The Wardsboro Volunteer Fire Department has received approval to continue its tax exemption status for an additional five years during the recent town meeting. This decision was made at the 241st annual meeting held at the Wardsboro Town Hall on March 3, where 67 out of 668 registered voters were present.

The town meeting covered eight articles listed in the official warning document. One of the main agenda items was the tax exemption for the fire department. During the proceedings, attendees also focused on the election of various town officials. C. Edward “Ted” Lawrence III was selected as the Town Moderator for the upcoming year.

In the election of town officers, all but two of the 14 positions on the ballot were filled. Michelle Hull was re-elected to serve as Town Clerk, Treasurer, and Collector of Delinquent Taxes. The Selectboard saw Duane Tompkins successfully re-elected for a three-year term, while Michael Fitzpatrick Jr. won a one-year term over Donald MacGillivray. Harvey “Mitch” Plimpton Jr. also secured a one-year Selectboard term, defeating Diane Schips. Additionally, Leigh Ann Varese and Patricia Hayes were re-elected for three-year terms as Town Lister and Town Auditor, respectively. Mike Cooney was re-elected as Trustee of Public Funds for three years, and Janice Hull was confirmed for a five-year term as Cemetery Commissioner. Mark Fernandes and Martin Loftus were elected as Library Trustees for three-year terms.

The positions of Town Agent and First Constable remained open after no nominations were received.

According to Hull, the town’s budget of $1,404,043 and appropriations totaling $92,951, which required raising $1,496,994 in taxes, were approved without any discussion. Other articles discussed included updates from town officers and an open forum for additional business concerns.