WVTK Local News December 2, 2009

A legislative panel has put off a decision on whether to formally object to a proposal for limited ATV use on state-owned lands. Public comments on the plan have run solidly against it but backers of the move say it would contribute to Vermont's economy.

Diamond Pet Foods has recalled some bags of its Premium Edge Finicky Adult Cat and Premium Edge Hairball cats foods in Vermont and other states. The recall comes because the bags may not include enough thiamine and follow reports of health problems in cats in New York and Pennsylvania. For a full refund, consumers can return the recalled food to the place where it was purchased. For more information call: 1-800-977-8797 or http://www.premiumedgepetfood.com

For the first time since Vermont adopted a statewide property tax for schools in 1997, the tax rates are expected to increase compared with current levels. For many Vermonters, that will mean out-of-pocket property taxes will increase too. The expected increase in both residential and commercial vacation properties would be about 2 percent.

An unexpected drop in Medicare funding could force major cuts for mental health services in Vermont next year. The Rutland Herald reports nearly $20 million in cuts were outlined for lawmakers last week, including an end to state funding for adult outpatient care.

Craft beer producer Long Trail Brewing is close to buying Middlebury brewer Otter Creek. The Burlington Free Press reports a deal could close soon. Officials say no staff reductions at either operation are planned.

A car crash in Newport has claimed the lives of a Troy man and a young child. State police say Brian Woodard was killed yesterday when the car he drove crossed the center line on Route 100 and crashed head-on into an oncoming vehicle. A young child riding in his car died. The cause of the crash is under investigation.

State Sen. Phil Scott is running for lieutenant governor. The five-term Republican from Washington County says he has a lot to offer voters, thanks to his experience as a business owner and lawmaker. If elected, he says he would focus on helping Vermont regain its independence by producing more of its own food and energy.

The Maine Public Utilities Commission is ordering FairPoint Communications to give customers rebates because of its poor service. The commission ordered FairPoint to send its Maine customers rebates of $1.72 per line each month through Dec. 1 of next year. FairPoint's operations in New England have been beset with lots of problems.