Latest News
February 27, 2026
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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)
February 24, 2026
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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)
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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)
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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)
February 17, 2026
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Rockingham Selectboard Election Draws Eight Candidates for Three Open Seats: Eight candidates are running for three open seats on the Rockingham Selectboard, with one three-year term and two one-year terms to be filled in the March 3 election. Long-serving chair Peter Golec is stepping down after 17 years, while the board’s clerk is not seeking re-election and the vice-chair is aiming to return. The Annual Town and School District meeting, where topics such as the town budget will be discussed, is set for February 28. Concerns remain among some voters about the recent consolidation of local fire departments. (Source: The Commons on Feb 17)
February 3, 2026
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Windham Southeast School District Budget Faces Voter Decision Amid Concerns: The Windham Southeast School District board has put forward a $69.9 million budget proposal for fiscal year 2027, reflecting a 2.6% increase from the previous year. During board deliberations, one member voiced concerns about limited oversight and transparency in administrative compensation and the prioritization of facility upgrades over direct student support. The proposal also highlighted ongoing challenges with understaffed support roles in the district. Voters are set to weigh in on the budget in an upcoming decision. (Source: The Commons on Feb 3)
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Brattleboro Selectboard and School Board Elections Set for March 3: Brattleboro residents will vote in contested races for both Selectboard and school board positions on March 3. The Selectboard ballot features Chair Elizabeth McLoughlin, board member Amanda Ellis-Thurber, and newcomer Ken Fay vying for a three-year seat. Additional candidates are competing for two one-year Selectboard seats. For the Windham Southeast School District board, voters will compare several incumbents and new challengers for representation in Brattleboro and Dummerston. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at American Legion Post 5. (Source: The Commons on Feb 3)
January 15, 2026
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Brattleboro Sees Increase in Workforce Housing Availability Amid Low Renter Demand: Brattleboro has experienced a recent surge in available workforce housing, marking a notable change from just a few months ago when units were scarce. Despite this increase, the number of people seeking to rent these units remains unexpectedly low. The term workforce housing typically refers to homes affordable for earners with moderate incomes, often those employed nearby but unable to secure quality housing otherwise. The mismatch between supply and demand has drawn attention among local housing advocates and realtors. (Source: The Commons on Jan 15)
December 29, 2025
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Vermont Lawmakers Prepare for Challenging 2025-26 Legislative Session: The Vermont Legislature will reconvene on January 6 for the second half of the 2025-26 biennium, facing unresolved issues such as education funding, housing, health care, and transportation. The recent gubernatorial veto of a homelessness bill and uncertainty regarding federal support add to the complexity of the session. With budget pressures mounting and an election on the horizon, legislators anticipate a contentious and demanding year in state government. Upcoming debates are expected to address key priorities for Vermont residents. (Source: The Commons on Dec 29)
December 2, 2025
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Brattleboro Youth Council Hosts Community Discussion on Safety Concerns: The Brattleboro Area Youth Council organized a community discussion at Brattleboro Union High School to address safety concerns affecting local youth, including support for individuals experiencing homelessness and fostering multigenerational connections. The event brought together about 70 participants, including students from several towns, local leaders, and public officials. Facilitated by youth representatives, the summit encouraged dialogue and collaborative problem-solving to enhance community well-being. (Source: The Commons on Dec 2)
November 24, 2025
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Windham County Democrat Selected as New State Party Chair: Lachlan Francis of Westminster has been elected chair of the Vermont Democratic Party, marking a leadership change following several challenging years for the organization. At the party's biennial meeting in Randolph, Francis prevailed over Justin Willeau of Vershire with a clear majority. Francis previously served as chair of the Windham County Democratic Committee, a role now taken by Stuart Brown of Rockingham. Other major parties in Vermont have also recently selected new leaders. (Source: The Commons on Nov 24)
November 18, 2025
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Windham County Leaders Address Food Aid Amid Benefits Reductions: Amid recent federal government shutdowns and proposed reductions in social services, local Windham County leaders are working to ensure that residents who qualify for assistance still have access to needed resources. The Windham Region Food Security Network, including representatives from food shelves and nutrition programs, recently met to coordinate efforts and support area residents. Adjustments to 3SquaresVT payments have impacted many, making local support even more critical. (Source: The Commons on Nov 18)