Hartland Selectboard defers adoption of 2025 Town Plan, approves several wording changes including one 3–2 policy vote

The Hartland Selectboard opened discussion on the 2025 Town Plan on July 6 but did not adopt the plan that night, instead approving several amendments to specific plan language.

Clyde Jenne moved to amend a sentence on page 11 to read, “the Hartland Town Plan provides a statement of objectives and a vision for the future of Hartland.” Trace Tancreti seconded the motion, and the board voted in favor. For another item (item three) Clyde seconded Tom Kennedy’s motion to change the wording from "should" to "shall," which passed unanimously. Under Village Policy, Tom Kennedy moved to change item number three from "should" to "shall"; Jim Rielly seconded and that motion passed unanimously.

Phil Hobbie moved to modify number three of the Rural Ag and Forestry Area Policy; Clyde Jenne seconded. That motion passed on a recorded vote of three in favor and two opposed (Tom Kennedy and Jim Rielly). Earlier in the discussion Phil Hobbie said the board would not adopt the Town Plan that evening following public hearing feedback.

Tom Kennedy moved that the board not take into consideration the energy comments; Phil Hobbie seconded and the motion passed with all in favor.

Resident Amy Ashline raised concerns about the town’s "800‑foot rule" during public comment, and the board noted those concerns as part of the hearing record. The board’s actions at the meeting change specific policy language but did not result in formal adoption of the overall 2025 Town Plan; further action on final adoption is expected at a future meeting.