Marshfield public meetings in 2023
47 substantive meetings from 2023, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Selectboard
The Selectboard discussed heating issues at the Old Schoolhouse Common and approved a resolution to seek a legal opinion on using the Climate Recovery Fund for flood repairs. The board also addressed snow plowing requests for the railroad bed and reported property damage to a stone wall on Beaver Meadow Road.
- Resolution to obtain a legal opinion on financing flood repairs through the Climate Recovery Fund
- Approval of Municipal Technical Assistance Program (MTAP) participation
- Report of stone wall damage on Beaver Meadow Road to be fixed in the spring
- Discussion of heating system failures at the Old Schoolhouse Common
- Approval of General Expenses and Payroll reports
Selectboard
The Marshfield Selectboard approved a $550,000 line of credit from Community National Bank at 5.15% interest to cover expenses from the July flood. They also hired a snow removal contractor for sidewalks, discussed a reduced state reimbursement rate due to zoning gaps, and reviewed the library and town budgets. The meeting included updates on building maintenance, a railroad right-of-way question, and a Development Review Board hearing.
- Approved $550,000 current expense note from Community National Bank at 5.15% interest
- Hired Luke Mulligan for sidewalk snow removal at $155 per occurrence
- Discussed 12.5% state reimbursement (instead of 17.5%) due to zoning regulations
- Library budget discussed: 34% increase proposal, possible 20% with stipend or single plan
- Henry Harris reconsideration hearing scheduled for January
Selectboard
The Marshfield Selectboard discussed and voted on a proposed management plan for the Martin Bridge property, deciding to continue the existing haying plan for 2024. They also addressed flood recovery projects, including an approved watershed protection project at Marshfield Convenience Plus, and approved several maintenance and repair items.
- Approved $146,254 Emergency Watershed Protection project at Marshfield Convenience Plus; property owner share $36,563.50
- Voted to continue Tim Maclay's haying plan for fields 2 and 3 at Martin Bridge in 2024
- Approved $1,500 for railroad bed parking area repairs from recreation grant
- Approved sump pump installation in Old Schoolhouse Common elevator shaft
- Approved 'one lane bridge ahead' signs for Holt Road
Selectboard
The Marshfield Selectboard approved the purchase of a new truck for $263,023 and a guardrail installation on Nasmith Brook Road for $8,064. They also discussed flood-related repairs, a management plan for Martin Covered Bridge Park, and grant applications for trail restoration.
- Approved $263,023 truck purchase
- Approved $8,064 guardrail installation on Nasmith Brook Road
- Discussed Martin Covered Bridge flood repairs and management plan
- Approved grant application for trail repairs
- Approved Conservation Commission brochure printing
Selectboard
The Marshfield Selectboard held a special meeting to handle several administrative items. They approved repurchasing a wrecked 2022 town truck as a salvage vehicle for parts at a cost of $12,500, reappointed Kathleen Hayes as health officer, and voted to keep uninsured motorist coverage at the standard $250,000 rather than opting for additional VLCT coverage of $10,000,000. The board also discussed furniture left behind by a former tenant of the Old Schoolhouse Common, deciding to offer it to the new tenant or give it away free.
- Approved $12,500 purchase of wrecked 2022 truck as salvage for parts
- Reappointed Kathleen Hayes as health officer
- Kept uninsured motorist coverage at $250,000, declining VLCT's $10,000,000 option
- Decided to offer former tenant's leftover furniture to new tenant or give away free
Selectboard
The Marshfield Selectboard discussed and approved several flood-related repairs and purchases. They voted to buy a used truck from Berlin for $40,000, contingent on road crew inspection, and accepted a bid for Nasmith Brook Road work pending an Army Corps permit. They also discussed debris cleanup on Creamery St, culvert replacements, and road repair estimates.
- Approved purchase of 2015 International truck from Berlin for $40,000, using ARPA funds if needed
- Accepted St. Onge bid for Nasmith Brook Road work, contingent on Army Corps permit
- Discussed Creamery St flood debris cleanup with 75% Emergency Watershed Program funding
- Estimated Thompson Road repairs at $30,000 for first phase, over $100,000 total
- Approved applying for Northern Forest Center grant up to $25,000 for Stranahan Committee
Selectboard
The Selectboard reviewed progress on the Nasmith Brook Rd project and discussed bond requirements for Hogan Excavating. Members also received updates on the EWP Program backlog and culvert work on Ennis Hill Rd.
- Nasmith Brook Rd permit application is being processed by the Army Corps
- Agreement to pay half the money down upfront for Hogan Excavating's Beaver Meadow and Railroad Bed bids upon bond submission
- Agreement to extend one culvert on Ennis Hill Rd
- EWP Program reported as backlogged
Meeting
The Development Review Board held a hearing regarding an application to replace a non-conforming structure with a new two-story single-family home and one-car garage. The proposal aims to reduce existing lot non-conformities by increasing front, side, and rear setbacks.
- Application for 1906 US Route 2 to replace and expand non-conforming structure
- Proposed building height of 30.5 feet
- Discussion regarding potential boundary line adjustment to meet setback standards
Selectboard
The Marshfield Selectboard reviewed and awarded bids for road repairs to Beaver Meadow Brook, Railroad Bed, Nasmith Brook Road, and Cassady Road, with awards contingent on bonds. They also discussed a resident's stormwater complaint, approved a paving quote, and addressed a wrecked town truck.
- Awarded Beaver Meadow Brook bid to Hogan Excavating for $8,000, contingent on bond
- Awarded Railroad Bed bid to Hogan Excavating, contingent on bond
- Awarded Cassady Bridge bid to JP Sicard for $169,847
- Approved Pike Industries paving quote for flood-damaged areas
- Discussed replacing town truck damaged in rollover, over $1,000 damage
Meeting
The Development Review Board reviewed a request for a two-lot subdivision involving frontage variances and a conditional use permit for accessory on-farm events at 1356 Ennis Hill Road. Discussions included concerns regarding road frontage requirements, wastewater plans, and the potential impacts of large-scale events on neighborhood traffic and noise.
- Farnham/Wahlberg 2-Lot Subdivision: Request for variance due to insufficient road frontage on parcels
- Harris CUP for accessory on-farm events: Application for up to 10 events at 1356 Ennis Hill Road
- Discussion of wastewater and septic capacity requirements for proposed subdivision lots
- Public testimony regarding traffic, noise, and agricultural use at 1356 Ennis Hill Road
Selectboard
The Marshfield Selectboard met on September 19, 2023, to discuss and approve several flood-related repair projects, including the Cassady Road Bridge, Nasmith Brook Road, the railroad bed, and debris removal. They also approved a change order for the SASS Ave bridge installation, computer upgrades, and a cemetery wall repair. The meeting included updates on Folsom Hill Road drainage issues and a resignation from the DRB clerk position.
- Approved putting Cassady Road Bridge temporary bridge out to bid
- Approved change order for SASS Ave bridge installation, $21,925
- Approved computer upgrades with security and wifi installation
- Approved $5,200 repair for Dwinell Cemetery wall
- Advertised bids for flood repairs due October 10
Meeting
The Marshfield Development Review Board held a public hearing on a request to split the property at 367 Maple Hill Rd into three parcels. The board approved the subdivision, noting that no new construction or houses are proposed, only the retention of development rights. The meeting also included the approval of previous minutes and a notice that staff member Asher Barnum intends to vacate his post.
- Approval of subdivision request by Lori Burkart and Ronald Holt to split 367 Maple Hill Rd (Parcel ID: MA013) into three parcels
- Confirmation that no construction or new houses are proposed for the split parcels
- Approval of meeting minutes from June 22, August 10, and August 24
- Notice that Asher Barnum intends to vacate his staff position, with October 26 likely his last hearing
Selectboard
The Marshfield Selectboard met on September 5, 2023, and took several actions, including authorizing a request for proposals for a temporary bridge on Cassady Road, approving a $4,000 sale of a town trailer, and hiring Scott Franks as property manager. The board also discussed the fallen cemetery wall, email address costs, and a picnic shelter quote.
- Authorized RFP for temporary Cassady Rd bridge, scope by state engineer
- Approved sale of trailer for $4,000
- Approved hiring Scott Franks as property manager
- Increased town email addresses by $10 per month
- Discussed VTrans drainage changes at Route 2 and Folsom Hill Rd
Selectboard
The Marshfield Selectboard met to discuss ongoing flood recovery efforts, including road repairs, FEMA reimbursements, and a $100,000 estimate for railroad bed repairs. They also reviewed a Class IV road policy, zoning updates, and building reopening after mold testing. The meeting was largely procedural, with updates and discussions rather than final decisions.
- Emergency Watershed Program: 75% federal funding, 25% property owner responsibility
- Railroad bed washout near Bailey Pond Road: $100,000 repair estimate
- FEMA project for Railroad Bed; RFP to be developed for bids
- Class IV Road Policy amended; to be revisited
- Mold test results: gym off-limits until water issue resolved; building reopened
Meeting
The Development Review Board met to consider a Conditional Use Permit for events (EN023) submitted by Henry Harris. Following a discussion regarding a pending Superior Court motion, the board voted to postpone the hearing.
- Continuance of Henry Harris EN023 Conditional Use Permit for Events to September 28, 2023
Meeting
The Marshfield Development Review Board continued its public hearing on a Conditional Use Permit application by Henry Harris to host 10 events per year, each lasting 9 days and accommodating up to 200 people. The board did not issue a final decision, opting instead to allow the applicant and counsel to revise the application scope in response to neighbor concerns regarding traffic and noise. The hearing focused on whether the proposed scale of events is compatible with the rural agricultural zoning of the property on Ennis Hill Road.
- Continuation of hearing for Henry Harris EN023 Conditional Use Permit for 10 annual events
- Application proposes events of up to 200 people for 9 days each, described as strictly agricultural
- Neighbors Tim Howe, Rob Billings, and Clinton Holt testified against the scale, citing traffic safety and noise
- Board Chair Dina Bookmyer-Baker noted the hearing is separate from an ongoing lawsuit between the Town and Mr. Harris
- Board decided to continue the hearing to allow the applicant to revise the application scope
Selectboard
The Marshfield Selectboard awarded bridge repair contracts for Onion River Road, SASS Ave, and Holt Road, and deferred the Cassady Road bid due to a single over-estimate bid. The board also discussed Class 4 road maintenance, postponed the picnic shelter project, and entered executive session for a legal opinion.
- Awarded Onion River Road bridge repair to J.P. Sicard for $211,347
- Awarded SASS Ave bridge repair to Mangan Excavation for $140,430
- Awarded Holt Road bridge repair to Mangan Excavation for $48,880
- Deferred Cassady Road bridge award; only bid was $400,760, over state estimate
- Postponed picnic shelter project until next year; storage cost $200-$300
Selectboard
The Marshfield Selectboard met on August 3, 2023, and approved several actions related to flood recovery and maintenance. They authorized volunteer-led cleanup at the Old Schoolhouse Common, approved up to $2,500 for library door materials, and agreed to seek a legal opinion on Class IV road obligations.
- Approved All Hands All Hearts volunteer cleanup at Old Schoolhouse Common, including paint scraping, tile removal, and mold treatment
- Approved up to $2,500 for library exterior door, railing, roof, and landing materials
- Approved a pollinator or ornamental garden near the dry hydrant at Old Schoolhouse Common
- Approved a legal opinion from the town attorney regarding Class IV road requirements
Selectboard
The Marshfield Selectboard held a public hearing on reclassifying the railroad bed from a Class IV road to a trail, but tabled the decision after residents raised concerns about landowner access. The board also discussed flood damage repairs, including a temporary bridge for Holt Road, and authorized several grant applications and agreements.
- Public hearing on reclassifying railroad bed from Class IV road to trail; tabled for future agenda
- Authorized RFP for temporary bridge on Holt Road due to flood damage
- Authorized application for $5,000 Block Foundation grant for Old Schoolhouse Common
- Authorized signing of MOU for state debris removal contract
- Approved striping Little League field for soccer use
Selectboard
The Marshfield Selectboard met to address emergency road access issues caused by destroyed bridges. They decided to issue RFPs for temporary bridges on Onion River Road, SASS Ave, and Cassady Road, with bids due in 8 days and an emergency meeting on August 8th to open bids. They also discussed a non-emergency bridge replacement on Holt Road, updated the procurement policy, and noted ongoing drainage and water issues.
- RFP for temporary bridge on Onion River Road, bids due in 8 days
- RFP for temporary bridge on SASS Ave, same schedule as Onion River Road
- RFP for temporary bridge on Cassady Road, using state inspection report
- Procurement policy updated to include current federal purchasing thresholds
- Discussion of FEMA rental assistance for isolated residents on Onion River Road
Selectboard
The Marshfield Selectboard met to address flood recovery, setting the 2023 municipal tax rate at 0.6538 and authorizing contracts for hauling materials. They also discussed temporary bridge installations and floodplain rebuilding rules for damaged homes.
- Set 2023 municipal tax rate at .6538 and local agreement rate at .0046
- Authorized Justin to execute hauling contracts at most competitive rate
- Discussed temporary bridge loans from the state for three bridge projects
- Accepted $4,500 offer for a trailer and authorized clerk to sign paperwork
- Floodplain homes with 50% damage must be rebuilt to current standards
Selectboard
The Marshfield Selectboard discussed flood recovery, including waiving permit fees for repairs in the special flood hazard area, hiring a contractor for emergency road work, and planning to replace the Onion River Road bridge. They also approved countering a trailer sale offer and discussed debris removal and FEMA reimbursement.
- Waived permit fees for flood repairs in special flood hazard area
- Countered trailer sale offer at $5,000
- Hired contractor to install culverts and spread material for emergency route
- VTrans inspection recommends replacing Onion River Road bridge
- Three town bridges recommended for temporary bridges
Selectboard
The Marshfield Selectboard met on July 18, 2023, to address flood recovery and infrastructure issues. They approved a motion to negotiate a contract up to $50,000 for labor-only repair of School Street Bridge, with materials billed directly to the town. The board also discussed ongoing water damage at the Old Schoolhouse, bridge assessments, and volunteer efforts for water and food distribution.
- Approved motion to negotiate contract up to $50,000 for School Street Bridge repair (labor only)
- Old Schoolhouse gym taking on water; ServPro will not remediate until dry; seeking free quote for insurance
- Martin Bridge: debris and silt cleanup needed; volunteers approved for minor cleanup
- Twinfield emergency access approved for Onion River Campground; easement and insurance required
- Picnic shelter delivery delayed; proposed to hold for at least a year
Selectboard
The Marshfield Selectboard handled routine business, including approving a $110,000 loan for a truck, signing mowing contracts, and discussing state-mandated zoning changes. They also approved applying for an energy audit grant and discussed using the Old Schoolhouse Common as a cooling center.
- Approved $110,000 loan at 2% interest from State's Municipal Equipment Loan Fund for truck
- Approved applying for Municipal Energy Resilience level 2 audit grant
- Discussed state-mandated zoning changes for higher density, duplexes, ADUs
- Signed mowing contracts with Don Mitchell and Derrek Salls
- Approved closing Pike Road for tree cutting with conditions
Meeting
The Development Review Board reviewed a minor subdivision request to adjust the lot line between 26 Pilgrim Rd. and 64 Church St. The board discussed approving a variance for an existing right-of-way containing a structure, with conditions regarding the existing barn.
- Minor subdivision review for lot-line adjustment from 26 Pilgrim Rd. to 64 Church St.
- Variance request for an existing right-of-way including an existing structure
- Waiver request for surveying of the larger parcel of land
- Approval of June 8, 2023, meeting minutes
Selectboard
The Marshfield Selectboard met on June 20, 2023, and took several actions, including approving a no-parking sign on Hollister Hill Road, hiring Scott Franks for building maintenance and Lorraine Banbury as Zoning Administrator, and discussing a fire station addition estimated at up to $75,000. They also discussed but did not decide on allowing kids under 18 in the gym without an adult, and reviewed road maintenance issues.
- Approved no-parking sign on Hollister Hill Road, paid from Stranahan Fund
- Hired Scott Franks for building maintenance at $25/hour
- Hired Lorraine Banbury as Zoning Administrator at $26/hour
- Discussed fire station addition with rough material estimate $18K-$20K, total possibly $75K
- Decided to maintain Class 3 road and plow to wellhead on Folsom Hill Road if Village upgrades driveway
Selectboard
The Marshfield Selectboard met and conducted interviews for the Zoning Administrator and Maintenance positions in executive session. Following the interviews, the Planning Commission recommended Lorraine Banbury for Zoning Administrator. The meeting was otherwise procedural with no public comment or agenda changes.
- Executive session held for Zoning Administrator and Maintenance Position interviews
- Planning Commission recommended Lorraine Banbury for Zoning Administrator
Meeting
The Development Review Board discussed notification requirements for abutters in Calais regarding a recurring events permit application. The board will conduct a site visit and reconvene for the hearing on July 13th.
- Recurring Events Permit for Harris/EN029
- Scheduled site visit for July 13th
- Continued hearing set for July 13th at 6:30 pm
Selectboard
The Marshfield Selectboard approved a $1,850 paving quote for accessibility at the Old Schoolhouse Common, accepted a zoning administrator's resignation with interim appointment, and scheduled a hearing to reclassify a railroad bed as a legal trail. The board also discussed energy efficiency, road maintenance, and various facility improvements.
- Approved $1,850 paving quote from Green Mountain Paving & Sealcoating for Old Schoolhouse Common entrance
- Accepted Kate's resignation as Zoning Administrator effective June 15, appointed her as interim
- Scheduled August 1 hearing to reclassify town-owned railroad bed portion as legal trail
- Approved up to $100 for flowers and renting a tree-shearing machine
- Discussed LED bulb replacement, water fountain repair, and flooring purchase
Selectboard
The Marshfield Selectboard met and took two actions: it voted to apply for a 30-day extension for processing homestead declarations due to state software delays, and it approved an agreement with Stitzel Page & Fletcher PC for legal services regarding a subdivision deed that lacks a filed survey. The board also authorized the town clerk to seek a legal opinion on survey filing responsibility.
- Voted to apply for up to 30-day extension for homestead processing
- Approved legal services agreement with Stitzel Page & Fletcher PC
- Discussed subdivision deed without filed survey; authorized legal opinion request
Meeting
The Marshfield Development Review Board discussed a proposal to subdivide 0.51 acres from a 48-acre lot to transfer it to an adjacent 1-acre property. The board reviewed details regarding right-of-way access, utility easements, and potential zoning variances or waivers. A motion was passed to continue the hearing to June 22nd.
- Subdivision application for CA014 Gouge/Burkhalter involving a 0.51-acre lot transfer
- Discussion of a 10ft utility easement and potential 50ft right-of-way requirements
- Hearing continued to June 22, 2023, for proper newspaper warning
Selectboard
The Marshfield Selectboard reviewed GMP's completed safety upgrades at Marshfield Dam, including a new remotely monitored gate, a bypass pipe for fisheries, and a lower normal operating level. The board also appointed a Planning Commission member, accepted a zoning administrator's resignation, approved a flag purchase and shrub removal, and discussed paving quotes for School Street.
- Marshfield Dam: new gate, bypass pipe, lower operating level (531.7 ft), output forecast down 20% to 6355 MWh/yr
- Appointed Bob Buchanan to Planning Commission
- Kathleen Hayes resigned as Zoning Administrator/Health Officer effective June 15
- School St paving quotes: Pike $38,850, Hutchins $43,852.50
- Approved flag purchase and shrub removal for flower garden
Selectboard
The Marshfield Selectboard approved a contract with Austin Construction for Upper Depot Bridge repairs not to exceed $29,260, funded by a VTrans grant and ARPA funds. They also discussed a request from the Conservation Commission to delay haying at the covered bridge property to protect bobolinks and a rare sedge, with a tentative agreement to mow before June 1 and after August 15. The board approved spending $7,100 for cemetery wall repair and a survey, and refunded half of a kitchen rental fee after a cleanliness complaint.
- Contract with Austin Construction for Upper Depot Bridge repairs, max $29,260
- Approved $7,100 for Dwinell cemetery wall repair and green burial site survey
- Discussed one-year haying delay at covered bridge property for bobolink and rare sedge protection
- Refunded half of kitchen rental fee after cleanliness complaint
- Discussed reclassifying railroad bed section as legal trail
Selectboard
The Marshfield Selectboard held its regular meeting, approving several contracts and making appointments. Key actions included approving a flooring contract, a cybersecurity audit, and a bridge repair bid, as well as reappointing numerous town officials. The board also discussed energy initiatives, a dam update, and a potential walking trail.
- Approved contract with Country Floors for up to $12,368 for flooring at Old Schoolhouse Common
- Approved cybersecurity audit proposal from Rural Solutions for $1,200
- Approved bid not to exceed $29,140 for Upper Depot Bridge repairs
- Reappointed numerous town officials including Fire Chief Will Schwarz and Animal Control Officers Heather Bent and Alana Vaillancourt
- Approved annual financial plan for highways and certified compliance with road and bridge standards
Meeting
The Development Review Board discussed a proposal to subdivide a 47-acre property into two lots. The plan involves selling a 5-acre portion with an existing house and retaining the remaining 42 acres.
- Two-lot subdivision review for 601 Pike Road (Parcel ID: PR011)
- Discussion regarding slope areas between 15% and 25% requiring conditional use permits
- Submission of Wastewater System and Potable Water Supply Permit # WW-5-9157
Selectboard
The Marshfield Selectboard approved a winter sand order, appointed new members to the Planning Commission and Development Review Board, and discussed several maintenance and legal items. The board also approved a liquor license for Outerspice Café and authorized spending for a toilet replacement and meeting room furniture.
- Approved winter sand order with price increase of $1.59 per yard
- Appointed Sonia Carrasco and Todd Eaton to Planning Commission for three-year terms
- Appointed Margaret Campbell to Development Review Board
- Approved liquor license for Outerspice Café, using prior year's fee
- Authorized up to $1,000 for toilet replacement at Old Schoolhouse Common
Meeting
The Development Review Board discussed what information applicants must provide regarding structure locations on subdivision maps. Members debated whether minor subdivisions require specific building footprints or if driveway, power, and septic details are sufficient.
- Discussion of building permission requirements under Section 2070
- Review of subdivision regulation wording regarding building locations
- Inquiry into sketch review processes for projects in flood zones
- Approval of February 9, 2023, meeting minutes
Selectboard
The Marshfield Selectboard met on March 21, 2023, to approve minutes, discuss a resident's request about winter sand wording, consider a moratorium on brush hogging at Martin Covered Bridge, review the Statewide Hazard Mitigation Plan, and make appointments to the Planning Commission. They also voted on several contracts and expenditures, including increasing the Healey agreement payment, renewing an emergency tree work contract, approving a green burial plot plan, and approving flooring, picnic shelter, and meeting room improvements. The board discussed a significant website cost increase and a dog complaint, and deferred a curb cut application pending an easement or survey.
- Increased Healey agreement payment from $250 to $300 this year and $350 next year
- Approved contract renewal with Mike Baril for emergency tree removal
- Approved green burial plot plan in Eaton Cemetery
- Approved Ethernet connection in meeting room at $974 and up to $800 for room dividers
- Discussed website cost increase from $660 to $2,500; will seek new provider by year-end
Selectboard
The Marshfield Selectboard held its March 7, 2023 meeting, covering routine approvals and a major capital decision. The board approved a picnic shelter at the Old Schoolhouse Common, with a metal roof, at a net cost of $46,960 after grants. Other actions included approving up to $500 for kitchen equipment, an air quality tester, a pest control contract, and various licenses.
- Approved picnic shelter at Old Schoolhouse Common, net cost $46,960 after $23,000 in grants
- Approved up to $500 for new kitchen equipment for Community Supper, paid with ARPA funds
- Approved purchase of indoor air quality tester for Energy Committee, approx. $600
- Approved one-year pest control contract with Joe Mulligan, plus spring exclusion work
- Approved liquor and tobacco licenses for Marshfield Village Store, Maplefields, and Marshfield Convenience Plus
Selectboard
The Marshfield Selectboard opened bids for the Upper Depot Bridge, a picnic shelter, and library porch work, and discussed lock bids. They decided to pursue a grant for bridge evaluation and authorized pursuing grants for the library porch. The board also approved a background check for Assistant Town Clerk candidates and held an executive session to interview a candidate.
- Upper Depot Bridge: Blow & Cote bid $38,100 for alternate design; Austin Construction bid $26,140 plus $3,000 engineering; board to pursue grant for evaluation
- Picnic Shelter: Timberhomes bid $57,160.76 for timberframing, plus $11,700 for standing seam roofing and $1,099.92 for staymat
- Library Porch: no bids received; board authorized pursuing rural library capital improvement grants
- Locks: three locksmiths proposed different securing methods; discussed
- Assistant Town Clerk: background check approved for candidates
Selectboard
The Marshfield Selectboard approved several items including a $1,200 budget for the Stranahan Forest Committee, adoption of green burial rules, and applications for multiple recreation grants. They also discussed a dog complaint, accessibility improvements at the Old Schoolhouse Common, and potholes at Nasmith Road and Twinfield Driveway.
- Approved $1,200 for Stranahan Forest sign and trail maintenance
- Adopted green burial rules 3-0
- Approved applying for recreation grants (NPS, Northern Forest Center, AARP, Vermont Health Dept)
- Discussed paving near drop box at Old Schoolhouse Common for ADA compliance
- Recommended Food Shelf manager obtain state permits for cooler
Selectboard
The Marshfield Selectboard voted 2-1 to adopt a statement condemning discrimination and welcoming all people, despite one member's opposition. The board also discussed the ongoing zoning enforcement case against Henry Harris, agreed to a meeting with him and attorneys, and reviewed several infrastructure projects and grants.
- Adopted inclusion statement condemning discrimination (2-1 vote)
- Discussed Harris zoning lawsuit; board open to meeting with Henry and attorneys
- Approved up to $5,000 in ARPA funds for railbed resurfacing materials
- Reviewed RFP for library porch and picnic shelter; bids due Feb. 28
- Approved liquor and tobacco licenses for Marshfield Convenience Plus
Selectboard
The Marshfield Selectboard met and approved the warning for the upcoming town meeting, which includes articles to change the date to Saturday and adopt the Australian Ballot. Chair Chris Martin resigned effective Town Meeting day, and Rich Baker offered to serve the remainder of his term if elected.
- Approved town meeting warning with 1-year and 3-year Selectboard terms
- Article to change town meeting date to Saturday
- Article to adopt Australian Ballot
- Chris Martin resigned from Selectboard effective Town Meeting day
- Rich Baker willing to serve remaining 1 year of Martin's term if elected
Selectboard
The Marshfield Selectboard conducted interviews for a road crew position and offered the job to a candidate at $24 per hour. They also discussed and voted on the town meeting format, heard about the school budget and tax rate increase, and approved minor purchases for the Old Schoolhouse Common.
- Offered road crew job at $24/hour with $0.50 raise after probation
- Voted to hold open town meeting, discuss Australian ballot change
- School budget to increase $757,000, tax rate up 7 cents
- Approved purchase of LED bulbs for Old Schoolhouse Common
- Discussed zoning enforcement issue with Mr. Harris
Selectboard
The Marshfield Selectboard met on January 10, 2023, and approved minutes, reviewed the Town Report, and made budget adjustments. They discussed the Town Meeting warning and whether to use Australian Ballot if allowed by the legislature, deciding to survey public interest. The board also extended a sugaring lease, discussed maintenance for the Old Schoolhouse, and planned to interview road crew candidates.
- Extended sugaring lease for 10 years at $1 per tap
- Lowered zoning and planning budget; increased electricity budget at Old Schoolhouse Common
- Discussed Australian Ballot for Town Meeting; will survey public interest
- Approved Old Schoolhouse maintenance rate of $45 per hour for Lindsey Simanskas
- Will interview road crew candidates next week
Conservation Commission
The Marshfield Conservation Commission is reviewing macroinvertebrate (aquatic insect) assessment results for seven stream sites in town, funded by a Vermont Fish and Wildlife watershed grant. Most sites rated excellent or very good, meeting state water quality standards, though one 2021 sample at Lye Brook showed a fair rating due to high worm abundance. The data may support future stream reclassification efforts.
- Guernsey Brook, Nasmith Brook (2 sites), Lye Brook, Marshfield Brook (2 sites), and Turtlehead Trib assessed in 2021-2022
- Grant WSG22-09 from VT Dept. of Fish and Wildlife funded the work
- Lye Brook 2021 sample rated 'Fair' due to 17.78% Oligochaeta (worms), above the 12% threshold
- 2022 samples at all sites met Class A (excellent) or B1 (very good) aquatic life criteria
- Volunteer field and lab work by Marshfield residents acknowledged
Selectboard
The Marshfield Selectboard held a regular meeting on January 3, 2023, covering a range of administrative and operational items. They approved a $438,000 tax anticipation note, discussed a projected 12% tax increase, and handled several other matters including road maintenance, emergency response, and a sugaring lease renewal.
- Approved $438,000 tax anticipation note from Community National Bank at 2.89% interest
- Discussed projected 12% tax increase; declined additional recreation funding
- Renewed sugaring lease in Stranahan Town Forest for 10 years, renewable in 5
- Signed MOU for new radio system, committing $1,800 annually for maintenance
- Granted Village permission to use Town tractor for emergency generator