Moderator Mark Johnson speaks with the gubernatorial candidates Matt Dunne (D), Bruce Lisman (R), Sue Minter (D), Lt. Gov. Phil Scott (R) and Rep. Shap Smith (D) about how to strengthen Vermont's economy. Rep. Smith was not able to attend however he commented via video. This event was presented in partnership with VTDigger, Channel 17/Town Meeting Television.
In July 2015, VTDigger hosted a well-attended economic development discussion with community members about issues specific to Bennington County. The event generated so much interest that we decided to take this discussion to communities around the state.
This event is a part of an ongoing series in which we will explore how different geographic areas of the state are uniquely affected by trends in population, housing, employment, health care and other factors.
Demographic and income disparities exist within and between Bennington and Chittenden counties. Economic trends, especially since the 2008 recession, illustrate challenges unique to Vermont's rural communities and population centers. This event will open with a brief review of data trends in both counties and will feature brief economic development platforms by gubernatorial candidates.
