# Norwich Observer > Occasional news and commentary about local government in Norwich, VT ## Posts - [Hartford: No interest in a Norwich sewer connection](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/05/20/hartford-no-interest-in-a-norwich-sewer-connection/): The Town of Hartford says it is not interested in Norwich joining the Hartford sewer system. That news is a setback to the Norwich School District. - [MCS student targeted by hateful slur](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/05/17/mcs-student-targeted-by-hateful-slur/): The following appeared as a letter to the editor in the Valley News on Sunday. (H/T DF.) - [DRB says "highly unlikely" that Norwich sign regulations are valid under First Amendment](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/05/03/drb-says-highly-unlikely-that-norwich-sign-regulations-are-valid-under-first-amendment/): Black Lives Matter sign at 236 Main Street. Source: DRB packet for February 18, 2021. - [Planning Commission recommends that Town study sewer options](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/04/18/planning-commission-recommends-that-town-study-sewer-options/): The Norwich Planning Commission is recommending to the Selectboard that the Town fund a study to examine sewer options for the Town. - [Selectboard mailbag: Preferred site status for solar](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/04/13/selectboard-mailbag-preferred-site-status-for-solar/): In the packet for the Selectboard meeting on April 14, 2021, is correspondence to the Selectboard on an issue of concern to me. - [Delay hiring a new police chief?](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/04/11/delay-hiring-a-new-police-chief/): A number of residents are asking that the Town delay hiring a new police chief in order for the Town to revisit what residents want from their police force. - [ICYMI: Montshire Executive Director Stepping Down](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/03/24/icymi-montshire-executive-director-stepping-down/): In a press release issued last week, the Montshire Museum of Science, located in Norwich, Vermont, announced that its executive director was leaving to take a position in New York City. - [Selectboard to discuss body cams for police](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/03/22/selectboard-to-discuss-body-cams-for-police/): Police body cameras are an important tool to enhance accountability and transparency in policing. Is Norwich ready to the make the move? - [Selectboard agenda item number 8: Reaffirm Master Financial Policies](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/03/06/selectboard-agenda-item-number-8-reaffirm-master-financial-policies/): This is a wonkish post. - [Town Meeting Article 11 - Incentive or gift to solar farms?](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/02/21/town-meeting-article-11-incentive-or-gift-to-solar-farms/): The text of Article 11 is convoluted. However, its intent is clear - to eliminate municipal property taxes on solar farms. - [Is it a good idea to have the Town Manager select four members to the Article 36 Task Force?](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/02/03/is-it-a-good-idea-to-have-the-town-manager-select-four-members-to-the-article-36-task-force/): The Selectboard gave a first reading approval to the Article 36 Task Force proposed by Selectboard Vice Chair Roger Arnold at its last meeting. - [Selectboard and School Board races set](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/01/29/selectboard-and-school-board-races-set/): Who's running for Selectboard and School Board? - [Yikes: Finance Committee says its work is 'pointless'; 4 of 5 members resign](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/01/23/yikes-finance-committee-says-its-work-is-pointless-4-of-5-members-resign/): In a rebuke of the Selectboard, the Finance Committee declared its efforts are "pointless" because of a lack of interest by the Selectboard in the Finance Committee's work. - [Selectboard to consider adding six citizen petitions to Town Meeting ballot](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/01/16/selectboard-to-consider-adding-six-citizen-petitions-to-town-meeting-ballot/): On Monday, January 18, the Selectboard plans to finalize the warning for Town Meeting 2021. - [$13,000 in legal fees on Open Meeting Law](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/01/09/13000-in-legal-fees-on-open-meeting-law/): The Town's law firm billed the Town $13,000 in legal fees to address Open Meeting Law issues, in the final three months of 2020. - [Finance Committee makes recommendations on proposed budget](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/01/05/finance-committee-makes-recommendations-on-proposed-budget/): Excerpt from proposed budget. - [Sidewalk upkeep: not getting done](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/01/01/sidewalk-upkeep-not-getting-done/): Norwich has $81,000 in its sidewalk designated fund. But, the Town has not done any sidewalk repairs for several years, even though some are in poor condition. - [SB Chair and Vice-chair ask a Planning Commission member to step down for 'deplorable decorum'](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/12/16/sb-chair-and-vice-chair-ask-a-planning-commission-member-to-step-down-for-deplorable-decorum/): Jeff Goodrich at December 10 Planning Commission meeting. Source: YouTube screenshot. - [ICYMI: "Bid to boost Norwich housing needs your help" appears in the Valley News](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/12/07/icymi-bid-to-boost-norwich-housing-needs-your-help-appears-in-the-valley-news/): On Thursday, the Valley News published an opinion piece by three members of the Norwich Affordable Housing Subcommittee. - [Green Fleet Working Group: Public not invited](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/12/06/green-fleet-working-group-public-not-invited/): The Norwich Selectboard created a Green Fleet Working Group in September. Not much, if anything, has been publicized about this group since. - [Budget proposal "not for the faint of heart" says Norwich Town Manager](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/11/22/budget-proposal-not-for-the-faint-of-heart-says-norwich-town-manager/): Give Town Manager Herb Durfee credit. - [Town and Union reach agreement](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/11/11/town-and-union-reach-agreement/): The Town has a new labor agreement with the New England Police Benevolent Association (PBA), the union representing DPW workers, police officers and Police Department staff. - [Planning Commission splits in response to claim of an Open Meeting Law violation](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/10/20/planning-commission-splits-in-response-to-claim-of-an-open-meeting-law-violation/): The Planning Commission says it did not violate the Open Meeting Law in formulating the 2020 Town Plan. - [Why is the Planning Commission going into executive session to discuss the Open Meeting Law?](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/10/14/why-is-the-planning-commission-going-into-executive-session-to-discuss-the-open-meeting-law/): My listserv post from earlier today. - [UPDATE: MCS Septic](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/10/13/update-mcs-septic/): A bit of good news regarding the failing septic system at Marion Cross School. - [DRB denies application for kindergarten/daycare facility on Route 5 North](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/10/10/drb-denies-application-for-kindergarten-daycare-facility-on-route-5-north/): Google maps, retrieved on 10.10.2020. - [[Update] Protect ridgelines or allow solar?](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/10/04/update-protect-ridgelines-or-allow-solar/): A portion of the Site Plan filed with the PUC by the Margo Avery Trust in its Net-Metering CPG Application, case number 20-2276-NM. - [Protect ridgelines or allow solar? Norwich Selectboard may decide at its 9/23 meeting](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/09/21/protect-ridgelines-or-allow-solar-norwich-selectboard-may-decide-at-its-9-23-meeting/): A portion of the Site Plan filed with the PUC by the Margo Avery Trust in its Net-Metering CPG Application, case number 20-2276-NM. - [Sewer Working Group to dissolve?](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/08/25/sewer-working-group-to-dissolve/): The Wastewater Working Group established by the Planning Commission in June is apparently going to dissolve. - [Sewer Working Group violates Open Meeting Law](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/08/16/sewer-working-group-violates-open-meeting-law/): Whether Norwich constructs a sewer to service the Village and Route 5 South will certainly be a hot button topic, as it has been for years. - [Tracy Hall Geothermal Bond Defeated](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/08/12/tracy-hall-geothermal-bond-defeated/): Voters rejected the $2 million bond proposal related to the Tracy Hall geothermal project on August 11. The NO votes bested the YES votes 1041-608. - [[Update] TRORC dumps Norwich from Regional Energy Coordinator project](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/07/31/update-trorc-dumps-norwich-from-regional-energy-coordinator-project/): In the end, the Norwich Selectboard did not see the regional energy coordinator as an important project. - [TRORC dumps Norwich from Regional Energy Coordinator project](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/07/20/trorc-dumps-norwich-from-regional-energy-coordinator-project/): Two Rivers Ottauquechee Regional Commission (TRORC) has unilaterally dumped the Town of Norwich from the Regional Energy Coordinator pilot project. - [[Update] Think Big Norwich: Why Not Community Geothermal?](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/07/18/update-think-big-norwich-why-not-community-geothermal/): One of the reasons I plan to vote against Article 8 is that the Town Facilities Working Group gave no consideration to a geothermal heating district. - [Article 8 - voting no, as a renovation project](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/07/14/article-8-voting-no-as-a-renovation-project/): Could the Tracy Hall cupola house a WiFi or micro cell antenna? - [Transparency? Selectboard approves no-bid contract, without public notice. Selectboard packet 'revised' after issuance.](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/07/07/transparency-selectboard-approves-no-bid-contract-without-public-notice-selectboard-packet-revised-after-issuance/): The Selectboard approved a no bid contract for an engineering study related to the replacement of the box culvert on Route 132. - [Selectboard condemns murder of George Floyd and structural racism. Doesn't tell world. [Corrected]](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/06/14/selectboard-condemns-murder-of-george-floyd-and-structural-racism-doesnt-tell-world/): Source: Website of New Yorker magazine. Photograph by Omer Messinger / Sipa / AP. - [Budget Watch: Does Norwich need a capital plan?](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/06/02/budget-watch-does-norwich-need-a-capital-plan/): The Town's need for a capital plan was on display at the Selectboard meeting on May 27. - [Family objects to solar panel farm in 'front of our house'](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/05/03/family-objects-to-solar-panel-farm-in-front-of-our-house/): The relaxed solar siting rules in Norwich have possibly claimed its first casualty. - [Selectboard says 'no' to agenda item on saving $450,000 on Tracy Hall geothermal project](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/04/20/selectboard-says-no-to-agenda-item-on-saving-450000-on-tracy-hall-geothermal-project/): Norwich Selectboard meeting on March 11, before the Zoom era. Source: CATV screen shot. - [Voters to reconsider Article 8. Date of the election remains uncertain due to coronavirus.](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/04/04/voters-to-reconsider-article-8-date-of-the-election-remains-uncertain-due-to-coronavirus/): Norwich voters will have the opportunity to reconsider their decision in favor of Article 8 at a special election. - [Budget Watch: Did the Selectboard just spend $15,000 not in the budget?](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/04/01/budget-watch-did-the-selectboard-just-spend-15000-not-in-the-budget/): Last week, the Norwich Selectboard approved spending of up to $15,000 on the Tracy Hall geothermal project. - [On my Soapbox: new Town Plan excludes community from solar siting decisions](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/03/16/on-my-soapbox-new-town-plan-excludes-community-from-solar-siting-decisions/): "Thanks for keeping it local," is a Norwich mantra. Except ... when it comes to the siting of solar panel farms. - [Coronavirus Response: Dan and Whit's offers pick up and delivery service](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/03/12/coronavirus-response-dan-and-whits-offers-pick-up-and-delivery-service/): As a response to the Coronavirus outbreak, Dan and Whit's is dusting off a practice common in the 1950's. It is offering pick-up and delivery services. - [For the Record: Official Town Meeting Results On Selected Articles](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/03/08/for-the-record-official-town-meeting-results-on-selected-articles/): Below are the official 2020 Town Meeting results on selected articles. Complete results as published on the Town's website are here. - [Article 8: I'm voting NO](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/03/02/article-8-im-voting-no/): I posted the following on the listserv today. - [Condition of Tracy Hall boilers do not justify 'rush' to geothermal](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/03/01/condition-of-tracy-hall-boilers-do-not-justify-rush-to-geothermal/): Boiler Room at Tracy Hall. - [Q & A with Selectboard candidate Doug Wilberding](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/02/22/q-a-with-selectboard-candidate-doug-wilberding/): Doug Wilberding is running against Robert Gere for the three-year seat on the Selectboard. Neither is the incumbent, Below are the responses of Mr. - [Q & A with Selectboard candidate Robert Gere](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/02/22/q-a-with-selectboard-candidate-robert-gere/): Robert Gere is running against Doug Wilberding for the three-year seat on the Selectboard. Neither is the incumbent, Below are the responses of Mr. - [Q & A with Selectboard candidate Claudette Brochu](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/02/21/q-a-with-selectboard-candidate-claudette-brochu/): Selectboard member Claudette Brochu at November 20, 2019 meeting. Source: CATV screen shot. - [Think Big Norwich: Why Not Community Geothermal?](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/02/17/think-big-norwich-why-not-community-geothermal/): Perhaps,Town officials are not thinking big enough with their geothermal proposal for Tracy Hall on the ballot for Town Meeting. - [Selectboard Changes Course, Will Discuss Contract Extension With Town Manager](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/02/13/selectboard-changes-course-will-discuss-contract-extension-with-town-manager/): Town Manager Herb Durfee, February 2020. - [NRA infiltrates Norwich?](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/02/12/nra-infiltrates-norwich/): Norwich Police Chief Jennifer Frank is hosting in April a school safety program and some residents are concerned. Why? - [Chart sheds light on Selectboard concerns regarding Town Manager's job performance](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/02/08/chart-sheds-light-on-selectboard-concerns-regarding-town-managers-job-performance/): A chart prepared by the Town Manager Herb Durfee sheds light on Selectboard concerns regarding his job performance. - [Selectboard to meet Monday to further discuss the Town Manager Durfee's contract](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/02/07/selectboard-to-meet-monday-to-further-discuss-the-town-manager-durfees-contract/): On Monday, February 10, the Selectboard will hold a special meeting to further discuss extending the current Town Manager's contract. - [Linda Cook is the Norwich 2020 Citizen of the Year!](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/02/06/linda-cook-is-the-norwich-2020-citizen-of-the-year/): In a well deserved honor, Linda Cook is the Norwich Women’s Club 2020 Citizen of the Year. - [Public Information Sessions On Tracy Hall Geothermal Proposal](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/02/04/public-information-sessions-on-tracy-hall-geothermal-proposal/): The Norwich Energy Committee is holding two information sessions in advance of Town meeting to discuss the $2 million bond article on the ballot for March 3. - [Norwich Selectboard and School Board candidates](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/01/29/norwich-selectboard-and-school-board-candidates/): Two Selectboard seats and three School Board seats are up for election in 2020. Only one seat on the Selectboard is contested. - [Selectboard opts to not extend Town Manager's contract](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/01/26/selectboard-opts-to-not-extend-town-managers-contract/): Town Manager Herb Durfee at January 22 Selectboard meeting. Source: CATV screen shot. - [TIL: Norwich, VT is carbon neutral, and then some](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/01/19/til-norwich-vt-is-carbon-neutral-and-then-some/): Today I learned that our small town is carbon neutral. We could increase our population by a third and remain so. - [Are solar siting standards in the draft Town Plan too lax?](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/01/14/are-solar-siting-standards-in-the-draft-town-plan-too-lax/): Imagine Norwich clear cut of all trees and replaced by acres and acres of solar panel farms. Far fetched - yes. - [Norwich School Board Elections: Only one of three incumbents plans to run](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/01/12/norwich-school-board-elections-only-one-of-three-incumbents-plans-to-run/): Three of the five Norwich School Board seats are up for election this year. Only one incumbent is seeking reelection. - [Town Facilities Working Group Recommends $2 Million No-Bid Contract To Reduce Fossil Fuel Use By 15%](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/01/06/town-facilities-working-group-recommends-2-million-no-bid-contract-to-reduce-fossil-fuel-use-by-15/): At its first meeting of the year on January 8, the Norwich Selectboard will consider the recommendation of the Town Facilities Working Group that voters be asked to approve a bond of up to $2,054,569.38, in order to reduce by 15% the town government's use of fossil fuels. - [Welcome to the new home of the Norwich Observer](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2020/01/05/welcome-to-the-new-home-of-the-norwich-observer/): This is a continuation of my blog from the website HereCast, which went on hiatus on December 31. A few of my older posts are here. I may post others. - [HereCast Shuts Down](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2019/12/31/herecast-shuts-down/): HereCast, the website dedicated to content 'by locals for locals', went dark on December 31. - [Public Hearings On Town Plan](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2019/12/26/public-hearings-on-town-plan/): The Norwich Planning Commission will hold hearings on its proposed Town Plan on January 9, 2020, at 6:30 PM and on January 13, 2020, at 6:30PM in the Multipurpose Room of Tracy Hall. - [Norwich 'Working Group' Fails In Transparency](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2019/12/15/norwich-working-group-fails-in-transparency/): A Working Group of public officials, formed in November by the Norwich Selectboard, is apparently not giving public notice of its meetings or posting meeting minutes. - [Norwich Cyber Scam: Insurance To Cover Loss](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2019/11/07/norwich-cyber-scam-insurance-to-cover-loss/): The Town of Norwich's insurance policy will cover the direct loss suffered from the business email compromise (BEC) scam that saw nearly $250,000 stolen from the Town's General Fund. - [Cyber Scam Report: Finance Director Made Payments Knowing They Violated Policy](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2019/10/24/cyber-scam-report-finance-director-made-payments-knowing-they-violated-policy/): The Burgess Investigation Report, relating to the the business email compromise (BEC) scam that saw $250,000 stolen from the Town, says that Finance Director Donna Flies knew she was violating Town policy but believed she was acting on orders from her boss, Town Manager Herb Durfee. - ['Amateur hour'? Setting the Norwich property tax rate.](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2019/07/22/amateur-hour-setting-the-norwich-property-tax-rate/): Norwich property tax bills are out. The overall rate is lower. - [Q & A With Daybreak's Creator Rob Gurwitt](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2019/07/15/q-a-with-daybreaks-creator-rob-gurwitt/): The morning brief of Upper Valley news (and weather) provided by Daybreak is entrenched as part of my morning routine. - [Shawn Gonyaw Named MCS Principal](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2019/04/04/shawn-gonyaw-named-mcs-principal/): Shawn Gonyaw will serve as principal of Marion Cross School next school year, succeeding "Mr. Bill" Hammond who is set to retire. - [Hello world!](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2019/01/29/hello-world/): Welcome to WordPress. This is your first post. Edit or delete it, then start writing! - [Selectboard Adopts Goals For Town Manager](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2026/07/30/selectboard-adopts-goals-for-town-manager/): Good news to report. On July 22, the Selectboard voted unanimously to adopt a written set of 2026 Town Manager goals and performance objectives. - [The Faucet: "We'll Look Into It"](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2026/07/16/the-faucet-well-look-into-it/): The Triangle Garden, at the intersection of Church and Main Streets, adjacent to Tracy Hall, is a thing of beauty. - [My Questions About The Town Manager Goals Memo](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2026/04/20/my-questions-about-the-town-manager-goals-memo/): The Town Manager's employment agreement requires the collaborative setting of written annual goals every September. That didn't happen last year. - [A Simple Ask After Town Meeting: Adopt and Post Annual Goals (Update)](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2026/03/24/a-simple-ask-after-town-meeting-adopt-and-post-annual-goals-update/): This is an update to my February 20 post. Selectboard goals are on the agenda for the March 25 meeting. - [Norwich sued by former assistant town clerk; Town still not saying much in public](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2026/03/23/norwich-sued-by-former-assistant-town-clerk-town-still-not-saying-much-in-public/): A former Assistant Town Clerk has sued the Town of Norwich, alleging workplace harassment, disability discrimination and whistleblower retaliation after she was fired last summer. - [Selectboard Candidate Responses: Finance Committee & Town Manager Goals](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2026/02/28/selectboard-candidate-responses-finance-committee-town-manager-goals/): March 3 is Town Meeting. - [A Simple Ask After Town Meeting: Adopt and Post Annual Goals](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2026/02/20/a-simple-ask-after-town-meeting-adopt-and-post-annual-goals/): Here’s a governance oversight that the Selectboard and Town Manager should address promptly after Town Meeting. - ['Local Minutes' enables AI-powered search of meeting minutes](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2026/02/05/local-minutes-enables-ai-powered-search-of-meeting-minutes/): There is a wonderful database of meeting minutes of Vermont municipalities that is accessible through an AI-powered search engine. It’s called Local Minutes. - [Spending More, Getting Less: Vermont's Education Problem in Two Graphs](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2025/12/09/problems-with-vermonts-education-system-in-two-graphs/): Sometimes a picture (or in this case, a graph) really is worth a thousand words. - [Town Meeting 2026: Open Positions](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2025/12/03/town-meeting-2026-open-positions/): Do you want to run for office in Norwich? - [A Proposed Town Budget Without Real Numbers](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2025/11/17/a-proposed-town-budget-without-real-numbers/): The FY25 Actual column – showing what the Town actually spent last year – has no data. - [Town budget includes funding for electronic message sign](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2025/11/14/town-budget-includes-funding-for-electronic-message-sign/): Example of a trailer-mounted variable message sign. - [Grange Kitchen Design Process Offers Lessons for Tracy Hall Renovation](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2025/09/26/grange-kitchen-design-process-offers-lessons-for-tracy-hall-renovation/): Sometimes great examples of effective project design happen right in our backyard. - [Hidden Good News: FY 25 Closes With Nearly $1 Million 'Surplus'](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2025/09/08/hidden-good-news-fy-25-closes-with-nearly-1-million-surplus/): Officials buried the lede in presenting Norwich's unaudited financial results for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. - [Selectboard strips Finance Committee of independent role](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2025/04/17/selectboard-strips-finance-committee-of-independent-role/): Four years ago, in January 2021, members of Norwich's Finance Committee resigned en masse, stating that their work felt "pointless" due to the Selectboard's disinterest in their input. - [Podcast: Norwich Selectboard Budget Debate](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2025/01/14/podcast-norwich-selectboard-budget-debate/): Google's NotebookLM has an Audio Overview tool that will generate a "deep dive" podcast from your specified sources. - [A Divided Norwich Selectboard Grapples with Budget Oversight Responsibilities](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2025/01/14/a-divided-norwich-selectboard-grapples-with-budget-oversight-responsibilities/): How closely should the Selectboard examine the budget proposed by the Town Manager? - [Norwich Selectboard Scraps Town Manager's Residency 'Deadline'](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2024/10/29/norwich-selectboard-scraps-town-managers-residency-deadline/): Without public discussion or explanation, the Norwich Selectboard voted 3-2 to weaken a key provision of Town Manager Brennan Duffy’s contract. - [Norwich's Planning Commission Ponders Upzoning Options](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2024/10/20/norwichs-planning-commission-ponders-upzoning-options/): Everybody knows housing in the Upper Valley is pricey and scarce. - [Surging Home Values Aren’t Causing Vermont’s School Tax Spike—Spending Is](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2024/09/29/surging-home-values-arent-causing-vermonts-school-tax-spike-spending-is/): A common misconception among some homeowners and public officials is that surging home values in Vermont are a significant contributor to the increase in school property taxes. - [A Taxpayer's Perspective on the Norwich School Board Budget Guidelines](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2024/09/17/a-taxpayers-perspective-on-the-norwich-school-board-budget-guidelines/): The Norwich School Board recently took the first step in shaping next year’s budget by adopting its “2025-26 Norwich Budget Guidelines.” As these early discussions begin, many of us in town are already feeling the strain from this year's nearly 17% increase in school property taxes. - [How should Norwich use its opioid settlement funds?](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2024/06/21/how-should-norwich-use-its-opioid-settlement-funds/): Comedian and political commentator John Oliver recently covered the opioid crisis and the massive settlements on HBO’s “Last Week Tonight.” He highlighted the challenges states and municipalities face trying to use the money effectively, noting the painfully mixed results. - [Zooming Out: Selectboard Meetings Going Fully Online](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2024/05/13/zooming-out-selectboard-meetings-going-fully-online/): Count me among those concerned about the recent terse announcement that the Selectboard has ended in-person meetings in favor of attendance by Board members only via Zoom. - [Update on the Upper Loveland Road Solar Project: Developer Objects to PUC Order for Town Review](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2024/05/06/update-on-the-upper-loveland-road-solar-project-developer-objects-to-puc-order-for-town-review/): Is the controversial Upper Loveland Road solar project coming back to the Town of Norwich for review? - [Assorted Links: Recent Commentary on Act 127](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2024/02/26/assorted-links-recent-commentary-on-act-127/): Tom Pelham: It’s OK to vote no on school budgets. - [Increase class size at MCS?](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2024/02/25/increase-class-size-at-mcs/): Now that some dust has settled for this year on financing Act 127, I wonder if our School Board should address the difficult question of increasing class size (students per section) at Marion Cross School. - [Post-Budget Realities: A List of Some Lingering Issues](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2024/01/30/post-budget-realities-a-list-of-some-lingering-issues/): As Town Meeting approaches, the Selectboard has approved a budget, crafted through the dedicated effort of Board members, the Town Manager, and staff. - [Silent Rejection: Article 11 and the Selectboard's Inaction](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2024/01/03/silent-rejection-article-11-and-the-selectboards-inaction/): At Town Meeting in March 2023, Norwich residents approved Article 11, advising the Town "to consider" the addition of a fifth full-time officer to the Norwich Police Department (NPD). - [Public Input Matters: How to Spend a Once-in-a-Generation Surplus](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2023/12/12/public-input-matters-how-to-spend-a-once-in-a-generation-surplus/): The Town of Norwich has $1.8 million in surplus cash, of which $1 million came from ARPA but since then washed of its restrictions. - [Random Notes and Comments: 10-25 Selectboard meeting](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2023/11/05/random-notes-and-comments-10-25-selectboard-meeting/): My collection of random comments, notes and thoughts after watching the video recording of the October 25 Norwich Selectboard meeting. - [Questions remain on the 'emergency' hiring of a permanent Town Manager](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2023/10/24/questions-remain-on-the-emergency-hiring-of-a-permanent-town-manager/): On September 27, the Norwich Selectboard appointed Brennan Duffy as the permanent Town Manager, after an 18 minute executive session. The vote was 3-2. - [Town of Norwich is flush with surplus cash](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2023/09/23/town-of-norwich-is-flush-with-surplus-cash/): Here's a good problem to have. The Town of Norwich is flush with surplus cash. - [Chair and Vice Chair of the Planning Commission resign](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2023/05/22/chair-and-vice-chair-of-the-planning-commission-resign/): The Norwich Planning Commission is experiencing significant upheaval in membership. - [Court: Norwich violated Open Meeting Law](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2023/05/07/court-norwich-violated-open-meeting-law/): In a recent decision, a Vermont Superior Court Judge ruled that two working groups of the Norwich Finance Committee violated the Open Meeting Law when they met in 2020. - [ALS Awareness Month: PBS documentary shows challenges faced by those living with ALS.](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2023/05/03/als-awareness-month-pbs-documentary-shows-challenges-faced-by-those-living-with-als/): May is ALS Awareness Month. A good way to gain insight into the challenges faced by those living with ALS is by watching "Matter of Mind: My ALS". - [Norwich Legislators in the General Assembly: VTDigger's Summary of Their Ethics Disclosure Forms](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2023/05/01/norwich-legislators-in-the-general-assembly-vtdiggers-summary-of-their-ethics-disclosure-forms/): As part of its Full Disclosure series, VTDigger summarized the ethics disclosure forms of all legislators currently in office in the Vermont General Assembly. - [Selectboard puts off discussion of adding fifth police officer until Fall](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2023/04/25/selectboard-puts-off-discussion-of-adding-fifth-police-officer-until-the-fall/): The Norwich Selectboard has "decided" to delay consideration of adding a fifth police officer to the Norwich Police Department until budget season in the Fall. - [From ARPA to Zoning Director: Important matters facing the Selectboard](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2023/03/15/from-arpa-to-zoning-director-important-matters-facing-the-selectboard/): As the Norwich Selectboard begins its new term following Town Meeting, here are some matters under consideration by the Board. - [Town Meeting Results](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2023/03/14/town-meeting-results/): Selected Town Meeting election results are posted below. - [Selectboard candidate questionnaire. Q5: Elected Listers/Town Clerk.](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2023/02/12/selectboard-candidate-questionnaire-q5-elected-listers-town-clerk/): The Norwich Observer asked the candidates for Selectboard the same five questions. Below is the fifth and final question and the candidates’ responses. - [Selectboard candidate questionnaire. Q4: Police.](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2023/02/12/selectboard-candidate-questionnaire-q4-police/): The Norwich Observer asked the candidates for Selectboard the same five questions. Below is the fourth question and the candidates’ responses. - [Selectboard candidate questionnaire. Q3: Toxic community problem.](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2023/02/11/selectboard-candidate-questionnaire-q3-toxic-community-problem/): The Norwich Observer asked the candidates for Selectboard the same five questions. Below is the third question and the candidates' responses. - [Selectboard candidate questionnaire. Q2: Priorities.](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2023/02/11/selectboard-candidate-questionnaire-q2-priorities/): The Norwich Observer asked the candidates for Selectboard the same five questions. Below is the second question and the candidates' responses. - [Selectboard candidate questionnaire. Q1: Background and qualifications.](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2023/02/11/selectboard-candidate-questionnaire-q1-background-and-qualifications/): The Norwich Observer asked the candidates for Selectboard the same five questions. Below is the first question and the candidates' responses. - [Who's running for Selectboard?](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2023/02/07/whos-running-for-selectboard/): Three seats are up for election this year on the Norwich Selectboard. Two of the races are contested. - [Yikes: Another executive session on the Town Manager contract](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2022/10/22/yikes-another-executive-session-on-the-town-manager-contract/): Posted this to the listserv earlier today. - [Norwich Finance Director departs](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2022/10/06/norwich-finance-director-departs/): Screenshot of September 28, 2022 Selectboard meeting. Mr. Essensa is at bottom row, right. - [Is the Selectboard being upfront with residents?](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2022/09/25/is-the-selectboard-being-upfront-with-residents/): Maybe there a good explanation. Maybe, I am wrong. - [Commentary: Selectboard 'Statement' raises more questions than answers](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2022/09/18/commentary-selectboard-statement-raises-more-questions-than-answers/): The Selectboard issued a Statement dated September 14, 2022. I saw it Sunday on the home page of the Town's website. You can also read it here. - [Agenda item #4: Filling Selectboard Vacancy](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2022/07/22/agenda-item-4-filing-selectboard-vacancy/): The Selectboard aims to fill the vacancy on the Board at its meeting on July 27. The applicants are Aaron Lamperti and Pamela Smith. - [Town projects budget surplus of $250,000. No plans to use cash for property tax relief or employee retention bonuses.](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2022/07/05/town-projects-budget-surplus-of-250000-no-plans-to-use-cash-for-property-tax-relief-or-employee-retention-bonuses/): The Town projects to have a budget surplus of $250,000 for the fiscal year that ended on June 30, 2022. - [Neighbors/Intervenors allege 'bait and switch' on Upper Loveland Road solar project](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2022/06/21/neighbors-intervenors-allege-bait-and-switch-on-upper-loveland-road-solar-project/): A group of ten residents say Norwich Upper Loveland Solar LLC engaged in “bait and switch” behavior in obtaining preferred site status, from the Norwich Planning Commission and Selectboard, for its over 8-acre solar project off of Upper Loveland Road, near the cell tower. - [Police Chief Keeling resigns. A few questions come to mind, about policing in Norwich, efforts to retain Town employees and more.](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2022/06/06/police-chief-keeling-resigns-a-few-questions-come-to-mind-about-policing-in-norwich-efforts-to-retain-town-employees-and-more/): It's official. Police Chief Simon Keeling and another full-time officer have left the Norwich Police Department. - [House Rep Briglin won't seek reelection](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2022/05/16/house-rep-briglin-wont-seek-reelection/): State Representative Tim Briglin, one of two State Reps representing Norwich, Sharon, Strafford, and Thetford in Montpelier, will not seek reelection when his term expires at year-end. - [Norwich DEI Group disbands](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2022/05/08/norwich-dei-group-disbands/): The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Group (DEI Group) put together by then Town Manager Herb Durfee is no more. - [Town to hire an HR professional to “investigate complaints"](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2022/04/25/town-to-hire-an-hr-professional-to-investigate-complaints/): What is up with the work environment provided by Norwich town government to its employees? - [Boston Globe: Dan & Whit’s, 'king among Vermont country stores'](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2022/04/02/boston-globe-dan-whits-king-among-vermont-country-stores/): Boston Globe: Vermont has lost over 100 country stores. - [Norwich Town Meeting results for 2022](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2022/03/02/norwich-town-meeting-results-for-2022/): With the exception of the Police and Public Safety Study article, which was defeated, all other articles on the Norwich Town Warning received voter approval. - [Unpacking the new Town Manager's contract](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2022/02/26/unpacking-the-new-town-managers-contract/): We have a new Town Manager. With that comes a new contract. - [On slush funds and Article 7 - Vote NO](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2022/02/24/on-slush-funds-and-article-7-vote-no/): Posted this on the listserv on Wednesday. Thought I would also post it here. - ['Preferred siting' for solar is back on Selectboard agenda](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2022/02/19/preferred-siting-for-solar-is-back-on-selectboard-agenda/): The Selectboard will hear a presentation from Town Manager (and Director of Planning) Roderick Francis on the topic of preferred siting for solar projects at its meeting on February 23. - [Truth-in-advertising? Selectboard presentation on town budget and article 7](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2022/02/13/truth-in-advertising-selectboard-presentation-on-town-budget-and-article-7/): Lucy from Peanut, Little Miss Fussbudget. - [FYI: Site video and plans of the proposed Upper Loveland Road solar farm](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2022/02/10/fyi-site-video-and-plans-of-the-proposed-upper-loveland-road-solar-farm/): A video of the proposed solar panel farm location was posted on YouTube by Ameridane Press on February 9. It is available below and here. - [Rod Francis named as Town Manager](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2022/02/09/rod-francis-named-as-town-manager/): The Selectboard selected Roderick Francis as the next Town Manager for Norwich, at the Board's meeting on February 9. Mr. - [A group of residents asks the Selectboard to rescind preferred site status granted to proposed Upper Loveland Road solar farm](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2022/02/08/a-group-of-residents-asks-the-selectboard-to-rescind-preferred-site-status-granted-to-proposed-upper-loveland-road-solar-farm/): A group of six residents is asking the Selectboard to rescind the preferred site status the Town granted to a proposed Upper Loveland Road solar panel farm in August. - [Questions for the Selectboard for its Saturday Town Meeting Informational Meeting](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2022/02/04/questions-for-the-selectboard-for-its-saturday-town-meeting-informational-meeting/): The Selectboard will be holding two bonus information sessions on the municipal issues related to Town Meeting. These are Zoom only meetings. - [Town Meeting Article 7: Does a budget surplus belong to the voters or the Selectboard?](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2022/02/03/town-meeting-article-7-does-a-budget-surplus-belong-to-the-voters-or-the-selectboard/): Posted this on the listserv. Thought I would include it here as well. - [SAU 70 policy on transgender privacy is challenged by some Ray School parents; no concerns raised by Marion Cross School parents](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2022/02/01/sau-70-policy-on-transgender-privacy-is-challenged-by-some-ray-school-parents-no-concerns-raised-by-marion-cross-school-parents/): A group of parents with children at the Ray School, the public elementary school in Hanover NH, are challenging a SAU 70 policy that protects a child's gender identity from the child's parents. - [UPDATE: School Board and Selectboard candidates; Town Manager search](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2022/01/29/update-school-board-and-selectboard-candidates-town-manager-search/): Both School Board and both Selectboard incumbents up for election are asking voters to return them to office at Town Meeting in March. - [Update on Town Manager search: #31 gets an offer](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2022/01/19/update-on-town-manager-search-31-gets-an-offer/): A brief update on the Town Manager search. - [SURPRISE: Norwich has a permanent Police Chief](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2022/01/19/surprise-norwich-has-a-permanent-police-chief/): Interim Police Chief Simon Keeling is now the permanent Police Chief for the Town of Norwich. That is surprising news. - [Does Norwich 'need' an Assistant Zoning Administrator?](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2022/01/04/does-norwich-need-an-assistant-zoning-administrator/): At the outset, I appreciate the efforts of the Selectboard and staff for their work on the budget. They are working long hours. - [Who's running for School Board and Selectboard?](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2022/01/01/whos-running-for-school-board-and-selectboard/): Two School Board and two Selectboard seats are up for election at Town Meeting this year. - [$50,000 for a police study?](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/12/21/50000-for-a-police-study/): On December 22 the Selectboard will likely take the next steps towards spending over $50,000 on consultants to examine whether the Norwich Police Department needs reforming or reimagining. - [Norwich Farm Foundation makes deal to purchase farm, a win for Norwich Farm Creamery](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/12/20/norwich-farm-foundation-makes-deal-to-purchase-farm-a-win-for-norwich-farm-creamery/): Source : WCAX3, New at Noon. - [UPDATE: Legislative Apportionment Board opts for single member House and Senate districts, rejecting Norwich BCA recommendation on House](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/12/14/update-legislative-apportionment-board-opts-for-single-member-house-and-senate-districts-rejecting-norwich-bca-recommendation-on-house/): By a 4-3 vote, the Vermont Legislative Apportionment Board (LAB) opted to recommend single-member House and Senate districts across the State. - [UPDATE: Norwich Selectboard chooses Candidate #31 as finalist for Town Manager position](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/12/12/update-norwich-selectboard-chooses-candidate-31-as-finalist-for-town-manager-position/): Looks like Candidate #31 may be the next Town Manager of Norwich, subject to background checks and contract negotiations. - [UPDATE: Town Manager search](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/12/02/update-town-manager-search/): A brief update on the search for a new Town Manager for Norwich. - [Proposed Police Department budget includes body cams, two replacement vehicles. Police incidents increase by 20%.](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/11/22/proposed-police-department-budget-includes-body-cams-two-new-vehicles-police-incidents-increase-by-20/): The 2023 fiscal year budget for the Norwich Police Department increases by over 7% under the proposal put forth by Acting Police Chief Simon Keeling and Interim Town Manager Rod Francis. - [UPDATE: Norwich opposes House redistricting proposal, as do Sharon, Strafford and Thetford](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/11/17/update-norwich-opposes-house-redistricting-proposal-as-do-sharon-strafford-and-thetford/): The Norwich Board of Civil Authority (BCA) is against the House redistricting proposal put forth by the Legislative Apportionment Board (LAB). - [ICYMI: Montshire Museum, Norwich University, Farmers Market](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/11/17/icymi-new-executive-director-for-montshire-museum-norwich-university-holds-legacy-march-farmers-market-loses-winter-home-with-tracy-hall-closure/): A brief roundup of news and information regarding Norwich, Vermont that may have escaped your attention. - [UPDATES: School Board vacancy, Town Manager search, Interim Town Manager support](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/11/07/updates-school-board-vacancy-town-manager-search-interim-town-manager-support/): Lily Trajman presents to Norwich School Board on November 3, 2021. Source: YouTube screenshot. - [Article 36 Task Force lists potential action items, invites public input](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/11/03/article-36-task-force-lists-potential-action-items-invites-public-input/): The Article 36 Task Force is winnowing its list of potential action items as it prepares to make recommendations to the Selectboard in December. - [Masland and Briglin pan House redistricting proposal for Norwich](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/10/25/masland-and-briglin-pan-house-redistricting-proposal-for-norwich/): House Representatives Jim Masland and Tim Briglin weighed in for Daybreak on the tentative proposal by Legislative Apportionment Board (LAB) to split the Town of Norwich into two House districts. - [Proposed House districts split Norwich](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/10/20/proposed-house-districts-split-norwich/): The Town of Norwich is split into two House districts, under the map tentatively proposed by Legislative Apportionment Board (LAB). - [School Board seat available](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/10/19/school-board-seat-available/): Partial view of Norwich School Board at its meeting on October 6. Source: CATV screenshot. - [Norwich Selectboard's choice for interim town manager declines job](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/10/16/norwich-selectboards-choice-for-interim-town-manager-declines-job/): The Norwich Selectboard's choice for interim town manager will not be coming aboard, as that person accepted a different job offer. - [Selectboard charts course for Town Manager search](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/10/07/selectboard-charts-course-for-town-manager-search/): At its meeting on September 29, the Selectboard charted a course for the Town Manager search process. - [Why can't Norwich be happy with its Town Manager?](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/09/19/why-cant-norwich-be-happy-with-its-town-manager/): By my count, Norwich has had five permanent Town Managers since the first Town Manager was hired in 2002. None lasted five years. - [What role for residents in Town Manager search?](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/09/18/what-role-for-residents-in-town-manager-search/): At its meeting on September 8, the Selectboard heard a presentation from the Vermont League of Cities and Towns (VLCT) on how it plans to conduct the search for a new Town Manager. - [Vermont: a less risky place to weather climate change](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/09/07/vermont-a-less-risky-place-to-weather-climate-change/): Of the 10 lowest risk counties in the United States to live as the climate warms, seven are in Vermont. One is the Upper Valley's Orange County. - [Norwich to receive an additional $660,000 in ARPA money, bringing total to over $1 million](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/08/29/norwich-to-receive-an-additional-660000-in-arpa-money-bringing-total-to-over-1-million/): The Town of Norwich is slated to receive a little over $1 million from the federal government under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). - [ICYMI: Farmer Olympics, Norwich Inn, and Peace Corps](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/08/26/icymi-farmer-olympics-norwich-inn-and-peace-corps/): Source: NOFA-VT. Giant marshmallow (i.e. wrapped hay bale) roll. - [Norwich Town Manager won't get new contract](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/07/29/norwich-town-manager-wont-get-new-contract/): Selectboard meeting on July 28. - [Should the Selectboard be more forthcoming about the renewal of the Town Manager's contract?](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/07/22/should-the-norwich-selectboard-be-more-forthcoming-about-the-renewal-of-the-town-managers-contract/): Other than the Selectboard, the Town Manager is the most powerful position in Norwich town government. - [Bad news for walkers on Beaver Meadow Road. Town says traffic calming measures are not feasible](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/07/13/bad-news-for-walkers-on-beaver-meadow-road-town-says-traffic-calming-measures-are-not-feasible/): Red line is path of proposed sidewalk. Source: Selectboard packet for June 2, 2021 meeting.. - [Total homestead property tax rate to rise by 3.25% in Norwich](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/07/07/total-homestead-property-tax-rate-to-rise-by-3-25-in-norwich/): The Norwich Selectboard finalized the property tax rate on Tuesday. - [Selectboard silent on renewing Town Manager's contract](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/06/15/selectboard-silent-on-renewing-town-managers-contract/): The employment agreement between the Town of Norwich and Town Manager Herb Durfee expires at the end of August. What are the Selectboard's plans? Unknown. - [MLB celebrates its inaugural Lou Gehrig Day](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/06/02/mlb-celebrates-its-inaugural-lou-gehrig-day/): Today, June 2, is Lou Gehrig Day across Major League Baseball. The day will honor his legacy on the field and raises awareness about ALS throughout the world. - [ICYMI: Windsor Police Chief Frank, Caleb Zuckerman, Stave Puzzles, Tyler's AirPods](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/2021/06/01/icymi-windsor-police-chief-frank-caleb-zuckerman-stave-puzzles-tylers-airpods/): Windsor Police Chief Jennifer Frank;. Eagle Times Staff Photo/Jordan J. ## Pages - [Norwich Links](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/norwich-links/) - [Upper Valley blogs and bloggers](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/uv-blogs/): Norwich Observer, Occasional news and commentary about local government in Norwich, VT. A prior version is here. - [About](https://norwichobserver.com/index.php/about/): The Norwich Observer mostly provides news and commentary about local government in the Town of Norwich. ## Optional - [Agent (MCP protocol)](websites-agents.hostinger.com/norwichobserver.com/mcp) [comment]: # (Generated by Hostinger Tools Plugin)