Welcome to the spring, 2025 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
- 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: 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’m a facilitator and educator, and have coauthored a book on Vermont town meetings and another on community democracy. 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 stand ready to help with any special meetings that may be needed during the year (such as last summer’s post-flood Middlesex Roads and Rivers Forum). I’m enthusiastic about using multiple formats to strengthen inclusion and welcome everyone’s engagement.
3 – What are the most interesting or important issues relating to this position? Despite increasing polarization at the national level, it’s been great to see Middlesex residents 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: 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’m a facilitator and educator, and have coauthored a book on Vermont town meetings and another on community democracy. 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 stand ready to help with any special meetings that may be needed during the year (such as last summer’s post-flood Middlesex Roads and Rivers Forum). I’m enthusiastic about using multiple formats to strengthen inclusion and welcome everyone’s engagement.
3 – What are the most interesting or important issues relating to this position? Despite increasing polarization at the national level, it’s been great to see Middlesex residents 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:
TOWN CLERK (1 year of a 3-year term)
Cheryl Grandfield
Contact: [email protected]
I have been a proud resident of Government Hill Road in Middlesex since January 2007. I moved to Vermont in 1987, where I raised my two children. Today, I am blessed with three wonderful grandchildren. My husband, Robert Grandfield, and I have been happily married since 2012.
I have had the honor of working for the Town of Middlesex since 2021, beginning as the Bookkeeper and Assistant Town Clerk. Over time, my responsibilities expanded to include roles as Bookkeeper, Assistant Town Clerk, Treasurer, and Delinquent Tax Collector. I am now running for three positions: Town Clerk, Town Treasurer, and Delinquent Tax Collector.
As Treasurer, I will continue to monitor the Town’s financial accounts, track Town spending, maintain tax records, seek cost-saving opportunities, and ensure timely payment of bills once approved by the Select Board. I will collaborate with other Town officials to ensure the smooth operation of our finances and will continue my work with the independent auditor to maintain accurate and transparent financial records.
In the role of Delinquent Tax Collector, I will approach my neighbors with compassion, helping with tax payments plans whenever possible. However, I am also committed to following the established policies and guidelines to ensure that the Town can meet its budgeted obligations.
Throughout my career, I have amassed a wealth of experience in accounting, having worked in various roles, including positions at a self-employed business, the Family Center of Washington County, the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board (for ten years), the Vermont Department of Labor (for five years), and Capitol City Buick GMC. My diverse background in accounting and collections equips me with the skills necessary to manage overdue payments effectively.
As Town Clerk, I understand that it will take time to reach the level of success achieved by Sarah Merriman, but I am dedicated to putting in the effort required to do so. My desire to continue serving the Town of Middlesex drives me to run for this position. Having worked alongside Sarah in the Town Clerk’s office, I have gained valuable experience and knowledge, but I recognize there is always more to learn. I believe my experience and commitment to the community make me the best-suited candidate to serve our town.
My dedication to Middlesex is deeply important to me and my family. I genuinely cherish the town’s small-town charm and, most importantly, its exceptional people. I look forward to the opportunity to continue serving this wonderful community.
Contact: [email protected]
I have been a proud resident of Government Hill Road in Middlesex since January 2007. I moved to Vermont in 1987, where I raised my two children. Today, I am blessed with three wonderful grandchildren. My husband, Robert Grandfield, and I have been happily married since 2012.
I have had the honor of working for the Town of Middlesex since 2021, beginning as the Bookkeeper and Assistant Town Clerk. Over time, my responsibilities expanded to include roles as Bookkeeper, Assistant Town Clerk, Treasurer, and Delinquent Tax Collector. I am now running for three positions: Town Clerk, Town Treasurer, and Delinquent Tax Collector.
As Treasurer, I will continue to monitor the Town’s financial accounts, track Town spending, maintain tax records, seek cost-saving opportunities, and ensure timely payment of bills once approved by the Select Board. I will collaborate with other Town officials to ensure the smooth operation of our finances and will continue my work with the independent auditor to maintain accurate and transparent financial records.
In the role of Delinquent Tax Collector, I will approach my neighbors with compassion, helping with tax payments plans whenever possible. However, I am also committed to following the established policies and guidelines to ensure that the Town can meet its budgeted obligations.
Throughout my career, I have amassed a wealth of experience in accounting, having worked in various roles, including positions at a self-employed business, the Family Center of Washington County, the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board (for ten years), the Vermont Department of Labor (for five years), and Capitol City Buick GMC. My diverse background in accounting and collections equips me with the skills necessary to manage overdue payments effectively.
As Town Clerk, I understand that it will take time to reach the level of success achieved by Sarah Merriman, but I am dedicated to putting in the effort required to do so. My desire to continue serving the Town of Middlesex drives me to run for this position. Having worked alongside Sarah in the Town Clerk’s office, I have gained valuable experience and knowledge, but I recognize there is always more to learn. I believe my experience and commitment to the community make me the best-suited candidate to serve our town.
My dedication to Middlesex is deeply important to me and my family. I genuinely cherish the town’s small-town charm and, most importantly, its exceptional people. I look forward to the opportunity to continue serving this wonderful community.
TREASURER (1-year term)
Cheryl Grandfield - see above under Town Clerk
COLLECTOR OF DELINQUENT TAXES (1-year term)
Cheryl Grandfield - see above under Town Clerk
SELECT BOARD (3-year term)
Lawrence Rooney
Contact: [email protected]
Dear Neighbors and Friends,As a Middlesex resident for the past 19 years, I appreciate our small-town sense of community which is why I find myself with a strong desire to step up to serve in a greater capacity. I am grateful to live here, and my desire to run for the Select Board and to serve my neighbors is fueled by our shared values, and time spent with you in nature, over coffee or volunteering to support our community’s projects and priorities.
Three years ago, I was appointed to the Middlesex Development Review Board. I’ve learned a lot from this experience, as it’s enabled me to continue being of service, which is extremely important to me in both my professional career and personal life.
In public service, I served 25 years on the Plymouth Police Dept., retiring as a Detective. As the Chief of Safety and Security at Norwich University, I worked closely with students, faculty, staff and the administration to ensure a safe campus for over a decade, and also served as the university’s Emergency Management Coordinator. Today, I see many of your faces at the Hunger Mountain Coop as a Coop manager, and appreciate our shared values of local food, neighbors supporting neighbors, and a commitment to building a dynamic community of healthy individuals, sustainable local food systems, and thriving commerce that benefits all.
I am pursuing a seat on our Select Board as I believe the knowledge and experiences gained from my career in public safety, emergency management and community engagement will provide fresh perspective to the challenges we face in Middlesex today and in future. Our community has great potential and it's my belief that we can create positive change together, building a stronger, more vibrant community for all residents. Thank you for your support and your vote in the upcoming election on Town Meeting Day on March 4th.
Contact: [email protected]
Dear Neighbors and Friends,As a Middlesex resident for the past 19 years, I appreciate our small-town sense of community which is why I find myself with a strong desire to step up to serve in a greater capacity. I am grateful to live here, and my desire to run for the Select Board and to serve my neighbors is fueled by our shared values, and time spent with you in nature, over coffee or volunteering to support our community’s projects and priorities.
Three years ago, I was appointed to the Middlesex Development Review Board. I’ve learned a lot from this experience, as it’s enabled me to continue being of service, which is extremely important to me in both my professional career and personal life.
In public service, I served 25 years on the Plymouth Police Dept., retiring as a Detective. As the Chief of Safety and Security at Norwich University, I worked closely with students, faculty, staff and the administration to ensure a safe campus for over a decade, and also served as the university’s Emergency Management Coordinator. Today, I see many of your faces at the Hunger Mountain Coop as a Coop manager, and appreciate our shared values of local food, neighbors supporting neighbors, and a commitment to building a dynamic community of healthy individuals, sustainable local food systems, and thriving commerce that benefits all.
I am pursuing a seat on our Select Board as I believe the knowledge and experiences gained from my career in public safety, emergency management and community engagement will provide fresh perspective to the challenges we face in Middlesex today and in future. Our community has great potential and it's my belief that we can create positive change together, building a stronger, more vibrant community for all residents. Thank you for your support and your vote in the upcoming election on Town Meeting Day on March 4th.
Stephen Dennis
Contact: [email protected]
I have lived in Vermont my entire life, growing up in Burlington, and moved to Middlesex in 2022. I have attended or watched recordings of every Select Board meeting since Fall of ’22, giving me a firm understanding of the job and the town’s operations as a whole.
I currently serve as the Co-Chair of the Road Committee and have been the town’s Emergency Management Coordinator (EMC) since the fall of 2023. In this role, I have continued to take classes through the Red Cross and VT Alerts and have received several different EDM certifications in the process.
In my professional career, I am a licensed electrician and have worked on large-scale commercial projects as part of the overall project management team, as well as run, managed, and coordinated smaller projects with multiple contractors working under me. In addition to my hands-on technical experience, I have had to oversee budgets, scheduling, and logistics while ensuring projects stay on track and within scope. I believe these skills would cross over well into operations within the town, particularly when it comes to managing infrastructure projects, budgeting, and working collaboratively with different departments and contractors.
Why I’m Running for Office Again :
I strongly believe I can make a positive contribution to the town’s leadership. With our annual budget and taxes increasing year after year, I think it’s important to clearly explain to voters why these increases are necessary. I also find it imperative to continue seeking financial support through federal grants.
Additionally, I believe I bring a generationally different perspective to the job. As the world evolves, so do the challenges we face as a town. I believe fresh ideas and new approaches are essential in ensuring that Middlesex remains a strong, vibrant, and sustainable community for years to come.
Important Issues for Middlesex :
One of my top priorities is ensuring we maintain a fair and balanced budget that meets the needs of taxpayers while adequately funding all town departments. I want to encourage more residents to get involved so that they have a voice in the decisions that affect our town. Vermont is becoming increasingly expensive to live in, and I believe it’s the responsibility of the Select Board to combat these rising costs wherever possible.
As a proud Vermonter, I know that we are progressive enough to adapt and bring necessary changes when the old ways of thinking are no longer working in our best interest.
Exploring Additional Revenue for the Town :
I would like to explore new revenue opportunities for Middlesex, including but not limited to alternative taxes on various goods and services. By diversifying our revenue sources, we can ease the burden on property taxpayers while ensuring the town has the resources it needs. I believe we need to be proactive in identifying creative financial solutions that keep Middlesex fiscally strong without overburdening residents.
Thank you all for your support.
Contact: [email protected]
I have lived in Vermont my entire life, growing up in Burlington, and moved to Middlesex in 2022. I have attended or watched recordings of every Select Board meeting since Fall of ’22, giving me a firm understanding of the job and the town’s operations as a whole.
I currently serve as the Co-Chair of the Road Committee and have been the town’s Emergency Management Coordinator (EMC) since the fall of 2023. In this role, I have continued to take classes through the Red Cross and VT Alerts and have received several different EDM certifications in the process.
In my professional career, I am a licensed electrician and have worked on large-scale commercial projects as part of the overall project management team, as well as run, managed, and coordinated smaller projects with multiple contractors working under me. In addition to my hands-on technical experience, I have had to oversee budgets, scheduling, and logistics while ensuring projects stay on track and within scope. I believe these skills would cross over well into operations within the town, particularly when it comes to managing infrastructure projects, budgeting, and working collaboratively with different departments and contractors.
Why I’m Running for Office Again :
I strongly believe I can make a positive contribution to the town’s leadership. With our annual budget and taxes increasing year after year, I think it’s important to clearly explain to voters why these increases are necessary. I also find it imperative to continue seeking financial support through federal grants.
Additionally, I believe I bring a generationally different perspective to the job. As the world evolves, so do the challenges we face as a town. I believe fresh ideas and new approaches are essential in ensuring that Middlesex remains a strong, vibrant, and sustainable community for years to come.
Important Issues for Middlesex :
One of my top priorities is ensuring we maintain a fair and balanced budget that meets the needs of taxpayers while adequately funding all town departments. I want to encourage more residents to get involved so that they have a voice in the decisions that affect our town. Vermont is becoming increasingly expensive to live in, and I believe it’s the responsibility of the Select Board to combat these rising costs wherever possible.
As a proud Vermonter, I know that we are progressive enough to adapt and bring necessary changes when the old ways of thinking are no longer working in our best interest.
Exploring Additional Revenue for the Town :
I would like to explore new revenue opportunities for Middlesex, including but not limited to alternative taxes on various goods and services. By diversifying our revenue sources, we can ease the burden on property taxpayers while ensuring the town has the resources it needs. I believe we need to be proactive in identifying creative financial solutions that keep Middlesex fiscally strong without overburdening residents.
Thank you all for your support.
SELECT BOARD (2-year term)
Vic Dwire
Contact: [email protected], 802-522-8271
1. I have been going to the Middlesex town meetings since 1970 when I attended with my future father-in-law, Dwight McCullough. Those were the days. Prior to that time, I was from Middlebury, Vermont. I have resided at 268 McCullough Hill Road since 1972. My work life was with The Vermont Agency of Transportation in The Construction Division, from 1967-2015. I was a Middlesex Lister in the 70's for 5 or 6 years and was on the Middlesex Selectboard in the 90's for about 5 or 6 years.
2. I am seeking another 2-year term to help address our indebtedness caused by lack of FEMA payment. This debt with a concerted effort by all to keep our Town 2025-2026 increase below 10% is difficult at best. Affordability for all is our prime motive.
3. I believe the challenge of getting our finances in order so that our borrowing is not restricting our line of credit. We have several large culverts that need replacing but we do not have the line of credit to purchase nor hire a contractor to do the work.
We are scheduled to replace one of our Town dump/plow trucks and are holding off on that and hoping it does not break. I also believe we must work to insure that we are not applying too much salt to our paved highways which can enter our streams which in turn could contribute to pollution of Lake Champlain. It is also harming our regional flora and fauna near the highway.
Contact: [email protected], 802-522-8271
1. I have been going to the Middlesex town meetings since 1970 when I attended with my future father-in-law, Dwight McCullough. Those were the days. Prior to that time, I was from Middlebury, Vermont. I have resided at 268 McCullough Hill Road since 1972. My work life was with The Vermont Agency of Transportation in The Construction Division, from 1967-2015. I was a Middlesex Lister in the 70's for 5 or 6 years and was on the Middlesex Selectboard in the 90's for about 5 or 6 years.
2. I am seeking another 2-year term to help address our indebtedness caused by lack of FEMA payment. This debt with a concerted effort by all to keep our Town 2025-2026 increase below 10% is difficult at best. Affordability for all is our prime motive.
3. I believe the challenge of getting our finances in order so that our borrowing is not restricting our line of credit. We have several large culverts that need replacing but we do not have the line of credit to purchase nor hire a contractor to do the work.
We are scheduled to replace one of our Town dump/plow trucks and are holding off on that and hoping it does not break. I also believe we must work to insure that we are not applying too much salt to our paved highways which can enter our streams which in turn could contribute to pollution of Lake Champlain. It is also harming our regional flora and fauna near the highway.
SELECT BOARD (2 years of a 3-year term)
Stacey Skadberg
Contact: [email protected]
1) Please tell us something about yourself.
My husband and I moved to Vermont in 2015—he's from San Diego, and I grew up on a small horse farm in Maryland-- and we’ve been enjoying life in Middlesex since 2016. My dad joined us in 2017, and we welcomed our son in 2018. I tend our garden, read as much as I can, and love to bake my with kiddo.
In my professional life, I'm a licensed attorney and property/casualty adjuster, with experience that includes defense litigation, claims handling, and underwriting. I didn't exactly choose insurance as a career... but it turns out we're a great fit! Currently, I enjoy a fully remote position at a mid-size firm based out of New York working in an insurance solutions practice group
2) Why are you running for this office?
I've had the pleasure of serving on the Development Review Board (formerly the ZBA) for a few years now and see this as an opportunity to put my professional skills and experience to work for our community. And, perhaps I will inspire other 30-somethings to consider participating in town governance?
3) What do you think are the most interesting or important issues relating to the Middlesex position you’re running for?
We are facing unprecedented changes in our climate, juxtaposed against a housing crisis and aging demographics. We must ask ourselves: How can we adapt? How do we build a more resilient, sustainable community for the future? These are not easy questions, but they are necessary ones. Hard conversations will need to be had as we forge ahead.
Contact: [email protected]
1) Please tell us something about yourself.
My husband and I moved to Vermont in 2015—he's from San Diego, and I grew up on a small horse farm in Maryland-- and we’ve been enjoying life in Middlesex since 2016. My dad joined us in 2017, and we welcomed our son in 2018. I tend our garden, read as much as I can, and love to bake my with kiddo.
In my professional life, I'm a licensed attorney and property/casualty adjuster, with experience that includes defense litigation, claims handling, and underwriting. I didn't exactly choose insurance as a career... but it turns out we're a great fit! Currently, I enjoy a fully remote position at a mid-size firm based out of New York working in an insurance solutions practice group
2) Why are you running for this office?
I've had the pleasure of serving on the Development Review Board (formerly the ZBA) for a few years now and see this as an opportunity to put my professional skills and experience to work for our community. And, perhaps I will inspire other 30-somethings to consider participating in town governance?
3) What do you think are the most interesting or important issues relating to the Middlesex position you’re running for?
We are facing unprecedented changes in our climate, juxtaposed against a housing crisis and aging demographics. We must ask ourselves: How can we adapt? How do we build a more resilient, sustainable community for the future? These are not easy questions, but they are necessary ones. Hard conversations will need to be had as we forge ahead.
LISTER (3-year term)
Shelley Desjardin
Contact: [email protected]
With a commitment to serving the residents of Middlesex, I wanted to announce my candidacy for re-election as your Town Lister. Having joined the Listers during a crucial time when the previous Lister was retiring, I stepped into the role with determination and enthusiasm. Over the past year, I completed the remaining term and subsequently earned your trust through a vote to continue serving in this capacity for the remainder of the two-year term.
The role of a Lister is multifaceted, requiring a deep understanding of property assessments and valuations to ensure fairness and accuracy for all residents. During my tenure, I have immersed myself in learning every aspect of this position. I have attended all available Lister and Assessor training sessions to equip myself with the knowledge needed to perform my duties at the highest standard. This continuous learning journey is vital, especially given the ongoing changes and new requirements set forth by the Vermont Department of Taxes.
One significant update is the implementation of the new software, the Vermont Property Information Exchange (VTPIE), which works in conjunction with our current Grand List software. To stay ahead of these developments and ensure smooth operations, I have obtained my Assessor One Certification and continue to partake in necessary training programs. This dedication to professional development ensures that I can effectively manage the responsibilities of this role and serve our community with expertise and diligence.
Although I am retired and cherish spending time with my family, engaging in outdoor activities, and helping others, I find a profound sense of fulfillment in giving back to our community. Serving as your Town Lister allows me to contribute meaningfully, addressing the needs of Middlesex and its residents. I am passionate about this work and committed to upholding the high standards of our town’s property valuation processes.
I sincerely appreciate your support and vote to re-elect me as your Town Lister. Together, we can continue to ensure the accuracy, fairness, and integrity of our property assessments, benefiting all residents of Middlesex. Thank you for your trust and confidence.
Contact: [email protected]
With a commitment to serving the residents of Middlesex, I wanted to announce my candidacy for re-election as your Town Lister. Having joined the Listers during a crucial time when the previous Lister was retiring, I stepped into the role with determination and enthusiasm. Over the past year, I completed the remaining term and subsequently earned your trust through a vote to continue serving in this capacity for the remainder of the two-year term.
The role of a Lister is multifaceted, requiring a deep understanding of property assessments and valuations to ensure fairness and accuracy for all residents. During my tenure, I have immersed myself in learning every aspect of this position. I have attended all available Lister and Assessor training sessions to equip myself with the knowledge needed to perform my duties at the highest standard. This continuous learning journey is vital, especially given the ongoing changes and new requirements set forth by the Vermont Department of Taxes.
One significant update is the implementation of the new software, the Vermont Property Information Exchange (VTPIE), which works in conjunction with our current Grand List software. To stay ahead of these developments and ensure smooth operations, I have obtained my Assessor One Certification and continue to partake in necessary training programs. This dedication to professional development ensures that I can effectively manage the responsibilities of this role and serve our community with expertise and diligence.
Although I am retired and cherish spending time with my family, engaging in outdoor activities, and helping others, I find a profound sense of fulfillment in giving back to our community. Serving as your Town Lister allows me to contribute meaningfully, addressing the needs of Middlesex and its residents. I am passionate about this work and committed to upholding the high standards of our town’s property valuation processes.
I sincerely appreciate your support and vote to re-elect me as your Town Lister. Together, we can continue to ensure the accuracy, fairness, and integrity of our property assessments, benefiting all residents of Middlesex. Thank you for your trust and confidence.
PLANNING COMMISSION (3-year term)
David Magida
Contact: [email protected]
A bit about myself:
I have lived in Middlesex for almost 39 years. My wife, Adrienne, and I raised our 2 children in Middlesex. Both our children were educated at Rumney and U32 Middle and High Schools. I feel so fortunate that my family and I have been able to live so much of our lives in Middlesex and take full advantage of the beautiful physical aspects of the town as well as the involved, friendly and supportive neighbors dedicated to preserving important parts of the Town while still being open to introducing and developing new things.
Why I am running for this commission:
I am retired after working at Norwich University for 33 years. In my role as Chief Administrative Officer I was responsible for, among other things, campus master plan development and execution. A critical part of the process we followed was to provide numerous opportunities for members of the Norwich community to participate in the planning process. I feel that my experience will prove useful to the Middlesex Planning Commission.
Most Interesting and important issues related to this Planning Commission position:
There are many physical, financial and planning challenges facing Middlesex. The various boards and commissions, and the public in general, are well aware of these challenges. The town plan, energy plan and zoning regulations form a base for on-going discussions and work. I think the Planning Commission faces some interesting and challenging work to help Middlesex deal with a seemingly accelerated rate of climate
change both on a short term and long term basis.
Contact: [email protected]
A bit about myself:
I have lived in Middlesex for almost 39 years. My wife, Adrienne, and I raised our 2 children in Middlesex. Both our children were educated at Rumney and U32 Middle and High Schools. I feel so fortunate that my family and I have been able to live so much of our lives in Middlesex and take full advantage of the beautiful physical aspects of the town as well as the involved, friendly and supportive neighbors dedicated to preserving important parts of the Town while still being open to introducing and developing new things.
Why I am running for this commission:
I am retired after working at Norwich University for 33 years. In my role as Chief Administrative Officer I was responsible for, among other things, campus master plan development and execution. A critical part of the process we followed was to provide numerous opportunities for members of the Norwich community to participate in the planning process. I feel that my experience will prove useful to the Middlesex Planning Commission.
Most Interesting and important issues related to this Planning Commission position:
There are many physical, financial and planning challenges facing Middlesex. The various boards and commissions, and the public in general, are well aware of these challenges. The town plan, energy plan and zoning regulations form a base for on-going discussions and work. I think the Planning Commission faces some interesting and challenging work to help Middlesex deal with a seemingly accelerated rate of climate
change both on a short term and long term basis.
Paula Otenti
Contact: [email protected]
1) Please tell us something about yourself.
I have been residing in Middlesex since the fall of 2019, but since purchasing land here in 2017, I have volunteered as the Emergency Management Coordinator, as a member of the Fire Department, and currently on the Planning Commission, and the Energy Committee.
2) Why are you running for this office?
I’m currently running for the Planning Commission as I feel that the town is on the cusp of a growth period, and I want to lend my efforts to help that growth be well planned, manageable and have a positive impact on the town.
3) What do you think are the most interesting or important issues relating to the Middlesex position you’re running for?
The most important issue I believe is how does the town grow, without negatively impacting all the wonderful things we love about living in Middlesex.
Contact: [email protected]
1) Please tell us something about yourself.
I have been residing in Middlesex since the fall of 2019, but since purchasing land here in 2017, I have volunteered as the Emergency Management Coordinator, as a member of the Fire Department, and currently on the Planning Commission, and the Energy Committee.
2) Why are you running for this office?
I’m currently running for the Planning Commission as I feel that the town is on the cusp of a growth period, and I want to lend my efforts to help that growth be well planned, manageable and have a positive impact on the town.
3) What do you think are the most interesting or important issues relating to the Middlesex position you’re running for?
The most important issue I believe is how does the town grow, without negatively impacting all the wonderful things we love about living in Middlesex.
PLANNING COMMISSION (3-year term)
Tom Jackman
Contact: 66 Wood Rd., N. Middlesex, VT 05682
I have been a Middlesex resident for 22 years and I am running for an open position on the Middlesex Planning Commission.
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 have no personal agenda for joining the PC other than 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 22 years and I am running for an open position on the Middlesex Planning Commission.
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 have no personal agenda for joining the PC other than 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.