The Other Paper - 03-24-22

Fair play

Super troopers

Lawmakers tackle racial disparities in drug offenses

Two Scouts reach Eagle status

POSTAL CUSTOMER

Page 8

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT #217 CONCORD, NH ECRWSSEDDM

Page 5

South Burlington’s Community Newspaper Since 1977

the MARCH 24, 2022

otherpapersbvt.com

City cuts $70k check in another police settlement

VOLUME 46, NO. 12

Tuttle Award winner

Case raises qualified immunity question AVALON STYLES-ASHLEY STAFF WRITER

For the second time this year, the city of South Burlington will pay out a settlement in a case involving the police department.

The city will pay $70,000 to Matthew Rudavsky, who filed a lawsuit against multiple police officers in 2018, alleging that he was the victim of excessive force

during a 2015 arrest.

According to the complaint, in 2015 Rudavsky was arrested in South Burlington after a drunken, verbal altercation and transported to the police station. He alleged that one of the officers, then detective Christopher Bataille — now listed as a sergeant — “attacked” him while handcuffed, “roughSee SETTLEMENT on page 10

New U-Mall owners bring ‘hope’ to town Some hope for housing, economic spark AVALON STYLES-ASHLEY STAFF WRITER

The University Mall could be the next piece in South Burlington’s downtown revitalization plan. At least that’s the hope of city council chair Helen Riehle, who crossed her fingers after the mall’s new owners came on board. There are no firm development plans, but Riehle put in her plug for housing.

“It’s gone through good times and harder times,” she said. “I’m hoping that they have a new vision for what retail needs to look like.

Maybe some thought of including some housing, entertainment or

other amenities that bring people to a mall besides just shopping.”

The University Mall, which covers about 51 acres off Dorset Street and is the largest shopping mall in Vermont, sold to Massachusetts-based Eastern Real Estate and New York-based Taconic Capital Advisors for $60 million in a deal that closed March 4.

Eastern Real Estate director Andrew Hayes will oversee the planning, leasing and positioning of the mall, according to a press release. He’s said he’s excited to join the city’s plans for a vibrant See MALL on page 10

COURTESY PHOTO

Andrew Swift, president of the South Burlington Rotary Club, presents the Frederick H. Tuttle Award to Steve Rexford in a March 16 presentation in the lobby of city hall, with Lynn Vera, the South Burlington resident who nominated him for the award. See story, page 11.

Page 2 • March 24, 2022 • The Other Paper

Business group meets University mall owner COURTESY PHOTOS

Above: Members of the South Burlington Business Association chat after last week’s meeting, from left, Chelsea Condos of Gallagher Flynn, Sean Larkin from OnLogic, city manager Jessie Baker and Jennifer Murray from the city’s library.

Above right: Andrew Hayes from Eastern Real Estate, which just purchased the University Mall, addresses the South Burlington Business Association.

Members and guests of the South Burlington Business Association met with city manager Jessie Baker and her leadership team for a meeting centered around the city’s priorities, COVID-19 relief funds, the City Center development, and basic city functions. Andrew Hayes of

Eastern Real Estate, the group that recently purchased University Mall in partnership with Taconic Capital Advisors, was introduced to the business community and made brief remarks about the mall.

For information about the group, contact Julie Beatty at sbbabiz@ gmail.com or visit sbbabiz.com.

Exercise care during mudseason, says public works Now that temperatures are warming and the ground is thawing the South Burlington Department of Public Works is shifting out of winter mode and getting ready for normal spring and summer activities.

The department is current-

ly taking equipment like street sweepers and line striping equipment out of storage and de-winterizing it.

“If the weather holds, you should see our crews out sweeping and striping in the next few weeks.

Our highway crew has been filling

potholes with cold patch between snow storms all winter,” said Tom DiPietro, director of public works department.

He said that once the paving plants open, the crews will switch over to hot mix, which stays in the potholes much better than the cold

patch.

“Motorists should notice an improvement in road surface conditions,” DiPietro said.

South Burlington does not close roads or impose additional weight limit restrictions in the spring. All South Burlington roads use the state’s standard weight

limit of 24,000 pounds.

DiPietro said that overweight vehicles need a permit from the department of public works from its website.

“During mudseason, we may ask overweight vehicles to avoid certain roads on a case-by-case basis,” he said.

USED BOOK SALE

Friends of the South Burlington Library

Friday, April 1, 2:00-5:00 Saturday, April 2, 10:00-2:00

Burlington, Vermont

MEMBER-ONLY PREVIEW NIGHT THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 5:00-7:00

JOIN AT THE EVENT - INDIVIDUAL MEMBERSHIP DONATION IS $10!

Open House on Campus Friday, April 8th at 4pm Explore Rock Point School

• Small, supportive day & boarding school • Co-ed, grades 9–12 • Fit in. Stand out.

REGISTER TODAY AT

rockpointschool.org

SORTED BOOKS IN GREAT CONDITION! Adult Fiction & Non-Fiction Paperback & Hardcover Audio Books & DVDs

Children & Young Adult Gardening, Art & Cooking MCAT Review Books

PRICED TO SELL... FROM $.50 TO $2.00 EACH

(MASKS IN ACCORDANCE WITH CURRENT LIBRARY POLICY AT TIME OF SALE)

180 Market Street - South Burlington, VT

The Other Paper • March 24, 2022 • Page 3

May I please have your attention number 19 entered our daily vernacular, smartphone scrolling already had eroded our ability to concentrate. An article in Carole Vasta Folley Time said we now have a shorter attention span than a goldfish. That was in Lately, I’ve been looking around 2015! What is it now? A goldfish made by in every nook and cranny for — hey, wouldn’t that be a great TV show? “Nook Pepperidge Farm?

And what are we scrolling? Usually a and Cranny”: a feisty pair of octogenarian deluge of bad news. Just reading public detectives solve crimes the old-fashioned radio’s online report about “doomscrollway. You know, with ingenuity, gumption ing” made me depressed. Well, until I and maybe a set of encyclopedias? clicked an eye-catching ad. Who knew Nook, an older, sassier Jessica FletchNPR had a wine club? Seriously, you er, trips bad guys with her walker. And didn’t expect me to finish the Cranny? She wears a rumpled article, did you? After all, beige raincoat over her cardigan I’ve got an attention-span of a and at the end of every episode, cracker. pauses and says, “Just one Interestingly, I’ve expemore thing,” only to add, “You rienced something distinctly go ahead, I’m going to rest a contrary and surprising amid the minute.” ramble. Instantaneous sensations After cracking the case, of appreciation. As if my brain, Nook and Cranny catch the in its nomadic state, was taking early bird special and … wait a stock repeatedly. Whether my minute, what I was saying? Oh Carole Vasta Folley eye landed on my relentlessly yeah. Lately, I’ve been looktrusty mechanical pencil, or ing around for where I lost my the pink sea salt I sprinkled on focus. my plate, or the daybreak I did nothing Listen, I have a lot of good thoughts, they’re just not where I left them. It seems to make happen — all of it registered as remarkable. my stream of consciousness has flooded My wandering focus bloomed into a and often I’m paddling upstream just to wondering one. remember the end of a sentence. The one It’s no wonder this happened. The I’m in the middle of saying.

I don’t know about you, but I could be sheer act of recognizing something can appreciate the value of the thing itself. securely at my desk, seemingly buckIt was the stopping what I’m doing and led in for another few hours of work, seeing what’s around me that caused this when suddenly, I’m folding laundry. new level of appreciation. Who knew Thank goodness I’m working from home my skimpy attention span would reveal because that’d be awkward at the office. what’s been hiding all along between the I’m not alone. It’s comforting to know cracks of my previously intense focus this brain fog isn’t limited to just me. and “git ‘er done” mentality? There’s just Not naming names, but the other day, my room for the appreciation to come out husband put the milk away in a drawer. now.

Experts say to blame this increased I’m inspired to celebrate this unexlack of focus on the pandemic. Research pected perk of my meandering focus by shows extended periods of stress and channeling Det. Cranny. In her Columanxiety create a ceaseless pressure that bo-esque way, I shall continue to pause negatively impacts our concentration. and say, “Just one more thing,” only to Remember that old commercial with the add, “Wow!” fried egg, “This is your brain on drugs”?

Well, this lack of focus is our brain Carole Vasta Folley is a Vermont in a pandemic. Wait! Did I leave a frying award winning playwright and columnist. pan on the stove?

Contact her at carolevf.com.

Long before the word Covid and the

In Musing

2022

Pet Licenses

TOP DOG & FIRST FELINE CONTEST Register your pet by April 1 for a chance to win!

Owner’s Name:___________________________________________________ Owner’s Address:_________________________________________________ Phone:____________________ Email:_______________________________ Renewal

New Pet

/

Dog

Cat

Pet’s Name:___________________________________ (please circle): Male Female Spayed/Neutered (please circle): Y N Rabies Certificate Enclosed (please circle): Y N Vet’s Name & Phone____________________________

FEES until April 1, 2022 DOG Spayed or Neutered $25 Non-neutered or spayed $29 CAT Spayed or Neutered $12 Non-neutered or spayed $16

Please return this form along with a rabies certificate (with a vet’s signature) and the applicable fee to:

City Clerk’s Office • 180 Market Street • S. Burlington, VT 05403

Beautiful

New Arrivals for all your

Special Events

The Other Paper • Every Home, Every Business, Every Thursday

MICROBLADING A technique that permanently shapes and fills thin brows for a well-defined and natural look.

microblading - microshading - faux freckles - lip blush - eyeliner - piercings - scalp pigmentation - areola restoration -

Shannon Louise, Licensed Permanent Cosmetic Tattooist 24 Pinecrest Drive • Essex Junction, VT jaibeauty.com • 802-363-0323

Jonathan simkhai, Shoshanna, Alice & Olivia, Shona Joy, Trina turk, Ted Baker, Halston, Julie Vos, DVF, Monique L'huillier, Toccin, Mac Duggal, tadashi shoji, Marella, Alexis...

Page 4 • March 24, 2022 • The Other Paper

Man pleads guilty in fraud case at Autobahn collision center MIKE DONOGHUE CORRESPONDENT

A man who authorities say defrauded a well-known South Burlington auto repair shop out of nearly $190,000 has pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in Burlington to a federal fraud charge.

Corey Dike, 35, of Essex, admitted Monday he developed a scheme to obtain money from the Autobahn Body Works Inc. through false and fraudulent

pretenses between January 2018 and March 2020, according to federal court records.

Under a plea agreement, Dike acknowledged he issued more than $160,000 in fraudulent checks and charged more than $25,714 to a credit card owned by Patrick Ayer, documents show.

Dike has agreed to make full restitution, as determined by the court, to the Autobahn and its owners, Patrick and Terese Ayer, court papers show.

To defraud his then-employer out of money and property, Dike wrote unauthorized checks to himself and his spouse and place unapproved charges on the owner’s credit card, according to court records.

The felony charges list only one of the unauthorized misappropriations — a $2,037 charge made to a Canadian auto parts manufacturer, Fabless Manufacturing, on Oct. See FRAUD on page 12

What would you do with an extra $26 per month?

South Burlington Police Blotter Total incidents: 180 Suspicious events: 13 Retail theft: 12 Traffic stops: 11 Motor vehicle complaints: 10 Threats/harassment: 6 Stolen vehicles: 6 Mental health issues: 2 Incidents: March 13 at 3:53 p.m., police investigated a burglary at East Terrace.

March 13 at 9:05 p.m., a vehicle was stolen near the University Mall.

March 14 between 8:30 and 9:09 a.m., an officer conducted three traffic stops along Spear Street at Swift Street, Allen Road and Preserve Road.

March 14 at 4:10 p.m., larceny was reported from the Heritage Toyota on Shelburne Road.

March 15 at 1:04 p.m., a domestic incident was reported on Pine Street.

March 15 at 8:20 p.m., police investigated fraud on Jefferson Road.

March 16 at 9:07 a.m., police responded to an assault on Shelburne Road.

March 16 at 6:43 p.m., a missing person was reported from Elizabeth Street.

March 17 at 8:16 a.m., police responded to a report of

unlawful mischief and vandalism on Shelburne Road.

March 17 at 6:44 p.m., police responded to an animal problem at Airport Parkway and Kirby Road.

March 18 at 1:20 p.m., police checked on the well-being of a resident at Stonehedge Drive.

March 18 at 4:55 p.m., police investigated a sex offense on Cottage Grove Avenue.

March 19 at 3:57 p.m., police responded to a report of drugs on Grandview Drive.

March 19 at 9:52 p.m., police responded to a report of public intoxication on Williston Road.

Arrests: Brent Lee LaBombard, 49, of Burlington, was arrested March 16 for disorderly conduct and negligent operation.

Marlon David Taylor, 28, of Burlington, was arrested March 16 for grand larceny and possessing stolen property.

Rochelle D. Adams, 39, of South Burlington, was arrested March 16 for simple assault.

Untimely deaths: Nicole Cote 42, of South Burlington, died March 15. The medical examiner’s office is still determining cause of death.

the South Burlington’s Community Newspaper Since 1977 A publication of Vermont Community Newspaper Group LLC otherpapersbvt.com

Practice a new hobby. Open a free Kasasa Cash Back checking

account and earn up to $6 cash back* and $20 in ATM fee refunds** every month. How would you enjoy the extra money in your account?

Open your account online today. *Kasasa Cash Back If qualifications are met during a monthly qualification cycle you will earn 2% cash back (up to $6 total) on debit and/or credit card purchases that post and settle to your Kasasa Cash Back account during the monthly qualification cycle. One Kasasa Cash Back account per SSN. Qualification Cycle Debit and/or credit card purchases must post and settle to the account during the monthly qualification cycle—this may take one or more business days from the date the transaction occurred. ATM-processed transactions do not qualify. The “Monthly Qualification Cycle” begins on the last day of each month. **ATM Fee Refunds Domestic ATM fees (under $5 each) incurred during the monthly qualification cycle will be automatically reimbursed and credited on or about the last day of the monthly statement cycle. Receipts must be presented for reimbursement of single ATM fees of $5.00 or more. The maximum reimbursement is $20 per monthly qualification cycle.

To have any Kasasa account, a NorthCountry Share Account is also required, which has a minimum balance of $5.

How to qualify for cash back:

■ Make 15+ purchases with your debit and/or credit card; ■ Receive e-statements; and ■ Log into mobile and/or online banking Even if you don’t qualify, your account is still free and you can try again next month.

Insured by NCUA

1 802 657-6847 1 800 660-3258 69 Swift Street, South Burlington www.northcountry.org

Advertising Director Judy Kearns judy@otherpapersbvt.com (802) 864-6670 x21 Advertising Wendy Ewing wendy@shelburnenews.com (802) 985-3091 x12 News Editor Tommy Gardner Staff Writers Avalon Styles-Ashley Aaron Calvin Corey McDonald Production Manager Stephanie Manning stephanie@shelburnenews.com Publisher Gregory Popa gpopa@stowereporter.com

National Sales Director, Insert Program Irene Nuzzo irene@stowereporter.com (802) 760-9673 Billing inquiries Leslie Lafountain leslie@stowereporter.com (802) 253-2101 Advertising submission deadline: Thursday at 5 p.m. for next Thursday issue advertising@otherpapersbvt.com classifieds@otherpapersbvt.com Editorial submission deadline: Friday at 5 p.m. for next Thursday issue news@otherpapersbvt.com Calendar submission deadline: Friday at 12 p.m. for next Thursday issue news@otherpapersbvt.com Contact: 1340 Williston Road South Burlington, VT 05403 (802) 864-6670

The Other Paper is published weekly and mailed free to South Burlington residents and businesses, and rack distributed in select high-traffic areas. Circulation 10,600. The deadline is Thursday, one week prior to publication. The Vermont Community Newspaper Group LLC assumes no responsibility for typographical errors in advertisements and reserves the right to refuse advertising and editorial copy.

The Other Paper • March 24, 2022 • Page 5

OPINION Legislature tackles racial disparities in drug offenses ment of drug offenses. In 2018, the Legislature tasked the commission with making recommendations on Rep. Martin LaLonde restructuring Vermont’s criminal code, including proposing changes The Legislature is moving to its drug offenses. toward a more humane approach The commission endorsed to drug use and possession, Vermont state’s attorneys’ proposcentered in harm reduction and al that the penalties for certain public health concerns rather than drug offenses should be primarily the criminal reduced. They suggested justice system. This reductions for consiseffort has included tency across all crimoverdose prevention inal offenses because strategies, treatment equivalent degrees of on demand, needle harm and community exchange access and impact should carry medication assisted similar consequences. In treatment programs. addition, they sought to But we can do more. To have potential penalties make progress in this Martin LaLonde conform to actual court area, the Legislature has Vermont House outcomes, reflecting the been guided by expert of Representatives sentences that judges recommendations.

District 7-1 actually impose.

In July 2019, Gov. The state’s attorneys Phil Scott established reviewed data from the the Justice Reinvestment II WorkCrime Research Group on actual ing Group. It gathered represensentences and looked to their own tatives from all aspects of the experiences as prosecutors, while criminal justice system, including legislators, members of the admin- balancing the interests of public safety with the policy desire to istration, prosecutors, defense reduce punitive exposure. attorneys and representatives This past week, the House from law enforcement and the passed H.505, which implements courts. Among other issues, the the recommendations of the group sought to understand and Justice Reinvestment Working make recommendations regarding Group and the sentencing commisdisparities in Vermont’s criminal sion. The bill changes some felony justice system.

The working group examined national and Vermont data showing that prosecution of drug offenses disproportionately impacts communities of color. In Vermont, although Black defendants are no more likely than white defendants to be convicted of felony drug offenses, when convicted they are significantly more likely to be incarcerated than white defendants. They are less likely to receive a deferred sentence or probation or be diverted to treatment or a community justice center.

To address this disproportionate impact, the working group recommended that lower- to mid-level felony drug possession offenses should be reclassified as misdemeanors. It also recommended a reevaluation of drug amount thresholds and associated penalties for offenses involving the sale of drugs. In short, the recommendation was to reduce penalties for drug offenses, which will, in turn, reduce racial disparities in the criminal justice system.

As the working group was conducting its examination, the Vermont Sentencing Commission was undertaking its own assess-

Legislative Update

possession offenses to misdemeanors, and when drug possession offenses are misdemeanors, the cases are presumptively diverted to restorative justice or treatment.

Also, individuals charged with a misdemeanor do not face the same level of collateral consequences as those charged with a felony.

The bill also moves toward a public health approach to addressing drug use by establishing a Drug Use Standards Advisory Board of experts and those with lived experiences. Those who possess drugs for personal use should not face the same consequences as those who sell or traffic drugs. The goal of the advisory board is to determine what constitutes a standard amount of drugs for personal use. The board’s recommendations will inform the Legislature’s understanding of appropriate possession amounts so that it can further consider which possession offenses should be classified as misdemeanors rather than felonies.

Nationally, drug possession continues to be the leading offense for which people are arrested, with over 1.1 million arrests in 2020.

Currently, Black people make up 24 percent of drug arrests in the U.S., almost double their demographic percentage. They are also nationally three times more likely

to be arrested for drug offenses than white people, despite selling and using drugs at the same rates.

In Vermont, Black people were over 14 times more likely than white people to be defendants in a felony drug case and, as noted above, more likely to be imprisoned if convicted.

The current drug laws are concerning beyond the racial disparities we see. Between 2007 and 2019, people in Vermont were charged with drug possession over 10,000 times, and in nearly half of those cases the only charge was drug possession. Yet this approach

plainly has not reduced the drug problem, as we can see from the rising rates of drug overdoses in Vermont.

By reducing the punitive nature of the state’s response, H.505 helps move Vermont toward a more effective and humane approach to addressing drug offenses. The bill now moves to the Senate.

Rep. Martin LaLonde is a Democrat who represents South Burlington in Chittenden 7-1.

Reach him at mlalonde@leg.state. vt.us or at 802-863-3086.

Letters to the Editor Urge your senators to pass climate package To the Editor: Congress must act now on the climate package in the Build Back Better bill. The Senate was warned of the danger of climate change in June 1988 by NASA climate scientist James Hansen.

Thirty-four years have passed since that Senate hearing.

The scientific evidence, together with the unprecedented floods, fires and droughts suffered

by thousands of American citizens, has continued to underscore the urgent need for immediate congressional action.

Our moral obligations to future generations and to the ecosphere are clear.

On our present course, coral reefs will disappear, cities will flood, breadbaskets that feed the world will shrivel under withering drought, ecosystems will fail.

In short, our children will suffer See LETTERS on page 7

Vin

Sauvage

Natural Wines

Join us for Vin Sauvage Month & learn all about about the world of natural wines Curbside Pick Up and Local Delivery Now Available!

Looking to shop from home? Scan with your phone and check out our weekly sales list.

CHEESE &WINE TRADERS

www.CheeseAndWineTraders.com 1186 Williston Road, S. Burlington, VT

Page 6 • March 24, 2022 • The Other Paper

DIRECT CREMATION SERVICESSERVICES DIRECT CREMATION SERVICES DIRECT CREMATION

Our Locally Owned Owned & Operated On Site Crematory Our Locally Owned &isOperated is On Site Our Locally &Crematory Operated Crematory is On Site Your Loved One is always in Our Care Your Loved One is always in Our Care Your Loved One is Always in Our Care Providing Families with Compassionate an Affordable price.

Providing FamiliesCare withat Compassionate Care at an Affordable price.

Providing Families with Compassionate Care at an Affordable Price AAmember of the W.AA.W. Rich Funeral Home member the A. W. Home Rich Funeral Home member of A. the RichofFuneral Family Family Serving families for over 100 years.

Family Serving families for over 100 years.

Family Serving Families for over 100 years

No Cremation Society Fees 24 Hours Staff Available No Cremation Society Fees

Compare our save Compare our pricesCompare andprices save ourand prices and save $1,065.

Service Charge Service Charge: $1,065.00 Service Charge: $1,065.00 $390.

Crematory Crematory Charge Crematory Charge $390.00 $390.00 $25.

Medical Examiner Medical Examiner Permit $25.00Permit MedicalPermit Examiner $25.00 $10.

Certified DeathDeath Certificate $10.00 Certified Certificate Certified Death Certificate $10.00 Transit Permit $5. $5.00 Transit PermitTransit Permit$5.00

Outside Chittenden, Lamoille, Franklin, Washington, Grand Isle,and Addison Counties, add $500

Total Direct Cremation Charges: Total Direct$1,495.00 Cremation Charges: $1495. $1,495.00 Total Direct Cremation Charges

Also included at no extra charge is a cremation our signature Also included at no extra chargecontainer, is a crematon container, our signature high Also included at no extra charge is a cremation container, our signature high quality “Going Home” urn, newspaper obituary notice assistance andnotice assistance and life quality “Going Home” urn,quality newspaper obituary high “Going Home” urn, newspaper obituary notice assistance and life tribute placement on our website. Price effective January 1, 2020. placement on our website. Price effective tribute placement on life ourtribute website.

Price effective January 1,January 2021.1, 2020.

(802) 879-4611 (802) 849-6261 www.dcsvt.com • (802) 878-2220• (802) www.dcsvt.com (802) 879-4611 (802)(802) 849-6261 (802) 879-4611 www.dcsvt.com 849-6261 878-2220 57 Main St. 1176 Main St. 57 Main St. 1176 Main 57 Main St. 1176 Main St.St. www.awrfh.com Essex Jct., VT 05452 Essex Jct., VT 05452(802) 878-2220 Fairfax, VT 05454 www.awrfh.com Fairfax, VT 05454 Essex Jct, VT 05452 Fairfax, VT 05452 www.awrfh.com

FP-SPAD0128053938 FP-SPAD1009161937

FP-SPAD0128053938 FP-SPAD1009161937

Legislator explains why clean heat standard is a bad idea Guest Perspective Rep. Sally Achey For the past two months, my committee, the House Committee on Energy and Technology, has taken testimony and debated a bill to establish a program called the clean heat standard. That standard is part of the Climate Action Plan put forward by the climate council under the Global Warming Solutions Act. The standard is designed to drive up the cost of fossil home heating fuels — oil, propane, natural gas and kerosene — by forcing distributors to purchase credits to offset their products’ greenhouse gas emissions. These credits would be created primarily by other businesses by installing cold climate heat pumps, getting customers to switch from oil to biofuel, weatherizing buildings and similar actions. Once the credits are created, the businesses that created them can sell them to the fuel dealers who by law need them.

This is a complicated proposition.

Consultants to the climate council estimate that meeting the goals of the Global Warming Solutions Act will require 253,481 separate actions across weatherization, installation of heat pumps, and more by 2025 and 469,743 by 2030. Each of these actions will potentially generate one or more clean heat credits.

It is not clear how the state is going to verify that each of these events took place, assign a credit value to each, assign ownership of these credits and monitor that ownership through purchases and sales over the credits’ lifetime. This is a huge task that will require meticulous oversight.

The cost to run an operation of this scale has not been researched, nor has a feasibility study been done to see if it’s even logistically possible with the resources we have.

Making matters worse, the clean heat standard proposal originally given to us by the council worked by obligating only the wholesalers of fossil heating fuels, which are few and tend to be larger and more sophisticated businesses, to purchase credits. But we soon learned that roughly 80 percent of these fuels sold in Vermont are bought through wholesalers in other states or Canada, and we have no authority or ability to force them to buy Vermont credits.

The only alternative was to stick a whole bunch of local mom-and-pop fuel dealerships with the mandate to buy credits. We heard testimony that these requirements would drive many of them out of business. The clean heat standard would cost hundreds of Vermonters their jobs, and it could leave thousands of Vermonters scrambling to find a new heating fuel provider if they could find one at all.

The objective of the standard is to make using fossil fuels for home heating so prohibitively expensive that people give it up for other options. One propane dealer testified that if the clean heat standard becomes law, the added cost of credits regulatory requirements could drive

propane prices up to $8 to $10 per gallon.

This may have been a back-of-the-napkin calculation, but it was the only analysis anyone offered of how this policy would impact Vermonter’s pocketbooks. This is unacceptable.

An important logistical issue to consider is that, while the standard would increase the cost of fossil fuel heating systems in hopes that people will switch to greener alternatives, we heard testimony that there isn’t enough of a labor force in Vermont to install all the heat pumps and do all the weatherization the Global Warming Solutions Act requires. This means a lot of Vermonters who heat with fossil fuels could be stuck with much higher home heating costs but no availability to switch systems even if they wanted to.

We had lots of talk in our committee about a safety net mitigating the impacts of these higher costs for low- and moderate-income Vermonters, but again no real analysis of how this would work, what it would cost, or who would foot the bill.

Last, we heard testimony from people who had experience with cold climate heat pumps that they do not work well in low temperatures that are common during Vermont winters.

The clean heat standard is nowhere near ready for prime time. No detailed analysis has been done to determine how deep the economic impact will be for Vermont home and business owners, or how the safety net programs proposed to mitigate the harm to people would work or how much any of this would cost.

As the bill is written, it leaves it to an unelected body, the Public Utility Commission, which has no experience running a program like this, to just figure out the details and then implement them.

I proposed a two-step safety switch provision for the bill wherein we would first authorize the commission to come up with a detailed clean heat standard plan.

After the whole system has been designed and we have all the projected costs and a suggested revenue stream, the standard would then come back to the Legislature for an up or down vote.

That just makes sense.

When you build a house, you tell the architect to come back with blueprints and cost estimates before you give the final OK to start construction. You don’t hand her a blank check and say, “Whatever.”

But the majority on my committee disagreed and opted for the blank check, whatever approach.

I can’t vote for a bill that will put many hard-working fuel dealers out of their jobs, that will kill scores of small businesses with deep ties to their communities, and that will create significant financial stress for thousands of Vermonters who heat their homes with oil, propane, natural gas or kerosene. That’s not what my constituents sent me to Montpelier to do.

Rep. Sally Achey is a Republican from Middletown Springs, who also represents Pawlet, Rupert,and a member of the House Commi ttee on Energy and Technology.

The Other Paper • March 24, 2022 • Page 7

LETTERS

continued from page 5 tremendous loss.

The most recent report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change bluntly states: “Climate change is a threat to human well-being and planetary health. Any further delay in concerted anticipatory global action on adaptation and mitigation will miss a brief and rapidly closing window of opportunity to secure a livable and sustainable future for all.”

But just as clear are the economic gains to be enjoyed by our nation, our states and our municipalities by acting now to slow climate change. One recent estimate finds that by 2070, the costs of inaction could come to $14.5 trillion of lost gross domestic product in just this country alone.

The climate package in the Build Back Better bill contains robust climate, clean energy and environmental justice investments. Provisions are made for solar, wind, offshore wind and geothermal energy as well as energy storage, energy efficiency, electric vehicles, power transmission, low-income communities and manufacturing enterprises.

Passage of this legislation promises to ease longer-term inflationary pressures, promote our global competitiveness and create over 600,000 jobs a year.

Over 60 scientific, business, citizen advocacy, environmental and religious organizations have recently signed a letter to Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer

and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi urging immediate congressional action. To add your voice urging senators to act on this legislation, call Sen. Patrick Leahy at 202-224-4242 and Sen. Bernie Sanders at 202-224-5141.

Andrew Chalnick Vice-chair, Climate Action Task Force South Burlington Energy Committee

Deny the airport’s new zoning request To the Editor: If memory serves me correctly, the Burlington Airport’s official rationale for purchasing and demolishing residences in the Chamberlain neighborhood was to protect the residents from excessive noise generated with the arrival of the F-35s.

Recognizing public concerns, officials promised additional noise mitigation procedures for the remaining residences. Now the airport is requesting a zoning change to further its commercial interests and threatening legal action should the request be denied.

Call me a cynic if you wish, but I think these same officials were using the arrival of the F-35s as a means of obtaining their true goal, that being the economic benefits of expansion. My cynicism developed as the F-35 controversy blossomed.

2-Bedroom, 1-Bath Unit Available Mid-April!

Market Rate. All Utilities Included.

Visit www.SummitSeniorLiving.net for Rates, Details and To Apply!

Plan for Your Future Home at The Pines!

Spacious 1- and 2-Bedroom Apartments Chef-Prepared Meals • Hair Salon • Massage Studio Art Gallery • Expanded Outdoor Patio and Grilling Area Mature Landscaping • Resident Garden Vibrant Social Atmosphere with Weekly Events and Activities Convenient Dorset Street Location ESTABLISHED INDEPENDENT SENIOR COMMUNITY

LOCATED IN THE HEART OF SOUTH BURLINGTON

7 Aspen Drive, South Burlington, VT • 802. 865.1109

www. SummitPMG. com

It seemed strange to me, patriotism notwithstanding, that a prominent Burlington real estate developer and the Greater Burlington Industrial Corp. were leading advocates for the arrival of the F-35s.

Every day I read about the local housing crisis, the need for affordable housing.

The F-35s have a limited lifetime. They will not be here forever and who knows what will replace them in the future.

But one thing is certain: If South Burlington’s leaders approve the airport’s rezoning request, changing the zoning from residential to commercial, more requests will follow. What is now prime residential property will be lost forever.

Robert L. Walsh South Burlington

Housing committee understands mission well To the Editor: I am writing in response to a recent guest perspective, specifically that “the South Burlington Affordable Housing Committee

should return to its mission rather than following the premise of building housing anywhere and everywhere, regardless of the location and at the cost of the environment.” (John Bossange, “Recent city council election provides important lessons,” March 10, 2022) I am not on the affordable housing committee but attend their meetings. I have witnessed similar harsh and degrading comments by Bossange directed at this committee and have seen in response some members invite him to talk and attend committee meetings to which he has repeatedly declined. So, as he continues to accuse this hard-working group of people of reckless environmental damage, I cannot sit idly by without a response.

First, he does not seem to realize the committee fully supports the recently adopted environmental protections regulations that go above and beyond most Vermont towns. The committee has stated this support multiple times.

Further, there are important components of the recent land development regulations the affordable housing committee has brought to light.

Here’s one example: The new regulations removed the previous ability to develop a duplex on a single one-acre parcel in certain areas. Now only one single house per acre is permitted.

According to public records, Bossange lives in such a duplex.

If the land on which his home sits — last assessed at roughly $500,000 — was not allowed to include a duplex, it would have more likely been built as a very large single-family home and likely assessed at much more and selling for a much higher cost, such as $900,000.

Who would have benefitted?

Certainly not people looking for homes at more reasonable prices.

Does anyone in South Burlington feel there is a shortage of homes priced at $900,000 and up?

The change in regulation was due to a larger related issue, but it was a member of the affordable housing committee who identified this important unintended consequence. As a result, the committee simply asked the city council to review the impact of this change, which was a very reasonable request.

See LETTERS on page 8

Page 8 • March 24, 2022 • The Other Paper

COMMUNITY New Eagle Scouts

Community Notes

COURTESY PHOTOS

Troop 658 has two new Eagle Scouts, Aiden Parascando (below) and Jonah Delaney (above), both pictured with their parents. Parascando’s Eagle project benefited Chittenden County Humane Society, where he and his volunteers built outdoor structures for the dogs. Delaney and his volunteers built an equipment storage solution for the music department at Burlington High School. According to the Scouting organization, the Eagle Scout rank symbolizes the culmination of years of hard work, and symbolizes character, leadership and personal growth. Troop 658 serves Winooski, Colchester, Milton, Burlington and South Burlington, but Scouts from other towns are welcome, both boys and girls.

Gianna Morin

South Burlington student wins Poetry Out Loud Gianna Morin, a student at South Burlington High School, took top honors at the Poetry Out Loud State Finals, at the Barre Opera House March 14.

Morin recited William Shakespeare’s “Sonnet 18: Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day?”; Victoria Chang’s “Mr. Darcy”; and Nikki Grimes’ “Stomp”.

Students recited their chosen poems in rounds one and two.

The five students with the highest cumulative scores after the first two rounds continued to round three, reciting a last poem.

Nineteen schools across Vermont participated in the competition. Students were selected by

their teachers as school champions and advanced to participate in the statewide competition, which was emceed by spoken word poet Rajnii Eddins.

Poetry recitations were evaluated by the judges, using these criteria: physical presence, voice and articulation, evidence of understanding, dramatic appropriateness, accuracy and overall performance.

Morin received $200 and advances to the national finals where $50,000 in awards and school stipends will be distributed.

The 2022 national semifinals take place Sunday, May 1, with the top nine semi-finalists advancing to the finals on June 5. Both the semifinals and finals will stream live at arts.gov.

Mary Bosco of Thetford Academy was runner up.

Also of South Burlington, Brooks Balkan took part in the Original Poetry Awards, reading his poem, “Their Pumpjack.” His winning entry netted him a $100 cash award.

For more information, visit vermontartscouncil.org.

City’s community hikes explore Wheeler Park Have you ever wondered why March is sugaring season in Vermont? Come take a walk

Compassionate Dentistry Quality Care for Your Entire Family Accepting New Patients

through Wheeler Nature Park and explore the different forest biomes to discover what the trees are doing during the closing weeks of winter, Saturday, March 26, 10 a.m., led

by Drew Shatzer, a member of the South Burlington Natural Resources and Conservation Committee.

See signs of some of important local wildlife and discuss ways the city can accommodate them as it navigates a fragmented landscape.

(This hike was rescheduled from earlier.)

This will be a community discussion and input is always welcome. Shatzer has been a resident of South Burlington for five years and wants to hear what other community members have to share about this natural area and how it is being managed.

To register, visit bit.ly/3tk5PNI. On Saturday, April 9, at 1 p.m., Ethan Tapper, Chittenden County forester will lead a walk-through of Wheeler Nature Park as well.

As county forester, Tapper advises landowners, municipalities and conservation organizations on how to care for and responsibly manage their forests for wood, water, air, wildlife, carbon sequestration and storage, climate change resilience and more. He will discuss the ecology of the park and what management might be appropriate to create great wildlife habitat, control non-native invasive species and support biodiversity.

Those looking to participate in this event should be prepared to spend two hours outdoors and to walk in muddy conditions. Children under 18 are welcome, but they do need to be accompanied by an adult. Bring your questions about forests, forest management and the unique ecology of Wheeler.

See COMMUNITY NOTES on page 12

Guided by deep experience and expertise.

Dedicated to your investment success.

Unbiased investment advice, portfolio management and unlimited financial planning for individuals and organizations since 1995.

Dr. Aerwen Stagers, DMD

WILLISTON ROAD FAMILY DENTAL, PLC

Gentle Expert Dental Care for your Beautiful Smile Open Monday-Friday, Emergencies Seen Promptly

1340 Williston Road South Burlington, VT

802-863-0505 willfamdent.com

We are a low-fee fiduciary.

Contact us to start securing your financial future.

hansondoremus.com

Historic Maltex Building - Burlington, VT - 802.658.2668

LETTERS

continued from page 7 The committee has consistently “stuck to its mission” of ensuring that housing affordability is top of mind at every turn and with great depth of understanding.

Our community has benefitted by the care and consideration of this committee far more than Bossange implies.

Thank you to the South Burlington Affordable Housing Committee members for your dedication and due diligence.

Monica Ostby South Burlington

The Other Paper • March 24, 2022 • Page 9

Epic A.J. by Grayson Dailey

DRS. RYAN & EATON Braces for Children & Adults | champlainortho.net ST. ALBANS OFFICE 80 Mapleville Depot 527.7100

WILLISTON OFFICE 277 Blair Park Road 878.5323

k4t-ChamplainOrtho1220 1

12/3/20 12:29 PM

Being a Full Time Caregiver Can Be a Heavy Lift.

It’s a Good Thing We’ve Been Working Out. At Gazebo Senior Living, we’ve been providing quality assisted care to Vermont seniors Since 1985. Let us care for the ones you love so you can care for yourself.

Vermont Owned and Managed

1510/1530 Williston Road South Burlington, VT

Call Erin Knox today at 802-861-4003 to schedule a personal tour and learn more about our Move-In Special or visit our website: gazeboseniorliving.com GSL_BANG_10.25x7.75_Caregiver.indd 1

Visit us online at OtherPaperSBVT.com

12/7/21 9:58 AM

Page 10 • March 24, 2022 • The Other Paper

SETTLEMENT

continued from page 1 ly propelling him forward and downward, slamming him, head first, to the concrete floor of the holding cell,” according to court documents.

The original complaint cites a failure to train employees regarding use of force and a failure to fully document the use of force in a report, arguing that “the failure of any member of SBPD who was on duty and within earshot of the incident to come to Rudavsky’s aid is further evidence of a of a [sic] recognized and accepted policy, custom, protocol and practice of condoning and/or acquiescence of the use of excessive force by its officers.”

The city was named in the complaint for liability and conspiracy to cover up the incident.

Other South Burlington officers named in the complaint included Patrick Mulcahy, David Solomon, Kenneth Soffen, and retired chief Trevor Whipple, but last year, the court granted summary judgment to all of the officers but Bataille, ending those officers’ involvement in the case.

In his appeal, Bataille argued that Rudavsky’s behavior was “erratic and unpredictable,” because he was intoxicated, and that he made “specific threats towards Mulcahy.” He argued that his “takedown” of Rudavsky was reasonable so he could double lock the handcuffs, which is required under department policy to prevent injury and potential nerve damage to the cuffed person.

“For the two minutes preceding the takedown, Rudavsky had

been actively and physically resistant, and it took three officers 30 seconds to get the handcuffs on Rudavsky’s wrists. Rudavsky had refused to comply with direct verbal commands. He had physically withheld his arms and hands from the officers,” the appeal continued.

The court rejected Bataille’s defense, that he is protected under qualified immunity and the use of force was reasonable. While both sides submitted appeals to the decision late last year, the March settlement calls for both to dismiss their appeals and file motions to dismiss the lawsuit with prejudice, which brings the matter to an end.

Qualified immunity is a legal doctrine that protects government officials, in this case police officers, from lawsuits “alleging that the official violated a plaintiff’s rights, only allowing suits where officials violated a ‘clearly established’ statutory or constitutional right,” according to Cornell Law School.

While it is in part intended to shield officials from harassment and liability, according to Cornell, in recent years, some have questioned the use of the defense to shield officials from accountability.

“Nearly every year for the last decade, the Supreme Court has taken up at least one case involving qualified immunity for police and nearly always rules in favor of police,” according to an article from Poynter, a nonprofit resource for fact-checking and journalism ethics.

In Vermont, legislators have proposed closing this legal loophole with S.254, a bill that would waive the use of qualified immunity as a defense and create a “private right of action against law enforcement officers for violations of Vermont constitutional, statutory, and common law rights.”

But many Vermont law enforcement officials are not keen on eliminating qualified immunity. Speaking on the topic which legislators tried to embed in a different public safety bill last session, South Burlington Police chief Shawn Burke argued that the defense is “misunderstood.”

“There’s some belief that police misconduct somehow hides under this umbrella. That’s not true. There are plenty of civil suits that are filed against police departments in the state of Vermont that proceed through federal court

where the conduct is not quickly dismissed under qualified immunity,” Burke told The Other Paper last April.

But James Lyall, executive director of the ACLU in Vermont, has said that qualified immunity “fosters an environment where some police may feel empowered to violate people’s rights, knowing they will face few if any consequences. This legal barrier erodes relationships with the community and diminishes the legal system’s credibility.”

In a recent opinion piece, Lyall noted that even the libertarian Cato Institute calls qualified immunity “one of the most obviously unjustified legal doctrines in our nation’s history. It has failed utterly as a matter of law, doctrine and public policy.”

Echoing Burke’s sentiments, the Vermont Department of Public Safety also has spoken out against

stripping police officers of qualified immunity, arguing that the current bill “feeds anti-police sentiment,” in a statement March 2.

“Singling out law enforcement officers for disparate treatment will further exacerbate the current crisis in public safety,” the department wrote in the statement.

“Making it easier to sue police officers will not increase police accountability. Most lawsuits are settled out of court with no admission of liability, typically because it’s cheaper to settle than to litigate.”

Similar to the case at hand.

The South Burlington city council approved the settlement with Rudavsky in early March, agreeing to pay $70,000 as a compromise to avoid further litigation. The Vermont League of Cities and Towns, acting as insurer for the city, cut the check.

“For South Burlington, any economic activity from a redeveloped mall would be good for the community,” Keller said, adding that many businesses in the community are still struggling to recover from the economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic. Most businesses still can’t find workers, and when they do, their new hires can’t find housing.

People’s shopping habits and work routines have also changed during the pandemic, he added, but some redevelopment could brew new economic activity and bring more shoppers to the region.

“We’re all anxious to see how the mall shakes out,” Keller said.

The University Mall opened in 1979, just eight years after South Burlington became a city, bringing visitors from all over the state and north to Canada.

Development of shopping centers, grocery stores and the other shops clustered around Williston Road boomed in the 1960s and 70s, according to a pamphlet from the Chittenden County Historical Society, attracting folks for “a Saturday night entertainment that consists of browsing through the acres of merchandise, letting the children have a ride on the mechanical horse who will lope for a few minutes if he is fed a dime, eating the ketchup-smeared suppers and snacks which make visitors to this country turn pale when they first hear of them, apparently enjoying or not hearing the blaring music piped into every aisle of the shedlike buildings, and buying an astonishing quantity of everything

from clothing to light bulbs.”

Riehle lived in neighboring Burlington at the time the mall was constructed, and she recalled a generally supportive consensus as the plans were drawn.

“It’s a boon to South Burlington’s grand list and economy.

It’s always been that,” she said, although she noted the mall’s decline in popularity, recalling in years past the parking lots were overwhelmed with cars. Now, she might rethink the acres of impervious surface and she wonders about the viability of malls that are one-trick ponies.

She hopes the new owners might look at housing, considering the mall’s convenient location to grocery stores, local schools, the airport and the bus line.

Before the recent reassessment, the University Mall property was valued at $66 million; post-assessment, it is valued at about $33 million, about half of what it sold for.

While internet shopping giants like Amazon and changing shopping habits have seen the demise of malls nationwide, University Mall is 95 percent occupied, according to the press release, and still features about 70 stores, a mix of local shops and national retailers, and the Infinite Youth Center, with three anchor stores: Target, Kohls and JC Penney.

One piece of the city’s downtown revitalization plan that would likely directly affect the University Mall is a planned pedestrian bridge over I-89 between Burlington and South Burlington, located next to the mall.

MALL

continued from page 1 downtown, noting that their focus right now is to listen to the community and be in conversation with the city and local retailers to get a sense of the landscape.

“The University Mall is a critical economic center. Yes, within South Burlington, but more broadly within Chittenden County and the state as a whole. That, combined with the fact that you’ve got a really vibrant community made up of the university, the medical center, some really innovative and forward-thinking corporations, and I would similarly say the same thing about the administration,” said Hayes.

“Those pieces combined really made the University Mall such a unique opportunity.”

No development plans have been disclosed, although Eastern Real Estate does have experience with redevelopment, according to city manager Jessie Baker.

Its portfolio boasts projects that incorporate retail and mixed uses, like University Station in Massachusetts that features shops, restaurants, apartments, office space, assisted living and a hotel, according to the firm’s website.

Alex Fleming, director of Taconic Capital Advisors, which partnered to buy the mall, said he hopes to make “this place a positive and enduring part of the South Burlington community,” describing the mall as a “gathering place” and “economic asset.”

Co-chair of the South Burlington Business Association Mike Keller is also excited to see how potential redevelopment of the mall rolls out.

The Other Paper • March 24, 2022 • Page 11

South Burlington all-stars play in North-South game The South Burlington boys’ and girls’ basketball teams were well represented on Vermont Basketball Coaches Association all-star game rosters on March 20 at Champlain Valley Union High School.

Greta Heldman and Mercedes Rozzi both played for the South in the Division 1 and 2 girls’ game, while Khalon Taylor played for the North in the boys’ game.

FILE PHOTO

The South Burlington High School varsity girls’ lacrosse team poses for a picture with Tuttle Award winner Steve Rexford in 2016.

South Burlington Rotary honors Steve Rexford with Tuttle Award Steve Rexford is this year’s Frederick H. Tuttle Award recipient from the South Burlington Rotary.

The award is presented annually to someone who either lives or works in South Burlington and who demonstrates the character and commitment to vocation and community for which Tuttle was known. Tuttle was a longtime South Burlington School District superintendent.

Rexford was nominated by South Burlington resident Lynn Vera, who wrote, “As an educator, coach and umpire in Vermont for over 40 years, I have known many invested adults. Steve Rexford is at the top of the pack when it comes to setting a caring example for teenagers about being part of a community. I have watched Steve mentor, drive and support young women athletes to their games.

Vera continued: “A few years ago, I listened to the girls talking about how to support Steve when his wife died. He was obviously no ordinary bus driver, no regular school district employee.”

Vera said Rexford recently attended a Middlebury/Bates field hockey contest, with camera in town.

Vera said Rexford came out of retirement to take athletes around to games during COVID-19 when finding people to drive the bus became difficult.

“Steve could be resting on his laurels in retirement,” she said, “but he responded to the need, continuing to support these young athletes without favoritism and certainly without expectation of anything in return.”

Tuttle began his education career in 1959, and in 1970 became the assistant superintendent for the South Burlington School District.

He was appointed superintendent one year later, a position he held for

more than 20 years, during which he achieved many honors and recognition for his leadership and vision both within the community and the state of Vermont.

Tuttle was a quiet scholar of English literature and respected and considered to be an exemplary educational administrator. In a job that involves finance, policy, bureaucracy and effective communication, Tuttle cared most about people.

He died after a courageous battle with cancer on June 7, 1992.

Prior to his death, the South Burlington Rotary Club presented him a Paul Harris Fellow Award to recognize his many contributions

to the community. In 1994, the club established an award in his honor to be presented annually to an individual who either lived or worked in South Burlington.

The Frederick H. Tuttle Award recipient has their name inscribed on a plaque in city hall commemorating all the recipients of the award. In addition, a $250 contribution is made by Rotary to a charity of the recipient’s choice.

Other recipients include Stuart “Red” Martin, Skip Farrell, Tom Hubbard, Linda and Rene Laberge, Jim Condos, Betsy Young and Jerry McDougal, Susie Merrick, C. J Knudsen, Judy Kearns, Don Cummings and David Kaufman.

OPEN FOR BUSINESS?

New Hours?

Retail Online Ordering/Curbside Pickup Take out/Delivery Let us help you reach South Burlington customers in the next issue of The Other Paper Email judy@otherpapersbvt.com Call – 802-864-6670 Vermont Community Newspaper Group Your community partner “Moving forward, together”

VTCNG

Taylor had nine points in the 92-77 win over the South, while the South lost to the North in the girls’ game, 81-50.

While the trio of seniors represented the Wolves in the all-star game, Alex Gordon was named to the D1-2 Dream Dozen boys’ team.

Junior Aleah Staley earned an honorable mention to the All-Metro team.

— Lauren Read

Page 12 • March 24, 2022 • The Other Paper

FRAUD

continued from page 4 22, 2019 — when the purchase was for Dike’s personal use and not the benefit of the company.

The Autobahn, on Berard Drive near Airport Parkway, says on its website it provides stateof-the-art auto body and collision repairs for all kinds of vehicles, but is the only certified repair center in Vermont for MercedesBenz, BMW and Honda.

Judge Christina Reiss told Dike he is facing up to 20 years in prison, followed by up to three years of supervised release and fines up to $250,000.

Reiss set July 28 as the tentative sentencing date. She ordered

a pre-sentence investigation by the U.S. probation officer.

Dike is hoping that by acknowledging the fraud early and not forcing the government to seek an indictment from a grand jury that he will get some acceptance of responsibility for the crime.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Eugenia A.P. Cowles, chief of the criminal division, outlined the fraud perpetrated by Dike on the company, all which Dike agreed to except for ownership of the credit card.

Cowles said it belonged to the Autobahn, but Dike said it was Ayer’s card.

Reiss appointed a public

defender after Dike filed an affidavit saying he could not afford to pay for his defense. Defense lawyer Jesse Sawyer noted the defendant has three dependents, ages 8, 5 and 1, and his spouse.

During the half-hour hearing, Reiss said she was disturbed Dike tested positive for THC in his system when he took a drug test at the courthouse before his arraignment. He said it was from two days earlier and that he was not under the influence.

Reiss said she would require drug testing as a condition of his release and that the court insists that defendants remain drug free.

COMMUNITY NOTES continued from page 8

Meet at the Wheeler Homestead lot by the trailhead.

To register, go to bit. ly/3InZIMC. If you have questions about these events, contact Ashley Parker at aparker@southburlingtonvt.gov.

Friends hold South Burlington Library book sale

Champlain Community Services just raised their salaries. Significantly.

$10 per year.

General public can peruse the book sale — fiction, non-fiction and children’s books in good condition at low prices — on Friday 2-5 p.m., and Saturday 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

There will also be a raffle of baskets donated by local merchants.

Credit Union hires new HR director

The Friends of the South Burlington Library used book sale will be held Thursday, March 31 to Saturday, April 2, in the community room at the library.

A Thursday evening preview, 5-7 p.m., is for members only.

Membership in the friends is only

Maribeth Spellman has joined Vermont Federal Credit Union in South Burlington as head of human relations.

Spellman was previously managing director and chief operating officer for Hickok and Boardman.

And that’s on top of being a “Best Place to Work In Vermont” for four years running.

Great positions in Residential Program Management ($43K) and Direct Support Professionals ($18 per hour) at an award-winning agency serving Vermonters with intellectual disabilities. Plus a $500 sign-on bonus and an incredible benefits package.

Make a career making a difference. Apply today at https://ccs-vt.org/current-openings/ ccs-vt.org EOE

ADVERTISING •

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

an idea that SELLS

CALL 864-6670

•

Shared Living Provider Open your home to someone with an intellectual disability or autism and open a whole world to them, and to you.

Working with our team of professionals, you’ll help someone live a safe and fulfilling life at home and in the community.

There are a variety of opportunities available that could be the perfect match for you and your household.

A $500 sign on bonus, generous stipend, paid time off, comprehensive training & supports are provided. Plus, CCS has been voted one of the Best Places to Work in Vermont for the fourth year in a row. Join us!

Contact Jennifer Wolcott, jwolcott@ccs-vt.org or 655-0511 ext. 118 ccs-vt.org EOE

Maribeth Spellman

She began her career as a military officer and attorney, serving within the Department of the Army for over 15 years in numerous assignments both overseas and throughout the United States.

Spellmen returned to Vermont in 2013 and was appointed to serve as commissioner of the Vermont Department of Human Resources.

She holds a law degree from the University of Notre Dame and a Juris Doctor from the Catholic University of America. Spellmen had previously been a member of the Vermont Federal Credit Union board of directors.

“We are very excited that Maribeth is joining our credit union and we believe her experience and leadership will be a great benefit to our organization and our employees” Jean Giard, CEO, said.

CLASSIFIEDS FOR SALE 2017 Chevy Tahoe LT: 4x4, Fully loaded, 30,500 miles, excellent condition. $46,000. Call 802-999-7933.

GOOSE DECOY CART: $250.

Call Frank 802-800-1965.

The Other Paper • March 24, 2022 • Page 13

News from South Burlington Public Library 180 Market St., South Burlington 802-846-4140 • southburlingtonlibrary. org for information about any programming, cancellations or in-person changes.

Some events may change from in-person to virtual. Some events require preregistration.

Hours: Monday to Thursday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; and Saturday 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Email sbplinfo@southburlingtonvt.gov.

KIDS & TEENS EVENTS Friday movie Fridays, March 25, April 8 and April 22, 3-4:30 p.m.

March 25: “Aladdin”; April 8: “Brave Little Toaster”; and April 22: “Homeward Bound.”

Art & crafternoons Tuesdays, March 29, and April 12, 21 and 26, 3-4:30 p.m.

From painting to print-making and from collage to sculpture, each crafternoon features a different kind of activity. For kids ages eight and up, or ages six and up with an adult helper. March 29: star stick mobile.

Kids’ Book Club Thursday, March 31, and April 7 and 28, 4-5 p.m.

Kids in kindergarten through second

grade and their parents are welcome to join Ms. Natacha for a book club for kids.

March title is “Half Magic” by Edward Eager. April title: TBD. Preregister.

Dungeons & Dragons Saturday, April 2, 16 and 31, 10:15 a.m.-2 p.m.

Join experienced dungeon master, Miss Jo, Saturdays at the library and get started on the Shadows of the Moonsea journey.

Experience not required to play.

ADULTS EVENTS Evening book group Thursday, March 24, 6-7 p.m.

“Nomadland” by Jessica Bruder. Books available for pickup at the library. In-person and on Zoom.

Spring concert: Hungrytown Saturday, March 26, 12:30-1:30 p.m.

After more than a decade of touring and three albums, Rebecca Hall and Ken Anderson, otherwise known as the folk duo Hungrytown, come to town for the third of the Friends of the Library winter concert series. Masks and physical distancing required, and space is limited. Reserve at sbplprograms@southburlingtonvt.gov.

Refreshments.

NOTICE OF FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT

AND NOTICE OF INTENT TO REQUEST RELEASE OF FUNDS STATE OF VERMONT March 24, 2022 City of South Burlington, Jessie Baker 180 Market Street, South Burlington, Vermont 05403 (802) 846-4107 These notices shall satisfy two separate but related procedural requirements for activities to be undertaken by the City of South Burlington.

Request for Release of Funds

On or about April 8, 2022, the City of South Burlington will submit a request to the Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development (the Agency) to release the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds under Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 (PL 93-383), the National Affordable Housing Act, as amended, to undertake a project known as Summit at O’Brien Farm Apartments for the purpose of acquiring land upon which the applicant will construct a 94-unit family rental housing development, which will provide high-quality, affordable residential rental housing.

The project is located at Lots 10 and 11, O’Brien Farm, 255 Kennedy Drive, South Burlington, VT 05403. The total estimated cost of the project is $26,845,062; approximately $12,384,816 in Low Income Housing Tax Credits, $3,016,012 from Vermont Housing & Conservation Board and an anticipated $1,000,000 in CDBG funding, and an anticipated 20 Section 8 Project Based Vouchers.

Finding of No Significant Impact

The City of South Burlington has determined that the project will have no significant impact on the human environment. Therefore, an Environmental Impact Statement under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) is not required. Additional project information is contained in the Environmental Review Record (ERR) on file at the municipal office of the City of South Burlington at 180 Market Street, South Burlington, VT 05403 and may be examined or copied Monday through Friday from 9am to 4pm.

Public Comments

Looking to serve our community?

We have immediate openings.

Development Review Board (DRB)

OPEN POSITONS: 1

The Development Review Board is charged with reviewing applications for land development and making determinations on compliance with the City’s Land Development Regulations. Knowledge or strong interest in architecture and engineering, construction, natural resources, transportation, land use law, and/or broad knowledge of the community is encouraged. Experience with, or willingness to learn to read engineering or architectural drawings is a must. Meets on 1st and 3rd Tuesday each month with occasional supplemental meetings and modified dates.

Appointments Now Available

Planning Commission

OPEN POSITONS: 1

The Planning Commission is charged with preparing the City’s Comprehensive Plan, reviewing and updating the City’s Land Development Regulations, and undertaking long range planning studies for the community. Knowledge or strong interest in community development, social engagement, land use, economics, housing, transportation, public health, natural resources, the ways in which people and communities interact is encouraged. Meets on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday each month with occasional supplemental meetings and modified dates, and assignments to special working groups.

Public Art Committee OPEN POSITONS: 1

The committee is building out information about public art in South Burlington on the City’s web page, managing the public art gallery, holding long-delayed dedications for City Center public art, and laying the ground work for a South Burlington cultural assessment/plan with an artist and organization resources inventory. Meets monthly.

To Apply: Email letter of interest to Andrea Leo at aleo@sburl.com or mail to City Hall, 180 Market St, S. Burlington, VT 05403 Applications due by Weds, March 30. Interviews will be conducted at the April 4, 2022 City Council meeting.

Any individual, group, or agency may submit written comments on the ERR to the City of South Burlington, Attn: Jessie Baker, City Manager, 180 Market Street, South Burlington, VT 05403. All comments received by April 8, 2022 will be considered by the City of South Burlington prior to authorizing the submission of a request for release of funds. Comments must specify which Notice they are addressing—the Finding of No Significant Impact or the Request for the Release of Funds.

Environmental Certification

The City of South Burlington is certifying to the Agency that Jessie Baker, in their official capacity as City Manager, consents to accept the jurisdiction of the Federal Courts if an action is brought to enforce responsibilities in relation to the environmental review process and that these responsibilities have been satisfied. The Agency’s approval of the certification satisfies its responsibilities under NEPA and related laws and authorities and allows City of South Burlington to use the CDBG funds.

Objections to Release of Funds

The Agency will accept objections to its release of funds and the City of South Burlington’s certification for a period of fifteen days following the anticipated submission date or its actual receipt of the request (whichever is later) only if they are on one of the following bases: (a) the certification was not executed by the Certifying Officer, Jessie Baker; (b) the Town has omitted a step or failed to make a decision or finding required by HUD regulations at 24 CFR part 58; (c) the grant recipient or other participants in the development process have committed funds, incurred costs or undertaken activities not authorized by 24 CFR Part 58 before approval of a release of funds by the Agency; or (d) another Federal agency acting pursuant to 40 CFR Part 1504 has submitted a written finding that the project is unsatisfactory from the standpoint of environmental quality.

Objections must be prepared and submitted in accordance with the required procedures (24 CFR Part 58, Sec. 58.76) and shall be addressed to the Attn: James Brady, Environmental Officer, Agency of Commerce and Community Development, One National Life Drive, Davis Building, 6th Floor, Montpelier, Vermont 05620. Potential objectors should contact the Agency to verify the actual last date of the objection period.

Page 14 • March 24, 2022 • The Other Paper

SERVICE DIRECTORY To advertise in the service directory email judy@otherpapersbvt.com or call 802-864-6670

Edie Brodsky REALTOR® (802) 846-9532

All You Need is Home

802-999-4433

vermontrugcleaning.com | 802.985.1178

Give the gift of music-making Remote and In-Person Lessons Basic, intermediate - children, teens, adults National Keyboard Arts Curriculum References, scholarships available

Edward Darling South Burlington

edwardjohndarling@gmail.com • 802-318-7030

• Basement Waterproofing • Crawl Space Repair • Sump Pump Systems • Foundation Repair • Concrete Leveling & Sealing

Rug cleaning

Piano Lessons

Edward802-318-7030 Darling, So. Burlington

Homes / Decks / Fences Commercial Buildings / Window Cleaning Graffiti Removal / Heavy Equipment

vermont

Piano Lessons

100% Financi n Availab g le

1-855-DRY-TIME • www.northernnebasements.com

MOWING | MULCH/SOIL DELIVERY WEEDING | PRUNING SPRING/FALL CLEANUP | HAUL A-WAY

Lawns by Adam 802.578.8347

Adam Dantzscher | adamdantzscher@aol.com

Spring House Washing

Specializing in Low-Pressure Vinyl Siding Washes Washing Decks, Gutters, Patios, Walkways & More

Owner operated - Call Greg Mack

802-238-3386

ANTIQUES WANTED Decluttering? Downsizing?

Settling an Estate?

We can help you discover, learn about and sell:

WATCHES • JEWELRY • COINS • SILVER • ARTWORK

Residential • Commercial • Industrial

GEORGE GARDNER CPL, RST, CPS, CHI

We can field questions, review photos and coordinate estate work.

884 Old Hollow Road North Ferrisburg, VT 05473 (802) 425-3060

Contact Brian Bittner • 802-272-7527 • bittnerantiques@gmail.com

Certified Locksmith & Safe Technician Professional Security Consultant E-mail: lockman1@comcast.net or georgessafes@gmavt.net www.georgeslocks.com www.georges-safes.com

www.bittnerantiques.com

Bear Ridge Home Improvement

• Remodeling • Bath renovations • General handy man services • Exterior siding • Painting • Rot replacement • Decking • Construction services • Remodeling • Interior painting services • Tile and hardwood flooring

26 years experience 802-343-2708 tfortin1007@gmail.com

The Other Paper Service Directory

It does a BIG job for your business for a little price.

Call 864-6670 for details.

The Other Paper • March 24, 2022 • Page 15

CROSSWORD

ARIES

LEO

March 21 - April 20 Spending time alone could be good for you this week, Aries.

While working toward your goals, you also are enjoying some much-needed peace and quiet.

TAURUS

July 23 - Aug. 23 Leo, a fantastic investment opportunity comes your way but there is a lot of red tape that could get in the way if you let it. Work through all angles to make things happen.

VIRGO

April 21 - May 21 Your friends may be pushing you to move forward since you seem to be stuck in the past, Taurus. Don’t stay stagnant for too long or you may lose motivation for change.

GEMINI May 22 - June 21 A collaboration with someone close to you yields surprising results, Gemini. You may have been looking for inspiration for some time and finally found it.

CANCER June 22 - July 22 Cancer, a longing for adventure points you in all sorts of different directions over the next few days. You have to try on a few different hats to find the right fit.

Aug. 24 - Sept. 22 Virgo, idolizing someone can have its plusses and minuses.

You may have a picture of a person that is impossible to live up to. Temper your expectations.

LIBRA Sept. 23 - Oct. 23 Libra, a rigid schedule may work for some, but not everyone. Incorporate a little flexibility into your life and others may be flocking to your laid-back style.

SCORPIO Oct. 24 - Nov. 22 Talk to someone about a creative idea that you have had, Scorpio. This person may offer valuable feedback that can guide you as you try to flesh out your idea into something tangible.

SUDOKU Here’s How It Works: Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!

SAGITTARIUS Nov. 23 - Dec. 21 Sagittarius, you may be interested in having a lot of fun, but someone keeps throwing a wet blanket on your ideas. Don’t let it derail your plans.

CAPRICORN Dec. 22 - Jan. 20 It’s easy to give opinions and pick sides, but don’t get pinned down to a particular position until you’ve tried several different options, Capricorn. Then you’ll have a good idea.

AQUARIUS Jan. 21 - Feb. 18 Others may not understand the way you manage money, Aquarius. But you have a clear understanding of your particular brand of logic.

PISCES Feb. 19 - March 20 Pisces, friends are a strong presence in your life right now and you are very grateful for all that they provide you. Let them know.

CLUES ACROSS 1. One who regrets 5. Time zone 8. Subway dweller 11. Bend in a river 13. Alias 14. Isodor __, American Nobel physicist 15. Very (music) 16. Zero 17. Phil __, former CIA 18. Competitions 20. Unwell 21. Puts in place 22. Gets rid of 25. Allows light to pass through 30. Climbed quickly 31. We all have it 32. There’s a North & South 33. Emaciation 38. Supervises flying 41. Very dark colors 43. Unwanted 45. Grants 48. Three visited Jesus 49. Wife of Amun 50. Broadway actress Daisy 55. A Spanish river 56. I (German)

26. The 17th letter of the Greek alphabet 27. Where birds fly 28. Midway between north and northeast 29. Chaotic states 34. Comedic actress Gasteyer 35. Kids’ dining accessory 36. Snakelike fish 37. Midway between CLUES DOWN south and southeast 1. Computer memory 39. Assign lifelike qualities 2. “Et __”: “And wife” to (Latin) 40. One who cites 3. Ancient Syrian city 41. Midway between east 4. College army and southeast 5. Cassava 42. North wind 6. Talented 44. One or the other 7. Capital of Estonia 45. Cavalry sword 8. Finger millet 46. Of the Hungarian 9. In a way, assists language 10. Men’s fashion 47. Life stories accessories 48. Flat tableland with 12. Misery steep edges 14. Skin disorder 51. Swiss river 19. Selling at specially 52. Plant that makes gum reduced prices 53. French cleric 23. Good friend 24. Stationary portion of a 54. One point east of northeast generator 58. Free from 25. Expression of disappointment 57. French opera composer 59. Six (Spanish) 60. Last letter 61. Spiritual leader of a Jewish congregation 62. A curved shape 63. Make a mistake 64. Tall plant

ANSWERS

Page 16 • March 24, 2022 • The Other Paper

TAKE YOUR WIFI W I T H

B U R L I N G T O N

The Fastest Internet

Enhance Your WiFi

1 Gig $70 + Smart WiFi

T E L E C O M

No Hidden Fees No Contracts No Data Caps Customer Centered Locally Operated

$12

Symmetrical Speeds

*Only available in serviceable locations. Contact us for availability.

802.540.0007