Department of Taxes Commissioner Craig Bolio is stepping down at the end of the week after just over five years in the role, according to a Wednesday press release from Gov. Phil Scott’s office.
The governor has appointed Bill Shouldice, most recently the president and CEO of The Vermont Teddy Bear Company, to replace Bolio as commissioner on Feb. 18. Shouldice also previously served as the secretary of the Agency of Commerce and Community Development.
“Bill has a strong background in leadership both in the private sector and in government as well,” Scott said in the release. “I believe his experience will be an asset to the Tax Department as we continue our efforts to make Vermont more affordable.”
The change comes as Vermonters debate high taxes and state spending. In his state budget proposal, presented in January, Scott outlined a $13.5 million tax reduction package and his goal of eliminating the 5.9% average increase in property taxes currently being projected for next year.
The governor’s office could not immediately be reached Wednesday afternoon for further comment.
“I am fortunate to take over a department that has been well run by dedicated employees,” Shouldice said in the release. “That allows me, my team and the rest of Governor Scott’s cabinet to focus on what matters most to Vermonters: a stable and predictable state that is affordable for this and future generations.”
