Selectboard 1/5/26

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Town of Richmond 
Selectboard Meeting
Minutes of January 5, 2026

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

 

Absent: None

Staff Present: Josh Arneson, Town Manager; Duncan Wardwell, Deputy Town Manager; Keith Oborne, Town Planner; Dante DeNault, Zoning Administrator

Others Present:  Recorded by MMCTV Erin Wagg, Andrew Bessette, Bonnie, Bonnie Szarkowski, Chelsye Brooks, Connie van Eeghen, Dana Bianchi, Doug Thompson, dpevans, Gary Bressor, Hegg, iPhone de Carmelo, Jason Osterman, Judy Bush, Judy Rosovsky, June Heston, Karen Yaggy, Kristen Werner, Marcy Harding, Marie's iPhone, Mark Hubbard, Marshall Paulsen, Mary Ann Kittinger, Mary Harrison, Mary Houle, Michael Werner, Nick, Noa, Noa Y, Paige Kaleita, Patty Brushett, Paul, Polly's iPad, Reid Webster, Robert Low, Sarah Heim, Shannon Walters, Tom Walters, Trevor Brooks, Virginia Clarke

MMCTV Video: https://youtu.be/oR8i-IU39sk?si=yhuOh7VEfevN6uNw 

Call to Order: 7:04 p.m.

 

Welcome by:  Wood

 

Public Comment:  

Houle stated that she went into the Zoning Office to find out the exact amount of conserved land in Richmond and was unable to find it.  It was suggested that she call the Regional Planning Commission.  Houle stated that there are lots on her property that are divided up but are missing on the 2026 Current Use Map.  Houle stated that she is not going to accept the Planning Commission making all her land unavailable to develop.  

Rosovsky stated that the Future Land Use Map is not a regulatory document and does not say anything can or cannot happen on that land.  It is an inventory of what is out there.  

Noa Y asked if the Selectboard had discussed Southview concerns with the Town attorney.  Wood stated that they have not had a formal discussion and do not have any planned next steps.  
  
Additions, Deletions or Modifications to Agenda:  None

Items for Presentation or Discussion with those present



 

Reminder of upcoming budget meeting on Tuesday, January 6, 2026
Timestamp: 0:06
https://www.richmondvt.gov/fileadmin/files/Selectboard/Meetings/2026/01/3a1_Special_Selectboard_Meeting_Agenda_for_1-6-26.pdf

Wood reviewed the final budget review meeting on January 6 at 7 PM which is the last chance to have input before it goes on the ballot.  


Announcement of hiring a police officer
Timestamp: 0:07

Arneson reviewed that Carlos Pita was hired and will be starting here on March 5, 2026 and he has to complete some additional training with the Vermont Police Academy.    


Consideration of a dedication for the Town Report
Timestamp: 0:09

Rabideau nominated Francis Churchill for being mentioned in the Town Report.  Churchill grew up in Richmond, and his death was an unwelcome surprise.  Churchill and his family have been active civic participants.  Rabideau stated that it does not need to be limited to one person as Dennis Gile did good service to this Town for many years.  

Sander moved to dedicate the 2025 Town Report to Francis Churchill. Rabideau seconded.  Rabideau seconded.
Roll Call Vote: Hill, Filkins, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Motion approved.


Public Hearing to consider amendments to the Traffic Ordinance
Timestamp: 0:14
https://www.richmondvt.gov/fileadmin/files/Selectboard/Meetings/2026/01/3d1_Traffic_Ordinance_Draft_For_Hearing_on_1-5-26.pdf

Wood reviewed that the amendments would allow for four stop signs versus the two stop signs at the intersection of Cochran Road, Huntington Road, Bridge Street and Thompson Road.  This is a traffic calming measure to test out whether to make it permanent or not.     

Filkins moved to open the public hearing to consider amendments to the Traffic Ordinance.  Hill seconded.
Roll Call Vote: Hill, Filkins, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Motion approved.

Filkins moved to forgo reading the entire ordinance aloud and read only the title. Hill seconded.
Roll Call Vote: Hill, Filkins, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Motion approved.

Arneson presented the changes to the Traffic Ordinance in Section 4. LOCATION OF STOP SIGNS.  Bressor observed many close calls with people coming from Huntington and the sweeping corner coming from the Village.  Hegg stated that he was not sure how well these are going to keep people safter and wondered what sort of data will determine if it is an effective strategy.  Wood shared that most of the data has been anecdotal.  Filkins stated that the risk is the backup in the morning school-time traffic and wondered about the effects of the stop signs on the traffic patterns.  Hill stated that the only objective data is from police reported accidents and stories of near misses are never reported.  Hill stated that the interference of transit and the traffic back-up can be observed.  Filkins reviewed that this is a test, and they do not know the full repercussions of what will happen so they will monitor the effects.  Hill suggested that if this passes then they should use a June agenda for feedback when it goes into effect in early March.  Parent suggested encouraging bus ridership.  Filkins stated that the bus pickup/drop-off timings would be helpful data.    

Filkins moved to close the public hearing to consider amendments to the Traffic Ordinance.  Hill seconded.
Roll Call Vote: Hill, Filkins, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Motion approved.

Filkins move to adopt the amendments to the Traffic Ordinance as presented.  Hill seconded.
Roll Call Vote: Hill, Filkins, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Motion approved.


Consideration of approving the Town Center Building Window Mural Agreement and License with Radiate Art Space
Timestamp: 0:30
https://www.richmondvt.gov/fileadmin/files/Selectboard/Meetings/2026/01/3e1_RID20-Town_center_mural_agreement_-_DRAFT_12-2-25_with_bylaws_Track_Changes.pdf

https://www.richmondvt.gov/fileadmin/files/Selectboard/Meetings/2026/01/3e2_RID20-Town_center_mural_agreement_-_DRAFT_12-2-25_with_bylaws_clean.pdf

Wood reviewed that they adjusted the timeframe to make it easier to comply.  Arneson stated that most of the core stuff is still in place, but it extends the length of the agreement to 2 years and allows for temporary boards to be displayed and then auctioned off as a fundraiser.  Arneson confirmed that Radiate is okay with it as the Selectboard reviewed it the last meeting.  

Hill moved to approve the Town Center Building Window Mural Agreement and License with Radiate Art Space.  Sander seconded.
Roll Call Vote: Hill, Filkins, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Motion approved.


Consideration of approving the consent form for a special assessment district for the Southview Stormwater 3-Acre Permit
Timestamp: 0:32
https://www.richmondvt.gov/fileadmin/files/Selectboard/Meetings/2026/01/3f1_25-12-28_Southview_SW_9050_Permit_-_Draft_Consent_to_Special_Assessment.pdf

https://www.richmondvt.gov/fileadmin/files/Selectboard/Meetings/2026/01/3f2_Draft_Budget_Southview_3-Acre_Permit.pdf

https://www.richmondvt.gov/fileadmin/files/Selectboard/Meetings/2026/01/3f3_Responses_to_Questions_Regarding_a_Special_Assessment_District_-_as_of_12-30-25.pdf

Filkins recused herself as a resident of Southview.

Arneson reviewed the draft consent form for a special assessment district.  It incorporates the changes that were talked about at the last meeting, which removes homeowners as co-permittees.  Any grant funds will reduce the total cost of the project, and the remaining cost is split between the Town and the private property owners based on the percentage of impervious surfaces.  The special assessment would begin the first tax year after construction has been completed.  The packet also includes the draft budget and the Q&A sheet.  The attorney confirmed that they could fill in the deed information for each individual property.  The State confirmed that the permitting and operating fees looked correct.  The engineer stated that the $310,000 for construction is a rough estimate and a firm estimate would require complete plans.  They may want to increase that estimate as it is the very early stages of design.  There is a 5% contingency included but it is probably not high enough for the construction.  Arneson confirmed that the Town would be the sole permittee on this permit.  Arneson summarized that they have not finalized the Greystone agreement yet.  Hill observed that Southview is most similar to Greystone and wondered if they should pay for that entire project or just the maintenance and operation.  Wood observed that the biggest group of lower cost housing in Town is subject to a 3-acre site and they are getting zero Town help in paying for it.  Wood stated it is a fair point to pay for maintenance.  Kaleita stated that Riverview Commons has access to $250,000 grant towards construction.  Kaleita observed that only part of the Southview neighborhood has to do this.  Kaleita illustrated the issue of having to pay for fees that were previously paid by the Town.  Rabideau stated that it makes sense for the Selectboard to cover the permitting fees.  Heim observed that the permit renewal fee and the recertification go hand-in-hand.  Heston observed that the Town pays for the stormwater system in the Village.  Wood confirmed that it made sense for the payback period to reflect the maintenance cost and the lifespan.

Hill suggested keeping the $310,000 construction and then use a bottom link total contingency.  Arneson stated that a 10% contingency is probably not high enough as it is based on preliminary drawings.  The total per parcel would be $7,891 before the grant and $7492 if they can get the grant.  Wood stated that all of these structures would exist in the Town right-of-way.  Arneson adjusted the spreadsheet based on the discussion of payback years.  Rabideau observed that the cost of financing goes up the longer the term.  Wood estimated that a 10-year term would be under $200 a quarter.  Arneson calculated a total of ~$386 per year using a 20-year term.  With a contingency of 13.5% it would be a total of ~$400 per year.  Wood confirmed the Total with contingency at $600,551.  Arneson stated that they could mail out forms to residents by the end of this week.  

Sander moved to approve the consent form for a special assessment district for the Southview Stormwater 3-Acre Permit as amended for a total amount not to exceed $600,551 with a 13.5% contingency included. Hill seconded.
Roll Call Vote: Hill, Filkins, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Motion approved.

 

Consideration of appointing a Zoning Administrative Officer and an Acting Zoning Administrative Officer
Timestamp: 1:40
https://www.richmondvt.gov/fileadmin/files/Selectboard/Meetings/2026/01/3g1_12.17.25___meeting_minutes___PC.pdf

Oborne reviewed that the Planning Commission unanimously forwarded the recommendation to the Selectboard to elevate Dante DeNault to Zoning Administrator and to demote him to Acting Zoning Administrator.  Oborne ensured everybody in Town that they are not running a criminal enterprise out of their office.  BrooksC stated that the Planning Commission is looking forward to working with the Planning and Zoning Office.

As per the requirements of 24 VSA Chapter 117 §4448, Filkins moved that Dante DeNault be appointed to the position of Richmond Zoning Administrative Officer. This appointment is for a term of three (3) years beginning this day, January 5, 2026.  Rabideau seconded.
Roll Call Vote: Hill, Filkins, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Motion approved.

As per the requirements of 24 VSA Chapter 117 §4448, Rabideau moved that Keith Oborne be appointed to the position of Richmond Acting Zoning Administrative Officer to serve in the absence of the Zoning Administrator per town policy. This appointment is for a term of three (3) years beginning this day, January 5, 2026.  Hill seconded.
Roll Call Vote: Hill, Filkins, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Motion approved.


Public Hearing for 2026 Town Plan
Timestamp: 1:45
https://www.richmondvt.gov/fileadmin/files/Selectboard/Meetings/2026/01/3h1_-_Planning_Commission_Chair_Memo.pdf

https://www.richmondvt.gov/fileadmin/files/Selectboard/Meetings/2026/01/3h2_-_TOWN_PLAN_2026_SECOND_DRAFT__11.19.25.pdf

https://www.richmondvt.gov/fileadmin/files/Selectboard/Meetings/2026/01/3h3_-_TOWN_PLAN_2026_THIRD_DRAFT_EDITS__11.19.25.pdf

https://www.richmondvt.gov/fileadmin/files/Selectboard/Meetings/2026/01/3h4_-_Breakout_of_Amendments_for_Draft_3_Version_2.pdf

Sander moved to open the public hearing to consider the 2026 Town Plan.  Hill seconded.
Roll Call Vote: Hill, Filkins, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Motion approved.

Oborne reviewed that since they are a Town of greater than 2,500 people then they are required to have two public hearings.  Oborne stated that the Steering committee has had 17 in-situ meetings open to the public with the Town Plan.  Clarke, the Planning Commission Chair, summarized the work of the Steering committee.  Clarke stated that they are hoping for the Selectboard to approve the draft plan and the amendments approved by the Planning Commission.  If approved, then they will bring the final plan to the second public hearing on January 21 and to have it in the Town Meeting warning.

Clarke presented that there was a bucket of comments about inclusivity and natural resources.  They have added some emphasis on food security.  They are encouraging the diverse use of facilities to support equity in providing education for all students.  Oborne stated that this expands on the issue of racial equity.  Clarke stated that the Agency of Natural Resources has developed mapping tools, so they know where the natural resources are to protect the concept of forest blocks. They took the different natural resource maps and overlaid them to create their own municipal Future Land Use Map.  The Future Land Use Map is not a Zoning map and has no regulatory power.   Statutes have been passed which require that Vermont conserve 30% of its land by 2030 and 50% by 2050.  Clarke confirmed that parcel boundaries will change and that will cause an update to the map.  Rabideau presented the concerns of people that conserving land conflicts with the pressing need to deal with housing.  Clarke stated they will be adjusting the maps as every year there will be new parcel boundaries.  Clarke reviewed that the natural resource overlays on the map does not mean no development there.  Clarke confirmed that Zoning does not change the Town Plan map but they can amend the Town Plan. Because of the comments that came in, they added some language about forest blocks.  Clarke stated that outdoor recreation and natural resources do share the same space. The Planning Commission agenda is to make up some definitions to help build consensus when talking about trails. The Planning Commission will look at the information on the map to think about the areas that can be developed so they are not destroying natural resources.

Clarke reviewed the appendix that illustrates some of the tools and mapping used to overlay natural resources. Oborne outlined the attention on natural resources and that trails would be a sticky-wicket down the line.  Clarke stated that many people would like to see regulations that trails are not built in sensitive natural areas and many people would like to use trails recreationally.  It's a sticking point to the whole Town Plan process which includes conservation and housing.  Rabideau observed the traffic on the trails and suggested looking at a Town permit system to help maintain it.  Oborne stated that part of the problem is there is private property.  Clarke stated the Town Plan included that it would be helpful to have a recreation director.  

Filkins moved to close the public hearing to consider the 2026 Town Plan. Sander seconded.
Roll Call Vote: Hill, Filkins, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Motion approved.

Filkins moved to direct the Planning Commission to enact the changes/amendments to the 2026 Town Plan and approve the second draft of the Town Plan as discussed tonight for the Jan. 21 second Public Hearing.  Sander seconded.
Roll Call Vote: Hill, Filkins, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Motion approved.


Consideration of approving the updated agreement with Green Mountain Transit for the Older Adults and Persons with Disabilities Transportation Program
Timestamp:  2:48

https://www.richmondvt.gov/fileadmin/files/Selectboard/Meetings/2026/01/3i1_Chttenden_O_D_Partner_Letter_12-10-2025.pdf

https://www.richmondvt.gov/fileadmin/files/Selectboard/Meetings/2026/01/3i2_Richmond_Specific_Figures.pdf

https://www.richmondvt.gov/fileadmin/files/Selectboard/Meetings/2026/01/3i3_Town_of_Richmond_-_FY26_Revised_12-18-2025.pdf

Arneson reviewed that back in August the Selectboard voted to keep the services the same, which is one round trip per week in any services category and two round trips per month in social/personal.  Since every agency is exceeding the budget by a bit, they are removing social/personal and work trips.  The projections for the total match for Richmond would be $5,438.  They sent an updated agreement with the increased funding and match amount from Richmond.  It would be ~$7,500 to fund the social/personal and work trips.  The work trips account for about 65% of that. Extending the social/personal would cost ~$2,600.  The Selectboard had originally budgeted $3,500 and went up to $8,650 in August. Filkins summarized that the updated agreement would remove the work trips for one person and the social/personal trips for 6 people.  Arneson stated that if they accept the new contract then he can reach out to GMT to help the riders find alternative means of transportation.  

Rabideau moved to approve the updated agreement with Green Mountain Transit for the Older Adults and Persons with Disabilities Transportation Program.  Filkins seconded.
Roll Call Vote: Hill, Filkins, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Motion approved.

 

Hill suggested also reaching out to the riders, so they are aware of the changes.  Arneson stated that depending on usage the costs could go up or down.  

Filkins moved to continue to fund social/personal trips at a rate of 2 round trips per month at 100% funding from the Town not to exceed $1,722.  Sander seconded.
Roll Call Vote: Hill, Filkins, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Motion approved.


Consideration of accepting easements for Tilden Ave., Bridge St., and Cochran Rd. waterline replacement project
Timestamp: 3:05
https://www.richmondvt.gov/fileadmin/files/Selectboard/Meetings/2026/01/3j_19_of_22_Easements_for_Waterline_Project.pdf

Hill confirmed that this is one project on separate lines.  Arneson reviewed that they need to make sure all the work is done in the right-of-way.  There are about 22 easements for curb stops that are located out of the right-of-way. They have 19 of the 22 easements signed and are close to the last 3.  The Selectboard has to approve the easements for this water line project to move forward.  

Sander moved to accept the 19 easements for the Tilden Ave., Bridge St., and Cochran Rd. waterline replacement project as presented.  Hill seconded.
Roll Call Vote: Hill, Filkins, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Motion approved.


Discussion of hiring process for a Finance Director and consideration of a Selectboard member participating on the hiring committee
Timestamp: 3:08

Arneson reviewed that Finance Director, Connie Bona, is retiring on May 31.  Since it is a Department Head position, it is the purview of the Town Manager to fill this position but Arneson would like to have a committee setup to guide the process of hiring the position.  The job description will be updated and posted by the end of January, resumes accepted to the end of February, resumes reviewed through the end of March, and make an offer by the end of March with a start date no later than May 1.  The Town Treasurer, Jim Feinson, and Connie Bona have agreed to be on the hiring committee and Arneson would like one Selectboard member.  Filkins stated that she would be happy to participate.  Wood suggested hiring a recruiter to help track someone down who is a good fit for this or else they might have only one applicant.  Filkins stated she has not had good experience with recruiting situations.  Arneson reviewed they could use Indeed, Seven Days, and VLCT job posting boards as well as word of mouth.


Consideration of making an appointment to fill the vacant seat on the Water and Sewer Commission that is reserved for a Selectboard member
Timestamp: 3:18

Filkins moved to appoint Greg Rabideau to the fill the vacant seat on the Water and Sewer Commission that is reserved for a Selectboard member.  Hill seconded.
Roll Call Vote: Hill, Filkins, Sander, Wood in favor.  Rabideau abstains.  Motion approved.


Review of draft Town Meeting warning
Timestamp: 3:20
https://www.richmondvt.gov/fileadmin/files/Selectboard/Meetings/2026/01/3m_DRAFT_TOWN_REPORT_2025_WARNING_DRAFT_AS_OF_12-30-25.pdf

Arneson illustrated that the draft Town Meeting warning included the advisory discussion about the Fourth of July fireworks.   There are two informational meetings, Saturday, February 7 at 10am and Monday, February 23 at 7pm to review the budget and all ballot items.  Arneson reviewed that there will be a website page where the charitable appropriation requests and other budgetary information will be available.  


Update on research to explore replacing the two current Electrical Vehicle Supply Equipment stations with two Level 3 stations
Timestamp: 3:24

Arneson reviewed that he reached out to CCRPC and found out there might be some new grants coming out.  It could be between $50,000 - $200,000 for a Level 3 Charging Station.  He has a meeting setup with CCRPC and GMP to explore this a bit more.  


Consideration of holding the second January Selectboard meeting on Tuesday January 20, 2026 due to the MLK Day holiday on Monday, January 19, 2026
Timestamp: 3:30

Hill moved to hold the second January Selectboard meeting on Tuesday January 20, 2026 due to the MLK Day holiday on Monday, January 19, 2026.  Sander seconded.
Roll Call Vote: Hill, Filkins, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Motion approved.


Approval of Minutes, Purchase Orders, and Warrants
Timestamp: 3:30

Minutes:

Sander moved to approve the minutes of December 15, 2025.  Hill seconded
Roll Call Vote: Hill, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Filkins abstains.  Motion approved.

Purchase Orders:

Filkins moved to approve purchase order number 5360 to Acme Glass for the door replacement at the Town Center in the amount of $30,907.00.  Sander seconded.
Roll Call Vote: Hill, Filkins, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Motion approved.

Warrants:

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


Next Meeting Agenda
-Southview
-Superintendent of schools discussing budgets
-Charging station update
-Feedback for the attorney

 

Executive Session 

Review of the Stormwater System Maintenance Agreement with Greystone Estates Residents Association for the 3-Acre stormwater permit

Filkins recused herself as a resident of Southview.

Sander 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.  Hill seconded.

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

Sander 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 into the executive session.  Hill seconded.

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

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

Adjourn

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

Meeting adjourned at: 10:56 PM

Chat file from Zoom:
00:50:07          Nick:   We need to remember though that we are not a HOA which Greystone is.  The issue here has been that we have been treated like an HOA, which we are not.

00:52:02          Tom Walters:  Is the town paying all permitting and inspection fees for Mary Drive and other developments?

00:58:08          Chelsye Brooks:          The maintenance on 3 acre site infrastructure is different then the “standard maintenance” across town. However, I do agree that Southview should be treated equitably in comparison to Greystone. 

The non 3 acre orphan sites the town is permitting do not have the annual maintenance like 3 acre sites do, so those shouldn’t be compared. 

However, again, the other sites permit fees should be equitable. 

Mary drive and hidden pines do not have recertification by an engineer.

00:59:33          Sarah Heim:    Yes, I would agree to cover the same fees for graystone as a richmond taxpayer.

01:30:23          Nick:   10 years is $200 per quarter correct?

01:40:59          noa:     Can the engineer do this by mar 1 and will they charge more to rush it?

01:44:20          Douglas Thompson:    I believe the consent letter indicates a 10 year period.  This should change to 20.

02:39:40          Connie van Eeghen, she/her:   The Town Plan, Third Draft, includes many key issues that will affect how Richmond grows and thrives. Thanks to the Planning Commission and the Steering Committee for a tremendous effort to include many valuable perspectives.

02:41:42          Judy.Rosovsky:           I agree with what Connie says. In addition I appreciate the thoughtful approach of the Planning Commission and the Steering Committee, and am impressed that they read and incorporated citizen comments.

02:45:09          Connie van Eeghen, she/her:   Reacted to "I agree with what Co..." with 👏

02:52:50          Connie van Eeghen, she/her:   Thank you, Selectboard!

03:49:01          Chelsye Brooks:          Should I direct a letter regarding the town lawyer to the Selectboard as a whole?

03:50:53          Chelsye Brooks:          I think that the folks who asked about it before maybe should be notified of your intent to send a letter. So they can give you their thoughts if they haven’t.