Page 37 - Town of Brighton Annual Report 2023

2023 Northeast Kingdom Marathon

This past September, Island Pond saw its third annual Northeast Kingdom Full and Half Marathon take place. Our streak of
good luck for weather continued as runners were treated to a cool, albeit blustery, day out on the course. The race drew just
over 200 participants representing 20 states, with runners traveling from as far as Washington, Wisconsin, Georgia and New
Mexico, as well as a few international runners from just across the border in Quebec. The race could not have been a success
without the tireless volunteer help of the amazing Brighton Recreation crew, as well as 28 other incredible volunteers who
assisted in a variety of capacities including managing the medical tent, water stops, course marshals and much more. This
year also marked the beginning of partnerships with two generous sponsors - Sweet Tree, who treated runners and spectators
to fresh and delicious pancakes all day and made a financial contribution to support the race, and Community National Bank
- who also donated to help cover the basic safety costs of the race. We got lots of feedback from runners who appreciated the
beauty of the racecourse and downtown area. Runners also appreciated the pop-up aid stations and the friendliness of local
business owners and vendors.

I’m grateful that Island Pond continues to support the Northeast Kingdom. The goal of this race is to continue to draw run-
ners into the heart of the NEK to experience Island Pond and to spend generously while in town supporting local businesses
and entrepreneurs. Next year’s race is slated for Sunday, September 22nd 2024.

Planning Commissioners Report

The Brighton town plan serves as a dynamic and essential reference tool, embodying a living, working document shaped by
community input garnered through public meetings, fact-finding sessions, and insights from residents actively participating in
locally elected bodies. The Planning Board convenes on the first and third Monday of each month (excluding federal holi-
days) at 5:30 P.M. in the Town Hall, providing an open forum for public engagement.

In recent activities, Joel has been deeply involved in handling various permits while collaboratively reviewing and updating
the Zoning Bylaws alongside members of the Planning Commission. The Selectboard has appointed Beth Rodondi as the
town's new Zoning Administrator, with Joel actively assisting her smooth transition into the role.
Additionally, Noah has been dedicated to the comprehensive review and update of the All-Hazards Mitigation Plan. This
critical plan is imperative for the Town's eligibility to receive FEMA funding both before and after disasters, underscoring the
town's commitment to proactive disaster preparedness and recovery.

Respectfully,

Anne Budrevicz, Chair

Board Members: Jeanne Gervais, Mark Vaillencourt, Bill Hawkins, and Mike Strait

2023 Annual Report 37