Carla OccasoPaine Turnpike Sidewalk Project Nixed
BERLIN — A sidewalk project plan in the works for Paine Turnpike has been halted by the Berlin Selectboard July 27. “There is no support. No pedestrian use,” said selectboard member Kris Hayward after a presentation by Project Manager Dale Gozalkowski. Selectboard chair Jared Felch said the matter should go to a public hearing, but others said considering that nobody has shown any interest in the subject, the project should be stopped before any more money is spent. Florence Smith moved to abandon the project, saying she has been approached by multiple members of the public who disapprove of it and got the majority of the selectboard on her side. Selectboard Secretary Karla Nuissl expressed support for a public hearing and voted against abandoning the project.
Swimming in Boating Access Among Curtis Pond Concerns
CALAIS — Calais municipal leaders are dealing with violations at the Curtis Pond Boating Access. The matter was discussed during their July 13 meeting of the selectboard. Selectboard member Barbara McAndrew said people are swimming in the fishing area. Selectboard member Christy Mihaly said there have also been violations involving dogs and other matters. Selectboard Chair Jordan Keyes said they should talk to the people who offer swimming lessons to find out about the extent of the problem.
Berlin Pond Race Approved
BERLIN — A five-mile around Berlin Pond got the green light for Aug. 13. Robert Emmons appeared at the selectboard meeting July 17 to request permission for the event. The race involves all left turns and runners will face oncoming traffic. Emmons said his organization will provide insurance, traffic control, and notice five days in advance of the event. Approval was unanimous.
Rabies Bait Drop Underway
WATERBURY — The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Wildlife Services, in coordination with Vermont’s Department of Health and the Fish and Wildlife Department, will conduct the annual bait drops containing rabies vaccine beginning Aug. 1. The effort will deliver about 915,700 rabies vaccine baits in areas of Addison, Caledonia, Chittenden, Essex, Franklin, Grand Isle, Lamoille, Orange, Orleans and Washington Counties, as well as parts of New York and New Hampshire. The vaccine aimed at raccoons and skunks will be distributed by airplane in rural areas, helicopter in suburban areas, and by hand in residential areas.
— compiled by Carla Occaso
