The published agenda reads: Proposed Site Development; Battery Storage, Data Center and mini nuclear power plant.
Nuclear reactor discussed for VT Yankee site
VT Headlines: Vermont Immigration Legal Defense Fund surpasses its $1 million goal year after founding
Mayor Gwinn Tries Unsuccessfully to Eject Whitaker from Meeting; Vermont man charged in deadly New York stabbing; Chittenden schools can avoid forced mergers if they act fast; Boil-water notice in effect in Richmond after ‘unexpected’ break during water work
Scott signs streamlined cell tower siting, school chemical testing delay into law
Gov. Phil Scott this week signed into law bills continuing state-only authority for renewable power projects, postponing required testing for PCBs in public schools, and giving unaccompanied teens more access to state services.
Domestic assault suspect cited for CashApp theft
Police said the unauthorized transfer was initiated using Taylor Darling’s iPhone and the money was deposited into an account belonging solely to Blake.
Goose round-up volunteers needed
Also, Feds say rare wetland plant has recovered, and $32 million in fed funds for ag, timber flood assistance
LaClair campaigns for more home, driving, healthcare choices in full Washington County Senate race
LaClair is among the three Republicans seeking the nomination for the three-seat district. He, Christopher Neddo of Barre Town, and Peter Schmeekle of Stowe will face the winners of the contested Democratic primary: incumbents Ann Cumming, Andrew Perchlik, Anne Watson, and challenger Gabriel LaJeunesse.
Selectboard: Donation to Front Porch Forum was a mistake
Chair Jen Morway and board member Ellen Howrigan said at the meeting last week they had received phone calls from people upset with the town providing taxpayer funds to a for-profit business.
Wanted suspect jumps in lake to avoid the law
Tanner Hart, 32, of Burlington was picked up on a state parole warrant after the short swim and also was cited for a charge of resisting arrest, the sheriff’s department said. He is due in Vermont Superior Court on July 23.
MacDonald: Vermont advances Voting Rights Act ‘cuz reasons
Everyone still has the same rights except non-citizens who arrived illegally, but when the US Supreme Court declared that it is unconstitutional and a violation of the Voting Rights Act to use discrimination (race) as a means of drawing congressional districts, Vermont had to act.
Drug ring sentenced by feds
Ringleader gets 10 years.
Vermont prepares for summer’s extreme weather events
Vermont is more likely to see extreme rainfall and flooding than a drought this summer, based on the current seasonal precipitation outlook.
VT Headlines: Big Beautiful Life event raises $70K to honor Addi Carroll
Vermont state treasurer discusses Trump Accounts and First Steps Forward pilot; Vergennes battery project on hold; Vermont Senior Games return to Burlington
Did Balint say farmers could leave? She voted against their farm bill
The quote was parody. The vote was real.
Feds put up $1 million cash to buy Newport’s Pit, relic of EB-5 scandal
The property remained vacant following what became known as the Kingdom Con Ponzi scheme.
America’s secret biolabs revealed
U.S. Intelligence confirms dozens of American-funded biolabs in Ukraine, Director of National Intelligence Gabbard releases classified documents
Roper: Another ridiculous attack on rural Vermonters
The pot calls the maple trees black.
Woman cited after pit bull kills her father
Authorities allege that Campbell’s dog, “Jack,” had a known pattern of aggression before attacking and killing Stephen Campbell at the family’s Brigham Hill Road home.
Kastner: From Salem to social media: What has really changed?
What a dissident Quaker, the Salem Witch Trials, and today’s disinformation debate have in common
Keelan: Is the economy headed for a crash in 2027?
Father Paolo Benanti, a Franciscan Friar of the Third Order and a well-respected author and teacher of moral philosophy recently noted in his article, appearing in the Wall Street Journal, “What we cannot predict becomes what we must fear.”
Two girls killed in head-on crash
Two juvenile passengers in Ross’s vehicle, an 8-year-old girl and a 2-year-old girl, were pronounced deceased at the scene.
Paddock Paradise promotes food, forage and freedom for horses
Close to 50 attendees drove to Becky Kinkead’s barn to see this Paddock Paradise example on Thursday, June 4. The workshop, hosted by University of Vermont Extension Center for Sustainable Agriculture and the Vermont Grass Farmers Association, attracted people of all ages with varying experiences in caring for horses.
Letters: Crying foul over state agency paying Public Radio
Also, why even a life-long Democrat sees the need for a Republican Senate.
Crime by County: ATV theft, arson, ghost gun sale
Vermont’s blotter this week ran heavy on drugs, break-ins and impaired driving. A federal judge handed down a six-year sentence in a Windham County guns-and-drugs case, troopers chased down a wanted man at a Newbury burglary, and a Rutland man was charged with torching a community center.
VT Headlines: Flash flood season opens with washed-out roads — and a heat advisory right behind it
Vermont’s net metering decision just made solar harder; $4 million in FEMA funding coming to Vermont; Kingdom East School District narrowly approves $53.2M revised budget; Vermont State Police investigating ‘road rage’ incident in Middlesex
Mahdawi ordered deported – but staying pending appeal
Neither Mahdawi nor the ACLU mention state police citing his attempt to return from an overseas trip over a decade ago with illegal drugs and a large amount of cash in his possession. Nor do they mention the police report (cited and brushed aside by the federal judge in his decision) about his alleged effort to work for a Vermont gun repair shop, also over a decade ago, citing his expertise acquired in his homeland.
Alleged $500K fraudster of State Treasurer shows up to court high
A Connecticut man, who is charged with defrauding the office of the Vermont State Treasurer out of nearly $475,000, had his federal court hearing postponed Thursday when he tested positive for drugs.
Trump says U.S. will soon sign deal with Iran – Dow surges 900 points, oil falls
Outrage as Netanyahu is caught spying on Trump’s Iran negotiators – as JD Vance reveals a chilling truth about Israel; Trump calls off Iran strikes, tells The Post U.S.-Tehran deal is ‘all wrapped up’; Senate wants to force U.S. to share sensitive intel with Israel
Fatal motorcycle accident/ DUI crash with toddlers onboard
She was riding a 2022 Harley-Davidson Nightster southbound when she struck a guardrail.
A new door, but cross-border friendship continues at the Haskell
“Even if our two countries are now like an old married couple who sleep in separate rooms and use separate doors, no matter which door we use it is inside that we will as always meet in friendship.”
Stannard: Before his last show, veteran bluesman looks back
Sunny Lowdown is going to open the show with a solo performance. After a quick set with my old bandmates, we’re going to have a Blues Jam where local players can try their hand at wooing the crowd. There are slew of other great players, too numerous to mention, who are playing on supporting the Vermont Blues Society’s event.
Green: A reflection on America’s upcoming 250th
There is so much about our great nation to celebrate, particularly in this 250th year since its birth.
Two Ottermans run for same House seat
Despite political differences, descendants of longtime lawmaker, prosecutor ‘intend to keep the race cordial”
VT Headlines: Feds approve $31.7 million in disaster aid for flood-hit Vermont farmers
Vermont woman sentenced on firearms offense following fatal shooting; Haskell Free Library holds ribbon cutting for new Canadian citizen entrance; Several roads washed out in Vermont after overnight storms Wednesday; Franklin Foods’ Enosburg Falls plant set to close in August
Man abused child since 2023, police say
The investigation began May 19, when troopers and the Vermont Department for Children and Families launched a joint inquiry into a report of suspected sexual abuse involving a child.
Quebec cops quiz gun owners’ spouses about domestic violence/ ‘Language, language,’ GOP chair chides Congress primary candidate
“If my choice of words offended some people, I understand that. But the truth is, my frustration doesn’t come from a bad place, ” Coester said in response to Dame’s condemnation of a profanity -laced critique of a reporter and lawmakers.
Poll: Public Safety is the question Vermont keeps asking. Chittenden County is where it’s loudest.
An advocacy group’s new poll put the issue at the center of the Chittenden County State’s Attorney race. The August vote turnout will be the real test.
Kastner: The real lesson of the Carmelo Anthony case
The danger of raising a generation of victims
BREAKING: Search for missing skull in Bradford homicide comes up empty
Investigation has shown Crooker was fatally shot at a home shared by Nickles and Lisa Akey and his body was later burned, records show. Vermont State Police later found some bones, but detectives were unable to locate the skull. The investigation continues.
Bhattacharya: Launching a second scientific revolution
We can solve the nation’s health problems if we establish gold standard science.
Balint calls for law restricting AI in campaigning after satirical YouTube video airs
But if AI becomes simply the newest tool for satire, parody and political commentary, banning it outright could collide with the First Amendment.
VT Headlines: Stowe Police charge pair after man dies of accidental drug overdose
Vermont Green FC plays Canada’s national soccer team in World Cup tuneup; New animal cruelty law to take effect in Vermont next month; From players to family: The lasting Impact of the Lake Monsters Host Program
Big layoffs announced in dairy processing, hospital network
99 dairy products processing jobs and 142 health care positions are being eliminated in two unrelated layoffs announced this week.
Vermont offers schools and towns grants for modern wood heat
Back to the woodstove? Not quite…
Ryan: Media gatekeeping and the Vermonters who don’t exist
Vermont Public, VT Digger, and Seven Days have done their legislative session wrap-ups. In the year rural Vermonters found their voices, these outlets are mostly disinterested in rural perspectives.
Bernie celebrates Platner’s Maine victory as Maine Democrat Governor refuses To concede crushing U.S. Senate primary loss
Platner, 41, an ex-Marine whose Nazi tattoo, misogynistic behavior and anti-establishment rhetoric have raised questions over his fitness for public office, nonetheless trounced Maine Gov. Janet Mills by winning roughly 70 percent of Tuesday’s vote.
BREAKING: 4 arrested in Newport drug raid
Four people, including a career criminal, were arrested during a drug raid at 501 Pleasant Street in Newport City on Tuesday, police said.
Gray: Building the housing Vermont needs
Whether we live in Swanton, Guilford, Pownal, or anywhere in between, Vermonters take pride in our self-sufficiency and resilience. When we see a problem, we fix it, whether it’s a broken fence or a broken economy. The next two years of the Trump administration will almost certainly see Washington punishing so-called “blue states” like Vermont with less federal help than ever. No one is coming to save us, so it’s up to us to invest in ourselves, and our communities.
Who decides what Vermonters need? A $250k project hands part of the answer to an AI tool
A federal-grant project led by UVM Extension will map what Vermonters need to thrive, drawing in part on Local Minutes, an AI tool that searches municipal meeting records. The tool’s own disclaimer says it should not be the sole basis for important decisions.
Longmore on black crime, Hornblas on masks in school
An Open Letter to the Cabot School Board, June 8th, 2026
Klar: Moral decline in America?
Study shows Republicans and Democrats can agree on something.
Breaking: Driver wants North Hero manslaughter case dropped or trial site changed
Ellen E. Willson, 39, of Federal Street has pleaded not guilty in Vermont Superior Court in North Hero to charges of involuntary manslaughter and two counts of gross negligent operation: one with death resulting and one with serious bodily injury, all from the June 15, 2025 crash.
Sanders, Trump ‘aren’t that far apart’ on government stake in AI ownership
“President Donald Trump also embraces giving the public a stake in AI’s growth,” reports the Brattleboro Reformer.
VTGOP Chair becomes weekly host of “Vermont Viewpoint” on WDEV
VTGOP Chairman Paul Dame has joined the weekly rotation of hosts on WDEV’s “Vermont Viewpoint” program from 9am to 11am. The station has already given a platform to Vermont Democrat Chair Lachlan Francis for several weeks, and Dame is being added to the weekly rotation for the foreseeable future.
VT Headlines: Car drives over edge of small cliff in Colchester parking lot
Man arrested after reported arson at Rutland rec center; Meal program remains in Burlington park despite mayor’s concerns; Riders on the Storm Drains: Barre Turns to ‘Adopt-a-Drain’ to Reduce Flooding; Montpelier’s former post office is up for auction this month. Its lead contender has doubts about the property’s condition; Franklin County Field Days cancelled again
In praise of Community College
“I think we’re all coming around to the fact that some take a different route and heading to college right off may not be the best path for everyone,” Scott said.
Police raid ‘problem’ home
Springfield Police, assisted by the heavily armed Vermont State Police SWAT Team, conducted an early morning drug raid at 26 Litchfield St. on Friday.
Car strikes horse on Willoughby Lake Road in Brownington, animal euthanized
The horses’ owners arrived and told responders the animals had broken out of a containment fence.
Vermont Senator fearing his Maine guy may be toast
Platner, wounded by yet another allegation of questionable behavior, avowed he’s not being pressured to drop out.
Pols, social media respond to The Vermont Party
Ingalls confirmed to VDC today that he is starting a platform, and that he never said he was starting a party.
VT Headlines: Front Porch Forum could become employee-owned when its founders retire
Vermont man dies from injuries sustained in May single-car crash; One UVM lab’s surprise discovery led to flu science breakthrough; Play it again, Sam: A Vermont picture palace reels in new money with old movies; Skatepark becomes stage during Burlington Discover Jazz Festival
Shorts: Bennington County school closes, Kurt Wright back on Morning Drive
Kurt Wright returns to AM talk radio; Speaking of graduation; Civics Bee today in Stowe
Vermont has the highest rate of anti-Black hate crimes in the nation
In any given year, roughly 1 in every 430 Black Vermonters is directly targeted in a bias-motivated crime. In a small, close-knit community, that’s not a distant statistic — it’s a neighbor, a coworker, a family member.
Roper: Want to save rural schools? Go independent.
And dump the VTNEA!
Why Community College of Vermont Is growing as college costs climb
As the state’s four-year campuses cut programs and ran deficits, CCV grew. The reasons are structural — and they’re reshaping the choices facing Vermont families.
Buying a used EV in Vermont? What you save depends on who powers your house.
We bring the data. You form the opinions.
Soulia: Who owns the land In Vermont?
People lose trust when government becomes hard to understand. They lose trust when enforcement feels uneven. They lose trust when decisions seem distant from everyday life. And they lose trust when state agencies begin sounding like owners instead of caretakers.
Kastner: Are Vermont schools preparing students for Vermont or for America?
When did our schools become so deeply involved in questions that used to be debated primarily in legislatures, courtrooms, town halls, and around kitchen tables?
DUI driver sends teen biker to hospital/Victim in May crash succumbs
The juvenile was transported to Copley Hospital for treatment.
State budget up 2.9% – here’s what’s in it
This budget reflects a period of relative fiscal discipline as the state navigates the end of “abundant” pandemic-era federal funding.
Vermonters saved lives, led troops under fire at Normandy Beach
Albert Sponheimer, of East Rygate, was there that day, and was awarded the Silver Star for his heroic work as a medic…. He saved countless lives while exposing himself to heavy enemy fire on the shores of Omaha Beach.
Despathy: Extortion and pollution killed the data center bill
H.727- Data Center Bill veto analysis
Signs of support spread across Barre following student’s death
The death of a 13-year-old student has prompted an outpouring of grief in Barre, along with broader community conversations about youth mental health, bullying prevention, and support for LGBTQ+ young people.
VT Headlines: Trial set for former animal control officer accused of animal cruelty
Lamoille County Sheriff: child on bicycle hit by drunk driver; 80-hour weeks and drowning in debt: UVM Medical Center resident doctors rally for a new contract; Vermont Supreme Court: landowners not liable for injury to trespassers
Roper: The devastating legacy of Democrat leadership
Krowinski and Baruth leaving a disaster in their wake.
Klar: Biden pardoned a drug-dealer, who quickly got back to work
Even out of power, the Biden administration just keeps on giving.
Cohen: Failed mayor candidate files for Vermont House
Karen Paul was defeated in her 2024 Burlington mayoral bid.
Caregiver convicted of L&L with disabled child
At the time of the offense in September 2021, Fox was working for a social services agency serving as a caretaker.
Three days before leaving office, Biden commuted sentences of 23 Vermont drug dealers
To date, most of President Donald Trump ‘47’s pardons and small handful of commutations have been for people convicted of fraud, other financial crimes, and obstructing access to abortion clinics. A few have been drug-crime related. None are from Vermont.
Dame: America’s most effective minority delivers affordability, reform and freedom
As we gear up for the 2026 elections, all of our Republican incumbents can be proud of the work that was done and look ahead to doing even more if Vermonters once again grant our candidates their votes and support to keep making a difference the Vermont Way.
Ellis: Graham Platner is in the barrel
It is his turn and the next week will tell us whether he can be a senator
Vermont banks hit by bank and wire fraud
Federal authorities have arrested five out-of-state suspects as part of more than a $500,000 fraud perpetrated on banks and credit unions throughout Vermont and the Northeast.
State senator Ingalls plans new political party
Shortly after Ingalls made his post, sources closely familiar with the discussions told VDC that conversations about forming a new political party have been taking place for some time among Ingalls and others involved with the Rural Vermont Rising community.
VT Headlines: Burlington celebrates installation of ‘Lake Bone’ sculpture downtown
Affordable housing complex opens in downtown Waterbury; District officials explain how state education bills will impact HUUSD; BETA Technologies opens doors to local and national media for the first time
Trump education secretary foes, friends demonstrate during visit
The larger protest group included members of labor organizations, education advocates, socialist organizations and transgender rights supporters.
Biker in critical condition after Burlington crash
Tunbridge school fire ruled accidental; Six people threatened by man in public place
Grid-scale battery storage skeptics show up at Vergennes meeting
The 4.99 MW Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) will deliver backup power for four hours at peak output, according to a December, 2025 report to the Vermont Public Utilities Commission (PUC), the state’s regulatory and permitting body for most energy projects. The project, built by Lightshift Energy on private land, would expand battery storage capacity already present in nearby Panton.
Challengers contest incumbents in Chittenden Democrat primary
Community organizer and campaign strategist Joanna Grossman and pediatrician Dr. Elizabeth Ann Hunt are running to bring new ideas to the district.
New roadside marker celebrates Ann Story, ‘Mother of the Green Mountain Boys’
Vermonters gather at the Ann Story cabin in Salisbury to celebrate the Revolutionary War heroine.
McGuinness: Anti-parental rights bills pass the legislature in 2026
Legislative wrap-up on parental rights
BREAKING: Former Lamoille County Deputy Sheriff denies 3 felonies
An award-winning now former Lamoille County deputy sheriff, who officials maintain helped cause a mistrial in a homicide case, has pleaded not guilty in Vermont Superior Court in Hyde Park to three felony counts, including two counts of obstruction of justice.
Klar: Washington legal settlement protects Christian foster parents
Sanity and legal protections prevail.
Juvenile detention center planned for South Burlington
Secure facility would be open in 2028.
Waterville woman seeks Lamoille House seat
Pitre currently volunteers throughout Lamoille County and surrounding communities, including organizing and participating in local music programs for seniors, individuals with special needs, and community gatherings.
VT Headlines: Several VT schools received bomb threats Wed. morning
Vermonter train delayed after collision with pedestrian; Three seriously injured in Jericho crash; US Education Secretary tours Vermont schools with pushback from residents, students
House avoids ICE anti-mask law now in force in New Jersey
If S.208 had become law, Vermont anti-ICE demonstrators and the government officials in active or tacit support of them would have another weapon at their disposal – as seen in New Jersey.
Protect Vermont’s native wildlife this summer: Give loons and sea lamprey their space
State biologists urge boaters, anglers, and shoreline residents to respect two of Vermont’s most ecologically important — and often misunderstood — native species.
Vermont crime this week
The week’s incidents are a reminder of the steady, often difficult work of keeping Vermont’s communities safe.
VIDEO: Protester makes DEATH THREAT towards unmasked ICE agent outside NJ facility
Those who support an unmasking bill need to take notice
Carroll: As mother of slain woman, thankful for S.193
After years of studies, hearings, delays, working groups, and repeated acknowledgment that Vermont has a dangerous forensic system gap, I am deeply grateful to finally see meaningful movement forward.
Two men arrested in Lamoille County drug bust after months-long investigation
Vermont State Police Drug Task Force detectives and the Tactical Services Unit executed a search warrant at a Johnson residence on June 2, arresting James Mason, 47, and Danarius Davis, 23, on a slate of drug charges that includes fentanyl trafficking, cocaine sales, and conspiracy.
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