Wendy Levy Assumes Presidency in Bellows Falls

Wendy M. Levy has been elected as the new president of the village securing 124 votes.

Wendy M. Levy has been elected as the new president of the village, securing 124 votes, which positioned her ahead of former president Deborah Wright, who received 50 votes in the election for a two-year term. Levy takes over from Paul Obuchowski, who opted not to seek reelection after serving two terms.

Additionally, Wade Masure and Taylor Pichette were both reelected as trustees for another two-year term, garnering 124 and 98 votes, respectively. Stefan Golec, a former trustee hoping for a return, received 65 votes. In another unopposed contest, Jeff Dunbar won his bid for the remaining year of the late Susan MacNeil's seat decisively, with 154 votes. Jonathan Wright, who had taken over MacNeil's seat last fall, decided against seeking a full term.

In the only other contested race, Donna Harty retained her position as village treasurer, triumphing over Pam Willard with a score of 102 to 60.

Wendy Levy, who hails from Dover, N.J., has a history with Vermont dating back to 1991 when she enrolled at Marlboro College. She transitioned from Brattleboro to Bellows Falls in 2022. Her interest in local governance was sparked during her time at Marlboro because of its unique community organization. Levy has served the public as a recording clerk for the town of Northfield, Massachusetts, and has a background in journalism, having worked as a reporter for The Commons until 2019. She has also contributed freelance work since then.

Her community involvement includes a term as a library trustee in Bellows Falls, which she subsequently resigned. Levy has a diverse career background, including experience in radio as a disc jockey on commercial-free stations, with previous stints at WOOL in Bellows Falls and current roles at WVEW in Brattleboro and WFMU in Jersey City, N.J. Additionally, she initiated an electronic music festival called Circuits in the Woods, which took place at local venues last fall.

Levy expressed her commitment to addressing the challenges faced by Bellows Falls, particularly regarding infrastructure maintenance and affordability. She appreciates the vibrant and welcoming atmosphere of the village, describing it as a charming community filled with engaging residents.

Contact Susan Smallheer at ssmallheer@reformer.com.