Bennington News Roundup: Medical Debt, Fire, And Select Board - Latest Updates

Is Bennington, Vermont, at a critical juncture, facing challenges that demand immediate attention and decisive action? The recent flurry of events, from legislative approvals to devastating acts of violence, paints a vivid picture of a community grappling with significant issues, necessitating careful examination and informed decision-making.

The Vermont Legislature has unanimously approved medical debt relief bill, s.27, a move that is poised to provide much-needed financial respite to many residents. However, this positive development is juxtaposed with a series of unfortunate incidents that have cast a shadow over the community. A fast-moving fire in Bennington destroyed a home, leaving residents displaced and the community reeling from the loss. Simultaneously, the Americorps team working with a local Habitat chapter learned their contracts had been terminated, an unexpected blow to vital community projects.

In another significant development, Dee has announced his retirement from SVHC, setting in motion the search for a new leader. The Bennington Select Board is also gearing up for a revote on the election of the chairperson, indicating internal dynamics that require resolution. Furthermore, Head Start continues to provide crucial support for children and families, a vital resource in these challenging times.

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The Bennington Banner is preparing to publish a series of profiles on candidates as a precursor to the March 4th Bennington Select Board election. This promises to be an opportunity for the community to gain a deeper understanding of the individuals vying for leadership positions. In legal matters, after a Thursday afternoon executive session, town attorney Merrill Bent provided the Banner with the town's formal response to assertions in the PLH Vineyard Sky filing. This response included a motion seeking to have the appeal dismissed and the case expedited.

Old Bennington is facing the daunting challenge of restoring the Bennington Battle Monument, with an estimated cost of $40 million. State and local officials, along with historic preservationists, are grappling with this significant undertaking. On the emergency front, a response team was congregated around Skyline Drive at Mount Equinox, near Gnat and the BRSU. The Manchester Fire and Rescue, Manchester Police Department, Bennington County Sheriff's Office, Winhall Fire and Rescue, Arlington Fire and Rescue, and North Shire Rescue Squad were all on the scene, indicating the severity of the situation.

Candidate forum held at the Bennington Banner on Monday, witnessed Select Board candidates Jim Sullivan and Kelly Carroll engaging with the audience, highlighting the importance of community dialogue. Additionally, the Select Board approved revisions to town charter language regarding the option for removing a town manager (if covered by an employment contract), and changes permitting the board to designate the Community Policing Review Advisory Board to review complaints involving the police department.

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Weather updates reported winds from the West at 10 to 15 mph, becoming Southeast and decreasing to less than 5 mph. Winds were also reported from the Southwest at 5 to 10 mph.

The article also focuses on the disturbing events in Downtown Bennington, where two cases of extreme violence unfolded within hours on Monday night, resulting in felony arraignments, attempted murder charges, and critical injuries due to brutal attacks. The weather forecast included a mix of clouds and sun in the morning, followed by cloudy skies in the afternoon, with light rain developing later in the day. Winds were predicted from the West at 10 to 20 mph.

In a surprising turn of events, States Attorney for Bennington County, Erica Marthage, dismissed without prejudice the case against Deven Moffitt, accused of murder. This decision, made the day before the scheduled jury selection, followed legal maneuvers by federal authorities, defense attorneys, and a federal judge. The article includes a reference to Last name Dassatti, of Cape Coral, Florida, likely in connection to ongoing investigations or legal proceedings.

The Bennington Banner Marketplace offers a variety of items for sale, reflecting local commerce and community engagement. The forecast also indicates the possibility of a few flurries or snow showers. The community's online presence is evident, with 16,974 likes and 1,495 conversations. The Bennington Banner remains a source for local, national, and world news.

Cooper apparently won after the recount, but Busa is appealing to the House of Representatives over voter checklist errors discovered in Pownal.

The unfolding series of events underscores the complex realities of Bennington. The legislature's approval of medical debt relief is a positive stride, yet the home fire, Americorps contract terminations, and violent crimes present serious challenges. The upcoming election, the monument restoration project, and the legal proceedings add layers of complexity to the communitys landscape. Bennington is navigating these challenges with a blend of resilience and determination.