Economy

About 30 business leaders and local officials from around Franklin County met with Eric Paley in Greenfield last week, telling the state's relatively new economic development secretary about the wonders and the challenges around the state's most rural county.

The shutdown, which affects airport security officers among others, comes as lawmakers debate federal immigration enforcement.

Paul Niedzwiecki, CEO of the Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce, said the formula favors geographic equality over investing in regions that depend on tourism — even though those regions have the most potential to generate tax revenue from it.

Enhanced ICE raids are said to be over but many shop owners report business is down and some customers are still afraid to return. A new survey of greater Portland business owners shows fear, anxiety, staffing issues and revenue losses are impacting a wide range of businesses.

Vermonters who rely on woodstoves may have a harder time heating their homes as affordable dry wood is in short supply.

The Campbell's company plans to close the plant in April.

The legislation would force fossil fuel companies to pay money that cities could use to upgrade infrastructure and prepare for flooding and extreme weather.

Since 2022, Vermont has received more than $41 million from settlements with companies accused of fueling the opioid crisis. A new analysis from Vermont Public explores how that money is being spent.

Ott developed a term which she calls, Guided Stewardship. It allows for a more flexible working relationship between managers and staff.

Last month President Trump issued an executive order removing tariffs on imported cocoa and coffee. But chocolate prices had already been rising in recent years due to weak cocoa crop yields linked to weather, and Maine chocolate makers say they are still experiencing high costs of production.