Interview: energy without oil
Steve Delaney talks with Robert Costanza from UVM’s Gund Institute for Ecological Economics on energy alternatives after oil. (Listen to the interview online.) (VPR)
Jeffords critical of Iraq resolution
Senator James Jeffords says it’s critical for the United States to get the support of the United Nations before launching any military action against Iraq. Jeffords also believes the Bush administration may be keeping the matter in front of the public as a way to enhance Republican chances in November’s congressional elections. (Listen to the story online or read the transcript.) (VPR)
Meub, Sanders clash over debate schedule
Congressman Bernard Sanders was ready to talk about farm issues Monday when his Republican opponent tried to steal the limelight. GOP candidate Bill Meub says Sanders has ducked debates, a charge Sanders emphatically denies. Meub went to Sanders’ office and challenged the incumbent to face him on the issues. (Listen to the story online or read the transcript.) (VPR)
UVM to purchase Trinity College campus
The University of Vermont is set to buy property owned by Trinity College of Vermont. UVM will pay $14.3 million for the entire campus property, which includes 17 buildings on 21 acres. (VPR)
Property tax calculation
Vermont Supreme Court justices are being asked to review Rutland Superior Judge William Cohen’s decision that the property tax equalization system is unreliable. (AP)
Rutland drug court
Planning is under way for a new drug court in Rutland County. A committee of judges, prosecutors, defense lawyers and social service providers is drafting rules for how such a court would operate. Similar efforts are getting under way in Bennington and Chittenden counties. (AP)
FAHC fundraising
Fundraising is proceeding apace for a major expansion at Vermont’s largest hospital, despite investigations into possible wrongdoing by former hospital officials. Burlington’s Fletcher Allen Health Care announced two major gifts from prominent Chittenden County families yesterday – J. Warren and Lois McClure of Shelburne and Robert and Holly Miller of Burlington. (AP)
Agway Bankruptcy
Agway is filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. The Syracuse-based company announced Monday that it’s filing petitions for reorganization to keep its businesses running while the company restructures its finances. Agway’s energy subsidiaries are not included in the filing, nor are Agway stores, which are separately owned. (AP)
Circ highway
It looks like the long-delayed Chittenden County Circumferential Highway will be delayed again. The Federal Highway Administration says it needs more time to consider whether the Environmental Protection Agency is right that the next leg of the suburban loop road needs a new environmental review. (AP)
Sea lamprey in Lake Champlain
Vermont state officials say what’s bad news for sea lamprey in the Lake Champlain basin is good news for fishing enthusiasts. The Agency of Natural Resources has issued permits for Lewis Creek in Ferrisburgh to be treated with a chemical to kill lampreys, a parasite that feeds on prized fish species. (AP)
Ford Foundation grant
The Burlington Community Land Trust is receiving today a $100,000 grant from the Ford Foundation. The Leadership for a Changing World Prize recognizes the group’s contributions to the community. The Land Trust help’s people buy homes. (AP)