They say that money talks, baloney walks. (Well “they” don't actually say “baloney,” but this is a family newspaper.)
Vermont Yankee has a track record of being a good neighbor: it pays its bills on time, supports the community, and provides jobs. Vermont Yankee's handling of its property tax bill is a perfect example of a good corporate neighbor walking the walk.
The Vernon Selectboard admitted that, with the state of Vermont desperately trying to shut the plant down, Vermont Yankee could argue that its property-tax value has declined dramatically.
Did Vermont Yankee, therefore, try to nickel and dime its neighbors with a lowball offer? No.
Vermont Yankee came to the Vernon Selectboard and said, “just renew last year's deal.” That deal pays out about $1.3 million in taxes.
As plant spokesperson Jim Sinclair said, “extending the existing agreement was the right thing to do.”
Say what you want. Vermont Yankee is a good neighbor, demonstrated once again in these economic times.
You can't ask much better than that.