The Deeper Dig

Federal officials billed the Opportunity Zone program, a vehicle for huge capital gains tax breaks, as a way to drive economic development in low-income communities. It holds potential for Vermont towns — but critics question whether the benefits will mostly go to the wealthy.

Guests: Lola Duffort (VTDigger), Brady Meixell (The Urban Institute)

More than three years after PFOA contamination was discovered in Bennington, and four months after the state finished negotiating with the company responsible, residents are still dealing with the long-term impacts. Now, their grievances are at the center of a class action lawsuit in federal court.

Vermont’s Catholic Church has acknowledged seven decades of allegations of child sexual abuse by clergy — and the church’s role in covering up those accusations. What happens now?

Our *100th episode*: James Adomian got national attention for his outrageous Bernie Sanders impression during the senator’s first presidential run. With a new podcast and tour, he’s gearing up for round two.

When VTDigger reported last month on FirstLight’s use of banned Huawei equipment, the telecommunications company promptly retaliated by canceling an underwriting contract with the organization. But FirstLight has also taken action against a competitor, VTel, for its role in the story — a move state regulators are now questioning.

This week’s merger with Dairy Farmers of America will keep the doors open at the St. Albans Co-op, but observers say the industry’s struggles will continue.

The author breaks down his manifesto on why Vermont needs an activist government — and an activist public.

Prosecutor Sarah George's decision to dismiss three high-profile cases tipped off a debate about gaps in the state's mental health and criminal justice systems. Will it lead to real reforms?

Locals, researchers and state officials are optimistic that a new aeration system will curb the toxic algae blooms that have plagued Vermont's fourth-largest lake. But it may take years to find out.

Guests: John Tucci (Everblue Lake Solutions), Peter Benevento (Lake Carmi Campers Association), Larry Myott (Lake Carmi Campers Association), Elizabeth Gribkoff (VTDigger)

The road to 2020 starts in Vermont’s backyard — and with the first primary debate coming up, some candidates appear farther down that road than others.