Outcomes from the annual gathering of Vermont residents, held on the first Tuesday in March, determine local budgets, elect officials, and decide on community issues. These gatherings represent direct democracy in action, where citizens vote directly on matters impacting their towns.
This unique form of governance fosters civic engagement and empowers residents to shape their local communities. The historical roots of Town Meeting Day reflect Vermont’s commitment to grassroots decision-making and local control, providing a vital platform for citizen participation that has endured for centuries.