First, and foremost, Happy New Year!
December came and went in a blur of gatherings, deadlines, travel, and (hopefully) a little rest mixed in. Between the pace of the season and everything that comes with it, Wardly News took a brief pause—but that pause came with a lot of good energy. I hope your holidays were full of warmth, connection, and moments that made the busy feel worthwhile. As we settle into January, I’m glad to be back in touch and looking ahead to the months ahead together.
Next week, the City Council’s Finance Committee will begin meeting to review the City’s proposed budget for the next fiscal year. This process leads up to a citywide vote on Tuesday, March 3, when residents will have the opportunity to approve the budget for the year ahead.
The City operates with two primary budgets: the Enterprise Fund and the General Budget. The Enterprise Fund is self-sustaining and funded through fees for utilities and services the City provides, such as water, sewer, and other user-based services. Those funds are reinvested directly into maintaining and upgrading aging infrastructure, replacing critical equipment, and updating the vehicles and machinery that keep the City running day to day.
The General Budget supports the City’s core municipal operations. This includes public works, facility maintenance, infrastructure repairs, staff salaries, and public safety services such as policing, along with other essential city responsibilities that residents rely on year-round.
One thing I want to share, since it comes up from time to time: serving on City Council is not a paid position. Councilors do not receive salaries, kickbacks, or financial benefits tied to budget decisions. We’re a small council in a small city, and this work is truly about public service and stewardship—not personal gain.
Like many of you, my household was also impacted by the recent state-mandated property reappraisal. I know this has been frustrating and concerning for neighbors across the city. It’s important to note that for those who experienced a tax increase, that increase does not mean the previously approved city budget went up—by law, it cannot. Instead, reappraisal shifts how the tax burden is distributed. This time around, lower commercial property values meant that a larger share of the tax responsibility shifted onto residential properties, which played a significant role in what many homeowners experienced.
As we move through this budget season, the Council and Finance Committee are working hard to be thoughtful and responsible of taxpayer dollars. These conversations aren’t easy, but they’re being approached with care, transparency, and a real understanding of how budget decisions affect our neighbors. And, as always, my messaging, email, and phone are available for your input, questions, or sharing of concerns.
⭐ UPCOMING EVENTS ⭐
Check out some upcoming events in our city.
- Sunday Makers Market – January 4, 12 PM – 3 PM
14th Star Brewery Company - Paint-Your-Own Pottery – January 10, 10 AM – 2 PM
Northwest Access TV, 616 Franklin Park W - Craft Night with Maple Glazed Pottery & Friends – January 30, 6 PM – 10 PM
14th Star Brewery Company - Ski & Snowboard Beginner Lessons – February 2, 5:15 PM – 6 PM
Hard’Ack Recreational Area - Vendor/Craft Show – February 28, 9 AM – 3 PM
VFW Post 758, 353 Lake Rod - SAVE THE DATE – 5th Annual Kingman Fest – May 9, 5 PM – 9 PM
Kingman Street, St. Albans
I highlight events that are public and free from political or religious biases.
✅ GET INVOLVED ✅
JOIN A BOARD #GetInvolved
Effective City Councils rely on commissions and advisory groups. Boards deliver tremendous value through volunteer service—community members contributing their time and expertise with minimal cost to taxpayers. Find information at https://stalbansvt.com/boards and current openings at https://stalbansvt.com/index.asp?SEC=B3C46B2E-6B0B-40D0-8F53-88D776D64DD0
Questions or suggestions? Reach me at erik@ward5vt.com. I’m here to listen!
Note: This newsletter is shared by me as a neighbor, city councilor, and engaged community member. It is not an official release from the City Council and doesn’t necessarily represent the Council’s official positions.