Vermont Viewpoint

Originally broadcast - Friday, September 25th

Guest: Vermont Gas CEO Neale Lunderville

David is joined by Filmmaker Bess O’Brien to talk about her inspiring new documentary on neighbors helping neighbors across Vermont. These short vignettes show some of the many ways that folks everyday acts across Vermont, weave our communities together.

Later, David will interview Rutland County Senate candidate Dave Wolk. David has a 50 year history of public service in Rutland County from being a teacher, up through every level of education, culminating with nearly two decades as the President of Castleton State College.

Zach Dora, Advocacy Director for Jersey 1st, joins the show to discuss how a new independent contractor rule could impact gig workers, why New Jerseyans and Americans should be free to pursue employment that works best for them, why Vermonters should care, and the final America 250 celebrations.

Clara Morrison, Executive Director of the Right for Vermont Foundation, informs listeners about Proposition 3, what it would do, and the potential economic impacts.

James Morrone, Policy Analyst with Americans for Prosperity, breaks down how energy policy is a top concern for voters in the midterms.  What is causing energy spikes across New England and nationally, and what policy solutions voters should be looking for from candidates to solve the issue.

Chris Maidment, New Hampshire political strategist, updates listeners about the proposal to cap property taxes in New Hampshire, what it would do, how it would restrain local tax increases and local spending, why holding the vote during a general election increases public participation, and why VT should consider a similar proposal.

Representative Richard Bailey (R-Lamoille-2) is a member of the House Energy and Digital Infrastructure Committee.

Mac Teale is a candidate in the Lamoille-2 House District (Belvidere, Hyde Park, Johnson, and Wolcott)

http://www.lamoillerepublicans.com

and Doug Wood is running for a House seat in Chittenden-20 (Colchester Village)
http://dougwoodforvthouse.org

Meghan Sullivan is the Vice President of the Vermont Chamberm, talking about
the 2026 election cycle, and chamber initiatives

Matt Cota with Meadow Hill Consulting will discuss, tax and spending policy in Montpelier, and how Rising fuel prices may affect the agenda, as the U.S.-Iran conflict and disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz have led to sharp changes in the market, including the cost of heating fuel as we head into the colder months.

and Denise Smith- Executive Director -- Vermont council on Rural Development
discusses the Village Trust Initiative (VTI): A partnership with the Preservation Trust of Vermont and the Vermont Community Foundation that helps rural towns build community trusts and fund transformational revitalization projects in historic villages, such as converting general stores or community centers.
Climate Economy Initiative & Model Communities Program: Helps rural towns build economic vitality while cutting emissions through energy efficiency, renewable energy generation, and business incubation.
Climate Catalysts Innovation Fund: Offers small grants ranging from $500 to $4,000 for local organizations, municipalities, and businesses implementing local energy and climate solutions.
Town-by-Town Strategic Planning: Facilitates local democratic engagement processes, bringing residents together in community forums to identify local needs, set priorities, and build concrete action plans.
Working Lands Partnership: Supports local farm, food, and forest-based enterprises to strengthen the backbone of Vermont's rural economy.