The Rutland City Board of Aldermen convened on May 5, 2025, to address several pressing issues, with a significant focus on the future of the Recreation and Parks Department following the non-reappointment of Kim Peters as superintendent.

The meeting began with public comments, where a community member expressed strong support for Peters, highlighting her dedication and effectiveness in her role. The speaker emphasized the importance of providing a supportive environment for the Recreation and Parks staff, who are currently facing challenges due to the leadership transition. The community member criticized the mayor's decision to not reappoint Peters, arguing that she deserved an opportunity to address any concerns and improve her performance.

In response, Mayor Mike Dunges acknowledged the disruption caused by the decision but reiterated that it was based on integrity issues within the department. He stated that the decision was not made lightly and was rooted in concerns about trust and accountability. The mayor assured the community that the Recreation and Parks staff are capable and committed to maintaining high standards, despite the current turmoil.

The discussion then shifted to the staffing situation within the Recreation Department, particularly regarding the upcoming summer programs. The mayor confirmed that efforts are underway to recruit a new superintendent and fill critical positions, including lifeguards, to ensure the smooth operation of summer activities. He expressed confidence in the staff's ability to manage the situation and emphasized the need for strong leadership during this transitional period.

Following the public comments, the Human Resources Committee reported on discussions regarding union contract provisions for non-union sworn officers in the Rutland City Police Department. The committee proposed allowing these officers to enroll in a specific benefits program, which was met with support and ultimately passed unanimously.

The meeting concluded with a motion to enter executive session to discuss pending litigation, ensuring that sensitive legal matters would be handled confidentially.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the community's concerns regarding leadership in the Recreation and Parks Department and the city's commitment to addressing staffing needs while maintaining integrity and trust within its operations. The board's next steps will involve ongoing discussions about leadership and staffing solutions to support the Recreation Department's essential summer programming.