Selectboard 1/20/26

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Town of Richmond 
Selectboard Meeting
Minutes of January 20, 2026

Members Present: 
Caitlin Filkins, Bard Hill, Greg Rabideau, David Sander, Adam Wood

 

Absent: None

Staff Present: Josh Arneson, Town Manager; Duncan Wardwell, Deputy Town Manager; Jim Feinson, Town Treasurer

Others Present:  Recorded by MMCTV Erin Wagg, Angela Cote, Brendan, Bruce LaBounty, Cara LaBounty, Chelsye Brooks, Dana Bianchi, Dave T, Doug Thompson, Heather Chadwich, Ian Bender, JAS (NHS&Co), Jean Haskin, Jeff Forward, John Mudair, JP, Kevin Carrubba, Kristen Werner, Margo Muttilaninen, Mary Harrison, Mary Houle, Meagan Buckley, Morgan Wolaver , MSW iPhone, Nick, Noa, Paige Kaleita, Patty Brushett, Polly's iPad, Reid Webster, Roger, Sarah, Sarah Curran, Susanne Parent, Theresa Alberghini DiPalma, Tim Kaleita, Tom Bednar, Tom Safford, Tom Walters, Tracy Rosen, Trevor Brooks

MMCTV Video: https://youtu.be/P43v-djd1zU?si=vgoiLCSNeqbk5-BC 

Call to Order: 7:03 p.m.

 

Welcome by:  Wood

 

Public Comment:  

Houle stated her concern about certain language in the Town Plan 2026.  When the plan states “shall” or “will” the Town is liable to do the items identified in that category.  More neutral terms must be used to minimize the chance of a lawsuit.  Houle also stated the need to modify language in the Town forest, stating that it will be managed. This must be removed.  Houle asked why on page 10 of the Town Plan that it needs to state pregnant people and on page 11 it talks about DEI instead of competency.

Safford asked where to send the repair bill for his truck hitting the speed hump on Cochran Rd.  Safford stated that the Town Plan notes that there is not enough time to review the individual parcels for accuracy.  What is the process and path for remediation?  Are we to trust an arbitrary Zoning designation? It is better to put forward a plan that addresses these issues first, otherwise the Town is voting for a fluid document that can be changed at any time.  Safford stated that he strongly opposes proceeding forward with the 2026 Town Plan and requested the Selectboard delay the vote indefinitely to allow for State approval of the maps, proper engineering and environmental studies to take place, and updates made based on feedback from landowners.

LaBountyC reviewed that she was able to point out errors in the floodplain maps of the new Town Plan, specifically her property.  Her property has gone from High Density in Jonesville in 2018 to Rural Conserved in 2026. LaBountyC stated that Jonesville was all painted green then somebody took paint and splattered yellow spots not even there houses are.  Zoning regulations are drafted from those maps.  If the Town wants affordable housing, then they need to back off the Town Plan while you fix the maps.

Farr suggested looking at the maps to see what has been changed to Conservation and what could possibly be kept as rural Agricultural or Forestry or something else.  Her land attorney suggested being careful putting all that stuff into Conservation.

Rabideau stated that he is uncomfortable with the idea of regulating somebody out of economic use of their property.  People who have been on a piece of land for 40-50 years, the expectation is they might sell it or subdivide it.  There are some inconsistencies that make him want to take another hard look at those maps before they become law.

Hill observed the natural tension between conserving more land and building more housing.

Cote suggested that the maps could stop using the Conservation category with just showing the acreage that is currently in the Current Use program with the State.  She does not want Conservation attached to her property.

Rosen asked for a document that shows the changes in the maps.  Wood stated that those are the Current Land Use and Future Land Use maps.      

Additions, Deletions or Modifications to Agenda:  None

Items for Presentation or Discussion with those present

Reminder of upcoming Informational Meetings on February 7, 2026 and February 23, 2026 for items on the March 3, 2026 Town Meeting Australian ballot
Timestamp: 0:27

Wood reviewed that there will be informational meetings ahead of early voting on February 7 & 23 to get a rundown of the budget and the implications for the tax rates.  These meetings will be held in Conf Rm A on the 3^rd Floor of the Town Center.  February 7 is a Saturday at 10am and February 23 will be at 7pm and then obviously Town Meeting Day on March 3.    




Reminder of Public Hearing for the 2026 Town Plan public being held on Wednesday, January 21, 2026
Timestamp: 0:28

Wood stated that the people who worked on the Town Plan will be able to explain the methodology.  This will be a good starting point to hash out the differences and come up with something to move forward.


Update on conversation with attorney regarding his attitude in meetings
Timestamp: 0:29

Arneson reviewed that he and Wood will be meeting with the attorney on Thursday to review the concerns.  Hill suggested not using the word attitude as it is conjectural but use the word behavior.  Arneson confirmed that they are also in contact with the managing partner firm.    


Consideration of approving an updated agreement with Northstar Fireworks for Fourth of July fireworks
Timestamp: 0:31
https://www.richmondvt.gov/fileadmin/files/Selectboard/Meetings/2026/01/3d1_Richmond__Town_of_Letter_12-08-25_03.pdf

https://www.richmondvt.gov/fileadmin/files/Selectboard/Meetings/2026/01/3d2_Richmond__Town_of_Contract_07-04-26_Rev_2.pdf

Arneson reviewed the previous discussions. Arneson stated that he would not send in the agreement until the budget is approved.

Filkins moved to approve the agreement with Northstar Fireworks for a fireworks display on July 4, 2026 contingent on the passing of the Town Meeting Day budget.  Hill seconded.
Roll Call Vote: Filkins, Hill, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Motion approved.


Consideration of setting a date for a Public Hearing to amend the Traffic Ordinance
Timestamp: 0:35
https://www.richmondvt.gov/fileadmin/files/Selectboard/Meetings/2026/01/3e1_PAC_HIP_Reccomendation1-14-2026.pdf

https://www.richmondvt.gov/fileadmin/files/Selectboard/Meetings/2026/01/3e2_Traffic_Ordinance_draft_as_of_1-15-25.pdf

Arneson reviewed that this is for recreational parking and if they want to increase fines in certain areas as illustrated in the packet.  Hill suggested an expanded description of why they are pursuing an amendment to the Traffic Ordinance.  Arneson reviewed the statutory requirements for notifying people.  Filkins suggested another agenda topic to discuss agenda notifications in general.  Rabideau suggested adding a sub-header.  Arneson reviewed that a warning goes out that summarizes all the changes and is posted in physical locations and on the website.    

Filkins moved to set a hearing date of Tuesday, February 17, 2026 to consider amendments to the Traffic Ordinance in regard to parking fines and fees.  Sander seconded.
Roll Call Vote: Filkins, Hill, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Motion approved.


Conversation with MMUUSD Superintendent John Muldoon on the school budget
Timestamp: 0:43
https://www.richmondvt.gov/fileadmin/files/Selectboard/Meetings/2026/01/3f1_FY27_SCHOOL_Budget_Fact_Sheet_Final.pdf

https://www.richmondvt.gov/fileadmin/files/Selectboard/Meetings/2026/01/3f2_Dec_8_FY27_SCHOOL_Budget.pdf

https://www.richmondvt.gov/fileadmin/files/Selectboard/Meetings/2026/01/3f3_Link_to_more_information_on_SCHOOL_Budget.pdf

Muldoon stated that he wanted to reach out and connect with Selectboards across the five Towns. Muldoon presented the handouts in the packet.  Muldoon stated he wanted to make sure everyone had accurate information and a chance to share feedback.  


Update on status of completed consent forms for a special assessment district for the Southview Stormwater 3-Acre Permit
and
Update on an agreement for engineering for the Southview Stormwater 3-Acre Permit
Timestamp: 0:59

Filkins recused herself as a resident of Southview.  

Arneson stated that they have received 29 of the consent forms needed to create a special assessment district (25 was needed for a majority of 48 homeowners).  Wood stated that the Stormwater engineer had serious concerns and reservations about continuing the work.  The engineer was concerned about violating the law by submitting an incomplete NOI with partial plans.  Wood stated that the engineer did not feel like they trusted him to do the best he can. Wood stated that unless the State gives another extension then they are not going to get the grant funding.  Wood confirmed that Arneson and KaleitaP reached out to the State to illustrate delays with establishing a special assessment district but have not heard back.  Arneson reviewed that the NOI to the State is not due until next fall but the grant funding is driven by ARPA funding deadlines.  The grant money is $30,000 for engineering and $19,999 for permitting.  Rabideau suggested completing the formation of the special district and authorizing the engineer to move forward at his own pace.    

Rabideau moved to authorized Town Manager, Josh Arneson, to negotiate an agreement to complete the NOI work for the Southview Stormwater 3-Acre Permit based on previous representations at the balance of the work not to exceed $50,000.  Sander seconded.
Roll Call Vote follows discussion.

KaleitaP summarized her attempts to keep the State and engineer involved in the grant money deadline extension.  Wood summarized that it is not a good idea to throw money away by re-bidding the project with other engineers. 

Roll Call Vote: Hill, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Filkins recused.  Motion approved.
      

Consideration of approval of the Stormwater System Maintenance Agreement with Greystone Estates Residents Association for the 3-Acre stormwater permit, possible executive session
Timestamp: 1:28

Filkins recused herself as it was a similar stormwater issue.

Hill moved to find that premature public knowledge about the Stormwater System Maintenance Agreement with Greystone Estates Residents Association for 3-acre stormwater permit would cause the Town or person to suffer a substantial disadvantage.  Sander seconded.
Roll Call Vote: Hill, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Filkins recused.  Motion approved.

Hill moved that we enter into executive session to discuss the Stormwater System Maintenance Agreement with Greystone Estates Residents Association for 3-acre stormwater permit under the provisions of 1 VSA 313(a) (1) (a) of the Vermont Statutes and to invite Town Manager Josh Arneson and representatives from GERA Tom Bednar and George Young into the executive session.  Sander seconded.
Roll Call Vote: Hill, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Filkins recused.  Motion approved.

Hill moved to exit executive session.  Rabideau seconded.
Roll Call Vote: Hill, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Filkins recused.  Motion approved.


Review of petition to add an article to the Town Meeting ballot
Timestamp: 1:32
https://www.richmondvt.gov/fileadmin/files/Selectboard/Meetings/2026/01/3j_Petition_for_Article_on_2026_Town_Meeting_Warning.pdf

Arneson read the petition provided in the packet.  The Selectboard could put this on the Town Meeting warning as an advisory article from the floor.  Sander, Filkins, Hill suggested that it is appropriate to move this item on the floor at Town Meeting.  


Discussion of adding an article to the Town Meeting Warning to consider funding the Town Center Fund
Timestamp: 1:44

Rabideau stated that there are incremental steps to improve the energy performance, general health and well-being in this building.  Instead of trying to find $2,000,000 for 60 windows they could start to do 5-12 years to get caught up.  Rabideau listed the big categories such as the windows, the flood resilience, and the heating ventilating systems.  Hill suggested modifying the article to consider incremental projects.  Wood stated that a penny or two puts a big dent in a lot of easy pieces to stomach from the tax perspective.  Arneson reviewed the Town Center Reserve fund. Filkins stated that it is a missed opportunity if they do not put this on the ballot this year.  Arneson confirmed they do not need a motion tonight. Wood reviewed the wording for the ballot as “shall the voters of the Town of Richmond approve funding the Town Center Reserve Fund by adding one cent to the municipal tax rate in the fiscal year 2027”


Review of the Town Meeting warning
Timestamp: 1:54
https://www.richmondvt.gov/fileadmin/files/Selectboard/Meetings/2026/01/3l_DRAFT_TOWN_REPORT_2025_WARNING_FINAL_DRAFT_AS_OF_1-13-26.pdf

Arneson reviewed the Town Meeting warning changes and edits.  Arneson confirmed these would be posted for the January 21 Selectboard meeting.  


Consideration of approving a Finance Director Job Description
Timestamp: 1:56
https://www.richmondvt.gov/fileadmin/files/Selectboard/Meetings/2026/01/3m_Finance_Director_job_description_upated_1-14-26_DRAFT.pdf

Arneson reviewed the job description and compensation study.  Arneson confirmed he would add details about NEMRC software essential duties.  Filkins summarized that this legal version could create a job description to recruit someone on the key qualifications.  Arneson reviewed edits for the job description.  


Update on research to explore replacing the two current Electrical Vehicle Supply Equipment stations with two Level 3 stations
Timestamp: 2:14

Arneson reviewed the price tag and grants for a company like ChargePoint to provide a 20% match.  Many comments on the feasibility of chargers at the Town Center, Village, or by the Interstate.  Arneson will bring this back to the Selectboard for an update.


Approval of Minutes, Purchase Orders, and Warrants
Timestamp: 2:18

Minutes:

Sander moved to approve the minutes of January 5, 2026.  Hill seconded
Roll Call Vote: Filkins, Hill, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Motion approved.

Sander moved to approve the minutes of January 6, 2026.  Hill seconded
Roll Call Vote: Filkins, Hill, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Motion approved.

Sander moved to approve the minutes of January 12, 2026.  Hill seconded
Roll Call Vote: Hill, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Filkins abstains.  Motion approved.

Purchase Orders:  None

Warrants:

Sander moved to approve the warrants from the January 20, 2026 meeting.  Hill seconded.  
Roll Call Vote: Filkins, Hill, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Motion approved.


Next Meeting Agenda
-Alerts and notification warnings
-Southview engineering
-Partial Policing policy


Executive Session - Discussion of personnel matter

Filkins moved to find that premature public knowledge about a personnel matter would cause the Town or person to suffer a substantial disadvantage. Sander seconded.
Roll Call Vote: Filkins, Hill, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Motion approved.

Filkins moved that we enter into executive session to discuss a personnel matter under the provisions of 1 VSA 313 (a) (3) of the Vermont Statutes and to invite Town Manager Josh Arneson into the executive session.  Rabideau seconded. 
Roll Call Vote: Filkins, Hill, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Motion approved.

Hill recused himself from the Session

Rabideau moved to exit executive session. Sander seconded.
Roll Call Vote: Filkins, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Hill recused. Motion approved.


Adjourn

Sander moved to adjourn.  Filkins seconded. 
Roll Call Vote: Filkins, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Hill recused.  Motion approved.

Meeting adjourned at: 10:17 PM

Chat file from Zoom:
00:25:31          Ian Bender:     In case anyone feels like they have been fleeced.  The town plan steering committee has been literally begging for public input on this issue for the last year.

00:28:36          Jean Haskin:    Would be good discussion for town meeting.

00:30:36          Chelsye Brooks:          I encourage everyone to review the maps and remember these are not zoning maps. There is methodology behind the mapping you can review online. Also, review the FLU narrative section that addresses Rural Conservation and where you can see it does not exclude development. See you all tomorrow!

00:31:18          JAS:    They inform future zoning.

01:12:31          Chelsye Brooks:          Who was emailed at the state level?

01:16:59          Meagan Buckley:        Are there any other firms who could complete a design ?

01:25:35          Nick:   Should there or is there a need for a drop dead timeline for NOI?

01:28:28          Meagan Buckley:        Reacted to "Are there any other …" with 👌

01:29:49          Nick:   Reacted to "Should there or is t..." with 👍

01:30:47          Nick:   Thanks to everyone for their outreach and discussion with Andres to continue moving forward.

01:33:16          Chelsye Brooks:          Is the public going to see this agreement before it’s voted upon?

01:34:50          Nick:   thanks you for that explanation

01:36:10          Nick:   If the agreement is voted upon I heard someone state that it might not be voted on at this meeting. Where would the public vote on if in not this meeting?

01:56:13          MMCTV Erin Wagg:  Stuff that the selectboard votes on needs to be “warned” so a future agenda would have the topic

01:57:41          Nick:   Reacted to "If the agreement is ..." with 👍

02:03:07          Ian Bender:     Not very inclusive.

02:05:22          Jean Haskin:    I am not in favor of this being  decided at town meeting

02:15:59          Jean Haskin:    What about storm windows instead of replacement?

02:18:27          Chelsye Brooks:          The town center capital fund hasn’t been funded in recent years has it? Or at least it was not projected to be funded? Something like that. 

I guess what I’m asking… is the town center funding in the budget right now?

02:34:44          Jean Haskin:    Is the finance director a new position?

02:35:44          Jim Feinson:    No.  We have a Finance Director and have for years.  Connie is retiring this year so we need to find her replacement.

02:36:35          Jim Feinson:    From Jim Feinson (Town Treasurer).

02:54:51          Chelsye Brooks:          For our warnings in Seven Days we should submit better titles.

02:55:41          Chelsye Brooks:          Presently ours are pretty basic and just say town of Richmond meeting, but not what the meeting is about.