Snowy forest trees with the sun peeking through

This month may be cold and dark, but it's also the time when we look forward to what we want to accomplish in the year. In this issue of the VLCT Journal, we point you to several funding opportunities, encourage you to engage with our advocacy team, and thank you for renewing your PACIF coverage.


Follow our Facebook page for more news, updates, and announcements: facebook.com/VTLeague.

Thank You For Renewing


Every PACIF member renewed their coverage for 2025. Your commitment to the coverages, programs, and services is remarkable. Thank you for your support. 


See the updates.

ICYMI: FEATURED NEWS

Dog License Fees Increased 1/1

Clerks now collect $11 for neutered/spayed dogs or $15 for intact dogs.

Municipal Planning Grants Open 1/27

These grants help municipalities adapt to change and prepare for the future.

New Ethics & Conflicts of Interest Resources

This updated information reflects changes from Act 171 that took effect on 6/10/24.

Funding for Trails, Paths, and Sidewalks

Explore resources for these community features that take us where we need to go.

VLCT Wrapped 2024

Take a look at VLCT's wrapped – aka year in review – video.

Help Protect Federal Infrastructure Funding

Register your project to provide data for upcoming federal testimony.

Visit the News Feed

Town Meeting FAQs, Checklists, and Guidance


The Municipal Assistance Center has been answering many members' calls about Town Meeting. Make sure to ask your questions as early as possible. More importantly, don't forget to read through the Town Meeting webpage and take a look at the guidance resources. From Australian Ballot, to FAQs, and more – it's all available 24/7 on vlct.org/TownMeeting. Take a look at the tips.

FEATURED RESOURCES & ARTICLES

The Legislature is in Session!


The much anticipated legislative session began earlier this month. Josh and Samantha have already been busy advocating for municipal interests. Make sure to read Monday's Weekly Legislative Report and tune in on January 27 for the first Advocacy Chat of the session. As always, contact advocacy@vlct.org with any questions, concerns, or comments about proposed legislation, and make sure to write your legislators.


See more from VLCT Advocacy.

Can Plow Trucks Turn Around on Private Property?


“It depends” is a phrase that lawyers are notorious for saying, but not without good reason. The answer to a legal question can vary significantly based on its facts and circumstances. In this article you'll learn the background legal principles necessary to help you have a more informed conversation with your town attorney. In the end, if it’s worth it to the town to keep using the turnaround, then it’s probably worth talking about with your town attorney.  



Learn the principles.

Ten Principles for Leading in Turbulence from ICMA


Leading during rocky times doesn't come naturally to many. To step up as a leader and exert positive influence regardless of your position, you must slow down, take a deep breath, reflect, and “lead yourself.” Amid uncertainty and turbulence, we need our best leaders. However, the tendency for leaders is to hunker down and “hide out in their offices.” To fulfill your leadership role and responsibility, you must be courageous. These 10 tips can help. 


Discover the strategies.

Three Recent Vermont Supreme Court Zoning Decisions


The Vermont Supreme Court has recently issued three rulings on land use related cases that reaffirm our understanding of best practices to ensure enforceable local permitting decisions. Read the short summaries in this article to learn the key takeaways from the decisions.


Read the recent rulings.

Triangle collage of safety photos of police harnesses equipment and ergonomic gear

PACIF Grants for 2025


The 2025 PACIF Grants (and Scholarships) are now open and taking applications. Grants reimburse PACIF members for a portion of pre-approved purchases, and applications are accepted until funds run out or October 31, whichever comes first. Don't miss out on this significant member benefit! Find the best deals.

Pop Quiz and VLCT logo.

POP Quiz

Take the quiz then scroll below for answers!

PACIF Grants reimburse up to 50%.
True
False

NLC: Local Infrastructure Hub


NLC's Local Infrastructure Hub is a national program designed to connect cities and towns with the resources and expert advice they need to access federal infrastructure funding in order to drive local progress, improve communities, and deliver results for residents.


The hub includes information on bootcamps and trainings, provides resources, and allows users to explore nearly 400 grant opportunities.


Learn more.

Browse the Latest Resources

On Demand Trainings from VLCT – FREE in 2025


A number of VLCT trainings held recently – in addition to pre-recorded trainings on key topics including Open Meeting Law, the Public Records Act, and conflicts of interest – are now available in our store to watch whenever you find time. And best of all, they're FREE for all of 2025. On demand trainings include the recorded session as well as the presenter's slide deck, any additional handouts, and often a written Q&A. See what is available now.   

FEATURED UPCOMING EVENTS

Advocacy Chat



Monday, January 27

1 PM – 2 PM

Join Josh Hanford, Samantha Sheehan, and your colleagues to discuss the issues being considered by legislators and how proposed legislation could affect local government. Register.

Town Meeting Tune-Up (Hybrid)


Wednesday, January 29

9 AM – 12 PM

This training is for town moderators who will conduct a traditional annual meeting “from the floor.” Other officials who will assist their moderator are also welcome to attend.

Register.

Grant Basics: Funders' Advice for Success


Tuesday, February 4

10 AM – 11:30 AM

Join VLCT for a Q&A with reps from granting organizations who will share insights and best practices for making your project and application more competitive for funding. Register.

Build a Better Project: Team Building


Tuesday, February 11

1 PM – 2 PM

Explore the types of project development teams, the importance of communication, and how to engage your community, then join the Q&A about team building and challenges you’re facing. Register.

Click for all VLCT events

Call Us! We're Here to Help

You can get in touch with VLCT in a variety of ways. We encourage you to use our online Ask A Question form (vlct.org/askVLCT), but if you're looking for a specific staff person or want to keep a printout for easy reference, take a look at the Call Us sheet. It provides contact information for the departments and staff you most often need to reach. Download your copy.

About VLCT Journal


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


As always, be sure to follow us on social media and regularly check the updated home page of our website for breaking news and announcements.


Please contact us at vlctnews@vlct.org with any comments or suggestions for upcoming content.

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* POP QUIZ ANSWERS

True! Learn more.