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PUBLIC SQUARE is a VPT initiative addressing
issues of concern to Vermonters. Mixing documentary footage, thoughtful
insight, in-depth panel discussions and more, we'll keep you
informed about local events and issues that affect your lives. |
Debating Vermont's Two-Year Term
Thursday, January 31st at 8:00 pm
 Vermont and New Hampshire are the only states that have two-year terms for governor and other statewide offices. The program will combine video, studio discussion, viewer calls and a web chat to consider whether Vermont's terms of office should be changed to four years. “Public Square” will begin with a video report on the topic, then host Kristin Carlson and panelists will look at the pros and cons of extending the terms of governor, other statewide offices and legislators in the interest of good governance.
Joining us in the studio will be a live audience of students from Harwood Union High School.
- Susan Allen
Editor of the Barre-Montpelier Times Argus and former Press Secretary to Vermont governor Howard Dean.
- Frank Bryan
Political Science Professor
University of Vermont
- Jim Condos
Senator, Chittenden (D)
Chair of Housing and General Affairs committee and lead sponsor of PR0004, the constitutional proposition regarding 4-year terms for Vermont's governor and other offices.
- Mary Powell
Former Chair
Vermont Institute on Government Effectiveness
- Charles Smith
The Snelling Center for Government
Viewers are encouraged to call in with questions. A toll-free number will be announced during the program. Along with the broadcast, the program will be streamed on VPT's website and a live web chat will be held during the broadcast.
Community Resources
Former Governors Kunin and Dean Testify in Regards to Expanding Governor's Term
Vermont State House
Committee Room 4 or 10, depending on attendance
January 30th at 9:00 AM
This testimony is open to the public, but is not a public hearing. Individuals are encouraged to attend and listen, however, testimony will not be heard from the audience. |
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The Snelling Center for Government
130 South Willard Street
Burlington, VT 05401
(802) 859-3090
info@snellingcenter.org
The Snelling Center for Government is a non-partisan, non-profit (501(c)(3)) corporation. Established in 1992 in memory of Governor Richard A. Snelling, the Snelling Center is committed to his vision of government that works for the people of Vermont. In keeping with this vision, the mission of the Snelling Center is to foster responsible and ethical civic leadership, encourage public service by private citizens, and promote informed citizen participation in shaping public policy in Vermont.
Constitutional Amendment Project
In 2007, the Vermont Legislature will again face the questions: ‘Should the Governor’s term be two years or four years? What about other statewide offices such as Lieutenant Governor, Treasurer, Auditor, Secretary of State and Attorney General? What about state senators and representatives? If there are longer terms, should term limits be considered? Our project will stimulate voters to engage in a serious inquiry of whether two-year or four-year terms of office are in the best interest of Vermont. Voters will be encouraged to take advantage of research, forums, presentations, and other tools. Informed public opinion and a thorough and visible public discussion will be the basis on which the Legislature will make its decision in the 2007 – 2008 biennium. Click here for an overview of the process for an amendment proposal to pass in the state of Vermont and also for additional links on this topic.
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Previous Programs
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