From left: Russ Marsan, CEDRR's Board President and Sarah Pelkey, CEDRR's Director of Economic Development effective February 2, 2026.

Update from CEDRR's Board President

Dear CEDRR Community,

I am writing to share a few important updates and clarifications as we continue to move CEDRR forward with a focus on long-term impact across Rutland County.

I am pleased to share that Sarah Pelkey will join CEDRR on February 2, 2026, as our new Director of Economic Development. Sarah brings strong regional experience in community and economic development, most recently serving in leadership roles with the Town of Poultney and in regional planning and outdoor recreation initiatives. As Director of Economic Development, Sarah will lead efforts to attract, retain, and expand businesses, manage grant and loan programs, and strengthen regional partnerships across Rutland County. Sarah grew up in Brandon and is a graduate of Otter Valley Union High School and the University of Vermont. She lives in West Rutland with her husband, daughter, and rescue pup. We are excited to welcome her to the CEDRR team.

I also want to acknowledge recent updates to our committee structure, which were communicated to committee members a week or two ago. These changes are intended to create more focused, purpose-driven committees that better align volunteer expertise with CEDRR’s strategic priorities. 

Below, I would like to clarify a few items that have been previously communicated to some but maybe not all, to ensure everyone has the same understanding moving forward.

Following Lyle Jepson’s departure, Shasta Mattino has continued to serve as Interim Executive Director, and we remain deeply grateful for her leadership, flexibility, and dedication during this transition. As previously shared, the Board is working toward a clear three-tier leadership structure consisting of an Executive Director, Director of Economic Development, and Director of Finance. The job description for the Executive Director is being posted this week. Once a permanent Executive Director is hired, Shasta will transition back into her role as Director of Finance, ensuring continuity, institutional knowledge, and strong financial leadership for the organization.

I would also like to provide additional context on the previously announced cancellation of the 2026 Real Rutland Feud. This decision was made after careful consideration and internal planning discussions and was not taken lightly. While the event has been a beloved and successful fundraiser for CEDRR’s Real Rutland Regional Marketing Initiative, we determined that we would be unable to deliver the event at the level of quality and experience our community deserves. We remain incredibly grateful to the team, sponsors, volunteers, and partners who made the Real Rutland Feud such a meaningful part of our community over the years. CEDRR is currently exploring the Feud’s potential return in a reimagined format for next year.

This decision is not related to financial concerns or organizational capacity. Rather, it allows our staff to focus time and resources on mission-critical initiatives, including Workforce in Motion, our internal workforce development efforts focused on spotlighting the trades and strengthening career pathways across Rutland County. Last year, this initiative partnered 80 local businesses with over 2,000 students from across Vermont and their respective guidance counselors and school districts. To better harness the excitement and enthusiasm of the upcoming summit and equipment rodeo, the Workforce In Motion Academy has been developed for 2026. The Academy’s purpose is to guide students and reskilled adults in developing the necessary soft skills to better engage employers while enrolling them in accredited certificate programs. Upon graduation the participants will be directly paired with quality employment partners and follow up support to increase employer retention. 

CEDRR is deeply invested in the future of Rutland County. These decisions reflect our commitment to being a strong, responsive, and forward-thinking organization focused on economic vitality, workforce development, and meaningful collaboration across our region.

Thank you for your continued engagement, feedback, and support as we move forward together.

With appreciation,

Russ Marsan
Board President
Chamber & Economic Development of the Rutland Region
 

Learn more about CEDRR →