• Reappointed HCOREI member Sarah Campbell for a third term
• Appointed Cassandra North as HHS Spanish teacher
• Appointed Doug Heavisides as Wilder School Principal
• Accepted retirements from seven district staff members

The School Board approved a three-year contract for auditing firm RH Smith and processed several personnel changes, including seven retirements and two appointments. The meeting also included an anti-racism and equity workshop for the School Board and Select Board.

• Approved three-year contract for auditing firm RH Smith (motion carried)
• Appointed Cassandra North as HHS Spanish (motion carried, Mr. North abstained)
• Accepted seven staff retirements (motion carried)
• Accepted resignation of Robert Palmer from HACTC (motion carried)
• Appointed Doug Heavisides as Wilder School Principal (motion carried)
• Appointed Ryan Scelza to Town/School District Meeting Committee (motion carried)
• Reappointed Sarah Campbell to HCOREI for a third term (motion carried)

Inactive Boards

The Climate Advisory Committee is meeting to review specific actions against screening criteria. Sub-teams will evaluate sectors including transportation, waste management, energy, and water.

• Sub-team breakout: Transportation/Land Use, Waste Management, and Local Food
• Sub-team breakout: Buildings and Energy, Climate Health and Safety
• Sub-team breakout: Water and Waste Water, Greenspace/Tree, and Climate Economy

The Hartford Climate Advisory Committee's Climate Action Team met on March 24, 2021, but the notes state there was no quorum of the CAC present, so the session was recorded as meeting notes rather than formal minutes. The group began screening, refining, and scoring the action lists compiled by its sub-teams using criteria selected at the Feb 10 meeting, but did not finish. Because sub-teams did not complete the work and three make-up meetings before 4/14 were not considered feasible, the team agreed on an alternative path: members will score actions individually, Round 3 sub-teams will schedule a meeting before 4/14, and the 4/14 meeting will be used to finish Round 1 and Round 2 breakout work. No formal votes or binding decisions were recorded.

• No formal decisions or votes recorded; meeting held without a CAC quorum
• Agreed sub-team members will review and score actions individually before the next meeting
• Agreed Round 3 sub-teams will schedule a screening/scoring meeting before 4/14
• Agreed the 4/14 meeting agenda will change to complete Round 1 and Round 2 breakout screening and scoring

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Selectboard will hold a public hearing regarding amendments to create two new zoning districts: Highway Commercial Residential (HCR) and Quechee Commercial Residential (QCR). These changes aim to allow residential and mixed-use development in areas previously restricted to commercial or industrial uses.

• Public hearing on HCR and QCR zoning amendments
• Re-appointment of Matt Osborn as Acting Zoning Administrator
• Appointment of John Heath to the Hartford Planning Commission
• Re-appointments for East Central Vermont Telecommunications District representatives
• Liquor license renewals for 10 local businesses

The Hartford Selectboard voted unanimously to adopt zoning amendments creating the Highway Commercial Residential (HCR) district in White River Junction and the Quechee Commercial Residential (QCR) district in Quechee, both of which would make single-unit and two-unit dwellings permitted uses. The board also approved several appointments and renewed liquor licenses for multiple businesses. Public comment covered parking and towing issues at the South Main Street lot, and the Town Manager reported on staffing vacancies and a towing reimbursement offer.

• Adopted zoning amendments creating HCR and QCR districts (unanimous)
• Re-appointed Matt Osborn as Acting Zoning Administrator through March 22, 2024 (unanimous)
• Appointed John Heath to the Hartford Planning Commission through March 22, 2024 (unanimous)
• Re-appointed F.X. Flinn, Jeff Brand, and Bob Merrill to the ECVTD (unanimous)
• Approved second-class liquor license renewals for Bob's Service Center, Cumberland Farms #8007, and Evans Expressmart (4-0, 1 abstained, 1 recused)
• Approved first- and third-class liquor license renewals for The Filling Station and Hotel Coolidge (4-0, 1 abstained, 1 recused)
• Approved first, third, and outside consumption liquor license renewals for Quechee Club Inc., Base Lodge, and Murphy Farm (4-0, 1 abstained, 1 recused)
• Approved first and outside consumption liquor license renewals for Piecemeal Pies and Wicked Awesome BBQ (4-0, 1 abstained, 1 recused)

Sister Cities Committee

The committee will meet via Zoom to discuss updates regarding a sign and school connections. The agenda also includes welcoming a new selectboard liaison.

• Welcome new selectboard liaison Ally
• Sign update
• School connection update
• Discussion regarding a school board liaison

The Hartford Sister Cities Committee discussed a letter regarding town signs for Cenon, France, and planned a spring photo update for Cenon. The committee also discussed updating a declaration for Cenon, addressing the Hartford public schools French language program, and approved the minutes from the November 24, 2020 meeting before adjourning.

• Approved minutes from Nov. 24, 2020
• Adjourned meeting at 5:45 pm (next meeting scheduled for April 20, 2021)

West Hartford Library Trustees

The West Hartford Library Trustees approved minutes, a purchase order for new shelving, and elected board members during their March 18, 2021 meeting. The board also discussed library operations, a state annual report submission, and summer programming plans.

• Approved February 2021 meeting minutes
• Approved purchase order from John Newton for new shelving as a permanent structure
• Elected Emily and Doug to positions on the Board of Trustees
• Approved allowing fully vaccinated patrons inside the library for functions such as Quilt Group

Inactive Boards

The Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter will discuss the projected end dates for the State Funded Hotel Voucher Program. Members will also discuss the impact of the gradual lifting of the moratorium on eviction trials.

• Review of minutes from the 3/4/21 meeting
• Discussion of State Funded Hotel Voucher Program end dates
• Discussion of eviction trial moratorium lifting
• Location and Permitting Subgroups update

The Hartford Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter elected Becca White as Chair and Ally Tufenkjian as Vice-Chair, with Simon Dennis continuing as Clerk. The committee discussed a Selectboard amendment extending its end date to March 1, 2022, and reviewed the sunsetting of the hotel voucher program, including projections that about 30% of current hotel residents may become unsheltered. No decisions were made on the voucher program or campground regulation changes; next meeting is April 1 at 5:00 PM.

• Elected Becca White as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Ally Tufenkjian as Vice-Chair (unanimous)
• Simon Dennis continues as Clerk
• Approved minutes of 3/4/21 (unanimous)
• Added election of officers and review of charge to agenda (no objection)
• Adjourned at 6:23 PM (unanimous)

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The committee will reorganize by electing new officers and acknowledging new liaisons from the Selectboard and School Board. Members will also discuss subcommittee assignments and ways to support victims of harassment and threats.

• Election of new committee officers
• Selection of subcommittees for Policy, Housing, or Education
• Presentation by Giavanna from The Family Place
• Discussion on supporting victims of internet or in-person harassment
• Discussion of a letter to reappoint John, Sara, and Allene for two years

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion approved amended minutes from March 3, 2021, and elected new officers: Allene Swienckowski as Chair, John Hall as Vice Chair, and Giavanna Munafo as Clerk, all by unanimous votes. Rachel Edens was named the new Selectboard Liaison, while Joe, Nancy, and Russ continue to serve. The committee also discussed subcommittee updates on policy, education, and harassment support, but took no formal action on those items.

• Approved amended minutes from March 3, 2021 (unanimous)
• Elected Giavanna Munafo as Clerk (unanimous)
• Elected John Hall as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Allene Swienckowski as Chair (unanimous)
• Named Rachel Edens as new Selectboard Liaison
• John, Allene, and Sara to submit letters to Selectboard/School Board for reappointment for two years
• Adjourned (motion by John)

Inactive Boards

The committee will review previous minutes and receive town updates. Members will also hear subcommittee updates regarding the "Adopt a sign" communications project and discuss outstanding projects.

• Review and approval of 3.3.21 Minutes
• Communications subcommittee update on "Adopt a sign"
• Discussion of outstanding projects

The Hartford Ad Hoc Committee on Coronavirus Response met on 3/17/21 and discussed whether to continue its work and how to revise its charge. Members talked about food insecurity, housing, business recovery, and the need for Selectboard approval to change the committee's constitution so it can make quorum. Deborah Fraser Scribbner volunteered to draft a revised charge, which Simon Dennis will revise and bring back to the committee. No motions, votes, or formal decisions were recorded.

• No formal decisions, motions, or votes were recorded
• Deborah Fraser Scribbner volunteered to draft a first version of a revised committee charge
• Simon Dennis will revise the draft and bring it back to the committee
• Kristi Clemens will invite Tracy and Julia Dalphin to the next meeting
• Julia Dalphin noted as taking Dan Fraser's seat as Selectboard Liaison

Tree Board

The Tree Board is reviewing updates on the Shade Tree Preservation Plan and revised estimates for EAB treatment. Members are also discussing a partnership related to the VUCFP Arbor Day Grant deadline on March 26th.

• Shade Tree Preservation Plan application update
• Revised EAB treatment estimates
• VUCFP Arbor Day Grant partnership deadline
• Researching replacement trees/shrubs for Maxfield Sports Complex parking lots

The Hartford Tree Board approved its February 16, 2021 minutes unanimously and decided to use the aquifer injection method on larger ash trees in Veteran's Park and Ratcliffe Park, hiring Timber Tenders because it had the lowest bid. Parks and Recreation Director Scott Hausler will look at using his budget to pay for the work, and Tree Warden Dana Hazen will check that the targeted trees are healthy. The Board also reviewed a draft Arbor Day grant proposal with Dothan Brook School and tabled a project to research replacement trees at the Maxfield Sports Complex parking lots.

• Approved February 16, 2021 minutes unanimously
• Decided to use aquifer injection method for larger ash trees in Veteran's Park and Ratcliffe Park
• Decided to hire Timber Tenders, the lowest bidder, for the ash tree injections
• Tabled research on replacement trees/shrubs in Maxfield Sports Complex parking lots
• Agreed to continue developing an Arbor Day grant proposal with Dothan Brook School for a maple sugaring outdoor classroom

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Commission will review the department budget and receive updates on the Community Center and Pool Project. Members will also work to finalize upcoming survey details and departmental goals and objectives.

• Community Center updates
• Pool Project update
• Department budget review
• Finalization of upcoming survey
• Finalization of goals and objectives

The Commission approved the final version of a community survey and accepted the department's goals and objectives. Members also discussed the budget and the progress of the pool project.

• Approved February 2021 meeting minutes
• Approved adoption of the community survey as presented
• Approved Goals and Objectives as reviewed

Inactive Boards

The Climate Advisory Committee will review its charge, milestones, and the election of officers. The committee will also discuss status updates regarding the Climate Action Plan and the municipal carbon neutrality roadmap.

• Review of Climate Advisory Committee charge and milestones
• Status updates on Climate Action Plan development
• Status updates on municipal carbon neutrality roadmap presentation
• Election of committee officers
• Approval of February 23 meeting minutes

The committee discussed the development of the Climate Action Plan and the search for a presenter for the municipal carbon neutrality roadmap. Members agreed to develop the committee's webpage and an FAQ for external organizations. No formal votes were taken during the meeting.

• Agreed to develop the committee webpage before creating additional resources
• Tabled approval of February 23, 2021 minutes due to lack of quorum

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Selectboard will discuss a $5,479 annual lease for an infield groomer to maintain the Maxfield Sports Complex. The board will also consider several committee appointments and review liquor control renewals.

• Lease of Toro Sand Pro 3040 infield groomer for $5,479 annually over 5 years
• Appointment of Michael Gabriele to the Hartford Business Revolving Loan Fund
• Appointment of Tom McCleary to the Parks and Recreation Commission
• Appointment of Simon Dennis to the Coronavirus Response and Emergency Shelter committees
• Liquor control renewals for 12 local businesses including Simon Pearce and Skinny Pancake Quechee

The Hartford Selectboard approved a $50,000 VCDP-RLF loan to Roost Holdings, LLC at 230 South Main Street, White River Junction, with a 3.25% interest rate, five-year balloon and 10-year amortization. The board also authorized a five-year lease for an Infield Groomer at $5,479 annually, made four committee appointments, adopted a revision to the HCOREI charge, and approved a slate of liquor license renewals. Two residents asked the board to reimburse towing and rental fees after their cars were towed from the South Main Street parking lot for snow removal; the minutes record no decision on those requests. The board also approved the consent agenda except the February 23 minutes, which will go to the March 23 agenda.

• Approved $50,000 VCDP-RLF loan to Roost Holdings, LLC, 230 South Main Street, White River Junction, at 3.25% with five-year balloon and 10-year amortization (all in favor)
• Authorized Town Manager to sign five-year lease with PNC Equipment Finance, LLC for Infield Groomer (Toro Sand Pro 3040 with accessories) at $5,479.00 annually (all in favor)
• Appointed Michael Gabriele to Hartford Business Revolving Loan Fund, term March 9, 2021 to March 8, 2024 (all in favor)
• Appointed Tom McCleary to Parks and Recreation Commission, term March 9, 2021 to March 8, 2024 (all in favor)
• Appointed Simon Dennis to Hartford Ad Hoc Committee on Corona Virus Response, term March 9, 2021 to March 1, 2022 (all in favor)
• Appointed Simon Dennis to Hartford Ad Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter, term March 9, 2021 to March 1, 2022 (all in favor)
• Adopted revision to HCOREI Committee charge as presented (all in favor)
• Approved First and Third Class liquor licenses for Blood's Catering & Party Rental, Skinny Pancake Quechee, Crazy Janie's Elixir, and Simon Pearce Restaurant (5 yes, 1 abstained (Fraser), 1 recused (Souza))

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission is meeting remotely to handle administrative matters and hold a public hearing. The main item is a public hearing on a lot line adjustment application by Fred Davis, Jr. and Steve Davis for properties on Cope Lane and Byron Hill. The commission will also review a sketch plan for a River Roost addition, approve minutes, and address administrative permits.

• Public hearing on Application #21-01 for lot line adjustment between lots 08-0088-001 and 08-0090-004 at 120 Cope Lane and 177 Byron Hill
• Sketch plan review for River Roost addition
• Approval of minutes from October 19, 2020
• Administrative permits review
• Public comment period

The Planning Commission approved application #21-01 by Fred Davis, Jr. and Steve Davis for a lot line adjustment between 120 Cope Lane and 177 Byron Hill, with a correction to Finding #10, on a unanimous vote. The Commission also approved the minutes of October 19, 2020. A sketch plan review for River Roost drew parking concerns from several commissioners, but no formal decision was made; the discussion was guidance only.

• Approved lot line adjustment #21-01 at 120 Cope Lane and 177 Byron Hill (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of October 19, 2020 (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing on application #21-01 (motion carried)
• No decision on River Roost sketch plan; commissioners gave informal guidance on off-site parking

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter is meeting to review and discuss updates from its location and permitting subgroups, and to consider any other business. The committee will also pass minutes from its February 4 and February 18 meetings. This is a routine working meeting, not a final decision-making session.

• Location and Permitting Subgroups Update and Discussion
• Passage of Minutes of HADCES Meetings of 2/4/21 and 2/18/21

The committee approved minutes from February meetings. Members discussed the financial and regulatory challenges of 616 Old River Road and evaluated 100 Arboretum Lane as an alternative site.

• Approved minutes of 2/17/21 and 2/3/21
• Agreed to study sewage capacity for 100 Arboretum Lane
• Assigned Dan Fraser to contact the Director of the Aquatic Center
• Assigned Simon Dennis to contact State Wetland Administrator Rebecca Chalmers

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard is holding a special organizational meeting to reorganize board positions and discuss liaison assignments for various town committees and commissions. This is primarily a procedural meeting focused on internal board structure.

• Reorganization of board positions (motions required)
• Discussion of liaison assignments (informational only)
• Liaison list includes committees such as Conservation Commission, Energy Commission, and Planning Commission
• Meeting conducted via Zoom and YouTube due to COVID-19

The Selectboard held an organizational meeting to elect its leadership for 2021. The board appointed a Chair, Vice Chair, and Clerk. Liaison assignments were reviewed and deferred to a later meeting.

• Elected Dan Fraser as 2021 Chair (6-0, 1 abstention)
• Elected Joe Major as Vice Chair (6-0, 1 abstention)
• Elected Kim Souza as Clerk of the Selectboard (6-0, 1 abstention)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Hartford Zoning Board of Adjustment will conduct a remote public hearing to decide on a setback waiver for a garage addition at 1468 High Pastures Road in Quechee. The board will also review minutes, administrative approvals, and accept public comment.

• Application #01-21: setback waiver for garage addition at 1468 High Pastures Road, Quechee (RL-5 zoning district)
• Public hearing begins at 6:30 p.m.
• Review of December 30, 2020 minutes
• Administrative approvals and next public hearing availability discussed

The Board approved a setback waiver for a garage addition at 1468 High Pastures Road. The applicants confirmed the addition would not be used as a separate dwelling unit. Minutes from December 30, 2020, were tabled.

• Approved setback waiver for garage addition at 1468 High Pastures Road (unanimous)
• Tabled December 30, 2020 minutes

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The committee will meet to discuss how the Town of Hartford responds to bigotry and harassment. Members will also meet the new Town Manager, Tracy Yarlott-Davis, and hold subcommittee discussions.

• Meet and greet with new Town Manager Tracy Yarlott-Davis
• Discussion on town responses to bigotry and harassment
• Subcommittee meetings for Policy, Housing, and Education
• Approval of February 17 meeting minutes

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion approved minutes from Feb. 17 and voted unanimously to send a recommendation to the Town Select Board that all Town policies and ordinances be made accessible in searchable format during the website update. The committee also heard subcommittee updates on policy research and an education resource library, and discussed how the town responds to bigotry, harassment and threats. No other formal decisions were recorded; the meeting adjourned at 7:30 PM.

• Approved Feb. 17, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved recommendation to Select Board that all Town policies and ordinances be accessible in searchable format during website update (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 7:30 PM

Inactive Boards

The Climate Advisory Committee is holding a special meeting to explore potential climate actions for Hartford. Members will participate in breakout sessions focused on sectors such as transportation, waste management, and energy. The goal is to refine strategies and add new ideas to the ACTIONFinder tool.

• Breakout session on Transportation/Land Use, Waste Management, and Local Food
• Breakout session on Buildings and Energy, and Climate Health and Safety
• Breakout session on Water and Waste Water, Greenspace/Tree, and Climate Economy
• Deadline for submitting new ideas to the ACTIONFinder tool by March 22, 2021

The committee met to discuss and save potential actions in the ACTIONFinder tool via breakout groups. No formal decisions were made because the committee did not have a quorum.

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Ad Hoc Committee on Coronavirus Response met to discuss town updates and subcommittee progress. The committee also planned to discuss upcoming priorities, projects, and committee membership.

• Review and approval of 2.17.21 Minutes
• Discussion of upcoming priorities and projects
• Discussion of Committee membership

The committee approved the minutes from the February 17, 2021 meeting. Members discussed communication gaps regarding Dartmouth outbreaks, vaccine distribution for teachers, and issues regarding open meeting law and document storage.

• Approved 2/17/21 meeting minutes

Conservation Commission

The Hartford Conservation Commission is meeting to discuss updates to the Town Forest Recreation Management Plan, a compilation of management plans, and a potential winter 2022 timber harvest. They will also consider trail maintenance, wayfinding signs, a possible conservation easement, and a stream restoration project.

• Town Forest Recreation Management Plan update
• Winter 2022 Timber Harvest discussion
• 2021 Trail Maintenance
• Potential Conservation Easement
• Maanawaka Conservation Area Power Line Treatment

The Conservation Commission agreed to allow mountain biking and user-decided swimming in the Town Forest, while recommending a one-year trial for e-bikes. They unanimously approved seeking a grant to partner with the North Branch Nature Center for amphibian road crossing data. The Commission also agreed to pursue a conservation easement for the Town Forest and accepted power line vegetation treatment at the Maanawaka Conservation Area.

• Agreed to allow mountain biking and user-decided swimming/ice skating in Town Forest
• Recommended one-year trial period for e-bikes in Town Forest
• Unanimously approved applying for AVCC grant for amphibian road crossing program
• Agreed to pursue conservation easement for Town Forest
• Accepted power line vegetation treatment at Maanawaka Conservation Area
• Agreed to use hemlock from 2022 timber harvest for bridge construction
• Approved minutes from February 1, 2021 meeting
• Agreed to hold off on trail signs until Recreation Plan is adopted by Selectboard

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

This is the annual Town Meeting Day for Hartford, VT, convened to receive reports from town officers and conduct any other necessary non-binding business. The meeting will be held electronically due to Open Meeting Law compliance, with participation via Zoom, YouTube, phone, or TV. The school district meeting will convene at the same time and recess until the town meeting concludes.

• Receive reports of Town Officers
• Conduct non-binding town business
• Electronic participation via Zoom, YouTube, phone, or Comcast channel 1085
• School District Meeting to follow Town Meeting conclusion

Hartford's 2021 Annual Town Meeting was held February 27, 2021, with Town Moderator Chuck Wooster presiding. The Moderator declared reports of Town Officers received, concluding Item 1, and opened Item 2; the meeting adjourned at 10:46 AM. The minutes record discussion of harassment concerns, ECFiber's presentation, and questions about Wellness Coordinator funds and cemetery guidelines, but no decisions, votes, or approvals are recorded. The Moderator noted the Selectboard did not have a quorum but said it was not germane to the meeting.

• Reports of Town Officers received (no vote recorded)
• No substantive motions, votes, or approvals recorded in the minutes

Energy Commission

The Commission will receive activity updates from the Climate Advisory Committee, Building Integrity Work Group, and Transportation Work Group. Members will also discuss the Energy Chapter of the Town Plan and ideas for the March edition of the HEC Herald.

• Discussion of e-bike lending program logistics
• Climate Advisory Committee update
• Building Integrity Work Group update
• Transportation Work Group update regarding Bicycle Benefits
• Review of Energy Chapter of Town Plan process

The Hartford Energy Commission approved its January meeting minutes unanimously. It discussed but did not decide on posting a BIPOC statement of support, planning the March HEC Herald, and organizing an e-bike lending program from April 18 to May 8. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Approved January meeting minutes as drafted (unanimous)
• No vote on BIPOC statement of support; referred to Selectboard for approval
• No vote on March HEC Herald content; content due to Molly by March 12
• No vote on e-bike program details; all members agreed to help with coaching, demo days, and cleaning

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard and School Board are holding a joint special meeting to review the School Board's Community Engagement Model. The discussion will cover the district's policy process, integration of the Strategic Plan, anti-racism policy implementation, and related initiatives. No formal decisions are scheduled; the meeting is primarily informational and discussion-based.

• Overview of School Board Community Engagement Model
• Discussion of Anti-Racism Policy implementation
• Integration of Strategic Plan into policy process
• Update on HCOREI relationship and EL 10
• Plans for district-wide signage, web page, and advisory teams

The Hartford Selectboard and School Board held a joint special meeting on February 24, 2021, focused on the School Board's Community Engagement Model. School Board representatives presented on their community engagement process, policy process, and integration of the Strategic Plan, including the Anti Racism Policy and HCOREI relationship. Next steps discussed included the Selectboard joining School Board community engagement sessions, a suggestion that the Town have a communication officer, information sharing from the school's coordinator, and the Town beginning to address implementation of the Strategic Plan. The Selectboard adjourned at 7:50 PM; no motions other than adjournment were recorded.

• Adjourned Selectboard meeting at 7:50 PM (motion by Joe Major, second by Kim Souza, all in favor)

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion (HCOREI) will hold a joint discussion with the Select Board to review the Community Engagement Model. The meeting will outline the School Board’s engagement process, policy integration, and next steps for anti-racism initiatives.

• Joint discussion with Select Board on Community Engagement Model
• Overview of School Board Community Engagement Model and policy process
• Anti-Racism Policy and Strategic Plan integration
• District-wide signage and web page development proposed
• Teacher professional development and advisory team creation discussed

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will meet to consider two appointments, review December 2020 financials, adopt a VLCT Declaration, and give final approval to the Solid Waste Implementation Plan. The board will also renew eight local liquor licenses and handle routine consent agenda items.

• Appoint Sarah Oertly to Parks & Recreation Commission (3-year term)
• Appoint Erin Swasey to Senior Solutions Advisory Committee (2-year term)
• Adopt VLCT Declaration (motion required)
• Final approval of Solid Waste Implementation Plan (motion required)
• Renew 8 liquor licenses including Co-op Food Store, Jake's Market & Deli, Revolution, Wolf Tree, Trail Break Tap & Tacos, Tucker Box, Little Istanbul

The Hartford Selectboard approved the final Solid Waste Implementation Plan for submission to the State and renewed multiple liquor licenses for local businesses. The Board also amended the charge of the Hartford Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter, changing its term end date and constitution. The Board decided not to endorse a VLCT declaration condemning racism as written, instead asking HCOREI and Rachel Edens to craft a new statement more specific to Hartford. An appointment to the Parks & Recreation Commission was tabled because the applicant was not present.

• Approved final Solid Waste Implementation Plan for submission to the State (unanimous)
• Approved renewal of Second-Class Liquor Licenses for Co-op Food Store, Jake's Market & Deli, Revolution, Scavenger Gallery, and Little Istanbul (4 yes, 1 recused, 1 abstained)
• Approved renewal of First & Third and Outside Consumption Liquor Licenses for Wolf Tree, Trail Break Tap & Tacos, and Tucker Box (4 yes, 1 recused, 1 abstained)
• Amended Hartford Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter charge, changing term end date and constitution (unanimous)
• Appointed Erin Swasey to Senior Solutions Advisory Committee for a two-year term (unanimous)
• Tabled appointment of Sarah Oertly to Parks & Recreation Commission until she can attend a meeting
• Decided not to endorse VLCT declaration condemning racism as written; asked HCOREI and Rachel Edens to craft a new statement
• Approved Consent Agenda including payroll, meeting minutes, and A/P manifest (unanimous)

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Climate Advisory Committee is meeting to review past minutes and plan a public information campaign for Article 22, the Climate Action Reserve Fund. They will also set work priorities for February through June 2021, including a presentation to the Selectboard on a municipal carbon neutrality roadmap and internal/external communications.

• Review and approve minutes from Dec. 16, Dec. 23, Jan. 13
• Public information campaign for Article 22 (Climate Action Reserve Fund)
• Presentation to Selectboard/staff for municipal carbon neutrality roadmap
• Internal and external facing communications planning

The committee approved meeting minutes from December 16, 2020, December 23, 2020, and January 13, 2021. Members discussed a public information campaign for the Article 22 Climate Action Reserve Fund and planned a review of the draft Climate Action Plan for May 12.

• Approved meeting minutes for Dec 16, 2020, Dec 23, 2020, and Jan 13, 2021 (unanimous)

West Hartford Library Trustees

The West Hartford Library Board will conduct its regular monthly meeting via Zoom on February 18, 2021, at 4:00 PM. The agenda consists entirely of procedural and reporting items with no substantive decisions or discussions scheduled.

The board approved a plan to allow patrons to book 15-minute appointments for stack browsing beginning March 1, 2021. The board also authorized the purchase of a new computer. The library remains closed to the general public due to Covid-19.

• Approved 15-minute appointment plan for stack browsing starting 3/1/2021
• Approved purchase of a computer using budgeted funds or Friends of the Library funds
• Approved January 2021 meeting minutes

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter is meeting to review its previous minutes, receive updates from its location and permitting subgroups, and discuss next steps. The meeting is open to the public and will be held electronically via Zoom.

• Passage of minutes from the 2/4/21 meeting
• Location and permitting subgroups update and discussion
• Discussion of any other business before the committee

The Hartford Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter met on 02/18/21 but did not have a quorum to approve the minutes from its 2/4/21 meeting, so that approval was postponed to the next meeting. The committee received subgroup reports on utilities and permitting and on structure, including that an architect approved hut plans and that the only path forward for easterly pedestrian access would involve purchasing the storage facility and likely the residence. The group agreed to transition to meeting bi-weekly and set its next meeting for March 4th at 5:00 PM. The meeting adjourned at 5:52 PM by unanimous vote.

• Postponed approval of 2/4/21 minutes due to lack of quorum
• Agreed to transition to bi-weekly meetings
• Agreed Tom Peltier would receive hut plans and give feedback on the process
• Adjourned meeting at 5:52 PM (unanimous)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Hartford Historic Preservation Commission is meeting remotely to discuss a demolition ordinance with consultant Brandy Saxton, review a 2021 CLG grant application, and address a White River Junction sign. The agenda also includes routine items like approving minutes and announcements.

• Discussion of demolition ordinance with guest consultant Brandy Saxton of PlaceSense
• Review of 2021 CLG Grant Application
• Discussion of White River Junction sign
• Approval of January 20th meeting minutes

The Historic Preservation Commission accepted a revised schedule for drafting demolition standards for historic buildings, with workshops on March 17 and May 19 and a Selectboard presentation in June. Consultant Brandy Saxton recommended putting the standards into the Zoning Regulations rather than a free-standing demolition ordinance, saying state statutes do not give the Town that authority. The commission also approved corrected minutes from January 20 and agreed to skip regular business at its next meeting. It learned its 2021 CLG grant application did not receive funding and that the 'White River Junction' sign has been delivered to Town Hall.

• Approved January 20, 2021 minutes with a correction (unanimous)
• Accepted revised demolition standards schedule: March 17 workshop, April community meeting, May 19 workshop, June Selectboard presentation
• Agreed to skip regular HHPC business at the March 17 joint workshop with the Planning Commission
• Adjourned the meeting at 6:44 p.m. (unanimous)

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Ad Hoc Committee on Coronavirus Response is holding a routine meeting to review past minutes, receive town and subcommittee updates, and discuss upcoming priorities and projects. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific decisions or proposals listed.

• Review and approval of 1.20.21 and 2.3.21 minutes
• Town updates
• Subcommittee updates
• Discussion of upcoming priorities and projects
• Public comment

The committee approved the meeting minutes from January 20 and February 3, 2021. Members discussed vaccine rollout, mask distribution, and the need for mental health support and business outreach.

• Approved January 20, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved February 3, 2021 minutes (unanimous)

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion is meeting to discuss forming a subcommittee to address cases of harassment and threats, and to break into policy, housing, and education subcommittees. They will also discuss a roadmap to help form a High School Equity Club and new business regarding a School Board community meeting on 02/24/21. The agenda includes community input and approval of prior meeting minutes.

• Discussion to form subcommittee addressing harassment and threats
• Breakout into policy, housing, and education subcommittees
• Road map to assist High School Equity Club formation
• New business: School Board Community meeting on 02/24/21
• Approve consent agenda (minutes from Feb. 2)

The committee approved the minutes from the February 2, 2021 meeting. Members discussed ongoing subcommittee work regarding HR policies, affordable housing funding, and an education resource library. A proposal to form a subcommittee to address harassment and threats was tabled.

• Approved meeting minutes from Feb. 2, 2021 (Unanimous)
• Tabled first agenda item for next meeting (Unanimous)
• Tabled discussion to form subcommittee to address harassment and threats

Tree Board

The Tree Board is meeting to discuss Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) treatment estimates and updates on the Shade Tree Preservation Plan. Members will also research replacement trees for the Maxfield Sports Complex parking lots.

• EAB treatment estimates
• Shade Tree Preservation Plan application update
• Research on replacement trees/shrubs for Maxfield Sports Complex
• Reimbursement for maple trivet delivery
• Planning for 2021 Tree ID Walk at Fairview Terrace, WRJct

The board unanimously approved joining a statewide shade tree preservation plan and selected the lowest bid for Emerald Ash Borer treatment. They also amended previous minutes to include other tree planting locations and tabled a scouting meeting for March.

• Amended January 19 minutes to add other planting locations (unanimous)
• Approved joining shade tree preservation plan (unanimous)
• Selected Timber Tender as lowest EAB treatment bid ($1777.50)
• Tabled Fairview Terrace scouting meeting to March

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Hartford Parks and Recreation Commission will hold a regular meeting to discuss updates on the Community Center and pool project, review the department budget, and consider an upcoming survey and recreation program plan. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific votes or dollar amounts listed.

• Community Center updates
• Pool project update
• Department budget review
• Upcoming survey discussion
• Recreation program plan review

The Hartford Parks and Recreation Commission approved its January meeting minutes and reviewed department reports covering winter programs, the outdoor rink at Frost Park, and the municipal pool project. The department finalized the pool contract with Bread Loaf Contractors, which requires the Town Manager's signature before being sent to the contractor. The board also reviewed the department's Recreation Program Plan and the Parks & Rec Town survey. No other substantive motions or votes were recorded.

• Approved January meeting minutes
• Reviewed Department Recreation Program Plan (no action recorded)
• Reviewed Parks & Rec Town survey (no action recorded)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:21 pm

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Climate Advisory Committee meets to finalize strategy screening criteria, vote on top three priorities, and begin breakout discussions on reducing carbon emissions across sectors like transportation, buildings, and waste. No formal decisions are recorded; the meeting focuses on planning and preliminary recommendations.

• Vote on top 3 strategy screening criteria
• Breakout sessions on Transportation/Land Use, Waste Management, Local Food, Buildings and Energy, Climate Health and Safety, Water and Wastewater, Greenspace/Tree, and Climate Economy
• Review and training for ACTIONFinder tool to log community climate actions
• Next meeting dates set for March 3, March 24, and April 14

The committee reached agreement on three criteria for evaluating strategies and actions: Support, Equity, and Impact/Effectiveness. Sub-teams met in breakout groups to discuss strategic goals and roadblocks. No formal minutes were recorded as the meeting was consultant-led and lacked a quorum at the start.

• Agreed to use Support, Equity, and Impact/Effectiveness as screening criteria for evaluating strategies

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will consider changing the interest rate for its business revolving loan funds, approve a contract with GMEDC for loan administration, and discuss extending sanitary sewer service to Marion Cross School in Norwich. The board will also consider appointments, including Sarah Oertly to the Parks & Recreation Commission, and review a TIF annual report.

• Proposed change to HBRLF and VCDP-RLF loan interest rate: set at 3.25% or Wall Street prime, whichever is higher, plus 3%
• GMEDC administrative contract for HBRLF/VCDP-RLF: $3,000 annual fee, $300 per loan package submitted/closed, $300 quarterly maintenance, $300 income benefit info per loan
• Liquor license renewals for Phnom Penh Sandwich Station, The Quechee Inn at Marshland Farms, and Summit Stores
• Appointment of Sarah Oertly to Parks & Recreation Commission for three-year term
• Discussion of extending sanitary sewer to Marion Cross School in Norwich, Vermont

The Selectboard approved a $50,000 loan to Roost Holdings, LLC and renewed three liquor licenses. They also approved a bond bank application for a pool project and agreed to continue studying a sewer extension to Norwich School. A request to extend the sewer was not denied but left open for further analysis.

• Approved $50,000 VCDP-RLF loan to Roost Holdings, LLC (unanimous)
• Renewed 1st Class liquor license for Phnom Penh Sandwich Station (4-1-1)
• Renewed 1st, 3rd & Outside Consumption license for The Quechee Inn (3-2-1)
• Renewed 2nd Class liquor license for Summit Stores (4-1-1)
• Approved Bond Bank application for Pool and TIF Project (unanimous)
• Approved stipulation agreement for 28220 Christian St. valuation (unanimous)
• Consensus to continue analysis of Norwich School sewer extension
• Approved $84.92 payment for mask distribution bags (unanimous)

Inactive Boards

The Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter is meeting to discuss updates from its utilities, governance, structure, and location subgroups. The agenda includes passing minutes from the previous meeting and discussing next steps. This is a working meeting focused on planning, with no final decisions listed.

• Passage of minutes from the 1/28/21 meeting
• Utilities and Permitting Subgroup update
• Governance Subgroup update
• Structure Subgroup update
• Location Subgroup update

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Ad Hoc Committee on Coronavirus Response is meeting to review minutes, receive town updates on vaccine distribution, hear subcommittee updates, and discuss upcoming priorities. The agenda includes a reimbursement request for mask supplies and public comment.

• Reimbursement request of $70-$100 to Becky Chollet for mask wax paper bags
• Vaccine distribution updates from the town
• Review and approval of 1.20.21 minutes
• Public comment period

The Hartford Ad Hoc Committee on Coronavirus Response met by Zoom on 2/03/21. It approved $84.92 to reimburse Becky Chollet for wax bag purchases and shipping, with Becky abstaining and all other members voting in favor. The committee postponed approval of its most recent minutes until the next meeting and heard updates on masks, vaccinations, food programs, and communications. Town Counsel concluded there was no evidence to support an alleged Open Meeting Law violation.

• Approved $84.92 reimbursement to Becky Chollet for wax bag purchases and shipping (all but Becky in favor; Becky abstained)
• Postponed passage of the most recent minutes until the next meeting
• Added a brief discussion of the alleged Open Meeting Law Violation to the agenda
• Brett Mayfield said he would carry out the request to obtain an additional 500 cloth masks, supported by Martha and Kristi
• Adjourned at 4:46 PM (Becca White moved, Brett Mayfield seconded; all apparently in favor)

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The committee will discuss its official Charge and review input from the School Board meeting. Members will also break into subcommittees to discuss progress and community approachability.

• Approval of January 20, 2021, meeting minutes
• Discussion regarding the Committee Charge
• Subcommittee progress reports

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion approved minutes from Jan. 20, 2021, and passed a motion directing its executive committee to prepare a Feb. 17 discussion on forming a subcommittee to look into harassment, death threats, and cyber bullying of anyone living, working, or visiting Hartford. It also voted to bring updated language for item V of its charge to a joint meeting of the School and Select Boards on Feb. 9, with John Hall to present. Subcommittee updates covered ongoing HR policy review, housing and voucher discussions, and school DEI efforts. No new business was raised, and the meeting adjourned.

• Approved Jan. 20, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Passed amended motion: executive committee to prepare a 2/17 discussion on forming a subcommittee on harassment, death threats, and cyber bullying (unanimous)
• Passed motion to take updated item V charge language to the joint School and Select Boards meeting on 2/9 (unanimous)
• John Hall to present the updated charge language
• Adjourned (motion by John)

Conservation Commission

The Hartford Conservation Commission is meeting to discuss updates to the Town Forest Recreation Management Plan, a potential winter 2022 timber harvest, and trail maintenance. They will also consider a stream restoration project, a potential conservation easement, and outreach to private landowners. The meeting is largely discussion-oriented, with no final decisions listed on the agenda.

• Town Forest Recreation Management Plan update
• Winter 2022 timber harvest discussion
• 2021 trail maintenance plans
• Potential stream restoration project
• Potential conservation easement

The Commission approved continuing private landowner outreach and agreed to pursue donating hemlock from the 2022 timber harvest to Cover Home Repair. Members decided to delay presenting the Recreation Management Plan to the Selectboard until after Town Meeting.

• Approved contacting a third group of ten high-ranked natural resource property owners
• Approved pursuing hemlock donations to Cover Home Repair from 2022 timber harvest
• Approved using hemlock instead of pressure treated lumber for Town Forest bridges
• Decided to wait until after Town Meeting to present the Recreation Management Plan to the Selectboard
• Approved January 4, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission will discuss and vote on proposed zoning changes along Route 4, West Gilson Avenue, and Cross Street in Quechee, shifting areas from Highway-Commercial (HC) to Quechee Commercial/Residential (QCR). The meeting will review and approve planning commission reports for both the QCR and HCR zoning changes before determining next steps.

• Discussion of zoning change from Highway-Commercial (HC) to Quechee Commercial/Residential (QCR) for Route 4, West Gilson Avenue, and Cross Street in Quechee
• Review and approval of Planning Commission Report for QCR zoning change
• Review and approval of Planning Commission Report for HCR zoning change

The Planning Commission unanimously approved two reports required to move forward with zoning bylaw amendments for the Quechee Commercial/Residential (QCR) and Highway Commercial/Residential (HCR) districts. The Commission discussed whether residential uses in the QCR district should be permitted or conditional.

• Approved Planning Commission Report for the QCR Zoning Change (unanimous)
• Approved Planning Commission Report for the Highway Commercial/Residential (HCR) Zoning Change (unanimous)

Board of Civil Authority

The Board of Civil Authority is meeting to organize for the upcoming term. The agenda includes electing officers, verifying oaths of office, and discussing election and tax processes.

• Election of officers
• Verification of oaths of office
• Discussion of tax abatement hearing processes
• Discussion of checklist review process and timeline
• Discussion of tax appeals process and timeline

The Board of Civil Authority elected Sue Buckholz as Chair and Nancy Howe as Vice Chair, both by unanimous roll-call vote. The board approved a motion authorizing the Town Clerk to maintain the voter checklist by issuing challenge letters based on property transfer tax returns, returned mail, and public information, and to conduct a batch purge for voters who were challenged and did not vote or respond after two general elections. The board also discussed preparations for the upcoming Annual Town & School District Meeting, the March abatement hearing, and the Biennial Checklist Review process.

• Elected Sue Buckholz as Chair (13-0)
• Elected Nancy Howe as Vice Chair (13-0)
• Authorized Town Clerk to issue challenge letters and conduct batch purge for voter checklist maintenance (13-0)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter discussed options for establishing emergency housing, including a Planned Development off River Road that would require state permitting and take months to complete. They also explored temporary solutions like moving RVs between lots every 12 days and primitive structures limited to 21-day stays, as well as accessory units to a church and mobile shower vehicles. The committee approved prior meeting minutes and scheduled its next meeting for 2/4/21.

• Planned Development off River Road to be submitted to Planning Board
• RV occupancy loophole: moving dwellings every 12 days between two properties
• Primitive structures limited to one per property, max 21 consecutive days
• Possibility of accessory units to a church explored with Rick Oberkirch
• Mobile shower vehicle could meet plumbed water requirement

The Hartford Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter met on 1/28/21 and heard subgroup reports. The Location Subgroup said it is moving toward a Planned Development off River Road that would go to the Planning Board, take several months, and require state permitting. The Utilities and Permitting Subgroup reported on a meeting with Rick Oberkirch about water and septic requirements, including regulatory limits on RVs and primitive structures. No substantive decisions were made; the committee approved prior minutes and adjourned.

• Approved 1/14/21 minutes without amendment (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:56 PM (unanimous)

Energy Commission

The Hartford Energy Commission meets to approve draft minutes from December 2020, discuss a living document on climate change support, and review the process for the Energy Chapter of the Town Plan. Updates from three work groups on climate, building integrity, and transportation are also presented.

• Review and approve draft minutes from 2020-12-17
• Discuss living document on climate change support for BIPOC/minorities
• Receive updates from Climate Advisory Committee, Building Integrity Work Group, and Transportation Work Group
• Review process for Energy Chapter of Town Plan
• Brainstorm ideas for HEC Herald February edition

The Hartford Energy Commission approved placing a BIPOC statement on the town website, with a longer article planned for the HEC Herald. It also approved amended December minutes and discussed the HEC Herald, a Climate Advisory Committee ballot item on $60,000 in local option tax funds, and an April ebike program. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Approved December minutes as amended (motion passed)
• Approved placing the BIPOC statement on the website (motion passed)
• Decided the BIPOC statement will be a static document, with a longer article in the HEC Herald
• Discussed Climate Advisory Committee request for a $60,000 fund from the local option tax; issue will be on the ballot for voters
• Discussed HEC Herald articles and future topics; no formal decision recorded
• Discussed April ebike program logistics and use of $300.00 authorized by Lori; no formal decision recorded

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard is meeting to consider several motions, including extending sanitary sewer to Marion Cross School in Norwich, adopting the 2020-2025 Hazard Mitigation Plan, appealing the 2020 Equalization Study, and awarding a network switch RFP. They will also hear a presentation on the Combined Sewer Overflow Long-Term Control Plan and hold a public hearing on a wastewater study. The agenda includes appointments, a consent agenda, and an executive session.

• Consider appointment of Dennis Brown to Historic Preservation Commission (3-year term)
• Consider appointment of John Sherman to Tree Board (3-year term)
• Public hearing on Waste Water Study (information only)
• Final adoption of DPW Annual Certification (motion)
• Further consideration of request to extend Sanitary Sewer to Marion Cross School in Norwich, VT (motion)

The Selectboard approved the town's Hazard Mitigation Plan and awarded a $41,282.61 contract for network switches. Members also appointed new volunteers to the Historic Preservation Commission and Tree Board, and authorized an appeal of the 2020 Equalization Study. A discussion regarding a sewer connection for the Marion Cross School was postponed to February 9.

• Appointed Dennis Brown to Historic Preservation Commission
• Appointed John Sherman to Tree Board
• Certified 2021 Highway Mileage
• Authorized appeal of 2020 Equalization Study
• Adopted Hazard Mitigation Plan (4-1)
• Approved 2021 Annual Town Meeting warning
• Awarded $41,282.61 network switch contract to C2 Competitive Computing

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will hold an emergency meeting to discuss amending the March 2nd ballot to include a vacated Selectboard seat. The meeting will follow Vermont Open Meeting Law with electronic participation via Zoom.

• Discussion of amendment to March 2nd ballot to include vacated Selectboard Seat (Motion Required)
• Adjourn the Selectboard Meeting (motion required)

The Hartford Selectboard held an emergency meeting on January 25, 2021, by Zoom under COVID-19 emergency rules. The Board voted 5-0 to approve amended language for Article #1 on the March 2 ballot, adding a Selectboard Member for the remaining two years of a three-year term, pending approval by Town Counsel. Chair Dan Fraser said waiting past that day's deadline would have kept the position off the ballot and required the Selectboard to appoint someone instead. The meeting adjourned at 9:20 A.M.

• Approved amended Article #1 ballot language adding a Selectboard seat for the remaining two years of a three-year term (5-0), pending Town Counsel approval
• Adjourned the emergency meeting (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission is meeting to discuss a possible zoning district change for properties on Route 4, West Gilson Avenue, and Cross Street in Quechee, from Highway-Commercial (HC) to Quechee Commercial/Residential (QCR). The agenda includes reviewing reports for both the QCR and HCR zoning changes, public comments, and next steps. This is a working session with electronic participation under Vermont's Open Meeting Law.

• Discussion of possible zoning district change from Highway-Commercial (HC) to Quechee Commercial/Residential (QCR) for Route 4, West Gilson Avenue, and Cross Street in Quechee
• Review of Planning Commission report for the QCR zoning change
• Review of Planning Commission report for the HCR zoning change
• Public comments period
• Act 92 meeting script discussion

The Planning Commission held a community meeting to discuss changing the Highway-Commercial (HC) district to a Quechee Commercial/Residential (QCR) district. No formal vote was taken on the zoning changes; the commission agreed to hold a workshop on February 1 to further consider the proposal.

• Approved motion to adjourn (7-0)

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter meets to review updates from four subgroups (utilities, governance, structure, and location) and discuss next steps for emergency shelter planning. Minutes from the January 14 meeting will be approved.

The Hartford Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter approved its 1/14/21 minutes and heard subgroup updates. The Location Subgroup reported it is pursuing a "Planned Development" off River Road, a strategy that would require Zoning Board and State permitting approval and could take several months before housing anyone. The committee agreed that Bryan Luikart, Simon Dennis, George Abetti, a design professional, and land use planner David Hamleton of Middlebury, VT will collaborate on a sketch to submit to the Zoning Board as soon as possible. No permits, funding, or shelter operations were approved at this meeting.

• Approved 1/14/21 minutes without amendment (unanimous)
• Agreed Bryan Luikart, Simon Dennis, George Abetti, a design professional, and David Hamleton will collaborate on a sketch for the Zoning Board ASAP
• Adjourned at 6:13 PM (unanimous)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Hartford Historic Preservation Commission will hold a remote meeting to review compliance with state law, approve minutes from the prior meeting, and discuss a demolition ordinance and a 2021 grant application. The group will also review a sign project in White River Junction and take public announcements.

• Demolition Ordinance review
• 2021 CLG Grant Application discussion
• White River Junction Sign review

The Commission approved the minutes from their December 16, 2020 meeting. Members also discussed the status of the Demolition Standards Project, a pending CLG grant application, and the relocation of a historic sign.

• Approved December 16, 2020 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Scheduled Demolition Standards Project kick-off for February 3, 2021
• Adjourned meeting at 5:33 p.m. (unanimous)

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion is meeting to discuss updating its charge, review subcommittee progress, and hear community input. The agenda also includes a brief overview of MLK Day in Hartford Schools and a discussion of the Jan. 6, 2021 events in DC. The meeting is largely procedural and discussion-focused, with no formal votes or decisions listed.

• Discussion of updating the Committee's Charge
• Requirement for all subcommittee meeting minutes to be submitted to the HCOREI Secretary for historical record
• Subcommittee reports via chairs
• Brief overview of MLK Day in Hartford Schools
• Discussion of Jan. 6, 2021 events in DC

The committee reviewed its official charge to clarify its role in community and school engagement. Members decided to form an ad hoc group to prepare for a discussion with the School Board regarding the committee's scope of work.

• Approved minutes from 1/06/21 (unanimous)
• Approved formation of ad hoc group to prepare for School Board meeting (unanimous)

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Climate Advisory Committee is holding a special meeting to review background studies, including a vulnerability assessment, GHG inventory, and renewable energy potentials study, and to discuss draft Carbon Neutral Pathways and Strategic Goals. The committee will break into sub-teams to evaluate sector-specific goals for transportation, buildings, water, and other areas, and will prepare for upcoming workshops in February through April.

• Review of Vulnerability Assessment, GHG Inventory, and Renewable Energy Potentials Study
• Discussion of Draft Hartford Carbon Neutral Pathways and Strategic Goals
• Breakout sessions on Transportation/Land Use, Waste Management, Local Food, Buildings and Energy, Climate Health and Safety, Water/Waste Water, Greenspace/Tree, and Climate Economy
• Proposed workshop dates: Feb 3, Feb 24, March 17, April 7

The committee met for a consultant-led session to review background documents and strategic goals. Members participated in breakout groups focused on various climate-related sectors. No formal decisions were made as the committee lacked a quorum at the start of the meeting.

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Ad Hoc Committee on Coronavirus Response is meeting to review minutes, receive town updates on vaccine distribution, and discuss subcommittee updates, including a reimbursement request. The agenda is largely procedural, with one concrete action item: a reimbursement request for mask wax paper bags.

• Reimbursement request of $70-$100 to Becky Chollet for mask wax paper bags
• Review of 12.9.20 minutes
• Town updates on vaccine distribution
• Discussion of upcoming priorities and projects

The Hartford Area Development Corporation Community Response (HADCCR) group approved its 12/9 minutes and unanimously supported a resolution to push out information about mail-in ballot availability through all available Town channels, rather than mailing Town Meeting ballots to all registered voters. The Town Clerk had recommended against the mailing, citing the need for an in-person option, outdated addresses, and the ease of requesting mail-in ballots. Workgroup updates covered mask distribution, food programs, communications, and business relief, and the meeting adjourned unanimously.

• Approved 12/9 minutes (unanimous)
• Unanimous support for resolution to push out mail-in ballot availability info via all Town channels
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Tree Board

The Hartford Tree Board is meeting to review and approve the December 15, 2020 minutes and discuss several business items. Key topics include the Shade Tree Preservation Plan application, Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) plan progress, and possible locations for trees to be planted in 2021. The board will also plan the Tree ID walk in March 2021, Arbor Day sale, and preparation for bare root stock.

• Shade Tree Preservation Plan application
• EAB plan progress
• Possible locations for 2021 tree planting
• Tree ID walk March 2021 at Fairview Terrace, WRJct
• Arbor Day sale 2021

The board approved the December 15, 2020, meeting minutes. Members discussed plans for a municipal shade tree preservation plan, the treatment of 17 prominent ash trees, and the upcoming Arbor Day sale.

• Approved December 15, 2020 Minutes (Unanimous)

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Selectboard is meeting to approve the 2021 Town Meeting warrant language and decide whether to place a question regarding cannabis establishment regulation on the ballot. The meeting also addresses the upcoming Annual Town Meeting scheduled for March 2, 2021.

• Decision on adding Article 25 regarding cannabis establishment regulation to the ballot
• Approval of 2021 Town Meeting Warrant Language
• Proposed $17,416,344 for town operating expenses
• Proposed $81,750 appropriation for Advance Transit
• Proposed $62,000 for VHF Simulcast Radio System Lease Payment

The Selectboard approved the 2021 Town Meeting warrant language and the warning for the annual Town & School District Meeting Day. A motion to add a question regarding cannabis establishments to the March ballot failed due to a lack of a second.

• Approved 2021 warrant language with amendment to #6 changing $4,550 to $4,500 (Unanimous)
• Approved warning for the annual Town & School District Meeting Day 2021 (Unanimous)
• Motion to add Act 164 cannabis establishment question to March ballot failed (No second)

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission is meeting to discuss a possible zoning district change for Route 5 in White River Junction, from Industrial-Commercial (IC) to Highway Commercial/Residential (HCR). The agenda also includes an Act 92 meeting script, public comments, and next steps. This is a discussion item, not a final decision.

• Discussion of possible zoning district change on Route 5, White River Junction, from Industrial-Commercial (IC) to Highway Commercial/Residential (HCR)
• Act 92 meeting script
• Public comments
• Next steps

The Planning Commission discussed rezoning a section of Route 5 from Industrial-Commercial to Highway Commercial-Residential to allow for housing. Members reached a consensus on which residential uses should be permitted versus conditional. A formal report will be drafted for approval at the January 25th meeting.

• Reached consensus to make single-unit and two-unit dwellings a permitted use
• Reached consensus to make multi-unit dwellings and mixed-uses a conditional use
• Reached consensus to prioritize residential and mixed-use development over commercial in the district objective

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Climate Advisory Committee is meeting to approve past minutes and plan a public information campaign for climate action resource funding, which will be a warrant article on the March ballot. They will also discuss a presentation to the Selectboard on achieving municipal carbon neutrality and set a work plan for February through June 2021.

• Approve minutes from Dec. 16, Dec. 23, Jan. 13 meetings
• Public information campaign for climate action resource funding (March ballot warrant article)
• Presentation to Selectboard/staff on municipal carbon neutrality
• Work plan for Feb.-June 2021

The committee held a special meeting to discuss climate initiatives, public information campaigns, and future work plans. No formal votes or substantive decisions were made during the meeting, as the committee lacked a quorum to approve minutes and deferred all action items to future meetings.

• Tabled approval of meeting minutes due to lack of quorum

West Hartford Library Trustees

The West Hartford Library Board is meeting via Zoom for its regular monthly session. The agenda consists of standard reports from the secretary, treasurer, director, and Friends group, followed by old and new business, with no specific action items listed.

• Secretary's Report
• Treasurer's Report
• Director's Report
• Friends' Report
• Old and New Business

The board approved the addition of shelving for new titles in the children's section. The library remains closed to the public due to Covid-19, though curbside pick-up and virtual groups continue.

• Approved minutes of the December 2020 meeting
• Approved adding shelving to the end of children's stacks
• Granted a patron's request to meet a business partner inside the library on Friday

Inactive Boards

The Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter is meeting to receive updates and discuss the work of its subgroups on utilities and permitting, governance, structure, and location. The committee will also discuss any other business and next steps. This is a working meeting with no final decisions on the agenda.

• Utilities and Permitting Subgroup update and discussion
• Governance Subgroup update and discussion
• Structure Subgroup update and discussion
• Location Subgroup update and discussion

The Hartford Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter met on 1/14/21 and received updates from its subgroups on utilities, governance, structure design, and location. The committee agreed it favored not relying on municipal dollars and instead gathering money from philanthropic sources for the proposed permitted encampment, including a coordinator position. It also agreed to focus its work on creating a permitted encampment rather than past efforts or existing dwellings. The only formal votes were to approve the 1/7/21 minutes and to adjourn; no encampment plan, budget, or location was approved.

• Approved minutes of the 1/7/21 meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting at 5:58 PM (unanimous)
• Committee consensus favored not relying on municipal dollars and seeking philanthropic funding, including for a coordinator position
• Committee consensus favored restricting its work to creating a permitted encampment, not past efforts or existing dwellings
• No vote taken on a location; Manning Street ruled out, new property to be discussed 1/21/21

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Hartford Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to review the department budget, receive updates on the Community Center and Pool Project, and elect a slate of officers. The agenda is largely routine, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Department Budget Review
• Pool Project Update
• Community Center Updates
• Election of Slate of Officers
• Upcoming Survey discussion

The Hartford Parks and Recreation Commission approved its December meeting minutes and elected a slate of officers: Michael Vanasse as Chairperson, Allison Childs as Vice Chair, and Brett Mayfield as Secretary. A department budget review was passed to the next meeting. The Commission received the Director's report, which noted programs and facility updates including a $6,000 Efficiency Vermont rebate and a VLCT PACIF grant for an eyewash station and WABA lobby cameras.

• Approved December meeting minutes
• Elected Michael Vanasse as Chairperson, Allison Childs as Vice Chair, Brett Mayfield as Secretary
• Passed department budget review to the next meeting
• Adjourned at 6:10 pm

Inactive Boards

The Climate Advisory Committee (CAC) is meeting to introduce their consultant team and review the Hartford Climate Action Plan (CAP) process. Members will discuss guiding principles and review foundational documents including the GHG Inventory and Climate Vulnerability Assessment.

• Introduction of Consultant Team
• Review of Draft Pathways and Strategies Plan
• Review of GHG Inventory
• Review of Climate Vulnerability Assessment
• Review of Renewable Energy Potentials Study

The Hartford Climate Advisory Committee met on January 13, 2021 and convened the first meeting of its Climate Action Team. Consultant paleBLUEdot reviewed the plan development process, a suggested standard of conduct, and draft foundational documents, and invited team members to sign up for sub-teams. No substantive decisions, votes, or approvals are recorded in these draft minutes; the meeting was organizational and ended with adjournment at about 7:15pm.

• No substantive decisions recorded; meeting was organizational
• Adjourned at approximately 7:15pm (moved by Ana Mejia, seconded by Lucas Gilbert)

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will meet to consider several motions, including awarding a contract for a new public safety radio system, approving a state finance and maintenance agreement, accepting a grant for Wentworth Community Housing, and authorizing ballot questions for the March 2, 2021 election. The board will also make appointments and handle routine consent agenda items.

• Motion to award RFP for simulcast radio system to Burlington Communications, Inc. for $624,685 (four-site system)
• Motion to approve State of Vermont finance and maintenance agreement
• Motion to accept VCDP Grant Agreement for Wentworth Community Housing 2
• Motion to authorize tax installment and town officer compensation questions for March 2, 2021 Australian ballot
• Re-appointments to Hartford Business Revolving Loan Fund, Conservation Commission, and Planning Commission

The Hartford Selectboard voted 5-1 to authorize the Town Manager to enter a financing agreement for a public safety radio system proposed by Burlington Communications, Inc., not to exceed $352,332. The board also approved a State of Vermont finance and maintenance agreement for Route 4/14 roadway improvements, accepted a VCDP grant agreement for Wentworth Community Housing Phase 2, and placed tax installment and town officer compensation questions on the March 2, 2021 ballot. Several board reappointments were approved, and the consent agenda passed.

• Approved letter authorizing attestation of approved liquor licenses (5-0)
• Re-appointed Ryan Scelza to Hartford Business Revolving Loan Fund, term Jan 12, 2021–Jan 11, 2024 (unanimous)
• Re-appointed Jay Zanleoni to HBRLF, Angela Emerson to Conservation Commission, and John Reid to Planning Commission (unanimous)
• Authorized Town Manager to enter financing agreement for public safety radio system by Burlington Communications, Inc., not to exceed $352,332 (5-1, Barrow opposed)
• Authorized Selectboard Chair to sign State of Vermont Finance and Maintenance Agreement for Route 4/14 roadway improvements (unanimous)
• Approved VCDP Grant Agreement #07110-IG-2019-Hartford-19 and Grant Agreement Resolution Form PM-1 for Wentworth Community Housing Phase 2 (unanimous)
• Placed Town Officer Compensation and two-installment real estate tax collection questions on March 2, 2021 ballot (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda: payroll ending 1/2/2021, minutes of 12/29/2020, A/P manifests of 1/8/2021 and 1/12/2021 (unanimous)

Inactive Boards

The Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter will meet to receive updates and hold discussions regarding its various subgroups. These subgroups include Permitting, Governance, Structure, and Location.

• Permitting Subgroup update and discussion
• Governance Subgroup update and discussion
• Structure Subgroup update and discussion
• Location Subgroup update and discussion

The Hartford Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter met on January 7, 2021, heard updates from its Utilities and Permitting, Governance, Structure Design, and Location subgroups, and discussed immediate winter shelter needs and a possible March sunset of funding. The only formal decision was to approve the minutes of the December 28, 2020 meeting; the committee also agreed to meet weekly for the next three meetings at 5:00 PM. No shelter site, budget, or governance structure was approved.

• Approved minutes of 12/28/20 (unanimous)
• Agreed to meet weekly for the next three meetings at 5:00 PM starting January 7th
• Adjourned meeting at 5:58 PM (unanimous)

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion will discuss its annual assessment and review its charge and mission through an 'action' lens, incorporating feedback from recent school and select board meetings. The committee will also hear a presentation from a UCLA PhD candidate about a potential project and receive community input.

• Presentation by Audrey Devost, UCLA PhD candidate, on a potential project with HCOREI
• Discussion of annual assessment for the Town about HCOREI
• Review of HCOREI Charge and Mission via lens of 'action'
• Subcommittee breakouts and progress reports

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion (HCOREI) voted unanimously to remand a proposed quantitative study of K-12 school disciplinary actions to its education subcommittee for consultation and advisement, with the subcommittee to bring a recommendation back to the full committee. The committee also unanimously approved minutes from its December 16, 2020 meeting. Most of the meeting was discussion: the committee's advisory versus action role, subcommittee updates on education, policy, and housing, and a note that the annual town assessment was submitted by the January 1 deadline.

• Remanded proposed school discipline study to education subcommittee for consultation and advisement, to return to full committee for recommendation (passed unanimously)
• Approved minutes of 12/16/20 meeting (passed unanimously)
• Adjourned (Nancy moved to adjourn)

Conservation Commission

The Hartford Conservation Commission is meeting electronically to discuss and update the Town Forest Recreation Management Plan, set its 2021 goals and objectives, and review its budget. The agenda also includes items on invasive plants, a possible winter timber harvest, wayfinding signs, a potential Hartford High project, and a stream restoration project.

• Town Forest Recreation Management Plan update (40 min)
• HCC 2021 Goals and Objectives (20 min)
• Invasive plant inventory from a resident (15 min)
• Winter 2022 Timber Harvest discussion (10 min)
• Possible Hartford High project (10 min)

The Conservation Commission approved its December 7, 2020 minutes by unanimous consent and agreed not to close any Town Forest trails now, opting instead to monitor conditions and work with the mountain bike community. It set 2021 goals for conservation, recreation and education, and agreed to send the revised Town Forest Recreation Management Plan to the town website and October 21 community meeting attendees before seeking Selectboard approval. The commission also discussed a resident's report of garlic mustard in White River Junction and agreed to contact the Selectboard in July about the conservation fund in the FY22 budget.

• Approved December 7, 2020 minutes as written by unanimous consent
• Agreed not to close any Town Forest trails at this time; will monitor trail conditions
• Agreed to add a Class 1 e-bike definition to the Recreation Management Plan
• Agreed to post the revised Recreation Management Plan on the town website and distribute it to October 21 community meeting attendees
• Agreed to request a Selectboard agenda slot to present the Recreation Management Plan for approval
• Adopted 2021 goals and objectives covering conservation, recreation and education
• Agreed to contact the Selectboard in July about including the conservation fund in the FY22 budget
• Agreed to consider a stream restoration project on Town property in the Town Forest