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April 14, 2026

  1. Brattleboro Voters Approve $27 Million Budget at First Open Town Meeting: Brattleboro residents approved a $27 million budget covering services such as trash removal and human services during their first open town meeting on April 11. Nearly 300 participants attended, a notable increase due to the recent shift away from the traditional 150-member Representational Town Meeting. This change follows a March vote favoring broader public participation, leaving an open town meeting as the format for this year. A commission will soon review and recommend further changes, pending state approval. (Source: The Commons on Apr 14)

    Southern Vermont Brattleboro, VT +1 Rutland, VT

  2. Rep. Mollie Burke Announces Retirement After 18 Years in Vermont Legislature: State Representative Mollie Burke, who has represented Brattleboro's District 8 for nine terms since 2008, announced she will not seek re-election. Burke shared her plans during the Annual Town Meeting on April 11, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve the community and contribute on issues affecting Vermonters. During her tenure, she served on the Transportation Committee, focusing on climate action and transportation policy. Her departure opens the seat for new candidates this fall. (Source: The Commons on Apr 14)

    Southern Vermont Brattleboro, VT +2 Montpelier, VT

  3. Locally Sourced Rolls Receive Positive Feedback at Brattleboro Union High School: Students at Brattleboro Union High School sampled locally made whole-grain, sourdough rolls during a recent lunch as part of a new pilot program. The initiative, which features bread from Butter Mountain Bakery in Wilmington, uses locally grown grains and flour milled in Vermont. Approximately 600 students participated in the rollout, and the program will soon expand to other Windham Southeast Supervisory Union schools. Organizers aim to eventually bring the effort to more public schools statewide. (Source: The Commons on Apr 14)

    Southern Vermont Brattleboro, VT +6 Wilmington, VT Putney, VT Townshend, VT

  4. Bald Eagle Numbers on the Rise in Southern Vermont: Southern Vermont has seen a significant increase in its bald eagle population in recent years. Monitoring efforts between Vernon and North Windsor have identified multiple active nests, with several successful eaglet fledgings each year. The resurgence of bald eagles along the Connecticut River marks a notable environmental recovery, credited in part to reduced human interference. Many older residents recall when sightings were rare, highlighting the species’ remarkable comeback. (Source: The Commons on Apr 14)

    Southern Vermont Bellows Falls, VT +13 Brattleboro, VT Westminster, VT Springfield, VT Townshend, VT

April 10, 2026

  1. Vermont Baseball Historian Tracks State’s Professional Ballplayers: Baseball historian Dana Sprague has dedicated years to cataloging every Vermonter who has played or signed to play professional baseball. Driven by a passion for both the sport and his home state, Sprague's research includes those born in Vermont as well as alumni of Vermont high schools. His comprehensive effort aims to capture the full scope of the state’s contributions to professional baseball. The project reflects Vermont’s longstanding connection to the sport and its resilient spirit. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Apr 10)

    Southern Vermont Brattleboro, VT +18 Newbury, VT Burlington, VT Rutland, VT Springfield, VT Randolph, VT Chester, VT Bennington, VT Northfield, VT St. Louis, VT Greensboro, VT

April 7, 2026

  1. Brattleboro Memorial Hospital and Nurses Union Reach Tentative Labor Agreement: Brattleboro Memorial Hospital and its nurses' union have reached a tentative deal to prevent a strike after months of negotiations tied to a major budget shortfall. The 160-member union had authorized a possible strike over proposed changes to salaries and benefits, but both parties announced a possible resolution just before a strike deadline. Details of the agreement will remain confidential until union members vote. Despite this progress, support staff at the hospital may still pursue a walkout due to unresolved contract talks. (Source: The Commons on Apr 7)

    Southern Vermont Brattleboro, VT

  2. Anne Frank Exhibit to Educate Brattleboro Students on Holocaust History: Brattleboro Union High School will host the exhibit 'Anne Frank: A History for Today' from April 10 to April 29. Organized through the efforts of a local social studies teacher, the exhibit is on loan from the Anne Frank Center at the University of South Carolina. It aims to educate students aged 11 to 18 about Anne Frank’s experiences as a Jewish girl during the Holocaust. The display seeks to deepen historical understanding among the school community. (Source: The Commons on Apr 7)

    Southern Vermont Brattleboro, VT +4 Fairfax, VT

  3. Agenda and Keynote Details Shared for 2026 Southern Vermont Economy Summit: Organizers have released session details for the upcoming Southern Vermont Economy Summit, scheduled for May 12 at Mount Snow in Dover. The event, now in its ninth year, will bring together regional business and community leaders to discuss economic strategies and development opportunities. Sarah Waring, executive director of the Northern Border Regional Commission, will give the keynote address focusing on federal support for rural economic growth. The summit’s breakout sessions will reflect priorities from the 2024 SoVermont Zone Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Apr 7)

    Southern Vermont Dover, VT +2 Brattleboro, VT Bennington, VT

  4. Brattleboro Forum to Address School Restructuring Under Act 73: The Windham Southeast School District and Supervisory Union are organizing a community forum in Brattleboro on April 25 to discuss upcoming changes related to Act 73. Local legislators and board members will present and address questions about district mergers, funding changes, potential school closures, and the impact on small towns and property taxes. The forum aims to inform residents about how these developments may alter school operations in the region. Residents from neighboring districts are encouraged to attend the session. (Source: The Commons on Apr 7)

    Southern Vermont Brattleboro, VT

April 2, 2026

  1. Vermonters Voice Concerns Over Implementation of New Land Use Rules: Vermont has introduced significant changes to its land use regulations through Act 181, aiming to streamline development approvals in growth areas while increasing protections for sensitive environments. The new law, which marks the most substantial revision since 1970, has received support for its focus on modernization. However, it has also sparked debate and concern, particularly in rural communities, where residents fear new land designations could limit building options and affect property rights. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 31)

    Southern Vermont Brattleboro, VT

March 31, 2026

  1. Building Bridges Veterans Initiative in Brattleboro Receives $2,500 Donation: The Building Bridges Veterans Initiative, which began in Northampton, Massachusetts in 2015 as a monthly social dinner for veterans, has expanded to 17 sites across New England and has provided over 115,000 meals. The Brattleboro chapter, supported entirely by volunteers, focuses on reducing isolation and supporting veterans’ mental health through community meals. On March 25, the initiative received a $2,500 donation from Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 1 in Rutland, highlighting local efforts to support those who have served. (Source: The Commons on Mar 31)

    Southern Vermont Brattleboro, VT +2 Rutland, VT

March 25, 2026

  1. Brattleboro Event Supports Immigration Legal Fund and Expanded Services: A Brattleboro event will focus on advancing the Vermont Immigration Legal Defense Fund, aiming to reach its $1 million fundraising target within a year of its establishment. The fund, launched in May 2025 by State Treasurer Mike Pieciak and Sen. Kesha Ram Hinsdale, has already provided grants leading to the addition of lawyers and staff to address around 150 cases. The initiative seeks to strengthen legal support for Vermont's immigrant community. Organizers emphasize the importance of legal representation in immigration proceedings. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 24)

    Southern Vermont Brattleboro, VT +1 Putney, VT

March 24, 2026

  1. Brattleboro Memorial Hospital Nurses Approve Strike Authorization Amid Labor Dispute: Nurses at Brattleboro Memorial Hospital have voted overwhelmingly to authorize a strike if future negotiations with management do not lead to a resolution. The vote, held on March 23, follows ongoing disputes over proposed changes to wages, benefits, and working conditions, which union representatives argue may negatively impact both staff retention and patient care. No strike date has been set as hospital management and the nurses’ union continue talks. The decision highlights growing tensions within the local healthcare sector. (Source: The Commons on Mar 24)

    Southern Vermont Brattleboro, VT

  2. Southern Vermont Prepares for National No Kings 3.0 Protests: The third national No Kings Day of Nonviolent Action, known as No Kings 3.0, is scheduled for March 28 and will include events in Brattleboro, Bellows Falls, and Wilmington. The movement has previously drawn millions nationwide, with organizers locally seeking to increase participation by encouraging newcomers to attend. In Brattleboro, the main event will feature a march beginning at 10 a.m. on Main Street. Coordinated demonstrations are planned to occur across the United States on the same day. (Source: The Commons on Mar 24)

    Southern Vermont Brattleboro, VT +5 Wilmington, VT Chester, VT Putney, VT Whitingham, VT

  3. Windham Southeast School District Approves $68.9 Million Budget for 2027: At its annual meeting on March 17, voters at Brattleboro Union High School approved a $68.9 million operating budget for the Windham Southeast School District for the 2027 fiscal year. The board highlighted that per-pupil spending will rise slightly to $15,972, reflecting a 0.8% year-over-year increase. Despite a projected 7% increase in health insurance costs, the overall budget will only grow by 2.6%, with spending priorities focused on academic improvement and student support goals. (Source: The Commons on Mar 24)

    Southern Vermont Brattleboro, VT +4 Putney, VT

  4. Brattleboro Hosts Community Forums on Democracy, Immigration, and Elections March 28: Brattleboro will hold a series of public forums on Saturday, March 28, as part of the 'No Kings 3.0' event. The discussions include topics such as fostering democratic conversations in small towns, municipal responsibilities regarding federal immigration enforcement, and safeguarding the integrity of elections. Local leaders, including State Rep. Emilie Kornheiser and members of the Brattleboro Selectboard, will facilitate these sessions at venues around the city. (Source: The Commons on Mar 24)

    Southern Vermont Brattleboro, VT +1

March 17, 2026

  1. Brattleboro Memorial Hospital Faces Possible Nurses' Strike Amid Financial Strain: Brattleboro Memorial Hospital in Vermont could soon face a nurses' strike as labor negotiations intensify. The hospital is already dealing with significant leadership changes, a sizable budget shortfall, and an ongoing review of its finances and services. Mediation between hospital management and unions has become contentious, with union representatives expressing dissatisfaction over the direction of talks. The outcome of these negotiations may have substantial consequences for hospital operations. (Source: The Commons on Mar 17)

    Southern Vermont Brattleboro, VT

  2. Winston Prouty Center Housing Project Secures $4 Million in State Funding: The Village at Winston Prouty, a housing development planned for the former Austine School campus in Brattleboro, has received a significant financial boost. State Treasurer Michael Pieciak announced that $4 million from the "10% for Vermont" program will support the project through low-interest loans. This initial funding will help launch the first phase, which aims to create between 28 and 30 workforce housing units. The project seeks to address housing needs for area workers and families. (Source: The Commons on Mar 17)

    Southern Vermont Brattleboro, VT +1 Bennington, VT

  3. Brattleboro Police Chief Norma Hardy Retires After 4.5-Year Tenure: Norma Hardy is stepping down after more than four years leading the Brattleboro Police Department. Hardy faced scrutiny following a public records request that questioned department communications and raised concerns about proximity to an online figure known as Planet Hank. Despite the criticism and a related internal town review, Hardy maintained her commitment to transparency during her service. Her retirement marks the end of a notable period in Brattleboro law enforcement. (Source: The Commons on Mar 17)

    Southern Vermont Brattleboro, VT +2 Burlington, VT

  4. Maple Syrup Tradition Continues at Guilford's Sugar on Snow Supper: Guilford residents gathered at the Broad Brook Community Center for the annual Sugar on Snow Supper, enjoying classic dishes and locally harvested maple syrup. Community members of all ages participated, with maple syrup poured over backyard snow as the highlight of the evening. The event serves both as a fundraiser for the Broad Brook Grange and a celebration of local sugaring traditions. This gathering underscores the area's strong connection to Vermont's enduring maple culture. (Source: The Commons on Mar 17)

    Southern Vermont Guilford, VT +1 Brattleboro, VT

March 12, 2026

  1. Brattleboro Resident Finds Connection to Community and Environment After Relocating: Kayla Brookins arrived in Brattleboro in 2022 with reservations about adapting, particularly to Vermont's challenging winter season. Despite initial concerns, she discovered an appreciation for the area's natural beauty and a sense of belonging. Brookins’ experience highlights themes of personal growth, connection to the environment, and community engagement. Her story illustrates how a relocation to southern Vermont can lead to unexpected personal fulfillment. (Source: SoVermont on Mar 12)

    Southern Vermont Brattleboro, VT

March 10, 2026

  1. Brattleboro Seeks Community Input on Black Mountain Road Repair Proposals: Residents of Brattleboro are invited to comment on the proposed repair and potential reclassification of Black Mountain Road during a virtual meeting scheduled for March 19. The project is considering ways to address ongoing washouts, protect water quality in Crosby Brook, and mitigate localized flooding. Plans include possible roadway narrowing, limiting access to pedestrians and cyclists, and replacing culverts near Dickinson Road and Black Mountain Park. Local input will help determine long-term solutions for this area. (Source: The Commons on Mar 10)

    Southern Vermont Brattleboro, VT

  2. Brattleboro Residents Hold Vigils at Pliny Park to Protest Iran Attack: Brattleboro residents gathered at Pliny Park on March 1 and March 8 to protest recent U.S. military actions in Iran. Organized by Indivisible Brattleboro, both vigils drew about 125 participants each and coincided with ongoing local demonstrations against other federal policies and incidents. The protests focused on expressing opposition to military intervention and mourning the loss of life. Organizers emphasized their call for peace and concern for the impact on civilians. (Source: The Commons on Mar 10)

    Southern Vermont Brattleboro, VT +1

  3. Brattleboro Faces Transition After Eliminating Representative Town Meeting: In Brattleboro, following the recent vote to abolish the Representative Town Meeting, local officials are preparing for an open Annual Town Meeting slated for April 11. The Selectboard must formally approve the meeting warning by March 13 to comply with legal requirements. With the dissolution of committees created by the former Representative Town Meeting, town staff propose interim solutions to maintain necessary services. These changes mark a significant administrative shift for the community. (Source: The Commons on Mar 10)

    Southern Vermont Brattleboro, VT

March 4, 2026

  1. Brattleboro Voters Decide to End Representative Town Meeting System: Brattleboro residents voted on March 3 to discontinue the use of Representative Town Meeting after 65 years, marking a significant shift in local governance. The close results favored moving to either an Australian ballot or a traditional Town Meeting open to all registered voters. The change must now be approved by the Vermont Legislature, a process that could take several years. Brattleboro was unique as the only Vermont town using this governance model. (Source: The Commons on Mar 4)

    Southern Vermont Brattleboro, VT +1 Montpelier, VT

  2. Dummerston Voters Approve Library and Community Center Merger at Town Meeting: At the 2026 Town Meeting held in the Dummerston School gym, over 100 community members gathered to make key decisions, including approving the merger of the local library and community center. The meeting featured both longstanding residents and new families, reflecting the town’s growing population. Attendees discussed and voted on a new municipal budget, passed non-binding resolutions on national issues, and retained Cindy Jerome as town moderator for a fifteenth term. The meeting concluded with consensus on several important local matters. (Source: The Commons on Mar 4)

    Southern Vermont Dummerston, VT +2 Brattleboro, VT Putney, VT

  3. Ellis-Thurber Defeats Incumbent for Brattleboro Selectboard Seat: Amanda Ellis-Thurber has unseated the incumbent Selectboard Chair, Elizabeth McLoughlin, in the recent Brattleboro annual elections, securing a three-year term on the board. In another race, Isaac Evans-Frantz won reelection, joined by newcomer Eleanor Mayo, both filling one-year seats. Voter turnout highlighted strong support for Ellis-Thurber and Evans-Frantz, with ballots cast amid snowy conditions. The results reflect notable changes in Brattleboro’s local government leadership. (Source: The Commons on Mar 4)

    Southern Vermont Brattleboro, VT

  4. Jill Lepore to Lead Community Dialogue Series at Retreat Farm in Brattleboro: Historian and author Jill Lepore will facilitate a four-part community conversation series this month at Retreat Farm in Brattleboro. The events, organized in collaboration with Vermont Public and Vermont Community Foundation, aim to explore the nation's founding, civic engagement, and community ties in recognition of America's 250th anniversary. Lepore, a Harvard professor and noted writer, will host each session, offering historical context and fostering local discussion. The initiative reflects local engagement in broader national reflection. (Source: The Commons on Mar 4)

    Southern Vermont Brattleboro, VT +2 Norwich, VT

  5. Guilford Central School Hosts First Winterfest for Students: Guilford Central School held its inaugural Winterfest on February 19, inviting all 129 elementary students to participate in outdoor winter activities. Organized by the school's Farm-to-School Coordinator with support from parents and local experts, the event aimed to encourage children to experience the joys of the Vermont winter landscape instead of staying indoors. Activities included engaging with sled dogs and learning about traditional winter pastimes. The celebration marked a continuation of new seasonal community events at the school. (Source: The Commons on Mar 4)

    Southern Vermont Guilford, VT +3 Brattleboro, VT

  6. Newfane Approves Budget and Reserves While Marlboro Votes to Close Elementary School: Residents of Newfane gathered at Union Hall to approve a $1.9 million budget for general and highway expenses, alongside funding allocations for nonprofit organizations and capital reserves. Additional spending measures included funds for equipment payments and a reappraisal reserve. Voters also passed non-binding resolutions addressing national policy issues and set plans to review town meeting logistics. In Marlboro, the community voted to close its elementary school at the end of the current school year. (Source: The Commons on Mar 4)

    Southern Vermont Newfane, VT +9 Putney, VT Westminster, VT Brattleboro, VT Townshend, VT

  7. Brattleboro Residents Hold Vigil Opposing U.S. Involvement in Iran Conflict: On March 1, community members in Brattleboro gathered for a vigil protesting U.S. military action against Iran. Participants displayed signs expressing their opposition to the conflict, reflecting widespread local sentiment against the war. The event drew attention to ongoing concerns about foreign policy and military engagement. The vigil was covered as part of The Commons' archival records of community response. (Source: The Commons on Mar 4)

    Southern Vermont Brattleboro, VT

March 2, 2026

  1. Fatal House Fire in Wilmington Draws Multi-Agency Response: A man died in a house fire late Saturday on Ray Hill Road in Wilmington, Vermont. Local fire departments from several nearby towns assisted in containing the blaze after a neighbor reported the fire at around 11:15 p.m. Authorities believe the victim was a local resident, though identification is pending investigation. No foul play is currently suspected, and the incident remains under active review by local officials. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 1)

    Southern Vermont Wilmington, VT +7 Whitingham, VT Readsboro, VT Brattleboro, VT Stamford, VT

February 27, 2026

  1. John Caldwell, Renowned Cross-Country Ski Coach and Author, Dies at 97: John Caldwell, a former Olympian considered a pioneer in U.S. cross-country skiing, has died at age 97. Caldwell, who lived for many years in Putney, Vermont, coached multiple U.S. Olympic teams and authored influential books that shaped the sport's growth nationally. He also founded the New England Nordic Ski Association and mentored several Olympians, including his own children. Caldwell's impact on cross-country skiing in New England and beyond is widely recognized. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Feb 27)

    Southern Vermont Hanover, VT +5 Putney, VT Brattleboro, VT

  2. Bennington County Coalition for the Homeless Discusses Funding With Selectboard: During a recent Bennington Selectboard meeting, the director of the Bennington County Coalition for the Homeless updated officials on the organization's requests for appropriations from municipalities across the county. Board members expressed concerns about the weight of financial responsibility traditionally falling on Bennington, highlighting its long-term support of local shelter programs. The coalition indicated plans to seek more equitable funding contributions from neighboring towns moving forward. This approach aims to balance resources for addressing homelessness throughout the county. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Feb 27)

    Southern Vermont Bennington, VT +18 Manchester, VT Arlington, VT Dorset, VT Peru, IN Pownal, VT Readsboro, VT Stamford, VT Rutland, VT Brattleboro, VT

February 26, 2026

  1. Woodstock Girls Hockey Secures Win, Boys Fall in Doubleheader Against Stowe: Woodstock's boys and girls hockey teams faced off against Stowe in a doubleheader at Union Arena this past Saturday. The girls' team earned a 3-1 victory, highlighting the leadership of senior captain Alexis Audsley, while the boys narrowly lost 2-1. Audsley, who has played with the varsity team since eighth grade, was recognized for her commitment and leadership as she approaches early graduation. Both teams demonstrated strong efforts in these closely contested matchups. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 26)

    Southern Vermont Woodstock, VT +5 Stowe, VT Milton, VT Brattleboro, VT

February 25, 2026

  1. Vermont Secretary of State Affirms State Authority Over Election Administration: In a recent online discussion with Windham County residents, Vermont Secretary of State Sarah Copeland Hanzas addressed concerns about potential federal intervention in state elections. She emphasized that U.S. elections, including midterms, have continued through major national crises and are managed by individual states, not the federal executive branch. Copeland Hanzas also explained that there is no legal basis or precedent for a president to cancel or nationalize scheduled elections. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Feb 24)

    Southern Vermont Brattleboro, VT

February 24, 2026

  1. Sen. Welch Presents $598,000 for Rockingham Fire Department's New Station: On February 20, U.S. Senator Peter Welch presented $598,000 in federal funding to support the Rockingham Municipal Fire Department in building a new fire station with enhanced emergency services in Saxtons River. The funding is part of a larger $58.68 million allocation Welch helped secure for 38 projects throughout Vermont, following the approval of federal appropriations bills for fiscal year 2026. The funds were designated through a bipartisan selection process. Several of these projects will benefit southern Vermont communities. (Source: The Commons on Feb 24)

    Southern Vermont Bellows Falls, VT +6 Brattleboro, VT Woodstock, VT Springfield, VT

  2. Windham Southeast School District Board Elections Feature Two Contested Seats: Voters in the Windham Southeast School District will choose new board directors in two contested races on March 3, 2026. In Brattleboro, incumbent Kimberly Price faces challenger Richard Leavy, while Dummerston residents will select between Daniel Everlith and Paul Smith for their seat. Ruby McAdoo is running unopposed to represent Putney. All district residents from Brattleboro, Dummerston, Guilford, and Putney may participate and cast their votes at their local polling sites. (Source: The Commons on Feb 24)

    Southern Vermont Brattleboro, VT +5 Putney, VT

  3. Newfane Residents Question Role of Town Meeting Debates on Global Issues: As Newfane prepares for its annual Town Meeting, debate has emerged over whether discussing national and international issues should be part of the local agenda. In previous years, residents have proposed measures on topics ranging from genetically modified foods to international conflicts. However, this year will see fewer advisory resolutions as some advocates shift their focus to other forms of activism. The ongoing discussion reflects a wider debate within Vermont communities about the impact of their Town Meeting decisions. (Source: The Commons on Feb 24)

    Southern Vermont Newfane, VT +14 Brandon, VT Bristol, VT Middlebury, VT Putney, VT Salisbury, NY Westminster, VT Bennington, VT Brattleboro, VT Montpelier, VT Burlington, VT

  4. Brattleboro Selectboard Election Draws Three-Year Seat Candidates: Brattleboro voters will decide on candidates for Selectboard positions during local elections set for March 3. The three-year seat currently held by Elizabeth McLoughlin is contested by Amanda Ellis-Thurber, who has served a one-year term, and newcomer Ken Fay. In addition, a separate race includes incumbent Isaac Evans-Frantz and four new candidates for two available one-year seats. Voting will take place at the American Legion on Linden Street. (Source: The Commons on Feb 24)

    Southern Vermont Brattleboro, VT +11 Burlington, VT Stamford, VT Northfield, VT Norwich, VT

  5. Windham County Towns Prepare for Annual Town Meeting Day on March 3: Residents across Windham County are set to gather for Town Meeting Day on Tuesday, March 3, to discuss local budgets, elect officials, and vote on key warrant articles. Towns including Athens, Brattleboro, Brookline, Rockingham, Vernon, Westminster, and Windham will hold meetings according to their own schedules, with Marlboro casting votes by Australian ballot. Vermont state law recognizes Town Meeting Day as a holiday for state employees, and also permits unpaid leave for others to attend. (Source: The Commons on Feb 24)

    Southern Vermont Athens, VT +27 Brattleboro, VT Grafton, VT Jamaica, VT Londonderry, VT Newfane, VT Putney, VT Townshend, VT Wardsboro, VT Westminster, VT Whitingham, VT Wilmington, VT

February 19, 2026

  1. Londonderry Prepares Agenda for Traditional Town Meeting: Londonderry residents are set to gather at Town Hall on March 3 for the annual Town Meeting, where decisions on local governance, including the budget and public offices, will be made directly by voters. This year's agenda may see extended discussion about a proposed 1 percent local option tax on sales, an item previously rejected in 2024 but now back for reconsideration. The meeting continues the town's tradition of community participation and face-to-face debate. All business will be conducted in person on the meeting floor. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Feb 18)

    Southern Vermont Londonderry, VT +7 Brattleboro, VT Manchester, VT Wilmington, VT Jamaica, VT

February 17, 2026

  1. Brattleboro Residents to Decide on Town Meeting and Voting Methods: Voters in Brattleboro will consider changes to how their annual meetings are conducted through several ballot questions. Proposals include whether to discontinue the representative form of annual town meeting and, if so, whether to adopt the Australian ballot system for major decisions such as officer elections, budget approvals, and charter amendments. An alternative to open town meetings will also be addressed should the current system be ended. These decisions could significantly alter local governance procedures. (Source: The Commons on Feb 17)

    Southern Vermont Brattleboro, VT

  2. Brattleboro Voters to Consider Changes to Town Government Structure: Residents in Brattleboro are set to vote on three significant ballot questions on March 3 that could reshape the town's longstanding government system. The articles focus on potential revisions to the Representative Town Meeting, which has been central to Brattleboro's governance for 65 years. Panel discussions, including insights from the Charter Revision Commission, aim to clarify the proposed changes and their potential effects. The outcome could lead to amendments to the town charter if voters approve the measures. (Source: The Commons on Feb 17)

    Southern Vermont Brattleboro, VT +2 Middlebury, VT Burlington, VT

February 10, 2026

  1. Windham County Agencies Address Aging Population Challenges by 2040: Windham County in southern Vermont faces unique issues as its population continues to age, including low birth rates and a median age of 48. The region struggles to meet growing needs for elder housing, transportation, healthcare, food, broadband, and clean air, despite a strong presence of local agencies. In response, the Windham Aging Collaborative, representing over 35 organizations, convened in Brattleboro to discuss strategies and improve conditions for older residents. The group aims to significantly enhance elder services by the year 2040. (Source: The Commons on Feb 10)

    Southern Vermont Brattleboro, VT +2 Townshend, VT Bennington, VT

  2. Bellows Falls Upholds Skiing Tradition at Historic Municipal Snow Tow: Bellows Falls maintains a longstanding skiing tradition with its Municipal Snow Tow, a 200-foot hill featuring a rope tow, night lighting, and a warming hut. Operated by the Recreation Department, the ski area has served the community for over 70 years and is one of Vermont’s oldest continuously operating slopes. After limited openings in recent years, the facility has seen more active days this season than in previous winters. The Rec Area also offers various amenities including pools, playgrounds, and sports courts. (Source: The Commons on Feb 10)

    Southern Vermont Bellows Falls, VT +8 Brattleboro, VT Westminster, VT

  3. Family Invests in Brattleboro Downtown by Restoring Historic Property: Jon and Sienna Sargent relocated to Brattleboro from Colorado three years ago, seeking a close-knit community atmosphere and proximity to family. Both were drawn to the distinctive character of the town's downtown district. Jon's background in historic preservation led the couple to purchase a downtown property with plans to restore and contribute to the area's revitalization. Their efforts reflect an ongoing commitment to downtown Brattleboro’s vibrancy. (Source: SoVermont on Feb 10)

    Southern Vermont Brattleboro, VT

February 9, 2026

  1. Vermont Lawmakers Move Forward With Bill to Safeguard Voters and Election Workers: State legislators in Vermont have advanced a bill aimed at increasing protections for voters and election officials. The proposed law, prompted by input from the Secretary of State, has cleared the House and now awaits consideration in the Senate. If enacted, the legislation would create a new misdemeanor offense targeting those who intentionally or recklessly interfere with voters, election workers, or the electoral process, with penalties including up to two years in prison or a $2,000 fine. The bill seeks to address interference not covered by federal statutes. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Feb 8)

    Southern Vermont Montpelier, VT +1 Brattleboro, VT

  2. Pownal Fire Department Awarded Over $1.4 Million for New Station Construction: The Vermont Congressional delegation has secured more than $1.4 million in federal funding to support the construction of a new central fire station for the Pownal Valley Fire Department. This allocation is part of a broader initiative distributing over $100 million to 69 projects across Vermont, including upgrades for historic sites such as Bennington's Old First Church. The funds were included in multiple appropriations packages signed into law between November and January. The project aims to strengthen emergency services in southwestern Vermont. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Feb 8)

    Southern Vermont Pownal, VT +14 Bennington, VT Brattleboro, VT Springfield, VT Fairlee, VT Hinesburg, VT Richmond, VT Montpelier, VT Burlington, VT Johnson, VT

February 3, 2026

  1. Brattleboro Filmmaker Reaches Milestone in Vermont Covered Bridges Video Series: Phill Gatenby of Brattleboro, originally from Manchester, England, has reached the halfway point in his documentary series on Vermont's covered bridges. After starting at the Green River Covered Bridge in Guilford, Gatenby has completed over 50 videos and recorded another 20 for future episodes. He aims to highlight the history and character of these structures, editing and producing new content through the winter in collaboration with Brattleboro Community TV. His project has received recognition for its quality and storytelling. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Feb 2)

    Southern Vermont Guilford, VT +6 Brattleboro, VT Ludlow, VT Woodstock, VT Cabot, VT Manchester, VT
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