Safety with Election Mail, Hazard Mitigation and Other Grants, Outdoor Rec Survey, MRGP and ARPA Reporting, and more

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What's on Legislative Committees' Plates This Week?

See what Vermont's legislative committees planned to work on this week as of yesterday morning. For the very latest information, use the links at the top of the page.

HazMat-Savvy Election Mail Handling Procedures

This three-page PDF from the U.S. government will help election officials prepare to handle mail safely, identify suspicious mail, and respond to potential hazardous materials exposure from handling mail.

Leadership Academy for Local Highway Departments

Vermont Local Roads is offering a comprehensive year-long program – in eight full-day modules – for current and future leaders of municipal transportation agencies. Apply by 3/4.

Trails Messaging for Solar Eclipse Planning

Our newest Eclipse FAQ has language from the Green Mountain Club that you can use to gracefully discourage viewing the eclipse from backcountry trails.

ARPA Reporting is Just Around the Corner!

Schedule time now for your required April 2024 ARPA Reporting.

Latest Resources for New UI-Required Employers

Municipal employers (and other non-profits) with fewer than four employees must start providing unemployment insurance on 7/1 – and will be wise to check the Vermont Department of Labor’s new resources & guidance now!

$69 Million Available Through Hazard Mitigation Grants

A simplified application process and technical assistance will be provided to eligible applicants seeking to reduce the future risk of flooding, landslides, or other natural hazards for your community.

The Latest VLCT News

Legal Lunch Hour

Wed 2/28, 3/27, 12 PM – 1 PM

Our Municipal Assistance Center attorneys will answer attendees’ questions related to the lead-up to Town Meeting and whatever else is on attendees' minds. Bring your lunch and your questions!

Eclipse Planning Check-In

Thu 3/7, 3/21, and 4/4, 10 AM – 11 AM

On 4/8, a total solar eclipse will traverse much of the northern half of Vermont. Consider how your municipality can prepare for and benefit from the likely influx of out-of-state visitors.

Advocacy Chat

Mon 3/11 and 3/25, 11 AM – 12 PM

Join Josh Hanford, Ted Brady, and your interested counterparts in our biweekly discussions of current issues in the Vermont General Assembly.

Flood Recovery Check-In

Tue 3/19 and 4/16, 1 PM – 2 PM

This free series supports municipal officials still dealing with the effects of 2023's major flood events. Each features a special topic and Q&A. Signing up once admits you to the full series, and everyone can view past recordings and resources.

Selectboard Essentials: Your Building Blocks for Success

Sat 3/23, 9 AM – 2:30 PM

Lake Morey Resort, Fairlee – In Person!

New and returning governing board members will learn key foundational information about selectboard responsibilities, network with counterparts from around the state, meet VLCT MAC staff, and hear about VLCT’s legislative advocacy and risk management programs.

Grant Basics: Before the Grant

Tue 4/9, 10 AM – 12 PM

Learn about the forethought and planning that can make all the difference before applying for a grant. Successful projects are built on the pillars of strong leadership, communication, organization, coordination, and partnership.

Upcoming VLCT Events

FEATURED CLASSIFIEDS

Highway & Grounds Crew Member

Brandon

Town Administrator

Waitsfield

RFP: Capacity Study

Thetford

Tamarack and Pretrial Services Coordinator

Burlington

RFP: Feasibility Study of Former Village School

Castleton

Planning Director and and Zoning Administrator

Norwich

All VLCT Classifieds

OTHER NEWS & EVENTS

MRGP Administrative Requirements Training from VLR

Vermont Local Roads is hosting webinars on 2/29 and 3/12, 9-10 AM, to help prepare the Municipal Roads General Permit (MRGP) annual reports that are due with the annual fees on 4/1.

Need Playground Maintenance Training for Parks & Rec Staff?

Parks and recreation (or other appropriate) staff can register by 3/8 for a two-day training in playground maintenance and inspection in Burlington on 4/10-4/11. Completion gets them a certificate and CEU credits from a well regarded national program.

Please Help Distribute Statewide Outdoor Recreation Survey

Municipalities can download the new PDF that is attached to our webpage and use it to encourage your residents to take the survey before 3/31.

Submit Your Project Proposal for AIAVT's Hardy by Design Charrette

Your resilience project could receive an afternoon of pro bono design services! Apply by 3/15.

New Grant for Land Acquisition and Conservation

Projects may protect or improve water quality and aquatic habitat, mitigate the adverse effects of climate change, or provide climate resiliency. Apply by 5/1.