Public Meetings - Springfield, Vermont

The Springfield Select Board met on March 24, 2026, to address a wide range of business, including liquor and tobacco license renewals, updates on problematic properties, approval of special events, a 10-year contract for police body and in-car cameras (Axon), and a state loan for snow removal equipment. The meeting also covered committee appointments, a grass mowing height discussion, and citizen concerns about the Wall Street one-way implementation and sidewalk project. Consent Calendar - Liquor, Tobacco, and Tobacco Substitute License Renewals: Approved unanimously for three businesses: Chabora Spirits LLC (dba Joe's Discount Beverage), Amina and Rehan LLC (dba Minamar), and Penguin Market LLC (dba Penguin Market). The licenses cover second class, tobacco, and tobacco substitute categories. Voting: 5-0. - Approval of Meeting Minutes: Approved minutes from the February 23, 2026 regular select board meeting and the March 4, 2026 organizational meeting, with noted corrections (typos on page 6, 8, and page 2 of March 4 minutes). Voting: 5-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Tim Wallace (resident): Expressed concern about a second camper at 10-12 Central St property and questioned the timeline for cleanup. - Richard (resident): Criticized delays in addressing interior issues at 10-12 Central St, noting no reinspection occurred 17 days after the March 6 deadline. Expressed frustration with the lack of progress on sewer, water, and structural concerns. - Dan Keebler: Questioned the connection between resident behavior and landowner responsibility. Town Manager and Police Chief explained that under Vermont law, property owners are responsible for tenant actions, and enforcement is a due process that takes time. - Nicole (neighbor of 482 Sebus Brook Rd): Raised safety and garbage concerns at the property. The town explained that as no owner can be located, they will pursue administrative probate to gain ownership and then enforce ordinances. - Robin Gardner: Asked about the firmness of the Axon contract's exit clauses. Town Manager stated there are performance standards allowing termination if not met. - Robin Gardner (later): Asked about the availability of decibel readers for noise enforcement on the new camera system. Chief clarified they are not included. - Citizen (unidentified): Asked about the status of the Wall Street one-way project and sidewalk reconstruction. Town Manager and Highway Foreman explained that plastic barricades have been ordered to replace jersey barriers, and sidewalk engineering is pending after paving bids are awarded in April. The citizen requested a list of sidewalk projects. - Citizen (unidentified): Asked about the Middle Income Housing Committee recommendations. Town Manager confirmed it was an ad-hoc committee and that its report is on the town website. Discussion Items - Updates on Problem Properties - 78 Valley Street: After police activity, the building has been boarded and secured. Owner is incapacitated (not out on bail). Efforts to prevent reoccupation. Concerns about debris near creek will be investigated. - 516 Spencer Hollow Road: A violation letter was posted March 13 regarding an unregistered camper. 30-day removal deadline; if not complied, the town will remove and bill owner. - 10-12 Central Street: Exterior debris partially removed. Owner working with the town, expects exterior cleanup within 7-10 days. Interior issues (roof, structural) still pending a follow-up inspection. Town Manager noted the process is slow but moving toward compliance. - 482 Sebus Brook Road: Previous owners deceased (over 7 years). Town attempting to locate family. If unsuccessful, will begin administrative probate to take ownership. Tenant's relationship unknown; enforcement currently not possible. - Springfield on the Move Event Permit (Summer Park Events): Approved six outdoor concerts on Fourth Fridays (May 22, June 26, July 24, August 28, September 25, October 23, 2026) at Main Street Park. Bands announced. Voting: 5-0. - Appointments to Committees: Approved board liaison and committee assignments for various town boards, including Planning Commission (Mike Schmidt), Ordinance Committee (Doug Johnston), Airport Commission (Mike Schmidt), Long-Term Capital Planning (Heather Fram and Doug Johnston), SRDC (Christy Morris), Springfield School Board (Tara Chase), Trails and Rural Economy (Christy Morris), and others. Vacancies noted for DRB and DEI committee; Mike Schmidt added to DRB. Voting: 5-0. - Springfield Alumni Association Parade Permit: Approved annual parade on June 20, 2026 from 9 AM to 12:30 PM, assembling at Clinton Street and ending at Riverside Middle School. Theme: "Game Shows." Voting: 5-0. - MOU for Springfield on the Move Office Space: Authorized the Town Manager to sign a one-year MOU allowing SOM to store records and materials in town hall during their relocation. No financial consideration. Voting: 5-0. - State Equipment Loan for Snow Vehicles: Approved application for a $150,000 low-interest (2%) loan via the state equipment loan fund to purchase two new snow removal vehicles: a dump truck (with pre-wet system, plow, wing, 7-year warranty, total $308,139) and a one-ton pickup ($73,000). Voting: 5-0. Purpose: improve reliability, reduce salt usage via pre-treatment, and manage rising vehicle costs. - Axon Police Camera Contract: Approved a 10-year contract with Axon for body cameras and in-car camera systems, including cloud storage (evidence.com). First year cost: $14,000 implementation; annual costs range from $16,987 to $27,825 (escalating). Total contract value: $338,256 over 10 years. Equipment includes 18 cameras. Town Manager cited improved reliability, data protection, and public expectation. Voting: 5-0. - Town Manager's Report: - Ordinance Committee Deadline Extension: Approved extending the committee's deadline for land use development ordinance review to May 7, 2026. Voting: 5-0. - Grass Mowing Height: Discussed recommendation from Black River Action Team and Cemetery Commission to raise mowing height from 2 to 3 inches for environmental benefits. Concerns about public perception and ability of equipment. Board agreed to try it with public education and possibly a staged approach ahead of Memorial Day. - Prison Land Transfer: Update on land transfer around the correctional facility; state spends $120,000/year on bare roads policy. Potential road ownership concerns noted. Key Outcomes - All license renewals, event permits, appointments, and contracts approved unanimously (5-0) as noted above. - Problem properties: continuing monitoring with specific timelines for compliance (30 days for 516 Spencer Hollow, 7-10 days for exterior at 10-12 Central, probate process for 482 Sebus Brook). - Wall Street one-way project: plastic barricades ordered; signage to be installed soon. Sidewalk project engineering to follow paving bid awards. - Axon contract signed; police department to transition to new system. - Ordinance committee work extended to May 7. - Grass mowing height change to be trialed with public outreach.

The Springfield Select Board convened on February 24, 2026, at 5:00 PM. The meeting addressed a range of topics including property compliance issues, adoption of road standards, parade permits, a dam removal bid, and infrastructure updates. Board members present: Mike Martin, Christy Moore, Michael Schmidt, Tara Chase (via Zoom). Heather Fram was absent. The meeting adjourned at 7:48 PM. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (February 9, 2026): Corrected attendance errors (Tara Chase was absent, Heather Fram was on Zoom) and corrected a numerical error in police vehicle engine hours. Minutes approved with amendments. Vote: 3-0 (Tara Chase recused). Public Comments & Testimony - Nicole and John (neighbors of 482 Sebasbrook Road): Described ongoing safety and code violations at the property since 2015, including drug activity, structural hazards, and lack of legal owner. Expressed urgency for the town to establish ownership and address conditions. - Glenn (citizen): Asked about filling vacancies on the Planning Commission following recent resignations. - Robin (citizen): Reported dangerous sidewalk and crosswalk conditions on Wall and Summer Streets, describing a near-miss with a vehicle. Requested snowbank breaks and improved pedestrian access. - Garrett Richardson (citizen, earlier in meeting): Inquired about compliance letters for a property; received update on camper removal by March 1. Discussion Items - 482 Sebasbrook Road Property: The board discussed options for a property with unknown ownership (owners deceased since 2015, no probate). The property has multiple code violations and uncooperative tenants. After considering civil penalties (which cannot be served without an owner), the board voted to authorize the town manager to initiate probate proceedings to establish ownership or acquire the property via quiet title deed. Vote: 4-0. - Drainage Crossing Standards (Section 5): Adopted updated state standards requiring 18-inch minimum culvert size for new work. This ensures eligibility for state grants. Vote: 4-0. - 2026 Town Road and Bridge Standards Certification: Approved a resolution certifying compliance, necessary for MRGP and other grants. Vote: 4-0. - Disposal of Town Property Policy: Adopted an amended policy (Section 5) adding procedures for real property disposition, requiring select board approval. Vote: 4-0. - Parade Permits: Approved three events: Touch-a-Truck (April 11, 2026, corrected from application), Vermont Senior Games road race (May 17, 2026), and Humane Society pet services event (March 29, 2026). All votes 4-0. Insurance verified. - Reorganizational Meeting: Scheduled March 4, 2026, at 5:00 PM for election of officers and committee appointments. Candidate Doug Johnston confirmed availability. - Bid Award – Springfield Reservoir Dam Removal: Awarded contract to Hilltop Construction LLC for $324,000 (engineer's estimate $780,000). The project is federally funded; unspent funds may revert to the town. Vote: 4-0. - Manager’s Report: Update on salt supply shortages (spot purchases at $120/ton, some towns paying $200/ton) due to producer issues. Town plans to test magnesium chloride systems on downtown hills. Also discussed pre-ordering a 2026 Ford F350 with plow and slide applicator via Vermont Municipal Loan Fund (2% interest, $150,000) to address equipment delays. Formal action deferred to next meeting. - Ordinance Committee: Member Mike Martin requested adding reappointment of ordinance committee members (himself and Walter Martone) to the March 4 agenda for discussion. Key Outcomes - Probate for 482 Sebasbrook Road: Authorized town manager to work with attorney to initiate probate proceedings. Vote: 4-0. - Adopted Section 5 Drainage Crossing Standards. Vote: 4-0. - Certified Compliance with 2026 Road and Bridge Standards. Vote: 4-0. - Adopted Amended Disposal of Property Policy. Vote: 4-0. - Approved Three Parade/Event Permits. Votes: 4-0 each. - Awarded Dam Removal Contract to Hilltop Construction ($324,000). Vote: 4-0. - Scheduled Reorganizational Meeting for March 4, 2026. - Future Agenda Proposals: Mike Martin requested water/sewer system updates; ordinances committee reappointment to be added. - Citizen Comments: Town manager to follow up on planning commission vacancies and Wall Street sidewalk/safety concerns.

The meeting was a candidate interview on the program "Springfield 2100," hosted by an unidentified interviewer, featuring Doug Johnson, a lifelong Springfield resident and candidate for the Select Board. Johnson discussed his background as a former police officer and chief, and his views on key town issues including land development, the proposed quarry, relocation of town facilities, economic development, housing, and infrastructure. No formal decisions or votes were taken; the conversation served as an informational platform for voters. Candidate Background and Opening Remarks - Doug Johnson has lived in Springfield nearly his entire life, worked as a police officer, later became chief of police, and served as executive director of the New England Association of Chiefs of Police until 2024. - He currently serves on the Long-Term Planning Committee and the Budget Advisory Committee and regularly attends Select Board meetings. Land Development and Act 250 - Johnson noted that recent Act 250 revisions allow development of up to 50 housing units without full Act 250 review, with towns able to handle approvals below that threshold. - He referenced a previous solar farm proposal opposed by neighbors (NIMBYism), noting a selectman at the time observed the project was not even visible from the opposing resident's home. - Regarding a quarry proposal, Johnson expressed awareness of concerns about noise and potential impact on artesian wells, emphasizing the need for dialogue between developers and residents. - He stated the town lacks a clear method to project revenue from new developments like a quarry or factory, suggesting Bob Flint (likely a town official) could provide such analysis. Town Hall and Parks & Recreation Relocation - A proposal to move town offices, the senior center, and Parks & Recreation to the Park Street School building was discussed. - Johnson noted the Long-Term Planning Committee is evaluating the costs of renovating current facilities versus moving, including energy efficiency and parking considerations. - He mentioned that the senior center initially resisted moving but later data showed most participants drive to the current location, making the Park Street School site viable due to better parking. - Johnson emphasized that the committee can only make recommendations; the Select Board or voters may decide on any move. Development of Old Factory Sites - The Parks and Wilson factory (built 1828) is undergoing hazardous materials evaluation and structural assessment; Johnson stated the outcome will determine whether it can be saved or must be demolished. - He suggested potential reuse as mixed-use with businesses on the ground floor and apartments above, but noted parking challenges might be mitigated by using the nearby Marsh property lot. - The J&L site (Superfund) remediation is progressing slowly, with Johnson attributing delays to funding and approval processes. Economic Development and Housing - Johnson stressed the need to diversify Springfield's economy beyond the machine tool industry, which was a single-basket failure after Wall Street acquisitions in the 1980s. - He advocated aggressive marketing to attract businesses, leveraging assets like fast broadband (historically the fastest in Vermont) and low crime. - Housing: Governor Scott has mandated 531 new houses; Johnson acknowledged the target but had not followed the Housing Commission’s work. He suggested connecting landowners with private developers to build medium- to higher-income housing near water and sewer lines. - He noted taxes are high due to the loss of industrial tax base and the town's 24/7 service model, with options being either reducing services or growing the grand list. - Johnson expressed wariness of taxpayer-funded business incentives but supported private development; he referenced a bakery that took town funds then closed without repayment. Energy and Infrastructure - Johnson shared personal energy savings: he reduced oil consumption from 1,100 gallons to 450 gallons per year using solar panels, heat pumps, a wood fireplace, and oil furnace, though he noted upfront costs are significant. - He discussed town water and sewer projects: planned construction from River Street to the plaza (likely 2027) and a larger downtown redevelopment estimated at $13 million with about half from state grants. - He mentioned the Toonerville Trail extension stalled at Bridge Street, and state considerations for roundabouts at South Street Hill and near the plaza. - The highway department is leasing a 10-wheel dump truck as a cost-saving measure to avoid maintaining older vehicles; Johnson noted that equipment co-ops with neighboring towns are often impractical because needs coincide. School System and Regionalization - Johnson briefly commented that school tax reduction and academic improvement may require state-led regionalization to reduce the number of districts, though he offered no specific solutions. Key Outcomes - No votes or formal decisions were made during this candidate interview. - Doug Johnson's candidacy for the Select Board was presented to viewers; he emphasized the need for proactive economic development, careful evaluation of relocation projects, and responsible housing growth to revitalize Springfield.

Date: November 26, 2025 | Time: 6:00 PM (opening) | Location: Town Hall / Zoom The Springfield Select Board convened on November 26, 2025, to address several agenda items, including a petition regarding the property at 10-12 Central Street, a warrant article request from SAPA TV, a parade permit, and a first reading of an ordinance amendment. The meeting featured extensive public testimony and discussion on property nuisances and enforcement procedures. Consent Calendar - Minutes of November 10, 2025: Motion to adopt the regular select board meeting minutes of November 10, 2025. Approved unanimously by roll call (5-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Bob Fitzgo (13 Baker Road): Presented a signed letter requesting enforcement action on the 10-12 Central Street property. Noted the petition included approximately 38 signatures, mostly from North Springfield. - Judy Small (6 Central Street): Described deplorable conditions at the property, including rotting garbage, stench, and pests. Expressed frustration that the owner, Will Hunter, has not addressed the issues despite previous requests. - Mel Scherven (across from 12 Central Street): Discussed overflowing dumpsters, garbage spread by animals, and traffic safety concerns from on-street parking. Noted tenants had paid out-of-pocket for a dumpster but it is inadequate. - Warren Richardson (Church Street): Urged the board to inspect the property immediately, describing the interior as unsafe and unsanitary. Questioned the timeline for action. - Garrett Richardson (63 Breezy Hills): Expressed skepticism about the pace of town action and pledged to attend every meeting for updates. - Jessica Martin (22 Baker Road): Clarified that under Vermont law, the property owner is responsible for conditions unless a property manager is appointed. - Dave Church (across from 12 Central Street): Detailed the pattern of garbage accumulation and the small dumpster's inadequacy. - Tamara Richardson (Church Street): Raised concern about possible leaking oil tanks on the property, asking about environmental enforcement. - Kurt Abbey (27 Spooner Ave / 165 Spooner Ave): Provided historical information about underground oil tanks at the property, noting the owner had refused to address them. - Kevin Paket (Executive Director, SAPA TV): Requested the board place SAPA TV on the town meeting warrant for $10,000 special appropriation. Explained declining revenues from cable surcharges and the need for voter-approved funding. Noted that SAPA TV provides valuable service including televising select board meetings. Discussion Items - 10-12 Central Street Property: The board received a petition from residents requesting inspection and enforcement under Chapters 8 (unsafe buildings) and 12 (nuisance) of Springfield's ordinances. Town Manager Jeff Mobus and Zoning Administrator Chuck Weiss (via Zoom) outlined the property's history and previous communications with owner Will Hunter. Town Attorney Steve Ankuda clarified the legal process: under Chapter 8, an initial investigation by the fire chief/health officer is required before appointing a formal inspection committee with a structural engineer. Under Chapter 12, the board can directly appoint an investigation committee. After public testimony and legal guidance, the board moved to appoint an inspection committee under Chapter 12 (nuisance) to inspect the property and report back. The committee will include the zoning administrator, fire chief (or deputy), and any others deemed necessary. The inspection was tentatively scheduled for December 2, 2025. - SAPA TV Warrant Article: The board debated whether to place SAPA TV's $10,000 request on the town meeting warrant again. Member Fram expressed concern about setting a precedent by bypassing the standard petition process. Others argued the service is valuable and the voters should decide. A motion to place the article on the warrant passed 3-1-1 (Fram dissented). The board did not amend to make a permanent exception. - Parade Permit: The Chamber of Commerce requested a parade permit for December 5, 2025, in conjunction with the Christmas tree lighting. Route from the fire station to Ballot Street. Approved unanimously. - First Reading of Ordinance Amendment: The ordinance committee submitted a proposed amendment to Chapter 20, Article 3. The board set a public hearing for December 8, 2025, at 6:00 PM. Key Outcomes - Central Street Inspection Committee: Approved motion to appoint a Chapter 12 inspection committee (zoning administrator, fire chief/deputy) to inspect 10-12 Central Street for nuisances (trash, health hazards) and report back. Vote: unanimous (5-0). - SAPA TV Warrant Article: Approved placing a $10,000 appropriation request for SAPA TV on the town meeting warrant. Vote: 3-1-1 (Chase, Schmidt, and Mobus in favor; Fram opposed; Morris abstained). - Parade Permit: Approved for December 5, 2025, Chamber of Commerce parade. Vote: unanimous (5-0). - Ordinance Amendment Public Hearing: Scheduled for December 8, 2025, at 6:00 PM for first reading of Chapter 20 amendment. Next Regular Meeting: December 8, 2025.

The Springfield Select Board met on November 12, 2025, to address a range of items including a major tax stabilization agreement for Image Tech Manufacturing, a funding request from the Springfield Farmers Market, appointments, infrastructure contracts, scheduling changes for the fire department, and preliminary budget presentations from town departments. Several votes were taken, and the board provided direction for upcoming budget workshops. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The board unanimously approved the regular select board meeting minutes from October 2025. - Permits and Licenses: Unanimous approval was granted for: a special events permit for Eden Cider Company (for an event at the Gallery of the Fall), a second class liquor license for Max Convenience Stores LLC, and a catering permit for Black Rock Steakhouse Inc. (for the Festival of Lights on November 21st). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were offered on specific agenda items. At the meeting's close, a board member thanked all veterans for their service in recognition of Veterans Day (November 11). Tax Stabilization Agreement for Image Tech Manufacturing Inc. The board considered and unanimously approved a 10-year tax stabilization agreement (under VSA Title 24, Section 2741) for Image Tech Manufacturing Inc.'s expansion. Margie Smith, president of Image Tech, presented the company's plans: a new 40,000-square-foot facility at 36 Precision Drive (formerly ADI space), creation of 22 jobs (a 40% workforce increase), $4 million in equipment investments, and a new product line for large agricultural drones. The agreement stabilizes personal property taxes on equipment, phasing from 10% tax in year one to full taxation after 10 years. New equipment acquired during the 10-year period receives its own 10-year stabilization. Bob Foint from the Springfield Regional Development Corporation (SRDC) highlighted the partnership and noted the expansion's potential for further job growth. The board also authorized the chair to sign the agreement. Springfield Farmers Market Budget Request Susan Fogg, representing the Springfield Farmers Market (a 501(c)(4) charity), requested $11,500 in the FY2027 town budget for one-time expenses, including improved electronic payment capabilities (EBT), enhanced digital advertising, and replacement of worn equipment after 15 years. Fogg explained that all market proceeds after expenses are donated to local charities (e.g., Meals on Wheels, Family Center). Board members discussed the request, questioning why the market does not increase vendor fees (currently $15-20/week, far below regional averages) to cover costs. The board suggested considering a grant from the town's revolving loan fund as an alternative. No vote was taken; the request will be considered during the upcoming budget workshop process in December and January. Municipal Project Manager Appointments The board approved two municipal project manager appointments for stormwater projects: - Callan Appleton (from the Madison Regional Corporation) as project manager for the Common stormwater structure grant project. - Otis Monroe (from the Mount Central Regional Commission) as project manager for the Leland and Boynton Street stormwater project, replacing Logan McCool who left the organization. Both appointments were authorized by unanimous vote. Wastewater Treatment Facility Engineering and Loan The board approved a $37,200 professional services agreement with Aldrich and Elliott for a feasibility and planning study for the $6 million wastewater treatment facility 20-year update. The board also authorized signing the accompanying loan application, which is eligible for 50% subsidy and will be repaid over five years with potential roll into the larger construction loan. The vote was unanimous. Appointment to Conservation Committee Dave Rush was unanimously appointed to the Conservation Committee, with a term expiring March 2028. Window Replacement at Public Works Garage The board authorized the town manager to order replacement windows for the public works garage (estimated cost over $20,000, custom windows) once bids are received, due to broken and cracked windows and long delivery times. The final cost will be reported at the next meeting. The vote was unanimous. MOU with Fire Union for Scheduling Change Chief Stagner presented a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the fire union to change non-emergency transport staff scheduling from 8-hour shifts (Monday-Friday, 8am-4pm) to 12-hour shifts (3 days/week, 8am-8pm) on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday as a pilot through December 31 (when the current contract expires). The change aims to capture more calls that occur late in the day, increasing revenue and efficiency. Staff now work 36 hours/week with benefits unchanged, and overtime starts at 40 hours. The board discussed potential revenue impacts and the plan to eventually hire part-time per-diem staff for other days. The board unanimously confirmed the town manager's signing of the MOU. Town Manager's Report: Bond Vote Information Town Manager Jeff reported on the upcoming bond vote on November 18, 2025, for water and wastewater system improvements. He clarified that state law requires all registered voters to vote on the bonds, even though only ratepayers repay them. The total project cost is $13.5 million (water) and $3.15 million (wastewater), with significant subsidies and low-interest loans (0% for water, 2% for wastewater). The average ratepayer increase is estimated at $6/month for water and $4/month for wastewater. The board urged support for the bonds. Budget Presentations Senior Center: The center reported a 24% increase in attendance (now 40-50 visitors daily). The operating budget request is an increase of $125, plus the inclusion of previously separate fixed costs (health insurance, social security, workers' comp, retirement) that now shift into department budgets. No significant changes. Public Works: Director Ben Mockett presented the budget, noting increases in salt prices (from $86/ton to $90.25/ton), equipment costs, and professional services (engineering for stormwater projects). The department stayed within its FY25 budget due to a mild winter. Key line items: increased advertising for hiring (33% increase), office supplies (75% increase due to printer replacement), and vehicle maintenance (50% increase due to aging fleet). The capital budget includes $325,000 for paving. Discussion included on-call pay for mechanics and the need for realistic budgeting for outside maintenance. Police Department: Chief Stagner presented a budget that includes increases for staffing (moving two patrol positions from grants to the operating budget), vehicle replacement (brand new rotation for three cruisers), minor equipment (one additional taser to ensure spares), and a new community relations line item. A proposed School Resource Officer position (shared 50/50 with the school district) is included as $70,000 in revenue and corresponding expenses; the position would be backfilled by two part-time officers. The chief also requested approval for a fitness equipment purchase (delayed due to redesign bids). The board noted the need for a current vehicle list and further details on the school officer agreement. Key Outcomes - Unanimous approval of minutes and three permits. - Unanimous approval of the tax stabilization agreement for Image Tech Manufacturing. - No action on Farmers Market request; referred to budget workshops. - Unanimous approval of two municipal project manager appointments. - Unanimous approval of the wastewater engineering agreement and loan application. - Unanimous appointment of Dave Rush to the Conservation Committee. - Unanimous authorization to order replacement windows for public works. - Unanimous confirmation of the fire union MOU for 12-hour shifts. - Budget presentations received; further workshops to be scheduled in December and January.