Swanton Enhancement Project (SEP) 1-15-26

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 CONVENE, COMMUNICATE, INFORM AND ENGAGE

ALL ARE WELCOME!

Swanton Enhancement Project (SEP)

January 15, 2025

5:30-7:30 pm

Holy Trinity Episcopal Church

MINUTES

Present: Suzie Kelleher, Darci Benoit, B J Benoit, Hank Lambert, Molly Lambert, Neal Speer, Marie Speer, Abigael Gaudette, Renee Cioffi, Yeshua Pastina, Linda Wirts, Don Collins, Nicole Draper, Joel Clark, Kiersten Bourgeous, Senator Randy Brock, Representative Matt Walker.

1. Welcome and Review of Agenda

Chair, Kiersten Bourgeois called the meeting to order at 5:35 pm. The agenda was reordered to accommodate our guest speakers.

2. Guest Speakers – Senator Randy  Brock and Representative Matt Walker

Senator Randy Brock, member of the Senate Finance and Economic Development Committee summarized some major issues in Vermont. Major problems include: education, property tax, and high housing costs. A sharp rise in taxes impacts population numbers. Jobs are left unfilled.

Standardized testing in math and English shows lower scores. Vermont ranks  second in the nation for expenses to educate a child. We have a declining  population of children. Vermont has the highest student to teacher ratio in the nation. The Education Commission recommends reducing the  number of supervisory unions (62) but has not recommended a number. If unresolved, we could see a 17% tax increase in property tax which is unacceptable.

Representative Walker added there is a large demand for housing. Changes to  Act 250 regulations will improve the approval process. He added that the State recognition for the Abenaki community is under attack. He also mentioned that the committee is considering regulating the speed limits of E bikes on public roads.

As Chair of the House Transportation Committee, Matt reported that  the local option tax, if approved by Swanton voters, will generate funds since there are six gas stations in Swanton. We discussed the proposal  to cut back on vehicle inspections. Police in Vermont have far fewer speed traps set up, thus reduced revenue. There is a shortage of police. It is difficult to hire.

Molly asked about the Vermont Futures Project. Senator Brock said the data the organization is collecting is so important. Theirs and other data points influence how we measure the impact of our public investments.  An Improved education system translates into success in all areas of our state’s economy.

Don Collins stated the costs of healthcare are two to three times higher since the state took over healthcare. Local control is a myth. School boards hire principals but little else.

Matt commented that public transportation will likely increase rides under new management. We can expect better service in a year without higher costs.

3.  Committee Reports

• Swanton Village

Trustees Suzi Kelleher and Neal Spear reported on Village activities:  The 2026 budget is nearly finalized. Licensing the Highgate dam is underway. The Village hired one new police officer. Tthe village received a tree grant for $13,000

• Town of Swanton

Selectboard Chair,Joel Clark, reported that the town included $680,000 for paving local roads. A local option tax is on the ballot this year to be used for capital maintenance. If approved, expected revenue would be $250,000 for the town and $76,000 for the village. Swanton welcome signs will be placed at Hog Island, Route 78, at Hudak Farm, and elsewhere.

• Library

Abbey Gaudette, Director, reported that she and Nicole were interviewed during a broadcast by Vermont public today. She highlighted upcoming activities including Tracy Sorrell author, Harry Potter night. Over 20,000 books were checked out in 2025, a number that has grown substantially over recent years.

• MVSD

Yeshua  Pastina, Principal Swanton School, reported that a major building improvement now complete has created beautiful new space. The school received a $22,000 grant for after school activities. 

A number of students have taken Advanced Placement tests. The school population is not declining. He suggested increased investment in career education is needed. The funding model needs review.

• Recreation

Nicole Draper, Director, reported a list of activities in the recreation department including Little League, February and April vacation games, safe sitter education, a Cal Raleigh raffle, and more.

• Swanton Arts Council

Marie Speer reported that the Swanton Arts Council received a $5000 grant for continuing  art instruction in public schools. The Edwin Church writing contest winner will be announced soon.

• Beautification

Suzi Kelleher, Chair, mentioned that the Swanton Beautification Committee is moving toward using more perennials and less annuals in the coming years. Fundraising continues. Next meeting of the Committee will be held February 25 at 6:00 pm at the Village Complex.

• Community and Economic Development

Darci Benoit, Chair and also chair of the Chamber, reported that there have been no recent meetings. She asked that Suzi Kelleher report on the activities of Promote Swanton, a committee created by town and village elected officials.  Suzi reported that updates are on the web and that a town wide flea market will be held May 30th and 31^st.

• Historic Preservation – Not present
• Abenaki Nation - not present

4. Review and Approve Minutes of November 20, 2025

Upon motion of Suze Kelleher and second by Darci Benoit, the minutes of the November 20, 2025 meeting were approved unanimously.

5. Finance Update

Upon motion of Abbey Gaudette and second by Suzi Kelleher, the financial report presented by Joel Clark was approved unanimously.

6. New Business

Renee Chioffi, new property owner of a portion of Merchants Row, announced that two new businesses will soon occupy her building. She did not reveal the names but stated it will be announced soon

Joel Clark suggested that some of SEP’s unrestricted funds be used to support signs for businesses in the community. After a short discussion, it was agreed to bring this topic up at our next meeting.

7. Next Meeting Date and Adjourn

The next meeting date is scheduled for March 12^th at 5:30pm. Location TBD.

Upon motion of Darcy Benoit and second by Marie Speer, the meeting was adjourned at 7:25 pm.