AGP Executive Report

Vermont policy & funding: Vermont’s Working Lands Enterprise Initiative grant planning is open, with Business Enhancement applications set for Oct. 9–Dec. 10 and other tracks starting in September, aiming to help farm, forest product, and local food businesses launch projects in spring 2027. Local development: Newport’s long-stalled downtown “pit” is finally moving—after nearly a decade in limbo, the Northern Vermont Development Association is set to buy the property for $1.1 million, using state and federal funds for a brownfield cleanup before ownership transfers. Education & workforce: Rigorous Technology named former Amazon robotics executive Kelly Riedel to its board as it pushes its factory-robot operating system for high-mix manufacturing. Manufacturing & health tech: 20/20 BioLabs reported strong Q2 results, with OneTest™ revenue up 47% year over year and expanded cancer test progress. Energy & climate policy: Connecticut’s proposed Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative changes could shift emissions targets and consumer costs, with ratification needed by Jan. 1, 2027. Business growth: AV industry updates include Uniguest’s acquisition of Visix and LED Studio North America’s rebrand to VOD North America.

Vermont Politics & Workforce: Lt. Gov. nominee Molly Gray marked the 5-year anniversary of the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, thanking Afghan allies now in Vermont while urging action on family reunification and immigration delays. Vermont Energy & Utilities: Vermont Gas named Lindsay Kurrle as its next president and CEO, tapping a long state-government track record in economic development, housing, and flood recovery. Construction & Transportation: Vermont’s weekly roadwork update flags paving, bridge rehab, and lane restrictions across I-89 and state routes, with multiple speed-limit and closure impacts for drivers. Agriculture & Rural Economy: The Vermont Agricultural Hall of Fame announced its 2026 inductees, including Paul Harlow (Lifetime Achievement), spotlighting leadership and innovation in the state’s farm community. Food & Supply Chain: Americold is closing a Plainville, Conn. frozen-food warehouse planned for Stop & Shop distribution, raising questions about regional logistics shifts. Public Health & Safety: Walmart recalled Marketside Tomato Bisque soup kits in 29 states, including Vermont, due to possible listeria contamination. Sustainable Farming Trend: A new look at agrivoltaics explains how solar panels can share farmland with crops, aiming to boost land productivity while generating clean power. Community Events: A Blueberry Festival car show in the Deerfield Valley raised about $2,800 for Meals on Wheels programs.

Leadership & Energy: Vermont Gas Systems (VGS) named Lindsay Kurrle its next president and CEO, tapping a long-time Scott administration leader to steer the utility after Neale Lunderville steps down at year’s end. Business & Growth: A Washington, Vermont digital media shop story highlights how tighter focus on web design, photography, and branding helped a solo entrepreneur turn a side gig into a full-time operation. Construction & Logistics: VermontBiz’s weekly road construction roundup flags paving, bridge work, and ramp closures on I-89 and other state routes, with drivers urged to expect lane limits and slower speeds. Agriculture & Land Use: A new look at agrivoltaics explores how pairing solar panels with farming can keep food production going while generating electricity—an approach gaining traction for Vermont-style land constraints. Public Health & Food Safety: Walmart recalled Marketside Tomato Bisque Soup Kits in 29 states, including Vermont, after routine testing showed a possible listeria contamination risk. Environment & Wildlife: USDA began dropping 1.1 million oral rabies vaccine baits across Vermont, New Hampshire, and New York to curb rabies spread among raccoons. Community & Culture: Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom Collaborative spotlighted rural revitalization efforts, while local agriculture-themed events—from a Lyndon zucchini festival to Vermont farm history features—kept community ties front and center.

Leadership & Energy: Vermont Gas Systems named Lindsay Kurrle as its next president and CEO, tapping a long-time state leader with a track record in economic development, housing, and flood recovery. Construction & Traffic: VermontBiz listed this week’s highway work, including I-89 paving and bridge rehabilitation plus local road closures and lane restrictions that drivers should plan around. Agriculture & Community: Lyndon’s Historical Society hosted a zucchini festival with contests and historic recipes, backed by a Vermont Humanities grant. Public Health & Food Safety: Walmart recalled Marketside Tomato Bisque soup kits in 29 states, including Vermont, after possible listeria contamination; no confirmed illnesses reported. Wildlife Management: USDA began dropping 1.1 million oral rabies vaccine baits across Vermont, New Hampshire, and New York to curb rabies spread among raccoons. Vermont Agriculture Recognition: The Vermont Agricultural Hall of Fame announced its 2026 inductees, including Paul Harlow (Lifetime Achievement). Environment & Development: A federal change to the Endangered Species Act could loosen protections for habitat damage, raising concerns for Vermont’s vulnerable wildlife. Immigration Enforcement: ICE arrested at least nine people across Vermont in weekend operations, with advocates calling the workplace-focused arrests unusual for the state. Housing Policy: State Sen. John Cavanaugh backed Nebraska bills changing affordable housing reporting and Medicaid waiver rules, reflecting ongoing policy shifts tied to housing and health programs.

Leadership & Energy: Vermont Gas Systems named Lindsay Kurrle as its next president and CEO, tapping a long-time Scott administration leader to steer the utility after Neale Lunderville steps down at end of 2026. Road & Construction Watch: VtBiz listed major I-89 paving and bridge work plus local closures and lane restrictions, including speed limits, ramp shutdowns, and ongoing bridge rehabilitation impacts. Public Health & Food Safety: USDA dropped 1.1 million rabies vaccine baits over Vermont, New Hampshire, and New York as wildlife cases remain a concern. Separately, Kettle Cuisine recalled Walmart Marketside tomato bisque soup kits in 29 states after presumptive Listeria findings, including Vermont. Healthcare Policy: State Sen. John Cavanaugh backed LB958, which would tighten Medicaid waiver rules and reporting while setting limits for crisis assistance payments. Consumer & Housing Efficiency: Efficiency Vermont updated rebate eligibility to match new federal income rules, aiming to keep support flowing for weatherization and heat pump upgrades. Local Business: Woodland Studios’ owner story highlights how Vermont Small Business Development Center guidance and targeted web services can drive real customer growth.

Leadership Change in Energy: Vermont Gas Systems named Lindsay Kurrle as its next president and CEO, succeeding Neale Lunderville at the end of 2026, with her background spanning state economic development, housing, and flood recovery. Weatherization & Affordability: Efficiency Vermont updated rebates to reflect new federal income rules, keeping extra help available for heat pump upgrades, appliances, and weatherization for low- and moderate-income Vermonters. Food Safety Recall: Kettle Cuisine recalled 3,240 packs of Walmart Marketside tomato bisque soup kits in 29 states, including Vermont, after routine testing showed a presumptive Listeria result; no illnesses reported. Public Health Watch: Measles cases are rising as the Trump administration overhauls vaccine guidance, with Vermont’s region seeing broader outbreak-linked spread. Immigration Enforcement: ICE arrested at least nine people across Vermont in weekend operations, including workplace and commuting arrests, drawing criticism from advocates. Conservation Policy: A federal rollback to the Endangered Species Act’s definition of “harm” could weaken protections for habitat in ways that may ripple into Vermont’s conservation plans. Local Business & Community Media: Okemo Valley TV reopened with new leadership and a revamped membership drive as it prepares for a new community radio station. Arts & Culture: “Vermont Barns” highlights Rett Sturman’s vernacular painting series through Sept. 6 at Highland Center for the Arts. Construction Updates: VermontBiz listed ongoing I-89 paving and bridge work plus ramp closures affecting travel and schedules statewide.

Vermont Captives Boom: International SOS is setting up a second Vermont captive, Odeon Insurance Inc., to expand its North America risk-financing strategy as its exposures grow. Captive Profits in Action: Alberici says profits from its Vermont captive helped fund a California wastewater contractor acquisition, showing how captives are shifting from cost centers to strategy tools. Newport Redevelopment: NVDA agreed to buy downtown Newport’s long-vacant “Pit” for $1.1 million, using a $1 million state grant plus local funds, with environmental testing and a path to future development pending federal judge approval. Housing & Local Control: Dorset residents get the final say on Raptor Lane’s proposed housing scale, but critics say the planning discussions still dodge the real cost questions. Food Supply Disruption: A major jalapeño-linked Salmonella recall expanded into grocery aisles, with Whole Foods pulling select prepared foods made from contaminated peppers. Energy & Grid Resilience: A Vermont-focused look at rural grid stability highlights why outages last longer and how battery storage could help utilities plan for the long term. Gas Prices: The national average for regular gasoline is back up to $4.07 as crude oil holds near $80. Ticketing Policy Watch: California’s resale price cap bill failed to advance, despite Vermont and Washington already moving in that direction.

Vermont Housing & Development: Treasurer Pieciak is asking for expert input on a state-led off-site housing construction program, aiming to cut costs and speed up affordable home building. Downtown Revitalization: Gov. Scott and the Department of Economic Development announced $1.79M in Rural Industry Development Program grants to redevelop long-vacant downtown properties in Montpelier and Newport. Energy & Utilities: State Sen. John Cavanaugh backed Nebraska’s energy-storage bill (LB1010), expanding electric law coverage to storage resources. Agriculture: Wet weather delayed hay season for some Vermont growers, while sweet corn is thriving at Sweetland Farm in Norwich. Food Safety: Walmart issued a recall update for a Marketside Tomato Bisque Soup Kit sold in many states including Vermont, citing possible Listeria contamination. Transportation Infrastructure: Crews are preparing a Route 7 culvert replacement in Sunderland that will close part of the highway for about two weeks in September. Local Business: McNeil & Reedy bought Burlington’s MK Clothing, keeping both brands while adding tailoring and product cross-access. Nonprofit Construction: Williston ReStore is set to reopen Aug. 15 after an April fire disrupted Habitat’s revenue stream. School Governance: Washington Central voters approved a change that makes it easier to close schools by shifting decisions from individual towns to the district electorate. Maritime Industry: MARAD awarded $35.18M to 45 small shipyards nationwide, with Vermont among the states receiving grants.

Food Safety & Recall: Taylor Farms expanded a jalapeño-linked salmonella recall after 345 illnesses across 27 states, pulling products sold at Trader Joe’s, Walmart, Target and more; CDC says the outbreak traces to jalapeños grown in Sinaloa, Mexico, with retailers removing items. Agriculture & Policy: Sen. Peter Welch met organic dairy farmers and Organic Valley leaders in Addison to press Farm Bill changes, arguing the current bill doesn’t do enough for Vermont’s small, family and organic producers. Construction & Infrastructure: PC Construction was named Engineering News-Record’s Mid-Atlantic Contractor of the Year, citing major water and wastewater projects worth hundreds of millions. Energy & Costs: Vermont’s gas average rose to about $4.12 after a national uptick, with crude oil holding near $80 as demand softens. Utilities Risk: A new report estimates underground utility damage costs the U.S. $83.2B annually—far beyond repair bills—highlighting major knock-on impacts for communities and construction. Local Business Growth: Fluency, a Burlington-based ad automation firm, made the Inc. 5000 list again, ranking in the top 40% overall and No. 5 in Vermont.

Plug-in Solar Policy Watch: Massachusetts lawmakers are moving toward rules that would let residents use plug-in solar panels, a model already spreading after similar approvals in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont and Connecticut—potentially lowering upfront costs versus rooftop systems. Food Safety & Supply Chain: Taylor Farms expanded a jalapeño recall tied to Salmonella, with 345 illnesses and 36 hospitalizations reported; affected products reached major retailers including Walmart, Target, Trader Joe’s and Hannaford across 27 states. Dairy Industry Pressure: Sen. Peter Welch met Vermont organic dairy farmers to hear firsthand how rising input costs and monopoly pricing squeeze small operations, with Farm Bill negotiations still focused on restoring SNAP cuts. Rural Health Tech Debate: Federal leaders are pushing AI “care” tools into rural health, but states and patients are raising concerns about weak results tracking and whether access improves. Vermont Sports Infrastructure: The Vermont Soccer Association is exploring a potential premier soccer complex in Milton, with discussions just starting and no site, cost or timeline set. Local Governance: Hartford’s tourism boom highlights how one town’s five villages are turning industrial-era assets into visitor draw. Workforce & Compliance: Vermont’s primary politics also surfaced broader affordability and healthcare cost themes, while national attention continues on AI governance and consumer protection rules.

Vermont Politics: Amanda Janoo won Vermont’s Democratic governor primary, beating Aly Richards in a campaign that leaned on “new leadership” and a contrast in governing style. Workforce & Training: VCIA 2026 opened in Burlington with new board members, signaling continued momentum in Vermont’s captive insurance talent and governance pipeline. Manufacturing & Industry Support: NIST announced funding to expand Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) Centers, including Vermont, to help small and mid-sized manufacturers boost capabilities, workforce development, and tech adoption. Water Quality Projects: Black River Action Team (BRAT) is pushing watershed improvements across Ludlow, Springfield, and Plymouth using state project development grants, including infiltration steps and shoreline stabilization. Local Business & Food: Lawson’s Finest Liquids launched Sip’N, its first non-alcoholic IPA, aiming at craft beer fans who want hop-forward flavor without alcohol. Labor & Retail: Healthy Living is asking the NLRB to undo union recognition, alleging a “salting” hiring surge ahead of the vote. Energy & Tech Debate: A KFF Health News review finds the evidence base for AI in rural healthcare is thin, raising questions as states spend federal rural health dollars on AI tools. Functional Beverages: Upstate Elevator rolled out hemp-free spritzes and sodas infused with kanna and kava, expanding Vermont’s functional drink lineup.

Vermont Politics: Amanda Janoo won the Democratic nomination for governor, beating Aly Richards, setting up a November matchup against Gov. Phil Scott. Vermont Federal Race: Retired Army officer Gerald Malloy won the GOP primary for Vermont’s lone U.S. House seat and will face Rep. Becca Balint in November. Housing & Childcare: Alburgh’s new Family Clubhouse childcare center is nearing its first year in operation, with enrollment growth and ongoing budget/admin hurdles as Vermont’s childcare system adjusts. Local Infrastructure: West Brattleboro is moving ahead with plans to replace the Dettman Drive bridge at Tri-Park Housing after flood-risk concerns, using a Community Development Block Grant Disaster Relief match. Environment & Land Use: Burlington’s Derway Island floodplain forest is drawing attention for its role in flood resilience and long-term ecosystem growth. Food Safety: Taylor Farms expanded jalapeño-related salmonella recalls tied to a broader multi-state outbreak. Cybersecurity for Industry: DEF CON Franklin and the NRWA launched a Water Watch Center to help small water utilities defend against cyberattacks.

Housing & Community Development: Rutland celebrated the ribbon cutting of Maplewood Commons Apartments, a new 30-unit permanently affordable project near downtown, with Project-Based Vouchers, accessible units, and resident services for residents including those experiencing or at risk of homelessness. Workforce & Education Access: Vermont expanded the Freedom & Unity tuition benefit at Vermont State, raising the household income cutoff to $85,000 for free 2- and 4-year degrees in eligible programs. Healthcare Infrastructure: The VA signed a lease for a new outpatient clinic in South Burlington to expand care for 56,326 local Veterans, with construction targeted to finish by fall 2028 and first services in spring 2029. Vermont Business & Design: Pacto Medical (Burlington) won a Red Dot Award: Design Concept 2026 for Slimshot, a compact prefilled syringe platform aimed at cutting packaging and supply-chain burden. Cybersecurity for Rural Utilities: DEF CON Franklin and the National Rural Water Association launched the Water Watch Center, offering managed detection and response services for small community water systems. Film Economy: Vermont Film Production Economic Impact Pilot Program announced seven grant recipients, using a $50,000 pool to support Vermont-rooted productions and track in-state economic impact. Politics & Vermont Context: Primary day coverage highlights Vermont’s own election backdrop while spotlighting major Midwest races in Wisconsin and Minnesota.

Housing & Health: Rutland celebrated the ribbon cutting of Maplewood Commons Apartments, adding 30 permanently affordable homes near downtown, with services for residents including people at risk of homelessness. Veterans Care Expansion: The VA signed a lease for a new South Burlington outpatient clinic, targeting first care in spring 2029 and adding integrated primary, mental health, and specialty services for more than 56,000 area veterans. Manufacturing & Design: Burlington’s Pacto Medical won a Red Dot Design Concept for Slimshot, a compact prefilled syringe platform aimed at cutting packaging and supply-chain burden. Local Business & Shipping: Gardener’s Supply in Fairfax is shipping cedar planter boxes nationwide, producing hundreds of packages a day during peak season. Public Safety & Infrastructure: Fair Haven is waiting on next steps after a roof collapse left an apartment building structurally unsound; Williston commuters are still stuck in major delays from Route 2A construction. AI Oversight: Gov. Phil Scott updated progress on Vermont’s AI Task Force, while Sen. Bernie Sanders pressed OpenAI, Anthropic, and Meta to pause AI development and face sworn testimony demands. Food Safety: Taylor Farms recalled jalapeño-linked products amid a Salmonella Javiana outbreak tied to peppers from Mexico. Cybersecurity for Utilities: DEF CON Franklin and the National Rural Water Association launched the Water Watch Center to help small water systems defend against cyberattacks.

Healthcare Expansion: The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs signed a lease for a new outpatient clinic in South Burlington, with construction targeting fall 2028 and first patient services in spring 2029, adding 36,246 net usable square feet and integrated mental health and specialty care for 56,326 Burlington-area veterans. Food Safety & Retail: Taylor Farms recalled jalapeño-containing prepared foods after a salmonella outbreak tied to jalapeños from Sinaloa, Mexico; products sold at Walmart, Target, Whole Foods and others across 26 states carry “best if used by” dates through Aug. 16, and USDA issued a related public health alert for affected meat and poultry items. Design & Manufacturing: Pacto Medical’s Burlington-based Slimshot compact prefilled syringe platform won a Red Dot Award: Design Concept 2026 and a prototype is headed to the Red Dot Design Museum in Singapore. AI Policy Pressure: Sen. Bernie Sanders urged OpenAI, Meta and Anthropic to pause AI development, warning lawmakers could act if the companies don’t rein in systems he says can’t be fully controlled. Vermont Business Watch: Vermont regulators say a new federal hemp definition could disrupt the state’s CBD and hemp manufacturing mix, putting some Vermont businesses “on the chopping block” as THC limits take effect. Regional Economy: Vermont’s unemployment rate rose for a third straight month, reaching 2.6% (tied for third-highest with Hawaii).

Public Health & Food Safety: Target, Walmart, Whole Foods and other major grocers are issuing Salmonella recalls tied to jalapeños linked to hundreds of illnesses across 27 states, with a USDA FSIS public health alert now covering additional meat and poultry products containing FDA-regulated jalapeños sold in Vermont and 21 other states. Vermont Agriculture & Local Food: Vermont’s farmers markets are booming in number, but many are struggling to attract enough farm vendors as average sales drop sharply—raising the question of what “buy local” looks like when the farmers can’t make it pay. Business & Innovation: Burlington’s Pacto Medical won a Red Dot Design Concept 2026 for Slimshot, a compact prefilled syringe platform aimed at cutting packaging and supply-chain burden. Healthcare Infrastructure: The VA signed a lease for a new outpatient clinic in South Burlington, targeting first services in spring 2029 for tens of thousands of area veterans. Conservation & Community: Franklin County’s Natural Resources Conservation District marked 80 years of locally led farm, forest, and water protection. Energy & Transportation: AAA reports lower crude-driven gas prices nationally, while Vermont-area stations show week-to-week price shifts. Workforce & Skills: Mount Snow lift mechanic Josh Storino was selected for the Rise Up Challenge, spotlighting emerging ski-industry maintenance talent.