Bennington
Better Bennington Corporation Budget Receives Unanimous Approval from Select Board
Residents of Bennington can take heart as the Better Bennington Corporation (BBC) has secured unanimous approval for its fiscal 2027 budget from the Bennington Select Board. This decision comes after a presentation by BBC board members, including the introduction of…
Key points
- The Better Bennington Corporation’s budget for fiscal 2027 has been unanimously approved by the Select Board.
- The budget maintains the special tax on commercial properties at $102,446, with no increase from the previous year.
- New initiatives aim to enhance downtown Bennington’s appeal and boost local business engagement.
BENNINGTON, Vt. NewsWK — Residents of Bennington can take heart as the Better Bennington Corporation (BBC) has secured unanimous approval for its fiscal 2027 budget from the Bennington Select Board. This decision comes after a presentation by BBC board members, including the introduction of their new Executive Director, Ali Elwell Zaiac.
The approved budget maintains the special tax on commercial properties within the downtown improvement district at $102,446, ensuring no increase from the previous year. BBC board members, including President Keith Carey and Treasurer Shelly Colvin, outlined their plans for the upcoming year, which include popular community events such as MayFest, Harvest Fest, and Small Business Saturday.
Community Impact and Future Plans
The BBC is committed to enhancing Bennington’s downtown appeal through various marketing initiatives aimed at attracting visitors and new businesses. Board member Susan Plaisance emphasized their ongoing efforts to boost fundraising and grant applications to increase revenue. Additionally, the BBC is looking to recruit more local business owners to join their membership and may adjust membership dues and vendor fees for events.
Martinez pointed out that vendor fees for BBC-sponsored events are currently below market rates, making it an attractive option for local vendors. All events hosted by the BBC remain free for residents and visitors, reinforcing community engagement.
Strategic Initiatives
New initiatives include the expansion of outdoor sculpture displays and decorative furnishings in downtown Bennington, as well as improved signage to guide visitors. The BBC has also partnered with the town to lease a billboard in Hoosick, New York, to promote Bennington as a stop for travelers.
Town Manager Dan Monks noted the significance of maintaining the current tax rate, which is assessed on commercial properties in the downtown district. Select Board member Jackie Matts raised questions about additional support for the BBC, and Martinez suggested that reducing the number of vacant commercial buildings would significantly benefit the district’s vitality.
Budget Overview
The BBC’s total projected income for the next fiscal year is estimated at $189,648, an increase from $176,301 this year. Select Board member Clark Adams expressed a desire to see an increase in the BBC’s marketing budget to further support their initiatives.
As the BBC prepares for the upcoming year, local residents can look forward to a continued focus on making Bennington’s downtown a vibrant and inviting destination.
This article was produced with the assistance of AI and reviewed by our editorial team.
Based on reporting originally published by Bennington Banner. Read the original story.
