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
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
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