Latest News

March 1, 2026

  1. Woodstock Trustees Plan to Keep Police Chief Demotion Decision Confidential: Woodstock Village trustees intend to withhold the outcome of their upcoming deliberations regarding Police Chief Joe Swanson's potential demotion from the public. The latest hearing, scheduled for Monday at the Masonic Lodge, will proceed under rules similar to previous sessions, including limited access and undisclosed results. Officials announced that only legal representatives and the Village will receive the written decision within two weeks. Taxpayers will not have immediate access to the outcome. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 28)

February 26, 2026

  1. Weston to Gain EV Fast-Charge Station Funded by State Initiative: Weston is set to receive a new DC Fast Charging station for electric vehicles as part of Charge Vermont, a statewide program to boost EV infrastructure. The installation, funded with $144,000 at the Vermont Country Store, aims to improve access for drivers more than 10 miles from existing high-speed chargers. Woodstock also benefited with a similar project at the Bridgewater Mill Complex. These investments seek to address charging gaps and encourage broader EV adoption in southern Vermont. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Feb 25)

  2. Woodstock Village to Elect Two New Trustees During Annual Meeting: Woodstock Village will hold its annual meeting at the Town Hall on March 17, where residents can vote to fill two open trustee seats by Australian ballot from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Candidates include Stephen Stuntz for a three-year term and Jamie Fox for a two-year term, as the current chair and another trustee will not seek re-election. The meeting will also include floor votes on additional local positions and articles later that evening. Officer compensation and other governance matters are scheduled for discussion. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 26)

  3. Woodstock Approves New Contract and Pay Increase for Municipal Manager Eric Duffy: The Woodstock Town Selectboard and Village Trustees have approved a revised, open-ended contract for municipal manager Eric Duffy. Under the new agreement, Duffy will receive a salary of $176,000 for the 2026-27 fiscal year, reflecting a 24% increase over his current pay. The contract, approved after closed executive sessions, also provides Duffy with six weeks of paid vacation. This move comes as Duffy and local officials address ongoing legal issues involving a $5 million civil suit. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 26)

  4. Woodstock Resident Eva Douzinas Leads International Sustainability Initiatives: Eva Douzinas, a part-time resident of Woodstock Village, is actively involved in environmental advocacy, focusing on ocean conservation through scientific and nonprofit leadership. With a background as a software entrepreneur in the maritime sector, she co-founded Veson Nautical and later transitioned to philanthropic work. Douzinas has established nonprofit organizations, including Katheti in Greece, dedicated to environmental and educational projects. Her efforts highlight the impact of local residents in global sustainability causes. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 26)

  5. Woodstock Trustees Hold Public Hearing on Police Chief Swanson's Demotion: A public hearing regarding Police Chief Joe Swanson's demotion is scheduled before the Woodstock Village Trustees on Monday. Swanson will not be present due to ongoing recovery from back surgery, and his attorney reports he has not been cleared to attend. The municipal manager will rely on transcripts from a previous 2025 hearing rather than live witnesses. A judge previously overturned Swanson's demotion, prompting this new proceeding. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 26)

  6. 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)

February 25, 2026

  1. Vehicle Leaves Road and Lands on Frozen Ottauquechee River in Woodstock: On Monday morning in Woodstock, Vermont, a car veered off East Woodstock Road near the Taftsville Bridge, coming to rest on the frozen Ottauquechee River. The driver, an 81-year-old local resident, reportedly made a sudden U-turn, colliding with another vehicle before careening down a 50-foot embankment. Emergency responders used safety equipment to rescue the driver as the vehicle began to break through the ice. No fatalities were reported from the incident. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 23)

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)

February 23, 2026

  1. Honoré Vargas Hager, 87, Remembered for Community Spirit in Woodstock: Honoré Vargas Hager, affectionately known as Honey, died peacefully at her Woodstock, Vermont home on February 20 at age 87 after a prolonged illness. Known for her lively personality, appreciation for literature, and culinary interests, Hager cherished her Italian-American and Irish-American heritage from her upbringing in Rutland. She supported her family through frequent moves associated with her husband's journalism career, always maintaining strong ties to Vermont. Hager is survived by three daughters and is fondly remembered by many local residents. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 23)

  2. Norma Bradley, Longtime Barnard Resident, Dies at 97: Norma Bradley, a native of West Hartford, Vermont, and longtime resident of Barnard, passed away peacefully at Mertens House at the age of 97. Born in 1928, Bradley attended school locally and graduated from Woodstock High School. She married Thomas Bradley in 1946 and together raised five children. Over the years, she worked in several local businesses, including the Woodstock Inn and Vermont National Bank, contributing to her community until her retirement in the late 1980s. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 23)

  3. Mary Frances Ryan, Former Nurse and Volunteer, Dies at 83: Mary Frances Ryan, 83, died at her Scottsdale, Arizona home on February 14, surrounded by family. Raised in South Portland, Maine, she completed her nursing education at Salve Regina College and spent part of her life in New Hampshire and Arizona. Ryan volunteered with several organizations, including Hospice of the Valley and Mission of Mercy of Arizona, and was deeply involved in her family’s milestones and community service. She is remembered for her compassion, dedication, and strength. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 23)

February 18, 2026

  1. Janet Louise Spencer of Hartland Remembered for Professional and Personal Impact: Janet Louise Spencer, age 62, of Hartland, Vermont, passed away unexpectedly on December 21, 2025, after being struck by a vehicle. Originally from Windsor, Vermont, and raised in Plainfield, New Hampshire, Spencer pursued a career in management consulting following her doctorate in Social-Organizational Psychology from Columbia University. She was recognized for her work assisting senior leaders in navigating organizational change. Her loss is felt deeply by her community and colleagues. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 18)

  2. Two Woodstock Village Trustee Seats Open as McIlroy and Horneck Step Down: Woodstock Village will see changes in its leadership as current trustees Seton McIlroy, the board chair, and Frank Horneck have decided not to seek re-election in the March 17 village elections. Two residents, Stephen Stuntz and Jamie Fox, have entered the race for the now-open three-year and two-year terms, respectively. The annual voting is scheduled to run from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., followed by the Village Meeting at the town hall. This leadership transition comes amid ongoing local governance issues. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 18)

  3. Rebuilding Woodstock Union School Deemed More Cost-Effective Than Renovation: A recent cost analysis for the Mountain Views School District indicates that constructing a new Woodstock Union High School and Middle School would save local taxpayers over $20 million compared to renovating the existing building. The findings, prepared by PC Construction and presented to the district’s Rebuild Working Group, account for state funding and private contributions. Although the new bond proposal has increased to $111.9 million due to inflation and tariffs, residents are expected to shoulder $84 million over three decades, less than prior estimates. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 18)

  4. Woodstock Wasps Snowboarders Excel at Jay Peak Competition: The Woodstock Wasps snowboarding team delivered strong performances at Jay Peak last Wednesday under the guidance of Head Coach Johno Mitchell. Senior Bonnie Kranz led the group, winning first place in both the SlopeStyle and Rail Jam contests. Teammate Lia Gugliotto also achieved impressive results, securing third in SlopeStyle and second in Rail Jam. The team's achievements further showcase the growing talent in local high school snowboarding events. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 18)

  5. Four Woodstock Skiers Qualify for Vermont State Alpine Championships: Four athletes from Woodstock have qualified for the Vermont State Championships in Alpine Skiing following strong performances at the Southern Vermont League District Championship. The event, which took place at Bromley, required skiers to finish in the top 15 of their events to advance, with the Woodstock team members placing in the top 10. Head Coach Steve Foley noted marked improvement among the team throughout the season. The state championships represent a culmination of the skiers’ progress this year. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 18)

  6. Peter R. Bailey, Former Postal Carrier in Windsor, Dies at 73: Peter R. Bailey, aged 73, passed away on February 10, 2026, at Cedar Hill Nursing Home in Windsor, Vermont. Originally from Hanover, New Hampshire, Bailey began working for the U.S. Postal Service in the 1980s, serving at White River Junction and later as a mail carrier in Woodstock. He was well regarded in the community for his friendly interactions. Bailey is survived by his wife Dorinne and son Samuel, and a graveside service is being planned. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 18)

February 15, 2026

  1. Woodstock Boys Basketball Wins Over Mt. Anthony; Lavallee Reaches 1,000 Points: The Woodstock boys basketball team secured a close 58-54 victory against the visiting Mount Anthony Patriots on Friday. Junior Elvis Lavallee reached the significant career milestone of 1,000 points, contributing 29 points to the Wasps' win. With this result, Woodstock's season record improves to 12-3. The game highlighted both an important team triumph and an individual achievement for the local high school athlete. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 14)

February 12, 2026

  1. Bridgewater Residents to Vote on Selectboard Seat and $1.8 Million Town Budget: Bridgewater residents will convene on March 3 at the Bridgewater Community Center for their annual Town Meeting, where participants will vote on several local matters. The agenda includes selecting a new selectboard member, a cemetery commissioner, and a town constable, with all nominations and votes happening in person. Voters are also set to review and decide on a proposed $1.8 million budget for the upcoming fiscal year. The meeting will conclude with an advisory discussion on additional topics. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 12)

  2. Woodstock to Vote on Wastewater Plant Bond and 2027 Town Budget at Meetings: Woodstock residents will participate in two upcoming meetings to decide on significant town matters. The agenda includes a vote on the 2027 fiscal year budget, which reflects a 5.87% increase over the previous year, and totals about $8.84 million, with over $7.2 million to be raised through taxes. Voters will also consider approving a $35 million bond to upgrade the Main Wastewater Treatment Facility. Decisions will be finalized through a combination of floor and ballot voting. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 12)

  3. Woodstock Faces Pressure Over Depositions in $5 Million Lawsuit: A motion has been filed in Vermont state court seeking to require Interim Police Chief Chris O’Keeffe to attend a deposition as part of a $5 million lawsuit involving the Village of Woodstock and several local officials. The request comes after a court order lifted a previous hold on the case, prompting renewed legal activity. Attorneys representing Police Chief Joe Swanson are also seeking legal fees due to resistance from the village. The ongoing civil case includes the village and multiple officials as defendants. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 12)

February 11, 2026

  1. Keegan Moriarty Named Captain for Upcoming Woodstock Uphill Challenge: Keegan Moriarty, a well-known member of the Woodstock community, will serve as captain for the fourth Annual Uphill Challenge taking place next month. Moriarty, who has Down syndrome, has long been recognized for his involvement in local sports and his history-making inclusion in Woodstock Elementary through a statewide education program. Over the years, he has participated in football as both a player and coach, and has been active in the Special Olympics. His leadership role brings local recognition and inspiration. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 11)

  2. Woodstock Union Alpine Skiers Advance to Vermont State Championships: Four members of the Woodstock Union High School alpine ski team qualified for the upcoming Vermont State Championships after competing at the Southern Vermont League district championships held at Bromley Mountain. Notable performances included top-ten finishes in both the boys and girls giant slalom, with seniors and sophomores contributing strong results. The state competition will take place on March 2 and 3 at Burke Mountain. Woodstock’s team will represent their school among Vermont’s top young skiers. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 11)

February 10, 2026

  1. Woodstock Boys Hockey Team Narrowly Defeated by Milton High: The Woodstock High School boys hockey team was narrowly defeated by the Milton High Yellowjackets in their recent matchup, finishing with a final score of 1-0 on Saturday night. Despite a strong effort, Woodstock was unable to secure any goals. The team now looks ahead to their upcoming game against the McCann Tech Hornets scheduled for Wednesday, February 11. This loss adds pressure as the team continues its season. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 7)

February 9, 2026

  1. Woodstock Resident John L. MacDonald, 75, Remembered for His Community Contributions: John L. MacDonald, a lifelong Woodstock resident, passed away on January 30, 2026, at age 75. Born in Rutland and raised in Woodstock, he was known for his enduring connection to the region, including his years running the family farm and his commitment to agriculture. MacDonald also taught outdoor skills at a local children's camp in Plymouth, positively impacting generations of campers. His memory is recognized for a life dedicated to community and Vermont traditions. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 6)

February 6, 2026

  1. Lucille Carpenter Tancreti Remembered for Community Ties and Family Dedication: Lucille Carpenter Tancreti, a longtime resident of the Woodstock and Hartland areas in Vermont, died on January 26, 2026, at the age of 96. Tancreti was born in East Barnard and attended Woodstock High School, later becoming involved in her local community through family businesses and public library service. She is remembered as a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, and was active in crafts and genealogy. Her legacy includes a large family and longstanding community connections. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 6)

February 5, 2026

  1. Judge Allows Civil Lawsuit by Former Woodstock Police Chief to Move Forward: A Vermont Superior Court judge has lifted a previous hold on the $5 million civil suit brought by Joe Swanson against the Village of Woodstock and several local officials. Swanson, the former police chief, filed the lawsuit alleging his demotion to patrol officer was improper, a decision initially upheld after a lengthy hearing. A separate court action ultimately ruled the demotion was not supported, paving the way for this civil case to proceed. The judge's recent decision means the lawsuit can now advance. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 5)

  2. West Windsor Mourns Matt Birmingham, Longtime Community Leader and Mentor: Matt Birmingham, a respected resident of West Windsor, Vermont, was remembered for his impactful contributions to the community following his passing at age 77 due to illness. He was widely known for his mentorship, coaching, and teaching roles at Woodstock Union High School, Albert Bridge School, and the former College of St. Joseph. Friends, colleagues, and students highlighted his commitment to civic engagement and lifelong support of local youth. Birmingham’s service spanned families, schools, and recreation programs in the region. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 5)

February 3, 2026

  1. Doris Archer Baker, Longtime Bridgewater Resident, Dies at 93: Doris Archer Baker, a longtime member of the Bridgewater community, passed away at age 93 on January 29, 2026, at Gifford Medical Center in Randolph, Vermont. Born in Bridgewater in 1932, she dedicated much of her life to local institutions, working at the Woodstock Inn, Guthrie Nursing Home, Alice Peck Day Hospital, and the Bridgewater Woolen Mill. Doris was active in several local organizations and was known for assisting many area families. A memorial service was held February 1, with burial to follow later. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 3)

  2. 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)

February 2, 2026

  1. Jeffrey D. Zayas, Woodstock Resident and Jeweler, Dies at 50: Jeffrey D. Zayas, a long-time Woodstock resident with deep roots in Vermont, passed away on January 28, 2026, at age 50. Zayas, originally from Bellows Falls, was recognized for his expertise in the jewelry industry and operated Zayas Jewelers in Woodstock. He was also involved with Beneficial Estate Buyers in Philadelphia and contributed as a ski patroller at Okemo Mountain. He is survived by his wife, children, brothers, and extended family. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 2)

  2. Barbara Mayhew-Belatski, Woodstock Native and Nature Enthusiast, Dies at 71: Barbara Mayhew-Belatski, a lifelong resident of the Woodstock area, passed away unexpectedly from a heart attack on January 26, 2026, at age 71. Born in 1954, she was known for her adventurous spirit, curiosity, and deep love of nature and literature, often exploring local forests or visiting the Norman Williams Public Library. Barbara graduated from Woodstock Union High School in 1973, remaining engaged in music and theater. Her passing is felt deeply by family and the southern Vermont community. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 2)

  3. Nancy Gifford Roach Remembered for Her Contributions to Education and Family: Nancy Gifford Roach, who passed away at 94 on January 21, 2026, is remembered for her deep connections to both Rhode Island and Woodstock, Vermont. Born in Providence and raised in Barrington, she was recognized for her service to the Lincoln School, earning an Alumnae Citation Award. Nancy spent much of her life dedicated to her family and supporting education for young women. Her legacy is honored by those who knew her in both New England communities. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 2)

  4. Woodstock Boys Basketball Edges Out Williamstown in Competitive Game: The Woodstock boys basketball team secured a narrow 56-52 win over the Williamstown Blue Devils on Saturday night. The matchup remained close throughout, with Woodstock ultimately holding onto the lead in the final moments. The team will return to action on Monday night against Twin Valley. This outcome adds another victory to Woodstock's ongoing season. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jan 31)

  5. Letitia Dick Ellis, Accomplished Psychologist and Author, Dies at 91: Letitia Dick Ellis, PhD, a noted psychologist, author, and humanitarian, died peacefully on January 22 at age 91. Born in New York City in 1934 and raised in Lake Forest, Illinois, Dr. Ellis was a Smith College graduate and earned her doctorate in counseling psychology at Northwestern University. She and her husband, William Corson Ellis, were married for 61 years and deeply involved in the arts and humanitarian work. Dr. Ellis is survived by three children and eleven grandchildren. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 2)

  6. Brett Michael Novak, 58, Remembered by Family and Friends in Bridgewater: Brett Michael Novak, age 58, passed away unexpectedly, leaving his family and friends mourning in Bridgewater Corners. He is survived by his father and stepmother, as well as relatives in Maine. In lieu of formal funeral services, loved ones are invited to gather at Ramunto’s in Bridgewater on February 7 from 1 to 4 p.m. to share memories and pay their respects. Arrangements are being handled by Cabot Funeral Home in Woodstock. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 2)

January 31, 2026

  1. Windsor County Sheriff Released After Denying Criminal Charges, Ordered No Contact: Windsor County Sheriff Ryan Palmer has pleaded not guilty to seven criminal charges that stem from alleged inappropriate relationships with four women, including two 19-year-olds. During a court hearing, Palmer was released without bail but ordered not to contact the women involved or attempt communication through any means. The charges against him include aggravated stalking with a deadly weapon and lewd conduct. Palmer has stated he intends to remain in office and contest the allegations. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jan 31)

January 30, 2026

  1. Windsor County Sheriff Pleads Not Guilty to Multiple Sexual Misconduct Charges: Windsor County Sheriff Ryan Palmer has entered a not-guilty plea to several charges related to alleged sexual misconduct. The charges follow an investigation by Vermont State Police and include counts of lewd conduct, aggravated stalking with a weapon, obstruction of justice, soliciting prostitution, and others. Palmer has temporarily stepped back from his regular duties but has not resigned from his position as sheriff. Proceedings are now underway in Vermont Superior Court. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Jan 28)

January 29, 2026

  1. Woodstock Board Allocates Wastewater Plant Upgrade Costs to Sewer Users: The Woodstock Selectboard has decided that users of the municipal sewer system will cover the full cost of a proposed $35 million upgrade to the main wastewater treatment plant. The town plans to use revenue from a local options tax and possibly capital reserve funds to help offset some of the repayment costs for the 30-year bond, if approved by voters. Non-sewer users will not pay the bond debt, and a $1 million federal grant will contribute to the project. The final decision will be made at Town Meeting Day in March. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jan 29)

  2. Quechee Club Lecture Discusses 1830s Anti-Abolitionist Mobs and Modern Parallels: The Quechee Club in Vermont recently hosted a lecture by historian Dan Billin that examined anti-abolitionist mob activity in New England during the 1830s. The presentation, organized by the club’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council, focused on the challenges faced by Black students at the integrated Noyes Academy and the broader regional tensions between abolitionists and their opponents in Vermont and New Hampshire. Billin also addressed connections between historic actions and current fights against racism. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jan 29)

January 28, 2026

  1. Sale of Woodstock’s Historic Elm Street Building Puts Restaurant’s Future in Doubt: The Elm Street Press Building at 24 Elm Street in Woodstock, Vermont, has changed ownership, with Zoe Zillian, owner of Au Comptoir cocktail bar, acquiring it on January 13. As a result of the sale, The Prince & The Pauper restaurant, a neighborhood staple since 1974, has been asked to vacate its leased space by April 1 as its lease will not be renewed. The restaurant's future location and operations remain uncertain as its current lease nears expiration. Community members await further updates from the restaurant's owners. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jan 28)

  2. Woodstock High School Graduate Earns Spot at Cross Country Junior World Championships: James Underwood, a 19-year-old alumnus of Woodstock High School, has been selected to join the Stifel United States Cross Country Ski Team for the 2026 Junior World Championships in Lillehammer, Norway. Underwood, now a freshman at Colby College, credits years of training and early exposure to Woodstock’s public ski trails for reaching this milestone. The competition is set for March 2–8 and marks a significant achievement in his skiing career. Underwood's journey reflects dedication and consistent effort in the sport. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jan 28)

January 26, 2026

  1. Woodstock Girls Hockey Secures Season's First Win With Overtime Victory: The Woodstock girls hockey team earned their first victory of the season by defeating Harwood in a tightly contested game that extended into overtime. Goalkeeper Pippa Shaw's performance contributed to a shutout during regulation time, keeping Woodstock competitive throughout. The decisive goal was scored in overtime by sophomore Josephine Palazzo, energizing the Union Arena crowd. The team is next set to face Rutland as they seek to continue their success. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jan 26)

January 22, 2026

  1. Woodstock Board Considers Payment Methods for Wastewater Plant Bond: The Woodstock Town Selectboard is exploring how to fairly divide payments for the upcoming wastewater plant bond, estimated between $33 million and $35 million, ahead of Town Meeting Day in early March. The discussion centers on whether only sewer users, or both users and non-users, should fund the $1.6 million expected annual bond payment. Scenarios presented at a recent board meeting outlined various cost-sharing models based on different property types and usage levels. The board aims to ensure compliance with state regulations while distributing costs equitably. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jan 22)

  2. Prosper Valley Farmer Collective Formed to Support Collaboration Among Local Farms: A new organization, the Prosper Valley Farmer Collective, has been established in early 2026 to foster collaboration among farmers, food enterprises, and community partners in Barnard, Bridgewater, Pomfret, and Woodstock. Founded by Woodstock resident Todd Erceg, the collective seeks to streamline access to local farm products and address challenges with marketing and distribution. The group aims to strengthen agricultural connections within the Prosper Valley area. Efforts focus on supporting local producers and ensuring regional products reach more consumers. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jan 22)

  3. Woodstock Police Chief Awarded $3,400 in Legal Fees After Demotion Dispute: A Vermont Superior Court judge has granted Woodstock Police Chief Joe Swanson nearly $3,400 to cover legal expenses following a dispute over his demotion by the municipal manager. The award comes after a lengthy hearing and subsequent appeal, where the judge reversed the decision of the Woodstock Village Trustees. The funds primarily cover transcription costs incurred during the proceedings. The case has been sent back to the trustees for further consideration. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jan 22)

  4. Bridgewater Foundation to Challenge Allegations Made in Civil Lawsuit: The Bridgewater Area Community Foundation has stated it will defend itself against a civil lawsuit alleging mismanagement, improper spending, and possible document alterations by members of the organization. The legal action, brought by two Central Vermont businessmen, also disputes leadership titles and board removals. Foundation representatives have asserted that the claims lack merit and intend to address the issues through the legal system. The outcome of this case may impact local community governance. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jan 22)

January 21, 2026

  1. Eight Seats on Mountain Views Supervisory Union School Board Open for March Election: Eight out of 18 seats on the Mountain Views Supervisory Union School Board will be filled during Town Meeting via Australian ballot on March 3. Six current board members from Killington, Plymouth, Reading, and Woodstock intend to seek reelection, while representatives from Pomfret and Woodstock are stepping down. Those wanting to run must file required nomination forms by January 26. The available seats span five of the seven towns served by the supervisory union. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jan 21)

  2. Woodstock Selectboard Amends Grant for Water Main and Well Projects: The Woodstock Town Selectboard has chosen to modify a Northern Border Regional Commission grant totaling nearly $869,000. This funding covers up to half the costs for two major water infrastructure upgrades: installation of a water main beneath the Elm Street bridge and construction of a replacement well. Delays could occur due to mandated environmental reviews, as the well site is in a floodplain and the bridge is within Woodstock’s historic district. Board members acted to address these requirements and potential project slowdowns. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jan 21)

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