AGP Executive Report

Transportation Funding: Vermont is set to get $19.7 million to fully reconstruct U.S. Route 7 between Brandon and Pittsford, with wider shoulders, drainage upgrades, safety improvements, and wildlife crossings. Public Safety: Vermont State Police released updates on multiple drownings, including identifying a Cambridge brother and sister who died in the Lamoille River area near Arrowhead Mountain Lake, and confirming another Fairfax drowning death as accidental. Health Policy: Gov. Phil Scott signed H.933 limiting how scholarship money under the Education Freedom Tax Credit can be used, narrowing eligible independent schools and restricting scholarship-funded programs. Environment & Water Quality: A bill would require phased microfiber filtration systems for washing machines sold in Vermont to cut microfiber pollution entering wastewater. Local Government: Fair Haven’s town manager search is moving toward a nationwide search after Newport City hired Joe Gunter. Community & Culture: Fireworks returned to Rutland’s July 4 celebration at the fairgrounds as the city marked the 250th. Business/Healthcare: Copley Hospital plans a new local testing center in Morrisville opening Aug. 3 to keep lab services in-state.

Healthcare & Rural Access: Copley Hospital says its new Copley Express Lab in Morrisville (opening Aug. 3) will keep Lamoille County testing local after decisions that would have routed services out of state. Local Health Policy: Sen. Peter Welch visited Bennington to hear from providers about Medicaid and ACA subsidy cuts and the strain they’re putting on hospitals and community health centers. Public Safety: A 70-year-old Wilmington man died in a Route 8A motorcycle crash in Heath; investigators say the cause is still under review. Civic Life: Burlington Pride is set to return Sept. 13 after an operational pause, with organizers “passing the torch” to Burly Bear, Out in the 802, and Queer Vermont. Community & Business: Bennington’s Community Market is partnering with SUNA Thai Kitchen, and the town has also leased a billboard in Hoosick, N.Y., to guide travelers to Bennington. Sports: Vermont Green FC women won the USLW League Eastern Conference title and will host a national semifinal July 11.

Health Care & Rural Access: Copley Hospital says its new Copley Express Lab in Morrisville will open Aug. 3 to keep Lamoille County testing local after concerns that services could be routed out of state. Clean Energy & Jobs: Vermont’s Agency of Agriculture and DEC are accepting applications for $5.9 million in Volkswagen Environmental Mitigation Trust funding to replace or repower older diesel trucks and equipment with electric options; deadlines run monthly through Dec. 2026. Sports: Vermont Green FC women captured the USL W League Eastern Conference title with a 2-0 win over Eagle FC and advance to the national semifinal at Virtue Field July 11. Public Health: Burlington beaches closed again due to cyanobacteria blooms, with officials warning closures may become more common as summer goes on. Local Safety: Vermont State Police are investigating a Derby crash that led to an armed standoff, with a man accused of firing at troopers and striking a neighbor’s vehicle. Community & Culture: The Jericho Historical Society honored 11 Revolutionary War veterans with a cemetery ceremony marking America’s 250th. Fireworks Costs: A report says some Vermont towns scaled back or canceled July 4 shows as prices rise, including a Hinesburg cancellation tied to higher provider minimums.

Healthcare Access: Copley Hospital is opening the Copley Express Lab in Morrisville on Aug. 3, aiming to keep Lamoille County testing local and priced competitively. State Politics: A new Green Mountain State Poll finds Gov. Phil Scott’s approval slipping to its lowest since 2022, while Molly Gray leads Vermont Democrats in early matchup scenarios. Public Safety: Vermont State Police say a Pownal burglary suspect, Joseph Gardner, was wounded during a dispute after allegedly breaking into a home; he was released on conditions and faces arraignment. Road & Weather Impacts: I-89 northbound Exit 20 ramp in West Lebanon is closing most nights (8 p.m.–6 a.m.) for drainage work through July 17, with detours; separate crash alerts closed parts of VT Route 113 in Vershire and W Main St in Vergennes. Community & Events: Brattleboro Development Credit Corporation will host a July 7 leadership forum on Vermont’s fiscal future, and Make-A-Wish Vermont & Northeast New York launches a July fundraising campaign with matching gifts up to $10,000.

Healthcare & Rural Access: Copley Hospital is opening the Copley Express Lab in Morrisville on Aug. 3, aiming to keep Lamoille County testing local after decisions that would have routed services out of state. Public Safety: Vermont State Police recovered the body of a man who jumped into the Lamoille River near Arrowhead Mountain Lake in Georgia to help a young relative; the girl’s body was found Thursday. Local Crime: In Pownal, Joseph Gardner, 54, was arrested for burglary after a home entry led to a physical altercation and a minor graze wound from a small-caliber gun; detectives will review whether more charges apply. Community & 250th Celebrations: Vermont towns marked Independence Day with parades and events, including Milton’s Grand Independence Day Parade and Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site celebrations with a naturalization ceremony and a Declaration reading. Business & Health Services: Age Well earned NCQA case management accreditation through June 1, 2029. Sports: The Vermont Mountaineers beat Upper Valley 5-2, and Kai Hillier and Ginger Long won the Montpelier Mile in heat.

Health Care Access: Copley Hospital will open the Copley Express Lab in Morrisville on Aug. 3, aiming to keep Lamoille County testing local after decisions that would have routed services out of state. State Politics: A new Green Mountain State Poll finds Gov. Phil Scott’s approval has slid to its lowest since 2022, with Democrats largely undecided in the governor’s race. Public Safety: Vermont State Police say crews recovered the body of a missing man at Arrowhead Mountain Lake in Georgia; the case is tied to a prior Lamoille River rescue attempt. Military & Industry: BAE Systems delivered 19 cold-weather all-terrain vehicles, including to the Vermont National Guard’s Army Mountain Warfare School. Environment & Cleanup: EPA and Vermont DEC are moving through the final phase of cleanup at the Elizabeth Mine Superfund site, including a petition to reclassify nearby groundwater as non-potable. Infrastructure & Travel: Vermont Business Magazine lists major July 7 construction impacts on I-89 and I-91, with ramp and lane closures and overnight work. Business & Community: Rock Point School’s Wiffle Fest raised more than $34,000 for student programs.

Health Care & Rural Access: Copley Hospital is opening the Copley Express Lab in Morrisville on Aug. 3, aiming to keep Lamoille County testing local after decisions that would have routed services out of state. Public Health: Vermont officials warn this summer’s tick season is trending worse, with ER and urgent care visits for tick bites running above the 2017–2025 average and experts calling it a “new normal.” Elections & Voting Rights: Attorney General Aaron Ford is leading a coalition of 24 states urging the U.S. Postal Service to withdraw a proposed rule they say would restrict mail-in voting and disrupt local election control. Legal Challenge to School Policy: The Liberty Justice Center filed an amicus brief in a federal appeal over Vermont’s Act 73 and religious schools. State Politics: A new poll finds Gov. Phil Scott’s approval slipping to its lowest since 2022, while Democratic primary voters remain largely undecided. Public Safety: Search efforts continue for a missing man on the Lamoille River near Arrowhead Mountain Lake, with crews planning to return Saturday. Business & Infrastructure: Vermont’s new commercial financing licensing law takes effect July 1, 2027, adding disclosure and operational requirements for certain providers. America 250 (Vermont History): A two-part look at Vermont’s pre-statehood republic era explains how life and local governance shaped the state’s identity before statehood in 1791.

Healthcare & Costs: Vermont is among states suing the Trump administration over Medicaid work requirements for medically frail people, arguing the rule would unlawfully strip coverage from vulnerable Vermonters starting in 2027. Voting Rights: Vermont’s attorney general also joined a multistate push urging the U.S. Postal Service to withdraw a proposed rule that critics say would restrict mail-in voting and centralize voter eligibility. Public Safety: In Cottonwood, Arizona, police arrested and indicted Joshua Severance, 39, in a kidnapping and sexual assault case; Vermont authorities say he was in custody there and extradition is underway. Local Health Access: Copley Hospital says it’s opening the Copley Express Lab in Morrisville on Aug. 3 to keep Lamoille County testing local after decisions that would have routed services out of state. Business & Infrastructure: Vermont Business Magazine lists major highway work affecting I-89 and I-91 traffic next week, with ramp closures and paving delays. Sports: Burlington Country Club’s Michael Walsh tees off Tuesday in the Vermont Amateur, aiming to defend his title. Arts & History: The Vermont Historical Society opens “50 for 250,” a new exhibit in Montpelier using 50 objects to tell Vermont’s 250-year story.

Water Safety: Vermont State Police say a man who went missing while swimming in the Lamoille River in Fairfax was found dead after an intensive search; officials warned rivers are running strong and high after storms. Public Health & Costs: Hospitals are submitting next-year budgets to the Green Mountain Care Board, with deficits expected to be “red-stained,” including major cuts discussed for UVM Medical Center. Local Schools: Echo Valley School District finally filled its principal role after months of stops and starts, naming an interim principal following a contentious search process. Business & Health Care Access: Copley Hospital plans a new dedicated testing center in Morrisville, aiming to keep lab services local and priced competitively. Community & Culture: Montpelier is set for a July 4 “do-over” celebration tied to America’s 250th, with organizers expecting a hot but clearer day than last year. Crime & Courts: A Barre man was sentenced for trying to break into a home, with the case tied to reports of mental health struggles. Sports: Alex Benevento is driving the Vermont Mountaineers’ recent surge, while a Vermont Golf Association Junior Tour event crowned Cooper Guerriere in Brandon.

Healthcare Access: Brattleboro Memorial Hospital’s board approved closing obstetric services in the next 6 to 9 months, with leaders saying they’re still searching for a “sustainable path forward” and asking the state for $3 million to $4 million annually. Local Business & Economy: Copley Hospital is launching the Copley Express Lab in Morrisville, aiming to keep Lamoille County testing local as services risk being routed out of state. Politics: A new UNH poll finds Gov. Phil Scott’s approval slipping to 51%—his lowest in four years—though he still leads Democratic challengers. Workplace Law: Vermont attorneys break down when non-competition agreements are enforceable, warning that overly broad deals may not hold up in court. Public Safety: The National Weather Service warns of dangerous heat across much of Vermont through the weekend, urging hydration, breaks, and planning outdoor work for cooler hours. Community & Culture: Shaftsbury’s Revolutionary War cemetery tour uses QR codes to bring local soldiers’ stories to life ahead of the Fourth. Sports: Vermont Wild scored its first win of the season, with a Pride Month crowd at Applejack Stadium.

Health & Safety: Vermont State Police say Nicole Richardson, 39, of Troy, died in an apparent accidental drowning in the Clyde River near Route 105 in West Charleston; she was found unresponsive after going into the river and being overpowered by the current, and an autopsy will determine cause and manner. Local Healthcare: Brattleboro Memorial Hospital says it will close its obstetric service line, including the birthing center, within six to nine months unless reimbursement or outside support changes, citing major losses from labor and delivery. Public Health & Community: AAA Northern New England urges Vermonters to prevent heat-tragedy in cars, warning that temperatures rise fast even with windows cracked, and reminding drivers to never leave kids or pets unattended. Power & Planning: Vermont Electric Cooperative asks members to conserve electricity Thursday and Friday evenings as demand spikes with extreme heat. Courts & 250th: Washington County Courts will host a free 250th anniversary Declaration of Independence celebration July 10 in Montpelier with tours and remarks. Business & Policy: Brattleboro Development Credit Corporation will hold a July 7 CEO Roundtable on state revenue pressures and regional strategy. Sports: Vermont Green FC will host Eastern Conference playoffs at Virtue Field Friday and Sunday after winning the USLW Northeast Division.

Egg Price-Fixing Settlement: Vermont is among 17 states getting a share of a $3.3 million DOJ antitrust settlement after major egg producers allegedly manipulated pricing; the companies also agreed to donate about 53 million eggs nationwide, including nearly a million headed to Vermont food shelves. Public Safety Staffing: Montpelier’s police ranks keep thinning as two more officers resign for Northfield, leaving the city with 11 officers in a 17-approved department; an interim chief is set to lead while the city searches for a permanent replacement. Food Assistance Fallout: SNAP enrollment in Vermont is down about 7% since new federal work requirements took hold, and advocates call it the biggest decline in decades. Housing & Zoning Push: Montpelier planning discussions are turning toward taller buildings in the River District, with commissioners floating six-story—and even 10-story—development ideas. Clean Water Planning: Vermont DEC is seeking public comment on a draft five-year plan to protect and restore the Batten Kill, Walloomsac, and Hoosic River basin, with a public meeting July 16. Fourth of July in Vermont: Rutland County towns are rolling out 250th birthday celebrations, from parades and fireworks to community events and music. Local Arts & Recreation: Taconic Music’s July 4 Pops concert brings movie and Broadway favorites to the Southern Vermont Arts Center, while Stratton Recreation Area is expanding trails and access for adaptive users.

Supreme Court & Citizenship: Vermont leaders reacted after the U.S. Supreme Court rejected Trump’s attempt to limit birthright citizenship, with Sen. Peter Welch and Rep. Becca Balint calling it the “right ruling.” Food Prices & Antitrust: DOJ and 17 states reached settlements with major egg producers over alleged price-fixing, including $3.3 million in payments and 53 million donated eggs; Vermont is listed among the states receiving eggs for food shelves. Extreme Heat: Vermont is bracing for dangerous heat and humidity, with officials urging residents to watch vulnerable neighbors and use cooling options as heat index values push into the triple digits. Public Safety: Vermont State Police say a missing woman, Nicole Richardson, was found dead in the Clyde River and the drowning is believed accidental. Local Government & Schools: Washington Central is starting an interim superintendent search as it prepares for the new school year. Health Careers: Southern Vermont AHEC says MedQuest summer healthcare exploration has limited openings at SVMC in Bennington. Wildlife Trust: Vermont Fish & Wildlife is facing renewed criticism from advocates over bear “management” decisions and the lack of reliable carrying-capacity data.

Medicaid Fight in Vermont: Vermont Attorney General Charity Clark joined a 23-state lawsuit challenging the Trump administration’s Medicaid work requirements for medically frail people, arguing the interim rule unlawfully threatens coverage for vulnerable Vermonters. Egg Price-Fixing Fallout: A multistate settlement tied to alleged egg producer collusion secured 53 million eggs and $3.3 million nationwide, with Vermont listed among states expected to receive eggs for food banks and community groups. Public Safety—Heat and Water: Vermont is bracing for extreme heat midweek with cooling options and safety reminders, while state and local officials are also urging boaters to avoid alcohol and wear life jackets this Fourth of July weekend. Local Law Enforcement: Milton Police will take over part-time law enforcement duties in Fairfax starting July 1, with Vermont State Police covering when Milton isn’t on duty. Community Calendar: Missisquoi Paddle-Pedal returns July 11 in Richford, pairing a river paddle with a bike ride on the rail trail. Sports & Culture: Vermont restaurants earned Wine Spectator honors, and Noah Kahan again asked fans to stop stealing a Strafford road sign tied to his music.

Mental Health Access: Vermont’s CCN-Rutland Mental Health Services is expanding its “Open Access” model so people can walk in for same-day assessments—adding Child and Family Mental Health and increasing availability to five days a week. Workforce & Caregiving: Central Vermont Home Health & Hospice is launching its first paid Licensed Nursing Assistant training in August 2026, covering certification fees and offering a path to full-time jobs. Public Safety Staffing: Montpelier police are facing more vacancies as Chief Eric Nordenson and Deputy Chief Kevin Moulton head to Northfield, with the department still short-staffed and more officer departures expected. Justice Center Consolidation: Chittenden County’s community justice centers are consolidating into one Restorative Justice Center in Burlington starting July 1, raising questions about how services will shift for towns that previously had their own centers. Health Tech for Quitting Smoking: UVM’s Stephen Higgins won a new NIDA award to test a smartphone-based program using financial incentives to help pregnant people quit smoking. Local Business: Nostalgia Toys & More on Burlington’s Church Street will close July 5, citing rent, staffing, and theft pressures. Sports: Vermont swept New Hampshire in the Twin State Baseball Classic, and the Southern Vermont League named its girls lacrosse and Ultimate all-stars.

Health Care Access: Vermont’s mental health and substance use provider CCN-RMHS is expanding its Open Access model in Rutland, adding child and family mental health services and increasing walk-in assessments to five days a week. Workforce & Care Capacity: Central Vermont Home Health & Hospice is launching its first paid Licensed Nursing Assistant training program in August, with tuition and certification fees covered and a path to full-time jobs. Local Business & Community: Leunig’s Bistro is opening a second location in South Burlington’s City Center this winter, joining other local food businesses in the mixed-use development. Public Health: State officials are warning Vermonters to watch for cyanobacteria blooms as summer swimming season ramps up, with guidance on what blooms look like and what to do if exposure is suspected. Economy & Planning: The Vermont Chamber of Commerce and NBT Bank will host a free July 8 webinar on inflation, interest rates, and AI’s impact on markets. Sports: Vermont Green FC women’s team returns to Virtue Field for USL W Eastern Conference playoffs over Fourth of July weekend.