by Gazette Staff
CRAFTSBURY – At its Dec. 5 regular meeting, the Craftsbury Select Board discussed plans for the town garage bridge, the status of delinquent taxes, and improving plans for responding to emergencies.
Board Chair Bruce Urie reported that town garage bridge could be addressed in two phases: first, return the current bridge to its original condition; second, build a new bridge. The current bridge is usable and can be repaired to handle the same weight as before. Perhaps three years later, a new bridge would be built since state inspectors recommend replacing the current bridge in the long term. The new bridge would be eligible for $1 million FEMA funding.
It was noted that the Antiques & Uniques committee has re-started meetings. A core group of five volunteers continue to attend meetings and have started initial planning discussions for next year’s event. One point of discussion was how to cut costs and raise more money.
The Freedom & Unity Group met on Dec. 12. The board would like the group to hold an informational meeting in January to discuss town articles and Australian ballot measures.
The town clerk’s report noted that tax receipts have been coming in at a good pace. Delinquent taxes total less than $100,000 compared to more than $200,000 last year at this time. In a related discussion later in the meeting, it was noted that five properties have been proposed for tax sale. The established process – notification, discussions regarding payments, etc. – is being followed.
The road foreman report noted that the crew continues to work on snow removal and trimming trees, especially those in power lines.
A discussion was begun to identify the conditions that would trigger the opening of the emergency shelter, providing emergency assistance, and activating the Neighbor-to-Neighbor (N2N) network. Board member Susan Houston asked if the board should “put more thought into our emergency shelter?” She added that “We have not been able to provide [a] secure, safe place.” The discussion noted that the school is a designated emergency shelter but does not have a generator. ARPA funds or grants may be available for a generator. Planning for a response to an emergency is also an opportunity to have N2N work with the Red Cross to come up with a proper reaction plan. The board decided to keep the issue on the agenda for future meetings, looking at options and opportunities.
Other projects to keep on the agenda include the Municipal Technical Assistance Program (MTAP), the town dedication, the community development officer position, test pits at the gravel pit, among others.
