1) Craftsbury User's Manual
2) Welcome to the Craftsbury User's Manual
3) Acknowledgements
4) Table of Contents (Remnants from Middlesex--serves as a reminder to individual topics)
All About Dogs in Craftsbury
Our Landscapes, Our Buildings
Planning and Zoning: Who, what and how?
Zoning and Building Permits
Septic Regulations
Landowners' Issues
Posting: Landowner Liability
Town-Owned Land
Arts and History
Craftsbury Historical Society
Craftsbury Bandstand
Recreation in Craftsbury
Swimming, Boating and Picnicking
Tennis, Soccer and More
Forests and Trails
Town Trails, VAST snowmobile trails
Health/Human Services
Town Officers
Related Organizations
Town Service Officer
Town Health Officer
Cemeteries
Craftsbury Roads
Highway Classifications and Maintenance
Road Commissioner
Craftsbury Law and Safety
Fire and Emergency
Craftsbury Fire Department
Craftsbury Fast Squad
Fire Warden
Emergency Management
Law Enforcement
Police and Sheriff
Town Constable
Local Democracy and You
Voting : A Primer
State Representatives
Federal Representatives
Vermont Voter Rights
A Voter's Guide to Town Meeting Procedures
Civility: It's Not Just Robert's Rules
Basic Parliamentary Motions
How to Run for Local Office
Craftsbury Annual Town Report: Take A Look!
Town Meeting Solutions Committee
Doing Business in Craftsbury
Youth and Education
Medical and Social Services
Libraries
Your Mail
Getting Craftsbury News
Worship
Waste and Recycling
Trash and Recycling; Central VT Solid Waste Management
District; Household Hazardous Waste;
Backyard Burning
Special Sections
Craftsbury Map
Craftsbury Roads and Cultural Features
Calendar
"A Year in the Life of Craftsbury"
Craftsbury Contacts Special insert
5) About Craftsbury (history, map, villages, etc)
A picturesque country town located in the Northeast Kingdom, with rolling hills, white picket fences and family run farms. The town includes Craftsbury Common, Craftsbury Village, East Craftsbury, Collinsville and Mill Village, which have a combined year-round population of 1,343.
Craftsbury includes approximately 26,000 acres (36 square miles) and is in Orleans county. Craftsbury, known as Minden originally, was chartered in 1781. Col. Ebenezer Crafts was one of Craftsbury's first settlers. Craftsbury is known for being the filming location of "The Trouble with Harry" in 1955 by Alfred Hitchcock. It was also well known for being the site of the Craftsbury Fiddlers' Contest for many years.
Old Home Day, Antiques & Uniques, Sunday concerts on the Common and the Farmers' Market are popular events for visitors and townsfolk. In winter, it's Cross-country skiing, ice fishing and snowmobiling, maple sugaring in the spring. In fall, our breathtaking foliage is a delight to the eye.
6) Town Administration
Elected Positions
Town Clerk (3 year term)
The Town Clerk's office, located in Craftsbury Town Hall, is the hub of town activity. Not only does the Town Clerk nm Craftsbury's elections; this is where you go if you want to look at town records (land, birth, death, marriage, you name it), ask a question about local taxes, or license your dog. Many meeting notices are also posted at this office.
Vermont law entrusts the Town Clerk with an extraordinary list of duties, ranging from recording, preserving and certifying public documents to administering oaths of office, running the local elections, maintaining the grand list, issuing marriage licenses, and licensing animals.
The Town Clerk is elected at Town Meeting for a three year term. Craftsbury also has an Assistant Town Clerk, appointed by the Town Clerk. The Town Clerk is an independent official, answerable only to the voters. S/he may set the clerk's office hours.
Town Treasurer (3 year term)
The Treasurer is elected at Town Meeting to a three-year term and is responsible for keeping the town's financial accounts, investing money received by the town (with the approval of the Selectboard), keeping a record of the taxes voted, and paying orders drawn on town accounts. The Treasurer works with the auditors to settle town accounts prior to town meeting, and is often called upon to provide the Selectboard with financial information. Voters may elect the same person to be both Clerk and Treasurer. (See Contacts)
Selectboard (3 year term)
The Selectboard is at the center of town government in Vermont, and Craftsbury is no exception.
Craftsbury has a three-member Selectboard. Members are elected by Craftsbury voters at town meeting, for staggered three year term. The Selectboard is responsible for the general supervision of town affairs. It has a number of functions, including some that are legislative (enacts local, ordinances,
regulations and policies), and others that are executive/
administrative (prepares the budget, oversees all town expenditures, supervises town employees, and controls town buildings and property). It also does work that is quasi-judicial-for example, it determines private rights when the town is laying out and reclassifying town highways.
Selectboard members want to hear from you. The sooner they hear from you about a problem, or the earlier in a decision-making process you offer your comments, the better it is for everyone. Selectboard members welcome questions, concerns or just chatting with Craftsbury citizens, and encourage you to contact them by phone, e-mail, or in person. (See Contacts sheet.)
Citizens are always welcome to attend Selectboard meetings. The agenda is posted at the Genny Store, Post Office and the Town Hall, or you can request one from the Selectboard. Selectboard meetings are held on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month at 7 p.m. at the Town Hall. To get a particular issue on the agenda, contact the Selectboard. (See Contacts)
Auditors (3 year term)
Craftsbury has three auditors, elected to staggered three year terms. These officials, along with the Selectboard, review the work of a certified public accountant hired by the town to conduct the official audit, which is included in the Town Report. (See Contacts)
Board of Civil Authority--Do we have one? Yes, the BCA is the 5 Justice of the Peace, Town Clerk & Selectboard
Cemetery Commissioners (5 year term)
Justices of the Peace (2 year term)
Although historically Justices of the Peace performed important judicial functions in towns, the tasks of today's JPs are primarily: to administer oaths of office; to perform marriage ceremonies and civil unions; and to serve on the Board of Civil Authority.
The number of justices allocated to each town is apportioned to population; Craftsbury has five justices. Because the JP position used to involve great political influence, the nominating procedure is very different from that of other town officers. Justices are nominated for office at the September political party primaries in each even-numbered year. (Independent candidates may also have their names placed on the ballot by petition.) Justices are elected biennially on the first Tuesday in November. (See Contacts)
Public Library Trustee (4 year term)
Listers (3 year term)
Listers determine the value of the real and personal property in the town. The Selectboard then sets a tax rate necessary to raise the money to pay for town services and schools. The Craftsbury Board of Listers, like most Vermont towns, consists of three members. They are elected one position per year for three-year terms. For more on listers' responsibilities, see "About Property Taxes." (See Contacts)
Moderator (1 year term)
School Board (2 and 3 year terms)
Supervisor Lamoille Solid Waste District (2 year term)
Trustee of Public Funds (3 year term)
WWII Memorial Trustees (3 year term)
Appointed Positions
911 Coordinators (1 year term)
Constable (1 year term)
Delinquent Tax Collector (1 year term)
It is the job of the Collector of Delinquent Taxes to notify taxpayers when their taxes are overdue, to make arrangements for late payments, or to take formal collection actions, including conducting tax sales of the property when necessary. This official must keep records of all delinquent accounts, and provide an accounting of them for the Town Report. This official is appointed for a one-year term. (See Contacts)
Dog Warden (1 year term)
Fence Viewer (1 year term)
Fire Warden (1 year term)
Green Up Chair (1 year term)
Health Officer (1 year term)
Inspector of Lumber and Wood (1 year term)
Northeastern Vermont Development Association (NVDA) Representative (1 year term)
Select Board Clerk (1 year term)
Town Grand Juror (1 year term)
Town Service Officer (1 year term)
Tree Warden (1 year term)
NEK Communications Union District (CUD) (1 year term)
VT Emergency Management (1 year term)
6) Committees (each will have description provided by committee)
Antiques & Uniques Committee (1 year term)
Conservation Commission (4 year term)
Energy Committee (3 year term)
Craftsbury Energy Committee’s mission is to lead and engage the community in energy conservation, energy efficiency, and renewable energy initiatives. We do this through education, advocacy, outreach, and partnering with neighbors and town groups. Among other programs, in 2023 we provided 23 area homes with 30 cords of firewood that they would not have been able to afford otherwise, and built 255 window inserts for 45 homes, saving an estimated 8 gallons of fuel oil-equivalent per window per year.
Mental Health Resource Group (1 year term)
Municipal Forest Committee (3 year term)
Neighbor to Neighbor (3 year term)
Recreation Committee (1 year term)
Town Planning Commission (3 year term)
Trails Committee (term?)
Craftsbury Trails is a volunteer-driven collaboration working to make trail-based outdoor recreation more accessible to all. Craftsbury public officials, businesses, outdoor recreation organizations/non-profits and citizens who love the outdoors work together under the Craftsbury Trails umbrella. Visit the Craftsbury Trails website www.craftsburytrails.info for more information about the program and where to walk, run, bike, ski and snow machine in Craftsbury.
War Memorial Committee (1 year term)
Website Committee (1 year term)
7) Taxes
Note: This tax information is provided as a general overview and should not be your sole source of information. For up-to-date details and deadline information, contact the Town Clerk’s office.
Vermont cities and towns use money raised from property taxes to pay for municipal services and for education. Here are some of the system's key elements:
The town's Grand List is compiled each year by the town listers. It lists a description, the owner, and assessed value of each taxable property as of April 1. In other words, it is a once-a-year snapshot of town property values and ownership.
The municipal tax rate is determined by dividing municipal expenses by the Grand List total (the sum of all real property values in the town).
The education tax rate is computed through a complicated procedure by the State, and provided to the towns. It is derived from a town's education expenses, state-determined common level of appraisal (CLA), equalization studies that compare property values with other towns, and other adjustments.
The Grand list contains two categories of properties: residential (or homestead) and non-residential. These categories are taxed differently. A homestead property is the owner's principal, year-round residence. The homestead definition is established by filing a Homestead Declaration (HS-131) on or before April 15, usually with your state income tax return. All other properties are considered as non-residential. The homestead tax rate is determined via the education tax, the CLA, and the municipal tax rate. The nonresidential tax rate is determined the before the Board of Listers. If this doesn't settle the concern, the Listers' decision can be appealed to the town Board of Civil Authority (BCA). The BCA is comprised of the Selectboard and the Justices of the Peace. If the taxpayer continues to be unsatisfied, appeal can then be made to either the State Board of Appraisers or to the Orleans County Superior Court. The second choice will usually take longer and legal advice is recommended. This paragraph is missing information,
Property owners can appeal their assessment even if there's been no change. Check with the Town Clerk in early May to find out the grievance timetable for that year.
Property owners of 25 acres or more, or over 27 acres plus a dwelling, are eligible for significant tax reductions through enrollment in the Vermont Current Use Program. Deadline for enrollment is September 1 of each year. Check with the Listers for more information on this program. (not sure ask listers) same way, but without the equalization and the education adjustments.
Vermont listers are required to list all taxable property on the Grand List at its fair market value. However, the listed values usually do not reflect fair market value. This is because real estate markets constantly change, and townwide reappraisals are not conducted annually. A town's CLA is determined by the state, based on the relation between the assessed values and actual sale prices of properties in town. Ideally the listed values would be the same as the fair market value, and the CLA would be 1.0. If the CLA falls below 0.8, a town is required to reappraise. The last townwide reappraisal in Craftsbury occurred in 2018. Since then, real estate values have been rising, resulting in a falling CLA. If this trend continues, another reappraisal will be required in the near future.
Tax rates are usually set at the end of June and the tax bills mailed the first week in July. Taxes are due in full usually by a November 15 deadline. Payments of taxes after the deadline are charged an 8% penalty and a1%/month penalty for the first 3 months, and
1 ½ % afterwards. thereafter on the unpaid balance.
If You Feel Your Property Taxes Are Too High ...
Property owners must be notified of any change in their town assessment via a Change of Appraisal Notice. The taxpayer then has the option of appealing the new assessment through a procedure described in the Notice. This is called a tax grievance, and the first step is a hearing
8) Democracy in Craftsbury
Voting: A Primer
Voting is our clearest civic duty. Yet in the United States, fewer than 50% of those eligible vote in general elections. Here in Vermont, participation rates are somewhat higher, but the fact remains: thousands of eligible Vermont voters let someone else decide who will govern them. Your opinion is important, and your participation is needed.
To be eligible to vote in Vermont, you must be at least 18 years old and a resident of Vermont. When you first move to Craftsbury, you must fill out a voter registration form and mail or deliver it to the Town Clerk. If you have never registered to vote in Vermont before, you must also take the Voter's Oath (formerly known as the "Freeman's Oath"), which must be administered by a notary public. The Town Clerk is a notary, so you can complete the entire process by stopping in at Town Hall during regular business hours.
Many people register to vote when they apply for a driver's license or a car registration (a program dubbed "Motor Voter"). If you register to vote at the Department of Motor Vehicles or any other State agency, double check with the Town Clerk at least two weeks before the next election to make sure your registration form was received.
Voters who are added will be notified by mail. If you have registered but do not receive confirmation before voting day that your name has been added, contact the Town Clerk.
Craftsbury citizens vote on Town Meeting Day (first Tuesday in March) and on Election Day (first Tuesday in November). They also vote in party primaries (second Tuesday in August), the Presidential Preference Primary (every four years on Town Meeting Day), and in special town meetings warned to decide a particular question, such as whether to borrow money for a specific purpose, or update the Town Plan.
Contact the Town Clerk for voting location. Voting is always wheelchair accessible. Craftsbury uses paper ballots; if a visually impaired voter needs a Braille ballot or some other accommodation, he or she should arrange this with the Town Clerk at least two weeks prior to the election.
The polls are usually open from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. on Election Day in November (10 a.m. h). On Town Meeting
Day, See "A Voter's Guide to Town Meeting Procedures" section.
When you enter the polling place to vote, you will be asked to give your name to a poll worker and will be given paper ballots for state and local races. You then step into a voting booth and vote in private. After you mark your ballots, fold them, and exit the booth, you will be asked for your name one more time before you deposit the ballots in the ballot box. Even though the poll workers may know you, they are required to ask for your name and to make certain it is on the voter checklist.
The ballots are hand-counted and volunteers shortly after the polls close. The results of the election are usually available within two to three hours (and are posted' at www.townofcraftsbury.com).. If you are interested in volunteering to help with the tasks that keep democracy strong in Craftsbury, contact the Town Clerk.
Many voters take advantage of Vermont's early voting option. Formerly known as the "absentee ballot," early voting is available to any voter who requests a ballot prior to voting day. You do not need to be out of town or ill to vote early. Contact the Town Clerk's office if you are interested in voting early. You can either vote early at the Town Clerk's office or have the ballot mailed to you.
State and Federal Representatives
State Representatives
Every two years, Craftsbury, Albany, Greensboro and Glover voters elect one State Representative for the Orleans- 4 legislative district, and join with the other towns in Orleans County to elect one State Senators. These are your representatives in Vermont's legislature, formally known as the General Assembly. (See Contacts.)
The General Assembly meets at the State House in Montpelier, usually from early January through mid May (sometimes later). It enacts and amends State laws and, each year, must appropriate funds for the operations of State programs. Vermont's legislative session is biennial, which m ans that it extends over two years; the first half takes place during an odd-numbered year, and the second half takes place the following year. A budget must be passed every year.
Unlike many states in which being a legislator is a full time job, Vermont still has a "citizen legislature," people who have other occupations during the rest of the year. In addition to dealing with legislative issues, legislators can sometimes help you in dealing with State agencies. All legislators do "case work" for their constituents, and can be powerful allies in problem-solving.
The Vermont Legislative Home Page is at: www.leg. state.vt.us. Information you'll find at this site: scheduled committee meetings; bills, calendars, and journals; the legislative bill tracking system; text of bills and other legislative documents; minutes of selected committee meetings.
Federal Representatives
Vermont has two U.S. Senators and one Representative to Congress. These leaders want to hear your views, and also can offer valuable help in problem solving. For phone numbers, see the front pages of your phone book under "Community Service Numbers: Goverment."
Vermont Voter Rights
You may see a ballot in advance.
The Town Clerk has sample ballots for you to see at least ten days before the election.
You have a right to assistance.
You may bring a person of your choice into the voting booth with you to help you vote. (Not your employer or union representative.)
You can get help marking the ballot. Ask an election official for assistance. Two election officials will help you. But no one can tell you how to vote!
You can bring a magnifying glass or other device to help you vote.
If you are disabled or ill, you may ask the election officials to bring a ballot out to your car.
You may bring a list of candidates into the voting booth to help you vote. (You may not show your list to other voters or leave it in the booth.)
You can vote early or vote from home.
You can vote at the Town Clerk's office or take a ballot home to vote anytime 30 days before the election. Call the Town Clerk or sign a request for and the Clerk will send you a ballot by mail.
You can get a new ballot if you make a mistake.
If you give your first ballot to an election official you can get another ballot to vote. You can get up to three ballots.
You may write-in a candidate.
If you wish to vote for a candidate who is not listed, write the name of the candidate on the write-in line. Or you may place a sticker with the candidate's name on the write-in line.
Your ballot is private.
No one has the right to see how you voted or to ask you how you voted. Cast your ballot by folding and placing your ballot in the ballot box.
Please ask questions.
Election officials help you understand how to vote. They cannot help you decide who to vote for, and they may not tell you candidate names or party designations.
If you are not sure that you are being properly assisted, ask to speak to the presiding officer.
For more information, please contact the Secretary of State's office at 1-800-439-8683.
How to Run for Local Office
Craftsbury needs you. In communities all across Vermont, citizens take on the tasks of the planning commission, selectboard, listers, justices of the peace, among others. How about you?
Getting elected or appointed to an office isn't hard. First, look into which office is a good match with your skills and interests. Positions are listed in the town's Annual Report, and many are described in these pages. Let this booklet be your invitation to join with your friends and
Annual Town Report: Take A Look!
Every year before March Town Meeting Day, the town's annual report is mailed to all residents and taxpayers. Be sure to take a moment to sit down with the town report. You'll be
surprised how much you can learn.
neighbors in getting involved in local government.
To run for local office, you have to be on the Craftsbury voter checklist, Contact the Town Clerk's office for more information.
Basic Parliamentary Motions
According to state law, town meetings in Vermont are governed by Robert's Rules of Order (although a town may adopt some other rules of order if it chooses). The rules are amended by several additional state laws, which moderators should be familiar with.
Discussion and decision making at Town Meeting are based on motions, which set the assembly into action. Here are some basic motions used at Town Meeting:
The Main Motion
This motion is used to convert articles as they appear on the warning into proposals the assembly can consider, perhaps amend, and vote on. An article to, for instance, "see what sum the town will raise for highways," needs to be changed into an active proposal. A voter recognized by the Moderator might say, "I move the town appropriate $120,000 for highways." The main motion requires a second, and is then ready for debate.
The Amendment
Amendments propose to change the main motion. In our example, a voter might say, "I move to amend the main motion to read '$100,000 for highways.'" After being seconded, debate on the motion then shifts to the amendment. When debate is over and there are no further amendments pending, the Moderator will put the amendment to a vote. If it passes and there are no other motions, the main motion as amended is voted on.
Point of Order/ Appeal
If you don't understand a ruling of the Moderator, speak up, saying "Point of order, Mr. (or Ms.) Moderator." After the Moderator recognizes you, ask your question. If you disagree with the Moderator's ruling, you may appeal his or her decision. The Moderator is obligated to ask the assembly, "Shall the Moderator's decision be sustained?" If a majority of voters say "no," the ruling is overturned.
Pass Over
Sometimes it becomes clear to voters that they don't want to vote "yes" or "no" on an article; they would prefer not to vote on the article (main motion) at all. Traditional Vermont Town Meeting practice calls this a motion to pass over; Robert's Rules treat this as two motions. If offered before a main motion is made, it is a motion to object to consideration of the question, and it takes a two-thirds vote of those present and voting. If offered
after a main motion is made it is a motion to postpone indefinitely and only a simple majority is required.
Limit or Cut Off Debate
If voters feel that debate on a certain article could go on all night if some control mechanism were not in place, someone might move to limit debate, say to a total of twenty minutes. If two thirds of the voters agree, debate can be so limited. In a case where debate has gone on long enough-voters have made up their minds but some people are still repeating the basic arguments-a voter could move to cut off debate, also refered to as "calling the question." Once moved and seconded, calling the question is a non-debatable motion. If you agree that all voices have been heard and you are ready to vote on the issue at hand, you should vote in favor of calling the question. However, if you want to continue discussion, you should vote against calling the question. Two thirds of the group must vote yes on calling the question in order to cut off debate; otherwise, discussion continues.
Remember that citizens have come to the meeting to speak and to hear each other's viewpoints. In most cases, it is not necessary either to limit or cut off debate; the Moderator will simply call for a vote when s/he feels that all points of view have been heard.
Proper Amendments
Remember that a Town Meeting can't take up an issue unless it is warned. The same general principle applies to amendments. You can't take an article to buy a truck and amend it to buy a road grader, because the amendment raises a subject that hasn't been warned. For the same reason, you can't convert an article to raise money by taxes to an article to borrow money to pay something.
Amendments must be germane to the motion they seek to amend: amendments must relate to the motion. An amendment cannot introduce a new and independent question or raise an issue (disguised as an amendment) previously decided by the assembly.
A Voter's Guide to Town Meeting Procedures
Since 1762, Town Meeting has been the basic system of governance for Vermont towns. The annual meetings are held in most towns (including Craftsbury) on the first Tuesday of March. Voters have an opportunity to speak, hear their neighbors, make amendments, and vote on budgets and other articles affecting the life of the municipality.
At Town Meeting, the citizens act as the legislative branch of town government on issues of finance and governance. Voters of the town take binding action based on warned articles on the floor, usually after debate or discussion. Selectboards and other town officials get their marching orders on appropriations and policy. At Town Meeting, voters are in charge.
Here are some of the basic rules on how these meetings are conducted. Knowing how it all wori(s is helpful for anyone who wants to play an active role in local democracy. But if you're not familiar with the process, don't let that keep you home from Town Meeting. Most of the discussion methods are common sense, and the moderator is trained to lead the group through all procedures. What's most important is your participation. If in doubt about anything, just raise your hand and ask.
Warning and Notice for Town Meeting
How do citizens find out when Town Meeting will be held, and what will be on the agenda? The "Warning."
The warning and notice for Town Meeting are mailed to Craftsbury residents within the pages of the town's Annual Report. They are also posted in a least three public places in town, including the Town Clerk's
office. The warning and notice announce the date, time, place, and agenda of the meeting. They also give information on voter registration, including the cut-off date for applying for addition to the checklist. If the Australian (printed paper) ballot is used (as it is to elect officers in Craftsbury), the warning and notice provide information about when the polls open and how to get an absentee ballot.
Civility: It's Not Just Robert's Rules
Making democracy work in our community is more than a process of showing up and playing by the written rules. It's also a matter of working respectfully with our neighbors to define our common interests. Some Craftsbury residents have expressed that they are "turned off" or even frightened by town meeting and other public discussions, because they dislike uncivil discourse. It might only take one unpleasant experience to lose a citizen's valuable participation for life. What are some of the ways we can help our town succeed? A few reminders:
Listen Actively. When others are speaking, stay engaged. Try not to tune out in order to formulate your response; instead, work to find the underlying meaning of the speaker's words. You may find out you have more in common than you think.
Speak respectfully. Conflict is a natural part of life, and it's good common sense to be constructive in our confrontations. At points of conflict, stay away from personalities, and stay focused on the issue and possible solutions.
Ask questions. If someone isn't being clear, they'll be glad you gave them a chance to clarify themselves. And if it's the process that confuses you, chances are at least one other person is wondering about it, too. Raise your hand and ask.
Use your imagination. Usually, there is an answer out there that meets the most important needs of the diverse parties.
Celebrate and appreciate your neighbors. Perhaps one of the nicest sights at the end of a town meeting is two people who were on opposite sides of a debate shaking hands and chatting. Participation takes work, and we can all appreciate those who care enough to speak out about our community.
Keep your sense of humor. After all, Vermonters are known for it.
Getting Articles on the Warning
The warning for Town Meeting is prepar .d by the Selectboard: it includes a1iicles proposed by the Selectboard that deal with town business. Sometimes the Selectboard will agree to include articles suggested by individual townspeople; otherwise, voters may petition to have articles added to the warning for consideration at the Town Meeting (as long as the subjects of the articles are not illegal, frivolous, or beyond the authority of the electorate). Petitions must be signed by five percent of the voters on the checklist, and the Town Clerk must receive petitions at least forty calendar days before Town Meeting Day.
A petition should begin with the statement, "We the undersigned voters of the town, hereby petition the selectboard to add the following article to the warning for the annual meeting." This statement should appear on each page of the petition.
Examples of articles that might be added to the warning by petition include a request for an appropriation for a social service organization, or a proposal to change the size of the Selectboard. Petitions may also cover political subjects, but they must do so in an advisory way. For example, an article might suggest that the electorate urge the legislature to adopt or prohibit something, or send a message to the United Nations expressing its position on a particular issue. Do your research well,
however, keeping in mind that there are some things voters simply do not have the authority to do.
Make sure your petition has a place for each voter's signature, printed name and address. Get plenty of signatures (in addition to the minimum) to ensure that a sufficient number of names on your petition are legitimate voters.
Voting at Town Meeting
After the group deliberates on a motion and the Moderator feels all points of view have been heard, s/he will call for a vote. There are three voting methods used at Town Meeting. The most common method is the voice vote. The Moderator asks those in favor of the motion to say "aye" and then those opposed to say "no," and then announces the outcome of the vote. Another form of voting you may expect to see at Town Meeting is a show of hands or a standing vote. These may be asked for if the Moderator feels the voice vote was too close to call, or if a voter disagrees with the Moderator after the result of a voice vote is announced. And for any vote, any voter may move that the vote be taken via paper ballot; if seven voters support this motion, pieces of paper will be distributed and each voter writes their vote. Sometimes a checklist and a ballot box are used in this method; sometimes tellers simply collect the ballots and count them on a table in front of the room.
The Role of the Moderator Other Business
The Town Moderator is the presiding officer at town meetings. The Moderator keeps order, and ensures that the business of the meeting proceeds in a fair and efficient manner, and that those who wish have an opportunity to participate in the process. It is the Moderator's job to put motions to a vote of the assembly, and to rule on all votes and other questions of order. The Moderator serves as the central, focal point of the meeting. All motions and remarks should be addressed to the Moderator, who has the right to order an unruly voter or visitor to the meeting to withdraw, on penalty of a $200 fine. The Moderator is the first official elected after the annual Town Meeting convenes, and serves a term of one year.
State law explains that, "The article entitled 'other business' shall not be used for taking binding municipal action, and the moderator shall so rule." Some Moderators will not entertain any motion when the town gets to "other business" on the warning. Others may allow non-binding motions, such as a motion to recognize the hard work of Town Meeting organizers.
9) Our Landscapes, Our Buildings
Planning and Zoning: Who, What and How?
Planning is the process of designing a community's future. Zoning is the process of regulating proposed uses of property, so as to fit with the plan that the town de signed.
In Craftsbury, the Town Plan is developed by the volunteer Planning Commission, with input from citizens. After a public hearing, the plan is then referred to the Selectboard, which also holds a hearing. The Town Plan may include recommendations for both voluntary and regulatory actions. It is also used as a benchmark in certain Act 250 proceedings. The plan is updated and readopted every five years.
Stop by the town office or go to www.townofcraftsbury.com to take a look at a copy of your Town Plan. It is updated every five years, so if there's something in it you'd like to see written differently, there are regular opportunities to change it.
Planning Commission
In a broad sense the Planning Commission is responsible for thinking ahead, with the help of Craftsbury residents-for envisioning what we all want our town to be like in the future and then helping to make that happen.
In addition, the Planning Commission may study and make recommendations on land development, transportation, energy conservation, and many other related matters. The Planning Commission contacts town residents about meetings where citizens can provide input, and includes news in the Craftsbury Newspaper.
The Commission is made up of ??? (ask) nine members, elected for staggered three-year terms. The group welcomes people who want to get involved, and encourages you to contact them with questions or comments. Meetings are held on the third Wednesday of each month at 7pmp.m. Call a Planning Commission member to confirm before you travel. (See Contacts)
Septic Regulations
Craftsbury has no specific regulations concerning onsite sewage disposal systems. Craftsbury is affected by state law, however. A law passed in 2002 changes the way on site sewage is regulated. New subdivisions and systems under repair have to meet state standards for the design of an on-site septic system. Most existing lots and all
new lots will have to follow state standards for design, siting and construction of systems as of 2002. For information on the state standards, contact either the Permit Specialist or the Regional Engineer at the Agency of Natural Resources District Office in Barre, 476-0 I 90.
Water Supply
Craftsbury Fire District #2 is a municipal utility that provides the public water supply to residences and institutions on and near the Common. Over 65 customers and hundreds of users benefit from this critical service. CFD#2 is regulated under the state’s drinking water rules and is not under the town’s purview. It is overseen by a volunteer Board of Commissioners. Their meetings are open to the public and occur remotely the first Monday of each month at 5:30 PM. All customers and the interested public are encouraged to get involved. For more information contact: craftsburyfiredistrict2@gmail.com
Town-Owned Land
The Town owns
10) Landowner Issues
Posting: In Vermont there is a long tradition of property owners allowing access to their property for recreation and of respect for the private property on the part of those who are allowed to use it for hunting, fishing and other recreational pursuits. If land is not posted, you are not legally required to ask permission to walk, hunt or fish on private property. Nonetheless, asking permission shows appreciation and respect for the landowner. If you would like to restrict hunting, trapping kind/or fishing, you can legally post your land so as not to allow these activities. Legally posted land must be recorded annually in the Town Clerk's office. The requirements for such posting are found in 10 VS.A. Section 5201 and are available from the Town Clerk.
Landowner Liability: Private land plays an important role in providing outdoor recreation opportunities for Vermonters. To encourage landowners to allow recreational users on their land, the Vermont Legislature has enacted strong legal protections for private landowners who allow use of their land. Thus, it is difficult for a landowner to be held liable for any injuries an individual may sustain while using private property unless the landowner has intentionally created a dangerous condition. For more information about landowner liability, request "Public Recreation on Private Land: A Land owner's Guide" available from the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation,103 South Main Street, Waterbury VT 05671-0601; phone 241-3693.
Related Organizations
Conservation Commission
The Craftsbury Conservation Commission's mission is to conserve the town's natural and cultural resources. The Conservation Commission works with the town's other governmental entities and the public to identify and assess resources, to offer the town and landown ers guidance on planning for the conservation of these resources, and to educate the residents of Craftsbury as to why conserving these resources is so important. The town has a modest conservation fund to help conserve the town's natural, scenic, recreational, historic and cultural resources. Applications for monetary support from this fund are made on a form provided by the Conservation Commission. Updates on the Commission's work appear regularly in the Craftsbury Newspaper.
The Conservation Commission's nine volunteer members are appointed by the Craftsbury Selectboard for staggered terms of four years. Citizens are encouraged to attend meetings on the third Monday of every month at 7:00 p.m. at the Town Hall. (See Contacts)
Cemeteries
The Craftsbury Cemetery Commission has five members elected at Town Meeting to staggered 5-year terms. This group is responsible for...ask bruce what they are responsible for
Need descriptions of these cemeteries below….
The Craftsbury Village Cemetery,
The Branch Cemetery
The Craftsbury Common Cemetery
The East Craftsbury Cemetery
Roads
Vermont is home to a spiderweb of thoroughfares in Including Interstate highways, State highways, and Town highways. Our local taxes are directed toward Town highways.
Town highways in Vermont are classified as Class 1, 2, 3, or 4. An additional, fifth class is "Legal Trails"; such a trail is a public right-of-way but is usually little more than a footpath. See the map at the centerfold of this manual for road classifications in Craftsbury.
Class 1 highways are any State highways that are maintained by the town; Craftsbury does not have any Class 1 highways. Class 2 highways are well-traveled roads carrying traffic to or from Class 1 highways. All other regularly maintained town highways are Class 3 highways. Class 2 and 3 highways are plowed by the town in the winter. Class 4 highways are the least maintained town highways, and are not plowed by the town in winter. The town does perform some minimal maintenance of Class 4 roads and is required to maintain bridges and culverts. As part of its highway ordinance, the town has committed to maintaining certain Class 4 roads to the standard they were in when the ordinance was adopted. Other Class 4 roads are essentially not maintained by the town.
The amount of state aid the town receives for highway maintenance is related to the highway class. More mon \ey per mile is received for Class 2 than Class 3 roads. No state aid is available for Class 4 roads.
Road Forman
The Road Forman has the critical job of maintaining the town's highways, according to their classification specifications. This includes keeping the bridges and culverts in good repair, and seeing that the roads are properly graded, surfaced, graveled, and maintained for winter use. The Road Commissioner is appointed to a one-year term by the Selectboard in Craftsbury; by state law, this official has no independent authority to act, but can only carry out the orders of the Selectboard. The Road Commissioner oversees the road crew, and regularly reports to the Selectboard on the status of town roads. Reports include long-term planning for capital needs for the highway department, specific expenditures and road reclassifications. (See Contacts)
Fire and Emergency
The Craftsbury Fire Department is operated entirely by volunteers. Any interested resident can join the Fire Department as a regular member, or as a junior member for those between the age of 12 and 18. Junior members do not actually fight fires, but can assist the Fire Department in various ways, such as working at the base sta tion or offering on-site support of the firemen. The Fire Department has a training meeting the first Thursday of each month and a business meeting the third Thursday. Craftsbury has mutual aid agreements with all of the surrounding towns. Equipment owned by the Fire De partment includes two pumper trucks, one tanker truck, one rescue truck and one pickup truck. The smaller pumper and the pickup are housed at Station 2 by the Town Garage)
Medical First Response service is provided by Hardwick Rescue, made up of trained volunteer members. Hardwick Rescue responds to 911 calls requesting assistance for trauma (injury) or medical emergencies. (See Contacts)
Craftsbury's Fire Warden enforces laws designed to prevent forest fires. The Warden is the person you should call if you want to get a permit for open burning. The Warden may go onto private property to extinguish fires (or call the Fire Department to do so) and may fine or arrest anyone who violates laws pertaining to forest fires.
The Fire Warden is appointed by the commissioner of the Vermont Department of Forests, Paks and Recreation with the approval of the Selectboard, for a one year term or until a successor is appointed. (See Contacts)
The Selectboard appoints an Emergency Management Chairperson, who coordinates town efforts with the Vermont Department of Public Safety's Emergency Management Division, works with local and district emergency personnel and is a part of the state's emer gency management effort. This person is responsible for the local organization formed for management in case of such emergencies as flood, drought, and accidents involving hazardous materials. (See Contacts)
Law Enforcement
Law enforcement in Craftsbury may be provided by the State Police, Orleans County Sheriff's Office or Town Constable.
The Town Constable responds to various complaints including: dog control problems, loud parties, vehicles blocking the road or driveways, excessive vehicle speed, trash burning and trash dumping. The Constable may work with the State Police in certain situations. (See Contacts)
Craftsbury Businesses
While the storefronts are easiest to spot, there is also a surprising variety of home-based businesses and service providers in our town. Need your driveway plowed, a website designed, a cord of wood delivered, or a will written? Carpenters and electricians, purveyors of hunting and fishing equipment, therapists, artists, landscapers-they're all right here in Craftsbury.
By patronizing these businesses, you are supporting your neighbors' livelihoods and getting to know who lives on these back roads. Go www.townofcraftsbury.com and look under "Directory" for an updated neighbor-to-neighbor "yellow pages." Listing is free; if you'd like to list your skill, service or product, contact the Craftsbury webmaster (craftsbury@gmail. com, or see Contacts).
Schools
Have School Board do the next part:
Craftsbury Elementary School
Craftsbury children who are in Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 3 are served by the Craftsbury Elementary School
The School mission statement states that ……
Craftsbury Academy
The Craftsbury School Board has a five member elected at Town Meeting for terms of either two or three years. The School Board is a broad policy-making body providing general oversight of the school, its administration, and the budget. The Board's responsibility is to maintain fiscal accountability to the taxpayers while fostering an environment where educational opportunities abound.
Participation from Craftsbury residents is always encouraged. The School Board urges all members of the community to take an active interest in the school regardless of whether or not you have children enrolled. Residents are always welcome to attend board meetings and participate in discussions.
School Board meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month, unless otherwise warned. These meetings
are open to the public and are warned at least 24 hours in advance. Discussions regarding the budget begin in November, and continue through several meetings; participation is welcome. The agenda and board minutes are posted at. (See Contacts)
Craftsbury Parent/Teacher Organization (PTO)
The Rumney PTO is a body of volunteers whose mis sion is to support and enhance the educational programs at Rumney by funding enrichment programs, providing resources for parents, and serving as a liaison between community and school. The PTO sponsors programs that otherwise might not be funded through the school budget, such as artist residencies, concerts, senior lun cheons, Grandparents Day, and presentations from lo cal museums and nature centers. Parents, teachers and community members are encouraged to join and sup port the PTO. (See Contacts)
Craftsbury Booster Club
The Craftsbury Booster Club is an independent group of volunteers interested in promoting excellence in both U-32 academic and athletic activities. Booster activities include a variety of fundraising efforts that support their grant and scholarship programs. The Booster Club is comprised primarily of parents of Craftsbury students, but welcomes all volunteers. Meetings are held monthly ??? during the school year at the school. (See Contacts)
Daycare and Children's Play Groups
There are many options for daycare as well as for play groups in Craftsbury and surrounding towns. The Fam ly Center of Orleans County maintains a compre ensive listing of day care facilities and of local play groups available for infants up to six-year-olds. Phone 828-8765 or 262-3292.
Home Schooling
If you choose to educate your children at home instead of sending them to the local schools, the Vermont Department of Education can inform you of the state policies on home schooling, as well as direct you to re ources and local contacts. Call the Department's Home Study Program, 828-3352, or visit www.education.ver mont.gov/ and locate the "Home Study" link.
Craftsbury Recreation Committee
The Recreation Committee maintains the recreation field and tennis and basketball courts adjacent to Rum ney School. (These fields are owned by the Town, but are made available for both Town and School use.) This volunteer committee meets as necessary to carry out their duties. They hold an annual corn roast in Septem ber as a fundraiser. (See Contacts)
Swimming, Boating and Picnicking
The Learn to Swim Program provides swimming les sons in the summer for Craftsbury children at much re duced rates at the First in Fitness pool in Berlin. Middle sex votes on support for this program annually at Town Meeting. The age range for this program is typically age 4 through sixth grade. (See Contacts)
Tennis, Soccer, and More
The Rumney Memorial School on Shady Rill Road, and the town-owned land that abuts the school property, offer a number of recreational facilities that are available to town residents when they are not being used by students. School facilities include a gymnasium with basketball hoops, playground, outdoor skating rink (subject to availability of a volunteer to maintain it), a community sugarhouse and nature trail. The outdoor basketball court, two outdoor tennis courts, and baseball/soccer field are owned by the Town and maintained by the Recreation Committee. To reserve the baseball/soccer field, call the school during business hours and check with the school athletic director about the field's availability. To use indoor facilities at the school it is necessary to complete a building use form; stop by during school busi ness hours and pick up a form at the office, or phone the school to request one. Use of the indoor facilities is based on availability and the Principal's approval. There may be a fee charged if the activity will result in work for the custodial staff. The playground and nature trail can be used by town residents at any time. However, if school is in session, you must sign in at the office first.
Forests and Trails
The Green Mountain Club publishes a Day Hiker's Guide with maps of hiking trails in the are, a. Call GMC, 244-7037 or www.greenmountainclub.org.
Mountain bikers and hikers, keep in mind that it is legal to use the Town's Class 4 roads and "Legal Trails" (see centerfold map) for any use that is allowed on other town roadways. Although not all of these byways are passable by motor vehicles, they can offer nice terrain for mountain biking and country walks.
The snowmobile trail system in Vermont is operated by the Vermont Association of Snow Travelers (VAST). The majority of the VAST trail mileage in Craftsbury is located on private land. Permission has been obtained by VAST for snowmobiles to use these trails during the designated snowmobile season of December 15th to April 1st. You must be a member of VAST to snowmo bile on the VAST trail system.·
If you would like to use VAST trails for other purposes, such as cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, you must get permission directly from the landowners. The local snowmobile clubs (Montpelier Trackmakers Snowmo bile Club or the Worcester Rangers Snowmobile Club of Worcester) also have some information on which land owners allow skiing. For contact information, or for a trail map, contact VAST at 229-0005 or www.vtvast.org.
Town Officers
Craftsbury Health Officer
The Health Officer, appointed by the Selectboard, addresses public health and safety issues such as dog bites, failing septic systems, contaminated water or unhealthy living conditions, and mental health issues. Health Officers are kept up to date by attending at least one statewide workshop each year. (See Contacts)
Craftsbury Town Service Officer
The Town Service Officer, appointed by the Selectboard, is charged with assisting individuals within the town who require emergency food, fuel or shelter assistance, but only when the Vermont Department of Social Welfare is closed on weekends or after hours. (In some communities, this officer also acts as an advocate for the poor.) (See Contacts)
Community Medical and Social Services
Need to redo
Please note: This is not a complete list. See the front pages of your phone book for other Orleans County support services. For physicians and other medical services, see the Yellow Pages under "Physicians."
Organizations marked with an asterisk* are private, non-profit groups supported by a number of central Vermont communities. Craftsbury may be asked to vote on funding for these groups at Town Meeting.
The Hardwick Area Food Pantry provides quality food to people in our community who are in need. Once a week participants are provided with essential dry and canned goods, eggs, milk, butter, cheese and other dairy products, meat and fresh fruits and vegetables. HAFP works closely with local farmers to provide the agricultural bounty of our region to everyone. HAFP’s distribution sites are in Hardwick, Craftsbury and Albany. The Craftsbury site is open every Thursday afternoon from 12:00 - 3:00 PM in the lower level of the United Church of Craftsbury. In addition there is a robust home delivery program for those who are not mobile or can't get to the pantry at the designated time. In 2023 nearly 300 residents benefited from the Craftsbury pantry. Volunteer or donate to assist with this critical work - visit: https://www.nourishhardwick.org/ for more info. — Gina C.
Central Vermont Medical Center is a full-service hospital located in Berlin (near 1-89 Exit 7). Its "Healthy Community" program offers over 100 different classes in nutrition, safety, parenting skills, quitting smoking, etc., with some financial assistance available. 130 Fisher Road, Berlin. Phone: 371-4100.
The People's Health and Wellness Clinic* serves those who don't have medical insurance and whose income falls within certain guidelines. Clinic times vary, and are by appointment only. Call Monday through Thursday, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Local professionals doctors, nurses, chiropractors, naturopaths, counselors, and massage therapists-donate their services here. Payment by donation. 553 N. Main Street, Barre. Phone: 479-1229.
Orleans County Mental Health Services, Inc. is a community mental health center providing inpatient and outpatient services; individual, group and couples therapy for adults; individual, group and family therapy for children and young adults; rehabilitation and residential programs for those with long-term mental illness; residential services for people with developmental disabilities; and a 24-hour emergency service. Phone 229-0591. Website: www.wcmhs.org
Central Vermont Home and Hospice* provides a Home Care Program, which includes skilled nursing services, physical therapy and psychiatric services. Its Hospice and Palliative Care Program helps terminally ill people face the end oflife with the help of family, friends and clergy. Its Long Term Care Program assists with daily living activities for frail, elderly, or permanently disabled people, to help them remain safely at home. Sliding fee scale; many types of insurance accepted. 600 Granger Road, Barre. Phone 223-1878.
Central Vermont Council on Aging* (CVCOA) supports elders to remain independent in their own homes and communities. Services include home-delivered meals, transpo1iation, case management and referral, and more. They provide community meals (served at noon, Monday through Friday, at the Waterbury Senior Center on Stowe Street). Transportation for elders is provided under contract with GMTA (see entry below). 30 Washington Street, Barre. Phone 479-0531.
Senior Helpline: Information on legal assistance, health insurance, and referrals to various agencies, including CVCOA. Phone 1-800-642-5119 (toll-free).
The Retired Senior Volunteer Project* (RSVP) enlists the skills and talents of older Vermont citizens in assisting non-profit organizations. To volunteer, or for more information, phone 828-4770.
The Vermont Center for Independent Living (VCIL)* is a statewide program that teaches people with disabilities how to access tools and services to live more independently. VClL provides information, a resource library, referrals, one-on-one counseling, communications equipment, and assistance in making homes accessible. 11 East State Street, Montpelier. Toll-free information line: 1-800-639-1522. Website: www.vcil.org
The Orleans County Diversion Program* is an alternative to court for first offenders in Washingto11 County. Offenders refe1Ted to this program may perform community service and pay restitution. Volunteer boards hear both adult and juvenile cases. Phone 828-0600.
The Orleans County Youth Service Bureau/Boys and Girls Club* is a private, non-profit organization assisting youth and families through such programs as The Basement Teen Center in Montpelier (supervised drop-in time and activities); crisis intervention and family counseling; programs for runaway and homeless youth and their families; the Teen Parent Program, and drug and alcohol counseling. Phone 229-9151 (also a 24-hr. crisis hotline).
Green Mountain Transit Agency (GMTA), central Vermont's public transit provider, currently runs bus service routes in tl}e Barre-Montpelier-Craftsbury Waterbury area. They also provide transportation for elderly and disabled persons in Craftsbury. For GMTA route and schedule information, phone 866-864-0211 (toll-free) or 223-7287, or log onto www.gmtaride. org. For vanpool or carpool information, call the above numbers or log onto www.vermontrideshare.org.
Battered Women's Services and Shelter* works with Orleans County survivors of domestic abuse, providing shelter at a confidential location for battered women and their children. Other services include a 24- hour hotline, legal and social services, referrals, advocacy, and support groups. They also make presentations on domestic violence to schools and community groups. All services are free. Hotline: 1-877-543-9498.
Meals on Wheels is coordinated by the Craftsbury United Methodist Church. Residents can receive up to seven meals a week (some frozen), prepared by the New England Culinary Institute. To volunteer, oi· for more
information, see Contacts page or log onto Craftsbury MOW@CraftsburyUMC.org. If you know of a senior who would benefit, call the Senior Helpline at l -800- 642-5119.
The Craftsbury Food Shelf, sponsored by the Craftsbury United Methodist Church, is open to all central Vermont residents, Saturday mornings from 9-10:30 a.m., as part of the Vermont Food Bank Network. A variety of frozen, canned and dry goods are available, as well as other household items. For information or to volunteer, see Contacts.
Libraries
Rumney School Library
Any Craftsbury resident may borrow materials from the collection of the Rumney School Library at 433 Shady Rill Road. It's open from 9:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m. during the school year; if you stop by, please check in at the school office before entering the classroom area of the school. Visitors will find a great selection of fiction and nonfic tion for ages 6 months to 12 years; a reference area with encyclopedias, maps, and more; parenting books and magazines; books on audiotape and CD (very useful for long car trips!) and books for educators that can be used by all. The library also has a special Conservation Book shelf (supported in part by the Craftsbury Conservation Commission) with guidebooks, nature activity books, and local trail and river guides. Check with the librarian about the weekly playgroup story hour. Phone 223-5429, x306.
U-32 Library
Fri (7:30 a.m.-3:00 p.m.). For summer hours, contact the library. Phone 229-0321.
Your Mail Getting Craftsbury News
It's a funny thing about Craftsbury: we have one post office, but two zip codes. Why? Because Craftsbury Common no longer has its own post office. Craftsbury residents who live on the north side of town are served by the Worcester Post Office. These residents' town/city mailing address is North Craftsbury. North Craftsbury is a creation of the postal system-a mailing entity only (not a political entity). It is made up of seven roads: Chase Road, North Bear Swamp Road, Macey Road, Wood Road, Storey Road, PR 1, and part of West Hill Road. North Craftsbury residents can pick up packages, etc. at the Worcester Post Office and their zip code is the same as Worcester's: 05682. (The Worcester Post Office is located on Rt. 12 next to the country store, phone 229-4233.) Putting up a new mailbox: If you are putting up a new mailbox, be in touch with your post office about the specifications. The general standard recommends that you leave 48" from the bottom of the box to the ground; however, different rural carriers have different vehicles and some recommend a different height. Your address: Your street number is issued by the town’s 911 coordinator, not by the post office. If you have questions about your address, contact Craftsbury’s 911 coordinator (see contacts) .
Craftsbury residents can receive a wide variety of newspapers and radio and television stations; and a growing number of residents access the internet. Listed here are those outlets most likely regularly to feature news specific to Craftsbury.
Craftsbury website: www.Craftsbury-vt.org features Craftsbury event listings, town election results, up-to date e-mail links and phone numbers for Craftsbury town officials and organizations, zoning maps, and agendas and minutes of the various Craftsbury committees. Maintained by Town Meeting Solutions Committee volunteers, the web site has many other features, including a "yellow pages"-style directory of local businesses and services offered by Craftsbury residents to link neighbors with neighbors. Listing is free; contact the webmaster (see Contacts).
Worship
Shady Rill Baptist Church
260 Shady Rill Road. Worship Service is offered ev ery Sunday at 8:30 a.m. For more information, contact Tonya Brett, 229-4298, or Charles Brett, 223-6706.
Trash and Recycling
A number of private haulers can be contracted to pick up your trash and recyclables, or you can transport them yourself to depots in nearby towns. Craftsbury is a mem ber of the Central Vermont Solid Waste Management District (CVSWMD). This group can provide informa tion about your trash and recycling options, and more. Their offices are located at 137 Barre Street in Montpe lier; phone: 229-9383; website www.cvswmd.org/.
Household hazardous waste such as oil-based paints, varnishes, toxic cleaners, rechargeable batteries, etc. should be brought to Household Hazardous Waste Col lection Days. About five dates are scheduled each year between May and October; contact the CVSWMD (see above) for dates. The closest drop-off point for Craftsbury is the Central Vermont Transfer Station in East Mont pelier. CVSWMD also holds a twice-annual
Clothing Drop and Swap; on Friday, citizens can drop off clean clothing, rags, linens, shoes, etc., and on Saturday, all are welcome to take items away for free. Contact the CVSWMD (above) for dates.
Backyard Burning
It is illegal to burn trash in Vermont. It is legal to burn leaves, brush and logging debris, but you must obtain a burn permit from the Craftsbury Fire Warden (see Contacts). If you want to burn clean, unpainted, natural wood such as lumber from construction projects, you will need to obtain permits both from the Fire Warden and from the Department of Environmental Conserva tion, Air Pollution Control Division; phone: 241-3840.
All About Dogs in Craftsbury
Dog Licenses: All dogs in Craftsbury should be licensed by April 1st of each year. The fee is $9.00 for a neutered male or spayed female and $13.00 for a non neutered male or non-spayed female. A portion of these fees ($4.00) goes to the state of Vermont with the rest going to the town of Craftsbury. Dog licenses are issued by the Town Clerk.
If you have a complaint about a barking dog, contact the Dog Warden. (See Contacts) Likewise, if you come across an unaccompanied dog, contact the Dog Warden, who will contact the owner. Dogs are not allowed to run at large-that is, off the owner's property. Dogs off the owner's property must be accompanied by a person able to keep the animal under control, either by a leash or voice command. Complaints about dog bites should be reported to the Health Officer. (See Contacts)
Unlicensed dogs may be brought to the animal shelter by the Dog Warden or other town official. The shelter will hold them for eight days before putting them up for adoption. In order to retrieve a dog from the animal shelter, the owner must have proof of registration, proof of rabies vaccination and must pay a fine. If there are three written complaints about a dog, the Selectboard can hold a hearing about the matter.
(not sure ask dog warden)
January
Do you want to run for town office? For most elected positions, the deadline for filing your nominating petition with the Town Clerk is the 6th Monday before the election on Town Meeting Day. Contact the Town Clerk.
Are you interested in putting an item on the Town Meeting warning? The deadline to file your petitions with the Town Clerk is 40 days before Town Meeting Day. (See "Local Democracy and You") Contact the Town Clerk.
The Craftsbury Historical Society generally meets on the third Mondays of January, May, and September at 7:00 PM at the Craftsbury Town Hall (downstairs). The meetings are open to all. Call ahead to confirm the meeting date and time (see Contacts).
February
[f you want to vote on Town Meeting Day, but aren't registered to vote in Craftsbury: the cut-off date for applying for addition to the voter checklist is noon on the Wednesday preceding Town Meeting Day. Contact the Town Clerk.
The Craftsbury Annual Report is mailed to residents in time for Town Meeting. It features the report of the town officers; the agenda for the meeting, including the atiicles warned for voting; the school report; and repo1is from the organizations active in the town.
Absentee ballots for the Australian ballot voting on Town Meeting Day are available 20 days before Town Meeting. Contact the Town Clerk's office.
March
A Rumney School Budget Informational Meeting is held at the school on the Monday night before Tuesday's Town Meeting.
Town Meeting Day is the first Tuesday in March. Craftsbury usually holds its annual Town Meeting in the late afternoon/ evening; check your Craftsbury Annual Report for time and location. Voters ask questions and discuss, amend and vote on items during the floor meeting. Town Meeting Day is also
the day voters cast ballots on items including electing officers for the ensuing year; voting booths are open from I 0:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
A buffet dinner is traditionally served on Town Meeting Day by the Craftsbury United Methodist Church, continuing until everyone has been served following Town Meeting. Proceeds benefit church projects.
April
All dogs must be licensed by April I. Contact the Town Clerk for details.
Trout season runs from the second Saturday in April through the last Sunday in October.
May—- need info on Plant Sale, FM starts
Green-Up Day is on the first Saturday in May. Join with the thousands of volunteers across the state in this unique Vermont tradition, cleaning up litter from roadsides and public places and sprucing up the community. If you need collection bags, information on drop-off points, or ideas on which Craftsbury roads need work, contact the Green-Up Day Coordinator or the Craftsbury Conservation Commission. (See Contacts.)
The Craftsbury Historical Society generally meets on the third Mondays of January, May and September. (See January listing.)
June—graduation, chicken bbq, FM, kid baseball
The Shady Rill Fishing Derby is held on the State free fishing day in early June. (No fishing licenses are required on that day.) A section of Martin's Brook is stocked with trout. Children up to 12 years of age are welcome to pa1iicipate, and prizes are awarded. Refreshments and a cook-out lunch. Suggested donation: $15.00 per family. See Contacts.
In mid-June (the weekend after the Fishing Derby), checkout the annual Rumney School Fair & Community Plant Sale held at the Rumney School. Perennials are donated by your neighbors. Enjoy the book sale, games for children, refreshments, and more. Contact Rumney PTO (see Contacts).
Keep your ears open for what the Craftsbury United Methodist Church is planning for its community event in May or June. In past years, it has been a fabulous tent sale at the end of June. Check with the Church for details (see Contacts).
July- music on the common, Antiques & Uniques, FM
Craftsbury property tax bills are mailed out in early July.
On Thursday evenings in July and August, bring a picnic and enjoy a concert by top-flight local and regional musicians at the Martha Pellerin-Andy Shapiro Memorial Bandstand located on town land adjacent to the Rumney School.
August-Music on the Common, Old Home Day, FM
Enjoy the wonderful Vermont summer! Take a walk on a cool mountain trail or a shady back road. Enjoy fresh local produce from the Farmer's Market in downtown Montpelier (Saturdays from 9 a.m. to I p.m., May - October) or Waterbury Farmer's Market (at Rusty Parker Memorial Park, Thursdays from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., May through October). Or go swimming or boating at the Wrightsville Reservoir.
September-school starts
On or before the first Tuesday in Sept., members of the major political parties may caucus and nominate candidates for Justice of the Peace. Contact the Town Clerk for information.
Enjoy corn on the cob with neighbors and support a good cause at the annual Recreation Committee Corn Roast in late September. (See Contacts)
The Craftsbury Historical Society generally meets on the third Mondays of January, May and Sept. (see Jan. listing).
October-Coat Swap
Early voting is available to all. Absentee ballots for all elections are available 30 days before the election. You can vote at the Town Clerk's office, have a ballot mailed to you, or take a ballot home to vote. Call the Town Clerk.
If you want to vote on Election Day, but aren't registered to vote in Craftsbury: the cut-off date for applying for addition to the voter checklist is the Wednesday before Election Day. Ask for the Vermont Application for Addition to the Checklist from the Town Clerk's office.
Bow hunting season runs for 23 days starting on the first Saturday in October, and for another nine days sta1ting the first Saturday after the completion of rifle season (see November). Moose season (by lottery) is in October as well; contact the Vermont Depa1iment of Fish and Wildlife for dates.
I
November-taxes due, hunting? FM Holiday Market
Attend the Selectboard and School Board meetings starting in late fall if you'd like to follow and participate in the school and town budget process.
Voting for state, federal, and some local officials takes place on Election Day, the first Tuesday in November, in even years. Contact the Town Clerk for voting location; voting booths are open from I 0:00 a.111. to 7:00 p.m. (Polls open at 7:00 a.m. for the General Election during Presidential Election years.)
Deer season (rifle) runs from 12 days before Thanksgiving until the Sunday following Thanksgiving. Muzzleloader season, as well as a second bow hunting season, run for nine days sta1ting the first Saturday after the completion of rifle season.
Craftsbury property taxes are due on November 15 of each year (as voted on at Town Meeting). Questions? Call the Town Clerk.
December- FM Holiday Market, Winter Parade
If you need your driveway plowed, or an extra cord of wood delivered this winter, hire your neighbor! Many Craftsbury businesses and services are listed on the Craftsbury website, www.Craftsbury-vt.org. And be sure to enjoy winter in Vermont, whether snowmobiling, skiing, or skating (see "Recreation in Craftsbury" section).
Craftsbury Contact information
all need to be updated
Craftsbury Town Office
5 Church Street, Craftsbury VT 05602
Phone: 805 Fax: 223-0569
E-mail (Town Clerk):
Craftsbury twnclrk@comcast.net Website: www.Craftsbury-vt.org
Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 8:30-4:30
(closed noon-I :00). Fridays 8:30-noon.
Emergency Phone Numbers
Craftsbury Fire Department: 911
Montpelier Ambulance/ Craftsbury Fast Squad: 911
Vermont State Police (K-Troop): 229-9191
Rumney School 433 Shady Rill Road, Craftsbury, VT 05602
Phone: 802-223-5429 FAX: 802-223-0750
E-mail: office@rumney.org Website: www.rumney.org
U-32 High School 930 Gallison Hill Road, Montpelier, VT 05602
Phone: 802-229-0321
Website: www.u32.org
Craftsbury Committee Meetings
Selectboard
2nd and 4th Tuesdays 6:30 p.m., Town Hall
Planning Commission
3rd Wednesday
6:30 p.m., Town Hall
Conservation Commission
I st Thursday
7:00 p.m., Town Hall
Town Meeting Solutions Committee
Monthly
7:00 p.m., Town Hall,Call a member for date
Fire Department
1st and 3rd Tuesdays 7:00 p.m., Fire Station
Rumney School Board
1st Tuesday
6:00 p.m., Rumney School
U-32 School Board
l st and 3rd Wednesdays
6:00 p.m., Room 131, U-32 High School
Historical Society
3rd Wednesday of Jan., May, and Sept. 7:00 p.m., Town Hall
Schedules are subject to change so check with a committee member to verify date, time, and place.
www.townofcraftsbury.com
The Craftsbury website is a great place to go for updated contacts and email addresses for local officials, events listings, election results, committee agendas and minutes, and more. Check it out!