CRAFTSBURY – Roads and drivers were a big topic, with a concern submitted by Stark Biddle, about motorcycles and sometimes trucks occasionally speeding through Craftsbury Common at 50 to 60 miles per hour being very dangerous, noisy and disruptive. Distracted driving was noted as an increasing issue for concern nationwide.
The board decided to ask the Orleans County Sheriff to attend an upcoming meeting to discuss options for patrols and how that might affect Vermont State Police coverage.
The select board approved paving the town garage bridge with asphalt early next year, after obtaining permits. The new town truck has arrived, and an applicant for road crew foreman has withdrawn, but another candidate has shown some interest.
In the FEMA update, all 2023 reimbursements have been received and nearly all for the 2024 flood too.
Issues with a tax sale on an un-landed mobile home are being given careful attention as tax sales are rare in Craftsbury and care is being taken to ensure the process is handled appropriately, with a board of civil authority meeting pending input from justices of the peace.
Town Clerk Michelle Warren reported there have continued to be issues with telephones during the last several weeks and she will get quotes for other options.
It was agreed to continue allowing the town hall to be used as the emergency evacuation site at the request of the Craftsbury School. Students will be able to remain under school supervision until parents can pick them up.
An issue with tree trimming on the Common came up for which there is no budget. Board members decided to let Hardwick Electric Department trim trees on its schedule and try to have a forest committee representative present to help guide work.
The town porta-potty has been placed too close to a tree on the Common and must be moved.
The select board will hold its next meeting Tuesday, Aug. 19, 7 p.m. at the Craftsbury Town Hall.
Paul Fixx is editor of The Hardwick Gazette and lives in Hardwick.
