2014-2015 Royalton Town Report

Transcription

Royalton, Vermont
Annual Report
2015
For the year ending June 30, 2015
Town of Royalton
July 1, 2014 to June 30, 2015
Meeting to be held at the South Royalton School Gymnasium
10:00 a.m., Tuesday, March 1, 2016
Royalton School District
July 1, 2014 to June 30, 2015
Meeting to be held at the South Royalton School Gymnasium
6:30 p.m. Monday, February 29, 2016
Pre Town Meeting: Tuesday, February 23, 2016 7:00 p.m.
Royalton Academy Building
Vermont charter: December 20, 1781
New York Patent: November 13, 1769
Area: 30,000 acres
General Information
Emergency Services – Fire, Ambulance and Police
911
Royalton Police Department
763 – 7776 and 763- 7201 (fax) 763-7711
Police Chief Robert Hull
(Cell phone) 802 – 661 – 8327
Royalton Fire Department
763 – 8133
Vermont State Police
234 – 9933
Fish and Wildlife Warden
234 – 9933
Town Clerk
Hours: Monday – Thursday 8:00 a.m-3:00 p.m.
763 – 7207 (fax) 763-8064)
Treasurer’s Office
763-7441
Selectboard’s Office
Hours: Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
763 – 7967
Royalton Town Garage
Listers’ Office
Pollution Abatement Facility (sewer treatment plant)
763 – 7667
763 – 2202
763 – 8033
Bethel – Royalton Transfer Station
Hours: Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday 7:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Saturday 7:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
763 – 2232
Royalton Memorial Library
South Royalton School
Orange – Windsor Supervisory Union
Royalton Fire District
763 - 7094
763 – 7740
763 – 8840
763 – 8974
Town of Royalton Notice of Regularly Scheduled Public Meetings
Royalton Selectboard – meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month at 7:00 p.m. at the
Royalton Town Office Building located at 2460 Vermont Route 14
Royalton School Board – meets on the first and third Tuesday of the month at 7:00 p.m. at the South
Royalton School Library
Royalton Planning Commission – meets on the second and fourth Monday of the month at 7:00 p.m. at
the Royalton Academy Building
Royalton Recreation Commission – meets on the third Monday of the month at 7:00 p.m. at the
Royalton Town Office Building located at 2460 Vermont Route 14
Royalton Revolving Loan Fund – meets on an as needed basis at the Royalton Town Office Building
Prudential Board, Royalton Fire District #1 – meets on the first Wednesday of the month at 7:00 p.m.
at the Fires District Office Building
Board of Listers – meets on an as needed basis at the Royalton Town Office Building
Royalton Conservation Commission – meets on the third Tuesday of the month at 7:00 p.m. at the
Ancient Roads Committee – meets on an as needed basis at the Royalton Town Office Building
Photo Courtesy of Marti Lewis
Dick and Polly were proud to have lived in South
Royalton for so many years. They loved the
people and enjoyed being active in their church and
the school. They were always ready to lend a
helping hand for the good of the community they
called home.
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Table of Contents
Dedication Page------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------1
Audit Report ................................................................................................................................................................................... 3
Elected Town Officers .................................................................................................................................................................... 3
Appointed Officers and Committee Members ............................................................................................................................. 4
Warning........................................................................................................................................................................................... 6
Selectboard Report ......................................................................................................................................................................... 8
Town Meeting Minutes, March 2015 .......................................................................................................................................... 10
Charter Amendment Vote 2015 .................................................................................................................................................. 13
Combined Balance Sheet ............................................................................................................................................................. 14
Budget Analysis Summary........................................................................................................................................................... 15
General Fund Revenues & Expenditures ................................................................................................................................... 16
Highway Fund Revenues & Expenditures ................................................................................................................................. 22
Wastewater Treatment Facility Report ..................................................................................................................................... 25
Wastewater Operations Revenues & Expenditures .................................................................................................................. 25
Royalton Academy Building Report ........................................................................................................................................... 26
Royalton Academy Building Revenues & Expenditures ........................................................................................................... 26
Long Term Liabilities................................................................................................................................................................... 27
Combined Balance Sheet (Special Revenue Funds) .................................................................................................................. 28
Statement of Revenues, Expenditures and Changes in Fund Balances from Cash Transactions (Special Revenue
Funds)…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…………….. 30
Combined Statement of Revenues, Expenditures and Changes Fund in Fund Balances Trust Funds ................................ 32
Combined Balance Sheet Nonexpendable Trust Funds ............................................................................................................ 33
Assets Held by the Town of Royalton ......................................................................................................................................... 36
Royalton Listers Report ............................................................................................................................................................... 34
Report of Delinquent Taxes ......................................................................................................................................................... 39
Statement of Taxes Raised FY 14/15........................................................................................................................................... 40
Statement of Taxes Raised FY 15/16........................................................................................................................................... 41
Dog Licenses and Liquor Licenses .............................................................................................................................................. 42
Vital Statistics ............................................................................................................................................................................... 43
Royalton Cemetery Commissioners’ Report.............................................................................................................................. 44
Royalton Cemetery Commissioners’ Financial Report............................................................................................................. 45
Royalton Cemetery Rules and Regulations ................................................................................................................................ 46
Solid Waste Program - Report .................................................................................................................................................... 47
Solid Waste Program – Operating Statement ............................................................................................................................ 48
Royalton Planning Commission .................................................................................................................................................. 49
Flood Plain Board of Adjustment ............................................................................................................................................... 49
Royalton Conservation Commission ........................................................................................................................................... 49
Royalton Recreation Commission ............................................................................................................................................... 49
Royalton Lovejoy Trust Fund Report ........................................................................................................................................ 50
Royalton Memorial Library Report ........................................................................................................................................... 50
Royalton Memorial Library Financial Report .......................................................................................................................... 52
Royalton Once Planet Summer Program ................................................................................................................................... 52
Royalton Police Department ........................................................................................................................................................ 53
South Royalton Fire Department Report ................................................................................................................................... 56
South Royalton Rescue Squad Report ........................................................................................................................................ 56
South Royalton Rescue Squad Financial Report ....................................................................................................................... 57
Royalton Fire Warden’s Report.................................................................................................................................................. 58
Royalton Town Band Report ...................................................................................................................................................... 59
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South Royalton Area Senior Citizens Center............................................................................................................................. 60
Capstone Community Action ..................................................................................................................................................... 61
Central Vermont Council on Aging (CVCOA) .......................................................................................................................... 61
Clara Martin Center .................................................................................................................................................................... 62
The Family Place .......................................................................................................................................................................... 63
Green Mountain Economic Development Corporation ............................................................................................................ 64
Health Care Rehabilitation Services of Southeastern Vermont (HCRS) ................................................................................ 64
HIV/HCV Resource Center (Formerly A Community Resource Network, ACoRN) ............................................................ 64
Orange County Parent Child Center .......................................................................................................................................... 65
Safeline, Inc ................................................................................................................................................................................... 65
Stagecoach Transportation Services, Inc. .................................................................................................................................. 65
Vermont Adult Learning ............................................................................................................................................................. 66
Vermont Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (VABVI) ...................................................................................... 66
Vermont Association of Conservation Districts ......................................................................................................................... 66
Vermont Center for Independent Living (VCIL) ...................................................................................................................... 67
Visiting Nurse Association & Hospice of VT and NH (VNA & Hospice) ................................................................................ 67
White River Partnership .............................................................................................................................................................. 68
Windsor County Partners ............................................................................................................................................................ 68
Windsor County Youth Services ................................................................................................................................................. 69
Table of Contents – Annual Report of the Royalton School District ....................................................................................... 70
Vermont Law School Report ....................................................................................................................................................... 98
Audit Report
The Town has hired Angolano & Company, a professional audit firm to review the Town’s finances. A copy of the audit
report is filed in the Town Clerk’s Office for review
Royalton Memorial Day Parade 2015
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Title
Elected Town Officers
Term Expires
Town & School Moderator, 1 year term
David Ainsworth
2016
Town Clerk, 1 year term
Karmen M. Bascom
2016
Town Treasurer, 1 year term
LuAnn B. Bingham
2016
Selectboard, 3 year term
Larry Trottier (Chair)
Phil Gates (Vice Chair)
Peggy Ainsworth (Clerk)
Joan Goldstein
Sandy Conrad
2016
2017
2018
2017
2016
Lister, 3 year term
Lister, 3 year term
Lister, 3 year term
Jeffrey Barcelow (Co-Chair)
Walter Hastings (Co-Chair)
Bruce Washburn
2016
2017
2018
First Constable, 2 year term
Robert Hull
2016
Second Constable, 2 year term
currently open
2017
Collector of Delinquent Taxes, 1 year term
Theresa Harrington
2016
Cemetery Commissioner, 3 year term
John P. Dumville (appointed)
Alison S. Gravel
Wanda Knudsen
2018
2017
2016
Town Agent, 1 year term
Tavian Mayer
2016
Grand Juror, 1 year term
Allison N. Fulcher
2016
Trustee of Public Funds, 3 year term
Donna Bohonnon
Joshua Powers
currently open
2017
2016
2018
Library Trustee, 2 year term
Library Trustee, 2 year term
Cynthia Dalrymple
Theresa Manning
2017
2016
School Director, 3 year term
Christine Hudson
Tim Murphy
Tom Honigford
Laurie Smith
Chris Mabey
2017
2016
2018
2016
2017
Justice of the Peace (Elected November 2014 for a two year term, beginning February 1)
David Ainsworth
William Ballou
Hoyt Bingham
Susan Cain
Sandra Conrad
763-8017
763-7106
763-7842
763-8449
565-0401
John Dumville
Allison Fulcher
Alison S. Gravel
Bruce V. Post
Joshua B. Powers
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2016
763-8567
763-8500
763-7199
763-8466
763-8087
Appointed Officers and Committee Members
Planning Commission
Beth Willhite
Jim Rikert
Mark Wood
Nell Chap
Ashton Roberts
Ron Johnson
David Brandau
Tim Dreisbach
Joshua B. Powers
Term Expires
2016
2017
2017
2017
2018
2018
2018
2016
2016
Conservation Commission
Kathy Benson (Chair)
Bushrod Powers (Vice-chair)
Rebecca Wagner (Secretary)
Mike Bald
Don Carbino
Recreation Commission Term Expires
Vicki Braley, Chair
2016
Jennifer Morse, Treasurer
2017
Kerri Rogers, Director
Lisa Southworth, Secretary
2017
Kim Hebard
2015
Billy Jean Vesper
2015
Jim Hewitt
2017
Bridget Barry
2016
John Scoskie
2016
Troy Stratton
2017
Revolving Loan Fund
Joshua B. Powers
Joan Goldstein
Lincoln Clark
LuAnn Bingham
2016
2015
2015
Appointed Representatives
Two Rivers Ottauquechee Regional Commission
Regional Transportation Planning Committee
White River Valley Solid Waste Alliance
Advisor to Selectboard for Lovejoy Trust
Appointed Officers
Assistant Clerk
Assistant Treasurer
911 Coordinator
Flood Plain Admin.
Transportation Advisory Rep.
Transportation Advisory Alt.
Town Emergency Coordinator
Green-Up Day Chairperson
Civil Defense Chairperson
Health Officer
Town Service Officer
Fire Warden
Tree Warden
Deputy Tree Warden
Inspector of Lumber
Weigher of Coal
Pound Keeper
Fence Viewers
Rita Hull
Luann Bingham
Jeff Barcelow
Walter Hastings
Rose Hemond
Roger McCrillis
Gidget Lyman
Conservation Committee
Robert Hull
Robert Hull
Sandra Conrad
Donald Lovejoy
Frank Lamson
Paul Brock
David Lyman
Susan Cain
Country Animal Hospital
David Lyman
Peter Chapman
George Spaulding
Windsor-Orange 1 State Representative
Sarah Buxton
233-0274
sbuxton@leg.state.vt.us
Windsor District State Senators
John F. Campbell
295-6328
jcampbell@leg.state.vt.us
Dick McCormack
234-5497
mccormack@leg.state.vt.us
Alice Nitka
228-8432
anitka@leg.state.vt.us
David Brandau
Sandra Conrad
Sandra Conrad
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TOWN OF ROYALTON, VERMONT
WARNING FOR ANNUAL MEETING
MARCH 1, 2016
Note: The polls will be open from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. for Australian Ballot voting.
The legal voters of the Town of Royalton are hereby warned and notified to meet at the South Royalton High School
Auditorium in South Royalton Village, in the Town of Royalton on Tuesday, the 1st day of March 2016, at ten o’clock in the
forenoon to transact the following business:
Article I
To elect by Australian ballot the following officers:
Officer
Town Moderator
School Moderator
Town Clerk
Selectboard
Selectboard
Lister
First Constable
Second Constable
Collector of Delinquent Taxes
Cemetery Commissioner
Town Agent
Grand Juror
Trustee of Public Funds
Trustee of Public Funds
School Director
School Director
Library Trustee
Term Length
One Year
One Year
One Year
Three Years
Two Years
Three Years
Two Years
One Year remaining of a Two year term
One Year
Three Years
One Year
One Year
Three Years
Two Years remaining on a three year term
Three Years
Two Years
Two Years
Article II
To receive the reports of the Town Officers?
Article III
Shall the voters appropriate $287, 813.00 to the following Royalton organizations, pursuant to 24 V.S.A. §
2691?
Approved 2015
Requested 2016
South Royalton Fire District #1 (p.56)
$60,000
$70,000
Royalton Memorial Library (p.50)
$56,855
$58,855
South Royalton Rescue Squad (p.56)
$153,719
$146,858
Royalton Town Band (p.59)
$2,400
$2,400
South Royalton One Planet Program (p.52)
$6,000
Fuller Stearn Post #51 (Memorial Day)
$700
$700
S. Royalton Area Senior Citizens (p.60)
$3,000
$3,000
Total
$276,674
$287,813
Article IV
Shall the voters appropriate $23,718 to the following social service agencies, pursuant to 24 V.S.A. § 2691?
Approved 2015
Requested 2016
Capstone Community Action (p.61)
(Formerly CV Community Action Council)
$400
$400
CV Council on Aging (p. 61)
$1,500
$1,500
Clara Martin Center (p.62)
$4,180
$4,180
The Family Place (p.63)
$200
$200
HCRS (p.64)
$2,689
$2,689
HIV/HCV Resource Center (p.64)
$500
$500
Orange County Parent Child Center (p.65)
$1,000
$1,000
Vt. Association of Conservation Districts (p.66) $100
$100
Safeline (p.65)
$1,000
$1,000
Stagecoach (p.65)
$3,318
$3,318
Vermont Adult Learning (p.66)
$500
$500
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VT Assc. Of the Blind (p.66)
VT Ctr. For Independent Living (p.67)
Visiting Nurses (p.67)
WR Partnership (p.68)
WC Partners
(p.68)
WC Youth Services (p.69)
Total
$750
$305
$5,876
$500
$500
$400
$23,718
$750
$305
$5,876
$500
$500
$400
$23,718
Article V
Shall the voters approve total general fund expenditures of $1,127,926 of which $863,126 shall be raised by
taxes pursuant to 24 V.S.A § 2664?
Article VI
Shall the voters approve total highway fund expenditures of $1,053,650 of which $908,650 shall be raised by
taxes pursuant to 24 V.S.A § 2664?
Article VII
Shall the voters authorize the Treasurer to collect property taxes on or before November 1, 2016 with
delinquent taxes subject to interest charges of one percent per month or fraction thereof and eight percent
penalty charged against them from the due date?
Article VIII
Shall the town authorize the Selectboard to relocate the water trough to the corner of the South Royalton
Green?
Article IX
To transact any other non-binding business proper to be brought before said meeting.
Dated this 26th day of January, 2016
Selectboard, Town of Royalton
Larry Trottier, Chairman
Phil Gates, Vice Chairman
Peggy Ainsworth Clerk
Joan Goldstein
Sandy Conrad
Dedication gathering for Canute Dalmasse plaque
7
Royalton Selectboard Report
Each year the Royalton Selectboard spends many hours in meetings conducting town business. The
following narrative is an overview of our accomplishments, highlights of the past year, and what the future
holds.
FY 16/17 Budget News
The General Fund Budget request for FY 16/17 shows and increase in expenses of $28,161 or 2.56%.
The Highway Fund budget request for FY 16/17 increased by $1,950.00 or .19%. The amount of funds
requested for taxes for the Highway Fund is $908,650.00. Due to the shortfall in revenue from tax
delinquencies ($258,105.61) there was an overall negative effect to the General Funds bottom line for FY
15/16. At the time of this town report cumulative tax delinquencies are $319,790.00. When property
taxes are paid in November, the Highway Fund and the school receive their entire allocation. It is the
General Fund that remains under funded. Tax delinquencies are liabilities to the town and continually add
to the general fund deficit. The Selectboard is taking measures this year to reduce this deficit by raising
funds requested for current taxes.
GW Plastics Tax Stabilization Vote
In July of 2015 Brenan Riehl, President and CEO of GW Plastics Inc., made a presentation to the
Royalton Selectboard. He spoke about their facility expansion plans in Royalton. Mr. Rielhl mentioned
that this expansion will add over 70 jobs to this facility. He asked the Selectboard for a 10 year property
tax stabilization agreement for GW Plastics Inc. GW Plastics is looking for stabilization on only the
municipal property tax portion, not the school tax portion. That will continue to fluctuate as tax rates
change. The Selectboard made a motion to ask the Royalton voters at the 2016 Annual Royalton town
meeting by Australian ballot for permission to enter into this tax stabilization agreement. Pre-town
meeting (02/23/2016) will open with an informational hearing in regards to this proposition.
Relocating the Water Trough: This is a controversial topic for many Royalton residents. The
Selectboard cannot ignore the fact that a traffic study done back in 2001 listed the trough as a driving
hazard. The outcome of this study in all scenarios was to move the trough. The Selectboard had the
trough inspected recently and was told there are many cracks in the trough from years of being hit by
cars. The cost of moving the trough is between $10K and $12K.
New Town Office Building.
In August 2015 the Selectboard hired architect, Jay White to design the new Royalton Town Office
Building. He worked closely with the town to create a building plan that adhered to the character of
Royalton and stayed within the town’s budget. The result is an attractive building that employees and
elected officials alike are honored to work in. The Selectboard is grateful for the support of the Royalton
voters. Feel free to stop by and take a look around during the week.
FEMA (Storm Irene)
All Storm Irene projects were completed as of 09/01/2015. All the project documentation was submitted to
the state and FEMA for closeout. The town continues to be in contact with the State and Federal
government for the funds that are still owed.
The building continues to serve our community well. The building office space are fully rented The
Selectboard is looking to make improvements to the building. The building can be rented for special
events by calling building manager, Christina Clark at 802-282-7602. The Selectboard’s goal is to make
the building self-supportive.
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Overview FY 14/15
In March of 2015 the voters of Royalton approved a charter amendment that changed the Royalton Town
Treasurer position from elected to appointed by the Selectboard. The Royalton voters understood the
importance of staffing this position with a person who has the necessary skills and background to do the
job. On May 5, 2015 Bill H 478 was signed by Governor Shumlin.
Signing Bill H 478
Revolving Loan Fund
The Revolving Loan Fund continues to be available to help new and established businesses that wish to
operate in our town. The fund provides short term loans for start-up costs, inventory purchases, or
infrastructure improvements. Please feel free to contact the Selectboard office for more information. The
Revolving Loan Fund Committee is seeking interested individuals to volunteer to serve on the committee.
If interested please contact the Royalton Selectboard office at 802-763-7967.
Buyout Property Parks: Two of the properties that were part of the HMGP grant program were approved
for Community Development Block Grant funds to design riverside parks. They are: 43 Royalton Hill
Road and 124 Gilman Road. The town of Royalton is currently working with White River Partnership and
Dubois and King on the conceptual design phase. The town of Royalton was awarded a $90,000.00 grant
for the construction of these town parks.
Gilman Road Grant: The Town of Royalton has been awarded a Community Development Block Grant in
the amount of $776,709.00 to repair a dangerous segment of Gilman Road. This work was completed by
November 2015.
Royalton Wastewater Facility: In September of 2015 the voters of Royalton approved a $2,000.000.00
bond for the Royalton Wastewater refurbishment. The town is currently applying for a USDA grant and a
Community Development Block grant to help pay for this refurbishment.
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Town of Royalton
Annual Town Meeting Minutes
March 3, 2015
South Royalton School Gymnasium
Town Moderator, David Ainsworth, warned the Town of Royalton’s legal voters to begin their meeting at 10 a.m. to
transact the following business:
Article I: To elect by Australian Ballot the following officers: Town Moderator: One Year, School Moderator: One
Year, Town Clerk One Year, Town Treasurer: One Year, Selectboard: Three Years, Selectboard: Two Years, Lister:
Three Years, Second Constable: Two Years, Collector of Delinquent Taxes: One Year, Cemetery Commissioner:
Three Years, Town Agent: One Year, Grand Juror: One Year, Trustee of Public Funds: Three Years, School
Director: Three Years, School Director: Two Years, Library Trustee: Two Years.
Moderator Ainsworth asked all to view list of officers on ballot, whereas voting booths would remain open until 7 p.m. this
evening.
Article II: By Australian ballot: Shall the Town adopt the revised Town Plan?
Article III: To receive the reports of the Town Officers? Moved and Seconded. Request for discussion:
Floor: Ernie Amsden questioned if Selectboard had money in budget for highway crew raises. Selectman Larry Trottier
addressed Amsden by noting “…a little extra in the budget…to offer a small increase.” Specifics not yet discussed.
Amsden then noted a $3,100 and $ 6,000 Town Office Building wage increase from current fiscal year to next fiscal year;
Enforcement increase by $4,000; Finance Manager by $2,000; Town Clerk, no budget increase for clerk or staff. “Did
Town Clerk request increase…?”
Selectboard Trottier asked Clerk Bascom to answer while notes reviewed. Clerk Bascom stated, a request had been put
into Rose Hemond for a $2,000 increase to extend staff hours for her assistant.
Rose Hemmond, Finance Manager, said department heads should have come to Selectboard for increases and town
employees go through performance reviews. Amsden requested that the Selectboard answer his question. Selectwoman
Goldstein said usually, if increases were submitted without explanation, wages would remain level-funded. Clerk Bascom
stated her requests were given to Finance Manager Hemond; that she attended a budget meeting dealing only with
elections and had documentation from Hemond noting level funding for budgets most likely. Moderator asked for a floor
vote. Motion carried.
Article IV: Shall the voters appropriate $276,674 to the following Royalton organizations, pursuant to 24 V.S.A.
§2691?
Approved 2014
Requested 2015
South Royalton Fire District #1
$49,000
$60,000
$55,355
$56,855
South Royalton Rescue Squad
$148,355
$153,719
Royalton Town Band
$2,400
$2,400
Fuller Sterns Post #51(Memorial Day)
$700
$700
S. Royalton Area Senior Citizens
$3,000
$3,000
Floor: Paul Whitney explained history behind the department, stating the term should be the South Royalton Fire
Department. R.F.D. vote requested, moved and seconded. Motion carried. Royalton library request moved and
seconded. Greg Tisher, Library Director, explained that increases were due to one-time software system conversions.
Voters polled. Motion carried. South Royalton Rescue Squad increase due to Workers Comp. insurance, explained
Corrine Ingraham. Motion to appropriate carried. Royalton Town Band; motion carried. Fuller Stearns Post #51;
motion carried. S. Royalton Area Senior Citizens; motion carried.
Article V: Shall the voters appropriate $23,718 to the following social service agencies, pursuant to 24 V.S.A.
§2691? Individual agencies noted in official Warning for Annual Meeting.
Prior to reading individual organizations, Moderator Ainsworth asked for motion to read individually or to combine? Motion
seconded; no questions. By show of cards, motion carried.
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Floor: Marion Whitney asked to have someone speak on last two items. Board Member Cynthia Powers for Orange
County Parent Child Center, explained money is for support of about twenty families with children ranging from newborn
to five years. Board Member Peg Ainsworth for the White River Conservation District, confirmed by Fire Chief, Paul Brock,
noted that Royalton takes advantage of the Dry Hydrant Program.
Floor: Shannon Stoddard was under the impression that the Health Care Rehabilitation Services of Southeastern Vermont
(HCRS) was not servicing our community; now sent to Clara Martin Center. Amendment to motion to strike HCRS
allocation moved and seconded. Request is made for Selectboard to clarify. An amendment to the amendment is
then requested; keep request in budget contingent on finding out that they serve Royalton residents in 2015. Motion
carried.
Back to main motion; those in favor of and opposed to appropriating social services funding in the amount of $23,718
polled. Main motion carried.
Article VI: Shall the voters approve total general fund expenditures of $1,099,765 of which $717,965 shall be
raised by taxes pursuant to 24 V.S.A. §2664?
Motion moved and seconded. Floor open for discussion
Selectboard Chair, Larry Trottier explained that the budget went up by about 2.04% due to the Solid Waste Alliance, new
payroll processing service, Gilman Road project, town appropriations, law enforcement and rescue squad insurance, fuel
costs and repayment of Storm Irene debt. Selectboard was able to level fund the highway department.
Floor: Alison Gravel asked for clarification regarding clerk department budget requests. Selectwoman Ainsworth stated
the meeting dealt with the elections budget increases to due to use of electronic scanning machines and training. While
Ainsworth believed clerk was correct, after looking at statute, said “If the State keeps their word, it won’t cost us very
much to begin with.” Hence, level funded budget. Regarding salary, it was not brought up at meeting, however
Selectboard was willing, at town’s request to appropriate additional funds and had no complaints about clerk’s
performance or her assistant. Bascom stated she would get together with Manager Hemmond, regarding submission for
additional hours. Selectman Phil Gates requested motion to amend general fund to total $1,101,765.00 with the increase
in taxes from $717,965.00 to $719,965.00. Vote to amend signified by show of cards seconded; carried. Back to
main motion for discussion
Floor: Amsden asked for Green Mountain Economic Development, to be removed from ballot; motion moved and
second. Discussion: Amsden questioned value of program and believed the request was moved from Royalton
organizations to social services. Bushrod Powers said we are getting our share of monies, even if it’s not seen
immediately. “They are looking to bring business to our town.” Joan Goldstein, GMED Executive, said they charge 50
cents per capita to help towns who are members. Both small and large businesses are given financing and real estate
management assistance. GW Plastics currently slated for expansion next year. GMED also organized a middle-high
school program to introduce and prepare students for modern manufacturing process. $1,000,000 in block grant funding
for flooding distributed last year. Amendment on floor to remove request for GMED; voters polled; amendment defeated.
Back to main motion.
Floor: Chris Mabey asked about the Bethel-Royalton Solid Waste Program; fees have doubled. Board Member Sandy
Conrad stated they are self-sustaining, but new law, Act 48, will cost more and improvements need to be made. Plus, a
capital fund will be started once debt is paid down. Also, Bethel –Royalton facility used as model for other towns in
regards to efficiency.
Request for voters to approve total general fund of $1,101,765 of which $719,965 shall be raised by taxes? Those
in favor and opposed polled. Motion carried.
Article VII: Shall the voters approve total highway fund expenditures of $1,051,700, of which $906,700 shall be
raised by taxes pursuant to 24 V.S.A. §2664? Motion moved and seconded. All in favor and opposed polled. Motion
carried.
Article VIII: Shall the voters authorize the Treasurer to collect property taxes on or before November 2, 2015, with
delinquent taxes subject to interest charges of one percent per month or fraction thereof and eight percent
penalty charged against them from the due date? Motion moved and seconded; discussion-none. All in favor and
opposed polled. Motion carried.
Article IX: To transact any other non-binding business proper to be brought before said meeting.
Floor turned over to Representative Sarah Buxton. Buxton drew awareness to three major challenges in Montpelier: an
ever rising property tax burden, affordable education reform and closing the gap on spending vs. revenue. Balancing
11
budget was particularly challenging due to recession and dependency on federal funds. Despite stagnant wages,
declining population, lingering Tropical Storm Irene costs and highway expenditures, the Legislature chose not to cut as
many services to Vermonters as other states. Result: Gap of $94 Million dollars possible, dependent on projected
revenues vs. spending.
Legislature may eventually decrease House of Representatives, decrease social welfare,
eliminate Vermont Life Magazine, cut Vermont Veteran’s home funding and decrease state jobs. Regarding Royalton’s
potential charter change, Representative Buxton said once voters decide what they want to do; she would assist us in the
process.
Floor: Paul Brock expressed concerns regarding closing of dispatch centers. Closure would affect Royalton’s police
force, which uses Rockingham. Newport and Rutland dispatch proposed cuts would place heavy burden on community.
Rep. Buxton asked to please give thoughtful consideration prior to making cuts. Ernie Amsden reminded Rep. Buxton that
withholding taxes are nearly one-third of his gross income, excluding hidden gas and meals taxes. Tax burden needs to
be addressed. Bob Quillia supported Chief Brock, reiterating that there are better ways to reduce costs than cutting public
safety. Chris Hudson asked if Buxton could represent a larger district; she responded, yes, due to rural region.
Floor: Sean Smith, local youth given opportunity to tell townspeople about a weather website he created for Royalton,
which may be visited at soroweather.com.
Moderator Ainsworth asked audience to allow a brief school musical presentation, prior to additional subjects needing
discussion. Floor: Bob Slattery asked for audience; Ainsworth noted serious discussion would follow performance. Billy
Ray Poli, Music Director introduced students from the musical’s opening number: Working.
Floor: Bob Slattery, member of Planning Commission, believes that neither the citizen’s nor commission’s voice has been
well represented. He requests the Selectboard use the Hope Property, instead of removing a prime commercial
development parcel from tax rolls. As a former architect, he is willing to assist with dangerous traffic patterns and then
unwise use of the Crawford site, due to contaminants.
Selectboard Chair, Larry Trottier explained that the ACT 250 permit was in place, completed traffic study would allow for
ample (seventy-five trips per day) out of Crawford property. Also, about 23 board meetings, articles in The Herald and
Valley News newspapers and a segment on Channel 3 news publicized plans for the Crawford property. Trottier, noted
the possibility of future space for Fire and Rescue and Town Garage. The nearby sites to be reclaimed, perhaps for
assisted living and commercial space will be on the Route 110 entrance. Ernie Amsden spoke to process, stating the
Selectboard has made the office a reality within three years, opposed to almost no progress in the previous twenty years.
Mark Wood believes may not have facts right and not to assume the Fire Department wants to be at new site. Tim
Dreisbach, Chair of Planning Commission, spoke of contradiction regarding final reason Crawford property was chosen.
Also, commission wants more involvement and due process regarding the Act 250 permitting.
Selectwoman Goldstein stated that the architect and engineer were hired, ACT 250 documentation is and meetings were
posted and warned. Selectman Gates, said bond vote was discussed a year ago, drawings are done and sewer costs will
be minimal due to the gravel base. A Brownfield study has been done and the site is cleaned up. Selectwoman Ainsworth
said they voted understanding not everyone has agreed, but they are focused on the site for municipal and gravel. They
know they can’t satisfy everyone, but they realize they must move forward. Selectwoman Conrad said she was originally
a Hope property proponent, but that as a democracy, she believes even though she did not agree with choice, she knows
the Crawford property plans must move forward.
Floor: Paul Whitney says about 20 years ago, they voted on Hope property for offices and bigger fire house, but board’s
study asked to build too many facilities, and now the same thing is happening with the Crawford property.
Moderator Ainsworth made a motion to end town discussion, with those in favor to please stand up.
Townspeople in attendance: 142
Meeting adjourned at 12:15 p.m.
Respectfully submitted;
Karmen M. Bascom, Town Clerk
David M. Ainsworth, Town Moderator
Joshua Bushrod Powers, Justice of the Peace
Australian Ballot Results for Town Meeting: 211/yes to 127/no
(Adoption of revised town plan)
12
WARNING
The legal voters of the Town of Royalton, Vermont, are hereby notified and warned to meet at
the South Royalton School in the Town of Royalton on Tuesday, March 3, 2015, between the hours of
eight o'clock (8:00) in the forenoon (a.m.), at which time the polls will open, and seven o'clock (7:00)
in the afternoon (p.m.), at which time the polls will close, to vote by Australian ballot upon the
following Article of business:
ARTICLE I
Shall the charter of the Town of Royalton be amended to authorize the Selectboard to fill
the office of Town Treasurer by appointment for a term of up to three years?
The legal voters of the Town of Royalton are further notified that voter qualification,
registration and absentee voting relative to said special meeting shall be as provided in Chapters 43, 51
and 55 of Title 17, Vermont Statutes Annotated.
The legal voters of the Town of Royalton are further notified that informational hearings will be
held on Tuesday, January 27, 2015 and on Tuesday, February 24, 2015 at seven o’clock (7:00) in the
evening, coincident with the regular meeting of the Town of Royalton Selectboard, for the purpose of
discussing the proposed charter amendment.
Adopted and approved at a regular meeting of the Selectboard of the Town of Royalton duly
called, noticed and held on December 9, 2014. Received for record and recorded in the records of the
Town of Royalton on December 10, 2014.
Town of Royalton Selectboard
Larry Trottier
Phil Gates
Peggy Ainsworth
Joan Goldstein
Sandy Conrad
Results of Charter Amendment on 03/03/2015
In Favor 234
Opposed 91
Total Votes 325
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
Memorial Day Parade 2015
21
22
23
Gilman Road November 2015
24
Royalton Wastewater Treatment Facility
This past year was spent preparing for the bond vote that passed in September for the needed upgrades of the
facility. The final design of these upgrades will be done once the federal and state grants are secured. The select board
and the operators will be working with the engineers at Aldrich and Elliott on the final design. We expect this to take
place during the year 2016 and construction occurring in 2017. Simon Operation Services will continue in operating the
facility and provide oversight in the development of the upgrades for the town.
The Wastewater Operations Team of Simon Operation Services, Inc.
25
The Royalton Academy Building is home to the South Royalton Area Senior Citizens, Royalton Civics Club, and The White River
Partnership, Central Vermont Council on Aging and Energy and Resource Solutions.
Contact Christina Clark at 802-282-7602 if you are interested in renting the building for a private function.
26
LONG TERM LIABILITIES-June 30, 2015
Donna Carpenter, Loan Payable, interest at 0%, principal
payments shall be annually of each year beginning in
November 2013, in the form of property tax payments
on Donna’s property until $26,384 in total property taxes
are paid; originally borrowed $26,384 on October 8, 2012
to acquire land on Gilman Road.
$
8,778
Note Payable, Chittenden Bank, interest at 3.05%
Principal and interest due October 22,
Interest payments are made by the Bethel-Royalton
Landfill with the principal renewed until refinanced by bonds.
$
18,000
Vermont Municipal Bond Bank, bond payable,
Interest at 2.75%, interest paid semiannually,
Principal of $30,000 due on December 1st
Of each year until 2018, then $25,000 due
On December 1st of each year until 2022,
Originally borrowed $580,000 on June 14, 2002,
For replacement of Chelsea Street Bridge.
$
220,000
VT Environmental Protection Agency State Revolving
Loan Fund, interest at 0%, paid annually, principal
Payment of $1,955 due on October 1, 2015 through 2019
$
24,075
VT Economic Development Authority, Loan Payable,
Interest at approx. 1%, interest and principal of $198,55
Paid monthly from Sept 2014 until Aug 2019, originally approved
To borrow$85,000 on Aug 20, 2013, for a project on
Autoland Lane. As more funds are drawn on this approved
Loan, the repayment schedule will change
Total long-term liabilities
$
9,720
_________________
$
280,573.00
In November 2014, the Town of Royalton renewed a Promissory Note (FEMA Line of Credit) with the Lake Sunapee Bank
in the amount of $750,000.00 at 1.25% interest with a maturity date of 11/30/2015. As of June 30, 2015, and the date of
the audit, $450,000 has been drawn down, leaving a balance of $743,000. The town continues to work with state and
FEMA officials to collect outstanding Storm Irene funds.
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
Town of Royalton Delinquent Tax Accounts
Aitken, Robert L. (V-260)
Alinovich, Andrew J. (U-350)
Amsden, Ernest L.(R-285)
AT&T Mobility (N-190)
Audsley, Craig (T-120)
Becker Jr., Raymond J. (D-130)
Becker Jr., Raymond J. (S-390
Blake, Robert & Patricia V-560
Braley, Bernard (V-420)
Braley, Louise M. (K-250)
Britch, Elizabeth A (Q-460)
Carbino, Kelly (Q-1040)
Carbino, Kelly Leighton (U-275)
Caron, Gary & Karen (V-840)
Chase, Douglas & Margaret (X-330)
Churchill, Scott M & Gloria J (N-110)
Clancy, Tammy A. (G-420)
Corwin, William E (J-700)
Couture, Chad (E-696)
Dakin, Patrick & Sara (Z-210)
DCI Sawmill (H-180)
Delcore, Damon (J-579)
Digby, Edward & Jeanette (M-220)
Eaton, Clifford A & Anna B (A-320)
Equity Trust Co, Custodian FBO (V-568)
Farnham, Kevin & Terrie (T-381)
Fletcher, Frank & Diane (V-675)
Fulginiti, Mary L (E-790)
Gaudette, Norris T (G-140)
Hein, William C. (E-540)
Hewitt, Frank M (Q-890)
Jones, Robert E Jr (E-230)
Khan, Theresa H (D-200)
LaCroix, Jr, Didace G (B-230)
Lefgren, John C (C-711)
Leighton, David (Q-1000)
Lerman, Stephen & Roberta (C-990)
Lilienthal, Lars & Erin (X-310)
Locke, Norman H. (N-260)
Lovejoy, Donald C (M-650)
Lovejoy, Donald C (Q-270)
Lyman, Timothy (D-710)
Mahon, Brian (R-390)
Mayotte Estate, Robin (V-180)
McCleery, James P & Lauren (V-940)
McDougall, John S (N-300)
McIntyre, William A (Y-270)
Mcphetres, Christopher J (A-490)
Miller, Brian & Myra (S-490)
Monaco, Joseph & Terri Sicilla (Q-887)
Morgan, Elisha R (M-340)
Morgan, Lori (Q-510)
Morine, Chrisopher (O-160)
Nemeth, Marc & Farrington, Erlina (Q-190)
O'Pray, J & K & N & M & E (G-460)
October Homes LLC (Q-881)
Olmstead, Holly & Posey, Bradley (D-250)
Perkins, Cheryl A (N-430)
Peters, Clayton & Pauline (J-560)
Politza, Stephen M (J-370)
Rhoades, Joyce H. (W-180)
Rickard, Wayne (Q-480)
Rippon, Hal (S-680)
Rogers, Paul M (B-105)
Rosengrant, Karl (E-530)
Rousseau, David L (X-380)
Russell, Jill (V-220)
Smart, David (O-220)
Southworth, Lisa & Gary (G-440)
Staples, Timothy & Roberta (B-470)
Stavaski, Kathleen M. (N-420)
Stickney, Gregory A (F-500)
Thunderbirch LLC (Q-260)
Tobin, Marilyn L. (Q-889)
Turner, Todd (E-640)
Twombly, Craig P (T-384)
Webster, Grayling & Felicia (F-440)
White, Gair (F-550)
White, Karen (Q-895)
Wilbur, David R (Q-450)
Wood, Michael (C-665)
216,458.59
285,857.68
(333,977.79)
(8,379.84)
7,994.34
167,952.98
258,105.61
(176,181.34)
(1,887.58)
6,702.11
254,691.78
97,484.99
11,420.53
Beginning Tax Balances 06/30/14
Delinquent Tax Warrant 11/2014
Collected 07/01/14-06/30/15
Credits/Abatements
Additional Warrant
Balance 06/30/15
Delinquent Tax Warrant 11/2015
Collected 07/01/15-01/25/16
Abatements/Credits
Adjustment
Balance Taxes Due 01/25/16
Interest/Penalties/Costs Collected FY2015 thru 01/25/16
Delinquent Sewer Charges
39
40
41
42
43
44
REPORT OF THE ROYALTON CEMETERY
COMMISSIONERS:
ROYALTON CEMETERY
COMMISSIONERS
Once again, basic maintenance was the guiding
word for all the cemeteries in Royalton. The town
maintained cemeteries were kept mowed, trimmed and
in good order under the direction of the three
commissioners. With limited funding this often is not
done as often as some families would like. We feel,
however, that our contractors, Dana Colson and S & S
Maintenance, do an excellent job and we appreciate
their devotion to these burial grounds.
Genealogists have been in frequent contact with
the Commissioners seeking information on their
ancestors and location of various graves. Much interest
was shown in the two small Perron lots and because of
the remote location of these lots people need to be taken
to them.
With the transfer to the town of the Branchview
Cemetery we have had to work with families indentifying
lots; some of which were located in areas that were not
properly identified on the various plot maps. This has led
to much confusion. Dennis Cilley and Boadway and
Cilley Funeral Home in Tunbridge has been incredibly
and willingly helpful whenever assistance is needed in
locating various cemetery lots and answering many
questions.
Discussions have been held with the Trustees of
the Havens Cemetery, located off Dairy Hill Road, to
transfer ownership of the cemetery to the town. This
cemetery has a small endowment which is not large
enough to properly maintain the cemetery so the
Cemetery Commissioners have asked the Selectboard
to increase the appropriation of the cemetery budget to
cover this increased cost.
We appreciate the American Legion for
recognizing all of our soldier patriots by placing flags on
the graves for Memorial Day. If you know of someone
who is not properly marked please let us know.
It would be appreciated if families removed old
and weathered artificial flowers and plants from their
family lots. These don’t winter over well and we find
pieces of them blowing around the cemeteries which
makes the cemetery look uncared for. If a family doesn’t
removed these older memorials we will have them
removed by the grounds keepers.
The Commissioners appreciate your comments.
The Commissioners wish to remind residents that lots
are available in the Howe-Hickey Cemetery on the North
Road, in the Pleasant Hill Cemetery near Royalton
village, in Riverview Cemetery overlooking the White
River and South Royalton village and in the Branchview
Cemetery located along Route 110. Contact
Commissioner, John Dumville for lot sales and cemetery
regulations.
Respectfully submitted by the Royalton Cemetery
Commissioners:John P. Dumville, Alison C. S.
Gravel and Wanda Knudson
JULY 1, 2014 - JUNE 30, 2015
TOWN FUNDED CEMETERIES:
North Royalton Cemeteries:
Mowing and clean-up
$ 3,862.50
Royalton Broad Brook:
Mowing and clean-up
$ 1,365.00
Howe-Hickey Cemetery:
Mowing and clean-up
$ 1,560.00
Metcalf Cemetery:
Mowing and clean-up
$ 320.00
Perrin Lot #1
Mowing
$
0.00
Perrin Lot #2
Mowing
$
0.00
Howard Lot
Mowing and clean-up
$
25.00
TOTAL FOR TOWN FUNDED CEMETERIES:
$ 7,132.50
TOWN CEMETERIES WITH ENDOWMENTS:
Riverview Cemetery:
Mowing and clean-up
$ 2,001.24
South Royalton Village Cemetery:
Mowing and clean-up
$ 3,230.00
Pleasant Hill Cemetery:
Mowing and clean-up
$ 1,655.00
Branch view Cemetery:
Mowing and clean-up
$ 3,536.04
Respectfully submitted by the Royalton Cemetery
Commissioners:
John P. Dumville, Alison C. S. Gravel and Wanda
Knudsen
45
6.
Planting of trees and shrubs is
prohibited. Present trees and shrubs will be
trimmed to the height of the surrounding stones
or removed if they become a nuisance.
7.
Keep in mind the appearance of the
cemetery and your neighbor when choosing a
memorial. Locate the memorial on your lot so
not to interfere with other stones and the
mowing of the grass. Memorial headstones
shall be erected on a permanent cement
foundation. A Cemetery Commissioner shall
be consulted prior to the placement of a
memorial.
Rules and Regulations for Cemeteries
owned by the Town of Royalton
1Prices:10' x 10' lot (2 graves):
$250.00
5' x 10' lot (1 grave):
$125.00
Recording fee for each deed:
$10.00 (subject to change by Town Clerk)
8.
When placing flowers and ornaments on
your lot, please keep in mind that the grass
must be mowed and trimmed. When flowers
and ornaments have served their purpose,
please dispose of them by removing them from
the Cemetery. Artificial flowers and ornaments
from the previous season shall be removed by
a family member prior to May 1 or will be
removed by the grounds keepers during spring
cleanup.
2.
At the time of the sale of a lot, the
purchaser shall list who has burial rights to the
lot. Over time families may not recall the
original intent of the person who purchased the
lot and this will save much confusion in the
future. The Cemetery Commissioners need to
keep up-to-date records for future generations.
9.
Cemetery Commissioners shall be
notified of any change a family plans for the
replacement or removal of a memorial. The
Commissioners need to keep up-to-date
records for future generations.
3.
Four stone or cement corner markers
are required in each lot and are to be placed at
ground level prior to the recording of any deed.
Royalton Cemetery Commissioners: John P.
Dumville, Ralph Eddy, Susan Hildebrandt,
June 1, 1996.
Vermont Statutes Annotated, Title 18, Chapter
121, Section 5378
4.
No fencing or above ground curbs shall
be installed.
5.
An outer burial container strong enough
to support the heft of the earth is required for
each burial.
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Royalton Planning Commission
2015 Summary
Royalton Recreation Commission Town Report 2015
This year has been a busy and successful year for
Royalton Recreation and K-6 Youth Sports programs.
This year Soccer had 50 – K-2 participants and 42 - 3/4
& 5/6 participants, Basketball had 32 - K-2 players and
41 - 3/4 & 5/6 players, Baseball – had 45 players and
Softball had 40 Girls participate this year. We have
continued to maintain & improve Carpenter Field &
organize Community Events.
The Royalton Planning Commission concluded
work on a revised Town Plan, which was approved by
voters at the March 2015 meeting. There were no Act
250 hearings requiring a position by the commission.
Various driveway access applications were considered
and approved.
The Commission spent time considering
challenges that face the town over the next 5 to 10
years. The possibility of a master plan for the village of
South Royalton was considered but tabled until 2016.
The Commission believes it important for the town to
raise its tax base, especially on the commercial side,
without burdening existing property owners with
increases, and hopes to work with other groups in
addressing this challenge.
The commission has also adopted a new
schedule for its regular meetings. It will meet on the
second Monday of every month, and in cases where
timely action is required, on the fourth Monday. Winterhours meetings begin at 6pm and summer-hours
meetings, during Daylight Savings Time, begin at 7pm.
Meetings have been held in the Academy building, but
will be transitioned to the New Town Hall in early 2016.
The public is encouraged to attend and participate in our
meetings. Inputs, ideas, suggestions, and even
concerns will be welcomed.
Submitted,
Tim Dreisbach
RPC Chairman
RRC was able to help purchase a 9 hole Disc Golf set
for the school & community to use. We have a few
projects left to finish at Carpenter Field, we are looking
into having a sign made and installed and we are also
looking for ways to be able to purchase a play structure
for the field. This year we also had Men’s & Women’s
League softball using Carpenter field during the summer.
RRC has continued to support the summer concert
series in July “Arts in the Park”, the fitness center at the
school, the ice skating rink on the green, the skate park
at Carpenter Field as well as Holiday Events.
Our Director, Kerri Rogers, organized a babysitting
course with 12 participants, free pancake breakfast &
Easter Egg Hunt. She helped insure participation in the
Memorial Day parade, the Bale Fest and 2 CPR
Courses. Thanks to Kerri’s efforts the Fall Festival with
Trunk or Treat was a huge success this year with 250300 people attending as well as the Craft Fair with
Santa. The Lego Club has continued to grow with 10-15
kids participating each month, this year they also had
entries at the Tunbridge Fair.
Flood Plain Board of Adjustment
The Flood Plain by-law was rewritten in 2007 and
prohibits any new commercial or residential development
in the area of special flood hazard (commonly known as
the 100 year flood zone) as well as prohibiting storage of
floatable materials in the floodway. Copies of the by-law
and Flood Plain Maps are available in the Town Office.
Remember before doing any construction or filling in or
near the flood plain, consult the Selectboard Office;
Rebecca Pfeiffer, National Flood Insurance Program
Community Assistant Coordinator for the State of
Vermont (802-338-4858), or Walter Hastings Royalton
Flood plain Administrator at (802) 763-2202.
Walter Hastings, Floodplain Administrator
With the support of many community volunteers and
budget money the RRC has continued to grow our
programs and we have been able to offer new programs
to the community. Thank you all for your continued
support of the Recreation Commission and our
programs. Our meetings are on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays
of the month at 7pm, community members are always
welcome to attend. We are always looking for volunteers
to help with programs/events, if you have an idea for a
future event or something new you would like to see in
the community, please let us know we welcome all
suggestions.
RRC would like to extend a huge Thank you to Bob
Bettis & Kevin Rogers for all their work on the Softball
Field at Carpenter. Thank you also to all of the members
of RRC Board for making our programs successful and
for volunteering your time.
Royalton Conservation Commission 2015
The conservation commission coordinated green-up day
on the town green. The commission is meeting more
regularly and welcomes new members. If you are a
Royalton resident and interested in joining, contact the
town office at 763-7967. Members of the Royalton
Conservation Commission are Joshua (Bushrod) Powers
Mike Bald, and Brad Salzmann.
Thank you all for your continued support of the
Recreation Commission and our programs.
-Vicki Braley Recreation Chairperson
49
Royalton Lovejoy Trust Fund for the “Worthy Poor”
o
In November of 1933, the Town of Royalton from the
estate of Evelyn Lovejoy received $6,561.49. The town
was instructed by the will to invest these funds and to
use half of the income to support the Royalton Memorial
Library. The other half of the income was “to be used for
the relief of the worthy poor in said Royalton who are not
supported by the town …but no person addicted to the
use of tobacco or alcoholic beverages shall receive any
benefit there from”.
For the town’s fiscal year of July 1, 2014 until June 30,
2015, no requests or funds were received or expensed.
A deposit of accrued interest throughout the year of
$0.77 leaves a balance as of December 31, 2015 of
$1,540.46 in the Royalton Lovejoy Trust checking
account. I continue to be honored to serve my town and
support its residents through this generous financial gift
from Evelyn Lovejoy.
Sandy Conrad
x
x
includes 464 books, DVDs, and audiobooks
borrowed via interlibrary loan – 73%
increase over FY 2015
o includes 1,123 e-books and audiobooks
borrowed via Listen Up Vermont – 24%
175 total library programs – 25% increase over FY
2014
2,669 total public attendance at library programs –
46% increase over FY 2014
Library summer reading program, June 24 – August
12, 2015:
x 11 total events – 22% increase over summer 2014
x 388 total summer reading program attendance –
63% increase over summer 2014
x 16,935 total summer reading minutes – 98%
increase over summer 2014
x summer reading program supporters and partners:
Sara Airoldi, Children’s Literacy Foundation (CLiF),
Elizabeth Ferry, Heartland Lions Club, Kate Lucia,
Emily Miller, Orange-Windsor Supervisory Union
One Planet Program, Rising Sun Lodge No. 7,
Royalton Police Department, South Royalton Fire
Department, South Royalton Market, South Royalton
Rescue Squad, South Royalton School, Janet
Schwarz, Sylvia Spain, William Spain, Alexis TaylorYoung, University of Vermont Microscopy Imaging
Center, Vermont Department of Libraries, Vermont
State Police, White River Partnership
P.O. Box 179
23 Alexander Place, 2nd floor
South Royalton, Vermont 05068
Telephone: (802) 763-7094
Email: librarian@royaltonlibrary.org
Website: www.royaltonlibrary.org
Other library programs and events:
x story times for toddlers and preschoolers: twice per
week with Paula Smith
x South Royalton Area Senior Center monthly library
book delivery and computer help desk: with Pam
Levasseur
x SoRo Fiber Crafters monthly craft sessions:
organized by Sarah Scully
x Exploration Station monthly science program for
young learners: led by Pam and Stuart Levasseur
x Library Book Club biweekly in fall 2014 and
winter/spring 2015: organized by Bonnie Kenyon,
Gisèle Mac Harg, and Theresa Manning
x Better Business Bureau presentation in September
2014: “Protect Yourself from Scams, Fraud and
Identity Theft”
x used children’s book giveaway at the South
Royalton Fall Festival in October 2014
x American Sign Language classes with Pam Frary
and Linda Haffner in fall 2014
x Russian Fairy Tales: bilingual programs with Yuliya
and Carrie Ballou in fall 2014 and winter 2015
x Bette Lambert author talk (A Farm Wife’s Journal) in
November 2014
x Joan Hoffmann lecture in December 2014: “The Art
of Wilderness”
x Spanish Time: Libros, Colores y Musica: bilingual
programs led by Francis Noel in winter 2015
The Royalton Memorial Library is operated by the
Royalton Memorial Library Association, a 501(c)(3)
nonprofit organization founded in 1917. The library is
governed by a five-member volunteer Board of Trustees
that includes two members elected by Royalton voters.
Library services and programs are free and open to the
public. For more information about the library and its
services, programs, and volunteer opportunities call
(802) 763-7094 or email librarian@royaltonlibrary.org.
Board of Trustees: Cyndy Gates, President; Cynthia
Dalrymple, Secretary; Bonnie Kenyon, Treasurer; Gisèle
Mac Harg; Theresa Manning
Staff: Greg Tisher, Director (full-time); Pam Levasseur,
Assistant Director (part-time); Emma Honigford, Sage
Lewis, Phoebe Roda, and Alexis Taylor-Young, Library
Assistants (part-time); Ray Ballou, IT (computer
consultant)
Fiscal year July 1, 2014 – June 30, 2015:
x 7,029 total visits by the public to the library – 9%
x 9,698 total items borrowed by patrons (circulation) –
12% increase over FY 2014
50
x
x
x
Introduction to Spanish: six classes taught by
Francis Noel in winter/spring 2015
Amy Belding Brown author talk (Flight of the
Sparrow) in April 2015
Safeline presentation in April 2015: “Do You Know
Who You Are Talking To: Keeping Kids Safe Online”
x
x
19 total library periodical subscriptions
free patron online access to borrow e-books and
electronic-format audiobooks via Listen Up Vermont
x
free patron interlibrary loan services, including
patron ability for online interlibrary loan requests via
Catamount Library Network
online library catalog – new since December 2014
free home book delivery, by need and request
printer, copier, and scanner available for public use
6 library laptop computers available for public use –
816 computer uses in FY 2015
password-free public wireless (Wi-Fi) internet access
– at least 455 Wi-Fi uses in FY 2015
free one-on-one computer tutoring appointments
available with Betty LaWhite
free reference librarian services and computer help
available in-person at the library, by phone, and via
email – at least 1,079 reference questions answered
in FY 2015
library available for community meetings (when
library is closed)
provide a safe space for reading, studying, tutoring,
and learning
library is not handicapped accessible
x
x
x
x
Community collaboration:
x Royalton Lego Club: organized and run by Theresa
Manning (Royalton Memorial Library) and Kerri
Rogers (Royalton Recreation Commission) since
winter 2015
x ValleyFEST: A Celebration of All Things Local (June
2015): organized and run by the Royalton Memorial
Library, the Royalton Recreation Commission,
Building A Local Economy (BALE), and the Royalton
Farmers Market
x SoRo Artwalks: organized and run by the Royalton
Memorial Library, Joan Hoffmann, Building A Local
Economy (BALE), South Royalton Market, RB’s
Delicatessen, Tatunka Tattoo, and Pamela
Goldsborough in fall 2014 and spring/summer 2015
x Vermont Reads community-wide book discussion of
Wonder by R.J. Palacio: in collaboration with David
DeSimone (South Royalton School) in October 2014
x
x
x
x
x
x
The library is proud to report a dramatic increase in use
and services. As a result we find it necessary to request
an appropriation increase of $2,000 over last year. This
will be used for library services and programs plus
increased postage costs in accessing interlibrary loans.
Art displays and other library exhibits:
x Izaak Gokey art exhibit in July 2014
x Irene Rippon art exhibit in August 2014
x Gisèle Mac Harg art exhibit in September 2014
x Sylvia and William Spain art exhibit in October 2014
x Maryann and Andy Davis art exhibit in November
2014
x Upper Valley Sierra Club wilderness photograph
exhibit in December 2014
x Jo Levasseur art exhibit in January 2015
x Katie Runde art exhibit in February 2015
x South Royalton School student art exhibit in March
2015
x Kit Farnsworth art exhibit in April 2015
x “Wagon Wheels Farm: Edward Hopper in Royalton”
exhibit in May 2015: Bonnie Tocher Clause, John
Dumville, and the Royalton Historical Society
x Virginia McShinsky poetry exhibit in June and July
2015
x Library services:
x 7,390 total library-owned books, DVDs, and
audiobooks available for patrons to borrow
Courtesy of So Ro School
51
Royalton Memorial Library Operating Statement FY 14/15
One Planet Summer Program REPORT FOR 2014-15
Summer 2015 proved to be yet another fantastic summer. South Royalton One Planet Summer Camp engaged 47 children in
grades K-6th with exciting theme-based projects for 6 weeks this summer. Projects included putting on a production of “The
Three Little Pigs” during “All the Summer’s a Stage”, creating windmills and solar ovens during “Green Energy & Green Living”,
raising $200 through a jump-rope-athon during “It Takes a Village”, teambuilding games and hiking during “Outdoor
Adventures”, nature projects during “Growing Up Wild”, and participating in fun, physical events during “Summer Olympics”.
Students also wrote about their adventures daily during Reading and Journaling, participated in 2 weeks of swimming lessons
at UVAC, went for a free swim weekly and attended several town-sponsored “Music on the Green” events. Lastly, the
counselors-in-training program provided 5 middle school students with leadership and decision-making skills. The staff saw
amazing growth among all our students...they observed the strengthening of friendships as students worked together to
accomplish a task, improvement in academic skills as students studied wind energy and increased physical abilities as students
practiced their crawl stroke. It was truly a great summer!
Town of South Royalton contribution of $6,000 supported the swim lessons and trips portion of our program:
Swim Lessons & Trips Summer 2015
Swim Lessons ($5.50 per day per student for 10 days)
Transportation (~$130 per day for 10 days)
Staffing (3.5hrs/day x 4 staff x 10days)
Swimming Field Trips Fees (4 trips)
Transportation (4 Trips)
Total
$
$
$
$
$
$
1,338.00
1,300.00
1978.00
700.00
711.00
6,027.00
We expect similar expenditures for Summer 2016, so the budget would be the same. I am planning to attend the Monday,
November 9th meeting to discuss the proposed budget. One Planet Director Carrie McDonnell 802-763-7775, ext 4
52
The Royalton Police Department currently consists of one full-time police chief, one full-time patrol officer, two
part-time patrol officers, and a part-time administrative assistant. RPD has continued an inter-municipal policing
agreement with the Town of Sharon. Patrols in Sharon average 16-20 hours per week. The number of calls for service
continue to increase each year. Officers are spending more time on criminal matters which take officers away from patrol
opportunities.
Vermont State Police transfer most of their calls to the RPD, making RPD the primary police agency for Royalton
and Sharon. All cases that are reported while a Royalton officer is on duty are handled by the police department. State
Police will still handle cases that are reported when there is not an officer on duty, or if it is a complex case that would
need extensive resources and investigation time.
VSP has been recommending that the Royalton Police Department continue to expand, as even with Royalton
officers on duty, it is still one of the Royalton Barracks’ busiest towns in their large coverage area.
RPD handled 601 law incidents, issued 156 traffic tickets and 126 written warnings in the town of Royalton in
2015. There were 29 adult criminal arrests.
Several hours have been spent by Royalton police working during the Governor’s Highway Safety Program.
These campaigns take place during high volume holidays and include DUI/seatbelt safety checkpoints and saturation
patrols, and have resulted in many DUI arrests.
In November, the Royalton Police Department moved into their newly built station located at 2460 VT Route 14 in
South Royalton, formerly the home of the Crawford Auto dealership. This new space provides police with necessary
secure evidence storage, interview room, and a booking room as well as larger office space for staff.
The Royalton Police Department received $11,250.00 in grant funding in 2015. Governor’s Highway Safety
Program awarded Royalton $5,000 toward highway safety equipment, used to purchase a dash camera video system for
the new cruiser and new flashlights. RPD was also awarded $2,500 grant funding for DUI enforcement, and $3,750 grant
funding toward State and Community Highway Safety enforcement.
The Royalton Police Department is one of many active local police agencies on Facebook with nearly 2,000
followers, and we encourage you to “like” us at www.facebook.com/royaltonpd or visit our department website at
www.royaltonpd.org.
Chief Robert Hull
Officer John Breault
Officer Gary Rogler
Administrative Assistant Gayla Tierney
Our Services Include
School Socials and Athletic
Functions Truancy and Juvenile
Issues
VIN Verifications for DMV
Registration
Motor Vehicle Crashes
Civil Process
Welfare Checks
911 Calls
Enforcement of Municipal
Ordinances
Enforcement of State Laws
Traffic Enforcement (Motor Vehicle
Laws, Parking, etc.)
Dog Complaints and Animal Abuse
Thefts, Burglaries, Vandalisms
Trespassing and Private Property
Issues
Disorderly Conduct/Noise
Complaints
Domestic Violence Complaints
Citizen’s Assist, Motorist’s Assist,
Vehicle Lock-Outs
Agency Assists (VT State Police, Fire
& Rescue, DCF, Probation/Parole)
53
If you witness anything that you feel should be reported, please try to get a good description of the incident
and the individual(s) involved. If possible, provide a license plate number and contact the Royalton Police at
763-7776 or our Dispatch (Vermont State Police) at 234-9933.
The police department was temporarily re-located to 192 Chelsea Street (accessible by North Windsor Street).
Chief Hull encourages walk-in’s to the office, and always has an open-door policy. Thank you for your
continued support throughout the past year and look forward to serving you.
Robert L. Hull
Chief of Police
Courtesy of the Royalton Police Department
54
911 Hang-up/Misdial
Abandoned Vehicle
Accident-Damage
Accident-Injury
Agency Assist
Alarm
Alcohol Offense
Animal Problem
Arrests on Warrant
Assault
ATV Incident
Background Check
Bad Checks
Burglary
Checkpoint
Citizen Assist
Citizen Dispute
Conditions of Release Violation
Court Time
Custodial Dispute
Dead Body
Death Notification
Directed Patrol/Details
Disorderly Conduct/Noise
Driving License Suspended
Drug Offense
DUI
Escort
Family Disturbances
Fingerprints
Foot Patrol
Found Property
Fraud
Intoxicated Person
Juvenile Problem
Littering
Lockout
Lost Property
Motor Vehicle Complaint
Parking Problem
2015 Law Incident Reports- Royalton
20
Public Speaking
2
Service of Restraining Order
Sex Offender Registry
24
Checks
5
Suicide Attempt
Suspicious
Person/Circumstance
52
8
Theft
2
Theft of Automobile
33
Threatening
7
Traffic Hazard
3
Training
3
Trespassing
10
Vandalism
1
VIN Inspection
2
Welfare Check
1
Weapons Offense
40
14
2
9
3
1
2
38
5
5
4
3
3
5
52
6
7
2
1
2
3
5
5
33
6
TOTAL
Criminal Arrests
Traffic Tickets
Written Warnings
55
3
7
4
2
26
21
2
6
10
8
5
4
62
9
3
601
29
156
126
SOUTH ROYALTON, VERMONT, 05068
763-8133
South Royalton Volunteer Fire Department Report for Year 2015
2015 was a busy year for the South Royalton Volunteer Fire Department we had 71 calls witch totaled in 730 man
hours. The break down as fallows,
Motor Vehicle accidents
27
Down Power Lines
2
Structure Fires in town
2
Structure Fires out of town Mutual Aid
3
Chimney Fires
2
Wildland Fires
4
Wildland Mutual Aid
2
Car Fires
7
Illegal Burns
3
Water Rescue
1
CO2 Calls
6
Medical Assistance
2
Fire Alarm Activation
8
Other Service Calls
3
The South Royalton Fire personal received over 80 hours of training in the areas of apparatus operations, air
pack training, rope and technical rescue, water rescue, hazmat and first aid. As we move into 2016 we see another busy
year ahead for the firemen and women on the department. We are looking to secure grants to help replace some out
dated bunker gear and help to replace our aging 1978 rescue utility truck. We will continue to train on new technical
rescue and try to get more fire fighters to the level 1 training. A reminder to keep smoke and CO2 detectors in good
working order and be safe. New Volunteers are always welcome we meet every 2 nd and 4th Thursday of every month at
the fire house at 7pm all are welcome to stop by.
Paul Brock South Royalton Fire Chief
South Royalton Rescue
2016
South Royalton Rescue responded to 323 calls in calendar year 2015. 184 in Royalton, 71 in Sharon, 25 in Tunbridge,
and the remainder being mutual aid calls to other towns. Our staff have worked diligently on continuing education striving
to provide the very best care.
Staff attended a training program allowing us to provide a falls prevention program called “Fallscape.” We feel this is a
very important way of assisting the public which we serve. Falls are a major contributor to hospitalizations, and a leading
cause of loss of independence. This program takes a very different approach to falls prevention than programs of the
past. This program is designed to assist individuals to manage their own risks. Unlike past programs that tell them what
they can or cannot do. I’m excited about this program for that reason. We want to help maintain independence, and the
ability for our citizens to remain in their own homes safely. Information booklets are available, and we welcome any
questions/inquiries.
We now provide installation and service for LifeLine. We are working with DHMC directly, but can service other systems
as well. Information packets are available for this, and inquiries are welcome.
56
We continue to work hard to improve our service, and financial stability. There have been many volunteer hours put in by
individuals from each of the three towns over the past couple of years that have been beneficial. We ended fiscal year
2015 with a balanced budget, ending a string of deficit years.
We are very grateful for all of the support we have received. The coin drop, and generous donations we receive allow us
to avoid adding to the tax burden. We are continuing to seek out options to generate revenue in the hope of being a more
self-sustaining business without the need of your tax money.
Thank you for your continued support of Rescue throughout the years. We are very grateful.
Respectfully,
David S. Palmer, NREMT-P
57
58
2015 Royalton Fire Warden Report
Vermont law states that a permit must be obtained (except when the ground is covered by snow) for all outside fires.
Permits can only be issued for burning grass, leaves, and natural, clean wood. It is illegal to burn all other solid waste. In
2003 the Town adopted an ordinance to regulate open burning and incineration of solid waste. Burning building
demolition requires a permit from the State Air Pollution office in Waterbury. The State office number is 1-888-520-4879. A
local permit is also needed
For a burn permit call Don Lovejoy at 763-7269 or cell phone 802-299-6708. You may also call key man Timothy Parker
II, cell phone: 802-356-2264. The fire dispatch center also tracks calls to prevent false alarms. After obtaining a local
permit please call dispatch before burning: 802-295-9425.
162 permits were issued last year and 2 wildland fires were reported. The largest fire was caused by improper disposal of
wood ashes. Statewide, it was a busy spring fire season which included a statewide burn in May, the first 10 years. For
the year, 120 fires burned, 397.2 acres up from 2014 where 58 fires burned 170.3 acres.
Don Lovejoy, Fire Warden
59
Royalton Town Band – 2015 Report
To review the last year in September 2015 we were saddened with the passing of our director, Richard Ellis. Mr. Ellis
brought music to our community, to students, both young and old. Mr. Ellis was a fabulous conductor and will be missed.
He was the Music Man of Vermont! The town band is exploring how we will carry on.
To sum up our year: In March 2015 we started rehearsals. Band members come from surrounding towns: Bethel,
Sharon, South Royalton, Tunbridge, Barre, Northfield and Hartford. We currently have 25-40 members at a
concert/performance. The first concert of the season was on June 11 and held on the green every Thursday evening thru
July. We also played one Thursday concert at the Royalton Congregational Church. In case of rain concerts were held at
the SR Middle School Gym.
Other appearances include concerts in Chelsea; Hancock; Rochester; Gifford Hospital and Woodstock Historical Society.
We also took part in the Randolph Fourth of July; South Royalton and Sharon Old Home Days parades.
In hopes to see you in 2016! Be sure to follow us on Facebook.
Carol A. Greene, Treasurer
Courtesy of Marti Lewis
South Royalton Area Senior Citizens Center
The South Royalton Area Senior Citizen Center (SRASCC) serves the towns of Bethel, Royalton, Sharon and
Strafford. Many times seniors from other towns will come to the center for meals and other activities, all are always
welcome. To qualify as a senior you must be 60 years old or older.
The Board of Directors is composed of three representatives from each of the four towns. Sue Pirie is the director
for both meal sites, one being in South Strafford at Barrett Hall, serving meals on Wednesday and the other in Royalton,
at the Royalton Academy building, serving meals on Tuesday and Thursday. We are very fortunate to have Linda
Ducharme (for Strafford) cook for many years and Mary Lamb (for Royalton) who has been with us for a few years. The
nutritional program provides one-third of the daily adult nutritional required. We served a total of 14,182 meals for the year
2014-2015. The food cost per meal was $2.00 total cost per meal $11.18
Each year fundraisers are held to help raise money for the services and trips. Fundraisers include raffles,
proceeds from the Thrift Shop and an annual craft sale held on the first Saturday of December, at the Royalton Academy
building in Royalton, Vermont.
A fund has been established to offer assistance to any senior who may have a need. The funding comes from the
Thrift Shops profits. Any senior needing assistance may contact Sue Pirie, the Senior Director, Karen Eddy, the Senior
Advisor, or one of your Senior Board Representatives with your request. Requests are reviewed in a confidential manner.
60
Services offered include home delivered meals, transportation to the meal site and blood pressure clinics, foot
clinics and flu shot clinic. A person is often available to help seniors with their taxes in April. Karen Eddy, the senior
adviser, is available to assist seniors with any problems that they may have. Karen has an office at the Royalton
Academy. Another service is the distribution of USDA commodities. Entertainment is offered during many of the meals.
Each year, about four different trips are offered to the seniors. Sue Pirie works very hard to make each trip a
memorable time.
South Royalton’s Senior Representatives are:
Robert Caron
Corinne Ingraham
Kay Ingraham
Submitted by,
SRASCC Board of Directors
Martha Fisk, President
Kay Ingraham, Vice President
Corrine Ingraham, Secretary
Susan Coburn, Treasurer
Capstone Community Action (formerly known as Central Vermont Community Action Council CVCAC)
Capstone Community Action respectfully requests a budget allocation of $400 from the citizens of Royalton to be
determined at the next Town Meeting. Our request remains the same as last year; we are not seeking an increase.
Capstone Community Action formerly known as Central Vermont Community Action Council helps Vermonters achieve
economic sufficiency with dignity through individual and family development. We work to alleviate the effects of poverty, help
people move out of poverty, and advocate for economic justice. Each year Community Action serves over 18,000
Vermonters, the majority of whom live in the 56 central Vermont communities that comprise our primary service area. Our
staff often works with a family in their most vulnerable moment to help them find stability, hope and relief. In recent years,
demand for fuel assistance, emergency food, and housing assistance have continued to grow. Hand-in-hand, we help
Vermonters develop the skills to tackle problems, identify goals, find the resources and take control of their futures. We
offer housing counseling, financial education, home weatherization, early childhood education, job skills training, business
counseling and more. Together, we create economic opportunities for all Vermonters.
Capstone thanks the residents of Royalton for their generous support this year!
Central Vermont Council on Aging
Report of Services to Royalton
Central Vermont Council on Aging is a private, nonprofit organization that is dedicated to the mission of supporting
elders and family caregivers in leading self-determined, healthy, interdependent, meaningful and dignified lives in their
homes and communities.
For more than 40 years, CVCOA has assisted older Vermonters aged 60 and up to remain independent for as long as
possible. We connect the elders in our communities to the network of benefit programs and services that they need to
thrive. All services are made available to our clients at no charge without regard to health, income or resources.
Some of the options we make available include:
x
x
x
x
x
x
Senior HelpLine – (800) 642-5119 – has the answers to hundreds of common questions from elders, families and
caregivers
Information & Assistance staff counsel elders and families on the many available benefit programs and services,
such as 3SquaresVT, seasonal fuel assistance, and more
Case Managers work with clients in their homes to assess needs and develop, implement and coordinate
individualized long-term care plans
Nutrition Services oversees the menu development for home-delivered and community meals and provides the
largest source of funding for the 14 meal sites that prepare and deliver these meals
State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) provides personalized Medicare counseling, group training, and
enrollment assistance for Medicare Part D plans
Family Caregiver Support promotes the well-being of the family members who help to make it possible for seniors
to remain in their home
In the past year, we have touched the lives of thousands of elders throughout Central Vermont, including 59 Royalton
families. Karen Eddy is the Case Manager dedicated to working directly with the seniors in Royalton and provided at least
145 hours of service directly with 25 seniors in the past year. In addition, our Senior HelpLine has responded to 23 calls
and 34 seniors received nutritional support through our wellness programs.
61
All of us at CVCOA extend our gratitude to the residents of Royalton for their ongoing commitment to the health,
independence, and dignity of those who have contributed to making the Central Vermont communities what they are
today.
Clara Martin Center
Clara Martin Center provides a multitude of services throughout greater Orange County to best meet the needs of
community members in a holistic approach. These include individual, couples, and group therapy and services for cooccurring mental health and substance abuse. We also offer psychiatric consultations and evaluations and medication
management services. Services are confidential and include:
¾ Hospital Diversion
¾ Outpatient Counseling
¾ Walk-in Clinic
¾ Psychiatric Services
¾ Vocational Services
¾ Short-term crisis intervention
¾ Alcohol and other drug treatment
¾ School and Home-based services
¾ Respite Care
¾ Education for families
¾ 24-hour emergency system
¾ Community resource assistance
Clara Martin Center is your local community mental health agency, providing behavioral health and substance abuse
services to the greater Orange County area for the last 50 years.
Clara Martin Center’s broad range of programs serve children, families, couples and individuals. Services are confidential
and include counseling, psychiatric services, consultations, short term crisis intervention, school and home-based
services, education for families related to emotional and behavioral challenges, community resource assistance, hospital
diversion, respite care, housing, vocational services, alcohol and other drug treatment, a walk-in clinic and 24 hour
emergency services.
With 50 years of experience and leadership under our belt, Clara Martin Center remains positioned to rise to meet the
needs and challenges of the communities we serve. Recent events in our communities have spotlighted opiate use,
where Clara Martin Center is at the forefront of this epidemic, providing help to those in the community dealing with this
problem. Anyone can get help through our Substance Abuse programming by simply walking through our doors, or calling
728-4466.
Prevention programming for at-risk teens through Clara Martin Center’s TAY (Transition Age Youth) puts clinicians out on
the street to engage and connect with youth in order to intervene and/or treat substance abuse and mental health issues
that impact their ability to thrive in the world. This program aims to reduce the risk factors for youth by helping them to
obtain and keep stable housing, jobs, and build skills to achieve long term success in their lives for themselves and
others.
For more information about Clara Martin Center services, visit our website at www.claramartin.org.
FY14 TOTAL SERVED AT CMC
TOTAL SERVED Town of Royalton
Children & Family Services
763
Children & Family Services
27
School Services
149
School Services
6
JOBS
64
JOBS
1
Adult Services
906
Adult Services
38
CSP Services*
168
CSP Services*
8
Supportive & Transitional Housing
55 Supportive & Transitional Housing 2
Substance Abuse Services
814
Substance Abuse Services
39
Corrections Services
162
Corrections Services
2
Emergency Contacts/Walk-in Clinic 615
Emergency Contacts/Walk-in Clinic 29
CRASH
354
Total Served - unduplicated
3353 Total seen:
123
CVSAS
734
CVSAS
1
Clara Martin Center is your local community mental health agency, providing behavioral health and
services to the greater Orange County area for the last 50 years.
In 2015, 123 Town of Royalton community members accessed Clara Martin Center services.
62
substance abuse
Clara Martin Center’s broad range of programs serve children, families, couples and individuals. Services are confidential
and include counseling, psychiatric services, consultations, short term crisis intervention, school and home-based
services, education for families related to emotional and behavioral challenges, community resource assistance, hospital
diversion, respite care, housing, vocational services, alcohol and other drug treatment, a walk-in clinic and 24 hour
emergency services.
With 50 years of experience and leadership under our belt, Clara Martin Center remains positioned to rise to meet the
needs and challenges of the communities we serve. Recent events in our communities have spotlighted opiate use,
where Clara Martin Center is at the forefront of this epidemic, providing help to those in the community dealing with this
problem. Anyone can get help through our Substance Abuse programming by simply walking through our doors, or calling
728-4466.
Prevention programming for at-risk teens through Clara Martin Center’s TAY (Transition Age Youth) puts clinicians out on
the street to engage and connect with youth in order to intervene and/or treat substance abuse and mental health issues
that impact their ability to thrive in the world. This program aims to reduce the risk factors for youth by helping them to
obtain and keep stable housing, jobs, and build skills to achieve long term success in their lives for themselves and
others.
For more information about Clara Martin Center services, visit our website at www.claramartin.org.
THE FAMILY PLACE
As one of 15 Parent Child Centers in Vermont, The Family Place supports families with young children through
comprehensive programs designed to strengthen positive relationships, teach essential skills, and promote enduring,
healthy growth for our families and our community.
Families come through the doors of The Family Place for many different reasons. Sometimes, it's to make
connections with other families through playgroups or events. Often, it's for assistance finding or paying for child care.
Sometimes, it's because a parent or other adult recognizes that a child is behind in meeting developmental milestones
or has special medical needs. Other times, parents engage with us for support in meeting education or employment
goals, or to enhance their parenting skills.
Our work helps children get off to a healthy start and promotes long-term family well-being. We provide “wrap around”
services – working with families to identify all the potential areas for support and assistance and connecting them with
the resources that are most appropriate for their needs, circumstances and goals. We focus on family strengths,
cultivating relationships with parents and building trust. We partner with local agencies and providers, working
together on behalf of families to coordinate services, facilitate clear communication and, ultimately, support families to
move in the direction of positive outcomes and growth.
The Family Place served more than 80 families/children from Royalton and South Royalton last year, through
both on-site and home-based services. Other residents took advantage of our special events, lending library,
website information, and referral services.
We could not do this vital work without the support of the Royalton community and our community partners. We have
seen the challenges facing families become increasingly complex. We are keenly aware of the importance of the early
childhood years and the challenges to healthy outcomes for the children in our community, including the growing
epidemic of substance abuse. While the necessity for family services continues to increase, The Family Place meets
that need by providing a family-friendly campus and experienced staff to welcome and assist adults and children alike.
The parenting skills that we teach help not only the current generation of young families and children, but will impact
generations to come.
We invite you to review the work and outcomes highlighted in our Annual Report which reflect our deeply-held belief
that it is an integrated, flexible, family-centered approach that makes a lasting difference for families. You can find this
report on our website.
For more information, please view our website at www.FamilyPlaceVT.org or call 649-3268.
Nancy Bloomfield
Executive Director
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Green Mountain Economic Development Corporation (GMEDC)
Green Mountain Economic Development Corporation (GMEDC) works in collaboration with 30 local
communities to offer support for new, growing and relocating businesses. GMEDC exists to support value-added
businesses with retention and expansion strategies, and regular visitations to targeted businesses in order to respond
to their needs. GMEDC facilitates manufacturing, technology and business forums that focus on the issues and
opportunities of the region’s businesses. It utilizes the resources within the Department of Economic Development
(DED) to assist with retention and expansion needs, providing rapid support to communities and businesses.
GMEDC, together with the assistance of DED, works to find appropriate sites for businesses to locate and
expand.
GMEDC assists businesses with financing, working collaboratively with the Vermont Economic Development
Authority (VEDA) and other entities such as USDA – Rural Development. GMEDC also manages revolving loan funds
to provide gap financing not met by private lenders and VEDA.
GMEDC works with DED to provide customized and confidential assistance to out-of-state companies that are
interested in expanding or relocating to Vermont. Large and small businesses alike receive individualized attention on
matters such as site location, finance options, training programs, tax incentives and more.
Together with DED, GMEDC works to facilitate the management of permit processes for value-added
businesses at the local, regional and state level.
GMEDC works with DED, Vermont Department of Labor, The Vermont Workforce Development Council and
other partners to assist value-added businesses and their employees with advancing their workforce training needs
through the Vermont Training Program, the Vermont Workforce Employment Training Fund and other state and
federal programs. In addition, GMEDC assists the Workforce Investment Board (WIB), a community collaborative
comprised of employers, educators, state agencies and other stakeholders, to advance workforce education and
training in the region.
GMEDC works collaboratively with the Regional Planning Commissions (RPCs) and with the municipalities to
advance appropriate land use, transportation and programs that focus upon maintaining healthy and vibrant
communities for Vermonters.
802-295-3710
35 Railroad Row Suite 101
Fax 802-295-3779
White River Junction Vermont 05001
Email: gmedc@gmedc.com
Health Care Rehabilitation Services of Southeastern Vermont (HCRS)
Narrative Report for FY15 for Town of Royalton
Health Care and Rehabilitation Services (HCRS) is a comprehensive community mental health provider serving
residents of Windsor and Windham counties. HCRS assists and advocates for individuals, families, and children who
are living with mental illness, developmental disabilities, and substance use disorders. HCRS provides these services
through outpatient mental health services, alcohol and drug treatment program, community rehabilitation and
treatment program, developmental services division, and alternatives and emergency services programs. During
FY15, HCRS provided 694 hours of services to 19 residents of the Town of Royalton. The services provided included
all of HCRS’ programs resulting in a wide array of supports for the residents of Royalton. Anyone with questions about
HCRS services should contact George Karabakakis, Chief Executive Officer, at (802) 886-4500.
HIV/HCV Resource Center Report for the Town of Royalton
Originally founded 26 years ago by volunteers as a support network for their friends who were sick and dying from
AIDS related illnesses, the HIV/HCV Resource Center is now a comprehensive AIDS Service Organization. Located
in Lebanon, NH, we offer case management for individuals living with HIV, free, confidential and anonymous Hepatitis
C and HIV testing, and prevention/education programs. All of our services are free of charge to residents of Windsor
and Orange counties in Vermont and Grafton and Sullivan counties in New Hampshire.
Because of the growing incidence of Hepatitis C in our area, we started a syringe exchange program in 2006. Located
at the Good Neighbor Health Clinic in White River Junction, our syringe exchange is much more than just a place to
exchange needles; it is often the first stop for individuals to get referrals for treatment and other medical and social
services. We are working to reduce needle sharing behavior by encouraging more people to join and use our
exchange, and offering education about viral transmission as well as free, anonymous and confidential HIV and HCV
testing. Through our collaborative relationships with other agencies, we help our clients to access services. Since
January 2013, we have dispensed over three hundred doses of naloxone, the overdose antidote, resulting in over 30
64
overdose reversals. We continue to promote syringe exchange as a way to help opioid dependent individuals access
the help that they need. We very much appreciate the continued support of the town of Royalton and welcome
questions and requests for information.
Laura Byrne, Executive Director (603-448-8887)
http://www.h2rc.org
Orange Country Parent Child Center
The Orange County Parent Child Center Inc. (OCPCC) is a non-profit organization serving Orange and northern
Windsor counties. Our mission is to help families with young children build a sense of place within their communities
by connecting them to education, support, advocacy and wellness opportunities. Since 1989, families and providers
have come to know us and access us as their primary community resource for any topic or need related to children
and families.OCPCC’s programs include: Children's Integrated Services Family Support and Family Support Nursing,
Welcome Baby visits, six free community playgroups, Kids Place supervised visitation and exchanges, Reach Up
case management, Families Learning Together program, Early Care & Education for children six weeks to six years,
kinship care support groups, and resource & referral services. You can learn more at www.orangecountypcc.org.
One of 15 parent child centers in Vermont, the Orange County Parent Child Center strengthens families with young
children and connects them to their communities. We accomplish this through home visiting, supervised visitation,
weekly playgroups, case management, onsite programming, and community outreach events. Some of our programs
serve all families while others require income eligibility or place an emphasis on pregnant and parenting teens and
families lacking support due to social isolation, poverty, insecure housing, or lack of other vital community resources.
OCPCC’s programs include: Children's Integrated Services Family Support and Family Support Nursing, Welcome
Baby visits, six free community playgroups, Kids Place supervised visitation and exchanges, Reach Up case
management, Families Learning Together program, Early Care & Education for children six weeks to six years, parent
education, kinship care support groups, and resource & referral services. You can learn more at
www.orangecountypcc.org.
Last year, with the continued support of your community, we were able to serve 15 families from Chelsea including 28
adults and 31 children.
Mary Ellen Otis
Executive Director
Safeline, Inc.
Linda Ingold, Executive Director
Safeline is a 501(c)(3) non-profit that provides free and confidential services to victims and survivors of domestic
violence, sexual assault and stalking in Orange County and northern Windsor County, Vermont.
During the fiscal year ending June 30, 2015, Safeline staff and volunteers provided approximately 3,284 services and
worked with 434 individuals throughout our service area. Of that number, approximately 124 services for 11 victims
identified themselves as residents of Royalton. It is likely that these statistics are understated, as victims often
choose not to give any identifying information out of fear for their own safety.
A trained advocate is always available to provide crisis support, safety planning, resources, information and referral
through Safeline’s 24/7 Hotline (1-800-639-7233). Survivors can also choose from a wide array of other free and
confidential services including legal advocacy, economic empowerment, financial management, and day shelter
services.
In addition to providing direct services, Safeline is a resource to the community and is committed to changing our
culture of violence. As part of this work, Safeline offers a full range of prevention education activities, media resources
and training curricula.
Stagecoach Transportation Services, Inc. 728-3773
Thank you for your past support of community transportation services. In the past year, Stagecoach’s Dial-A-Ride
System provided 964 trips for Royalton residents either by volunteer drivers or on wheelchair accessible vehicles.
Stagecoach’s Bus and Dial-a-Ride systems provided a total of 68,235 rides — 6,807 more rides than in the previous
year. All of Stagecoach’s transportation programs enable community members to maintain their independence, gain
and keep employment and access critical healthcare services.
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Dial-A-Ride System –Focuses on specialized populations including elders, persons with disabilities and low-income
families/individuals who are unable to access the bus system. In Royalton, Dial-A-Ride offers direct access from
home to: medical treatments, meal site/senior programs, adult day care services, pharmacies, food shopping,
social services, radiation & dialysis and substance abuse treatment.
Bus System – Promotes economic development, energy conservation, mobility independence and quality of life.
Royalton residents can access bus services to employment and shopping centers in White River Junction, and the
Hanover-Lebanon NH.
Volunteer Driver Program – Stagecoach uses an extensive network of Volunteer Drivers to provide coordinated and
caring rides throughout our rural service area. Volunteer Drivers are essential in providing cost effective and
community driven services, and are the foundation of our Dial-A-Ride Program. Volunteer Drivers connect friends,
support independence and promote healthy living.
If you are interested in becoming a Stagecoach Volunteer Driver, please contact our office.
Information-- Please feel free to contact us with questions or to request additional information on Stagecoach
services at 802-728-3773.
Vermont Adult Learning
Vermont Adult Learning programs are free and all are sponsored and funded in collaboration with the Vermont
Agency of Education. We develop individualized learning plans with every student for every program. We also
support degreed students to strengthen academic skills for college preparation.
As part of the statewide Learning Works network, Vermont Adult Learning is the leading provider of literacy, work
readiness and high school completion for people 16 years of age and over. In the last fiscal year VAL served 225
students in Windsor County with 38 graduating this year with their GED or diplomas from local high schools as part of
the Vermont Adult Diploma Program or through HSCP. Statewide over 4,000 Vermonters receive help each year
from Vermont Adult Learning and other Learning Works partners.
Vermont Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (VABVI)
Helen Keller, who helped found the Vermont Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (VABVI) in 1926, once
said, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” Throughout the years we have seen this to be true—
especially of our home state’s generous municipalities. Last year our local towns and cities provided us with over
$28,000 in support! These funds went directly to services for clients. As we enter our 90 th year, we hope town of
Royalton will continue to support VABVI so we can successfully carry out our mission of enabling Vermont individuals
who are blind and visually impaired to achieve and maintain independence.
For many Vermonters who are blind and visually impaired, our services mean the difference between social isolation
and being a vital part of the community; between students being sent out of state to residential schools and being able
to attend local schools; between seniors moving to expensive assisted living facilities and staying in the homes they
have created for themselves. With offices located in Brattleboro, Montpelier, South Burlington, and Rutland, VABVI
provides free services to our clients in each of the state’s 14 counties. We are the only private non-profit organization
in the state to provide comprehensive support and services to the growing population of blind and visually impaired
Vermonters.
In order to maximize efficiency, VABVI analyzes and tracks the number of clients we serve each year, which counties
they are from, and which counties gravitate towards which services. During Fiscal Year 2015, VABVI worked with
1,444 Vermonters – including 284 children – across Vermont. We provided services to 135 adult clients and 43
students from Windsor County. VABVI has also earned a reputation for managing our funding prudently and in a costeffective manner; over 90 cents of every dollar donated to VABVI is spent directly on services provided to clients.
Vermont Association of Conservation Districts
Northern Vermont RC&D has made the difficult decision to close its doors, after having continued to provide
important support to communities despite the termination of federal funding three years ago.
66
VACD is the membership association of Vermont’s fourteen Natural Resources Conservations Districts, whose
mission is to work with landowners and communities to protect natural resources and support the working landscape
throughout the state. VACD represents and supports its member Districts, and manages state-wide technical
programs. A number of Conservation District board members served on the RC&D board, and encouraged VACD to
take on the Dry Hydrant Program.
THE VERMONT CENTER FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING
Since 1979, The Vermont Center for Independent Living (VCIL) has been teaching people with significant
disabilities and the Deaf how to gain more control over their lives and how to access tools and services to live more
independently. VCIL employees conduct public education, outreach, individual advocacy and systems change
advocacy to help promote the full inclusion of people with disabilities into community life.
Preliminary numbers for our FY’15 (10/2014-9/2015) show VCIL responded to over 2,250 requests from individuals,
agencies and community groups for information, referral and assistance and program services for individuals living
with a disability. VCIL Peer Advocate Counselors (PACs) provided one-on-one peer counseling to 313 individuals to
help increase their independent living skills and 16 peers were served by the AgrAbility program. VCIL’s Home
Access Program (HAP) assisted 221 households with information on technical assistance and/or alternative funding
for modifications; 68 of these received financial assistance to make their bathrooms and/or entrances accessible. Our
Sue Williams Freedom Fund (SWFF) provided 103 individuals with information on assistive technology; 42 of these
individuals received funding to obtain adaptive equipment. 481 individuals had meals delivered through our Meals on
Wheels (MOW) program for individuals with disabilities under the age of 60.
VCIL’s central office is located in downtown Montpelier and we have five branch offices in Bennington, Chittenden,
Lamoille, Rutland and Windham Counties. Our Peer Advocate Counselors and services are available to people with
disabilities throughout Vermont.
During FY ’15, 4 residents of Royalton received services from the following programs: •Meals on Wheels (MOW)
(over $900.00 spent on meals for residents)•Sue Williams Freedom Fund (SWFF)•Information Referral and
Assistance (I,R&A)
VISITING NURSE & HOSPICE FOR VT AND NH
Home Health, Hospice and Maternal Child Health Services in Royalton, VT
The Visiting Nurse & Hospice for Vermont and New Hampshire (VNH) is a compassionate, non-profit healthcare
organization committed to providing the highest quality home health and hospice services to individuals and their
families. VNH provides care for people of all ages and at all stages in life, and delivers care to all, regardless of ability
to pay.
VNH services reduce costs associated with town programs for emergency response and elder care. With quality care
provided at home, there is less need for costly hospital and emergency room trips. And with VNH support, residents
can age in place rather than relocating to a state or local nursing home.
Between July 1, 2014 and June 30, 2015, VNH made 58 homecare visits to 1,658 Royalton residents. We provided
approximately $48,430 in unreimbursed – or charity – care to Royalton residents.
x Home Health Care: 869 home visits to 49 residents with short-term medical or physical needs.
x
Long-Term Care: 738 home visits to 5 residents with chronic medical problems who need extended care in
the home to avoid admission to a nursing home.
x
Hospice Services: 17 home visits to 3 residents who were in the final stages of their lives.
x
Maternal and Child Health Services: 34 home visits to 4 residents for well-baby, preventative and palliative
medical care.
Additionally, residents made visits to VNH wellness clinics at local senior and community centers throughout the year,
receiving low- and no-cost services including blood pressure screenings, foot care, cholesterol testing, and flu shots.
Royalton’s annual appropriation to the VNH helps to ensure that all have access to quality care when and where it is
needed most. On behalf of the people we serve, we thank you for your continued support.
Sincerely,
Jeanne McLaughlin, President & CEO (1-888-300-8853)
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White River Partnership 2015 Annual Report to Royalton
The White River Partnership (WRP) is a membership-based nonprofit organization formed in 1996 by a group of local
people who shared common concerns about the long-term health of the White River and its watershed. The WRP
envisions a White River watershed in which individuals and communities work together to make informed decisions that
protect and improve river stability, water quality, fish and wildlife habitat, flood resilience, and recreational river access.
Here are some highlights from our work in 2015:
x
With help from 650 volunteers, the WRP planted 5,300 native trees and shrubs along the White River and its
tributaries to improve water quality, habitat, and flood resilience.
x The WRP partnered with Verdana Ventures and the South Royalton School to deliver 9 Monitoring the White River
education programs designed to increase student awareness of watershed issues.
x WRP staff and trained volunteers completed the 15th year of our water quality monitoring program, testing three
parameters at 22 sites – including Mouth of First Branch-Royalton, Pinch Rock-Royalton, and Mouth of Second
Branch-Royalton – every two weeks from June through September. Results were shared via email and our website.
x The WRP partnered with the Source to Sea Cleanup and 60 South Royalton and Vermont Law School students and
community volunteers to remove over 1,000 pounds of man-made debris from the White River.
x The WRP is working with the Two Rivers-Ottauquechee Regional Commission, DuBois & King, and 7 towns along the
White River – including Royalton – to design public access improvements at Irene buyout properties.
For more information: White River Partnership PO Box 705 S. Royalton, VT 05068 (802) 763-7733
info@whiteriverpartnership.org www.whiteriverpartnership.org www.facebook.com/WhiteRiverPartnership
Windsor County Partners
Town Narrative – Royalton For July 1, 2014 - June 30, 2015
Studies show that children’s lives are vastly improved by consistent interaction with caring adult role models.
Unfortunately, modern day lifestyles often limit children’s’ interaction with adult mentors. Mentoring programs can
help: teaching children new skills, improving school performance, and reducing risky behaviors.
Windsor County Partners (WCP) provides mentoring across the county. WCP creates partnerships where
mentors are matched with a mentee (aged 8-17). These mentoring partnerships then meet 2 hours a week for at
least a year, with many partnerships continuing on for additional years. Last year, WCP served and supported 28
community-based partnerships from 9 of the towns in Windsor County, including 1 in Royalton. Collectively,
these partners spent over 2000 hours together. Mentored youth learn life skills, provide community service and
participate in cultural and athletic activities.
Let’s Do Lunch (LDL), our school-based program, currently serves youth ages 5-18 in the Springfield district, with
measures underway to expand to other districts. LDL mentors meet with students to do crafts and play games or
sports. In the most recent school year, 16 LDL partnerships spent more than 500 cumulative hours together.
To ensure the well-being of children and the success of mentoring matches, there are costs associated with
creating and supporting each match. Town funding is critical to helping WCP stay viable. For more information
on our mentorships, find us on Facebook, visit our website www.windsorcountypartners.org or contact us at
ProgramsWC@outlook.com 802-674-5101. WCP thanks the voters of Royalton for their support for the children
of Windsor County.
Jennifer Grant
Executive Director
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Windsor County Youth Services Annual Report FY’17
In 2015 alone, Windsor County Youth Services has provided shelter services to 163 Vermont teens for 3,529
shelter bed nights, and transitional living services to 8 young adults for 1,364 transitional living bed nights. Please see the
tables below for details.
Transitional Living Program
Teens
Girls
Boys
Totals:
3
5
8
Shelter Program
Girls
Boys
Totals:
Bed Nights
Teens
95
68
163
653
711
1364
Bed Nights
1,664
1,865
3529
Windsor County Youth Services offers a range of services for Vermont’s homeless and runaway teenagers.
Mountainside House and the House at Twenty Mile Stream offer short-term crisis stabilization and emergency shelter
for Vermont teens ages 13-18, and a transitional living program is offered at both residences for ages 17-22.
W.C.Y.S. is also very proud to provide a school program, licensed by the VT Department of Education, to all
residents.
Mountainside and the House at Twenty-Mile Stream continue to involve our boys and girls in community
projects such as the Ludlow Community Garden, the Vermont Sunshine Society, Black River Good Neighbors, The
Fletcher Memorial Library Annual Book Sale, and Green-up day in Ludlow, VT. Our residents enjoy the opportunity to
give back to our communities while learning important and valuable life skills.
Courtesy of So Ro School Winooski 2015
69
Annual Report
Of the
Royalton School District
Royalton, Vermont
Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2015
Table of Contents
Warning of Annual Meeting – 2016 ..................................................................................................................................................... 71
Minutes of the Annual School Meeting – 2015 .................................................................................................................................... 72
Principals Report ................................................................................................................................................................................... 74
Royalton School Directors Report ........................................................................................................................................................ 75
Royalton School District Roster 2015 – 2016 ...................................................................................................................................... 77
Enrollment Report ................................................................................................................................................................................ 78
Debt Service Report ............................................................................................................................................................................... 78
Audit Report ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 78
Royalton School District - Revenue Budget ......................................................................................................................................... 79
Royalton School District - Expenditure Budget .................................................................................................................................. 80
Comparative Data for Cost effectiveness ............................................................................................................................................. 90
Three Prior Year Comparisons ............................................................................................................................................................ 91
Superintendent’s Report ....................................................................................................................................................................... 92
White River Valley Supervisory Union Special Education Revenue Budget.................................................................................... 93
White River Valley Supervisory Union Special Education Expenditure Budget ............................................................................. 94
White River Valley Supervisory Union Revenue Budget ................................................................................................................... 95
White River Valley Supervisory Union Expenditure Budget............................................................................................................. 96
70
TOWN OF ROYALTON SCHOOL DISTRICT
WARNING OF ANNUAL MEETING
February 29, 2016
The legal voters of the Royalton Town School District are hereby WARNED AND NOTIFIED to meet in the
South Royalton School Gymnasium in South Royalton Village, on Monday, February 29, 2016 at 6:30 P.M.
Article I
To Elect by ballot the following School District officers:
A.
A Moderator for a term of one (1) year,
B.
Two School Directors, one for a term of three (3) years, one for a term of two (2) years.
Note: Voting on Article I will be by Australian ballot and the polls will be open from 8:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. on
Tuesday, March 1, 2016.
Article II
To Hear and Act upon the report of the School District Officers.
Article III
Shall the voters of the school district approve the school board to expend $6,145,145.00, which is the amount the
school board has determined to be necessary for the ensuing fiscal year? It is estimated that this proposed budget, if
approved, will result in education spending of $14,756.90 per equalized pupil. This projected spending per equalized
pupil is 1.79% higher than spending for the current year.
Article IV
To Act upon the following question: Shall the voters of the Royalton Town School District approve the transfer of a
sum
not to exceed $50,000 from any General Fund balance remaining from the 2015-2016 school year to the Building
Reserve Fund?
Article V
To Transact any other business proper to come before the meeting.
Date: January 19,2016
Royalton Board of School Directors:
Tim Murphy, Chairperson
Laurie Smith, Vice-Chairperson, Clerk
Christine Hudson, Member
Tom “Geo” Honigford, Member
Chris Mabey, Member
71
Town of Royalton
Annual School Meeting Minutes
March 2, 2015
South Royalton School Gymnasium
The townspeople of Royalton, prior to the start of their meeting, gave audience to Representative Sarah Buxton. She
gave a synopsis of what the education policy in Vermont is focused on. The House Education Bill, which proposed to
reorganize Vermont’s education districts into larger entities passed the House, but did not make it through the Senate.
Vermont Secretary of Education: Rebecca Holcombe reported that Vermonters have one of the fairest education
financing systems, but not “equity of opportunity from district to district.” Ongoing affordability and low declining
enrolment prompted creation of a new bill in her committee proposing: moratorium on unfunded mandates, elimination
of small school grants, 2% spending cap on school boards starting next year and for districts to regroup into larger
entities and share resources.
Floor: Eunice Gavin questioned availability of state school funding in light of Vermont’s serious deficit. Buxton noted
spending cuts and revenue increases would help. Plus, the education fund is set at a predictable rate which would not
likely be impacted by the state deficit.
Moderator David Ainsworth called school meeting to order at 7 p.m.
Article I: To elect by ballot the following School District officers:
A. A Moderator for a term of one (1) year.
B. Two School Directors, one for a term of three (3) years, one for a term of two (2) years.
Note: Voting on Article I will be by Australian ballot and the polls will be open from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday,
March 3, 2015.
Article II: To Hear and Act upon the report of the School District Officers.
Motion to accept was moved and seconded with no discussion, by polling those in favor and against by show of raised
cards. Motion carried.
Article III: To Vote a sum of money for the support of the school for the 2015-2016 school year.
School Director Tim Murphy introduced South Royalton School Superintendent: Bruce Labs, Business Manager:
Donna Benoit, Principal: Dean Stearns, School Directors: Christine Hudson, Chris Mabey, Tom “Geo” Honigford and
Laurie Smith.
School Director Murphy made the motion to approve the sum of $6,129,233 for the 2015/2016 school year. Motion
seconded.
Request for a PowerPoint Presentation by Directors Murphy and Smith. Director Smith announced new Director of
Guidance: Hanna Glass-McShinsky and Assistant Principal: Frank Romeo. School Board reported enrollment at 375
students including preschool. New England Association of Schools and Colleges has begun their reaccreditation
process using a testing system called STAR 360, which will allow teachers to best educate all students and “…zero in
on the exact level the students are performing at.” Director Smith noted that the board is there to set and monitor the
school’s vision, vote on and report budget to townspeople, hire superintendents, negotiate contracts and advocate on
behalf of school.
Director Honigford reported on the current events of the Royalton District, which is part of five other schools within the
union. Group purchasing, like fuel oil, bussing, office supplies, payment of invoices, oversight of the Special Education
department and grant writing, goes through the Supervisory Union. State law will mandate a ten- town merger of our
Orange-Windsor and the Windsor -Northwest Union in an attempt to increase access to high quality teachers,
curriculum expansion and advanced technology while reducing overall expenditures per pupil.
Director Smith noted the combination of school budget, student numbers, Common Level of Appraisal and a
legislature-based spending formula which accounts for schools statewide all contribute to Royalton’s property tax rate.
Over five years, average school spending was 2.6 % vs. 10.6% statewide. Board projects a base property tax
decrease from $1.49 to $1.41. Budget proposal of $6,129,233 is up 1.76% from last year. $4,584,311 would be
funded by property taxes. Difference would be paid by state and federal funds.
72
Floor: Lincoln Clark asked what do increased opportunities for high school students mean? Principal Stearns said the
goal is to increase classes and electives, along with modified blocks, without having to hire additional staff. This would
“…better prepare them for college and careers.”
Principal Stearns said the staff is also focusing on meeting needs of elementary and middle school students with the
understanding that the three schools within the school are currently driven by the middle and high school. Staff is
working to better address elementary school needs.
Floor: Sandra Conrad asked, “Why are we spending more money administratively, not programmatically?” Donna
Benoit confirmed Conrad’s figures were from a summary recap, which included a supervisory union assessment for
Special Education, business functions, services and a grant coordination handout at pre-town meeting which was
broken down differently.
Floor: Harry Dodge asked if money could be saved by having graduation in new gym vs. tent rental and was told the
new school sign was paid for through private donation.
Floor: Joshua Bushrod Powers asked about school capacity. Discussion referenced 575, but not to be used simply to
absorb other schools.
Floor: Eunice Gavin questioned the hiring of a new middle school teacher. Director Smith said one additional teacher
was hired to accommodate a large middle school.
Director Honigford explained to Nancy Wuttke that as the largest school, Royalton’s representation was now only at
20%. The current board would request proportional representation.
Moderator Ainsworth called for questions and polled audience. All in favor of voting sum of $6,129,233.00 for 15/16
school year? Motion carried.
Article IV: To Act upon the following question: Shall the voters of Royalton Town School District approve the
transfer of a sum not to exceed $50,000 from any General Fund balance remaining from the 2014-2015 school
year to the Building Reserve Fund? Motion moved and seconded. No discussion. All in favor and opposed signified
by raising cards. Motion carried.
Article V: To transact any other business proper to come before the meeting.
Sophomore class will be selling breakfast at Town Meeting and Girl Scouts will be selling cookies.
Moderator Ainsworth noted contested races on Tuesday’s ballot. For Treasurer: LuAnn Bingham vs. Ted DiCicco and
Kim Hebard vs. Tom “Geo” Honigford. Also, Allison Fulcher will run as write-in for Grand Juror and John Dumville for
Cemetery Commissioner. Second Constable is also open.
Kimberly Hebard stated she is a taxpaying parent with a fresh perspective who is willing to maintain control on costs
of education, while Honigford spoke to his experience as Vice President of the School Board Association, a key
component in supporting Royalton at a statewide level.
Moderator Ainsworth noted the two additional ballots to be voted on at Town Meeting on Tuesday, March 3. Article I:
Shall the charter of the Town of Royalton be amended to authorize the Selectboard to fill the office of Town Treasurer
by appointment for a term up of up to three years? And, Shall the Town of Royalton adopt the revised town plan?
All in favor of recessing were asked to stand up.
Townspeople in attendance: 116
Meeting adjourned at 8:15 p.m.
Respectfully submitted;
Karmen M. Bascom, Town Clerk
David M. Ainsworth, Town Moderator
Joshua Bushrod Powers, Justice of the Peace
73
2015 South Royalton School Principal’s Report
The 2015-2016 school year has been a time of change and growth for the staff and students. We have completed our
New England Association of Schools and Colleges accreditation process and are in the planning stages of hosting a
panel of educators from all over New England who will come and validate our findings. This is a very reflective
process for our school. Under the leadership of our Steering committee we have identified areas within our school
that need attention if we are to continue to grow. The staff has dedicated a large amount of time to this process. The
school has a roadmap to change and improvement that will guide us for the next five years and beyond. A few of the
findings are to build a communication system that includes community, parents, students and staff, to identify and
implement a system to continually evaluate and update curriculum, and to encourage and support a professional
learning community within the school.
For the first time we gave our students the Smarter Balance standardized test that are required to measure our
progress against the federal standards in the No Child Left Behind Act. Our results were mixed and gave us some
data to help us improve our already outstanding teaching practices. The biggest issues with this new test are the new
standards that came with it, and that it was a computer based test. The staff is working hard to bring our curriculum in
line with the new standards. The following table compares our scores with the State and Supervisory Union
averages.
English Language Arts
South Royalton Data
Orange Windsor
Data
Percent level 3 or
above
Statewide % Level 3 or
above
Grade
#students tested
Percent level 3 or
above
#students tested
3
20
45%
70
56%
52%
4
22
50%
78
46%
51%
5
24
8%
90
41%
57%
6
26
31%
83
45%
53%
7
23
35%
51
53%
55%
8
23
52%
67
51%
54%
11
37
57%
57
58%
58%
Mathematics
3
20
25%
70
47%
51%
4
22
27%
78
37%
45%
5
24
0%
89
38%
42%
6
26
12%
81
33%
37%
74
7
23
13%
51
41%
43%
8
23
35%
67
46%
40%
11
37
38%
57
37%
37%
This data identifies some low scores in individual grades; however, this is a small part of the data that we use to help
drive our curriculum. This data gives us one year of scores. Although there were some surprises in this data, there is
no data to compare it to. The next set of data will give us a better idea about how our students are doing and how our
teaching practices and curriculum align with the standards. As well, in the past year we began using a set of tests in
grades K-8 to track the progress of our students throughout the year. We are seeing progress in the learning of our
students as a result of this testing. Using this individual student data on a much more regular basis to adjust teaching,
curriculum, and educational support for individual students, we are seeing growth in the learning of our students
against those same standards the Smarter Balance exam uses.
The budget that the School Board is presenting this year continues to increase student offerings at all levels. Our
school is continuing to grow. Over the last two years there has been an eleven percent increase in students. There is
a need to add an elementary teacher due to two years of large Kindergarten classes that are moving up through the
system. There is an increase in the Art department that will allow for additional offerings at the High School, and
additional time for the Elementary School. This budget also reflects the addition of a Family Consumer Science
Position that will allow for the addition of a health curriculum at the Middle school level and some nutrition and cooking
courses at the High School level.
Our Middle and High School staff and students are working on a system to implement Personal Learning Plans and
Proficiency Based Graduation Standards that are mandated by the state. This has allowed us to take a hard look at
what we are teaching and learning, how we are teaching and learning it, and what a new system of graduation
requirements might look like. The future is bright for the children of our school. Change in education is on the
horizon, the South Royalton School is in a strong position for whatever changes the new Supervisory Union
configuration brings. Please don’t hesitate to stop in and visit your school, our contact me with any questions about
the South Royalton School.
Respectfully submitted,
Dean Stearns, Principal
Royalton School Directors Report 2015
In past years our report has alluded to the changing landscape of education in the state of Vermont; this year change
arrived, in the form of our Supervisory Union transition as well as in Act 46, the major education bill passed by the
Vermont legislature last spring.
At the S.U. level, we have spent the past twelve months working to integrate the Windsor Northwest S.U. districts of
Bethel, Granville, Hancock, Rochester and Stockbridge into our Supervisory Union. On July 1st of this year, the
OWSU and WNWSU schools will become part of a new entity, the White River Valley Supervisory Union. Our mission
is to use this transition to improve educational quality, opportunity, equity, and efficiency for all students. Our
Transition Board holds monthly meetings to design our new S.U., with subcommittees focusing on leadership and
governance, education delivery, technology, policy, and communications.
A key part of this process has been receiving input from our stakeholders and we are grateful to all who shared their
feedback through “We Surveys,” our EdTalk, and the Student Congress. The final piece of this work is our Strategic
Plan for the White River Valley Supervisory Union. Again relying on the pillars of quality, opportunity, equity, and
efficiency, this comprehensive document will provide the structure and expectations for creating a world class
education across all grade levels of our new S.U.
75
We have also spent a great deal of time focused on Act 46. The goals of the law are very similar to our hopes in the
S.U transition process and include:
x Providing substantial equity in the quality and variety of educational opportunities statewide
x Leading students to achieve or exceed the State’s Education Quality Standards
x Maximizing operational efficiencies
Act 46 mandates that schools work toward these goals by reorganizing the governance structure of schools and
forming larger districts. That does not necessarily mean closing schools, but it does mean that instead of each town in
the White River Valley S.U. functioning as a separate district, we need to consider forming districts that include
multiple schools. For example, one option would involve forming a single elementary district for our S.U., with our
elementary schools remaining the same but being governed by a single school board and a shared budget. Our S.U.
is very complex, which means there are an almost-endless number of ways we can re-structure our districts. The
Transition Board, which includes three representatives from each town in our new S.U., has been working to identify
and analyze our options and we look forward to sharing the possibilities with the community at our Annual Meeting.
Act 46 also includes tax incentives for schools that undertake change as well as financial penalties for schools that do
not comply with the law, although neither the incentives nor the penalties will have an impact on Royalton in the
coming year.
All these changes move us out of the comfort zone we’ve been accustomed to for a very long time. The urge to return
to what is known is powerful but the potential is exciting. At the Student Congress in September, our children told us
that they are eager for more hands-on, engaging, and real-life learning opportunities. They asked for new courses and
extra-curricular offerings and made it clear that they are not afraid of change. The world they inhabit is very different
from the one we grew up in; we, as adults, have the responsibility and privilege of navigating change to make sure our
students are prepared for their future.
What will remain the same is our commitment to our community and children. We are enormously proud of the hard
work done by students at South Royalton School every day and we’re deeply grateful for the wonderful staff that
supports and challenges our children throughout their education. We also appreciate the incredibly supportive
community and we look forward to hearing your input in the year ahead. As we begin the decision-making phase of
Act 46, we hope members of the community will consider sharing your questions and concerns at our meetings (held
at 6 p.m. on the 3rd Tuesday of every month in the school library).
We are honored to represent Royalton in this challenging landscape and we thank you for your support.
Respectfully,
Tim Murphy
Laurie Smith
Geo Honigford
Christine Hudson
Chris Mabey
Chair
Vice-Chair & Clerk
76
77
Enrollment Report 2014-2015
Debt Service Report
Principal Balance June 30, 2015
Audit Report
$ 2,710,000
The annual fiscal audit for FY 2015 is available at the town clerk's office or at the supervisory union central office.
Fund Balances
General Fund Balance 6/30/15
Building Reserve Balance 6/30/14
Food Service Program Fund Balance 6/30/14
$72,936
$177,614
$(17,413)
78
79
80
81
82
83
84
85
86
87
88
89
90
91
Superintendent’s Report
December 2015
It is once again an honor and a privilege to present this annual report to the residents of the five towns making up the
Orange Windsor Supervisory Union. As all of you are probably aware on July 1, 2016 we will incorporate with the
Windsor Northwest SU and become a new entity including all ten towns in the newly configured and named White
River Valley Supervisory Union. The new Supervisory Union will include the towns of Bethel, Chelsea, Granville,
Hancock, Rochester, Royalton, Sharon, Stockbridge, Strafford, and Tunbridge. We are currently engaged in a very
complex process of committee work and planning efforts that will begin to produce a new plan for all of our schools. It
will target improved student achievement through greater equity, efficiency and quality of education in the region we
serve. Our direction will put emphasis on academic rigor, relevance, and relationships within our system.
This change process has been overseen and orchestrated by a 26-member Transition Board that is composed of
school board members appointed by all of local boards to guide and direct our process. State law dictates the
configuration of the Transition Board representation. The Transition Board has appointed five committees to carry the
work and make recommendations to the Board. These committees include policy, educational delivery, leadership
and governance, communications and technology. Each committee is charged with doing the research necessary to
lay the foundation of the newly configured Supervisory Union. This process is very different for many of the board
members because they are working on broad educational improvement for all eight of the schools in the new SU. The
meetings of the five committees and the Transition Board can be characterized as having been very thoughtful and
respectful in their tone so far in the process. All members of committees and Transition Board have labored night after
night on behalf of the school district they represent to try to bring this new ten-town entity together.
Since last March when the Local School Boards voted unanimously to contract with the International Center for
Leadership in Education, we have been engaged in gathering information on our students and conducting meetings
and surveys to get a sense of the feelings, hopes and dreams for the future of education of children in the White River
Valley. We have talked to the Boards, teachers, administrators, students, and taxpayers. We are quite certain that this
type of plan has never been done here in our region, in the past. I know that schools have done strategic plans or
continuous improvement plans, but never has such a plan been done for our ten towns and eight schools. We have
heard overwhelmingly that parents want better quality education than they have now for their children from Pre-k
through 12th grade and they want this for all students. They want more choices and options in curriculum offerings,
and they want their children to generally have a richer and deeper educational experience throughout the region
compared to what they have now.
As I write this, we are in the late stages of creating a strategic plan that will chart a course for education for the future
for all schools in the new SU. This plan will be bold and will reflect what we have heard in the last six months since we
started to develop it. It will reflect and be targeted toward the outcome of enhanced student achievement for all of our
students. The plan will have a three to five year timeline and we will include in it the ways we are going to evaluate our
progress. The plan will be in draft form in late January 2016 and should be circulated and presented by each of the
Boards in late February or early March. We have collected an overwhelming amount of information as a result of
doing this exercise. The Boards felt that this study was an important first step in leading the change process to better
outcomes for our children.
Since March 2015 the Boards have been meeting and discussing the new reality of Act 46, which is a law passed in
the 2015 legislative session. This new legislative action is an attempt to bring quality, equity and efficiency to the
schools in Vermont. Each of the districts in the SU will be leading conversations about the expectations of the law and
its implications, before Town Meeting. This is truly a new direction for the state. There are many districts that are
working to merge together and become bigger Supervisory Unions statewide. The other part of the legislative energy
in 2015 was used to mandate an allowable growth provision for each district to try to control escalating educational
spending. It remains to be seen if this part of the new law continues this year or if it will be altered, in some way, in the
92
upcoming legislative session. The towns in the White River Valley SU are trying to live with, and prepare budgets for,
the reality of the growth provision as it was created by the legislature.
I want to thank all of the residents and taxpayers of the Orange Windsor SU for their combined support of the students
with our districts this year. I am very pleased to be a part of these communities and to serve its schools. Please feel
free to contact me at our new office located at 461 Waterman Road, Royalton if you have any questions or concerns. I
will, as always, try to earn your trust and support every day I am in this position. I assure you that I will never take that
trust for granted.
Respectfully Submitted,
Bruce C. Labs
Superintendent of School
Orange Windsor Supervisory Union
White River Valley Supervisory Union
Special Education
Revenue Budget FY 2016-2017
IDEA B Basic Flow Through
IDEA B Pre-School & PS portion of FlowThrough
Tuition and Excess Cost Revenue
IEP Medicaid
TOTAL SU SPECIAL ED REVENUES
$
$
$
$
$
330,000
160,000
3,000
25,000
518,000
$
$
$
$
$
350,000
50,000
30,000
430,000
BALANCE TO MEMBER TOWNS
TOTAL
$
$
5,862,944
6,380,944
$
$
4,995,369
5,425,369
Apportionment Calculation For
Member Towns FY2016-2017
Bethel Town School District
Chelsea Town School District
Granville Town School District
Hancock Town School District
Rochester Town School District
Royalton Town School District
Sharon Town School District
Strafford Town School District
Stockbridge Town School District
Tunbridge Town School District
EEE Allocation
$
71,237
$
42,414
$
7,173
$
11,207
$
27,645
$
82,748
$
64,879
$
46,025
$
25,653
$
42,621
K-12 Allocation
$
772,818
$
460,130
$
77,814
$
121,585
$
299,909
$
897,699
$
703,839
$
499,307
$
278,294
$
462,373
FY17 Assessment FY16 Assessment Change
$
844,055 $
1,055,539 $
(211,484)
$
502,544 $
577,068 $
(74,524)
$
84,987 $
102,876 $
(17,889)
$
132,792 $
271,062 $
(138,270)
$
327,554 $
411,310 $
(83,756)
$
980,448 $
1,048,967 $
(68,519)
$
768,718 $
829,746 $
(61,028)
$
545,332 $
587,108 $
(41,776)
$
303,946 $
346,723 $
(42,777)
$
504,993 $
632,545 $
(127,552)
$
$
$
421,601
93
4,573,768
4,995,369
$
5,862,944
$
(867,575)
Special Education
Expendtiture Budget FY2016-2017
Program Area
Direct Instruction - Essentual Early Ed
Teacher and Support Staff Salaries
Benefits (Taxes, Insurance & Professional Dev)
Contracted Services
Tuition
Mileage
Supplies/Equipment
Psychological Services
Dues & Fees
Other Support Services
Speech Pathology & Audiology
Salaries
Benefits
Occupational Therapy Services
Salaries
Benefits
Contracted Services
Total Essentual Early Ed
Direct Instruction K-12
Teacher/Support Staff Salaries/Summer/Substitutes
Contracted Serv
Phone/Postage/Travel
Tuition
Excess Cost
Supplies/Books & Periodicals
Travel
Software
Equipment
Psychological Services
Speech Pathology and Audiology
Salaries
Contracted Services
Travel
Supplies/Books & Periodicals/Dues
Occupational Therapy Services
Salaries
Contracted Services
Supplies/Books & Periodicals/Travel
Other Support Services
Instructional Staff Trainings
Administration
Salaries
Contracted Services
Legal
Repairs/Maintenance
Child Find Activities
Travel Reimbursement/Conference
Telephone/Postage
Supplies/Books & Periodicals/Equip/Dues
Transportation
TOTAL ALL SPECIAL EDUCATION
94
Combined
Budgets
2015-2016
Proposed
Budget
2016-2017
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
194,411
66,623
7,000
20,000
4,000
8,000
4,800
300
40,105
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
191,377
64,582
15,000
10,000
1,000
11,000
10,000
8,750
$
$
27,654
7,923
$
$
57,788
17,336
$
$
$
$
27,692
8,308
17,000
433,816
$
$
$
$
65,206
19,562
471,601
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
1,691,941
655,387
185,884
6,500
1,099,500
351,143
15,000
10,000
10,000
17,000
406,000
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
1,731,686
722,268
59,523
5,000
512,841
325,250
15,000
5,000
15,000
15,000
316,000
$
$
$
$
$
260,014
81,502
8,000
3,000
5,750
$
$
$
$
$
193,666
79,618
30,000
3,000
6,000
$
$
$
$
$
$
125,659
34,698
76,500
3,000
52,000
$
$
$
$
$
$
126,531
55,350
1,500
4,500
12,000
30,000
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
268,355
84,915
21,000
4,000
1,000
2,000
8,500
1,300
5,700
451,880
6,380,944
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
274,634
94,151
8,000
20,000
2,000
2,000
4,000
3,250
281,000
5,425,369
95
96
97
Report to the Town of Royalton
Fiscal Year 2015
The students, faculty, staff, and alumni of Vermont Law School (VLS) value our long-standing and deep relationship
with the town of Royalton. This brief report highlights some of the school’s contributions to the local community. It
includes the latest data available, primarily from the past fiscal year.
ABOUT VERMONT LAW SCHOOL
Taxes, Utilities, and Donations:
In FY15, VLS paid $96,873.21 in Royalton property taxes, $31,733.68 in public water/wastewater services, and
$37,936 to the Betterment Fund. The school also made a donation to the Royalton Fire Department in the amount of
$10,000, granted a VLS scholarship in the amount of $500 for a graduate of South Royalton High School, and
subsidized the Magic Mountain Childcare Center.
98
Employment:
Approximately 51 members of the VLS staff and faculty are currently full-time residents of Royalton, Sharon, Bethel,
Barnard, Tunbridge, or Strafford. Whenever possible, VLS employs local contractors for maintenance and
construction.
Housing:
Many students rent apartments or houses in South Royalton Village, and the school retains short- and long-term local
accommodations for visitors and adjunct faculty. In FY15 the VLS housing department listed approximately 250 units
available within the Town of Royalton. This provides additional income for property owners and contributes to property
taxes.
VERMONT LAW SCHOOL AND THE COMMUNITY
Legal Services:
VLS offers free legal services at the South Royalton Legal Clinic (SRLC) and the Environmental and Natural
Resources Law Clinic (ENRLC). The SRLC provides approximately $1.5 million in pro bono legal services every year
to Vermonters in need, and the ENRLC provides approximately $1.5 million in free environmental legal services. Both
clinics are housed in the Center for Legal Services located at 190 Chelsea Street.
Library Services:
In July 2015, the State of Vermont eliminated the law library program at the State Library in Montpelier. The budget
related closure not only impacts attorneys and other legal professionals, but also members of the public and selfrepresented litigants in Vermont. The Vermont Legislature approved a small grant to allow the VLS library to provide
legal reference services to the public. Planning and implementing happened relatively quickly, and the Julien and
Virginia Cornell Library now offers the following services:
VLS Ask a Law Librarian Line at 802-831-1313. This is a specially designated phone number for incoming
reference calls from the public. In addition, the library continues to receive inquiries via the
reference@vermontlaw.edu email.
A designated space for public use, which includes two Public Access Walk-In Westlaw computers and a
collection of self-help legal titles. The space is called the Community Legal Information Corner, or CLIC. CLIC
is located in the library lobby and is open during regular library hours—five days a week until midnight (Sunday–
Thursday), and Fridays and Saturdays until 10 p.m.
A part-time CLIC Coordinator who creates additional research guides, assists users with research materials,
coordinates statistics, and responds to incoming inmate letters requesting legal materials.
Involvement in Schools, Events, and Assistance Projects:
The Volunteer Income Tax Preparation Program at VLS, as coordinated by Capstone Community Action,
prepares income tax returns for qualifying tax clients (income under $53,000) for free. This past year, the
program ran from February 2015 through April 2015 and processed 80 returns. The services will be offered
again on campus from February 2016 through April 2016. For more information, please contact 802-831-1363.
The VLS Women’s Rugby Club hosted an all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast and fundraiser. The club raised
funds to send one female South Royalton High School student to a summer sports camp.
The VLS Student Community Outreach for Education (SCORE) group continued its mentoring program, VLS
Buddy, with the One Planet after-school program. They also partnered with the Journey Church, Red Door
Church, South Royalton Recreation Department, and other local business to host a Fall Festival.
VLS co-sponsored with the University of Vermont the “Scaling Up Restorative Justice: Paving the Way for a
Restorative State” conference.
The Hot Topics in Environmental Law Summer Lecture Series takes place every Tuesday and Thursday
throughout June and July, offering a noontime presentation by national and international leaders in the field of
environmental law. This series is free and open to the public—a brown-bag lunch is encouraged—and Vermont
practicing attorneys may receive one (1) Continuing Legal Education (CLE) credit per lecture.
The 18th Annual Thanksgiving Dinner was held at VLS. This year, more than 130 community members were
served in the Chase Community Center and approximately 205 meals were delivered. Other community events
included a celebration of Veterans Day, a program in observance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and a 5K run in
remembrance of Sept. 11, 2001.
VLS’s Women’s Law Group (WLG) and Law Students for Reproductive Justice (LSRJ) hosted “Take Back the
Night,” an annual event to give victims of sexual or domestic violence an opportunity to reclaim their voices.
99
The WLG sponsored a production of “The Vagina Monologues” to raise awareness of sexual violence and
empower women’s sexual autonomy. Also, the WLG annual auction served as a fundraiser to benefit Safeline,
Inc., a domestic violence network that serves towns in Orange County and Windsor County.
VLS’s Black Law Students Association (BLSA) collaborated with the South Royalton School to recognize Dr.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day with a performance of the “Story of Emmett Till.”
Fordham University law professor and former New York gubernatorial candidate Zephyr Teachout spoke at VLS
about political corruption in the United States. Her lecture was drawn from her recent book, “Corruption in
America” (Harvard University Press, 2014).
In the winter, VLS welcomed EarthRights International Director Katie Redford as the Sterry R. Waterman
lecturer. In the spring, VLS welcomed Columbia University School of Law Professor Michael Gerrard as the 11th
Annual Norman Williams Distinguished Lecturer in Land Use Planning and the Law.
In May 2015, Columbia University School of Law Professor Patricia Williams, nationally recognized for her public
interest work, delivered the law school’s 40th Commencement address.
All of the events listed above were free and open to the public.
Community Service and Wellness:
Vermont Law School’s fitness center is open to local residents for a fee. VLS students and staff actively promote
community and personal safety, and some serve as volunteers on the South Royalton Fire & Rescue Squad. The
school has organized and trained dozens of students, staff, and faculty in emergency preparedness and first
response. VLS helped sponsor three American Red Cross blood drives on campus and hosted fundraisers to support
local nonprofits working to combat violence in the community. VLS students and staff are members of the Lion’s Club,
which supports many community activities. Vermont Law School also rents space to Royalton Community Radio, a
community-based radio station with a wide variety of programming. This year’s community service project for first-year
law students included assembling more than 500 bags of personal care items donated to Have Justice Will Travel,
Safeline Inc., and Women’s Information Service (WISE).
Access to Organized Sports:
VLS students participate in a variety of organized club sports—men’s and women’s rugby, men’s and women’s
basketball, men’s summer softball, co-ed ice hockey, and Ultimate Frisbee.
A Clean Environment:
VLS is dedicated to furthering environmentally sustainable practices and policies on campus and throughout the
community:
We currently have four electric vehicle charging stations, which are available for community use.
The school built a campus composting system to recycle food scraps and landscaping debris, which were
previously disposed of at the Bethel/Royalton Transfer Station.
VLS maintains the emergency road to the dry hydrants for the town.
VLS is committed to working with the White River Partnership to preserve the beauty of the White River.
Local Commerce:
We are proud that the school supports local restaurants and stores. Owners of these facilities have reported that 2080 percent of their business comes from the law school community.
VLS regularly purchases supplies from many local sources, including but not limited to Black River Produce, Blythdale
Farms, Blue Ledge Farm, Cabot Creamery, Champlain Orchards, Grafton Cheese, Green Mountain Blue
Cheese, Hurricane Flats, King Arthur Flour, Long Wind Farms, Luna Bleu Farm, Maple Meadow Farm, Maple Brook
Farm, McKenzie Meats & Cheeses, North Country Smoke House, South Royalton Market, Strafford Organic
Creamery, Vermont Fresh Pasta, Vermont Smoke & Cure, Vermont Butter & Cheese, Vermont Bean Crafters, and
Vermont Soy.
Barrister’s Bookshop, located on the corner of Chelsea Street and North Windsor Street, is open to the public. The
United States Post Office is in a far better position to remain open than other neighboring towns because of VLS.
Lake Sunapee is the bank of choice for many employees and students, and more than 20 active student group
accounts reside with Lake Sunapee Bank.
-
100
RABIES CLINIC
Date: Tuesday, March 29, 2016
Time: 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM
Where: Royalton Academy Building
Cost: $15.00
For healthy dogs and cats
that are 4 months or older
Services Provided by Country Animal Hospital
LICENSING CLINIC
Licensing also available to all Royalton dogs aged 6 months or older. Please
license your dogs on or before April 1st to avoid late fees.
A current rabies certificate is required.
Fees:
Male/Female
Neutered/Spayed
$11.00
Male/Female
Not Neutered/Not Spayed
$15.00
Service provided by Royalton Town Clerk.
PRST STD
US POSTAGE
PAID
WHT RIV JCT VT
7,940;

2014-2015 Royalton Town Report

Transcription

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