A lifelong resident of Stowe, deeply rooted in this community, I’ve witnessed its evolution firsthand. From my earliest memories of night skiing on Marshall Hill, playing capture the flag on a warm summer evening on Park and Pond and the rare treat of an ice cream soda from the local hot spot, the soda fountain at Lackeys, Stowe has been more than just a place to live; it’s been the backbone of my life. I’ve seen the town grow, experiencing both the challenges and triumphs of progress, developing a deep understanding of its unique character and the spirit of its people. This intimate connection informs every aspect of my commitment to Stowe’s future. I cherish the outdoors, not just for recreation, but as an integral part of what makes Stowe so special. It’s a gift I deeply value, and I’m committed to actively preserving and protecting Stowe’s heritage and legacy for future generations.
This commitment extends to our schools. Over 50 years ago, I walked through town to the newly built high school, a building now well beyond its lifespan, yet a testament to our community’s dedication to education. It also underscores the urgent need to reinvest in these vital institutions. I believe strong schools are the foundation of a strong community, and I’m dedicated to supporting them I am committed to continuing to work with all stakeholders to explore innovative pathways to ensure our school system secures the necessary funding to modernize and thrive.
My Stowe connection extends beyond recreation and education. It’s also professional. What began as a summer job as a carpenter’s apprentice blossomed into a career as a local builder. Building is more than construction; it’s methodical, practical, and skilled, demanding teamwork, detailed planning, and a strong foundation. These principles inform my approach to leadership and management. Just as a building needs a solid base, a town needs robust infrastructure – roads, bridges, utilities – forming our community’s bedrock. And just as a building’s design shapes functionality, a town’s landscape, amenities and recreational offerings enhance quality of life. My builder experience taught me the importance of long-term planning, understanding interconnected systems, and valuing attention to detail – all essential to a thriving community.
This commitment to community building fueled my 15+ years of public service, including serving on the Planning Commission, and as a Selectboard member. My 14 years on the Selectboard provided invaluable insights into Stowe’s history, struggles, and successes. I’ve witnessed staggering changes, and while that evolution has brought benefits, the town is at a crossroads. The very work that created a vibrant resort community now impacts our valued way of life. This is concerning and demands immediate attention. It’s a complex issue requiring careful solutions, full stakeholder consideration, scrutinized implications, and actions backed by robust evidence, data, and cost-benefit analysis. These changes have also pressured our community, highlighting the need for support systems.
My years on the Selectboard combined with my current role as Chair of the Stowe Community Fund offers a unique perspective. The Selectboard provided critical insights into policy and governance and the Community Fund provides a crucial lens into individual needs, allowing me to understand personal impacts of these trends. This dual experience gives me a 360-degree view of Stowe, connecting policy and people to evaluate how decisions serve residents’ best interests.
Our town’s success depends on working together, listening, and leveraging our collective wisdom. I believe the best solutions come from diverse perspectives and collaborative efforts. This belief in collaboration is also deeply rooted in my personal life. As a husband and father, I’m grateful to have raised my son here. Family is everything, and their support makes my life of community service possible. I’m passionate about working collaboratively with residents, bringing together diverse voices, to ensure Stowe remains vibrant and thriving, a place where, together, we can build a prosperous tomorrow.
Billy Adams for Stowe 