Town Meeting 2008 Information
TOWN OF WEATHERSFIELD, VERMONT
WARNING
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING
MARCH 3 AND MARCH 4 , 2008
The legal voters of the Town of Weathersfield, Vermont, are hereby notified and
warned to meet at the Weathersfield Elementary School, Vermont Route 106 in
Perkinsville, in the Town of Weathersfield, Vermont, on the third day of March, 2008, at
7:30 o’clock, P.M., to act on the following articles:
Article 1: Shall the voters of the Town of Weathersfield accept the
reports of the Town’s officers for the period from July 1, 2006,
through June 30, 2007?
Article 2: Shall the voters of the Town of Weathersfield authorize the
Select Board to borrow money, if necessary, to pay current
expenses in anticipation of taxes in accordance with the
provisions of Title 24, Section 1786, of the Vermont Statutes
Annotated?
Article 3: Shall the voters of the Town of Weathersfield authorize the
Select Board to expend such grant monies, gifts, or bequests
which may be received by the Town of Weathersfield, in
accordance with the terms of said grants, gifts, or bequests?
Article 4: Shall the voters of the Town of Weathersfield establish a “Town
Highways Capital Maintenance and Improvements" reserve fund
pursuant to Title 24, Section 2804, of the Vermont Statutes
Annotated, to be used to make improvements and perform capital
maintenance to Town Highways, allowing the Select Board to expend
monies from the fund for that purpose?
Article 5: To transact any other business deemed proper when met.
Voting by Australian ballot will be conducted in Martin Memorial Hall, on U.S. Route
5 in Ascutney, on the fourth day of March, 2008 [The polls will be open at 10:00 o’clock,
A.M., and will close at 7:00 o’clock, P.M., on that date], to act on the following articles:
Article 6: To elect all Town officers as required by law. [By Australian ballot]
Moderator - One (1) Year
Selector - Three (3) Years
Selector - Two (2) Years
Lister - Three (3) Years
Trustee of Public Funds - Three (3) Years
Town Agent - One (1) Year
Grand Juror - One (1) Year
Cemetery Commissioner - Five (5) Years
Library Trustee - Five (5) Years
Article 7: Shall the voters of the Town of Weathersfield fix the
compensation for the Select Board at Five Hundred Dollars
($500.00) each for the coming year, in accordance with the
provisions of Title 24, Section 933, of the Vermont Statutes
Annotated? [By Australian ballot]
Article 8: Shall the voters of the Town of Weathersfield approve the
expenditure of Nine Hundred Fifteen Thousand, One Hundred
Four Dollars ($915,104.00) for the support and operation of
the Town’s General Fund? Five Hundred Seventy-six
Thousand, Three Hundred Sixty-two Dollars ($576,362.00)
shall be raised by property taxation, allowing the Select Board
to set the appropriate tax rate. [By Australian ballot]
Article 9: Shall the voters of the Town of Weathersfield approve the
expenditure of One Million, Twenty-eight Thousand, Three
Hundred Fifty-two Dollars ($1,028,352.00), for the support and
operation of the Town’s Highway Fund? Eight Hundred Thirty-
seven Thousand, Six Hundred Twelve Dollars ($837,612.00)
shall be raised by property taxation, allowing the Select Board
to set the appropriate tax rate. [By Australian ballot]
Article 10: Shall the voters of the Town of Weathersfield approve the
expenditure of Two Hundred Forty-three Thousand, Four
Hundred Seventy-four Dollars ($243,474.00), for the support
and operation of the Town’s solid waste management facility?
These monies shall be raised by the collection of fees, allowing
the Select Board to set the appropriate fees for the services.
[By Australian ballot]
Article 11: Shall the voters of the Town of Weathersfield appropriate
funds, not to exceed Sixteen Thousand Dollars ($16,000.00),
to expand law enforcement services? These monies shall be
used to provide an additional ten (10) hours per week of law
enforcement coverage, and an additional five (5) hours per
week of administrative/clerical services. [Not in Budget] [By
Australian ballot]
Article 12: Shall the voters of the Town of Weathersfield authorize the
transfer of the balance of the Upper Falls Covered Bridge
Capital Reserve Fund to the Town Highways Capital
Maintenance and Improvements Reserve Fund? The current
balance is approximately Forty-five Thousand, Eight Hundred
Eighteen Dollars and Nineteen Cents ($45,818.19). [By
Australian ballot]
Article 13: Shall the voters of the Town of Weathersfield appropriate
funds, not to exceed Twelve Thousand Dollars ($12,000.00),
from the undesignated fund balance for the Proctor Library?
These monies shall be used for painting and repairs to the
Proctor Library building. [Not in Budget] [By Australian ballot]
Article 14: Shall the voters of the Town of Weathersfield appropriate the
sum of Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000.00), to be deposited in
the Proctor Library Capital Improvements reserve fund? [By
request] [Not in Budget] [By Australian ballot]
Article 15: Shall the voters of the Town of Weathersfield assess One-half
Cent ($0.005) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) of valuation
on the Town’s Grand List, said funds to be deposited to a
reserve fund for the capital maintenance and improvements to
Martin Memorial Hall? [Not in Budget] [By Australian ballot]
Article 16: Shall the voters of the Town of Weathersfield assess One-half
Cent ($0.005) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) of valuation
on the Town’s Grand List, said funds to be deposited to a
reserve fund for the future acquisition of motorized fire
apparatus? [Not in Budget] [By Australian ballot]
Article 17: Shall the voters of the Town of Weathersfield assess One Cent
($0.01) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) of valuation on the
Town’s Grand List, said funds to be deposited to a reserve
fund for the future acquisition of highway maintenance and
repair equipment? [Not in Budget] [By Australian ballot]
Article 18: Shall the voters of the Town of Weathersfield assess One-half
Cent ($0.005) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) of valuation
on the Town’s Grand List, said funds to be deposited to a
reserve fund for the future reappraisal of the Town as required
by Title 32, Section 4041a (b) of the Vermont Statutes
Annotated? [Not in Budget] [By Australian ballot]
Article 19: Shall the voters of the Town of Weathersfield authorize the
Select Board to borrow funds not to exceed the amount of One
Hundred Twenty-three Thousand Dollars ($123,000.00) for a
period not to exceed three (3) years for the purpose of
purchasing a truck/snowplow for the maintenance of Town
highways? This will replace a 1988 Mack truck/snowplow, with
one hundred fifty-one thousand, four hundred thirty-eight
(151,438) miles. [By Australian ballot]
Article 20: Shall the voters of the Town of Weathersfield authorize the
Select Board to borrow funds not to exceed the amount of
Twenty Thousand Dollars ($20,000.00) for a period not to
exceed two (2) years for the purpose of purchasing a marked
police vehicle? This will replace a 2001 Ford F-150, with one
hundred one thousand, eight hundred eighty-seven (101,887)
miles. [By Australian ballot]
Article 21: Shall the voters of the Town of Weathersfield authorize the
Select Board to borrow funds not to exceed the amount of
Ninety-Five Thousand Dollars ($95,000.00) for a period not to
exceed five (5) years for the purpose of purchasing a wheeled
loader/backhoe for the maintenance of Town highways? This
will replace a 1987 Caterpillar wheeled loader/backhoe, with
seven thousand, two hundred thirty-one (7,231) operational
hours. [By Australian ballot]
Article 22: Shall the voters of the Town of Weathersfield appropriate the
sum of One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) to support the activities
of George D. Aiken Resource Conservation and Development
Council, Inc.? R.C. and D. is a not-for-profit organization that
helps towns by bringing together the technical, financial, and
administrative resources to deal with natural resource
conservation and rural and community development issues.
[By request] [Not in Budget] [By Australian ballot]
Article 23: Shall the voters of the Town of Weathersfield appropriate the
sum of Three Hundred Seventy-five Dollars ($375.00) to
support the activities of the Council on Aging for Southeastern
Vermont, Inc.? The Council on Aging is a private not-for-profit
organization providing services to elders in Windsor and
Windham Counties. [By request] [Not in Budget] [By
Australian ballot]
Article 24: Shall the voters of the Town of Weathersfield appropriate the
sum of One Hundred Fifty Dollars ($150.00) to support the
activities of Green-Up Vermont? Green-Up Vermont is a not-
for-profit organization that works to enhance the State’s natural
landscape and waterways, and the livability of our communities
by involving people in Green-Up Day and educating about the
benefits of a litter-free environment. [By request] [Not in
Budget] [By Australian ballot]
Article 25: Shall the voters of the Town of Weathersfield appropriate the
sum of Two Thousand, Six Hundred Eighty-three Dollars
($2,683.00) to support the activities of Health Care and
Rehabilitative Services of Southeastern Vermont? Health
Care and Rehabilitative Services is a private not-for-profile
agency providing community health services to residents in
Windsor and Windham Counties. [By request] [Not in Budget]
[By Australian ballot]
Article 26: Shall the voters of the Town of Weathersfield appropriate the
sum of Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00) to support the activities
of New Beginnings, Inc.? New Beginnings is a private not-for-
profile agency providing crisis services to victims of domestic
and sexual violence, and community prevention education on
these issues. [By request] [Not in Budget] [By Australian
ballot]
Article 27: Shall the voters of the Town of Weathersfield appropriate the
sum of One Thousand, Five Hundred Dollars ($1,500.00) to
support the activities of the Rockingham Area Community
Land Trust, Inc.? The Rockingham Area Community Land
Trust is a not-for-profile organization which maximizes
affordable housing opportunities for the people of southeastern
Vermont. [By request] [Not in Budget] [By Australian ballot]
Article 28: Shall the voters of the Town of Weathersfield appropriate the
sum of Two Hundred Fifty Dollars ($250.00) to support the
activities of the Stepping Stones Preschool? Stepping Stones
Preschool is a not-for-profile organization devoted to
excellence in early childhood education. [By request] [Not in
Budget] [By Australian ballot]
Article 29: Shall the voters of the Town of Weathersfield appropriate the
sum of Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00) to support the court
diversion and alcohol safety programs of the Valley Court
Diversion Programs [formerly Windsor County Court
Diversion]? Court Diversion is a private not-for-profit agency
providing counseling, and other services to first-time offenders
as an alternative to the judicial system. [By request] [Not in
Budget] [By Australian ballot]
Article 30: Shall the voters of the Town of Weathersfield appropriate the
sum of Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00) to support the
activities of the Vermont Association for the Blind and Visually
Impaired? The V.A.B.V.I. is a private not-for-profile agency
providing comprehensive vision rehabilitation, training and
support services for visually impaired Vermonters of all ages.
[By request] [Not in Budget] [By Australian ballot]
Article 31: Shall the voters of the Town of Weathersfield appropriate the
sum of One Hundred Eighty-five Dollars ($185.00) to support
the activities of the Vermont Center for Independent Living?
V.C.I.L. is a private not-for-profile agency providing information
and referrals, and ‘Meals on Wheels’ for people under the age
of sixty (60) with disabilities. [By request] [Not in Budget] [By
Australian ballot]
Article 32: Shall the voters of the Town of Weathersfield appropriate the
sum of Thirty Dollars ($30.00) to support the activities of the
Vermont Trails and Greenways Council? The Vermont Trails
and Greenways Council is a non-governmental organization
which provides a voice for trail interests throughout Vermont
and is working to shape the future of recreation in Vermont for
all users. [By request] [Not in Budget] [By Australian ballot]
Article 33: Shall the voters of the Town of Weathersfield appropriate the
sum of Six Hundred Dollars ($600.00) to support the activities
of Windsor County Partners? Windsor County Partners is a
community service organization providing one-on-one youth
mentoring for Weathersfield children aged ten (10) to
seventeen (17) years old. [By request] [Not in Budget] [By
Australian ballot]
Article 34: Shall the voters of the Town of Weathersfield appropriate the
sum of Six Hundred Dollars ($600.00) to support the activities
of the Windsor County Youth Services? W.C.Y.S. is a private
not-for-profile agency providing services and shelter to
runaway and homeless youth in Windsor County. [By request]
[Not in Budget] [By Australian ballot]
Dated at the Town of Weathersfield, Windsor County, State of Vermont, this thirty-
first day of January, 2008.
Henry C. Cobb, Jr., Chairperson Patricia W. Daniels, Board Clerk
Norman John Arrison, Vice-Chairperson Daniel E. Boyer, Selector
C. Peter Cole, Selector
ATTEST:
Received at Town of Weathersfield this
first of February, 2008.
Flora Ann Dango, Town Clerk
Download PDF Version
Candidates Filed for Office
ELECTED POSITIONS OPEN FOR MARCH 4, 2008 AUSTRALIAN BALLOTING
Candidates filed for elected Town officers:
POSITIONS OPEN TERM CANDIDATES FILED
Moderator (Town) 1 yr./March 2008-2009 Graham C. Hunter, II
Selectboard 3 yr./March 2008-2011 Glenn S. Fisher
Selectboard 2 yr./March 2008-2010 John Arrison
Lister 3 yr./March 2008-2011 Alexis Skalaban
Trustee of Public Funds 3 yr./March 2008-2011 Bette-Jo Esty
Town Agent 1 yr./March 2008-2009 Flo-Ann Dango
Town Grand Juror 1 yr./March 2008-2009 Carolyn A. Hier
Cemetery
Commissioner 5 yr./March 2008-2013 Robert G. Holtorf
Library Trustee 5 yr./March 2008-2013 Christopher Harris
SCHOOL POSITIONS OPEN
Candidates filed for elected School officers:
March 4 , 2007
Moderator (School) 1yr./March 2008-2009 Graham C. Hunter, II
School Director 3yr./March 2008-2011 Holly J. (Brooks) Rheaume
School Director 1yr./March 2008-2009 Nathalie T. Whitney
School Director 1yr./March 2008-2009 Stephen A. Walasewicz
Press Release
Vermont’s Voters May Cast Presidential Primary Vote Using the
Vote-by-Phone Technology at the Polls
Vermont’s Vote-by-Phone at the Polls option provides privacy and independence to Vermonters with disabilities
Montpelier – This presidential primary every Vermont polling place will be equipped with an option for Vermonters who have difficulties filling out a paper ballot. Using Vote-by-Phone technology, voters who have a hard time marking a paper ballot, especially those who are visually impaired, will be able to use the telephone keypad to mark their presidential primary ballots.
Secretary of State Deb Markowitz said, “In Vermont there are an estimated 83,000 voting age citizens who live with disabilities ; 3,000 of them are legally blind. The Vote-by-Phone voting system is accessible and easy to use.”
The Vote-by-Phone system reads the ballot to the voter, who indicates his or her choices by pressing the corresponding numbers on the telephone key pad. The system then generates a paper ballot, scans it and reads it back to the voter so that he or she may verify that the ballot is correct before casting it. Markowitz said, “Any Vermonter who is interested in using Vote-By-Phone at the polls simply tells the election worker they wish to use the system. The election worker will connect the voter to the system and will then pass the handset or headset to the voter who will use the phone to mark his or her ballot privately and independently.” Markowitz added, “Poll workers have been advised that they may not ask whether the voter is disabled, and indeed, any Vermonter may choose to use the telephone voting system.”
Voters with disabilities who choose not to use the Vote-by-Phone (at the polls) voting system have many other choices that are designed to make voting easy and convenient:
· Voters may request that the town clerk send them an early absentee ballot and, once completed, the ballot can be returned by mail or by a person of their choice.
· Voters who are sick or disabled may request that the town clerk send two justices of the peace to deliver a ballot to them on or before Election Day.
· A voter may ask a person of their choice, or may ask two election workers, for assistance in reading and/or marking their ballot.
· A voter who is unable to come into the polling place because of an illness or disability may ask that two election workers bring a ballot out to their car for voting on Election Day.
Any person who wishes to try out the Vote-by-Phone system may practice from their home any time prior to Election Day by calling, toll free, 866-486-3838. Markowitz said, “We encourage voters to try out this new voting system before coming to vote on Election Day because we believe it will ensure that they are comfortable with the system prior to casting their vote.”
###
Ginny Colbert
26 Terrace Street
Montpelier, VT 05609
www.sec.state.vt.us
Phone: 802.828.2148
Fax: 802.828.2496
Weathersfield Recreation and Prevention Programs
January / February Update
Courtney McKaig 263-5393 / cccmckaig@hotmail.com
LAST CLASS: Line Dancing Monday, February 25, 6:45 – 8:15 at WES. All are welcome to come, even if you haven’t attend a class yet, the steps are easy to learn and it is a fun, indoor aerobic workout. Dorian Lescord keeps us movin’ and groovin’all evening. Wear comfortable clothing, sneakers or soft soled shoes.
Upcoming Fit Classes in the Works:
Pilates - Bob Hannum has proposed a class for this Spring, beginning March 11. He suggests a one hour class (6:30 – 7:30), two times per week (Tues. / Thurs.), for five weeks.
Pilates is an excellent exercise that efficiently builds core strength. It requires correct posture to avoid injury so class size is limited.
Before this is scheduled I need to hear from people who are interested, I am looking for feedback regarding class times, number of days, and cost. Please call or email you thoughts as soon as possible so we can bring this class to our community.
Kripalu Yoga – Daniell Dulaney was very well received with her instruction of Kripalu Yoga last Fall and is available to teach another class. Again, I am looking for feedback from the community on their level of interest for this class which includes gentle stretching, breathing, and relaxation.
Nordic Poles & Snow Shoes Are Here!
Nordic Poles - By the end of this week WRAPP will own 6 pairs of Nordic Walking Poles. BJ Esty, Group Leader, is available to teach the use of the Nordic Poles, which burns more calories, decreases impact on lower body joints, and assists with core strength. Please contact BJ daytime 263-9224 or evenings 263-9651 to schedule time to learn this great walking workout.
Snow Shoes – Also, by the end of this week WRAPP will own 12 pairs of adult snow shoes. Through a Hicks-Nichols Grant the community also owns 40 pairs of youth and junior size snow shoes. WRAPP is currently looking for Snow Shoe Group Leaders. Snowshoes can be borrowed anytime, for weekends call by 3 pm Friday, Weathersfield Elementary School 263-9224, or contact Courtney Mckaig 263-5393.
Group Leaders – Do you have a skill you could offer? Are you an avid walker willing to lead a group and encourage your members when you’re unavailable? WRAPP has funds to support Peer Leaders in promoting the activities they already do to their neighbors.
“Spring into Action” - WRaPP needs new energy, that means YOU. Weathersfield Recreation and Prevention Programs is funded by grants from the Mount Ascutney Hospital, but needs to be guided by the input of community members. What would you like to see for our children, youth, and adults in Weathersfield, ever said to yourself “Why doesn’t Weathersfield do… have…?” We need your help, please consider becoming a WRAPP member. A “Spring into Action Dinner” will be held in March, details to follow.
Call Courtney McKaig for more information 263-5393/ cccmckaig@hotmail.com
Other Winter Fitness Options
Southern Vermont Recreation Center - Springfield 885-2568
Curves – Springfield 885-4800
Fitness Solutions – 885-1600
Springfield Parks and Recreation – 885-2727
Please contact me for a full brochure of available programs in our area including Springfield, Chester, Ludlow, Windsor, Hartland and Brownsville.
VKAT (Vermont Kids Against Tobacco)
If you plan on making a Resolution to end your tobacco habit please remember:
Every Try Counts & Quitting Takes Practice
The more attempts someone makes at quitting tobacco the more likely the person is to eventually quit. Also, if someone seeks assistance through a cessation program the more likely they will succeed in quitting.
Cessation Programs are available at:
Mount Ascutney Hospital 674-7089
Spring field Hospital 885-2151 ext. 7155
OR
The Vermont Quit Line, 24 hours, confidential 877-YES-QUIT (877-937-7838)
Please fill out our Walking Survey (Word Document)
Vermont Spay Neuter Incentive Program Suspended
The Vermont Spay Neuter Incentive Program (VSNIP) is temporarily suspended due to the overwhelming demand and the lack of funds to support this important program. In the first 19 months of service to the public, 5,210 vouchers were issued to Vermonters on a State or Federal assistance program with which to have their animals neutered and vaccinated for only $10.00.
VSNIP is funded solely by a $2.00 fee added to every dog license. We encourage you to call your town office and thank them for collecting any delinquent dog registrations. Licenses guarantee that a dog has received a rabies vaccination and it is important not only for the safety of the animal, but also public health.
We suggest that you use one of the other assistance programs to neuter your animal if you are unable to afford the cost of a full service veterinary office. Please call today and prevent unwanted litters. There simply are not enough homes to accommodate the thousands of cats and dogs euthanized in Vermont every year because of over population.
For more information on low cost spay and neuter, call:
SpayED, at [802] 276-9999 [clinics scheduled around the state]
or
The Cat Spay-Neuter Clinic in Colchester, at [802] 878-2230
or
The Frontier Humane Society in Newport at [802] 334-7888
or
Riverside Rescue in Gilman, at [802] 892- 5300
or
Whiskers to Tails in Wilmington, at [802] 464-0522
Limited VSNIP funds will be available in July, 2008.
Contributions to support VSNIP can be made through Vermont Volunteer Services for Animals, a 501(c)(3) organization.
Incorporated in 1986, Vermont Volunteer Services for Animals Humane Society is the Administrator of this program. Please specify that your tax-exempt donation is to support VSNIP.
Check out the New and Improved Photo Gallery at iWeathersfield.com
Now with over 400 images from around town - all seasons, all eras.
If you have photos of Weathersfield you'd like to share, send them to the Webmaster,
or head over to the Gallery at iWeathersfield.com and add them to your very own album! All you have to do is register on the site and you can upload images to your very own album.
Historical Society News and Notes
A SECOND TREASURY OF TALES 
Weathersfield Tales has sold out, but the good news is that Weathersfield Tales 2 is now available.
The price for this 184 page book with index is just $5.00 at Weathersfield locations and only a little more elsewhere. Proceeds benefit Weathersfield non-profit organizations, so if you’re feeling generous and want to support the cause, you may pay a little extra.
The book is what its subtitle says, A Treasury of Stories From a Vermont Village. The stories range from the tragic to the comic and from the distant past of Weathersfield to recent times.
As compiler, I thank the almost 100 people who contacted me to say how much they enjoyed the first collection. They share the blame or credit for this second volume. Thanks, also, to the 62 contributors who are still with us to be thanked. I have made good friends while collecting their stories.
You can get your copies of Weathersfield Tales 2 at the Proctor Library and the Weathersfield town offices in Ascutney, at Black River Used Books and the Springfield Coop in Springfield, and at Misty Valley Books in Chester. Copies will be available by Saturday, December 15th.
If you would like to see a reprint of the first volume, please let me know at 263-5439. Let me know, also, if you have stories for the third and final collection.
Steve Aikenhead
steve@vermontel.net
263-5439
Notice to Weathersfield Property Owners
The Town of Weathersfield reappraisal is nearing completion. If we have not been able to inspect the interior of your property, please call the Weathersfield Lister's Office at 674-2626 to schedule an appointment for an interior inspection. This inspection will only take approximately 15 minutes and will ensure the accuracy of our records for proper valuation in 2008. Thank you.
Town Plan Available for download
click here
2007 - 2008 Property Taxes Due Dates
First Quarter
Second Quarter
Third Quarter
Final Payment |
August 29nd 2007
November 14th, 2007
February 13th, 2008
May 14th, 2008 |
Tax Rate Info
Tas Rate Chart
Ascutney Fire District
Post Office Box 550
Ascutney, Vermont 05030-0550
Organizational Meeting
May 21, 2007
POSITION ELECTED TERM EXPIRES
Moderator Charles Peter Cole May, 2008
Prudential Committee Darlene E. Johnson May, 2010
George C. Murray May, 2009
Lisa A. Sargent May, 2008
Clerk Shirley M. Bingham May, 2008
Treasurer Diana L. Day May, 2008
Tax Collector Town Manager May, 2008
ANNUAL MEETING
First Monday in May, each year, starting at 7:00 P.M.
Winnie Perkins Remembers
The newest publication of the Weathersfield Historical Society is Winnie Perkins Remembers. This is an edited version of historical essays and research from three notebooks written by Winifed E. Perkins, probably between 1950 and 1970.
The sixty-page booklet is ilustrated by forty photographs culled from the Perkins collection and from photographs in the Society’s archives. There are also two early maps, the 1855 Hosea Doton map of Weathersfield, and the 1869 map of Weathersfield from the Beers Atlas of Windsor County.
The booklet provides the reader with a slice of life in Weathersfield in the first half of the twentieth century. There is a wonderful photograph of the Junior Historical Society in 1958, and of three of the early leaders of the Society, Mary Peirce, Thelma Hoisington and Winnie Perkins in about 1965.
The notebooks have been edited by Edith Hunter, and the photographs have been selected by Edith and Sally Harris. Sally has been responsible for the design and production of the booklet.
It will be available in April for $15, with an additonal $3 for mailed copies. Orders should be sent to the Society at Post Office Box 126, Weathersfield, VT 05151-0126 with checks made payable to the Weathersfield Historical Society. Copies may be picked up at Edith Hunter’s or at future Society events.
2007 Town Meeting Information
VOTING RESULTS
2005-2006 Town Report Online (PDF 7.5 mb)
Appendix (Independent Auditor's Report) (PDF 2.3 mb)
Town of Weathersfield, Vermont Reappraisal Information
1. Before we start the reappraisal we submitted an notice in the local Message paper indicating we are starting the reappraisal and explained that we will send postcards out first before we start the area. second, we explained that during our inspections, if no one is home we will leave a door hanger card indicating we were there and our inspection is limited to measuring the exterior of the dwelling, any outbuildings and digital photo will be taken of the buildings.
2. Before we start any area, we send a post card to those that we plan on inspecting next indicating the above information. Again, both notice in newspaper and postcards indicate we are coming and if property owners want an appointment to call the town office to schedule such.
3. 2 weeks after the mailing of the post cards to a designated area of town, we proceed. If no one is home, we leave door hanger card indicating our presence at the home that day and ask them to please call the town office to schedule an appointment for an interior inspection.
4. Once we have completed an area, (of approximately 200 properties) we send out the next batch of cards to the next 200 property owners.
5. We will continue throughout the town as stated above until all are completed with exterior inspections, photo and any appointments for interior inspections.
6. When we are completed with the entire town, we then send out another card to those property owners that we did not get an interior inspection, indicating our completion of all properties and need an interior inspection, to please call for an appointment.
7. At this point, we spend weeks performing interior inspections on those properties via appointment.
At any time, if we visit a property and the owner does not want an interior inspection at that time, we will give them a door hanger card and tell them they can call to make an appointment.
It is not necessary to let us in at that time, since I do realize many women or men for that matter --- want to have the house picked up or cleaned. We are comfortable with their decision. If any property owner does not want us to enter their property at ALL. They are required to sign a refusal of entry for our records.
We are very understanding and relaxed on not intruding or pressuring anyone to let us in at the time of our initial inspection. Many will call for an appointment.
We request the owners to give us a tour of their interior or be present with us as we walk through. We do not enter any property with a minor or under 18 years of age.
Cleaniness of the house in NOT taken into consideration. It is the quality of construction and condition (holes in sheetrock, electrical issues, roof needing replacement, etc.)
Personal property is not counted, such as a hot tub.
If someone has a bathroom that does not function, that is the information that we need to know.
The actual inspection of the interior is approximately 10 to 15 to 30 minutes long, to say exactly it depends on the property owner and the questions they might have for us. Our main goal is to answer all questions. Public relations is one of the most important part of the task.
AVFD Fire District Hearing Information
Dear Property Owner:
In the late 1960's and early 1970's, residents of the Ascutney area were already
recognizing that there was a growing problem with the water supply for homes and
businesses in Ascutney. In response to these concerns, an ‘Ascutney Fire District’ was
formed to consider the creation of a municipal water system serving the area,
encompassing the area from the Connecticut River west to the Interstate 91 corridor, and
from the Windsor Town Line south to Wilgus State Park.
A Prudential Committee was elected by the District and, in 1973, a Federally funded study
was completed to determine the location of adequate water supplies and design of a water
system to serve the area. The culmination of this program was the 1978 Town Meeting,
when the voters rejected an article to accept ownership of the existing private water
company from Roland Smith.
After the Town Meeting, the District became dormant. There are no records that it was
officially dissolved, and apparently the District members simply stopped meeting. Lacking
any affirmative action to dissolve a Fire District, Vermont law provides that it remains in
existence, but inactive.
The Ascutney area is now facing even more acute problems, including not only water but
also wastewater disposal problems. Federal clean water regulations effective in the 1990's
have created ‘wellhead protection’ areas to guard existing public water supplies - both the
private water company which serves portions of Ascutney and the on-site water supply for
the Weathersfield Middle School. One side effect of these ‘protection areas’ has been the
restriction of development within the designated areas, including prohibitions against new
onsite septic systems and limitations on replacement of failed systems. The private water
company has also indicated their interest in dissolving the corporation.
The Select Board is now faced with its statutory duty to convene a meeting of the
ratepayers [the legal term for property owners within a fire district] and to provide adequate
information so that the ratepayers can make informed decisions. Once convened, the
ratepayers may elect a prudential committee to govern the district and proceed with
addressing future concerns, or vote to dissolve the District.
There will be an informational meeting at the Weathersfield Middle School, in Ascutney,
on Saturday, March 10, 2007, starting at 1:00 P.M.. Information and materials regarding
the options which effect you, as a property owner in Ascutney, will be provided.
Very truly yours,
Henry C. Cobb, Jr.
Chairperson, Weathersfield Select Board
Land Use Administrator Office Hours Change
Please be advised that as of January 2, 2007, my public office hours will change to the following:
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Thursday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Weathersfield
Awarded State Planning Grant
On November 13th, 2006, the Town of Weathersfield was awarded Fifteen
Thousand Dollars ($15,000.00), in State funds to undertake a ‘Exit
8 Interstate Interchange Master Plan.’ This grant comes from the
State’s Municipal and Regional Planning Fund, which was established
in 1988, to help Vermont municipalities develop and implement their town
plans. Funds are appropriated by the Vermont Legislature.
Weathersfield was one (1) of seventy-eight (78) towns across Vermont
selected in a competitive award process. The vast majority of the projects
this year are traditional planning activities, such as updating town plans,
maps, and zoning bylaws. There are also a growing number of communities
working on village and downtown revitalization projects, as well as planning
for ‘growth center’ designation - a new State program resulting
from legislation passed last year.
This project will develop a plan that will serve to update the transportation
element of the Town Plan. Recommendations from the Interchange Plan will
guide further amendments to the existing zoning bylaws, particularly those
regarding site plan review, lighting, parking, access, and signage standards
and will create additional zoning bylaws that are specific to this geographic
area.
“These grant projects represent a great deal of dedication by
the employees of Vermont’s towns and their volunteer commissioners,
“ said John Call, Commissioner of Housing and Community Affairs.
“The projects we fund through the State demonstrate the many ways
that communities are working to implement Vermont’s land use goals.”
NOTICE TO WEATHERSFIELD
TAXPAYERS
The Town of Weathersfield has contracted with the firm MAPS (Municipal Assessing Property Services, LLC) to complete
the town-wide reappraisal. Appraisers will be in the area performing
property inspections. If you are not home when the appraisers visit
your property, a card will be left in your door and the inspection will
be limited to exterior measurements and pictures only. Please call the
Town Office at 674-2626 for an interior inspection if you receive a notice
in your door.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the Weathersfield
Town Office. Thank you.
Weathersfield Listers and A.M.P.T.A.
Used Computer Equipment for Sale
The Town of Weathersfield has a number of used computer monitors, CRT-type, for sale, in varying sizes. They are very reasonably priced.
Keyboards and mice are also available.
They may be seen at Martin Memorial Hall during regular working hours, or call [802] 674-2626 for information.
Commission Alternates Needed
The Selectboard is looking for folks interested in serving as alternates to members of the Zoning Board and Planning Commission. Alternates are needed to assure a quorum at all meetings. Quorums are sometimes lacking when regular members cannot participate due to conflict of interest, scheduling problems, illness, etc. Alternates need not attend every meeting of the board or commission they serve, but they must be willing to learn enough about the board or commission duties to be effective. If they are called upon to participate in an application, they will be required to continue their participation until the decision is made on that application. The length of term for alternates has not yet been finalized, but may be as short as 1 year. Interested persons can contact the Town Manager at 674-2626.
Announcing iWeathersfield.com!
A brand new citizen-based, local news source by and for the people of Weathersfield, Vermont. Get involved! Anyone can submit news, events, opinions, how-to's, places to go, things to do, or anything else you can think of. It's easy! Just click on the "Submit Story" button and share your news. iweathersfield.com depends on you to help keep our town informed.
Town Documents Available
The new Town Plans and new Zoning Bylaws, complete with color maps, are available for purchase at the Town Offices.
Price for either is $8.00
Weathersfield Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission also has a new publication available: "Where to Buy Locally Produced Agricultural Products in Weathersfield, VT. You can download an updated PDF version here.
And don't forget to enter your Field Observations of local wildlife on the The Weathersfield Wildlife Inventory. Click here!
Weathersfield Land Preservation Association
The Weathersfield Land Preservation Association was established in the past year as a non-profit 501C-3 organization. Our mission is to help preserve the rural character of Weathersfield. Our goals are: to provide education and support for landowners and to raise funds for Weathersfield conservation projects.
We have been instrumental in protection of land in Weathersfield. We are in contact with Weathersfield residents who have an interest in preservation. We welcome leads and suggestions on land we might be able to help protect.
If you would like to receive more information or to be a part of our group of over 150 members, please contact us.
For the Board: Steve Aikenhead, Bart Mair, Willis Wood
Conservation Commission Launches New Wildlife Sightings Reporting Form
The Weathersfield Wildlife Inventory, a place to enter Field Observations of local wildlife. Click here.
Newsletter Archives
Email Us!
Weathersfield Town Offices
View from Center Road
Photo by Melissa Snyder
|
