Northern New England News Roundup
Several noteworthy developments are creating waves across the Northern New England region, particularly concerning public initiatives, community safety, legal milestones, and health services.
Vermont's Public Retirement Initiative Opens Enrollment
MONTPELIER, Vt. (WCAX) - A new state initiative aimed at aiding Vermonters prepare for retirement is now enrolling participants. With many citizens lacking retirement plans, Vermont Treasurer Mike Pieciak has spearheaded the Vermont Saves program to address this issue. He cites concerns about the growing number of residents without access to retirement savings. Approximately 88,000 Vermonters are estimated to be unprepared for retirement.
According to Poquette, “Whenever I talk to somebody, they say, ‘Oh, I wish I learned this sooner.'” Such sentiments highlight the pressing need for financial literacy among residents. Under this initiative, businesses with more than five employees are required to participate, helping their employees automatically save for retirement through paycheck deductions. Participants can contribute up to $7,000 annually, benefiting from compounding interest over time.
“If you have 30 to 40 years until retirement and you’re saving a few thousand dollars a year, you can accumulate hundreds of thousands by the time you retire,” Pieciak noted. With these simplified accounts, individuals who change jobs won’t lose their savings, and they can even withdraw funds for significant expenses before retirement.
Delayed Release of Notorious Criminal Harley Breer Raises Alarm
MONTPELIER, Vt. (WCAX) - Concerns persist over the delayed release of Harley Breer, one of Vermont’s notorious repeat offenders. Breer has been incarcerated since 2021 after evading capture for several days, having been involved with serious crimes dating back to the 1980s, including kidnapping and sexual assault.
This delay has rattled the community of Canaan where residents worry about Breer’s impacts upon release. Local resident Jeffery Juskewicz expressed skepticism about Breer’s reintegration, stating, “I don’t think we need to be releasing a habitual offender like him.” Essex County State’s Attorney Vince Illuzzi echoes these sentiments, emphasizing the inadequacy of local resources to monitor someone with Breer’s history effectively.
Illuzzi mentioned, “The rural Northeast Kingdom isn’t appropriate for someone with Mr. Breer’s background.” With local law enforcement stretched thin and concerns about community safety looming, residents hope for proactive solutions before his anticipated release.
Gas Sales Steady Amid EV Growth
BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) - Despite significant increases in electric vehicle (EV) sales, gas sales across Vermont remain stable. Data from Drive Electric Vermont shows a 49% rise in EV numbers, yet gas consumption hasn't mirrored this expected decline.
Fuel consultant Matt Cota indicated, “Gasoline sales are tracking close to the six-year average.” He noted, “The big picture shows green plates represent only 11.6% of new light-duty vehicle sales.” This statistic suggests the state still heavily relies on gas vehicles, undermining efforts to cut carbon emissions.
Greg Rowngould from UVM explained challenges for adopting EVs, stating, “Many Vermonters keep their cars for years” or opt for less expensive used gas vehicles. The push for 100% zero-emission vehicles by 2035 strains against both local reality and federal policy changes concerning emissions regulations, showing the complex relationship between legislative goals and consumer behavior.
UVM Lawsuit Dismissed
BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) - A recent legal challenge from the pro-Palestinian student group, Students for Justice in Palestine at UVM, has been dismissed. The group was placed on interim suspension after breaching several campus policies related to their activities on campus.
While the students argued this action infringed on their First Amendment rights, the court did not side with their claim. The dismissal leaves students pondering their next steps and the university reflecting on its handling of campus policies.
North Country Blood Drive Kicks Off
PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. (WCAX) - Tremendous community support is anticipated as the UVM Health Network launches its series of blood drives across the North Country. With multiple locations and dates planned throughout January, the program aims to meet the blood supply needs of regional hospitals.
This initiative includes collaborations with several community organizations, ensuring accessibility for residents wanting to contribute. Donors across the region can participate at designated locations, contributing to local health endeavors and keeping the community vibrant.
Historic Swearing-In of Kristy Sprague
PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. (WCAX) - A historic moment marked the swearing-in of Kristy Sprague, the first female judge of Essex County. With more than 14 years of experience as the county's District Attorney, Sprague’s election reflects significant strides toward gender representation within judicial roles.
For the time being, she will not preside over criminal cases due to prior case involvements, but aims to inspire future generations of women pursuing legal careers. “What an honor,” Sprague exclaimed, reflecting on her new role and its importance within the community.
These developments signal transformative changes and challenges for Northern New England, highlighting community engagement, legal progress, and social issues requiring attention.