A persistent drought struck large swaths of the country this summer, and Vermont towns also report concerns about the lack of rain. The state climatologist says aquifer levels continue to drop because there was so little rainfall.

Holiday travel will be a little easier in at least one Vermont town. State transportation officials say repairs in Weathersfield are complete on Route 106, which Tropical Storm Irene damaged near its junction with Route 131 in the town.

A group of Southern Windsor County towns is looking into the possibility of a shared, regional police force. Officials say the policing needs of Vermont towns are changing.