In a significant shift from tradition, residents of Brattleboro have opted to abandon the representative town meeting format. On Tuesday, a majority of voters participated in a decision that will reshape how budgetary decisions are made in the town.

Historically, Brattleboro’s governance relied on a representative town meeting system since the 1960s, allowing around 140 elected officials to determine the budget. This method was overturned following the results of the voting, which concluded with 1,216 in favor and 1,157 against the change.

In addition to discarding the RTM format, residents made a decisive choice to implement an Australian ballot system, passing that measure with 1,362 votes supporting it compared to 945 opposing it. Furthermore, a new open meeting format received approval, with 1,457 votes in favor and 841 against, allowing all community members to participate and propose amendments during budget discussions.

However, the simultaneous adoption of both the Australian ballot and open meeting formats introduces potential conflicts regarding the budgeting process. As it stands, an open town meeting is scheduled for April 11, which will serve as a temporary arrangement for this fiscal year. Additionally, any alterations to the town charter must receive endorsement from the Vermont Legislature.