Hartford public meetings in 2022

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard is meeting to consider several appointments and a key request to extend the town's Tax Increment Financing (TIF) district deadlines by two years, which would require state legislative approval. The board will also discuss changes to committee guidelines, the budget cycle, and meeting locations, and will enter executive session to discuss a public officer or employee.

• Consider appointment of Laura Simon to the Hartford Energy Commission (3-year term)
• Consider appointment of Molly Armbrust to the Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion (2-year term)
• Consider appointment of Michaela Lavelle to the Committee on Housing and Homelessness (2-year term)
• Discuss 2-year extension of TIF District debt and increment retention deadlines
• Approve payroll ending 12/24/2022 and A/P manifests for 12/23 and 12/27/2022

The Hartford Selectboard voted 5-1 to authorize the Acting Town Manager to pursue 2-year extensions from the 2023 Vermont Legislature on TIF District deadlines for incurring debt and retaining TIF Increment. The board also approved appointments to the Energy Commission and the Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion, and revised the membership guidelines for the Housing and Homelessness Committee. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included public comment, reports, and a consent agenda.

• Authorized Acting Town Manager to pursue 2-year TIF District deadline extensions (5-1, Collins opposed)
• Appointed Laura Simon to Hartford Energy Commission for 3-year term (unanimous)
• Appointed Molly Armbrust to Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion for 2-year term (unanimous)
• Revised Housing and Homelessness Committee membership guidelines (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda without minutes for 12/20/2022 (unanimous)
• Approved 12/20/2022 minutes (5-0, Collins abstained)
• Approved payroll ending 12/24/2022 and A/P manifests for 12/23 and 12/27 (part of consent agenda)
• Entered executive session to discuss appointment/employment of public officer (unanimous)

Town and School Meeting Committee

The Hartford Town & School Meeting Committee is meeting to approve prior minutes and plan community outreach via postcards, website, and road signs. They are also organizing an upcoming Info Night, covering start time, setup, AV, presenters, and guest attendance. The agenda is primarily administrative and planning-focused, with no major decisions or public hearings.

• Approve minutes from 12/07 meeting
• Community outreach: postcards, website, road signs
• Info Night planning: start time 6:00, school setup by Jeff Hall, AV by Degange Audio
• Presenters Chuck & FX to share files ahead of time
• Selectboard to attend Info Night

The committee approved the December 7 meeting minutes and discussed community outreach, including distributing postcards and posters. They planned the upcoming Info Night on January 9, covering setup, digital agenda, publicity, and selectboard attendance. No formal decisions were made beyond approving the minutes and adjourning.

• Approved 12/7/22 meeting minutes
• Adjourned meeting by unanimous consent

Energy Commission

The Hartford Climate Action Steering Team (CAST) is meeting to review and approve draft minutes, discuss bylaws updates, and receive updates on Solarize Hartford, the UNH Carbon Clinic, and community projects. The agenda also includes discussion of the Planning Commission's and HEC's decisions regarding The Wilder One.

• Review and approve draft minutes from previous meeting
• Bylaws updates, thoughts, comments
• The Wilder One: Planning Commission's decision and HEC's decision
• Update on Solarize Hartford
• UNH Carbon Clinic update

The Hartford Energy Commission (CAST) approved a motion to meet on the third Wednesday of each month for one hour, reserving the right to extend meetings. A full discussion of bylaws was postponed to the next meeting, with members proposing two-year terms and staggered terms. The commission also received updates on several projects, including Solarize Hartford and a Carbon Clinic baseline study.

• Approved minutes of December 5, 2022 as submitted
• Postponed full bylaws discussion to next meeting
• Approved meeting on third Wednesday of each month for 1 hour (unanimous)

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion (HCOREI) is meeting remotely to approve minutes from December 7 and finalize a draft town report. The meeting is brief, running from 6:00 to 6:30 pm, and includes general updates and community welcome. No votes on policy or budget items are listed.

• Approve meeting minutes from 12/7
• Finalize Town Report draft (linked in agenda)
• Meeting held remotely per S.222, in person at Revolution, 26 North Main Street

The Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion approved the final version of the Town Report to be sent to the town. The committee also approved the minutes from the December 7 meeting.

• Approved December 7 meeting minutes (6 Yes, 2 Abstain)
• Approved and sent final Town Report to town (Unanimous voice approval)

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Selectboard will review the Vermont Bond Bank Hartford Benchmark Assessment for fiscal year 2022. The Local Cannabis Control Board will also consider approving a new Retailer Cannabis License.

• Review of FYE 2022 Hartford Benchmark Assessment
• Consideration of a Retailer Cannabis License approval
• Discussion of $19.03 million in total long-term debt for governmental activities

The Hartford Selectboard and Local Cannabis Control Board met jointly on December 20, 2022. The board approved a retail cannabis license for applicant S-000001203, with all six members voting in favor. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting also included a Vermont Bond Bank benchmark assessment and adjournment.

• Approved retail cannabis license for applicant S-000001203 (6-0)

Sister Cities Committee

The Hartford Sister Cities Committee is meeting to discuss routine business, including approving minutes, scheduling a festival presentation to the Select Board, and receiving updates on the Cenon Sister City logo. They will also discuss a potential French student trip to Cenon and a possible three-school music collaboration.

• Set date for festival highlights presentation before Select Board
• Cenon Sister City logo update
• Contact Lycée la Morlette for HHS French student trip to Cenon
• Initial contact with HHS music department for three-school collaboration

The committee approved the minutes from the November 15 meeting. Members discussed updates regarding logo placement, student trip contacts, and budget coordination.

• Approved minutes from 15 November meeting

Planning Commission

This is a procedural agenda for the Hartford Planning Commission meeting on December 19, 2022. The agenda lists only the agenda itself and meeting materials, with no specific items for discussion or decision. No substantive business is identified.

The Planning Commission approved a boundary line adjustment for a future accessory dwelling unit and two site development plans. The approved projects include a self-storage facility on Kline Drive and a garden center on Hartford Avenue.

• Approved boundary line adjustment for 17 and 145 Victory Circle (unanimous)
• Approved site development plan for self-storage facility at Kline Drive (unanimous)
• Approved site development plan for garden center at 788 Hartford Avenue (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from Nov 14, Nov 21, Nov 28, and Dec 5, 2022 (unanimous)

Energy Commission

The Hartford Energy Commission is meeting to review and approve past meeting minutes, hear a presentation from UNH students on SIMAP (a carbon and climate accounting tool), and possibly receive a presentation from REV. The agenda also includes updates from sub-committees on the Solarize campaign, WilderOne Array, and Trailblazers, plus planning for the next meeting.

• UNH student presentation on SIMAP
• Possible presentation from REV
• Sub-committee updates: Solarize campaign, WilderOne Array, Trailblazers
• Review and approve draft minutes

The Commission reviewed a UNH Carbon Clinic report on town emissions and coordinated upcoming energy efficiency initiatives. Members agreed to participate in a Window Dressers build and will send a letter regarding the Wilder One land use.

• Approved sponsorship of Solarize campaign
• Agreed to attend Window Dressers build in January (declined organization role)
• Decided to send letter requesting second use and local energy retention for Wilder One

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will hold a public meeting to consider a tobacco license for The Tea House and review the FY2024 Department of Public Works budget, including highway, water, and sewer operations. The board will also enter executive session to discuss a public employee matter.

• Tobacco license application for The Tea House, 50 Woodstock Road
• FY2024 Highway Department budget: $3,332,946 requested, $2,290,946 recommended
• FY2024 Water Department budget: $1,244,812 requested, $1,236,162 recommended
• Road reclamation and paving: $750,000 requested, $0 recommended (reserves proposed)
• Quechee Main Street Box Culvert project: $700,000 estimated cost, no FY24 funding requested

The Selectboard convened the Local Liquor Control Board to review a license application. The board also held an executive session regarding personnel and reviewed the Department of Public Works budget.

• Approved Tobacco License for the Tea House at 50 Woodstock Road (6-0, 1 abstention)
• Entered Executive Session for appointment, employment, or evaluation of a public officer or employee (Passed)

West Hartford Library Trustees

The West Hartford Library Board of Trustees will vote on adopting three updated policies: selecting and purchasing materials, a mission and vision statement, and a volunteer policy. The board will also discuss advocacy efforts, including a community survey and the future structure of the library.

• Vote to adopt policy on selecting and purchasing materials
• Vote to adopt or rework mission and vision statement
• Vote to adopt or rework volunteer policy
• Discussion of community survey methods and questions
• Discussion of future library structure

The West Hartford Library Board of Trustees approved a one-time $300 holiday bonus for the Library Director during executive session. All policy adoption votes (Materials Selection, Mission and Vision, Volunteer, and Key policies) were tabled, as were discussions on the community survey and Hartford Library's presentation. The board also unanimously approved the previous meeting's minutes and the treasurer's report.

• Approved $300 one-time holiday bonus for Library Director (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from 11/16/2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved Treasurer's Report showing $10,477 balance (unanimous)
• Tabled vote on Materials Selection Policy
• Tabled vote on Mission and Vision Statement
• Tabled vote on Volunteer Policy
• Tabled vote on Key Policy
• Tabled community survey discussion

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Hartford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings on two conditional use applications: a self-storage facility expansion on Kline Drive and a garden center on Hartford Avenue. The board will also handle administrative matters including minutes and public comment. The agenda includes draft minutes from prior meetings and a decision on a previously denied setback waiver.

• Application #21-22 by Apex Storage, LLC for a self-storage facility on Kline Drive, White River Junction (HC district)
• Application #22-22 by Watersmith Properties, LLC and White River Growpro for a garden center at 788 Hartford Avenue (VRC and R-1 districts)
• Denial of setback waiver for single-family dwelling on River Street, Quechee (Application #19-22)
• Approval of hotel conversion to 40 affordable housing units at 102 Ballardvale Drive (Application #20-22)
• No administrative permits to report

The Zoning Board of Adjustment approved two conditional use applications for commercial developments in White River Junction. Both applications passed with unanimous votes following public hearings.

• Approved Apex Storage, LLC application for a self-storage facility on Kline Drive (unanimous)
• Approved Watersmith Properties, LLC and White River Growpro application for a Garden Center at 788 Hartford Avenue (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from November 16, 2022, and November 22, 2022 (unanimous)

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard is meeting to discuss several items, including the Information Technology budget, an overview of the town's leased solar arrays, and a VTrans presentation on Route 4. The board will also consider a liquor license for Putnam's Vineyard and an appointment to the Committee on Housing and Homelessness. The agenda includes routine reports and a consent agenda for payroll, minutes, and manifests.

• Liquor license application for Putnam's Vineyard, LLC, 188 South Main St., WRJ
• Appointment of John Haffner to the Committee on Housing and Homelessness for a 2-year term
• Information Technology budget review for FY2023-2024
• Town Solar Overview of four leased solar arrays
• VTrans presentation on Route 4

The Hartford Selectboard approved a liquor license for Putnam's Vineyard, appointed John Haffner to the Housing and Homelessness Committee, and approved the consent agenda. After executive session, the board voted 5-1 to direct the acting town manager to accept one current employee's application for police chief. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved 1st, 2nd, and Outside Consumption Liquor License for Putnam's Vineyard, LLC (5-0, 2 recused)
• Appointed John Haffner to Committee on Housing and Homelessness for 2-year term (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including payroll, minutes, A/P manifests, and meeting schedule (unanimous)
• Directed acting town manager to accept one current employee's application for Chief of Police (5-1)

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard is holding a budget meeting to review proposed FY 2023-2024 budgets for the Police Department, Dispatch (Emergency Communications Center), and Fire Department. The board will hear presentations on each budget, including proposed expenditures, staffing, and revenue projections. The meeting also includes a public comment period and a motion to enter executive session to discuss confidential attorney-client communications and personnel matters.

• Police budget proposed at $3,372,084, up $217,016 from FY23
• Dispatch budget proposed at $1,312,857, up $225,283 from FY23
• Fire budget proposed at $4,342,407.50, up $159,070.50 from FY23
• Police department has 6 vacancies out of 23 budgeted positions
• Dispatch center serves 10 neighboring communities under contract

The Hartford Selectboard held a public meeting with budget reviews from Police, Dispatch, and Fire departments, and heard a public comment about committee interview conduct. The board then entered executive session to discuss confidential attorney-client communications and personnel matters, and upon returning, voted 5-2 to approve a negotiated separation agreement with an employee, authorizing the chair to sign related documents. The meeting adjourned shortly after.

• Approved employee separation agreement as negotiated (5-2)
• Authorized Chair Michael Hoyt to sign documents to effectuate the agreement
• Entered executive session for confidential attorney-client and personnel discussions
• Closed executive session at 8:10 PM

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Hartford Parks and Recreation Commission will discuss and potentially approve the Marketing and Community Relations Plan and suggested changes to the Hartford Parks Ordinance, including updates to regulate smoking, vaping, and cannabis use in parks. The agenda also includes the Director's report on recent programs and facility updates. The previous meeting lacked a quorum, so no official action was taken then.

• Review of Marketing and Community Relations Plan for approval
• Suggested changes to Hartford Parks Ordinance, including banning vaping and cannabis in parks
• Director's report on Glow Skate, youth basketball, and indoor Ultimate Frisbee programs
• Discussion of 50th anniversary celebration for Parks & Recreation in May 2023
• Update on WABA Arena insulation project and Brian Hanson Scholarship Fund donation of $10,038.53

The Hartford Parks and Recreation Commission unanimously approved a motion to support updating the town's parks ordinance to include cannabis and smokeless tobacco, but will hold off on specific changes until review by the Vermont League of Cities and Towns. The commission also approved the Marketing and Community Relations Plan and the minutes from the previous meeting. No other substantive decisions were made; remaining items were informational or discussions.

• Approved minutes of previous meeting (4-0)
• Approved Marketing and Community Relations Plan (unanimous)
• Approved motion to support updating parks ordinance to include cannabis and smokeless tobacco, pending VLCT review (unanimous)

Energy Commission

The Hartford Energy Commission is meeting to review and approve draft minutes, receive updates from sub-committees, vote on adopting revised bylaws, and discuss Solarize Hartford and CAP '23 priority setting. The meeting includes public comment time and updates on the Wilder One Array project and school board engagement.

• Vote on adopting revised bylaws
• Discussion of Wilder One Array project materials and next steps
• Update on Solarize Hartford
• CAP '23 priority setting and approval
• Public comment time (2 min per member)

The Hartford Energy Commission voted to accept proposed bylaw changes, which will be brought to the Selectboard for consideration. The commission also discussed drafting a comment supporting a solar project on leased land, with recommendations for combined uses and local energy retention, and agreed to form a work group for Solarize Hartford. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Adopted bylaw changes (motion passed)
• Agreed to draft comment supporting solar project with combined use and local energy preference
• Agreed to form Solarize Hartford work group

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion will meet remotely to discuss general updates, including the police chief search and community safety review, and continue reviewing its charge. The committee will also discuss a draft town report and receive working group check-ins.

• Approve meeting minutes from 11/16
• Police Chief Search update
• Community safety review discussion
• Draft Town Report for discussion
• Charge Review continued from 11/16 draft

The committee voted to recommend Molly Armbrust for the student liaison position. Members discussed updates regarding a police chief search, a community safety review RFP, and the 2022 annual report.

• Approved meeting minutes from 11/16 (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved motion to recommend Molly A. as student liaison (unanimous voice vote)

Town and School Meeting Committee

The Hartford Town & School Meeting Committee is planning community outreach and event logistics. Discussion topics include website updates, media contacts, and potential topics for Info Night.

• Review of community outreach materials including postcards and QR codes
• Discussion of Degange Audio for event AV support
• Potential Info Night topics including Charter updates and Schoolboard reports
• Coordination with CATV and Valley News

The Hartford Town & School Meeting Committee met on December 7, 2022, and discussed outreach and event logistics for the upcoming Town Meeting cycle, including postcard design, road sign stickers, AV setup, and volunteer needs. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was procedural and planning-focused. The committee scheduled its next meeting for December 21 at 5 PM.

• Approved minutes from 11/9/22 meeting
• Scheduled next meeting for December 21 at 5 PM
• Adjourned by unanimous consent

Energy Commission

The Hartford Climate Action Steering Team (CAST) is meeting to review and approve previous meeting minutes, vote on a resolution ratifying prior actions, and elect a chair, vice chair, and clerk. The agenda also includes discussion of bylaws, an update on tree planting at Lyman Park, and community project updates such as Solarize Hartford and a school project.

• Vote on resolution ratifying previous actions
• Elections for Chair, Vice Chair, and Clerk
• Bylaws discussion
• Update on tree planting at Lyman Park
• Community project updates (Solarize Hartford, school project)

The commission approved a resolution to ratify all previous actions taken by the Climate Action Steering Team (CAST). The body also elected its officers and discussed proposed bylaws and community projects.

• Approved minutes of November 11, 2022, as corrected
• Approved CAST Ratification Resolution
• Elected John Reid as Chair
• Elected Carolyn Hooper as Vice Chair
• Elected Lee Michaelides as Clerk

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 2022 loan summary and potential loans, then vote on any required actions. They will also adopt the 2023 meeting schedule and address a change in committee chair and member term expirations.

• Review of loan summary report for October 2022
• Update on potential loans
• Adoption of 2023 meeting schedule
• Change in Committee Chair
• Member term expirations listed (e.g., Crystal Pearson 5/18/2023, Frank Klymn 2/10/2023)

The committee approved its quarterly meeting dates for 2023 and the minutes from September 2022. Members discussed the potential use of funds for housing programs and adjusting interest rates based on risk, but no formal actions were taken on these items.

• Approved September 7, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 2023 meeting schedule for March 8, June 7, and September 6 (unanimous)

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will hold a public meeting on December 6, 2022, to discuss a proposed rewrite of the town charter, including new provisions for just-cause eviction protections and local option taxes. The board is also expected to take action on Open Meeting Law allegations made by Remington Nevin, following an executive session to discuss attorney-client communications.

• Charter review: proposed new language on just-cause eviction protections for renters
• Charter review: proposed 1% local option sales tax and potential cannabis tax
• Executive session to discuss attorney-client communications regarding Open Meeting Law allegations
• Expected action on Open Meeting Law allegations from Remington Nevin (received Nov. 16, 2022)

The Selectboard determined that failing to amend a previous agenda violated the Vermont Open Meeting Law. To remedy this, the board ratified several appointments to the CAST and required members to review relevant statutes. The board also approved a one-time personnel policy exception for vacation pay.

• Found that failure to amend the November 15, 2022 agenda violated the Vermont Open Meeting Law (7-0)
• Found that the Town Charter was not violated regarding CAST appointments (7-0)
• Ratified CAST appointments for John Reid, Laura Simon, Carolyn Hooper, Lee Michaelides, Jesse Pollard, Molly Smith Dunn, and Ashton Todd (7-0)
• Required Selectboard members to review Vermont Statutes regarding agenda amendments (7-0)
• Approved one-time Personnel Policy exception to pay 41 hours of vacation time to Acting Town Manager Gail Ostrout (7-0)

Conservation Commission

The Hartford Conservation Commission is meeting to discuss forest carbon with a guest speaker, trail planning with the Upper Valley Mountain Bike Association, and multiple town forest items including a timber harvest update and public outreach. They will also review the FY2023/2024 budget and conservation fund status, and consider a climate action plan.

• Guest Tim Stout of Northam Forest Carbon on forest carbon (30 min)
• Guest Anna Schaal of Upper Valley Mt. Bike Association on Trail Forks (10 min)
• Timber harvest update and public outreach for Town Forest
• Cover Hemlock MOU discussion
• FY2023/2024 budget and conservation fund update

The Commission approved posting Town Forest trails on the Trailforks mapping database. Members also agreed to fund kestrel boxes and a donation for a student natural resources class.

• Approved posting Town Forest trails on Trailforks (6-1)
• Approved $130 for two kestrel boxes at Sunrise Farm
• Approved $100 donation to HACTC Natural Resources Class t-shirt fund
• Approved 11/7/22 meeting minutes by unanimous consent
• Accepted proposed 2023 meeting schedule by unanimous consent

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission is holding a special meeting to discuss the Wilder One project. The agenda includes a memo and meeting materials for review, indicating a focused discussion on this specific development.

• Special meeting dedicated to Wilder One project
• Review of memo and meeting materials

The Hartford Planning Commission held a public hearing on a proposed solar project and voted not to intervene in the state permitting process. The project, which will sell power to Green Mountain Power, is expected to be submitted to the Public Utilities Commission in January. The Commission agreed to leave the door open for future involvement if needed.

• Agreed not to intervene in solar project PUC application
• Adjourned meeting at 7:20 PM

Resilient Hartford

This is a regular meeting of the Resilient Hartford group, covering routine items like roll call, introductions, and minutes. The main discussion is a 40-minute update on the Clifford Park Food Forest, including a recent work outing, planning meetings, and budget/fundraising. Other brief updates cover the Quechee Abenaki Garden and the Wilder School Project.

• Clifford Park Food Forest update: year-end work outing, planning meetings, budget/fundraising
• Quechee Abenaki Garden update
• Wilder School Project update
• Welcome new member Vikki Chase

The committee reviewed winter maintenance and brainstorming sessions for the Clifford Park Food Forest. Members discussed budget expenditures and potential expansions to other parks and schools. No formal votes were recorded.

• Agreed to discuss Food Forest next steps at the January 4th meeting

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will receive the independent auditor's presentation on FYE 2022 draft financial statements, review the Town Clerk's FY24 budget proposal, consider appointments to the Energy Commission, Tree Board, and a new Housing and Homelessness Committee, and discuss a municipal planning grant application. The meeting also includes a police parking ordinance and social work update, and a retaining wall engineering selection recommendation.

• Re-appoint Molly Smith Dunn to Hartford Energy Commission (3-year term)
• Appoint Gaal Shepherd Crowl to Hartford Tree Board (3-year term)
• New Hartford Committee on Housing and Homelessness (2-year terms for 5 members)
• Town Clerk FY24 budget: $250,080 expenses, $142,430 net (increase of $38,929)
• Apply for $18,180 Vermont Municipal Planning Grant with $1,820 local match

The Hartford Selectboard approved a contract with Dubois & King for engineering services on the Gates Street and Fairview Terrace retaining wall stabilization project, and authorized the Acting Town Manager to sign it. The board also accepted the FYE 2022 audit report, approved a municipal planning grant application, and made appointments to the Energy Commission, Tree Board, and new Housing and Homelessness Committee.

• Approved Dubois & King proposal for retaining wall stabilization (unanimous)
• Accepted FYE 2022 Independent Auditor's Report (unanimous)
• Approved VMPG grant application submission (unanimous)
• Re-appointed Molly Smith Dunn to Energy Commission (unanimous)
• Appointed Gaal Shepherd Crowl to Tree Board (unanimous)
• Appointed Belensz, Danaher, Nott to Housing and Homelessness Committee (7-0)

Planning Commission

This is a procedural agenda for the Hartford Planning Commission meeting. It lists only the agenda and meeting materials documents, with no specific items for decision or discussion provided.

The Planning Commission approved three separate applications for site development, including a hotel conversion to affordable housing, a request to waive an internal access drive for a service provider, and a new performing arts facility with housing.

• Approved conversion of hotel at 102 Ballardvale Drive to 40 affordable housing units (Unanimous)
• Approved motion to reconsider internal access drive requirement for Upper Valley Haven (4-3)
• Approved Northern Stage Company project for 26 housing units and performing arts facility (4-3)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Hartford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a hearing on November 22, 2022, to consider a single application for a setback waiver under section 260-52 of the Hartford Zoning Regulations. The applicant seeks approval to build a single-family dwelling on River Street in Quechee, in an R-3 zoning district. The hearing includes a site visit and will be held in person at Hartford Town Hall, with remote participation options available.

• Application #19-22 by Equity Trust Company and Frank Gerardi for a setback waiver
• Single-family dwelling on lot 12-0038-001, River Street, Quechee
• R-3 zoning district
• Section 260-52 of Hartford Zoning Regulations
• Hearing at Hartford Town Hall, 171 Bridge Street, White River Junction

The Zoning Board of Adjustment denied Application #19-22 by Equity Trust Company and Frank Gerardi for a setback waiver under section 260-52 for a single-family dwelling on River Street, Quechee. The motion to approve failed 5-0 after a public hearing and site visit. Board members cited concerns about the structure's scale, massing, and compatibility with the surrounding area.

• Denied setback waiver for single-family dwelling on River Street (5-0)
• Closed public hearing on Application #19-22
• Entered deliberative session unanimously

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard is holding a budget-only meeting to review proposed Fiscal Year 2024 budgets for the Assessor, Planning and Development, Parks and Recreation, and Finance departments. No votes are scheduled; the agenda is for information and discussion only. The meeting also includes a motion to enter executive session for confidential attorney-client communications and personnel matters.

• Assessor budget increases $27,767, with salaries up 11% and health insurance up 17%
• Planning & Development proposes $559,906 in expenses, including $29,000 for Route 5 sidewalk/bike lane matching funds
• Parks & Recreation budget totals $1,580,038.52, with $1,069,538.52 to be raised by taxes
• Finance department budget increases $37,799 to $516,795
• Executive session planned for attorney-client communications and personnel evaluation

The Hartford Selectboard ratified its November 1 and 3, 2022 decisions to appoint Gail Ostrout as Acting Town Manager and Paula Nulty as Assistant Acting Town Manager, contingent on agreed conditions. The motion passed 5-1, with Lannie Collins opposed. The board also entered executive session to discuss confidential attorney-client communications and personnel matters.

• Ratified appointment of Gail Ostrout as Acting Town Manager and Paula Nulty as Assistant Acting Town Manager (5-1)
• Entered executive session for attorney-client communications and personnel matters (unanimous)
• Closed executive session (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:45 PM (unanimous)

Energy Commission

The Hartford Energy Commission is meeting to elect a Chair, Vice-Chair, and Clerk, and to review its bylaws. The agenda also includes a presentation from Vermont Law and Graduate School on an RFP matrix, updates from sub-committees, and discussion of the WilderOne Array's consistency with the town energy plan. Public comment is limited to two minutes per person.

• Election of Chair, Vice-Chair, and Clerk
• Review of HEC by-laws
• VLGS presentation on RFP Matrix
• Discussion of WilderOne Array consistency with town energy plan
• Sub-committee updates on Building Integrity and Energy Efficiency, Transportation and Land Use

The Hartford Energy Commission elected Jesse Pollard as Chair, Molly Smith as Vice Chair, and Lynn Bohi as Clerk. The commission also received a presentation from the VLGS de-carbonization team on an RFP evaluation matrix, which is advisory and will be refined. No substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting was largely procedural and informational.

• Elected Jesse Pollard as Chair (motion passed)
• Elected Molly Smith as Vice Chair (motion passed)
• Elected Lynn Bohi as Clerk (motion passed)
• Approved October minutes as presented (motion passed)

Inactive Boards

The 5th Charter Committee will meet virtually to review and potentially adopt final language for a charter revision, based on input from their lawyer. The agenda is mostly procedural, with the main substantive item being the discussion and adoption of this language.

• Discuss and adopt final charter language from lawyer
• Review minutes from September 22, 2022 meeting

The 5th Charter Commission reviewed document typos, inconsistencies, and language regarding the Acting Town Manager and local options tax. The commission decided to send the charter proposal to the Selectboard and School board.

• Proposal to strike cannabis tax contingency failed (no second)
• Approved transmission of charter proposal to Selectboard and School board

Energy Commission

The Hartford Climate Action Steering Team (CAST) is meeting to review and approve the previous meeting's minutes, discuss an Open Meeting Law complaint and remedies, review the Window Dressers program, and hear updates on community projects like Solarize Hartford and a school project. They will also plan end-of-year items, including meeting dates for next year and an end-of-year report.

• Review and approve draft minutes from previous meeting
• Open Meeting Law Complaint & Remedies discussion
• Window Dressers Review
• Community Project Updates (Solarize Hartford, school project, others)
• End of year items: meeting dates and report

The Hartford Energy Commission (CAST) addressed an open meeting complaint by agreeing to follow open meeting law, make formal motions and votes, and retroactively approve prior actions as suggested by the town lawyer. They also discussed plans for window dressing, a school program, Solarize Hartford, and a tree planting project, with no other formal decisions made.

• Approved minutes from November 2 meeting
• Agreed to make formal motions and votes for future actions, including dispersal of climate funds
• Agreed to consider retroactive approval of prior actions (motion to be made at next meeting)
• Scheduled next meeting for November 30 at 5:00

West Hartford Library Trustees

The West Hartford Library Board of Trustees met to approve minutes and the treasurer's report, noting $15,882 (32.53%) of the budget spent with $32,937 remaining. They discussed the director's pay rate, juvenile bookshelf repairs (up to $500), and a mouse issue. Policy drafts for selection, mission, volunteer, and key policies were distributed for review. Advocacy efforts were tabled.

• Approved treasurer's report: $15,882 spent, $32,937 remaining
• Director's pay to be updated to new rate in next financial report
• Authorized up to $500 for juvenile bookshelf repair
• Sealed hole under fireplace to address mice; new traps working
• Story Time restarted Tuesdays at 10 AM

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion (HCOREI) meets remotely to handle routine business and continue its work. The agenda includes approving minutes, receiving updates on consulting, training, a DEI resource library, and the police chief search, plus a debrief of a Selectboard meeting. Members will continue reviewing their charge from a draft and check in with working groups.

• Approve meeting minutes from 11/2
• Updates on Tuck Community Consulting, training, DEI Resource Library, and police chief search
• Debrief of HCOREI Selectboard meeting
• Continue charge review from 11/2 draft
• Working group check-ins: RHRR, Education, Policy

The committee approved the minutes from its November 2 meeting. Members discussed an interim report from Tuck Community Consulting and updates regarding training, the police chief search, and the committee's charge.

• Approved meeting minutes from 11/2 (voice vote)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Hartford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings on two applications: a setback waiver for a single-family home on River Street in Quechee, and a conditional use request to convert a hotel at 102 Ballardvale Drive in White River Junction into multi-unit dwellings and office space. The board will also handle administrative matters including minutes and public comment.

• Setback waiver for single-family dwelling at River Street, Quechee (lot 12-0038-001) to allow 6'5" front setback instead of 25'
• Conditional use approval to convert hotel to multi-unit dwelling and office at 102 Ballardvale Drive, White River Junction
• Public hearings begin at 6:30 p.m. at Hartford Town Hall, 171 Bridge Street
• Administrative items: minutes from Oct 12 and Oct 20, no administrative permits
• Next public hearing scheduled for December 14, 2022

The board approved a conditional use application to convert a hotel at 102 Ballardvale Drive into 40 affordable housing units and office space. A separate request for a setback waiver on River Street was continued pending a site visit.

• Approved conversion of hotel to 40-unit affordable housing and office at 102 Ballardvale Drive (unanimous)
• Continued hearing for setback waiver at River Street to November 22, 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of October 12, 2022 and October 20, 2022 (unanimous)

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will consider new first and third class liquor licenses for Dewey's Mills Cafe at 5945 Woodstock Road, Quechee, and vote on re-appointing Jo-Ann Ells as Zoning Administrator for a three-year term. The board will also hear updates on a Green Mountain Power notification, HCOREI, a grant, a TruNarc purchasing policy exception, and discuss a Warrant Information Night. The agenda includes routine items like payroll approval and an executive session for attorney-client communications.

• New liquor licenses for Dewey's Mills Cafe, LLC, 5945 Woodstock Road, Quechee (First and Third Class)
• Re-appointment of Jo-Ann Ells as Zoning Administrator for term Nov 23, 2022 – Nov 22, 2025
• Green Mountain Power notification for pole/utility work on North Hartland Road, Route 5, VA Cutoff Road, Wright's Reservoir Road
• TruNarc purchasing policy exception request
• Certified Local Government Program Grant discussion

The Hartford Selectboard unanimously approved motions finding that the Climate Action Steering Team (CAST) violated Vermont's Open Meeting Law by taking official action without a required majority vote, and formally appointed seven members to CAST to remedy the violation. The board also approved a liquor license, re-appointed the Zoning Administrator, granted Green Mountain Power permission for utility work, approved a grant application, and approved a purchasing policy exception for the police department.

• Approved 15/34 liquor license for Dewey's Mills Café (5-0, 2 abstentions)
• Re-appointed Jo-Ann Ells as Zoning Administrator for 3-year term (unanimous)
• Granted Green Mountain Power permission for poles/wires in highway limits (unanimous)
• Approved submission of 2023 Certified Local Government Program grant application (unanimous)
• Approved purchasing policy exception for police TruNarc purchase from Thermo Fisher (unanimous)
• Found CAST violated Open Meeting Law and appointed 7 members to remedy (unanimous)
• Accepted consent agenda including payroll, minutes, and A/P manifests (unanimous)

Sister Cities Committee

The Hartford, VT Sister City Committee is meeting to discuss highlights and reimbursement from the Cenon-Festival Toutes Latitudes held November 2-6, update the Cenon Sister City logo and next steps for a sign, and review and update bylaws to add two members. The meeting is largely procedural and administrative.

• Cenon-Festival Toutes Latitudes (11/2-6) highlights and reimbursement
• Cenon Sister City logo update and sign creation next steps
• Review and update Sister City bylaws to add two members
• Next meeting scheduled for December 20, 2022, room 312

The committee reviewed highlights from the Festival Toutes Latitudes in Cenon and discussed potential partnerships with a music school and Lego exhibition. No formal votes were recorded for the proposed collaborations or bylaws.

• Tabled review and update of Sister City bylaws to add two members
• Noted Skye's intent to leave the committee at the end of the calendar year

Planning Commission

This is a procedural agenda for the Hartford Planning Commission meeting on November 14, 2022. The only listed items are the agenda itself and meeting materials, with no specific decisions, discussions, or public hearings identified.

The Commission approved three applications for boundary line adjustments and driveway changes. A proposed four-lot subdivision was continued to February 2023 to allow for an independent technical review at the applicant's expense.

• Approved boundary line adjustments for Sherman and Manning Drive (unanimous)
• Approved boundary line adjustments for 73 and 89 Depot Street (unanimous)
• Approved driveway and building envelope changes for Wildlife Road (unanimous)
• Continued subdivision application for Stacey Lane and Birchwood Drive to Feb 6, 2023, for independent technical review (unanimous)
• Continued applications #22-24, #22-29, and #22-30 to Nov 28, 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved October 17, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Resilient Hartford

The Resilient Hartford Food Forest Committee is meeting to review the past year's work at Clifford Park Food Forest, including a year-end work outing and 2022 accomplishments. They will also brainstorm and plan for 2023, discussing budget and fundraising. The meeting is open to the public with in-person and remote options.

• Review of November 12th year-end work outing at Clifford Park Food Forest
• 2022 year in review for the food forest
• Brainstorming and planning for 2023 activities
• Discussion of budget and fundraising for 2023

The Resilient Hartford Food Forest Committee agreed to pursue a new organizational structure with work teams (Outreach, Fundraising, Infrastructure, Growing, Watering) and a Coordinating Team. They discussed hiring a coordinator, possibly with support from Vital Communities, and planned a community event for 2023. No formal votes or binding decisions were recorded.

• Agreed to pursue a team-based structure with a Coordinating Team for the Food Forest
• Discussed developing a job description for a hired coordinator
• Planned a community event to showcase Food Forest work and gather public input
• Agreed Resilient Hartford should maintain a leadership role in the Food Forest

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Hartford Parks and Recreation Commission will review the department's Marketing and Community Relations Plan and an ordinance change request from the Hartford Community Coalition. The agenda also includes an evaluation plan review and the director's report. The meeting is largely procedural, with no major funding or rezoning decisions.

• Review of Marketing and Community Relations Plan
• Hartford Community Coalition ordinance change request
• Evaluation Plan Review
• Director's report on fall programs and arena operations

The meeting was not official because a quorum was not present. No votes were taken and no formal decisions were made.

Town and School Meeting Committee

The Hartford Town and School Meeting Committee is meeting to finalize outreach materials for the upcoming Town Meeting cycle, including approving a postcard order, updating road signs, and arranging event support. They will also discuss community outreach strategies and gather topics for an Info Night.

• Approve minutes from 10/12 meeting
• Review and order postcards and larger posters
• Road sign update with Gnomon Copy
• Event support quote from Degange Audio
• Draft listserv and Facebook post for community input

The committee approved the previous meeting's minutes and discussed logistics for upcoming Town Meeting Cycle events. They agreed to keep current signage for 2023 while planning a redesign for 2024, and discussed publicity methods including QR codes and postcards. No substantive policy decisions or budget approvals were made.

• Approved 10/12/22 meeting minutes
• Agreed to status quo signage for 2023
• Planned postcard redesign for 2024
• Discussed Info Night logistics and messaging

Historic Preservation Commission

The Hartford Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to discuss several historic preservation matters, including the removal of the railroad station canopy, a potential state register listing for Murphy Farm, and a 2023 CLG grant application. The meeting also includes review of prior minutes and updates on local history projects.

• Railroad Station Canopy Removal
• Murphy Farm: Consideration of Listing in the State Register of Historic Places
• 2023 CLG Grant Application
• Hartford Performing Arts History Project
• Hotel Coolidge Site Visit

The Historic Preservation Commission voted to recommend the removal and replacement of the Railroad Station South Canopy with a historically accurate design. The board also approved applying for a 2023 CLG Grant to fund historic district nominations.

• Approved minutes of October 19th and October 26th (unanimous)
• Recommended removing the Railroad Station South Canopy and replacing it with a similar, historically accurate design (unanimous)
• Decided not to comment on the Murphy Farmhouse nomination to the State Register of Historic Places
• Approved application for 2023 CLG Grant of $11,300 to hire an architectural historian for Taft’s Flat nominations (4-0)

Conservation Commission

The Hartford Conservation Commission is meeting to discuss and potentially adopt the Integrated Town Forest Management Plan, along with updates on timber harvests and related agreements. They will also hear from guests about trail use and a school project, and review the FY2023/2024 budget and conservation fund.

• Adoption of Integrated Town Forest Management Plan
• Timber harvest update and public outreach
• HACTC and Cover Hemlock MOUs
• Wilder School Project discussion with Resilient Hartford
• FY2023/2024 budget update and conservation fund discussion

The Commission unanimously approved the Integrated Town Forest Management Plan, though it deferred a decision on e-bikes. Members also agreed to prioritize increasing tree canopies and to begin outreach to five private landowners.

• Approved Integrated Town Forest Management Plan (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of 10/3/22 (unanimous consent)
• Agreed to focus on increasing tree canopies and contacting White River Partnership
• Deferred decision on e-bikes
• Requested Town Planner obtain hunting safety vests for Town Forest and Maanawaka Conservation Area
• Approved sending conservation outreach letters to five property owners

Resilient Hartford

The Resilient Hartford Food Forest Committee is meeting to review the 2022 season at Clifford Park Food Forest, discuss a year-end work outing on November 12th, and address budget and fundraising. The committee will also brainstorm and plan for 2023. This is a regular committee meeting with no formal votes or public hearings scheduled.

• 2022 year in review for Clifford Park Food Forest
• November 12th year-end work outing
• Budget and fundraising discussion
• Brainstorming and planning for 2023

The committee brainstormed potential community partners for the Clifford Park Food Forest and discussed the need for staffing and coordination. No formal votes or policy decisions were made during the meeting.

• Agreed to continue discussion at next meeting on November 14th

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion (HCOREI) meets to discuss updates from working groups, review its charge, and plan future initiatives. The meeting includes reports from subgroups focused on policy, education, and racial disparities, as well as updates from local school and town boards.

• Review of charge items I-VIII on racial equity initiatives
• Working group check-ins: RHRR, Education, Policy
• General updates: School Board screening, DEI resource library, police chief search
• Motion and recommendation tracking via shared spreadsheet

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion approved a motion to print the Tuck Community Consulting survey URL on small sheets to hand out to voters leaving polls on Nov. 8. The committee also approved the minutes from the Oct. 19 meeting and discussed the police chief search, a $600k community review RFP response, and a charge review. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved printing Tuck survey URL on sheets for poll handout (unanimous)
• Approved meeting minutes from 10/19 (voice vote)

Energy Commission

The Hartford Climate Action Steering Team is meeting to review minutes and discuss several climate-related initiatives, including a Window Dressers event, the VCRD Climate Economy Resilient Communities program, volunteer grant writing, community solar bulk purchasing, and Trailblazers. The meeting is a regular working session with no formal votes or decisions listed.

• Review and approve draft minutes from previous meeting
• Window Dressers event November 3rd-9th
• VCRD Climate Economy Resilient Communities program discussion
• Volunteer grant writing initiative
• Community solar/neighborhood bulk purchasing solar discussion

The Hartford Energy Commission (CAST) accepted the October 22 minutes and discussed several initiatives, but made no formal decisions. Public comment included a threat to file an Open Meeting Law complaint against CAST. The commission discussed the Window Dressing Program, volunteer grant writing, neighborhood bulk solar purchasing, and Trail Blazer training, with no votes taken.

• Accepted October 22 minutes
• Discussed Window Dressing Program (Wilder build starts Nov 2, wood for 195 windows)
• Discussed volunteer grant writing (status uncertain until new town manager appointed)
• Discussed neighborhood bulk solar purchasing (possible Solarize Hartford program)
• Discussed Trail Blazer training (cost now free, Hartford contribution ~$2,200)

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will meet to conduct routine business including public comment, appointments to local commissions, and updates from town departments. The meeting will also include discussions on town forest timber harvesting, a Safe Routes to School grant application, and the FY2024 budget process.

• Appointment of Esme Rose Cole to Hartford Energy Commission (3-year term)
• Re-appointment of Lee Michaelides to Conservation Commission (4-year term)
• Contract award to Long View Forest for Town Forest timber harvest ($31,687 total revenue)
• Safe Routes to School Grant Application
• FY2024 Selectboard Budget

The Hartford Selectboard awarded a contract to Long View Forest for the Winter 2023 Town Forest timber harvest and approved a Safe Routes to School grant application. The board also authorized specific budget line items for FYE 2024, accepted a salt purchase bid, and appointed Gail Ostrout as acting Town Manager and Paula Nulty as acting assistant Town Manager. Two new members were appointed to the Energy and Conservation Commissions.

• Awarded Winter 2023 Town Forest timber harvest contract to Long View Forest (6-1)
• Approved Safe Routes to School grant application submission (Unanimous)
• Adopted revised FYE 2024 Budget Calendar (Unanimous)
• Authorized Michael Hoyt and Dan Fraser as representatives for existing bonds and loans (5-2 abstain)
• Accepted exception to Purchasing Policy for Cargill salt bid award (Unanimous)
• Agreed by consensus on FYE 2024 Selectboard budget line items
• Appointed Esme Rose Cole to Hartford Energy Commission for 3-year term (Unanimous)
• Re-appointed Lee Michaelides to Conservation Commission for 4-year term (Unanimous)

West Hartford Library Trustees

The West Hartford Library Board of Trustees held a special meeting, primarily discussing plans to power wash the library's exterior and reduce spiders and moths around exterior lights. The board approved the minutes from the October 25 meeting, including the appropriations request. Further discussion on power washing was tabled until the next meeting.

• Approved minutes from October 25 special meeting, including appropriations request
• Discussion of power washing library exterior, with parks and rec to do it within the month
• Exploring ways to reduce spiders and moths around exterior lights

Energy Commission

The Commission will review past minutes and discuss updates regarding the Esme application and charter revisions. Members will also discuss the Laura Simon solarize campaign and various sub-committee updates.

• Laura Simon solarize campaign discussion
• Building Integrity and Energy Efficiency sub-committee update
• Transportation and Land Use sub-committee update
• VCRD grant update
• HEC Herald quarterly schedule discussion

The Hartford Energy Commission approved the use of Climate Action reserve funds for a hybrid air source water heater at Bugbee and flexible load management software for Town Hall. The commission also accepted September minutes and noted that a 4MW solar proposal at Wilder is under review by the Planning Commission. No final votes were taken on the solar project or Trailblazers contract during this meeting.

• Approved use of Climate Action reserve funds for Bugbee water heater and Town Hall HVAC software
• Accepted September minutes as presented
• Noted Efficiency Vermont rebate of $12,500
• Noted Vermont Council on Rural Development grant approval for $4,000
• Agreed HEC will support but not manage Laura Simon's solar campaign
• Agreed to draft MOU for Trailblazers fiscal agent role
• Agreed to review Vermont Law and Graduate School RFP guidebook
• Scheduled next meeting for November 17

White River Junction Design Review Committee

The Hartford Design Review Committee will meet to consider a design review application from Northern Stage Company for a multi-unit dwelling and performing arts facility at 140, 146, 160, and 178 Gates Street in White River Junction. The committee will also review minutes from its July 21, 2022 meeting.

• Design review for Northern Stage’s proposed multi-unit dwelling and performing arts facility at 140, 146, 160, and 178 Gates Street
• Review of minutes from July 21, 2022 meeting

The committee approved a scaled-back design for a multi-unit dwelling and performing arts facility at 140, 146, 160, and 178 Gates Street. The project includes 26 dwelling units with 32 beds and a manager's office. The committee also approved the meeting minutes from July 21, 2022.

• Approved Northern Stage application for multi-unit dwelling and performing arts facility (unanimous)
• Approved July 21, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Resilient Hartford

The Resilient Hartford committee holds its October 26 meeting to review updates on several local initiatives, including the Wilder School Project, Clifford Park Food Forest, Quechee Abenaki Garden, and Solarize Hartford. Members will also discuss climate resilience efforts and welcome new participants.

• Wilder School Project update
• Clifford Park Food Forest progress including tour, work outing, rain gutter proposal, and budget review
• Quechee Abenaki Garden presentation
• Solarize Hartford discussion
• Climate Resilient Communities update

The commission unanimously approved a mission statement that now includes the Climate Action Plan. Members discussed potential food forest expansions at the Wilder School and updates on the Quechee Abenaki Garden.

• Approved September 28, 2022 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved updated mission statement including Climate Action Plan (unanimous)
• Decided against applying for the VCRD Climate Resilient Communities Program this year

Historic Preservation Commission

The Hartford Historic Preservation Commission is conducting a site visit at the Hotel Coolidge, 39 South Main Street, White River Junction, on October 26, 2022. The agenda contains only this single site-visit item and no other business.

• Site visit to Hotel Coolidge, 39 South Main Street, White River Junction

The Hartford Historic Preservation Commission conducted a site visit at the Hotel Coolidge (39 South Main Street, White River Junction) on October 26, 2022, at the owner's request. The visit included a history presentation, engineering assessment, and a full building tour, followed by a discussion of renovation options and costs. No formal decisions were made; the session was informational and procedural.

• Conducted site visit at Hotel Coolidge (no vote taken)
• Heard building history from owner David Briggs
• Received architectural history presentation from Britta Tonn
• Received engineering assessment from Bob Neil
• Toured all floors, basement, and roof
• Discussed building options and costs with Andrew Winter

West Hartford Library Trustees

The West Hartford Library Board of Trustees is holding a special meeting over Zoom. The main item is a presentation of the treasurer's appropriations request, followed by a vote to approve it. The agenda is otherwise minimal and procedural.

• Vote to approve treasurer's appropriations request

The Board of Trustees met for a special session to finalize the FY24 proposed budget. The budget was approved without any corrections or modifications.

• Approved October 19, 2022 meeting minutes with one minor correction
• Approved FY24 proposed budget

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard is meeting to consider entering an executive session to discuss the employment, appointment, or evaluation of a public officer, as permitted under Vermont law. No other substantive business is listed on the agenda.

• Executive session under Title 1, Section 313 (1)(3) of Vermont Statutes

The Selectboard met in executive session and then voted unanimously to place Town Manager Tracy Yarlott-Davis on administrative leave, temporarily appointing Gail Ostrout and Paula Nulty to head day-to-day operations. The board also unanimously appointed Scott Cooney as Town Emergency Director. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Placed Town Manager Tracy Yarlott-Davis on administrative leave (unanimous)
• Temporarily appointed Gail Ostrout and Paula Nulty to head day-to-day operations (unanimous)
• Appointed Scott Cooney as Town Emergency Director (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Hartford Zoning Board of Adjustment will consider a continued application from Mary Trammell. The request involves a setback waiver for a carport and canopy at 127 Stonecrest Avenue.

• Application #18-22: setback waiver for a carport and canopy
• Location: 127 Stonecrest Avenue (lot 09-0106-000)
• Zoning District: R-3

The Zoning Board of Adjustment approved a setback waiver for a carport and canopy at 127 Stonecrest Avenue. The decision followed a site visit and a public hearing continuance from October 12, 2022.

• Approved setback waiver for carport and canopy at 127 Stonecrest Avenue (unanimous)

West Hartford Library Trustees

The West Hartford Library Board of Trustees is meeting to conduct routine business, including approving minutes and the treasurer's report, and receiving a director's report. They will also discuss and potentially act on library policy updates, specifically the materials selection and reconsideration policy and the mission statement. The meeting includes time for public comment.

• Approval of meeting minutes (action item)
• Approval of treasurer's report (action item)
• Discussion of policy on selecting and purchasing materials, including request for reconsideration
• Review of library mission statement
• Planning for the future and advocacy efforts

The board unanimously approved the September meeting minutes and the treasurer's report, which showed $12,184 (24.96%) of the budget spent with $36,635 remaining. A draft Materials Selection Policy was presented for review, and a mission statement draft was tabled until November. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved September meeting minutes unanimously
• Approved Treasurer's Report unanimously
• Tabled mission statement draft until November meeting

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion will meet remotely to discuss policy work and a report from Tuck Community Consulting. The agenda includes updates on staff training, data gathering, and the police chief search.

• Chat with Town Manager Tracy Yarlott-Davis regarding policy and hiring
• Report out from 10/17 Tuck Community Consulting meeting
• Updates on Police Chief Search and Select Board training
• Vermont Community Foundation Grant Application update
• Working group check-ins for RHRR, Education, and Policy

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion approved meeting minutes and adjournment, and received general updates regarding Tuck Community Consulting, police candidate review, and committee charges. No other formal votes or policy decisions were recorded during the meeting.

• Approved meeting minutes from 10/5 (Motion: John, 2nd: Miriam, approved)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:30 PM (Motion: Pat, 2nd: Ally, Approved)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Hartford Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to discuss several historic preservation topics, including the removal of the canopy at the White River Junction Railroad Station, historic district signs, and a property at 138 Summer Street. They will also review past meeting minutes and consider ideas for a 2023 CLG grant application. A site visit to the railroad station precedes the meeting.

• Railroad Station Canopy Removal
• Historic District Signs
• 138 Summer Street
• 2023 CLG Grant Application ideas
• Hartford Performing Arts History Project with guest Neil Silberman

The Commission approved pursuing a CLG grant application for a historic district nomination of Taft’s Flat, with a formal decision set for November 16. Members also discussed the Performing Art History Project and the poor condition of the Railroad Station South Canopy.

• Approved minutes of May 18, July 20, and September 21
• Approved motion to pursue CLG grant application for Taft’s Flat historic district nomination (4-0)
• Agreed to create and distribute a flyer for the Performing Art History Project
• Agreed to ask State Architectural Historian Devin Colman to inspect the Railroad Station South Canopy
• Agreed to obtain a cost estimate for rebuilding the Railroad Station South Canopy

Energy Commission

The Hartford Climate Action Steering Team (CAST) will meet to discuss the Inflation Reduction Act and solar tax incentives. The agenda also includes discussions regarding volunteer grant writing and potential collaborations on climate projects.

• Discussion of Inflation Reduction Act & solar tax incentives
• Discussion of volunteer grant writing
• VCRD Climate Economy Resilient Communities discussion
• Potential collaboration with the Wilder School on a climate community project

The commission approved the minutes from the October 5 meeting. Members discussed the Inflation Reduction Act's solar tax credits and the potential for solar installations on town property. No other formal votes were recorded.

• Approved minutes of October 5, 2002

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Hartford Parks and Recreation Commission will hold a public tour of eight parks—Lyman Point, Frost, Kilowatt South/North, Clifford, Quechee Falls, Deweys Landing, and Maxfield—without voting on any items at this meeting. The session includes routine procedural items and no new business requiring action.

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Selectboard will discuss the cannabis update process and appoint Caroline Hooper Goetinck to the Resilient Hartford Committee. The Town Manager reported on the implementation of the Namely HR system and the funding source for police COLA increases.

• Appointment of Caroline Hooper Goetinck to the Resilient Hartford Committee for a 3-year term
• Cannabis update and draft process discussion
• Police COLA increase funding to be appropriated from the Police Chief salary line
• Implementation of Namely HR Information System for town employees
• Upcoming Special Budget Meetings on October 25 and November 1 and 9

The Hartford Selectboard approved a $6,900 contract with Abundant Sun for three DEI-focused round table sessions (4-1, 1 abstention) and funded an annual training cycle in the FY24 budget: $14,000 for Selectboard members and $15,000 for town staff (4-2). The board also adopted a local cannabis control commission application policy unanimously and appointed Mary Erdei as Hartford's representative to IDEAL Vermont (5-0, 1 abstention).

• Approved $6,900 DEI training contract with Abundant Sun (4-1, 1 abstention)
• Funded FY24 training: $14,000 for Selectboard, $15,000 for staff (4-2)
• Appointed Mary Erdei to IDEAL Vermont (5-0, 1 abstention)
• Adopted local cannabis control commission application policy (unanimous)
• Appointed Carolyn Hooper Goetinck to Resilient Hartford Committee (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including payroll, minutes, and A/P manifests (unanimous)

Sister Cities Committee

The Hartford Sister City Committee is meeting to discuss goals and reimbursement for the Cenon-Festival Toutes Latitudes (November 2-6), update the Cenon Sister City logo and next steps for a sign, and review/update the Sister City bylaws. The meeting is a regular business session with no major decisions or public hearings.

• Cenon-Festival Toutes Latitudes (11/2-6) goals and reimbursement
• Cenon Sister City logo update and sign creation next steps
• Review and update Sister City bylaws
• Next meeting scheduled for November 15, 2022

The committee voted to use its budget to fund two members' attendance at the 2022 Toutes Latitudes Festival. The budget will also be used for student travel in 2023.

• Approved use of budget for two committee members to attend 2022 Toutes Latitudes Festival (unanimous)
• Approved use of budget for student travel in 2023 (unanimous)
• Tabled other agenda items until November meeting

Planning Commission

The provided agenda contains only procedural documents and no specific items for discussion or decision. There are no listed topics, public hearings, or ordinances in the source text.

The Hartford Planning Commission voted to continue two applications to November 14, 2022: the Haven's site development plan (5-1) and a subdivision by Gates and Dickson (unanimous). The Commission also unanimously approved the 2023 meeting schedule and nominated Jo-Ann Ells as Zoning Administrator.

• Approved minutes of September 12, 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved 2023 meeting schedule (unanimous)
• Nominated Jo-Ann Ells as Zoning Administrator (unanimous)
• Continued Application #22-24 by Upper Valley Haven to November 14, 2022 (5-1)
• Continued Application #22-26 by Gates and Dickson to November 14, 2022 (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Hartford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings on three applications: a conditional use permit for a home woodworking business, a setback waiver for a carport, and a continued request to allow cooking at a food shelf. The board will also handle administrative matters like minutes and the 2023 meeting schedule.

• Conditional use for home woodworking business at 211 Sweetwater Drive (Application #17-22)
• Setback waiver for carport and canopy at 127 Stonecrest Avenue (Application #18-22)
• Continued conditional use for cooking at Upper Valley Haven food shelf, 713 Hartford Avenue (Application #16-22)
• Public hearings begin at 6:30 p.m. at Hartford Town Hall, 171 Bridge Street
• Remote participation via Microsoft Teams or phone

The Board approved conditional use applications for a home business and on-site cooking at The Upper Valley Haven. A setback waiver for a carport was continued pending a site visit.

• Approved conditional use for home business at 211 Sweetwater Drive (unanimous)
• Approved conditional use for on-site cooking at The Upper Valley Haven, 713 Hartford Avenue (unanimous)
• Continued setback waiver hearing for 127 Stonecrest Avenue to October 20, 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved September 14, 2022 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 2023 meeting schedule (unanimous)

Inactive Boards

The 5th Charter Commission of Hartford, Vermont, holds its October 12, 2022 meeting to review language from two boards’ comments and a draft letter to the town’s lawyer. Public comments are accepted before adjournment.

• Review language from 2 boards’ comments
• Review draft letter to town lawyer
• Public comments (20 min) before adjournment

Town and School Meeting Committee

The Hartford Town and School Meeting Committee is meeting to finalize outreach materials and logistics for the upcoming town meeting cycle. They will approve prior meeting minutes, finalize postcard designs and orders, determine road sign needs, and plan community outreach efforts including stakeholder emails and social media posts. The committee will also discuss event support, including AV services and quotes for a projector and screen.

• Approve minutes from 08/10 and 09/14 meetings
• Finalize and order postcards (order by Ryan)
• Purchase vinyl labels for road signs from Uprinting.com or Gnomon copy
• Draft listserv and Facebook posts soliciting community input
• AV company Degange Audio; quotes expected by end of week

The committee reviewed layout changes for election postcards and street signage. Members discussed methods for soliciting resident input for an information night and identified potential event locations and AV support options.

• Approved 9/14/22 meeting minutes

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard is holding a special budget meeting to review the FY2024 Public Works and Enterprise Funds budgets. The presentation covers the Highway, Water, and Wastewater departments, including proposed spending, staffing, and capital projects. This is an information-only review, with no formal votes scheduled.

• Highway Department FY2024 proposed budget: $3,045,171, a 6.9% increase from FY2023
• Request for $525,000 for road reclamation and paving
• Request for $125,000 additional funding for Quechee Main Street Box Culvert project
• Water Department (Fund 50) proposed budget: $1,255,065, a 7.3% increase
• Quechee Water Department (Fund 55) proposed budget: $474,818, a 1% increase

The Selectboard met to review the Public Works and Enterprise Funds budget. No substantive decisions were made during the meeting.

Energy Commission

The Hartford Climate Action Steering Team will review and approve draft minutes from its previous meeting, discuss updates on the Wild One Solar Field project including a delayed viewshed analysis, and review proposed projects for FY 2023 such as Solarize Hartford and the Wilder School food forest.

• Wild One Solar Field: 4.125 MW, 14.7-acre project off Route 14 with viewshed analysis delayed
• Climate Action Reserve Fund discussion
• Solarize Hartford project proposal
• Wilder School food forest project proposal
• Resilient Hartford guide to improving soil and sequestering carbon

The commission approved the minutes from the September 14 meeting. Members discussed potential 2023 projects, grant writing partnerships, and the status of the Wilder 1 Solar Project and Climate Action Reserve Fund.

• Approved September 14 meeting minutes

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion meets to review general updates, working group check-ins, and motion tracking. The meeting is conducted fully remotely via Zoom. No major decisions are listed on this procedural agenda.

• Motion to approve Sept. 21 meeting minutes
• Review of Police Chief Search updates
• Motion and Recommendation Tracking for Oct. 19 meeting

The Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion approved the September 21 meeting minutes and recommended a member to join the town plan's housing steering committee. Members were tasked with reviewing the committee's charge by November 2.

• Approved Sept. 21 meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Recommended Miriam Wood join the steering committee to update the housing chapter of the town plan (unanimous voice vote)

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Selectboard will hold a public hearing regarding amendments to the Hartford Zoning Regulations. The proposal seeks to create a new General Commercial/Residential (GCR) zoning district by reclassifying a portion of the Industrial Commercial Two (IC-2) district. This change is intended to allow for multi-unit residential and mixed-use development.

• Public hearing for zoning regulation amendments
• Creation of General Commercial/Residential (GCR) zoning district
• Reclassification of 13 parcels and approximately 32 acres
• Proposed changes to IC-2 zoning district near VA Hospital and I-89/I-91

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard is meeting to discuss and potentially act on zoning bylaw amendments, a FY24 budget overview, and updates on Sister Cities, EC Fiber, and the Charter Commission. The agenda includes a public hearing on the zoning changes and a consent agenda with routine approvals. The meeting is open to the public in person and via Zoom/YouTube.

• Public hearing on zoning bylaw amendments
• FY24 budget overview
• Discussion on Sister Cities, EC Fiber, and Charter Commission
• Consent agenda: Aggregate RFP, payroll, meeting minutes, A/P manifests
• Town Manager's report includes 4.125 MW solar project near Byron Hill Road

The Selectboard approved a zoning amendment to establish a General Commercial/Residential district across from the VA hospital to allow multi-unit residential and mixed-use development. The board also granted a license to ECFiber for underground infrastructure installation. Additionally, the board requested specific revisions to the FY24 budget presentation.

• Approved zoning amendment to create General Commercial/Residential district across from VA hospital (unanimous)
• Approved ECFiber license to install and maintain underground conduits and manholes (unanimous)
• Approved motion for Town Manager to provide specific Department Head request discrepancies in FY24 budget (unanimous)
• Approved Consent Agenda including Aggregate RFP, payroll, and previous meeting minutes (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Hartford Conservation Commission is meeting to discuss a range of conservation topics, including a proposed educational partnership, the Climate Action Plan, and the 2023 budget. The agenda also includes multiple items related to the Town Forest, such as a management plan, timber harvest updates, and public outreach. The commission will also review draft wetland maps and other conservation projects.

• Educational Partnership Proposal with Hartford Salamander Team
• Climate Action Plan discussion
• HCC 2023 Budget review
• Integrated Town Forest Management Plan
• Timber Harvest Update & Hemlock MOU

The Commission voted to partner with the Hartford Salamander Team on an educational series and agreed to pursue a tree canopy grant. Members also reviewed a proposed $6,455 budget for the 2023/2024 fiscal year.

• Approved partnership with Hartford Salamander Team for educational series (6-0)
• Approved pursuing Vermont Urban and Community Forestry Program tree canopy grant
• Approved using 2021 letter to Selectboard for conservation fund request justification
• Approved posting hunting safety information on town website, list serv, and kiosks
• Approved 8/29 meeting minutes by unanimous consent

Resilient Hartford

The Resilient Hartford committee meets to approve minutes from the prior meeting, review its mission and budget, and receive an update on the Clifford Park Food Forest project. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Clifford Park Food Forest update including 9/16 work outing, rain gutter proposal, and budget/fundraising discussion
• Review of Resilient Hartford budget
• Approval of August 24 meeting minutes

The committee approved a recommended budget of $1,760 for the next fiscal year. Members discussed integrating the Climate Action Plan into their mission and potential Food Forest expansion at the Wilder School.

• Approved August 24, 2022 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved recommended FY 2023/2024 budget of $1,760 (4-0)

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard is holding a special meeting to conduct a joint housing discussion with the Lebanon, New Hampshire City Council. The meeting is in person at the SAU 88 Auditorium and also livestreamed on YouTube. No other business is on the agenda.

• Joint housing discussion with Lebanon NH City Council

The Selectboard met for a special session to conduct a joint housing discussion with the Lebanon New Hampshire City Council. No formal votes or decisions were recorded in the minutes.

Board of Civil Authority

The Hartford Board of Abatement will meet to review and decide on four property tax abatement requests submitted by residents. The board will hear evidence from applicants or their representatives and deliberate on each case. No other substantive items are listed on the agenda.

• Abatement request for 36 Iris Way (Parcel ID 4-30-55/SPAN 285-090-15561) at 5:50pm
• Abatement request for 1873 Old River Rd. (Parcel ID 8-118/SPAN 285-090-10227) at 6:10pm
• Abatement request for 703 Route 14 (Parcel ID 8-127/SPAN 285-090-11052) at 6:30pm
• Deliberations and other business at 6:50pm

The Board of Abatement elected Nancy Howe as chair and approved minutes from May 23, 2022. Following public hearings and a closed deliberative session, the board voted to approve a tax abatement for Carl and Ralph Hybels and denied abatement requests for Patricia Barbour and Michael and Beverly Copp. The Board of Civil Authority also discussed high school voter registration drives and assistant election officer appointments.

• Elected Nancy Howe as Board of Abatement Chair (unanimous)
• Adopted May 23, 2022 BoA minutes as amended (unanimous)
• Approved 2020 delinquent tax abatement of $2,209.80 for Carl and Ralph Hybels at 36 Iris Way (13-3, 1 abstention)
• Denied tax abatement request for Patricia Barbour at 1873 Old River Rd. (unanimous, 2 abstentions)
• Denied tax abatement request for Michael and Beverly Copp at 703 Route 14 (unanimous, 1 recusal, 1 abstention)
• Asked Clerk to provide list of Assistant Election Workers via email before each election
• Suggested sending checklist additions 10+- days prior to elections

West Hartford Library Trustees

This meeting has no agenda available; the only listed item is a note directing readers to review the minutes. No decisions or discussions are specified.

• No agenda items listed

The Board of Trustees held a special session to review administrative records. The only substantive action taken was the approval of previous meeting minutes.

• Approved minutes of the September 21, 2022 meeting

Inactive Boards

The 5th Charter Commission is meeting to vote on proposed Town Manager language and adopt all provisional charter language. The meeting includes public comments, a presentation of the FX (likely a draft or framework) to the public, and discussion. Future meetings will involve the Selectboard and School Board.

• Vote on proposed Town Manager language
• Adopt all provisional language
• Public comments period (20 min)
• FX presentation to public (20 min)
• Discussion with public until 8pm

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Selectboard is reviewing a proposed rewrite of the Town Charter, which includes a new local option cannabis sales tax, changes to town meeting procedures, and updates to the Town and School Meeting Committee. The draft is marked with annotations showing changes from the previous version and from the September 16, 2022 draft. This is a discussion item, not a final decision.

• Authorizes a 1% local option tax on cannabis sales, with proceeds to a Cannabis Reserve Fund
• Changes Town and School Meeting Committee membership and chair, with the Moderator as chair
• Adds Warrant Information Night and Budget and Candidates Night as required meetings
• Allows a special town meeting to set a revised budget if the budget is defeated, with a 350-voter threshold
• Clarifies tie-vote procedures for Australian ballot articles and offices

Energy Commission

The Hartford Energy Commission is meeting to review minutes, hear updates on charter revisions and subcommittees, and receive a presentation from the UNH Carbon Clinic. They will also discuss new business including Trunk or Treat and appointing a representative to the Housing Steering Committee, plus updates from working groups and the HEC Herald schedule.

• UNH Carbon Clinic presentation
• Trunk or Treat event Oct. 29, 4-6pm at Lyman Point Park
• Housing Steering Committee needs HEC representative
• Wilder One Solar project discussion
• VCRD grant update

The commission approved changes to its bylaws regarding membership size, staff support, and budget requests. The body also reviewed a proposal from the UNH Carbon Clinic to analyze town building emissions.

• Approved bylaw changes to set membership at 7, add Town staff support, and allow requests for appropriated spending funds
• Approved August meeting minutes

West Hartford Library Trustees

The West Hartford Library Board of Trustees is meeting to review reports and hold an executive session on employee matters and a purchasing policy amendment. The board will vote on wages and the purchasing policy amendment, which includes preapproval of spending.

• Vote on wages
• Vote on purchasing policy amendment
• Executive session on employee matters
• Executive session on purchasing policy amendment (preapproval of spending)

The board approved a cost-of-living and merit pay increase for the Library Director and expanded the paid holiday schedule. A new purchasing policy was adopted to allow the Director to make certain purchases without prior board approval. The board also approved the September meeting minutes and the Treasurer's Report.

• Approved Library Director pay increase of $1.35/hour to $19.35/hour (unanimous)
• Approved adding 5 federal holidays to the paid holiday schedule (unanimous)
• Approved purchasing policy allowing Director to spend up to $499.99 with one vendor or $199.99 on individual items without pre-approval (unanimous)
• Approved September 2022 meeting minutes
• Approved Treasurer's Report showing $38,417 remaining balance

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion will convene a fully remote meeting to review updates, discuss meeting management, and receive working group reports. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• General updates on training, VLCT EPIC program, IDEAL Vermont program, budget request, DEI resource library, police chief search, community safety review RFP status, and Vermont Community Foundation grant application
• Working group check-ins on strategic plan, RHRR, education, and policy
• Discussion on building timeline and next steps for meeting management

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion approved the meeting minutes from September 7th and received general updates on training programs, budget requests, the police chief search, and working group initiatives. The meeting concluded with discussions on new business, including an upcoming meeting with the Town Manager and Proposition 2 on the State ballot.

• Approved meeting minutes from Sept. 7th (unanimous voice approval)

Energy Commission

The Hartford Climate Action Steering Team will review updates regarding the Town Energy Plan and Master Plan. The meeting includes a presentation from the UNH Carbon Clinic and a discussion on the Climate Action Reserve Fund.

• Wild One Solar Field proposal (4.125 MW, 14.7 acres off Route 14)
• UNH Carbon Clinic presentation
• Climate Action Reserve Fund discussion
• CAST projects for FY 2023
• Review of August 17 and September 14 meeting minutes

The commission will work with the UNH Carbon Clinic this semester to measure the carbon footprint of government operations. The project will produce a baseline emissions analysis, reduction scenarios, and a technical report.

• Partnered with UNH Carbon Clinic to analyze government operations emissions
• Amended the September 14 meeting minutes

Historic Preservation Commission

The Hartford Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to discuss several historic properties and projects, including the removal of the railroad station canopy and updates on the Hotel Coolidge. The agenda also includes review of meeting minutes, a performing arts history project, historic district signs, and specific properties at 138 Summer Street and 99 Depot Street. The commission will also consider ideas for a 2023 CLG grant application.

• Railroad Station Canopy Removal discussion with guest Kyle Obenauer
• Hotel Coolidge update with David Briggs
• Review of minutes from May 18 and July 20, 2022 meetings
• Discussion of 138 Summer Street and 99 Depot Street
• Ideas for 2023 CLG Grant Application

The Historic Preservation Commission discussed VTrans' proposal to remove the railroad station's south canopy, reviewed affordable housing plans for the Hotel Coolidge, and received updates on historic district signs and local projects. No formal votes were taken on the agenda items, though a site visit for the Hotel Coolidge was agreed upon and the meeting was adjourned.

• Agreed to schedule a site visit for the Hotel Coolidge project
• Approved motion to adjourn the meeting (Robin Adair Logan / Pat Stark)

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard is meeting to discuss and potentially act on several items, including FY22 encumbrances and pre-audit financials, DPW HVAC upgrades, a Bugbee feasibility study, a grant application, ARPA funding, and an open container ordinance. The board will also consider a consent agenda with routine approvals. The meeting includes public comment and reports from the town manager and commissions.

• FY22 encumbrances and pre-audit preliminary closing numbers
• DPW HVAC control mechanical upgrades
• Bugbee feasibility study
• Vermont Community Foundation Equitable and Inclusive Communities Grant Program
• ARPA funding and open container ordinance

The Selectboard approved an $80,000 ARPA allocation for a Bugbee Senior Center feasibility study and ADA entrance. The board also approved a grant request to the Vermont Community Foundation for equity and inclusion programming and waived bidding requirements for DPW HVAC upgrades.

• Approved 2022 Encumbrance Request (6-0)
• Waived multiple bid requirement for DPW HVAC Control Mechanical Upgrades (6-0)
• Approved $80,000 ARPA allocation for Bugbee Senior Center feasibility study and ADA entrance (5-1)
• Approved Vermont Community Foundation grant request for equity and inclusion program (6-0)
• Approved cleaning contract RFP exception, payroll, and meeting minutes via consent agenda (6-0)

Inactive Boards

The Hartford 5th Charter Commission is meeting to review proposed charter language, including items related to the town manager, resident questions, committees, and where cannabis funds go. They will also discuss questions for the September 22 public meeting. This is a working session, not a final decision-making meeting.

• Review of proposed charter language (1 hour)
• Discussion of cannabis fund allocation
• Discussion of September 22 public meeting questions
• Receive public comments (5 min)
• Approve minutes from September 1, 2022

The 5th Charter Commission reached consensus on revisions to the town manager job description and the inclusion of cannabis sales tax language. The committee also decided against adding residency requirements for Town Meeting Committee members.

• Adopted previous meeting minutes by unanimous consent
• Reached consensus to move town manager job description items to Appointed Officials section and delete specific provisions in section 302
• Determined by consensus not to include a residency requirement for Town Meeting Committee members
• Agreed to add 'not limited to' in section 3D regarding committees
• Reached consensus to add language allowing the town to collect sales tax on cannabis products if authorized by the state
• Reached consensus to recommend expanding local option taxes language to include regular sales tax

Inactive Boards

This agenda presents a draft of the proposed Town of Hartford charter, which consolidates and updates the town's governing rules. It covers the town's corporate status, general and specific powers, local option taxes, town meeting procedures, and elected offices. The document is a draft for review and discussion, not a final adopted charter.

• Authorizes 1% local option tax on sales, rooms, meals, and alcoholic beverages, with proceeds to a capital reserve fund
• Authorizes 1% local cannabis sales tax, with proceeds to a Cannabis Reserve Fund
• Establishes a School and Town Meeting Committee to enhance civic engagement, with stipends for members
• Sets town meeting dates: Warrant Information Night in January, Budget and Candidates Night in February, and Voting Day on the first Tuesday in March
• Defines petition signature requirements: 150 signatures or 5% of active voters (whichever is less) for 5% or less threshold; 300 signatures or 10% for more than 5%

Inactive Boards

This is a draft of the proposed Town of Hartford charter, with redline annotations, covering the town's incorporation, general and specific powers, and town meeting procedures. The document includes proposed changes such as authorizing a local option cannabis sales tax, restructuring the School and Town Meeting Committee, and altering budget revote procedures. It is a working draft for discussion, not a final adopted document.

• Authorizes 1% local option tax on cannabis sales, proceeds to Cannabis Reserve Fund
• Restructures School and Town Meeting Committee, with Moderator as chair and member stipends
• Adds Warrant Information Night and Budget and Candidates Night to town meeting cycle
• Changes budget revote process: if budget defeated, special floor meeting with 350-voter minimum can set revised question
• Tie vote on Australian ballot: article deemed failed; tied candidates may use coin flip or special election

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Hartford Zoning Board of Adjustment posted meeting materials online for the September 14, 2022 meeting. No decisions or discussions are listed on this agenda.

The Board approved three applications for construction and improvements within flood hazard areas. One application regarding food distribution cooking was continued to a later date.

• Approved garage construction at 207 Latham Works Lane (unanimous)
• Approved Lake Pinneo Bathhouse improvements at 505 Murphys Road (unanimous)
• Approved multi-unit dwelling at Maple Street and Prospect Street (unanimous)
• Continued application #16-22 for The Upper Valley Haven, Inc. to October 12, 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved August 4, 2022 minutes (unanimous, one abstention)
• Approved July 25, 2022 minutes (unanimous)

Energy Commission

The Hartford Climate Action Steering Team will review previous meeting minutes and receive updates from the Conservation Commission and HCOREI. The group will also discuss the proposed Wild One Solar Field and prepare for upcoming FY 2023 project discussions.

• Proposed 4.125 MW, 14.7 acre Wild One Solar Field off Route 14
• Conservation Commission CAP update
• HCOREI CAP priorities update
• HEC Window Dressers November 3rd-8th
• FY 2023 CAST project planning

The commission discussed the implementation of the Climate Action Plan and the drafting of RFPs for solar systems on town-owned parcels. No formal votes were taken during the meeting, and the August minutes were deferred to the next meeting.

• Deferred vote on August meeting minutes to September 21
• Requested member submissions for 2023 project priorities for the next meeting

Town and School Meeting Committee

The Hartford Town and School Meeting Committee is meeting to discuss the budget, including the current amount, future needs, and how to submit a request. The agenda is brief and mostly procedural, with no specific dollar amounts or proposals listed.

• Budget discussion: known/current amount
• Budget discussion: future needs
• Budget discussion: submitting request

The committee held discussions regarding the FY 2024 budget, including cost impacts and voter engagement. They also reviewed the FY 2023 budget and the split between school and town meetings. No formal votes or decisions were recorded.

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard is holding a special meeting to workshop the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), focusing on setting priorities for the FY24 operating budget. They will review reserve funds, projects in progress, and other identified projects, and may enter executive session to discuss a public officer's employment. The meeting includes public comment and is conducted in person and via Zoom.

• Capital Improvement Plan workshop to prioritize projects and reserve funds for FY24
• Proposed new reserve funds: Hartford Housing Development ($30,000), Bugbee Senior Center ($10,000), Bridges ($150,000)
• Sidewalk projects: Waterman Hill ($804,000 est.), Woodstock Road ($216,000 est.), Christian Street ($283,000 est.)
• WRJ TIF projects: S. Main/N. Main/Gates Streets reconstruction ($5,777,000), Town Square Parking Lot ($811,200)
• Executive session to discuss employment of a public officer

The Selectboard conducted a workshop on the Capital Improvement Plan and entered an executive session to discuss a public officer. No motions were made following the executive session.

• Approved motion to enter executive session to discuss a public officer (unanimous)
• Approved motion to close executive session at 9:35 PM (unanimous)

Planning Commission

This is a procedural agenda with no substantive items listed. The Planning Commission is meeting, but the only listed actions are reviewing the agenda and meeting materials; no decisions or discussions are specified.

• No substantive items listed

The Hartford Planning Commission approved meeting minutes, a boundary line adjustment at 271 Baker Turn, and a site development plan for a multi-unit dwelling on Maple and Prospect streets. The commission also reviewed administrative permits, discussed regional planning and climate action plan items, and continued a public hearing for Upper Valley Haven to October 17, 2022.

• Approved minutes for July 11, August 1, and August 10, 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved Application #22-22 for a boundary line adjustment at 271 Baker Turn with one correction to Findings of Fact (unanimous)
• Approved Application #22-23 for a Site Development Plan for a multi-unit dwelling on Maple Street and Prospect Street with discussed changes (unanimous)
• Continued Application #22-24 for Upper Valley Haven to the October 17, 2022 hearing (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting at 8:05 p.m.

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission is meeting to discuss its agenda and review meeting materials. The agenda includes a legal notice for a public hearing on GCR, but no specific details are provided in the agenda text.

• Public hearing on GCR (details in attached PDF)

The Planning Commission approved the creation of a General Commercial/Residential (GCR) zoning district to allow multi-unit and mixed-use development as conditional uses. This change applies to a 32-acre area across from the VA Hospital previously zoned as Industrial Commercial Two (IC-2). The amendment was referred to the Selectboard for consideration.

• Created the General Community/Residential (GCR) zoning district (Unanimous)
• Changed the IC-2 zoning district to GCR for the area across from the VA Hospital (Unanimous)
• Amended Section 260-23A4 to include the GCR zoning district (Unanimous)
• Amended the Planning Commission Reporting Form regarding Section 260-23A4 (Unanimous)
• Approved presenting the zoning amendment to the Selectboard (Unanimous)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Hartford Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes, hearing comments, and receiving a director's report. They will also discuss the community center, schedule a parks and facilities tour, and review an evaluation plan. The agenda is largely procedural with no major decisions or financial items listed.

• Community center discussion
• Schedule parks and facilities tour
• Evaluation plan review

The Commission approved the July minutes and discussed the first season of pool operations and staff evaluation plans. Members planned a future visit to town parks and discussed potential grant funding for conservation educational presentations.

• Approved July meeting minutes

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion (HCOREI) will meet remotely to discuss updates on training, webpage status, policy, and the Community Safety Review, including an RFP update and a request for ARPA funds. They will also check in on working groups, consider funding requests for community equity grants and fall budgeting items like Juneteenth, and hear a pitch from Tuck Community Consulting on public information strategy.

• Debrief of August 23rd Selectboard meeting
• Update on Community Safety Review RFP and ARPA funds request
• Discussion of hiring practices with an equity lens
• Funding requests: community equity grant application and fall budgeting items (Juneteenth)
• Tuck Community Consulting pitch on public information strategy

The Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion approved the minutes from the August 17 meeting. Members discussed pending funding requests for the fall township budget and provided updates on working group activities regarding strategic planning and policy.

• Approved August 17 meeting minutes (unanimous voice)

Hartford Business Revolving Loan Fund

The Hartford Business Revolving Loan Fund and Hartford 2020 VCDP Revolving Loan Fund Committee is meeting to approve minutes, discuss loan activity, and consider potential loans. The agenda includes a motion to enter executive session to review the July 2022 loan summary and updates on potential loans, followed by a vote on any action. Other items include support for Downtown White River Junction, marketing of the loan funds, and a GMEDC contract.

• Approval of June 1, 2022 meeting minutes
• Executive session to review July 2022 loan summary and potential loans
• Discussion of support for Downtown White River Junction
• Marketing of HBRLF and VCDP RLF
• GMEDC contract discussion

The Committee approved the minutes from the June 1, 2022 meeting. Members discussed providing resources and grant assistance to businesses in the Gates Briggs Building following a water main break. No actions were taken during the executive session regarding loan reports.

• Approved June 1, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard is holding a public hearing to gather citizen input on applying for a $400,000 Vermont Community Development Program (VCDP) grant. The funds would support construction of 42 new affordable apartments at 0 Maple Street, White River Junction, by Twin Pines Housing and Evernorth. The hearing also covers the proposed use of funds and potential impacts on historic and archaeological resources.

• Public hearing on VCDP Implementation Grant 2022 application
• Proposed $400,000 grant for affordable housing
• 42 new affordable apartments at 0 Maple Street (corner of Prospect Street)
• Project by Twin Pines Housing and Evernorth
• Application available at Hartford Town Hall from August 29, 2022

The Selectboard approved the submission of a Vermont Community Development Program grant application for the Riverwalk Multifamily Project. The board also authorized a cost-of-living adjustment for police and adopted a new flagpole policy.

• Approved VCDP grant application for Riverwalk Multifamily Project (unanimous)
• Reappointed Dillon Bianchi to the Planning Commission for a three-year term (6-1)
• Approved draft Town Hall Flagpole Policy as amended (6-1)
• Directed Town Manager to increase Police COLA adjustment up to 3 percent (6-1)
• Approved consent agenda including payroll, minutes, and Fire Department truck bid (unanimous)

Sister Cities Committee

The committee will hold elections for officers and review the Sister City bylaws. Members will also discuss next steps for a Hartford-Cenon logo sign and attendee counts for the Festival Toutes Latitudes in Cenon, France.

• Election of officers
• Review and update of Sister City bylaws
• Hartford-Cenon Sister City logo update and sign creation
• Attendee count for Festival Toutes Latitudes (November 2-6, 2022)

The committee elected a new chair, vice-chair, and secretary/treasurer. Members proposed increasing the committee size from five to seven, pending Selectboard approval on October 4, 2022.

• Accepted July meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Elected Joan Ponzoni as chair, Laura Cooney as vice-chair, and Allison Litten as secretary/treasurer (unanimous)
• Proposed increasing committee membership from five to seven (unanimous)
• Scheduled special meeting for September 20, 2022 (unanimous)
• Scheduled regular meeting for October 18, 2022 (unanimous)

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will hold a public hearing and consider submitting a Vermont Community Development Program (VCDP) grant application for the Riverwalk Housing Project. The board will also discuss a banner and Town Hall flagpole policy, preview a Capital Improvement Plan workshop, review a police COLA, and consider reappointing Dillon Bianchi to the Planning Commission. The Town Manager's report details the cannabis licensing process and the board's role as the Local Cannabis Commission, including a pending application decision by October 30.

• Public hearing and consideration of VCDP grant application for Riverwalk Housing Project
• Reappointment of Dillon Bianchi to Planning Commission for three-year term (2022-2025)
• Banner and Town Hall flagpole policy discussion
• Police COLA review
• Consent agenda includes ¾ ton pickup truck bid award for Fire Department

The Selectboard approved the submission of a Vermont Community Development Program grant application for the Riverwalk Multifamily Project. The board also approved a new Town Hall Flagpole Policy and a cost-of-living adjustment for police.

• Approved VCDP grant application for Riverwalk Multifamily Project (unanimous)
• Reappointed Dillon Bianchi to the Planning Commission for a three-year term (6-1)
• Approved draft Town Hall Flagpole Policy as amended (6-1)
• Directed Town Manager to increase Police COLA adjustment up to 3 percent (6-1)
• Approved consent agenda including payroll, A/P manifests, and Fire Department truck bid (unanimous)

Inactive Boards

The Hartford 5th Charter Commission is meeting to review proposed charter language and plan next steps, including a public hearing and how to present the language to the public. The agenda is largely procedural, covering minutes, public comments, and future meeting logistics.

• Review of proposed charter language sections 103, 104, 301, 302, 303, and possible Town Manager provisions
• Discussion of public hearing date, time, place, and presentation format
• Planning media distribution: paper copies, email, website
• Deciding who will speak at the hearing (one or all commissioners)
• Scheduling meeting dates after the public hearing and before presentation to two boards

The 5th Charter Commission reviewed the timeline for finalizing charter language and public presentation procedures. The committee approved specific language regarding advisory petitions and the submission of proposals for legal review.

• Adopted previous meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved language preventing select-board from barring advisory petitions that reached the threshold (4-1)
• Approved language allowing petitioners to submit proposals to select-board and school board for legal review before seeking signatures

Inactive Boards

The 5th Charter Commission will meet to walk through and discuss specific proposed language from August 16. The agenda also includes a discussion regarding a possible Town Manager.

• Review of proposed language for sections 103, 104, 301, 302, and 303
• Discussion of possible Town Manager
• Discussion of September public meeting date

The 5th Charter Commission voted to include Just Cause Eviction language in the charter. Members also discussed rental housing and reviewed language regarding a local option tax on cannabis.

• Adopted previous meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adopted Just Cause Eviction language into the charter (5-2)

Conservation Commission

The Hartford Conservation Commission is meeting to discuss climate change, the Town Forest Consolidated Plan, timber harvest updates, and draft wetland maps from the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources. They will also consider partnering on educational events and the Source to the Sea Clean-up. The agenda includes several routine items like approving minutes and updating the town website.

• Discussion of Town Forest Consolidated Plan and timber harvest public outreach
• Review of Vermont Agency of Natural Resources draft wetland maps
• Climate change discussion (20 min)
• Source to the Sea Clean-up planning
• Follow-up on unauthorized use of David Brown property

The Commission approved a request for the Hartford Area Career Technology Center to hold a Game of Logging class in the Town Forest. Members agreed to apply Climate Action Plan goals to three managed properties and approved the June 6 and July 11 meeting minutes.

• Approved June 6 and July 11 minutes by unanimous consent
• Approved HACTC Game of Logging class for week of October 3
• Agreed to apply Climate Action Plan goals to Town Forest, Maanawaka Conservation Area, and David Chang Conservation Area
• Agreed to include Land Acknowledgements at HCC sponsored events
• Decided not to include Wildlife Habitat Assessment in integrated plan
• Agreed to exclude earlier versions of the Forest Management Plan from integrated plan
• Approved allowing Quechee Library story walk signs to remain through the fall

Energy Commission

The Hartford Energy Commission will review and approve draft minutes from past meetings, receive updates from sub-committees on building efficiency and transportation, and discuss a potential quarterly newsletter schedule. No major decisions are listed on this procedural agenda.

• Review and approve draft minutes from past meetings
• Sub-committee updates: Building Integrity and Energy Efficiency, Transportation and Land Use
• Discussion on quarterly HEC Herald newsletter schedule
• FOIA outcome re: town lawyer
• Selectboard revision of charter and HEC members

The commission accepted amended minutes and noted that the Selectboard rescinded a bylaw change due to a conflict with the Town Charter. The Climate Advisory Committee was dissolved by the Selectboard, and CAST will now serve as a subcommittee of the Energy Commission.

• Approved amended minutes
• CAST established as a subcommittee of HEC

Resilient Hartford

The Resilient Hartford committee meets to discuss updates on the Clifford Park Food Forest project, including work outings, watering schedules, a rain gutter proposal, and budgeting. The group also reviews its mission and past meeting minutes.

• Clifford Park Food Forest Update: Work outing recap, next work outing, watering plan, rain gutter proposal, budget and fundraising

The committee approved the July 27, 2022, meeting minutes and agreed to revisions for the mission statement, which will be further discussed next month. Members received updates on Food Forest maintenance, budget, and a rain gutter proposal approved by the Parks and Recreation Department.

• Approved July 27, 2022, minutes (unanimous)
• Agreed to add Hartford Hazard Mitigation Plan and Climate Action Plan to mission statement
• Agreed to further discuss mission statement at September meeting

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard is meeting to discuss several items, including a proposed 42-unit mixed-income housing project at Prospect and Maple Streets in White River Junction, which may involve the town applying for a $400,000 VCDP grant. The board will also hear updates on a town-wide property revaluation, the police chief search, and a water main break at the Briggs building. Other agenda items include appointments, budget guidance for FY24, and a response to an alleged Open Meeting Law violation.

• Overview of Twin Pine Riverwalk WRJ Housing Project (42 units, $400K VCDP grant)
• Assessor update on town-wide revaluation
• Reappointment of Larsen Burns to Design Review Board (3-year term)
• Reallocation of General Funds for Bugbee Senior Center
• Response to complaint of alleged Open Meeting Law violation

The Selectboard approved funding for handicapped accessible doors at the Bugbee Senior Center and scheduled a public hearing for a housing project. The board also rescinded a previous motion regarding the Energy Commission's membership size following a legal complaint.

• Allocated up to $80,000 in ARPA funds for Bugbee Senior Center accessible doors (6-0-1)
• Approved public hearing on Sept 6 for Twin Pine Riverwalk WRJ Housing Project (Unanimous)
• Re-appointed Larson Burns to Design Review Board for a three-year term (Unanimous)
• Approved participation in VLCT Welcoming and Engaging Communities Cohort (4-1-2)
• Appointed Ally Tufenkjian as Selectboard Liaison to Committee on Housing and Homelessness (6-0-1)
• Rescinded July 12 motion on Energy Commission membership and approved response to Open Meeting Law complaint (Unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including payroll and A/P manifests (Unanimous)

Inactive Boards

The Hartford 5th Charter Commission is meeting to review and discuss proposed language for the town charter, including sections on town meeting procedures, elected officers, and town manager duties. The agenda includes public comments, approval of previous minutes, and scheduling future meetings. This is a working session focused on refining the draft charter language.

• Review of proposed language for charter sections 103, 104, 201, 202, 203, 301, 302, 303
• Discussion of rental housing regulation (section 17) and local option tax (section 104)
• Discussion of cannabis reserve fund language
• Discussion of town meeting petition and tie vote procedures
• Discussion of school officer and BCA vs JP terminology

The commission adopted previous meeting minutes and reviewed various proposed language changes regarding elections, quorums, and officer roles. Discussions on rental housing and local option tax were postponed.

• Adopted previous meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Postponed discussion of rental housing
• Postponed discussion of local option tax

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion (HCOREI) is meeting remotely to discuss several items, including updates from working groups, a revised charge, the police chief selection advisory group, funding requests, and the Climate Action Plan. The committee will also approve minutes from the previous meeting.

• Approval of meeting minutes from Aug 3rd
• Working group check-ins: Strategic Plan, Tuck Business School pitch, RHRR, Education, Policy
• Discussion of updated charge
• Police Chief Selection Advisory group update
• Funding requests: ARPA money for Community Safety Review sent to Selectboard; community equity grant application

The committee approved the August 3rd meeting minutes and coordinated topics for an upcoming Selectboard meeting on August 23. Members discussed funding requests for a Community Safety Review and future Juneteenth events.

• Approved meeting minutes from Aug. 3rd (unanimous)

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Climate Action Steering Team is meeting to approve past minutes, follow up on a Select Board presentation, and decide which projects to focus on over the next year. They will also discuss a webinar from Vermont Law School and a proposed 4.125 MW solar field off Route 14.

• Review and approve draft minutes from 05/18/22 and 06/03/22 meetings
• Select Board presentation follow up
• Discussion on projects for CAST to focus on over the next year
• Vermont Law School community decarbonization technical assistance webinar follow up
• Proposed 4.125 MW, 14.7 acre solar field off of Route 14

The Climate Advisory Committee was disbanded, with CAST becoming a permanent group under the Energy Committee. The board approved minutes from May 18 and June 1.

• Approved May 18 and June 1 minutes
• Disbanded Climate Advisory Committee
• Established CAST as a permanent group under the Energy Committee

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard is meeting to discuss and act on routine business, including a proclamation for Parks and Recreation Month, an executive session on a public officer's employment, and FY24 operating budget priorities for the Climate Action Plan. The agenda also includes a town manager's report, public comment, and consent agenda items. Most items are procedural or informational, with no major votes on new ordinances or contracts.

• Executive session to discuss employment, appointment, or evaluation of a public officer
• Climate Action Plan FY24 Operating Budget Priorities discussion
• Parks and Recreation Month declaration
• Consent agenda: approve payroll, minutes, accounts payable, and meeting dates
• Town manager's report notes police chief finalist interviews and $483,000 VTrans grant for North Hartland Road bike/ped project

The Selectboard voted to dissolve the Climate Advisory Committee and approve the Climate Action Steering Team as a working group of the Hartford Energy Commission. The board also approved the consent agenda and held an executive session regarding a public officer.

• Dissolved Climate Advisory Committee and approved Climate Action Steering Team as a working group of the Hartford Energy Commission (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including payroll ending 8/13/2022 and A/P manifests for 8/12/2022 and 8/16/2022 (unanimous, one abstention on 8/2 minutes)
• Approved meeting minutes for 7/26/2022 and 8/2/2022 (unanimous, one abstention on 8/2 minutes)
• Approved Selectboard meetings for 9/6/2022 and 9/20/2022 (unanimous)
• Entered and subsequently closed Executive Session to discuss the employment, appointment, or evaluation of a Public Officer (unanimous)

Inactive Boards

The Hartford 5th Charter Commission is meeting to review proposed charter language, including a new tied-election process, recall provisions, petition rules, and just-cause eviction and housing measures. The agenda also includes public comments, approval of July 28 minutes, and discussion of public sessions and outreach. This is a working session focused on refining draft language.

• Review of proposed tied election process
• Discussion of recall necessity
• Review of petition language
• Discussion of just cause eviction and housing
• Public comments and outreach planning

The 5th Charter Commission reviewed a draft of the town charter covering housing regulation, taxes, and officer appointments. Members discussed recall language and the creation of a public feedback email.

• Adopted previous meeting minutes (unanimous)

Sister Cities Committee

The Hartford Sister City Committee is meeting to handle routine business: approving July minutes, electing officers, and reviewing bylaws. They will also discuss the Hartford-Cenon logo contest prize presentation and get an official count of attendees for the November festival in Cenon, France.

• Election of officers
• Review and update Sister City bylaws
• Hartford-Cenon Sister City logo contest prize winner and check presentation photo op
• Festival Toutes Latitudes in Cenon, France, November 2-6, 2022, attendee count

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Selectboard is meeting to discuss overarching goals and guidance for the upcoming fiscal year budget. The discussion includes considerations for staff negotiations, inflation, and long-term town priorities.

• Discussion of FY 24 operating budget priorities
• Review of budget guidance documents from previous fiscal years
• Ongoing negotiations with IBEW Local 300 (Public Works and Parks and Recreation)
• Ongoing negotiations with Hartford Police Benevolent Association Local 405

The Selectboard met for a special session that included board training. Town Manager Tracy Yarlott-Davis presented the FY 24 Operating Budget Priorities.

Town and School Meeting Committee

The Hartford Town and School Meeting Committee is meeting to recap the 2022 annual meeting cycle and update its task schedule. Members will also discuss the status and timing of postcards and communication with the Town and School District.

• Review of 2022 Annual Town & School Meeting Cycle Recap
• Discussion of postcard status and timing
• Communication planning with Town and School District

The committee reviewed the task schedule and agreed on font and date changes for the 2023 meeting cycle postcard. Members discussed floorplans and potential venue changes for Town Meeting Day.

• Approved June 8, 2022 meeting minutes
• Agreed to font and date changes for 2023 town and school meeting cycle postcard

West Hartford Library Trustees

This is a routine monthly meeting of the West Hartford Library Trustees. The agenda contains only standard procedural items such as reports from the secretary, treasurer, and director, along with old and new business. No specific decisions or discussions are detailed in the agenda.

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

The Board approved the June 2022 meeting minutes and authorized Sandie Cary to communicate directly with the Select Board regarding a proposed open bottle law. Discussions on policy reviews, the Director's holiday schedule, and pay were tabled until September.

• Approved June 2022 meeting minutes
• Approved direct communication between Sandie Cary and Select Board regarding open bottle law proposal
• Tabled annual review plan for policies and by-laws until September
• Tabled discussion of Director’s holiday schedule and pay until September

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission will discuss a proposed zoning district change for an area on Route 5/Ballardvale Drive/Jasmin Lane in White River Junction, from Industrial/Commercial Two (IC-2) to General Commercial/Residential (GCR) to allow residential and mixed-use development. They will also discuss amending zoning regulations to allow recreational vehicles (RVs) to be used as sleeping quarters beyond the current 14-day limit, with conditions. The meeting includes approval of minutes and other business.

• Zoning district change from IC-2 to GCR for Route 5/Ballardvale Drive/Jasmin Lane, White River Junction
• Discussion on amending zoning regulations to allow RVs as sleeping quarters beyond 14 days per year
• Possible action on a Zoning Bylaw Amendment and Planning Commission Reporting Form
• Review of minutes from May 16, 2022 Planning Commission meeting

The Planning Commission approved a reporting form and scheduled a public hearing for a proposed 'General Commercial/Residential' zoning district to allow mixed-use development. The commission also held an informal discussion regarding the use of recreational vehicles as sleeping quarters but took no formal action on the proposal.

• Approved Minutes of May 16th meeting
• Approved Planning Commission Reporting Form for GCR bylaw amendment (6-0)
• Scheduled GCR zoning district public hearing for September 7th or 8th (6-0)

Inactive Boards

The 5th Charter Commission will meet to review proposed language regarding a new tied election process. The commission will also discuss public sessions, email, and listservs.

• Review of proposed language for new tied election process
• Discussion of public session(s) and email/listservs
• Review of July 28, 2022, minutes

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Hartford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a continued public hearing on Application #12-22 by Joy Kosta for a setback waiver under section 260-52 of the Hartford Zoning Regulations, for a shed at 62 Harry Gibbs Street in a VR-1 zoning district. The hearing begins with a site visit at 10:00 a.m., followed by the board's consideration. This is a continuation from July 25, 2022.

• Application #12-22: setback waiver for shed at 62 Harry Gibbs Street, lot 31-0094-001
• Public hearing continued from July 25, 2022
• Site visit at 62 Harry Gibbs Street before hearing
• Appeals to Vermont Environmental Court possible for interested persons

The Zoning Board of Adjustment denied an application for a setback waiver for a proposed shed. Board members cited concerns regarding the structure's height, orientation, and compatibility with the surrounding area's development pattern.

• Denied setback waiver for shed at 62 Harry Gibbs Street (0-4)

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion will discuss the Town Manager’s DEI Strategic Plan Review. Members will also review progress on the committee's updated charge and various working group updates. The meeting includes discussions on climate action and police chief selection advisory status.

• Review of Town Manager’s DEI Strategic Plan Review document
• Review of Climate Action Plan next steps document
• Status of HCOREI message to Town Manager and Selectboard regarding Police Chief Selection
• Status of ARPA funding requests for Community Safety Review
• Discussion of grant funding for diversity training

The committee approved an increased funding request for a Community Safety Review and supported a grant application for the VT community foundation. Members discussed the Town Manager's DEI Strategic Plan and a potential project partnership with Tuck Business School.

• Approved July 20 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved increasing ARPA funds request from $30k to $40k for Community Safety Review (unanimous)
• Approved finalizing the VT community foundation equity and inclusive communities grant application (unanimous)

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Climate Action Steering Team (CAST) is meeting to review past minutes, hear updates on outreach and ARPA funds, and decide which projects to prioritize over the next year. The Select Board will also give a presentation. This is a regular working meeting, not a final decision-making session.

• Review and approve draft minutes from 05/18/22 meeting
• CAST outreach to Hartford Commission/Committees update
• ARPA update
• Discussion on projects for the next year
• Select Board presentation

The committee discussed creating a solar overlay district to designate preferred sites for community solar. Members also reviewed proposed changes to commercial zoning to increase housing density near employment areas.

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Selectboard will issue a statement addressing the release of an email by member Rocket containing assessments of town staff. The board will also evaluate the Town Manager's performance in an executive session.

• Selectboard statement on the release and publication of Rocket's email
• Evaluation of Town Manager's performance in executive session

The Selectboard approved a formal statement apologizing to town staff for the personal and professional pain caused by an email released by member Rocket. The statement characterizes the release as a lapse in judgment and a breakdown in process. The board also discussed the need for training on Open Meeting and Public Records laws.

• Approved Selectboard statement regarding the release of Rocket's email (6-0)

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission will meet in person and remotely to review administrative matters and hold four public hearings on zoning applications. The hearings include a planned development for St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, boundary line adjustments, a subdivision, and a site development plan for a multi-unit dwelling and performing arts facility.

• Final approval of Planned Development for St. Paul’s Episcopal Church and Twin Pines Housing Trust at 747 Hartford Avenue
• Boundary line adjustment between lots on Robert Frost Lane, Quechee
• Subdivision of lot 07-0083-000 into two lots in Quechee Lakes Planned Development
• Site Development Plan Approval for multi-unit dwelling and performing arts facility at 140, 146, 160, and 178 Gates Street, White River Junction

The Planning Commission granted final approval for a Planned Development at 747 Hartford Avenue and approved two applications in the Quechee Lakes Planned Development. One application for a performing arts facility was not opened at the applicant's request.

• Approved Planned Development for St. Paul’s Episcopal Church and Twin Pines Housing Trust (5-2)
• Approved boundary line adjustment for Ennis Construction, Inc. (unanimous)
• Approved subdivision of lot 07-0083-000 for Q.L. Resorts Limited Partnership (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of June 20, 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of June 27, 2022 (unanimous)

Energy Commission

The Commission will review sub-committee updates regarding building integrity, energy efficiency, and transportation. Members will also discuss a community decarbonization webinar and a proposal for quarterly newsletters.

• Building Integrity and Energy Efficiency sub-committee update
• Transportation and Land Use sub-committee update
• CAST update
• Trailblazers next steps
• Proposal for quarterly HEC Herald newsletters

The Hartford Energy Commission approved a motion to change the HEC Herald newsletter to a quarterly publication. The commission also welcomed new members appointed by the Selectboard following a bylaw change allowing non-residents and students to join. Subcommittees reported on ongoing projects, including a $3,060 grant for window inserts and a $20,000 funding commitment for a women's energy training program.

• Approved motion to make HEC Herald quarterly
• Approved June minutes as presented
• Welcomed new members Shylo Grace, Trevor Laughlin, and Esme Cole
• Confirmed Selectboard passed bylaw change allowing non-resident/student membership
• Reported $3,060 grant for low-income window inserts
• Reported $20,000 funding commitment for Trailblazers women's energy program
• Noted Selectboard declined to designate Christian Street land as preferred solar site

Inactive Boards

The 5th Charter Commission is meeting to review specific proposed language changes for the town charter. The commission will discuss sections regarding local option tax, clerk language, quorum requirements, and a new tied election process.

• Review of Section 123A-104 regarding local option tax
• Review of Section 123A-301c regarding clerk language
• Review of Section 123a-203 regarding 2E quorum
• Discussion of a new tied election process
• Review of the proposed calendar of events leading to the charter vote

The Hartford 5th Charter Commission adopted an addendum clarifying town clerk hours and new language regarding quorum requirements. The commission tabled discussions on cannabis tax, tie votes, and committee appointments pending further information or preparation. Members also agreed to survey participants to find a better meeting time.

• Adopted minutes from previous meeting (unanimous consent)
• Adopted addendum clarifying town clerk hours
• Adopted new quorum language (motion by Dan, seconded by Nancy)
• Tabled cannabis tax discussion pending clarity from Montpelier
• Tabled tie vote language pending preparation by F.X. Flinn
• Deferred committee appointments language pending response from VCLT
• Agreed to poll members for a new meeting time

Resilient Hartford

The Resilient Hartford committee is meeting to discuss the Hartford Hazard Mitigation Plan, updates on the Clifford Park Food Forest including work outings and a watering plan, and a Climate Action Plan update. The meeting is open to the public with remote access options.

• Hartford Hazard Mitigation Plan discussion (20 min)
• Clifford Park Food Forest update: work outings, watering plan, rain gutter proposal, Abenaki Garden, budget/fundraising (30 min)
• Climate Action Plan update (5 min)
• Resilient Hartford workshops (10 min)

The committee approved the June 22, 2022, meeting minutes. Members discussed the history of the Hazard Mitigation Plan and coordinated updates for the Food Forest, including a donated gutter system for water collection.

• Approved June 22, 2022, minutes (unanimous consent)
• Agreed to add discussion of RH mission to August 24 agenda
• Agreed to proceed with donated rain gutter system from HP Roofing

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will consider several postponed items, including contracts for HR software (Namely) and structural turnout gear, a loan amendment for combined sewer outflow, a review of the DEI strategic plan, the police collective bargaining agreement, and housing and homelessness. The board will also hear the Town Manager's report and approve routine consent agenda items.

• Contract for Namely HR software: $4,000 implementation, $19,800 annual subscription
• Police collective bargaining agreement
• Loan amendment for combined sewer outflow
• Review of DEI strategic plan and implementation step
• Housing and homelessness discussion

The Selectboard established a standing committee for Housing and Homelessness and approved contracts for HR software and fire gear. The board also increased a borrowing limit for a sewer outflow project.

• Approved one-year agreement with Namely for onboarding and support (7-0)
• Authorized purchase of structural turnout gear from Reynolds & Sons, Inc. (7-0)
• Approved increasing borrowing limit for 1272 Order Permit #3-1225 by $38,000 (7-0)
• Approved standing committee for Housing and Homelessness (5-1-1)
• Approved payroll ending 7/23/2022, A/P Manifests for 7/22 and 7/26, and 7/12 minutes

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Hartford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings on two applications: a setback waiver for a shed and a conditional use approval for a low barrier shelter and office building. The shelter application was continued from a previous meeting. The board will also handle administrative matters such as approving minutes and receiving public comment.

• Application #12-22 by Joy Kosta for a setback waiver for a shed at 62 Harry Gibbs Street, Hartford (VR-1 district)
• Application #09-22 by The Upper Valley Haven, Inc. for Conditional Use Approval for a Low Barrier Shelter and Office Building at 713 Hartford Avenue, Wilder (Planned Development)
• Minutes of June 15 and June 22, 2022
• Projects that received administrative approval
• Public comment

The Board denied a conditional use application for a low-barrier shelter and office building at 713 Hartford Avenue. A setback waiver request for a shed at 62 Harry Gibbs Street was continued pending a site visit.

• Denied conditional use for low-barrier shelter and office building at 713 Hartford Avenue (3-2)
• Continued setback waiver application for shed at 62 Harry Gibbs Street to August 4, 2022
• Approved June 15, 2022 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved June 22, 2022 minutes (unanimous)

White River Junction Design Review Committee

The Hartford Design Review Committee will review an application from Northern Stage Company to demolish a garage as part of a proposed multi-unit dwelling and performing arts facility on Gates Street in White River Junction. The meeting will also include approval of minutes from the July 7, 2022 session.

• Application by Northern Stage Company for demolition of garage at 140, 146, 160, and 178 Gates Street, White River Junction
• Review of proposed Multi Unit Dwelling and Performing Arts Facility

The Design Review Committee approved the demolition of a garage at 140, 146, 160, and 178 Gates Street. The decision was based on financial hardship as outlined in the Zoning Regulations.

• Approved demolition of garage at 140, 146, 160 and 178 Gates Street (unanimous)
• Approved July 7, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion (HCOREI) is meeting remotely to review working group updates, discuss next steps for the Climate Action Plan, and consider a proposal to update its charge to add student voting members to the committee. The meeting also includes approval of minutes from June 15 and a debrief on Juneteenth events.

• Proposal to update committee charge to add student voting members
• Discussion of Climate Action Plan next steps and potential new working group
• Working group check-ins: Juneteenth debrief, RHRR, Strategic Plan, Education, Policy
• Approval of meeting minutes from June 15

The committee approved a request for up to $30,000 in ARPA funding to support a Community Safety Review. Members also decided to draft a statement to the Selectboard regarding the lack of people of color on the Police Chief Selection Advisory committee.

• Approved request for up to $30k in ARPA funding for Community Safety Review (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved motion for Pat to draft a statement on the police chief selection process for Selectboard review (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved June 15 meeting minutes (unanimous voice approval)

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Climate Action Steering Team (CAST) is meeting to review minutes, hear updates on outreach and Planning and Zoning Climate Action Plan (CAP) projects, receive an ARPA update, and decide which projects to focus on over the next year. The meeting also includes a presentation from the Select Board. This is a regular working meeting, not a final decision-making session.

• Review and approve draft minutes from 05/18/22 meeting
• Update on CAST outreach to Hartford commissions and committees
• Lori update on Planning and Zoning CAP related projects
• ARPA update
• Select Board presentation

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission will review a proposal from Northern Stage to remove garages listed as contributing resources in the White River Junction Historic District. The meeting also includes updates on historic district signs and the Hartford Performing Arts History Project.

• Northern Stage proposal to remove garages at 146 Gates Street
• Discussion of Historic District Signs
• Hartford Performing Arts History Project update

The Historic Preservation Commission approved a proposal to demolish garages at 146 Gates Street, determining the buildings lost their historic integrity. The commission also revised the scope of a 2022 CLG Grant for performing arts history and decided to skip the August meeting.

• Approved support for demolition of garages at 146 Gates Street (3-0)
• Accepted meeting notes from June 15, 2022
• Expanded 2022 CLG Grant scope to include churches, schools, and fraternal organizations
• Removed the six-interview limit for oral histories in the CLG Grant
• Set consultant proposal submission period to four weeks for CLG Grant
• Agreed to skip the August meeting

Sister Cities Committee

The Hartford Sister City Committee is meeting to decide the prize amount and presentation venue for the Hartford-Cenon Sister City logo contest winner, and to discuss a display at the Quechee Gorge Visitors' Center. They will also review and update the Sister City bylaws and make plans to attend the Festival Toutes Latitudes in Cenon, France, in November.

• Decide prize amount and venue for logo contest winner
• Discuss Sister City display at Quechee Gorge Visitors' Center
• Review and update Sister City bylaws
• Plan attendance at Festival Toutes Latitudes in Cenon, France, November 2-6

The committee approved a $100 cash prize for a student's logo submission. Members discussed a delegation for the Toutes L’Atitudes Festival in Cenon and tabled a potential by-law change.

• Approved June meeting minutes
• Approved $100 cash prize for student Ayo's logo submission
• Tabled potential by-law change
• Scheduled next meeting for August 16 at the Visitor Center

Inactive Boards

The Hartford 5th Charter Commission meets to review proposed charter language, including a local option tax section and sections on the clerk and board of civil authority. The commission will also receive public comments and approve minutes from the June 16 meeting. This is a working session focused on refining draft language.

• Review of Section 123A-104 on local option tax
• Review of Sections 123A-203(b) and (g) on clerk and BCA
• Review of Section 123A-203 2E on quorum
• Public comments period
• Minutes of June 16, 2022

The 5th Charter Commission met on 14 July 2022 and adopted its previous meeting's minutes by unanimous consent. It provisionally adopted a language change moving the Town Clerk from the elected portion of the charter to the appointed officers section. Other items — alternate meeting times, quorum language, and a local option tax — were discussed but left for further work, with no final decisions recorded.

• Adopted previous meeting's minutes by unanimous consent
• Provisionally adopted language moving Town Clerk to appointed officers section (moved by FX, seconded by Lynn)
• Alternate meeting times: no decision, will follow up with a poll
• Quorum language: no decision, Lynn to continue research and drafting
• Local option tax: no decision, Lannie to continue work and draft language

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Hartford Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to discuss the community center and hear a report from the director. The agenda includes a discussion with the Hartford Energy Commission, but no specific decisions or proposals are listed. The meeting is largely procedural, with routine items like minutes approval and citizen comments.

• Discussion with Hartford Energy Commission
• Community Center discussion
• Director's Report

The Hartford Parks and Recreation Commission approved the May minutes and voted to accept an attachment from the Hartford Energy Commission as an attachment to the July minutes for future consideration. The Commission discussed a request to submit a report on energy conservation activities, tree planting at Clifford Park with Resilient Hartford, and pool operations. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was largely informational and procedural.

• Approved May minutes (no meeting in June)
• Accepted Hartford Energy Commission attachment as attachment to July minutes for future consideration

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Climate Advisory Committee is holding what appears to be its final regular meeting, with a 40-minute agenda item dedicated to dissolving the committee. No future meetings are planned. The meeting will be held in person and via Microsoft Teams.

• Agenda item III: Dissolving CAC (40 minutes)

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will meet July 12 at Town Hall to discuss progress on a 2019 diversity-equity-inclusion strategic plan, consider appointments, and act on several contracts. The meeting is open to the public in person or via Zoom and YouTube.

• Consider appointment of Victoria Chase to Resilient Hartford for a three-year term
• Review of DEI Strategic Plan and Implementation Steps
• Proposed ordinance change: Prohibition of Open Containers
• Approve payroll ending 7/9/2022 and meeting minutes of 6/28/2022 & 7/6/2022
• Award contracts for line stripping, structural turnout gear, water filter media replacement, and Namely software

The Selectboard voted to establish itself as the Local Cannabis Control Commission, authorizing the Town Manager to develop the necessary administrative processes. Additionally, the board approved revisions to the HCOREI charge and updated bylaws for the Energy Commission. A motion to table a police contract for executive session discussion failed in a 1-5 vote.

• Approved resolution to act as Local Cannabis Control Commission (unanimous)
• Approved revised HCOREI charge (unanimous)
• Approved Energy Commission bylaw changes (4-2)
• Approved consent agenda (unanimous)
• Denied motion to table police contract (1-5)

Conservation Commission

The Hartford Conservation Commission is meeting to discuss implementation of the Climate Action Plan, review draft wetland maps from the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, and receive updates on the town forest timber harvest and related public outreach. The agenda also includes several short updates on local projects and events. Most items are discussions or updates, with no final decisions or votes listed.

• Climate Action Plan strategies and implementation discussion
• Vermont Agency of Natural Resources draft wetland maps review
• Town forest timber harvest update and public outreach
• Trail map/signs and forest interpretive signs for town forest
• Wetlands question from Harvest Lane resident

The Conservation Commission voted 6-0 to develop a permanent educational series on healthy forest management. It also agreed to hold eight Town Forest public outreach sessions and consented to the annual Hurricane Hill Trail Run. Much of the meeting involved updates and planning, including the Winter 2023 timber harvest and climate action priorities.

• Approved 6-0 a permanent educational series on healthy forest management
• Agreed to hold eight Town Forest public outreach informational sessions
• Consented to the annual Hurricane Hill Trail Run on July 23
• Agreed to include Bird Habitat Assessment and Bat Inventory in the Integrated Town Forest Management Plan
• Agreed to add Maanawaka and David Chang Conservation Area info to the HCC webpage
• Postponed approval of June 6 draft minutes to next meeting

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission will hold a remote public hearing on July 11, 2022, to consider two applications from The Upper Valley Haven and St. Paul's Episcopal Church. The first application seeks site development plan approval for changes at the Haven, including adding 'Food Distribution' as a conditional use and shared parking. The second application requests approval for a low barrier shelter and office building, with 'Low Barrier Shelter' as a conditional use. Both are for properties on Hartford Avenue in Wilder.

• Application #22-11: Site development plan for changes at Upper Valley Haven, amendment to Master Plan for 'Food Distribution' as conditional use, shared parking at 713 and 749 Hartford Avenue, Wilder
• Application #22-15: Site development plan for Low Barrier Shelter and Office Building (day station/resource center), amendment to Master Plan for 'Low Barrier Shelter' as conditional use at 713 Hartford Avenue, Wilder
• Public hearing continued from June 20, 2022
• Remote meeting via Microsoft Teams and phone

White River Junction Design Review Committee

The Hartford Design Review Committee will meet to review an application from Northern Stage Company for a multi-unit dwelling and performing arts facility on Gates Street in White River Junction. The committee will also consider the minutes from its June 14, 2022 meeting.

• Application by Northern Stage Company for Design Review Approval of a Multi-Unit Dwelling and Performing Arts Facility
• Lots 45-0150-000, 45-0151-000, and 45-0152-000
• Addresses: 140, 146, 160, and 178 Gates Street, White River Junction
• Located in CB and Design Review Districts
• Minutes of June 14, 2022

The Hartford Design Review Committee approved Northern Stage Company's application for a multi-unit dwelling and performing arts facility at 140, 146, 160 and 178 Gates Street in White River Junction. The approval is conditioned on the applicant returning with additional information on how the proposed demolition of a contributing garage meets the review criteria. The committee also unanimously approved the minutes of its June 14, 2022 meeting. No other applications were decided.

• Approved Northern Stage multi-unit dwelling and performing arts facility at 140, 146, 160 and 178 Gates Street, conditioned on applicant returning with information on how the garage demolition meets review criteria (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of the June 14, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will vote on the Fiscal Year 2023 municipal tax rate of $1.0471 per $100 of assessed value, which raises $14.78 million in revenue. They will also approve the July 1, 2022 accounts payable manifest and discuss training options for board members, including proposals for communications and town manager evaluation services. An executive session is scheduled to discuss a public officer's employment.

• Set FY2023 municipal tax rate at $1.0471 per $100, total appropriation $14,779,538
• Approve A/P manifest dated 7/1/2022
• Consider contract with Abundant Sun for 2-hour communications training at $1,175
• Consider contract with Bev Widger (HRXperienced) for town manager evaluation, not to exceed $1,500
• Executive session to discuss employment of a public officer

The Hartford Selectboard approved the Fiscal Year 2022 municipal tax rate, setting the total town tax rate at $1.0471 per $100 of assessed value. The board also approved the July 1, 2022 accounts payable manifest and authorized two contracts: communications training with Abundant Sun for $1,175 and a Town Manager evaluation process with HRXperienced not to exceed $1,500. The board entered executive session to discuss a public officer's employment, appointment, or evaluation, then adjourned at 7:53 PM.

• Approved FY2022 municipal tax rate: total town tax rate $1.0471, total appropriation $14,779,538 (unanimous)
• Approved A/P manifest of July 1, 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved contract with Abundant Sun for 2-hour communications training at $1,175 (7-0)
• Approved contract with HRXperienced for Town Manager evaluation process not to exceed $1,500 (7-0)
• Entered executive session to discuss employment, appointment, or evaluation of a public officer (7-0)
• Closed executive session at 7:52 PM (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:53 PM (unanimous)

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Climate Action Steering Team (CAST) is meeting to review minutes, discuss outreach to town commissions, receive an ARPA update, and decide on priority projects for the coming year. They will also discuss the future of trash and recycling in Hartford and whether to remain a working group or seek committee status.

• Review and approve draft minutes from 05/18/22 meeting
• CAST outreach to Hartford Commission/Committees update
• ARPA update
• Discussion on projects to focus on over the next year
• Discussion on future of trash & recycling in Hartford

The Hartford Climate Action Committee (CAST) met on July 6, 2022, approved its May 18, 2022 minutes, and discussed outreach, a report to the Selectboard, 2022 climate priorities, ARPA spending, community projects, and the future of town trash. The group decided by consensus to remain an informal body rather than become an official town committee, with Dana Clason to report that to the Selectboard. No formal motions, votes, or dollar amounts were recorded; the trash privatization discussion was DPW's proposal, not a committee decision.

• Approved minutes of May 18, 2022
• Agreed to keep informal status rather than become an official committee; Dana Clason to report to the Selectboard
• Dana Clason to draft a matrix report to the Selectboard on gathered information
• Laura Simon and Carolyn Hooper to lead mapping of town-owned lands
• John Reid to begin work in August on moving community projects forward

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The committee will discuss working group updates, including a Juneteenth debrief and potential ARPA fund requests. Members will also discuss the Climate Action Plan and a proposal to add student voting members to the committee.

• Discussion of potential ARPA funds request
• Climate Action Plan next steps and potential new working group
• Proposal to add student voting members to the committee
• Approval of June 15 meeting minutes

Inactive Boards

The Hartford 5th Charter Commission is meeting to review proposed charter language, including a local option tax section and sections on the Clerk, Board of Civil Authority, and quorum requirements. The meeting includes public comments and approval of prior minutes. This is a working session focused on refining draft language.

• Review of Section 123A-104 on local option tax
• Review of Sections 123A-203(b) and (g) on Clerk and BCA
• Review of Section 123A-203 2E on quorum
• Public comment period (5 minutes)
• Approval of June 16, 2022 minutes

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Selectboard will review the condition of the Solid Waste Transfer Facility and discuss the future of curbside recycling services. The meeting also includes a public input session regarding the use of $2,856,537.14 in ARPA funds.

• Presentation on Solid Waste Transfer Facility condition and FY24 budget considerations
• Discussion on curbside recycling costs and the $330,000 anticipated FY23 expenditure
• Public input session for American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding
• Review of HADCES draft charge for a standing committee on homelessness and affordable housing
• Consideration of appointments to the Tree Board, West Hartford Library Trustees, Resilient Hartford, and Hartford Energy Commission

The Hartford Selectboard appointed Patti Newton Gray to the West Hartford Library Trustees and Shylo Grace to the Hartford Energy Commission, both by unanimous votes. A motion to enter executive session to discuss a public officer's employment failed 3-4. The Board also agreed to have the proposed charge for a new housing and homelessness committee worked on and brought back to a future meeting, and approved a consent agenda including payroll, minutes, and several contracts.

• Appointed Patti Newton Gray to West Hartford Library Trustees (term June 28, 2022–March 7, 2023) — passed, all in favor
• Appointed Shylo Grace to Hartford Energy Commission (term June 28, 2022–June 27, 2025) — passed, all in favor
• Motion to enter executive session to discuss employment/appointment/evaluation of a public officer — failed 3-4 (yes: Collins, Rocket, Tufenkjian; no: Souza, Fraser, Erdei, Hoyt)
• Agreed to have proposed charge for Hartford Committee on Housing and Homelessness worked on and brought back to a future meeting
• Approved consent agenda including payroll ending 6/25/2022, minutes of 6/14/2022, AIP manifest of 6/24/2022 & 6/28/2022, and contracts for sludge hauling, wastewater line cleaning, ambulance, and Green MT Economic Development Corp — passed, all in favor
• Adjourned meeting at 10:45 PM — passed, all in favor

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission will meet remotely on June 27, 2022, to review administrative matters and hold a public hearing on four zoning applications. The hearing includes a planned development for St. Paul’s Episcopal Church and Twin Pines Housing Trust, as well as boundary line adjustments and site development plans for properties on Jasmin Lane.

• Final approval of Planned Development for St. Paul’s Episcopal Church and Twin Pines Housing Trust at 747 Hartford Avenue
• Boundary line adjustment between lots at 60 and 98 Jasmin Lane
• Site Development Plan Approval for accessory structure addition and parking changes at 60 Jasmin Lane
• Site Development Plan Approval for Parking Facility and Office at 98 Jasmin Lane

Watson Dog Park

This is a routine business meeting of the Upper Valley Dog Park Supporters group. The agenda includes approving the secretary's minutes from March 26, 2022, hearing the treasurer's report, voting in new officers, and addressing new business. No substantive decisions or public hearings are listed.

• Review and approve minutes from March 26, 2022
• Treasurer's report
• Vote in new officers

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Hartford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings on three applications: a setback waiver for a garage, a conditional use for a new office in a flood hazard area, and a conditional use for an accessory structure addition and parking changes. The board will also review minutes and administrative approvals.

• Setback waiver for garage at 62 Harry Gibbs Street (Application #07-22, continued from May 24)
• Conditional use for new office at 9 Harrison Avenue, White River Junction (Application #10-22)
• Conditional use for accessory structure addition and parking changes at 60 Jasmin Lane (Application #11-22)
• Review of minutes from March 16, March 29, and May 24, 2022

Resilient Hartford

Resilient Hartford is meeting to discuss recommendations from the Climate Action Steering Team and the Climate Action Plan, and to receive an update on the Clifford Park Food Forest, including work outings, a watering plan, the Abenaki Garden, and budget/fundraising. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes and routine announcements.

• Climate Action Steering Team & Climate Action Plan recommendations (20 min discussion)
• Clifford Park Food Forest update: 6/3 work outing, next outing, watering plan/schedule
• Abenaki Garden update with Earl Hatley
• Food forest budget/fundraising discussion
• Minutes of May 25th Resilient Hartford meeting

The Resilient Hartford committee approved the May 25, 2022 minutes with a correction by unanimous consent. Members heard updates on the Food Forest, including a June 3 work outing, a July 6 work outing focused on the Abenaki Garden, and about $700 remaining in Fiscal Year 2022 funds. The committee discussed Climate Action Steering Team priorities and possible future projects, but took no formal votes on new initiatives. The meeting adjourned at 6:30 p.m.

• Approved May 25, 2022 minutes with a correction by unanimous consent
• No vote recorded on Food Forest purchases or budget carryover
• No vote recorded on Climate Action Steering Team priorities
• No vote recorded on Japanese Knotweed control project
• No vote recorded on Ratcliffe Park Food Forest idea

Tree Board

The Hartford Tree Board is meeting to finalize the Shade Tree Plan, evaluate ash tree treatment options, and discuss outreach and community engagement. They will also review site surveys, Balloon Festival participation, and the treasurer's report. The agenda includes several routine items such as protecting new plantings and planning a knotweed removal work day.

• Evaluate possible treatment of ash trees at Hartford High School (HHS) and plan tree replacements
• Finalize Shade Tree Plan
• Discuss plan to treat Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) per Leif's summary of Brad Goodkoep's recommendations
• Review 'Greenspace and Trees' section of Hartford Climate Action Plan, including reducing impervious surfaces by 2% by 2030 (e.g., Key Motors site on Sykes Ave)
• Sign up for Knotweed removal work day at Watson Park and Town Hall

The Hartford Tree Board approved its May 17 minutes as amended and supported encumbering the Tree Warden's FY22 funds into FY23. It agreed to pay the Tree Warden in quarterly installments starting July 1, with the first payment at the end of September. The Board decided to run a Quechee Balloon Festival booth again next year only if it can operate just on Saturday, and it tabled alerting the Select Board about ash tree treatment/removal funding until data on the number of ash trees is collected. Several items, including a letter on impervious surfaces and a summer tree walk, were left for future meetings.

• Approved May 17 minutes as amended (six trees removed, seven planted)
• Supported encumbering Tree Warden's FY22 funds into FY23
• Agreed to pay Tree Warden in quarterly installments beginning July 1, first payment end of September
• Decided to participate in Quechee Balloon Festival booth next year only if limited to Saturday
• Tabled alerting Select Board on ash tree treatment/removal funds until ash tree data is collected
• Will ask Tree Warden Jim Henderson to propose a plan to treat 5-6 ash trees at HHS entrance
• Will plan a summer tree walk for early September, date and location to be set at next meeting
• Jeff will suggest a Knotweed removal workday around the 2nd week of July at Watson and Lyman Parks

Sister Cities Committee

The Hartford Sister City Committee is meeting to discuss routine business, including accepting minutes, a logo contest update, a display at the Quechee Gorge Visitors' Center, and reviewing bylaws. They will also gather feedback from the June 15 Hartford Block Party. The meeting is largely procedural with updates and planning items.

• Logo contest update for Hartford-Cenon Sister City
• Sister City display at Quechee Gorge Visitors' Center
• Review and update of Sister City bylaws
• Feedback on Hartford Block Party held June 15

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission will hold a remote public hearing to consider three applications. These items involve site development plans and master plan amendments for multi-unit dwellings, food distribution, and a low barrier shelter.

• Application #22-13: Multi-unit dwelling at 747 Hartford Avenue
• Application #22-11: Food Distribution conditional use and shared parking at 713 and 749 Hartford Avenue
• Application #22-15: Low Barrier Shelter and Office Building at 713 Hartford Avenue

Assessor: Grievance Hearings

The Town of Hartford Assessor will hold grievance hearings on June 20-23, 2022, to hear appeals from property owners who are aggrieved by the assessor's actions. Hearings are scheduled in person and virtually, with some reviews conducted in the office. One appeal has been retracted.

• Hearing for 31 Elk St, owner Deborah K. Milne, June 20, 11:15-11:30 AM
• Hearing for 74 Laurel Ln, owner Susan F. Mullens Trust, June 20, 3:10-3:25 PM
• Hearing for 5817 Woodstock Rd, Quechee Gorge Friendship Inn Inc, June 21, 1:15-1:30 PM
• Hearing for 2820 Christina St, Terrace Communities Norwich LLC, June 21, 9:40-10:40 AM (virtual)
• Retracted appeal for 501 Bliss Rd, owners Wayne and Penelope Hoisington

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter is meeting online to review and approve minutes from May 19, 2022, and to discuss drafting a memo for the selectboard on creating a standing committee on homelessness. They will also discuss how to follow up with the Planning Commission regarding RV policy.

• Review and passage of 5/19/2022 meeting minutes
• Discuss potential charge for standing committee on homelessness
• Prepare memo for selectboard
• Discuss follow-up with Planning Commission on RV policy

The Hartford Ad Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter held its final meeting, approving the minutes from May 19 and the amended draft charge for a Standing Committee on Affordable Housing and Homelessness. Members also formed a workgroup to draft a memo for the June 28 selectboard meeting before adjourning.

• Approved amended minutes of May 19 (all in favor)
• Agreed on the wording of the Draft Charge for Standing Committee on Affordable Housing and Homelessness
• Formed a workgroup (Bryan, Simon, Scott) to draft a memo (all in favor)
• Passed the charge proposal as amended (all in favor)
• Adjourned the final meeting at 6:20 PM (all in favor)

Inactive Boards

The Hartford 5th Charter Commission is meeting to review proposed language for the town charter, including sections on town meetings, local option tax, petitions, and clerk duties. The meeting includes public comments, approval of prior minutes, and discussion of draft language and assignments. This is a working session focused on refining charter text, not a final decision-making meeting.

• Review of proposed Section 123A-201 on town meetings (Flinn)
• Review of proposed Section 123A-104 on local option tax (Collins)
• Review of proposed Section 123A-201(f) on petitions (Nott)
• Review of proposed Sections 123A-203(b) and (g) on clerk and BCA (Bohi)
• Public comments received at start of meeting

The 5th Charter Commission voted to adopt the minutes of its previous meeting and to accept new town meeting language. Members also discussed petition thresholds, local option taxes and cannabis revenue, and the Town Manager job description, but took no recorded action on those items. The meeting adjourned at 12:33 pm.

• Adopted minutes of previous meeting (unanimous consent)
• Set July and August meeting dates on the same schedule
• Accepted new town meeting language (moved, seconded, adopted)

Energy Commission

The Hartford Energy Commission is meeting to review and approve draft minutes, discuss the Trailblazers program and ARPA funds, and receive updates from sub-committees and working groups. The agenda also includes planning for a Selectboard meeting, a webinar, and the July HEC Herald. This is a routine business meeting with no major decisions listed.

• Review and approve draft minutes from past meetings
• Trailblazers program discussion
• ARPA funds discussion
• Selectboard meeting on 7/12
• Webinar on 7/27

The Hartford Energy Commission approved the May minutes and discussed several ongoing items. It has voted to revise its bylaws to allow non-residents as members, pending Selectboard approval, possibly on July 12. The Trailblazers program is delayed, with a subcommittee to be discussed at the July meeting, and the EV guide is finished and headed to the printer. No other substantive decisions were made; much of the meeting was updates and planning.

• Approved May minutes as presented (motion passed)
• Voted to revise bylaws to allow non-resident members, pending Selectboard approval

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Hartford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a remote public hearing to consider a conditional use application from The Upper Valley Haven for a low barrier shelter and office building at 713 Hartford Avenue in Wilder. This is a continuation of a hearing from June 8, 2022. The board will decide whether to grant conditional use approval under the town's zoning regulations.

• Application #09-22 by The Upper Valley Haven, Inc. for Conditional Use Approval for a Low Barrier Shelter and Office Building
• Location: 713 Hartford Avenue, Wilder, in a Planned Development
• Public hearing continued from June 8, 2022

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion will meet remotely to review working group updates, consider an updated charge proposal, and discuss the town's Climate Action Plan, focusing on health/safety and climate economy strategies. The meeting includes approval of June 1 minutes and new business.

• Approval of June 1 meeting minutes
• Working group check-ins: Juneteenth, RHRR, Strategic Plan, Education, Policy
• Discussion of updated Charge Proposal
• Climate Action Plan discussion: strategies HS1-HS4 (pp 8-6 to 8-9) and CE1-CE4 (pp 9-5 to 9-6)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Hartford Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to discuss several preservation matters, including a renovation project, a climate action plan review, and the potential state register eligibility of the Dewey Barn & Sheds. The agenda also includes updates on historic district signs, a railroad station canopy, and photo documentation of the Stetson Farm property.

• Craft Studies Building Renovation with guest Tim McCosker
• Climate Action Plan Review of Strategies
• Dewey Barn & Sheds Determination of State Register Eligibility
• WRJ Railroad Station Canopy
• Stetson Farm Property Photo Documentation West Hartford

The Hartford Historic Preservation Commission met to discuss project updates, including 35% architectural plans for the Craft Studies building renovation at 608 North Main Street, historic district sign repairs, and reports on the Quechee Dewey Barn and Stetson Farm. The meeting involved informational updates and discussions with no formal votes or binding decisions recorded.

White River Junction Design Review Committee

The Hartford Design Review Committee will meet to review conceptual plans by Northern Stage Company for redeveloping properties at 146, 160, and 178 Gates Street in White River Junction. The committee will also consider minutes from its May 19, 2022 meeting. This is an administrative review, not a final approval.

• Sketch plan review of Northern Stage Company's conceptual redevelopment plans for 146, 160, and 178 Gates Street
• Properties are in CB and Design Review districts
• Approval of minutes from May 19, 2022 meeting

The committee held a sketch plan review for the proposed redevelopment of 146, 160, and 178 Gates Street by Northern Stage Company. No formal approvals were granted during this session, as the meeting focused on reviewing conceptual design revisions and project materials. The committee also approved the minutes from the May 19, 2022, meeting.

• Approved minutes from May 19, 2022 (unanimous)
• Reviewed conceptual redevelopment plans for 146, 160, and 178 Gates Street

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will meet on June 14, 2022, to discuss and potentially act on several items, including a street closure request for a downhill skateboarding event, the Capital Improvement Plan, the FY23 fee schedule, a town forest timber harvest, and grant applications. The board will also hear public comment and receive reports from the town manager and commissions.

• Street closure request for Last Chance Downhill gravity sports race on Noyes Lane, Aug 6-7
• Capital Improvement Plan discussion
• FY23 Fee Schedule review
• Town Forest Timber Harvest proposal
• 2022 VT Bicycle & Pedestrian Program Grant Applications

The Hartford Selectboard approved two Vermont bicycle and pedestrian grant applications, including a $483,027 request for the North Hartland Road/Route 5 sidewalk and bike lane project with an added $72,000 in local funding, and a $150,000 request for the Hartford Avenue project. The board also adopted the FY23 fee schedule effective July 1, 2022, approved a winter 2023 Town Forest timber harvest, and granted a first and third class liquor license to Crazy Chris's Elixir Corp. at 188 South Main Street. A street closure request was approved, and Kim Souza was delegated to coordinate board development trainings and the Town Manager evaluation process.

• Approved 1st and 3rd Class liquor license for Christopher F. Brewer, DBA Crazy Chris's Elixir Corp., 188 South Main Street (5 in favor, 1 abstained, 1 recused)
• Approved street closure application as presented (6 in favor, 1 opposed)
• Adopted FY23 Fee Schedule, effective July 1, 2022 (all in favor)
• Approved Conservation Commission request to schedule winter 2023 Town Forest timber harvest (5 in favor, 2 not in favor)
• Approved submittal of $483,027 grant application for North Hartland Road/Route 5 sidewalk and bike lane project, authorized additional $72,000 local funding for total Town match of $120,757, accepted future maintenance, designated project priority 1, and authorized Town Manager to sign grant documents (6 in favor, 1 not in favor)
• Approved submittal of $150,000 Hartford Avenue VTrans grant application, authorized $188,342 expenditure with net local match of $113,342, accepted future maintenance, designated project priority 2, and authorized Town Manager to sign grant documents (all in favor)
• Delegated Kim Souza to coordinate board development trainings and Town Manager evaluation process for FY 2022-23 (5 in favor, 1 not in favor, 1 abstained)
• Accepted Consent Agenda including payroll ending 6/11/2022, minutes of 5/31/2022, A/P manifests of 6/10/2022 and 6/14/2022, and Selectboard meetings 7/12/2022 and 7/26/2022 (all in favor)

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Climate Advisory Committee is holding a regular meeting, with the main agenda item being the dissolution of the committee. The meeting includes call to order, agenda changes, and closing comments before adjournment.

• Dissolving the Climate Advisory Committee (CAC)
• Meeting held at Hartford Town Hall, Room 317, 171 Bridge Street, White River Junction

Town and School Meeting Committee

The Hartford Town & School Meeting Committee is meeting to review notes from the last meeting and revisit priorities for the 2023 cycle. They will also discuss an event planning template, including timeline and responsibilities, and schedule future meetings. The agenda is mostly procedural and planning-focused.

• Review notes from last meeting
• Revisit priorities for 2023 cycle
• Event planning template: timeline and responsibilities
• Schedule future meetings

The Hartford Town & School Meeting Committee met on June 8, 2022, and agreed to font and date changes for the 2023 town and school meeting cycle postcard, and to potentially rebrand the mailing for 2024. The committee also agreed to limited strategic placement of roadside signs and to use a postcard for all publicity instead of a postcard plus poster. The rest of the meeting consisted of discussions on event coordination, logistics, and marketing channels; no other formal decisions were recorded. The meeting adjourned by unanimous consent.

• Agreed to font and date changes for 2023 town and school meeting cycle postcard
• Agreed to potentially rebrand mailing for 2024 town and school meeting cycle postcard
• Agreed to limited strategic placement of roadside signs
• Agreed to use postcard for all publicity in lieu of postcard plus poster
• Adjourned by unanimous consent

Conservation Commission

The Hartford Conservation Commission is meeting to discuss and potentially act on several environmental items, including a climate action plan, draft wetland maps, and updates on timber harvests. They will also consider a formal relationship with a mountain biking association and review recent community events.

• Discussion of Climate Action Plan strategies and actions
• Review of draft wetland maps
• Timber harvest update and presentation to Selectboard
• Proposed formal relationship with Upper Valley Mountain Bike Association
• Trail map/signs and forest interpretive signs

The Commission approved the May 2, 2022 meeting minutes. Members brainstormed potential projects for American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding and discussed the upcoming Selectboard review of the Town Forest timber harvest.

• Approved May 2, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Agreed to post state wetland mapping public comment period on the List Serv
• Agreed to email project ideas for ARPA funding to Matt Osborn

Inactive Boards

The 5th Charter Change committee is meeting to review minutes, discuss new ideas, and refine written language for proposed charter changes. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific decisions or dollar amounts listed.

• Review of minutes
• Discussion of new ideas
• Review of written language changes from previous meetings

Hartford Business Revolving Loan Fund

The Hartford Business Revolving Loan Fund and Hartford 2020 VCDP Revolving Loan Fund Committee is meeting to approve prior minutes, review the April 2022 loan summary report, and discuss potential loans in executive session. The committee will also consider marketing efforts for the loan funds and the GMEDC contract. This is a routine business meeting with no public hearings or major decisions listed on the open agenda.

• Approval of March 9, 2022 meeting minutes
• Review of loan summary report for April 2022
• Update on potential loans (executive session)
• Marketing of HBRLF & VCDP RLF
• GMEDC contract discussion

The Hartford Business Revolving Loan Fund Committee approved minutes from its March 9, 2022 meeting and entered executive session to review the April 2022 confidential loan summary and potential applications, taking no action. The committee and GMEDC agreed the new contract for administering the revolving loan funds should run two years with compensation at current levels; the existing contract expires June 30, 2022 and can extend month-to-month. No contract was formally approved — a red-line draft will go to the committee and GMEDC before submission to the Selectboard.

• Approved March 9, 2022 HBRLF/VCDP committee minutes (unanimous)
• Entered executive session on April 2022 confidential loan summary and potential applications; no actions taken
• Agreed new GMEDC contract term should be two years at current compensation levels (no formal vote recorded)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:05 a.m. (unanimous)

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Climate Action Steering Team is meeting to review minutes, discuss outreach to town commissions, and cover topics including solar capacity, town solar projects, climate action plan education, tree education, and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Rural Playbook. The meeting is a regular working session with no formal votes or public hearings scheduled.

• Review and approve draft minutes from 05/18/22 meeting
• CAST outreach to Hartford Commission/Committees update
• Discussion of PV cap and town solar projects
• Climate action plan education and tree education updates
• Discussion of Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Rural Playbook

The Hartford CAST committee approved the minutes from its May 18, 2022 meeting and discussed committee outreach, solar energy caps, and community education plans. Members also reviewed a potential solar parcel on Christian Street and a federal infrastructure guide.

• Approved minutes of May 18, 2022

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion (HCOREI) is meeting remotely to discuss routine business, including approving minutes, community outreach events, and working group updates. A key item is a potential motion on an updated charge draft for the committee. The agenda also includes updates on recent events and the open Chief of Police position.

• Approve meeting minutes from May 18
• Tabling at Hartford Community Coalition Block Party (6/15) and First Friday/Revolution Parking Lot Party
• Working group check-ins: Juneteenth, RHRR, Strategic Plan, Education
• Potential motion on updated charge draft
• Chief of Police position posted, deadline June 10

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion approved the May 18 meeting minutes and voted to recommend a revised committee charge to the Select Board. The committee also coordinated community outreach efforts for upcoming events, including the First Friday event and the Juneteenth celebration.

• Approved May 18 meeting minutes
• Approved recommendation of revised committee charge to Select Board (unanimous)

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Selectboard will meet to discuss cannabis business licensing, review committee reports, and hear updates from the Town Manager. The meeting includes presentations on the budget process and post-employment benefits.

• Local Liquor Control Board review of Summit Stores LLC (3 Cat Coffee)
• Discussion of cannabis business licensing and zoning requirements
• Presentation on other post-employment benefits
• HCOREI strategic plan update
• Report on a structure fire at 583 Woodstock Road

The Selectboard approved liquor licenses for 3 Cat Coffee and extended the charge of the Hartford Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter until June 30, 2022. The board also entered into an executive session to discuss the employment or appointment of a public officer. Additionally, the board approved a consent agenda covering payroll, meeting minutes, and grant agreements.

• Approved liquor licenses for 3 Cat Coffee (5-0-1-1)
• Extended HADCES committee charge to June 30, 2022 (5-2)
• Entered and exited executive session regarding public officer employment
• Approved consent agenda including payroll and grant agreements (7-0)

Energy Commission

The Hartford Energy Commission is meeting to review and approve past meeting minutes, discuss collaboration with the Trailblazers Training Program, receive updates from subcommittees on building integrity and transportation, and hear from an AmeriCorps member. The agenda also includes planning for the June newsletter and items for the next meeting.

• Review and approve draft minutes from past meetings
• Discuss collaboration with Trailblazers Training Program
• Sub-committee updates: Building Integrity and Energy Efficiency, Transportation and Land Use
• CAST update: Planning Commission meeting and top priorities
• AmeriCorps member Jesse update

The Commission discussed a potential partnership for a green energy workforce training program and reviewed subcommittee updates on solar siting and building integrity. No final decisions were made regarding the training program funding. The Commission formally rescheduled its June meeting and approved a smaller format for the upcoming HEC Herald.

• Rescheduled June meeting from June 23 to June 16 (passed)
• Approved a small version for the June HEC Herald (passed)

Resilient Hartford

The Resilient Hartford committee is meeting to discuss recommendations from the Climate Action Steering Team and the Climate Action Plan, and to receive updates on the Clifford Park Food Forest project. The agenda also includes approval of prior minutes, a brief opening, scheduling the next meeting, and announcements.

• Climate Action Steering Team & Climate Action Plan recommendations discussion
• Clifford Park Food Forest update: spring planting, watering plan, flood regulations, budget/fundraising
• Abenaki Garden update with Earl Hatley
• Minutes of April 27th meeting approval

The Resilient Hartford committee approved its April 27, 2022 minutes and agreed that each member will review the Climate Action Plan's Local Food and Agriculture and Health and Safety chapters and bring priority strategies to the June 22 meeting. It also agreed to meet with the Food Forest Steering Committee to decide how to spend $766 remaining in its Fiscal Year 2022 budget, and agreed to pursue grant funding for an engineer/hydrologist study estimated at around $5,000 related to floodplain soil building. The group noted one open seat on the committee and signed up for a booth at the June 15 Hartford Community Coalition Block Party.

• Approved April 27, 2022 minutes as written (motion by Earl Hatley, seconded by Laura Simon, approved)
• Agreed each member will review CAP Local Food and Agriculture and Health and Safety chapters and bring priorities to the 6/22 meeting
• Agreed to meet with the Food Forest Steering Committee to decide how to spend $766 remaining in FY2022 budget
• Agreed to pursue funding for an engineer/hydrologist study estimated at around $5,000 for floodplain soil building
• Agreed to try recruiting a new member at the Block Party for the one open Resilient Hartford seat
• Adjourned at 5:50 p.m. (motion by Earl Hatley, seconded by Laura Simon, approved)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Hartford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a remote public hearing on May 24, 2022, to consider five applications, including setback waivers, riparian buffer improvements, and conditional use approvals for multi-unit housing and a low-barrier shelter. The meeting will also address administrative matters such as minutes and public comment.

• Setback waiver for garage at 62 Harry Gibbs Street (Application #07-22)
• Setback waiver and riparian buffer improvements at 2448 Quechee Main Street (Application #08-22)
• Conditional use for multi-unit dwelling at 747 Hartford Avenue, Wilder (Application #06-22, continued from April 26)
• Conditional use for changes at The Upper Valley Haven and shared parking at 713 and 749 Hartford Avenue (Application #05-22)
• Conditional use for Low Barrier Shelter and Office Building at 713 Hartford Avenue (Application #09-22)

The Board approved a conditional use application for an 18-unit supportive housing development in Wilder and granted a setback waiver for a property in Quechee. One application for a garage setback waiver was continued to June.

• Approved 18-unit multi-unit dwelling for Twin Pines Housing Trust (unanimous)
• Approved setback waiver and riparian buffer improvements for 2448 Quechee Main Street (unanimous)
• Continued setback waiver application for 62 Harry Gibbs Street to June meeting
• Denied motion to reopen public hearing for Application #06-22 (0-4)

Board of Civil Authority

The Hartford Board of Abatement is meeting to review and decide on a property tax abatement request. The board will also review its organization and process. One application will be heard, with deliberations to follow.

• Abatement request by Stephen P. Leninski, Jr., legal guardian for Stephen Leninski, Sr., for property at 72 Wood Road (Parcel ID#12-158)
• Board of Abatement organization and process review

The Hartford Board of Abatement heard a request from Steven P. Leninski, Jr., guardian for Steven Leninski, Sr., for a three-quarter reduction of $25,941.64 owed in back property taxes on 72 Wood Rd. A motion to grant $19,456.23 failed 1-18. The board then approved a 25% abatement of $6,485.41, carried 16-3, after an amendment to abate interest and penalties of $3,886.39 was accepted by its movers. The meeting adjourned at 7:30pm.

• Denied abatement of $19,456.23 (75% of amount owed) on 72 Wood Rd. taxes, failed 1-18
• Approved abatement of $6,485.41 (25% of total owed), carried 16-3
• Amendment to abate $3,886.39 in interest and penalties accepted by motion's movers before the 25% figure was substituted
• Motion to amend abatement to require payment of property taxes owed did not receive a second
• Motion to adjourn carried unanimously at 7:30pm

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission will hold a remote public hearing to consider several applications, including a boundary line adjustment, a proposed Planned Development with a multi-unit dwelling by Twin Pines Housing Trust, and site plan approvals for The Upper Valley Haven's food distribution and low barrier shelter. These items were continued from the April 25 meeting.

• Boundary line adjustment between lots 12-7065-000 and 12-7066-000, 144 and 172 Robert Frost Lane, Quechee Lakes
• Preliminary approval of Planned Development for multi-unit dwelling at 747 Hartford Avenue, Wilder (Application #22-12)
• Site Development Plan for multi-unit dwelling at 747 Hartford Avenue (Application #22-13)
• Site Development Plan for food distribution and shared parking at 713 and 749 Hartford Avenue (Application #22-11)
• Site Development Plan for low barrier shelter and office building at 713 Hartford Avenue (Application #22-15)

The Planning Commission approved a Planned Development application for 18 one-bedroom units of supportive housing. The commission also approved a boundary line adjustment for two properties on Robert Frost Lane.

• Approved boundary line adjustment for 144 and 172 Robert Frost Lane (unanimous)
• Approved Planned Development for 18 units at 747 Hartford Avenue (5-2)
• Approved April 25, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Continued public hearings for applications #22-13, #22-11, and #22-15 to June 13, 2022 (unanimous)

Inactive Boards

The 5th Charter Commission adopted minutes from its prior meeting and set future meetings for Thursdays, 11:00-12:30, every other week. F.X. presented on charter section 201, Town Meetings, covering Saturday town meeting events, the moderator's role, a budget for the town meeting committee including advertising and stipends, special town meeting procedures, and budget revision. Members discussed complications when newly elected selectboard members must revise a budget rejected by voters, and Nancy raised the idea of mentoring and onboarding new select board/school board members. The committee decided to continue meeting on Zoom for its next meeting on June 2nd.

• Adopted minutes from the previous meeting
• Set future meetings for Thursdays 11:00-12:30 every other week
• Decided to continue meeting on Zoom for the June 2nd meeting

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter met on 5/19/22 and received updates on regional collaboration, a proposed low-barrier shelter and supportive housing project, and RV policy. No substantive decisions were made; the only motion recorded was to approve prior minutes, and the meeting adjourned at 6:18 PM. The committee was told it should be prepared to discuss RV policy updates for the Selectboard's May 31 agenda before its charge concludes in June.

• Moved passage of the HADCES Minutes of Regional Collaboration (no vote tally recorded)
• Adjourned at 6:18 PM (motion by Ally, seconded by Scott, all in favor)

White River Junction Design Review Committee

The Hartford Design Review Committee held a sketch plan review of conceptual redevelopment plans for 160 and 178 Gates Street, with no formal votes taken on the project. Committee members discussed building design, massing, parking, and demolition aspects with the applicants, and agreed to hold another informal meeting. The committee also approved the minutes from the February 24, 2022 meeting.

• Approved minutes of February 24, 2022 (unanimous)
• Held sketch plan review for Northern Stage redevelopment at 160 and 178 Gates Street (no formal action taken)

Inactive Boards

The committee approved revised minutes and agreed to send outreach letters to town boards and commissions. Members discussed solar grid capacity and proposed using town-owned land on Christian Street for a solar installation.

• Approved revised minutes
• Approved outreach project to send letters to boards and commissions

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission voted 4-0 to accept the VA Hospital's water main replacement project as submitted after a Section 106 review presentation. The commission also approved the April 13 minutes unanimously and agreed to several administrative steps: reporting a stolen historic district sign to police, posting a notice on the Hartford Listserv, using tamper-proof screws on replacement signs, and having the Town Planner post a notice seeking applicants for an open commission seat. No other substantive decisions were made; remaining items were staff updates.

• Approved April 13, 2022 meeting minutes as written (unanimous)
• Accepted VA Hospital water main replacement project as submitted (4-0)
• Agreed to report missing historic district sign to the Police Department
• Agreed to post a notice on the Hartford Listserv about the missing sign
• Agreed to replace historic district signs with tamper-proof screws
• Agreed to inventory historic district signs and obtain paint color and brand from sign maker Steve Arkwright
• Agreed to have Town Planner prepare a Listserv posting seeking HHPC applicants
• Adjourned at 6:06 p.m. (motion by Robin Adair, seconded by Jonathan, approved)

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion approved its April 20 meeting minutes (no quorum on May 4) and welcomed new confirmed members. Members discussed preparations for the May 31 Select Board meeting, including a community safety review, diversity training, and a public information officer role, and worked through Juneteenth, strategic plan, RHRR, and education updates. No formal motions beyond the minutes approval were recorded; most items were discussion and next steps.

• Approved April 20 meeting minutes (no quorum on May 4)
• Acknowledged new, confirmed HCOREI members
• Discussed sample RFPs for community safety review for Select Board
• Discussed scheduling diversity training for the Select Board
• Discussed public information officer role, possibly a Tuck grad student with allocated funds for a year
• Discussed Juneteenth logistics including Coop support, posters, food, volunteers, and police presence
• Discussed creating a student liaison position requiring HCOREI amendment and board re-approval
• Announced community events: Hartford Community Coalition June 15, Revolution parking lot party June 3, film 'Race to be Human' June 19

Sister Cities Committee

The committee approved the minutes from the previous meeting. Members discussed design changes for the committee logo and reviewed the status of a bulletin board at the Visitors' Center. Planning for the June 15 Block Party was also addressed.

• Approved minutes from the previous meeting (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard approved two loan agreements totaling $1.645 million for the second phase of the South Main, North Main, and Gates Streets TIF Project: an $895,000 DWSRF loan and a $750,000 CWSRF loan. The board also re-appointed W. Brett Mayfield to the Parks & Recreation Commission and approved the consent agenda. No vote was taken on the Norwich Solar project, leaving the prior vote against approving it as a preferred site in place.

• Approved $895,000 DWSRF loan for South Main, North Main, Gates Streets TIF Project Phase 2 (all in favor)
• Approved $750,000 CWSRF loan for South Main, North Main, Gates Streets TIF Project Phase 2 (all in favor)
• Re-appointed W. Brett Mayfield to Parks & Recreation Commission for term May 17, 2022 to May 16, 2025 (all in favor)
• Approved consent agenda including Conflict of Interest Policy revision, payroll, minutes, and A/P manifest (all in favor)
• No vote taken on Norwich Solar project; prior vote against approving as preferred site stands
• Adjourned meeting at 9:30 PM (all in favor)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission discussed the creation of a new General Commercial/Residential District in the IC-2 area to allow mixed-use and residential development. The commission reached consensus on using a bulleted format for district objectives and a 1.0 Floor Area Ratio (FAR) for density calculations.

• Approved March 28th Community Meeting minutes with one correction
• Approved April 18th Planning Commission Workshop minutes with one correction
• Agreed to use a bulleted format for the new district objective
• Decided not to include agriculture as a permitted or conditional use in the district
• Agreed to include a statement regarding the goals of the Climate Action Plan
• Reached consensus that a 1.0 Floor Area Ratio (FAR) is appropriate for the district
• Scheduled next workshop for June 13th at 6:00 p.m.

Parks and Recreation Commission

The commission conducted a tour of the new pool facility, including the control room and mechanical spaces. The meeting focused on facility updates and operational plans for the upcoming opening.

• Approved April meeting minutes

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Charter Commission met on May 5, 2022 and adopted minutes from its previous meeting. It accepted language for recording decisions and approved language to include cannabis in the local options tax, enabling the select board to direct the funds. The commission also decided to begin future meetings with discussion of language ready for review and to continue meeting by Zoom on May 19. A discussion of resident and citizen eligibility for committees produced no language.

• Adopted minutes from the previous meeting (moved by FX, seconded by Lannie, accepted)
• Accepted language for recording decisions (moved by Gabrielle, seconded by Nancy, accepted)
• Approved language to include cannabis in the local options tax and enable the select board to direct funds (moved by FX, seconded by Lynn, accepted)
• Decided future meetings will begin with discussion of language ready to be discussed
• Decided to continue meeting by Zoom for the next meeting on May 19

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion met on May 4, 2022 but lacked a quorum, so it could not approve minutes or take formal decisions. The committee heard updates from Town Manager Tracy Yarlott-Davis on town communications staffing, DEI training, and a community safety review, and discussed working group items including Juneteenth planning and police incident reporting. No motions were voted on and no actions were approved.

Town and School Meeting Committee

The Hartford Town & School Meeting Committee met May 4, 2022 and reviewed its budget and line items, including a question about why the town report is part of the town and school meeting budget. Members discussed outreach options such as roadside signs, mailings, social media, and event coordination, but the draft minutes record no votes or formal decisions on these items. The only recorded action was approval of the March 15, 2022 meeting minutes, and the meeting was adjourned by unanimous consent. The next meeting was scheduled for June 1 at 5:00 p.m.

• Approved March 15, 2022 meeting minutes
• Scheduled next meeting for June 1 at 5:00 p.m.
• Adjourned by unanimous consent

Inactive Boards

The Climate Action Committee met on May 4, 2022, but the minutes record no formal votes or binding decisions. Members discussed a proposed process for reviewing preferred-status solar array applications, including having the Hartford Energy Committee and Planning Commission study projects before they go to the Selectboard. Carolyn suggested retiring the Climate Advisory Committee due to lack of a quorum, and Laura proposed a meeting with CAST, HEC, and the Selectboard on electric rates and solar siting. A Vermont legislative update was also discussed.

• No formal decisions or votes recorded in the minutes
• Carolyn suggested retiring the Climate Advisory Committee due to lack of quorum (no action taken)
• Proposed that HEC and Planning Commission study solar projects before Selectboard approval (discussed, not voted)
• Laura suggested a meeting with CAST, HEC, and the Selectboard on electric rates and solar preferred status (proposed, not scheduled)

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Selectboard appointed James Henderson as the town's Tree Warden and named Joe Major and Miriam Wood to the Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion. The board also approved a policy change to update terminology and reappointed several members to various town commissions and boards. Additionally, the board approved the consent agenda, which included payroll and meeting minutes.

• Appointed James Henderson as Tree Warden (6-1)
• Appointed Joe Major and Miriam Wood to HCOREI (unanimous)
• Reappointed F.X. Flinn, Jeff Brand, and Bob Merrill to ECVTD (unanimous)
• Reappointed Michael Vanasse to Parks & Recreation (unanimous)
• Reappointed Bethany Fleishman to Advance Transit Board (unanimous)
• Authorized global update of 'Board of Selectmen' to 'Selectboard' in policy
• Approved consent agenda including payroll and minutes (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Commission voted to remove a patch cut from the planned Hartford Town Forest timber harvest and decided against conducting a public survey on the harvest at this time. The board also approved a request for a story walk in the Town Forest.

• Removed patch cut from planned timber harvest (unanimous)
• Denied undertaking a timber harvest survey at this time (unanimous)
• Approved Quechee Library request for a story walk in Town Forest
• Approved sponsoring a public birding walk in June
• Approved April 4, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Inactive Boards

The 5th Charter Change Committee, an inactive board, convenes to review past work, assign two issues per member for deeper study, and distribute lead responsibilities. No decisions are scheduled; the meeting is procedural.

The 5th Charter Commission met on April 28, 2022, with members present in person and by Zoom. The committee tabled proposed language for recording committee decisions until member Gabrielle Lucke, who was out sick, could participate. Members agreed on individual research assignments and discussed the biggest issues facing the town, including housing, childcare, addiction and mental health resources, public safety, and climate change. The prior week's minutes were adopted unanimously.

• Tabled proposed language for recording committee decisions until Gabrielle Lucke could participate
• Adopted last week's minutes unanimously (F.X. moved, Lannie seconded)
• Assigned research topics: town meeting and elected officials (F.X.), petition language (Dan), local option cannabis tax (Lannie), committee/commission applications (Michelle), Town Clerk cleanup (Lynn)

Energy Commission

The Hartford Energy Commission approved March minutes and voted to amend bylaws to allow non-residents to serve as voting members, prioritizing residents, business owners, and property owners. The commission also agreed to participate in Thetford's upcoming electric lawn and yard care expo and discussed various subcommittees and project updates.

• Approved March minutes as presented
• Amended bylaws to allow non-residents to be voting members with priority for residents, business owners, and property owners
• Agreed to participate in Thetford's electric lawn and yard care expo on Saturday, May 21

Resilient Hartford

Resilient Hartford meets to review progress on local food initiatives, including a food forest planting event and a new community garden. The group also discusses climate action planning and a harvest festival.

• Clifford Park Food Forest spring planting scheduled for April 30, 9:00 a.m.–Noon
• Quechee Abenaki Garden update presented by Earl Hatley
• Climate Action Plan Steering Committee update
• Harvest Festival planning discussion

The committee approved the postponement of the fall harvest event to 2023 to prioritize the Food Forest. Members coordinated logistics for a Phase 2 spring planting at Clifford Park scheduled for April 30.

• Approved March 23, 2022 minutes by unanimous consent
• Postponed fall harvest event until 2023
• Agreed to evaluate a site for a small Abenaki garden at Clifford Park

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Hartford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a remote public hearing on April 26, 2022, to consider two conditional use applications. One involves changes to uses at The Upper Valley Haven and shared parking, and the other is for a multi-unit dwelling by Twin Pines Housing Trust. The board will also handle administrative matters such as approving minutes and receiving public comment.

• Application #05-22 by Upper Valley Haven and St. Paul's Episcopal Church for conditional use approval and shared parking at 713 and 749 Hartford Avenue, Wilder
• Application #06-22 by St. Paul's Episcopal Church and Twin Pines Housing Trust for a multi-unit dwelling at 747 Hartford Avenue, Wilder
• Public hearing on both applications, with remote participation via Microsoft Teams or phone
• Administrative items: minutes of March 16 and March 29, 2022, and projects with administrative approval

The Zoning Board of Adjustment held a public hearing but did not take action on the application due to a lack of a full board. The board voted to continue the hearing to the next scheduled meeting date.

• Continued application to May 24, 2022 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:40 p.m. (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission will hold a remote public hearing to consider four applications, including a subdivision on Bliss Road and several proposals by St. Paul's Episcopal Church and Twin Pines Housing Trust for housing development on Hartford Avenue in Wilder. The meeting also includes administrative matters such as approving minutes and public comment.

• Subdivision of lot 13-0041-002 into two lots at 1660 Bliss Road (Application #22-10)
• Site development plan for changes at The Upper Valley Haven and shared parking at 713 and 749 Hartford Avenue (Application #22-11, to be heard later)
• Preliminary approval of a Planned Development at 747 Hartford Avenue (Application #22-12)
• Site development plan for a multi-unit dwelling at 747 Hartford Avenue (Application #22-13)

The Hartford Planning Commission approved Application #22-10, a two-lot subdivision at 1660 Bliss Road, with changes to the Findings of Fact. The Commission also opened public hearings on two Twin Pines Housing Trust applications for a planned development and site plan at 747 Hartford Avenue, took about four hours of public comment, and voted to continue both hearings to May 23, 2022. No decision was made on the Twin Pines applications. The Commission also approved the March 21, 2022 minutes and noted administrative permits for deck replacements and a shed at Snow Village condominiums and for office/retail use of the former Greene's Propane building on Maple Street.

• Approved March 21, 2022 minutes with changes (unanimous)
• Approved Application #22-10: two-lot subdivision at 1660 Bliss Road with changes to Findings of Fact (unanimous)
• Continued Application #22-12 (Twin Pines planned development, 747 Hartford Avenue) to May 23, 2022 (unanimous)
• Continued Application #22-13 (Twin Pines site development plan, 747 Hartford Avenue) to May 23, 2022 (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 10:10 p.m. (unanimous)

West Hartford Library Trustees

The West Hartford Library Board is holding its regular monthly meeting. The agenda consists of standard reports from the secretary, treasurer, and director, followed by old and new business. No specific decisions, proposals, or financial figures are listed in the agenda.

• Secretary's report
• Treasurer's report
• Director's report
• Old business
• New business

The board approved spending up to $2,000 for shelving made by John Newton, pending available funding. The board also approved the March 2022 meeting minutes. Discussions were held regarding a farmers market starting June 14 and the potential use of the library as an emergency shelter.

• Approved March 2022 meeting minutes
• Approved ordering shelving from John Newton for up to $2,000 if funding is available

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion is meeting remotely to discuss updates and next steps. They will review the IACP interview report, receive updates from working groups, and discuss the resource library and student liaison status.

• Approval of April 6 meeting minutes
• Student Liaison Status update
• Resource Library update
• IACP Interview Report discussion
• Working group updates: Education, Juneteenth, RHRR, Strategic Plan

The committee approved minutes from their April 6 meeting. Members discussed ongoing initiatives, including the Community Review Project, which the town has agreed to fund, and planning for Juneteenth events.

• Approved April 6 meeting minutes

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Climate Action Steering Team will approve minutes from its last meeting and review updated board assignments. Members will discuss the town’s Climate Action Plan priorities, including distribution of printed copies, departmental progress, and job posting requirements. A local EV event and state legislation updates are also on the agenda.

• Approve minutes of 04/06/22 meeting
• Discuss HEC’s CAP-related priorities and printed copies distribution
• Review VT legislation update
• Plan Drive EV event in Norwich

The Hartford Climate Action Subcommittee met on April 20, 2022, to discuss task assignments, document revisions, and legislative updates. Members reviewed upcoming deadlines for comments on the assignment list, discussed letter revisions for town committees, and received updates on printing and distributing the Climate Action Plan (CAP). The minutes record no formal votes or substantive decisions.

• Scheduled next meeting for May 4 at 5 PM

Inactive Boards

The Hartford 5th Charter Change Committee will hold its first meeting to elect a chair, vice-chair, and clerk, review its budget and schedule, and decide how to proceed with charter revisions. No substantive decisions are scheduled.

The 5th Charter Commission met to elect its officers and review its charge and timeline. Members agreed to a biweekly meeting schedule and a review of town charters.

• Named Michele Bohi and F.X. Flinn co-chairs (6-1)
• Named Gabrielle Lucke Vice-Chair (unanimous)
• Named Dan Nott Clerk (unanimous)

Sister Cities Committee

The Hartford Sister City Committee is meeting to handle routine business: approving March minutes, receiving a photo update from Hartford to Cenon-Allison, and reviewing the Sister City bylaws. Members will also discuss the logo contest and bulletin board material for the Quechee Gorge Visitors' Center. The next meeting is scheduled for May 17, 2022.

• Accept minutes from March
• Photo update from Hartford to Cenon-Allison
• Hartford-Cenon Sister City logo contest update
• Bulletin board material for the Quechee Gorge Visitors' Center
• Review and update Sister City bylaws

The committee approved a motion to increase its total membership from five to seven members. Members also discussed updates to the Cenon-Hartford student exchange program, the logo contest, and the display at the Welcome Center.

• Approved minutes from previous meeting
• Approved increasing committee membership from 5 to 7 (unanimous)

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will hold a public hearing and consider a motion to close out a $247,200 Vermont Community Development Program grant used for the Wentworth Community Housing 2 project, which built 21 mixed-income housing units. The board will also consider renewing 11 liquor licenses, discuss ambulance billing and a local emergency plan update, and confirm the appointment of Joseph Major as Treasurer.

• Public hearing and motion on VCDP grant closeout for Wentworth Community Housing 2 (21 units at 110 Wentworth Way and 1965 Hartford Avenue)
• Renewal of 11 liquor licenses, including Hotel Coolidge, The Chef & Butcher, The Public House at Quechee Gorge, and others
• Discussion of ambulance billing
• Local Emergency Plan update
• Confirm appointment of Joseph Major as Treasurer

The Hartford Selectboard approved a $5,000,000 line of credit and appointed Joseph Major as Town Treasurer through the 2023 Voting Day. The board also authorized writing off $138,499.12 in uncollectable ambulance debt, adopted the 2022 Local Emergency Management Plan, and approved a charge for a 5-member Charter Commission. In its Local Liquor Control Board role, the board approved multiple liquor license renewals, with member Souza recused and members Fraser and Collins abstaining on several votes.

• Approved Joseph Major as Town Treasurer effective April 20, 2022 through 2023 Voting Day (4 in favor, 3 abstained)
• Authorized Town Manager to sign documents for Wentworth Community Housing 2 VCDP Grant Closeout (all in favor)
• Authorized write-off of $138,499.12 as uncollectable ambulance debt (all in favor)
• Adopted the 2022 Local Emergency Management Plan (all in favor)
• Gave Treasurer Joseph Major authority to execute loan documents for a new $5,000,000 line of credit effective on or around April 28, 2022 (all in favor)
• Accepted the 5-member Charter Commission charge as amended (all in favor)
• Approved Consent Agenda including payroll, minutes, and A/P manifest (all in favor)
• Approved multiple liquor license renewals for local businesses (passed with various abstentions and one recusal)

Tree Board

The Hartford Tree Board is meeting to plan upcoming public events, including a Tree ID walk on April 23 and an Arbor Day tree sale on May 7. They will also discuss the spread of emerald ash borer (EAB) and consider whether to cut down ash trees in the right-of-way and offer the wood as free cordwood. The board will review the finalized Shade Tree Plan and discuss staffing a booth at the Balloon Festival in June.

• Review 4/16 pre-ID walk and assign guides for 4/23 public Tree ID walk
• Plan May 7 Arbor Tree Sale, including selecting Northern Nurseries stock and signage
• Discuss EAB spread and possible cutting of ash trees in right-of-way for free cordwood
• Review finalized Shade Tree Plan
• Staff booth at Balloon Festival June 17-19

The board approved the March meeting minutes and coordinated logistics for a public Tree ID walk on April 23 and an Arbor Tree Sale on May 7. Members discussed Emerald Ash Borer mitigation and the finalized Shade Tree Plan, though no decision was reached on cutting healthy ash trees.

• Approved March minutes (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission will hold a workshop to continue discussing a proposed zoning change for the Ballardvale Drive/Route 5 area across from the VA Hospital. The change would rezone the area from Industrial-Commercial Two (IC-2) to a new General Commercial/Residential (GCR) district to allow multi-unit residential and mixed-use development. The commission will discuss permitted and conditional uses, floor area ratio, building height, and housing opportunities. This is a discussion workshop, not a final decision meeting.

• Proposed zoning change from IC-2 to General Commercial/Residential (GCR) for Ballardvale Drive/Route 5 area
• Discussion of building height limit, currently 60 feet, with hotels ranging from 2 to 4 stories
• Consideration of Floor Area Ratio (FAR) for residential density, citing downtown example with 2.0-2.5 FAR
• Proposed uses include multi-unit dwellings, mixed-use buildings, and hotels as conditional uses
• District covers 31.81 acres with 13 properties, including hotels, gas stations, and vacant lots

The Planning Commission held a workshop to refine the proposed "General Commercial/Residential" (GCR) zoning district, formerly IC-2. Members reached a consensus to maintain the current 60-foot building height limit and agreed to remove specific land uses, including contractor yards and crematories, from the district. Staff will continue drafting development criteria and objective language for future review.

• Postponed approval of March 28th minutes
• Renamed IC-2 district to General Commercial/Residential (GCR)
• Maintained 60-foot building height limit
• Reclassified all motor vehicle uses as conditional
• Removed contractor yards from conditional uses
• Removed crematories from permitted/conditional uses
• Scheduled next workshop for May 16th
• Adjourned meeting at 8:11 p.m.

Historic Preservation Commission

The Hartford Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to discuss several historic properties and projects, including an update on the Hartford Performing Arts History Project, a presentation from Twin Pines Housing Trust about St. Paul's Rectory, and the WRJ Railroad Station Canopy. The agenda also includes items on Depot Street property and coordination with the Planning Commission. This is a regular business meeting with no final decisions listed on the agenda.

• St. Paul's Rectory discussion with Twin Pines Housing Trust Executive Director Andrew Winter
• WRJ Railroad Station Canopy update
• Depot Street Property item
• Hartford Performing Arts History Project update
• HHPC & the Planning Commission coordination

The Historic Preservation Commission approved its previous meeting minutes and discussed several historic preservation items. The commission reviewed plans from Twin Pines Housing Trust regarding an 18-unit apartment building and rectory project at St. Paul's, discussed the planned demolition of the south canopy at the WRJ Railroad Station by VTrans, and talked about a dilapidated house on Depot Street in Wilder.

• Approved minutes of the February 16, 2022 meeting with a correction (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting at 6:22 p.m.

Inactive Boards

The Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter is meeting online to review and approve minutes from its March 24 meeting, hear from Vermont Agency of Human Services Field Director Will Eberle, and discuss developments on Hartford's RV policy.

• Review and passage of HADCES meeting minutes from 3/24/2022
• Presentation by Will Eberle, Field Director of Vermont Agency of Human Services
• Developments on Hartford RV policy

The Hartford Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter met on 4/07/22 and approved its 3/24/22 minutes without objection. Most of the meeting was a presentation and discussion with Will Eberle, Field Director of EHS, about the state's shift from the General Assistance Program to Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) funds for hotel-based shelter, and about eligibility, hotel participation, and permanent supportive housing. The committee also heard that the Planning Department can move forward with the first of two hearings on an RV policy, and discussed drafting a letter of support for the Haven's supportive housing project and a possible proclamation against bias. No formal votes were recorded other than approving the prior minutes and adjourning.

• Approved HADCES minutes of 3/24/22 without objection
• Adjourned at 6:13 PM (all in favor)
• No vote recorded on a letter of support for the Haven's supportive housing project — discussed only
• No vote recorded on a proclamation against bias — discussed only
• No vote recorded on the RV policy — staff reported it can proceed to Planning Commission hearings

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will interview two candidates for town treasurer and consider appointing one to serve from April 16, 2022 to March 7, 2023. The board will also discuss and potentially approve a $5 million line of credit from Mascoma Bank to cover construction costs until tax revenues arrive. The meeting is a special session held in person and via Zoom.

• Interview and possible appointment of Darcy Kreis or Joseph Major as Town Treasurer
• Consideration of $5,000,000 line of credit from Mascoma Bank
• Executive session to discuss public officer employment
• Line of credit to fund South Main Street phase two and parking lot projects

The Selectboard appointed Joe Major as Town Treasurer and approved a loan application for a $5 million line of credit from Mascoma Bank. The board also held an executive session to discuss the appointment of a public officer.

• Appointed Joe Major as Town Treasurer effective April 16, 2022 through 2023 Voting Day (4-0, 2 abstentions)
• Approved $5.0 million Line of Credit Loan request to Mascoma Bank (unanimous)
• Authorized Town Treasurer Joe Major to execute loan documents for the $5 million line of credit (unanimous)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Hartford Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to discuss routine business, including approval of minutes, a director's report, and updates on the community center and pool project. They will also review spring, summer, and fall programs, and consider a forest management plan. The agenda is largely procedural with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Community Center update
• Pool Project updates
• Review of Spring and Summer programs and fall activities
• Forest Management Plan

The Commission approved the Strategic and Goals Strategies and Actions Plans as well as the Program Plan 2022-2026. The board also received a presentation on the Town of Hartford’s Tree Cut Plan, which is currently awaiting Selectboard approval.

• Approved March meeting minutes
• Approved Strategic and Goals Strategies and Actions Plans
• Approved Program Plan 2022-2026

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion (HCOREI) will meet remotely to approve minutes, fill two open seats, and discuss next steps for its resource library, Facebook page, and roadmap. The committee will also review updates from its working groups on education, Juneteenth, and other initiatives.

• Approve minutes from Feb 16 and Mar 16 meetings
• Fill two open committee seats with two applicants
• Discuss next steps for resource library ownership and maintenance
• Review HCOREI Facebook page
• Working group updates: Education, Juneteenth, RHRR, Strategic Plan, Policy

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion approved its February and March meeting minutes and voted to recommend Miriam Wood and Joe Major for two open committee seats, sending the recommendation to the School Board and Select Board. The committee discussed reviving its Facebook page with town-business-only content and disabled comments, updating its 2020 roadmap, and restarting working groups. It also noted Juneteenth will be held on the 18th at Lyman Park, and that four members volunteered for interviews in the search for a new police chief.

• Approved February 16 meeting minutes
• Approved March 16 meeting minutes
• Recommended Miriam Wood and Joe Major to School Board and Select Board for HCOREI membership (motion by John, seconded by Pat)
• Accepted Ann Raynolds' resignation from the committee
• Assigned Pat Autilio to handle Facebook updates; Sara to add Pat and Havah as moderators
• Directed John and Sara to start a new roadmap using current working group mission statements and agendas
• Agreed working groups should send mission statements and revised roadmaps to John and Sara

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Climate Action Steering Team is meeting to approve prior minutes and discuss allocating Climate Action Plan strategies to town boards and commissions. They will also review the Vermont budget proposal, an EV program in Norwich, and updates from the town including solar project and job posting changes.

• Approve minutes of 03/23/22 meeting
• Allocation of CAP Plan Strategies to Boards and Commissions
• VT budget proposal
• EV program in Norwich
• Update on Norwich Solar Christian St. PV proposed site

The Climate Action Steering Team (CAST) met on April 6, 2022, and assigned liaisons to several town boards and commissions to work on Climate Action Plan goals. The committee will report to the Selectboard in May and July, moved from August to align with the budget cycle. Members agreed to draft a memo by May asking each board and commission about its climate priorities, implementation plans, timelines, and resource needs. The minutes note that notes on the Climate Advisory Committee and Community Resilience Organization were incomplete due to audio problems and were left to be amended.

• Assigned liaisons: Lee to Conservation Commission; Molly and Jesse to Energy Commission; Carolyn and Laura to Committee of Racial Inclusion; John to Planning Commission, Tree Board, WRJ Design Review, and Zoning
• Removed Municipal Building Advisory Committee from the list
• Set CAST reporting to the Selectboard for May and July, changed from August to align with the budget cycle
• Agreed to draft a memo by May asking boards and commissions about climate priorities, timelines, and resource needs
• Agreed CAST members can assist groups reviewing the Climate Action Plan
• Deleted the March 23 sentence stating Dana would draft a memo
• Laura to revise the CAP goals list to include both PDF and print page citations
• Left decisions on the Climate Advisory Committee and Community Resilience Organization unrecorded due to incomplete notes

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Selectboard is meeting to appoint members to the 5th Charter Commission and several town committees. The board will also consider multiple liquor license renewals and discuss a solar field site request from Norwich Solar.

• Appointment of Darcy Kreis as Town Treasurer
• Appointment of five members to the 5th Charter Commission
• Renewal of 10 local liquor licenses
• Solar Field Preferred Site Request from Norwich Solar
• Re-appointment of members to Sister Cities, Zoning Board, and Parks & Recreation

The Hartford Selectboard denied a request to identify a site off Christian Street as a preferred site for a 500 kW AC solar array proposed by Norwich Solar Technologies, voting 4-2 with one abstention. The board also renewed liquor licenses for several local businesses, made committee appointments including three to the 5th Charter Commission, and tabled a line of credit application until a special meeting on April 7. The Town Treasurer position was not filled; interviews and a vote were scheduled for the April 7 special meeting.

• Denied request to identify Christian Street site as preferred for 500 kW solar array (4-2, 1 abstained)
• Renewed liquor licenses for Quechee Club/Murphy Farm (4-1, 1 recused, 1 abstained)
• Renewed liquor licenses for Tucker Box, Thyme, Skinny Pancake, Wicked Awesome BBQ, Quechee Pizza Chef, Blood's Catering, Simon Pearce Restaurant, Simon Pearce Glass, and Midway Oil (each 5-0, 1 recused, 1 abstained)
• Re-appointed Joan Ponzoni to Sister Cities Committee, Thomas Franklin to Zoning Board of Adjustment, and Allison Childs to Parks & Recreation Commission (all unanimous)
• Appointed Earl Hatley to Resilient Hartford and Nikki Boyle to Parks & Recreation Commission (all unanimous)
• Appointed Lynn Bohi and Dan Nott to 5th Charter Commission (all unanimous)
• Appointed F.X. Flinn to 5th Charter Commission as joint Selectboard/School Board representative (6-1, Rocket opposed)
• Tabled line of credit application until April 7 special meeting; Town Treasurer position not filled, special meeting set for April 7

Conservation Commission

The Hartford Conservation Commission is meeting to discuss and decide on several items related to the town forest, including an integrated management plan, bird habitat assessment, timber harvest update, and a potential formal relationship with the Upper Valley Mountain Bike Association. They will also cover other conservation topics such as kestrel nest boxes, a vernal pool walk, and Green-Up Day. The meeting is a regular business meeting with no major public hearings or zoning changes.

• Discussion of Integrated Town Forest Management Plan and Bird Habitat Assessment
• Timber harvest update for the town forest
• Potential formal relationship with Upper Valley Mountain Bike Association
• Trail map/signs and spring trails workday
• Green-Up Day planning

The Conservation Commission discussed the Town Forest timber harvest and the proposed 4-acre patch cut but reached no consensus, agreeing to decide by late May and then seek Selectboard approval. It agreed to hold a public information walk with Forester A.J. Follensbee on Thursday, May 5 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. and to develop a public survey, with Katie Mann volunteering to set it up for finalization at the May 2 meeting. The Commission also approved its March 7 minutes as written by unanimous consent and agreed to avoid abbreviations in the Integrated Management Plan. It took no position on the Christian Street solar array's state preferred site designation request, which the Energy Commission and Planning Commission had voted to support.

• Approved March 7, 2022 minutes as written by unanimous consent
• Agreed to hold Town Forest public information walk with Forester A.J. Follensbee on Thursday, May 5, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
• Agreed to develop a public survey on the Town Forest timber harvest; Katie Mann volunteered to set it up for finalization at the 5/2/22 meeting
• Agreed to decide on the 4-acre patch cut and wrap up the harvesting plan by late May, then request Selectboard approval
• Agreed to avoid abbreviations in the Integrated Management Plan
• No agreement for the HCC to review future state preferred site designation requests
• No clear consensus on reducing the size of the 4-acre patch cut or keeping it at 4 acres
• Adjourned at 9:11 p.m. (motion by Jon Bouton, seconded by Ted Levin, approved)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Hartford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings on three applications: a setback waiver and riparian buffer improvements, and two conditional use approvals for driveway and site work in the Red Barn Farm Planned Development. The board will also handle administrative items like approving minutes and electing officers.

• Application #02-22: Setback waiver and riparian buffer improvements at 2448 Quechee Main Street, Quechee (RL-1 district)
• Application #03-22: Conditional use for driveway and site improvements for house site #3 on Galaxy Hill Road, Quechee
• Application #04-22: Conditional use for driveway and site improvements for house sites #7 and #8 on Galaxy Hill Road, Quechee
• Administrative: Approve minutes of Feb 9, 2022, elect officers, and public comment

The Hartford Zoning Board of Adjustment held a continued public hearing and site visit regarding a setback waiver and riparian buffer improvements at 2448 Quechee Main Street. Following a deliberative session and public hearing closure, the Board voted 1-2 on a motion to approve the application. The application was denied because it failed to receive a majority vote of the entire Board due to concerns regarding the impact on natural resources.

• Application #02-22 by Peter and Kasia Novak for a setback waiver and riparian buffer improvements at 2448 Quechee Main Street denied (1-2)

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission will discuss a possible zoning change for Ballardvale Drive and Route 5 across from the VA Hospital. The proposed change would shift the area from Industrial-Commercial Two (I-C-2) to Industrial-Commercial-Residential (I-C-R), allowing multi-unit residential and mixed-use development as a conditional use.

• Discussion of zoning change from I-C-2 to I-C-R for Ballardvale Drive and Route 5 near VA Hospital
• Proposal to allow multi-unit residential and mixed-use development as conditional use

The Planning Commission held a community meeting to gather feedback on a proposal to change the zoning of the area across from the VA Hospital from IC-2 to ICR. This change would allow multi-unit residential and mixed-use development as conditional uses. No formal vote on the zoning amendment was taken.

• Scheduled a follow-up workshop for April 18th at 6:00 p.m.

Watson Dog Park

The Upper Valley Dog Park Supporters are meeting to review minutes, discuss fundraising, and plan spring maintenance projects for the dog parks. They will also address the need for new board members to keep the organization running.

• Fundraising ideas and volunteers needed for spring 2022
• Spring clean-up date to be set; volunteers needed for raking, filling holes, and cleaning up dog waste
• Maintenance projects include digging a drainage ditch, installing memorial bricks, polyurethaning a bench, replacing a brass fitting, cutting brush, installing hand sanitizer stations, and painting dog ramps
• Funding needed for several truckloads of stone for the big park
• Board positions open; elections at June meeting

The Upper Valley Dog Park Supporters met on March 26, 2022 and accepted the prior meeting's minutes and the treasurer's report, which showed a balance of $2,050.64 with no new memberships since the last meeting. The group discussed fundraising ideas, a May 7 spring cleanup of both parks, and a list of volunteer maintenance projects. Members noted that all board positions will need to be filled in June and that the existing Facebook page cannot be accessed because the password is lost. No formal motions, votes, or funding decisions are recorded in these minutes.

• Accepted the Sept. 25, 2021 minutes as read, with no corrections
• Accepted the treasurer's report showing a $2,050.64 balance
• Agreed to continue giving bumper stickers to new members
• Set May 7 as the date for spring cleanup of both parks
• Volunteers assigned: drainage ditch (Jim), memorial bricks (Jace), bench polyurethane and Wendy Smith plaque (Lee and Jace), water line fitting (Lee), hand sanitizer stations (Jerry)
• No vote recorded on fundraising ideas (silent auction, Saturday coffee, obstacle course) or on filling June board positions

Energy Commission

The Hartford Energy Commission is meeting to review and approve draft minutes, discuss a redrafted by-laws document for potential Selectboard approval, receive updates from subcommittees on building efficiency and transportation, and elect officers. The meeting also includes planning for an upcoming Drive Electric Week event and ideas for the April newsletter.

• Review and approve draft minutes from past meetings
• Discussion of redrafted By-laws for potential Selectboard approval
• WindowDressers update: grant application, church chat, low-income focus, quarter cards
• Drive Electric Week Event scheduled for April 23
• Election of officers

The Energy Commission approved funding for the printing of 400 copies of an EV guide. The commission also elected a temporary Vice Chair. No minutes were approved due to a lack of quorum.

• Approved $1,300 from contracted services for EV guide printing
• Elected Ashton Todd as Vice Chair until November

Inactive Boards

The Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter (HADCES) is meeting to review and approve minutes from March 3, 2022, discuss the status of an RV policy and its connection to the committee's charge, and consider forming a standing committee on housing and homelessness. The meeting is held online only.

• Review and passage of minutes from 3/3/2022
• Discussion of RV policy status and planning commission connection
• Process of forming a standing committee on housing and homelessness

The Hartford Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter met on March 24, 2022 and approved minutes from its March 3 meeting. The committee voted unanimously to approve the language of a Draft Charge for a proposed standing Hartford Committee on Housing and Homelessness, to be sent to the Selectboard for adoption at an upcoming meeting. The committee also discussed an RV policy update, with the Planning Department awaiting a Town Council opinion on whether owner-occupied RVs on land not owned by the occupant fall under Vermont Rental Housing Regulations. The committee agreed to leave membership open for now, possibly allowing some non-Hartford residents.

• Approved minutes of the 3/3/22 meeting without objection
• Approved Draft Charge language for the Hartford Committee on Housing and Homelessness to go before the Selectboard (unanimous)
• Agreed to leave committee membership open for now, with a possible future proposal for non-Hartford resident seats
• Adjourned at 6:04 PM

Resilient Hartford

Resilient Hartford, a town committee, is meeting remotely to discuss updates on the Clifford Park Food Forest, including a spring planting event on April 30, budget and fundraising, and flood regulations. The agenda also includes items on the Quechee Abenaki Garden, a harvest festival, and a climate action plan. The group will elect a vice chair and fill two open positions.

• Clifford Park Food Forest update, including spring planting on Saturday, April 30, 9 a.m.–noon
• Discussion of budget and fundraising for the food forest
• Flood regulations related to the food forest
• Quechee Abenaki Garden update
• Election of a vice chair

The committee approved the February 23, 2022, meeting minutes and elected a new vice-chair. Members discussed updates on the Food Forest project, the Quechee Abenaki Garden, and the 2022 Fall Harvest Event.

• Approved February 23, 2022, minutes (unanimous)
• Elected Dylan Kreis as vice-chair (unanimous)

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Climate Action Steering Team is meeting to discuss feedback from the Selectboard, including meeting more frequently and presenting a detailed implementation plan in May. They will also set a meeting schedule, discuss the impact of department head departures, and consider requesting that the Selectboard reference the Climate Action Plan in mission statements.

• Selectboard suggests meeting more than once per month
• Plan to present detailed implementation plan to Selectboard in May
• Discussion of adding a Selectboard liaison to CAST
• Request to include CAP reference in Board and Commission mission statements
• Flexible Load Management Program at Town Hall discussed

The committee approved the March 2 meeting minutes and established a new meeting schedule for the first and third Wednesday of each month. Members discussed coordinating Climate Action Plan (CAP) goals across town departments and commissions.

• Approved minutes of the March 2 meeting
• Established meetings for the first and third Wednesday at 5 o’clock

Tree Board

The Hartford Tree Board will hear from Tom Kahl and Jon Bouton about their Forest Management Plan and proposed timber harvest, then take questions. The board will also brainstorm ways to highlight the Year of the Tree Proclamation, get updates on Quechee Green funding, plan a Tree ID walk, and discuss filling a vacant seat and assisting the search for a Tree Warden.

• Forest Management Plan and timber harvest presentation by Tom Kahl and Jon Bouton
• Year of the Tree Proclamation brainstorming
• Quechee Green funding and operational updates
• Volunteers needed for 4/23/22 Tree ID walk at Wright Reservoir
• Assist search for Tree Warden and fill vacant Tree Board seat

The Hartford Tree Board voted to thank Jon Bouton and Tom Kahl for presenting their Forest Management Plan update and to support the Hartford Conservation Commission's efforts to implement the plan in winter 2023 and seek final approval from the Select Board. The motion passed with one objection. The board also discussed Year of the Tree activities, Quechee Green fundraising, an April 23 tree identification walk, and approved corrections to the February 15, 2022 minutes unanimously.

• Motion passed (one objection) to thank Jon Bouton and Tom Kahl and support HCC implementing the forest management plan in winter 2023 and obtaining Select Board approval
• Corrected February 15, 2022 minutes approved unanimously
• Tree of the Month for March designated as the cottonwood in Veterans' Park
• Tree Warden vacancy and vacant Tree Board seat deferred to April meeting
• Shade Tree Plan finalization continued to April meeting

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will meet to consider renewals for seven liquor licenses, reappointments to town boards, and appointments to a new 5th Charter Commission. They will also receive a mid-year financial update, discuss solar project site designation, and review a TIF report revision. The meeting includes public comment and an executive session on a public officer's employment.

• Liquor license renewals for Cumberland Farms #8007, Evans Expressmart, Little Istanbul, Revolution, and three Quechee Club locations
• Reappointments: Susanne Abetti to Historical Preservation Commission, Chris Lowe to Zoning Board of Abatement
• Appointments to 5th Charter Commission: Lynn Bohi, Simon Dennis, F.X. Flinn, Geri Williams
• Fiscal Year 22 Mid-Year Financial Update (budget $17,640,520.73, YTD revenue 47%)
• Solar Projects Preferred Site Designation discussion

The Selectboard approved several liquor license renewals and a contract for water system computer and software replacements. The board also re-appointed members to the Historical Preservation Commission and Zoning Board of Abatement.

• Approved Second Class Liquor Licenses for Cumberland Farms #8007, Evans Expressmart, Little Istanbul, and Revolution (4-1 recused, 1 abstained)
• Approved First, Third Class, and Outside Consumption Licenses for Base Lodge and Quechee Club, Inc. (4-1 recused, 1 abstained)
• Tabled liquor license for Murphy Farm
• Re-appointed Susanne Abetti to Hartford Historical Preservation Commission (unanimous)
• Re-appointed Chris Lowe to Hartford Zoning Board of Abatement (5-1 abstained)
• Accepted revisions to FY 2021 TIF Annual Report regarding FY 2020 expenditures and interest (unanimous)
• Approved purchasing policy exception for water system computers and SCADA software contract not-to-exceed $42,000 (unanimous)
• Accepted Proclamation of Service for Braedon Vail (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider several land use applications. These include amendments to the Red Barn Farm Planned Development and a commercial expansion in White River Junction.

• Norwich Solar Technologies request for a 'Preferred Site' on Christian Street
• Red Barn Farm Planned Development driveway and building envelope amendments on Galaxy Hill Lane
• Subdivision and use change from Commercial to Single-Family at 1171 Murphys Road
• Brewery and restaurant expansion at 230 South Main Street

The Hartford Planning Commission approved a request from Norwich Solar Technologies for a 'Preferred Site' designation on Christian Street, conditional on a public access easement to the Town. The Commission also approved four development applications: a driveway relocation at Red Barn Farm, building envelope and driveway changes for two Red Barn Farm house sites, a subdivision and use change at 1171 Murphys Road, and a brewery/restaurant expansion at 230 South Main Street. All motions passed unanimously. The Commission elected officers and approved prior meeting minutes.

• Approved Norwich Solar 'Preferred Site' request on Christian Street, conditioned on public access easement (unanimous)
• Approved Application #22-06: driveway relocation for Red Barn Farm house site #3 (unanimous)
• Approved Application #22-07: building envelope and driveway changes for Red Barn Farm house sites #7 and #8 (unanimous)
• Approved Application #22-08: subdivision of lot 12-0033-002 and use change from Commercial to Single-Family at 1171 Murphys Road (unanimous)
• Approved Application #22-09: site plan for brewery, restaurant/tasting room, and outdoor seating addition at 230 South Main Street (unanimous)
• Elected John Reid as Chair, Bruce Riddle as Vice Chair, Toby Dayman as Clerk (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of March 7, February 13, January 27, and January 10, 2022 (unanimous)

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion is meeting remotely to handle routine organizational business, including approving minutes, nominating officers, and recommending a new community member for appointment. The committee will also discuss forming a Juneteenth working group and review the student liaison status.

• Nominate committee officers (Chair, Vice Chair & Clerk)
• Discuss committee applicants and recommend new community member appointment
• Form Juneteenth working group
• Student liaison status review
• Prep for next community engagement meeting

The committee elected its Chair, Vice Chair, and Clerk. A working group was established to organize a Juneteenth celebration. Decisions regarding committee appointments and student liaison status were tabled.

• Elected Sara Campbell as Chair (Unanimous)
• Elected John Hall as Vice Chair (Unanimous)
• Elected Pat Autilio as Clerk (Unanimous)
• Approved formation of Juneteenth working group consisting of John Hall, Joe Major, Ann Raynolds, and Sara Campbell (Unanimous)

West Hartford Library Trustees

The West Hartford Library Board will convene its regular monthly meeting to receive standard procedural and financial reports. No substantive decisions or public hearings are listed on the agenda.

The West Hartford Library Trustees approved February minutes, accepted Emily Clough's resignation as Chair while keeping her on the board, and approved Laura Brooks as new Chair effective immediately. The board approved ordering shelving from John Newton contingent on Friends of the Library agreeing to pay. The library was unsuccessful in submitting an ARPA grant because the town could not provide required information in time; a suggestion was made to request about $2,300 from the town instead. Discussion of reviewing library policies and developing an annual appeal process was tabled until the next meeting.

• Approved February meeting minutes without correction
• Approved ordering shelving made by John Newton if Friends of the Library agree to pay
• Accepted Emily Clough's resignation as Chair; approved her remaining on the board
• Approved Laura Brooks as new Chair, effective immediately
• Tabled discussion of reviewing library policies and procedures and developing an annual appeal process until next meeting

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Hartford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold three public hearings on March 16, 2022 at 6:30 p.m. at Town Hall and remotely via Microsoft Teams. The board will also approve minutes, elect officers, and open the next public hearing.

• Setback waiver and riparian buffer improvements for 2448 Quechee Main Street (Application #02-22)
• Conditional use approval for driveway fill and site improvements at Galaxy Hill Road house site #3 (Application #03-22)
• Conditional use approval for driveway fill and site improvements at Galaxy Hill Road house sites #7 and #8 (Application #04-22)

The Board approved two conditional use applications for the addition and movement of fill for driveways and site improvements at Red Barn Farm. A setback and riparian buffer waiver application for 2448 Quechee Main Street was continued pending a site visit.

• Approved conditional use for fill and driveway improvements at Galaxy Hill Road house site #3 (unanimous)
• Approved conditional use for fill and separate driveways at Galaxy Hill Road house sites #7 and #8 (unanimous)
• Continued application #02-22 for 2448 Quechee Main Street to a March 29 site visit (unanimous)
• Approved February 9, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Voted to retain current officers: Steve Lagasse (Chair), Chris Lowe (Vice-Chair), and Alice Maleski (Clerk) (unanimous)

Sister Cities Committee

The Hartford Sister City Committee is meeting via Zoom to discuss routine business, including accepting minutes, receiving updates on the Hartford-Cenon photo exchange and logo contest, and planning bulletin board content. They will also review and update the committee's bylaws and discuss funding for 2022. The meeting is largely procedural with updates and planning items.

• Accept minutes from January meeting
• Photo update from Hartford to Cenon-Allison
• Hartford-Cenon Sister City logo contest update
• Review and update Sister City bylaws
• Update on funding for 2022

The committee voted to increase its membership from 5 to 7 people, pending Selectboard approval. Members also discussed a logo contest deadline extension and the start of a pen pal program with Cenon.

• Approved minutes from previous meeting
• Approved motion to increase membership from 5 to 7 people

Town and School Meeting Committee

The Hartford Town and School Meeting Committee is reviewing the 2022 annual meeting cycle, including Budget and Candidates Night and Town Meeting Day, and discussing priorities for next year, such as outreach, marketing, and community engagement. The meeting is largely procedural and planning-focused, with no major decisions or financial items on the agenda.

• Review of 2022 Budget and Candidates Night (02/21)
• Review of Town Meeting Day (02/26)
• Discussion of outreach and notice strategies
• Discussion of marketing channels
• Discussion of topics to engage the community

The committee reviewed the function of the 2022 Budget and Candidate Night and discussed various formats for meetings, including in-person and hybrid options. Members discussed ways to increase community participation and outreach. No substantive votes or policy decisions were recorded.

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Hartford Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to discuss routine business, including approval of minutes and citizen comments. Key reports include an update from the Steering Committee on the Clifford Park Food Forest, the Director's Report, and updates on the Community Center and pool projects. The commission will also review its program plan, strategic plan, and goals.

• Report from Steering Committee on Clifford Park Food Forest
• Pool Project Updates
• Community Center discussion
• Review of Program Plan, Strategic Plan and Goals and Objectives

The commission unanimously approved a motion to support the design, goals and aims of the Clifford Park Food Forest Project as presented by Karen Ganey of Permaculture Solutions. The commission also agreed to have Recreation Department staff review the department's Goals and Objectives and bring suggestions to the April meeting. No decision was made on naming the new pool after Sherman Manning, though a plaque was discussed. The February minutes were approved and the meeting adjourned at 6:06 pm.

• Approved motion to support design, goals and aims of Clifford Park Food Forest Project (unanimous)
• Agreed to let Recreation Department staff review Goals and Objectives and suggest changes at April meeting
• No decision made on naming new pool after Sherman Manning; plaque possibility discussed
• Approved February minutes

Hartford Business Revolving Loan Fund

The Hartford Business Revolving Loan Fund and Hartford 2020 VCDP Revolving Loan Fund Committee will meet to approve minutes, enter executive session to review the February 2022 loan summary and potential loans, then vote on any actions. They will also discuss marketing of the funds and the GMEDC contract. The meeting is open to the public via Zoom.

• Approval of December 1, 2021 meeting minutes
• Executive session to review February 2022 loan summary report and potential loans
• Discussion of marketing for HBRLF and VCDP RLF
• Discussion of GMEDC contract

The Hartford Business Revolving Loan Fund Committee met on March 9, 2022 and approved minutes from its December 1, 2021 special meeting. The committee entered executive session to review the confidential February 2022 Loan Summary Report and potential loan applications, and took no actions when it came out of session. Members discussed distribution of new marketing brochures, planning for the town website, and the upcoming expiration of the Town's contract with GMEDC to administer the loan funds at the end of June. No loans were approved, denied, or tabled.

• Approved minutes from the December 1, 2021 HBRLF/VCDP Committee Special Meeting (unanimous)
• Entered executive session to review the February 2022 Loan Summary Report and potential loan applications (passed)
• Took no actions in executive session
• Adjourned the meeting at 9:11 a.m. (unanimous)

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will meet in person and by Zoom to decide on reauthorizing the town’s COVID-19 face-covering requirement for indoor public spaces and to act on five liquor-license renewals. The board will also appoint or re-appoint members to several town committees and boards, hear the Town Manager’s report, and consider purchasing policy updates.

• Reauthorize COVID-19 face-covering rule for public buildings
• Renew liquor licenses for Co-op Food Store (209 Maple Street), Summit Stores (3479 Woodstock Road), Jake’s Market & Deli (1477 Maple Street), Hartford Post 26 American Legion (27 Farmvu), River Roost Brewery (230 South Main Street), and Simon Pearce Restaurant (1792 Main Street)
• Appoint Emily Santaw to Town & School Meeting Committee (3-year term)
• Re-appoint Alice Maleski and Stephen C. Lagasse to Zoning Board of Adjustment (3-year terms)
• Approve Purchasing Policy

The Hartford Selectboard voted to allow the town-wide face covering requirement to sunset at midnight on March 8, 2022. The board also renewed several liquor licenses, authorized the Town Manager to post the open Town Treasurer position, approved a $118,815 construction and demolition debris hauling contract with United Construction Corporation, and approved version four of the Town Purchasing Policy. Several appointments and re-appointments were made to town committees and boards.

• Approved letting the town-wide face covering rule sunset at midnight (all in favor)
• Renewed Second Class Liquor Licenses for Co-op Food Store, Summit Stores, and Jake's Market & Deli (5-0, 1 recused, 1 abstained)
• Renewed Third Class Liquor License for Hartford Post 26, American Legion (4-0, 1 recused, 2 abstained)
• Renewed First Class and Outside Consumption Liquor License for River Roost Brewery (5-0, 1 recused, 1 abstained)
• Renewed First Class, Third Class and Outside Consumption Liquor License for Simon Pearce (5-0, 1 recused, 1 abstained)
• Authorized Town Manager to post the open Town Treasurer position (all in favor)
• Approved exception to purchasing policy for $118,815 construction and demolition debris hauling contract with United Construction Corporation (6-1, Collins opposed)
• Approved version four of the Town Purchasing Policy (all in favor)

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission is holding a special meeting to consider whether to grant a 'preferred site' designation to Norwich Solar Technologies' proposed 500 kW solar facility on Christian Street. The Hartford Energy Commission has recommended approval subject to conditions, including a viewshed map and public use of the unused portion of the parcel. The designation is required for the project to qualify for a specific net-metering rate under PUC Rule 5.103.

• 500 kW solar array proposed on ~56-acre parcel off Christian St., with 2.6-acre footprint and 11.2-acre limit of disturbance
• HEC recommends 'preferred site' designation subject to viewshed map and public-use agreement for unused parcel
• Project to interconnect to Green Mountain Power's Wilder 71 distribution feeder
• Target commercial operation by Q1 2024; expected useful life 25-40 years
• Planning Commission declined to make determination at Feb. 14 meeting; special meeting scheduled for Mar. 7

The Hartford Planning Commission agreed unanimously to hold a community meeting on a proposed zoning change from IC-2 to Industrial/Commercial/Residential (ICR) for an area near Route 5 and Ballardvale Drive in White River Junction, which would allow multi-unit and mixed-use development as conditional uses. The commission also discussed a request from Norwich Solar to designate a Christian Street property as a "preferred site" for a solar array, but action was tabled until March 21, 2022, because the meeting was not sufficiently warned for a decision. No other substantive decisions were made; the rest of the meeting covered a presentation from the Historic Preservation Commission and procedural matters.

• Agreed unanimously to hold a community meeting on the proposed IC-2 to ICR zoning change (unanimous)
• Tabled action on a letter of support for the Christian Street solar "preferred site" until March 21, 2022

Conservation Commission

The Hartford Conservation Commission is meeting to discuss and decide on several items, primarily focused on the town forest, including a timber harvest update, an integrated management plan, and a wildlife habitat assessment. They will also consider a formal relationship with the Upper Valley Mountain Bike Association and review a grant application. Other topics include a kestrel decline presentation and collaboration with the Hartford Salamander Team.

• Timber harvest update and integrated town forest management plan
• Wildlife habitat assessment for town forest
• Formal relationship with Upper Valley Mountain Bike Association
• AVCC Annual Tiny Grant application due April 8th
• Wetlands question from Harvest Lane resident

The Hartford Conservation Commission voted 7-0 not to include the Wildlife Habitat Assessment in the consolidated Town Forest management plan, and separately approved spending $300 of its own funds to cover North Branch Nature Center costs for the Hartford Salamander Team by a 6-1 vote. The Commission also approved its February 7, 2022 minutes as written by unanimous consent. Much of the meeting was updates and discussion: the Town Forest timber harvest, a Memorandum of Understanding with the Upper Valley Mountain Bike Association, and a budget freeze that put boundary markers and an awards plaque on hold.

• Approved February 7, 2022 minutes as written by unanimous consent
• Motion not to include the Wildlife Habitat Assessment in the consolidated Town Forest plan passed 7-0
• Approved using $300 of HCC funds to cover North Branch Nature Center costs for the Hartford Salamander Team (6-1)
• Agreed to review the Town Forest Bird Habitat Assessment at the April 4 meeting
• Agreed to hold off buying David Chang Conservation Area boundary markers and the HCC awards plaque until Trails Day event supplies are obtained
• Agreed to see if there is room on the April 4 agenda for Karen Douville to speak about Linking Lands Alliance maps

Inactive Boards

The Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter is meeting online to review and pass minutes from its February 17 meeting, and to discuss the potential for a standing committee on housing and homelessness, as well as the process for an RV policy with the planning commission.

• Review and passage of minutes from 2/17/2022 meeting
• Discussion of potential standing committee on housing and homelessness
• Discussion of RV policy process with planning commission

The Hartford Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter approved its 2/17/22 minutes without objection and discussed the future of a proposed Standing Committee on Housing and Homelessness. Members talked about folding the Zoning Regulation Amendment into the new committee's charge and about a new interpretation of rental units covering owner-occupied RVs parked on land the resident does not own. No formal decision was recorded on the standing committee, the zoning amendment, or the RV rental-unit interpretation; the meeting adjourned at 6:09 PM, with the next meeting set for March 17th.

• Approved the HADCES minutes of 2/17/22 without objection
• Adjourned the meeting (all in favor), next meeting March 17th

Inactive Boards

The Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter (HADCES) will review previous meeting minutes and discuss the potential creation of a standing Committee on Housing and Homelessness. The committee will also discuss the RV policy process and the planning commission.

• Review and passage of February 17, 2022, meeting minutes
• Discussion of potential Standing Committee on Housing and Homelessness
• Discussion of RV policy and the planning commission

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Selectboard met to reorganize board positions and assign liaisons to various town committees and commissions. This meeting was held to establish leadership roles and connections for the 2022 term.

• Reorganization of Board Positions
• Assignment of liaisons to committees including Planning Commission and School Board
• Establishment of 2022 liaison roles for groups such as the Energy Commission and Design Review Committee

At a special organizational meeting on March 3, 2022, the Hartford Selectboard elected Michael Hoyt as Chair, Dan Fraser as Vice Chair, and Kim Souza as Clerk. Each vote passed 6-1, with the nominee abstaining. The board also discussed and decided on its 2022 liaisons to boards, committees, and commissions, and then adjourned at 6:49 pm.

• Elected Michael Hoyt as Chair (6-1, Hoyt abstained)
• Elected Dan Fraser as Vice Chair (6-1, Fraser abstained)
• Elected Kim Souza as Clerk (6-1, Souza abstained)
• Decided on 2022 Selectboard liaisons to boards, committees, and commissions
• Motion to close passed at 6:49 pm

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Climate Action Steering Team (CAST) is meeting to approve minutes, hear a report on the Selectboard meeting, and plan its work. The Selectboard has suggested CAST meet more often, present a detailed implementation plan in May, and consider adding a Selectboard liaison. The team will also discuss the impact of department head departures and a Planning Commission wish list.

• Approve minutes of 02/02/22 meeting
• Selectboard suggestions: meet more than 1x/month, present in May, detailed implementation plan with priorities and timelines
• Consider adding a Selectboard liaison to CAST
• Discussion on impact of department head departures
• Planning Commission wish list discussion

The Hartford Climate Action Steering Committee met to discuss a presentation from the Conservation Commission regarding the history and science of the Hartford town forest timber harvest plan. The committee discussed meeting schedules, upcoming reporting to the Selectboard in May, and floating an idea to add climate action language to standing committee mission statements. The minutes record no formal votes or binding decisions.

• No substantive decisions, votes, or formal actions were recorded in these procedural minutes.

Town Meeting Cycle

Hartford's Annual Town Meeting on March 1, 2022, asks voters to approve a $18,253,994.33 operating budget, along with numerous appropriations for local organizations and services. Voters will also decide on a $200,000 ambulance purchase, a $119,700 cemetery fund allocation, and whether to allow cannabis retailers in town. The meeting includes elections for town officers and a vote on tax collection installments.

• Operating budget of $18,253,994.33
• $200,000 for a new ambulance for the Fire Department
• $119,700 in Local Option Tax funds for cemetery associations
• Appropriations for Advance Transit ($81,750), Hartford Community Coalition ($25,000), Visiting Nurse and Hospice ($51,000)
• Vote on allowing cannabis retailers in town

Town Meeting Cycle

This is the annual Town and School District Meeting Day for Hartford, Vermont, convening at 10:00 AM on Saturday, February 26, 2022. The town meeting will receive reports from town officers and conduct other non-binding business, and will recess until after the school meeting concludes. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific votes or decisions listed.

• Receive reports of Town Officers
• Conduct other necessary and proper non-binding business
• Meeting held with electronic participation via Zoom and YouTube

The 2022 Hartford Annual Town Meeting on February 26, 2022, was largely a question-and-answer session. Residents questioned Selectboard members about the budget, a proposed Quechee fire station, new town positions, Gates Street traffic changes, cannabis zoning, and other topics. The minutes record no vote on the budget or any other article; the meeting was adjourned at 1:03 PM. A proclamation honoring Kevin Raleigh's service on the Board of Civil Authority was read into the record.

• No budget vote or other article vote recorded in the minutes
• Proclamation honoring Kevin Raleigh's Board of Civil Authority service read into record
• Meeting adjourned at 1:03 PM

White River Junction Design Review Committee

The Hartford Design Review Committee will meet to review an application by Roost Holdings, LLC, and Mark Babson for design approval of additions to an existing building and site improvements at 230 South Main Street, White River Junction. The committee will also consider the minutes from its December 16, 2021 meeting. The meeting is open to the public, with options to attend in person or remotely.

• Application by Roost Holdings, LLC, and Mark Babson for design review approval of additions and site improvements at 230 South Main Street, lot 46-0046-000, in CB and Design Review zoning districts
• Review of minutes from December 16, 2021 meeting

The White River Junction Design Review Committee unanimously approved an application by Roost Holdings, LLC, and Mark Babson for building additions and site improvements at 230 South Main Street, subject to a condition regarding material samples. The committee also unanimously approved the minutes from the December 16, 2021 meeting.

• Approved design review application for 230 South Main Street with conditions (unanimous)
• Approved December 16, 2021 meeting minutes with changes (unanimous)

Energy Commission

The Hartford Energy Commission will vote on whether to change its bylaws to allow non-Hartford residents to participate. They will also discuss plans for a Drive Electric Week event and receive updates from sub-committees on building efficiency, transportation, and energy and land use.

• Vote on bylaw change to allow non-residents to participate
• Drive Electric Week event on April 23 at Marion Cross School driveway
• Sub-committee updates on Building Integrity and Energy Efficiency, Transportation, and Energy and Land Use
• Request for help spreading the word about WindowDressers

The Hartford Energy Commission voted to amend its bylaws to allow non-residents to serve as members, provided the majority remains residents and residents receive priority, in an effort to maintain a quorum. The proposed change will be submitted to the Selectboard. The commission also approved its prior meeting minutes and discussed a proposed 500 kW solar project on Christian Street alongside upcoming electric vehicle outreach events.

• Approved January meeting minutes
• Approved proposed bylaw amendment to allow non-resident members to be presented to the Selectboard

Resilient Hartford

The Resilient Hartford committee is meeting remotely to discuss its work program, elect officers, and receive updates on the Clifford Park Food Forest and the Climate Action Plan Steering Committee. The meeting also includes approval of previous minutes and announcements.

• Discussion of Resilient Hartford Work Program
• Election of officers
• Clifford Park Food Forest update
• Climate Action Plan Steering Committee update

The committee approved the January 26 minutes and re-elected Kye Cochran as chair. Members discussed a proposed fall harvest festival and updates to the Food Forest project, including potential water source issues and grant funding.

• Approved January 26, 2022 minutes (unanimous)
• Re-elected Kye Cochran as chair (unanimous)

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will consider awarding a $2,304,361 contract for the South Main, North Main, and Gates Street utility and roadway improvements to Notts Excavating, along with liquor license renewals, a line of credit reduction, and other routine motions. The board will also receive updates on the Climate Action Plan and the Town Manager's report, which includes tax delinquency and police activity.

• Bid award for South Main, North Main, and Gates Street improvements to Notts Excavating for $2,304,361
• Liquor license renewals for Jiffy Mart #439, Scavenger Gallery, and Phnom Penh Sandwich Station
• Line of credit renewal: retire $9.2M and acquire $5M tax anticipation line
• Certificate of no appeal or suit pending for 2018-2021 grand lists
• Climate Action Plan implementation update and purchasing policy amendments

The Hartford Selectboard awarded a $2,304,361.00 contract to Nott Excavating for the South Main Street Project, Phase 2, and authorized the Town Manager to execute it. The board also renewed three liquor licenses, approved a $5.0 million line of credit request to Mascoma Bank, and amended the purchasing policy to include climate action addendums. A discussion on board and public communication was tabled for a future agenda.

• Approved $2,304,361.00 South Main Street Phase 2 contract to Nott Excavating (unanimous)
• Renewed second class liquor licenses for Jiffy Mart #439 and Scavenger Gallery (4-0, 1 abstained, 1 recused)
• Renewed first class liquor license for Phnom Penh Sandwich Station (4-0, 1 abstained, 1 recused)
• Approved four PVR-4155 forms and authorized Assessor to file with grand list (unanimous)
• Amended purchasing policy to include climate action addendums (5-1, Collins opposed)
• Approved request to Mascoma Bank for $5.0 million line of credit and authorized Town Treasurer to execute documents (unanimous)
• Approved letter responding to alleged open meeting law violation complaint (unanimous)
• Extended Ad Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter charge until June 1, 2022 (unanimous)

Town Meeting Cycle

This is a combined Budget Discussion and Candidates Night for Hartford, VT, held remotely. The town moderator will review ground rules, then school and town budget presentations will be given, followed by candidate speeches for contested races. A public question-and-answer period will close the meeting.

• School budget presented by Russ North, School Board Member
• Town budget presented by Tracy Yarlott-Davis, Town Manager
• Candidates for 2-year Selectboard: Nancy Russell, Rocket, Ally Tufenkjian
• Candidates for 3-year Selectboard: Peter Merrill, Mary Erdei
• Candidates for 5-year W. Hartford Library: Douglas Eisler, Laura R. Brooks, Veronica Golden

Inactive Boards

The Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter (HADCES) is meeting to review and approve minutes from January 27, 2022, and to discuss the final committee report. They will also discuss the process for an RV policy with the planning commission. The meeting is held online only.

• Review and passage of minutes from 1/27/2022
• Discussion of final HADCES report
• Discussion of RV policy process with planning commission

The Hartford Ad Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter (HADCES) approved its 1/27/22 minutes and reviewed its final report, which will be presented to the Selectboard on 2/22. The committee will recommend extending its charge for one year to continue RV policy work and creating a standing committee on homelessness and affordable housing. No other binding decisions were made; discussion covered state hotel/motel voucher funding changes and RV zoning questions.

• Approved HADCES minutes of 1/27/22 (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 6:15pm (unanimous)
• Finalized HADCES report for presentation to Selectboard on 2/22
• Will recommend extending committee charge one year to 3/1/2023
• Will recommend creating a standing committee on homelessness and affordable housing

Board of Civil Authority

The Hartford Board of Civil Authority will test the voting tabulators in preparation for the upcoming Annual Town & School Meeting on March 1, 2022. This is a procedural meeting focused on election preparation.

• Testing of voting tabulators
• Preparation for Annual Town & School Meeting on March 1, 2022
• Meeting at Hartford Town Hall, 171 Bridge St., White River Jct., VT

Historic Preservation Commission

The Hartford Historic Preservation Commission is meeting remotely to discuss and potentially act on several items, including a 2022 CLG grant for Hartford Performing Arts history, the St. Paul's Rectory, and 160 Gates Street. The agenda also includes routine items like approving minutes and announcements. No specific decisions are detailed in the agenda.

• 2022 CLG Grant for Hartford Performing Arts History
• St. Paul's Rectory
• 160 Gates Street
• HHPC & the Planning Commission
• Minutes of January 19, 2022 meeting

The Historic Preservation Commission approved corrected minutes from its January 19 meeting and heard updates on several projects. The Planning Commission denied a Planned Development application to build an 18-unit apartment building at the St. Paul's rectory site; the applicant could resubmit for fewer units. Craft Studies discussed roof options for 608 North Main Street, and the town was awarded a CLG grant to hire a consultant for a performing arts history of Hartford. The commission took no other substantive votes.

• Approved January 19, 2022 minutes with a correction (unanimous)
• Added 608 North Main Street discussion to the agenda
• Adjourned at 6:11 p.m. (motion by Robin Adair Logan, seconded by Susanne Walker Abetti, approved)

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion is meeting remotely to discuss and vote on several items, including reviewing applications for open committee seats and revising a recommendation for a Community Review of Public Safety for the School Board. The committee will also hear from a liaison from Lebanon's Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Commission and check in with a student liaison.

• Revise recommendation for Community Review of Public Safety for School Board
• Open committee seats application review and first recommendation
• Welcome Emily Walton, liaison from Lebanon's Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Commission
• Student Liaison check-in

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion voted unanimously to recommend Pat Autilio for an open community seat, forwarding the recommendation to the Select and School Boards. The committee also agreed that member Russell North would bring the idea of a Community Review of Public Safety to the School Board on March 23, with the Select Board discussing possible inclusion in next year's budget. A motion passed for John Hall and interested members to interview Miriam Wood for a seat at a later time. The committee approved minutes from its February 2 meeting and heard updates on a neighborhood public safety meeting and student outreach.

• Approved minutes of 2/2/22 (unanimous)
• Recommended Pat Autilio for open community seat on HCOREI to Select and School Boards (unanimous)
• Agreed John Hall and interested members will interview Miriam Wood for a seat at a convenient time (motion passed)
• Agreed Russell North will bring Community Review of Public Safety to School Board on March 23
• Suggested HCOREI draft an outline RFP for the Community Review and submit it to the Select Board

West Hartford Library Trustees

The West Hartford Library Board is holding its regular monthly meeting. The agenda consists of standard reports from the secretary, treasurer, and director, along with old and new business. The only specific item listed is a scheduled call at 7:15 PM with Judy Roberts to discuss the Farmer's Market.

• 7:15 PM call with Judy Roberts to discuss the Farmer's Market

The board accepted the previous meeting's minutes with a correction to attendance. Trustees discussed the Farmers Market permitting and requirements, and were asked to consider purchasing additional facing bookshelves.

• Approved secretary's report minutes with attendance correction

Tree Board

The Hartford Tree Board will discuss planting trees at Quechee Green, including species selection and scheduling around the Hot Air Balloon festival. They will also review minutes, plan a Tree ID walk, and hear reports on Tree of the Month and Year of the Tree activities.

• Plant 4 maples, 1 Liberty Elm, 1 Red Oak at Quechee Green
• $3,000 donation from Quechee properties for trees and planting
• Possible Chamber of Commerce donation pending board meeting
• Spring Tree ID walk planned for April 23rd
• Discussion on ash tree news and forestry topics

The Hartford Tree Board voted to thank Jon Bouton and Tom Kahl for presenting the Hartford Conservation Commission's updated Town Forest management plan and to support the HCC's efforts to implement it in winter 2023, with final approval to come from the Select Board. The motion passed with one objection. The board also discussed Year of the Tree activities, Quechee Green fundraising, an April tree identification walk, and approved corrections to its February 15, 2022 minutes. Several items, including the Tree Warden search and the Shade Tree Plan, were carried to the April meeting.

• Motion passed (one objection) thanking Jon Bouton and Tom Kahl and supporting HCC implementation of the Town Forest management plan in winter 2023, pending Select Board approval
• Corrected February 15, 2022 minutes approved unanimously
• Quechee Green funding reported: $500 from the Chamber of Commerce, $1,000 from Rick Grondin, up to $3,000 from Quechee Lakes Association, $1,200 in the Tree Board budget
• Tree ID walk set for 4/23/22 at Wright Reservoir, with a pre-walk 4/16 at 10 AM
• March Tree of the Month named as the cottonwood in Veterans' Park
• Tree Warden vacancy and vacant Tree Board seat to be advertised by the Select Board; discussion continued to April
• Shade Tree Plan review continued to the April meeting

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission will hold a remote public hearing to consider five applications, including a request to designate a property on Christian Street as a preferred site for a solar array, a subdivision on Fowler Lane, amendments to the Red Barn Farms Planned Development, and three related applications involving St. Paul's Episcopal Church and Twin Pines Housing Trust for subdivision and planned development on Hartford Avenue. The meeting also includes administrative matters such as minutes and permits.

• Review Norwich Technology's request for a 'Preferred Site' designation for a solar array on Christian Street
• Application #22-01: Dewey Historic Barns, LLC subdivision of lot 13-0024-003 into two lots at 131 Fowler Lane, Quechee
• Application #22-02: Mark Zeytoonjian amendments to Red Barn Farms Planned Development for house sites #6 and #7 on Galaxy Hill Lane
• Application #22-03: Boundary line adjustment between lots 43-0074-000 and 43-0092-000 at 713 and 749 Hartford Avenue
• Applications #22-04 and #22-05: St. Paul's Episcopal Church and Twin Pines Housing Trust subdivision and planned development at 479 Hartford Avenue

The Hartford Planning Commission reviewed several applications during its meeting, including a solar array preferred site request and multiple subdivision and boundary adjustments. Following an extensive public hearing and deliberative session regarding Application #22-05 by St. Paul's Episcopal Church and Twin Pines Housing Trust for an 18-unit planned development, the commission voted to deny the application because it failed to meet specific zoning criteria regarding harmony with the surrounding development, environmental preservation, and site design standards.

• Closed public hearing and approved Application #22-01 for subdivision of lot 13-0024-003 at 131 Fowler Lane (Dewey Historic Barns, LLC) (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing and approved Application #22-02 for amendments to Red Barn Farms Planned Development on Galaxy Hill Lane (Mark Zeytoonjian) (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing and approved Application #22-03 for boundary line adjustment at 713 and 749 Hartford Avenue (St. Paul’s Episcopal Church and The Upper Valley Haven, Inc.) (6-0, John Heath abstained)
• Closed public hearing and approved Application #22-04 for subdivision at 479 Hartford Avenue (St. Paul’s Episcopal Church and Twin Pines Housing Trust) (unanimous)
• Entered deliberative session (5-2, Robin Adair Logan and Colin Butler opposed)
• Closed public hearing and denied Application #22-05 for Preliminary approval of a Planned Development at proposed lot 43-0074-001 on Hartford Avenue (St. Paul’s Episcopal Church and Twin Pines Housing Trust) (unanimous opposition)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Commission will review department goals, objectives, and the strategic plan. The meeting includes updates on the pool project and discussions regarding board member liaison appointments.

• Review of Rec Dept Goals and Objectives
• Review of Strategic Plan and Program Plan
• Pool Project updates
• Appointment of Board Member Liaisons
• Discussion of administrative assistant position restructuring

The Hartford Parks and Recreation Commission approved the January minutes, appointed commission liaisons, and discussed department reports, pool project updates, and re-certification goals. Joe Major stepped down as Selectboard liaison.

• Approved January minutes
• Appointed commission liaisons: Mike Vanasse (youth sports), Allison Childs (Zoning and Planning), David Crocco (Tree Board), Tom McCleary (Conservation Commission), Brett Mayfield (School and Select Board)
• Adjourned meeting (6:04 pm)

Inactive Boards

The Climate Action Steering Team will meet virtually to discuss several climate-related items. The agenda includes discussions on the Climate Reserve Fund, solar array RECs, and the Christian St. Norwich Solar project.

• Climate Reserve Fund distributions
• RECs for solar arrays
• Christian St. Norwich Solar project
• Town procurement policy
• SB draft report

The committee reviewed procurement procedures for reserve fund expenditures and discussed potential outreach projects involving high school students. No formal votes were recorded during this meeting. Members discussed administrative processes for Renewable Energy Credit (REC) management and website content development.

• Amended January 2 meeting minutes
• Tabled website content planning
• Established procurement policy for purchases over $4,001

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Hartford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on a setback waiver application to replace an accessory structure with a larger one at 3210 Jericho Street. The board will also handle administrative matters including minutes, administrative approvals, and scheduling.

• Public hearing on Application #01-22 by Steven and Martha Sass for a setback waiver under section 260-52 to replace an accessory structure with a larger one on lot 03-0042-000, 3210 Jericho Street, in an RL-10 district
• Approval of minutes from January 5, 2022
• Review of projects that received administrative approval
• Public comment period

The Board approved an amended application for a setback waiver to replace an accessory structure with a larger one. The approval followed a discussion regarding the structure's size and its impact on a wetland buffer.

• Approved amended setback waiver for 3210 Jericho Street (3-2)
• Approved January 5, 2022 meeting minutes (4-1)

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will consider reauthorizing the town's face covering rule for public indoor spaces, a temporary measure that must be renewed every 30 days. The board will also discuss outdoor dining in downtown White River Junction, review the Tax Increment Financing District annual report, and consider appointments and liquor license renewals. The meeting includes public comment and a town manager's report on ongoing projects.

• Reauthorization of the Face Covering Rule (motion)
• Outdoor Dining in Downtown White River Junction (discussion)
• Tax Increment Financing District FY 2020 Annual Report (motion)
• Certificate of Highway Mileage (motion)
• Liquor license renewals for five businesses including The Filling Station and Quechee General Store

The Hartford Selectboard adopted reviewed bond documents from Primmer Piper Eggleston & Cramer PC dated February 4, 2022 and designated the Selectboard Chair as the Duly Authorized person to execute the VT Bond Bank 2022 Series 1 bond sale, tied to TIF Project 1 (South Main, North Main and Gates Streets roadway improvements) and TIF Project 2 (South Main Street parking lot). The board also approved several liquor license renewals, reauthorized the Hartford Face Covering rule, and made two appointments. A request to set a procedure for answering citizen questions was put on the next agenda rather than decided.

• Adopted VT Bond Bank 2022 Series 1 bond documents and designated Selectboard Chair as Duly Authorized person (all in favor)
• Approved 1st and 3rd Class liquor licenses for Squeaky Wheel, Inc. dba The Filling Station Restaurant & Lounge, 70 Gates Street (5 in favor, 1 abstained)
• Approved 1st, 3rd and Outside Consumption liquor license for Wolf Tree Hospitality, LLC dba Wolf Street, 40 Currier Street (5 in favor, 1 abstained)
• Approved 2nd Class liquor licenses for Quechee General Store, Inc. and Summit Stores, LLC (5 in favor, 1 abstained)
• Reauthorized the Hartford Face Covering rule (5 in favor, 1 not in favor)
• Recommended re-appointment of William Brett Mayfield as Local Health Officer for a three-year term (all in favor)
• Re-appointed Bruce Riddle to the Planning Commission for a three-year term ending February 7, 2025 (all in favor)
• Approved the Consent Agenda, including payroll ending 2/5/2022, minutes of 1/25/2022, and A/P manifests of 2/4/2022 & 2/8/2022 (all in favor)

Town and School Meeting Committee

The Town and School Meeting Committee is organizing for the 2022 annual town and school meeting cycle, including planning a Budget & Candidates Night on February 21 and Town Meeting Day on February 26. The agenda is largely procedural, focusing on committee organization and task assignments.

• Committee organization and role in 2022 meeting cycle
• Budget & Candidates Night on February 21, 2022
• Town Meeting Day on February 26, 2022

The Hartford Town and School Meeting Committee held its organizational meeting on February 7, 2022. The committee unanimously selected Ryan Scelza as Chair and Susan Manley as Clerk. Members discussed the committee's role in the Town and School Meeting cycle, planned to help distribute Town Reports and postcards, and noted one vacant three-year term to be appointed by the Select Board. The meeting adjourned at 6:34pm by unanimous consent.

• Selected Ryan Scelza as Chair (unanimous consent)
• Selected Susan Manley as Clerk (unanimous consent)
• Adjourned at 6:34pm (unanimous consent)

Conservation Commission

The Hartford Conservation Commission is meeting remotely to discuss and decide on several items, primarily focused on the town forest, including a timber harvest community meeting, an integrated management plan, and a potential partnership with a mountain bike association. They will also hear updates on salamander conservation, private landowner outreach, and other environmental topics.

• Discussion of timber harvest community meeting and path forward for Town Forest
• Review of Integrated Town Forest Management Plan and Wildlife Habitat Assessment
• Proposal for formal relationship with Upper Valley Mountain Bike Association
• Update on Kestrel decline in Northern New England
• Wetlands question from Harvest Lane resident

The Conservation Commission approved a motion recommending the 2023 town forest timber harvest proceed using the north landing, the trailhead parking area as a separate log landing, and a temporary parking area along Reservoir Road. The commission also discussed goals, private landowner outreach, partnerships with the Hartford Salamander Team, and town forest management topics.

• Approved motion recommending 2023 town forest timber harvest using north landing, trailhead parking area as log landing, and temporary Reservoir Road parking (7-0)
• Approved January 3, 2022 minutes by unanimous consent
• Adjourned meeting at 9:00 p.m.

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion is meeting to discuss its strategic plan, including coordination with the School Board and Selectboard, and to consider changes to student liaison membership. The committee will also discuss whether to expand its recommendation for community review of public safety to include students and parents, and address open committee seats.

• Strategic Plan Update discussion
• Check-in on Strategic Plan presentation/update from School Board; request more coordination between School Board & Selectboard
• Check-in on change for student liaisons membership
• Discussion on expanding Community Review of Public Safety to include students & parents (with School Board support)
• Discussion on open committee seats

The committee approved the minutes from their January 12 meeting. Members discussed the strategic plan timeline, student liaison membership, and a potential community review of public safety.

• Approved January 12 meeting minutes (unanimously)
• Adjourned meeting (7:07 PM)

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Climate Action Steering Team (CAST) is meeting to discuss several climate-related items, including the use of state funds for charging stations at multi-family housing, procedures for adding energy requirements to zoning, tree recommendations, and recommendations for ARPA funds. The team will also review a draft report and website plans. The agenda includes routine items like approving minutes and municipal updates.

• Discussion on using state funds for charging stations at multi-family housing
• Procedure for adding energy requirements to zoning changes
• Tree recommendations from the Tree Board
• Recommendations for ARPA funds to Town Manager and Selectboard
• Climate Action Plan (CAP) budget update

The Hartford Climate Action Steering Team (CAST) met on Feb 2, 2022, and discussed formatting its Selectboard report, a Three-Town Drive Electric Event on April 23, and possible EV booklet inclusion. Members heard from Jenny Carter on zoning authority and stretch code, and discussed renewable energy credits and a possible Green reserve fund. No motions, votes, or formal decisions are recorded in these minutes; several items were left as open questions for follow-up.

Conservation Commission

The Hartford Conservation Commission and County Forester A.J. Follensbee will hold an informational meeting regarding a planned timber harvest. The discussion focuses on the upcoming winter 2023 harvest within the 423-acre Town Forest.

• Informational meeting regarding Hartford Town Forest Winter 2023 timber harvest

The Hartford Conservation Commission hosted a community meeting on the planned Winter 2023 timber harvest in the 423-acre Hartford Town Forest. Staff and the County Forester presented the harvest plan, which would cut about 2,051 trees, temporarily affect 8 of 46 trails and 50 of 423 acres, and use the trailhead parking area as the log landing. No formal vote or decision was recorded; chair Tom Kahl stated there was consensus to use the trailhead parking area as the log landing and that the Commission will consider the comments received.

• No formal vote or decision recorded; meeting was for public input
• Chair stated consensus to use the trailhead parking area as the log landing
• HCC will take public comments under consideration
• Meeting adjourned at 8:22 p.m.

Inactive Boards

The Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter is meeting to review and pass minutes from a previous meeting, discuss creating a standing committee on homelessness and affordable housing, and consider the process for an RV policy with the planning commission. The agenda is mostly procedural, with the main substantive items being the potential standing committee and RV policy discussion.

• Review and passage of HADCES meeting minutes from 1/13/2021
• Discussion of potential charge for a standing committee on homelessness and affordable housing
• Discussion of RV policy process and the planning commission

Energy Commission

The Hartford Energy Commission is meeting to review minutes, discuss changing bylaws to allow non-Hartford residents to participate, and decide whether to get involved in an electric vehicle event. They will also hear updates from sub-committees on building energy efficiency, transportation, and land use.

• Discussion on changing bylaws so HEC members do not have to live in Hartford
• EV event email from Linda Gray on 1/11 - decide involvement and lead
• Sub-committee updates: Building Integrity and Energy Efficiency (mobile home), Transportation (EV event, guide), Energy and Land Use
• February HEC Herald ideas

The commission met without a quorum to discuss potential changes to membership bylaws and participation in an Earth Day electric vehicle event. No formal votes were taken; discussions regarding zoning regulations and blower door test certifications will continue.

• Agreed to participate in an Earth Day electric vehicle event

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission is holding a workshop to review a sketch plan for a multi-unit housing project and discuss two possible zoning district changes. The meeting is conducted electronically per Vermont's Open Meeting Law. Items include a housing project in White River Junction and zoning changes for food assembly/catering and residential/mixed-use development.

• Sketch plan review for multi-unit housing at Prospect Street and Maple Street, White River Junction (CB-2 district)
• Discussion of zoning change R-1M, Taj-E-India, to allow food assembly/catering on Sykes Mountain Avenue
• Discussion of zoning change IC-2 at Route 5/Ballardvale Drive to allow residential and mixed-use development (Twin Pines Housing Trust)

The commission held a workshop to discuss a proposed 43-unit housing project and potential zoning amendments for catering and mixed-use developments. No formal votes were taken on the proposals. The town was awarded a $20,000 grant to update the Town Plan's housing chapter.

• Awarded $20,000 Vermont Municipal Planning Grant for Town Plan housing chapter update

Inactive Boards

The Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter is meeting to review and pass minutes from a prior meeting, discuss the potential charge for a standing committee on homelessness and affordable housing, and discuss the process of an RV policy with the planning commission. The agenda is largely procedural and discussion-focused, with no formal votes or public hearings scheduled.

• Review and passage of HADCES meeting minutes from 1/13/2021
• Discussion of potential charge for a standing committee on homelessness and affordable housing
• Discussion of RV policy process and the planning commission

The Hartford Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter approved its 1/13/22 minutes and agreed to advance a proposed charge for a standing Committee on Housing and Homelessness, along with an extension of its own work, to the Selectboard on Feb 22. It agreed to add the word "regional" to item #3 of the charge and to create a three-page final report. The committee also agreed to hold future meetings remotely and to discuss the definition of "Dwelling" with the Town Health Officer.

• Approved HADCES minutes of 1/13/22 (all in favor)
• Agreed to advance proposed standing Committee on Housing and Homelessness charge and extension of committee work to Selectboard on Feb 22
• Agreed to add the word "regional" to item #3 of the charge
• Agreed to hold future HADCES meetings remotely and post notice at the top of agendas
• Approved motion to create a workgroup of Bryan, Ally and Simon to write a Final Report for review at next meeting (all in favor)
• Adjourned at 6:22 PM (all in favor)

Inactive Boards

The Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Shelter is meeting to review and pass minutes from a previous meeting, discuss creating a standing committee on homelessness and affordable housing, and discuss the RV policy process with the planning commission. This is a working meeting with no final decisions expected on these discussion items.

• Review and passage of minutes from 1/13/2021 meeting
• Discussion of potential charge for a standing committee on homelessness and affordable housing
• Discussion of RV policy process and the planning commission

Board of Civil Authority

The Hartford Board of Civil Authority is meeting to discuss the 2022 legislative apportionment proposal. They will receive a status update and consider revisions to their recommendation. The meeting is open to the public in person and via Zoom.

• Status update on 2022 legislative apportionment
• Discussion and determination of revisions to the apportionment recommendation

The Board of Civil Authority met January 25, 2022 and reached general consensus that members testifying before the House Government Operations Committee on January 28 should focus only on the BCA's preferred redistricting plan (the Alternate/Minority Plan with multi-member districts). Members discussed but did not decide on a 'Plan B' of technical map changes, agreeing to see how the committee testimony goes first. The Clerk will prepare talking points for those testifying. The only formal vote was to adjourn.

• General consensus: Jan 28 GovOps testimony to focus only on BCA's preferred plan (no formal vote recorded)
• No decision made on developing a 'Plan B' map; members chose to wait for committee testimony
• Clerk Lisa O'Neil to prepare and distribute talking points/script for BCA testifiers
• Adjourned (motion by Mike Morris, seconded by Nancy Russell; carried)

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Selectboard will consider a Vermont Bond Bank application to fund two TIF projects. These projects involve phase two of roadway and streetscape improvements on South, North, and Gates Streets, as well as the reconstruction and expansion of the South Main Street parking lot.

• $2,400,800 Vermont Bond Bank loan application for South Main Street projects
• Phase 2 construction of South, North, and Gates Streets roadway and streetscape improvements
• Reconstruction and expansion of the South Main Street parking lot
• Informational presentation by the Howard Center
• South Main Street Project engineering bid award motion

The Selectboard approved several loan applications and a contract for the second phase of the South Main, North Main, and Gates Streets roadway improvements. The board also authorized an engineering agreement with Aldrich & Elliot Engineers.

• Approved Vermont Bond Bank Application for $2,400,800 (unanimous)
• Approved $860,000 DWSRE and $750,000 CWSREF loan applications (unanimous)
• Approved reallocation of unused State Revolving Loan Program funds to project phase two (unanimous)
• Approved $310,400 engineering agreement with Aldrich & Elliot Engineers (unanimous)
• Accepted Consent Agenda including payroll and previous meeting minutes (unanimous)