Page 45 - 2022 Annual Report

Northeastern Vermont Development Association

To the Voters of Brighton:
The Northeastern Vermont Development Association (NVDA) has long been a regional advocate for
stronger communities and vibrant local economies. As a combined regional planning and economic
development organization, we are uniquely suited to effectively serve the municipalities and businesses of
the Northeast Kingdom.
This year, we are again requesting annual dues from our member communities. These funds are critical, as
they allow us to provide direct technical assistance to the 50+ municipalities and the many businesses in
our region. Municipal contributions also allow us to leverage additional state and federal funds that benefit
our region.
While local governance becomes more complex, our talented staff remains available to assist your
community. Throughout 2022, we continued helping local government and businesses navigate the
ongoing challenges resulting from the pandemic, including pursuing new opportunities to aid in regional
recovery. We continued assisting communities and businesses with ARPA funding as well as other state
and federal recovery resources.
Our regular services continued as well, including:
• Land use planning & regulation;
• Transportation studies and project planning;
• Digital mapping and GIS services;
• Grant writing and administration;
• Direct business support, referrals, and lending to employers in our region;
• Energy planning and water quality planning to help communities meet evolving statutory requirements;
• Planning for natural hazards and local emergency response;
• Brownfield assessments and remediation assistance;
• Economic development activities to grow and strengthen businesses in our region;
• Training for local officials.
How have we served your community? In 2022, NVDA conducted business outreach visits in Brighton.
We also assisted Brighton with traffic counts, emergency planning and preparation, and coordinated a
consortium municipal planning grant application for a regional lodging feasibility study. Finally, we
assisted with Brighton’s participation in the Grants in Aid program to promote the use of erosion control
and water quality practices in road maintenance.
Municipal contributions to NVDA have remained the same since 2016. This year, however, the NVDA
Board has approved the first of three small adjustments that will occur over a five-year period to lessen
the impact on municipal budgets. In 2023, dues will increase to $0.85 per capita (from $0.75), with
a maximum of $3,965 and a minimum of $565. We take great pride in serving the communities and
businesses of the NEK. This additional contribution allows us to continue providing a high level of
professional service. We take pride in keeping communities aware of new opportunities through our
e-newsletter and social media. Contact us at
tgonyaw@nvda.net to receive our e-newsletter and like us on Facebook.
Sincerely,
David Snedeker
Executive Director

2022 Annual Report 45