Housing & Finance: A Vermont workforce housing push is getting a boost from state low-interest financing, with a Brattleboro project citing a $4 million Invest in Vermont commitment to help unlock $9.5 million in new homes. Local Economy: The Northeast Kingdom’s development group says it’s moving ahead on buying Newport’s “Pit” site for $1.1 million, using a $1 million state grant to turn a long-stalled property into a future growth engine. Health Care Costs: Vermont’s Green Mountain Care Board approved smaller-than-requested 2027 premium increases for Blue Cross and MVP, aiming to keep commercial rates closer to national trends. School Infrastructure: Essex Westford is updating stormwater systems at multiple schools with Green Schools Initiative funding, part of efforts to reduce runoff into Lake Champlain. Public Safety: Milton police and transit officials renewed warnings to stop for school buses after reports of drivers passing stopped buses, saying violations are rising. Courts & Labor: A federal judge blocked the closure of the St. Albans Creamery for now after a union alleged retaliation tied to a 2025 strike. Traffic & Crashes: Vermont State Police reported a fatal crash in Waterford, and a separate Route 9 incident in Marlboro left lanes blocked due to a downed tree. Youth Wellbeing: New state data suggests Vermont students are seeing improvements in mental health and lower teen substance use.