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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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POP Quiz
Take the quiz then scroll below for answers!
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PACIF Grants reimburse up to 50%. | | | | |
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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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