Welcome to the spring, 2026 Middlesex Candidates page.
Below are statements from the candidates for public office we have heard from so far, in response to these three questions:
This Candidate Profile project is a partnership of the Middlesex Town Meeting Solutions Committee and the League of Women Voters of Vermont. It is provided as a service to help Middlesex voters make an informed choice, and is not an endorsement of any candidate. To view the ballot and for more information about Town Meeting Day, please visit the official Town of Middlesex website: http://middlesexvermont.org
Below are statements from the candidates for public office we have heard from so far, in response to these three questions:
- Please tell us something about yourself.
- Why are you running for this office?
- What do you think are the most interesting or important issues relating to the Middlesex position you’re running for?
This Candidate Profile project is a partnership of the Middlesex Town Meeting Solutions Committee and the League of Women Voters of Vermont. It is provided as a service to help Middlesex voters make an informed choice, and is not an endorsement of any candidate. To view the ballot and for more information about Town Meeting Day, please visit the official Town of Middlesex website: http://middlesexvermont.org
Article 1. Moderator (the Moderator is elected from the floor at the in-person Town Meeting)
Susan Clark
Contact: [email protected]
1 – Tell us something about yourself: I’m a facilitator and educator, and have coauthored a book on Vermont town meetings and another on community democracy. My husband and I live on McCullough Hill Road, where we raised our son who attended Rumney and U-32. I’ve lived in Vermont all my life, and in Middlesex since 1984. I love to cook, I’m a decent skier, and an enthusiastic but basically terrible gardener.
2 – Why are you running? I’ve been honored to serve as Middlesex’s moderator since 2005. While I care about the outcomes of our town’s decisions, I care about the process even more. I think despite our differences—or maybe because of them—town meetings have made Vermont’s communities wiser and more vibrant. If elected I also am happy to help with any special meetings that may be needed during the year. I’m enthusiastic about using creative formats to strengthen inclusion and welcome everyone’s engagement.
3 – What are the most interesting or important issues relating to this position? We could all use more good news about democracy. Despite polarization at the national level, it’s wonderful that Middlesex residents of all stripes continue to be involved locally. I deeply value Middlesex’s diverse opinions. We have a lot to learn from each other—now more than ever. I hope our processes will continue to help us hear, understand, and respect each other as the good neighbors we are. I’m convinced we create better solutions when we do.
Contact: [email protected]
1 – Tell us something about yourself: I’m a facilitator and educator, and have coauthored a book on Vermont town meetings and another on community democracy. My husband and I live on McCullough Hill Road, where we raised our son who attended Rumney and U-32. I’ve lived in Vermont all my life, and in Middlesex since 1984. I love to cook, I’m a decent skier, and an enthusiastic but basically terrible gardener.
2 – Why are you running? I’ve been honored to serve as Middlesex’s moderator since 2005. While I care about the outcomes of our town’s decisions, I care about the process even more. I think despite our differences—or maybe because of them—town meetings have made Vermont’s communities wiser and more vibrant. If elected I also am happy to help with any special meetings that may be needed during the year. I’m enthusiastic about using creative formats to strengthen inclusion and welcome everyone’s engagement.
3 – What are the most interesting or important issues relating to this position? We could all use more good news about democracy. Despite polarization at the national level, it’s wonderful that Middlesex residents of all stripes continue to be involved locally. I deeply value Middlesex’s diverse opinions. We have a lot to learn from each other—now more than ever. I hope our processes will continue to help us hear, understand, and respect each other as the good neighbors we are. I’m convinced we create better solutions when we do.
ARTICLE 2. To elect all necessary officers for the ensuing year:
(to be voted by Australian ballot)
TOWN CLERK (3-year term)
Brigid Browning
Contact: [email protected]
Hi, I am Brigid Browning, a motivated, detail-oriented Middlesex community member seeking to serve my neighbors as Town Clerk. With a background in planning, organization, and relationship-building, I am committed to continuing the work of our former clerks' professionalism and care in the management of our town's records, elections, and public services.
I believe that a great Town Clerk is the backbone of local government — someone residents can count on for accurate information, responsive communication, and a welcoming town office. I am eager to bring my skills in financial oversight, stakeholder engagement, and community-focused problem-solving to this role and to work alongside my fellow Middlesex residents to keep our town running smoothly and transparently.
Contact: [email protected]
Hi, I am Brigid Browning, a motivated, detail-oriented Middlesex community member seeking to serve my neighbors as Town Clerk. With a background in planning, organization, and relationship-building, I am committed to continuing the work of our former clerks' professionalism and care in the management of our town's records, elections, and public services.
I believe that a great Town Clerk is the backbone of local government — someone residents can count on for accurate information, responsive communication, and a welcoming town office. I am eager to bring my skills in financial oversight, stakeholder engagement, and community-focused problem-solving to this role and to work alongside my fellow Middlesex residents to keep our town running smoothly and transparently.
TREASURER (1-year term)
Cheryl Grandfield
Contact: [email protected]
I am running for Treasurer and Delinquent Tax Collector because I care deeply about Middlesex and the people who call it home. My husband, Robert, my mom, Erma, and I live on Government Hill, and like many of you, we value our close-knit community, our neighbors, and the shared responsibility we have to one another. And yes—Roxy, the neighborhood watch dog, is part of the team too.
I believe this role requires someone who is organized, trustworthy, and approachable—someone who understands that behind every tax bill is a real household, a family, and often a long history in this town. I am running to ensure Middlesex’s finances are handled accurately, transparently, and with respect for everyone involved.
I have always believed in stepping up when you are able to contribute. Whether in family life, the community, or town government, if you can help, you should. Serving Middlesex in this role is a meaningful way I can give back to the town that has given so much to me.
Residents deserve confidence that town funds are managed carefully, records are maintained correctly, and payments are processed on time and in full compliance with state requirements. (And yes—I promise to keep careful track of the numbers, even the ones with lots of zeros.)
Clear communication is equally important. Taxes and municipal finances can be confusing or stressful, and residents should feel comfortable asking questions and know they will receive clear, respectful answers. Transparency builds trust, and trust matters—especially in a small town like Middlesex.
As Delinquent Tax Collector, I also recognize the importance of fairness and compassion. Financial hardship can happen to anyone. While the law must be followed, delinquent taxes should be handled professionally and respectfully, with an effort to help residents understand their options and timelines whenever possible.
Finally, I see this role as vital to the overall financial health and stability of Middlesex. Strong financial management supports our town services, schools, roads, and emergency services that we all rely on every day.
Contact: [email protected]
I am running for Treasurer and Delinquent Tax Collector because I care deeply about Middlesex and the people who call it home. My husband, Robert, my mom, Erma, and I live on Government Hill, and like many of you, we value our close-knit community, our neighbors, and the shared responsibility we have to one another. And yes—Roxy, the neighborhood watch dog, is part of the team too.
I believe this role requires someone who is organized, trustworthy, and approachable—someone who understands that behind every tax bill is a real household, a family, and often a long history in this town. I am running to ensure Middlesex’s finances are handled accurately, transparently, and with respect for everyone involved.
I have always believed in stepping up when you are able to contribute. Whether in family life, the community, or town government, if you can help, you should. Serving Middlesex in this role is a meaningful way I can give back to the town that has given so much to me.
Residents deserve confidence that town funds are managed carefully, records are maintained correctly, and payments are processed on time and in full compliance with state requirements. (And yes—I promise to keep careful track of the numbers, even the ones with lots of zeros.)
Clear communication is equally important. Taxes and municipal finances can be confusing or stressful, and residents should feel comfortable asking questions and know they will receive clear, respectful answers. Transparency builds trust, and trust matters—especially in a small town like Middlesex.
As Delinquent Tax Collector, I also recognize the importance of fairness and compassion. Financial hardship can happen to anyone. While the law must be followed, delinquent taxes should be handled professionally and respectfully, with an effort to help residents understand their options and timelines whenever possible.
Finally, I see this role as vital to the overall financial health and stability of Middlesex. Strong financial management supports our town services, schools, roads, and emergency services that we all rely on every day.
COLLECTOR OF DELINQUENT TAXES (1-year term)
Cheryl Grandfield - see above under Treasurer
SELECT BOARD (1 year of a 2-year term)
Paul Cerminara
Contact: [email protected]
My name is Paul Cerminara, and I’ve proudly called Middlesex home since 2009. My wife, Monica, and I are raising our three children here — two attend U-32 and one is at Rumney. We love the outdoors and feel fortunate to live and raise our family in the woods of this great community.
Professionally, I serve as Residential Division Manager at Dale E. Percy’s Excavation in Stowe. I oversee residential construction projects and manage the maintenance of roads and infrastructure for more than two dozen HOA communities in the region. Infrastructure, road safety, and responsible budgeting aren’t just professional responsibilities for me — they’re personal passions.
Last year, I was honored to be appointed by the Select Board to fill a vacant one-year term. I am now running to complete the remaining year of that two-year term. I care deeply about the future of Middlesex, particularly when it comes to our roads and infrastructure. Having served as Road Foreman for the Town for 10 years, I’m proud of the work accomplished during that time alongside then-Commissioner Steve Martin. Today, I continue to collaborate with our current foreman, Eric, as we address new challenges — including significant flood damage our town has endured two years in a row.
The highway department represents one of the largest portions of our town budget, second only to the school budget. With my background and experience, I understand both the operational needs and the fiscal responsibility required to manage it effectively. I am equally mindful of our aging town facilities and believe that when we invest in upgrades, we must do so thoughtfully — ensuring long-term value for taxpayers and infrastructure that serves our community for decades.
I am proud of the collaborative and respectful work ethic of our current board and would be honored to continue serving alongside them for another year.
I respectfully ask for your support.
Contact: [email protected]
My name is Paul Cerminara, and I’ve proudly called Middlesex home since 2009. My wife, Monica, and I are raising our three children here — two attend U-32 and one is at Rumney. We love the outdoors and feel fortunate to live and raise our family in the woods of this great community.
Professionally, I serve as Residential Division Manager at Dale E. Percy’s Excavation in Stowe. I oversee residential construction projects and manage the maintenance of roads and infrastructure for more than two dozen HOA communities in the region. Infrastructure, road safety, and responsible budgeting aren’t just professional responsibilities for me — they’re personal passions.
Last year, I was honored to be appointed by the Select Board to fill a vacant one-year term. I am now running to complete the remaining year of that two-year term. I care deeply about the future of Middlesex, particularly when it comes to our roads and infrastructure. Having served as Road Foreman for the Town for 10 years, I’m proud of the work accomplished during that time alongside then-Commissioner Steve Martin. Today, I continue to collaborate with our current foreman, Eric, as we address new challenges — including significant flood damage our town has endured two years in a row.
The highway department represents one of the largest portions of our town budget, second only to the school budget. With my background and experience, I understand both the operational needs and the fiscal responsibility required to manage it effectively. I am equally mindful of our aging town facilities and believe that when we invest in upgrades, we must do so thoughtfully — ensuring long-term value for taxpayers and infrastructure that serves our community for decades.
I am proud of the collaborative and respectful work ethic of our current board and would be honored to continue serving alongside them for another year.
I respectfully ask for your support.
SELECT BOARD (2-year term)
Liz Scharf
Contact: [email protected]
1) Please tell us something about yourself. I grew up in Marshfield and moved to Middlesex in 2001 where my husband Lauri and I raised our two boys, Ethan and Eric, alums of Rumney and U32. I work at Capstone Community Action in my day job, love to ski, bike and hike, and have been on the board for the past 12 years, the last 4 as Chair.
2) Why are you running for this office? I wasn’t planning on running again, but with a fabulous new board and some flood work still to finish up, I thought it would be prudent to see some of this work to completion and also prepare the board for an eventual new Chairperson. “Succession planning”, so to speak.
3) What do you think are the most interesting or important issues relating to the Middlesex position you’re running for? We have learned a lot about flood recovery, working with the federal government, and the reality that FEMA may not be there for us in the future. I care about building backroad resilience, running a professional functioning government that can take advantage of any and all funding available to support us, and keeping Middlesex an affordable place for families to raise and educate their children.
Contact: [email protected]
1) Please tell us something about yourself. I grew up in Marshfield and moved to Middlesex in 2001 where my husband Lauri and I raised our two boys, Ethan and Eric, alums of Rumney and U32. I work at Capstone Community Action in my day job, love to ski, bike and hike, and have been on the board for the past 12 years, the last 4 as Chair.
2) Why are you running for this office? I wasn’t planning on running again, but with a fabulous new board and some flood work still to finish up, I thought it would be prudent to see some of this work to completion and also prepare the board for an eventual new Chairperson. “Succession planning”, so to speak.
3) What do you think are the most interesting or important issues relating to the Middlesex position you’re running for? We have learned a lot about flood recovery, working with the federal government, and the reality that FEMA may not be there for us in the future. I care about building backroad resilience, running a professional functioning government that can take advantage of any and all funding available to support us, and keeping Middlesex an affordable place for families to raise and educate their children.
SELECT BOARD (3-year term)
Zara Vincent
Contact: [email protected]
I have lived in Vermont my entire life and purchased my home in Middlesex in 2003. I have always had a deep interest in politics and in the decisions that affect all of our lives. It is so important to have people making those decisions who truly care about their neighbors' well-being.
Since being elected two years ago, I have worked diligently to make positive changes that benefit all of Middlesex and guide the direction we are headed in the future. After two devastating floods, I stepped up to lead the wonderful volunteers on the Road Committee and took over as Middlesex’s FEMA coordinator, pushing through the paperwork required for us to receive repayment for over $12 million in damages to our infrastructure.
As your Select Board representative, I will continue to fight for what we are owed from FEMA and to assist our Road Crew and Foreman as we complete the last of the work and receive FEMA funds this summer. I will also face every challenge with the needs of my neighbors in mind, ensuring our town is run by qualified staff and continuing to research and apply for grants to help us avoid untenable tax increases. I will keep working to smooth out the rough times our town may face now and in the future, and I will communicate clearly about any issues so that the entire community is informed and has a voice in the process.
Thank you for your support.
Contact: [email protected]
I have lived in Vermont my entire life and purchased my home in Middlesex in 2003. I have always had a deep interest in politics and in the decisions that affect all of our lives. It is so important to have people making those decisions who truly care about their neighbors' well-being.
Since being elected two years ago, I have worked diligently to make positive changes that benefit all of Middlesex and guide the direction we are headed in the future. After two devastating floods, I stepped up to lead the wonderful volunteers on the Road Committee and took over as Middlesex’s FEMA coordinator, pushing through the paperwork required for us to receive repayment for over $12 million in damages to our infrastructure.
As your Select Board representative, I will continue to fight for what we are owed from FEMA and to assist our Road Crew and Foreman as we complete the last of the work and receive FEMA funds this summer. I will also face every challenge with the needs of my neighbors in mind, ensuring our town is run by qualified staff and continuing to research and apply for grants to help us avoid untenable tax increases. I will keep working to smooth out the rough times our town may face now and in the future, and I will communicate clearly about any issues so that the entire community is informed and has a voice in the process.
Thank you for your support.
BUDGET COMMITTEE (3-year term)
Vote for not more than TWO
Samantha Beaudoin
Contact:
Info not yet submitted.
Dorinda Crowell
Contact: [email protected]
1. Please tell us something about yourself.
I moved to Middlesex after meeting my husband David, a lifelong resident of Middlesex. We raised two children, who attended Rumney Memorial & U-32. I have served on several boards and committees since the mid 80’s including the Selectboard for 9 years and Treasurer for 7 years and currently I am the Assistant Treasurer and a JP (Justice of the Peace). Prior to my semi-retirement, I was the Operations Manager for an apparel manufacturer for 20 years.
2. Why are you running for this office?
I have compiled and collaborated on many budgets over the years and possess the knowledge of the Town’s historical income, fixed and variable expenses and debt. I understand the legal state statutes associated with the towns’ indebtedness requirements and have worked with the Town’s bank and the Vermont Bond Bank executing loans for equipment purchases and the flood of 2023. I have attended several of the committee's meetings as a guest and with several openings on the committee I felt my knowledge could be beneficial.
3. What do you think are the most interesting or important issues relating to the Middlesex position you’re running for?
The two devastating floods (which we are still paying for) and necessary improvements/repairs to the Town Highway facility and Town Hall are significant expenses facing the community. In addition, the cost of equipment purchases and the annual operating budget continues escalate. The Budget Committee has done an amazing job by implementing and maintaining the CIP (Capital Improvement Process) and their proactive approach to minimize, as much as possible, future impacts to the town tax rate, and to assist the town in planning for major expenses.
Contact:
Info not yet submitted.
Dorinda Crowell
Contact: [email protected]
1. Please tell us something about yourself.
I moved to Middlesex after meeting my husband David, a lifelong resident of Middlesex. We raised two children, who attended Rumney Memorial & U-32. I have served on several boards and committees since the mid 80’s including the Selectboard for 9 years and Treasurer for 7 years and currently I am the Assistant Treasurer and a JP (Justice of the Peace). Prior to my semi-retirement, I was the Operations Manager for an apparel manufacturer for 20 years.
2. Why are you running for this office?
I have compiled and collaborated on many budgets over the years and possess the knowledge of the Town’s historical income, fixed and variable expenses and debt. I understand the legal state statutes associated with the towns’ indebtedness requirements and have worked with the Town’s bank and the Vermont Bond Bank executing loans for equipment purchases and the flood of 2023. I have attended several of the committee's meetings as a guest and with several openings on the committee I felt my knowledge could be beneficial.
3. What do you think are the most interesting or important issues relating to the Middlesex position you’re running for?
The two devastating floods (which we are still paying for) and necessary improvements/repairs to the Town Highway facility and Town Hall are significant expenses facing the community. In addition, the cost of equipment purchases and the annual operating budget continues escalate. The Budget Committee has done an amazing job by implementing and maintaining the CIP (Capital Improvement Process) and their proactive approach to minimize, as much as possible, future impacts to the town tax rate, and to assist the town in planning for major expenses.
BUDGET COMMITTEE (2 years of a 3-year term)
(Write-in)
CEMETERY COMMISSION (3-year term)
Gary Lamell
Contact:
Info not yet submitted.
Contact:
Info not yet submitted.
CEMETERY COMMISSION (1 YEAR OF A 3-YEAR TERM)
(Write-in)
CEMETERY COMMISSION (2 YEARS OF A 3-YEAR TERM)
(Write-in)
PLANNING COMMISSION (3-YEAR TERM)
Thomas Jackman
Contact: 66 Wood Rd., N. Middlesex, VT 05682
I have been a Middlesex resident for 23 years and I am running for reelection to the Middlesex Planning Commission after serving one year of a 3-year term.
I am retired after working for 19 years as the Town Planner for the Town of Stowe. Previously, I was the Planning and Zoning Director for Barre City. During my tenure in Stowe, I provided staff support to the Planning Commission, Selectboard, Conservation Commission, Historic Preservation Commission, Energy Commission, and Arts and Cultural Council. Over the years, I have served on the boards of the Central Vermont Planning Commission, Lamoille County Planning Commission, Stowe Land Trust and Green Mountain Transit.
I look forward to continuing to work with the current group of dedicated PC members, offering my Vermont planning experience and knowledge of local government in service to the town. I am particularly interested in supporting the ongoing development of the Village Center as a vibrant civil, cultural and commercial center of the town.
Contact: 66 Wood Rd., N. Middlesex, VT 05682
I have been a Middlesex resident for 23 years and I am running for reelection to the Middlesex Planning Commission after serving one year of a 3-year term.
I am retired after working for 19 years as the Town Planner for the Town of Stowe. Previously, I was the Planning and Zoning Director for Barre City. During my tenure in Stowe, I provided staff support to the Planning Commission, Selectboard, Conservation Commission, Historic Preservation Commission, Energy Commission, and Arts and Cultural Council. Over the years, I have served on the boards of the Central Vermont Planning Commission, Lamoille County Planning Commission, Stowe Land Trust and Green Mountain Transit.
I look forward to continuing to work with the current group of dedicated PC members, offering my Vermont planning experience and knowledge of local government in service to the town. I am particularly interested in supporting the ongoing development of the Village Center as a vibrant civil, cultural and commercial center of the town.
LISTER (3-YEAR TERM)
Sean J. McVeigh
Contact: [email protected]
Please tell us something about yourself: I grew up in Connecticut and I graduated from UCONN. I moved to Vermont in 1990 to escape. I have lived in Middlesex on Windlea Drive with my wife and daughter since 2006. I retired in May of 2025 after 35 years of public service with the State of Vermont. I was an Environmental Enforcement Officer (EEO) for about 20 years and then I was the Chief of the unit for the next 15 years.
Why are you running for this office? I am very interested in public service, and I believe the work of a Lister lines up well with my work and life experiences. As Chief EEO, I ran a unit tasked with investigating alleged violations of Vermont’s environmental rules, regulations, permits, and statutes. This work put me in direct contact with citizens from all demographics, from the homeless to owners of corporations. I have conducted extensive land record research in town clerk offices all across the state. I have visited literally thousands of Vermont properties and when necessary, I brought the owners back into compliance. My goal was always to be as fair and consistent as possible.
What do you think are the most interesting or important issues relating to this position? I was appointed to this position by the Select Board in June of 2025. So far, the most interesting thing has been the complexity of the work. Property valuation involves many variables including location, location, and location. Thankfully, Middlesex is an excellent location, so we are really talking about condition and marketability. Those just happen to be rather complicated. My goal, as always, is to be as fair and consistent as possible.
Contact: [email protected]
Please tell us something about yourself: I grew up in Connecticut and I graduated from UCONN. I moved to Vermont in 1990 to escape. I have lived in Middlesex on Windlea Drive with my wife and daughter since 2006. I retired in May of 2025 after 35 years of public service with the State of Vermont. I was an Environmental Enforcement Officer (EEO) for about 20 years and then I was the Chief of the unit for the next 15 years.
Why are you running for this office? I am very interested in public service, and I believe the work of a Lister lines up well with my work and life experiences. As Chief EEO, I ran a unit tasked with investigating alleged violations of Vermont’s environmental rules, regulations, permits, and statutes. This work put me in direct contact with citizens from all demographics, from the homeless to owners of corporations. I have conducted extensive land record research in town clerk offices all across the state. I have visited literally thousands of Vermont properties and when necessary, I brought the owners back into compliance. My goal was always to be as fair and consistent as possible.
What do you think are the most interesting or important issues relating to this position? I was appointed to this position by the Select Board in June of 2025. So far, the most interesting thing has been the complexity of the work. Property valuation involves many variables including location, location, and location. Thankfully, Middlesex is an excellent location, so we are really talking about condition and marketability. Those just happen to be rather complicated. My goal, as always, is to be as fair and consistent as possible.