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Newly appointed Sen. John Benson meets Williamstown Selectboard, flags transportation and education concerns
Summary
Senator John Benson, newly appointed to represent 13 towns, introduced himself and told the Selectboard he is focused on infrastructure, housing, health care and education; he said declining gas-tax revenue reduced state paving from about 200 miles to 100 miles last year and that the governor signaled intent to veto new taxation.
Senator John Benson, recently appointed to the Vermont State Senate seat vacated earlier this year, introduced himself to the Williamstown Selectboard and said he represents 13 towns. Benson described his background as a civil engineer and long-serving local selectboard chair and said he has been assigned to the Health and Welfare and Institutions committees.
Benson warned of pressure on transportation funding tied to reduced gas-tax revenue as vehicles become more fuel-efficient and electric, and said the state paved roughly 100 miles last year versus a typical goal of 200 miles. He also said "the Governor has indicated that it was his intent to veto any new taxation that comes across his desk," and encouraged the town to raise issues with him for follow-up at the state level. Board members asked about education concerns including Act 181 and voluntary redistricting.
