​PITTSFIELD SELECT BOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
DRAFT
 
To listen to a recording of the meeting, click here:  https://bit.ly/4qHRSE4
 
DATE: January 6, 2026
 
PRESENT:  Ann Kuendig, Joyce Stevens, AJ Ruben
 
PUBLIC PRESENT:  Katie Stiles, Mark Stugart, Kryssi Rowe, Craig Westling, Rosie O’Brien
 
AGENDA MODIFICATION:  none
 
MINUTES APPROVAL: December 16, 2025 Budget & Regular Meetings
 
CORRESPONDENCE:
1.     FEMA – Flood Insurance Maps
2.     Act 250 – Land Use Review Board Tier 3 Update
3.     Insurance – PACIF Rights of Reservation Letter
4.     White River Natural Resources Conservation District – Invitation
 
OLD BUSINESS:
1.     Tax – Local Option Tax Discussion
2.     Warrant – Finalize for Town Meeting
3.     Town Report – Select Board Report approval
4.     Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) – Process
5.     Charge VT – finalize application
6.     Building Maintenance
 
NEW BUSINESS:
1.     Permits & Licenses – OGS VT Farms Catering Liquor License
2.     Town Meeting – Set-up
3.     Executive Session – 1 V.S.A. § 313 (a) (1) (E) possible civil litigation/prosecution
 
ADJOURN:
 
NEXT MEETING DATE: Regular Meeting Thursday, January 15, 2026  5:30pm  Town Hall
 
Ann called the meeting to order at 5:33pm. Joyce seconded. All in favor. There were no Agenda Modifications. AJ moved to approve the Minutes of the December 16, 2025 Budget and Regular Meetings. Joyce seconded. All in favor. Several local businesses were present to discuss OB#1, so Ann opted to take the item out of order. OB#4 was also taken out of order.
 
 
Pittsfield Select Board Regular Meeting Minutes                                                     page 2
January 6, 2026
 
CORRESPONDENCE:
1.     FEMA – Flood Insurance Maps. These maps were last issued in 2008. Ann said that map improvements were made by updating the engineering analysis on several river reaches in Pittsfield. The USGS will be holding a Workmap Meeting on Tuesday, January 13th at 9:00am via Teams and invites Board members to attend. AJ and Joyce said that they may be able to attend.
2.     Act 250 – Land Use Review Board Tier 3 Update. This correspondence includes additional comments on Act 250 changes to Tier 3. The Review Board is keeping towns updated on their progress. In February there will be guidance on the new “road rules” and that may have an impact on the Town. Those rules go into effect on July 1st. New Road Construction Jurisdiction Provision, aka the “road rules,” will require an Act 250 Permit for construction of certain new roads and related developments. Ann said she’s just keeping track of this.
3.     Insurance – PACIF Rights of Reservation Letter. Ann explained that when a claim is opened, they send this letter every quarter. She summarized the contents of the letter. There was an error in naming another town in the address. Ann made a motion to sign when a corrected copy arrives. Joyce seconded. All in favor.
4.     White River Natural Resources Conservation District – Invitation. Ann said that this commission wants to set up a meeting with other conservation commissions. AJ said he would follow up on this. Ann noted that Pittsfield has used them before. She will also forward this information to the Planning Commission.
 
OLD BUSINESS:
1.     Tax – Local Option Tax Discussion. Ann said that this is the second public discussion regarding  1% Local Options Tax an Article on the Town Meeting Warning. This would affect rooms, meals, and alcohol. She asked if there was any opposition. Mark said that he had no real opposition since he has learned more since last year. Katie felt that there would be more of an impact on those who have less to give and less of an incentive to spend locally. She was not in favor. She said that she has added the possibility of the tax to their contracts. Joyce said she felt that the 1% would come back on the Town’s property taxes. They would save more than they spend. Ann stated that the money would go into the General Fund. She added that she looked at revenue streams, grants, etc. Since it goes to reduce spending, she didn’t feel that 1% was a lot to ask. Katie said that she understood where all this came from. Joyce stated that this could be reconsidered every year if it doesn’t yield enough to benefit the Town. Ann read a list of some of the Towns that have instituted this noting that some towns taxed all three (rooms, meals, alcohol) which other towns taxed only rooms or meals. Mark noted that the State may make some changes and Ann clarified what the Legislature will be discussing. Joyce said that by taxing all three, it would provide data as to which one/s benefit the Town, and which don’t. Further discussion. If passed, this would take effect July 1st. There was some discussion about whether or not Katie, who isn’t a Town resident, could speak from the floor. There is a procedure and Ann said she would consult with George, who is the Moderator.
Pittsfield Select Board Regular Meeting Minutes                                               page 3
January 6, 2026
 
2.     Warrant – Finalize for Town Meeting. Ann handed out a draft copy of the proposed Warning. She suggested cutting the $50,000 proposed in Article 6 for the road remediation project on Upper Michigan Road in half as there is no hurry in doing this project. The Board agreed. Article 7 will call for depositing $25,000 in the Highway Equipment Fund. There was some discussion on proposed Article 8 regarding the 1% Local Option Tax. Article 8 would be an option for rooms, meals, and alcohol. It was suggested that Article 8 be added for meals and alcohol only and Article 9 for rooms. Approved.
3.     Town Report – Select Board Report approval. The Board approved the report and Ann said she would submit it to Beth (Auditors).
4.     Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) – Process. Mark asked if the Select Board needed a recommendation. Ann said that TRORC received federal funding and can help with laying out a timeline. The Planning Commission could also meet with a TRORC representative to assist them. Mark said he would let the Select Board know of their recommendation for the next SB meeting on the 15th.
5.     Charge VT – finalize application. Ann said she reviewed the invoice and aerial views. Joyce explained that another box would be added to the left of the current electrical box on the Town Office Building. The actual charging unit would be located in the lawn area on a concrete pad and wouldn’t take up any parking spaces. It would be one unit with two charging ports. She added that as soon as the contract is sent, the purchases would be made and the work performed in the spring.
6.     Building Maintenance.
·      Town Hall electric usage. Joyce noted that there was a huge increase in the Town Hall’s electric usage mainly due to the heat pumps. She said that Trish ran a report breaking down the yearly totals from 2018-2025. Discussion. Joyce suggested that heat pumps not be installed in the Town Office Building. The Office and Library already have heat and AC and heat would be needed for the hallways that wouldn’t be served by a heat pump. Ann suggested moving forward with estimates though.
·      Town Hall heat pumps. It was noted that the heat pumps in the Town Hall have never been cleaned (filters). A tall ladder is needed for this.
·      Skating Rink. Ann asked if there had been any discussion on the skating rink. It would need to be shoveled. It was decided not to hire anyone due to the added expense to the taxpayers. If there are people who want to skate, then they can shovel. AJ said that there might be some discussion at Town Meeting.
·      There is no one currently cleaning the Town Hall or Town Office Building. Joyce said that Trish is working on finding someone.
 
NEW BUSINESS:
1.     Permits & Licenses – Ann moved to approve each one. Joyce seconded. All in favor.
·      First Class Restaurant & Bar License – Original General Store
·      First Class Restaurant & Bar License – Vermont Farms Catering
Pittsfield Select Board Regular Meeting Minutes                                                     page 4
January 6, 2026
 
·      Second Class Liquor License –  Original General Store
 
·      Third Class Restaurant & Bar License – Vermont Farms Catering
2.     Town Meeting – Set-up. It was felt snacks and beverages could be set up in the vestibule as you enter Town Hall.
 
Ann moved to adjourn the Regular meeting at 7:01pm and enter into Executive Session. Joyce seconded.
3.     Executive Session – 1 V.S.A. § 313 (a) (1) (E) possible civil litigation/prosecution
 
Ann moved to adjourn from Executive Session and rejoin the Regular Meeting at 7:14pm. Joyce seconded. All in favor. She then moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:14pm. AJ seconded. All in favor.
 
NEXT MEETING DATE: Regular Meeting Thursday, January 15, 2026  5:30pm  Town Hall
 
                                                                                                Respectfully submitted,
 
Approved:                                                                                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/4pKrp8J
 
DATE: December 16, 2025
 
PRESENT: AJ Ruben, Joyce Stevens; not present Ann Kuendig
 
PUBLIC PRESENT:  Mark Stugart, Craig Westling, Rose O’Brien
 
MINUTES APPROVAL: Regular Meeting December 4, 2025
 
CORRESPONDENCE:
1.     Grants – VTrans Small Scale Project Grants
2.     VT Housing & Finance Agency – Short Term Rental Data
 
OLD BUSINESS:
1.     Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) – Update Process
Discussion with Planning Commission
2.     Charge VT – Stebbins Estimate for Application
3.     Building Maintenance
 
NEW BUSINESS:
1.     Contractor – Walker independent contractor paperwork
2.     Finance – Treasurer’s Report for November
 
ADJOURN:
 
NEXT MEETING: 
Tuesday, December 6, 2025 5:30pm Town Hall
Thursday, January 15, 2026  5:30pm  Town Hall
 
AJ called the meeting to order at 5:27pm. Joyce seconded. All in favor. AJ moved to approve the Minutes of the December 4, 2025 meeting. Joyce seconded. All in favor.
 
CORRESPONDENCE:
1.     Grants – VTrans Small Scale Project Grants. Applications are due by February 2, 2026 by 2:00pm. This program funds safety improvements on local roads that cost $5,000 - $50,000. A single grant can cover multiple project locations. Examples include curve signage, intersection signage, stop bar and crosswalk pavement marking,  replacement of damaged guardrail, and/or complete tree removal. AJ said it is something to look at, and suggested Ann look into it.
2.     VT Housing & Finance Agency – Short Term Rental Data. AJ said Ann wanted the Board to look at this as it relates to the possible 1% rooms tax being discussed. It’s basically a study of Airbnb’s. AJ offered this correspondence to Joyce to take home.
Pittsfield Select Board Regular Meeting Minutes                                                     page 2
December 16, 2025
 
OLD BUSINESS:
1.     Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) – Update Process. Discussion with Planning Commission. AJ said that Vaughn did some fill-in-the-blank entries. He said that Ann had included the contract in case no one wanted to take the project on. Joyce and AJ went over what was done the last time. Planning Commission members Mark, Craig, and Rose joined the meeting. AJ and Joyce explained some of the items in the report. Mark said he looked over the material Ann had sent him previously. Mark said that it would require some sort of outreach. AJ and Joyce explained about some the history of the LHMP history with Pittsfield. AJ pointed out there may not be many changes needed. He added that there is TRORC money for the project. Discussion. AJ asked Mark if he thought this project might be something the Commission would be interested in taking on. The next meeting of the Select Board is on January 15th. Mark noted that in the past, George, David Colton, the Constable, and Fire Department were involved, and he’d like them to be again. Craig and Rose joined the meeting and Mark explained what had been discussed. Joyce mentioned that the flood maps have changed since 2021. Mark said they will look over and let the Board know if they want to do this project or not and possibly have TRORC consulted for the draft and final review. Planning Commission members will meet in the coming weeks and will plan to attend the January 15th meeting with their opinion/recommendation of the 5-year plan. AJ and Joyce thanked Mark, Craig, and Rose for their interest and attending tonight.
2.     Charge VT – Stebbins Estimate for Application. AJ said the Board is still waiting for the estimate but said he would get it before Christmas and it’s due by the end of the year. Joyce clarified that he said he would try to get in by Christmas and it’s not due by the end of the year. She said Green Mountain Power would like it by the end of the year but has until they finalize their budget. Joyce said if Green Mountain Power doesn’t get it by December 31st, more might be given to another town. In addition, the parking spaces need to be changed. She noted where the meter is and that is where the power comes from. For this project, the Board wants a separate meter, but Green Mountain wants it on the same line as the meter coming in. As a result, the parking spaces need to be moved down by the meter.
3.     Building Maintenance – Joyce said she had nothing to report.
 
NEW BUSINESS:
1.     Contractor – Walker independent contractor paperwork. This only required Board members’ signatures.
2.     Finance – Treasurer’s Report for November. AJ moved to approve the Treasurer’s report. Joyce seconded. All in favor.
 
 
 
 
Pittsfield Select Board Regular Meeting Minutes                                                     page 3
December 16, 2025
 
ADJOURN:  As there was no further business, Joyce moved to adjourn the meeting at 6:07pm. AJ seconded. All in favor.
 
                                                                                                Respectfully submitted,
 
Approved: _____January 6, 2026____________                                            Martha L. Beyersdorf
                                                                                                Select Board Secretary
 
 
______________________________________________________________________________
Ann Kuendig                                        Joyce Stevens                                      AJ Ruben

​PITTSFIELD SELECT BOARD BUDGET MEETING MINUTES

 
To listen to a recording of the meeting, click here:  https://bit.ly/4pKrp8J
 
DATE: December 16, 2025
 
PRESENT: AJ Ruben, Joyce Stevens, Trish Abbondelo; not present Ann Kuendig
 
MINUTES APPROVAL: Budget Meeting December 9, 2025
 
OLD BUSINESS:
1.     Budget – General Fund
2.     Warrant - Draft
 
ADJOURN:
 
NEXT MEETING DATES:
1.     Budget & Regular Meeting  January 6, 2026  5:00pm  Town Office
2.     Regular Meeting  January 15, 2026  5:30pm  Town Hall
 
AJ called the meeting to order at 5:00pm. Joyce seconded. All in favor. AJ moved to approve the Minutes of the December 9, 2025 meeting. Joyce seconded. All in favor.
 
OLD BUSINESS:
1.     Budget – General Fund. Trish said the Town is in good shape except for the Library. They received a grant for the Interlibrary Loan Currier, so the figure is $715.20 which is less than ’25 Actual $1,262.40. She said she is still waiting for their CIP. She is also waiting for the School figures. Discussion. There isn’t another meeting until January, so the Board made the decision to give them $2,000. Joyce pointed out that they still have money available in Capital Improvements. This changes the Total General Fund to $381,964.52. It also changes the Municipal Total to be Raised by Taxes to $520,875.62. This brings the Municipal tax to $.4110 without any Warnings. With the Warnings the tax rate increases to $.4702 which is lower than ‘24’s rate of $.4815. AJ suggested having rates for the last five or ten years to present at Town Meeting if asked. Trish felt the Board could approve this and she could then forward it to the Auditors. Joyce made a motion to approve the General Fund’s entire year’s budget for fiscal year ‘26/’27. AJ seconded the motion. All in favor.
2.     Warning – Draft. AJ looked over the list of Town Officers whose terms are up. Jonathan Colton needs to be voted in for a one-year term replacing Herb Kuendig. All the rest are self-explanatory. Joyce said that Article 5 asks the voters to put $25,000 into the Recreation Fund. Article  6 asks the voters to authorize the creation of a Highway Project Reserve Fund and deposit $50,000 for a road remediation project. AJ said that they still need an estimate from George. AJ said that Ann spoke with George and he felt he could
Pittsfield Select Board Budget Meeting                                                              page 2
December 16, 2025
 
use existing highway funds this year to pay for the initial review. AJ felt the Board should wait until the next meeting to finalize the Warning. He said that Article 7 is up for discussion. It pertains to the 1% tax on rooms, meals, and alcoholic beverages. Ann has suggested we wait until the next meeting to finalize the Warning when some business owners are here. We can get input from them.
It was felt that there was no need for a budget meeting in January since it was approved tonight. But the regular meeting on January 6th will take place at regular time and place.
 
3.     ADJOURN:  As there was no further business, AJ made a motion to adjourn the meeting.            
NEXT MEETING DATES:
1.     Regular Meeting  January 6, 2026  5:30pm  Town hall
2.     Regular Meeting  January 15, 2026  5:30pm  Town Hall
 
 
Respectfully submitted,
 
Approved: January 6, 2026___________                                                        Martha L. Beyersdorf
                                                                                                Select Board Secretary
 
 
_____________________________________________________________________________
Ann Kuendig                                        Joyce Stevens                                      AJ Ruben

​PITTSFIELD SELECT BOARD BUDGET MEETING MINUTES

 
To listen to a recording of the meeting, click:  https://bit.ly/3Yqz3cj
 
DATE: December 9, 2025
 
PRESENT: Ann Kuendig, Joyce Stevens, AJ Ruben, Trish Abbondelo, Town Clerk/Treasurer
 
MINUTES APPROVAL: Budget Meeting November 25, 2025
 
CORRESPONDENCE:
1.     VT Dept. of Taxes – State Property Tax Projection letter
 
OLD BUSINESS:
1.     Budget – General Fund
 
ADJOURN:
 
NEXT MEETING DATES:
1.     Budget & Regular Meeting  Tuesday, December 16, 2025  5:00pm  Town Office
2.     Budget & Regular Meeting  Thursday, January 6, 2026  5:00pm  Town Office
 
Ann called the meeting to order at 5:12pm.  Joyce seconded.  All in favor.  There were no Agenda Modifications or New Business items.  Ann said that there were a couple of additions to the Minutes.  Under Dues and Contributions, the Bethel Area Food Shelf was increased from $500 to $750.  New Business items 1 and 2 left off originally as they were both tabled, have been added.  Ann asked if there was a motion to approve the edited Minutes.  Joyce moved to approve the Minutes of the November 25, 2025 Budget Meeting.  Ann seconded.  All in favor. 
 
CORRESPONDENCE:
1.     VT Dept. of Taxes – State Property Tax Projection letter.  Ann said that the letter is calling for an average 12% increase to property taxes.  She said she couldn’t figure out what that would mean for Pittsfield.  Ann wanted to put this on the record.  She suggested keeping in mind the potential increase in educational property taxes as we do out deliberations.
 
OLD BUSINESS:
Budget – General Fund.
·      Undesignated Fund Balances: Trish wanted the Board to look at the Undesignated Fund Balances for the Cemetery, Fire Department and Library and approve that they want them in there to lower the disbursement that would be given to that department.
·      Insurance: Trish said that she doesn’t have any insurance figures yet but hopes to have them for the next meeting.
 
Pittsfield Select Board Budget Minutes                                                                     page 2
December 9, 2025
 
·      Printing: Trish explained what her cost would be to use the copier but didn’t have any idea about the number of pages.  Color copies would be $0.0920, black & white would be $0.0173, and paper would be $41/ream (500 sheets).  Discussion.  Trish will plan on printing them in the office using color copies.
·      Parks & Grounds Equipment Fund: $1,000 was put in to go towards a new mower.  The Board felt that was okay.
·      Village Green Tree Maintenance:  $1,200 was brought over from the Cemetery Fund.  Additional funds were discussed for trees for the recreational area.  AJ didn’t feel there was a need for that now.
·      Library:  There has been no word from Cynthia on a few budget items.  Trish said she would reach out to her.  Still need Interlibrary Loan Currier and Zoom/Google workspace actual figures as well as their revised CIP.
·      Budget Summary: Trish said she is still waiting for the School and insurance, but it doesn’t appear to be much different from last year.  She said she would speak with Cynthia re: the library and Beth for a Town Report update.
·      Potential Articles: Trish asked the Board if they have their Articles yet.  This will affect the tax rate.  One is for the Recreation Fund - $25,000.  Ann said that George had mentioned reaching out to the engineer regarding Upper Michigan Road by Hopkins. Should we do an Article for that?  Ann said she would speak with George. Funding/Grants were brought up that relate to roads. 
·        Another potential Article would be the 1% Local Option Tax. Katie and Mark have been invited and accepted to discuss at the January Meeting.
·      Budget Summary Setting FY27 Tax Rate:  Trish said that the insurance and Library are not included right now.  The insurance, the road, the Rec Fund  is $700,000.  Add that to the total to be raised by taxes and the municipal rate is $.49.  This is close to FY24’s $.4815.  Ann said $25,000 for the Rec Fund and $50,000 for the road project.  The voters could say “no” to one or all of these.
Ann suggested going through the budget to see if there are any items that could be looked at again.  Discussion.
            Town Hall Reserve Fund was reduced from $16,000 to $8,000. 
             Quin-Town was reduced from $4,116 to $3,500.
              Financial Audit was reduced from $15,000 to $5,000.
            NEMRC Support was reduced from $1,74.97 to $1,375.56
Fire Truck Fund deposit reduced from $40,000 to $20,000
·      There was some general discussion about various items, but it was felt that they should be left alone. 
·      Joyce brought up the subject of hiring a part-time, year-round, person to assist George.  George does a fantastic job but some year, he will retire and the Town should be prepared by hiring someone so that George can train the person to do the important things that he does now, like keeping the trucks and equipment maintained and how he maintains the
Pittsfield Select Board Budget Meeting                                                                    page 3
December 9, 2025
 
roads during the year. The Town could hire a part-time employee.  Ann said additional funds could be added to the Temporary Employee so that a new line item would not have to be created.  The meaning of “temporary” was discussed.  The Town needs someone part-time.  Everyone agreed that the hourly wage would have to be increased.  AJ stated that currently George uses Dave Colton but George is going to have to find a year- round  person.  AJ suggested that for the ‘26/’27 budget the Temporary could be increased and that would get the person on board, at least, and the next year the Board could  budget a Part-time employee.  Joyce said that the Board should be thinking of someone who could be hired.
Currently the Temporary Help is budgeted at $5,250.  Trish calculated that at $25/hr and the current budget would equal 4hr/wk.  George would have until July ’26 to find someone but there’s enough money currently that he could hire someone anytime. It was suggested that FY’26/’25 budget $15,000.  That would enable George to hire a part-time person to work almost 12 hrs a week.  Trish told the Board what the Total General Fund and the Total Highway Fund result would be with this change.  She also said that with the additional $100,000, the tax rate would now be $.4676 reduced from $.49, and that’s with the Articles approved and George’s help.  The $100,000 includes Recreation, the Upper Michigan Road project, and insurance.  Joyce suggested asking George to call and get an estimate for the Upper Michigan road project, then we would know.  .  The topics for the next meeting were reviewed.  Trish said she would have everything ready for next week and Ann said she would have the Agenda, etc done.  Ann said she wouldn’t be present next week, but will be attending the WRVA meeting on December 11 to discuss their billing cycles.
 
ADJOURN:  As there was no further business to discuss, Ann moved to adjourn the meeting at 6:27pm.  Joyce seconded.  All in favor.
 
NEXT MEETING DATES:
1.     Budget & Regular Meeting  Tuesday, December 16, 2025  5:00pm  Town Office
2.     Budget & Regular Meeting  Thursday, January 6, 2026  5:00pm  Town Office
 
 
Approved: _____December 16, 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/3KIb6Ki
 
DATE: December 4, 2025
 
PRESENT: Ann Kuendig, AJ Ruben; Joyce Stevens via Teams
 
AGENDA MODIFICATIONS: C3 – WRVA budget
 
MINUTES APPROVAL: November 20, 2025 Regular Meeting
 
CORRESPONDENCE:
1.     EC Fiber – Report
2.     Act 250 – New Rules
3.     Budget – WRVA budget and meeting request
 
OLD BUSINESS:
1.     Mt Wilcox Water – Liability Document
2.     Recreation – Playground Proposal Update
3.     LHMP – Update Process
4.     Building Maintenance
 
NEW BUSINESS:
1.     Warrant – potential Articles for Town Meeting Warrant
2.     Finance – Treasurer’s Report for October
3.     Executive Session – 1 V.S.A. § 313 (a) (1) (E) possible civil litigation/prosecution
 
ADJOURN:
 
NEXT MEETING DATES:
1.     Budget Meeting  December 9, 2025  5:00pm  Town Office
2.     Budget & Regular Meeting  December 16, 2025  5:00pm  Town Office
 
Ann called the meeting to order at 5:32pm. Ann moved to accept. AJ seconded. All in favor. Joyce attended via Teams. Ann presented one Agenda Modification (see above). Ann moved to accept. AJ seconded. All in favor. AJ moved to accept the Minutes of the November 20, 2025 Regular Meeting. Joyce seconded.
 
CORRESPONDENCE:
1.     EC Fiber – Report. Ann said that Diane sent over a copy of the court order that denies Great Works Internet (GWI) seeking a preliminary injunction to stop efforts by EC Fiber’s new operating company, VISPO, from poaching its employees. They also wanted to have
Pittsfield Select Board Regular Meeting Minutes                                                     page 2
December 4, 2025
 
the court enforce two employees that were just hired by the Vermont ISP Operative Company, aka VISPO who had non-compete agreements. Ann wanted this correspondence to go on record.
2.     Act 250 – New Rules. Ann said that there are some changes to the Act 250 statute that the Board should be aware of. These may impact us and cause us to take some action as a Board. The Legislature has charged the Rules Committee with setting up a three-tier system that will trigger the process for Act 250 reviews. The legislature has also imposed something called a Road Rule which will go into effect on July 1, 2026. What that does is establish a jurisdictional trigger meaning that construction of roads and roads associated with driveways may have conditions that could trigger Act 250 in their development. Tier 1 includes areas with the capacity for growth where limited or no Act 250 will apply (village centers, downtowns, etc.).  Tier 3 is currently being developed for criteria so as to constitute a Tier 3 area. Tier 2 relates to all areas that are not Tier 1 or Tier 3. Existing jurisdictional thresholds will remain based on acreage, units, or lots created. It also includes construction based on the length of roads and driveways. We may have George and someone from the State review board visit with us or hold a public meeting.
3.     Budget - WRVA budget and meeting request. This includes their 2026 budget and also a copy of their 2025 budget. They would like to meet with Select Boards, Treasurers of each Town that they serve to try to figure out a way that they can call their budget year. Ann thought they were on a calendar year. What that does is create an issue for them as to how to impose the budget for their towns, particularly those towns like Pittsfield that operate on a fiscal year budget. Discussion. That meeting is on December 11th at 10:00am. AJ made some suggestions.
 
OLD BUSINESS:
1.     Mt Wilcox Water – Liability Document. Ann said that she dropped the document off at CV Oil for Greg with directions to drop it off at the Town Office. He has to sign it in her presence and then there is the recording fee. AJ made a motion that the Town pay the recording fee. Seconded by Ann. All in favor.
2.     Recreation – Playground Proposal Update. Ann asked if there was any word from Jake regarding  this. Neither AJ nor Joyce had anything. AJ said he would try again.
3.     LHMP – Update Process. Ann reviewed this as to whether or not the Board would take this on. She said she spoke with TRORC as to who the Board could deal with, either TRORC or Vermont Emergency Management, as to what the process is. She said she received some links and the person’s name that we would be dealing with. She said she looked at all of the information, and they have a local mitigation planning handbook, which is 243 pages, which guides municipalities on all the things that have to be done to update the LHP. New standards in June, 2025. Ann felt this was a lot of paperwork and meetings. The Planning Commission worked on the previous one and they worked on it for six or seven
Pittsfield Select Board Regular Meeting Minutes                                                     page 3
December 4, 2025
 
months. Ann said that her concern was that the current Planning Commission members are new and she wasn’t sure it would be appropriate to take the lead on this. Discussion. AJ said he felt they should be involved and nothing should be done without their involvement. Joyce asked where the $3,500 would come from to cover the Town’s cost. AJ suggested that the Board invite the Planning Commission to the next meeting, and that we give them all the manuals, etc. and the cost involved. Ann reminded the Board that this has to happen this fiscal year as soon as possible. The LHMP expires on January 31, 2026. AJ moved that the Board table this until the information can be transmitted to the Planning Commission and invite them to see if they want to take this on or at least discuss it. There was some discussion regarding the source of the funds. Ann said there was the Contingency Fund and funds from the CD interests that have been received. Ann seconded AJ’s motion. All in favor. The date for the invitation was discussed. It was felt that an early January meeting would be best as the December 16th meetings have a lot that needs to be dealt with. Ann also said she may not be able to attend the 16th meeting.
4.     Building Maintenance. Joyce didn’t have anything to discuss. Ann asked Joyce if she was able to speak with Johanna about cleaning the Town Hall. Joyce said didn’t but would check in with her.
 
NEW BUSINESS:
1.     Warrant – potential Articles for Town Meeting Warrant. Ann said she was aware of two potential Articles. One is the 1% Local Options Tax. She said she did some research and found some statistical data. She highlighted some of the information. Discussion. AJ expressed concern about doing it without more information. He would like to hear from those who are affected. Joyce reminded the Board that they received notice a year ago. Joyce reminded the Board that budget meetings are being held and no one has shown interest in coming to a meeting. AJ suggested inviting Katie Stiles and Mark Stugart and Joyce to a meeting. The Secretary has been asked to invite Katie and Mark to the next meeting.
Ann’s second potential Article was regarding the playground. AJ said that we know it’s going to cost at least 100,000+ and there’s only $20,000 or $30,000 currently in the fund. We know we will need more even if we get grant money. He felt it was saft to ask the Town for $20-30,000 and say it’s for playground equipment and the Select Board will make sure it moves forward if there’s no committee to make it happen. Joyce agreed. Ann expressed her concern that the Board asks the Town for money but then not spend it. She said she would feel better about asking taxpayers to fund the playground if we could show them, for instance, that the playground is just a small, but expensive, section of the area. Estimates have been received from Dave Colton regarding the creation of the ring. She said she would like to show a project schedule for the entire area. AJ said that if we don’t get the money, then we won’t be able to make any progress again for next year. He then said that he will personally commit to trying to move the project forward without the committee if he can’t get them to help. He said there needs to be discussion at Town
Pittsfield Select Board Regular Meeting Minutes                                                     page 4
December 4, 2025
 
Meeting about the need  for people to do the work. The Board has heard repeatedly that this is a priority for the Town so it just can’t be 2 or 3 people. AJ said that we should tentatively request for $25,000 for the playground demolition and rebuilding and focus on the playground and nothing else. If the Town says “no” because the committee hasn’t shown enough progress, then so be it. Ann said that we also need to show that we looked at different ways to finance this type of project. AJ said that there also might be grant funds, but without a functional committee, we don’t have the ability to do that.
2.     Finance – Treasurer’s Report for October. Ann moved to accept the Treasurer’s Report for October. AJ seconded. All in favor.
 
Ann adjourned the Regular meeting to enter into Executive Session at 6:12pm for a very brief update on possible litigation. AJ seconded. All in favor.
 
3.     Executive Session – 1 V.S.A. § 313 (a) (1) (E) possible civil litigation/prosecution
 
ADJOURN:
Ann moved to adjourn from Executive Session and resume the Regular meeting at 6:22pm. Seconded by Joyce . All in favor. Ann moved to adjourn the meeting at 6:22pm. AJ seconded. All in Favor.
 
NEXT MEETING DATES:
1.     Budget Meeting  December 9, 2025  5:00pm  Town Office
2.     Budget & Regular Meeting  December 16, 2025  5:00pm  Town Office
 
Respectfully submitted,
 
Approved __December 16, 2025__________                               Martha L. Beyersdorf
Select Board Secretary
 
 
 
_____________________________________________________________________________
Ann Kuendig                                        Joyce Stevens                                      AJ Ruben
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

​PITTSFIELD SELECT BOARD BUDGET MEETING MINUTES

 
To listen to a recording of the meeting, click here:  https://bit.ly/48vPclH
 
DATE: November 25, 2025
 
PRESENT: Ann Kuendig, Joyce Stevens, AJ Ruben
 
PUBLIC PRESENT: Tricia Abbondelo
 
AGENDA MODIFICATIONS:
 
MINUTES APPROVAL: November 11, 2025 Budget Meeting
 
CORRESPONADENCE:
 
OLD BUSINESS:
1.     Charge VT – Application
2.     Budget – General Fund – Insurance, IT Contract, Contributions, Salaries, Etc.
 
NEW BUSINESS:
1.     Financials – October Treasurer’s Report
2.     Warrant – possible Articles
 
ADJOURN:
 
NEXT MEETING DATES:
1.     Regular Meeting  Thursday, December 4, 2025  5:30pm  Town Hall
2.     Budget Meeting  Tuesday, December 9, 2025  5:00pm  Town Office
 
Ann called the meeting to order at 5:01pm. Joyce seconded. All in favor. Joyce moved to approve the Minutes of the November 11, 2025 budget meeting. Ann seconded. All in favor. Ann said there were no Agenda Modifications or Correspondence.
 
OLD BUSINESS:
1.     Charge VT – Application. Joyce had asked to table any action to this week so that she could speak with Green Mountain Power again. She said she spoke with Dan who told her to reach out to electrician Ron Stebbins as they do a lot of work on chargers. They will come on the 11th to give an estimate. Discussion about adding an extra meter. Joyce said that you get a really low rate if there are more chargers. If so, then another meter might be a good idea. Currently another isn’t needed, but if it is used more, then another meter be considered. Joyce said she’s going to ask Stebbins for an estimate with one and without.. GMP would like to decide by December 31st, so we should get the estimate in
Pittsfield Select Board Budget Meeting                                                                    page 2
November 25, 2025
 
before then. Charge VT goes through GMP. Ann questioned whether the grant would also pick up the cost of an extra meter. Joyce said she would check back for the information. The next budget meeting is the 9th. Ann moved to give tentative approval to Stebbins’ estimate to use as the estimate for the application. AJ seconded. All in favor.
2.     Budget – General Fund – Insurance, IT Contract, Contributions, Salaries, Etc. Trish presented the following budget items:
Insurance: Trish said there were no numbers for insurance yet.
Quick Books: She said that Quick Books is going to cancel the desktop program we have now. The only program they have available to the Town that covers all the programs we currently use is Quick Books Enterprise at a cost of $1,362/yr which she plans to start using January 1, 2026. She said that Quick Books will refund the current program from January to May.
Payroll: Trish also said that she will be changing payroll companies. Saguaro IT has suggested Gusto. It uses Direct Deposit and Payroll (Federal, State, and Payroll). She explained how the program works. This will also start January 1, 2026. Employees will also have access to their payroll information if they want to make changes to it. Trish said she will still have the final say on the taxes, etc. Payroll will have one account. The cost will be $588 + per/check fee/month. Gusto is $49/month = $588/yr. $6/person/month = $800/yr plus or minus. It is called Quick Books Enterprise Silver for $1,362. She said we were paying $1,059 w/o Payroll $742 and w/o $932 for checks last year.
Saguaro is increasing their fee to $699.60/month with the Town paying 2/3rds and the Listers paying 1/3rd of the monthly cost.  Saguaro is also recommending that the Teams laptop and George’s laptop be replaced. they also gave a quote to update the Wi-Fi in the gazebo. Adobe continues to have two users (the Town and Listers) and email charges haven’t changed. Discussion.
Salaries: Changes in salaries were to the Auditors which are reduced from $2,500 to $2,250. Election Officials increased from $100 to $800 (2 elections, 2 officials @ $15 each for 11.5 hours each plus 2 officials for Town Meeting). Custodial – Shovel increased from $1,200 to $1,800 as he’s also shoveling the Town Hall. Listers increased from $7,500 to $11,500 due to an increase in training required by the State.
Dues & Contributions:  The Visiting Nurse Alliance VT/NH was reduced from $1,000 to $250. They informed the Town that they were not able to provide services to Pittsfield for the last two years. We were not informed of this and have contributed $1,000 to them for the last two years.
Community Care Network/Rutland Mental Health was reduced from $600 to $588, as that was their request.
Tri Valley Transit was reduced from $350 to $230.
VT Rural Fire Protection Task Force increased from $100 to $200.
The Rutland County Humane Society was reduced from $150 to $50.
Prevent Child Abuse Vermont is an added item and budgeted $100.
Rutland County Restorative Justice Center increased to $500 from $250.
 Bethel Area Food increased from $500 to $750
Pittsfield Select Board Budget Meeting                                                                    page 3
November 25, 2025
 
The following were budgeted for the same amount as last year:
Quin Town Seniors remained $4116.
Park House remained $600.
New Story Center remained $200.
Central Vermont Council on Aging remained $600.
VT Center for Independent Living remained $75.
Green Up Vermont remained $50.
NeighborWorks/Rutland County Housing Trust/Cornerstone Housing remained $200.
Child First Advocacy Center remained $400.
Vermont Family Network remained $250.
The Preservation Trust of Vermont remained $50.
American Red Cross remained $250.
White River Natural Resources Conservation District remained $200.

Rutland County Parent Child Center remained $200.
Printing – Discussion. The idea of printing the report in house as opposed to sending them out to be printed was discussed. Trish was going to do some figuring as to how much it would potentially cost to do them in the office. This is on the heels of the recent postcard that were mailed to the voters and residents. This will be addressed at another meeting.
Undesignated Fund Balance – Currently there is $122,208.24.  The Board would like to put $40,000 into the Fire Truck Fund, $35,000 from the sale of Rescue 1 Ford F-350 into the Fire Department Building Fund (CIP). $50,000 could be used to reduce taxes or put into another fund. This would leave $24,000 in Undesignated Funds. There was some discussion about putting some of this into the Recreation Fund. All this will be looked at again later.
 NEW BUSINESS:
1.     Financials – October Treasurer’s Report-tabled
2.     Warrant – possible Articles-tabled
 ​
ADJOURN:
Ann moved to end discussions and adjourn the meeting at 6:41pm. AJ seconded. All in favor.
 
NEXT MEETING DATES:
1.     Regular Meeting  Thursday, December 4, 2025  5:30pm 
2.     Town Hall Budget Meeting  Tuesday, December 9, 2025  5:00pm  Town Office
 
Approved: _December 9, 2025_______________                                  Respectfully submitted,
 
                                                                                    Martha L. Beyersdorf
                                                                                    Select Board Secretary
 
 
Ann Kuendig                                        Joyce Stevens                                      AJ Ruben

​PITTSFIELD SELECT BOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
DRAFT
To listen to a recording of the meeting, click here:  https://bit.ly/43Rzi3w
 
DATE: November 20, 2025
 
PRESENT: Ann Kuendig, Joyce Stevens, AJ Ruben
 
PUBLIC PRESENT: Greg Martin, Dave Colton
 
AGENDA MODIFICATIONS:
1.     NB#3 Road Name Change
2.     NB#4 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
3.     NB#5 Executive Session
 
MINUTES APPROVAL: November 6, 2025 Regular Meeting
 
CORRESPONDENCE:
1.     The Vermont Urban & Community Forestry Program (VT UCE).
2.     VT Dept of Health – Town Health Officer appointment updates
 
OLD BUSINESS:
1.     Grants – PACIF grant update
2.     Charge VT – update of vehicle charger itemized estimates
3.     Mt Wilcox Water – liability document
4.     Recreation – playground proposal
5.     Grants – MERP grant reimbursement of Town Office exterior invoice
6.     Building Maintenance
 
NEW BUSINESS:
1.     Events – Holiday
2.     Budget – FY27 matters
3.     Town Roads – 145 Johnson Brook Road
4.     Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
5.     Executive Session – 1 V.S.A. § 313 (a) (1) (E) possible civil litigation/prosecution
 
ADJOURNMENT:
 
NEXT MEETINGS:
1.     Budget Meeting – Tuesday, November 25, 2025  5:00pm  Town Office
2.     Regular Meeting – Thursday, December 4, 2025  5:30pm  Town Hall
 
Ann called the meeting to order at 5:32pm. Joyce seconded. All in favor. AJ made a motion to approve the Minutes of the November 6, 2025 meeting. Seconded by Ann. All in favor. Ann said
she had three agenda modifications. (see above). Greg Martin and Dave Colton from the Fire
Department attended to present their FY26/27 budget/CIP. Ann moved to take NB#2 out of
order. Joyce seconded. All in favor.
Pittsfield Select Board Regular Meeting                                                                    page 2
November 20, 2025
 
CORRESPONDENCE:
1.     The Vermont Urban & Community Forestry Program (VT UCE). Ann said that Communities Caring for Canopy grants are available with an application deadline of January 30, 2026. The Board felt that it should be applied for. Ann said she will review it. AJ asked about a grant writer. We currently do not have one. Joyce said that there is a woman in Killington who we could possibly use. We could potentially receive $1,000. Ann moved that we will pursue this later on. AJ seconded. All in favor.
2.     VT Dept of Health – Town Health Officer appointment updates. Ann said that the department is making improvements to the recommendation and appointment process for Town Health Officer. Reminders to appoint the Health Officer toward the end of their current 3-year term will be sent to the Town Clerk and Select Board Chair. Ann outlined  what the process is for appointments. Detailed information is available on the department’s website.
 
OLD BUSINESS:
1.     Grants – PACIF grant update. Ann said that $629.99 was submitted for reimbursement for the desks. She said she would reapply for the gazebo estimate to repair the planks and decking in February.
2.     Charge VT – update of vehicle charger itemized estimates. An estimate was received from Killington Electric for $22,015. A+ Electric’s estimate was for $9,277. They questioned how many chargers were being estimated, one or two? Discussion. Joyce said she would like to contact Green Mountain Power again. Action on submitting an invoice as part of the application process will be delayed until the next Budget Meeting.
3.     Mt Wilcox Water – liability document. AJ had drafted a document for Greg to sign. An additional comment was proposed regarding the existing overflow pipe. AJ said he would update the document and leave it with the Town Clerk for Greg and the town to sign and have notarized.
4.     Recreation – playground proposal. AJ said that there has been no word from Jake. Further attempts will be made to contact him. AJ pointed out that they have an estimate for  $180,000. The Board could consider asking to put $20,000 or $30,000 into the playground. The Town may consider not giving it to us. Ann reminded the Board that we need a detailed proposal. Ann said there needs to be more conversation on this.
5.     Grants – MERP grant reimbursement of Town Office exterior invoice. Joyce said that she’s not received anything from Denis. Ann said she would send what she had with his original invoice.
6.     Building Maintenance.
·      Windows – The Board needs specific information regarding the bids to replace town Office building windows. Eric Schambach said he will provide the information. This information could be sent out to other contactors. Ann said the heat pumps should be pursued as well.
·      Court timers -  Ann said that the court lights have photosensitive sensors on them. They have been set to turn on at 2:30pm and off at 9:00pm, however the lights will only come on when it gets dark due to the photosensitivity. The Town Office
 
Pittsfield Select Board Regular Meeting                                                                    page 3
November 20, 2025
 
 
entrance light has been set to go on at 4pm and off at 9pm. There will be no need in the future to reset the timers.
·      Custodial Cleaning – Ann pointed out that Trish said that the Town Hall has not been cleaned since July. The position is budgeted for once a month. Joyce will check with Johanna and report back.
 
NEW BUSINESS:
1.     Events – Holiday. Ann asked if the tree lighting event should be revived. It was suggested that it could be teamed up with the Library. Joyce said she will get a tree the Sunday after Thanksgiving. Ann said she could set up volunteers. No decision was made except for obtaining the tree.  Joyce is making wooden Christmas trees and explained how they are constructed. She said she would like to place them around town. Ann suggested getting more volunteers to help build and place around town.
2.     Budget – FY27 matters
Fire Department – Greg and Dave presented their budget and reviewed it with the Select Board.
·      Engine 4 (1990 International) was sold for $5,000 and Rescue 1 (Ford F-350) for $35,000. Ann said that it was thought last year that money from the sales would go to purchase a new smaller rescue vehicle and outfit it. Dave said that they are at the point where they don’t feel they need that vehicle. He said that Jonathan and Rachel are working for WRVA and have a run bag in their cars and don’t take the truck but  respond in their cars to the scene.
·      Tanker 2 2019 Kenworth Tanker Vehicle Maintenance was increased from $900 to $1,900. It’s expected to be less the following year.
·      Engine 1 (1994 International) Vehicle Maintenance was increased from $900 to $1,900 as it’s 30 years old and needs more work. It also would be expected to be less the following year.
·      Rescue 3 (Ski Doo Snowmobile Vehicle Maintenance remained at $200.
·      Mini Rescue (2024 F550) Vehicle Maintenance added $900 as it is new.
·      Rescue 2 (Can Am UTV) Vehicle Maintenance remained at $200.
·      The disposition of the money from the two sales was discussed. Dave said the department has some funds left over from the $5,000 to purchase equipment but they would like to put the $35,000 into a Fire House Building Reserve Plan for something in the future. Last year Town Meeting approved depositing $5,000 into the fund. The board also discussed making a $40,000 deposit into the Fire Truck Reserve Fund. Ann said that there is $7,200 in the Equipment Fund.
Utilities: The only change noted was the Telephone & Internet which increased from $1,750 to $2,200.
Ann said a request was received from Jennifer Burch requesting that the Select Board put on the Warrant, an Article that a person attempting to pay their property taxes in a timely manner should be given the consideration by the Town Office of having the postmark on the envelope containing payment be accepted as proof of intent and timely payment. 
Pittsfield Select Board Regular Meeting                                                        page 4
November 20, 2025
 
Discussion. Trish, Janice Stumpf, and the Board are all opposed to this. Ann said that it doesn’t impact a lot of people. Joyce said she could postdate a check, which Trish would keep in an envelope and record it when the 2nd payment is due. Jennifer could have a petition which would require 5% of the registered voters in Pittsfield sign and then it could be added to the Warrant as an Article. Ann said she would look up the date it would have to be in. AJ suggested adding this to the next Budget Meeting. AJ made a motion to
decline to put that as a  Warning but that we provide information to Jennifer if she wants to pursue it. Ann seconded. All in favor.
3.     Town Roads – 145 Johnson Brook Road. Randy Strong, the Town’s E911 Coordinator, is requesting that the Board approve a name change to Johnson Brook Lane. The Road Commissioner has confirmed that this is not a town road, but a private driveway that functions as a shared lane. Ann moved that the Board change the name of Johnson Brook
Road to Johnson Brook Lane. AJ seconded the motion. All in favor.
4.     Local Hazard Mitigation Plan – TRORC sent a letter indicating that it’s time to update the plan before January, 2026. Ann suggested that this be sent to the Planning Commission and that we work on this together, chapter by chapter. She mentioned several other towns that are also on the same schedule. TRORC feels it would cost $7,000 to provide guidance for updating the plan which Pittsfield would have to pay half the fee.  Ann thought that we could look at it to see if they could do it themselves. Ann said she will send copies of the plan to members of the Board and the Planning Commission and then plan on a Special Meeting in early January.
5.     Executive Session – 1 V.S.A. § 313 (a) (1) (E) possible civil litigation/prosecution.
 
Ann adjourned the meeting to enter into Executive Session at 7:02pm. Joyce seconded. All in favor.
 
ADJOURNMENT:
Ann adjourned Executive Session and re-entered the Regular meeting at 7:10pm. Seconded by  AJ. All in favor. Ann moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:11pm Joyce seconded. All in favor.
 
NEXT MEETINGS:
1.     Budget Meeting – Tuesday, November 25, 2025  5:00pm  Town Office
2.     Regular Meeting – Thursday, December 4, 2025  5:30pm  Town Hall
 
 
Approved: _______________                                    Respectfully submitted,
                                                           
 
                                                                                    Martha L. Beyersdorf
 
 
_____________________________________________________________________________
Ann Kuendig                                        Joyce Stevens                                      AJ Ruben
 

​PITTSFIELD SELECT BOARD BUDGET MEETING MINUTES

To listen to a recording of the meetings click:  bit.ly/47KDdBy
DATE: November 11, 2025
 
PRESENT: Ann Kuendig, Joyce Stevens, AJ Ruben
 
PUBLIC PRESENT: Cynthia Bryant, Dorien Morin-VanDam; Jeremy Rayner via Teams
 
AGENDA MODIFICATIONS: C2 – Quarterly Report
 
MINUTES APPROVAL:  Budget Meeting October 21, 2025
 
CORRESPONDENCE:
1.     Dues and Contributions – Tri Valley Transit request
2.     Finances – WRVA Quarterly Report
 
OLD BUSINESS:
 
NEW BUSINESS:
1.     Budget – Lister Budget and Capital Improvement Plan.
2.     Budget – Library Budget and Capital Improvement Plan
 
ADJOURNMENT:
 
NEXT MEETINGS:
1.     Regular Meeting   November 20, 2025  5:30pm  Town Hall
2.     Budget Meeting   November 25, 2025  5:00pm  Town Office
 
Ann called the meeting to order at 5:05pm. Ann had one Agenda Modification (see above). Seconded by AJ. All in favor. AJ moved to approve the Minutes of the October 21, 2025 Budget Meeting.
 
CORRESPONDENCE:
1.     Dues and Contributions – Tri Valley Transit request. They are requesting $230.00.
2.     Finances – WRVA Quarterly Report. Discussion. It was felt that these weren’t the numbers for Town Report although the first part might be. Ann moved to accept. Seconded by AJ. All in favor.
 
OLD BUSINESS:  none
 
 
 
Pittsfield Select Board Budget Meeting Minutes                                                      page 2
November 11, 2025
 
NEW BUSINESS:
1.     Budget – Lister Budget and Capital Improvement Plan.
Jeremy said that he basically used the same figures as last year. Discussion.
 
Postage –   $150 
Supplies-decreased from $200 to $50
Computer IT Support – increased from $2,100 to $2,798.40
Miscellaneous –  $100 
NEMRC Support – increased from $1,400 to $1,500 * adjust as needed when actual invoice comes in in December
License Fees and Dues – increased from $500 to $550
Mapping Annual Support - decreased from $1,000 to $500
Assessor/Admin Independent Contractor – $2,500 
User Fees for Cloud Apps - decreased from $300 to $150
Salaries-Increase from $10,500 to $11,500 as Listers will have to work more hours to attend state-mandated certification education.
6-yr Reappraisal Fund –deposit $3,000 into Reappraisal Reserve Fund. Jeremy said that bids were sent out for the future reappraisal project slated for 2030, but NEMRC was the only one to respond.
Jeremy said that they would sign the contract and then officially be in the queue.
Jeremy noted that both Jen and Jonathan are coming up to speed
2.     Budget – Library Budget and Capital Improvement Plan
Library Board members Cynthia Bryant and Dorien Morin-VanDam reviewed their budget items with the Select Board. Everyone had good things to say about the new Librarian.
Hoopla on-line services – increased from $400 to $1,000 due to increased patronage
Museum Passes – increased from $475 to $500
Supplies – decreased from $1,200 to $800
Social media/Advertising – increased from $100 to $250 as they plan to boost events in social media for increased attendance
Interlibrary loan courier - increased from $700 to $1,400 a grant has been applied for but not received yet
Professional Development – a new category starting with $200. This includes workshops/intown local conferences.
Zoom/Google Workspace – also a new category starting with $160 re: meeting recording rules. There was some discussion re: Zoom vs Google Workspace, the advantages and disadvantages.
CIP – Future plans that they would like to see included:
·      Sectional/modular tables/chairs for programs/meetings - $5,000
·      Replace/cover blackboard with book shelving for additional space - $2,000
Pittsfield Select board Budget Meeting Minutes                                                      Pg 3
November 11, 2025
 
·      Replace 2 computer/printers, laptop, and installation - $3,500
·      Movie projector for community events – $1,500
·      Update of children’s area/hanging draperies/cozy reading nook - $1,000
·      Replace hardwood flooring (hardwood or floating floor - $15,000
They were told that they currently have $3,062. The Board encouraged the library to use this money to purchase something now and if there is a more expensive item/s, then let the Board know and money can be put towards that. The Library agreed to rework the CIP plan and re submit  They were encouraged to restart the newsletter and work towards bringing more volunteers. Cynthia said that they have a meeting on the 17th and would rework and update their budget/CIP and bring it to the Select Board at the next Budget meeting.
 
OTHER BUSINESS:   Ann asked how the Board should respond to the Fire Department’s latest email. If they submit their written budget, Trish said theirs could be done without their presence. Ann will invite them to the next regular or budget meetings to discuss CIP as the department requested.
 
Ann said that there are only 3 more Budget meetings and the following still need to be reviewed:
·      Dues and Contributions
·      WRVA
·      Tech Support/Software
·      Salaries
·      Budget Disbursements
 
She passed out a sample form to invite volunteers that she suggested be included in Town Report. Discussion.
 
ADJOURNMENT:  As there was no further business to discuss, Ann moved to adjourn the meeting at 6:43pm. Seconded by AJ. All in favor.
 
NEXT MEETINGS:
1.     Regular Meeting   November 20, 2025  5:30pm  Town Hall
2.     Budget Meeting   November 25, 2025   5:00pm  Town Office
 
Approved: ___November 25, 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 please click here: https://bit.ly/49cRBnk
 
DATE: November 6, 2025
 
PRESENT: Ann Kuendig, Joyce Stevens, AJ Ruben
 
AGENDA MODIFICATIONS:  NB#3 Issue with Elevator
 
MINUTES APPROVAL: October 16, 2025 Regular Meeting
 
CORRESPONDENCE:
1.     Grants – Governor’s Council Grant
2.     Rental – Town Hall – Wintergreen
 
OLD BUSINESS:
1.     Grants – PACIF Grant for Gazebo
2.     Fire Department – Fence Update
3.     Charge VT – update vehicle charger itemized estimate
4.     Mt Wilcox Water System – Final Decommission
5.     Recreation – Playground Proposal Update
6.     Recreation – Pickleball Court/Skating Rink
7.     Grants – MERP Grant Reimbursement – Town Office Exterior Invoice
8.     Budget – Department Schedule
9.     Building Maintenance – Court Signs
 
NEW BUSINESS:
1.     Financials – CD Renewals
2.     Contractors – Lowell Landscape independent contractor paperwork
3.     Town Hall – issue with elevator.
 
ADJOURNMENT:
 
NEXT MEETING DATES:
1.     Tuesday, November 11, 2025 Budget Meeting  Town Office
·      5:00pm  Listers – Budget/CIP
·      5:45pm  Library – Budget/CIP
2.     Thursday, November 20, 2025 Regular Meeting  5:30pm Town Hall
 
Ann called the meeting to order at 5:32pm. Seconded by AJ. Ann presented an Agenda Modification (see above). AJ moved to approve October 16, 2025 Minutes. Seconded by Ann.
 
 
 
Pittsfield Select Board Regular Meeting Minutes                                         page 2
November 6, 2025
 
CORRESPONDENCE:
1.     Grants – Governor’s Council Grant on Physical Fitness and Sports. This pertains to winter outdoor sports that foster access to sports and fitness activities, focusing on communities that have young people who have not participated in an activity due to a lack of access or feeling unwelcome or unsafe. The deadline for submitting a proposal is November 7, 2025. Not enough time to put an application together, but AJ will give form to Recreation Commission to draft a project for future grant applications.
2.     Rental – Town Hall – Wintergreen. The Wintergreen Owners Association’s Annual Meeting is scheduled for April 25, 2026. They would like to rent the Town Hall for the meeting. Ann said that this does not need Select Board approval. The Board discussed other organizations possibly using the building.
 
OLD BUSINESS:
1.     Grants – PACIF Grant for Gazebo. Ann said that she received the letter of acceptance. The grant was partially and/or conditionally approved. The dumping ($100) and staining fees ($250) were not approved. The letter says there is a 6-month time frame to do the job. There was some discussion about getting an extension. Ann said she included the two ergonomic desks that were recently purchased for the town clerk and assistant. They were approved at the 50% rate. We’re eligible for a grant of up to $1,000 for both projects. The Board approved having Trish submit paperwork to be reimbursed for the desks at 50%.
2.     Fire Department – Fence Update. Ann said that the fencing has been installed and there are 2 sections left over. Brief discussion as to locations for them. The Board felt that the fencing should be insured. Ann said she figured $10,000 (cost to manufacture and installation) So, at next Tuesday’s budget meeting, we can ask Trish to include $10,000 for the fencing when she submits evaluation renewals for town property. Ann moved to have Trish obtain insurance for the fence. Seconded by AJ. All in favor. Color was briefly discussed. A decision will be made in the Spring.
3.     Charge VT – update vehicle charger itemized estimate. Ann said she received an itemized estimate from Killington Electric, but she was not able to open it. Trish has requested  a printed copy. When received, Ann said she can compare it with the itemized invoice that Charge VT is asking for.
4.     Mt Wilcox Water System – Final Decommission. Ann said that the pump house has been dismantled and pipes capped. She brought up the possible legal document to add to the deed. AJ said he would draft a document to say that the water is not potable and the overflow is directed at Greg Martin’s property. Ann moved that the Board draw up a legal document for Greg to sign absolving the Town of liability. Seconded by AJ. All in favor.
 
 
 
 
Pittsfield Select Board Regular Meeting Minutes                                         page 3
November 6, 2025
 
5.     Recreation – Playground Proposal Update. AJ said he still has not heard from Jake Hunt. AJ said that he put away the pickleball court equipment, moved the plastic container back into the shed, put the skates back in the cabinet and cleaned out the storage rooms. He said he left the basketballs that were good outside. Keys to the shed were discussed. AJ said that Trish had made copies and Jake and Caleb can request a key for access to the room for the skating season.
6.     Recreation – Pickleball Court/Skating Rink. AJ said that the tarp was in the stairwell. It needs to be removed. He and Ann  said they need a place to store it .  Ann suggested putting it down to protect the paint on the court before the court is flooded for the skating rink. The lights were discussed. They need to be re-timed to 4pm – 9pm. One is aimed at the court. AJ moved to have A+ Electric come and do it plus show the Board members how to do it themselves. Seconded by Ann. All in favor. Ann said she would call them.
7.     MERP Grant Reimbursement. Joyce has said she still does not have a confirmed invoice which Ann needs to include in the quote. This item will be tabled.
8.     Budget – Department Schedule. Ann said that all the departments have been scheduled except for the Fire Department. They indicated that the times offered were not good for them. Ann said there these are out options: 1) that we get them to come 2) that we level fund them or if a written budget is received, it could be reviewed and funded based on what their expenses were. The budget needs to be completed by December 10th. The Board asked the Secretary to send emails to Caleb, Dave, Greg, and the Fire Department explaining that the Board received their October 19th correspondence. They need to have someone to attend as requested. If a copy of their budget is not received, the Board will consider level funding them. The Board’s deadline for the total budget is December 10th.
9.     Building Maintenance – Court Signs. The signs are in for George to pick up.
 
NEW BUSINESS:
1.     Financials – CD Renewals. Ann said that Trish is setting up six CD’s, three of which are renewals. Trish recommends taking $3,000 from the Reappraisal Fund and adding it to the rollover, so the deposit would $51,098.63 for 13wks at $3.60%. All of the following would be at $3.60% for 13 weeks. The Records Fund’s $19,016.48 will be rolled over with no additional deposit. The amount of $1,000 from Budget Disbursement was added to the Contingency Fund for a total deposit of $89,434.30. The three new CDs are: 1) the Fire Department Truck Fund deposit of $47,000, 2) the Highway Equipment Fund deposit of $40,000, and 3) the Recreation Fund deposit of $45,000. The Board said Trish will make early budget disbursements for Contingency, Fire Truck, Highway equipment to add to the deposits.
2.     Contractors – Lowell Landscape independent contractor paperwork. Ann said that they have been paid from the General Fund. Ann said the Board should talk about how they
 
Pittsfield Select Board Regular Meeting Minutes                                         page 4
November 6. 2025
 
can follow up on any project to ensure the work was completed according to the estimate. It was decided to do this when Joyce is in attendance. Ann moved to approved the contract for services for Lowell Landscape.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     Seconded by AJ. All in favor.
3.     Town Hall – issue with elevator. Ann said that the annual inspection failed due to a failure of a backup panel. The elevator was taken out of service. Ann said that this will be paid when he comes back, but she thought that going forward the Board might want to look at and see if there are other businesses that do this kind of work. She said she found three and maybe one can be compared to the current. Ann said the cost was almost $2,500. It was suggested that the funds come from the Town Office Maintenance Fund or Building Fund which is the Reserve. Ann moved to have the inspection cost come from the Town Office Maintenance line item and failed parts and service  be paid from the Town Office Building Reserve Fund. Seconded by AJ. All in favor.
 
ADJOURNMENT:
Ann mentioned the next two meetings, then moved to adjourn the meeting at 6:21pm. Seconded by AJ. All in favor.
 
NEXT MEETING DATES:
Tuesday, November 11, 2025 Budget Meeting  Town Office
·      5:00pm  Listers – Budget/CIP
·      5:45pm  Library – Budget/CIP
Thursday, November 20, 2025 Regular Meeting  5:30pm Town Hall
 
Respectfully submitted,
 
Approved: ___November 20, 2025_____________                                  Martha L. Beyersdorf
Select Board Secretary
 
 
 

Ann Kuendig                                      Joyce Stevens                           AJ Ruben
 

​PITTSFIELD SELECT BOARD BUDGET MEETING MINUTES

 
To listen to a recording of this meeting, click here:  https://bit.ly/4qkKYoR
 
DATE: October 21, 2025
 
PRESENT: Ann Kuendig, Joyce Stevens, AJ Ruben
 
PUBLIC PRESENT: Tricia Abondello, George Deblon
 
AGENDA MODIFICATIONS: Ann noted a date change in the Minutes in the posted agenda. Should be the 7th, not the 2nd.
 
MINUTES APPROVAL: October 7, 2025 Budget Meeting
 
CORRESPONDENCE:
 
OLD BUSINESS:
1.     GF – Income and Expenses
 
NEW BUSINESS:
1.     Budget – Highway and Capital Plan (5:30pm)
2.     Executive Session – 1 V.S.A. § 313 (a) (1) (E) possible civil litigation/prosecution (6:30pm)
 
ADJOURNMENT:
 
NEXT MEETING DATES:
1.     Regular Meeting  November 6, 2025  5:30pm  Town Hall
2.     Budget Meeting  November 11, 2025  5:00pm  Town Office
Library Budget and Capital Plan  November 11, 2025  5:45pm  Town Office
 
Ann called the budget meeting of the Pittsfield Select Board to order at 5:01PM. Seconded by AJ. All in favor. She also noted an agenda modification (see above) and moved to accept. Seconded by AJ. All in favor. AJ moved to accept the Minutes of the budget meeting of October 7, 2025. Seconded by Ann. All in favor.
 
OLD BUSINESS:
1.     GF – Income and Expenses:
General Fund:
·      Rutland County Tax – increase to $9,200
Dues and Contributions:
·      VLCT – increase from $1856 to $1,911
 
Pittsfield Select Board Budget Meeting Minutes                                          page 2
October 21, 2025
 
 
Parks and Grounds:
·      Equipment Maintenance – increase from $300 to $500
·      Portable Toilet increase from $900 to $1,000
Cemetery:
·      Wages – increase from $5,000 to $7,000
·      Sand and Stone – increase to $500
·      Decision to remove “Tree Removal” from Cemetery and add it to Tree Reserve Fund $1,200
·      Capital Plan – add $1,000/yr for purchase of a new mower in approx. 10 yrs.
Wages: approve COLA increase of 2.7%
·      Town Clerk/Treasurer – increase salary from $46,244yr to $47,524
·      Asst. Town Clerk/Treasurer – increase from $20.06 to $20.59/hr
·      Road Forman – increase salary from $28.35 to $29.77/hr w/5% = $61,918/yr
·      Health Officer – increase to $15/hr ($300 total budget)
·      Listers – increase to $18/hr, $19/hr, and $20/hr based on years of experience (cut-did this last year)
·      Fire Chief – increase to $1,000/yr (cut did this last year)
·      Select Board Secretary - increase to $150/mtg (cut-did this last year)
·      Mileage – increase to $.70/mi
Employee Benefits:
·      Medical Insurance – decrease to $12,240 ($20.00 mth employee premium contribution)
·      Health Reimbursement Account – increase to $2,000
·      VT Municipal Employee Retirement Fund – 2.7% COLA increase  from $3,355 to $3,460
·      Administrative Fee for HRA - increased to $50 (may change)
Other:
·      Garage Maintenance (formerly in GF budget) – increase to $750
·      Tree Trimming - increase from $6,000 to $8,000
·      Highway Equipment Fund - decrease to $0 in line item
 
NEW BUSINESS:
1.     Budget – Highway and Capital Plan
·      “Wants to keep budget the same as last year”
·      Would like more lighting in the office garage area
·      Would like a new doorknob
·      Would like motion activated lighting outside
Ann suggested A1 Electric come and assess what is needed re: lighting
·      Capital Plan:
-       Would like to continue work on Upper Michigan Road between Hopkins’ driveway and Robinson’s garage. Engineering fee expected to be $3,000. Construction an estimated $50,000. This may be put on as an Article on Warning.
-       Forsha Road (Class 4) – needs culvert replacement. George obtained a price of $1,600 for a 20’ section
-       Would like more canopy trimming on several roads
-       $40,000 deposit in Highway Equipment Reserve Fund for new large Dump truck.
 
 
As there was no further business to discuss, Ann moved to adjourn the budget meeting and enter into Executive Session at 6:38pm. Seconded by AJ. All in favor
 
2.     Executive Session – 1 V.S.A. § 313 (a) (1) (E) possible civil litigation/prosecution (6:30pm)
 
Ann adjourned Executive Session and reentered the regular session at 7:48pm. Joyce seconded. All in favor. Ann moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:48pm AJ seconded. All in favor.
 
ADJOURNMENT
 
NEXT MEETING DATES:
3.     Regular Meeting  November 6, 2025  5:30pm  Town Hall
4.     Budget Meeting  November 11, 2025  5:00pm  Town Office:  Lister budget/ Capital plan 5:00pm. Library Budget and Capital Plan  5:45pm 
 
 
Approved: November 11, 2025______________                                      Respectfully submitted,
 
                                                                                    Martha L Beyersdorf
                                                                                    Select Board Secretary
 
 

Ann Kuendig                                        Joyce Stevens                                      AJ Ruben