Leyden sets ATM date, creates emergency fund

LEYDEN — The Selectboard last week set a new date for Annual Town Meeting, now to be held June 29 at 7 p.m.

Town elections will also be postponed until June 29, Selectboard Chair Jeffrey Neipp said. Polls will open at 4 p.m. and close at 8 p.m.

Additionally, the Selectboard created an emergency fund with a cap of $20,000 to fund COVID-19 expenditures, so the town will be eligible to receive 75 percent reimbursement from state and federal emergency management agencies. It also formalized a policy regarding working conditions and expectations during the ongoing health crisis.

Lastly, the town signed a $25,000 contract with VADAR Systems for upgraded financial software for the treasurer and accountant. Neipp said this funding comes from a previously awarded $40,000 Community Compact Information Technology Grant.

Bernardston election, ATM postponed

BERNARDSTON — In consideration of the COVID-19 health crisis and limitations on large gatherings, the Selectboard has voted to postpone the May town election and Annual Town Meeting. There are no new dates set at this time.

The Selectboard also set a cap of $40,000 for its emergency fund after a brief discussion of estimated COVID-19-related spending.

Selectboard orders dumpster for Earth Day clean-up

LEYDEN — The Selectboard ordered a dumpster to be placed outside the Town Offices for an Earth Day clean-up on Wednesday.

Selectboard Chair Jeffrey Neipp said the town has organized a community cleaning effort for the past few years, but this year will be a bit different. Instead of gathering in large groups, the Selectboard is encouraging households and families to pick up litter as they go out for walks on their own, allowing multiple parts of town to be cleaned while also having residents practice social distancing.

Neipp said those who collect litter can drop it in the dumpster at the Town Offices.

Northfield extends date for tax interest and penalty fees

NORTHFIELD — The Selectboard voted to waive the payment of interest and penalties in the event of late payment of excise, real estate and personal property taxes, and the annual sewer use charges, for any payment with a due date on or after March 10.

However, the last day for a taxpayer to pay the bill and qualify for the waiver of interest is June 29.

Additionally, a second vote was taken to extend the due date for applications for exemption of taxes from April 1 to June 1.