St. Johnsbury Moves Forward Following Town Meeting Success

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Created on Friday, 20 March 2026 22:18
Written by Asher Ballantine

St. Johnsbury - With Town Meeting Day over, St. Johnsbury is looking ahead with heads held high. Many items on the ballot passed, and plans are now in motion rather than in limbo.

According to Town Manager Chad Whitehead, there weren’t any big surprises at the end of the voting day, with the exception of a change in the Select Board. Ellen Burt was elected to a three-year term, replacing incumbent Tracy Zhou.

“She’s new to the board, but she’s got some experience in municipal government and we look forward to working with that one,” said Town Manager Chad Whitehead.

Many short-term projects are along the way now with the successful budget. In the upcoming week, the former RK Miles property deal is expected to close. The Town of St. Johnsbury has pointed to the possibility of a potential parking lot there.

Additionally, the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail is slated to be fully open and operational this year, which is expected to be a big draw to the community for those using the trail.

Work is also set to begin on Bay Street to replace a critical water main. This is intended to prevent situations like those seen earlier this year, when portions of the town went without water.

In the long term, five to ten years from now, there are expected utility and street improvements on Railroad Street, followed by redevelopment along the Portland Street corridor.

Town Manager Chad Whitehead thanked the community for their vote and their trust.

“I just want to thank all of our residents and taxpayers for their support on Town Meeting Day," Whitehead said. "We’ll do our best to make them happy.”