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June 2026
Summer heat has arrived and the July 4th holiday is just around the corner. In this issue of the VLCT Journal, you'll find flag and fireworks regulation resources as well as summer safety tips and answers to this month's common questions. The legislative session wrapped a couple weeks ago, but we're already gearing up for the next biennium. You can apply now to join VLCT's Legislative Policy Committee. Lastly, please take a moment and nominate a deserving municipal official for one of the VLCT awards. We love to hear and share the good work you're doing.
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Regulating Legal Trails
Selectboards can use two new resources to regulate the use and maintenance of their legal trails. Developed on the heels of the Vermont Supreme Court's Echeverria et al v. Town of Tunbridge decision, the model trails ordinance and model maintenance policy and agreement help keep your trails regulated in the best interest of your community.
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Can Towns Regulate Electric Bicycles?
To some degree, yes. Learn the circumstances for which towns can regulate e-bikes differently from traditional bicycles.
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Reducing Workers' Compensation Costs Starts Here
While the best way to control workers’ compensation costs is to avoid injuries, when injuries do occur, implementing best practices can significantly reduce claim costs – and, ultimately, the future cost of coverage. Review the guidance and templates that can help you to establish injury reporting procedures, use a designated medical provider, and provide transitional return to work.
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Cybersecurity Best Practices
Cyber attacks and other incidents are a growing risk for municipalities that store sensitive information and rely on technology for daily operations. Make sure staff members understand the basics of cybersecurity, including recognizing phishing attempts, using strong passwords, and following established policies.
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Protect Employees with Life and Disability Coverage
Municipal employers can help protect their workforce from financial hardship due to illness, injury, or death by offering life and disability insurance – including short- and long-term coverage that replaces income when employees are unable to work.
| | PACIF and VERB 2025 Annual Report. PACIF and VERB exist to serve the member municipalities that entrust them with their insurance, risk management, and unemployment insurance needs. The VERB and PACIF Boards of Directors along with VLCT staff extend deep appreciation to every member of PACIF or VERB for your continued commitment and loyalty to VLCT’s insurance trusts. | | |
Featured Resources & Opportunities | | |
Planning and Good Records Can Make Federal Single Audits Easier
Federal single audits can feel complicated, especially for organizations managing federal grants and reporting requirements. Good planning, clear communication, and strong recordkeeping can help make the single audit process smoother and more successful.
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Understanding Estimated Property Valuation and Tax Increment Projections
How property values and tax increments are estimated is foundational to successfully implementing Vermont’s new Community and Housing Infrastructure Program. This on demand session and suite of resources explain tax increment basics, property valuation, projections, responsibilities, and required annual tracking – to help municipal staff understand their role, stay organized, and use key tools.
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Build Stronger Communities with Prosocial Governance Skills
Strong governance depends on more than rules – it requires skills that foster respect, trust, and effective decision-making. The Governing All with Skill course helps municipal leaders develop practical abilities like communication, problem solving, and conflict resolution to support better meetings, relationships, and community outcomes.
| | Member Showcase: Support from our 2025–2026 Business Alliance Program members helps VLCT keep dues low while giving you access to personalized service and support at a variety of organizations that supply the products and services you need. | | | | |
Investing in Training Can Reduce Worker Turnover
Investing in training for high-turnover roles can help you improve employee performance, increase retention, and reduce the long-term costs and disruptions associated with frequent staff turnover.
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