Select Board – May 27 – MINUTES
by admin
Town of Woodbury Select Board Meeting Minutes
.vtay 27, 2026
Attendees
Select Board Members: Diana Peduzzi, Chris Casey, John Gordon
Town Officials: Graham Christie (Town Clerk), Lilly Baron (Town Treasurer); David Barber (Library Trustee)
Town Employees: Peter Dailey (Road Commissioner); Michael Gray (WSB assistant); Robin Durkee (Asst. Town
Clerk); Dana Huoppi {Town Highway part time member)
Members of the Public: Ana Peltz; Larry Ferno
Media: Jerome Lipani -HCTV; Paul Fixx-Hardwick Gazette
Call to Order Chris called the meeting to order at 6:04 p .M.
Adjustments to Agenda John requests the LEMP be added to the agenda under the Buy Out Update.
The FEMA Status Update is moved to follow the RC Report
Approval of Previous Meeting Minutes
The minutes from the May 11, 2026, Select Board meeting are considered. John brings up the correction Lilly
requested regarding the school insurance -from $14,000 in the draft to $16,796. WSB minutes are approved as
corrected.
-------.Public Comment David Barber would like to repair the stone bridge located on TH 21, an old unnamed,
untraveled, dead end road on his property. Peter will look at the bridge with David to see how best to move forward
with the repair. One option to be considered is to discontinue the road, which does not serve access to any
property beyond Barbers'.
Delivery of a Petition for a Special Town Meeting with Ana Peltz
Ana, a former MVUESD board member for Woodbury, has been researching and talking to various groups about
issues concerning the consolidation of the school districts and how that might affect the Woodbury school. From
her inquiries, it appears to many that the MVUESD board could move to close the Woodbury school, relocating its
students to Hardwick's elementary school. Ana and other residents would like to have a town meeting to gauge
town sentiments about this closure and to explore options for the education of its students. Diana pointed out
technical issues with the petition and explained that a special town meeting should not be warned just to discuss
a subject. There must be an article that can be voted on. The voters of the town do not have the authority to take
action on subjects regarding the school. The WSB is supportive of a town gathering to discuss the school issue,
and such a gathering can be organized by anyone.
Road Commissioner's Report with Peter Dailey
Wheeler Hill Road Plugged Culvert: Peter brings up an issue of a plugged culvert on Wheeler Hill Road. A resident
near the culvert is having work done to break down ledge by his home. Peter would like to hire the contractor to
break up ledge on the downstream side of the plugged culvert. The ledge on the downstream side of the culvert
does not allow the water flowing through it to go anywhere and is the primary cause of the culvert plugging. He
spoke with the contractor and was given the price of $2,500 to do this work, while he has his equipment on the
site. The WSB approved this work and its expense. Old Trailer: There has been an offer of $1,000 for the old
transport trailer; the WSB approved the sale. Scribner Road/CVFiber conduit: Peter has spoken with
NEK/CVFiber about the burying of conduit along Scribner Road. They are not sure when they will be doing the
project but will coordinate with Peter so that the road crew can replace a culvert in the section of road as the
conduit is being put in place. The permit application should be approved at the next SB meeting. West Woodbury
Road: No progress since the last meeting. Ford 550: Peter is getting calls from the Ford dealer concerning the 550
and the town's decision about it, as it sits on their property. The recent history of the 550's breakdowns and
related expenses is reviewed once again. Peter has a quote of $130,000 for the replacement of the 550. Chris asks
if a smaller truck (and less expensive) would be adequate for the work the 550 performs. Peter suggests a 350 or 1
ton dump truck could seNe the same purpose. Peter will look into prices for a smaller truck. Backhoe Rental
Request: The road crew is aware that there is a need to clean and unplug many culverts. Peter is considering
whether to rent a backhoe to do this work as using the excavator for this work is slow and cumbersome. The rental
of a backhoe would be $3,900 for a month of use. Larry Ferno suggests the town hire a contractor to do this work.
The WSB asks Peter to look into the rental of the backhoe and the hiring of a contractor to decide which would be
the best option. Garage Roof/Ceiling: The town garage ceiling damage was recently assessed by PACIF for
insurance reimbursement of repair costs. The insurance adjuster looked at replacing the ceiling, but not the
associated roof damage. Chris would like PACIF to also consider damage to the roof and possibly help pay for
those repairs also. It is decided to have a contractor look at that damage to give an assessment and estimate for
roof repairs that could be submitted to PACIF for their consideration. Peter closed his report with a statement
about the difficulty of getting out to grade the roads with the frequency of rain showers we have been experiencing.
Grant Updates: with Michael Gray
The BRIC grant for the Buck Lake Brook Watershed study has been submitted to VEM/FEMA by Keith Cubbon of
CVRPC. There are no other grant updates.
~FEMA Status Update with Skip Lindsay
Skip reported that the status of the two bridge projects hasn't changed. The projects are still in the "pending
award" category but not considered completed by FEMA. The town has received payment for the projects so funds
are in the town coffers for the bridge replacements. Mark Johnson of VEM has told the town VEM will not pay
Category z payments for expenses in 2026, but this decision could be appealed. The WSB will not appeal. The
amount in question is$ __ _ Skip also has not received a revised financial report from the Department of
Safety. In general, little communication from FEMA and VEM has been forthcoming from Skip's inquiries.
Town Clerk's Report with Graham Christie
Graham reports that he is benefitting from Robin's assistance in learning the town clerk's duties. He also states
that 167 registered voters in Woodbury participated in the third school budget vote and that the school budget was
passed.
Town Treasurer's Report with Lilly Baron
Lilly requests direction from the WSB regarding paid leave benefits for the appointed Town Clerk position. Neither
version of the Personnel Policy provides clear guidance on leave benefits for appointed town office employees.
Lilly states that when she was appointed, the WSB chose to prorate her leave benefits based on her scheduled
hours. Lilly recommends applying the same approach for Graham on an interim basis while the WSB
continues work on a revised personnel policy. Under this approach, Graham would receive prorated
leave benefits totaling 60 hours of sick leave, 12 hours of personal leave, and holiday leave calculated
3t 6 hours per day, adjusted for the remainder of the year. The WSB agreed. VLCT/PACIF Garage Claim: The town
has received the settlement agreement for the garage insurance claim. The total amount would be $40,993.95,
based on the adjuster's estimate and inclusive of the $1,000 deductible. Once the agreement is signed, the funds
will be released. If contractor estimates differ from the adjuster's estimate, the claim may be reopened for review.
Lilly recommends accepting the funds and depositing them into the Town Building Fund for safekeeping as we
proceed with the repair process. The WSB does not agree and will leave the offer in abeyance until a contractor
estimate can be obtained. Annual Internal Controls Checklist: Each year, the Selectboard is required to receive
and acknowledge this internal controls checklist by statute 24 V.S.A 1571 (d). While the checklist is somewhat
outdated, it must still be formally presented. Lilly has signed the document and the WSB also signed the
document at this meeting. Lilly noted that, with a new Assistant Treasurer and Town Clerk coming on board, Lilly,
Graham and Bonnie have begun reviewing and evaluating the town's internal controls and identifying potential
updates or improvements. Personnel Policy: Lilly and the WSB will convene a special WSB meeting for a final
review and approval of the town's revised personnel policy, on Thursday, June 11
1
5:00 p.m. at the town office.
Village Trust Initiative: Graham and Lilly attended a meeting with the Village Trust Initiative. The Village Trust
Initiative works with Vermont communities to support locally driven village revitalization projects that strengthen
community connection, preserve historic village centers, and create shared public spaces and local gathering
places. One well-known example locally is their involvement in the recreation of the East Calais General Store. The
organization expressed interest in exploring a partnership with Woodbury to help identify and support similar
opportunities locally. This partnership would not be with the town directly, but rather the town would offer its
support to a local group of citizens. These individuals would form a 501 c3 and work with the initiative to find a
community focused project and local partners to work with. Graham and Lilly would like to begin promoting this
initiative within the community with the support of the WSB. Lilly emphasizes any involvement they have with this
program would be on their own time and would not be billed to the Town. Graham and Lilly request the WSB's
support to help encourage community awareness and participation in this initiative. The WSB expressed its
support. Lilly also mentions this is the last round of funding for this initiative. There are currently no ideas floating
around for such a project.
~Updates on Buyouts with John Gordon
LEMP: John has an updated LEMP for the WSB to sign; WSB signed. Buy Out Update: John went through the RFP
for the demolition of the old store and would like the WSB to set dates for the RFP for the demolition of the two
village buyouts. There will be one contract involving both buildings. The setting of these dates will allow John to
also submit a request for an extension of the demolition work. Dates of May 29
th
for the RFP posting, a walk
through/site visit on June 10
th
were discussed. Larry Ferno then suggested that it will be unlikely that contractors
will be able to bid while there is uncertainty regarding asbestos in the buildings. The town should consider doing
an assessment at a minimum, and possibly doing the abatement, prior to going out for bids. John will check in
VEM to see how to proceed regarding the asbestos inspection and abatement.
Updates and Other Business
Bills and Payroll: Bills and payroll orders were signed at the end of the meeting.
Swenson/Polycor Quarry Act 250 Hearing Request: The Swenson Act 250 hearing has been set for
June 26
th
at 1 :00p.m. at the town hall. Pre-hearing testimony must be submi~~-VT TOWN CLERK'S OFFICE
Adjournment Da : ·-iv at 1 . o'clock
The meeting was adjourned at 8:07 P.M. -.....-- .!..2-Da..-t~61l£fX1for record S-5
·~~~====-of "1hich th_E3 forgoing I e copy
fl · ' l~AtteSt ~ Town Clerk
Chris Casey _t:;,if'~,e:__-,,,,:;.-__ Diana Peduzzi ~ ~ , VT TOWN CLERK'S OFFICE
'-I ,/'), - EIVED FOR RECORD
John Gordon----~::.~~~-~-- Date Approved ~ '1,PlY Date: ~-1.0· ~ at 1 o'clock
____ minutes 4 · M and recorded in
Book ': Page '°''()-':'-1-i
of~ Qf uye1)y~ ~
Attest: _________ .... ~,..__.;;:__ __
Town Clerk
.vtay 27, 2026
Attendees
Select Board Members: Diana Peduzzi, Chris Casey, John Gordon
Town Officials: Graham Christie (Town Clerk), Lilly Baron (Town Treasurer); David Barber (Library Trustee)
Town Employees: Peter Dailey (Road Commissioner); Michael Gray (WSB assistant); Robin Durkee (Asst. Town
Clerk); Dana Huoppi {Town Highway part time member)
Members of the Public: Ana Peltz; Larry Ferno
Media: Jerome Lipani -HCTV; Paul Fixx-Hardwick Gazette
Call to Order Chris called the meeting to order at 6:04 p .M.
Adjustments to Agenda John requests the LEMP be added to the agenda under the Buy Out Update.
The FEMA Status Update is moved to follow the RC Report
Approval of Previous Meeting Minutes
The minutes from the May 11, 2026, Select Board meeting are considered. John brings up the correction Lilly
requested regarding the school insurance -from $14,000 in the draft to $16,796. WSB minutes are approved as
corrected.
-------.Public Comment David Barber would like to repair the stone bridge located on TH 21, an old unnamed,
untraveled, dead end road on his property. Peter will look at the bridge with David to see how best to move forward
with the repair. One option to be considered is to discontinue the road, which does not serve access to any
property beyond Barbers'.
Delivery of a Petition for a Special Town Meeting with Ana Peltz
Ana, a former MVUESD board member for Woodbury, has been researching and talking to various groups about
issues concerning the consolidation of the school districts and how that might affect the Woodbury school. From
her inquiries, it appears to many that the MVUESD board could move to close the Woodbury school, relocating its
students to Hardwick's elementary school. Ana and other residents would like to have a town meeting to gauge
town sentiments about this closure and to explore options for the education of its students. Diana pointed out
technical issues with the petition and explained that a special town meeting should not be warned just to discuss
a subject. There must be an article that can be voted on. The voters of the town do not have the authority to take
action on subjects regarding the school. The WSB is supportive of a town gathering to discuss the school issue,
and such a gathering can be organized by anyone.
Road Commissioner's Report with Peter Dailey
Wheeler Hill Road Plugged Culvert: Peter brings up an issue of a plugged culvert on Wheeler Hill Road. A resident
near the culvert is having work done to break down ledge by his home. Peter would like to hire the contractor to
break up ledge on the downstream side of the plugged culvert. The ledge on the downstream side of the culvert
does not allow the water flowing through it to go anywhere and is the primary cause of the culvert plugging. He
spoke with the contractor and was given the price of $2,500 to do this work, while he has his equipment on the
site. The WSB approved this work and its expense. Old Trailer: There has been an offer of $1,000 for the old
transport trailer; the WSB approved the sale. Scribner Road/CVFiber conduit: Peter has spoken with
NEK/CVFiber about the burying of conduit along Scribner Road. They are not sure when they will be doing the
project but will coordinate with Peter so that the road crew can replace a culvert in the section of road as the
conduit is being put in place. The permit application should be approved at the next SB meeting. West Woodbury
Road: No progress since the last meeting. Ford 550: Peter is getting calls from the Ford dealer concerning the 550
and the town's decision about it, as it sits on their property. The recent history of the 550's breakdowns and
related expenses is reviewed once again. Peter has a quote of $130,000 for the replacement of the 550. Chris asks
if a smaller truck (and less expensive) would be adequate for the work the 550 performs. Peter suggests a 350 or 1
ton dump truck could seNe the same purpose. Peter will look into prices for a smaller truck. Backhoe Rental
Request: The road crew is aware that there is a need to clean and unplug many culverts. Peter is considering
whether to rent a backhoe to do this work as using the excavator for this work is slow and cumbersome. The rental
of a backhoe would be $3,900 for a month of use. Larry Ferno suggests the town hire a contractor to do this work.
The WSB asks Peter to look into the rental of the backhoe and the hiring of a contractor to decide which would be
the best option. Garage Roof/Ceiling: The town garage ceiling damage was recently assessed by PACIF for
insurance reimbursement of repair costs. The insurance adjuster looked at replacing the ceiling, but not the
associated roof damage. Chris would like PACIF to also consider damage to the roof and possibly help pay for
those repairs also. It is decided to have a contractor look at that damage to give an assessment and estimate for
roof repairs that could be submitted to PACIF for their consideration. Peter closed his report with a statement
about the difficulty of getting out to grade the roads with the frequency of rain showers we have been experiencing.
Grant Updates: with Michael Gray
The BRIC grant for the Buck Lake Brook Watershed study has been submitted to VEM/FEMA by Keith Cubbon of
CVRPC. There are no other grant updates.
~FEMA Status Update with Skip Lindsay
Skip reported that the status of the two bridge projects hasn't changed. The projects are still in the "pending
award" category but not considered completed by FEMA. The town has received payment for the projects so funds
are in the town coffers for the bridge replacements. Mark Johnson of VEM has told the town VEM will not pay
Category z payments for expenses in 2026, but this decision could be appealed. The WSB will not appeal. The
amount in question is$ __ _ Skip also has not received a revised financial report from the Department of
Safety. In general, little communication from FEMA and VEM has been forthcoming from Skip's inquiries.
Town Clerk's Report with Graham Christie
Graham reports that he is benefitting from Robin's assistance in learning the town clerk's duties. He also states
that 167 registered voters in Woodbury participated in the third school budget vote and that the school budget was
passed.
Town Treasurer's Report with Lilly Baron
Lilly requests direction from the WSB regarding paid leave benefits for the appointed Town Clerk position. Neither
version of the Personnel Policy provides clear guidance on leave benefits for appointed town office employees.
Lilly states that when she was appointed, the WSB chose to prorate her leave benefits based on her scheduled
hours. Lilly recommends applying the same approach for Graham on an interim basis while the WSB
continues work on a revised personnel policy. Under this approach, Graham would receive prorated
leave benefits totaling 60 hours of sick leave, 12 hours of personal leave, and holiday leave calculated
3t 6 hours per day, adjusted for the remainder of the year. The WSB agreed. VLCT/PACIF Garage Claim: The town
has received the settlement agreement for the garage insurance claim. The total amount would be $40,993.95,
based on the adjuster's estimate and inclusive of the $1,000 deductible. Once the agreement is signed, the funds
will be released. If contractor estimates differ from the adjuster's estimate, the claim may be reopened for review.
Lilly recommends accepting the funds and depositing them into the Town Building Fund for safekeeping as we
proceed with the repair process. The WSB does not agree and will leave the offer in abeyance until a contractor
estimate can be obtained. Annual Internal Controls Checklist: Each year, the Selectboard is required to receive
and acknowledge this internal controls checklist by statute 24 V.S.A 1571 (d). While the checklist is somewhat
outdated, it must still be formally presented. Lilly has signed the document and the WSB also signed the
document at this meeting. Lilly noted that, with a new Assistant Treasurer and Town Clerk coming on board, Lilly,
Graham and Bonnie have begun reviewing and evaluating the town's internal controls and identifying potential
updates or improvements. Personnel Policy: Lilly and the WSB will convene a special WSB meeting for a final
review and approval of the town's revised personnel policy, on Thursday, June 11
1
5:00 p.m. at the town office.
Village Trust Initiative: Graham and Lilly attended a meeting with the Village Trust Initiative. The Village Trust
Initiative works with Vermont communities to support locally driven village revitalization projects that strengthen
community connection, preserve historic village centers, and create shared public spaces and local gathering
places. One well-known example locally is their involvement in the recreation of the East Calais General Store. The
organization expressed interest in exploring a partnership with Woodbury to help identify and support similar
opportunities locally. This partnership would not be with the town directly, but rather the town would offer its
support to a local group of citizens. These individuals would form a 501 c3 and work with the initiative to find a
community focused project and local partners to work with. Graham and Lilly would like to begin promoting this
initiative within the community with the support of the WSB. Lilly emphasizes any involvement they have with this
program would be on their own time and would not be billed to the Town. Graham and Lilly request the WSB's
support to help encourage community awareness and participation in this initiative. The WSB expressed its
support. Lilly also mentions this is the last round of funding for this initiative. There are currently no ideas floating
around for such a project.
~Updates on Buyouts with John Gordon
LEMP: John has an updated LEMP for the WSB to sign; WSB signed. Buy Out Update: John went through the RFP
for the demolition of the old store and would like the WSB to set dates for the RFP for the demolition of the two
village buyouts. There will be one contract involving both buildings. The setting of these dates will allow John to
also submit a request for an extension of the demolition work. Dates of May 29
th
for the RFP posting, a walk
through/site visit on June 10
th
were discussed. Larry Ferno then suggested that it will be unlikely that contractors
will be able to bid while there is uncertainty regarding asbestos in the buildings. The town should consider doing
an assessment at a minimum, and possibly doing the abatement, prior to going out for bids. John will check in
VEM to see how to proceed regarding the asbestos inspection and abatement.
Updates and Other Business
Bills and Payroll: Bills and payroll orders were signed at the end of the meeting.
Swenson/Polycor Quarry Act 250 Hearing Request: The Swenson Act 250 hearing has been set for
June 26
th
at 1 :00p.m. at the town hall. Pre-hearing testimony must be submi~~-VT TOWN CLERK'S OFFICE
Adjournment Da : ·-iv at 1 . o'clock
The meeting was adjourned at 8:07 P.M. -.....-- .!..2-Da..-t~61l£fX1for record S-5
·~~~====-of "1hich th_E3 forgoing I e copy
fl · ' l~AtteSt ~ Town Clerk
Chris Casey _t:;,if'~,e:__-,,,,:;.-__ Diana Peduzzi ~ ~ , VT TOWN CLERK'S OFFICE
'-I ,/'), - EIVED FOR RECORD
John Gordon----~::.~~~-~-- Date Approved ~ '1,PlY Date: ~-1.0· ~ at 1 o'clock
____ minutes 4 · M and recorded in
Book ': Page '°''()-':'-1-i
of~ Qf uye1)y~ ~
Attest: _________ .... ~,..__.;;:__ __
Town Clerk