Bennington, Vermont Development News

Shapsbury Select Board Approves Paving Project, Sets Tax Rate, and Discusses Financial Matters

The Shapsbury Select Board reviewed the warrant for July 20th, 2026, totaling $97,759.53. Several line items were discussed, including an accessibility system inspection, a DPW grant for BCRC work, a monthly contract with the Bennington County Sheriff's Department, and various utility bills. Notably, a Consolidated Communications bill included an overcharge of $248 for a previous address, which will be credited back. The board also approved a bid from Springfield Paving for the East Road paving project for $222,491.70, funded by a paving grant and matching funds from the recreation committee's budget. The treasure's report highlighted a temporary cash flow problem due to the upcoming fire truck delivery and the need to set the tax rate to alleviate this. The new tax rate was set at 39.865, a significant decrease from the previous year, attributed to a reappraisal that increased the grand list value. The board also approved a community appropriation of $5,000 for DNA Hospice, which had been mistakenly omitted from the ballot but consistently approved in previous years. The DPW foreman will work on implementing merit-based raises for the DPW crew, aligning with a town-wide initiative to establish performance reviews and job delineations.