Study: Vermont Spending $31 Million On School Merger Law

Montpelier— A new study has found Vermont’s school district consolidation law will cost almost $31 million for the state.

The law, Act 46, was set up in phases so districts that were able to get merger plans approved earlier would receive financial incentives. Vermont Public Radio reports a large number of districts took advantage of this — more than the state anticipated.

State Agency of Education finance manager Brad James said the state was surprised at the number of districts that chose to merge. About 75 percent of the state’s districts were able to get their merger plans approved before a Nov. 30 deadline.

Vermont Seeks More Input On Camel’s Hump Area Plan

Duxbury, Vt. — Vermont is seeking more public input on a plan for conserved lands in the area of Camel’s Hump mountain.

The Agency of Natural Resources said the 26,000-acre area is one the largest tracts of unbroken forest in the state supporting a diverse range of wildlife and plant species. It attracts thousands of visitors a year for hiking, skiing, snowmobiling, hunting and fishing.

The agency says the draft plan would allow the expansion of trails for hiking, mountain biking and cross-country skiing Written comments will be accepted through Jan. 18.

— Wire reports