Hartford public meetings in 2024

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will continue discussion and finalize the FY2026 budget, considering three spending scenarios that would raise property taxes by 9.6% to 12.2%, adding $279.98 to $355.50 to the annual tax bill on a $250,000 home. The board will also review a Fire Department request to restore $48,000 in budget funds for safety equipment and station furnishings.

• FY2026 budget scenarios: spending increases of 3.44%, 4.43%, or 5.42%
• Estimated tax rate increase: 9.625% to 12.221%
• Impact on $250K home: $279.98 to $355.50 annual increase
• Fire Department request: $48,000 for bailout systems ($14,000), portable radios ($11,500), Station #2 furniture ($22,500)
• Paving reductions of $300,000 or $150,000 in scenarios

Energy Commission

The Hartford Energy Commission will review draft minutes, hear public comment, receive a coordinator's report, discuss geothermal findings from Oak Ridge, and plan community outreach. The main discussion will focus on setting 2025 priorities for the town's Climate Action Plan (CAP), particularly regarding buildings.

• Review and approve draft minutes from previous meeting
• Geothermal Oak Ridge findings and report
• Community outreach: tri-fold and 2024 Town report
• Discussion on 2025 CAP priorities for buildings

West Hartford Library Trustees

The West Hartford Library Board of Trustees will meet to approve the minutes of the November 20th meeting and the treasurer's report. They will also review and potentially approve policies on materials acquisition, materials review requests, and volunteers, and assign work on undeveloped policies. The board will discuss whether to hold a Christmas party for the community or just for board, staff, and Friends of the West Hartford Library (FWHL). The director's report and old business items, including a key loaning/lockbox, a Courtney gift certificate, and Google Drive access, are also on the agenda.

• Approval of minutes from November 20th meeting
• Approval of treasurer's report
• Review/approve materials acquisition, materials review request, and volunteer policies
• Discussion of Christmas party scope (community vs. board/staff/FWHL)
• Old business: key loaning/lockbox, Courtney gift certificate, Google Drive access

Historic Preservation Commission

The Hartford Historic Preservation Commission will meet to consider several historic preservation matters, including nominations for the Demers Avenue and Victory Circle/Highland Park Historic Districts, a historic sign at Kilowatt Park, and other sign-related items. The agenda also includes a discussion of the 2025 Certified Local Government grant application and a US 250th Anniversary commemoration. Public comments will be taken at the start of the meeting.

• Review of Demers Avenue and Victory Circle/Highland Park Historic District nominations
• Discussion of Kilowatt Park Historic Sign
• Historic District Signs
• Railroad Station Weathervane
• 2025 CLG Grant Application

The Hartford Historic Preservation Commission approved submitting nominations for the Demers Avenue and Victory Circle historic districts to the Vermont Division for Historic Preservation. The commission also discussed plans for a historical sign at Kilowatt Park, historic district signs, a community meeting on the railroad station weathervane, and a CLG grant application. No public comments were received.

• Approved submission of Demers Avenue and Victory Circle Historic District nominations to Vermont Division for Historic Preservation (4-0)
• Approved minutes of November 20, 2024 as written (unanimous)
• Agreed to hold community meeting on weathervane at January 15 HHPC meeting
• Agreed to contact Sign Depot and Anything Printed for historic district sign cost estimates

Climate Action Steering Team

The Hartford Climate Action Steering Team is meeting to discuss several climate-related items, including an update on post-holiday Styrofoam recycling, findings from Oak Ridge National Labs on geo-thermal energy, and the status of NEVI level 3 electric vehicle chargers. The team will also review the 2024 Town Report and approve minutes from the previous meeting.

• Post-holiday Styrofoam recycling update
• Geo-thermal Oak Ridge National Labs findings
• NEVI level 3 chargers
• 2024 Town Report review

Tree Board

The Hartford Tree Board is meeting to review minutes, preview annual activity reports from the Tree Warden and the board, and discuss options for placing QR codes on municipally planted trees. The board will also consider urban forestry news items, including a whiskey fungus blight affecting trees in Tennessee and Maine.

• Review of minutes from November 19, 2024 meeting
• Tree Warden preview of annual activity report
• Preview of Tree Board's annual activity report
• Discussion of QR codes on trees planted by municipality or tree board
• Urban forestry news: whiskey fungus blight from Jack Daniels barrels in Tennessee and Maine

The Hartford Tree Board met on December 17, 2024, but did not make any formal decisions due to a lack of quorum. The board reviewed the Tree Warden's and the board's annual activity reports, which detailed tree removals, plantings, and grant work. They also discussed potential QR codes for trees, with further research to be presented in January. The November minutes were postponed for approval to the January 21, 2025 meeting.

• November minutes approval postponed to January 21, 2025 meeting
• No quorum; no formal votes taken

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will meet to consider recommendations for updating the town's liquor control policies, continue reviewing cleaning contract bids, and discuss draft FY2026 budgets. The meeting is open to the public and includes a public comment period.

• Recommendations for liquor policy changes, including updates to reflect the Vermont Department of Liquor and Lottery's online portal and revised fee schedule
• Continued review of cleaning contract bids
• Discussion of draft FY2026 budgets

The Selectboard approved a cleaning contract with RC Cleaning, LLC for $4,420.00 per month in 2025 and $4,552.56 per month in 2026, and instructed the Town Manager to execute the contract. The board also reviewed a proposed liquor policy change, which will be voted on at the January 7, 2025 meeting. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was adjourned at 8:35 PM.

• Approved cleaning contract with RC Cleaning, LLC for $4,420.00/month in 2025 and $4,552.56/month in 2026 (unanimous)
• Deferred vote on liquor policy changes to January 7, 2025 meeting
• Decided no meeting needed on Dec 18; Dec 19 meeting will focus on finalizing FY26 budget

Housing & Homelessness Committee

The Hartford Committee on Housing and Homelessness is meeting to discuss next steps on a rental inventory survey, continue conversations about solutions for the unhoused community, and review the Point in Time survey. The committee will also consider participating in the Upper Valley Candlelight Vigil and Memorial on December 20, 2024, and review its FY 2024 town report.

• Next steps on rental inventory survey review
• Participation in Upper Valley Candlelight Vigil and Memorial on 12/20/2024
• Continue discussion on solutions for unhoused community and Point in Time survey
• Review of HCHH's FY 2024 Town Report
• Update on town website page on housing

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Parks and Recreation Commission will meet to discuss and tour the Wendell A. Barwood Arena (WABA) facilities and review a marketing and community relations plan. The meeting also includes routine items such as approval of previous minutes, citizen and commission comments, and reports from directors and committee liaisons.

• Tour and discussion of Wendell A. Barwood Arena (WABA) facilities
• Review of Marketing and Community Relations Plan

The Hartford Parks and Recreation Commission approved the Marketing and Community Relations Plan unanimously. The commission also discussed the Community Recreation Center survey, needle box installation, and the Lyman Point Park play area project. No other formal votes were taken.

• Approved Marketing and Community Relations Plan (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of previous meeting (unanimous)

Energy Commission

The Hartford Energy Commission is meeting to review and approve the draft minutes from its previous meeting and to discuss its Climate Action Plan (CAP) priorities for 2025. The meeting is open to the public and includes a public comment period.

• Review and approve draft minutes from previous meeting
• Public comment period
• Discussion on Hartford Energy Commission's CAP priorities for 2025

The Hartford Energy Commission met on December 12, 2024, and discussed priorities for the Climate Action Plan (CAP) for 2025. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was primarily a discussion session. The next meeting is scheduled for December 19, 2024.

• Reviewed draft minutes from previous meeting (no action noted)
• Discussed Hartford Energy Commission's CAP priorities for 2025 (no vote recorded)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Hartford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on a setback waiver request for a garage/accessory dwelling unit at 179 Handy Road. The board will also handle administrative matters including public comment, minutes, and administrative permits. The agenda includes discussion on starting hearings later and scheduling the next public hearing.

• Setback waiver application #08-24 by Landon and Renee Potwin for a garage/ADU at 179 Handy Road (RL-5 district)
• Administrative permits: TPHT EV chargers, WR Toyota temporary structures, Quechee Mobil parking/demo changes
• Discussion on starting hearings later
• Next public hearing scheduled for January 15, 2025

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will consider a local option sales tax recommendation for voters, review bids for wastewater chemicals and cardiac monitors, and discuss a $700,000 budget cut target. They will also vote on a resolution to establish a Hartford 250th Commemoration Committee and make appointments to the Climate Action Steering Team and Energy Commission.

• Consider making recommendation to voters to adopt Local Option Sales Tax
• Review bids for wastewater chemicals (chlorine and polymer)
• Purchase of a used front end loader - request to waive Section 3.6 of Purchasing Policy
• Review bids for HFD cardiac monitors
• Re-appointments: Laura Simon to Climate Action Steering Team; Jesse Pollard to Hartford Energy Commission

The Selectboard voted unanimously to recommend that voters adopt a 1% local option sales tax at Town Meeting on March 4, 2025, with proceeds dedicated to reducing property tax rates. The board also approved several contracts and purchases, including wastewater chemicals, a used front-end loader, cardiac monitors, and an ordinance digitization contract. The cleaning contract bid review was tabled to the next meeting.

• Recommended 1% local option sales tax for March 4, 2025 Town Meeting vote (unanimous)
• Awarded wastewater chemical bid to Allen Engineering & Chemical Corp for sodium hypochlorite and polymer (unanimous)
• Awarded wastewater polymer bid to Holland Company, Inc. (unanimous)
• Waived competitive bidding and authorized purchase of used front-end loader up to $37,437 (unanimous)
• Authorized $56,980 contract with MSK Engineers for Podunk Road culvert engineering (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 Certified Local Government grant application submission (unanimous)
• Awarded ordinance digitization contract to Municode (Civic Plus) (unanimous)
• Authorized $123,566.02 purchase of three cardiac monitors from Zoll Medical Corp (unanimous)

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 loan summaries and updates, and discuss an outreach plan for both funds. The meeting is open to the public, with remote access available.

• Approval of September 4, 2024 meeting minutes
• Executive session to review October 2024 loan summary reports
• Update on current and potential loans
• Discussion of outreach plan for both revolving loan funds

The Hartford Business Revolving Loan Fund Committee met on December 4, 2024, and approved the minutes from the September 4, 2024 meeting. The committee entered executive session to review the confidential October 2024 loan summary report and discuss potential loan applications, but no actions were taken. They also discussed scheduling a meeting with the town's new Communication and Media Specialist to develop an outreach plan.

• Approved minutes from September 4, 2024 meeting (unanimous)
• Entered executive session to review October 2024 loan summary and potential applications (no actions taken)

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion (HCOREI) will meet to approve meeting minutes, review a proposal for 2025 meeting dates, discuss and decide on specific FY2026 budget requests, and receive a report from the Gender Inclusivity Policy working group. The committee will also hear updates on community engagement efforts and plans for 2025.

• Approve meeting minutes of Oct. 16th
• Review and approve proposal for HCOREI meeting dates through 2025
• Discuss and decide on specific FY2026 budget requests
• Report from Gender Inclusivity Policy working group
• Updates on BIPOC Home and Business Ownership Community Kick-Off Event

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will hear an Information Technology budget presentation for FY 2025-2026, continue discussing ordinance digitization options, and begin budget review wrap-up. The agenda includes no consent items and is open for public comment.

• IT budget corrections: overall budget reduced from $505,073.50 to $495,268.02
• Public Safety Project upgrade: $151,412 total, split $27,000 each among PD, FD, Dispatch
• Darktrace contract renewal expected at $80,000/year for 3 years
• Absolute Secure Access SaaS fee of $10,400 proposed
• Ordinance digitization: Municode ($2,975/yr) vs General Code ($7,900 project + $1,195/yr)

The Selectboard reviewed the budget and asked department heads, the finance director, and the town manager to reduce the presented amount by $700,000. They also continued discussing ordinance digitization but took no action, requesting a recommended motion for vendor selection at a future meeting. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Directed $700,000 budget reduction from presented amount
• Deferred ordinance digitization vendor selection pending recommended motion

Conservation Commission

The Hartford Conservation Commission is meeting to discuss routine business including approval of minutes, public comments, and updates on town forest projects, conservation areas, and the commission's budget. They will also hear from a guest about educational partnerships and review their bylaws and awards program.

• Guest Dan Gibson from Hartford Area Career & Technology Center on educational partnerships
• Tree tubes to protect saplings in Town Forest
• Maanawaka Conservation Area update
• David Chang Conservation Area update
• HCC Budget Update

The Hartford Conservation Commission met on December 2, 2024, and approved the previous meeting's minutes. They discussed potential educational partnerships with the Hartford Area Career & Technology Center, including a proposal to haul downed hemlock trees from the Town Forest, which was tabled for further discussion. No formal votes were taken on substantive matters; the meeting was primarily informational and planning-focused.

• Approved minutes of 11/4/24 by unanimous consent
• Agreed to visit Town Forest individually to assess downed hemlock trees, discuss at January 6 meeting
• Agreed to leave white pine in former Lower Hurricane Reservoir untouched
• Holly volunteered to photograph downed trees with Dan Gibson

Resilient Hartford

The Resilient Hartford committee is meeting to discuss updates and plans for local resilience projects, including the Vermont Fruit and Nut Tree Grant, Clifford Park riparian area and food forest plans for 2025, and the Quechee Abenaki Garden. They will also hear about an upcoming Nature Conservancy event and consider filling two committee openings.

• Clifford Park Food Forest Plans for 2025 (20 min discussion)
• Clifford Park Riparian Area Update (10 min)
• Vermont Fruit and Nut Tree Grant Update (5 min)
• Quechee Abenaki Garden Update (5 min)
• Nature Conservancy Community Resilience Building Event on 12/5 (10 min)

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will meet to decide on renewing a local cannabis retail license for The Tea House, LLC, and re-appoint a member to the Committee on Housing and Homelessness. The meeting will also include budget presentations for planning, parks, and finance, as well as discussions on deficits in recreation and capital funds.

• Renewal of #S-000009921 cannabis retail license for The Tea House, LLC at 50 Woodstock Road
• Re-appointment of Dan Nott to the Hartford Committee on Housing and Homelessness for a two-year term
• Requests for exceptions to the town’s Social Service Appropriation Policy
• Presentations on Planning and Development, Parks & Recreation, and Finance budgets
• Discussion on Recreation Deficit (Fund 73) and Capital Deficit (Fund 80) and acceptance of the External Audit Report

Energy Commission

The Hartford Energy Commission is meeting to review and approve the previous meeting's minutes, hear public comment, and receive the Coordinator's Report on topics like C2C/ground source heating, the Nature Conservancy meeting, EV Expo 2025, and Vermont climate financing. The commission will also discuss 2025 elections, the Dartmouth Mapping Project, and set 2025 Climate Action Plan (CAP) goals and priorities. This is a regular working meeting with no major decisions or public hearings on the agenda.

• Review and approve draft minutes from previous meeting
• Coordinator's Report on C2C / Ground Source Heating, Nature Conservancy Meeting, EV Expo 2025, VT climate financing
• Discussion of 2025 Elections
• Dartmouth Mapping Project update
• Setting 2025 CAP Goals & Priorities

The Hartford Energy Commission held its November 21, 2024 meeting, starting with public comment and later attaining quorum. The commission unanimously approved the October minutes and elected new officers: Jesse as Chair, Esme as Vice-Chair, and Lynn as Clerk. No substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting focused on reports and updates.

• Approved October minutes as presented (unanimous)
• Elected Jesse as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Esme as Vice-Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Lynn as Clerk (unanimous)

Climate Action Steering Team

The Hartford Climate Action Steering Team is meeting to approve prior minutes, hear a coordinator's report, elect a Chair, Vice Chair, and Clerk, review outreach materials, and discuss what federal-level changes might mean for climate action in Vermont and locally. The meeting is open to public comments.

• Election of Chair, Vice Chair, and Clerk
• Review and approval of draft minutes from previous meeting
• Coordinator's report
• Discussion of outreach materials
• Discussion on federal changes and their local impact on climate action

The Hartford Climate Action Steering Team met on November 20, 2024, and conducted elections for Chair, Vice Chair, and Clerk. The team also reviewed and approved the draft minutes from the previous meeting, received a coordinator's report, and discussed outreach materials and the implications of federal changes for climate action in Vermont and locally. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Approved draft minutes from previous meeting
• Elected Chair, Vice Chair, and Clerk (outcomes not specified in minutes)

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion (HCOREI) will meet to discuss Hartford becoming a Disability-Friendly Certified town with Kendra LaRoche of the Special Needs Support Center. They will also review and approve a proposed meeting schedule for 2025, prepare an update for the Select Board, and discuss the committee's budget. Updates will cover school board items, a gender inclusivity policy recommendation, and outreach efforts.

• Discussion with Kendra LaRoche on Hartford as a Disability-Friendly Certified town
• Review and approve proposed HCOREI meeting dates through 2025
• Prepare HCOREI update for Select Board on Nov. 26, including budget discussion
• Updates on Hartford Town Gender Inclusivity Policy recommendation
• Report on BIPOC Home and Business Ownership Community Kick-Off Event

Historic Preservation Commission

The Hartford Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to discuss several historic preservation topics, including Kilowatt Park historic signs, a railroad station weathervane, historic district signs, and CLG grant projects. The agenda also includes public comments and updates on the Vermont 250th Anniversary Commemoration.

• Kilowatt Park Historic Signs with guests Harry Kendrick and Phil Sargent
• Railroad Station Weathervane
• Historic District Signs
• CLG Grant Projects
• Vermont 250th Anniversary Commemoration

The Hartford Historic Preservation Commission approved applying for a CLG grant to fund design work for Railroad Row kiosk replacement panels and historic district sign designs. They also discussed a proposed historical sign for Kilowatt Park, with staff to investigate approvals and funding. The commission approved the October minutes and agreed to hold a community meeting about the railroad station weathervane.

• Approved CLG grant application for kiosk and sign designs (unanimous)
• Approved October 16, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Agreed to host community meeting on weathervane after holidays
• Discussed Kilowatt Park sign proposal; staff to check approvals and funding

Tree Board

The Hartford Tree Board is meeting to review minutes and hear reports on tree maintenance, including pruning and replacement plantings on Pine and Charles Streets. They will also discuss updates on riparian buffer planting projects and outcomes from a recent tree identification walk. The agenda is routine business with no major decisions or public hearings.

• Tree Warden report on pine trees on Charles St and Templeton Ave, Savage Cemetery proposal, and pruning/air spading jobs
• Riparian Buffer Project updates for 2023-2024, including plantings of white oak, katsura, yellow birch, memorial hackberry, swamp white oak, and coffee tree
• Sassafras tree not ordered, to be planted later this year or next spring
• Outcome of November 1st Tree ID walk supported by Ben Lay of CO-OP Food Store
• Discussion of Dartmouth Study on Urban Tree Planting

The Hartford Tree Board approved the previous meeting's minutes. The Tree Warden reported that Timber Tenders won the Savage Cemetery tree removal bid at $16,220, and replacement trees were planted on Pine Street. Six trees were planted at Lyman Point Park as part of the Riparian Buffer Project, with one species postponed. No new business was discussed.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted Timber Tenders bid of $16,220 for Savage Cemetery tree removal
• Replaced dead elm and katsura trees on Pine Street with European hornbeam and Freeman maple
• Planted six trees at Lyman Point Park (white oak, katsura, yellow birch, hackberry, swamp white oak, Kentucky coffeetree)

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard is holding a budget-only meeting to review FY2026 budget presentations from the Bugbee Senior Center, Public Works, Enterprise Funds, and the Town Manager. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the meeting is for discussion and public comment.

• Bugbee Senior Center proposed FY2026 budget of $148,533, up from $139,613 in FY2025
• Public Works total proposed FY2026 appropriations of $10,246,268, up from $8,635,670
• Highway Division proposes $1,000,000 for road reclamation/paving, including specific projects like Quechee Main Street ($260,000) and Quechee West Hartford Road ($238,000)
• Highway equipment replacement: $280,000 for a plow/dump truck and a Ford F250 pickup
• Water Division priorities include filling vacant Chief Water Operator position and maintaining current water rates

The Selectboard met for a budget-focused session, hearing presentations on the FY2026 budgets for the Bugbee Senior Center, Public Works, Enterprise Funds, and the Town Manager's office. No formal decisions were made; the only action was a request from Advance Transit for a purchasing policy exception, which was deferred to the next agenda. The meeting adjourned without any votes.

• Deferred Advance Transit purchasing policy exception request to next agenda
• Heard FY2026 budget presentations for Bugbee Senior Center, Public Works, Enterprise Funds, and Town Manager
• Adjourned meeting at 10:10pm

Sister Cities Committee

The Hartford Sister City Committee is meeting to approve October minutes, discuss the 2025 budget proposal, and plan a presentation about the Lycée de la Morlette exchange to the Select Board. The committee will also review and revise its by-laws and consider adding its logo to the new digital board at Town Hall.

• Proposal of 2025 budget
• Lycée de la Morlette exchange presentation to Select Board
• Review and revise Sister City by-laws
• Proposal to add Sister City logo to Town Hall digital board
• Thank you email to Town Manager John Haverstock and Select Board Chair Mike Hoyt

West Hartford Library Trustees

The West Hartford Library Board of Trustees is meeting to approve the minutes and treasurer's report, and to discuss filling the chairman and secretary positions. They will also address Google Drive access for two members and the return of keys from former board members. The meeting includes a director's report and a possible executive session.

• Approval of minutes (action item)
• Approval of treasurer's report (action item)
• Discussion of chairman and secretary positions
• Google Drive access for Mary and Karen
• Return of keys from former board members

The West Hartford Library Board approved the October minutes, the treasurer's report, and several policies including the Privacy and Confidentiality Policy and the Mission and Vision Statement. They reinstated Doug Eisler as Chairman ProTemp and appointed Mary Smith as Secretary. The board also approved an end-of-year 2024 bonus for Sandie Carey in executive session. Google Drive access for Mary and Karen was tabled due to access issues.

• Approved October 1, 2024 meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Approved treasurer's report showing $43,047 balance (all in favor)
• Reinstated Doug Eisler as Chairman ProTemp (all in favor)
• Appointed Mary Smith as Secretary (all in favor)
• Tabled Google Drive access for Mary and Karen due to access issues
• Approved Privacy and Confidentiality Policy (all in favor)
• Approved Mission and Vision Statement (all in favor)
• Approved end-of-year 2024 bonus for Sandie Carey in executive session (all in favor)

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard is holding a budget-only meeting to review FY2026 budget presentations from the Fire Chief, Police Chief, and Dispatch. The fire budget proposes $5,270,175.26, the police budget $4,298,641.34, and the dispatch budget $1,655,224.00. These are presentations for discussion, not final votes.

• Fire budget increase of $327,587.47 to $5,270,175.26
• Police budget increase of $370,601.34 to $4,298,641.34
• Dispatch budget increase of $71,400 to $1,655,224.00
• Fire reserve deposit of $180,994 for vehicles, SCBA, PPE
• Police propose adding two sworn officer positions

The Selectboard held a budget meeting for FY2026, hearing presentations from the Fire Chief, Police Chief, and Dispatch. No decisions were made; the meeting was informational only, with discussion and Q&A. The meeting adjourned without any votes or approvals.

• No decisions made; budget presentations only

Housing & Homelessness Committee

The Hartford Committee on Housing and Homelessness is meeting to discuss housing and homelessness issues. They will review a rental inventory survey, assessor data, and a potential list of resources to include in property tax bills. The committee will also continue discussions on solutions for the unhoused community and update the town website's housing page.

• Review of rental inventory survey
• Review of town assessor data summary
• Potential list of resources for property tax bills
• Continued discussion on solutions for the unhoused community
• Update on town website housing page

The committee approved the October meeting minutes and discussed next steps for the rental inventory, including adding rental rate ranges and other data points. They also discussed providing resources to residents struggling with tax and utility bills, and heard updates on regional homelessness initiatives and a new housing staff position.

• Approved October meeting minutes (Haffner abstained)
• Agreed to include rental rate ranges, bedroom counts, and waiting list questions in next rental inventory draft
• Agreed to explore adding resource information to property tax bills via communications staff
• Agreed to invite Hartford police and fire representatives to a future meeting

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Hartford Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to discuss routine business, including approval of minutes and reports. New business includes a possible tour of parks and facilities, while old business covers a survey at the Rec Center, a needle drop issue, a master plan review, and the Lyman Point Park project. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Rec Center survey disbursement
• Needle Drop discussion
• Master Plan Review and Update
• Lyman Point Park Project
• Tour of parks/facilities discussion

The Hartford Parks and Recreation Commission approved the department's Master Plan, with all members in favor. The meeting also included updates on equipment, events, and facility issues, but no other formal decisions were made. The next meeting is scheduled for December 12 at WABA.

• Approved the Master Plan for the Town of Hartford Parks and Recreation department (all in favor)
• Approved minutes from previous meeting (all in favor)

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission and Town Plan Steering Committee will meet to review a revised draft of the Economic Development Chapter of the Town Plan and discuss the Draft Regional Plan. The session includes procedural items such as approving past meeting minutes and public comments.

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will meet to discuss budget presentations for FY2026, consider re-appointments to the Tree Board and Zoning Board, and review several contracts including a curbside recycling extension with Casella Waste Services. The meeting will also include reports from the Town Manager and commissions, as well as an executive session on a proposed litigation settlement.

• Re-appointment of Clare Forseth to Hartford Tree Board for three-year term
• Re-appointment of Stephanie Gile to Hartford Zoning Board for three-year term
• Consider curbside recycling contract extension with Casella Waste Services (cost increase to $283,333/year)
• Review heating fuel bids and Nutt Lane contract re-award proposal
• Budget presentations for FY2026 from Assessor and Clerk

The Hartford Selectboard approved a bid for heating fuel from Dead River Company, re-awarded the Nutt Lane Water Main Improvement Project contract to Issac's Excavating, Inc., and adopted a resolution ratifying a settlement in a discrimination claim against the town. The board also decided to leave a Selectboard vacancy open until the March 2025 elections and tabled a decision on policy and ordinance digitization proposals.

• Approved heating fuel bid to Dead River Company, Woodstock VT, for ~29,950 gallons at $2.8181/gal (all in favor)
• Authorized contract with Issac's Excavating, Inc. for $305,000 using ARPA funds for Nutt Lane Water Main Project, plus $61,000 contingency from Water Reserves (all in favor)
• Adopted resolution ratifying settlement in Kwame Banks v. Town of Hartford, admitting no liability (all in favor)
• Decided to leave Selectboard vacancy open until March 2025 elections (consensus)
• Tabled decision on policy and ordinance digitization proposals pending further recommendation
• Approved consent agenda including payroll, A/P manifests, and meeting minutes (all in favor)

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion (HCOREI) will meet to approve meeting minutes, discuss a proposal for 2025 meeting dates, begin listing budget items for 2025, and prepare an update for the Select Board. They will also meet with a representative from the Lebanon DEI group to discuss collaboration.

• Approve meeting minutes of Oct. 16
• Meet with Tia Winter from Lebanon DEI group to discuss collaboration
• Review and approve proposed 2025 meeting dates (Attachment A)
• Begin listing items for 2025 budget
• Prepare update for Select Board on Nov. 26

Conservation Commission

The Hartford Conservation Commission is meeting to discuss routine business and several ongoing projects. They will hear from a Dartmouth College guest about educational partnerships, review erosion and invasive species issues at the David Chang Conservation Area, and discuss pollinator gardens. The agenda also includes multiple town forest items, such as protecting saplings with tree tubes, a family forest event, and a logging course. The meeting is largely procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Discussion of erosion and invasive species at David Chang Conservation Area
• Pollinator gardens update
• Town forest: tree tubes to protect saplings, Family Forest Frolic series, Game of Logging course
• Vermont Town Forest Census update
• Maanawaka Conservation Area update

The Hartford Conservation Commission approved collecting donations for a gift card for A.J. Follensbee, who is leaving his position. They also agreed to pursue several conservation actions, including planting trees at the David Chang Conservation Area and seeking grant funding for trails. The meeting was largely informational, with no major policy decisions.

• Approved collecting donations for A.J. Follensbee gift card
• Agreed to pursue aquatic biologist input for DCCA bank erosion
• Agreed to explore tree planting at DCCA riverbank
• Agreed to develop list of projects for Vermont Recreational Trails Grant
• Set winter natural history walk for 1/25 at 8:00 a.m.
• Approved minutes of 10/7/24 as written

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will hold a public information hearing on a proposed bond vote for the Gates Street & Fairview Terrace reconstruction and stabilization project, and will consider several contracts and funding proposals, including engineering services for a FEMA buy-out grant, a Justice Assistance Grant for the police department, and multiple infrastructure projects. The board will also review the budget and consider renewal of Putnam's Vineyard's liquor licenses.

• Public hearing on bond vote for Gates Street & Fairview Terrace stabilization project
• Consider contract for engineering services for FEMA buy-out grant
• Consider proposal for Justice Assistance Grant funding for police department
• Award engineering contract for Podunk Road culvert
• Consider use of Quechee wastewater reserves for leach field engineering

The Selectboard held a public hearing on a proposed $4.1 million bond for the Fairview Terrace and Gates Street project, which will go before voters on November 5. The board also approved several contracts, including a $115,400 engineering contract for slope failure at 361 South Street and a $32,150 contract for the Podunk Road culvert. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved renewal of Putnam's Vineyard liquor licenses (unanimous)
• Approved $115,400 engineering contract with DuBois & King for 361 South Street slope failure (unanimous)
• Accepted $11,186 Justice Assistance Grant for police ballistic helmets (unanimous)
• Authorized up to $10,000 contract with DuBois & King for Quechee wastewater leach field engineering (unanimous)
• Awarded $32,150 engineering contract to MSK Engineers for Podunk Road culvert (unanimous)
• Approved $9,250 contract amendment with Dufresne Group for Wilder mains engineering (unanimous)
• Awarded $34,705 contract to Sanborn Head for landfill water quality monitoring (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including payroll, warrants, and minutes (unanimous)

Energy Commission

The Hartford Energy Commission is meeting to review and approve draft minutes, hear public comment, and receive the coordinator's report on C2C/Ground Source Heating and REV Conference follow-up. They will also discuss a Climate Action Reserve Fund proposal for power walls at Bugbee Senior Center, community resiliency efforts including a Nature Conservancy meeting, the Dartmouth Mapping Project, and a block party flier workshop with Municipal Ops.

• Climate Action Reserve Fund: power walls at Bugbee Senior Center
• C2C / Ground Source Heating update
• REV Conference follow-up
• Community Resiliency: Nature Conservancy meeting and timeline
• Dartmouth Mapping Project

The Hartford Energy Commission met on October 24, 2024, and approved the September minutes unanimously. The meeting was largely informational, with reports on regional climate adaptation efforts, geothermal projects, EV charger grants, and community resilience planning. No major policy decisions were made beyond the minutes approval.

• Approved September minutes (unanimous)

Climate Action Steering Team

The Hartford Climate Action Steering Team is meeting to discuss and potentially decide on several items, including approving draft minutes, receiving a coordinator's report, reviewing bylaws, discussing a budget request, and considering foam/plastic recycling. The meeting also includes conversations about electrification and a Climate Action Reserve Fund for Powerwalls at Bugbee.

• Review and approve draft minutes from previous meeting
• Coordinator's report
• CAST bylaws discussion
• Budget request discussion
• Foam/plastic recycling discussion

Resilient Hartford

The Resilient Hartford committee is meeting to discuss updates on local resilience projects, including the Vermont Fruit and Nut Tree Grant, the Clifford Park riparian area and food forest plans for 2025, and the Quechee Abenaki Garden. They will also review recent workdays and hear about The Nature Conservancy's Community Resilience Building Program. The agenda includes public comments and committee openings.

• Review of September 27th and October 11th workdays
• Vermont Fruit and Nut Tree Grant update
• Clifford Park riparian area site visit and food forest plans for 2025
• Quechee Abenaki Garden update
• The Nature Conservancy Community Resilience Building Program

The Resilient Hartford committee approved the September 24, 2024 minutes unanimously. They discussed grant status, riparian planning, and food forest maintenance, scheduling a watering session and a future community meeting. No formal votes were taken on substantive items.

• Approved September 24, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Scheduled watering of new trees and guild plantings for October 23 at 2:00 p.m.
• Agreed to hold a community meeting on Food Forest plans in mid to late winter

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion (HCOREI) will meet to discuss collaboration with the Quechee Lakes DEI Group, review proposed 2025 meeting dates, begin listing items for the 2025 budget, and prepare updates for the Select Board. The meeting also includes updates on the town's gender inclusivity policy and school board matters.

• Meet with Matt Donahue, Chair of Quechee Lakes DEI Group, to discuss potential collaboration
• Discussion of HCOREI meetings through 2025 (Attachment A)
• Begin listing items for 2025 budget
• Updates for Select Board scheduled for Nov. 26
• Hartford Town Gender Inclusivity Policy recommendation update

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion (HCOREI) met with members of the Quechee Lakes DEI Council to discuss shared goals and potential collaboration. The committee approved the minutes from October 2nd unanimously. No formal decisions were made beyond the minutes approval and agreement to exchange meeting invitations.

• Approved meeting minutes from October 2nd (unanimous)
• Agreed to invite HCOREI members to a Quechee Lakes DEI Council meeting

Historic Preservation Commission

The Hartford Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to discuss routine business, including reviewing draft minutes and receiving public comments. They will also hear updates on the Taft's Flat National Register nomination, performing arts history, historic district signs, Vermont's 250th anniversary commemoration, and CLG grant projects.

• Review of draft minutes from September 11, 2024
• Update on Taft's Flat National Register nomination
• Discussion of performing arts history
• Historic district signs update
• CLG grant projects update

The Hartford Historic Preservation Commission approved the September 11, 2024 minutes (3-0) and discussed several ongoing projects. They scheduled a community meeting for November 20, 2024 to review the Taft's Flat Historic District nomination updates, and noted that a consultant proposal for the Performing Arts History project was accepted. No major decisions were made beyond the minutes approval.

• Approved September 11, 2024 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Scheduled community meeting for November 20, 2024 to discuss Taft's Flat Historic District nomination
• Noted acceptance of consultant proposal for Performing Arts History project

Tree Board

The Hartford Tree Board will review past work, discuss riparian buffer projects, and prepare for a November 1 tree identification walk. The board will also follow up on exposed roots at Hartford Point Cemetery and receive a Tree of the Month report.

• Completed work on maple tree in front of Hartford Town Library
• Riparian buffer project updates including cottonwood replacements and Japanese knotweed mowing
• Tree ID walk scheduled for November 1 with support from Ben Lay of CO-OP Food Store
• Follow-up on exposed roots of mature Norway Spruce at Hartford Point Cemetery
• Tree of the Month report presentation

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will meet to consider a new local cannabis license for VVS Farms LLC, appoint Holly Henderson to the Conservation Commission, and discuss several administrative items including a dilapidated building ordinance, fire department equipment purchases, and a proposed railroad weathervane steering committee. The agenda also includes routine approvals of payroll, bills, and minutes, plus executive sessions for a legal settlement and employee evaluation.

• Consider new cannabis license application #S-000010043 for VVS Farms LLC (indoor cultivator Tier 2)
• Appoint Holly Henderson to the Hartford Conservation Commission (term Oct 2024–Sep 2028)
• Designate code number for Dilapidated Building Ordinance
• Transfer reserves for Fire Marshal vehicle; review bids for cardiac monitors for Fire Department
• Approve proposal to establish Railroad Weathervane Steering Committee

The Hartford Selectboard approved a Tier 2 indoor cultivator license for VVS Farms, appointed Holly Henderson to the Conservation Commission, assigned Chapter 100 to the Dilapidated Building Ordinance, appointed two Deputy Building Safety Officers, authorized a fire department vehicle purchase, and ratified a $1,000 settlement in the Little Tree lawsuit. The cardiac monitor bid review was tabled, and the railroad weathervane steering committee proposal was deferred pending state input.

• Approved VVS Farms Tier 2 indoor cultivator license (unanimous)
• Appointed Holly Henderson to Conservation Commission for 4-year term (unanimous)
• Assigned Chapter 100 to Dilapidated Building Ordinance (unanimous)
• Appointed Amy Jerome and Alan Beebe as Deputy Building Safety Officers (unanimous)
• Authorized fund transfer for plug-in/hybrid fire department vehicle (unanimous)
• Tabled review of cardiac monitor bids
• Ratified Little Tree settlement with $1,000 deductible from Town (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including payroll, A/P manifests, and minutes (unanimous)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Hartford Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes and receiving reports. The main items are discussing the disbursement of a survey for the Rec Center, a needle drop issue, and reviewing and updating the master plan.

• Rec Center survey disbursement
• Needle Drop discussion
• Master Plan Review and Update

Housing & Homelessness Committee

The Hartford Committee on Housing and Homelessness will discuss next steps for a rental inventory, solutions for the unhoused community, and the proposed fiscal year 2026 budget. The meeting will also cover updates on a town housing webpage and preparations for a community block party.

• Discussion on next steps for Rental Inventory
• Continued discussion on Solutions for the Unhoused Community
• Proposed Fiscal Year 2026 Budget review
• Update on Town Website Page on Housing
• Preparation for Hartford Community Coalition Block Party on October 18th

The Hartford Committee on Housing and Homelessness approved its August and September meeting minutes unanimously. Members discussed next steps for a rental inventory, including meeting with the Assessor's Office and drafting questions. They also reviewed upcoming events and budget allocations for FY2026, with no final decisions made on substantive items.

• Approved August and September meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Discussed rental inventory next steps with Assessor's Office
• Reviewed FY2026 budget allocations: $1,000 for events, $15,000 for housing initiatives
• Scheduled attendance at NHCEH Regional Roundtable on Homelessness (Oct 11)

Sister Cities Committee

The Hartford, VT Sister City Committee is meeting to accept minutes, welcome a new member, and discuss feedback from a recent teacher/student trip to Cenon, France. They will also plan a student presentation to the Select Board, review by-laws, and discuss an upcoming festival in Cenon.

• Welcome Pat Cook as newest member (term 5/14/24-5/13/27)
• Feedback from HACTC teacher/student trip to Cenon, FR
• Plan student presentation to Select Board; set date with Mike Hoyt
• Write thank-you email/letter to John Haverstock and Mike Hoyt
• Review and revise Sister City by-laws

Conservation Commission

The Hartford Conservation Commission is meeting to discuss its fiscal year 2025/2026 budget, educational partnerships, and several town forest projects, including erosion control at the David Chang Conservation Area and a pilot project using chicken wire for a non-snowmobile bridge. The agenda also includes routine items like approving minutes, public comments, and updates on the pollinator gardens and fall cleanup.

• Discussion of HCC Fiscal Year 2025/2026 Budget
• David Chang Conservation Area erosion and invasives management
• Pilot project: chicken wire for non-snowmobile bridge in Town Forest
• Tree tubes to protect saplings in Town Forest
• Permission for Game of Logging Course

The Hartford Conservation Commission approved a level-funded budget of $6,530 for fiscal year 2025/2026, matching the current year's budget. The commission also approved a motion to allow the annual Game of Logging chainsaw training for the Hartford Area Career & Technology Center. Several other items were discussed, including potential partnerships with the career center and Vermont Law and Graduate School, but no formal decisions were made on those.

• Approved FY2025/26 conservation budget of $6,530 (unanimous)
• Approved Game of Logging chainsaw training for HAC&TC (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of 8/26/24 as written (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on two applications: a site development plan for a harm reduction vending machine at 70 North Main Street, White River Junction, and a subdivision of a 109.8-acre lot on Jericho Street and Newton Lane into two lots. The agenda also includes administrative matters such as permits, updates on the Town Plan, Regional Planning Commission, and Climate Action Plan, and a draft decision on the subdivision application is included.

• Public hearing on Application #24-13: Harm Reduction Vending Machine at 70 North Main Street, White River Junction (CB district)
• Public hearing on Application #24-14: Subdivision of lot 04-0012-000 into two lots (approx. 8.8 and 101 acres) on Jericho Street and Newton Lane
• Administrative permits: Riverwalk fencing/smoking shelter/EV charger, Wilder School sheds/playground equipment, High School football field netting
• Act 250 applications: Quechee Fire Station addition (Willard Rd.), Jasmin Auto parking (Jasmin Lane)
• Draft decision on Application #24-14 includes conditions: sprinkler system required for new dwelling, driveway permit needed

The Planning Commission approved a site development plan for a harm reduction vending machine at 70 North Main Street, White River Junction, and approved a subdivision on Jericho Street and Newton Lane. Both decisions were made after public hearings. The commission also approved administrative permits and noted Act 250 applications.

• Approved site plan for harm reduction vending machine at 70 North Main Street (unanimous)
• Approved subdivision of lot 04-0012-000 into two lots (5-1)
• Approved September 5, 2024 minutes with corrections (unanimous)
• Noted administrative permits for Riverwalk, Wilder School, and High School
• Noted Act 250 applications for Quechee Fire Station and Jasmin Auto

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion (HCOREI) will meet to discuss ways to assist the school district's diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts, review its meeting schedule, begin planning its 2025 budget, and consider new outreach materials. The agenda includes routine items like approving minutes and appointing a vice-chair, with several topics tabled for future meetings.

• Appoint new HCOREI Vice-Chair
• Meet with Julia Lau, DEI coach/facilitator for Hartford School District
• Discuss HCOREI budget items for 2025
• Review new HCOREI flyer and web page URL
• Discuss meeting times and frequency

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will meet on October 1, 2024, to consider a cannabis license renewal for Five Seasons Cannabis Company, review contractor bids for the Nutt Lane project, parking meters, and bridge striping, and make decisions on un-obligated ARPA funds. The board will also consider new appointments to the Conservation Commission, Climate Action Steering Team, and West Hartford Library Trustees, along with several other administrative items.

• Consider renewal approval for Five Seasons Cannabis Company, LLC (license #S-000009512)
• Review contractor bids on Nutt Lane Project
• Review bids on parking meters and installation
• ARPA update and decisions on un-obligated funds
• Consider adopting resolution for ARPA allocation

The Selectboard approved multiple contracts and ARPA fund allocations, including a $270,000 contract for the Nutt Lane project, $141,051.75 for parking meters, and a resolution to spend up to $1,000,000 in ARPA funds for paving and highway services. A motion to spend $30,000 on masks and hand sanitizer failed. Appointments were made to the Climate Action Steering Team and West Hartford Library Trustees, while a Conservation Commission appointment was tabled.

• Approved $270,000 Nutt Lane contract with Zaluzny (unanimous)
• Approved $141,051.75 parking meter contract with ISP Group (unanimous)
• Approved $19,374 bridge striping contract with LD Safety Marking (6-1)
• Approved $1,000,000 ARPA resolution for paving and highway services (unanimous)
• Approved $77,874.68 ARPA funds for fire engine refurbishment (unanimous)
• Denied $30,000 ARPA funds for masks and hand sanitizer (1-6)
• Approved Beth Malow to Climate Action Steering Team (unanimous)
• Tabled Holly Henderson appointment to Conservation Commission

West Hartford Library Trustees

The West Hartford Library Board of Trustees is meeting to discuss and potentially approve a budget increase, review policies including privacy and confidentiality, and consider attaching policies to the website. They will also approve minutes and the treasurer's report, and receive a director's report. The meeting includes an executive session and is scheduled to adjourn at 7:30 p.m.

• Board approval of budget increase
• Privacy and Confidentiality Policy review by Doug Eisler
• Attaching policies to website discussion
• Approval of minutes and treasurer's report
• Tesla Power Wall update

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission and Town Plan Steering Committee will meet to review draft minutes from previous meetings and the draft Economic Development Chapter of the Town Plan. The agenda includes public comments, approval of minutes, and discussion of next steps. This is a working session focused on refining the economic development strategies.

• Review of draft Economic Development Chapter
• Review of Steering Committee minutes from May 29 and June 10, 2024
• Review of draft minutes from July 16, 2024 Community Forum
• Public comments period

Energy Commission

The Hartford Energy Commission is meeting to approve prior minutes, hear public comment, and discuss follow-ups from a Select Board presentation, including public engagement needs and a possible block party. The coordinator will report, and members will discuss volunteer tabling, a GMP substation tour, and a district heating check-in with NREL and Efficiency Vermont.

• Review and approve draft minutes from previous meeting
• Introduction of John Hawks, Town Communication & Media Specialist
• Discussion of public engagement needs and block party with VEEP/CCS
• Window Dressers volunteer tabling at Dartmouth follow-up
• District heating check-in with NREL and Efficiency Vermont

The Hartford Energy Commission approved the August minutes unanimously. They discussed a VTrans grant application for Level 3 EV chargers at S. Main St., with a decision expected in mid-October. The commission also reviewed stormwater outreach, website updates, and upcoming events like the Block Party and Window Dressers.

• Approved August minutes (unanimous)
• Discussed Level 3 charger grant application (decision pending mid-October)
• Discussed website updates with new public engagement staff
• Discussed stormwater outreach for West Hartford
• Discussed MERP audits and upcoming RFP for Public Safety building

Board of Civil Authority

The Hartford Board of Abatement will hold a public hearing on September 24, 2024, to consider six property tax abatement requests. Each applicant will present evidence, and the board will deliberate after the hearings. The agenda is specific to these abatement cases and includes no other substantive business.

• Jeffery & Jackie Fenner, 105 Williams Ln., #7F
• Catherine & Peter Novak/Kasia Novak, 2448 Quechee Main St.
• Sandra Rhoades, 45 Marshall Ave.
• Jonathan Schechtman, 87 Waterman Hill Rd.
• Tribhuvan Maharaj & Darcel Saunders-Maharaj, 951 Christian St.

Resilient Hartford

Resilient Hartford will hold its regular meeting, including electing a Chair and Vice Chair, reviewing its fiscal year budget, and receiving updates on several community projects. The group will also discuss plans for the Clifford Park Food Forest, the Vermont Fruit and Nut Tree Grant, and the Quechee Abenaki Garden. Public comments will be heard.

• Election of Chair and Vice Chair
• Resilient Hartford Fiscal Year Budget review
• Clifford Park Food Forest plans for 2024/2025
• Vermont Fruit and Nut Tree Grant update
• Quechee Abenaki Garden update

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard is holding a facilitated strategic planning session to review and update the town's 2019 Strategic Plan. The meeting includes public comment, exercises, and discussions on achievements, ongoing goals, and new priorities. This is a working session, not a regular business meeting, and no formal decisions are expected.

• Review of 2019 Strategic Vision buckets: Engaged and Welcoming Community, Strong and Stable Local Economy, Resilience, Visionary and Responsive Governance, Equitable Opportunities, Environmental Sustainability, High Quality Learning Opportunities, Functional Infrastructure
• Discussion of what has been achieved and what can be removed from the strategic vision
• Identification of short-term and long-term goals and allocation of responsibility
• Discussion of new items to add to the strategic vision and prioritization of goals

The Hartford Selectboard held a facilitated strategic planning session to review and update the 2019 Strategic Vision Document. Participants discussed achievements, items to remove, and new goals to add. No formal decisions were made; the next step is for PRISM to provide notes for the board to fine-tune the updated vision.

• Held strategic planning session to update 2019 Strategic Vision (no formal vote)
• Adjourned at 4:24 pm (motion by Mary Erdei, seconded by Sue Buckholz, all approved)

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion (HCOREI) will meet to handle routine business, including approving minutes, appointing a new vice-chair, and discussing meeting frequency. The committee will also revise its charge, review a new outreach flyer, begin listing 2025 budget items, and hear updates on a town gender inclusivity policy and the Community Safety Review Project.

• Appoint new HCOREI Vice-Chair
• Discuss HCOREI Charge Revision
• Review new outreach flyer and web page URL
• Begin listing items for 2025 budget
• Update on Town Gender Inclusivity Policy

Climate Action Steering Team

The Hartford Climate Action Steering Team is meeting to review and approve draft minutes, hear a coordinator's report, receive a Selectboard presentation, discuss CAST bylaws, get a foam/plastic recycling update, and talk about electrification. The meeting is open to public comments.

• Review and approve draft minutes from previous meeting
• Coordinator's report
• Selectboard presentation
• CAST bylaws discussion
• Foam/plastic recycling update

The Climate Action Steering Team postponed approval of August minutes due to lack of quorum. They discussed state-funded EV charging stations for White River Junction, a geothermal project for the Gates building, and a $500K grant opportunity for municipal buildings. No formal decisions were made; several items were deferred to the October meeting.

• Postponed approval of August minutes (no quorum)
• Discussed EV charging hub with up to 8 fast-charging units (state-funded, bidder announced mid-October)
• Discussed geothermal project for Gates building (64 bore holes needed)
• Discussed $500K Municipal Energy Resilience Program grant for DPW building and ice rink
• Deferred Styrofoam collection responsibility discussion to October
• Changed October meeting date to October 23
• Select Board approved CAST bylaws; ratification deferred to October

Tree Board

The Hartford Tree Board will review minutes from its August meeting, receive the Tree Warden’s report on pruning and dead trees, and discuss updates to the tree nursery watering system and a riparian buffer project. The board will also plan a tree identification walk, hear the Tree of the Month report, and review a financial donation for pruning a maple at the Hartford Library.

• Pruning of Honey Locusts on Rt 14 and dead elm on Pine St
• Improved watering system for tree nursery and riparian buffer project update
• Financial donation for pruning Maple at Hartford Library
• Update on Community Forestry Grant with seven trees planned at Lyman Point
• Plan Tree ID walk for October

The Hartford Tree Board approved a $800 payment to Chippers for pruning and cabling a mature maple at the Hartford Library. They also discussed plans for tree planting, a tree ID walk, and maintenance of nursery projects, but no other formal votes were recorded.

• Approved $800 payment to Chippers for Hartford Library maple work
• Approved minutes of previous meeting
• Adjourned meeting (all in favor)

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard approved several routine items, including new liquor and cannabis licenses, re-appointments to town committees, and a petition to install fiber conduit along Wheelock Road. They also accepted a $31,500 grant for a culvert replacement, authorized agreements for the Nutt Lane water main project, and adopted FY 2026 budget guidance. Public comment included updates on the Coolidge Block redevelopment and a request for a crosswalk on Route 5.

• Approved liquor license for Cappadocia Café, 5 South Main Street, White River Jct
• Approved cannabis license renewal for Easy Green Genetix, LLC
• Accepted $31,500 grant for Podunk Road culvert replacement
• Authorized fiber conduit installation along Wheelock Road by Consolidated Communications
• Approved $800 in legal fees for Nutt Lane water main project

The Hartford Selectboard approved a liquor license for Cappadocia Café, renewed a cannabis license for Easy Green Genetix, and made several appointments. They also authorized the Town Manager to sign agreements for fiber conduit, a culvert grant, and the Nutt Lane water main project, and adopted FY 2026 guidance with a 4-1 vote.

• Approved liquor license for Cappadocia Café (unanimous)
• Approved cannabis license renewal for Easy Green Genetix (unanimous)
• Re-appointed Sara Ferguson to Design Review Committee (unanimous)
• Re-appointed Lynn Bohi to Energy Commission (unanimous)
• Appointed Sally Mansur to Resilient Hartford Committee (unanimous)
• Approved C.A.S.T. By-Laws with deletion of final sentence of Section 6 (unanimous)
• Authorized Town Manager to sign fiber conduit petition for Consolidated Communications (unanimous)
• Adopted FY 2026 guidance (4-1-0, Collins opposed, Smith abstaining)

Housing & Homelessness Committee

The Hartford Committee on Housing and Homelessness is meeting to discuss next steps for the Rental Inventory Workgroup, continue discussions on solutions for the unhoused community, and receive updates on the town website's housing page. The committee will also hear a report from the September 3rd Selectboard meeting and plan participation in the Hartford Community Coalition Block Party rescheduled to October 18th.

• Report from Sept 3rd Selectboard update
• Next steps for Rental Inventory Workgroup
• Continue discussions on solutions for the unhoused community
• Update on Town Website Page on Housing
• Participation in Hartford Community Coalition Block Party on October 18th

The Hartford Committee on Housing and Homelessness discussed next steps for the rental inventory workgroup, including contacting the Assessor's Office and local organizations. They also brainstormed solutions for the unhoused community, such as revisiting past shelter recommendations and connecting with Lebanon Housing First. No formal votes were taken; the only action was approving participation in the October 18 Block Party.

• Approved participation in the Hartford Community Coalition Block Party on 10/18 (unanimous)
• Directed staff to contact Assessor's Office for rental inventory data
• Assigned Maggie to create questions for Twin Pines and The Haven
• Brandon to continue research on rent control and minimum wage

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Hartford Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to discuss and review the Master Plan update, the Rec Center survey disbursement, the Strategic Plan, a stipend policy, and a FERC update. The agenda also includes standard items like approval of minutes and citizen comments. The attached chapter from the Town Plan provides background on community facilities, including parks, police, fire, and town hall.

• Master Plan Review and Update
• Rec Center survey disbursement
• Strategic Plan Review
• Stipend Policy
• FERC Update

The Hartford Parks and Recreation Commission approved the distribution of a recreation center survey and accepted its review of the Strategic Plan. The commission also discussed the director's report, including summer camp results, new mowing equipment, ice arena scheduling, and a potential Wright reservoir restoration project. No other formal votes were taken.

• Approved beginning process of distributing recreation center survey (all in favor)
• Accepted Commission review of the Strategic Plan (all in favor)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Hartford Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to review its draft minutes, discuss its Fiscal Year 2025/2026 budget, and receive updates on several preservation projects, including the Taft's Flat National Register nomination and a Section 106 review for the White River Junction Railroad Depot platform. The agenda also includes public comments and discussions on historic district signs, a Veterans Park kiosk, and possible CLG grant projects.

• Review of draft minutes from August 21, 2024
• HHPC Budget for Fiscal Year 2025/2026
• Taft's Flat National Register Nomination update
• Section 106 review for White River Junction Railroad Depot platform
• Possible CLG grant projects

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard is holding a listening session to gather community input for developing a Town Communications Plan. Attendees will discuss what information the town should publish and how residents prefer to receive it. The meeting is a public input session, not a decision-making meeting.

• Listening session at Wilder Library, 78 Norwich Avenue, Wilder, VT
• Goal: gather input for a Town Communications Plan
• Informal survey on desired information types and preferred formats

The Selectboard held a listening session on September 10, 2024, to gather public input on improving town communication. No formal decisions were made; the discussion focused on ideas such as a town newsletter, a central information hub, and better access to meeting minutes. The board was receptive to holding future listening sessions, possibly quarterly.

• No formal decisions made; listening session only
• Adjourned at 7:36 pm (all members approved)

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider final approval of a planned development and site plan for converting the former Brookside Nursing Home at 1200 Christian Street into a 38-unit multi-unit dwelling. The hearing was continued from July 29 to allow the applicant to provide a traffic study and other information. The commission will also address administrative matters including a telecommunications tower replacement and various updates.

• Public hearing on Application #24-11: Final Approval of Planned Development for 38-unit multi-unit dwelling at 1200 Christian Street
• Public hearing on Application #24-12: Site Development Plan Approval to convert existing structure into multi-unit dwelling at 1200 Christian Street
• Telecommunications Tower Replacement at 1032 Bliss Road
• Administrative Permit for deck at Snow Village, Williams Lane
• No Act 250 applications

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Hartford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on September 4, 2024, to consider a conditional use application to convert the former Brookside Nursing Home at 1200 Christian Street into 38 dwelling units, with 40% designated as affordable. The hearing was continued from July 24, 2024, to allow the applicant to submit a traffic study, which has been received. The board will also address administrative matters including public comment, minutes, and scheduling.

• Application #07-24 by 12 Tremont Street, LLC to convert existing structure into 38-unit multi-family dwelling at 1200 Christian Street
• 40% of units (15 units) to be affordable/workforce housing per 24 V.S.A. § 4303
• Traffic study submitted by Corey Mack dated August 8, 2024
• Proposed gate on Brookside Drive access for maintenance and emergency vehicles only
• Public hearing continued from July 24, 2024

The Zoning Board of Adjustment approved Application #07-24 by 12 Tremont Street, LLC to convert an existing structure into a multi-unit dwelling at 1200 Christian Street, with conditions including a traffic study review, dumpster placement on pervious material, and non-toxic plantings. The decision was unanimous after a continued public hearing. No other substantive decisions were made; the October meeting was cancelled due to lack of applications.

• Approved Conditional Use Application #07-24 for multi-unit dwelling at 1200 Christian Street (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing for Application #07-24
• Entered deliberative session (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of July 24, 2024 (unanimous)
• Cancelled October 9, 2024 meeting due to no applications

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will meet to decide on a new liquor license for Cappadocia Café at 5 South Main Street and vote to renew Vermont Spirits Distillery’s licenses. The board will also hear updates on housing, sewer overflow loans, a communications tower replacement, and future budget guidance.

• New First Class liquor license for Cappadocia Café, LLC at 5 South Main Street, White River Junction
• Renewal of First, Third, and Outside Consumption liquor licenses for Vermont Spirits Distillery Co. at 5573 Woodstock Rd, Quechee
• Execute Modified Combined Sewer Overflow Loan Documents
• Review proposal to replace communications tower at 1032 Bliss Road
• Discuss future of Wright’s Dam and Reservoir

The Hartford Selectboard approved two liquor permits, signed modified sewer overflow loan documents, and voted to support Planning Commission comments on a communications tower replacement at 1032 Bliss Road, including consideration of an alternative site. No action was taken on the future of Wright's Dam, with the Town Manager continuing to research options after the dam's hazard rating worsened and insurance was withdrawn.

• Approved new 1st Class liquor permit for Cappadocia Café (unanimous)
• Approved renewal of 1st and 3rd Class liquor permits for Vermont Spirits Distillery Co. (unanimous)
• Approved and signed modified combined sewer overflow loan documents (unanimous)
• Approved supporting Planning Commission comments on communications tower replacement at 1032 Bliss Road, with alternative site 594 Bliss Road considered (unanimous)
• No action taken on Wright's Dam; Town Manager to continue researching options
• Approved consent agenda including payroll, A/P manifests, and meeting minutes (unanimous)

Resilient Hartford

Resilient Hartford is meeting to elect a chair and vice chair, and to discuss updates on the Clifford Park Food Forest, its budget, a Vermont fruit and nut tree grant, the Quechee Abenaki Garden, and a community resilience program. The group will also consider minutes from June 25 and fill two openings.

• Election of Chair & Vice Chair
• Clifford Park Food Forest Plans for 2024
• RH Budget Update
• Vermont Fruit and Nut Tree Grant
• Quechee Abenaki Garden Update

The Resilient Hartford meeting scheduled for August 27, 2024, was canceled because a quorum was not present. No decisions were made or items discussed.

Conservation Commission

The Hartford Conservation Commission is meeting to discuss routine business including approving minutes, public comments, and several conservation projects. Key topics include a site visit to the David Chang Conservation Area, pollinator gardens, a possible fall clean-up event, and multiple town forest matters such as chicken wire for bridges, a parking lot problem, and a forestry workshop. The agenda is largely procedural with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Site visit to David Chang Conservation Area
• Pollinator gardens discussion
• Possible fall clean-up event
• Town forest: chicken wire for non-snowmobile bridges, parking lot problem, Family Forest Frolic Series, 7/9 Forestry Workshop, county forester leaving post
• Ottauquechee Trail maintenance

The Hartford Conservation Commission approved minutes from July 1, discussed an educational partnership with the Hartford Salamander Team, and agreed to participate in the Source to the Sea Cleanup on September 28. They also discussed erosion at the David Chang Conservation Area, agreeing to contact an aquatic biologist and a contractor for invasive plant treatment. No formal votes were taken; decisions were by consensus.

• Approved minutes of 7/1/24 by unanimous consent
• Agreed to continue discussion on educational partnership with Hartford Salamander Team
• Agreed to participate in Source to the Sea Cleanup on September 28
• Agreed to pilot chicken wire on 1-2 non-snowmobile bridges in Town Forest
• Agreed to limit HCC Awards to individuals, no plaque in Town Hall
• Agreed to have booth at Hartford Community Coalition Block Party on 10/18
• Agreed to review bylaws and discuss at October 7 meeting
• Agreed to notify Holly Henderson about HCC opening

Energy Commission

The Hartford Energy Commission will review and approve draft minutes, hear the coordinator's report, and discuss scheduling a tour of a Green Mountain Power substation. They will also cover community resiliency efforts, a Dartmouth mapping project, and administrative items including bylaws, a proposed $50 per meeting payment, and a rescheduled HCC Block Party. A district heating check-in with NREL and Efficiency Vermont is also on the agenda.

• Tour of GMP Substation at Candlelight Terrace, possibly Friday 8/30
• Discussion of bylaws and $50/meeting payment for members
• HCC Block Party rescheduled to Friday, October 18th
• Joint presentation to Selectboard on 9/14
• District heating check-in with NREL and Efficiency Vermont

The Hartford Energy Commission approved the July minutes and discussed several ongoing projects, including a grant for two level 2 EV chargers, a completed weatherization training, and a proposed substation tour. No major policy decisions were made; the meeting was largely informational and procedural.

• Approved July minutes (4 yes, 1 absent, 1 abstain)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Hartford Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to discuss several local historic preservation matters, including a Section 106 review for the White River Junction Railroad Depot Platform, updates on the Taft's Flat National Register nomination, and various projects involving historic district signs, the Veterans Park kiosk, and the World War I & II Monument. The agenda also includes routine items like approving minutes and public comments.

• Section 106 Review of White River Junction Railroad Depot Platform
• Historic District Signs
• Veterans Park Kiosk
• World War I & II Monument
• Taft's Flat National Register Nomination Update

The Hartford Historic Preservation Commission met on August 21, 2024, and approved the July 17 minutes with corrections. They discussed several ongoing projects, including Section 106 review for railroad station platform improvements, the Performing Arts History project, historic district sign maintenance, and the Railroad Row kiosk. No formal decisions were made on these items; they were updates and planning discussions.

• Approved July 17, 2024 minutes with corrections (unanimous)

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion (HCOREI) will meet to discuss its charge revision, plan outreach to local organizations, and review a draft gender inclusivity policy for the Hartford School District. The committee will also receive updates from the school board and selectboard, including on committee member compensation and the Community Safety Review Project.

• Review of HSD Gender Inclusivity Policy draft
• Discussion of HCOREI charge revision and latest document version
• Plan to invite groups like UV BIPOC Network and Hartford Community Coalition to future meetings
• Updates on Community Safety Review Project and committee member compensation

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion (HCOREI) met on August 21, 2024, and approved the minutes from its August 7 meeting. The committee discussed revising its charge, exploring gender inclusivity policies, and brainstorming outreach to other organizations. No formal decisions were made beyond the minutes approval; most items were discussions or assignments for future action.

• Approved meeting minutes from August 7 (motion by Mary, second by Molly)

Climate Action Steering Team

The Hartford Climate Action Steering Team is meeting to discuss routine business including approving minutes, a coordinator's report, and updates on foam/plastic recycling and electrification conversations. They will also review a community resiliency workshop worksheet and plan a presentation to the Selectboard on September 17.

• Foam/plastic recycling update
• Window Dresser's electrification conversations
• TNC Community Resiliency Building workshop participant worksheet
• CAST Selectboard presentation on September 17

Tree Board

The Hartford Tree Board is meeting to discuss routine business, including updates on the tree nursery, riparian buffer project, and work at the Hartford High Jug Handle Area. They will also plan a tree identification walk and review a community forestry grant.

• Review of July 16, 2024 meeting minutes
• Tree Warden report
• Tree Nursery and Riparian Buffer Project update
• Work report on Hartford High Jug Handle Area
• Plan Tree ID walk at Hartford Point Cemetery

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will consider accepting a FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant to buy out and demolish the flood-damaged property at 361 South Street in Wilder, with the state covering the local match. The board will also discuss ARPA fund allocations, potential year-end encumbrances, auditor retention, and review fuel and paving bids. A proclamation re-dedicating the Hurricane Forest Wildlife Refuge and an appointment to the Tree Board are also on the agenda.

• Acceptance of $263,436.75 FEMA grant for buyout of 361 South Street (total project cost $351,249)
• Appointment of Jazmin Guyette to the Hartford Tree Board for a three-year term
• Proclamation on re-dedication of Hurricane Forest Wildlife Refuge
• Continued discussion of ARPA fund allocations
• Review of fuel and paving bids

The Selectboard approved several financial items, including $1.3M in FYE encumbrances, multiple ARPA fund allocations (nursing pod, police vehicle, mower, Maxfield Complex repairs), a $816,815 paving contract with Pike Industries, and a fuel agreement with Evans Fuels. They also accepted a FEMA buy-out grant for 361 South Street and appointed a Tree Board member. No action was taken on the Transfer Station feasibility study.

• Appointed Jazmin Guyette to Hartford Tree Board (3-year term) (unanimous)
• Adopted proclamation re-dedicating Hurricane Forest Wildlife Refuge (unanimous)
• Accepted $351,249 FEMA/VEM buy-out grant for 361 South Street (unanimous)
• Allocated $15,500 ARPA for nursing pod (unanimous)
• Allocated $45,000 ARPA for police detective vehicle (unanimous)
• Allocated $66,376.47 ARPA for Ventrac mower (unanimous)
• Allocated $60,000 ARPA for Maxfield Sports Complex repairs (unanimous)
• Approved $1,302,643.36 FYE encumbrances (unanimous)

Housing & Homelessness Committee

The Hartford Housing and Homelessness Committee is meeting to review progress from the Rental Inventory Workgroup, continue discussions on solutions for the unhoused community, and receive updates on the town website housing page and a meeting with the Selectboard. The agenda also includes routine items like approving minutes and public comment.

• Review progress from Rental Inventory Workgroup
• Continue discussing solutions for the unhoused community
• Update on Town Website Page on Housing
• Committee update meeting with the Selectboard

The committee agreed to develop an action plan and timeline for a rental housing inventory at its September meeting, using data from town records and other sources. It also approved the July minutes and changed its meeting date to the second Thursday of the month.

• Approved July 18, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Agreed to focus September meeting on rental inventory action plan and timeline
• Changed monthly meeting to 2nd Thursday at 6:00 PM

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Hartford Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes and hearing public comments. The main items are a new stipend policy, a review of the strategic plan, and the disbursement of a survey for the Rec Center.

• Stipend Policy review
• Rec Center survey disbursement
• Strategic Plan Review
• Needle Drop discussion

The Hartford Parks and Recreation Commission met on August 8, 2024, and approved the minutes of the previous meeting. No substantive decisions were made; the commission discussed the stipend policy (to be continued next meeting) and noted a recurring syringe and needle problem in town parks, suggesting more needle drop boxes may be needed. The Recreation Center survey and Strategic Plan Review are scheduled for September.

• Approved minutes of previous meeting (all in favor)

West Hartford Library Trustees

The West Hartford Library Board of Trustees is meeting to approve minutes and the treasurer's report, hear the director's report, and discuss old business including policy and bylaw reviews. New business includes an update on the farmers' market and discussion of new laws, specifically meeting recordings, which must be recorded per town bylaw updates.

• Approval of minutes (action item)
• Approval of treasurer's report (action item)
• Policies review
• Bylaws review
• New law: meeting recordings

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion (HCOREI) will meet to discuss its charge, explore outreach to local organizations, and review a draft gender inclusivity policy for potential recommendation to the town. The agenda includes updates from the school board and selectboard, and routine items like approving minutes and member comments.

• Review of HSD Gender Inclusivity Policy for potential town recommendation
• Discussion on engaging with BIPOC Home & Business Ownership Project, UV BIPOC Network, Hartford Community Coalition, and Pride groups
• Confirm latest version of HCOREI charge
• Updates on committee member compensation and Community Safety Review Project
• Hartford student award (A. Raynolds Memorial)

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will act as the Local Cannabis Control Commission to consider renewal applications for two cannabis businesses: GMG Cannabis, LLC and VVS Farms LLC. The meeting will also include updates on ARPA fund allocations, loan fund guideline amendments, and a grant acceptance for South Main Street TIF project improvements.

• Renewal of GMG Cannabis, LLC license (Application #S-000008624)
• Renewal of VVS Farms LLC license (Application #S-000008926)
• ARPA Funds Update and Re-Allocation Proposals
• Amendments to Hartford Business Revolving Loan Fund Guidelines
• Acceptance of grant for South Main Street TIF Project Improvements

The Selectboard approved several items, including adopting a necessity resolution and approving the warning and ballot form for a bond vote on the Fairview Terrace Reconstruction Project. It also approved two cannabis license renewals, amendments to two revolving loan fund guidelines, acceptance of a grant for South Main Street TIF improvements, and the consent agenda. Discussions on ARPA fund re-allocation and listening/strategic planning sessions were ongoing.

• Approved cannabis license renewal Application #S-000008624 (unanimous)
• Approved cannabis license renewal Application #S-000008926 (unanimous)
• Approved amendments to Section B(5) of Hartford Business Revolving Loan Fund Guidelines (unanimous)
• Approved amendments to Section F(2) of 2020 VCDP Revolving Loan Fund Guidelines (unanimous)
• Accepted grant for South Main Street TIF project improvements (unanimous)
• Adopted Necessity Resolution, approved Warning and Bond Vote Form of Ballot for Fairview Terrace Reconstruction Project (unanimous)
• Approved Consent Agenda including payroll, A/P manifests, and meeting minutes (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission will meet on July 29, 2024, to handle administrative matters and hold a public hearing on four site development and subdivision applications. These include converting an existing building to a multi-unit dwelling at 99 Depot Street, adding to the Quechee Fire Station, and two applications for a multi-unit dwelling at 1200 Christian Street. The commission will also consider a modification to an existing T-Mobile cell tower and receive updates on the Town Plan, Regional Planning Commission, and Climate Action Plan.

• Public hearing for Application #24-09: convert existing building to 3-unit dwelling at 99 Depot Street, Wilder (VR-C and R-1 districts)
• Public hearing for Application #24-10: addition to Quechee Fire Station at 131 Willard Road, Quechee
• Public hearing for Application #24-11: final approval of Planned Development for multi-unit dwelling at 1200 Christian Street, Hartford (R-3 district)
• Public hearing for Application #24-12: site development plan to convert existing structure to multi-unit dwelling at 1200 Christian Street, Hartford
• Administrative item: modification to existing T-Mobile cell tower at 1405 Connecticut River Road

The Hartford Planning Commission approved site development plans for a multi-unit dwelling at 99 Depot Street, Wilder, and an addition to the Quechee Fire Station. The commission continued a hearing for a proposed multi-unit dwelling at 1200 Christian Street to September 5, 2024, pending a traffic study. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved site plan for multi-unit dwelling at 99 Depot Street (unanimous)
• Approved site plan for Quechee Fire Station addition (unanimous)
• Continued hearing for 1200 Christian Street multi-unit dwelling to Sept 5, 2024 (unanimous)

Energy Commission

The Hartford Energy Commission will meet to review and approve draft minutes, hear a coordinator’s report, and discuss several energy-related items. The body will vote on allocating funds for a Power Wall at Bugbee School as part of the Climate Action Reserve Funds.

• Vote on Power Wall for Bugbee School under Climate Action Reserve Funds
• Review draft minutes from the previous meeting
• Discuss HCC Block Party reschedule (October 18th) and GMP Substation Tour
• Consider $50/meeting payment for bylaws work
• Check-in on District Heating project with NREL and Efficiency Vermont

The Hartford Energy Commission approved a $5,500 payment for a ten-year lease of a Powerwall battery at the Bugbee Senior Center, which serves as a cooling and warming center. The motion passed unanimously. Other items discussed included updates on heat pump projects, styrofoam recycling, and a technical assistance program for district heating.

• Approved $5,500 for Bugbee Powerwall lease (unanimous)
• Amended June special meeting minutes to add NREC language (unanimous)
• Approved June regular meeting minutes as presented (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Hartford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings on two conditional-use applications to convert existing buildings into multi-unit dwellings. One proposal is at 99 Depot Street in Wilder and the other at 1200 Christian Street in Hartford. The board will also take up routine administrative matters.

• Application #06-24: convert 99 Depot Street building to multi-unit dwelling, Wilder
• Application #07-24: convert 1200 Christian Street structure to 38 units with 40% affordable housing, Hartford
• Public hearings begin at 6:30 p.m. in person at Hartford Town Hall, 171 Bridge Street, White River Junction
• Remote access via Microsoft Teams (Meeting ID: 241 552 196 900, Passcode: GoXaDc)
• Next hearing scheduled for September 4, 2024

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will discuss and provide preliminary feedback on the Green Heights Drive housing project, including a proposed water booster station and road realignment at Sykes Mountain Avenue and Hickory Ridge. The board will also review a community safety study, receive an update on Resilient Hartford, and consider adopting an updated Emergency Operations Plan. The meeting includes public comment and an executive session for legal and contract matters.

• Green Heights Drive housing project: 192 units, water booster station with 5 pumps and 8-inch waterline
• Hickory Ridge road realignment: dead-end, gated, with turn-around for plow trucks
• Community Safety Study Report review
• Adoption of updated Emergency Operations Plan
• Executive session: legal (alternative dispute resolution) and contracts (consulting contract)

Resilient Hartford

The Resilient Hartford committee will meet in person at Clifford Park to discuss plans for the Clifford Park Food Forest, review the fiscal year budget closeout, and consider a Vermont Fruit and Nut Tree Grant. They will also receive updates on the Quechee Abenaki Garden and the committee's report to the Selectboard.

• Clifford Park Food Forest Plans for 2024
• Fiscal Year Budget Closeout
• Vermont Fruit and Nut Tree Grant
• Quechee Abenaki Garden Update
• RH Update to the Selectboard

The July 23, 2024 meeting of Resilient Hartford was cancelled because a quorum was not present. No decisions were made. The next meeting is scheduled for August 27, 2024.

Housing & Homelessness Committee

The Hartford Committee on Housing and Homelessness will meet to continue discussions on solutions for the unhoused community, review the Rental Directory Working Group's progress, and receive updates on the town website housing page and a meeting with the Selectboard. The agenda includes public comment and approval of the June 20, 2024 minutes.

• Review of July 2nd Rental Directory Working Group meeting
• Continue discussion on solutions for the unhoused community
• Update on Town website page on housing
• Committee update meeting with the Selectboard

The Hartford Committee on Housing and Homelessness approved minutes, appointed Maggie Burnett as secretary, and rescheduled monthly meetings to the second Thursday at 6 PM starting in September. The committee continued discussing a proposed Hartford Housing Inventory (rental registry), with a work group to draft a form and proposal for the August 15 meeting. No final decisions were made on the inventory or other substantive items.

• Approved June 20, 2024 meeting minutes as amended (unanimous)
• Appointed Maggie Burnett as HCHH Secretary (unanimous)
• Rescheduled monthly meetings to second Thursday at 6 PM, effective September
• Set next meeting for August 15 at 6 PM
• Work group to meet August 2 to draft housing inventory form and proposal

Hartford Business Revolving Loan Fund

The Hartford Business Revolving Loan Fund and Hartford 2020 VCDP Revolving Loan Fund Committee will hold a special meeting to discuss interest rates for its loan programs. The agenda includes public comment, approval of the June 12, 2024 meeting minutes, and a discussion on interest rates. This follows a prior meeting where the committee considered changing the rate language from a minimum of 3.25% or Wall Street Prime to a floor of 5%.

• Discussion of interest rates for the Hartford Business Revolving Loan Fund and Hartford 2020 VCDP Revolving Loan Fund
• Approval of the June 12, 2024 meeting minutes
• Public comment period
• Other business

The Hartford Business Revolving Loan Fund Committee met but lacked quorum, so no official actions were taken. Members discussed proposed changes to loan interest rate guidelines, suggesting a minimum of 5% and a maximum of the Wall Street prime rate, replacing the current 3.25% or prime floor. The committee plans to meet again on July 24 to potentially approve the changes for Selectboard review.

• No official actions taken due to lack of quorum
• Discussed proposed interest rate language: 5% minimum, prime rate maximum
• Scheduled special meeting for July 24, 2024 to review and potentially approve changes

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion (HCOREI) meets to discuss a draft gender-inclusivity policy for Hartford Schools and receive updates on a community-safety review, school-board matters, and selectboard initiatives. The meeting is open to the public in Room 317 of Hartford Town Hall and via Zoom.

• HSD Gender Inclusivity Policy review and potential recommendation to the town
• HCOREI Charge Revision update (approved)
• Community Safety Review Project update from Strategy Matters (300 survey responses, focus groups held)
• Hartford student award (A. Raynolds Memorial)
• Committee Member Compensation discussion

Historic Preservation Commission

The Hartford Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to discuss several Section 106 reviews, including the White River Junction Railroad Depot Platform Project and two telecommunication tower projects. They will also hear an update on the Taft's Flat National Register nomination and discuss various local historic items. The meeting includes public comments and review of previous minutes.

• Section 106 review: White River Junction Railroad Depot Platform Project
• Section 106 review: Bliss Road Telecommunication Tower Replacement
• Section 106 review: Connecticut River Road Telecommunication Tower Extension
• Update on Taft's Flat National Register Nomination with guest Brian Knight
• Discussion of Historic District Signs and Veterans Park Kiosk

The Hartford Historic Preservation Commission reviewed several Section 106 reviews and approved a motion agreeing with the Federal Railroad Administration's No Adverse Effect determination for ADA improvements at the Railroad Station, while requesting documentation of the tunnel's history and seeking Section 106 Consulting Party status. The commission also concurred that proposed telecommunication tower replacements and extensions on Bliss Road and Connecticut River Road would have no impact on historic resources. Updates were provided on historic district nominations, with a community meeting scheduled for August 21 and a formal meeting planned for September.

• Approved motion to agree with No Adverse Effect determination for Railroad Station ADA improvements, with documentation of tunnel history and Section 106 Consulting Party status (4-0)
• Concurred that Bliss Road telecommunication tower replacement (78' to 91' monopole) has no impact on historic resources
• Concurred that Connecticut River Road telecommunication tower extension (84' to 105') has no impact on historic resources
• Approved June 12, 2024 meeting minutes as written (unanimous)
• Scheduled community meeting for Victory Circle Historic District nomination for August 21, 2024
• Agreed to hold formal community meeting on both historic district nominations in September
• Moved September HHPC meeting to September 11, 2024 due to Hartford Historical Society lecture

Climate Action Steering Team

The Hartford Climate Action Steering Team is meeting to discuss routine business, including approving previous minutes, receiving a coordinator's report, and updates on foam/plastic recycling. They will also review the team's bylaws and discuss hazard mitigation planning. The meeting is open to the public with time for comments.

• Review and approve draft minutes from previous meeting
• Coordinator's report
• Foam/plastic recycling update
• CAST Bylaws review
• Hazard Mitigation Planning discussion

The Climate Action Steering Team approved June minutes and discussed several initiatives. A vote on revised bylaws, including a proposed membership cap of 7, will occur at the August meeting. Dana proposed a future motion to use climate action funds for a PowerWall at the Bugbee Center. No formal decisions were made beyond approving the minutes.

• Approved June meeting minutes without changes
• Scheduled vote on revised bylaws for August meeting
• Proposed future agenda item: motion to use climate action funds for PowerWall at Bugbee Center

Tree Board

The Hartford Tree Board is meeting to review minutes from June and receive reports on the Tree Warden, nursery, and riparian buffer project. They will plan a work day on Hartford Avenue and a Tree ID walk in August, and hear updates on the Tree of the Month and a Community Forestry Grant.

• Review of June 18, 2024 meeting minutes
• Tree Warden report
• Tree nursery update and riparian buffer project
• Plan for work day on Hartford Avenue at end of July
• Update on Community Forestry Grant

The Hartford Tree Board approved the June minutes and discussed several tree care projects. They accepted Gaal Shepherd Crowl's resignation and planned a work day to remove four dead trees along Hartford Avenue. No new business was introduced.

• Approved June Tree Board minutes (all in favor)
• Accepted Gaal Shepherd Crowl's resignation
• Planned work day for July 26-27 to remove four dead trees on Hartford Avenue
• Scheduled tree ID walk for August 24 at cemetery on Rt 14

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission is holding the second community forum on economic development, featuring a presentation on the project status, purpose of the Economic Development Chapter update, process overview, and strategies. Public comments will be taken, and next steps will be discussed.

• Economic Development Chapter update presentation
• Public comments on economic development strategies
• Discussion of next steps for the chapter update

The Planning Commission held a community forum to review draft goals and strategies for the economic development chapter update, seeking feedback from residents. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational and discussion-focused.

• No formal decisions made; forum held to review draft goals and strategies
• Meeting adjourned at 7:37 p.m.

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard and Local Liquor Control Board will meet on July 9, 2024. The primary item involves the potential approval of an outside consumption license for REDCAN.

• Outside Consumption License approval for REDCAN at 129 South Main Street, Suite 100

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Selectboard will consider liquor and cannabis license renewals and award several municipal service contracts. The board will also discuss library listening sessions and a proposed dependent care reimbursement policy.

• Renewal of 1st Class liquor license for China Moon Buffet at 96 Sykes Mountain Ave
• Renewal of wholesale cannabis license for Altius THC LLC
• Award of contracts for aggregate purchasing, sludge hauling, and wastewater line cleaning
• Approval of a correction to the FY2025 Grand List figure
• Consideration of the appointment of Karen L. Powell to the West Hartford Library Board of Trustees

The Selectboard approved several contracts, including aggregate purchasing, sludge hauling, and wastewater line cleaning, and adopted a dependent care reimbursement policy. It also renewed liquor and cannabis licenses, appointed a library trustee, and scheduled library listening sessions. No action was taken on a grand list correction.

• Renewed liquor license for China Moon Buffet (all in favor)
• Approved outside consumption license for REDCAN (all in favor)
• Renewed cannabis license for Altius THC LLC (all in favor)
• Appointed Karen L. Powell to West Hartford Library Board of Trustees (all in favor)
• Authorized aggregate purchasing contracts with Pike Industries and D&D Excavating (all in favor)
• Authorized sludge hauling contract with Stearns Septic Service, LLC for $51,660 (all in favor)
• Authorized wastewater line cleaning contract with N.A. Manosh, Inc. for $42,400 (all in favor)
• Adopted Selectboard Member Dependent Care Reimbursement Policy (all in favor)

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion (HCOREI) will review the Hartford School District's Gender Inclusivity Policy and consider recommending it to the town. They will also receive updates on the Community Safety Review Project, school board activities, and other committee business. The meeting includes approval of June 5 minutes and member comments.

• Review of HSD Gender Inclusivity Policy for potential town recommendation
• Approval of meeting minutes from June 5
• Update on Community Safety Review Project (Strategy Matters focus groups, survey with ~300 responses)
• Discussion on how HCOREI can assist Hartford Schools
• Update on committee member compensation

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Selectboard will meet to set the tax rates for the 2025 fiscal year. The board will also review and approve the Accounts Payable manifest from July 1, 2024.

• Set Tax Rates for FY2025
• Approve A/P Manifest of 7/1/2024

The Selectboard approved the FY2025 tax rate, setting the total town tax rate at $1.1636 per $100 of grand list value, with a total appropriation of $16,503,783. The motion passed 5-1, with member Collins opposed. The board also approved the accounts payable manifest of July 1, 2024, unanimously.

• Approved A/P Manifest of 7/1/2024 (unanimous)
• Set FY2025 tax rate: General Highway Fund $1.1356, County Tax $0.0069, Restricted Appropriations $0.0182, Local Agreement $0.0029, total town rate $1.1636 (5-1)

Conservation Commission

The Hartford Conservation Commission will meet to discuss local conservation efforts, including site visits, pollinator gardens, and town forest activities. The meeting will also review past conservation work and upcoming community events.

• David Chang Conservation Area Site Visit
• Pollinator Gardens discussion
• Green-Up Day Results review
• Town Forest event sign request and Trails Day review
• Ottauquechee Trail update

The Hartford Conservation Commission approved the June 3, 2024 minutes with corrections. They discussed bank erosion at the David Chang Conservation Area, a request to place a sign at the Town Forest, and various upcoming events. No formal votes were taken on substantive matters; the meeting was largely informational and planning-focused.

• Approved June 3, 2024 minutes with corrections (unanimous)
• Agreed to schedule a site visit for David Chang Conservation Area erosion with experts
• Agreed to discuss fall clean-up event at August 26 meeting
• Agreed to review HCC bylaws for potential changes
• Agreed to request more funds for Green-Up Day in next fiscal year budget

Energy Commission

The Hartford Energy Commission will meet on June 27, 2024, to review and approve draft minutes from its previous meeting. The public may provide comment, and the commission will hear a presentation on EV and truck charging infrastructure.

• Review and approve draft minutes from previous meeting
• Clean Cities presentation on EV / truck charging infrastructure

The Hartford Energy Commission unanimously approved spending $3,000 from the Climate Action Reserve Fund for heat pump design and installation in the Public Safety building. The commission also voted to support a non-binding partnership with Concepts NREC for a federal Department of Energy grant on plasma gasification, with one abstention. The minutes note that the meeting was a special meeting and that minutes from a previous meeting were postponed.

• Approved $3,000 from Climate Action Reserve Fund for heat pump design/installation in Public Safety building (unanimous)
• Approved moving forward with Concepts NREC on DOE grant for plasma gasification, non-binding, no penalties (4 yes, 1 abstained)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Hartford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings on two conditional-use applications: Vermont State’s upgrades to the Windsor District Court at 82 Railroad Row and a car wash proposed by the Guernsey Ruth Hall Revocable Trust on Sykes Mountain Avenue. The board will also handle administrative matters including public comment, minutes approval, and administrative permits.

• Conditional Use Approval for Windsor District Court additions and improvements, 82 Railroad Row, CB & Design Review districts
• Conditional Use Approval for car wash, Sykes Mountain Avenue, IC zoning district (continued from May 15)
• Administrative permit for U.V. Haven 55 sq. ft. addition to food shelf and shed
• Public hearing scheduled for July 24, 2024

The Hartford Zoning Board of Adjustment unanimously approved two conditional use applications: one for additions and improvements to the Windsor District Court at 82 Railroad Row, and another for a car wash on Sykes Mountain Avenue. Both approvals included noted changes to the findings of fact. The board also approved the minutes from May 15, 2024, and reviewed an administrative permit for U.V. Haven.

• Approved conditional use for Windsor District Court additions (unanimous)
• Approved conditional use for car wash at Sykes Mountain Avenue (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of May 15, 2024 (unanimous)
• Reviewed administrative permit for U.V. Haven food shelf addition and shed

Energy Commission

The Hartford Climate Action Steering Team (CAST) is meeting to review minutes, hear a coordinator's report, and discuss foam/plastic recycling. The main item is a discussion about merging CAST with Resilient Hartford, which could change the group's structure and focus.

• Discussion on merging CAST with Resilient Hartford
• Foam/plastic recycling discussion
• Coordinator's report
• Review and approve draft minutes from previous meeting

The Energy Commission discussed updates on several projects, including receiving technical assistance from the Department of Energy for the White River Junction geothermal project. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was largely informational, with reports on cooling centers, foam recycling, and stipends for board members.

• Received DOE technical assistance for geothermal project (no vote)
• Scheduled Window Dresser's Build for Oct 3-9 at VFW (no vote)
• Set foam recycling day for Aug 24 at Mascoma Bank (no vote)
• Noted stipend eligibility for board members starting July (no vote)

West Hartford Library Trustees

The West Hartford Library Board of Trustees will meet to approve the minutes from the previous meeting and the treasurer’s report. They will also discuss the director’s report and updates on shelving, a Tesla battery wall project, and the Farmers’ Market.

• Approval of minutes from the previous meeting
• Approval of the treasurer’s report
• Update on shelving project
• Tesla battery wall project update
• Farmers’ Market update

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Selectboard will meet to consider liquor license renewals and new applications for Tuckerbox and REDCAN. The board will also discuss adopting the FY25 fee schedule and a new committee stipend policy.

• Renewal of liquor licenses for Vural Oktay, Inc. (d/b/a Tuckerbox) at 1 South Main Street
• New liquor license application for Jason Merrill (d/b/a REDCAN) at 129 South Main Street, Suite 100
• Adoption of the FY25 Fee Schedule
• Consideration of a Draft Committee Stipend Policy
• Re-appointment of Colin Butler and Tobias Dayman to the Planning Commission

The Selectboard approved the FY25 Fee Schedule as amended, renewed and issued liquor licenses, re-appointed two Planning Commission members, and adopted a Committee Stipend Policy. It also approved a light pole banner application from Hometown Heroes (4-2) and instructed the Town Manager to appoint a staff liaison to HCOREI.

• Approved renewal of Tuckerbox liquor license with outside consumption permit conditioned on sidewalk clearance (unanimous)
• Approved new liquor licenses for REDCan (unanimous)
• Re-appointed Colin Butler to Planning Commission for 3-year term (unanimous)
• Re-appointed Tobias Dayman to Planning Commission for 3-year term (unanimous)
• Approved Hometown Heroes light pole banner application (4-2)
• Instructed Town Manager to appoint staff liaison to HCOREI (unanimous)
• Adopted FY25 Fee Schedule as amended (unanimous)
• Adopted Committee Stipend Policy (5-1)

Resilient Hartford

Resilient Hartford will hold its regular meeting, including electing a chair and vice-chair, reviewing the fiscal year budget closeout, and discussing plans for the Clifford Park Food Forest/Abenaki Garden, riparian area planning, and the Quechee Abenaki Garden update. The agenda also includes updates on community resilience building, resilience hubs, and a block party.

• Election of Chair & Vice-Chair
• Fiscal Year Budget Closeout
• Clifford Park Food Forest/Abenaki Garden Plans for 2024
• Riparian Area Planning
• Quechee Abenaki Garden Update

The Resilient Hartford committee agreed to consider amending its bylaws to allow members to receive compensation, with the amendment to be presented at the July 23 meeting. They also scheduled a combined meeting and workday for July 23, canceling the July 21 workday, and discussed purchasing a water pump and other supplies for the Food Forest.

• Agreed to present bylaw amendment on member compensation at 7/23 meeting
• Scheduled combined meeting and workday for July 23; canceled July 21 workday
• Agreed to purchase Honda water pump and accessories for Food Forest
• Agreed to purchase tools for Food Forest from Gardener's Supply
• Agreed to consider purchasing shared commercial canopy with Conservation Commission
• Agreed to purchase water dispenser for workdays
• Agreed to recruit new members and set up info booth at West Hartford Farmers Market
• Agreed to review RH webpage this fall

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on five applications, including a lot line adjustment, a subdivision, and site development plans for a court expansion, a car wash, and an emergency shelter. Administrative matters include public comment, minutes, permits, and updates on the Town Plan, Regional Planning, and Climate Action Plan.

• Application #24-05: Lot line adjustment, 349 and 406 Rays Way, West Hartford
• Application #24-06: Subdivision of lot into two, 429 Norwich Avenue, Hartford
• Application #24-07: Windsor District Court additions, 82 Railroad Row, White River Junction
• Application #24-01: Car wash, Sykes Mountain Avenue, White River Junction (continued)
• Application #24-08: Emergency Shelter, 608 North Main Street, White River Junction

The Hartford Planning Commission approved all five applications on its agenda, including a lot line adjustment, a subdivision, a courthouse expansion, a car wash, and an emergency shelter. All votes were unanimous. The meeting also included administrative approvals for minor permits and updates on the Town Plan and Regional Planning Commission were tabled.

• Approved lot line adjustment for Bettis Family Trust (unanimous)
• Approved subdivision of lot 20-0031-000 for Nelson Fogg Sr. (unanimous)
• Approved site development plan for Windsor District Court additions (unanimous)
• Approved car wash at Sykes Mountain Avenue with noted changes (unanimous)
• Approved emergency shelter at 608 North Main Street (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of May 20, 2024 with corrections (unanimous)

Housing & Homelessness Committee

The Hartford Committee on Housing and Homelessness will meet to continue discussions on the town’s rental registry, collaborate with Norwich’s affordable housing subcommittee, and address solutions for the unhoused community. The committee will also review minutes from the May 30 meeting and hear public comment.

• Continue discussion on Hartford Rental Registry
• Continue collaboration with Norwich Affordable Housing Subcommittee
• Continue to discuss solutions for the unhoused community
• Approve May 30, 2024 Committee Meeting Minutes

The Housing and Homelessness Committee discussed creating a rental directory (formerly called a registry) and agreed it should be mandatory, though owner-occupied room rentals might be voluntary. They also discussed collaborating with Norwich on water/sewer extensions and gathering data on unhoused interactions. No formal votes were taken on these topics; the only vote was to approve the May 30 minutes.

• Approved May 30, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Agreed rental directory registration should be mandatory (discussion, no vote)
• Discussed voluntary registration for owner-occupied room rentals (no vote)
• Assigned homework to draft directory goals for July meeting (no vote)
• Agreed to request data from police on unhoused interactions (no vote)

Tree Board

The Tree Board is reviewing nursery planting success and discussing next steps for a $20,000 Community Forestry Grant. Members are also planning invasive species removal and a dead crabapple removal at Highland Avenue and Route 5.

• Discussion of $20,000 Community Forestry Grant
• Report on 82 rootstock planted and 6 failed elderberries
• Planned removal of dead crabapple at Highland Avenue and Rt 5
• Transplantation of 7 donated maples to Maxfield

The Hartford Tree Board approved the minutes of its previous meeting. Members discussed the donation of five maples from Jim Henderson, planted at Maxfield properties, and the death of a Katsura tree on Pine Street, with a replacement being sought. They also planned a volunteer day to clear invasives at Highland Avenue and Rt 5, and scheduled a tree ID walk at Hartford Point Cemetery. No formal decisions were made beyond approving the minutes.

• Approved meeting minutes (4-0)
• Accepted donation of five maples from Jim Henderson, planted at Maxfield
• Planned invasive cleanup at Highland Avenue and Rt 5
• Scheduled tree ID walk at Hartford Point Cemetery

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission is hosting a second community forum regarding economic development in Hartford. The meeting includes a presentation on project status, the purpose of the Economic Development Chapter update, and proposed strategies and strategic actions.

• Economic Development Presentation
• Economic Development Chapter Update overview
• Discussion of strategies and strategic actions

Assessor: Grievance Hearings

The Town of Hartford Assessor will conduct hearings to review appeals from individuals or entities aggrieved by assessment actions. These hearings include scheduled in-person and phone appointments, as well as office reviews for mailed applications regarding valuations and tax status.

• In-person hearing for 20 Talbert St (Talbert St LLC) on June 14
• In-person hearing for 298 Tall Timbers Dr (Joseph and Sherry Greene) on June 14
• Phone hearing for 1103 North Main (Ryder Truck Rental Inc) on June 18
• Office reviews for valuation appeals at 2024 Quechee Main St, 45 Conifer Rd, 425 Hillcrest, 275 Passumpsic Ave, 2111 Quechee Main St, 168-180 Hickory Ridge, 522 Costello Rd, 31 Elk St, 217 Windsor Dr, and 25 Stonecrest Ave
• Review of tax exempt status for 2456 Christian Street #L1

The Hartford assessor's office held grievance hearings on June 14 and 18, 2024, reviewing 18 property tax appeals. Decisions were made on each, with some properties receiving value adjustments and others denied. The record is partially illegible, so exact outcomes for several parcels are unclear.

• 2024 Quechee Main St LLC: value adjusted (old $171,100, new $51,000)
• Dorman William E: value adjusted (old $124,400, new $106,800)
• Flores Rafael & Ariel: value adjusted (old $57,000, new $40,000)
• Grader Vermont Realty Trust: value adjusted (old $61,000, new $2,000)
• Greene Joseph & Sherry: grievance denied
• Griswold Nancy: value adjusted (old $212,000, new $202,000)
• Kimball Ida: value adjusted (old $30,000, new $20,000)
• Lyman Kristopher A (98 Stetson Rd): value adjusted (old $980,100, new $87,100)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Hartford Parks and Recreation Commission will review a recycling and/or zero-waste plan, discuss disbursement of a rec center survey, and continue a strategic plan review. The meeting also includes procedural items like approval of previous minutes and public comments.

• Recycling and/or Zero Waste Plan discussion
• Rec Center survey disbursement
• Strategic Plan Review continuation

Hartford Business Revolving Loan Fund

The Hartford Business Revolving Loan Fund Committee meets to review loan summaries, discuss interest rates, and explore potential housing programs. Members will also consider adding new committee members.

• Review of May 2024 loan summary reports
• Discussion of interest rates for loan programs
• Exploration of potential housing programs

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will meet on June 11, 2024, to consider liquor and cannabis license applications and renewals. The meeting includes public comment, appointments, and reports from the Town Manager and various boards. No major policy decisions are scheduled.

• Consider new liquor permits for Collaborative Stoke, LLC (Trail Break Taps + Tacos, 5945 Woodstock Rd, Quechee)
• Consider renewal of liquor and tobacco permits for K-B Ventures, LLC (Jake’s Market & Deli, 1477 Maple St, White River Junction)
• Consider renewal of cannabis license for Cloudy Day Farm, LLC (Application #S-000008418)
• Re-appointment of Tobias Dayman to Hartford Planning Commission for a three-year term
• Purchasing policy exception for Maple Street Pump Purchase

The Selectboard voted 3-4 against a Gaza ceasefire resolution after public discussion. The board approved new and renewed liquor licenses, a cannabis license renewal, a $150,765 leach field contract, and a $24,147.50 pump purchase exception. A reappointment to the Planning Commission was tabled.

• Gaza ceasefire resolution failed (3-4)
• Approved new liquor license for Trail Breaks Taps + Tacos (unanimous)
• Approved liquor license renewal for Jake's Market & Deli (unanimous)
• Approved cannabis license renewal for Cloudy Day Farm, LLC (unanimous)
• Approved $150,765 contract with Nott's Excavating for Quechee Leach Field (unanimous)
• Approved $24,147.50 sole-source pump purchase from Xylem Water Solutions (unanimous)
• Tabled reappointment of Tobias Dayman to Planning Commission
• Approved consent agenda (payroll, manifests, minutes) (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission and Town Plan Economic Development Steering Committee met to discuss village centers and prioritize strategies for the economic development chapter. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational, focusing on defining village centers, reviewing past studies, and planning for a community forum.

• No formal decisions made; meeting was informational

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion (HCOREI) will hold its regular meeting to review updates from local boards, discuss a staff liaison position, and plan for Juneteenth. The committee will also receive a presentation on the town’s community health needs assessment and hear school board and selectboard updates.

• Discuss staff liaison position for HCOREI
• Juneteenth planning session
• Review of HCOREI charge revision update
• Presentation by APD’s Director of Community Health on community health needs assessment
• Hartford Community Safety and Wellbeing Survey distribution

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion (HCOREI) met on June 5, 2024, and approved the April 17 meeting minutes with 6 in favor and 1 abstention. The committee discussed the APD Community Health Needs Assessment, Juneteenth event planning, and updates on the staff liaison position, school board, and community safety survey. No major policy decisions were made; most items were informational or planning in nature.

• Approved April 17 meeting minutes (6-1, 1 abstention)
• Discussed APD Community Health Needs Assessment survey, open until end of July
• Planned Juneteenth event outreach, including poster distribution and press release
• Discussed staff liaison position; Selectboard to inquire at June 11 meeting
• Noted HCOREI charge revision approved by Selectboard May 28, pending School Board approval June 12
• Discussed school board updates, including survey on equity policies and reporting process
• Discussed Community Safety Review Project survey and focus groups
• Tabled HSD Gender Inclusivity Policy review for future agenda

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Selectboard adopted a flagpole banner policy after amendments, setting a 30-day duration per banner with a total of 60 days, and a maximum of 18 banners per village totaling 90. The board also adopted updated Rules of Procedure (extending public comment to 3 minutes) and a Code of Conduct, both unanimously.

• Adopted flagpole banner policy as amended (5-2)
• Set banner duration at 30-day blocks, max 60 days total
• Set max 18 banners per village, 90 total
• Adopted Selectboard Rules of Procedure with 3-minute public comment (unanimous)
• Adopted Selectboard Code of Conduct (unanimous)

Energy Commission

The Hartford Energy Commission will review and approve draft minutes from its previous meeting. The meeting will also discuss HVAC system design and commissioning at PSB, a waste-to-energy proposal by Concepts NREC, and updates to the TRORC Regional Plan’s Energy Chapter.

• Review and approve draft minutes from previous meeting
• Climate Reserve Fund: HVAC systems design & commissioning at PSB
• Concepts NREC: waste-to-plasma-to-energy proposal
• TRORC Regional Plan Update: review of Energy Chapter & recommendations

The Hartford Energy Commission unanimously approved spending $3,000 from the Climate Action Reserve Fund for heat pump design and installation in the Public Safety building. The commission also voted to support moving forward with Concepts NREC on a Department of Energy grant for plasma gasification, with conditions including non-binding participation and quarterly updates. The vote was 4 yes with one abstention.

• Approved $3,000 from Climate Action Reserve Fund for heat pump design/installation in Public Safety building (unanimous)
• Approved moving forward with Concepts NREC on DOE grant for plasma gasification, non-binding with no penalties (4 yes, 1 abstention)

Housing & Homelessness Committee

The Hartford Committee on Housing and Homelessness will meet to continue discussions on creating a rental registry, participate in upcoming housing insecurity workshops, and explore solutions for the unhoused community, including a new HCRS fund to prevent homelessness. The agenda also includes updates on the Home Creators Expo and the town website housing page.

• Continue discussion on Hartford Rental Registry; invite Deb Colt, Landlord Liaison from UV Haven, to June meeting
• Participation in June 27-29 Housing Insecurity Workshops (Telling My Story) in Norwich, VT
• Discuss solutions for unhoused community, including new HCRS fund to prevent homelessness
• Home Creators Expo on June 1 at HACTC
• Update on Town Website Page on Housing

White River Junction Design Review Committee

The Hartford Design Review Committee will meet on May 30, 2024, to review a design review application from the State of Vermont for additions and exterior improvements to the Windsor District Court at 82 Railroad Row. The project includes energy upgrades, HVAC replacement, new entrances, and site work. The committee will also consider approval of the October 26, 2023 meeting minutes.

• Application by State of Vermont for design review approval for Windsor District Court renovations at 82 Railroad Row
• Project includes new roofs, windows, doors, terracotta tile siding, wood pellet boilers, and two new entrances
• Site work includes sidewalk replacement, heated walks, three EV parking spaces, and stormwater corrections
• Estimated project value: $7,500,000
• Minutes of October 26, 2023 to be approved

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission and Town Plan Economic Development Steering Committee meet to review draft economic development goals and strategies for the town. They will also discuss minutes from previous steering committee meetings held in March and May.

• Review of Steering Committee Minutes (March 11 and May 7)
• Draft Economic Development Goals & Strategies

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will meet to consider renewing liquor licenses for River Roost Brewery and Big Fatty's BBQ, discuss using opioid settlement funds, and review a citizen petition for a Gaza ceasefire resolution. The agenda also includes reports on the Sister Cities program, HCOREI, and a proposed landfill construction and demolition removal plan.

• Liquor license renewals: River Roost Brewery (230 S. Main St.) and Big Fatty's BBQ (186 S. Main St.)
• Request for use of Opioid Settlement Funds
• Landfill Construction and Demolition Removal Proposal
• Implementation of New Child Care Payroll Tax
• Citizen Petition Seeking Gaza Ceasefire Resolution

The Selectboard unanimously approved a $392,070 contract with Hammond Grinding and Recycling and a $25,900 contract with Sanborn Head for landfill C&D area cleanup, waiving purchasing policy Section 3.6. They also unanimously approved renewing liquor licenses for River Roost Brewery and Big Fatty's BBQ, and approved using $5,500 in opioid settlement funds for a Chris Herren presentation at Hartford High School.

• Approved landfill C&D removal contracts: $392,070 (Hammond Grinding) and $25,900 (Sanborn Head), with waiver of purchasing policy Section 3.6 (unanimous)
• Renewed River Roost Brewery liquor license (unanimous)
• Renewed Big Fatty's BBQ liquor license (unanimous)
• Approved $5,500 from Opioid Settlement Fund for Chris Herren presentation at Hartford High School (unanimous)
• Approved revised HCOREI charge to 7 members (unanimous)
• Approved town paying full Vermont Child Care Contribution payroll tax effective July 1, 2024 (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including payroll, A/P manifests, and meeting minutes (unanimous)

Resilient Hartford

The Resilient Hartford committee accepted the April 23 meeting minutes as written, with no corrections. They discussed using a flexible Fruit and Nut Tree grant to purchase trees for fall planting and to cover supplies. The committee also reviewed a riparian area walk and a food forest workday, and agreed to promote three open positions at a community event. No formal votes were taken on these items.

• Accepted April 23 meeting minutes as written
• Agreed to use Fruit and Nut Tree grant for fall tree purchases and supplies
• Agreed to promote RH openings at Hartford Community Coalition Block Party on June 19
• Agreed to have Michaela make a poster and Kyle provide a sign-up sheet for openings

Energy Commission

The Hartford Energy Commission will review and vote on draft minutes from its previous meeting, hear a coordinator’s report, and discuss revisions to TRORC’s Regional Plan Energy Chapter. The meeting will also include a working session on the Thermal Energy District Update and a vote to allocate funds for artist materials for the HCC Block Party.

• Review and approve draft minutes from previous meeting
• TRORC’s Regional Plan Revision & Energy Chapter discussion
• Thermal Energy District Update presentation
• Vote on allocating funds to pay artist for HCC Materials
• Public Comment period (5 minutes) at 5:05 PM

The Hartford Energy Commission approved spending up to $500 for a cartoonist to create publicity art, and discussed a potential $17.5 million federal grant with Concepts NREC for organic waste conversion. The commission also approved minutes from March and April, and heard updates on building codes, a library battery installation, and a town hall heat pump issue.

• Approved up to $500 for cartoon art for HEC publicity (unanimous)
• Approved March minutes as presented (unanimous)
• Approved April minutes as presented (unanimous)

Tree Board

The Hartford Tree Board will review minutes, hear the Tree Warden's report on tree removals and inspections, and discuss planting logistics, upcoming events, and the status of stump removal at Lyman. The meeting is primarily administrative and planning-focused.

• Removal of crabapple at Rt 4/Rt 5 intersection in White River Junction
• Removal of 3 groups of boxelders at Veteran's Park War Veterans Memorial
• Inspection of 1685 Bliss Road
• Review of Arbor Day Sale and Tree ID walk at VA
• Next steps at Lyman: stumps not removed, landscape architect's plan

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on eight applications, including a car wash, a parking facility, a multi-unit dwelling, and several large housing developments by Black Rock Investment LLC totaling 240 units. The commission will also handle administrative matters like permits and updates on the Town Plan and Climate Action Plan. The agenda includes a draft decision for a lot line adjustment at 434 and 436 Woodstock Road.

• Application #23-24: Final approval for 192 dwelling units in four buildings, Sykes Mountain Avenue and Hickory Ridge
• Application #23-25: Site plan approval for 192 dwelling units in four buildings, Sykes Mountain Avenue and Hickory Ridge
• Application #23-23: Site plan approval for 48 dwelling units in a multi-unit building, Sykes Mountain Avenue and Hickory Ridge
• Application #24-01: Car wash site plan approval, Sykes Mountain Avenue, White River Junction (continued)
• Application #24-04: Preliminary approval for a multi-unit dwelling at 1200 Christian Street

Board of Civil Authority

The Hartford Board of Abatement meets to review four property tax abatement requests. Applicants must present evidence or the request will be decided based on submitted forms. After hearings, the board reconvenes as the Board of Civil Authority to discuss abatement-related legislation and other business.

• Property tax abatement request for 1856 Quechee Main St, #7C (PARCEL ID 12-60-RBC-7C/SPAN 285-090-12658)
• Property tax abatement request for 6 Ledgeside Terrace (PARCEL ID 32-46-1/SPAN 285-090-13889)
• Property tax abatement request for 5133 Old River Rd (PARCEL ID 2-135/SPAN 285-090-13231)
• Property tax abatement request for 43 Country Lane (PARCEL ID 8-130/SPAN 285-090-15462)
• Discussion of H.629 abatement-related legislation and SOS Challenge List process

The Hartford Board of Abatement approved tax abatements for three property owners and denied one request. The board also discussed property valuation methods and legislative updates. All votes were unanimous except for one abstention in the denial.

• Approved $526.26 abatement for Charles Jameson, 1856 Quechee Main St. #7C (unanimous)
• Approved $2,399.34 abatement for April Waters, 6 Ledgeside Terrace (unanimous)
• Approved $2,321.42 abatement for Sarah Moodie, 5133 Old River Rd. (unanimous)
• Denied abatement request for Miranda Sprang, 43 Country Lane (motion passed; Brandon Smith abstained, Assessor Rick Vincent did not vote)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Hartford Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to discuss several historic preservation projects, including new signs for Kilowatt Park in Wilder, a kiosk at Veterans Park, and an update on the Taft's Flat National Register nomination. The agenda also includes public comments and announcements about an upcoming preservation conference.

• Wilder Historical Signs for Kilowatt Park with guest Harry Kendrick
• Veterans Park Kiosk with guest Lori Hirshfield
• Taft's Flat National Register Nomination Update
• Historic District Signs
• World War I & II Monument Project

The Hartford Historic Preservation Commission agreed to work with community members on developing historical signage for Kilowatt Park, including a kiosk with photographs and text, and possibly a highway marker. The commission also discussed plans for new panels at Veterans Park kiosk, with design input from the commission. Minutes from March 20 were approved with a correction.

• Agreed to collaborate on Kilowatt Park historical signage (unanimous)
• Approved March 20 minutes with correction (unanimous)
• Discussed new Veterans Park kiosk panels, design to involve commission
• Noted progress on Taft's Flat historic district nominations, community meeting June 12

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Hartford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings on two conditional use applications: a 192-unit housing development on Sykes Mountain Avenue and a car wash on the same road. The board will also consider a request to occupy a travel trailer while restoring a historic dwelling. The meeting includes public comment and administrative matters.

• Application #13-23: 192 dwelling units in four multi-unit buildings, proposed lot 45-0162-000, Sykes Mountain Avenue and Hickory Ridge, White River Junction (continued from Jan 31, 2024)
• Application #02-24: Car wash, lot 44-0041-000, Sykes Mountain Avenue, White River Junction, in IC zoning district (continued from Apr 10, 2024)
• Request by Woody Rollins to occupy a travel trailer/RV under §260-34 G 1 while restoring historic dwelling at 3398 Jericho Street
• Public comment and administrative permits

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion will convene by Zoom to approve April meeting minutes, hear member comments, and discuss a draft gender-inclusivity policy. Members will also prepare for a Selectboard update, review the committee’s charge revision, and plan Juneteenth activities.

• Review HSD Gender Inclusivity Policy draft
• Approve April 17 meeting minutes
• Plan Juneteenth activities
• Prepare Selectboard update (May 28)
• Discuss HCOREI Charge Revision Update

Energy Commission

The Hartford Energy Commission approved the April minutes and discussed several ongoing initiatives, including a landfill amnesty day, a postponed Tesla battery project at West Hartford Library due to permitting issues, and a potential student mapping project with Dartmouth. No formal votes were taken on these items; they were only discussed.

• Approved April meeting minutes
• Postponed West Hartford Library Tesla battery project due to permitting issues
• Discussed landfill amnesty day at transfer station
• Discussed Dartmouth student mapping project for two terms starting fall
• Discussed Styrofoam collection project with Rotary funding
• Discussed merging CAST and Resilient Hartford, with Dana to connect with planning office

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard renewed liquor licenses for Quechee Club and Little Istanbul, appointed members to the Sister Cities Committee and Tree Board, and authorized the Town Manager to submit hazard mitigation documents to the state. The board tabled discussions on the lightpole banner policy, rules of procedure, and code of conduct until a future special meeting. It also accepted a $1,500 grant for a survey analysis and postponed the opioid settlement funds request to May 28.

• Renewed Quechee Club liquor license (unanimous)
• Renewed Little Istanbul liquor license (unanimous)
• Appointed Pat Cook to Sister Cities Committee (unanimous)
• Appointed Michael E. Copp to Tree Board (unanimous)
• Authorized Town Manager to submit hazard mitigation documents (unanimous)
• Accepted $1,500 Vermont Community Foundation grant (6-1, Smith abstained)
• Tabled lightpole banner policy discussion
• Tabled rules of procedure and code of conduct

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Parks and Recreation Commission will discuss a presentation from the Selectboard, review its strategic plan, department goals, and town master plan goals. Old business includes a survey for the Recreation Center and a review of the administrative manual and code of ethics.

• Discussion of Selectboard presentation
• Review of Strategic Plan, Department Goals, and Town Master Plan Goals
• Rec Center survey disbursement
• Administrative Manual Review
• Code of Ethics review

The Hartford Parks and Recreation Commission unanimously approved a letter to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) regarding the relicensing of the Wilder Dam, supporting the Town's previous requests from the 2008 Master Plan. The commission also unanimously accepted changes to its Administrative Manual and signed a Code of Ethics. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved letter to FERC on Wilder Dam relicensing (unanimous)
• Accepted changes to Administrative Manual (unanimous)
• Signed Code of Ethics by all present members

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission and Town Plan Economic Development Steering Committee are meeting to review economic and industry snapshots, major themes from community engagement, and potential strategy topics for the Economic Development Chapter of the Town Plan. The meeting includes public comments and review of prior minutes. The agenda is primarily a discussion and update session, with no final decisions or votes scheduled.

• Review of Steering Committee minutes from March 11, 2024
• Economic snapshot: median income $69,138, poverty rate 9.2%
• Industry snapshot: 10,604 jobs in Hartford, net inflow of 6,037 workers
• Community engagement themes: affordable housing, village branding, arts & culture, transportation
• Potential strategy topics include creative economy, housing, and Coolidge Hotel

Energy Commission

The Hartford Energy Commission is holding a special meeting to review and approve draft minutes from a previous meeting and to discuss public outreach and marketing of the commission's work. The meeting is scheduled for May 9, 2024, and includes a public comment period.

• Review and approve draft minutes from previous meeting
• Public comment period
• Discussion on public outreach and marketing the Hartford Energy Commission's work

Conservation Commission

The Hartford Conservation Commission is meeting to discuss and plan various conservation activities, including education events, trail maintenance, and land conservation planning. The agenda includes updates on the Great River Hydro relicensing, pollinator projects, and upcoming community events. No formal votes or decisions are listed; the meeting is primarily for discussion and coordination.

• Discussion of Great River Hydro relicensing
• Kids Pollinator Garden Prep at White River School
• Green-Up Day planning
• Long Term Land Conservation Planning
• Ottauquechee Trail Maintenance Request

The Hartford Conservation Commission approved the April 1 minutes unanimously and discussed several upcoming events and projects. No formal votes were taken on substantive matters; decisions were made by consensus on items such as replacing the kiosk roof, continuing invasive plant removal, and holding off on contacting property owners until a conservation toolbox is completed.

• Approved April 1, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Agreed to send small crew to continue invasive plant removal on Trails Day if enough volunteers
• Agreed to replace kiosk roof shingles with metal roof (Tom to lead)
• Agreed to hold off contacting property owners until landowner conservation toolbox completed
• Agreed to help with composting and have educational booth at Hartford Community Coalition Block Party

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion (HCOREI) will discuss planning for Juneteenth, review a gender inclusivity policy for potential recommendation to the town, and receive updates on various initiatives including the Community Safety Review Project and school board collaboration. The meeting is a regular discussion session with no final decisions expected.

• Review of HSD Gender Inclusivity Policy for potential town recommendation
• Juneteenth planning discussion
• HCOREI Charge Revision Update
• Community Safety Review Project updates
• Hartford student award (A. Raynolds Memorial)

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard approved numerous liquor license renewals and one new license, authorized a road closure for the Covered Bridges Half Marathon, wrote off $159,567.86 in uncollectable ambulance debt, adopted the 2024 Local Emergency Management Plan, approved hiring a Communications and Media Specialist, awarded a $142,000 contract for water filter rehabilitation, and adopted the Fairview Terrace Declaration of Official Intent. The meeting also included a tabled liquor license renewal and a tabled discussion on lightpole banners.

• Approved new 3rd Class liquor license for Putnam's Vineyard (all in favor)
• Approved multiple liquor license renewals including Cumberland Farms, Blood's Catering, Quechee General Store, Foley Brothers Brewery, VFW Post 2571, Fontinalis, Wolf Tree, Quechee Club, Quechee Base Lodge, The Skinny Pancake, Midway Oil, Quechee Pizza Chef, Co-op Food Stores, Scavenger Gallery (all in favor, one recusal for VFW)
• Tabled renewal of Quechee Club d/b/a Murphy Farm liquor license to May 14, 2024
• Re-appointed Joe Major to HCOREI for two-year term (all in favor)
• Authorized Town Manager to close Dewey Mills Road for Covered Bridges Half Marathon on June 2, 2024 (all in favor)
• Authorized write-off of $159,567.86 uncollectable ambulance debt (all in favor)
• Adopted 2024 Local Emergency Management Plan (all in favor)
• Approved $142,000 contract to Carbon Filtration Systems, Inc. for water filter rehab (all in favor)

Sister Cities Committee

The Sister City Committee will meet to review feedback from a recent teacher and student trip to Cenon, France, and plan a student presentation to the Select Board about an upcoming exchange with Lycée de la Morlette. They will also draft thank-you notes to town officials and review proposed revisions to the committee’s bylaws.

• Review teacher and student trip feedback from HACTC to Cenon, FR
• Plan student presentation to Select Board for Lycée de la Morlette exchange
• Draft thank-you email/letter to John Haverstock (Town Manager) and Mike Hoyt (Select Board Chair)
• Review and revise Sister City Committee bylaws

Energy Commission

The Hartford Energy Commission is meeting to review and approve draft minutes, hear public comment, and receive the coordinator's report. They will discuss updates to the commission's bylaws, including residency and pre-application meeting requirements, and plan outreach events like the Bugbee Open House and HCC Block Party. The meeting also includes a working session on a thermal energy district update and HB.305.

• Review and approve draft minutes from previous meeting
• Bylaw update: residency requirement and pre-application meeting requirement
• Energy Fair follow-up: Fall Fair ideas, Bugbee Open House May 3rd, HCC Block Party June 19th
• Thermal Energy District update and HB.305 discussion

Watson Dog Park

The Upper Valley Dog Park Supporters are holding their general meeting to review the budget, plan upcoming events, and fill open volunteer positions. Members will also vote on creating new committees for maintenance, fundraising, events, and membership, and discuss old business like fence repairs and fundraising drives.

• Review of current budget and donations from 4 events and donation box
• Open positions: fundraising, events coordinator, maintenance & operations
• Planned 6 events: 2 cleanups, 4 fundraising
• Old business: placing bricks, fixing fences, stone/gravel, grass seed, trees and sticks
• Proposal to create new committees: Maintenance, Fundraising, Events, Membership

Resilient Hartford

The Resilient Hartford group meets to review minutes, hear public comments, and discuss grant funding for fruit and nut trees, as well as plans for the Clifford Park Food Forest and Abenaki Garden. Updates on the Quechee Abenaki Garden and scheduling workdays are also on the agenda.

• Vermont Fruit and Nut Tree Grant discussion (10 min)
• Clifford Park Food Forest/Abenaki Garden Plans for 2024 (30 min)
• Quechee Abenaki Garden Update (5 min)
• Scheduling Workdays (10 min)

The Resilient Hartford committee reviewed plans for the 2024 food forest, including monthly work sessions, a watering system, and signage. They allocated $1,600 from their budget for pumps, hoses, and seeds, and discussed using a $990 grant for trees and supplies. No formal votes were taken; decisions were made by consensus.

• Approved minutes of 3/27 meeting with correction
• Scheduled monthly food forest workdays (third Sunday, fourth Tuesday) starting May 19 and May 28
• Agreed to hold 5/28 RH meeting at Clifford Park to combine with workday
• Allocated $1,600 RH budget for pump, hoses, seeds, and woodchipper rental
• Planned to use $990 VT Fruit & Nut Tree Grant for trees, cover crops, fencing, supplies
• Agreed to promote RH openings at Hartford Community Coalition Block Party on June 19
• Agreed to post RH openings on Food Forest List Serv

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Hartford Parks and Recreation Commission meeting scheduled for April 18, 2024, was canceled. No decisions or discussions occurred as the agenda was procedural and not acted upon.

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion (HCOREI) is meeting to discuss routine business, including approving minutes, recruiting new members, and managing its mailing list. The committee will also consider revising its charge to modify liaison requirements and discuss updates from the school board, including a possible second liaison and a gender inclusivity policy, as well as the town's community safety review project.

• Revise HCOREI Charge to modify liaison requirements
• Discuss Gender Inclusivity Policy and whether to bring it to the town
• Community Safety Review Project updates, including data from past surveys
• Recruiting new HCOREI members and managing mailing list
• Discussion of Chronic Disease and Vermonters of Color, referencing Health Equity Data 2024 Report

Tree Board

The Hartford Tree Board approved the removal of a large evergreen tree on Faulkner Lane for $1,500, after DPW road work made it a hazard. They also allowed the removal of a crab apple tree at the Arthur Pisty property, and discussed plans for the Arbor Day sale and other routine business. No other formal decisions were made.

• Approved $1,500 removal of hazardous evergreen on Faulkner Lane
• Allowed removal of crab apple tree at Arthur Pisty property (Hartford Ave & Pierce St)
• Approved minutes of previous meeting

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will consider renewing eight local liquor and tobacco licenses, including Simon Pearce and several White River Junction establishments. The board will also review a proposed utility appraiser contract, walking bridge repair bids, a FY24 paving contract change order, and discuss the Route 5 project and other highway items. Several policy drafts and updates are on the agenda, along with routine consent items.

• Renewal of liquor licenses for Simon Pearce Restaurant, Simon Pearce Glass, Parker House Bar & Bistro, Wicked Awesome BBQ, Elixir, The Filling Station, Hotel Coolidge, and Jake's Quechee Market
• Review of proposed utility appraiser contract
• Review walking bridge repair bids
• FY24 paving contract change order
• Consider adoption of proposed Policy on Policies

The Hartford Selectboard, acting as the Local Liquor Control Board, renewed seven liquor licenses for local establishments, including Simon Pearce Restaurant, Simon Pearce Glass, Parker House Bar & Bistro, Wicked Awesome BBQ, Elixir, The Filling Station, and Hotel Coolidge. All renewals passed, with one abstention on the Wicked Awesome BBQ license. No other substantive decisions were made during the meeting.

• Renewed Simon Pearce Restaurant 1st & 3rd Class license (unanimous)
• Renewed Simon Pearce Glass 2nd Class license (unanimous)
• Renewed Parker House Bar & Bistro 1st, 3rd Class & Outside Consumption license (unanimous)
• Renewed Wicked Awesome BBQ 1st Class & Outside Consumption license (6-1, Collins abstained)
• Renewed Elixir 1st & 3rd Class license (unanimous)
• Renewed The Filling Station 1st & 3rd Class license (unanimous)
• Renewed Hotel Coolidge 1st & 3rd Class license (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission is meeting to handle administrative matters and hold a public hearing on two site development applications. The commission will vote on a car wash proposal and continue reviewing a parking facility application. Administrative items include electing officers, reviewing permits, and receiving updates on the Town Plan, Regional Planning, and Climate Action Plan.

• Public hearing on car wash at 344 North Hartland Road, lot 14-0015-000, in GCR district (continued)
• Public hearing on car wash at Sykes Mountain Avenue, lot 44-0041-000, in IC district
• Administrative permits: Maxfield batting cage & bullpen, Bugbee food/baked goods trailer
• Elect officers and approve minutes
• Updates on Town Plan Steering Committee, Regional Planning Commission, Climate Action Plan

The Hartford Planning Commission held a public hearing for a proposed car wash at Sykes Mountain Avenue but continued it to May 20, 2024, to allow the applicant to address concerns raised by the board and neighbors. The commission also re-elected its officers, approved the March minutes, and reviewed administrative permits. Two applications by Black Rock Investment were continued to the May hearing as they were not ready.

• Re-elected John Reid as Chair, Bruce Riddle as Vice Chair, Toby Dayman as Clerk (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of March 11, 2024 (unanimous)
• Continued car wash application #24-01 to May 20, 2024 (unanimous)
• Continued Black Rock Investment applications #23-23 and #23-25 to May 20, 2024 (unanimous)
• Reviewed administrative permits for Maxfield (batting cage) and Bugbee (food trailer)

Housing & Homelessness Committee

The Hartford Committee on Housing and Homelessness is meeting to discuss several housing-related items, including a potential rental registry, updates on housing development programs, and continued work on solutions for the unhoused community, such as an RV ordinance. The committee will also review recent meeting minutes and hear public comment.

• Discussion on Hartford Rental Registry
• Continue to discuss solutions for the unhoused community (e.g., RV ordinance and other recommendations from Hartford Ad-hoc Committee on Emergency Shelters)
• Housing Development Program Update/Home Creators Expo - June 1st at HACTC
• Town Plan Housing Chapter Update
• HomeShare Public Information Session at Bugbee Senior Center on May 8th

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Hartford Zoning Board of Adjustment met on April 10, 2024, to hear public hearings and administrative matters. The board approved a setback waiver for a garage at 749 Willard Road in Quechee, while continuing two conditional use applications for a parking facility and a car wash.

• Approved setback waiver for 23’x26’ garage at 749 Willard Road, Quechee (Application #03-24)
• Continued Conditional Use Approval for parking facility at 344 North Hartland Road, White River Junction (Application #04-24)
• Continued Conditional Use Approval for car wash at 44-0041-000, Sykes Mountain Avenue, White River Junction (Application #02-24)
• Elected officers and reviewed administrative permits
• Scheduled next public hearing for May 15, 2024

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion (HCOREI) is meeting to discuss routine business, including approving minutes and managing its mailing list. The committee will also consider revising its charge to modify liaison requirements and receive updates on school and town initiatives, such as a gender inclusivity policy and the Community Safety Review Project.

• Approve meeting minutes from 3/20
• Review HCOREI mailing list and consider creating separate lists for members and interested parties
• Revise HCOREI Charge to modify liaison requirements
• Discuss second school board liaison and gender inclusivity policy
• Update on Community Safety Review Project and survey data

West Hartford Library Trustees

The West Hartford Library Board of Trustees will meet to approve prior meeting minutes and the treasurer’s report. The director will present a report, and new business includes a farmers’ market update and library policy revisions.

• Approval of minutes from prior meeting
• Approval of treasurer’s report
• Farmers’ market update
• Library policy revisions

Conservation Commission

The Hartford Conservation Commission elected new officers, with Katie Mann as chair, Mike Harris as vice-chair, and Chris Beetham as treasurer, approved 7-0. The commission also approved minutes from the previous meeting and added the Town Forest Story Walk to the agenda. Other actions included agreeing to partner with the Hanover Conservation Commission on forestry workshops and to oversee composting at the Hartford Community Coalition Block Party.

• Elected Katie Mann as chair, Mike Harris as vice-chair, Chris Beetham as treasurer (7-0)
• Approved minutes of 3/4/24 by unanimous consent
• Added Town Forest Story Walk to agenda
• Agreed to partner with Hanover Conservation Commission on forestry workshops
• Agreed to oversee composting and have educational booth at Block Party
• Approved Quechee Library Story Walk in Town Forest for third year

Town and School Meeting Committee

The Hartford Town and School Meeting Committee is meeting to approve minutes from its February 12 meeting, review the 2024 meeting cycle, and discuss what's next. The agenda is mostly procedural, with no specific decisions or proposals listed.

• Approve minutes from 2/12/24 meeting
• Review 2024 meeting cycle
• Discussion of next steps

Energy Commission

The Hartford Energy Commission is meeting to review minutes, hear public comment, and receive reports on grant opportunities, solar project evaluation, and the Wilder Dam FERC relicensing. The meeting also includes a working session on energy fair follow-up and a thermal energy district update.

• Solar Project Evaluation discussion
• Wilder Dam FERC Relicensing update
• Grant Opportunities report
• Energy Fair Follow Up
• Thermal Energy District Update

The Hartford Energy Commission met and approved the February minutes. They discussed a potential purchase of the Wilder solar array, though the owner's proposed price was deemed unrealistic. The commission also reviewed grant opportunities, including a $4,000 MERP grant for outreach, and discussed geothermal legislation and a FERC comment period for the Wilder Dam.

• Approved February minutes as presented (unanimous)
• Discussed potential purchase of Wilder solar array; no decision made
• Reviewed $4,000 MERP grant spending options; will work with CAST
• Discussed FERC comment period for Wilder Dam; Selectboard to send letter
• Noted 169 orders for Window Dressers inserts; location needed
• Laura volunteered for steering committee for Nature Conservancy resilience series

Housing & Homelessness Committee

The Hartford Committee on Housing and Homelessness met to review progress on housing initiatives, including updates on a rental registry, public information sessions, and collaboration with Norwich on affordable housing. The committee discussed solutions for the unhoused community, such as potential RV ordinance changes, and received updates on the Town Plan Housing Chapter and economic development efforts.

• Discussion on establishing a Hartford Rental Registry
• Public information session on HomeShare VT at Bugbee Senior Center on May 8th
• Housing Development Program Update and Home Creators Expo planned for June 1st at HACTC Town Plan
• Joint meeting with Norwich Affordable Housing Subcommittee to explore collaboration on zoning, ADUs, and wastewater solutions
• Continued discussion on solutions for the unhoused community, including RV ordinance considerations

Resilient Hartford

The Resilient Hartford (RH) group meets to discuss member interests, review past meeting minutes, and hear updates on local food forest and Abenaki garden projects. No major decisions are listed on this procedural agenda.

• 2024 Vermont Fruit & Nut Tree Grant Application (10 min)
• Clifford Park Food Forest/Abenaki Garden Plans for 2024 (20 min)
• Quechee Abenaki Garden Update (5 min)

The Resilient Hartford committee approved meeting minutes from 8/30/23 and notes from four later meetings (4-0). They discussed a $990 Vermont Fruit and Nut Tree Grant for the food forest, considered changing meeting time to 5 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday, and planned next steps for the food forest and Quechee Abenaki Garden.

• Approved meeting minutes of 8/30/23 and notes of 11/29/23, 1/3/24, 1/31/24, 2/28/24 (4-0)
• Agreed to hold off ordering seed mixes until Earl Hatley provides input
• Discussed changing meeting time to 5 p.m. on fourth Tuesday, pending Dylan Kreis's availability

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion (HCOREI) is meeting to discuss updates from school and town liaisons, including a possible gender inclusivity policy for the town and the Community Safety Review Project. The committee will also consider revising its charge to modify liaison requirements. The agenda includes routine items like approving minutes and member announcements.

• Discussion of bringing a Gender Inclusivity Policy to the town
• Update on Community Safety Review Project, including data from past surveys
• Discussion of revising HCOREI charge to modify liaison requirements
• Follow-up from meeting with J Lau
• Hartford student award (A. Raynolds Memorial)

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion met and heard a presentation from the Special Needs Support Center about its disability-friendly program. The committee updated its membership list, discussed vacancies, and received updates on school and selectboard initiatives. No formal votes were taken on substantive policy matters.

• Approved Feb 7 minutes (3-0, 4 abstentions)
• Updated membership list to reflect current members and vacancies
• Discussed filling vacant student and school board liaison positions
• Noted Mary Erdei's application for Selectboard liaison to be reviewed at 4/2/24 Selectboard meeting
• Agreed to explore offering school credit for student committee members via ILC
• Planned to follow up with Town Manager on Policy on Policies status
• Drafted plan for Ann Raynolds Memorial Award, $500 initial amount
• Agreed to inquire with Rotary about serving as fiscal agent for memorial award

Energy Commission

The Hartford Climate Action Steering Team meets to review and approve draft minutes from the previous meeting, receive a coordinator’s report, and discuss local recycling and geothermal energy projects. The meeting also includes a presentation on Energize Upper Valley 2.0 and a tour of municipal facilities.

• Review and approve draft minutes from previous meeting
• Discuss Foam/plastic recycling initiative
• Presentation on Energize Upper Valley 2.0
• Tour of Coolidge Hotel & WRJ geothermal district project

The Hartford Energy Commission met on March 20, 2024, but took no formal votes because a quorum was not present. Members discussed plans for a greenhouse gas reduction grant for the ice rink, heat pump grants for the fire house and police station, and a geothermal project update. The commission also planned a Rotary presentation on plastics and styrofoam, and scheduled monthly municipal facility tours.

• No formal decisions made due to lack of quorum
• February 2024 minutes not approved (no quorum)
• Dana to develop ice rink greenhouse gas reduction grant application
• Dana to pursue heat pump grants for fire house and police station
• Dana and Jen to address Rotary on plastics and styrofoam
• Monthly municipal facility tours scheduled (waste water treatment plant next)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Hartford Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to discuss several preservation topics, including a guest presentation on the Taft's Flat National Register nomination. The agenda also includes updates on the Veterans Park Kiosk, a World War I & II Monument Project, and other local historic initiatives. Public comments will be heard.

• Taft's Flat National Register Nomination with guest Brian Knight
• Veterans Park Kiosk update
• World War I & II Monument Project
• Historic District Signs discussion
• Performing Arts History update

Tree Board

The Hartford Tree Board approved a property owner's plan to plant native trees and shrubs on town property at Kilowatt Park North. The board also discussed herbicide use by the power company and reviewed several ongoing projects, including the Lyman Point grant and upcoming events. No other formal decisions were made.

• Approved Daniel Ramirez's plan to plant native species on town property at Kilowatt Park North (all in favor)
• Approved minutes of previous meeting (all in favor)
• Adjourned meeting (all in favor)

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will meet to consider renewing liquor and tobacco licenses for two local convenience stores, discuss several grants and appointments, and handle routine administrative items. The agenda includes public comment and reports from the town manager and boards.

• Renewal of liquor and tobacco license for Jiffy Mart #439, 6800 Woodstock Road, Quechee
• Renewal of liquor and tobacco license for Evans Expressmart, Route 5 & Airport Road, White River Junction
• Reappointment of Tom McCleary to Parks & Recreation Commission (3-year term)
• Discussion of CSO Grant Application and Block Grant for Public Safety Complex Heat Pumps
• Discussion of Utility Assessment and retention of VISION Consultant for Revaluation

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. New and old business items include discussing the disbursement of a survey for the Rec Center and reviewing the administrative manual. The agenda is largely procedural with no major decisions or financial actions listed.

• Rec Center survey disbursement discussion
• Administrative Manual Review

The Hartford Parks and Recreation Commission met and approved the previous meeting's minutes. They discussed the recent voter rejection of a $250,000 budget item for Lyman Point and playground improvements, noting it may have been due to misunderstandings about funding from the local option tax. The commission also reviewed plans for input on the Wilder dam relicensing and discussed using reserve funds for design work.

• Approved minutes of previous meeting (all in favor)
• Discussed forming a working group liaison for Lyman Point improvements
• Noted $10,000 Caring for the Canopy grant awarded to town
• Agreed to invite Noah Crane to discuss All-Star baseball game at Maxfield Field
• Scheduled Code of Ethics and Administrative Manual review for next meeting

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will meet to consider renewals of liquor and tobacco licenses for Phnom Penh Sandwich Station and Summit Stores (Three Cat Coffee, Quechee Mobile), and a cannabis license application for Tea House, LLC. The board will also discuss flying the Pride flag at Town Hall, Fire Marshal staffing, and make several appointments to town committees.

• Renewal of Phnom Penh Sandwich Station's First Class liquor license at 7 North Main Street, White River Junction
• Renewal of Summit Stores' liquor and tobacco licenses for Three Cat Coffee at 18 & 42 Sykes Mountain Avenue and Quechee Mobile at 3479 Woodstock Road
• Approval of cannabis license application #S-000005836 for Tea House, LLC
• Discussion of Fire Marshal staffing
• Request to fly Pride flag at Town Hall

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission and Town Plan Economic Development Steering Committee will discuss updates to the town’s economic development chapter, introduce consultants, and outline next steps for community outreach. No formal decisions are listed on this agenda.

• Update of the Town Plan Economic Development Chapter
• Introduction to consultants Jason Godfrey and Serra Güllü of Better City
• Economic Development Community Forum: Thursday, March 14th 6:00 p.m. Bugbee Senior Center

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission meets to discuss a sketch plan review for the redevelopment of the Coolidge Block in downtown White River Junction, including potential mixed-use housing and commercial space. The meeting also includes a continued public hearing on a car wash site development plan on Sykes Mountain Avenue.

• Sketch Plan Review: Redevelopment of Coolidge Block, David Briggs
• Public Hearing: Site Development Plan Approval for car wash, lot 44-0041-000, Sykes Mountain Avenue, White River Junction
• Nomination of Matt Osborn as Acting Zoning Administrator
• Change of use from Smoothy Shop to Office, 6985 Woodstock Road

The Hartford Planning Commission held a sketch plan review for the redevelopment of the Coolidge Block in White River Junction. David Briggs presented plans for housing, commercial space, and underground parking, noting a hotel is no longer included. No formal decision was made on the project; the commission tabled the remainder of the agenda to attend a Town Plan meeting.

• Nominated Matt Osborn as Acting Zoning Administrator for a 3-year term (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of February 5, 2024 (unanimous)
• Tabled remaining administrative agenda to attend Town Plan meeting

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard is holding a special organizational meeting to swear in new members, elect a Chair, Vice Chair, and Clerk, and review liaison assignments and orientation materials. This is a procedural meeting focused on board organization, not on policy decisions.

• Confirm new members have sworn oaths with the Town Clerk
• Reorganize board positions: Chair, Vice Chair, and Clerk
• Review list of boards, commissions, and committees
• Review Selectboard Liaison Policy and discuss liaison assignment process
• Review orientation materials for new members

Conservation Commission

The Hartford Conservation Commission is meeting to discuss and potentially decide on several conservation-related items, including town forest management, environmental education events, and long-term land conservation planning. The agenda includes updates on the Great River Hydro relicensing, a potential memorandum of understanding with the Upper Valley Mountain Bike Association, and invasive plant management. No major decisions are listed; most items are discussions or updates.

• Discussion of Upper Valley Mountain Bike Association Memorandum of Understanding for Town Forest
• Review of inventory list of potential trail projects in Town Forest
• Update on Great River Hydro relicensing
• Discussion of invasive plants management in Town Forest
• Planning for 2024 conservation education events and salamander team

Resilient Hartford

Resilient Hartford is meeting to review past meeting minutes, hear public comments, and discuss member interests. The main topics are the Clifford Park Food Forest/Abenaki Garden, including a community discussion, a site visit with the White River Partnership, and a Vermont Fruit & Nut Tree Grant application, plus an update on the Quechee Abenaki Garden. The meeting is largely routine with updates and planning.

• Clifford Park Food Forest/Abenaki Garden community discussion from December 5th
• Site visit with Greg Russ of the White River Partnership on December 14th
• Vermont Fruit & Nut Tree Grant application
• Quechee Abenaki Garden update from Earl
• Review of minutes from 8/30, 11/1, 11/29, 1/3, and 1/31

Inactive Boards

The Hartford Selectboard and School Board will hold a public meeting to present the town budget and school budget updates. Residents may ask questions about the budget and meet candidates running for local offices. The meeting includes a structured Q&A session for both budget and candidate questions.

• Town budget presentation by Selectboard Chair Mike Hoyt
• School budget update by Kevin Christie and/or Peter Merrill
• Candidates for Selectboard and School Board to introduce themselves
• Public Q&A on budget and candidate questions

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion (HCOREI) is meeting to discuss updates from the school board and selectboard, including a possible town-level gender inclusivity policy and the Community Safety Review Project. Members will also consider whether increasing the Hartford sales tax is an equity issue and plan for upcoming departures from the committee.

• Discussion of bringing a Gender Inclusivity Policy to the town
• Community Safety Review Project updates
• Consideration of whether increasing the Hartford sales tax is an equity issue
• Joint School/Selectboard meeting discussion
• Hartford student award (A. Raynolds Memorial)

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will discuss and potentially approve a $269,000 contract with Tyler for the 2025 property revaluation, review the 2023 Common Level of Appraisal (CLA) of 66.31%, and consider retaining a revaluation consultant. The board will also hear updates on the Coolidge Block redevelopment, FY24 budget status, and authorize the chair to approve payroll and accounts payable during the election hiatus.

• Consider signing Tyler Appraisal Services Agreement for $269,000 for 2025 revaluation
• Review 2023 CLA of 66.31% and COD of 24.59%, which triggered state-mandated reappraisal
• Authorize Selectboard Chair to approve payroll and AP during election hiatus (March 6, 2024)
• Discuss Coolidge Block Redevelopment with David Briggs
• Review RFP for Room 1 A/V and discuss improved access to town ordinances

Tree Board

The Hartford Tree Board is meeting to review minutes, hear the Tree Warden's report, and discuss updates on several tree-related projects. They will also plan participation in upcoming community events and a state conference.

• Review of January 16, 2024 meeting minutes
• Tree Warden report on Ratcliffe work and trees by WABA
• Final report on last year's Riparian Buffer Project
• Update on Lyman Point Project
• Tree City USA sign installation

Housing & Homelessness Committee

The Hartford Committee on Housing and Homelessness will meet to discuss its work plan, the Town Plan Housing Chapter update, and a joint meeting with the Norwich Housing Committee. They will also review a homesharing event on April 24th and an update on the Housing Development Program. The agenda includes routine items like approving minutes and public comment.

• March 21st meeting date change and agenda
• Town Plan Housing Chapter update
• Joint meeting with Norwich Housing Committee at 7:00 PM
• Homesharing event on April 24th
• Housing Development Program update

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Hartford Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes, hearing public comments, and receiving a director's report. Under new business, the commission will review the administrative manual, and under old business, it will discuss the distribution of a survey for the Rec Center. The agenda is largely procedural with no major decisions or financial items listed.

• Administrative Manual Review
• Rec Center – Survey Disbursement
• Approval of Previous Minutes
• Citizens Comments
• Directors Report

Sister Cities Committee

The Sister Cities Committee will decide on travel logistics for a student-teacher exchange to Cenon, France, including transport to Logan Airport and airfare. They will also review the planned activities for the visiting group from Lycée la Morlette during their stay.

• Finalize transport and airfare for 3 students and 2 teachers from HACTC to Cenon, France
• Review dates and activities for students and teachers from Lycée la Morlette during their visit

Town and School Meeting Committee

The joint Town & School Meeting Committee meets to approve prior minutes and finalize plans for the upcoming Budget & Candidates Night and the March town and school meetings. No substantive decisions are listed on this agenda.

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion holds its regular meeting to discuss school and town updates, including a gender-inclusivity policy and a community safety review. Members will also meet with the town manager for introductions and Q&A.

• Gender Inclusivity Policy discussion
• Community Safety Review Project updates
• Meet with Town Manager for introductions and Q&A

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard is meeting to conduct a second public hearing on a proposed charter revision, consider appointments, and review several reports and contracts. The board will also discuss using Climate Action Reserve Funds and awarding a contract for an economic development consultant. The agenda includes a mix of public hearings, reports, and potential votes on various town matters.

• Public Hearing No. 2 on Charter Revision Proposal
• Consider Use of Climate Action Reserve Funds
• Award Contract for Economic Development Consultant
• Consider Revised Utility Agreement with VTrans for Water Line Relocation
• Appoint John Reid to Planning Commission for 3-year term

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

This agenda contains only one item: the review of draft minutes from a school/town bond hearing held on February 5, 2024. No decisions or discussions are listed beyond approving or amending these minutes, making the meeting purely procedural.

• Review of draft minutes for the Feb. 5, 2024 School/Town Bond Hearing

Planning Commission

The Hartford Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to review two site development plans by Black Rock Investment LLC for a total of 240 new dwelling units on Sykes Mountain Avenue and Hickory Ridge in White River Junction. The meeting will also include administrative updates and a review of a sketch plan for the redevelopment of Brookside Nursing Home.

• Site Development Plan Approval for 48 dwelling units in a multi-unit building, proposed lot 45-0243-000, Sykes Mountain Avenue and Hickory Ridge
• Site Development Plan Approval for 192 dwelling units in four multi-unit buildings, proposed lot 45-0162-000, Sykes Mountain Avenue and Hickory Ridge
• Sketch Plan Review for redevelopment of Brookside Nursing Home
• Administrative Permit for Upper Valley Haven Food Shelf, 608 North Main Street
• Public Hearing scheduled for March 11

Conservation Commission

The Hartford Conservation Commission is meeting to plan a February 29 environmental stewardship workshop, discuss 2024 conservation education events, and review Great River Hydro relicensing. They will also consider a memorandum of understanding with the Upper Valley Mountain Bike Association for town forest trails, plus invasive plant management and other forest projects. The agenda is largely planning and discussion items, with no final votes on major contracts or ordinances listed.

• Planning for 2/29 Hartford Environmental Stewardship Workshop
• Discussion of Great River Hydro relicensing
• Upper Valley Mountain Bike Association Memorandum of Understanding for Town Forest
• Invasive plants management in Town Forest
• Class IV section of Bliss Road discussion

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will hold a special meeting to discuss internal committee structure and selectboard liaisons, facilitated by a Vermont League of Cities and Towns representative. The session includes public comment and selectboard comments but contains no formal decisions or contracts.

• Workshop to discuss committee structure and selectboard liaisons, facilitated by Dominic Cloud of VLCT

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Hartford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on Application #13-23 by Black Rock Investment LLC for conditional use approval to build 192 dwelling units in four multi-unit buildings on Sykes Mountain Avenue and Hickory Ridge, White River Junction. The application was continued from November 8, 2023. The board will also handle administrative matters including public comment, minutes, and administrative permits.

• Conditional use application for 192 dwelling units in four multi-unit buildings at Sykes Mountain Avenue and Hickory Ridge, White River Junction
• Applicant responses to site plan comments include gated dead end, bus pull-off, and landscape maintenance plan
• Proposed lighting includes LED fixtures with dimming capabilities
• No administrative permits listed
• Next public hearing scheduled for March 6th

Sister Cities Committee

The Hartford Sister City Committee is meeting to approve minutes from January 9 and discuss funding for transportation and airfare for 3 students and 2 teachers from HACTC traveling to Cenon, France. They will also plan activities and dates for the visit to Lycée la Morlette. The meeting is procedural and planning-focused, with no major policy decisions expected.

• Approve minutes of January 9 meeting
• Funding for 3 students and 2 teachers from HACTC to Cenon, FR (transport to Logan, MA & airfare)
• Plan dates and activities for students and teachers at Lycée la Morlette
• Next meeting scheduled for February 12, 2024

Town and School Meeting Committee

The Hartford Town & School Meeting Committee will approve prior meeting minutes, review plans for the upcoming Budget & Candidates Night, and consider fundraising requests for Town Meeting Day. No substantive decisions are scheduled.

Energy Commission

The Hartford Energy Commission is meeting to review and approve draft minutes, hear public comment, and receive a coordinator's report. The main working session includes updates on the Energy Fair and the Thermal Energy District, with a motion to approve a letter of support for TEN's. The meeting is hybrid, in person at Hartford Town Hall and remote via Teams.

• Review and approve draft minutes from previous meeting
• Public comment period
• Coordinator's report
• Energy Fair follow-up update
• Thermal Energy District update including Briggs update and legislative update

Tree Board

The Hartford Tree Board will review minutes, hear a report from the Tree Warden, and discuss a $20,000 grant request from Clare, including its timeline and implementation. They will also decide on the disposition of Tree City USA signs, schedule tree ID walks and other events, and plan their participation in an environmental stewardship event.

• Review of $20,000 grant request from Clare
• Discussion of Tree City USA signs in P&R closet
• Tentative dates for tree ID walks, Arbor Day Sale, nursery replanting, Quechee Balloon Festival
• Douville Memorial Tree payment
• Representation at Environmental Stewardship Mix and Mingle on Feb 29, 2024

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Hartford Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes, setting 2024 meeting dates, and electing officers. The main action item is a vote on a cover letter and survey questions related to the Rec Center, which will likely be sent to residents to gather input.

• Vote on cover letter and survey questions for the Rec Center
• Review and approve 2024 meeting dates
• Election of officers for the Commission

Board of Civil Authority

The Hartford Board of Abatement will hold a public hearing on January 18, 2024, to consider four tax abatement requests from property owners. After the hearings, the board will reconvene as the Board of Civil Authority to discuss early ballot tabulator processing for the March elections and other business.

• Ralph & Susan Barrett and Robin Messier request abatement for 361 South St. (Parcel ID 24-89)
• John P. & Bonnie J. Cray request abatement for 2033 (2017) Hartford Ave. (Parcel ID 22-50)
• Michael Barton requests abatement for 35 Apple Lane (Parcel ID 9-64-1)
• Board will review property cards and deliberate after hearings
• Board of Civil Authority to discuss early ballot tabulator processing for March elections

Town Meeting Cycle

The Hartford Selectboard and School Board will hold a public hearing to discuss a proposed $21,000,000 general obligation bond for school infrastructure repairs, including roofs, HVAC, and stormwater systems. Residents will also vote on a $1,300,000 bond for renovations to Fire Station No. 2 on Willard Road in Quechee.

• $21,000,000 General Obligation Bond for School Infrastructure Repairs
• $1,300,000 General Obligation Bond for Fire Station No. 2 renovation on Willard Road, Quechee
• $200,000 Local Option Tax expenditure for ambulance purchase
• $30,000 Local Option Tax for Our Villages Beautification Plan
• $225,000 Local Option Tax for Lyman Point Park improvements including ADA accessibility

Energy Commission

The Hartford Climate Action Steering Team (CAST) is meeting to discuss routine business including approving minutes, a coordinator report, and several action items. They will consider moving the February meeting, a plastic collection drive with Trex recycling, a bylaw review, a storage unit solar project, and commission appointments.

• Plastic Collection Drive/Trex recycling discussion
• Bylaw review
• Storage unit solar project
• Commission & Committee appointments
• Moving February meeting

Historic Preservation Commission

The Hartford Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to review December minutes, hear public comments, and discuss several ongoing projects. The main item is the kick-off meeting for the Taft's Flat National Register nomination consultant. The commission will also discuss performing arts history, a World War I & II monument project, and commission openings.

• Taft's Flat National Register Nomination Consultant Kick-off Meeting
• Performing Arts History discussion
• World War I & II Monument Project
• HHPC Openings
• Review of December 20, 2023 meeting minutes

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard is holding a special meeting that includes a workshop, facilitated by Dominic Cloud of the Vermont League of Cities and Towns, to discuss committee structure and Selectboard liaisons. The agenda also includes public comment and board comments. No formal decisions or votes are listed on the agenda.

• Workshop on committee structure and Selectboard liaisons, facilitated by Dominic Cloud of VLCT
• Public comment period
• Selectboard comments

Sister Cities Committee

The Hartford Sister City Committee met to approve minutes and discuss funding for a planned April trip to Cenon, France, for two teachers and three students. The committee learned that previously allocated funds were reappropriated to the general fund, but town officials have given initial approval to access those funds. Next steps include obtaining full selectboard approval and purchasing travel.

• Approved minutes from December meeting
• Funding for two teachers and three students to travel to Cenon in April
• Initial approval from town manager, finance director, and selectboard liaison to access general fund monies
• $6,000 application submitted for FY 2025
• Next meeting scheduled for January 30, 2024

Selectboard & LLC Agenda/Minutes

The Hartford Selectboard will meet to consider two local cannabis license applications, several appointments, a police department request to purchase rifles, a revised utility agreement with VTrans, a dump truck bid award revision, and a resolution of necessity for the Fire Station No. 2 renovation project. The board will also review the 2024 meeting calendar and discuss access to town policies.

• Consider local cannabis licenses for The Hidden Grove, LLC and VVS Farm, LLC
• Consider Police Department request to purchase rifles
• Consider revised utility agreement with VTrans for water line relocation
• Consider dump truck bid award revision
• Consider resolution of necessity for Fire Station No. 2 renovation project

Conservation Commission

The Hartford Conservation Commission will meet on January 8, 2024, to discuss 2024 conservation education events, environmental stewardship workshops, and ongoing projects like the Great River Hydro Relicensing and Town Forest initiatives. The meeting includes updates on salamander conservation, pollinator projects, and a land protection grant from The Nature Conservancy.

• Hartford Salamander Team & 2024 Conservation Education Events
• Great River Hydro Relicensing discussion
• Upper Valley Mountain Bike Association Memorandum of Understanding for Town Forest
• Pollinator Project planning
• The Nature Conservancy Land Protection Grant

Resilient Hartford

The Resilient Hartford committee is meeting to discuss the Clifford Park Food Forest and Abenaki Garden, including community discussions, flood impacts, and a site visit with the White River Partnership. They will also receive updates on the Quechee Abenaki Garden and review meeting notes from previous sessions.

• Discussion of December 5th Food Forest Community Discussion
• Review of July 10th flood effects on the Food Forest and Abenaki Garden
• Report on December 14th site visit with Greg Russ of the White River Partnership
• Update on Quechee Abenaki Garden
• Public comments period

Town and School Meeting Committee

The Hartford Town and School Meeting Committee is meeting to approve prior minutes, discuss the agenda and logistics for an upcoming Information Night, and review its task list. The agenda is mostly procedural planning with no major decisions or public hearings.

• Approve minutes from 12/4/23 meeting
• Discuss Information Night agenda and logistics
• Review task list for upcoming meetings

Hartford Committee on Racial Equity & Inclusion

The Hartford Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion (HCOREI) will continue setting its 2024 priorities, including recommendations, outreach, data, and organization, and will consider a retreat. The committee will also receive updates from the School Board and Selectboard, including the Community Safety Review Project, and discuss adding resource links to its web page.

• Discuss 2024 priorities: recommendations, outreach, data, organization
• Consider a retreat for HCOREI in early 2024
• Invite Julia Lau, School Racial Equity Coordinator, to a meeting
• Update on Community Safety Review Project
• Add racial and social justice resource links to HCOREI web page