Select Board interviews Affordable Housing Trust applicants, appoints Fred Huber to farm conservancy

Select Board members interviewed applicants for multiple volunteer positions, including applicants for the Affordable Housing Trust and the Rightlock (Rydelock) Farm Conservancy. Applicants outlined qualifications, civic involvement and priorities if appointed.

Affordable Housing Trust: Brian Varnalia, Carolyn Stout and John Healy each introduced themselves and explained their interest. Varnalia emphasized housing advocacy and the value of cross-board communication between the select board, planning board and housing trust. Carolyn Stout described her background in real estate and town energy work and expressed interest in energy‑efficient affordable housing development. John Healy described his civic volunteer background and eagerness to learn and participate.

Rightlock Farm Conservancy: Fred Huber and Dana Carlson both interviewed for an expiring term that ends Oct. 31, 2026. Fred stressed long-standing volunteer service to the farm, hands-on experience and finance/fundraising skills; Dana emphasized philanthropic advising, grant-writing and sustainable agriculture expertise. The board moved to appoint Fred Huber to the seat and discussed avenues (moderator and conservancy appointments) to include Dana in future openings or expand seats.

What happens next: The board finalized several quick appointments as part of its commissions/committees agenda. Candidates who were not appointed were encouraged to pursue other openings or to work with nominating committees.

Quotes and context: "I have been fighting for affordable housing in town for a long time," Brian Varnalia said, explaining his interest in strengthening communication across policy boards. The board permitted the appointees to leave and agreed to publish follow-up paperwork and scheduling.