Press

"On behalf of our members and all existing ratepayers in Chittenden and Franklin counties, AARP is pleased to learn that Vermont Gas Systems (VGS) has made the decision to drop its plans for Phase 2 of the gas pipeline project. The determination by VGS and International Paper (IP) that the project is not economically viable is a prudent one. However, it will have a direct impact on the cost of Phase 1 – a cost being paid for by current VGS customers. With Phase 1 costs already estimated to nearly double, this new development makes it even more difficult to prove that the greater good is being served by a project that will bring service to only 3,000 Addison County customers. According to VGS testimony, the rate increase for customers in Chittenden and Franklin counties will now go up at least 10% due to the elimination of Phase 2. This will represent the third substantial cost increase on a project that is just barely underway.

Kelly Stoddard Poor has been appointed to associate state director at AARP Vermont in charge of state and community development. She will be responsible for developing AARP Vermont’s volunteer capacity on social impact campaigns that improve the quality of life for all Vermonters as they age. In addition, she is responsible for statewide public education efforts and outreach to directly engage AARP Vermont members and their families on the issues that most affect their lives.