Legal Updates

Vermont Supreme Court Sends Subdivision Case Back to Environmental Division

The Environmental Court, in this nuanced holding, has to determine whether the applicant in fact has a right-of-way over a private road to access their proposed subdivision. We don’t think this decision alters the zoning landscape for municipalities. Appropriate municipal panels were always required to determine whether an application for subdivision without frontage has a “permanent easement or right-of-way.” Now it is clear that a minimal threshold showing will not suffice.

Model Rules of Procedure for Municipal Public Bodies

Adopting rules of procedure is considered best practice for managing meetings and safeguarding rights. We highly recommend public bodies adopt rules of procedure to help balance their need to get work done with the public’s right of participation.

Risk Management

Updated Commercial Motor Vehicle Operations Manual

This important resource for municipalities with employees who operate commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) – vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating of 10,001 pounds or more, such as dump trucks and garbage/recycling vehicles – has been updated and transferred to an easy-to-use format to view online or print as needed. All sections have been reviewed and revised to reflect current legal requirements and best practices.

Cyber Crime Alert: Funds Transfer Fraud

PACIF has seen an increase in the number of funds transfer fraud claims among members of all sizes. This guidance explains what a funds transfer claim is and outlines basic prevention measures that members can use to avoid falling victim to these schemes.

Workers' Compensation Audits Due by April 30

If you have not done so already, please collect the required documents. An email was sent with instructions on March 25 from Notifications@OrigamiRisk.com.

Golf with Your Municipal Colleagues on June 13

Snow was recently on the ground, and in some places still is, but we're looking ahead to summer. Register to golf with VLCT on Friday, June 13 in Killington. Help us raise money for the municipal service scholarship, win great prizes, and chat with colleagues at the Local Officials Golf Outing.

Featured Resources & Opportunities

Hiring Lifeguards (or Day Camp Staff) for Summer Recreation Programs

Are you hiring lifeguards or day came staff this summer? These two new resources provide recruitment ideas, bonus programs, a guide to onboarding, team building tactics, and more to help you hire and retain summer staff successfully.

Funding Opportunities for Highway Garages and Public Works Buildings

Municipalities are modernizing public works buildings to improve operations and efficiency and meet equipment space needs. These are funding opportunities we have identified to support your efforts.

ICYMI: Latest News

Get Faster FEMA Reimbursement

Take these steps to accelerate receiving your payment.

Meet Phil Latvis, VLCT's New RMS Director

We're excited for Phil to join VLCT and begin to meet members on April 21.

Don't Miss the Advocacy Chats

These chats with Josh and Samantha keep you in the know about legislative happenings.

Undivided Attention, on Your Schedule

Meet with Muni Ops Specialist Kathleen Ramsay to discuss challenges or brainstorm ideas.

Open Meeting Law Testimony to Gov Ops

VLCT's latest input regarding changes to S.59 to enable compliance and ensure consistency.

Submit Your Nomination for the PACIF Board

Prospective candidates for the alternate position should apply by May 9.

How Budget Equity Tools Advance Favorable Outcomes for All Residents

The budget is often described as a reflection of the municipality’s priorities. Incorporating a budget equity tool ensures intentional scrutiny of how budget decisions impact different populations.

Member Showcase: The first class of municipal officials has graduated from UVM's Vermont Local Government Institute. This program helps new and mid-career municipal managers, assistant managers, and department supervisors gain the essential skills to lead their teams and support their communities. Congratulations to everyone who participated!

Store

Money Matters: Investing and Put the FUN in Fund Balance Now Available

The first two sessions from the Money Matters series are now available to watch on demand. Check them out today!

Buy Now for $0.00

About VLCT Journal

Find all issues of the VLCT Journal at vlct.org/journal.

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