Williston Observer 01/25/2024 by Williston Observer

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JANUARY 25, 2024

WILLISTON’S NEWSPAPER SINCE 1985

Selectboard approves Glaser subdivision BY JASON STARR Observer staff

The Williston Selectboard changed the town’s zoning rules and planning documents Jan. 16 to accommodate a 109-home housing development in the town’s first-ever “specific plan” approval of a residential subdivision. The unanimous vote capped roughly 18 months of planning, public hearings and committee approvals, resulting in an agreement in which landowners Jack and Caitlin Glaser will gift 50 acres near the corner of Mountain View and Old Stage roads to the town in exchange for expedited new home construction unbound by the town’s typical growth management caps. “I think you’ve made a very wise decision that will support the community now and far into the future,” Jack Glaser said after the selectboard vote. The approval came after a public hearing where citizens in

favor of the plan outnumbered those opposed 10-to-1. The majority of those speaking in favor of the plan are patrons of Windswept Farm, an equestrian facility located next to the 100-acre Glaser property that uses part of the land as horse pasture. The agreement to convey 50 acres to the town paves the way for the continued operation of the farm, which has been a horse-lovers community on Old Stage Road for half a century, offering summer camps, after-school lessons and horse-boarding. “If you vote yes to this plan you will allow us to stay in business,” Windswept Farm owner Tina Mauss told the board. “You will keep the open space on Old Stage Road. If you vote no, it will close us down and you’ll just have a bunch of houses there.” Supporters of the farm chimed in from Jericho, Richmond and Williston, describing it as a unique rural oasis in an see GLASER page 4

The layout of the Glaser subdivision shows two roads with one intersecting in two places with Old Stage Road and the other intersecting with Mountain View Road. COURTESY OF WILLISTON PLANNING AND ZONING DEPARTMENT

WWW.WILLISTONOBSERVER.COM

Firefighters respond to Route 2A crash

Two cars caught fire after a four-car collision Friday evening near the corner of Route 2A and Zephyr Road. All occupants were able to escape the vehicles before the fires started. Six people involved in the crash were evaluated by first-responders from Williston and Essex, and several were transported to the hospital, according to Williston Police. Route 2A was closed for about two hours as firefighters cleared the scene. Firefighters, police and rescue personnel from Williston and Essex responded to the incident. OBSERVER PHOTOS BY RICK COTE AND PRESCOTT NADEAU

Storytelling event honors longtime Willistonian Bill Skiff OBSERVER STAFF REPORT Can you share a five-minute personal story fitting the theme of hope with an audience of your friends Bill Skiff and neighbors? Or would you enjoy listening to these true tales? If so, the Williston-Richmond Rotary Club invites you to join its first-ever Bill Skiff Story Slam taking place on Saturday, Feb. 10. Rotary member Sherry Pidgeon conceived of the idea of a story slam when looking for a fun way to get the community together and to help raise money for the club’s charitable causes. Proceeds from the event will go toward home heating fuel assistance for Vermonters in need. The theme of hope was chosen in part because “Create hope in

the world” is the annual theme for Rotary International this year. “It also fits well with the purpose of the event, which is to brighten the lives of fellow Vermonters who will know their neighbors cared enough to make sure they were warm this winter,” said Pidgeon. A longtime resident of Williston, Bill Skiff founded the Williston-Richmond Rotary Club in 1995 and served as its first president. Now an honorary member, he returned to the club last February to share stories of the formation of the club and of his childhood. When it came to naming the event, the choice to honor Skiff seemed obvious, said Rotary Club President Susan Cote. “Bill is a wonderful storyteller whose tales of growing up in Vermont were published for many years in his ‘Places I’ve Played’ column in the Williston Observer,” Cote said.

The winner of the story competition will receive, among other things, an autographed copy of Skiff’s children’s book “Willie the Jumping Frog,” a story based on the frog jumping contest he organized for years as part of Williston’s Fourth of July festivities. “I’m so excited to bring the community together and to hear people’s stories,” said Pidgeon. “Strengthening community is a big part of what Rotary is about.” The Bill Skiff Story Slam will be held in the Fellowship Hall of the Williston Federated Church on Saturday, Feb. 10 from 5-7:30 p.m. Doors will open at 4:30 p.m. Tickets are available at https:// sevendaystickets.com/events/ bill-skiff-story-slam-2-10-2024. A limited number may be available at the door. The $20 ticket includes light refreshments. Questions can be emailed to RotaryClubofWillistonVT@gmail. com.

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Williston Observer •

January 25, 2024

Optimism, Opportunity and Urgency: It’s Time to Work Together for Our Future As we begin a new year, and as I embark on my second year as CEO of the University of Vermont Health Network, I feel a sense of both optimism and urgency. Optimism, because I think we have an opportunity to make progress on the challenges we share in this region— if we work together. And urgency, because we need to act now to ensure we are best serving our patients and communities, today and into the future. I’ve done a lot of listening and learning, and that has shaped four fundamental “pillars” we’re focusing on for our health system: • We want to create an exceptional UVM Health Network experience for our patients and everyone who works for the health system. • We’re prioritizing education and research. Our academic health system is making a real difference across Vermont and in the North Country of New York. • Stewardship of our communities is about community health and building public trust and confidence in our health system. • We also need to achieve operational excellence and financial sustainability to fulfill our mission. That’s where we’re headed, but we face the same challenges that many people are dealing with in their daily life and work— things like inflation, labor costs, workforce shortages and a lack of housing and childcare. The landscape of providing health care services in a rural setting has shifted. And these challenges have made it much harder for our not-for-profit health system to make needed investments in our people and in the quality of the health care we provide. In our fiscal year that ended September 30, we fell short of our financial goal by $47 million. In our current fiscal year, we’re working to close a $75 million gap that resulted from a number of factors, including the decision by our Vermont regulator to significantly cut our budget. The fact is, if we hadn’t received one-time relief funds, we would have lost hundreds of millions of dollars since 2020. This is not sustainable. So we’re engaged in a difficult balancing act: We’re working to improve patient access, while also operating more efficiently and creating new sources of revenue. For example, we’re prioritizing access to surgical services at several hospitals, which addresses patient wait times. We’re improving efficiency for providers and patients—things like expanding eConsult services between physicians; launching self-scheduling for patients in MyChart; and additional measures to reduce the amount of time patients stay in the hospital unnecessarily.

Town plans to appeal CLA The Town of Williston plans to appeal its common level of appraisal (CLA) determination received this month from the Vermont Office of Property Evaluation and Review. The determination placed Williston’s CLA at 69 percent, which figures into property tax assessments to support public education. The state uses the CLA to equilize education property tax burden across the state. The percentage represents the difference between the market value of property and the value at which the town is assessing property. The 69 percent CLA is a drop of 8 percentage points from last year’s CLA, reflecting an increase in market value compared to assessed value. Town Assessor Bill Hinman recommended the selectboard appeal, and the board agreed in a unanimous vote on Jan. 16. The appeal is an attempt to increase the town’s CLA, which would lessen the impact of increased school spending on Williston property owners. Under the current CLA, Champlain Valley School District administrators are predicting an 18 percent tax rate increase for Williston property owners in the coming fiscal year. “Given where education taxes are trending, I think it would be helpful,” Town Manager Erik Wells said of the appeal.

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Unfortunately, these kinds of cuts have an impact on our people and on our patient-care and patient-experience initiatives. If we choose to act collectively we can make real strides in overcoming our shared challenges. Here are some key areas where we need partnership:

• Housing —We’ve started to invest in housing for our workforce, but it’s a drop in the bucket compared to what’s needed in our region. We need more, better and smarter housing solutions. • Finances —The health care affordability crisis affects everyone, and it’s going to take a collective effort to change it. But we need more voices calling for meaningful health care reform; realistic reimbursement from Medicare and Medicaid; and a fair and consistent regulatory environment that helps us meet our mission. We all share a common interest in the vitality of our communities. We have everything to gain by working together, and we know what’s at stake: It’s the future of this region, and the quality of life for our children and grandchildren.

Sunil “Sunny” Eappen, MD, MBA, President and CEO, The University of Vermont Health Network

The Town of Williston’s share of funds from the federal pandemic relief bill known as ARPA (the American Rescue Plan Act) will be more than half spent if voters approve the selectboard’s budget proposal at Town Meeting Day in March. In budget deliberations this month, the board added about $700,000 in ARPA funds for a variety of projects for the upcoming fiscal year. The town originally received $3 million from ARPA in 2021 and has already spent about $1 million. With the $700,000 appropriated for next year’s budget, the town will be left with about $1.3 million in its ARPA fund, according to Town Manager Erik Wells. The $700,000 for next fiscal year will go toward paving and door replacements at Williston Fire Department headquarters on Talcott Road; paving of the Town Hall parking lot; further study of a community center and library expansion; replacement of various amenities in Williston’s public parks; replacing vehicles in the public works and police departments; and purchasing equipment to improve emergency response communications. — Jason Starr

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We’re also cutting costs: For example, we’ve reduced expenses by $20 million, including eliminating 130 open positions, in shared administrative services that support organizations throughout our health system. And we’re continuing to closely scrutinize all new hiring.

• Economic development and growth — We need more residents, more people in the workforce, more businesses. This can happen only through a coordinated, all-out effort that involves government and the private sector. We are ready to be a partner in this charge.

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January 25, 2024

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Williston Observer •

Page 3

Around Town Verizon proposal on Old Brick Church Trustees agenda The Old Brick Church Trustees will meet from 5-6 p.m. Jan. 29 in the Town Hall meeting room to share information and take public comment on Verizon’s proposal to install a cell phone antennae and communication equipment at the Old Brick Church. The trustees plan to develop a recommendation regarding the Verizon proposal to share with the Williston Selectboard in March. Also on the agenda is an update on a fire suppression system at the Old Brick Church.

Williston students win state robotics title; WCS finishes third Williston’s youth Lego robotics competitors had a banner day at Saturday’s Vermont state

robotics championships at Norwich University. A homeschool team based in Williston — the Green Mountain Homeschool Robotics Team — won first place and qualified for the world championships in Houston in April. Williston Central School fielded two teams — the Wired Cats and the Brain Bots — with the Wired Cats taking home third place, the best-ever finish by a Champlain Valley School District team and the best public school finish at the event. Teams designed and built robots prior to the event and entered them in timed challenges. The homeschool team of Ted Agnew, Arielle Brkovic, JJ Garcia-Zeleny and Emlyn Leinen is fundraising for the trip to Houston, looking to raise nearly $10,000 in trip expense. Those interested in contributing can contact coach Paula Garcia by email at polly@concept360.com or phone at (970) 217-6585.

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The Williston Wired Cats team, above, competes at the state robotics championship Saturday at Norwich University. Green Mountain Homeschool Robotics Team member JJ Garcia-Zeleny, right, competes Saturday at the state robotics championship at Norwich University.

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Williston Observer •

January 25, 2024

Glaser

continued from page 1

increasingly suburban area. “I’ve always been drawn to the place,” said Olivia Cieri, a Champlain Valley Union High School freshman who has attended camp and worked as a camp counselor at Windswept. “It just kind of has a magical aura. It’s like a second home to me.” With the town set to acquire the horse pasture, Windswept will need to reach an agreement with the selectboard to continue to run horses there. Discussions INDOOR EVENT

ARTISANS & CRAFTS

about that agreement are premature, Town Manager Erik Wells said. The land won’t come under town ownership until the Glasers receive subdivision approval from the Development Review Board (DRB). The DRB gave a preliminary approval in November. “The project will need to obtain a discretionary permit from the DRB next,” Wells said Monday. “The property conveyance itself is a step after obtaining a discretionary permit. The applicant will be required to provide a draft irrevocable offer of dedication for the land donation as part of the MUSIC & DANCING

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discretionary permit application. “The Glaser specific plan advisory committee and the conservation commission both recom-

“I think it’s a model for balancing growth and preservation.” Ted Kenney Selectboard chair

mended that the selectboard work with the Mausses and Windswept Farm to lease the land to them after it is conveyed to the town,” Wells continued. “Discussing a potential lease agreement will likely occur in parallel as the project goes through the (DRB) process.”

In addition to the pastureland, the town is also set to acquire 15 acres fronting Mountain View Road to protect it from housing construction and preserve Green Mountain views. One of the changes the selectboard approved Tuesday was to reclassify that acreage as “protected viewshed” in the town’s Comprehensive Plan. The lone dissenter at last week’s public hearing, resident Reuben Escorpizo, said the public benefit of acquiring the land does not justify the exemption from the town’s existing housing construction limits. The limits are in place “to ensure we have a pace of development that is commensurate with services for all people of Williston,” he said. Alternate development plans

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submitted under the town’s traditional subdivision regulations show a 180-home neighborhood. The plan approved Tuesday calls for 109 homes with two new roads, one intersecting with Old Stage Road and the other with Mountain View Road. The agreement limits construction to 18 homes per year. The Glasers have partnered with Sheppard Homes of Essex on construction. “This plan shows the balance of the need for housing, but it respects the land and preserves a beautiful piece of land for the community,” said resident Cathy Keim. Selectboard chair Ted Kenney agreed: “I think it’s a great plan,” he said. “I think it’s a model for balancing growth and preservation.”

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Williston Observer •

Page 5

Introducing En-ROADS, a climate solutions simulator BY KEVIN BATSON Williston Energy Committee

industrial emissions, growth in population and GDP, and carbon capture affect temperature increase and net greenhouse gas emissions over time.

On Jan. 3, Gov. Phil Scott announced a joint effort to develop a comprehensive climate Resilience Implementation Strategy by July 1, 2025. The hope is to have a balanced plan that addresses both reducing greenhouse gases and adapting to the consequences of climate change. Adaptation is a large and expensive necessity that could have been avoided if action on climate change had been taken before the effects were being felt. The increasingly frequent and more severe storms, hotter summers and shorter winter snow seasons will only become more frequent, more severe and more expensive the longer we delay taking action to address the Additionally, for each of the 18 slide root causes of climate change. bars, you can adjust basic assumptions such At this late date, it is essential that we as start/end dates, pricing mechanisms and choose the most cost-effective, impactful utilization percentages. The simulator’s declimate solutions to incorporate into the ef- fault setting is the present status quo. fort being developed. One extremely useful Developed by Climate Interactive, the tool that anyone can use to help and make MIT Sloan Sustainability Initiative and sure our representatives are choosing the Ventana Systems, En-ROADS is a system best solutions is En-ROADS. dynamics model carefully grounded in the The En-ROADS Climate Solutions best available science. It has been calibrated Simulator is a superb, easy-to-use, fast and against a wide range of existing integrated powerful climate solutions scenario tool assessment, climate and energy models. that anyone can use to understand how If we continue the present track, not takwe can achieve our climate goals through ing additional steps to address the climate, changes in energy, land use, consumption, the model predicts a temperature increase agriculture and other policies. A web search of 3.3 degrees Celsius by 2100. This is more of “en-roads” brings you to the www.cli- than twice the increase climate scientists thesay beauty ofthe catastrophic effects of climateinteractive.org website Discover where you can will avoid natural looking results at Pêche! select the “Explore the En-Roads Simula- mate change. If the Inflation Reduction Act tor” bar. There you can use the interactive initiatives are fully realized, there is hope COME SEE SARAH! COME SEE JASMINE! COME SEE KELLIE! simulator’s 18 slide bars to see how changes we will be able to come close to achieving in energy sourcing, transportation, build- the target of 1.5 degrees Celsius. ings, industrial efficiency, land, food and The takeaway from using the En-Roads

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table and high-leverage climate solutions. You may want to consider joining Sustainable Williston or the Citizens Climate Lobby, which is a bipartisan, national organization that uses En-ROADS and speaks regularly to Congress members about enacting climate solutions. You can also contact your representatives directly, so they know addressing climate change is a priority. To take corrective action and reverse the effects of climate change, we all need to take responsibility and not just expect someone else will fix the problem for us. To participate in Williston’s energy future, reach out to your Williston Energy Committee at energy@willistonvt. org or attend a public meeting held on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month. The agenda for upcoming meetings is posted on the Town of Williston website (www.town.williston. vt.us). For more information, visit: https:// www.willistonvtenergycommittee.org.

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Williston Observer •

January 25, 2024

GUEST COLUMN

Drop-In Chats with Town Manager Erik Wells MORNING COFFEE CHATS 8:30-9:30 A.M.

Healthy Living Market, 129 Market St. in the café seating • Wednesday, Jan. 3 • Monday, Feb. 5 • Monday, Feb. 12 • Wednesday, Feb. 21 • Monday, Feb. 26

Notes from Town Hall BY ERIK WELLS Williston Town Manager Greetings Williston community. Town Meeting Day is right around the corner, on Tuesday, March 5. I’d like to take an opportunity to preview the items for consideration at Town Meeting, and upcoming opportunities to discuss the articles being considered. TOWN BUDGET

The town budget is the spending plan to provide services to the community. The Town of Williston delivers these services in many ways, from police and fire/EMS to public works to the library and recreation and everything in between. To deliver these services, it requires the community to approve a balanced budget that contains the expenses to deliver the services and the funding sources to pay for those services. In preparing the Fiscal Year 2025 budget (July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025) for Town Meeting, the objective was to first deliver the same level of services provided today, and then to identify possible operational areas for additional resourc-

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es amid service delivery pressure points. The selectboard discussed the content of the budget with these areas in mind over a series of public meetings in December and January. The Town of Williston as a municipality faces many of the same pressures that are being seen throughout different sectors of the economy. Providing services to the community is made possible by our dedicated town staff. Attracting new talent and maintaining the municipal workforce continues to be a challenge that is driven by a competitive atmosphere for the available workforce, and the demand for municipal employees among communities throughout the region. Vermont has an unemployment rate hovering around 2 percent, severely limiting the employment pool. With those pressure points in mind, expense increases in the bud-

get are driven by the need to sustain town staffing levels to provide services. Addressing these staffing challenges can be viewed in the budget through increases in wages in the form of cost-of-living and merit increases (including public safety union contracts) and benefit costs. The cost of providing health insurance continues to rise each year, and the town changed its plan for 2024 to realize some cost savings. These expense areas are the primary driver for cost increases seen in the budget. In addition, the town faces increased expenses for professional and contracted services, capital equipment replacement, and material and fuel costs tied to inflation. The budget contains funding for a new sworn police officer position for half the year to allow the department to move a current officer into

a detective position. The town completed a department service analysis working with consultant Jim Baker last year, and filling a detective position was identified as the top priority. The addition of the detective creates a dedicated position to conduct in-depth criminal investigations, with added focus on retail theft. The selectboard has tasked me with preparing a five-year implementation plan to enhance public safety services in the community to deliver later in 2024. In addition, the budget contains funding for the new position of Human Resources Director to join the senior leadership team. Managing and helping to foster a dynamic and resilient staff of over 100 employees requires a human resources professional to be part of the team. The town’s central administration is left to fill this gap to support the work-

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January 25, 2024 force and is stretched to its capacity. Consultant Hickok & Boardman HR Intelligence completed an HR systems audit last fall, and the top recommendation from that work was to establish the HR Director position. The budget funds this position for 5/6ths of the fiscal year. Overall, the Fiscal Year 2025 budget expenses total $15.35 million, about 9.8 percent higher than the current fiscal year. Of the budget increase, just over 1 percent is tied to adding service capacity through new positions and equipment. To balance the budget, several funding sources are utilized, including property taxes, local option sales tax, and fees for services. Williston’s need to collect municipal property taxes is reduced by the local option tax of an added 1 percent on sales, rooms, meals and alcohol. The town projects over $4.1 million in revenue to be raised through this source in fiscal year 2025. This in turn reduces the property tax rate by an estimated 19 cents per $100 of assessed value. Williston has the third-lowest municipal tax rate in Chittenden County as a direct result of the local option sales tax. To round out the funding picture, the town projects just over $8 million in property taxes will need to be raised, and that would require the tax rate to be increased just under 4 cents per $100 of assessed property value. That means for every $100,000 of property value, taxes are projected to increase about $3.30 per

month. A median assessed home in Williston is $300,000, which means the municipal property tax would increase just under $10 per month (about $120 for the year) for that property. The tax rate is set in late June each year following the grand list being finalized. The town projects a flat grand list for the first time in over 20 years, which is another contributing factor to the amount of taxes to raise. Want to delve into the details more? I’m happy to chat with you leading up to Town Meeting or throughout the year. I’ve set up the following drop-in times to chat over the next month, or please reach out to me via email or phone. Complete line item operating and capital budgets for the town are available on the Town website by visiting www.town.williston.vt.us/townmeeting.

duce the amount to bond. The second project is the installation of a fire suppression system at the Old Brick Church. In 2007, a lighting strike to the steeple nearly destroyed the building in a fire. It was the quick action of the Williston Fire Department that enabled the beloved community asset to be saved. Since the fire, a longtime goal has been to install a fire suppression system in the building. The bond article asks for approval to borrow up to $400,000 to support this project. Williston’s Town Meeting will be held on Monday, March 4 at 7 p.m. in the Williston

Williston Observer •

Page 7

Central School auditorium. Following the meeting, there will be a public information session to discuss the articles on the ballot outlined in this message. The polls will be open at the Williston Armory from 7 a.m.–7 p.m. on Tuesday, March 5. Early voting will be available starting in mid-February. For early or absentee voting, please contact Town Clerk Sarah Mason at smason@willistonvt. org. I hope you all enjoy the Vermont winter season. I can always be reached via email at ewells@willistonvt.org or at my desk at 802-876-1168. See you around town.

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BOND ARTICLES

Voters are also asked to consider two bond articles at town meeting. The first is for several improvements to the parking lot behind Town Hall to expand parking, improve drainage and add lighting and an electric conduit for the future electrification of town vehicles and for public charging stations. The article asks for approval of up to a $700,000 bond for the project. The total cost is estimated to be $900,000 with $200,000 of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds being utilized. In addition, the town is applying for a $200,000 grant to assist, which, if awarded would re-

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Williston Observer •

January 25, 2024

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Reducing harm instead of criminalizing The Vermont House bill to authorize two overdose prevention centers in the state, mentioned in last week’s Observer (“Injecting safe spaces into drug policy”) is a welcome addition to the landscape of measures being instituted to change our emphasis from incarcerating our way out of a drug crisis to reducing harm and encouraging recovery. The 16,000 people of faith represented by Vermont Interfaith Action (VIA), the organization that I direct, applaud this step and the House members, like Williston’s own Erin Brady and Angela Arsenault, who

voted in favor of it. After years of work seeking to make our corrections system more humane, just and effective, VIA wholeheartedly joined the Decriminalize Vermont Coalition mentioned in the article. The statement that we shared with the coalition says, “As people of faith, we affirm the sacredness of persons and respect the dignity of all creation. We seek support over punishment, healing over brokenness, and love over fear. It is these shared values that guide us in our support of Decriminalize Vermont, a coalition that addresses substance use disorder as a public health crisis rather than a crime. As witnesses to our faith

traditions, we join others in striving for better policies and safer spaces to support those who struggle with this disorder.” The results of overdose prevention sites, as seen in Europe and New York City, are that they keep those who are suffering from a severe, fatal disease from dying before they are ready to get treatment and restart their lives on a path of recovery. VIA will do all that we can to ensure that both the Vermont Senate and the Governor advance this important measure in our overall drug policy toolkit. Debbie Ingram Vermont Interfaith Action executive director Williston

The weight of the state I’d like to offer a clarification to the Jan. 11 article “Schools predict 18 percent tax increase.” Approximately 5 percent of the change for taxpayers, which averages 18 percent across the Champlain Valley School District’s five towns, is due to the school district’s budget. The largest impact on taxpayers comes from the Common Level of Appraisal, which reflects the increased value of homes and properties. Calculated by the state, this 13 percent is not related to, or within the control of, the school district. To the community, your vote is important. Passing a school budget is a significant and necessary win for

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young people, teachers, staff and the community. Even when the budget climate is challenging, I am buoyed by the participation and professionalism of all involved. We strive to meet the district’s goals at a cost the public will support. It is with great belief in and love for public education that I serve the Champlain Valley School District community. I would also like to convey great respect and well-wishes to board member Josilyn Adams, who has served our schools with authenticity and heart for six years. You will be the best guest teacher! Lindsay Colf Champlain Valley School Board St. George

‘For whom the bell tolls’ It occurred to me on Christmas Eve that the Federated Church was again using the Brick Church for its candlelight service, and that, when I was a trustee, we used to ring the bell at midnight to usher in Christmas Day. We also rang the bell at high noon on July Fourth as part of the celebrations in the Village. Over 192 years, the bell has tolled at weddings, memorial services and times of mourning. After the fire in 2007 and during the restoration effort, Brick Church trustee Barrett Peterson insisted, against some opposition, that we replace the bell that was ruptured by the lightning strike with a legitimate antique bell of the same size, correct even to its mid-19th century casting in see LETTERS page 9

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January 25, 2024

Letters

continued from page 8

ICE RINK AT VILLAGE COMMUNITY PARK

The ice rink at Village Community Park is open. The entrance to the rink, by the warming hut, will be open when the rink is safe to use, and closed off by fencing when the rink is unsafe, or ice is being made. Openings and closings of rink will be posted at www.willistonrec.org. Please respect the rink; be careful of the liner, boards and brackets so they can be reused each year. Share in the use. No one group has priority or allocated time. All are welcome. INSTRUCTORS WANTED

The Rec Department is looking for instructors for spring and summer programs. The deadline to make it into the Spring/ Summer Program Guide is Feb. 1. Instructors are also sought for summer camp programs. Those interested should fill out a Program Proposal Form at www.willistonrec.org.

FAMILY PROGRAMS TABLE TENNIS

Ages 12-plus. Come out and play, stay fit and meet new people. The program is open to all experience levels. Players should bring their own paddles (a limited number of loaner paddles are available). Players under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

ADULT PROGRAMS SENIOR STRENGTH & FUNCTIONAL MOBILITY

Age 50-plus. Grab your weights and a water bottle and join this fitness program just for Seniors. The program will concentrate on developing upper and lower body strength as well as improving balance and strengthening your core. In this dementia-friendly class participants are encouraged to work within their abilities while socializing and having fun. The program meets Wednesdays and Fridays, 9:45-10:45 a.m. starting Feb. 7. Cost is $5 per visit, payable when you attend class. The program is held at The R.E.C. Zone, 94 Harvest Lane. Optional equipment to bring with you: hand/ankle weights, bands/tubing, mat, ball. Chairs will be available to all participants. JAZZERCISE CARDIO SCULPT

Jazzercise is for every body. Dance, sweat and say hello to your favorite workout with easy-to-follow dance aerobic moves, strength training and flexibility. Programs

are low impact with different levels of intensity. Instructors will show you options to take it high or low with lots of energy. Use of a chair is optional. This program is geared toward adults 50-plus but open to everyone looking for a low-impact workout to start your physical wellness journey. There are two different programs offered: • Cardio Sculpt Low, (low impact, lowto- moderate intensity): Classes offered year round, Mondays and Wednesdays, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. • Cardio Sculpt High, (low impact, moderate to high intensity): Class offered year round, Tuesdays 4:45-5:45 p.m. Purchase one of three class pass options and start any time: single class, good for one month; 5 class pass, good for two months; 10 class pass, good for three months. Bring: clean indoor sneakers to change into, light hand-held weights and water. GENTLE YOGA

This class provides all of the benefits of yoga in a slower pace with a focus on increasing flexibility, releasing tension and improving strength. A gentle exploration of range of motion allows each person to determine their level of flexibility and proceed with an inward focus. Program starts Jan. 15 and is open to all ages but is geared toward 50-plus. Instructor: Jean Burke BASKETBALL PICKUP PROGRAM, WOMEN

Age 19-plus. Come out and play, stay fit and meet new people. The program is for the not-so-serious player who is looking to play, get exercise and have fun. Preregister.

YOUTH PROGRAMS YOUTH LACROSSE

Registration Opens Feb. 4. Lacrosse is a fast-paced sport that combines the power of football and hockey and the endurance of soccer and basketball. The KinderRec program is coed and is a child/parent program for ages 5-6. The Grade 1-8 program offer separate boys and girls teams. Volunteer coaches are needed in these programs. NINJA KIDS INTRO

Ages 4-8 or 7-11. This play-based curriculum increases strength and self-confidence, while moving meditation helps children manage their emotions and develop the connection between mental and physical well-being. Instructor: ONTA Studio Staff.

Troy, NY. It was a significant consideration for the town, both in expense and process for installation during the final stages of that miraculous reconstruction effort. And I remember our joy as we beheld the pealing of the new bell, functional once again on that first Christmas Eve service after the fire. It’s well known that the town center and nearby neighborhoods desperately need to have reliable cell service to be able to function with modern day communications. And the creation of a central relay tower to provide this service is way overdue. But the plans for an invasive retrofit of our iconic church building, a landmark that has until this point been honored for its architectural significance and cherished for the cultural legacy that it represents, is nothing less than disrespectful to our forebearers.

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Williston Observer •

Page 9

Among other plans to “slice and dice” the building, I can’t imagine that Verizon’s proposal to install sensitive transmission equipment immediately adjacent to the bell in the tower wouldn’t preclude using the bell for celebrations in the future. Their corporate mindset doesn’t extend to honoring this town’s historic past as represented by the Brick Church, the oldest public building in Williston. Forgetting the effort it took to rehabilitate the structure after the devastating fire, 16 years later our focus has turned to tech-expediency, trumping a more noble value. Should this project proceed with a disregard for our heritage, then the question becomes moot: “for whom the bell tolls?” As Barrett Peterson understood in 2007, it tolls for Williston’s past. It tolls for our identity. Jack Price Former Old Brick Church Trustee (1990-2018) Williston

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Page 10release • Williston January 25, 2024 dates: Feb,Observer 24-March 1,• 2024

08 (24)

Next Week: Ramadan

Founded by Betty Debnam

Colorful Vermont

Mini Fact:

Presidents Wilson, Coolidge and Theodore Roosevelt all had summer homes in Vermont. photo by Stanley Zimny

“Vermont” comes from the French words “vert,” meaning green, and “mont,” meaning mountain. Its nickname is the Green Mountain State. Our 14th state, Vermont has long been famous for its independent spirit. Native Americans, including Abenaki and Mohawk peoples, lived in the area for about 12,000 years. The first European to explore the region was French explorer Samuel de Champlain in 1609. England took control after the French and Indian War ended in 1763. Vermont did not become a state until 1791. Instead, it stayed an independent republic for about 10 years after the Revolutionary War. It was the first state to outlaw slavery, in 1777. Vermont has the smallest percent of people living in cities of all the states. Only about one-third of the population lives in urban areas. Out of 50 states, Vermont is 49th in population, with about 650,000 people.

Natural Vermont

When Europeans arrived, Vermont was almost 100% forested. By the 1850s, only about one-fourth of the state had any forestland. Today, forests have recovered to fill almost 80% of the state. Maple trees give the state its extra-colorful

fall foliage. Vermont produces about 2 1/2 million gallons of maple syrup each year, more than A farmer pours sap that’s been any other gathered from a maple tree to make state. The syrup in 1940. sugar maple is the state tree. The Connecticut River forms Vermont’s eastern border. The state is also bordered by Canada, New York, New Hampshire and Massachusetts. The Green Mountains, some of the oldest mountains in the world, run through the middle of the state, dividing the east and west.

Living in Vermont

Montpelier (mont-PEEL-yer), in the state’s center, is Vermont’s capital, but Burlington is the largest city. About 225,000 people live in Burlington’s metropolitan area. Vermonters work in tourism and manufacturing, along with services such as real estate and government. Farming is also important to the state. Outdoor sports include cross-country and downhill skiing, hiking, snowboarding, snowshoeing, rock climbing, canoeing and rafting.

Famous Vermonters

• Norman Rockwell was an American painter who lived in Arlington, Vermont, during the time when he created some of his most famous works. He was known for “Freedom From his paintings of a 1943 painting American everyday Want,” by Norman Rockwell. life, which were featured on magazine covers and in books. • Bernie Sanders is a U.S. senator from Vermont. He has held that office since 2007. Although he is an Independent, Sanders ran for president in Bernie Sanders 2016, hoping to be the Democratic Party’s nominee. • John Deere was a blacksmith who started Deere & Co., which makes equipment for construction and farming. He was born in 1804 in Rutland, John Deere Vermont.

photo by Ricardo Stuckert/PR

Issue 08, 2024

Resources On the Web:

• bit.ly/MPVermont

At the library:

• “Vermont” by Casey Englund • “Now and Then at Grampy’s Sugar House” by Ashley Sevigny

Try ’n’ Find

Mini Jokes

Words that remind us of Vermont are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find: ABENAKI, COLORFUL, DEERE, FARMING, FOREST, GREEN, INDEPENDENT, MAPLE, MOHAWK, MONTPELIER, MOUNTAIN, REPUBLIC, ROCKWELL, SANDERS,

E M F A C R I R O U E F L W R E O T N E R K M S F B L L

R M I N G T E I L E P T D Z S M O H P U B L I C D N E P E D I R U O T L E W K C O R

S E R O F N O M Z V A W K P E I B N S R N I E K M A T E I O P P R I N

Sydney: How’s the new movie about maple syrup? Sam: It starts out sappy, but ends up sweet.

Eco Note Goldfish discarded into Canadian waterways by careless pet owners are becoming an increasing threat to the

only about one-fourth of the state had any forestland. Today, forests have recovered to fill almost 80% of the state. Maple trees give the state its extra-colorful

Outdoor sports include cross-country and downhill skiing, hiking, snowboarding, snowshoeing, rock climbing, canoeing and rafting.

• “Vermont” by Casey Englund • “Now and Then at Grampy’s Sugar House” by Ashley Sevigny January 25, 2024

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Williston Observer •

Page 11

Try ’n’ Find

Mini Jokes

Sydney: How’s the new movie about maple syrup? Sam: It starts out sappy, but ends up sweet.

E M F A R M I N G T S E R O F C R I R E I L E P T N O M Z V O U E F D Z S M O H A W K P E L W R E P U B L I C I B N S R O T N E D N E P E D N I E K M R K M S I R U O T L A T E I O F B L L E W K C O R P P R I N U B Y M O U N T A I N A G N T L R F S A N D E R S W O M G Y V I K A N E B A P U R Y S W A

Eco Note Goldfish discarded into Canadian waterways by careless pet owners are becoming an increasing threat to the ecology of stormwater ponds and the Great Lakes, where they are growing into a supersized problem. “They can eat anything and everything,” Christine Boston, an aquatic research biologist with Fisheries and Oceans Canada. The quick breeders can survive in extreme conditions, including water with toxic blue-green algae. Growing to up to 16 inches in length, they quickly become too large to be eaten by other predatory freshwater fish species. adapted with permission from Earthweek.com

Cook’s Corner

What to do: 1. Cook onion pieces and butter in a medium pot over medium heat for 5 minutes. Stir frequently. 2. Add remaining ingredients. Cook 20 minutes or until warm. Stir frequently. Serves 6.

7 Little Words for Kids Use the letters in the boxes to make a word with the same meaning as the clue. The numbers in parentheses represent the number of letters in the solution. Each letter combination can be used only once, but all letter combinations will be necessary to complete the puzzle.

ING

FAU

ART

DIST

LEY

ANT

CET

HUR

ILY

Answers: alley, texting, Arthur, faucet, daily, jacket, distant.

1. path between city buildings (5) 2. messaging on a phone (7) 3. brother of D.W. and Kate (6) 4. water comes out of it (6) 5. once every 24 hours (5) 6. coat (6) 7. far away (7)

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce • 1 teaspoon mustard

You’ll need: • 1/2 cup chopped onion • 1/4 cup butter • 2 (16-ounce) cans baked beans • 1/3 cup maple syrup

* You’ll need an adult’s help with this recipe.

Maple Beans

For later:

Look for newspaper articles that mention things happening in Vermont.

Teachers: Follow and

interact with The Mini Page on Facebook!

Page 12

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Williston Observer •

January 25, 2024

SAVVY SENIOR What you need to know about Medicare spouse coverage By Jim Miller

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life, but my wife has been a mother and homemaker since we got married and hasn’t held an income-producing job since she was in college. Will she be eligible for Medicare? Searching Spouse Dear Searching, There are many couples in your situation when it comes to applying for Medicare. The answer generally is yes, your spouse can qualify for Medicare on your work record. Here’s how it works. MEDICARE REQUIREMENTS

Medicare, the government health insurance program for older adults, covers around 60 million Americans aged 65 and older, as well as those younger who have a qualifying disability or have end-stage renal disease. To be eligible, you must have worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years to qualify for premium-free Medicare Part A hospital coverage when you turn 65. If you qualify, then your non-working spouse will qualify too, based on your work record when she turns 65. Divorced spouses are also eligible if they were married at

least 10 years and are single, as are surviving spouses who are single and who were married for at least nine months before their spouse died. In addition to Part A, both you and your spouse would also qualify for Medicare Part B, which covers doctor’s visits and other outpatient services, but requires a monthly premium. The premium for Part B beneficiaries in 2024 is $174.70 per month per person. Couples filing jointly with incomes over $206,000 per year pay even more. There are also a number of other caveats you should know about depending on your wife’s age. OLDER SPOUSES

If your wife is older than you, she can qualify for Medicare on your work record at age 65, even if you’re not getting Medicare yourself, but you must be at least 62 years old. You also must have been married for at least one year for your wife to apply for Medicare on your work record. If you are still working and your wife is covered by your employer’s health insurance, she may want to enroll only in the premium-free Medicare Part A until you retire, or your em-

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ployer coverage ends. Part B — along with its premium — can be added later without penalty as long as your employer’s group health plan is your “primary coverage.” Check with your employer’s human resources department to find out about this. (Note: If your wife is funding a health savings account, she may not want to take Part A because she can’t make contributions after she enrolls). YOUNGER SPOUSES

If your wife is younger than you, she will need health insurance until she turns 65 and becomes eligible for Medicare. This may be through the Health Insurance Marketplace (see www.healthcare.gov), or if you’re still working, through COBRA (see www.dol.gov/general/topic/health-plans/cobra). OTHER MEDICARE CHOICES

In addition to Medicare Part A and B, when you and your wife become Medicare eligible, each of you will also need to enroll in a Part D prescription drug plan if you don’t have credible drug coverage from your employer or union. And, you may want to purchase a Medicare supplemental (Medigap) policy too, to help pay for things that aren’t covered by Medicare like copayments, coinsurance and deductibles. Or, you may want to consider an all-in-one Medicare Advantage plan. For more information on Medicare choices and enrollment rules, visit www.Medicare.gov or call 800-633-4227. You can also get help through your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (see www. shiphelp.org), which provides free Medicare counseling. Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.

January 25, 2024

• Williston Observer •

Page 13

CROSSWORD • SOLUTION ON PAGE 15

TODAY’S HISTORY:

• In 1533, King Henry VIII of England secretly married Anne Boleyn. • In 1787, Shays’ Rebellion forces failed in an attempt to overtake the U.S. arsenal in Springfield, Massachusetts. • In 1915, Alexander Graham Bell made the first transcontinental telephone call from New York to San Francisco. • In 1961, a few days after his inauguration, President John F. Kennedy held the first live televised presidential news conference. • In 2004, NASA’s Opportunity rover landed on the surface of Mars.

TODAY’S FACT:

• The Mars Opportunity rover continued to make scientific observations and report back to Earth until June 10, 2018, more than 13 years beyond the duration of activity for which it was designed.

Find the 7 words to match the 7 clues. The numbers in parentheses represent the number of letters in each solution. Each letter combination can be used only once, but all letter combinations will be necessary to complete the puzzle.

CLUES

SOLUTIONS

1 “star-crossed” surname (8) ___________ 2 reach for the stars (6) ___________ 3 Hollywood star (7) ___________ 4 starstruck individual (8) ___________ 5 having stars in one’s eyes (10) ___________ 6 act in the starring role (8) ___________ 7 The Beatles’ Starr (5) ___________

IRE

ASP

ACT

OPT

FAN

MON

IMI

DLI

PER

GUE

NGO

HEA

SUDOKU • SOLUTION ON PAGE 15

1/28

Today’s Answers: 1. MONTAGUE 2. ASPIRE 3. ACTRESS 4. SUPERFAN 5. OPTIMISTIC 6. HEADLINE 7. RINGO

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•

Williston Observer •

January 25, 2024

CLASSIFIEDS LEGAL TOWN OF WILLISTON Notice of Adoption Specific Plan at Glaser Parcel On January 16, 2024, following a public hearing, the Williston Selectboard adopted amendments to the Williston 2016-2024 Comprehensive Plan (Town Plan), pursuant to 24 V.S.A §4384 and the Williston Unified Development Bylaw (WDB) pursuant to 24 V.S.A §4442. The purpose of these amendments is to proceed with the Glaser Specific Plan (SP 23-01) in strict conformance with the criteria and procedures of WDB Chapter 9. The Glaser Specific Plan (SP 23-01) proposes a 109± unit residential subdivision with the provision of ±50-acres open space donated to the Town as the substantial benefit. Jack and Caitlin Glaser own ±97-acres at 1095 Old Stage Road, located at the southwest corner of Mountain View Road and Old Stage Road. The open space offered for donation to the Town includes ±15-acres of viewshed along Mountain View Road with views to the Green Mountains, a view that is identified in the town plan, and ±35-acres of pasture, wetland, and forest,

in alignment with broader town plan goals to support working landscapes and conservation. Copies of the entire text of the adopted 2016-2024 Comprehensive Plan and Unified Development Bylaw amendments are available for review during regular business hours at the Town Hall located at 7900 Williston Road, Williston, VT and can also be found on the Town’s website at http://town.williston.vt.us by navigating to public records & documents then legal notices. Contact Emily Heymann, Senior Planner & Deputy Zoning Administrator at (802) 878-6704, or at eheymann@ willistonvt.org with any questions. The Town Plan and WDB amendments are summarized here: Town Plan Chapter 13: Refer to the fields southwest of the intersection of Mountain View and Old Stage with views towards the Green Mountains as a protected viewshed, rather than unprotected. Also, acknowledge the other protected open spaces for working landscape and conservation. WDB Chapter 11: At discretionary permit, the Development Review Board (DRB) must make findings that the subdivision

SHELBURNE Human Resources Assistant $23-$26/hr., DOQ This is a full-time administrative position responsible for providing comprehensive and efficient human resource support and services to the Town of Shelburne employees. The HR Assistant will be responsible for recruitment and onboarding, records management, benefits administration, HR reporting, training and development, and other HR related projects. We are looking for a self-motivated problem solver who is resourceful and organized with excellent interpersonal and customer service skills. We are excited to shape this position to the skills and interest of the right person who will be energized by working in the public sector. The Town of Shelburne offers competitive salaries and an excellent benefits package. Visit www.shelburnevt.org/jobs to see full job description and employment application. To apply, submit application and resume to Susan Cannizzaro at scannizzaro@shelburnevt.org. Review of applications begins immediately. The Town of Shelburne is an equal opportunity employer.

upholds a 50-point score. Following approvals, no more than 18 dwelling units per fiscal year can receive administrative permits to being construction until project completion. This scoring and allocation schedule is separate from WDB 11.3 and 11.4-11.9. WDB Chapter 26: Clarify that the exemption from street trees to preserve a scenic vista applies to this property’s frontage along Mountain View Road and Old Stage Road.

will hold public hearings to consider amendments to the Williston Unified Development Bylaw on February 6, 2024 at 7:00 PM in the Town Hall Annex Meeting Room in the Town Hall Annex at 7878 Williston Road. The public hearings may also be attended virtually on Zoom. Public comment at these hearings is welcomed and encouraged. Hearing 1: proposed amendments to the town’s Unified Development Bylaw related to future planned streets in Taft Corners:

WDB Chapter 39: Recognize the existence of the Specific Plan and codify its required substantial benefit purpose and requirements at discretionary permit.

Amend Williston’s Official Map to remove future “Tier 2 Streets” from lands owned by Vermont State University on Blair Park Road, Helena Drive, and Route 2

Appendix K: As required by WDB 9.3.5, The “detailed guideline for development” includes the site plan, Growth Management questionnaire, the viewshed rendering, and accompanying materials from the Planning Commission and advisory committee review process as reference documents during the permitting process.

Amend the Regulating Plan and Street Specifications Maps in Williston’s FormBased Code (Appendix F) to remove future “Tier 2 Streets” from lands owned by Vermont State University on Blair Park Road, Helena Drive, and Route 2

The amendments to the WDB will take effect on February 6, 2024, unless a petition signed by at least five percent of the voters of Williston is filed with the Town Clerk by February 5, 2024, asking for a vote to disapprove the adoption. If a petition is received, the Selectboard will warn a special meeting and the voters may vote on that question pursuant to 24 V.S.A. § 1973. The amendment to the Town Plan was effective upon adoption by the Selectboard on January 16, 2024. Dated at Williston, Vermont this 18th day of January 2024.

LEGAL Notice of Public Hearing TOWN OF WILLISTON February 6, 2024, 7:00 PM Town Hall Meeting Room To participate remotely: zoom.us/join or call (646) 558-8656 Zoom Meeting ID 873 0175 0819 The Williston Planning Commission

Hearing 2: proposed amendments to the Town’s Unified Development Bylaw related to residential building heights, residential densities, density bonuses for affordable housing developments, and zoning map amendments related to compliance with new provisions of 24 V.S.A. 4412 adopted under the HOME Act in 2023: Allow multi-family residential buildings with four or fewer units in Williston Sewer Service Area, Including Agricultural Rural Residential Zone, where required by the HOME ACT. Reduce minimum parking requirements for residential developments as required by the HOME Act. Change Taft Corners Form Based Code Overlay District to Taft Corners Form Based Code Zoning District, move from Appendix F to Chapter 32, and Amend Zoning Map to reflect. Clarify motor vehicle fueling (gas stations) and cannabis retail are prohibited uses with the Taft Corners Form Based Code Zoning District Remove Business Park Zoning District from Chapter 32. Reduce maximum allowed building height in Form-Based Code Zoning District Shopfront and Town Center from five

Champlain Valley School District Food Service Prep/Server Redhawk Café is seeking a full time, energetic individual to join the food service team. Work a school schedule, February and April School Break paid and paid personal time. Medical, Dental and Retirement plans!. Come work in a safe, structured environment where your efforts are appreciated. Detailed job description available upon request or at interview. Please request an application or apply at www.cvsdvt.org/jobs Questions, contact Leo LaForce, llaforce@cvsdvt.org or by calling 802-482-7172 CVSD is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to ensuring that all of our students achieve our mission - which means we are also committed to developing a faculty and staff that represents the inclusive, welcoming environment we seek to develop for students and families. We seek applicants with diverse experiences who share this commitment and strongly encourage Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC), immigrants, women, and LGBTQ+ candidates to apply.

stories to four stories, previous five-story maximum only allowed for Affordable Housing Projects as required by the HOME Act. Replace “Dwelling Unit Equivalent” throughout with “dwelling,” which ensures Williston’s zoning regarding density complies with the HOME Act. Restate required 40% density bonus for Affordable Housing Projects as required by the HOME Act in all residential and mixed-use districts. Remove “focal point” from Chapter 46 Definitions and add “footprint lot” definition to clarify that such lots are not subject to allowed residential densities for small lots otherwise required by provisions of the HOME Act. View the proposed changes online: https://bit.ly/willistonbylaw2023 Contact Matt Boulanger at the Williston Planning Office at (802) 878-6704 or mboulanger@willistonvt.org for additional information.

LEGAL TOWN OF WILLISTON DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD AGENDA Tuesday, February 13, 2024 – 7:00 PM Town Hall Meeting Room (Town Hall, 7900 Williston Road, use rear entrance) or Zoom Meeting ID 846 5863 3532 on zoom.us/join or call 1-646-558-8656 DP 24-14 Pre-App CSWD requests preapp review of the proposed Materials Recycling Facility, a ±72,000 sf building on 2 lots totaling 36 ac. at 432 and 694 Redmond Rd in the IZDE. Continued from January 8, 2024: APP 24-02 Waldo and Mary Siple appeal the zoning violation dated October 24, 2023, Re: RV Use Exceeding Duration Limits and Unpermitted Establishment of a Dwelling Unit at 1250 South Rd in the ARZD. Project details and site plans are available on the website, town.williston.vt.us, under “Public Records and Documents”, then “Agendas & Minutes”, and “Development Review Board”. Contact Planning & Zoning Office for more information: 802-878-6704 or email planning@willistonvt.org

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Williston Observer •

January 25, 2024

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