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2012 GROTON TOWN REPORT

Report of the Town Officers For the Year Ending December 31, 2012

Kitty Diggins - took the picture Mel & Marsha Biggs - donated the pole

Nancy Vaughan - painted the pole (three coats!) Tristan Vaughan - delivered/installed the pole

Annual Report Town of Groton, Vermont - 2012

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Town Meeting Warning................................................................................................................................ 5 NEK Waste Management District Budget Vote............................................................................................. 7 Blue Mountain Union School District #21 Warning........................................................................................ 8 Blue Mountain Union School District #21 Superintendent Report............................................................. 10 Blue Mountain Union School District #21 Principal Report........................................................................ 11 Summary of Minutes of 2012 Town Meeting............................................................................................... 12 Northeast Kingdom Waste Management District Report............................................................................ 16 Groton/Ryegate Recycling Report............................................................................................................... 17 Budget - 2013 Proposed General Fund Town, Cemetery & Highway Budget............................................. 18 Town Officers Elected............................................................................................................................................... 24 Appointed by Selectboard.................................................................................................................. 25 Appointed by Town Clerk................................................................................................................... 26 Appointed by Town Treasurer............................................................................................................26 Appointed by Collector of Current Taxes........................................................................................... 26 Town Agent........................................................................................................................................ 26 Board of Civil Authority...................................................................................................................... 26 Selectboard Report............................................................................................................................ 2 Auditors' Report................................................................................................................................. 28 Financial Reports: Revenues Anticipated in 2013.................................................................................................................... 29 Actual Revenue Report for General Fund & Highway - 2012..................................................................... 30 Balance Sheet of Town Funds - 2012......................................................................................................... 31 Assets, Liabilities & Fund Balance Statement............................................................................................. 32 Wage Report............................................................................................................................................... 33 Reserve Funds Activity - 2012.................................................................................................................... 34 Town Property Values as of 12/31/12......................................................................................................... 35 Ten-Year Grand List & Tax Rate Comparison - 2012.................................................................................. 37 Analysis of 2012 Grand List......................................................................................................................... 38 Current Use..................................................................................................................................................39 2012 List of VT State Owned Land in Groton.............................................................................................. 40 Values of State Owned Buildings in Groton as of April 1, 2010................................................................... 41 2012 Current Tax Reconciliation..................................................................................................................42 Groton Delinquent Tax Collection Policy & Tax Sale Proceedings for Tax Sale & Amendment................. 43 Collector of Delinquent Taxes Summary..................................................................................................... 45 2012 Delinquent Tax Lists........................................................................................................................... 46 Groton Free Public Library Report ............................................................................................................. 47 Groton Free Public Library Budget vs. Actual & 2013 Proposed Budget.................................................... 48

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Groton Free Public Library - Bank Accounts and Securities Balances........................................................ 49 Cemetery Rules & Report............................................................................................................................ 50 Cemetery Lot Prices................................................................................................................................... 52 Cemetery Activity - 2012.............................................................................................................................. 53 Recreation Report........................................................................................................................................ 54 First Constable Report................................................................................................................................. 55 Second Constable Report............................................................................................................................ 56 Groton Volunteer Fire Department Report................................................................................................... 57 FAST - Groton/Ryegate Fast Squad Account.............................................................................................. 58 Forest Fire Warden Report.......................................................................................................................... 59 Lister's Report.............................................................................................................................................. 60 Groton Highway Report............................................................................................................................... 61 Planning Commission Report...................................................................................................................... 62 Zoning Administrator Report........................................................................................................................ 62 Tree Warden Report.................................................................................................................................... 63 Groton Building Committee Report.............................................................................................................. 63 Groton Activity Reports: Community Club Report.................................................................................................................... 64 Historical Society Report................................................................................................................... 64 Buckaroos of 302 Snowmobile Club Report...................................................................................... 65 Groton Senior Meals.......................................................................................................................... 65 Groton Growers Farmers Market Report........................................................................................... 66 Groton Food Shelf..............................................................................................................................67 Vital Statistics: Births.................................................................................................................................................. 68 Deaths................................................................................................................................................68 Marriages........................................................................................................................................... 69 Miscellaneous Information: Important Telephone Numbers.......................................................................................................... 70 Notary Public Listing.......................................................................................................................... 70 Available at Town Clerk's Office........................................................................................................ 71 Business Hours & Meeting Schedule.................................................................................................71 Rabies Clinic...................................................................................................................................... 72

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WARNING NEK WASTE MANAGEMENT DISTRICT BUDGET VOTE MARCH 5, 2013

The legal voters ofthe Northeast Kingdom Waste Management District are hereby notified and warned to vote, by Australian Ballot, at the polling place and between the hours specified by their municipality on Tuesday, March 5, 2013 to act on the following article.

ARTICLE 1:

Shall the voters authorize the Northeast Kingdom Waste Management District to appropriate and expend a budget of$ 679,878.00?

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SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT

Thirteen years into the millennium, change continues to sweep through our public school system. While some of us contend that our school system is more successful than the public seems to think, I believe we all agree that we want it to be even better. The Yogi Berra side of me says that the future isn’t what it used to be! The challenges ahead are significant. While board members and educators are dealing with the crush of important day-to-day issues, there are trends and other cultural shifts that are changing the social and educational landscape. Facebook, the virtual water cooler, has changed the way we communicate. For the first time in history, the old outnumber the young. More than eighty percent of all the scientists who ever lived are alive today, and they are on the Internet. Technology will continue to get cheaper and more powerful. Moore’s law, coined by one of the founders of Intel, says, in effect, that computers will double in speed and halve in price every eighteen months. A doubling of computer power every eighteen months implies an increase in power of 1 x 1020 within the next century. Some educators believe that the educational gap between the “haves” and the “have-nots” will eventually vanish as the technological resources crucial to education become so inexpensive that everyone will have access to them. Can we keep up with that trend?

Debates about school size, cost, and quality are an enduring feature of education in Vermont. There is a push once again to move smaller districts into larger supervisory unions as a means of reducing costs. A consolidation discussion will be coming soon to a district near you. What is YOUR vision of the BMU school of the future?

Continuing to attract tuition students to Blue Mountain Union School is a priority and remains a significant source of revenue for the district. If the overall quantity and quality of our programs is compromised, we then face the prospect of losing students to other districts. This becomes an even greater concern as school choice is expanded in the upcoming school year.

The expectation of the BMU school leadership team is that the district has the financial resources and the highly qualified personnel necessary to provide quality educational opportunities and critical 21st-century skills for all our students. Please join us in that ongoing conversation.

Respectfully submitted,

Richard M. Pike

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BMU PRINCIPAL'S REPORT Blue Mountain Union School is a wonderful place for students to learn and grow. We have a faculty and staff who care deeply about the students they teach and who will do whatever it takes to help them grow. As Blue Mountain Union’s new Principal, and a Groton resident, I hope to build on the firm foundation that has made BMU a great place for our children. I know that with the support of the staff, the board, and the community we can have an exemplary school. This fall the staff began to set a number of goals for BMU. As we work towards these goals we hope to strengthen and enhance the quality of education that our students receive. In order to do this we need the support of the whole community. Here are some of the changes we hope to bring in the coming years:

We will design and implement a multi-tiered system of support for focused academic improvement. This will enable us to provide support and enrichment to students across all grades and academic levels.

Teachers will work together to analyze their own teaching, design instructional units

and assessments based on the Common Core standards, analyze data on student achievement, and make sure that students do not fall through the cracks.

We will continue our work with Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) in

the elementary and middle schools. PBIS has already resulted in a more caring and responsible school climate. I am excited to see the growth of the students over the next few years.

We will work to align the curricula to the Common Core Standards at all grade levels.

Teachers will be guided by a document, developed by grade level leaders, which outlines the major concepts requiring mastery at each grade level.

Using student data as a guide, faculty will meet on a regular basis to reflect on what

the data is telling us, enabling us to make instructional shifts in order to increase student achievement.

We hope to continue to expand our early interventions in the primary grades.

Research tells us that early interventions are essential to student success in the later grades.

Investing in Blue Mountain’s future is essential for our communities’ success. Sincerely, Emilie Knisley, Principal

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GROTON / RYEGATE RECYCLING REPORT

We had a big increase in the volume of boxboard/cardboard, scrap metal, glass and E-waste and a decrease in appliances.

We had two break-ins this fall. The 1st

time the roll door hasps were both broken off the door with a steel rod out of the scrap metal then went to the west-end and got two wrecking bars I assume to pry the office door open but found the keys hanging in the door casing and removed the new two weeks old cash box and took it along with $300 to $400 dollars and the wrecking bars. A couple weeks later someone pried open one of the hasps went to the west end got the ice chisel and pried open the office door opened all the desk drawers, and left the old cash box with $2 in change and $7 in cash in the drawer. Found later that a flashlight, retractable knife and pocket magnet were missing. The door was not damaged a lot so I now leave the door unlocked and hide the cash. We believe those responsible know the premises and our routine well. Last Friday afternoon I found that someone had entered the grounds and cut the compressors out of the seven freezers and refrigerators. The culprits were found on the security cameras in Lisbon, NH where they had taken the stolen goods. They have since returned them. We were considering the need to purchase several game cameras and or simulated security cameras for the grounds, but I tried to get a-security camera thru VLCT but they turned it down because it was not monitored 24/7.

I am trying to get information on a solar system that will operate lights and maybe power for a security system. With the help of Gene Jolley, the recycling center received a gift of $2200 dollars from Trans Canada to construct a cement pad under the scrap metal roll-off. We are planning to request another sum of money next year 2013 to construct a dock that will make bulky waste containers easier to excess by the public.

New this year is the collection of secure papers in a locked tote that is shredded by a shredding company at the waste district. I want to start a food waste collection at the facility that is removed along with the recyclables and turned into compost. Plan to get some of the compost returned to recycling for the public to make use of. If I can get this accomplished Groton/Ryegate will be providing all the services that Waste District has available.

Please advise me if there are any suggestions or questions.

Gene Perkins

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2013 PROPOSED Town & Highway Budget & 2012 Budget vs. Actual

2012 Budget 2012 Actual

2013 Proposed

Budget TOWN GENERAL FUND SELECTBOARD Wages & payroll taxes (including Secretary) 5,200 4,632.67 5,197 Training & mileage 200 55.00 100 Ads, website, misc expenses 300 660.27 400 Total SELECTBOARD 5,700 5,347.94 5,697 TOWN CLERK Wages & payroll taxes (including Assistants) 33,500 32,582.47 34,329 Health Insurance 7,903 8,386.08 8,812 Retirement 1,200 1,208.24 1,236 Training & Mileage 500 234.25 500 Total TOWN CLERK 43,103 42,411.04 44,877 TOWN TREASURER & COLL OF CURRENT TAXES Wages & payroll taxes (including Assistants) 33,500 34,760.79 35,513 Health Insurance 14,169 14,989.91 15,088 Retirement 1,200 1,262.05 1,276 Training & Mileage 500 699.54 500 Total TOWN TREASURER 49,369 51,712.29 52,377 OFFICE EXPENSES-CLERK & TREASURER Dues 0 105.00 150 Postage 1,000 656.20 1,000 Supplies 2,000 1,985.69 2,200 Telephone / internet 1,000 917.43 1,000 Technology services 0.00 0 IT services 1,800 1,456.48 5,750 Software conversion 6,000 6,830.00 0 Total OFFICE EXP - CLERK & TREAS 11,800 11,950.80 10,100 DELINQUENT TAX COLLECTION 2,935 2,709.72 3,335 AUDITORS & TOWN REPORT 6,550 5,131.63 6,328 ELECTIONS 1,400 1,253.37 1,423 LISTERS Wages & payroll taxes 15,000 12,492.39 17,124 Dues 0 50.00 55 Postage 0 71.37 75 Supplies 800 609.28 600 Telephone/internet 550 513.79 500 Training & Mileage 1,000 1,197.49 1,000 Technology Services 2,900 1,998.34 2,855 Total LISTERS 20,250 16,932.66 22,209 Total ADMINISTRATION & OFFICE 141,107 137,449.45 146,345

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2013 Proposed

Budget TOWN GENERAL EXPENSES INSURANCE 10,150 10,182.24 11,650 LEGAL & PROFESSIONAL SERV Attorney fees 2,000 495.00 2,000 Professional Audit 6,800 7,662.50 6,800 Total LEGAL & PROFESSIONAL SERV 8,800 8,157.50 8,800 DUES VLCT 1,731 1,731.00 1,817 NVDA 367 367.00 367 Total DUES 2,098 2,098.00 2,184 INTEREST EXPENSE 3,000 2,747.13 3,000 CALEDONIA COUNTY TAX 8,627 8,626.46 17,409 Total TOWN GENERAL EXPENSES 32,675 31,811.33 43,043

Total ADMINISTRATION & GENERAL EXPENSES 173,782 169,260.78 189,388 PLANNING 2,175 3,596.41 1,500 ZONING 2,115 1,243.36 2,071 Total PLANNING & ZONING 4,290 4,839.77 3,571 TOWN CLOCK 230 215.45 400 FIELDS & PARKS 24,785 24,319.99 3,527 SIDEWALK MAINT 2,556 2,113.82 2,638 SOLID WASTE Rent-Recycling Bldg 1,500 1,500.00 1,500 Joint recycling-Ryegate 4,000 1,706.48 4,000 Stump Dump 0 1,170.00 1,000 Green Up Day 0 263.00 300 Total SOLID WASTE 4,000 4,639.48 6,800 STREETLIGHTS 6,500 6,755.66 7,000 COMMUNITY BUILDING Wages & payroll taxes 200 378.62 302 Building repairs 2,500 1,015.00 2,500 Cleaning 2,000 3,237.60 2,000 Rubbish removal 350 395.00 350 Supplies 300 495.05 348 Electricity 3,000 2,856.23 3,000 Fuel Oil 9,000 9,340.16 9,000 Total COMMUNITY BUILDING 17,350 17,717.66 17,500 TREE WARDEN 200 54.72 200 MISCELLANEOUS EXPENSES Riverbed Project Hamlett (reimbursed by FEMA) 0 9,114.00 0 Riverbed project S. Proctor (Reimbursed by FEMA) 0 21,010.00 0 Tax appeal refunds 0 716.05 0 Tax abatements 0 161.52 0 Total MISCELLANEOUS EXPENSES 0 31,001.57 0 ENERGY COMMITTEE 265 30.96 265 RECREATION COMMITTEE 1,490 1,177.14 1,565

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2013 Proposed

Budget PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENTS ANIMAL CONTROL 950 164.00 950 HEALTH OFFICER 100 0.00 100 EMERGENCY SERVICES INSURANCE 8,014 8,361.00 9,289 EMER SERVS BLDG & GENERAL EXP Ambulance Contract 11,913 11,912.50 12,775 Building repairs & maintenance 600 83.00 600 Rubbish removal 50 0.00 Supplies 100 1,288.56 200 Telephone & internet 1,200 1,781.02 1,500 Utilities 5,500 4,827.06 5,425 Communications & dispatch fees 1,500 4,207.30 2,300 Total EMER SERVS GENERAL EXPENSES 20,863 24,099.44 22,800 FAST EXPENSES Wages & payroll taxes 6,500 10,285.98 12,057 Dues 125.00 0 Supplies 5,000 958.24 3,500 Training & mileage 3,000 2,119.96 3,000 Total FAST EXPENSES 14,500 13,489.18 18,557 FIRE DEPT EXPENSES Firefighters wages & payroll taxes 4,500 2,288.00 4,522 Chief Stipend, payroll taxes & mileage 2,200 2,256.91 2,200 Contracted work 0 175.00 0 Dues 850 499.00 850 Fuel 1,250 1,596.56 1,625 Repairs & Maint 6,550 6,401.40 6,550 Supplies - office, etc. 2,900 1,822.08 1,000 Supplies - PPE, SCBA & Rehab 3,250 4,164.99 4,650 Training & mileage 3,000 2,083.35 3,000 Equipment 0 193.14 7,200 Total FIRE DEPT 24,500 21,480.43 31,596 FOREST FIRE EXPENSES 1,631 4,447.79 1,611 TOTAL EMERGENCY SERVICES 69,508.00 71,877.84 83,853 LAW ENFORCEMENT FIRST CONSTABLE 7,485 6,461.80 8,632 SECOND CONSTABLE 1,568 1,555.28 242 CRUISER EXPENSES Fuel, repairs, maintenance 1,975 2,390.54 1,450 Cruiser Loan payment & interest 4,600 4,494.93 4,600 Supplies 0 50.00 50 Equipment 0 0.00 1,450 Total CRUISER 6,575 6,935.47 7,550 CONSTABLE INSURANCE 4,985 5,013.40 5,051 Total LAW ENFORCEMENT 20,613 19,965.95 21,475 Total PUBLIC SAFETY 91,171 92,007.79 106,378

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2013 Proposed

Budget CEMETERY MAINTENANCE 10,175 9,724.61 10,600 LIBRARY Wages & payroll taxes (including substitutes) 12,828 11,680.59 15,007 Insurance -VLCT PACIF 1,051 1,051.00 1,215 Postage & delivery 500 314.11 500 Cleaning 975 784.96 975 Building rent 3,900 3,700.00 4,000 Supplies 800 932.69 600 Books & periodicals 5,000 5,004.37 3,300 Telephone/internet 500 516.67 500 Training & Mileage 0 108.42 0 Software/support 73.50 400 Computers & equipment 600 50.00 0 Total LIBRARY 26,154 24,216.31 26,497 RESERVE FUNDS APPROPRIATIONS Computer & Office Equipment Fund 0 0.00 0 Community Bldg Improvement Fund 15,000 15,000.00 20,000 Emer Servs Bldg Improvement Fund 5,000 5,000.00 5,000 Emer Servs Vehicles Fund 10,000 10,000.00 20,000 Reappraisal & Tax Maps Fund 1,000 1,000.00 2,000 Recreation Fund 500 500.00 250 Total RESERVE FUNDS APPROPRIATIONS 31,500 31,500.00 47,250 Total AGENCY APPROPRIATIONS (MOVED TO ARTICLES) 6,370 6,370.00 ARTICLES Total TOWN EXPENSE Budget 400,818 425,945.71 423,579

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2013 Proposed

Budget HIGHWAY FUND HWY WAGES & BENEFITS Wages - Regular 68,276 67,347.33 69,149 Wages - Overtime 5,150 5,163.29 5,150 Wages -Temporary 0 359.10 0 Health Insurance 28,574 30,214.23 30,389 Payroll Taxes 5,300 5,333.51 5,684 Retirement 3,180 2,915.73 2,972 Total HWY WAGES & BENEFITS 110,480 111,333.19 113,344 HWY INSURANCE 11,000 12,733.36 13,180 HWY CONTRACTED WORK Roadside Mowing 6,500 5,600.00 6,500 Boulder Beach plowing 2,000 784.44 2,000 Misc Contracted work 0 751.46 0 Total HWY CONTRACTED WORK 8,500 7,135.90 8,500 HWY CAPITAL PROJECTS HWY INFRASTRUCTURES Bridges: FEMA-Welton Rd Bridge 0 28,718.25 0 FEMA-Cochran Rd Bridge 0 3,420.00 0 Culverts 1,500 4,322.96 2,000 Paving-general 0 1,590.64 0 Paving-FEMA Branch Brook 0 2,254.88 0 Signs 2,000 509.14 2,000 Roadways (Boulder Beach Rd) 30,000 35,235.00 0 Buildings 2,000 0.00 2,000 Total HWY CAPITAL PROJECTS 35,500 76,050.87 6,000 HWY MATERIALS Sand 17,500 15,903.50 17,500 Salt 8,000 6,581.25 7,000 Chloride 11,000 10,457.50 11,000 Gravel 25,000 9,228.83 10,000 Gravel-FEMA 0 19,302.94 0 Total HWY MATERIALS 61,500 61,474.02 45,500 HWY GENERAL OPERATING EXPENSES Gasoline & Diesel 20,000 21,611.00 23,000 Rental Equipment 0 0.00 100 Supplies 0 271.00 250 PPE 2,800 0.00 250 Small tools 0 462.97 500 Uniforms/Cleaning 0 1,929.28 2,100 Training & Mileage 400 40.00 100 Radios & Pagers 0 382.50 600 Total HWY GENERAL OPERATING EXPENSES 23,200 24,696.75 26,900

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2013 Proposed

Budget HWY EQUIPMENT REPAIRS & MAINT 25,000 22,045.45 25,000 HWY GARAGE EXPENSES Repairs & maintenance: Building 1,200 0.00 1,200 Furnace/heat repairs 0 210.12 0 Rubbish removal 100 0.00 100 Supplies 1,000 478.18 1,000 Telephone/internet 1,100 936.34 1,100 Electricity 1,800 1,507.13 1,800 Fuel oil 2,000 1,867.18 2,000 Total HWY GARAGE EXPENSES 7,200 4,998.95 7,200 Total HIGHWAY EXPENDITURES 282,380 320,468.49 245,624 HWY RESERVE FUNDS APPROPRIATIONS Hwy Equipment Reserve Fund 50,671 50,671.00 52,191 Hwy Infrastructure Reserve Fund 200 200.00 50,000 Hwy Paving Reserve Fund 0 0.00 35,000 Total HWY RESERVE APPROPRIATIONS 50,871 50,871.00 137,191 TOTAL HIGHWAY BUDGET & EXPENSES 333,251 371,339.49 382,815 TOTAL TOWN GENERAL FUND & HIGHWAY BUDGET 734,069 797,285.20 806,394 (Totals included agency appropriations last year, see below)

AGENCY APPROPRIATIONS - TO BE VOTED AS INDIVIDUAL ARTICLES ON TOWN WARNING

Requested Amount

Caledonia Home Health & Hospice 1,350 1,350.00 1,350 NEK Learning Services 200 200.00 200 NEK Human Services Inc 920 920.00 920 NEK Youth Services 200 200.00 200 Northeastern VT AAA 700 700.00 700 Rural Community Transportation 550 550.00 550 Little Rivers Health Care 2,000 2,000.00 2,000 Green Up Vermont 50 50.00 100 Groton General Senior Meals 400 400.00 400 Umbrella 0 0.00 650 NVRC&DC 0 0.00 100 Total AGENCY APPROPRIATIONS 6,370 6,370.00 TBD

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TOWN OFFICERS 2012

Moderator: Wayne Dyer (resigned) 2013 Road Commissioner: Brent Smith 2013 Town Clerk: Linda Nunn 2014 Town Treasurer: Roberta Dana 2015 Selectboard: Tristan Vaughan 2013 Gary Lamberton 2014 Nathan Puffer 2015 Listers: Linda Nunn 2013 Dorothy Knott 2014 Caroline Diggins 2015 Auditors: Martha Crown 2013 Debra Johnson 2014 Peter Lyon 2015 BMU District #21 Directors: Thomas Page 2013 Henry Eaton 2014 Brenda Powers 2015 Library Trustees: Nancy Spencer 2013 Judy Chandler 2013 Altoon Sultan 2013 Debra Orelup 2014 Susan Gordon 2014 Tirone Dyer 2015 Diane Kreis 2015 Martha Montague 2015 Cemetery Commission: Aaron Smith 2013 Thomas Gandin 2014 Deborah Jurist 2015 Collector of Current Taxes: Roberta Dana 2013 Collector of Delinquent Taxes: Patricia Bouley 2014 First Constable: James Downing, Jr. 2014 Second Constable: Milt Lamberton 2014 Town Grand Juror: Milt Lamberton 2013

TOWN OFFICERS 2012

Moderator: Wayne Dyer (resigned) 2013 Road Commissioner: Brent Smith 2013 Town Clerk: Linda Nunn 2014 Town Treasurer: Roberta Dana 2015 Selectboard: Tristan Vaughan 2013 Gary Lamberton 2014 Nathan Puffer 2015 Listers: Linda Nunn 2013 Dorothy Knott 2014 Caroline Diggins 2015 Auditors: Martha Crown 2013 Debra Johnson 2014 Peter Lyon 2015 BMU District #21 Directors: Thomas Page 2013 Henry Eaton 2014 Brenda Powers 2015 Library Trustees: Nancy Spencer 2013 Judy Chandler 2013 Altoon Sultan 2013 Debra Orelup 2014 Susan Gordon 2014 Tirone Dyer 2015 Diane Kreis 2015 Martha Montague 2015 Cemetery Commission: Aaron Smith 2013 Thomas Gandin 2014 Deborah Jurist 2015 Collector of Current Taxes: Roberta Dana 2013 Collector of Delinquent Taxes: Patricia Bouley 2014 First Constable: James Downing, Jr. 2014 Second Constable: Milt Lamberton 2014 Town Grand Juror: Milt Lamberton 2013

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TOWN OFFICERS APPOINTED BY SELECTBOARD

Agency to Convey Real Estate Gary Lamberton 2013 Health Officer Reginald Guertin 2013 Deputy Health Officer Sharon Proctor 2013 Fire Chief Wayne Knott 2013 Fire Warden Wade Johnson, Sr. 2016 Emergency Management Coordinator Brent Smith 2013 Fence Viewers Terry Dana 2013 E. Charles Frost, Jr. 2013 Kenneth Murray 2013 Inspectors Wood, Lumber, Shingles Fred Braman 2013 Robert Dorr 2013 Kenneth Ricker 2013 Town Service Officer Linda Nunn 2013 Energy Coordinator Vincent E Lazzara 2013 Paul Berlejung 2013 NVDA Representative Mary Berlejung 2013 NVDA Alternate Mark Simaskaski 2013 Zoning Administrator Bradley Houghton, Jr. 2013 911 Coordinator Brent Smith 2013 Board of Adjustment Nancy Vaughan 2013 E. Charles Frost, Jr. 2013 Mark Gleicher 2013 Selectboard Secretary Linda Nunn 2013 Animal Control Officer Josephine Guertin 2013 Pound Keeper Josephine Guertin 2013 NEK Solid Waste Supervisor Bradley Houghton, Jr. 2013 NEK Solid Waste Alternate Caroline Diggins 2013 Tree Warden Harry Chandler 2013 Weigher of Coal Richard Peters 2013 Webmaster Dave Spencer 2013

TOWN OFFICERS APPOINTED BY SELECTBOARD

Agency to Convey Real Estate Gary Lamberton 2013 Health Officer Reginald Guertin 2013 Deputy Health Officer Sharon Proctor 2013 Fire Chief Wayne Knott 2013 Fire Warden Wade Johnson, Sr. 2016 Emergency Management Coordinator Brent Smith 2013 Fence Viewers Terry Dana 2013 E. Charles Frost, Jr. 2013 Kenneth Murray 2013 Inspectors Wood, Lumber, Shingles Fred Braman 2013 Robert Dorr 2013 Kenneth Ricker 2013 Town Service Officer Linda Nunn 2013 Energy Coordinator Vincent E Lazzara 2013 Paul Berlejung 2013 NVDA Representative Mary Berlejung 2013 NVDA Alternate Mark Simaskaski 2013 Zoning Administrator Bradley Houghton, Jr. 2013 911 Coordinator Brent Smith 2013 Board of Adjustment Nancy Vaughan 2013 E. Charles Frost, Jr. 2013 Mark Gleicher 2013 Selectboard Secretary Linda Nunn 2013 Animal Control Officer Josephine Guertin 2013 Pound Keeper Josephine Guertin 2013 NEK Solid Waste Supervisor Bradley Houghton, Jr. 2013 NEK Solid Waste Alternate Caroline Diggins 2013 Tree Warden Harry Chandler 2013 Weigher of Coal Richard Peters 2013 Webmaster Dave Spencer 2013

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Planning Commission Aaron Smith 2013 Paul Berlejung 2013 Dave Sanville 2014 Mark Simakaski 2014

APPOINTED BY TOWN CLERK

Assistant Town Clerk Roberta Dana 2013 Carolyn Diggins 2013

APPOINTED BY TOWN TREASURER

Assistant Treasurers Patricia Bouley 2013 Linda Nunn 2013 Dorothy Knott 2013

APPOINTED BY COLLECTOR OF CURRENT TAXES

Assistant Collector of Current Taxes Patricia Bouley 2013 Linda Nunn 2013

TOWN AGENT

Town Agent Gary Lamberton 2013

BOARD OF CIVIL AUTHORITY

Selectboard Justices of the Peace Gary Lamberton Charles Bruleigh Tristan Vaughan Timothy Dailey, Sr. Nathan Puffer Tirone Dyer Linda Nunn Town Clerk Brent Smith Linda Nunn

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SELECTBOARD REPORT

The following gives an overview of the board’s activity for this past year: The drainage project behind the community building is well on the way to being completed and putting in a well is the next consideration. We now have new basketball hoops that were donated to the community building gym. The Town has been given a donation for maintaining the signs entering and leaving town. The Town was awarded a grant for half of the new bullet proof vest for Town Constable Jim Downing. The Town received a grant for a NRCS project behind Charles Hamlett and Sharon Proctor’s home for damage caused by Irene; this project has been completed. Donald Bliss was lent money that was a grant given to the Town years ago to be used to help business get started and then repaid to the Town to be lent out again. The Town received a grant for new lighting in the community building gym. The Town has been approved for the money to replace the Welton Road Bridge. The Selectboard would like to say thanks to those who worked on getting our new street lights that are being replaced and upgraded to LED lights at little to no cost to the town. A chipper was bought using funds from the highway equipment reserve fund. A new town truck was purchased out of the highway equipment reserve fund. A grant was awarded to the town for a repeater that would allow for better radio reception throughout the town for the Highway and Emergency Services Department. A flag pole was donated to the Town and now sits in front of the Community Building on the front lawn. Thanks to all who helped in providing/decorating the beautiful Christmas tree in the center of town.

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The town was awarded a grant to pay for a portion of a new score board to be installed in the Community Building gym. The Planning Commission has made changes in the zoning regulations to bring them up to the state requirements. The Building Committee is hard at work planning the next stages for improvements to the community building. The Selectboard wishes to thank the elected and appointed officials along with the many people who have donated and volunteered, we appreciate your service and support to the town throughout the year. We are a better place because of your efforts. The Selectboard would also like to encourage everyone in the Town of Groton to become involved in town activities. The town Selectboard meetings are an opportunity for your ideas, suggestions, and opinions to make a difference in our town. We all live in this town why not have a say in how we live in our town. A town that works and plays together can accomplish anything. Respectfully submitted, Tristan Vaughan, Selectboard Chair, Gary Lamberton, Nathan Puffer

AUDITOR'S REPORT

As a significant improvement, the town has made the transition from QuickBooks to NEMRC, an accounting system designed for fund accounting. General controls are improving with additional focus required in, among others, the following: Cash Management, Highway Funds, Municipal Tax Rate, Fund Balance Restrictions, Annual Trial Balance Review and Property Tax Reconciliation, Natural classification revenues and expenditures, and finally, the Personnel Policy. The associated details are identified in the reports created by Pace & Hawley, the towns independent auditor. Opportunities for strengthening internal controls and operating efficiencies have been identified for which we are looking for continued progress toward meeting generally accepted accounting principles. The Pace & Hawley Management Letter as well as their audit report and financial statements are available at the town office for your review. Please contact the town office if you are interested in a copy. The auditors would like to express our thanks to Gary Lamberton for all his time and effort in helping us prepare the town report. Respectfully Submitted,

Martha Crown, Chairman, Debra Johnson, and Peter Lyon

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Revenues Anticipated in 2013

General Fund Revenues AmountAdministration revenue 7,000.00Animal Control revenue 2,000.00Cemetery Interest 20.00Constable Ticket Revenue 2,500.00Community Building revenue 2,000.00Current Use revenue 26,000.00Delinquent Taxes - 2012 77,858.66FAST Squad revenue 6,000.00Interest on General Fund 100.00Interest Income Delinquent Taxes 9,000.00Lister revenue 1,100.00Office revenue 2,400.00PILOT & leaseland revenue 59,512.00Union Bank stock dividends 2,400.00Zoning revenue 1,000.002013 Anticipated Current Taxes 224,688.34TOTAL General Fund Anticipated Revenues 423,579.00

Highway Fund Revenues AmountHighway Aid 64,000.00Seyon Road Plowing 3,000.00Highway Sand revenue 3,000.00Highway 2012 surplus 45,840.002013 Anticipated Highway Current Taxes 266,975.00TOTAL Highway Anticipated Revenues 382,815.00

TOTAL of all anticipated revenues for 2013 806,394.00

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2012 Actual Revenue Report for General Fund & Highway

Budget Category Actual RevenueCurrent Taxes 2012 106,581.64Delinquent Tax Revenue 2011 57,072.32Delinquent Tax Revenue 2012 54,372.23Delinquent Tax Interest 9,054.67INTERGOVERMENTAL REVENUES: State Leased Land 1.00 Current Use 27,708.00 PILOT State Buildings 4,704.00 PILOT State Land 54,511.86MISCELLANEOUS Revenues 6.09Charles Hamlett riverbed/watershed project 9,113.87Sharon Proctor riverbed/watershed project 21,010.00Interest earned 141.65Stock Dividends Union Bank 2,445.00TOWN CLERK REVENUE Recordings, Vault Revenue 7,786.00 Marriage licenses 240.00 Liquor/Tobacco licenses 210.00ANIMAL LICENSES REVENUE 1,989.00OFFICE REVENUE Copies, faxes, etc. 2,160.00 Motor vehicle renewals 264.00LISTER REVENUE Grand List Maintainance Revenue 784.00 Education Revenue from PVR 390.84PLANNING REVENUE Grant-NVDA-zoning by laws 2,585.00ZONING REVENUE Zoning Permit Revenue 1,080.00FIELD & PARK REVENUE Field & Park Revenue 1,000.00 FEMA - Railroad bed repairs funds 20,891.48 Town signs maintenance 125.00COMMUNITY BLDG REVENUE Contributions & Reimbursements 500.00 Rental of Community Building 2,167.50EMERGENCY SERVICES REVENUE Insurance Refund 424.00 FAST revenue 6,000.00FOREST FIRE REVENUE 1,825.44CONSTABLE REVENUES Civil & Highway Fines (tickets) 2,614.50 Cruiser insurance refund 455.00CEMETERY REVENUE 0.65LIBRARY REVENUE Library resource grant 55.00

400,269.74

HIGHWAY REVENUESHwy Current Tax Revenue 189,995.66State Hwy Aid 49,201.11Seyon Road Plowing 3,444.12Hwy Sand Income 4,116.00FEMA Hwy revenue 141,704.42FEMA-Welton Rd Bridge 28,718.25Hwy Insurance Refund 328.00

417,507.56

TOTAL REVENUES FOR 2012 817,777.30

31


BALANCE SHEET OF TOWN FUNDS - 2012

ASSETSGeneral Restricted Grant

Cash and Bank AccountsMB General Fund Checking 27,064.88MB Grant Funds (old acct for small businesses) 0.00MB Planning II Funds 305.83MB Reappraisal / Tax Maps Reserve Fund 61,355.22MB Restoration Reserve Fund 16,231.74MB Recreation Reserve Fund 3,204.45MB Community Bldg Improvement Reserve Fund 9,918.76MB Emergency Servs Bldg Improvement Reserve Fund 34,256.36MB Emergency Servs Vehicles Reserve Fund 81,968.08MB Computer & Office Equipment Reserve Fund 6,983.49Highway Reserve Funds: MB Hwy Equipment Reserve Fund 68,904.13 MB Hwy Paving Reserve Fund 96,037.75 MB Hwy Bridges, Culverts & Infrastructures Reserve Fund 200.04Delinquent Tax Accounts: WRSB Delinquent Tax Acct 20.37Library - Bank Account balances 99,675.11Cemetery Accounts 100,768.08TOTAL Cash and Bank Accounts 27,064.88 579,829.41 0.00 606,894.29

Other AssetsTown Property (minus stock shares below) 1,918,984.00Delinquent Taxes as of 12/31/2012 77,858.86Accts Receivable due from Donald Bliss 2,400.00Accts Receivable due from Gilman Housing (1) 610,000.00Library - Acct Receivable due from - Groton Community Housing 50,000.00Library - Sun America Securities (stocks) 15,587.17Union Bank stock shares 47,775.30TOTAL Other Assets 2,722,605.33 2,722,605.33

TOTAL ASSETS 3,329,499.62

Liabilities & EquityLiabilities Payroll Federal tax liability 4,037.43 Payroll Vermont tax liability 1,288.51 Retirement liability 2,343.95 Penalty wages due on 2012 Delinquent Taxes 6,387.78 MB Tax Anticipation Note 60,000.00 Loan Woodsville Guaranty Savings Bank (cruiser) 14,267.16 Gilman Housing Grant (1) 610,000.00 TOTAL Liabilities 698,324.83

Equity Restricted & Unrestricted Fund Balances 27,064.88 579,829.41 0.00 General Equity 2,722,605.33 Total Equity 2,749,670.21 579,829.41 0.00 3,329,499.62

TOTAL LIABILITIES & EQUITY 3,329,499.62

(1) The funds are required to "be placed in a revolving loan fund, managed by grantee (Town of Groton). The "ACCD has the right to recapture up to 100% of the funds" if specific conditions are not followed. The Town of Groton is ultimately required to create "a plan for program income".

32


Assets, Liabilities and Fund Balances Statement(Arising from Cash Transactions)Cash Basis - All Town Funds (excluding Food Shelf & FAST accounts)December 31, 2012

Governmental Fiduciary AccountFund Type Fund Group

Special Trust General TotalRevenue Fund Long-Term (Memorandum

General [like grants] [like cemetery] Debt only)Assets

Cash 506,126.21 100,768.08 606,894.29Certificates of Deposit 0.00 0.00Stock - Union Bank 47,775.30 47,775.30Stock - Library Sun America Securities 15,587.17 15,587.17AR: Due from Del. Tax Col. 77,858.86 77,858.86AR: Due from Donald Bliss 2,400.00AR: Gilman Housing, Inc. (1) 610,000.00 610,000.00AR: to Library from Gilman Housing, Inc. 50,000.00 50,000.00Fixed Assets 1,918,984.00 1,918,984.00 TOTAL ASSETS 2,568,731.54 0.00 100,768.08 660,000.00 3,329,499.62

Liabilities and Fund BalancesLiabilities:MB Tax Anticipation Note 60,000.00 60,000.00WGSB Loan on Cruiser 14,267.16 14,267.16Gilman Housing Grant (1) 610,000.00Payroll liabilities 14,057.67 0.00 0.00 0.00 14,057.67 Total Liabilities 88,324.83 0.00 0.00 0.00 88,324.83

Fund Balances:Restricted 579,829.41 0.00 100,768.08 0.00 680,597.49Unrestricted 0.00 Designated 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Undesignated 27,064.88 0.00 0.00 0.00 27,064.88 Total Fund Balance 606,894.29 0.00 100,768.08 0.00 707,662.37

Equity 1,873,512.42 0.00 0.00 50,000.00 2,533,512.42

TOTAL LIABILITIES ANDFUND BALANCES 2,568,731.54 0.00 100,768.08 660,000.00 3,329,499.62

VSA 24 Title 1683 and 1523 require this report be placed in the annual report.

(1) The funds are required to "be placed in a revolving loan fund, managed by grantee (Town of Groton).

The "ACCD has the right to recapture up to 100% of the funds" if specific conditions are not followed.

The Town of Groton is ultimately required to create "a plan for program income".

33


WAGE REPORT - 2012

EMPLOYEE POSITIONS

2012 Gross Wages

Including OTHourly

Rate

Employer Payroll Taxes Insurance

Retire-ment

TOTAL EMPLOYEE

COST

ADMINISTRATION, TOWN MAINTENANCE, LIBRARY

Bliss, DonaldMowing & Maintenance for Comm Bldg / Fields & Parks / Sidewalks 2,723.56 11.67 208.37 2,931.93

Bouley, Patricia Assistant Treasurer / Ballot clerk 348.31 8.76-11.85 26.65 374.96Bouley, Patricia **** Collector of Delinquent Taxes 10,800.23 N/A 826.23 11,626.46Cady, Ellen Ballot Clerk 35.04 8.76 2.68 37.72Crown, Martha Auditor / Ballot Clerk 973.56 8.76-10.61 74.45 1,048.01

Dana, RobertaTreasurer / Collector of Current Taxes / Assistant Clerk 28,343.21 15.23 2,177.63 14,989.91 1,262.05 46,772.80

Diggins, Caroline Lister / Assistant Clerk / Ballot Clerk 9,635.16 8.76-11.85 737.06 10,372.22Grant, Laurine Ballot Clerk 56.94 8.76 4.36 61.30Hatch, Anne Librarian 4,856.51 12.73 375.90 5,232.41

Houghton, Bradley Jr Zoning Administrator / Ballot Clerk 1,194.428.76-25.00 per permit 91.37 1,285.79

Jensen, Rebecca Substitute Librarian 114.57 12.73 8.76 123.33Johnson, Debra Auditor / Office Clerk / Ballot Clerk 1,731.90 8.76-10.61 132.50 1,864.40Knott, Dorothy Lister / Ballot Clerk / Assistant Clerk 2,563.06 8.76-10.00 196.13 2,759.19Knott, Henry Ballot Clerk 70.08 8.76 5.36 75.44Lamberton, Gary Selectperson 900.00 N/A 68.85 968.85LaVaude, Gail Substitute Librarian 445.57 12.73 34.08 479.65Nunn, Linda Town Clerk / Selectboard Secretary / Lister 29,490.49 10.61-15.23 2,292.10 8,386.08 1,260.49 41,429.16Puffer, Nathan Selectperson 900.00 N/A 68.85 968.85Shane, Marjorie Librarian 4,980.59 12.73 411.32 5,391.91Vaughan, Tristan Selectboard Chair Person 1,080.00 N/A 82.62 1,162.62

101,243.20 7,825.27 23,375.99 2,522.54 134,967.00

EMERGENCY SERVICES PERSONNELAiken, Garrett Fire Fighter / Forest Firefighter / FAST 672.16 10.00-15.54 51.42 723.58Aiken, Tiffany Fire Fighter / Forest Firefighter 239.86 10.00-15.54 18.35 258.21Austin-Shortt, Jonathan Fire Fighter / Forest Firefighter / FAST 799.86 10.00-15.54 61.20 861.06Avery, Daniel Fire Fighter / Forest Firefighter 242.70 10.00-15.54 18.58 261.28Carle, Justin Fire Fighter / Forest Firefighter / FAST 139.86 10.00-15.54 10.70 150.56Doscinski, Leonard Fire Fighter / Forest Firefighter / FAST 316.55 10.00-15.54 24.22 340.77Johnson, Wade Sr. Fire Fighter / Forest Fire Warden 713.28 10.00-16.88 54.58 767.86Joy, Carroll Fire Fighter / Forest Firefighter 208.24 10.00-15.54 15.93 224.17Knott, Dorothy Fire Fighter / Forest Firefighter / FAST 2,525.94 10.00-15.54 193.28 2,719.22Knott, Henry Fire Fighter / Forest Firefighter / FAST 1,836.08 10.00-15.54 140.46 1,976.54

Knott, WayneFire Chief / Firefighter / Forest Firefighter / FAST 4,077.02 10.00-15.54 311.91 4,388.93

Lapham, Frank Fire Fighter / Forest Firefighter / FAST 1,059.93 10.00-15.54 81.09 1,141.02Palmer, Lynne Fire Fighter / Forest Firefighter 168.78 10.00-15.54 12.92 181.70Palmer, Phillip Fire Fighter / Forest Firefighter 384.86 10.00-15.54 29.44 414.30Palmer, Tonya Fire Fighter / Forest Firefighter 31.08 10.00-15.54 2.38 33.46Smith, Jordan Fire Fighter / Forest Firefighter / FAST 1,480.94 10.00-15.54 113.30 1,594.24Vaughan, Tristan Fire Fighter / Forest Firefighter 93.24 10.00-15.54 7.13 100.37

14,990.38 1146.89 16,137.27

LAW ENFORCEMENTDowning, James Jr 1st Constable 5,757.99 14.00-17.10 440.52 6,198.51Lamberton, Milton 2nd Constable 1,350.00 N/A 103.28 1,453.28

7,107.99 543.80 7,651.79HIGHWAY PERSONNELDowning, James Jr Highway Temporary Equipment Operator 359.10 17.10 27.47 386.57Palmer, Phillip Highway Equipment Operator 31,542.78 15.54 2,663.71 15,107.12 1,427.81 50,741.42Smith, Brent Highway Road Commissioner 33,960.90 16.88 2,643.17 15,107.11 1,487.92 53,199.10

65,862.78 5,334.35 30,214.23 2,915.73 104,327.09

TOTALS 189,204.35 14,850.32 53,590.22 5,438.27 263,083.15

****These wages are delinquent tax penalties paid by delinquent taxpayers and then processed through payroll. Only the payroll taxes are actually a cost to the town.

34


2012 - RESERVE FUNDS ACTIVITY

MB Community Bldg Improvement Reserve Fund MB Grant Funds (old account)Fund balance on 12/31/11 4,663.19 Fund balance on 12/31/11 5,085.66Interest received on account 4.53 Interest received on account 2.67Appropriation from Town General Fund 15,000.00 Disbursements:Loan payments from Donald Bliss (loan from Old Grant funds) 50.00 Loan to Donald Bliss for business use -2,500.00Rebate from Efficiency Vermont 775.00 Balance transferred to Comm Bldg Fund per Selectboard -2,588.33Old Grant Funds transferred into reserve per Selectboard 2,588.33 Fund balance on 12/31/12 0.00Sale of old desk and chair 125.00Donation from Groton General, Inc. for lighting 2,662.00 2011 EMERGENCY SERVICES RESERVE FUNDS ACTIVITYGrant income from USDA 1,502.61Disbursements: MB Emergency Services Bldg Improvement Reserve FundTo Ross Environmental for engineering -7,260.40 Fund balance on 12/31/11 29,237.18To CFW Electric for electrical work in gym -4,902.50 Interest received on account 19.18To Chimney Savers for repairs & new liner in chimney -2,680.00 Appropriation from Town General Fund 5,000.00To Puffer Excavating for drainage work -2,609.00 Fund balance on 12/31/12 34,256.36Fund balance on 12/31/12 9,918.76

MB Emergency Services Vehicles Reserve FundMB Computer & Office Equipment Reserve Fund Fund balance on 12/31/11 71,921.73Fund balance on 12/31/11 7,029.09 Interest received on account 46.35Interest received on account 4.40 Appropriation from Town General Fund 10,000.00Disbursements: Fund balance on 12/31/12 81,968.08To Karl Hollstein for used computer monitor for Listers -50.00Fund balance on 12/31/12 6,983.49 2011 HIGHWAY RESERVE FUNDS ACTIVITY

MB Reappraisal & Tax Maps Reserve Fund MB Highway Equipment Reserve FundFund balance on 12/31/11 55,156.47 Fund balance on 12/31/11 72,011.53Interest received on account 34.75 Interest received on account 36.60Appropriation from Town General Fund 1,000.00 Appropriation from Town General Fund 50,671.00Reappraisal funds from State of Vermont 6,664.00 Grant for Culvert Thawer/Pressure Washer from VLCT 3,700.00Disbursements: Disbursements:Tax map updates for 2012 -1,500.00 To BGS Central Surplus for cargo trailer -100.00Fund balance on 12/31/12 61,355.22 To Clark's Truck Center for Culvert Thawer/Pressure Washer -7,400.00

To Wells River Chevrolet for new 2012 Chevrolet Pickup/Dump truck -33,440.00

MB Recreation Reserve FundTo Wells River Chevrolet for extended warranty on 2012 Chevrolet Pickup/Dump truck -2,575.00

Fund balance on 12/31/11 2,702.69 To Chris Dandanell for 2001 Morbark Chipper -14,000.00Interest received on checking account 1.76 Fund balance on 12/31/12 68,904.13Appropriation from Town General Fund 500.00Fund balance on 12/31/12 3,204.45 MB Highway Paving Reserve Fund

Fund balance on 12/31/11 199,547.27MB Restoration/Preservation Reserve Fund Interest received on account 103.50Fund balance on 12/31/11 13,450.22 Disbursements:Interest received on account 7.89 To Pike Industries for paving Boulder Beach Rd -103,613.02Restoration fees collected from recordings 4,767.00 Fund balance on 12/31/12 96,037.75Disbursements:

To Kofile Preservation Inc. for land record book restoration -1,764.83MB Highway Bridges, Culverts & Hwy Infrastructures Reserve Fund

To Kofile Preservation Inc. for vital records binder -228.54 Fund balance on 12/31/11 0.00Fund balance on 12/31/12 16,231.74 Interest received on account 0.04

Appropriation from Town General Fund 200.00MB Planning Funds Fund balance on 12/31/12 200.04Fund balance on 12/31/11 305.73Interest received on account 0.10Fund balance on 12/31/12 305.83 TOTAL OF TOWN AND HIGHWAY RESERVE FUNDS 379,365.85

as of 12/31/12

35


TOWN PROPERTY VALUES AS OF 12/31/12Date acquired Description Notes Value Total

Buildings7/3/96 Bldg--Boy Scout Camp 24,600.00

Bldg--Comm Bldg/vault 242,600.00Bldg--Fire Station 63,400.00

7/3/96 Bldg--Hwy Garages (both) 123,700.00Bldg--Gazebo Band stand 4,500.00

7/3/96 Bldg--Pump House 200.00TOTAL VALUE OF BUILDINGS 459,000.00Contents--Community Building

12/14/98 Contents--CB CB - chairs, tables, etc. upstairs 1,000.0012/14/98 Contents--CB CB - furnaces (2) 2,000.0012/14/98 Contents--CB CB - kitchen contents 5,000.005/19/05 Contents--CB Listers - all office equip 18,029.00

Contents--CB CDT - office equip 2,110.0012/14/98 Contents--CB Office - Clerk & Treas office equipment 12,000.00

Contents--CB Zoning-office equipment 389.00TOTAL Contents--CB 40,528.00

12/31/95 TOTAL Contents--Library (per trustees) 228,438.00Union Bank stock/2445 shares (19.54/share) - formerly CSBT Stock/250 shares 47,775.30

37621 Equip--1st Constable 235037621 Equip--2nd Constable 75040876 Equip--Cruiser 2012 Chevrolet Impala 18500

TOTAL Equip--Constables 21,600.0033025 Equip--FAST Equipment 9000

TOTAL Equip--FAST 9,000.0038076 Equip--JD Tractor/Mower/Snowblower 740040836 Equip--Stihl String Trimmer 250

Equip--misc old snowblower, push lawnmower 250TOTAL Equip--Tractor, Mowers, etc. 7,900.00Equip--Fire Department

11/3/90 Equip--FD Equipment 225,460.007/4/05 Equip--FD 40' container for training 4,000.001/25/13 Equip--FD Repeater 15,000.00

Equip--FD 1956 Chevy Pump Truck 5,500.0012/31/03 Equip--FD 1991 Ford Pumper/Tanker (refurbished) 5,000.0012/31/02 Equip--FD 2001 Freightliner Fire Truck 53,950.0012/7/07 Equip--FD 2003 Chev Ambulance 2,250.00

TOTAL Equip--FD 311,160.00Equip--Hwy

1/15/72 Equip--Hwy 10-I beams 2,200.001/15/90 Equip--Hwy Brush mower 100.001/15/90 Equip--Hwy Culvert thawer 8,000.001/15/90 Equip--Hwy Grader '83 130 Caterpillar 29,640.001/15/94 Equip--Hwy Storage trailer 650.00

Equip--Hwy Small equipment & tools 40,438.001/15/95 Equip--Hwy Stone rake 1,000.008/24/04 Equip--Hwy TRK7: 2005 Int'l Truck, plow, sander, wing 27,630.006/15/99 Equip--Hwy Lowboy trailer 500.0011/3/06 Equip--Hwy Loader - '02 924G Caterpillar 46,500.005/4/07 Equip--Hwy TRK8 2002 Chev 1-ton with plow (traded for 2012 Chev 1 ton) 0.004/21/08 Equip--Hwy Backhoe 2004 Cat 420 48,360.007/4/05 Equip--Hwy Dell PC & monitor (was auditors) 125.0011/2/09 Equip--Hwy TRK9: 2010 Truck, plow, sander, wing 99,515.004/27/12 Equip--Hwy TRK10: 2012 Chevrolet K3500 / dump body 35,000.009/21/12 Equip--Hwy Chipper - 2001 Morbark 2012-D 14,000.00

TOTAL Equip--Hwy 353,658.0011/3/90 TOTAL Equip--Recreation 1,500.00

36

Annual Report Town of Groton, Vermont - 2012 TOWN LAND

1/25/97 Land--Boy Scout 17.35 acres 35,300.00Land--RR bed-Depot Flat 0.42 acres 8,200.00Land--Parking Lakeside Dr 0.11 acres 9,300.00

1/25/97 Land--Village Cemeteries 16.43 acres 31,200.00Land--Scott Hwy (town garage prop) 3.31 acres 32,600.00

1/25/97 Land--Puffer Memorial Ball Field 3.8 acres 23,700.00Land--William Scott Cemetery 0.48 acres 12,000.00Land--Old Cemetery-Great Rd 0.24 acres 13,600.00Land--Old Cemetery-Glover Rd 0.37 acres 12,400.00Land--Old Cemetery-Dominicus Grey-Glover Rd 0.11 acres 9,300.00Land--Gravel Pit - Welton Rd 67 acres 113,900.00

1/25/97 Land--Mill St pump house 0.04 acres 1,100.00Land--RR bed - State Forest Hwy (Park St to Ricker Pond) 25.4 acres 21,100.00Land--Stump Dump - Little Italy Rd 8.5 acres 24,800.00

2/14/97 Land-- RR bed Little Italy Rd to Ryegate line 9.4 acres 9,100.001/25/97 Land--Old Dump - Goodfellow Rd 9.1 acres 22,700.00

Land--Community Bldg land 0.47 acres 17,100.00Land--Firehouse bldg land 0.59 acres 18,900.00

1/25/97 Land--Veterans Memorial Park 0.73 acres 18,900.00Land--RR bed - Powder Spring Rd (near Welch Block) 1.2 acres 1,200.00

1/25/97 Land--Frost Memorial Ball Field 1.7 acres 22,800.007/3/03 Land--Cemetery- Park St 6 acres 27,000.00

TOTAL--Town land 486,200.00TOTAL VALUE OF ALL TOWN PROPERTY 1,966,759.30

37


2012 - Ten-Year Grand List & Tax Rate ComparisonTaxes on

Town/ $100,000Year Grand List School Hwy Gen Fund Total Home2002 58,215,266.00 $1.7000 $0.2400 $0.2100 $2.1500 $2,150.002003 58,828,499.00 $1.8600 $0.2200 $0.3400 $2.4200 $2,420.00

2004* 59,325,956.00 $1.5950 $0.2119 $0.3786 $2.1855 $2,185.502004** 59,325,956.00 $1.6728 $0.2119 $0.3786 $2.2633 $2,263.302005* 99,722,883.00 $1.0398 $0.1508 $0.2146 $1.4052 $1,405.202005** 99,722,883.00 $1.0748 $0.1508 $0.2146 $1.4402 $1,440.202006* 100,542,437.00 $1.1175 $0.1740 $0.2391 $1.5306 $1,530.602006** 100,542,437.00 $1.1478 $0.1740 $0.2391 $1.5609 $1,560.902007* 101,869,345.00 $1.1341 $0.1807 $0.2400 $1.5548 $1,554.802007** 101,869,345.00 $1.2285 $0.1807 $0.2400 $1.6492 $1,649.202008* 103,063,945.00 $1.2486 $0.1967 $0.2783 $1.7236 $1,723.602008** 103,063,945.00 $1.3751 $0.1967 $0.2783 $1.8501 $1,850.102009* 103,476,745.00 $1.2588 $0.1726 $0.2346 $1.6660 $1,666.002009** 103,476,745.00 $1.4268 $0.1726 $0.2346 $1.8340 $1,834.002010* 116,759,520.00 $1.1197 $0.1740 $0.2100 $1.5037 $1,503.702010** 116,759,520.00 $1.2692 $0.1740 $0.2100 $1.6532 $1,653.202011* 117,232,800.00 $1.2688 $0.1622 $0.2291 $1.6601 $1,660.102011** 117,232,800.00 $1.3484 $0.1622 $0.2291 $1.7397 $1,739.702012* 117,773,097.00 $1.3325 $0.1615 $0.2123 $1.7063 $1,706.302012** 117,773,097.00 $1.3583 $0.1615 $0.2123 $1.7321 $1,732.10Tax rate is applied to each $100 of assessed value.*Tax rate for homestead property**Tax rate for non-residential property

38


Analysis of 2012 Grand List(as reported to the state of Vermont 0n 12/31/2012)

Homestead Non-Residential TotalParcel Municipal Education Education Education

Category Count Listed Value Listed Value Listed Value Listed ValueResidential I 220 38,381,900 24,776,400 13,605,500 38,381,900Residential I 145 32,965,800 23,641,400 9,324,400 32,965,800Mobile Homes-U 9 130,800 122,400 8,400 130,800Mobile Homes-L 45 4,047,500 2,715,200 1,332,300 4,047,500Vacation I 113 20,939,000 914,800 20,024,200 20,939,000Vacation II 46 8,244,500 381,400 7,863,100 8,244,500Commercial 20 2,917,200 245,100 2,672,100 2,917,200Commercial Apts 5 1,066,100 0 1,066,100 1,066,100Industrial 1 324,200 0 324,200 324,200Utilities-E 3 3,515,600 0 3,515,600 3,515,600Utilities-O 0 0 0 0 0Farm 6 2,174,500 1,452,300 722,200 2,174,500Other 0 0 0 0 0Woodland 45 4,086,900 0 4,086,900 4,086,900Miscellaneous 103 6,212,900 229,200 5,983,700 6,212,900Total Listed Real 761 125,006,900 54,478,200 70,528,700 125,006,900

P.P. Cable 1 15,700 15,700 15,700 P.P. Equipment 0 0 P.P. Inventory 0 0

TOTAL LISTED P.P. 1 15,700 15,700 15,700

TOTAL LISTED VALUE 125,022,600 54,478,200 70,544,400 125,022,600

EXEMPTIONSVeterans 10K 7 70,000 60,000 10,000 70,000Veterans >10K 192,100 Total Veterans 262,100 60,000 10,000 70,000

P. P. Contracts 1 15,700Contracts Apprv VEPC 0 0 0 0 0Grandfathered 0 0 0 0 0 Non-Apprv (voted) 0 Owner pays Ed Tax 0Total Contracts 1 15,700 0 0 0

Current Use 44 7,100,500 825,600 6,274,900 7,100,500

Special Exemptions 5 0 79,003 79,003Partial Statutory 0 0 0 0 0

Sub-total Exemptions 7,378,300 885,600 6,363,903 7,249,503

Total Exemptions 7,378,300 885,600 6,363,903 7,249,503

TOTAL MUNICIPAL GRAND LIST 1,176,443.00TOTAL EDUCATION GRAND LIST 535,926.00 641,804.97 1,177,730.97NON-TAX 25 NON-TAX PARCELS ARE NOT INCLUDED

39


Current Use - Properties enrolled in the Current Use program for 2012

Owner of PropertyTotal Acres

Owned

Acres Enrolled in Current Use

ProgramActual Assessed

Property Value

Assessed Amount Exempted from Land

Use Owner's Taxable

ValueAmount of Tax

ExemptedAnagnostakis, Christopher & Sandra 106.00 101.00 138,600.00$ 103,500.00$ 35,100.00$ 1,792.72$ Blandford-Berlejung, Mary (homestead 74.00 59.00 270,500.00$ 77,400.00$ 193,100.00$ 1,320.68$ Brueckner, William C. & Dawn 370.00 362.00 318,100.00$ 224,800.00$ 93,300.00$ 3,893.76$ Cassani, Robert E & Shirley J 178.50 178.50 151,800.00$ 129,500.00$ 22,300.00$ 2,243.07$ Chandler, Harry & Judith (homestead) 269.08 267.08 350,300.00$ 180,800.00$ 169,500.00$ 3,084.99$ Clough, Rick & Kelly 49.00 45.70 202,400.00$ 78,800.00$ 123,600.00$ 1,364.89$ Crum, Kathleen & Donald (deceased) 81.00 76.00 98,300.00$ 70,000.00$ 28,300.00$ 1,212.47$ Cutone, Richard J & Victoria M (homestead) 131.00 129.00 436,900.00$ 117,100.00$ 319,800.00$ 1,998.08$ DeMartino, Paul 93.08 84.34 87,600.00$ 60,200.00$ 27,400.00$ 1,042.72$ Doscinski, Leonard & Patricia (homestead) 104.70 102.70 409,100.00$ 126,200.00$ 282,900.00$ 2,153.35$ Ducharme, Dennis & Helen 69.69 69.69 71,800.00$ 63,100.00$ 8,700.00$ 1,092.96$ Eaton, Maureen & Henry (homestead) 57.50 55.50 415,600.00$ 97,100.00$ 318,500.00$ 1,656.82$ Edwards,Leslie 41.10 33.00 229,500.00$ 39,100.00$ 190,400.00$ 677.25$ Edwards, Lyle 75.00 71.00 64,200.00$ 51,500.00$ 12,700.00$ 892.03$ Engle, James & Priscilla 804.00 802.00 1,021.000.00 613,100.00$ 407,900.00$ 10,619.51$ Engle, James B. 147.00 147.00 136,000.00$ 117,600.00$ 18,400.00$ 2,036.95$ Foster-Jerry Lund Mountain Trust 505.00 501.00 348,200.00$ 235,400.00$ 112,800.00$ 4,077.36$ Foster-Jerry Lund Mountain Trust 154.00 154.00 100,400.00$ 80,700.00$ 19,700.00$ 1,397.80$ Green Acre Woodlands, Inc. 49.00 49.00 54,100.00$ 48,000.00$ 6,100.00$ 831.41$ Green Acre Woodlands, Inc. 237.00 224.80 183,200.00$ 143,800.00$ 39,400.00$ 2,490.76$ Greenough, Bradley & Smith Ronald & Susan 124.00 120.00 213,100.00$ 71,300.00$ 141,800.00$ 1,234.99$ Grimes James III 121.00 107.00 94,800.00$ 59,500.00$ 35,300.00$ 1,030.60$ Hart, Steven & Lisa 55.00 55.00 47,300.00$ 40,000.00$ 7,300.00$ 692.84$ Hersey, Christie M. 125.00 123.00 79,900.00$ 50,500.00$ 29,400.00$ 874.71$ Kersaken Ventures, LLC 306.05 160.40 215,500.00$ 74,200.00$ 141,300.00$ 1,285.22$ Martell, Robert E & Lori A 339.12 336.02 678,200.00$ 213,500.00$ 464,700.00$ 3,698.03$ Meadowsend Timberlands Ltd. 128.00 128.00 126,500.00$ 110,500.00$ 16,000.00$ 1,913.97$ Morse, Norman & Betty (homestead) 144.00 134.50 427,100.00$ 139,200.00$ 287,900.00$ 2,375.17$ Niemaszyk, Walter 378.50 366.17 373,500.00$ 274,600.00$ 98,900.00$ 4,756.35$ Oliver, Troy A & Julie L 47.00 45.00 90,000.00$ 39,100.00$ 50,900.00$ 677.25$ Park Forestry NY LLC 935.60 935.60 636,400.00$ 519,500.00$ 116,900.00$ 8,998.26$ Pigeon Pond LLC (Bailey & Gable) 1,050.00 1,042.00 2,396,100.00$ 1,235,800.00$ 1,160,300.00$ 21,405.29$ Puffer, Matthew & Tracy 222.00 203.00 208,200.00$ 164,700.00$ 43,500.00$ 2,852.77$ Simakaski, Mark R (homestead) 38.00 36.00 303,100.00$ 96,100.00$ 207,000.00$ 1,639.75$ Smith Andrew (deceased) 108.00 94.55 294,900.00$ 129,400.00$ 165,500.00$ 2,241.34$ Thomas, F. Bryce (1997 Trust) 163.00 160.50 216,400.00$ 131,900.00$ 84,500.00$ 2,284.64$ Thomas, Bryce & Miriam 90.00 90.00 67,900.00$ 56,700.00$ 11,200.00$ 982.10$ Thomas, Paul A. & Frederick Bryce 27.00 27.00 52,100.00$ 48,700.00$ 3,400.00$ 843.53$ Thomas, Paul A 126.00 109.50 196,700.00$ 118,500.00$ 78,200.00$ 2,052.54$ Thomas, Paul A 52.90 50.90 80,200.00$ 55,800.00$ 24,400.00$ 966.51$ Truesdale, Keith 46.00 44.00 100,900.00$ 71,500.00$ 29,400.00$ 1,238.45$ Uttero, Peter J. 363.00 357.00 392,100.00$ 192,500.00$ 199,600.00$ 3,334.29$ Wosko, Walter 39.00 32.00 207,800.00$ 40,600.00$ 167,200.00$ 703.23$ Zimmermann Groton Forestry, LLC 760.00 760.00 579,700.00$ 508,700.00$ 71,000.00$ 8,811.19$

TOTALS 9,383.82 9,029.45 12,145,000.00$ 7,100,500.00$ 6,065,500.00$ 99,916.10$

Amount of taxes exempted through Land Use Program 99,916.10$

Amount the State of Vermont reimbursed the town for this program 27,708.00$

Amount underfunded by the State and absorbed by other taxpayers 72,208.10$ (based on 2012 tax rates)(approx 6 cents on the tax rate)

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2012 LIST OF STATE OWNED LAND IN GROTON(VALUES AS OF 4/1/2011)

Note: No Value changes since 2009Property Reference ID Agency Location of Property Acres

2006 Appraised Value

2009-2011 Appraised Value

3267 FP 3 Forests, Parks & Recreation Lake Groton Cottage Lots 2.07 4,700.00 1,500.003267 FP 4 Forests, Parks & Recreation Stillwater Campground 42.00 706,400.00 116,900.003267 FP 5 Forests, Parks & Recreation Big Deer Campground 25.00 49,900.00 15,700.003267 FP 6 Forests, Parks & Recreation Boulder Beach 25.00 323,900.00 101,100.003267 FP 7 Forests, Parks & Recreation Kettle Pond Campground & frontage 20.00 79,400.00 62,200.003267 FP 8 Forests, Parks & Recreation Natural Woodland Areas 149.00 39,800.00 58,800.003267 FP 9 Forests, Parks & Recreation Forest Land 11,702.03 3,735,400.00 7,893,700.003267 FP 10 Forests, Parks & Recreation Ricker Pond Damsite 13.00 41,000.00 7,800.003267 FP 11 Forests, Parks & Recreation TNC/Moffatt Acquisition 329.00 189,500.00 219,400.003267 FP 12 Forests, Parks & Recreation Lyon Acq - Seyon Block 42.00 10,700.00 16,600.003267 FP 1 Forests, Parks & Recreation Seyon Pond 26.00 126,200.00 98,900.003267 FP 2 Forests, Parks & Recreation Ricker Pond Campsite & frontage 39.00 164,800.00 139,300.003267 FP 13 Forests, Parks & Recreation Page Acquisition 25.70 7,700.00 13,900.003267 FW 1 Fish & Wildlife Pine Mountain WMA 372.00 208,400.00 322,400.003267 FW 2 Fish & Wildlife Levi Pond WMA 259.20 83,600.00 88,200.003267 FW 3 Environmental Conservation St. Hilaire Parcel 100.00 28,600.00 43,300.003267 EC 1 Environmental Conservation Groton Lake Damsite 3.00 20,000.00 43,000.00

Totals 13,174.00 $5,820,000.00 $9,242,700.00

Amount of taxes the town would have collected if land was privately owned $160,092.81(based on the 2012 tax rate of $1.7321 and if not in current use) This figure is also basedon the fact that the State sets their own appraisal values which are not true market values)Amount of PILOT funds we received from the State of Vermont 54,511.86

Amount underfunded by the State of Vermont $105,580.95(approx 9.066 cents on the tax rate)(1 cent raised $11,723.28)

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VALUES OF STATE OWNED BUILDINGS IN GROTON AS OF APRIL 1, 2010(Values set by the State of Vermont)

Building No. Building Description Building Location

State Value as of 4/1/09

State value as of 4/1/10

Change in Value between 2009-

201224110 Pine MT WMA Barn Powder Spring Rd 7,134 6,986 -14824407 Ranger's Res.-Stillwater 126 Boulder Beach Rd 43,778 9,656 -34,12224408 Park Shelter - Stillwater 126 Boulder Beach Rd 29,386 22,291 -7,09524409 Toilet #1 Stillwater 126 Boulder Beach Rd 58,062 15,900 -42,16224410 Toilet #2 Stillwater 126 Boulder Beach Rd 95,123 35,520 -59,60324411 Shelter & Toilet #2 - Rickers 526 State Forest Rd 42,720 28,421 -14,29924412 Ranger's House - Rickers 526 State Forest Rd 54,874 34,141 -20,73324413 Garage Storage - Rickers 526 State Forest Rd 27,418 24,005 -3,41324414 Toilet Building #1 - Rickers 526 State Forest Rd 51,771 12,740 -39,03124415 Toilet #3 - Rickers 526 State Forest Rd 57,128 17,490 -39,63824416 Toilet #2 - Boulder Beach Rec Area440 Boulder Beach Rd 109,917 35,520 -74,39724417 Picnic Shelter - Boulder Beach 440 Boulder Beach Rd 34,072 33,850 -22224418 Ranger's House - Big Deer 303 Boulder Beach Rd 97,020 86,216 -10,80424419 Toilet Building #5 - Big Deer 303 Boulder Beach Rd 57,866 17,500 -40,36624420 Toilet#1- Boulder Beach Rec Area440 Boulder Beach Rd 27,660 8,100 -19,56024421 Helper's Quarters - E. Big Deer 303 Boulder Beach Rd 65,980 34,326 -31,65424422 Helper's Quarters - W. Big Deer 303 Boulder Beach Rd 65,980 34,950 -31,03024423 Nature Center - Boulder Beach 329 Boulder Beach Rd 79,456 75,045 -4,41124424 Toilet Building #3 - Stillwater 126 Boulder Beach Rd 46,554 15,900 -30,65424425 Contact Station - Stillwater 126 Boulder Beach Rd 34,244 26,445 -7,79924430 Contact Station - Rickers 126 Boulder Beach Rd 9,157 8,967 -19024432 Storage Shed - Ricker 126 Boulder Beach Rd 4,015 3,931 -8424433 Storage Shed - Stillwater 126 Boulder Beach Rd 12,776 4,375 -8,40124434 Woodshed - Ricker Pond 526 State Forest Rd 15,063 11,080 -3,98324435 Woodshed - Stillwater 126 Boulder Beach Rd 17,987 11,080 -6,90724436 Garage - Big Deer 303 Boulder Beach Rd 17,748 14,763 -2,98524439 Concession Bldg - Boulder Beach126 Boulder Beach Rd 35,740 34,997 -74324440 Merrill/Otis Camp Merrill/Otis Camp 18,038 17,663 -37524441 Boulder Beach Contact Station 329 Boulder Beach Rd 2,677 2,621 -5624442 Boulder Beach Storage Shed 329 Boulder Beach Rd 5,889 5,767 -12224445 Ricker's Lakeside Cabin 526 State Forest Rd 30,522 7,550 -22,97224498 Seyon Remote Cabin 400 Seyon Park Rd 21,960 3,916 -18,04424499 Seyon Fish Hatchery 400 Seyon Park Rd 52,908 5,768 -47,14024500 Seyon Woodshed 400 Seyon Park Rd 6,993 6,848 -14524501 Seyon Ranch - Residence 400 Seyon Park Rd 764,138 758,241 -5,89724502 Seyon Ranch - Garage 400 Seyon Park Rd 36,546 27,680 -8,86624503 Seyon Ranch - Barn 400 Seyon Park Rd 17,147 15,335 -1,81224504 Barn & Sleeping Rooms - Seyon 400 Seyon Park Rd 57,762 47,897 -9,86524505 Old Wheel House - Seyon 400 Seyon Park Rd 29,311 23,871 -5,44024506 Ricker Pond Cabin 1 526 State Forest Rd 16,560 16,216 -34424507 Ricker Pond Cabin 2 526 State Forest Rd 16,560 16,216 -34424508 Ricker Pond Cabin 3 526 State Forest Rd 16,560 16,216 -34424509 Ricker Pond Cabin 4 526 State Forest Rd 16,560 16,216 -34424510 Ricker Pond Cabin 5 526 State Forest Rd 16,560 16,216 -344

TOTAL MARKET VALUE FROM STATE OF VERMONT 2,325,320 1,668,430 -656,890

REMEMBER: THE STATE APPRAISES THEIR OWN PROPERTIES!!!Amount of taxes the Town would receive if these properties wereprivately owned 28,898.88$ (Based on 2012 non residential tax rate of $1.7321 per $100 of value) Amount of PILOT money received from the State of Vermont 4,707.00$

Amount underfunded by the State of Vermont 24,191.88$ (Approx 2 cents on the tax rate)

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2012 CURRENT TAX RECONCILIATION

StateTaxes Billed Town Highway Education Tax TotalPercentage of Tax Rate 12.355% 9.390% 78.254% 100.000%2012 Tax Rate 0.2123 0.1615 1.3325 - 1.3583 1.7063 - 1.7321

2012 Taxes Assessed & Billed 249,983.02 189,995.66 1,583,318.04 2,023,296.72State Education Property Tax Adjustments (10,710.42) (197,464.82) (208,175.24)Total tax to be collected 239,272.60 189,995.66 1,385,853.22 1,815,121.48

Taxes Collected

2012 Current Taxes collected through10/12/12 (including state payments) 106,896.01 189,995.66 1,385,853.22 1,870,715.69

Payments ret'd for insufficient funds (320.46) (320.46)

Small overpmts not to be refunded 6.09 6.09

Total taxes collected/credited 106,581.64 189,995.66 1,385,853.22 1,682,430.52

2012 Delinquent Tax Warrant I 132,056.13 132,056.132012 Delinquent Tax Warrant II 320.46 320.46Total of 2012 Delinquent Taxes 132,376.59 0.00 0.00 132,376.59

Delinquent Taxes Abated by Board Of Abatement Abatement 145.50 145.502012 Delinquent Taxes Paid to Treasurer through 12/31/12 54,372.23 54,372.23

2012 Delinquent Taxes left to be collected 77,858.86 0.00 0.00 77,858.86 in 2013

Note: The school and the highway taxes are paid in full each year.

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TOWN OF GROTON DELINQUENT TAX COLLECTION POLICY & TAX SALE PROCEEDINGS FOR TAX SALE YEAR 2012

All taxes became delinquent after 5 p.m. on Friday, October 12, 2012. As soon as possible after the Tax Collection

Warrant has been received, and each month thereafter, the Collector of Delinquent Taxes will send a notice to each delinquent taxpayer.

Interest is assessed at 1% per month (or a fraction of a month) for the first three months and at 1.5% per month (or a fraction of a month) thereafter on any unpaid principal tax amount. A one time 8% Penalty is assessed on the unpaid delinquent principal tax amount at the time the account goes delinquent. 32 VSA § 4873, 5142 (After the initial October notice, the November and following monthly statements with interest up dates will be sent out on or about the 1st of each month thereafter unless previously paid.)

Partial payments will be applied first to the interest portion of the amount due, and the remainder will be divided proportionately between the amount of the tax, and the 8% penalty. Payments with statements or directives issued on them or by communication included with payment that are not consistent with the Groton Town Policy will be returned to the taxpayer. The Town of Groton will not accept payments of delinquent taxes that are made in contravention of this policy. the Collector of Delinquent Taxes will return any payments made that are not consistent with this policy to the delinquent taxpayer.

PAYMENT IS CREDITED WHEN RECEIVED IN HAND. (POSTMARKS ARE NOT ACCEPTED AS TIMELY PAYMENT!) Over-payments of $5.00 or less will not be refunded unless specifically requested by the taxpayer. There will be a $25.00 charge for any returned check; non-sufficient funds or closed accounts; or returned

instrument of non-payment in lieu of delinquent taxes. Post-dated checks are not acceptable. To insure quality service telephone calls may be recorded for accuracy, clarity and content. Parties of interest such as mortgage holders, lien holders and etc, will be given information on Delinquent

Tax Accounts upon request Final Notices will be sent out on April 1, 2013. Payment in full is required on all accounts by April 30, 2013. On May 1, 2013 all unpaid delinquent tax accounts will be turned over to the Tax Sale Attorney and

processed for Tax Sale and or other means of Collection. (Exceptions are those that are under a Period of Redemption, Bankruptcy, Litigation or etc.)

Once the account has been submitted to the Attorney in preparation for Tax Sale, payment must be by cash, money order, bank treasurers or certified checks. Personal checks will not be accepted. Call before sending payment to insure the amount is correct as interest is updated at the beginning of each month and other Authorized expenses (32 VSA § 5258) may have been added.

All delinquent taxes that are not paid by 12-31-12 will be published in the Annual Town Report. Tax Sales shall be conducted according to the requirements for notice set forth in 32 VSA § 5252 and pursuant to the

provisions of 32 VSA § 5251 through 5263 inclusive. (Re: 32 VSA § 5258) Costs of preparing and conducting the sale, including legal fees up to a maximum of 15% of the

amount of delinquent tax, will be charged to the delinquent taxpayer. The Journal Opinion, Caledonian Record, or newspapers of general circulation in the Town of Groton shall be used for

publication of all notices required under VSA § 5252. If a Taxpayer is on active duty with military and their taxes are delinquent they need to contact the Collector of

Delinquent Taxes in regards to the Service members' Civil Relief Act. Under federal law, property belonging to a person on active duty with the military can be sold at tax sale only by permission of a court. If the property is sold at tax sale, the owner has a right of redemption up until six months after leaving the military. Interest on the overdue tax accrues at a rate of six percent per annum and no other penalties or interest may be charged. 50 USCA § 560.

Delinquent taxpayers may be written request petition the Board of Civil Authority, Lister's, and Town Treasurer pursuant to the provisions of 24 VSA sections 1533 et esq. To Abate Delinquent Taxes. Written request should be addressed to Groton Board of Abatement C/O Groton Town Office 1476 Scott Hwy. Groton VT 05046.

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Based upon a recent revision by the VT Legislature 32 VSA § 5254 now provides as follows: 32 VSA Section 5254: Sale of Realty. When the tax with costs is not paid before the day of sale the real property on which the taxes are due shall be sold to pay such taxes. Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (a) of this section, the owner of the property being sold for taxes may request in writing, not less than twenty-four hours prior to the tax sale, that a portion of the property be sold. Such request must clearly identify the portion of the property to be sold, and must be accompanied by a Certification from the District Environmental Commission and the Town Zoning Administrative Office that the portion identified may be subdivided and meets minimum lot size requirements. In the event that the portion identified by the taxpayer cannot be sold for the taxes and costs, then the entire property may be sold to pay such tax and costs.

TO INSURE PROPER CREDIT All checks should be made payable to: Town of Groton, CDT Mailed to: TOWN OF GROTON OFFICE HOURS AT TOWN OFFICE: Tuesday 9:30 am-12:30 pm Patricia Bouley CDT Friday 9:30 am-12:30 pm 1476 Scott Highway Groton, VT 05046 If the above hours are not convenient, please call for an appointment at 802-584-3792 at Scheduled Office Hours or you may call at 802-584-3148 to make an appointment or to meet with me. If you believe that there is an error, or if you have questions, please contact me as soon as possible. Gary Lamberton, Selectman Patricia Bouley, Collector of Delinquent Taxes Nathan Puffer, Selectman Tristan Vaughan, Selectman

Amendment - January 30, 2013

Last year (2011), there were a couple of errors in the Collector of Delinquent Taxes Summary. They are as follows: 2010 Warrant 1 read $63,392.47 should have been $60,392.47; 2011 Warrant 3 read $2,297.23 should have been $2,397.23; 2011 Warrant 1 read $60,364.93 should have been $56,934.01.

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GROTON FREE PUBLIC LIBRARY REPORT

Groton Free Public Library 1304 Scott Highway Groton, VT 05046 802-584-3358 [email protected] The library has been through a year of transition due to the sudden loss of librarian Marjorie Shane. Marjorie was the librarian here for the past 6 years and is greatly missed! Anne Hatch became the new librarian in August. Technology updates included Windows 7 installation on all computers, new staff color printer, and new router for more reliable internet access. The library has a new website (www.grotonlibraryvt.org) and a facebook page (www.facebook.com/GrotonFreePublicLibrary), which are updated regularly for our patrons. Ongoing programs included Book Discussion Group (4th Monday of the month at 7pm), Crafts and Conversation Group (Wednesdays from 1-3pm), and Stores and More (2nd Saturday of the month at 10:30am). Our Book Sale is also open year-round during library open hours. Special programs included Fri-Li Kids' Drop-In, Beginner Spanish with Ana Petersen, Antioxidants for Health with Rosie Abelson, Bearing Witness and Georgia O'Keefe with Bob manning, Ten Warning Signs of Alzheimer's with Susan Gordon, Lifting the Yolk with Ron Krupp, Fresh with Groton Growers, and Agatha Christie. All of our programs are free and open to the public! We are very fortunate to have volunteers increasingly involved in supporting our services and programs! We welcome volunteers of all ages. Open Hours: Mon. 2:30-7pm, Wed. 10am-4pm, Thurs. 10am-12pm (non-winter), Fri. 2:30-7pm, Sat. 10am-12pm. Trustees: Susan Gordon(Chair), Ellen Cady, Judy Chandler, Toni Dyer, Diane Kreis, Martha Montague, Deb Orelup, Nancy Spencer and Altoon Sultan. Librarian: Anne Hatch

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GROTON FREE PUBLIC LIBRARY 2012 Budget vs. Actual & 2013 Proposed Budget

ACTUAL PROPOSEDActual 2012 Income 2012 Income 2013 IncomeAllocation from Town General Fund (see below) 24,216.31 26,490.00Copy income 35.00Donations from Annual Campaign 2,515.00 2,265.00Donations (deposited to Merchants Bank accts) 429.50Grant Income 55.00Interest Income 58.58Dividend Income 586.90Program Income (donation from Community Club) 500.00 500.00Total Income and Town Allocation 28,396.29 29,255.00

Library Budget vs. Actual 2012 2012 2012 Over/Under PROPOSEDExpenses paid from Town General Fund only Budget Actual Budget 2013 BUDGETBooks & periodicals 5,000.00 5,004.37 4.37 3,300.00Building operations 3,900.00 3,700.00 -200.00 4,000.00Cleaning 975.00 784.96 -190.04 975.00Computer software & Maint 600.00 123.50 -476.50 400.00Insurance 1,051.00 1,051.00 0.00 1,215.00Postage & delivery 500.00 314.11 -185.89 500.00Supplies-office 800.00 932.69 132.69 600.00Telephone/Internet 500.00 516.67 16.67 500.00Training & Mileage 0.00 108.42 108.42 0.00Wages and payroll taxes 12,828.00 11,680.59 -1,147.41 15,000.00

Total Expenses Paid from Town General Fund 26,154.00 24,216.31 -1,937.69 26,490.00

EXPENSES PAID OUT OF LIBRARY FUNDSBooks 0.00 588.39 588.39 300.00Building Operations 2,000.00 2,000.00 0.00 2,000.00Computer software & maint 400.00Furnishings 300.00Programs (paid with Community Club Donation) 500.00 210.00 -290.00Supplies-programs 0.00 107.56 107.56 1,200.00Training & Mileage 500.00

Total expenses paid from Library Funds 2,500.00 2,905.95 405.95 4,700.00

28,654.00 27,122.26 -1,531.74 31,190.00

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Groton Free Public Library 12/31/2012Bank Accounts and Securities Balances

MB Library Funds Account Balance as of 12/31/11 11,967.30Interest received 1/1/12 - 12/31/12 6.91Program Income (Groton Community Club) 500.00Dividend Income (transferred from Sun America) 586.90Annual campaign Fundraising donations 2,515.00Donations (not specified) 125.00Donations in memory of Marjorie Shane 354.50Misc income (copies, etc) 35.00Total of Interest & deposits 4,123.31Expenses paid out of Money Market acct:Bldg operations-rent (balance of $3700 paid by Town) 2,000.00Program expenses 575.00Computer work (from Bernice Langevin bequest of 2011) 1,425.93Cost of printed checks for account 16.20Postage and other expenses for fundraising campaign 112.50Total expenses paid 4,129.63Account Balance as of 12/31/12 11,960.98

MB Library Funds #1Account Balance as of 12/31/11 56,922.46Interest received 1/1/12-12/31/12 35.80Account Balance as of 12/31/12 56,958.26

MB Library Funds #2Account Balance as of 12/31/11 30,736.57Interest received 1/1/12-12/31/12 19.30Account Balance as of 12/31/12 30,755.87

TOTAL LIBRARY FUNDS IN BANK ACCOUNTS 99,675.11

Sun American SecuritiesStock Value as of 12/31/11 14,465.17Dividends for 2012 586.90Dividends transferred to MB Money Market -586.90Overall gain in FMV of stocks in 2012 1,122.00Stock Value as of 12/31/12 15,587.17

TOTAL OF LIBRARY FUNDS & INVESTMENTS 115,262.28

Loaned to and due from Groton Community Housing, Inc. 50,000.00(per Town Auditors but Trustees do not expect repayment)

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GROTON CEMETERY RULES

TRAFFIC REGULATION In order to protect the roadways and monuments, all Groton Cemeteries will be closed to vehicular traffic from Nov. 1 to May 1, unless otherwise authorized by the Cemetery Commissioners. FLOWERS AND FLAGS All flowers, natural and artificial, must be removed from the cemeteries by Oct. 1. The flags will remain on the graves until Veteran's Day in November. Any flowers, plants and flags left in the cemetery may be removed by the maintenance workers. FOOTINGS In order to facilitate mowing, all the monuments will be set on a cement foundation with footings which extend four inches outward from the monument. SETTING OF CORNER STONES AND GRASS MARKERS A cemetery official will have the final say as to the location of any upright stone or grass marker should there be a question as to whether a marker has been placed correctly on any given lot. PLANTINGS Plantings should be of the low maintenance type that will not grow to a size which will impinge on the surrounding lots. They must be clearly marked in order to protect them. They must be planted between the monuments and not in front or behind the headstones. Please understand that it is extremely difficult to be aware of all the plantings in cemeteries as large as the ones Groton has. The town cannot be held responsible for plantings set in front or behind monuments as these areas are maintained with a lawn mower. However, the spaces between the monuments are maintained with string trimmers. It is much easier to spot and avoid a planting in these areas than in front and behind the headstones. BURIALS The cemetery will be closed for burials from the first snowfall until the ground is fully thawed in the spring, unless specifically authorized by the Cemetery Commission. Burial vaults will be of concrete. PURCHASING LOTS IN THE GROTON CEMETERY Lots are for sale containing as few as 1 burial plot and up to 12 plots, lots sold at resident prices will have the resident's name only listed as owner on the deed. Non residents cannot be listed as co-owners on lots purchased at residential prices. The initial of the owner's last name will be engraved on the cornerstones. There is a price list available through the town clerk. Cremation urns can be buried in any plot. SPECIFYING THE INDIVIDUALS TO BE BURIED IN A LOT At the time of purchase the deed holder can fill out a form which will specify the individuals who can be buried on a specific lot. This document can be notarized and filed with the deed for the current recording fee. Should a deed holder wish to specify who may be buried on their lot, this form can also be filled out, notarized and filed with the deed for the recording fee.

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Should a deed holder wish to sell a lot or portion of a lot, they must first sell it back to the town at the same price that it was originally purchased for. Then the town will sell the lot to the new owner based on current pricing. Corner stones for this new lot may not be required if the Commissioners approve. Please be aware that the only way to securely guarantee who shall be buried on any given lot is for that person to own it. In cases where there might be a family dispute we suggest that the parties take all steps possible to make clear who shall be allowed to use a lot. CREMATION BURIALS The internment of cremation urns will no longer be restricted to special cremation plots. Urns can be buried on gravesites already inhabited or on sites which have been purchased but not used. In order to do this the Sexton must be informed and arrangements made so that the exact location of the urn can be arranged and the plot can be officially prepared. The only added cost will be for digging the internment hole. All Groton Cemetery guidelines for placement of markers and cornerstones will apply to plots being used for cremation internments. If you are interested in purchasing a lot in the Groton Cemetery, please contact the Town Clerk or Tom Gandin at Gandin Brothers in South Ryegate.

CEMETERY REPORT

It was a quiet year for Groton's Cemeteries. With the help of Jim Winget, we made an excel list of all the veterans who are buried in all the cemeteries. This list is now posted on the Grotonvt.com website in the cemetery section. The names are listed alphabetically for each cemetery. We can be proud that there are over 230 Veterans honored in our cemeteries. There are veterans of every American war, from the Revolution to the Vietnam War. There are also approximately 12 women who are honored with flags, some who served themselves and a few whose children made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. A large swath of stones were cleaned in the Old Cemetery and the hinges were repaired on the mausoleum. Progress was slow on the Riverside Cemetery this year. We will need a substantial infusion of funds to get it mapped and laid out. When the time comes, we will ask the town for this help. Until then we continue to maintain the now well established open field. Respectfully submitted, Tom Gandin, Deborah Jurist and Aaron Smith Cemetery Commissioners

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CEMETERY LOT PRICES for 2012

FEE EXPLANATION: RECORDING COST $20.00 CORNER POST: $105.00

Any lot purchased requires a 50% deposit at the time of purchase. Balance must be paid for within 6 months or the remaining lots will be forfeited.

SIZE

# of traditional burial sites

# of cremation sites

LOT PRICE

PERPETUAL CARE FEES

SETTING OF CORNER STONES

TOTAL FOR RESIDENTS

TOTAL FOR NON RESIDENT

12'X4' 1 4 $100.00 $200.00 $125.00 $50.00 $475.00 $1,900.00 12x8 2 8 $150.00 $200.00 $125.00 $50.00 $525.00 $2,100.00 12x12 3 12 $225.00 $300.00 $125.00 $50.00 $700.00 $2,800.00 12x16 4 16 $300.00 $400.00 $125.00 $50.00 $875.00 $3,500.00 12x20 5 20 $375.00 $500.00 $125.00 $50.00 $1,050.00 $4,200.00 12x24 6 24 $450.00 $600.00 $125.00 $50.00 $1,225.00 $4,900.00 12x28 7 28 $525.00 $700.00 $125.00 $50.00 $1,400.00 $5,600.00 12x32 8 32 $600.00 $800.00 $125.00 $50.00 $1,575.00 $6,300.00 12x36 9 36 $675.00 $900.00 $125.00 $50.00 $1,750.00 $7,000.00 12x40 10 40 $750.00 $1,000.00 $125.00 $50.00 $1,925.00 $7,700.00 12x44 11 44 $825.00 $1,100.00 $125.00 $50.00 $2,100.00 $8,400.00 24x24 12 48 $900.00 $1,200.00 $125.00 $50.00 $2,275.00 $9,100.00

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Cemetery Activity - 2012

IncomeInterest & dividends on Savings & Trust accounts 12.55Lot Sales 0.00Corner stone income 0.00Recording fee income 0.00Corner stone setting fees income 0.00Perpetual Care income (interest) 49.80Total Income/Revenue 62.35

Expenses paid from Cemetery AccountsCorner stones expense (Gandin Bros) 0.00Purchased cemetery lot back from Haskells 0.00Recording fees paid to Town Clerk 0.00

0.00

Expenses paid from General FundStone repairs & straightening -Thomas Gandin 700.00Mowing - James Winget 8,500.00Bushhog Riverside Cemetery - Matt Nunn 180.00Rubbish removal 0.00Markers & flags 344.61

9,724.61

2012 Cemetery Account Balances 12/31/12Bank Accounts BalanceTD Bank-Roosevelt Carter Trust 6,171.35WGSB H. Hosmer 3,275.68WRSB Development Funds 4,345.41WRSB Cemetery Lot Expenses 929.64WRSB Mary Jane Ricker Hall Trust 1,059.55MB Perpetual Care 84,986.45TOTAL 100,768.08

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RECREATION COMMITTEE REPORT

Music in the park continued for the fourth year for six Thursday nights in July and August. The Bridge Weekly Sho-Case helped in publicizing the series with multiple articles and pictures. Nichole Wolfgang and Chuck Gallagher were in charge. Anne Hatch was in charge of weekly pick-up basketball games in the gymnasium. Ms. Hatch also organized a Spanish conversation group that met every other week at Artesano Mead and moved to the library in the fall. This year marked the ninth year for the Halloween party which has been hosted by Lisa Hart for the last six years. Modern Woodmen, the Friends of the Groton Library, and several individuals helped put the event on and put together the gift bags the children received. Food items were accepted that went to the food shelf. There were forty-five children that attended. The S.D. Ireland holiday cement mixer did not make it to the Upper Valley Grill and General Store because of high winds and rain. Santa Claus did arrive and the 20 or so children who spoke to him were glad he made it with Milt Lamberton in the town's cruiser. Bill Kane and Paul Berlejung will invite the mixer back in 2013. Respectfully submitted, Paul Berlejung

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FIRST CONSTABLE REPORT

During 2012, I provided the following law enforcement services as Groton's 1st Constable: Patrol 284.75 hours Domestic 3.50 Repairs 9.25 Training 63.00 Serving Papers 7.25 Welfare Check 3.00 Vandalism Complaints 4.50 Court 3.00 Missing Person 1.50 Medical 1.00 Auto Accident 1.50 Miscellaneous 11.00 Donated 24.50 TOTAL HOURS 417.75 During patrol work, I issued 63 tickets, 421 written warnings and many verbal warnings. I also did 36 Vin Checks. As of 11-29-12, the Town received $2472.00 in fines from tickets issued. I wish to thank the town for continued encouragement and support and welcome any comments and/or suggestions to improve my services to the public. James A. Downing 1st Constable

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2nd CONSTABLE REPORT

Josephine Guertin is still the animal control officer.

306 dogs were licensed by the Town Clerk in 2012.

I thought last year’s report was my last as I was going to retire. But I changed my mind and decided to run for the 2nd Constable’s position and hand over the duties of 1st Constable to Jim Downing the 2nd Constable who is doing most of the work and traffic patrolling. So at Town Meeting Jim ran for the 1st Constable’s position and I ran for the 2nd Constable’s position. We were both voted in at Town Meeting. I don't do serial number verification as I am not certified by the state any longer. I did about 35 verifications this past year.

I assisted with traffic control during the delivery of a pontoon boat to the lake that had to be pulled back up the bank.

I also assisted with traffic control during the forest fire at the intersection of Route 302 and Route 232, along with assisting the Game Warden with a moose being removed from Route 302 after being struck by a vehicle along with traffic control during Groton’s Fall Foliage day festivities.

Halloween night was again very successful like in the previous years.

Respectfully,

Milt Lamberton

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GROTON VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT

Training: Outside Training - Twin State Fire School at Blue Mountain Union School, Water Rescue Awareness in Berlin, Webinar on GIS - 911 Mapping, Arson Training Program put on by Vermont State Police, Strategy and Tactics - Fire Suppression, Firefighter Safety and Survival and Live fire training in Woodsville. Each month the department has a training drill. Some of the topics covered were: Ropes and Knots, Water Supply, Interior Attack, Ice and Cold Water Rescue, Tanker Operations, Portable Pumps, Extrication Planning, Search and Rescue, Hose Loads, Hybrid Vehicle Extrication, Blitz Attack, and Propane Emergencies. Prevention: The annual prevention program took place at Blue Mountain Union School. This was a joint venture between Groton, Ryegate, and Wells River Fire Departments. We had a table at the Groton Farmers Market and had special visits from Smoky the Bear and Sparky the Fire Dog. Incidents Requiring Groton Volunteer Fire Department Response: Fires - 8, Forest Fire - 1, Motor Vehicle Accidents - 2, Unpermitted Burns - 2 Mutual Aid - 8, EMS Assist - 1, for a grand total of 22 incidents requiring the Groton Volunteer Fire Department to respond and lend a hand to the people of Groton. The Groton Fire Department has several messages for the Residents of the Town of Groton: - THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT AND HELP during the Forest Fire on July 10th, 2012. The outpouring of support of food, grills, off road vehicles, water, fresh baked cookies, salads, use of parking lots, and too many other things too numerous to list...THANK YOU!!! We couldn't have done it without all of the help you gave us. - PLEASE PUT A HOUSE NUMBER SIGN AT YOUR RESIDENCE WHERE WE CAN SEE IT DAY OR NIGHT. - The Fire Department relies heavily on Mutual Aid from surrounding Fire Departments. This year proved the worth of all those departments and we appreciate their response and help for the Town of Groton.

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ANYONE WITH AN EMERGENCY SHOULD CALL 911!!!

In the scheme of things the Groton Volunteer Fire Department is not the busiest in the area but we still need people to join our ranks and fill the boots of a Volunteer Firefighter. If running into burning buildings and being on the front line is not your cup of tea but you would still like to lend a hand that is fine too. There is a position to be filled on the Groton Volunteer Fire Department. Whether it is helping with training or washing a fire truck, there are front line and support positions which need dedicated people to fill. If you think you would like to help and join this worldwide brother/sister hood then call the Fire Chief at 584-3243 or stop by the station next to the town hall on the first Tuesday of the month. We will get you an application or answer any questions you may have. Respectfully Submitted, Fire Chief Wayne C. Knott Groton Volunteer Fire Department

GROTON RYEGATE F.A.S.T. SQUAD

The FAST Squad has had another busy year and calls were up over last year. Groton -- 70 Calls Ryegate -- 73 Calls The FAST Squad is a small group and we are always looking for new members.

FOR MEDICAL EMERGENCIES DIAL 911 HELP US FIND YOU WHEN YOU NEED US!!!

INSTALL A 911 NUMBER SIGN

AT THE END OF YOUR DRIVEWAY - IT WILL SAVE US TIME AND GET YOU THE HELP YOU NEED!

FOR MORE INFORMATION: CONTACT CHIEF WAYNE KNOTT,

GROTON FIRE DEPARTMENT 584-3243

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FAST - GROTON RYEGATE FAST SQUAD ACCOUNT 2012

NOTE: This account is not funded by taxpayer dollars. These funds are from fundraising efforts and donations but the account is under the Town Federal ID number and is maintained by the Town Treasurer.

Merchants Bank Money Market accountBalance of account on 12/31/11 2,120.20Interest received 1/1/12-12/31/12 0.83Donation 250.00Balance of account on 12/31/12 2,371.03

FOREST FIRE WARDEN REPORT

This year the fire season was an active one. Due to a very dry spring and summer we have had more than our share of our forest fires. We had a major one here in Groton and two in Ryegate that we participated in. I want to take this time all those on our department who have done an outstanding job in these events. The requirements to obtain a burn permit are as follows: you need to obtain a burn permit by calling the forest fire warden within 12-24 hours of burning grass or brush. The only time that you are not required to get a burn permit is when there is significant amount of snow in the area in which you are burning. This also depends on the time of the year such as early fall and late spring when we may have early snow storms. It is always best to contact me with any questions or doubts in burning. When there is a ban on burning it will be announced on WYKR and on the Groton website. I must also remind people that in order to burn woodpiles such as debris from buildings, other than brush, you must obtain a different permit from the Environmental Air Pollution Office. Their address and phone number is as follows: Air Pollution Control Division, Department of Environmental Conservation, Building 3 South Main Street, Waterbury, VT 05671-0402, Telephone # (802)241-3840. If you want a permit during the week, you need to contact me the night before so you can get your permit. This has been one of the problems that I have had because I do work during the day from Monday thru Friday. You can contact me during the week after 5 PM at 584-3628. Due to the large area of Groton which is covered by forest, it is difficult to survey the area from time to time and because of that, there have been a lot of illegal burns which go unnoticed which could be a potential hazard to others and their homes if the fire warden is not aware of them. If caught without a permit, you could be issued a fine plus cost of equipment and personnel that come to the scene. There is also a growing issue on trash burning. There is a state law now, which has been in effect since 2005 making it illegal in the State of Vermont to burn trash. If you are caught, you could receive a fine up to $500. This could be issued by a designated person whom the selectboard could choose since its not in my jurisdiction to issue fines against trash burning. So if you have any questions, pertaining to this subject, call your selectboard members. Wade Johnson, Sr., Forest Fire Warden Justin Carle, Assistant Forest Fire Warden

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GROTON LISTER'S REPORT

The results of Equalization study for the 2012 conducted by the Vermont Department of Taxes are as follows: Equalized Education Property Value $112,735,000 Coefficient of Dispersion: 9.89 % The equalized education property value is the sum of: 1. the aggregate fair market value of all non-residential and homestead property required to be listed at fair market value; 2. the aggregate use value of all property enrolled in use value appraisal; 3. the aggregate value of property established under a local agreement in accord with 32 V.S.A. #5404a. The coefficient of dispersion (COD) is a measure of uniformity of appraisal for all properties in the Grand List. It measures the average deviation from the market value of sold properties from the average town wide level of appraisal. A COD of 0.00% is perfect, which is impossible to achieve. Education Grand List (from 411): $1,177,901 Equalized Education Grand List: $1,127,350 Common Level of Appraisal: 104.48 % The education grand list is one percent of the total assessed value of taxable property. The equalized education grand list is one percent of the education property value. The education grand list is divided by the equalized education grand list to determine the common level of appraisal (CLA). This is a brief sketch as to how the Department of Taxes, Property & Evaluation Department keep check on the grand list. We receive the evaluation study at the end of every year. The office is open Monday - Thursday (or by appointment) from 8:30a.m. -- Noon. The Lister's phone number is (802) 584-3155. Kitty Diggins, Dorothy Knott, Linda Nunn

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2012 GROTON HIGHWAY REPORT Bridge # 18 on the Welton Road is still closed to traffic after the Irene event. We have

hired an engineering firm and have a design for its replacement. We have been working with VT AOT and our engineer and have come to an agreement with FEMA for payment of the replacement. We will have final plans and be going to bid for a 2013 completion date. We will have a new bridge that should have the capacity for the next large event. We have been working with VT AOT and ANR to update the Road Standards for Vermont towns. Their goal is to have a standard that will address water quality and alleviate the current issues we have had with FEMA when dealing Welton Road Bridge #18.

We made improvements to the intersection of Scott Hwy and Hi Goodwin Road this year making the grade better.

Cochran Road Bridge wing walls were repaired with the help of FEMA funds. We made it possible to access the Rail Trail from the Town Garage in the event of high

water next time. Our crushed gravel stockpile used for flood work was replaced using FEMA funds. Culvert replacement was a major part of our work this year. We replaced over 500 feet

of culvert much of which was funded though FEMA mitigation grants from the 2011 floods.

This year we worked with Forest and Parks on the project to rebuild the intersection at VT 232 and Boulder Beach Road. Our hope is that FPR will continue to find funding to make improvements to the park entrance. An overlay from the end of phase 1 to the end of the current pavement was postponed due to a greater need on Minard Hill Road. We are currently working with a Pavement Management Program from Maine Local Roads to help with planning for future paving projects.

This year we were able to contract for more aggressive brush cutting work on many of the worst roads and plan to continue with more in the coming year. We were also able to find a good used chipper to be used when cutting and chipping roadside vegetation.

Our one ton truck was replaced this year. We were also able to replace our culvert steamer with the help of a 50/50 safety grant from VLCT.

Our 2005 dump truck body was sandblasted and painted. In the coming year we will be continuing with the plan to replace our older road signs to

meet the new retro reflectivity standards. We worked with other departments’ projects, donating equipment time and labor saving

them money. Safety and ongoing training are part of life in this day and age. We attended many

classes and workshops sponsored by Vermont local roads and AOT this year. Phillip and I try our best to control cost while maintaining a level of service that keeps

up with needed maintenance of roads. Thanks to each of you who gave input this past year. If you have any ideas or concerns please let us know.

Town garage phone 584-3209 Pager 802-290-1355 (new number)

Brent Smith home 584-3765 or stop by the garage

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GROTON PLANNING COMMISSION REPORT

The Planning Commission had a productive year and completed our review of the zoning bylaws and made them compliant with state law. This was the effort of community members, the Planning Commission, and the Northeastern Vermont Development Association (NVDA). A full copy of the new zoning bylaws can be found in print at the town office or at the NVDA website at http://www.nvda.net/town_files/Groton_Zoning%20Bylaw_November%2015,%202012.pdf.

We are currently working on a zoning “wish list”, which are additions or deletions to the bylaws that will reflect the wishes of the community. This review is ongoing.

The Planning Commission secured a Municipal Planning Grant for $8,926 from the Department of Economic, Housing and Community Development to help with this process.

We always welcome comments and participation from anyone interested in town planning. Meetings are held at the Town Office once or twice a month, as posted. Please consider becoming a member of the Planning Commission.

Respectfully submitted,

Mark Simakaski, Co-Chair Aaron Smith, Co-Chair Paul Berlejung Dave Sanville

ZONING ADMINISTRATOR REPORT

There were 22 permits issued in 2012. Permits and amended permits cost $50.00. They can be obtained from the Town Clerks Office, on the Groton website www.GrotonVT.com or by calling Brad Houghton, JR at 802-584-4284. Landowners should not start any ground breaking or projects until all state and town permits are acquired. Violations could occur if landowners start before permits are received. Thank you for the opportunity to serve the Town of Groton and please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns. Bradley Houghton, JR Zoning Administrator

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TREE WARDEN REPORT

As the Groton Tree Warden during 2012, I believe I responded to all inquiries and comments concerning Groton's municipal and roadside trees. There were no tree violations in Groton reported. Harry Chandler Groton Tree Warden

GROTON BUILDING COMMITTEE

The years 2011 & 2012 have been busy and productive years for the Building Committee. The largest accomplishment was the addition of the ADA bathrooms, the ramp going into the gym and the upgrading of the bathroom in the Town office. Big thanks to all the volunteers, who pitched in and made these upgrades possible. We were able to upgrade the lights in the Community Building, Town Garage and Fire Station with a rebate from Efficiency Vermont. Our recommendations in 2011 to the Select board in 2012 were 1) Line the chimney, 2) Drill a well, and take care of the dampness in the building. We put a liner in the chimney. We prepared the site for the well and started working on the drainage. We have recommended to the Select board for 2013 to drill the well and finish the drainage.

We have a priority list of projects that need to be done to repair and upgrade the Community Building. Our goal is to upgrade the Community Building, while making anything we do more energy efficient, and at the same time trying to live within a reasonable budget.

I, as chairman of the Building Committee, personally want to thank Terry Dana, Dave Sanville, Peter Lyon, Mary Berlejung, Amy Alexander and Gary Lamberton (exoficio from the Selectboard) for their time, effort and support in making these two years so productive.

Respectfully,

Kitty Diggins, Chairman

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GROTON COMMUNITY CLUB REPORT

The Groton Community Club activities for this past year included:

Awarded 4 scholarships (as of this date) for Groton students; 3 BMU graduates and 1 home schooled graduate- $800.00

Provided funding to the library for programs- $500.00 Provided funding for the flowers throughout town- $653.00 Participated in the Annual Fall Foliage Festival- donations and ticket sales- $8,595.00 Purchased additional banners for the Chicken Pie Supper- $269.50 Donated money to Upper Valley Grill for repairs (Hurricane Irene damage) $500.00 Purchased aprons for Chicken Pie Supper servers- $400.00 Purchased new draperies for community building stage- $865.92

A reminder that the Community Club is open to ALL Groton residents. We meet twice yearly, in May and October. Kathleen Lamberton, Treasurer Groton Community Club

HISTORICAL SOCIETY REPORT

In an effort to improve attendance and to create interest in Groton's history, meeting time has been changed to 6 p.m., second Tuesday of the month, May through October. It was voted at our September meeting to also hold one meeting in the winter. Meeting date will be February 12, 2013, at 6 p.m. Purpose of this meeting is to catalog pictures, and plan programs for our regular May through October meetings. The appearance of the Peter Paul house is greatly improved by a fresh coat of paint on the exterior of the house. We were happy to see this completed before our annual all day open house on foliage day, October 6, 2012. Please join us at the Peter Paul house at our meeting May 14, 2013, at 6 p.m. Josephine French, Secretary

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BUCKAROOS OF 302 SNOWMOBILE CLUB

We are proud to announce that Buckaroos of 302 donated the white fence installed at the Town Garage and the Community Bldg. The club is not just about snowmobiling. We are a big part of the community. When the Smith Hill forest fire was reported, our members came to the aid with our club's 6-wheeler bringing firemen and their equipment to the site. We are thankful that the fire was brought under control.

We have purchased a second 6-wheeler for members to use for trail maintenance. Our trail system is broken up into sections and there are volunteers that keep check of their section of trail. Both 6-wheelers were in the Fall Foliage Parade. We were able to show off our rescue sled.

Buzzy Eastman, as our Buckaroos Trail Master, assures us that all 58 Miles of Trails are in excellent condition due to the hard work of our many volunteers. We are also very proud to announce that for a second year the Reader’s of The Barre/Rutland Times Argus chose Buckaroos of 302 as the “BEST OF THE BEST VAST TRAILS”. This is a great honor because the winner of the award was selected by Snowmobilers.

Don’t forget to log onto our Web site www.buckaroosof302.com

GROTON SENIOR MEALS The Groton Senior Meals Program has functioned well for the calendar year of 2012. We managed to serve over 1000 meals altogether. We have had several new families take part in the program. Special thanks go to Ben & Jerry's for their grant of $500 and to the Town of Groton for donating $400. Without these funds, we would not have been able to deliver this program. Special thanks also go to Zachary and Michelle Reed for their ability to cook and prepare the meals that have been served. Zach even went out of his way to cook a special Thanksgiving meal without charging a penny! We look forward to continuing to serve the community in 2013 and will look forward to again receiving funding from Ben & Jerry's and the town. Dave Pierce Senior Meals Coordinator

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GROTON GROWERS FARMERS’ MARKET

Sales in 2012 were $33,000, up 33% over 2011. Since its start in 2007 the market has brought more than $110,000 to the community, money that has stayed in the local economy.

We are a year round market, located on the front lawn of the Community Building from Memorial Day to the end of September, and then in the gym every third Saturday from October through May. There is an average of 16 vendors each week selling produce, prepared foods, and crafts, with demonstrations of wood turning wool spinning, entertainment, and special events.

Over the past two years the market has received grants for improvements to the gymnasium as follows: $3,850; $2,472 covered the installation of the 200 amp sub panel and the 16 duplex outlets; $1,378 went toward $2,530 of electrical work and lighting improvements; and, $2,500 toward the total cost of $3,660 for eight T5HO high bay lights. We also have received several thousand dollars for purchase of other equipment for the market.

The new lighting enhances the experience of those attending the market, whether making a purchase, window shopping, or having a cup of coffee and a conversation with folks they haven't seen in a while.

Groton Growers wants to be an integral part of our community. So come see us, and let us know how we can better serve your needs. There are a variety of jobs at the market for volunteers who want to help.

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FOOD SHELF REPORT - 2012

NOTE: This account is not funded by taxpayer dollars. These funds are from donations only but the account is under the Town Federal ID number and is maintained by the Town Treasurer.

Merchants Bank Money Market accountEnding balance of account on 12/31/11 10,571.66Donations received (cash & checks)* 2,197.88Interest received on checking account 6.35*(does not include value of food/toys/clothes donated) 12,775.89

Disbursements for groceries & Operation Santa 2,516.67Ending balance of account on 12/31/12 10,259.22

First and foremost, we would like to say "Thank You" to all the organizationsand individual people who have so generously contributed to the food shelf andthe "Operation Santa". We are very fortunate to have such wonderful, caring people in our community and also the surrounding towns.This past year we supplied food and other necessities to over 566 men, women and children. We supplied over 1,698 meals along with Thanksgiving baskets and Christmas baskets with all the fixings right through dessert forcomplete holiday meals. We also helped "Santa" by distributing toys to33 Groton children. If you or someone you know is in need they may call us at the Town Office. A phone call in advance gives us time to prepare and also means lessand also means less time waiting for your itemsThe numbers are 584-3276 or 584-3131. Thank you for your cooperation.

With sincere gratitude,

Linda Nunn, Roberta Dana & Kitty Diggins

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2012 VITAL STATISTICS

BIRTHS DATE SEX NAME OF CHILD PARENTS PLACE OF BIRTH March 3 M Oliver M. Collins Ashley A. Collins St. Johnsbury, VT Michael E. Collins March 12 F Kinsley F. Smith Kathryn R. Smith Berlin, VT Jonathan S. Smith Oct. 17 M Theodore X. Putnam Kristin L. Putnam Berlin, VT Dane P.D. Wetmore Oct. 18 M Carter G. Perry Lydia L. Perry Berlin, VT Cody G. Perry

DEATHS DATE AGE NAME RESIDENCE PLACE OF DEATH March 66 Donald R. Page Groton Woodsville, NH April 95 Pearlene P. Eastman Groton St. Johnsbury, VT April 97 Robert B. Gruber Groton Berlin, VT June 87 Paul N. Ricker Groton Groton, VT June 67 Patricia A. Hatch Groton Lebanon, NH June 7 months Summer J. Quinlan Groton Groton, VT Aug 55 Rebecca E. Lakin Canaan Canaan, NH Sept 85 Merle B. Smith Groton Berlin, VT Nov 79 Robert R. Eastman Groton Groton, VT

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MARRIAGES DATE NAME OF PARTIES RESIDENCE PLACE OF MARRIAGE Feb. 3, 2012 Curtis R. Colby South Ryegate, VT Groton, VT Sarah E. Frost Groton, VT May 12, 2012 Trevor W. Hall Groton, VT South Ryegate, VT Tiffany J. Bogie Groton, VT May 26, 2012 Kyle M. Cabey Wells River, VT Fairlee, VT Kayla A. Gourdeau Groton, VT June 30, 2012 David L. Kizer Groton, VT Peacham, VT Betsy L. Reed Groton, VT July 18, 2012 James E. Thompson Grafton, NH Groton, VT Patricia A. Bolduc Grafton, NH July 21, 2012 Wesley G. Wilson Groton, VT Danville, VT Brittney W. Larrabee Groton, VT Aug. 4, 2012 Aaron M. Frost Groton, VT Thetford, VT Elizabeth M. Jett Midlothian, VA Aug. 17, 2012 Cody G. Perry Groton, VT Groton, VT Lydia L. Robinson Groton, VT Sept. 8, 2012 Anthony L. Underwood Temple, ME Groton, VT Sheri M. Leahan Temple, ME Sept. 22, 2012 Francis S. Marion LeLand, NC Peacham, VT Lisa S. Harrington LeLand, NC Sept. 29, 2012 Seth A. Croteau South Barre, VT Groton, VT Ariel E. Jolley Groton, VT

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IMPORTANT TELEPHONE NUMBERS AND INFORMATION

EMERGENCY OR FIRE 9-1-1 Blue Mountain Union School 802-757-2711 or 757-2712 Building Permits 802-584-4284 Brad Houghton Cottage Hospital 603-747-9000 Fire Permits 802-584-3628 Wade Johnson, Sr. Rural Community Transportation 802-748-8170 Vermont State Police 802-222-4680 or 748-3111 Groton Numbers Collector of Delinquent Taxes 802-584-3792 Pat Bouley Free Public Library 802-584-3358 Anne Hatch Fire Department Chief 802-584-3243 Wayne Knott First Constable 802-584-3211 Jim Downing Lister's 802-584-3155 Kitty Diggins Selectboard 802-584-3917 Gary Lamberton 802-584-4446 Nathan Puffer 802-584-3423 Tristan Vaughan Second Constable 802-584-3818 Milt Lamberton Town Clerk 802-584-3276 Voice/Fax Linda Nunn Town Garage 802-584-3209 Brent or Phillip Treasurer/Tax Collector 802-584-3131 Roberta Dana Government Numbers Governor's Action Line 800-649-6825 Internal Revenue Service 800-424-1040 Sergeant at Arms 800-322-5616 Social Security Administration 800-322-9401 Vermont Social Welfare 800-287-0589 Veteran's Administration 800-827-1000 State Legislators Rep. Chip Conquest - D 802-757-3803 Sen. Joe Benning - R 802-626-3600 Sen. Jane Kitchel - D 802-684-3482 U.S. Congressmen Rep. Peter Welch - D 888-605-7270 Burlington, VT 202-225-4115 Washington, D.C. Sen. Patrick Leahy - D 800-642-3193 Action Line Sen. Bernie Sanders - I 202-224-5141 Washington, D.C. Notary Publics Roberta Dana 802-584-3756 Patricia Bouley 802-584-3792 Linda Nunn 802-584-3881 Gene Jolley 802-584-4695 Brent Smith 82-584-3765

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AVAILABLE AT TOWN CLERK'S OFFICE Application for voter registration Applications for building permits and copies of zoning ordinances Dog license Green Mountain Passports for free admissions to State sponsored events for residents 62 years old or older ($2.00 charge) Motor vehicle registration forms Safety zone signs Vermont State Income Tax forms are no longer available. Everything is online now. The Clerk does motor vehicle, motorboat & snowmobile registration renewals. MISCELLANEOUS TOWN MEETING: Tuesday, March 5, 2013 at 10 a.m. in the Community Building. Solid Waste vote will be by Australian ballot from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. USD #21 SCHOOL ANNUAL MEETING: Monday, March 4, 2013 at Blue Mountain Union School, Wells River, VT at 7:00 pm in the library. Australian ballot vote will take place the next day, March 5 at Town Meeting from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm in each of the Towns of Wells River, Ryegate and Groton. GROTON FALL FOLIAGE FESTIVAL: Saturday, October 5, 2013

BUSINESS HOURS & MEETING SCHEDULE

Groton Selectboard Meetings Groton Free Public Library Hours 1st and 3rd Thursdays, 7 pm Monday 2:30-7 pm; Wed. 10am-4pm Thursday 10:00-12pm (non-winter) Friday 2:30-7pm; Saturday 10am-12pm Groton Town Clerk Office Hours Monday, Tuesday & Thursday 8:30 am to 12:30 pm & 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm Wednesday & Friday 8:30 am to 12:30 pm Recycling Center (East Ryegate) Friday 4 - 6 pm Saturday 8 - 11 am The following meet on posted notice: The Board of Adjustment, The Board of Civil Authority, Auditors, Lister's and the Planning Commission.

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RABIES CLINIC

Date: March 20, 2013

Time: 6:00-7:00 PM Place: Groton Town Garage

The Town Clerk will be in her office at the Groton Community Building for licensing of your animals. ATTENTION ANIMAL OWNERS!

All dogs must be licensed by April 1, 2013

Animal fees for 2013

Not Neutered-------- $ 13.00 Neutered--------------$ 9.00

April 1, 2013 all dogs must be licensed!

$10.00 fine per dog if late. Rabies Clinic being done by Oxbow Veterinary Clinic

Town of Groton 1476 Scott Highway Groton, VT 05046

GROTON TOWN MEETING 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, March 5, 2013, at the Groton Community Building

School Budget voting will be on Tuesday, March 5, 2013, from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Groton Community Building

PLEASE BRING YOUR TOWN REPORT WITH YOU

TO TOWN MEETING

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID GROTON, VT PERMIT NO.1

2012 groton town report › town reports › 2012 groton annual report.pdfthat with the support of...

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