On April 9, 2025
Local News

Pittsfield will reconsider local option tax

By Brett Yates

Following a petition drive led by local business owners, Pittsfield residents will have a chance to overturn the town’s new “local option” tax on hotel rooms, restaurant meals, and alcoholic beverages, which voters approved just over a month ago.

The town clerk verified 47 signatures from registered Pittsfield voters demanding a reconsideration of the recent Town Meeting Day article. In compliance with state law, Select Board Chair Ann Kuendig scheduled a special town meeting for the revote, which will take place on Saturday, May 10, at 9 a.m. at the town hall.

“I think the important thing that we get out of this is that the people have a right to weigh in on decisions that affect their residency, their business, and that’s what has transpired here,” Kuendig said. “I think the discussion will be very good. It will give us another opportunity to explain why the select board is proposing this tax.”

Last month, Katie Stiles, co-owner of the Original General Store and Vermont Farms Catering, and Mark Stugart, owner of the Clear River Inn and Tavern, voiced opposition to the new tax at a select board meeting. Stiles expressed concern that it could drive away her customers, while Kuendig emphasized its benefits for homeowners, who, by her account, will see a reduction in their tax burden thanks to additional municipal revenue contributed by tourists.

Do you want to submit feedback to the editor?

Send Us An Email!

Related Posts

Killington Resort announces staff promotions, management additions 

June 4, 2025
Josh Reed  Josh Reed has moved into the role of communications manager. Reed has been part of the Killington team since 2021, most recently serving as a ticket and reservation supervisor, where he was recognized for his thoughtful leadership and commitment to the mountain. Reed has over 20 years of sales and marketing leadership experience…

CEDRR receives $2,500 Smart Growth Award

June 4, 2025
The Vermont Natural Resources Council announced the latest grant recipients for the Small Grants for Smart Growth program, May 27. Grantee selections are made on a rolling basis. The committee chose the Bridport Housing Task Force, the Chamber & Economic Development of the Rutland Region (CEDRR), and the South Burlington Energy Committee to be awarded a combined $6,750 in the most recent…

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Vermont celebrates 50 years of mentorship and community impact

June 4, 2025
2025 marks a significant milestone for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Vermont (BBBSVT), which is celebrating 50 years of empowering youth through meaningful, one-on-one mentoring relationships across the Green Mountain State. Founded in 1975 through Youth Services, BBBSVT has matched thousands of “Littles” with caring adult “Bigs,” fostering relationships that help young people realize their…

Motorized forage harvester falls into Hartland gorge

June 4, 2025
By Curt Peterson A convoy of haying equipment and workers started out from Braintree on Monday, May 26, to harvest 47 acres across from Harpoon Brewery for landowner John McGrail of Shepherds Brook Farms. Their journey was cut short when a 20-foot tall, 27-ton self-propelled John Deere forage harvesting machine, avoiding collision with an oncoming…