Selectboard 2/2/26

Printable version

Selectboard Minutes 02-02-26 4 MB

Web version

Town of Richmond 
Selectboard Meeting
Minutes of February 2, 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; Keith Oborne, Town Planner; Matthew Cohen, Interim Police Chief; Suzanne Krohn, Librarian 

Others Present:  Recorded by MMCTV Erin Wagg, Alexis, amiedeprince, Amy M, Andrew Bessette, Aubrey Carpenter, Ben Novogroski, Bonny Steuer, Brendan Filkins, Caitlin Littlefield, Cathy Aikman, Chelsye Brooks, Clint Buxton, Connie van Eeghen, Corali Bisbee, Daniel Martin, Doris, dVT, Emilie Tenenbaum, Emily Smith, Erin Farr, Gretchen, Paulsen, Howard Jennings, Ian Bender, Jared Katz, Jean Bressor, Jean Haskin, Jeff Forward, jilld, Julia Brennan, Katie Donovan, Katie Loesel, Katie's iPhone, Kevin Kittenger, Linda Gionti, Marcy Harding, Marty, Mary Harrison, Mary Houle. Matt Crabb, Matt Moultrop, Matthew Thompson, Noa, Paige Kaleita, Patty Brushett, Polly's , Pad, Rachel Atkins, Reid Webster, Sarah Heim, Sarah Moultroup, Sean Donovan, Scott Silverstein, Stefani Hartsfield, Tom Bednar, Tom S, Trevor Brooks, Velma

MMCTV Video: https://youtu.be/onggqqyJaT0?si=7aoDEDSiQdDt8mid 

Call to Order: 7:04 p.m.

 

Welcome by:  Wood

 

Public Comment:  

Houle cautioned the Selectboard against warning or advising anybody what they can and can't do. Houle asked about the forms for the Charitable Appropriation requests on the ballot.  Arneson confirmed the information is available online:
https://www.richmondvt.gov/news/post/annual-town-meeting-march-3-2026 
Article 10.    Shall the voters of the Town of Richmond approve appropriating $500.00 to Vermont Family Network to be raised by taxes to provide support to Richmond families with children with special needs, such amount being reasonably necessary for the support thereof?
Article 11.     Shall the voters of the Town of Richmond approve appropriating $3,500.00 to Age Well to be raised by taxes to provide support and guidance to Town residents aged 60 years and older, such amount being reasonably necessary for the support thereof?
Article 12.    Shall the voters of the Town of Richmond approve appropriating $375.00 to VT Center for Independent Living to be raised by taxes for providing services to enhance the lives of Town residents with disabilities, such amount being reasonably necessary for the support thereof?
Article 13.    Shall the voters of the Town of Richmond approve appropriating $1,000.00 to The Committee on Temporary Shelter to be raised by taxes to provide emergency shelter, services, and housing for Town residents who are homeless or marginally housed, such amount being reasonably necessary for the support thereof?
Article 14.     Shall the voters of the Town of Richmond approve appropriating $6,000.00 to Our Community Cares Camp to be raised by taxes to provide enrichment and food services to children, internship opportunities for youth, job training, and development for young adults for Town residents, such amount being reasonably necessary for the support thereof?
Article 15.    Shall the voters of the Town of Richmond approve appropriating $1,500.00 to Steps to End Domestic Violence to be raised by taxes for assisting Town residents who have been affected physically, sexually, emotionally, or economically by domestic abuse in the transition to a safe, independent life, such amount being reasonably necessary for the support thereof?
Article 16.    Shall the voters of the Town of Richmond approve appropriating $5,000.00 to Turning Point Center of Chittenden County to be raised by taxes to provide to Town residents an inclusive compassionate community supporting those on multiple paths to recovery through peer-driven services in a safe, substance-free environment, such amount being reasonably necessary for the support thereof?
Article 17.    Shall the voters of the Town of Richmond approve appropriating $1,885.00 to HOPE Works to be raised by taxes for their work to end all forms of sexual violence to Town residents, such amount being reasonably necessary for the support thereof?
Article 18.     Shall the voters of the Town of Richmond approve appropriating $2,000.00 to Howard Center Inc. to be raised by taxes for their work to help Town residents thrive by providing supports and services to address mental health, substance use, and developmental needs, such amount being reasonably necessary for the support thereof?
 
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: 0:03

Wood summarized the Informational Meetings for the items that are going to be on the ballot on Town Meeting Day. Arneson stated that he would post the budget information:
https://www.richmondvt.gov/calendar/meeting/special-selectboard-budget-informational-2-7-26
https://www.richmondvt.gov/calendar/meeting/special-selectboard-budget-informational-2-23-26


Update on conversation with attorney regarding his behavior in Selectboard meetings
Timestamp: 0:04

Arneson reviewed that he and Wood had a meeting with the attorney, David Rugh, about his interactions with the public. In public sessions, he needs to keep in mind that the Town residents are paying attorney fees, and he needs to make sure that he’s treating residents in a respectful manner.  Wood stated that the attorney gives the Selectboard sound legal advice and he could help the Selectboard enact the policies as they see fit.


Consideration of setting a date for a public hearing to review the changes made by the Selectboard at their January 21, 2026 meeting to the 2026 Town Plan that will be voted on by the voters on Town Meeting Day, March 3, 2026
Timestamp: 0:05
https://www.richmondvt.gov/fileadmin/files/Selectboard/Meetings/2026/01/3c_Memo_-_Need_for_an_additional_Town_Plan_Public_Hearing.pdf

Oborne reviewed that on January 21, changes were made to the Town Plan which requires a Planning Commission report reviewed via a public hearing.   The Planning Commission has a meeting this week to review the report for the February 17 Selectboard meeting.

Hill moved to hold a public hearing for the 2026 Town Plan on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.  Sander seconded.
Roll Call Vote: Filkins, Hill, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Motion approved 


Follow up on the discussion of the school budget, specifically regarding funding for the pre-k program as presented in the last meeting with the Selectboard
Timestamp: 0:08
https://www.richmondvt.gov/fileadmin/files/Selectboard/Meetings/2026/01/3d_Letter_to_Richmond_Selectboard__1_.pdf

Wood summarized that the Selectboard wouldn't weigh in on school issues as it is a separate budget entirely.  The Superintendent and a small group of people from the Schoolboard asked for help in spreading the word about the challenges they faced. Sander reviewed that the Schoolboard pared down a lean budget, but it is thrown into the State Educational formula to calculate the burden on the taxpayers.  

Wood stated that there was a pretty serious change to Richmond and MMU’s pre-K program.  There's a lot of trust lost between stakeholders and the Schoolboard. Filkins stated that she met with the Superintendent about a lack of clear communication and transparency.  Filkins confirmed that an RFP was issued to provide service in conjunction with the school service.  The RFP is one piece of a larger exploration and not the only path being considered.  Filkins stated that an email went out to pre-K families with an upcoming meeting for input.  DonovanS acknowledged and thanked the district for responding to family concerns around transparency and adding additional feedback opportunities. DonovanS stated that this should matter to the Selectboard because early childhood education is a community and budget issue.  Vermont is facing a declining population and aging workforce.  Wood summarized that trust has been broken and the only way to get it back is through thoughtful communication, clearly articulating what problem they're going to try to solve. 


Announcement of police officer hiring
Timestamp: 0:20

Arneson announced that they are hiring another police officer, Blake Allen, who has over 20 years of experience in Vermont and his first day will be Thursday, February 5.  


Acknowledgement of receipt of a letter regarding Article 3 on the Town Meeting Warning which is a vote on a pledge to join others in working to end all support to Israel’s apartheid regime, settler colonialism, and military occupation
Timestamp: 0:22
https://www.richmondvt.gov/fileadmin/files/Selectboard/Meetings/2026/01/3f_2026-01-30_Letter_to_Richmond_Selectboard.pdf

Wood reviewed that Article 3 is warned on the Town Meeting and there is no option to change that because of statutory requirements.  

Silverstein summarized that he wrote the letter in the packet and passed it around for signatures.  Silverstein stated that this pledge doesn't do anything to help the Palestinians.  Silverstein stated that it is a non-binding measure and it puts language out there that smears him.  A small number of people in Richmond are going to set a world affairs statement for the entire Town.  

Hill reviewed previous meetings where the Selectboard debated putting this on the Town Warning.  Harding suggested an option where it would be tabled at Town Meeting.  Wood confirmed with Town Moderator, Buxton, that he would study it, but he thinks it is possible.  Thompson stated that the pledge gets kind of boiled down into very short phrases that don't really adequately address the complexity of things.  Thompson stated that it's better to have a dialog about things like this, and a resolution closes off dialog between people.  He is supportive of a lot of the goals of the resolution, but he does not feel like the effect will be positive and constructive. Katie's iPhone stated that this resolution feels really pointless and divisive.  This could potentially be something that Richmond codifies. Katie’s iPhone suggested putting it off the table for now until due diligence can be done and other voices can be heard.  

Filkins summarized that it would come up on the Town Meeting floor so there would be a conversation regardless. Filkins stated that she was grateful to hear the public comment in the room before it got to the floor of Town Meeting.  There can be amendments that are voted on in the Town Meeting room.  Marty stated that she was initially supportive of the pledge but is changing her stance based on what she is hearing from other community members.  Marty stated that there are people who don't feel safe as it's really stressful and uncomfortable to be a Jewish person right now.  Hartsfield stated it should be tabled as the Town can have respectful dialog, but they are not ready for this year’s Town Meeting.  Hartsfield summarized how scary it was when she found out it was going to voice vote at Town Meeting.

Rabideau stated that he doesn't think it's the business of the Selectboard to be conducting foreign policy.  Rabideau stated that it's a fundamental American value that you have a right to petition the government.  The best antidote is to show up with a better argument at Town Meeting as it is a forum for people.  Hill reviewed that it is possible to move from a voice vote to a paper vote from the floor.  

Filkins and Buxton confirmed that there are procedures for passing over an Article so it is not discussed at Town Meeting. Filkins requested that the Selectboard and Moderator make sure there is a respectful conversation where people feel safe.  Novogroski observed that there was an amendment to add an item to the ballot. Wood confirmed that the Selectboard amended it and then voted to warn it before the statutory required Warning.  Hill reviewed that the Selectboard does not run Town Meeting as it is the Moderator.  Buxton confirmed that is correct, but the Selectboard decides on the germane nature of the Articles put on the Warning.  Hill summarized that it is a question of how it would come up at Town Meeting, warned in advance or brought up from the floor.   

 
Overview of citizens’ rights when interacting with federal agents
Timestamp: 1:02
https://www.richmondvt.gov/fileadmin/files/Selectboard/Meetings/2026/01/3g_Information_for_Interacting_with_Federal_Agents__3_.pdf

Filkins summarized the next three things on the agenda are somewhat related to the unprecedented times.  Filkins stated that this is a moment in our country when people need to know their rights and neighbors have their backs, and their Town won't look away.  Filkins reviewed that Chief Cohen demonstrates a Police Department that really serves and protects this community.  

Cohen summarized that his presentation is for educational purposes and not legal advice as everyone has to make their own choices going forward.  Cohen stated that this is a broader picture of public safety so our population knows what they can and cannot do and how to keep themselves safe when interacting with federal agents.  Cohen reviewed that he puts a lot of information on the presentation in the packet. Cohen confirmed that the Richmond Police serve as credible witnesses between ICE agents and protesters.  They are unbiased witnesses of what's happening, reporting back facts of the case.  Cohen stated that they want to keep everyone informed 


Consideration of approving a list of resources for interactions with federal agents
Timestamp: 1:42
https://www.richmondvt.gov/fileadmin/files/Selectboard/Meetings/2026/01/3h_KnowYourRightsRichmond.pdf

Wood stated that Filkins worked with Richmond Racial Equity to publish a list of resources provided in the packet.  Filkins summarized the request to post this resource list on the Town website.  Filkins highlighted the different options from the packet.

Sander moved to approve posting the list of resources for interactions with federal agents on the Town website. Rabideau seconded.  Roll Call Vote follows discussion.

Filkins confirmed that she will make sure all the links are the appropriate ones.  Sander stated that he trusts the version that will be posted will be screened.

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


Discussion of a resolution to Condemn Surveillance and Enforcement Practices of Federal Immigration Agencies
Timestamp: 1:46
https://www.richmondvt.gov/fileadmin/files/Selectboard/Meetings/2026/01/3i_Richmond_VT_Resolution_DRAFT.pdf 

Wood stated that this resolution is specific to ICE and other Federal immigration agencies.  A similar resolution recently passed in Williston.  Wood stated that any Federal, State, or local agency that is actively making neighbors and residents lives more dangerous should cease to do so.  

Arneson reviewed that this was warned as a discussion for feedback and it would come back at the next meeting to consider adoption.  Bessette asked if the Selectboard is trying to turn Richmond into a sanctuary city/village.  Wood stated that the intent was to condemn the action of Federal immigration agencies that are possibly illegal and making citizens’ lives more dangerous.  Rabideau stated that this is a reaffirmation of the Fourth Amendment.  Hill stated that the First and Fourth Amendments are in the preamble because there have been activities that are unconstitutional.  This is about what happens to our citizens as opposed to a sanctuary city.  Wood observed the references to the Presidential Memorandum and the important distinction that this is relevant to everyone no matter status, religion, color, or sex.  Hill stated that there might be more edits between now and the final reading and potential vote.  Forward stated that they are a small Town, but they have the opportunity and responsibility to inspire other towns and elected officials to stand up and take a stance.  Wood illustrated that if anyone has any comments, they could send them prior to the next meeting where the Selectboard would entertain amendments.  


Update on Climate Smart Communities Initiative which focuses on flood hazard mitigation activities
Timestamp: 1:58

Littlefield summarized the grant opportunity that would aim to support Richmond’s ongoing climate resilience efforts.  She is doing it as a Richmond resident and as a professional climate adaptation practitioner.  This initiative provides $75,000-$215,000 to advance climate resilience planning with a community’s prioritization and implementation.  Littlefield stated that she would be working in partnership with Richmond to advance a project that would build capacity around flood mitigation on private lands.  She has been working with the Friends of the Winooski River as well as the Vermont Land Trust.  Wood stated that he is optimistic and hopeful to see how this plays out.  Rabideau observed that small changes upstream can have big impacts downstream.  Littlefield stated that the grant submission is early March and she will keep the Selectboard posted.


Consideration of approving request from Morton Arboretum to conduct a study of Butternut trees in Overocker Park
Timestamp: 2:04
https://www.richmondvt.gov/fileadmin/files/Selectboard/Meetings/2026/01/3k1_Butternut_Tree_Study_Overocker_Park.pdf 

Arneson described how the Tree Warden, Littlefield, and the Conservation Commission reviewed and approved of the request by Morton Arboretum in the packet.  Rabideau stated that Butternut trees are an economically important tree and a good source of lumber.  
  
Filkins move to approve Morton Arborretum’s Butternut tree study in Overocker Park.  Sander seconded.
Roll Call Vote: Filkins, Hill, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Motion approved.


Discussion of Selectboard agenda item wording and posting of public hearings
Timestamp: 2:06

Wood summarized that this is to discuss the language the Selectboard uses when posting warnings.  There has been criticism that the language is too broad and vague for people to know what the Selectboard is trying to warn.  

Arneson reviewed that this came up with the recent Public Hearing on the Traffic Ordinance.  Arneson illustrated the Richmond charter states they have to post a notice one week in advance of the Public Hearing in a paper of record.  Arneson reviewed that he lists out line by line, what's going to be changed then leaves a copy with the Town Clerk, posts it in physical locations around the Town Center area, posts it in the paper public record, and posts it on the website.  Arneson stated that going forward he will post it on Front Porch Forum the same day he sends it to the paper of record.  Arneson stated that he is going to summarize the agenda items with a little bit more description.  

Filkins suggested that other residents can help spread the word about the warning using other channels like Facebook.  Hill stated that he applauds this as it’s the right level of detail.  Wood stated that it is not reasonable to assume that you would read the warning title or the agenda item and know everything to be informed on a topic, but it is reasonable to expect enough to know you want to investigate it further.  Brooks asked about the details of the warnings on the Seven Days website.  Hill observed the Seven Days website and thought it had that level of detail provided. Wood stated that whatever they are doing now seems to be working and they have a plan to keep that going forward.   Arneson asked Brooks to send him any links on where she thinks they can be more descriptive.  Arneson reviewed how he uses an * and # at the end of agenda items:
*Denotes Action Item   # Indicates documents in the packet


Update on an agreement for engineering for the Southview Stormwater 3-Acre Permit and extension of deadline to submit Notice of Intent while still utilizing grant funds
Timestamp: 2:19
https://www.richmondvt.gov/fileadmin/files/Selectboard/Meetings/2026/01/3m_email_on_NOI_deadline_extension.pdf 

Filkins recused herself as a resident of Southview.

Wood stated that the State would not formally extend the deadline right now but if they submit an NOI past the deadline then the State would consider providing grant funds for engineering.  Arneson stated the federal deadline is August 2026 as it is tied to ARPA money.  Arneson stated that Watershed Consulting thinks the NOI can be submitted by June or July.  The engineer will provide a scope of work for a budget presentation to the Selectboard. The Selectboard and Town Manager will filter the feedback from the property owners.  Wood stated that they will act as a project manager so Watershed Consulting can focus on the engineering and the design.


Consideration of approval of the Stormwater System Maintenance Agreement with Greystone Estates Residents Association for the 3-Acre stormwater permit, possible executive session
Timestamp: 2:28

Filkins recused herself as a resident of Southview.

Wood summarized that they have an updated agreement from the attorney and have been in continued talks with GERA.

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.

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

Sander moved to approve the Stormwater System Maintenance Agreement with Greystone Estates Residents Association for the 3-Acre stormwater permit and to name Town Manager Josh Arneson as the duly authorized representative to sign the agreement.  Hill seconded.
Roll Call Vote: 
Hill, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Filkins recused.  Motion approved.


Consideration of signing the Notice of Intent for the Greystone Estates Residents Association for the 3-Acre stormwater permit
Timestamp: 2:30

Sander move to authorize Town Manager Josh Arneson to sign the Notice of Intent for the Greystone Estates Residents Association for the 3-Acre stormwater permit on behalf of the Town.  Hill seconded.
Roll Call Vote: 
Hill, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Filkins recused.  Motion approved.

Wood summarized that the Selectboard has the right to vote on this without the public seeing it first, but it now becomes public document.    


Consideration of accepting an easement for the Tilden Ave., Bridge St., and Thompson Rd. waterline project
Timestamp: 2:37
https://www.richmondvt.gov/fileadmin/files/Selectboard/Meetings/2026/01/3p_25-06-01_Easement_Deed_from_Myott_to_Town_-_393_Cochran_Rd.pdf 

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


Consideration of approving the Certificate of Highway Mileage
Timestamp: 2:38
https://www.richmondvt.gov/fileadmin/files/Selectboard/Meetings/2026/01/3q_MileageCertificate_RICHMOND_2026_-_filled_out_-_not_signed.pdf

Arneson reviewed that this is an annual form that the State has every Town sign to certify the number of highway miles and ties back to some grants.  

Hill moved to approve the Certificate of Highway Mileage.  Filkins seconded.
Roll Call Vote: Filkins, Hill, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Motion approved.


Consideration of approving the Certificate of No Appeal or Suit Pending for the 2025 grand list
Timestamp: 2:40
https://www.richmondvt.gov/fileadmin/files/Selectboard/Meetings/2026/01/3r_Certificat_no_appeal_or_suit_pending_-_Grand_List.pdf

Sander moved to certify that there are no appeals or suits pending related to the April 1, 2025 Grand List. Rabideau seconded.
Roll Call Vote: Filkins, Hill, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Motion approved.


Update on VOSHA visit and Citation and Notification of Penalty
Timestamp: 2:41

Arneson reviewed the citations and how they can work with Project WorkSAFE to reduce the fines by half.  Most of the citations were taken care of right away and are already fixed.  Option one is a reduction by 30% if you take care of things quickly.  Option two is, if you take care of things quickly and agree to work with WorkSAFE, it gets down to 50%.  Arenson explained the issues with the wash-station cartridges so now they are hard plumbed.  Arneson summarized how Water/Wastewater did  not conduct confined space work in the past so they have corrected a few things in their process.  Wood stated that Project WorkSAFE’s goal is to get you compliant and not get you fined. Rabideau stated it will help improve the insurance rating and it's for the benefit of the employees who work in those environments.  Arneson confirmed that after the penalty reduction, Water/Wastewater will pay $7094, Fire $199, and Highway $199.


Review of Richmond Rescue FY26 Quarter 2 Report
Timestamp: 2:52
https://www.richmondvt.gov/fileadmin/files/Selectboard/Meetings/2026/01/3t_Richmond_Rescue_Quarterly_Report_FY26_Q2.pdf

Arneson reviewed the info in the packet. The response times are phenomenal, and all the work they do for the Town is much appreciated.


Consideration of moving the second meeting in February to Tuesday, February 17, 2026 due to the Presidents’ Day holiday on Monday, February 16, 2026
Timestamp: 2:53

Sander moved to hold the second meeting in February on Tuesday, February 17, 2026 due to the Presidents’ Day holiday on Monday, February 16, 2026.  Hill Sander.
Roll Call Vote: Filkins, Hill, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Motion approved.


Approval of Minutes, Purchase Orders, and Warrants

Minutes:

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

Sander moved to approve the minutes of January 21, 2026.  Rabideau seconded
Roll Call Vote: 
Filkins, Hill, Rabideau, Sander in favor. Wood abstains.  Motion approved.

Purchase Orders:  

Sander moved to amend purchase order number 5251 to Pike Industries for FY26 paving to $484,977.60 to account for the grant funding received to pave Jericho Rd. Hill seconded.
Roll Call Vote: Filkins, Hill, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Motion approved.

Sander moved to approve purchase order number 5364 to the VLCT Property and Casualty Intermunicipal Fund for Town insurance coverage for the second half of FY26 for the Town’s portion of the coverage which totals $73,000.00.  Hill seconded.
Roll Call Vote: Filkins, Hill, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Motion approved.

Warrants:

Sander moved to approve the warrants from the February 2, 2026 meeting.  Hill seconded.  
Roll Call Vote: Filkins, Hill, Rabideau, Sander, Wood in favor.  Motion approved.


Next Meeting Agenda
-Southview update
-Town Plan hearing
-Traffic Ordinance hearing
-Resolution
-FY25 Audit
-Police station upgrades


Adjourn

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

Meeting adjourned at: 10:13 PM

Chat file from Zoom:
00:14:38          Jean Haskin:    When my kids were young there was no preK program funded by the school budget.  Parents should pay for preK.
00:45:32          Jean Haskin:    I agree it should be tabled at town meeting
00:45:57          Jared D Katz LCMHC:           I also believe it should be tabled.
00:51:16          Jared D Katz LCMHC:           I believe we’ve heard that a lot of people on this zoom feel uncomfortable (unsafe) being part of a discussion of this measure at town meeting.
00:52:01          Katie's iPhone (2):       We should not have to show up in person and “fight” for this. That has proven dangerous in other communities.
00:52:12          Ian Bender:     Reacted to "We should not have t..." with 👍
00:55:54          Chelsye Brooks:          Reacted to "We should not have t…" with 👍
00:58:17          Stefani Hartsfield:       I'm always at town meeting day. I just don't think it can be an informed discussion there.
00:58:52          Jean Haskin:    Reacted to "We should not have t…" with 👍
00:59:10          Jean Haskin:    Reacted to "I believe we’ve hear…" with 👍
01:03:00          Bonny Steuer (she/her):          To be clear - Criticism of the Israeli Government and their actions is not antisemitic. The document up for discussion is not targeting Jewish people, however I appreciate the vulnerable and difficult emotions this conversation brings up. If you would like to learn more about what is happening in Gaza and the West Bank please consider attending the movie being shown at the library on Feb 22 from 4-6 pm with moderated panel discussion to follow. More info to come in Front Porch Forum.
01:05:12          Jean Haskin:    Good job Clint
01:05:26          Stefani Hartsfield:       Reacted to "Good job Clint" with 👍
01:05:28          brendanfilkins:            Replying to "To be clear - Critic..."
Im grateful someone read the document. This is strictly a statement against a regime and not a religion or group of people
01:06:19          Chelsye Brooks:          That troubles me. If I cannot speak about this at a meeting where the Selectboard has just said they want to encourage public discussion… it doesn’t bode well for people showing up to town meeting, or their chances of being heard.
01:07:06          Chelsye Brooks:          Reacted to "I'm always at town m…" with 👌
01:07:14          Ian Bender:     Reacted to "That troubles me. If..." with 👍
01:07:35          Jean Haskin:    Reacted to "That troubles me. If…" with 👍
01:09:24          Ian Bender:     Replying to "To be clear - Critic..."
According to the sponsor of this petition all Israelis are "for war" and are accountable..  See this being communicated at the last meeting.
01:09:26          Patty Brushett: Thank you Caitlin
01:09:33          Ian Bender:     Replying to "To be clear - Critic..."
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ATsuOUuURImemDFZMKMnaEJqrL6TGiQC/view?usp=drive_link
01:21:32          Katie's iPhone (2):       Replying to "To be clear - Critic…"
We’ve read it, many times. I agree that the resolution does not literally say “all Jews are responsible” but it doesn’t need to say that, unfortunately. The outcome is the same. Being anti-Israel is not antisemitic, but that difference isn’t understood by many and making Jewish neighbors (who are also not in support of Israel!) feel afraid shouldn’t be anyone’s goal.
01:22:49          Katie's iPhone (2):       Reacted to "That troubles me. If…" with 👍
01:24:22          Alexis :            Replying to "To be clear - Critic..."
So we can’t speak out about Israel because some people don’t understand the difference between Israel and the Jewish people? That seems to be what you are saying.
01:32:38          Aubrey Carpenter:      Replying to "To be clear - Critic…"
I am most disturbed by the fact that we have local neighbors who feel isolated and unsafe or at risk of decreasing safety by the inadvertent outcome of a well-intentioned initiative in opposition of a regime. I’m asking because I genuinely don’t know, do we have any existing local forums in place to help neighbors build perspective and hold conversations in safe spaces? I agree with one of the earlier commentor’s questions that we have to be ready to have conversations to do it safely and well. It’s unfortunate that the process unfolded in the way it did and I would love to know where reparative conversations or proactive discussions about these themes can happen so that the first time we’re bumping into conversations with each other is not at a selectboard meeting.
01:39:43          Connie van Eeghen, she/her:   Thank you, Chief Cohen
01:43:23          Bonny Steuer (she/her):          Replying to "To be clear - Critic..."
Please come to the film and discussion! There will be a Palestinian person very well informed with the situation and a representative (who is a Richmond resident) from Jewish Voices for Peace. Conversation will be moderated by Fran Stoddard. The aim is to create that safe space for discussion.
01:43:56          Connie van Eeghen, she/her:   Reacted to "Please come to the f..." with 👍
01:48:27          Patty Brushett: Thank you
01:50:27          Aubrey Carpenter:      Replying to "To be clear - Critic…"
Thank you Bonny!
01:51:37          Bonny Steuer (she/her):          I think you should read the resolution for those here and and for the recording.
01:57:40          Bonny Steuer (she/her):          Reacted to "I think you should r..." with 👍
01:57:56          Bonny Steuer (she/her):          Absolutely
02:02:40          Bonny Steuer (she/her):          Would Caitlin please identify her employer?
02:03:22          Bonny Steuer (she/her):          It was Chris Granda
02:13:35          Chelsye Brooks:          Can we amend the titles of warnings on Seven Days?
02:19:03          Chelsye Brooks:          Thanks.
02:45:42          Chelsye Brooks:          Is this agreement going to be available for public review?
02:56:29          Chelsye Brooks:          What were the fines for?
02:58:18          Chelsye Brooks:          7000 water sewer, 200 fire, 200 highway - where are the other $7000 in fines?
03:00:00          Chelsye Brooks:          I thought Josh said $14,000? Or has that already been reduced.