​PITTSFIELD SELECT BOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

 
To listen to a recording of the meeting, click here:  https://bit.ly/46iA3UP
 
DATE:  September 18, 2025
 
PRESENT:  Ann Kuendig, Joyce Stevens, AJ Ruben
 
AGENDA MODIFICATIONS:  OB#10 – Auditor Schedule
 
MINUTES APPROVAL:  September 4, 2025 Regular Meeting
 
CORRESPONDENCE: 
1.     VTrans – Training Workshops
2.     Grants – Grants in Aid Reimbursement Deadline
3.     Grants – grant opportunities VT Dept of Housing
4.     EC Fiber – Representative Report
 
OLD BUSINESS:
1.     Grants – Grants in Aid Agreement/Tweed River Drive Projects
2.     Firehouse – Fence Installation Update
3.     Charge VT – Update; Vehicle Charger estimates
4.     Mt. Wilcox Water System – Update
5.     Playground – Proposal Update
6.     Budget – Hearing Schedule
7.     Budget – Letter to Departments
8.     Citizen Concern/Complaint – Dumond Tree Removal Request
9.     Building Maintenance
10.  Auditors – Town Report Schedule
 
NEW BUSINESS:
1.     Grants – MERP Grant Reimbursement
2.     TRORC – Regional Meeting
3.     Budget – Library Budget Request
4.     Executive Session - §313 (a) (1) (E) possible civil litigation/prosecution
 
ADJOURNMENT:
 
NEXT MEETING DATES:  Thursday, October 2, 2025 5:30pm Town Hall
 
Ann called the meeting of the Select Board to order at 5:32pm.  AJ seconded.  All in favor.
Ann presented an agenda modification OB#10 (see above).  She moved to accept.  AJ seconded.
All in favor.
Pittsfield Select Board Regular Meeting Minutes                                                     page 2
September 18, 2025
 
Joyce noted some corrections to the September 4, 2025 Minutes.  OB#4 - Joyce said she would obtain a revised window estimate.  NB#2 - remove the end of sentence 2 after “breakdown.”  Ann moved to accept the proposed amendments to the September 4th Minutes.  Joyce seconded.  All in favor.  Ann also moved to accept the September 4, 2025 Minutes with changes.  Joyce seconded.  All in favor.
 
CORRESPONDENCE: 
1.     VTrans – Training Workshops.  VTrans is holding a VT local roads workshop on October 7th.  Ann put this on the agenda as public notice.  She also spoke with George.  She added that TRORC has stated that they will be more active regarding transportation and roads issues.
2.     Grants – Grants in Aid Reimbursement Deadline.  Ann said that TRORC has prepared all the construction and grant paperwork for the Lower Michigan projects  She went on to explain how the grant process works.  If interested in applying, we send in a letter of interest and in return, they send us the grant agreement.  TRORC then works with George, and they go through the inventory of all the hydrologically connected segments.  They picked out 3 or 4 construction proposals.        A pre-construction proposal is submitted to VTrans for approval.  Since this is for FY25, the project couldn’t be started until July 1st.  September 30th is when the money spent, including in-kind work, is submitted for reimbursement and it has been sent in.  We should receive $7,000.  The Town pays for anything over that.
3.     Grants – grant opportunities thought VT Dept of Housing.  This is a newsletter providing information on Planning Grants.  This will be forwarded to the Planning Board and also the Recreation Commission.  The applications are due November 3rd.
4.     EC Fiber – Representative Report.  Ann noted that Diane Deautch is doing a terrific job as Representative.  There was a postcard sent recently in the mail referring to EC Fiber’s dealing with another company.  Ann said she had received from Diane the copy of a letter that their Board had been sending out.  It explains their position.  It’s a bit complicated also because the parent company has changed and EC Fiber opted not to renew the current contract which is up in January.  Diane suggested that our Board approve and sanction the letter.  Ann suggested it be followed up by having Diane post on the Front Page Forum and the Pittsfield Facebook page.
 
OLD BUSINESS:
1.     Grants – Grants in Aid Agreement/Tweed River Drive Projects.  Ann made a motion to have the Chair sign grant #GA1093 with a total approved amount of $11,500 with a match of $2,875.  Joyce seconded.  All in favor.  Ann said that 9 segments to bring up to code were identified by TRORC.  A pre-construction document was sent to VTrans for approval. Once construction is completed, invoices can be sent to TRORC to prepare the reimbursement paperwork.
2.     Firehouse – Fence Installation Update.  Ann submitted the latest estimates.  She said they should go for a lower estimate and add insurance.  The proposal at the last meeting was
Pittsfield Select Board Regular Meeting Minutes                                   page 3
September 18, 2025
to go with the lower estimate, a non-reinforced installation and take out insurance on the fence in case it is damaged.  She said she spoke with PACIF.  There was also discussion regarding how far the fence needs to be in the ground.  A minimum is 30” but most likely it would be 36”.  The Board noted that what started the fencing conversation was the townspeople having strong feelings against the Jersey barriers.  The Fire Department expressed their opinion about having a steel fence.  Ann recapped the fence issue from the beginning. Discussion.  AJ moved that the Board accept the approximately $5,500 bid and that PACIF be asked to insure the fence contingent upon Joyce getting consent from the Fire Department.  Joyce seconded.  Ann abstained.  The motion passed.
3.     Charge VT – Update; Vehicle Charger estimates.  Joyce said that she went to the Town of  Killington, but they could not help, as they didn’t charge a fee.  They have solar provide their power.  She then spoke with Matt Foley at the Killington Resort, which does charge a fee of $.30/kilowatt/hr.  She said that Tesla has one of the lowest rates.  It was suggested she contact Green Mountain Power and Efficiency Vermont, which also has grants.  Joyce said she would follow up.
4.     Mt. Wilcox Water System – Update.  Joyce said that Ray Harvey and Greg Martin have come up with a plan to cap the pump house and divert the water to Greg’s property.  The Board said they would need a proposal and estimate in writing for the Town from Ray.  Ann said she talked with Matt Hunt from ANR and also suggested posting No Trespassing signage to keep people from trying to access the water.  AJ said he would follow up with the signage.
5.     Playground – Proposal Update.  AJ said that he would reach out to Jake and also check out possible grants.  This will be added to the next Select Board meeting.  There was a brief discussion about possible volunteers to replace a few that have moved, etc.
6.     Budget – Hearing Schedule.  The Board tentatively approved the schedule.
7.     Budget – Letter to Departments.  Ann said she would send a draft email to the Secretary for her to send out to the various departments and also to the businesses that the Board donates money to each year.  This is also to include a report as to what they have provided, especially if it includes Pittsfield residents.  That report is not included in Town Report, but to give the Board a better understanding when it comes to determine donations.
8.     Citizen Concern/Complaint – Dumond Tree Removal Request.  It was decided to send this concern to Kris Sperber, the Tree Warden, for her approval.  The deed will need to be researched.  Brian Dumond would like to know what the lot might sell for if the land is available for sale. 
9.     Building Maintenance.  There is still a problem with bikes and skateboards on the basketball court and the possible damage it could cause.  It was agreed to obtain some signs to post.  Joyce will follow up with this and also have them laminated.
10.  Auditors – Town Report Schedule.  The Auditor’s timeline was reviewed.  The postcard wording was discussed as well as to whom to send them.  It was decided to send them to names on the Voter Checklist as well as all taxpayers.  Ann expressed concern about transparency, especially for those taxpayers who have no vote.  Hard copies will be made
 
Pittsfield Select Board Regular Meeting Minutes                                                     page 4
September 18, 2025
available on request as well as a link on the Town’s website.  The date of the postcard mailing was discussed, and it was decided to send it out earlier, with January 13th a
possibility.  The reports would be available for pickup or downloading on February 19, 2026.  Ann expressed her wish to proofread the report, which hasn’t always been done in the past.  It was felt that the Auditors should be the ones to design the postcard and mail them out.  Concern has been raised as to the discretionary funds held by the Fire Department and the Library.  Ann researched this with VLCT and the Treasurer’s Handbook and it was determined that it was Town Money and needed to be accounted for.  The money would go through the Town and be included in the Auditor’s Report.  This includes fundraisers, raffles, grants, etc.  The Select Board felt that the Treasurer should send formal notice to Dave Colton regarding the above concerns.  AJ moved to accept, and Ann seconded.  All in favor.
 
NEW BUSINESS:
1.     Grants – MERP Grant Reimbursement.  Ann asked Joyce to review this.  The amount is $400.  She will also follow up and check on this for reimbursement.
2.     TRORC – Regional Meeting.  TRORC would like to hold a multi town conversation.  This will be forwarded to the Planning Commission.  The meeting will take place in early November.
3.     Budget – Library Budget Request.  The money was refunded by the conference.  The amount was $638.44.  It was determined that it could go back into their budget for 25/26 as revenue income.
 
Ann adjourned the regular meeting to enter into Executive session at 7:25pm,
 
4.     Executive Session - §313 (a) (1) (E) possible civil litigation/prosecution
 
Ann moved to come out of Executive Session and resume the Regular Meeting at 7:49pm.  Joyce seconded.  All in favor.
Ann moved to have the Chair sign the interrogatory for the litigation discussed in Executive Session.  Seconded by AJ.  All in favor. 
 
ADJOURNMENT:
Ann moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:49pm  Seconded by Joyce.  All in favor.
NEXT MEETING DATES:  Thursday, October 2, 2025 5:30pm Town Hall
 
Approved:    October 2, 2025                                                   Respectfully submitted,
Martha L. Beyersdorf
                                                                        Select Board Secretary
 
________________________________________________________________
Ann Kuendig                            Joyce Stevens                          AJ Ruben                                                        

​PITTSFIELD SELECT BOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

 
To listen to a recording of the meeting, click here:  https://bit.ly/4mMs5cg
 
DATE:  September 4, 2025
 
PRESENT:  Ann Kuendig, Joyce Stevens; AJ Ruben absent
 
PUBLIC PRESENT:  Carl Oertel, Jacob Hunt
 
AGENDA MODIFICATIONS:
1.     C#3 – AARP Vermont Winter Placemaking Grant Program
2.     NB#6 – Library Trustee appointment
3.     NB#7 – Brian Dumond re: tree removal
4.     NB#8 – Executive Session
 
MINUTES APPROVAL:  August 14, 2025 Regular Meeting
 
CORRESPONDENCE:
1.     Grants – MERP Resources
2.     EC Fiber – Representative Report
3.     AARP – Vermont Winter Placemaking Grant Program
 
OLD BUSINESS:
1.     Firehouse – Fence Installation Update
2.     Charge VT – Update vehicle charger estimate
3.     Mt Wilcox Water System – Update Pipe Capping Estimate
4.     Building Maintenance
 
NEW BUSINESS:
1.     Town Clerk’s Office – Computer Monitor Request
2.     Playground – Proposal
3.     Auditors – Town Meeting Report Schedule
4.     Budget – Hearing Schedule
5.     Budget – Department Invitation for Budget Proposals
6.     Appointment – Library Trustee
7.     Citizen Concern/Complaint – Brian Dumond re: tree removal
8.     Executive Session – 1 V.S.A. § 313 (a) (1) )E) possible civil litigation/prosecution
 
OTHER BUSINESS:
 
ADJOURNMENT:
 
Pittsfield Select Board Regular Meeting Minutes                                                     page 2
September 4, 2025
 
 
NEXT MEETING:  Thursday, September 18, 2025 Town Hall @ 5:30pm
 
Ann called the meeting of the Select Board to order at 5:33pm.  Joyce seconded.  All in favor.  Ann ha several Agenda Modifications (see above).  Carl is here to present Other Business and Jake re: the NB#2: Playground.  Joyce moved to accept the Minutes of July 17, 2025.  Ann seconded.  All in favor.
 
CORRESPONDENCE:
1.     Grants – MERP Resources.  Ann said that there are additional resources available for this grant such as a handbook and list of projects.
2.     EC Fiber – Representative Report 1.  Town Representative  Dianne Deutsch says that there are major changes expected in January.  There have been many negative statements, both public and private being voiced.  Dianne also referenced a letter in the Randolph Herald.
3.     AARP – Vermont Winter Placemaking Grant Program.  Quick action projects that enhance public spaces to improve safety, accessibility, and overall appeal during the winter months.  The application deadline is October 3rd, and the grant is for $4,000.  Ann felt the application was easy, but Joyce added that money for a grant writer is budgeted.  It was suggested that Jake email grant information to members of the Recreation Committee so they can be prepared to discuss it at their next week’s meeting.  The Board also brought up other possible projects for this money.   
 
OLD BUSINESS:
1.     Firehouse – Fence Installation Update.  Ann said that Lowell Landscape was sent pictures and dimensions, and Ed Lowell was very familiar with the site. His estimate was $5,400.  Two other estimates from Rutland Fence was $3,300 and with reinforcements suggested by Greg Martin $7,300.  Joyce said she felt that any further discussion should wait until AJ is present.  Ann tabled this to the next meeting.
2.     Charge VT – Update vehicle charger estimate.  There was discussion about the items involved in the project application.  Joyce will speak with Killington Electric and A Plus to align their estimates with line items in the application.
3.     Mt Wilcox Water System – Update Pipe Capping Estimate.  Joyce said she has reached out the Ray Harvey who said he will speak with Steve Martin.  She added that it may not be as easy as was previously thought.  There was concern regarding overfilling and having it run into other properties.  The Board felt they would like conversations with Ray, Steve, and the State for more information, such as the best way to cap off the water system without any potential damage to other properties.
4.     Building Maintenance.  Joyce said she will get the windows done.  There is no invoice yet from Denis Veilleux.  Heather Trumbull will have someone come regarding gutter support.  Joyce said she would obtain more information on this.  AJ has set up the shed with the pickleball net, paddles and basketballs for public use. Laminated signs will be obtained.
Pittsfield Select Board Regular Meeting Minutes                                                           page 3
September 4, 2025
 
One should address that there is no skateboarding or rollerblading on the court.  A larger sign will be made up indicating what activities are available.  It was noted that the heat pumps need to have the filters cleaned and the Town needs a big ladder to do this.  Discussion.  A cover to protect the compressors from ice, etc. needs to be added.
 
NEW BUSINESS:
1.     Town Clerk’s Office – Computer Monitor Request.  Ann and Joyce noted that the new monitor needs to be compatible with the check printer.  It was decided to keep the older one and be used as a backup.  Ann moved to approve the printer for the Assistant Clerk for $232.67.  Seconded by Joyce.  All in favor.
2.     Playground – Proposal.  Ann reviewed the proposal and the questions the Board has about whether the Town could do some of the work themselves, split the purchase into various projects, and if an extension as to when we need to respond to O’Brien and Son.  Jake said he is still waiting for an estimate and breakdown to be able to take down equipment. He’s unsure.  He said that wood chips and re-bordering can be done.  He will follow up with a phone call.  Joyce asked for a timeline and Ann asked if there were any other companies.
The Board voiced their appreciation to Jake for attending tonight’s meeting. 
3.     Auditors – Town Meeting Report Schedule.  Ann said that she had not heard back from anyone regarding the timeline for Town Report.  She’d also like more information on the postcards and requested that the link to a hard copy of the report be noted on the postcard.  The Board also wanted to make sure that there is a process in place for the Town Report to have a final copy edit/proofreading. 
4.     Budget – Hearing Schedule.  A schedule was discussed.  Some might be on the same day as a Regular Meeting or on a day for themselves.  They discussed how best to handle the beginning budget meetings, compare last year’s figures to this years, make any changes to dates from department feedback, etc. Tentative dates include October 7 and 21, November 11 and 25, December 9 and 16, and January ’26 6th and 20th.  Most Regular meetings will be held on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month. 
5.     Budget – Department Invitation for Budget Proposals.  Ann will also prepare a budget request email for the Secretary to send to all departments and department heads. 
6.     Appointment – Library Trustee.  Katrina Hotchkiss has indicated that she would fill the position vacated by Kim Barber.  Ann moved to accept.  Joyce seconded.  All in favor.  It was noted that Fern, the current librarian, is resigning effective September 29th.
7.     Citizen Concern/Complaint – Brian Dumond re: tree removal.  Brian has indicated that there is a dead tree that might fall next onto his property that he feels is on Town property.  This needs to be researched before anything is done.  Ann will forward this concern to Kris Sperber, Tree Warden if the property is confirmed to be owned by the Town.  Ann said she would follow up on this.
 
 
 
Pittsfield Select Board Regular Meeting Minutes                                                     page 4
September 4, 2025
 
OTHER BUSINESS:  Carl said that he is making a display board for the Library and explained where it would be located.  The Board doesn’t need to approve this, but he just wanted the Board to be
aware that this is happening.  There was also some discussion about the replacement welcome sign at Colton’s that was damaged by a car.  There was also talk about moving the south end sign to the space where the house near the town line was.  Carl was thanked for coming and advising the Board about the signs.
 
Ann adjourned the Regular Select Board meeting at 7:12pm to enter into Executive Session.
 
4.     Executive Session – 1 V.S.A. § 313 (a) (1) )E) possible civil litigation/prosecution
 
Ann moved to reopen the regular meeting at 7:31pm.  Joyce seconded. All in favor.  Ann moved to adjourn at 7:32 pm.  Joyce seconded.  All in favor.
 
                                                                                                Respectfully Submitted,
 
 
Approved: ____September 18 2025____________                                              Martha L. Beyersdorf
                                                                                                Select Board Secretary
 
 
 

Ann Kuendig                                          Joyce Stevens                                      AJ Ruben