Tuesday, January 13, 2026

Read on for:
CEDRR and PACC January Mixer | Legislative Breakfast This Month |
Membership Spotlight | What's New in Rutland County | Made at The MINT | Career Hub | Upcoming Events

CEDRR and PACC Mixer Tonight

Tonight, join the Chamber & Economic Development of the Rutland Region (CEDRR) and the Poultney Area Chamber of Commerce (PACC) for a collaborative January Mixer hosted by the Tasteful Station in Poultney! From 5-7 p.m. on Tuesday, January 13, the restaurant will be open to the public for this free event.

Network with community members, eat delicious food, and enter to win prizes from Thrall Road Maple, Bentley House Bed & Breakfast, Vermont Acres, The Original Vermont Store, Ginger Pottery Studio, Slate Valley Trails, Old School Bagels Bakery and Cafe, and more! 

You do not need to be a CEDRR or PACC member to attend this event.

The Tasteful Station is located at 28 Depot Street in Poultney.

Learn more about mixers here → 

CEDRR's Legislative Breakfast This Month

The Chamber & Economic Development of the Rutland Region (CEDRR) will host a Legislative Breakfast on Monday, January 26, at Southside Steakhouse in Rutland at 7:30 a.m. The cost is $25 and includes a breakfast buffet. You must register to attend this event. There is limited seating.

This is a valuable opportunity for employers, community leaders, and stakeholders to hear directly from the statewide business voice about the policy landscape ahead and how legislative decisions this session may impact businesses and communities across Rutland County and Vermont.

Meet our guest speaker, Megan Sullivan, VP of Government Affairs from the State Chamber of Commerce. Megan leads the statewide Chamber's policy and advocacy work at the Statehouse, representing employers of all sizes and sectors as Vermont’s legislative priorities take shape. As the 2026 Legislative Session begins, Megan will provide an overview of the Vermont Chamber’s 2026 Legislative Priorities, including efforts to improve affordability, modernize regulatory and permitting systems, strengthen the workforce and housing pipeline, and support key industries that drive Vermont’s economy. She will also offer early insight into how the session is unfolding, what issues are gaining traction in Montpelier, and what the business community should expect in the months ahead.

Click here to register → 

CEDRR would like to thank the following businesses for renewing their membership:

Great Gulf Killington, Head to Tail, Speakeasy Cafe, The Richards Group, T-Mobile, and Vista Senior Living.

The proposed 99-unit apartment building on Sand Hill Road would include independent, assisted living and memory care units.

Castleton Voters Will Weigh in on Proposed Senior Housing Facility After Years of Opposition

A proposed senior housing complex in Castleton will go before Town Meeting Day voters in March. It’s the latest in a long string of legal hurdles the project has faced.

For more than five years, developers Dousevicz Inc. along with Zak Hale, CEO of Hale Resources LLC, have been trying to build a 99-unit apartment building on Sand Hill Road. The facility would include independent, assisted living and memory care units.

The 18 acres earmarked for the project were given to the town by Castleton University in 2009 to promote economic development, educational opportunities and public good.

Town Manager Michael Jones believes the proposed complex would do all of that and provide much-needed senior housing just a mile from Castleton’s village center.

But neighbors on Sand Hill Road have argued the proposed four-story project is too big and doesn’t comply with local zoning. They've fought the project all the way to the Supreme Court.

Read more here →

The latest drone shots from Dec. 5th, showcasing visible site activity, mountain views, and the unbeatable proximity to Bear Mountain’s trails, lifts, and alpine landscape — bringing the vision of Base Camp at Bear Mountain vividly to life. Courtesy Bear Base Camp

Base Camp at Bear Mountain Takes Shape at Killington

Progress is rising fast at Base Camp at Bear Mountain at Killington Resort, with foundations now in place for the first five townhomes. This marks a major milestone in the build schedule, with townhomes 6A, 6B, 9A, 9B, 10A, 10B, 11A, 11B, 12A, and 12B all expected to have foundations completed by the end of the year within Vermont’s only gated slopeside community.

A new drone video from Dec. 5, released in conjunction with this update, showcases visible site activity, mountain views, and the unbeatable proximity to Bear Mountain’s trails, lifts, and alpine landscape bringing the vision of Base Camp at Bear Mountain vividly to life.

Already, 25% of Base Camp’s residences are under contract, highlighting strong early buyer interest and the community’s unmatched appeal. Of the 24 townhome residences, ten will be move-in ready by Fall 2026, perfectly timed for the next ski season. Buyers are moving quickly into contract on these first-to-be-built homes, with only four opportunities still available.

Read more about the change → 

Edmond R. "Ned" Coletta, Casella Waste Systems' new CEO.

Casella Completes CEO Transition: President Ned Coletta Assumes CEO Role

Casella Waste Systems, Inc (NASDAQ: CWST), a regional solid waste, recycling and resource management services company, announced the successful completion of its CEO succession plan. Edmond R. “Ned” Coletta has officially assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer and joined the Company’s Board of Directors, effective January 1, 2026. This milestone marks a historic moment for Casella, as Coletta becomes only the second CEO in the company’s 50-year history.

“I’m honored to lead Casella into its next chapter,” said Coletta. “Our focus is clear: execute against our long-term strategy and strengthen our foundation for future growth, with a focus on investing in our people and fostering a culture of safety, innovation, and accountability. These fundamentals will drive continued growth and deliver lasting value for our customers, shareholders, and communities.”

Coletta brings over two decades of experience with Casella, joining the company in 2004. He has served in pivotal roles, including Chief Financial Officer and President, where he drove financial discipline, operational excellence, and strategic expansion. 

Read more here →

Community Care Network Launches Perinatal Peer Support for Pregnant and Postpartum Parents

Community Care Network (CCN) today announced the addition of Perinatal Peer Support to its broader Peer Support Program, a new service designed specifically to assist pregnant and postpartum parents experiencing mood or anxiety challenges. 

“We’re excited to add Perinatal Peer Support to our suite of other peer support services,” said Katelyn Jax, CCBHC Peer Support Supervisor with Community Care Network. “Research shows that one in five parents struggle with perinatal mood and anxiety concerns, yet many do so without adequate support. We believe that this new service will help to counter these trends locally and provide additional, essential support resources for pregnant and postpartum parents throughout the greater Rutland community.” 

The new Perinatal Peer Support service connects parents with trained peer support providers – individuals who have personally navigated pregnancy or postpartum-related emotional challenges, and are ready to provide compassionate, judgement-free support. 

Read more here →

Seven of the nine nurses who recently completed the CAP program. Left to right: Aimee Schulte, MSN, RN, PCCN; Heather McRae, MSN-ED, RN, PCN, MedSurg-BC, NPD-BC; Julianna Traverse, BSN, RN, MedSurg-BC; Samatha Helinski, MSN, RN, CWOCN, CCCTM; Carole “Gert” Mayes, PhD, RN, NPD-BD, CNOR; Sharon Decato, BSN, RN, CCM; Jennifer Wasilauskas, DNP, RN, CNOR, ONC.

Nine Rutland Regional Medical Center Nurses Complete Clinical Advancement Program

Rutland Regional Medical Center recently celebrated the achievements of nine nurses during the RRMC Clinical Advancement Program (CAP) ceremony. All nine nurses achieved the highest level of advancement possible at RRMC (Level 4). The CAP program at RRMC promotes nursing excellence, our RRMC nursing professional practice model and American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Magnet principles. In addition to submitting evidence of work in professional organizations, leadership activities, teaching, precepting, professional development, role expertise, national certification and innovation, these nurses were required to complete a project, develop a poster presentation and deliver that presentation at the ceremony.

Read More → 

The Richards Group Partners with IMA Financial

IMA Financial Group, Inc, a Denver-based insurance brokerage specializing in risk management, employee benefits and wealth management, announced today a strategic partnership with Brattleboro, Vermont-based The Richards Group, a family-owned independent insurance brokerage and advisory firm serving New England. Financial terms were not disclosed.

Effective December 31, 2025, the partnership unites The Richards Group's 160 employees and 28,000 clients across Vermont, New Hampshire and beyond, with IMA's national platform and specialty capabilities.

The Richards Group serves clients with 13 offices throughout Vermont and New Hampshire. The firm will maintain its local offices and leadership, while its 160 employees will join IMA and become shareholders. 

Read more here →

Community Care Network Recognizes Employee Service Milestones

Community Care Network (CCN) recently recognized 19 employees for their dedicated service to the organization and its clients at CCN’s annual service awards luncheon held in Rutland.

“Community Care Network congratulates all of our staff members who this year hit various key service milestones,” said Dick Courcelle, Chief Executive Officer of CCN. “We are very proud of the significant, positive impact that each of these 19 staff members, along with their colleagues, make on the greater Rutland community, day-in and day-out. Despite a range of recent shifts across our fields of service, as well as ever-evolving community support needs, the commitment, professionalism and compassion of our employees remains unchanged, and for that we are incredibly thankful.”

Among those recognized at the event were Tammy Brown and Georgette Haviland, who both recently reached 20 years of service at CCN.

See the full list here →

Grant Opportunity for Vermont Organizations to Provide Fraud Prevention Education

The Vermont Department of Financial Regulation (DFR) has announced that it is resuming its grant program to support Vermont organizations providing financial services education. This grant program is authorized in 9 V.S.A. § 5601 and § 5616, using funds available in the Vermont Financial Services Education and Victim Restitution Special Fund (“Fund”). Grant applications will be accepted by email until 5 p.m. on Friday, January 30, 2026, at the address listed below. The Fund was established in 2019 and allows a portion of settlements arising out of DFR enforcement matters to be retained for the purposes of education and restitution.

“Consumer education around the products and services we regulate is a priority for DFR. Our outreach and education efforts enable Vermonters to better navigate financial decisions and protect themselves from scams and fraud,” said DFR Commissioner Kaj Samsom. “By partnering with community organizations that can reach Vermonters where they are, this program helps us expand our impact throughout the state.”

For the 2026 grant year, two types of awards are available:

• Standard one-year grants of up to $50,000 per applicant
• Micro-grants for targeted initiatives (e.g., innovative pilot efforts or one-time or short-duration events) of up to $5,000 per application.

Potential applicants must meet the application criteria below to be eligible for a grant. Grants will be awarded at the discretion of the Commissioner based on funds availability and their alignment with the priority criteria listed in the full application.  Grant applications are available online.

Direct any questions about the application or granting process to Mary Richter at dfr.financialgrant@vermont.gov.

Learn more here →

Applications Now Open for the 2026 Round of Resilient Communities

All around Vermont, communities are seeking to become more resilient and thrive in a changing world and climate.

Vermont Council on Rural Development’s (VCRD) Climate Economy Resilient Communities supports three to five communities each year working on local climate action solutions that increase climate resilience, help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, lower energy use, and/or strengthen the local climate economy. Services are adaptable based on the community’s needs and can include support with community engagement processes, strategic planning, technical assistance, and/or project implementation.

Thinking about applying or want to learn more about CERC before applying? Join us for an informational session on Wednesday, January 14th from noon-12:30 p.m. Registration here! All registrants will get a link to the recorded session.

Application deadline is February 2, 2026.

Learn more here →

Application Deadline This Week for 1772 Foundation Historic Preservation Matching Grants

The 1772 Foundation, in cooperation with the Preservation Trust of Vermont, has announced that funding in the form of 1:1 matching grants of up to $10,000 will be made available for the following historic preservation projects: exterior painting, finishes and surface restoration, fire detection/lightning protection/security systems, repairs to/restoration of porches, roofs and windows, repairs to foundations and sills, and chimney and masonry repointing.

To be eligible to apply, your building must be owned by a 501(c)(3) IRS designated non-profit. Organizations must have closed any previously awarded 1772 matching grants. Funding will NOT be provided for municipally owned buildings, schools or active churches.

Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, January 15, 2026.

Learn more and apply →

2026 Rebates for Businesses from Efficiency Vermont

Efficiency Vermont is currently offering over 70 rebates for businesses in Vermont.

Click here to see available rebates →

Applications Open for the 2026 Creative Sector Convening

The Vermont Creative Network is accepting applications from Vermont Artists to design original art for the 2026 Creative Sector Convening. The theme for the 2026 Convening is “Hands-On.” We see this theme as a call to action on a personal, local, and statewide level; a metaphor for the many unique forms of creative process and expression in Vermont; and as an articulation of the intangible need to “do something” that creatives channel in their work. This full day of workshops, talks, and discussions is an invitation for all of us to use our creative skills to get our hands on the challenges and opportunities facing Vermont. The art will be used for the event program, posters, event website, social media, nametags, signage, and any other print or digital materials related to the event.

Deadline: January 31, 2026

Learn more about the qualifications here →

Real Rutland 2025 Wrapped

Now that 2025 is over, the Real Rutland Wrapped is ready! This past year was great and we look forward to an even better 2026!

Learn more about Real Rutland → 

New Year Savings at The Hub CoWorks

20% Discount on Memberships in January! 

As 2026 hits its stride, we've got great news for those looking for a productive and inspiring space to work. During the month of January 2026, The Hub CoWorks is offering a 20% discount on our weekly, monthly and yearly hot desk memberships. 
 
In January only, a weekly hot desk membership is $60 (regularly $75); a monthly membership is $79 (regularly $99); and a yearly membership is $480 (regularly $600). To take advantage of these savings, visit thehubcoworks.com before January 31 and select the "Become a Member" button. 
 
Limit one discount per member. These discounts will not automatically renew. After January 31, 2026, members will need to actively renew their membership at the full rate. This discount does not apply to existing memberships that are currently active. 

New acoustic panels installed on the ceiling of the Streetside Conference Room at The Hub CoWorks.

Acoustic Improvements in Streetside Conference Room 

As part of our continued effort to ensure that The Hub CoWorks is meeting the needs of our community, we installed twenty acoustic panels across the ceiling of the Streetside Conference Room at the end of December. Like the construction that took place in the Opera House Community Workspace this fall, this installation was strategic - aiming to reduce echo while maintaining the existing acoustic benefits of Streetside, where amplification is usually not needed for a presenter. We also installed sound absorption blinds on some of the windows in the space this fall to help with this initiative. We are grateful for the guidance of architect Robert Black, an office holder at The Hub CoWorks, and the construction team of MKF Properties for their assistance on this project. 

Learn more about The Hub CoWorks → 

The Chamber & Economic Development of the Rutland Region's Career Hub features full-time jobs across Rutland County that provide a salary higher than the Vermont living wage.