An Independent Voice for Rural Vermont
My campaign is focused on providing a voice for rural Vermont communities. I am dedicated to tackling the affordability crisis in our state - from the housing shortage to the steep rise in property taxes. If elected, I plan to do this by focusing on fiscal accountability in the state budget, identifying wasteful or inefficient spending that doesn't benefit communities. I will seek to improve oversight of state agencies; and ensure local governments have the tools and resources they need to provide vital services that our residents depend upon.
It is my belief that government functions best when it is close to the people that it serves, and is responsive and transparent to constituents. That is what I intend to bring to Montpelier if I am chosen to represent Orange-Caledonia.
About Susan Culp
Susan lives in Newbury, and has been active in the community for a number of years, including serving as the Chair of the Town Selectboard, and in past roles on the Newbury Planning Commission and the Tucker Mountain Town Forest Management Committee. She runs a consulting practice focused on land use and recreation planning, community engagement and organizing, and nonprofit management. She has a master's degree in public administration and policy, and earned her bachelor's degree in marine biology.
She and her husband, Peter, manage nearly 600 acres of forested land in rural Vermont, and there is no place she is more at home than walking through the woods in all seasons.
Campaign Priorities
Empowering Local Communities
Support Local Governance
Susan Culp is committed to local decision making and ensuring that municipal governments have the tools and resources they need to act in the best interests of their communities. Learn more about her policy objectives to accomplish this.
Promoting Economic Development
Sensible & Sustainable Growth
Vermont is ranking low on key metrics for both population and economic growth. The cost of living is creating hardship for Vermont families and driving young people and longtime residents out of our state. We can balance growth and housing with preserving our working landscapes. Learn more about Susan's goals to make Vermont friendlier to small business, farmers and entrepreneurs.
Accountability in Government
Responsiveness to Constituents
For too long, decisions made in Montpelier have made rural Vermonters feel disconnected from their government and the policies affecting them. Susan's legislative priorities would bring more transparency, accountability, and openness to decision making at the State House. A healthy democracy depends on citizen participation. Susan will champion changes to include Vermonters in the decisions that impact them.
Public Safety
Making Communities Safer
Susan supports judicial reforms that would address Vermont's "catch-and-release" system and hold criminals accountable for their actions. She is dedicated to ensuring that there is justice for the victims of crime and supports law enforcement in protecting communities from drug trafficking activities.