Measles cases found in Orleans County, health officials warn
“The risk presented to most Vermonters by the current situation is low,” the Vermont Health Department said, but it is asking providers to be on alert.
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Montpelier has its long-awaited housing blueprint for Country Club Road
DEW Properties plans to build roughly 108 housing units in its initial phase. Residents won’t move in for several years.
Air Force veteran takes a ride of a lifetime
A New York and Vermont-based organization celebrates veterans by giving them a flight to honor their service free of charge.
Vermont’s schools are not the problem. Property tax is.
Rising school taxes are a symptom of a regressive, unstable property tax. Consolidation and spending cuts won’t cure it.
Stop strong-arming towns into signing off on regional plans
Act 181’s year-end deadline gives towns weeks to weigh land use maps that will shape them for decades.
VTDigger launches year-end drive with goal of providing 10,000 meals by Thanksgiving
Each gift supports VTDigger’s independent journalism and provides 10 meals through the Vermont Foodbank.
Every child deserves someone in their corner
Vermont's volunteer Guardians ad Litem bring a child's voice and best interests into the courtroom.
Losing ground: Vermont’s struggle against river erosion
River erosion causes the vast majority of the state’s flood damage. The problem is getting worse. And many Vermonters remain in harm’s way.
My teeth could kill me
I’ve survived avalanches and earthquakes, but a lack of dental care could be what finally does me in.
Setting the goal: more households with workers
Next Gen Brattleboro launches with a four-organization alliance, a case for growth, and a $1 million match for a new leadership fund.
Report finds Vermont is experiencing unprecedented weather extremes
Municipalities and the outdoor recreation industry are trying to prepare for an uncertain future, but there’s only so much they can do.
‘Vermont wants a farm show’: Long-running agricultural event returns in April
The Vermont Farm Show was canceled beginning in 2021, but it’s restarting in the spring with a new vision.
Vermont’s Sen. Bernie Sanders poised to get back powerful committee chair in new Congress
He wants the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee to “be very aggressive about moving toward ‘Medicare for All’” and restore the healthcare subsidies Congress allowed to lapse last year.
Spiritual adviser to death row inmates visits Middlebury
The Rev. Jeff Hood came to Addison County last week, where he spoke with community members about capital punishment and his work as a spiritual adviser.
Susan Newell
Susan will be deeply missed. She leaves behind not only the people who loved her, but the warmth, generosity, laughter, and unmistakable spirit that made her uniquely Susan.
PHOTOS: Anti-ICE march of remembrance
Protesters aimed to “call attention to the human cost of this system.” Read the story on VTDigger here: PHOTOS: Anti-ICE march of remembrance .
Promising growth, Utah-based investor leads board takeover at Ethan Allen
“I’m not a private equity firm,” said Doug Bergeron, who holds a roughly 5% stake in the company. “We're completely committed to the state of Vermont.”
Burlington City Council president launches bid for mayor
Democrat Ben Traverse said the success of the city depends on lifting everyone up. “Because the truth is, we’re all in this together.”
Vermont stores feel ripple effect of strike at grocery distributor
Some Vermont grocers say deliveries have been delayed since the strike by warehouse workers in New Hampshire began Monday.
‘Where is your emergency?’: Hartford’s emergency communications specialists shortage echoes national trend
The shortage is putting extra strain and pressure on Hartford’s current specialists.
Essex Junction cannabis and duck farmer poised to get his growing license back
A judge ruled that Jason Struthers can resume his backyard cannabis growing on Taft Street because his operation predates the city’s new laws zoning cannabis cultivation.
Clear the grid backlog and lower Vermont’s power bills
Congress has a chance to address climate change and lower energy costs. It should take it.
Construction of the South Burlington Walk-Bike Bridge advances at Exit 14
Phase one of construction is underway to connect Williston Road and University Mall.
For new taxes, only room at the inn
“Any time you hear the word tax, that's got a negative connotation to a lot of people,” Bennington Selectboard Chair Tom Haley said.
‘We will not be intimidated’: 3 anti-ICE protesters plead not guilty to federal charges
Their attorney said he intends to file a motion to throw out the charges on several grounds, including that they violate his clients’ First Amendment rights.
Washington County voters approved $54.9 million bond for new career center
Residents in Washington County advanced the effort to build a new East Montpelier campus for the Central Vermont Career Center, expanding its enrollment size.
Vets Town Hall events will highlight veterans’ stories in November
“The veterans who speak are our neighbors, colleagues, friends, and family members. Attending a Vets Town Hall is a chance to learn about some of the experiences that have been meaningful to them,” said Kristen Eaton, deputy director of Vets Town Hall.
Wealth shouldn’t fast-track a private runway in Lincoln
Regulators approved an airstrip for Beta’s CEO without giving neighbors and town officials an open hearing.
Lighten up and let ’em fly
An airstrip and float planes have shared a quiet Grand Isle road for years without trouble, so why can’t Lincoln live with a 900-foot runway the FAA has already cleared?
Apparent election ploy to oust Chittenden County state’s attorney fails
Sarah George was among the county law enforcement officials across Vermont who won four-year terms on Tuesday.
Porter Medical Center nurses sign new 3-year contract
The contract extension — which includes slight wage increases — caps a bargaining session that started last summer.
Vermont invested in her. Now she’s coming back.
A Curtis Fund scholarship closed Makayla Towne’s college funding gap and opened the door to more than a degree. Now a Clark University senior preparing for medical school, she plans to return to Vermont as a psychiatrist serving neurodivergent teens—and give back to the community that raised her.
In a ‘blue tsunami,’ how did Republican Gov. Phil Scott win another term?
“He's created a category of one, you know? And Democrats are willing to pull the lever for him even as they vote blue across the ballot,” said Senate President Pro Tempore Phil Baruth.
Hunting is part of who we are as a state
From grouse walks in October to quiet hours in a deer stand, hunting season carries generations of Vermont tradition, family bonds and community.
Republican incumbent state senator from Rutland County arrested last week loses reelection bid
It was one of several legislative races across Rutland County that Republicans lost.
Vermont Conversation: ‘An incredible repudiation of Trump.’ Sen. Peter Welch on the 2026 Democratic tsunami.
The Vermont senator said one of the election’s clearest messages was a demand for accountability from elected officials.
A shrinking state can’t afford to lose its top earners
More taxes on ‘the rich’ will drive away the professionals Vermont most needs. Read the story on VTDigger here: A shrinking state can’t afford to lose its top earners .
Vermont Democrats regain supermajorities in Statehouse amid nationwide ‘blue wave’
“We were confident we'd pick up seats,” said Vermont Democratic Party Chair Lachlan Francis. But “I certainly think it's safe to say we are surprised.”
On fourth attempt, Barre voters approve school district budget
The district is the last in the state to approve an annual spending plan. Read the story on VTDigger here: On fourth attempt, Barre voters approve school district budget .
First in their families: Five first-generation students share their stories
National First-Generation College Celebration Day is November 8. Meet five students who are the first in their families to pursue college and learn more about the dreams that motivate them — and the persistence that carries them forward.
Vermonters vote to approve 2 constitutional amendments
The public referendums were the final steps in ratifying the new items, which fortify collective bargaining rights and guarantee Vermonters equal protection under the law regardless of a number of characteristics.
Republican Phil Scott wins record sixth term as Vermont’s governor
Scott overcame a well-funded challenge from Democrat and Progressive Amanda Janoo and has now been elected governor more times than anyone else in state history.
Molly Gray elected as Vermont’s next lieutenant governor, ousting John Rodgers
The Democrat returns to the seat she held for one term beginning in 2021 after a campaign cycle that turned personal.
Who checks the software’s work?
Training workers to catch what automation misses should be part of every manufacturing apprenticeship.
When the last Holocaust survivors are gone, who will teach their history?
The responsibility to bear witness is passing to survivors’ children and grandchildren, but families can’t do it alone.
The results from Vermont’s 2026 general election
Vermont’s top-of-the-ticket races stole the headlines on election night, but voters also decided several important statewide races and ballot measures.
Vermonters are heading to the polls around the state. Here’s what’s on the ballot.
Top of mind for many voters is a surprisingly competitive race for governor between incumbent Republican Phil Scott and Democrat/Progressive Amanda Janoo.
In Kirby, a potluck and debate night brings neighbors together
Residents said events like this are important for a healthy democracy. Read the story on VTDigger here: In Kirby, a potluck and debate night brings neighbors together .
Workers at Lake Champlain Chocolates push to unionize
Employees will vote later this month on whether to accept representation, with some seeking better compensation and changes to the company’s workplace environment.
Gifford Health Care raises rates and reduces hours on its employee daycare center
“We're entering a period of hard trade-offs in healthcare, and this is one of them,” the hospital CEO said, as the organization navigates the joint pressures of workforce retention and keeping expenses low.
I nearly died because I couldn’t find a primary care doctor
Health insurance doesn’t mean anything if there’s no doctor to see. Universal primary care would close that gap for every Vermonter.
Universal primary care will strain a shrinking doctor workforce
Free care would drive up demand for appointments faster than Vermont can train or recruit clinicians.
Vermont has assigned its $195 million in federal rural health dollars. Here’s where it’s going.
The largest sums of money are directed toward hospital infrastructure upgrades and funds to facilitate hospital redesign.
An affluent southern Vermont town considers adding housing — or keeping green space
Voters in Dorset will consider conveying a portion of town-owned land on Raptor Lane for the construction of 35 homes. At the heart of the issue is whether residents want to see the town grow.
Data centers need guardrails now
Without firm rules, data centers could drive new fossil-fuel development and pass the costs to Vermont families.
Public phone now available in downtown Middlebury
The installation was inspired by other free-to-use phones in rural areas. Read the story on VTDigger here: Public phone now available in downtown Middlebury .
New Burlington police chief will face tall order
Burlington leaders and residents have some simple advice: Listen. Read the story on VTDigger here: New Burlington police chief will face tall order .
Barre arena no longer on thin ice thanks to volunteers
Local contractors, including 14 plumbers, and businesses donated 160 hours of labor to fix the arena’s broken pipes, allowing it to open on time.
Will Vermont history repeat itself with another November nail-biter?
Gov. Phil Scott may be facing a close electoral contest, but his four living predecessors — Madeleine Kunin, Howard Dean, Jim Douglas and Peter Shumlin — each had their own down-to-the-wire votes.
Upper Valley’s member-owned co-op battles rising food prices
The grocery cooperative is struggling to stick to its roots and keep prices affordable.
The saga of a sweet turnip
The Gilfeather Turnip Festival is one of many Vermont fall festivals that draw visitors and celebrate communities’ unique legacies.
Community nurse programs are getting a lot of airtime this election. Here’s how they work.
The nurses can’t provide hands-on care or bill an insurer but instead offer a broader, holistic suite of support.
Tax the rich to spare the rest of us
Making the wealthiest filers pay more could wipe out state income tax for nearly all Vermonters.
Pranks, parties and prognostication: The history of Halloween in Vermont
A new paper published by the Vermont Historical Society documents how people celebrated the spooky season between 1870 and 1940.
High schoolers start podcast to center young transgender Vermonters
The podcast’s first episode advocates for trans youth to be included in crafting state policy amid nationwide threats against trans rights.
Voter voices from Milton’s Bombardier Park
Parkgoers enjoying a sunny afternoon in Milton shared their thoughts on the upcoming Nov. 3 election.
Lois A. Schumacher
She had a strong interest in arts and crafts and pursued interests in painting, weaving, ceramics and hooked rugs.
Bennington Battle Monument dig reveals possible historic tavern, artifacts
Historic site opened for tours revealing near-surface foundations, artifacts and structure that may have served the historic tavern brewery.
Vermont to receive $4.5M settlement from General Motors following data privacy investigation
“GM collected data from tens of thousands of Vermonters and sold that data to insurance companies and data brokers without obtaining consent from drivers,” said Vermont’s attorney general Thursday.
Let the wealthy help keep Vermont rural
People who move to Vermont for its rural character have good reason to help pay to protect it.
Voter voices from Rutland’s downtown Walmart plaza
While some Rutland County residents favor the recognizable face in the gubernatorial race, other voters think it’s time for something different.
November brings an end to foliage season — but it’s not winter yet
Another sunny weekend is ahead across Vermont just in time for Halloween. Read the story on VTDigger here: November brings an end to foliage season — but it’s not winter yet .
Soaring diesel prices are pushing Vermont loggers to the brink
Fuel cost increases could finish off an industry already reeling from mill closures, flat wood prices and rising equipment costs.
Bringing flood reporting from VTDigger and FRONTLINE (PBS) to more Vermonters
Find our special print edition in this week’s Seven Days, and tell us what information you need — before, during and after a flood.
Dartmouth provost resigns after review finds undisclosed AI use
A committee found that Santiago Schnell “failed to disclose his use of AI in clear violation of a national newspaper’s stated policy, was not forthcoming about his AI use,” and fell short of Dartmouth’s ethics and professionalism standards.
Accountability court docket to continue in ‘modified fashion’
The court helped connect defendants with services and address a backlog of cases.
Voter voices: At the Cambridge dump, unease about Vermont’s future
Benton Donlevy wants to buy a house, but “there’s a lot of factors making that pretty difficult right now,” the 25-year-old from Jeffersonville said.
FBI investigates former Burlington school administrator in alleged $1.8 million fraud
The FBI is investigating whether a former district administrator created a fraudulent company to take money from the school district.
Vermont Conversation: Bill McKibben sees a nation at a crossroads as he barnstorms battleground states
"We tell ourselves that this is the richest country on Earth," said the author and environmental activist. "But man, for the most part in this country, there are a lot of people just barely getting by."
Why Proposal 4 matters to LGBTQ+ youth
Statutes can be repealed when power shifts. Proposal 4 would give queer and transgender young people protection that doesn’t hinge on who holds office.
Listen to rural Vermont before you vote
What works in South Burlington may not suit Canaan or St. Johnsbury, and small towns deserve a say before laws pass.
State senator from Rutland County arrested on domestic assault charge, denies allegation
Less than one week before the election, Sen. Terry Williams, of Poultney, appeared in court Wednesday where his lawyer entered a not guilty plea on his behalf.
Build or tax? Vermont’s governor candidates emphasize different elements of housing policy.
Both candidates vying for Vermont’s top job want to bring down housing costs and make the state a more affordable place to live. But Gov. Phil Scott and challenger Amanda Janoo have starkly different ideas about what’s driving the state’s housing problems — and how to fix them.
As flooding increases and federal aid shrinks, Vermont is not prepared to manage disaster recovery
Across Vermont, repeated floods are leaving residents and towns facing a precarious future.
After probe, concerns over Barre City officer’s credibility puts dozens of criminal cases in limbo
The Orange County state’s attorney wrote the officer has “substantial issues pertaining to his credibility” stemming from an investigation into allegations he had sexual relations with a woman he arrested while that case was still pending.
Pownal will consider a 5-year permitting pause on data center facilities
The selectboard is considering a moratorium amid concerns the former Green Mountain Race Track site could be targeted for a large facility.
Southwestern Vermont rail gets an upgrade to help the region’s economy
The state is receiving $60 million to replace 60 miles of rail between Rutland and North Bennington for commercial freight travel, potentially laying groundwork for passenger service from Bennington to Burlington.
Blunder over legal process impedes school merger studies in some regions
Vermont’s new education reform law mandates that merger study committees begin work this fall. But ambiguities over posting public information and warning meetings are halting work in some areas.
Voter voices from east to west
At two time-honored restaurants in Addison County, undecided and independent voters express more worry than certainty.
Proposal 3 protects the rights earlier generations fought for
As workers’ rights are rolled back nationally, a constitutional amendment on the November ballot would keep Vermont lawmakers from undoing collective bargaining protections.
Big Labor isn’t playing straight with Vermonters about Prop 3
The budget measure would lock compulsory union fees into the Vermont Constitution, putting them beyond the reach of future Legislatures and governors.
Hadley Kistler is gearing up for a career as an early childhood educator
Hadley sees early childhood education as a chance to shape some of the most important years of a child’s life. Drawn to helping kids build the fundamental skills they will use for a lifetime, her goal is to be a positive presence for them.
Local Fairlee developers want to build an apartment block. Their neighbors are standing in the way.
The site used to be home to a two-story building that housed apartments and commercial spaces before it burned down in 2007. As the developers see it, their project will revitalize what was once the liveliest part of the town center.
Judge extends anti-stalking order for Burlington mayor’s protection
The order, first issued in June, has been extended for a year after the judge decided the defendant’s actions were sufficient to cause fear for a reasonable person.
Voter voices from the Upper Valley
A Saturday snapshot from the Norwich Farmers’ Market just over two weeks ahead of Election Day shows some former Scott voters growing skeptical about the governor’s bid for reelection.
Vermont officials raise concerns over ‘heated’ confrontations between voters, town clerks ahead of Election Day
Republican Gov. Phil Scott also said his administration would “do whatever we have to do” to prevent federal officials from exerting undue influence over the voting process.
Burlington mayor picks new chief of police
Anthony Geraci has 24 years of police experience in New York. Read the story on VTDigger here: Burlington mayor picks new chief of police .
Inside the confidential contest to lead Vermont’s most powerful healthcare regulator
The Green Mountain Care Board has become one of the most influential forces on how Vermont hospitals make and spend their money. Now, it’s in need of a new leader.
Can we trust the polls?
The best way to read the polls is to look at them together — and allow for error.
Guard families deserve an answer
Two months after veterans and military families urged Gov. Phil Scott to back the Defend the Guard Act, they still haven’t heard back.