Trustees Meeting 4/27/26

Web version

 SWANTON VILLAGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

SWANTON VILLAGE MUNICIPAL COMPLEX

120 FIRST STREET

SWANTON, VT 05488

REGULAR MEETING

Monday, April 27, 2026

6:00 PM

PRESENT: Neal Speer, Trustee; Suzie Kelleher, Trustee; Damon Broderick, Trustee; William “Bill” Sheets, Village Manager; Lynn Paradis, Assistant Village Manager; Dianne Day, Village Clerk; Kyle Gagne,  Police Sgt.; Heidi Britch-Valenta, Grant Specialist; Robin Barnett, KBS; Jeffrey Lewis, A&E; John Fitzgerald, EAA Chapter; Beth White, Habitat for Aviation and Ch. 16. Via Teams: Michael.

To watch this meeting in its entirety, go to Northwest Access TV on YouTube. The video will also be posted on the Village’s website once available. Unless otherwise noted, all motions carried, unanimously.

1. Call to Order:

Neal Speer, Village Trustee,, called the Village Board of Trustees meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.

2. Pledge of Allegiance:

Everyone in attendance stood for the Pledge of Allegiance.

3. Agenda Review:

None.

4. Public Comment:

None.

5. Approve and Accept Minutes from Monday, April 13, 2026 as presented:

Suzie Kelleher made the motion to approve the minutes from Monday, April 13, 2026 as presented. Damon Broderick seconded the motion. Motion carried.

6. Approve and Accept Village Warrants through Thursday, April 23, 2026:

Damon Broderick made the motion to approve Village Warrants through Thursday, April 23, 2026 as presented. Suzie Kelleher seconded the motion. Motion carried.

7. Kittell, Branagan & Sargent to Discuss 2025 Swanton Village Financial Audit:

Robin Barnett from KBS explained to the board that they have completed their January field work for the Village of Swanton’s financial audit for 2025 and have an unmodified opinion. She said the Village was required to also have a single audit as well. Robin said there were no issues. She mentioned the general fund, the highway fund, the commercial building fund and the electric fund. She said the loss in the electric fund stems from purchase power expenses due to lack of generation. She also discussed the water and sewer funds and grant money received in the sewer fund. Robin said the financial standings, operations and internal controls are exactly what you want to see. Robin said Lynn Paradis and her team did a great job getting information together for them and was a very prepared team. She said there are no red flags and having an unmodified opinion is exactly what the board needs to see. Neal Speer thanked Lynn and her team for doing a good job and said Swanton Village is very fortunate.
The Board thanked Robin for coming in.

8. Aldrich & Elliott Update on Village Hydraulic Analysis and Preliminary Engineering Report on Village Water Line Assessment:

Jeffrey Lewis from Aldrich & Elliott began the following presentation for the Board:

The Problem: Aging Infrastructure & Low Fire Flow

• Existing Waterlines: Significant amount of 1940’s and older undersized cast-iron pipe that no longer meet fire flow standards
• Tuberculation: Decades of mineral buildup inside cast-iron pipes dramatically reduces the internal flow area and hydraulic capacity.
• Minimum fire flow standard: 500 gpm without lowering system residual pressure below 20 psi. The existing system cannot meet this standard in the Village core.
• Reliability Concern: Concern with the aging water mains in the Village core that there will be more frequent water main breaks.

What A+E Did: Hydraulic Study Scope

• Data Review: Reviewed existing records including the water system permit, sanitary surveys, mapping, usage records, ISO fire flow data, and maintenance records.
• Hydraulic Model Update: Updated and calibrated the existing WaterCAD hydraulic model with current water usage data and recent system improvements.
• Hydrant Flow Testing: Completed one day of hydrant flow testing to calibrate the model and document available fire flow throughout the Village core, with assistance from Village staff.
• Alternatives Analysis: Used the calibrated model to evaluate multiple waterline replacement scenarios and identify the most cost-effective solution for improving fire flow.

Hydraulic Model Results

• Village Core: Model confirmed need for improvement to meet fire flow. The 4-inch and 6-inch cast-iron mains in the center of the Village appear severely tuberculated and cannot meet the 500-gpm minimum standard.
• Transmission Main: Approximately 2,700 LF of older transmission main feeding the Village core is contributing to system-wide hydraulic deficiencies.
• ISO Fire Flow Standard: Model simulations confirmed multiple hydrants in the downtown area cannot meet the minimum 500 gpm fire flow without dropping residual pressure below 20 psi.

Alternative #2: Replace Part of Transmission Main

• Replace 2,230 Linear Feet of Existing 12-Inch Original Cast-Iron Transmission Main
• Install New 16-Inch Main
• Last Original Transmission Main
• Improves the Village’s Fire Flow Significantly
• $1,860,000 Construction Cost Estimate

Alternative #3: Replace All of First St

• Replace 3,450 Linear Feet of Existing 6 & 4-Inch Original Cast-Iron Water Mains
• Connects to the 10-Inch Main on Grand Ave and the 12-Inch Main on Elm St
• Improves the Village’s Fire Flow Moderately
• $5,670,000 Construction Cost Estimate

Alternative #4: Replace Transmission Main and Part of First St

• Replace Transmission Main from Alternative No.1
• Replace 500 Linear Feet of 4-Inch Main on First St
• $2,520,000 Construction Cost Estimate

Alternative #5: Side Streets

• Replace 4,000 Linear Feet of Existing 6 & 4-Inch Original Cast-Iron Water Mains
• Connects to the 12-Inch Main on Canada St and the 10-Inch Main on Second St
• Improves the Village’s Fire Flow Moderately
• $3,940,000 Construction Cost Estimate

Alternatives Analysis Summary

Recommended Next Steps

• Select Preferred Alternatives: Village Board direction needed on preferred improvement alternative to move forward with final design.
• Finalize PER: Complete and submit the Preliminary Engineering Report to the Village and Vermont Drinking Water & Groundwater Protection Division (DWGPD) for review and approval.
• DWSRF Funding Application: The completed PER satisfies VT DWSRF PER requirements, enabling the Village to apply for Step II (design) and Step III (construction) funding.
• Design & Construction: Following PER approval and funding authorization, proceed with final design, bidding, and construction of the selected improvements.

Jeffrey explained to the Board that A&E would recommend Alternative #2 first then Alternative #4. He said he realizes the Village has a lot going on right now but said at some point they should consider improving the fire flow in the Village. He feels Alternative #2 accomplishes that at an affordable price. Damon Broderick asked about how long they had before a decision was made. Jeffrey said it could be a few years because it took approximately 70 years for the lines to get as bad as they are. He said this would improve things drastically. The Board thanked Jeffrey for his presentation.

9. Discussion on Highgate Water Line Rates for Habitat for Aviation & EAA at Highgate Airport:

Beth White, Habitat for Aviation and John Fitzgerald, Chapter EAA, were present for this discussion. She said the reason for being here tonight is to request lower water and sewer rates for their non-profit businesses at the Airport in Highgate. She said she was shocked when she got her first bill and didn’t expect it to be that expensive. Beth White began her presentation for the board explaining what Habitat for Aviation is about:

This document outlines a community-driven initiative in Swanton, Vermont, promoting women in aviation through education, hands-on aircraft building, and infrastructure support.

Community Aviation Initiative in Vermont

A community-driven effort to promote women in aviation, support infrastructure, and address workforce challenges in Vermont's aviation sector.

Introductions of Key Community Leaders

Overview of local leaders involved in aviation and community programs.

• Beth White, John Fitzgerald, and other leaders introduced.
• John Fitzgerald is the founder of Habitat for Aviation and EAA Youth Program Coordinator.
• Local business owner and EAA Chapter 613 president involved.

Overview of Community-Serving Aviation Organizations

Overview of nonprofit groups promoting aviation education and mentorship.

• Founded in 1953, 501(c)3 nonprofit with a focus on aviation enthusiasts.
• Provides education, mentorship, and hands-on learning.
• Women make up only 17% of U.S. licensed aviation maintenance technicians.
• Women in Aviation Advisory Board (WIAAB) advocates for increased female participation.
• Emphasizes that aviation is more than just building airplanes.

Importance of Women in Vermont’s Aviation Workforce

Overview of gender disparities and economic implications.

• Women in Vermont earn 86¢ for every dollar men earn.
• Highlights gender wage gap in the state.

Growing Industry and Workforce Shortage

Overview of industry growth and workforce challenges.

• Aircraft mechanic technician jobs expected to grow 11% from 2020-2030.
• Faster than average occupation growth.
• One in four airplane mechanic jobs projected to be vacant by 2027.
• Potential for fewer flights and increased delays due to staffing shortages.

First All-Women Youth-Adult Plane Building Project

Overview of hands-on aircraft construction and community building.

• First all-women project involving youth and adults.
• Focus on aircraft construction, community, and belonging.
• Includes enrichment activities, lunch & learns, open hangar events, and presentations.

Multi-Generational Learning and Community Engagement

Overview of diverse age participation and shared learning.

• Participants range from age nine to Granny.
• Emphasizes learning from one another.
• Celebrates a multi-generational team.

Aircraft Building Timeline and Details

Overview of project scope and schedule.

• Approximately 1,000 hours of build time.
• About 10,000 rivets used.
• Building a Rans S-21 airplane kit.
• Work sessions Sundays at Franklin County State Airport, 11 AM - 5 PM.
• Taking time to ensure quality.

Post-Construction Uses and Community Outreach

Overview of aircraft utilization and outreach goals.

• Plane used for training and educational purposes.
• Will fly to airshows and open hangar events across Vermont.
• Demonstrates women building, flying, and fixing planes.

Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) Community

Overview of EAA’s inclusive aviation programs.

• Welcomes pilots, students, and aviation enthusiasts.
• Offers pancake breakfasts, summer BBQs, fly-ins, educational programs, and flight simulators.
• Promotes accessible aviation community.

Youth Aviation Programs and Mentorship

Overview of youth engagement and pilot training.

• Free flights for youth aged 8-17.
• Free online ground school and student memberships.
• First flight lessons after Sporty’s program.
• Mentorship opportunities.
• Since 2018, 19 youth earned Private Pilot Licenses; 47.4% women.
• Only 5% of U.S. pilots are women.

Infrastructure Support and Funding

Overview of funding and rate support strategies.

• Support from Economic Development Administration (EDA).
• Rely on grants and donor support; low revenue operations.
• Current commercial rates are higher than actual usage, leading to overpayment.

Proposed Rate Reclassification Options

Overview of rate adjustment proposals for infrastructure.

• Option 1: Reclassify Habitat for Aviation & EAA as Residential, aligning rates with usage.
• Option 2: Create a nonprofit rate tier for local organizations with low usage and community benefit.
• Option 3: Introduce a low usage commercial rate for non-residential properties with minimal water use.
• Option 4: Apply the same rate for all users.

Examples of Rate Approaches in Vermont

Overview of existing rate models in other Vermont communities.

• Hardwick: Has a Low Usage Commercial Rate, with a residential rate as a distinct classification.
• Grand Isle: Has a Small Business Rate; if usage exceeds 80,000 gallons annually, reclassified as large business.

Beth further explained to the Board that her father does business in Williston and has a much lower water rate than Swanton. Suzie Kelleher said it’s not fair to compare Swanton with Williston or anywhere in Chittenden County because they are much larger and have a larger population and tax base. She also said all churches, non-profits and small businesses in Swanton pay the same rates and it wouldn’t be fair to change it for just a few businesses. John Fitzgerald said he lives in South Alburg and also pays much lower rates than Swanton. He asked the board if they would consider creating a “non-profit rate class.” The board thanked both Beth and John for coming in and said they would consider their requests.

10. Swanton Village Police Department Update with Chief Matthew Sullivan:

Kyle Gagne, Police Sgt., informed the Board that the Village Police Department responded to 160 incidents in the Village during the month of March 2026. He said the top ten calls for service were: 62 traffic stop, 15 suspicious person/circumstance, 6 motor vehicle complaint, 6 family fight/domestic, 6 alarm, 5 agency assistance, 5 directed patrol, 4 noise disturbance, 4 community outreach, and 4 theft. He said there were 62 traffic stops resulting in 12 tickets and 59 warnings. Kyle said there were 9 arrests with 15 charges with 9 individuals. Kyle also said the department is fully staffed and one officer is almost complete with his Drug Recognition Class. He also said traffic enforcement is up 20% from last year.

Kyle informed the Board that the police department responded to 195 incidents in the Town of Swanton for the month of March 2026. He said the top ten calls for service included 113 traffic stop, 29 directed patrol, 10 suspicious person/circumstance, 5 mental health, 4 community outreach, 4 alarm, 3 property damage, 3 crashes, 3 property damage and 3 DUI’s. Kyle said there were 113 traffic stops resulting in 26 tickets and 87 warnings. He said there were 8 arrests, 17 charges with 8 individuals. He said the department also worked an additional 88.5 service hours for the Town. The board discussed these additional hours and most of them came from the Governor’s Highway Safety grant and Sharp details. Bill Sheets, Village Manager, said they should have a conversation with the Town Selectboard about how they can come up with a more equitable cost sharing alternative based on the services being offered to the Town.

11. Water/Wastewater Allocations: Myranda Benoit, 4 Gaetan Drive, Swanton and Cross Consulting Engineers for Project off Airport Drive, Highgate:

Suzie Kelleher made the motion to enter into Water Commissioner’s meeting at 6:55 p.m. Damon Broderick seconded the motion. Motion carried.

Dianne Day, Village Clerk, informed the Board that Myranda Benoit is in the process of building a new home at 4 Gaetan Drive and is requesting a water allocation of 280 gallons per day for her single family two-bedroom dwelling. Dianne said Myranda is aware of the $1500 water connection fee

Dianne also informed the Board that Ryan Wells from Cross Consulting Engineering is working on a 8-Lot subdivision off of Airport Drive in Highgate. She said they are requesting a water and wastewater allocation of 3000 GPD total for both water and wastewater for the 8 lots. She said each one would have an allocation of 375 GPD. Discussion: This is from the new water line the Town of Highgate had installed at the airport. approve Cross Consulting Engineers’ request for 3000 gallons per day for both water and wastewater for their 8-lot subdivision project off of Airport Road in Highgate. Neal Speer seconded the motion. Motion carried.

Suzie Kelleher made the motion to approve Myanda Benoit’s request for a water allocation of 280 GPD for her single family two-bedroom home to be located at 4 Gaetan Drive, Swanton and to approve Cross Consulting Engineers’ request for 3000 gallons per day for both water and wastewater for their 8-lot subdivision project off of Airport Road in Highgate. Damon Broderick seconded the motion. Motion carried.

Suzie Kelleher made the motion to exit Water Commissioner’s meeting and to re-enter Open Session at 7:00 p.m. Damon Broderick seconded the motion. Motion carried.

12. Review and Acknowledge 1^st Quarter SQRP:

Suzie Kelleher stated the Board of Trustees have reviewed and acknowledge receipt of the 1^st Quarter SQRP report.

13. Village Manager Update:

Hydro Update: The position will be open until it is filled. If you know of anyone interested in this position, there is still time to apply. The Request for Qualification (RFQ) for the alternatives analysis assessment is complete and the kickoff meeting with Gomez and Sullivan is this Wednesday. We expect to prioritize the engineering for the interim solution that could last for a couple of years while we determine the best long-term solution.

HYDRO Operations: We have seen significant production improvement despite limitations based upon intake limitations. We currently have units 1, 3, 4 and 5 running and when the conditions allow, we produce approximately 6 MW around the clock. As of today, we are producing 4 MW and that will continue to decrease until we get a rain event. This does allow us to conduct routine maintenance on units that are offline.

Unit 1 remains a workhorse and is operating to standard.

Unit 2 is down due to a vibration at about the 60 percent mark. The Unit 2 exciter is inoperable.

Unit 3 was fully back online and is performing to standard.

Unit 4 is fully back online and performing to standard.

Unit 5 is back online and fully operational.

Work Milestone: We want to acknowledge Trish Adams, Staff Accountant/HR has reached her 20-year anniversary on April 10, 2026. This is a great accomplishment by an outstanding employee.

Local Option Tax: We expect to have a draft agreement from the Town prior to our May 11^th Trustees meeting, with an effective start date of July 1, 2026. A large thank you to the Swanton Selectboard and Town Administrator Brian Savage for taking the lead on navigating this initiative with the State of Vermont.

Fire Department: The FD assisted with the Corporal Lord memorial marker placement on Vermont Route 78. We received citizen feedback from a citizen who thanked the FD for checking all smoke alarms after that resident had an issue with detectors.

Electric: We officially broke ground next door on Monday 04/20/26. We have no current plans to have a formal groundbreaking ceremony, like our Wastewater project. We will hold a formal open house when Wastewater is complete, and I recommend that we do the same next door when the Electric Department Facility is complete. So far, the water tables are much lower than expected and the mitigation of soil does not seem to be as significant as originally thought. The tires that you see on site were not in the ground, they were brought in to weigh down the plastic used to cover soil that must be removed.

Public Works: The Street Sweeper work remains in full swing, and our team is still out repairing lawns damaged during winter maintenance. We will be fixing potholes once the hot mix plant opens. The team raked and mowed the Village Green today. The team is also picking up branches and bags in the Village twice weekly until June 1^st. Note: Nick Pfeil passed his statewide water distribution certification, joining Dean Ryan as members who hold this certification in Public Works.

Water: The team is still collaborating with technical folks on chemical pump issues. They are doing spring work on the property, removing some trees and stumps on the property. They have completed all required PFAS testing with nothing abnormal detected.

Wastewater: This project continues to be in the final phase, with testing and commissioning of some components remaining. We are close to being substantially complete with punch list work remaining.

14. Discussion on Hometown Hero Banners:

Suzie Kelleherm said she would like to give a shout out to Veterans Realty for a $1400 donation, an anonymous donation of $1,000, Paul Nolan, Village Attorney, for a $750 donation and Kiersten Bourgeois for a $500 donation. She said there are now enough funds to get the banners printed and to get the hardware needed to install them. She also said Peoples Trust Company has pledged a large donation as well. She said she wants to thank everyone in the community for pulling together for the Veterans. Bill Sheets, Village Manager, said he would give an update on whether there is a prosecution or not.

15. Any Other Necessary Business:

Suzie Kelleher announced the following events:

Green Up Day May 2^nd

Beautification Committee at Band Stand in Village Green May 9^th

Art Awareness at Creative Heart May 2^nd, Grand Avenue and Abenaki Food Pantry for awareness on missing indigenous women and children

Abenaki Heritage Festive and Pow Wow May 23^rd &n 24^th at Recreation Field

Memorial Day Parade May 25^th at 2 p.m.

Any Other Business: Damon Broderick said he would like an update on the tree removal situation on Maquam Shore Road. He said Joel Clark mentioned that at their last meeting. Bill Sheets said he would follow up with Daren Plouff.

16. Proposed Executive Session to Discuss Legal and Contracts:

Suzie Kelleher made the motion, seconded by Damon Broderick, to go into Executive Session at 7:25 p.m. to discuss confidential customer accounts where premature general public knowledge of the subject matter would place the Village or person involved at a substantial disadvantage. Motion carried.

Suzie Kelleher made the motion to exit Executive Session at 8:00 p.m. Damon Broderick seconded. Motion carried.

17. Adjournment:

Neal Speer made the motion to adjourn the Regular Meeting of the Board of the Trustees at 8:01 p.m. Damon Broderick seconded. There being no further business at hand, Neal Speer, Village Trustee, adjourned the meeting at 8:01 p.m. Motion carried.

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David Winchester, Village President                  Date

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Dianne Day, Village Clerk                                Date