HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda - City Council - 07/17/2023AGENDA
SOUTH BURLINGTON CITY COUNCIL South Burlington City Hall 180 Market Street SOUTH BURLINGTON, VERMONT
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Regular Session 6:30 P.M. Monday July 17, 2023
1.Pledge of Allegiance (6:30 PM)
2. Instructions on exiting building in case of emergency and review of technology options –
Jessie Baker, City Manager (6:31 – 6:32 PM)
3.Agenda Review: Additions, deletions or changes in order of agenda items (6:33 – 6:34 PM)
4.Comments and questions from the public not related to the agenda (6:35 – 6:45 PM)
5. Councilors’ Announcements and Reports on Committee assignments and City Manager’sReport (6:45 – 6:55 PM)
6.Consent Agenda: (6:55 – 7:00 PM)
A.*** Consider and Sign DisbursementsB.*** Approve minutes from the June 19, 2023 and June 26, 2023 City Councilmeetings.C.*** Approve the Energy Committee's application for a Municipal Energy ResilienceProgram grant
7.Interview and consider appointing a candidate to the Energy Committee (7:00 – 7:20 PM)
8.*** Discussion of Hubbard Park, path connectivity, and materials and provide direction to
staff – Erica Quallen, DPW Deputy Director for Capital Projects (7:20 – 8:05 PM)
9.*** Planning Commission Chair to brief the Council on the Comprehensive Plan – Jessica
Louisos, Planning Commission Chair (8:05 – 9:05 PM)
10.*** Receive an update on the development of Implementation Plans for the Climate Action
Plan – Jessie Baker, City Manager (9:05 – 9:20 PM)
11. Discuss and consider taking action to direct the City Manager to work with the School Superintendent on the transfer of ownership of 577 Dorset Street to the School District –
Jessie Baker, City Manager (9:20 – 9:35 PM) 12. *** Approve the FY24 Policy Priorities and Strategies and the Committee workplans – Jessie
Baker, City Manager (9:35 – 9:50 PM) 13. *** Convene as the South Burlington Liquor Control Commission to consider the following: La Quinta Inn & Suites, First Class Hotel (9:50 – 9:55 PM) 14. Other Business (9:55 – 10:00 PM) 15. Adjourn (10:00 PM) Respectfully Submitted:
Jessie Baker
City Manager *** Attachments Included
Champlain Water District
Check/Voucher Register - Check Report by Fund
From 7/18/2023 Through 7/18/2023
Check Date Check Number Vendor Name Invoice Description Check Amount Invoice Number
7/18/2023 4599 Champlain Water District - Retail June 2023 Retail Invoice to SBWD 72,529.56 SBWD-399
7/18/2023 4600 Champlain Water District June 2023 WS Invoice to SBWD 468.34 SBWD-392
7/18/2023 Champlain Water District June 2023 Water Consumption 204,272.80 SBWDWTRCONS-063023
7/18/2023 4601 E.J. Prescott Hymax 984.46 6186709
7/18/2023 E.J. Prescott Cedar Glen Valve Replacement 567.74 6192042
7/18/2023 E.J. Prescott Hymax 2,776.01 6192095
7/18/2023 E.J. Prescott Coupling - Water Break 163.84 6193635
7/18/2023 4602 Munson Earth-Moving Corp.Replacement of Cedar Glen Valves 17,734.94 23041-1 Correction
7/18/2023 Munson Earth-Moving Corp.Twin Oaks Terrace Repair 15,062.62 23043-1B
7/18/2023 4603 Office Essentials of Vermont Copy Paper and Calculator Tape 207.45 39534
7/18/2023 4604 Poulin Companies, LLC Shelburne Road Valve Replacement Project 116,030.11 23-020 CORRECT
7/18/2023 4605 South Burlington Ace, Inc.Hay and Grass Seed 66.98 852915/3
7/18/2023 4606 South Burlington Sewer Department June 2023 Sewer Billings 374,169.69 SEWER-063023
7/18/2023 4607 South Burlington Stormwater Department June 2023 Stormwater Fees 183,998.07 STORM-063023
Total 70 - South Burlington Water
Department
989,032.61
Report Total 989,032.61
70 - South Burlington Water Department
SOUTH BURLINGTON CITY COUNCIL
Page: 1
CITY COUNCIL 19 JUNE 2023
The South Burlington City Council held a regular meeting on Monday, 19 June 2023, at 6:00
p.m., in the Auditorium, 180 Market Street, and by Go to Meeting remote participation.
MEMBERS PRESENT: H. Riehle, Chair; M. Emery, T. Barritt, T. Barnes, A. Chalnick
ALSO PRESENT: J. Baker, City Manager; Chief S. Locke, Deputy City Manager; T. DiPietro, Public
Works Director; C. Lambert, City Arborist; B. Denham, R. Greco, R. Ambaye, T. Cleary, M.
Jackson, N. Chaulot, B. Cinti, A. Corbett, A. Donahue, R. Fitzgerald, J. Holmes, M. McCaffrey, M.
Pels, members of the public
1. Instructions on exiting building in case of emergency and review of technology
option:
Ms. Baker provided instructions on emergency exit from the building and reviewed technology
options.
2. Additions, deletions or changes in the order of Agenda items:
Ms. Emery asked to add a Resolution under the Juneteenth portion of the Agenda.
3. Comments and questions from the public not related to the agenda:
Mr. Denham of the HOA Board at South Village spoke regarding a parcel of land to be deeded to
the city for recreation. On the current map, this land is shown as a soccer field with parking for
60 cars and an access road. The residents feel this is not the best use for that land. Members of
the Parks and Recreation Committee agree. This is a City Council call, and Mr. Denham asked
that the Council change that proposal. He noted there is money in escrow that could be used
for consultation. Ms. Baker noted that staff has been meeting with the developer to put
together a plan. South Village will be involved in that discussion.
4. Announcements and City Manager’s Report:
Members of the Council reported on meetings and events they had attended in the previous
weeks.
Ms. Baker: Nick Atherton has joined the staff as another City Planner.
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19 JUNE 2023
PAGE 2
5. Consent Agenda:
a. Approve and Sign Disbursements
b. May Financials
c. Appoint Paul Conner & Kelsey Peterson to the Chittenden County Regional
Planning Commission’s Planning Advisory Committee as representative and
alternate respectively
d. Approve the lease agreement with Chittenden Solid Waste District to continue
the use of City-owned land to operate the Environmental Depot, the Pump
Station agreement, and authorize the City Manager to execute the related
documents
e. Approve Resolution #2023-10 to expand the Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee
to 10 members by adding one new 3-year seat
f. Approve Resolution #2023-11 to expand the City Charter Committee to eight
members by adding one new 3-year seat
g. Appoint candidates to all boards and committees as presented
h. Appoint Michael Scanlan to serve as the South Burlington Commissioner to the
Green Mountain Transit Board
The appointed candidates to boards and committees included the following:
Affordable Housing Committee: Noah Hyman, Vince Bolduc, Chris Trombly, Nora Senecal
Bicycle & Pedestrian Committee: Dana Farr, Nic Anderson, Mark E. Pasanen, Ken Burkman
Chit Charter Committee: Elizabeth Fitzgerald, Paul Engels
Common Area for Dogs: Elan Curran, Jason Smith
Development Review Board: Quinn Mann
Economic Development: Michael Scanlan
Energy Committee: Samuel Lipschutz
Library Board of Trustees: Anne Gilson Lalonde, Margery Vagt, Theresa Joan Eirmann
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19 JUNE 2023
PAGE 3
Natural Resources Committee: Julian Keenan, Christine Badalamenti Smith, Larry Kupferman,
Linda Bailey
Planning Commission: Duncan MacDonald, Michael Mittag, Paul Engels
Pension Advisory Committee: Matt Sleeman
Public Art Committee: Sebastian Ryder, Penelope Tompkins
Recreation & Parks Committee: Brett Visger, Will Sudbay, Alastair Hayes
Sextons: Jason Kirchick, John Simson
Mr. Barritt moved to approve the Consent Agenda as presented. Ms. Emery seconded. Motion
passed unanimously.
6. Discuss the City’s approach to Ash Trees and provide direction to staff:
Ms. Riehle reviewed the history.
Mr. DiPietro noted that $74,000 has been set aside for ash tree removal and replanting, $50,000
of which is a capital expense. Mr. Lambert added that there is a $12,000 grant to be used for
replanting.
Mr. DiPietro said there are 581 ash trees left in the city. He shared concerns with moving too
slow and hoped to move forward with a program.
Ms. Riehle noted that the Natural Resources Committee has recommended a hybrid plan which
involves treating some trees and also allows for replacement. They also advised that there is an
alternative which is being tested. Mr. Chalnick said the Committee’s plan would eventually
result in the replacement of all ash trees.
Mr. DiPietro said he is not opposed to treatment, but they would have to identify the trees to be
treated as some ash trees are not thriving and should be removed. If the number to be treated
is low, treatment could be done in-house. There is the added question of using an insecticide in
a public right-of-way. The City Council would have to be OK with that. Ms. Riehle noted the
insecticide is an injection, not a spray, so that should not be an issue.
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19 JUNE 2023
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Mr. Barnes asked whether they would need to increase the budgeted amount for tree care. Mr.
DiPietro said the annual tree maintenance budget is $10,000. The injection budget would be
$58,000 a year, and they would have to re-inject in 3 years. He added that use of ARPA money
would help. Ms. Emery asked if that is cheaper than removing and replacing trees. Mr.
DiPietro said it is a little more expensive since it has to be done every three years.
Mr. Lambert said they would not want to inject any trees under 10 inches in diameter. About
160 of those trees were planted 10 years ago and are not doing well. Most of them are in the
Golf Course neighborhood, a lot on Nowland Farm Road. Mr. Barritt asked why they are not
thriving. Mr. Lambert said the subsoil is very compacted, and the trees were never taken out of
their wire baskets. The new trees that are being planted are being removed from wire baskets.
Mr. DiPietro said they will need some time to put together a hybrid plan. He also noted that
before trees are taken down, there is some interplanting.
Mr. Chalnick moved that the city consider a hybrid plan to address the ash bore problem. Ms.
Emery seconded. Motion passed unanimously.
Ms. Greco said neighbors in her area are willing to chip in to help save trees.
7. Approve a Resolution to Declare Major Jackson an Honorary Native Son:
Ms. Emery read the Resolution honoring Major Jackson for his contributions to education and
culture.
Mr. Barritt moved to approve the Resolution as read. Mr. Barnes seconded. Motion passed
unanimously.
8. Juneteenth Acknowledgement and Celebration:
Poetry by Major Jackson; Music by Rachel Ambaye; a Polyvocal Reading by
Frederick H. Tuttle Middle School and South Burlington High School students of
Frederic Douglass’s 1852 speech “What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?”, and an
opportunity for the community to share perspectives on Juneteenth:
The following program was presented:
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19 JUNE 2023
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1. “Come Sunday” by Duke Ellington performed by Rachel Ambaye with Tom Cleary on
Keyboard
2. Freedom and the Practice of Poetry – Readings in honor of Frederick Douglass by
Major Jackson:
“Frederick Douglass” by Paul Laurence Dunbar
“Frederick Douglass” by Robert Hayden
“Stand Your Ground” by Major Jackson
3. “Something to Live For” by Billy Strayhorn performed by Rachel Ambaye with Tom
Cleary on Keyboard
4. “What to the Slave is the Fourth of July” – a reading of Frederick Douglass’s 1852
speech performed by South Burlington Middle and High School students: Naomi
Chaulot, Bryce Cinti, Alannah Corbett, Abby Donahue, Ria Fitzgerald, Meghan
McCaffrey, Molly Pels
5. “I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel to Be Free: by Billy Taylor performed by Rachel
Ambaye with Tom Cleary on Keyboard
Following the performances, members of the audience thanked the performers, “our future,”
for their dedication, their diction, their focus so eloquently. One member felt blessed in the
presence of the musical performers.
As there was no further business to come before the Council, the meeting was adjourned by
common consent at 8:50 p.m., and the public was invited to enjoy refreshments provided by
Ms. Riehle.
_________________________________
Clerk
CITY COUNCIL 2023
The South Burlington City Council held a Policy Priorities & Strategies Retreat on Monday, 26
June 2023, at 4:00 p.m., in the Kevin Dorn Senior Center, 180 Market Street.
MEMBERS PRESENT: H. Riehle, Chair; M. Emery, T. Barritt, T. Barnes, A. Chalnick
ALSO PRESENT: J. Baker, City Manager; Chief S. Locke, Deputy City Manager and Fire Chief; C.
McNeil, City Attorney; D. Kinville, City Clerk; Chief S. Burke, Police Chief; P. Conner, Director of
Planning & Zoning; T. DiPietro, Public Works Director; D. Brayton, Director of Human Resources;
H. Rees, Recreation Director; M. Lyons, City Assessor; M. Machar, Finance Director; J. Murray,
Librarian; I. Blanchard, Community Development Director; G. Yandow, Physical Plant Director;
M. Mittag
1. Instructions on exiting building in case of emergency and review of technology
option:
Ms. Baker provided instructions on emergency exit from the building and reviewed technology
options.
2. Additions, deletions or changes in the order of Agenda items:
No changes were made to the Agenda.
3. Comments and questions from the public not related to the agenda:
There were no comments or questions from the public.
4. Announcements and Reports on Committee assignments and City Manager’s
Report:
Council members reported on recent meetings and events they had attended.
5. Consent Agenda:
a. Approve and Sign Disbursements
b. Approve a Recreation Impact Fee Credit request from O’Brien Brothers Agency
for O’Brien Eastview
c. Approve the Bike Share Memorandum of Understanding with the Chittenden
Area Transportation Management Association
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Ms. Emery moved to approve the Consent Agenda as presented. Mr. Barritt seconded. Motion
passed unanimously.
6. Fy24 Policy Priorities & Strategies Retreat:
Ms. Baker reminded attendees that the focus of the Retreat is on strategic work that furthers
the City Council’s and community’s vision, and does not include the core government services
that staff provide daily.
Ms. Baker then asked attendees to introduce themselves and to relate what they were most
proud of in FY23. Responses included the following:
Ms. Baker: The hugely successful election with the passing of all ballot items
Chief Locke: Having the Fire Department fully staffed
Mr. Barnes: To be part of this community and the Council though the trend in the US
is not to be involved in city service.
Ms. Emery: The passage of the budget and her involvement in the Juneteenth
presentation
Mr. Barritt: The growth that has happened in City Center
Ms. Reed: “Illuminate Vermont” which was completely supported by every
department and looking forward to becoming City Clerk
Mr. Yandow: The repair of the 375 Hinesburg Rd. pump station (after it was hit by a
car) and the rental of space to CSWD at 19 Gregory Drive
Mr. DiPietro: The positive vote on the wastewater bond and the modernizing of some
systems
Ms. Riehle: The adoption of the city’s Climate Action Plan
Chief Burke: The implementation of the “best practices” plan
Mr. Chalnick: The city’s leadership in addressing the climate crisis
Ms. Brayton: Given the opportunity to work for the city
Ms. Lyons: Having Emily added to her team (noting that tax bills will go out on time)
Ms. Blanchard: Community outreach and participation
Ms. Machar: The passage of the budget
Mr. Conner: Seeing City Center coming together and the public participation by the
public in the putting together of the Comprehensive Plan
Ms. Murray: Working with many other departments and groups and having an inroad
to getting more teenagers interested in the Library.
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26 JUNE 2023
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Overview and Background:
Ms. Baker reviewed some “vital statistics” relating to South Burlington including the following:
Population – 20,624 (12% of whom are foreign born)
Those living in owner-occupied housing – 60.2%
B.A. degree or higher – 62%
Median household income - $85,750.00
Those over age 65 – 15.9%
Language spoken at home – 12.7 language other than English
White – 17,904
Asian – 969
Black – 348
Ms. Baker noted that the housing trend is changing with more people moving into multi-family
dwellings. Mr. Conner added that 2/3 of the homes built in the last 20 years have been multi-
family which represents a big shift.
Ms. Baker noted that city government is comprised of policy people (City Council) and
implementation people (city staff). She said these are the people who make the city “go,” and
they are very passionate about what they do. She then showed a chart of City Council and staff
responsibilities and stressed that none of these are “solely owned” and the majority of
ownership can shift. She added that staff has the obligation to advise, but decisions still rest
with the City Council. Day-to-day management is mostly a staff responsibility.
Building on Existing Systematic Change:
Ms. Baker noted that the city’s Land Development Regulations are now focused on conserving
habitat, redevelopment, and housing for all through inclusionary zoning.
City successes in the past year include the final TIF bond vote, the vote on refurbishing the
Bartlett Bay Treatment Facility, and the Climate Action Plan.
The city’s “big picture” includes the following:
FY23 Grand List - $4,059,604,300.00
Property Tax Revenue - $18,079,306.86
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26 JUNE 2023
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FY23 Tax Rate – 0.4455
A 1% increase in the Grand List raises $180,855.37
The total cost for an average employee - $106,400.00
Ms. Lyons advised that the Grand List will see an increase in a little over 2.1%.
Council members then participated in a “focused recommendation” exercise, identifying their
individual priorities and items to possibly stop working on. In making their decisions, members
were asked to consider the included Leadership Team recommendations, recommendations
from city committees and FY23 accomplishments.
Following the Council’s exercise, Ms. Baker reviewed with the full membership the items which
received the most Council support, as follows:
a. Electrification of residential and commercial buildings:
Mr. Chalnick asked whether there is the authority to regulate existing buildings. Mr. McNeil said
the city has the ability to regulate heating. Mr. Chalnick asked if someone’s system gives out in
2028, can the city require non-fossil fuel to be used. Mr. McNeil said there is that authority. Mr.
Barnes expressed concern with the cost to residents and business owners. Mr. Barritt said that
at the least they should be required to do an assessment and cost analysis.
Ms. Baker stressed that all of this will require City Council debate. The question is whether to
devote staff time to it.
It was agreed to keep it on the list.
b. Coordination with School District re: long-term capital planning:
Ms. Riehle spoke to the need for more collaboration and for both sides to be collaborative. She
stressed that they can’t keep going as they have been and waiting for the “next shoe to fall.”
Mr. Barritt noted that more housing means more children. Ms. Riehle said the School Board
needs to be part of the housing discussion because the impact is enormous.
It was agreed to keep this on the list.
CITY COUNCIL
26 JUNE 2023
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c. Activate Market Street with Events:
Mr. Chalnick said that for him it doesn’t rank with addressing climate change and added that
they can’t do everything. Ms. Emery said that in order to get people walking, you have to give
them something to walk to and something to enjoy when they get there.
It was agreed to keep this on the list pending resources.
d. Modernization of the City’s Website, etc.
Mr. Chalnick had the same comment as with Market Street events. He asked if the system is
broken enough to make it a “must.” Ms. Riehle said there is an expectation among the public
that they can go on line and get everything they need to have/know. Ms. Baker said the website
is oriented to a city government structure, not to practically messaging the community (who we
are and what we are trying to do). It is also not engaging for new people. Mr. Barnes said he is
alarmed at the number of people who are not engaged. Mr. Barritt said that in this age a digital
presence is of primary importance. He felt the website needs work. He also said it would be
great if every municipality could have the same interface. Mr. Chalnick didn’t see how the
website could be made significantly better than it is now. Ms. Riehle said the website is an
important channel, and communication is a key. She noted the Council keeps talking about
outreach, and this item is not just about the website.
Ms. Baker said she and staff will see how to better articulate the goal.
e. Update Ordinances:
Ms. Kinville explained the problem: there is no ability to know what ordinances say, how they
have been updated, or if they are even legal any more.
It was agreed to keep this on the list.
f. Increase Community Gardens throughout the city:
Ms. Emery said this should definitely be done. She added that there could be raised beds in the
open lots in her neighborhood. Ms. Rees said that would involve several departments. Mr.
Chalnick suggested that housing PUDs require a community garden.
CITY COUNCIL
26 JUNE 2023
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It was agreed that staff will bring back recommendations.
g. Modernize regulations on Common Places for Dogs:
Mr. Chalnick said this needs to be a requirement for PUDs. Mr. Conner said larger projects must
have a civic space; how they do that is up to them. The O’Briens’s are doing a dog park. Mr.
Barritt said this could be an amenity that attracts new residents.
h. Work with Green Mountain Transit:
Ms. Emery said it is important to bring the two sides of the city together. She noted that the
work on I-189 won’t be started for at least 20 years.
i. Opportunity Oriented:
It was noted that an updated Peddler’s Ordinance is needed, among other things.
j. Transportation Demand Management:
Ms. Riehle said this is a “must do.”
k. Sidewalk Inventory:
Mr. Chalnick said they spend so much money on roads, and he felt sidewalks are more
important to promote biking and walking. He added that sidewalks are in a state of disrepair.
Mr. Barnes said he would support a sidewalk evaluation. Mr. Barritt said that knowing where
the bad sections are is important.
l. Municipal Services (equity in planning; finding shared goals):
Ms. Emery raised the possibility of mentoring people for committees, community services, etc.
Ms. Baker questioned how to build up the pipeline in order to take the next step. People
usually start with something simple, then move up. Ms. Emery said the city is not getting
representation from the growing minority populations.
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26 JUNE 2023
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m. Complete a Utility Rate Study to meet capital needs:
Ms. Baker said staff is very close to bringing such a study to the Council.
n. Develop a data base re: standards for affordability:
Ms. Baker said the city has a great ordinance but does not have the ability to monitor it, track it,
etc.
o. Climate Action Plan:
Mr. Barnes said his concern is how to pay for it along with other priorities. Ms. Riehle suggested
looking at impact fees to see if they are up to date.
Mr. Chalnick felt it was important to update the LDRs to go along with the Climate Action Plan.
Mr. Barritt said that should include car charging at all new buildings. Mr. Barnes questioned
whether they were introducing items that will drive up the cost of housing. He asked why there
should be charging stations if most people living in affordable housing buildings do not have
cars.
Members agreed this was a discussion item.
p. City Center:
Dorset Street signals were a definite “yes.”
Ms. Baker noted that the next 10 years of TIF will be how the city maximizes the district.
Completing right-of-way acquisition for Garden Street was a definite “yes.”
Ms. Blanchard noted that for the right-of-way along the south side of Williston Road and along
Midas Drive for connecting the water line, etc., will not involve the buying of any land as the city
will be changing people’s access. Ms. Baker said the property owners already know about this.
Ms. Emery asked what it would cost to underground the utilities. Ms. Blanchard said it would
be very expensive. The better option is to go behind the buildings. There is, however, one area
where wiring will go underground.
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26 JUNE 2023
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q. Renewal of “New Town Center” Designation:
Mr. Conner explained that this was the foundation to do the TIF district. It also allows some
priority projects to avoid going to Act 250. Wastewater fees at the State level are also
significantly reduced. Mr. Conner also noted that at some time the City will be able to say “we
are a downtown,” and the “New Town Center” designation is the start of that. It also makes it
easier to do some projects.
r. Village Green/City Center/Double-decker Parking:
With regard to a possible village green, members suggested getting a consultant to evaluate
what is available/undeveloped. Ms. Emery cautioned against putting a parking structure where
green space should go. Mr. Barritt said a parking structure can’t now be TIF funded as it is too
late for that. He would give more support for a “village green.”
s. Municipal “green” purchasing:
Mr. Chalnick said city purchasing should be done through a “green lens.” He added that if the
city can’t do it, it is hard to expect others to do it. He added that new municipal vehicles should
be EV only. Ms. Baker said that would have to be operationally feasible.
t. Prohibit mowing in wetland buffers:
Mr. Conner said that in the city’s regulations, buffers are supposed to be left in a natural state.
A big part of this is education. People assume the buffer is part of their backyard. Mr. Conner
noted that the DRB requires a physical delineation of the buffer. In addition, if land is for
agricultural soil mitigation, it has to be brush-hogged every few years to keep it viable for
farmland. Mr. Barritt noted some lands that don’t have to be mowed (e.g., Technology Park)
and wishes they weren't. Mr. Barnes said he would not want to tax city staff with having to
enforce this. Ms. Baker questioned whether an ordinance is the right tool or should the city
educate the public. She stressed that an ordinance is not the only tool the city has.
Members agreed to continue the discussion.
u. Ban of Pesticides:
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26 JUNE 2023
PAGE 9
Ms. Emery noted that State law would have to be changed. Ms. Baker reminded the Council
that they voted to use a pesticide on ash trees, and the public sees this as the same thing. Mr.
Chalnick said the difference is that with the ash trees, the pesticide doesn’t go into the air. Mr.
Chalnick said he would enact an ordinance even if it is not enforceable. Mr. Barnes said he was
not comfortable with that and did not want to set such a precedent. Chief Locke added that it
would be difficult to ask staff to support an ordinance that is not enforceable. Ms. Riehle said
there could be a policy on city property. Mr. Mittag said there are organizations, including UVM,
that are “poisoning children.”
Members agreed to continue this discussion.
v. Look into further habitat of conserve:
Ms. Baker said she would need more staff to do this. Mr. Chalnick suggested identifying unbuilt
lands that should be conserved.
w. Recreation Center:
Ms. Baker said if the city is not going to go forward with a Recreation Center, groups need to be
brought in to discuss recreation in the city. Members agreed that a city-supported recreation
center has to come after School District needs.
x. An Ordinance re: Gas Leaf Blowers
Mr. Barnes said he is against anything the city hasn’t the ability to enforce. Mr. Chalnick said
there needs to be a law. Chief Burke cautioned against asking police to enforce anything
environmental. Chief Locke agreed and asked the Council not to create more ordinances the
city can’t enforce.
y. Rental Units
Mr. Chalnick said Burlington is requiring most inefficient buildings to be weatherized or they
can’t have heat pumps installed. He favored having a South Burlington system that would
regulate heating systems. Mr. Barritt noted that to replace a furnace you might need a permit,
so that could be an opportunity for education. He also noted the cost could be an extra
$25,000.
Ms. Baker asked if there are any other City Council priorities.
CITY COUNCIL
26 JUNE 2023
PAGE 10
Mr. Chalnick raised the issue of the carrying capacity of the city and whether the city should
keep growing and “let the chips fall where they may.” Ms. Emery said there are towns that have
said no to more building permits because there is no water available, but South Burlington isn’t
there and she didn’t feel the city has the ability to stop building. Mr. Barnes noted how hard it
would be if the city didn’t have the National Guard fire people; the city would have to have
another fire station.
Ms. Riehle said there is a lot to do on the list, but there is a point where there is no more
capacity. She added that they don’t yet know what the education needs are.
Ms. Baker said the city isn’t yet ready to do that kind of analysis. She also questioned
interrupting the market.
Mr. Chalnick said he didn’t see stopping building, but he felt the city needs a long-term plan. He
suggested having “working group” meetings like this meeting, but more informal.
Mr. Barnes expressed concern for public safety and with providing people with the resources to
keep the public safe.
Chief Burke said the Police Department has not been fully staffed since he has been Chief, and
he would like to know how it feels to be fully staffed. He felt good that they can respond to
crime at the moment, but he would like to look at the needed size for the years to come. He
noted that there are two St. Michael’s EMTs who have joined the Department as summer park
patrol, one of whom wants to be a Police Officer. They remind people to have dogs on leashes,
are in the Mall when it is raining, and also use bikes to move about. They work 8-hour shifts, 7
days a week. The Chief also noted that crimes against persons are very low in South Burlington,
but the property crime rate is high. The Department is addressing a number of recidivists who
are making people feel less safe.
Ms. Baker said South Burlington has invested in public safety for many years and also
innovatively. She questioned how to remain sure that the city stays invested in the things over
which it has control.
Mr. Barritt suggested 3 safety actions: lock cars at night, use U-locks on bikes, and do not click
on attachments to emails that you don’t understand.
CITY COUNCIL
26 JUNE 2023
PAGE 11
Ms. Riehle suggested the possibility of one more session like this one each year, especially to
see what progress has been made.
Ms. Baker said they can also discuss how the budget is to be done.
Ms. Baker then noted that in the next few weeks, the team will go over all that was done at this
meeting and prepare a report to go into the City Council’s priorities. Items would be finalized in
early July.
Mr. Barritt expressed gratitude at being surrounded by so many caring people.
Ms. Riehle said she was confident that staff will have thoughtful responses to issues that have
been raised that go beyond what they feel can be done with available resources. She thanked
the staff for helping to make South Burlington a wonderful community.
7. Other Business:
No other business was presented.
8. Consider entering a possible executive session for the purpose of discussing
contracts:
Mr. Barritt moved that the Council make a specific finding that premature general public
knowledge of the Council’s discussion about the Lease Contract between the City of South
Burlington City and School District for 575 Dorset Street and confidential attorney-client
communications made for the purpose of providing professional legal services to the Council
would clearly place the Council and the City at a substantial disadvantage. Ms. Emery
seconded. Motion passed unanimously.
Mr. Barritt then moved that the Council enter into executive session for the purpose of
discussing the Lease Contract between the City and South Burlington School District for 575
Dorset Street and confidential attorney-client communications made for the purpose of
providing professional legal services to the Council and inviting Ms. Baker, Chief Locke, and Mr.
McNeil into the session with the Council. Ms. Emery seconded. Motion passed unanimously.
The Council entered into executive session at 8:00 p.m.
CITY COUNCIL
26 JUNE 2023
PAGE 12
As there was no further business to come before the Council Mr. Barritt moved to adjourn.
Ms. Emery seconded. Motion passed unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 9:12 p.m.
_________________________________
Clerk
575 Dorset Street South Burlington, VT 05403 tel 802.846.4107 fax 802.846.4101 www.sburl.com
To: Jessie Baker, City Manager
From: Ilona Blanchard, Community Development Director
Subject: MERP Mini-Grant Application on behalf of the Energy Committee – Energy
Festival
Date: July 13, 2023
Background:
Overview
The Energy Committee (SBEC) is organizing a South Burlington Energy
Festival – Clean & Green to take place on Market Street and on the first floor
of the City building September 30. The event will bring the community and
organization stakeholders together for a day of fun, education and
engagement. The goal is to support the City’s Climate Action Plan and launch
a series of educational workshops for the Fall/Winter months.
SBEC envisions four hours of fun activities, raffle prizes, food trucks and live
music. Attendees will learn about energy saving methods, sustainability, and
the environment from local non-profits and businesses, try out EVs and
eBikes, and attend sessions, and special demos.
MERP Mini-Grant
Each regional planning commission is distributing MERP funds, including as
Municipal Energy Resilience Program-Community Capacity Building Mini-
Grants, which may be used for community outreach. Committee members
have requested that the City apply for MERP funding for the variety of costs
that will be incurred in developing materials and putting on the event.
The City Council approves grant applications via a Grant Request Form. The
grant program has a maximum funding level of $4,000 – the amount the City
would apply for. No match is required.
Attachments: Grant Request Form
MERP Capacity Building Mini-Grant Application Form
Recommendation Approve the Grant Request Form for the Municipal Energy Resilience
Program-Community Capacity Building Mini-Grant
180 Dorset Street South Burlington, VT 05403 tel 802.658.7961 fax 802.658.7976 www.southburlingtonvt.gov
Physical Address: 104 Landfill Road South Burlington
To: South Burlington City Council
From: Erica Quallen, DPW Deputy Director of Capital Projects
Cc: Jessie Baker, City Manager
Holly Rees, Director of Recreation and Parks
Date: July 17, 2023
Re: Hubbard Recreation and Natural Area Project Update
The Council received an update on May 15, 2023 regarding the design for a paved shared use path,
parking lot, and overlook viewing area in Hubbard Recreation and Natural Area. This design has been
ongoing since January 2020 and is aligned with goals presented in the 2015 Vision Framework and 2018
Master Plan for the park. These planning documents laid out a potential path network including multiple
surfaces, with this central path being paved as an access point to the viewing area, as well as a link in the
City’s larger shared use path network. In addition to the planning documents for the park, this shared use
path was identified in the 2020 South Burlington Bicycle and Pedestrian Feasibility Study as a portion of
preferred alignment for a “high-comfort route”, rather than bike lanes and/or a sidewalk on Spear Street. The
larger path network extends from South Village to Spear Meadows and Swift Street via off-road paths and
low-volume neighborhood streets. It is also included on the City’s Official Map as a Planned Path.
At the May 15th meeting, staff was directed to investigate the use of a gravel or aggregate surface for
the path and compare this to the planned paved path. In coordination with the project’s consultant team, staff
has completed this exploration and the findings are outlined below.
Paved Path Gravel / Aggregate Path
• Approximately 21.5” depth of new material (subbase and asphalt)
• Accessible to all users
• Low maintenance
• Consistent with the surrounding path network
• Impervious
• Can be plowed for winter use
• Estimated $175,000 construction cost
• Approximately 18” depth of new material (subbase and asphalt)
• Accessible to most users when newly constructed
• Requires frequent maintenance (new material and regrading)
• Impervious
• Cannot be plowed for winter use
• Estimated $140,000 construction cost
Hubbard Recreation and
Natural Area
City Council Meeting
July 17, 2023
Project Area
History & Timeline
•Public Outreach to Date
•2015 Visioning Process
•Public Workshop, Online Comment Forum, Presentation to Council
•2018 Master Plan
•2 Public Workshops, Online Survey, Presentation to Council
•Shared Use Path and Viewing Area Design
•September 23, 2021 Public Workshop
•May 15, 2023 City Council Meeting
Design from May 15th
Paved Shared Use Path
Parking Area
Overlook
Viewing Area Public Art Installation
Updated Design
•Same design elements.
•Project elements moved outside
100’ wetland buffer.
•Southern end of project (south of
viewing area) remains in the same
location.
Path Surface Options
Pavement
•Originally planned surface based on project planning
•Approximately 21.5” depth of new material (subbase and asphalt)
•Accessible to all users
•Low maintenance
•Consistent with the surrounding path
network
•Impervious
•Can be plowed for winter use
•Estimated $175,000 construction cost
Gravel / Aggregate
•Diversion from current design requiring updates to plans
•Approximately 18” depth of new material (subbase and asphalt)
•Accessible to most users when newly
constructed
•Requires frequent maintenance (new
material and regrading)
•Impervious
•Cannot be plowed for winter use
•Estimated $140,000 construction cost
Information About the Project
•Project Website
https://www.southburlingtonvt.gov/parks_and_facilities/city_parks/
hubbard_recreation_and_natural_area.php
1
Jessie Baker
From:Bob Britt <brittvtbiz@msn.com>
Sent:Friday, July 14, 2023 9:40 AM
To:CityCouncil
Subject:'EXTERNAL'Support for Paving the Shared-Use Path Through Hubbard Park
Attachments:SBBPC_objections to pervious pavement Final_4-29-2022-1.pdf
This message has originated from an External Source. Please use proper judgment and caution when opening
attachments, clicking links, or responding to this email.
City Councilors,
I want to first thank the Council for its ongoing support of fighting climate change and providing access to all
South Burlington residents to our City's parks. I am writing to you as a South Burlington resident and not on
behalf of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee of which I am the Vice Chair and have been a member since
2015, as I do not have specific authority to speak for the Committee on this topic. Based on this experience, I
wanted to provide some background information on the project. I request that this email be read into the
record of the Council’s meeting on July 17th.
You already have the Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee’s memo sent to the Council in April of 2022 stating its
reasons for supporting the paving of the path, a copy of which I have attached in case you have yet to read it.
Please accept my apology for the length of this email, but a lot of time has been spent by many community
members over many years on the compromises that have gone into the current minimal design of Hubbard
Park and, hopefully, this summarizes the main considerations.
The Issue
Hubbard Park has gone through years of planning and public meetings that have resulted in an extremely
scaled‐back design. The current design calls for a paved shared‐use path, a paved 30‐car parking lot, a public
art installation, and a minimal viewing area with a stone wall with Adirondack Chair seating and some
handicap‐accessible picnic tables. Through the many public meetings starting in 2014, the Recreation and
Parks Department has eliminated a proposed pavilion, a wooden bridge to cross the wetlands on the east side
of the Park that was to help people reach the forest (with dry feet), a natural playground like what is found at
Baycrest and City Center Parks, the small mowed sections for residents to use to fly kites and play frisbee,
among several other amenities.
A paved shared‐use path through Hubbard Park is a critical link of a safe, off‐Spear Street, north/south, year‐
round bikeway leading from the Shelburne town line to UVM. The bikeway is envisioned to travel from South
Village, over the “Long property” (now Bellavance), through South Pointe, across Hubbard Park, east on
Nowland Farm and north on Vale Drive, through the new Spear Meadow neighborhood (path being built now),
along the path being built (grant and Penny for Paths funded and in final design with construction slated for FY
2025) from Swift Street to the Forest Service building path and on to UVM. This bikeway was included in the
City's current Comprehensive Plan in 2016.
2
All was proceeding toward construction in fiscal year 2024 as planned after a multi‐year public meeting and
design process. That is, as you know, until the South Burlington Land Trust in May sought, once again, to block
making any improvements whatsoever to this park including the paving of the shared‐use path.
I have no skin in the game for the parking lot, the material used or its size (or the public art piece, for that
matter). However, this Park is for all South Burlington residents, and I do support some gravel or even paved
parking for residents who are disabled, elderly or those uncomfortable on rough ground. Under the design,
those folks, along with parents pushing strollers, can use the paved shared‐use path to reach the viewing area
so they too can enjoy the view of the Lake and Adirondacks, which is significantly compromised at Overlook
Park. To me, this is an equity issue.
I am also concerned that people may think that parallel parking on Nowland Farm Road is all the parking that
is needed for the Park, but we all know how dangerous it is to get out of your car on the driver’s side when
parallel parking. Just look at how dangerous it is to parallel park on Market Street when going to the library. I
also think that people who live on the other side of town, say in the Chamberlin neighborhood, who can’t walk
to the Park like those living near the Park, will appreciate some plowed parking in the winter from which to
start their hiking, snowshoeing or cross‐country skiing outing. Parallel parking in the winter also makes it
difficult to get out on the passenger side of the car when pushed up against a snowbank.
History and Alternative
The Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee and City staff spent a lot of time in 2021 and early 2022 trying to
accommodate the people who do not want the path paved to find a viable alternative, while at the same time
wanting to create a path that could be plowed and used year‐round by residents. Mind you, the Land Trust
wants to keep the trail between Nowland Farm Road and South Pointe grass and even a gravel path is
unacceptable to them. The City (including the engineers hired to design the park) investigated various
permeable and crush stoned surfaces, but, due to the water table throughout the park, found that the cost of
maintenance would be extensive. Moreover, even a crushed stone shared‐use path at Hubbard is a non‐
starter, as adding enough stone to stabilize the soil would be just as impermeable as asphalt pavement, but
not as smooth or as easily maintained. As we know, our Department of Public Works has little staffing and
funding resources to maintain our current shared‐use path network. The City even spoke with the City of
Burlington, who gave up after 3 attempts to use a pervious surface for sidewalks and biking because of the
need for an expensive vacuum‐type machine to keep the surface pervious as they get blocked up with dirt, ice,
etc.
Ideally, I think we would all prefer to see a 10’ shared‐use path down the full length of Spear Street separate
from the roadway to protect vulnerable users. In 2004, the City scoped such a project that included the
widening of Spear Street from Williston Road to the Shelburne town line with the addition of bike
infrastructure. The cost at the time was estimated to be just over $3.2 million. This proposed project shortly
thereafter made it into the City’s Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). Well, as we know, it never happened. Year
after year, the project was moved out to a future year (but that is a whole other story). In FY 2023, the project
scope was reduced to just widening Spear Street from Swift Street south to the Shelburne town line and only
bike lanes were included, not a shared‐use path. As we all know, Spear Street is not wide enough now in
certain parts to allow for a minimum of 5‐foot bike lanes on both sides of the road.
For the FY 2024 budget year starting 7/1/23, the Council voted to take the project to widen Spear Street out of
the City’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP) budget completely and replaced it with a project in FY 2026 for
$35,000 to scrape off and re‐center the center double yellow line on the road to even out the width of the
bike lanes. This action was taken by the Council in part because of the plan for an off‐Spear Street bikeway.
The City also promised to widen the sections of Spear that are not 31 feet wide (two 10’ vehicle lanes, two 5’
bike lanes and one foot for the double yellow lines) as "opportunities arise." Unfortunately, we seem to have
3
missed the opportunity to widen the section of Spear Street from Swift Street to Pinnacle Drive when it was
just repaved and the just‐painted double yellow lines were not centered and the width of the bike lanes
balanced. Just try walking, running, or biking on the east side of Spear in that area, especially near the
intersection with Swift where the road splits into 3 lanes.
The Land Trust has suggested that the Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee did not fight hard enough to get a
bond, grant, or other financing to put a shared‐use path along the west side of Spear from Swift Street to Allen
Road (note that the east side has wetlands and topography issues). However, building a shared‐use path on
Spear now is not a viable alternative from a cost, utility pole obstruction, added Right‐of‐Way (ROW) issues
and a timeliness perspective. The Vermont Department of Transportation now estimates that the cost per
linear foot is $342 to design and construct a shared‐use path. The length between Swift Street and Allen Road
is 1.6 miles (8,448 feet), making the estimated cost now for just that section to be approximately $2.9 million,
and that is not taking in the most likely added cost of moving all the utility poles and paying higher ROW costs
for all the homes along that section of Spear. The shared‐use path through Hubbard Park is a comparative
bargain at $156,000 with just the additional cost of needing to build a short path from South Pointe to South
Village and connecting the Spear Meadows path to the Swift Street path.
For comparison, it is costing over $900K for the 0.7‐mile shared‐use path on Dorset Street from Old Cross
Road south to Sadie Lane that is finally being constructed next spring after 9 years since the first grant
application was submitted, and that is only if the City can resolve the various remaining ROW issues.
Based on experience, if we started today to build a shared‐use path on Spear, it would take at least another 10
years to: obtain such a large grant, design, go through the public meeting process, redesign, wetlands review
and permits, Native American artifacts review, redesign, right‐of‐way approvals from homeowners,
construction, etc., etc. Alternatively, we can have the safe, smooth Hubbard path this fiscal year.
The Reasons for Supporting the Paved Shared‐use Path through Hubbard
With the above all said, I believe the City would be making a big mistake if it did not pave the shared‐use (bike)
path through Hubbard Park. Paving the path is a key link in having a safe, off‐Spear, year‐round(!),
north/south, bikeway stretching from the Shelburne town line to the UVM campus and Medical Center. Since
when did a paved bike path become “development?” What about the shared‐use path that runs from
Deerfield Road down to Szymanski Park and on to Farrell Park or the UVM white barn. That also travels
through wooded areas and fields. Would the Land Trust have worked to block that path if it were being built
today? After recent discussions with the Land Trust, they confirmed that, yes, they would have tried to block
it.
Hubbard Park is not a neighborhood park. It is a citywide park and I want the Park to be used by all residents
and, yes, I want the elderly who may not be able to use the unpaved trails to more easily reach the lake and
mountain view that the "anti‐pavers" gush about. I want people using wheelchairs, walkers, and strollers to
be able to see that view and enjoy the Park in ways that may not include hiking and snowshoeing as others
may be able to do. With the more frequent thaws in our warmer winters now, Hubbard Park’s fields are
extremely wet, icy, and muddy a lot of the time as it is.
Furthermore, only about 2% of the Park’s land will have any built elements when the project is done. The
folks who wish to see the shared‐use path unpaved get the other 98% in its natural state. Seems like a win‐
win to me. Users will not even be able to see the paved path once they walk out onto the grass or snow‐
covered trails. Let me also add that a paved bike path is not going to chase bobcats, foxes, and other wildlife
away from the Park. Bears don’t even seem to mind being in our area nowadays.
How do we make it safe for kids who live on Four Sisters Road or in the new Spear Meadow neighborhood to
ride to visit their friend who lives in South Pointe or South Village and vice versa? Are we going to send
4
him/her down Spear Street? How about the nurse or doctor who lives in South Village who wants to safely
bike commute year‐round to work at the medical center? I have friends in their 80s who live in South Pointe
that have been waiting for years to have a safe, year‐round path to walk or ride their bikes through to the
shared‐use paths on Nowland Farm Road and beyond without having to risk their lives walking and riding on
Spear Street from the entrance of South Pointe to Nowland Farm Road. Those who live east and west of
Nowland Farm Road and have a safe, plowed, year‐round shared‐use path to reach Hubbard, do not fully
understand the hazards our neighbors who live north and south of the Park must face not being able to safely
access the bike path network without venturing out on Spear Street.
This paved path is part of a much bigger multi‐modal transportation system and getting people out of cars is
one of the City's climate goals. I understand and empathize with the people who do not want anything built at
Hubbard, as they also are thinking of the Park’s impact on the environment, but I believe the CO2 reduction
will be greater with a paved shared‐use path than with the grass it will replace.
Sorry for the long narrative, but I wanted to provide you with the case to support the paving of the shared‐use
path through Hubbard Park and I ask you to please support the paving of the shared‐use path through the
Park. Please consider the opportunity that paving provides in creating a safe, year‐round transportation
connection that allows north/south neighborhoods to connect with each other.
Please let me know if there are any questions that you have that I may address prior to Monday night’s
meeting.
Thank you,
Bob Britt
3 Adams Court, SB
To the South Burlington City Council
The Shared-use Path Across HUBBARD PARK
4/29/2022
Unanimous Recommendation from South Burlington Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee
Summary: The South Burlington Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee (SBBPC) unanimously
endorses an asphalt paved shared-use path across Hubbard Park, maintained to the same
standard of useability year-round as the rest of South Burlington’s shared-use paths. The
committee opposes permeable pavement and pavers as they do not provide as smooth a
surface as asphalt and will be difficult and more expensive to maintain to the same standard as
the rest of the share-use path system. It is important to understand that this path across
Hubbard will be part of a larger path that will eventually connect from Williston Road to South
Village.
Background: The current design of Hubbard Park includes a shared use path across the park to
provide for bike and pedestrians access to the park from both the north and south. The South
Burlington Land Trust has recommended that this path be designed and implemented with
permeable pavement or pavers, allowing for a more permeable surface to protect the Hubbard
natural habitat. This memo is in response to this recommendation and articulates our
unanimous recommendation and rationale for smooth asphalt pavement.
The South Burlington Bike & Pedestrian Committee is unanimously recommending an asphalt
paved path for two primary reasons.
First, the Hubbard Park path is a key line in the off-road path that will extend from Williston
Road to South Village when it is complete. It will be part of an integrated network that helps
complete this important and significant off road, bike and pedestrian safe alternative to
traveling north or south. See “The Alternate Corridor” below. We believe the path across
Hubbard Park needs to be a dependable, maintained route that is plowed in the winter months
as is the rest of the path, and that provides a consistent surface as users link from one part of
the path to the next. Using pervious pavement as an alternative surface will not guarantee a
consistent surface year-round and will require more costly maintenance as snowplows try to
keep the pervious pavement clear without damaging the surface.
Secondly, users of this expanding north-south shared-use path include people of all ages and
means of transport: bikers, walkers, those pushing strollers, the wheelchair-bound, in line
skaters, those using scooters, as well as those using various forms of assistance such as canes or
walkers. This is an equity issue. We understand that pervious pavement has a less even
surface, and we are concerned that pervious pavement will be significantly less user-friendly for
many of the patrons we are encouraging to use these paths.
Background: The City's 2016 Comprehensive Plan lays out four principal goals for the
community:
Here and Into the Future, South Burlington is...
• Affordable and Community Strong - creating a robust sense of place and opportunity for
our residents and visitors.
• Walkable - Bicycle and pedestrian friendly with safe transportation infrastructure.
• Green & Clean - Emphasizing sustainability for long-term viability of a clean and green
South Burlington
• Opportunity Oriented - Being a supportive and engaged member of the larger regional
and statewide community.
The SBBPC operates under the directive to make South Burlington a more bikeable and
walkable city. By doing so we help increase the volume of people using a network of connected
shared-use paths as a safe and healthy alternative to driving. We are tasked with developing
safe transportation infrastructure with long term viability. The City’s Official Map shows the
vision is to have a fully connected set of trails that provide north-south and east-west access
across South Burlington. Hubbard Park is a critical link in a north-south network of paths,
extending from the southern end of South Burlington to Swift Street, continuing to Williston
Road, as a safe off-road route as shown on the Official Map to provide an alternative route
parallel to Spear Street for people walking and biking. This future route is in sharp contrast to
fast moving traffic along the totally inadequate shoulders on Spear Street. It will be an evolving
north-south off-road opportunity for pedestrians and cyclists to safely travel from the southern
end of South Burlington to Swift Street connecting with paths extending east and west to
Dorset Street and Shelburne Road. Hopefully in the not-too-distant future, safe paths will
extend north along Spear Street to Williston Road.
The Alternative Corridor
Going north from Hubbard Park one need only travel on the fully protected shared-use path a
short distance on Nowland Farm Road and turn north onto Vail Road before picking up the soon
to be built bike ped path at the end of Vail where the Spear Meadows development will extend
the Bike-Pedestrian path to their northern boundary line. From there, UVM has granted the City
an easement over their property at the corner of Swift and Spear Streets. A new shared-use
path is currently in the design phase after receiving a Federal grant to continue the north bound
path along the east side of Spear Street to the existing path on the west side of Spear at the
Forest Service building. The existing path then continues north along Spear to Williston Road
while another branch turns west at the Forest Service building and terminates at Farrell Street.
At the south end of Hubbard Park, which opens to the South Pointe development, there is
already an informal path used by people from South Pointe and South Village and those on the
west side of Spear Street south of Nowland Farm Road. With the proposed development of the
Long property still in the design phase, we hope to have a better bike-pedestrian connection
from South Point to South Village. This will also provide a safe connection for kids living in
neighborhoods north of Hubbard Park to ride or walk to the new South Village soccer field and
for folks to access the Common Roots farm store and the planned convenience store at the
corner of Spear Street and Allen Road Extension.
As this route from north to south is completed, it will significantly increase the number of bike
commuters, children, families, and older citizens getting safely where they want to go while at
the same time reducing their carbon footprint by walking or biking rather than driving to work
or the park and has the potential to reduce the number of cars on Spear Street. It will probably
also reduce the number of cars needing to park at Hubbard. We feel this environmental benefit
of an asphalt paved path with the potential reduction in the use of motor vehicles is significant.
South Burlington Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee
Havaleh Gagne, Chair
Bob Brit, Vice Chair
Nic Anderson
Cathy Frank
Dana Farr
Amanda Holland
Donna Leban
2
Erica Quallen
From:Jessie Baker
Sent:Thursday, July 13, 2023 1:49 PM
To:Erica Quallen; Holly Rees
Subject:FW: 'EXTERNAL'Hubbard petition with 121 signatures
Attachments:Hubbard petition.pdf
FYI
‐‐‐‐‐Original Message‐‐‐‐‐
From: Rosanne Greco <rosanne05403@aol.com>
Sent: Thursday, July 13, 2023 10:12 AM
To: Helen Riehle <hriehle@southburlingtonvt.gov>; Meaghan Emery <memery@southburlingtonvt.gov>; Tim BarriƩ
<tbarriƩ@southburlingtonvt.gov>; Andrew Chalnick <achalnick@southburlingtonvt.gov>; Tyler Barnes
<tbarnes@southburlingtonvt.gov>; Jessie Baker <jbaker@southburlingtonvt.gov>
Cc: Diane Nelson <dunelson@gmail.com>; g.knisely@comcast.net
Subject: 'EXTERNAL'Hubbard peƟƟon with 121 signatures
This message has originated from an External Source. Please use proper judgment and cauƟon when opening
aƩachments, clicking links, or responding to this email.
Dear Councilors,
AƩached is a peƟƟon opposing the City’s plans for the Hubbard Natural Area. On the peƟƟon are 121 signatures from
residents who live in the area closest to the Hubbard Natural Area.
Neighbors asked me if I would deliver the peƟƟon and the signatures they collected (I added my name to it). I assume
they asked me to do this because they oŌen see me walking around their neighborhood, know I was a former City
Councilor and that I aƩend lots of city meeƟngs, and that I am outspoken in opposing any development over our natural
areas. I’ve been told that in addiƟon to this peƟƟon and signatures, the Homeowners AssociaƟon conducted a survey,
the results of which showed that the vast majority of the residents opposed altering the Natural Area. I think they plan
on sending this informaƟon to the Council along with a leƩer from the Homeowners AssociaƟon opposing the City’s
plans. In any case, I will deliver the paper copy of the peƟƟon and the signatures to you at your next Council meeƟng.
Rosanne
PS copied on this email are members of the Homeowners AssociaƟon Board
South Burlington Land Trust
Our mission is to preserve the open land, wildlife habitats, natural
resources and farmland that make South Burlington unique and it is an
essential part of the fight against climate change.
South Burlington Land Trust Inc. is a 501 (c) (3) non profit organization:
Tax ID # 75-3133866. 500 Cheese Factory Rd., South Burlington VT 05403
July 12, 2023
Dear City Councilors, Jessie Baker, City Manager, and Paul Connor, Director of
Planning and Zoning,
Earlier you have heard from the South Burlington Land Trust about proposed
“improvements” on the Hubbard Natural Area, purchased with Open Space funds
in 2013.
We have consistently expressed advocacy for this property to remain natural and
minimally touched by human hands.
Our mission is centered on the protection of natural spaces and wildlife habitat and
the ways these lands can serve the community in a future of climate change. We
believe the core user group for the proposed path will be recreational cyclists and walkers, not
commuter cyclists.
We have been listening to a variety of voices and constituencies’ valid, but sometimes conflicting,
aspirations for their use of the path. We have tried to remain open-minded and, at this time, offer
these thoughts:
1. PARKING AREA
• Our preference would be to remove the black top, move the parking to the level
area along Nowland Farm Road, create an entry point which would admit only
walkers, bicycles, wheel chairs and strollers. Hours of use should be posted.
• If these ideas are not adopted, our second choice would be replacing the black top
with gravel, retaining the current dimensions, demarcating (fencing) the parking to
prevent encroachment onto the grass, creating a vegetative barrier to shield the
adjoining residences. Hours of use should be posted.
2. PATH
• Our preference would be to retain the mowed path and remain attentive to
protecting the soil in the wetter areas. The current route offers the driest option,
but minimal puncheons could be employed if needed.
• If the current condition is to be “upgraded” our second preference would be for a
permeable path, either fine gravel that can be made smooth for use by users
mentioned in #1, or permeable pavers which allow water to pass through
vegetation and provide a smooth surface. There are countless examples in use in
Vermont, in four season applications like this. They can be plowed or snow-
blown.
Board of Directors
President
Sarah Dopp
Treasurer
Michael Mittag
Secretary
Alyson Chalnick
Janet Bellavance
John Bossange
Rosanne Greco
Karen Ryder
Allan Strong
Page 2
3. COST
• Our recommendations above would be cost effective, eliminating the need for
asphalt, stormwater infrastructure and artistic design features. A few simple,
spaced benches would suffice, and the permeable options in #2 could be
afforded.
4. FUTURE PROTECTION
• The SBLT would also recommend a conservation easement be placed on
Hubbard to protect the natural areas (wetlands, meadow, woods, view shed,
and organic farm) for the long term. We have reached out to a land trust
which has the staff and experience to consider holding such an easement for
the City.
Thank you for hearing our ideas.
We want to collaborate with the City to benefit all citizens with a wonderful natural area to
enjoy forever.
Sarah L. Dopp,
SBLT President
For the Board of Directors
3
Erica Quallen
From:Jessie Baker
Sent:Thursday, July 13, 2023 9:11 AM
To:Erica Quallen
Subject:FW: 'EXTERNAL'Support for Hubbard Park Bike Path
From: Diane Muhr <dimuhr@gmail.com>
Sent: Wednesday, July 12, 2023 8:58 PM
To: CityCouncil <CityCouncil@SouthBurlingtonVT.gov>
Subject: 'EXTERNAL'Support for Hubbard Park Bike Path
This message has originated from an External Source. Please use proper judgment and caution when opening
attachments, clicking links, or responding to this email.
To: So Burlington City Council Members
From: Diane Muhr 1408 Spear Street
Greetings,
I am writing this email to wholeheartedly support the paving of the shared use path through
Hubbard Park. I would also support the 30 car parking lot, art installation and picnic tables
with a minimal viewing area.
My late husband, George Sporzynski was on the Bike Path Committee for many years until his
death in 2002. It was amazing in retrospect how successful the committee was at that time in
creating the many many miles of bike paths that are so enjoyed by everyone today. There did
not seem to be as many roadblocks in those days as there are today to make paths happen. I
understand that the widening of Spear St. has been on the drawing board since 2004 but
somehow keeps getting postponed or rejected. Now we have a chance to make a nice safe
alternative with minimal disruption to a large natural area.
I find it sad that there is opposition by the SB Land Trust to this project. I have lived on the
east side of Spear St. since 1987 and witness daily the large numbers of bikers and walkers on
this busy road. I am an avid bicyclist myself and do not enjoy biking (especially headed north)
4
on this road. I have been patiently waiting for years for a better, safer, alternative. Let’s make
this happen NOW!
The benefits of (eventually) creating a pathway from South Village to Spear Meadows is so
important from a safety perspective. I have seen many times when a delivery truck or
landscape vehicle will park on the side of Spear St. that results in bicyclists having to veer out
on Spear to navigate around them. Not good. And with more and more distracted drivers
these days (cell phones), an accident is waiting to happen. We need and deserve safe
recreation paths as alternatives. More and more development is occurring in the SE quadrant
which makes the need even greater.
Let us not let this wonderful opportunity to create a paved path across Hubbard Park be
lost. We absolutely need this link.
5
Erica Quallen
From:Jessie Baker
Sent:Monday, July 10, 2023 4:19 PM
To:Erica Quallen
Subject:FW: 'EXTERNAL'Hubbard Park Project
From: William McMeekin <jbmcmeekin@yahoo.com>
Sent: Monday, July 10, 2023 3:11 PM
To: CityCouncil <CityCouncil@SouthBurlingtonVT.gov>
Subject: 'EXTERNAL'Hubbard Park Project
This message has originated from an External Source. Please use proper judgment and caution when opening
attachments, clicking links, or responding to this email.
My wife, Judy, and I reside at 74 Nowland Farm Road, which shares a boundary with the proposed Hubbard Park
Project. In 2021, we voiced our concerns at the public forum, and in writing to Ashley Parker (Oct. 6th). We were told
that, as adjacent property owners, we would be kept abreast of alterations to the plan. That did not happen.
We have viewed the recent City Council meeting and related minutes of May 15, 2023. Our general opposition to the
development plan is based on our desire to maximize open spaces and undisturbed habitat. Construction of an
elaborate “viewing area”, with picnic tables, and separately located “public art” are unnecessary! They not only run
counter to the concepts of green spaces for the city, but will also encourage misuse of the park for late night gatherings,
with related noise and other “mischief” that will inevitably occur.
As adjacent property owners, however, there are two issues more pressing for us:
1. STORMWATER RUNOFF. Our property west of the park is currently subject to water runoff issues from Hubbard. ANY
FURTHER DISTURBANCES FROM THE PARK, NO MATTER HOW SLIGHT, WILL EXACERBATE THE SITUATION. It is not at all
clear that this issue has been sufficiently addressed as to its impact on the two homes adjacent to the park.
2. We feel strongly that the proposed parking lot is too large, if needed at all. If parking is provided, it is incumbent on
the city to include measures to maintain property values and provide adequate privacy, safety and security. Proper
barriers such as hedging or fencing must be included in the plan, to assure encroachment is absolutely minimized. THE
current plan is NOT nearly enough.
We ask you, as “Good Neighbors”, to seriously address these issues as the project progresses.
Bill & Judy McMeekin
74 Nowland Farm Road
South Burlington
802 371‐8388
7
Erica Quallen
From:Jessie Baker
Sent:Monday, July 10, 2023 2:56 PM
To:Erica Quallen
Subject:FW: 'EXTERNAL'Support for Paved Shared-use Path At Hubbard Park
‐‐‐‐‐Original Message‐‐‐‐‐
From: peter <pt46er@gmail.com>
Sent: Monday, July 10, 2023 10:57 AM
To: Helen Riehle <hriehle@southburlingtonvt.gov>; Tim BarriƩ <tbarriƩ@southburlingtonvt.gov>; Meaghan Emery
<memery@southburlingtonvt.gov>; Tyler Barnes <tbforsb@gmail.com>; Andrew Chalnick
<achalnick@southburlingtonvt.gov>
Cc: Jessie Baker <jbaker@southburlingtonvt.gov>
Subject: 'EXTERNAL'Support for Paved Shared‐use Path At Hubbard Park
This message has originated from an External Source. Please use proper judgment and cauƟon when opening
aƩachments, clicking links, or responding to this email.
I am wriƟng in support of a Shared‐use Path at Hubbard Park. Please support this recommendaƟon from the appointed
City’s Bicycle and Pedestrian CommiƩee.
Peter
Peter Taylor
4 Mayfair St
South Burlington, Vt 05403
8022388365
8
Erica Quallen
From:Jessie Baker
Sent:Monday, July 10, 2023 2:56 PM
To:Erica Quallen
Subject:FW: 'EXTERNAL'Hubbard Park development
From: Keith Epstein <keithepstein@gmail.com>
Sent: Monday, July 10, 2023 12:13 PM
To: CityCouncil <CityCouncil@SouthBurlingtonVT.gov>
Subject: 'EXTERNAL'Hubbard Park development
This message has originated from an External Source. Please use proper judgment and caution when opening
attachments, clicking links, or responding to this email.
Hello City Councilors,
I've been hearing and reading lots of thoughts about the Hubbard Park paved path, and would like to share my thoughts
with you.
As you know, I'm a strong supporter of making our community less dependent on cars for getting around. One sign of a
healthy and vibrant community is how many people are walking and biking for commuting, running errands, and
recreation. The reality is that South Burlington was built for cars, but we have been making excellent progress towards
creating infrastructure that gives people other safe and convenient options for how to get where they need to go
without driving.
I am fortunate to live in the Laurel Hill neighborhood, where we have excellent bike path connections to Farrell Park,
Overlook Park, and Swift/Spear. As more of South Burlington is developed, it is critically important for the sustainability
of our city that we give every resident a safe and convenient way to get to work, recreation, and shopping that does not
require a car. I think the paved path across Hubbard Park is an important part of the network that accomplishes this
goal. I encourage you to keep the paving in the plan. I believe that the transportation emissions reductions, health
benefits, recreation benefits, and community connection benefits outweigh the grassland destruction and habitat loss.
In addition to the question of whether or not to pave the path, here are some thoughts on related topics:
I question the need for 30 car parking spaces, and suggest that the number of spaces be reduced to a maximum of 15. It
is easy to add more parking spaces later if needed, and much more difficult to remove them. 30 parking spaces seems
out of character with the neighborhood, desired use of the park, and community goals of shifting to other modes of
transport. If there are a few times per year that more than 15 spaces are needed, then cars can be parked on the road
for a short duration.
I don't see any bike parking in the plan. This seems like a big omission, since there is excellent bike connection to the
park. There should be at least as many bike parking/locking spaces as car parking spaces, if not more, to encourage
community members to bike there, and to demonstrate that the city is serious about its commitment to reducing
9
greenhouse gas emissions. When locating the bike parking, consider that people will be coming from both North and
South, so it may be helpful to have bike parking at both ends of the path.
I wonder about the timing of paving the path through the park. Does it make sense to pave it now, or should we wait
until the connection at the south end is ready to be paved? How long will it be until the connection at the south end of
the path is ready to be paved? To minimize cost, material, labor, and construction disruption, could the paving of the
path be combined with the paving of the southern connection? The paving equipment could be transported to the site
one time, used for both projects, and then removed.
By the way, I am a member of the South Burlington Energy Committee, but I am not speaking on behalf of the
Committee.
Thanks for your consideration, and I'd be glad to chat with you if you have any questions.
Keith Epstein
10
Erica Quallen
From:Jessie Baker
Sent:Monday, July 10, 2023 9:48 AM
To:Erica Quallen
Subject:FW: 'EXTERNAL'Hubbard Park
‐‐‐‐‐Original Message‐‐‐‐‐
From: Walter Luchini <luchini@champlain.edu>
Sent: Monday, July 10, 2023 9:28 AM
To: CityCouncil <CityCouncil@SouthBurlingtonVT.gov>
Subject: 'EXTERNAL'Hubbard Park
This message has originated from an External Source. Please use proper judgment and cauƟon when opening
aƩachments, clicking links, or responding to this email.
Please allow a paved path in Hubbard Park.
Thank you.
Walt Luchini
122 Patchen Road
Sent from my iPad
11
Erica Quallen
From:Jessie Baker
Sent:Monday, July 10, 2023 9:26 AM
To:Erica Quallen
Subject:FW: 'EXTERNAL'Shared Use Path Through Hubbard Park
‐‐‐‐‐Original Message‐‐‐‐‐
From: Ralph Swenson III <rswenson@uvm.edu>
Sent: Sunday, July 9, 2023 11:47 AM
To: CityCouncil <CityCouncil@SouthBurlingtonVT.gov>
Subject: 'EXTERNAL'Shared Use Path Through Hubbard Park
This message has originated from an External Source. Please use proper judgment and cauƟon when opening
aƩachments, clicking links, or responding to this email.
City Council Members, please approve the recommended paved shared use path through Hubbard Park. With all of the
housing development in SoBu, it is important to provide parkland that is accessible and usable to a wide range of city
residents. The only effects of not paving the path or using a less durable and consistent surface will be to reduce use of
the park and restrict the bike path network. Both run counter to the needs of SoBu. As a long Ɵme bike rider and an old
guy I can confirm that pavement is important to safe riding for many people and to accommodate different types of
bicycles, hence to use and safe use of the path. In terms of wildlife, the bikers the path will bring are not all that wild,
and any bears (which seem to be our new animal) in the area will do just fine. I hope that you will agree with me and
support the paving of the path. Thank you. Ralph Swenson (9 Knoll Circle, S.
Burlington)
12
Erica Quallen
From:Jessie Baker
Sent:Monday, July 10, 2023 8:33 AM
To:Erica Quallen
Subject:FW: 'EXTERNAL'Proposed Hubbard Park/Bike Path comments
From: Philip Coleman <phcoleman@gmail.com>
Sent: Saturday, July 8, 2023 12:23 PM
To: CityCouncil <CityCouncil@SouthBurlingtonVT.gov>
Subject: 'EXTERNAL'Proposed Hubbard Park/Bike Path comments
This message has originated from an External Source. Please use proper judgment and caution when opening
attachments, clicking links, or responding to this email.
South Burlington City Councilors,
I have been a resident in South Village for several years. I am writing to you to give my feedback on
the proposed bike path from (eventually) Allen Street up to the UVM campus. A safe, all‐year bike
path is a necessity to continue to offer all of South Burlington’s and other locals a safe and scenic
route for walkers, joggers, bikers, and those with strollers, walkers, or wheelchairs. Since the cost and
maintenance of a pervious walkway has been ruled out, there has been talk of using crushed stone as
a medium. My understanding is that some of you want to have the path as low impact on the project
as necessary. I couldn’t disagree more. Often, such minimalist projects are at the behest of many
living in the immediate area who want everything “natural.” I’d like to remind you all, respectfully,
that this is a project meant to enrich the everyday lives of all the residents of the town that is creating
this great adjunct to our outdoor Vermont lives here.
I strongly suggest that a paved path, ten foot minimum, be used throughout, as well as a paved 30‐
car lot to centralize the visitors and minimize any spillover onto roads that don’t safely offer the
width for parallel parking. There have been other add‐ons suggested that might add to the
experience I would certainly agree to, but the structure of the path itself is most important. A paved
path is the only real way to have all‐season trail access for walkers, bikes, strollers, and wheelchairs–
this is an equity issue. And often, those who need a paved surface most are those who most need to
have access to the outdoors. The roads like Spear Street and Dorset (like Hinesburg) have little safe
space for bikers, and with speeds routinely above the limits and drivers who don’t always slow or
give wide berth, I shudder when seeing bikers trying to navigate safely during high‐traffic times. We
need this path for continuation of the great network we have built so far, and to provide safe and fun
13
ways for us and our kids to get around town. And the trail should be low maintenance and flat‐
surfaced to provide for everyone all year long.
Sincerely,
Philip Coleman
109 Churchill #109
South Burlington
‐‐
14
Erica Quallen
From:Jessie Baker
Sent:Friday, July 7, 2023 3:18 PM
To:Erica Quallen
Subject:FW: 'EXTERNAL'Hubbard Park
‐‐‐‐‐Original Message‐‐‐‐‐
From: Michael Keller <mskcpa77@gmail.com>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:25 PM
To: CityCouncil <CityCouncil@SouthBurlingtonVT.gov>
Subject: 'EXTERNAL'Hubbard Park
This message has originated from an External Source. Please use proper judgment and cauƟon when opening
aƩachments, clicking links, or responding to this email.
I have been a resident of South Burlington for over 40 years and currently live on the corner of Four Sisters and Dorey
Road. I urge you to follow the plan presented and pave the proposed shared use path in Hubbard Park.
First, this is a safety issue. I am not a biker but do walk and it is clearly evident that Spear Street is dangerous to walk or
bike on. A paved path will saƟsfy these concerns at a reasonable cost with low maintenance. AlternaƟvely, we could
spend millions of taxpayer dollars revising Spear Street, which would take years and be a waste of taxpayer dollars.
Second, this park needs to assessable to all in a comfortable manner. A paved path allows the elderly, disabled, children
in strollers, and bikers of all ages, safe, easy access. How can you even have a City Park that is not accessible to the
disabled? For those who want to walk on grass, mud or other natural areas, there is plenty of space to do that.
The parking area should also be expanded and paved, which again allows access to all in a safe manner. Those who
propose parking along Nowland Farm Road have no interest in the safety of our residents. This would be an accident
waiƟng to happen, limit winter access, and be a mess.
The minor ameniƟes being proposed should also be made. Contrary to the beliefs of many belonging to the Vermont
Land Trust, there are many people who would love to be able to go to the park and sit in a mowed area to have a picnic,
converse with residents, rest during a walk or bike ride et al.
The proposal uses up 2% of the available land, how can this be so controversial?
Please follow the plan that has been years in the making and not bow to a vocal group who have self interest at heart,
not the interest of all the residents of South Burlington.
Thank you
Michael Keller
Sent from my iPad
15
Erica Quallen
From:Jessie Baker
Sent:Friday, July 7, 2023 8:16 AM
To:Erica Quallen
Subject:FW: 'EXTERNAL'Build more South Burlington rec paths
‐‐‐‐‐Original Message‐‐‐‐‐
From: LoreƩa MarrioƩ <LoreƩa.MarrioƩ@uvm.edu>
Sent: Thursday, July 6, 2023 10:26 PM
To: CityCouncil <CityCouncil@SouthBurlingtonVT.gov>
Cc: Jessie Baker <jbaker@southburlingtonvt.gov>; bbriƩvt@gmail.com; Michael MiƩag <miƩag.michael@gmail.com>
Subject: 'EXTERNAL'Build more South Burlington rec paths
This message has originated from an External Source. Please use proper judgment and cauƟon when opening
aƩachments, clicking links, or responding to this email.
GreeƟngs,
Regarding a rec path in Hubbard Park, the important thing is that construcƟon starts and the rec path is completed. Folks
will love it! No need to quibble over personal preferences. Get going and build it! If the planning is well along, keep
going! Paved or pervious will be fine!
Burlington waterfront area residents opposed the creaƟon of the immensely popular waterfront rec path that highlights
the equally well loved Vermont City Marathon. Lindenwood Drive residents opposed (hiring a lawyer to advance their
protest) the well liked rec path that starts at the end of Lindenwood Drive. Mills Ave. and surrounding residents opposed
the rec path through Garvey Woods that almost always has walkers, runners, people on bikes and people with strollers
passing through.
Thankfully opposiƟon did not stop the creaƟon of these and other rec paths and hopefully it will not interfere with or
delay the scheduled construcƟon of the path through Hubbard Park.
At Hubbard, interesƟngly, there is room for 2 rec paths. One through the center area and one close to the west border of
the park. If folks like, one could be paved and one pervious. A loop would be great!
I appreciate rec paths and safe pleasant bikeways. We could use many more.
Thank you,
LoreƩa MarrioƩ
13 Mills Ave
16
Erica Quallen
From:Jessie Baker
Sent:Friday, July 7, 2023 8:15 AM
To:Erica Quallen
Subject:FW: 'EXTERNAL'Please support the Hubbard Park path!!
FYI
Do you want me to share these with you – or not clutter up your inbox?
Thanks,
Jessie
From: Timur Tsutsuk <timur87@gmail.com>
Sent: Thursday, July 6, 2023 10:54 PM
To: CityCouncil <CityCouncil@SouthBurlingtonVT.gov>
Subject: 'EXTERNAL'Please support the Hubbard Park path!!
This message has originated from an External Source. Please use proper judgment and caution when opening
attachments, clicking links, or responding to this email.
Dear Members of Council,
I live on Bower street, love to bike throughout our community on my own and with my two little
toddlers, and I am writing to express my support for the implementation of a paved shared‐use path
through Hubbard Park as depicted in the May 2023 draft plan.
The proposed bath will allow me and many other parents to safely bike with their kids to key
amenities in our area and avoid busy and often dangerous Spear street shoulders. I have two small
kids and have the latest and safest bike setup that allows me to get around town with them, but I
avoid streets like Spear like the plague ‐ they are not meant to be biked on, especially with kids.
Protected bike paths are needed just like on Dorset street, the planned path in Hubbard Park is a key
missing link between South Village / Dorset Farms and UVM, Burlington, and the lake.
The bikeway will travel from South Village, over to South Pointe, across Hubbard Park, east on
Nowland Farm, north on Vale Drive, through the new Spear Meadows neighborhood (in construction),
along the path from Swift Street to the Forest Service building (in final design) and onto UVM. This
bikeway is included in the City's 2016 Comprehensive Plan.
The City has explored the use of alternative paving materials that are accessible to residents riding
bikes or using assistive devices like wheelchairs and walkers, and that can be plowed and maintained
year‐round. Pervious and crushed stone surfaces have been determined to be excessively costly to
17
maintain, particularly in the presence of the high water table that exists throughout the park. They
are also less comfortable for people using wheeled devices.
The year‐round paved path will serve all users for both transportation and passive recreation
purposes, not just able‐bodied residents that live nearby who are comfortable on natural trails. The
Hubbard Park Path will provide a safe way for kids who live on Four Sisters Road or in the new Spear
Meadow's neighborhood to ride to visit their friends who live in South Village or the planned soccer
field there. A nurse or doctor who lives in South Pointe will have an inviting and comfortable bike
commute to their jobs at the medical center. Helping people get out of cars and reduce vehicle miles
traveled is one of the City's critical climate action goals.
South Burlington has made impressive strides in providing residents with fun and safe ways to walk,
bike and roll that allow us to get around in inexpensive, clean and healthy ways. Our sustainable
transportation network should invite access for all and encourage more walking and biking for both
transportation and recreation purposes.
I thank you for your previous support of South Burlington’s off‐road bike and pedestrian network of
paths, and urge you to build on those investments by moving forward with plans to build the Hubbard
Park paved path. It is an essential piece of South Burlington’s more sustainable and equitable future.
Sincerely,
Timur Tsutsuk
18
Erica Quallen
From:Jessie Baker
Sent:Thursday, July 6, 2023 5:06 PM
To:Erica Quallen
Subject:FW: 'EXTERNAL'Bike Path - Hubbard Park
FYI
From: Tom Stuessy <stuessyvt@gmail.com>
Sent: Thursday, July 6, 2023 2:18 PM
To: CityCouncil <CityCouncil@SouthBurlingtonVT.gov>
Subject: 'EXTERNAL'Bike Path ‐ Hubbard Park
This message has originated from an External Source. Please use proper judgment and caution when opening
attachments, clicking links, or responding to this email.
July 7, 2023
To:
South Burlington City Council (citycouncil@southburlingtonvt.gov)
Re: Support for a Paved Shared-Use Path in Hubbard Park
Dear Members of Council,
I am writing to express my support for the implementation of a paved shared-use path through Hubbard Park as depicted
in the May 2023 draft plan.
The Hubbard Park path is a key link in our community’s safe, year-round, north/south bikeway stretching from the
Shelburne town line to the UVM campus. The bikeway will travel from South Village, over to South Pointe, across
Hubbard Park, east on Nowland Farm, north on Vale Drive, through the new Spear Meadows neighborhood (in
construction), along the path from Swift Street to the Forest Service building (in final design) and onto UVM. This
bikeway is included in the City's 2016 Comprehensive Plan.
The City has explored the use of alternative paving materials that are accessible to residents riding bikes or using assistive
devices like wheelchairs and walkers, and that can be plowed and maintained year-round. Pervious and crushed stone
surfaces have been determined to be excessively costly to maintain, particularly in the presence of the high water table
that exists throughout the park. They are also less comfortable for people using wheeled devices.
The year-round paved path will serve all users for both transportation and passive recreation purposes, not just able-
bodied residents that live nearby who are comfortable on natural trails. The Hubbard Park Path will provide a safe way for
kids who live on Four Sisters Road or in the new Spear Meadow's neighborhood to ride to visit their friends who live in
South Village or the planned soccer field there. A nurse or doctor who lives in South Pointe will have an inviting and
comfortable bike commute to their jobs at the medical center. Helping people get out of cars and reduce vehicle miles
traveled is one of the City's critical climate action goals.
19
South Burlington has made impressive strides in providing residents with fun and safe ways to walk, bike and roll that
allow us to get around in inexpensive, clean and healthy ways. Our sustainable transportation network should invite access
for all and encourage more walking and biking for both transportation and recreation purposes.
I thank you for your previous support of South Burlington’s off-road bike and pedestrian network of paths, and urge you
to build on those investments by moving forward with plans to build the Hubbard Park paved path. It is an essential piece
of South Burlington’s more sustainable and equitable future.
Sincerely,
Tom Stuessy
20
Erica Quallen
From:Jessie Baker
Sent:Thursday, July 6, 2023 10:44 AM
To:Erica Quallen
Subject:FW: 'EXTERNAL'Hubbard Park
FYI
From: Leah Burke <leahburkevt@gmail.com>
Sent: Wednesday, July 5, 2023 5:33 PM
To: CityCouncil <CityCouncil@SouthBurlingtonVT.gov>
Subject: 'EXTERNAL'Hubbard Park
This message has originated from an External Source. Please use proper judgment and caution when opening
attachments, clicking links, or responding to this email.
I am a homeowner and resident of the neighborhood known as Overlook at Spear. I am urging the members of the city
council to move forward with the plans for the paved shared‐use pathway through Hubbard Park. This will encourage
walking and bike riding as the current path is often impassable due to rain, mud, and ruts.
This issue has been discussed and argued long enough and we need to move forward with making the pathway.
Thank you,
Leah Burke, MD
12 Brownell Way, South Burlington, VT 05403
21
Erica Quallen
From:Bob Britt <brittvtbiz@msn.com>
Sent:Wednesday, July 5, 2023 4:59 PM
To:robinhallvt@gmail.com; 5duffers@comcast.net; 'Aaron Cowan'; 'Andrea Balazs'; 'Bill Bodette';
'CHEUNG WONG'; 'Catherine Seward'; 'Chris Bleill'; 'Danielle Cohen'; 'Dave Hartwell'; 'Gene Steinfeld';
'JOHN DIRMAIER'; 'Jamie Addessi'; 'Jennifer Cohen'; 'Jim Langan'; 'Joan Britt'; 'Kevin M. Henry';
Lafayette.chris@gmail.com; 'Linda McGinnis'; 'Linda Norris'; 'Maria Jamieson'; Marisa Rorabaugh;
Monika Ingalls; 'Patrick Leavey'; 'Robin Hall'; 'Sam Carlson'; 'Suzanne Lowensohn'; 'Ted Colligan';
'Tyler Sperry'; 'Wilkinson, Claire S.'; aimeebmarti@gmail.com; akestner@langrock.com;
annaleavey@gmail.com; atnorris66@gmail.com; bcsmmoore@comcast.net; bmoore96969
@gmail.com; bobbi.dirmaier@gmail.com; charlotte.ancel@gmail.com; cldesmet2@icloud.com;
cmcapano@comcast.net; courtneyawillson@gmail.com; dave.burkevt@gmail.com;
debracoel@yahoo.com; dennis.clougherty@gmail.com; djw@acm.org; feather1067@gmail.com;
fran.clougherty@gmail.com; geochazman@gmail.com; guspoulos@yahoo.com;
heidi.addessi@coxautoinc.com; huestisfs@gmail.com; jack.comer@comcast.net; jdmacdon29
@comcast.net; jdp@scriberule.org; jeanne.kellner73@gmail.com; jeskraus@comcast.net;
jnn_lawrence@yahoo.com; jsccomm@comcast.net; julie.phillips@uvmhealth.org;
karadeleonardis@gmail.com; karen@kpsnorth.com; klmkms@comcast.net; ksjivie@yahoo.com;
leahburkevt@gmail.com; lgcapano@comcast.net; ljrubin2@comcast.net;
markallensaunders@gmail.com; martha.mcauliffe@uvmhealth.org; mbartholomew45@gmail.com;
'mtn_rydr@yahoo com'; nick@vtpma.com; pgras@gordonstamp.com; piasvt93@aol.com;
ralphineorourke@yahoo.com; richard.huestis@gmail.com; rk.lafayette@gmail.com; roysr1
@comcast.net; rzsaunders@yahoo.com; scottjcohen@sbcglobal.net; slowenso@uvm.edu;
tenlhakhang@gmail.com; timothyduff@gmail.com; tipelino@gmail.com; twentewong@gmail.com;
wnmarti@gmail.com; y.barbdean@gmail.com; LYoung@800response.com; djln5@yahoo.com;
brendabalon@comcast.net; PinnacleAtSpearHOA@gmail.com
Subject:'EXTERNAL'Re: Hubbard Park development necessary? [A Different Perspective]
Attachments:Hubbard Park Design - 05-10-23.pdf; SBBPC_objections to pervious pavement Final_4-29-2022-1.pdf
This message has originated from an External Source. Please use proper judgment and caution when opening
attachments, clicking links, or responding to this email.
Greetings to all,
First off, I am writing to you as a neighbor and not on behalf of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee, for
which I am the Vice Chair and have been a member since 2015, as I do not have specific authority to speak for
the Committee on this topic. Based on my experience, I wanted to provide some background information on
the project.
Please accept my apology for the length of this email, but a lot of time has been spent by many community
members over many years on the compromises that have gone into the current design of Hubbard Park and,
hopefully, this summarizes the main considerations. Please see the current design attached.
The Issue
Hubbard Park has gone through years of planning and public meetings that have resulted in an extremely
scaled‐back design. The current design calls for a paved shared‐use path, a paved 30‐car parking lot, a public
art installation, and a minimal viewing area with a stone wall with Adirondack Chair seating and some
22
handicap‐accessible picnic tables (no playground). Through the many public meetings starting in 2014, the
Recreation and Parks Department has eliminated a proposed pavilion, a wooden bridge to cross the wetlands
on the east side of the Park that was to help people reach the forest, a natural playground like what is found
at Baycrest and City Center Parks, did away with the small mowed sections for residents to use to fly kites and
play frisbee, among several other amenities.
The shared‐use path through Hubbard Park is a critical link of a safe, off‐Spear Street, north/south, year‐round
bikeway leading from the Shelburne town line to UVM. The bikeway is envisioned to travel from South Village,
over the “Long property” (TBD), through South Pointe, across Hubbard Park, east on Nowland Farm and north
on Vale Drive, through the new Spear Meadow neighborhood (path being built now), along the path being
built (grant and Penny for Paths funded and in final design with construction slated for FY 2025) from Swift
Street to the Forest Service building path and on to UVM. This bikeway was included in the City's current
Comprehensive Plan in 2016.
All was proceeding toward construction in fiscal year 2024 as planned after a multi‐year public meeting and
design process. That is, until certain members of the South Burlington Land Trust in May sought, once again,
to block the paving of the shared‐use path and to make any other improvements whatsoever to this park.
I have no skin in the game for the parking lot, the material used or its size (or the public art piece, for that
matter). However, this Park is for all South Burlington residents, and I do support some gravel or even paved
parking for residents who are disabled, elderly or those uncomfortable on rough ground. Under the design,
those folks, along with parents pushing strollers, can use the paved shared‐use path to reach the viewing area
so they too can enjoy the view of the Lake and Adirondacks, which is significantly compromised at Overlook
Park. To me, this is an equity issue.
I am also concerned that people may think that parallel parking on Nowland Farm Road is all the parking that
is needed for the Park, but we all know how dangerous it is to get out of your car on the driver’s side when
parallel parking. Just look at how dangerous it is to parallel park on Market Street when going to the library. I
also think that people who live on the other side of town, say in the Chamberlin neighborhood, who can’t walk
to the Park like we can, will appreciate some plowed parking in the winter from which to start their hiking,
snowshoeing or cross‐country skiing outing. Parallel parking in the winter also makes it difficult to get out on
the passenger side of the car when pushed up against a snowbank.
History and Alternative
The Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee and City staff spent a lot of time in 2021 and early 2022 trying to
accommodate the people who do not want the path paved to find a viable alternative, while at the same time
wanting to create a path that could be plowed and used year‐round by residents. Mind you, the Land Trust
members want to keep the trail between Nowland Farm Road and the South Pointe neighborhood grass and
even a gravel path is unacceptable to them. The City (including the engineers hired to design the Park)
investigated various permeable and crush stoned surfaces, but, due to the water table throughout the park,
found that the cost of maintenance would be extensive. Moreover, even a crushed stone shared‐use path at
Hubbard is a non‐starter, as adding enough stone to stabilize the soil would be just as impermeable as asphalt
pavement, but not as smooth or as easily maintained. As we know, our Department of Public Works has little
staffing and funding resources to maintain our current shared‐use path network. The City even spoke with the
City of Burlington, who gave up after 3 attempts to use a pervious surface for sidewalks and biking because of
the need for an expensive vacuum‐type of machine to keep the surface pervious as they get blocked up with
dirt, ice, etc. Please read the attached memo that the Committee sent a year ago last April to the City Council
stating the Committee's reasons for supporting the paving of the path.
23
Ideally, I think we would all prefer to see a 10’ shared‐use path down the full length of Spear Street separate
from the roadway to protect vulnerable users. In 2004, the City scoped such a project that included the
widening of Spear Street from Williston Road to the Shelburne town line with the addition of bike
infrastructure. The cost at the time was estimated to be just over $3.2 million. This proposed project shortly
thereafter made it into the City’s Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). Well, as we know, it never happened. Year
after year, the project was moved out to a future year (but that is a whole other story). In FY 2023, the project
scope was reduced to just widening Spear Street from Swift Street south to the Shelburne town line and only
bike lanes were included, not a shared‐use path. As we all know, Spear Street is not wide enough now in
certain parts to allow for a minimum of 5‐foot bike lanes on both sides of the road.
For the FY 2024 budget year starting 7/1/23, the Council voted to take the project to widen Spear Street out of
the City’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP) budget completely and replaced it with a project in FY 2026 for
$35,000 to scrape off and re‐center the center double yellow line on the road to even out the width of the
bike lanes. The City also promised to widen the sections of Spear that are not 31 feet wide (two 10’ vehicle
lanes, two 5’ bike lanes and one foot for the double yellow lines) as "opportunities arise." So much for when
opportunities arise. I was recently told that the City is not widening any of Spear Street even though the
section from Swift to Pinnacle is being repaved. Just try walking, running, or biking on the east side of Spear in
that area, especially near the intersection with Swift where the road splits into 3 lanes.
Land Trust members have suggested that the Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee did not fight hard enough to
get a bond, grant, or other financing to put a shared‐use path along the west side of Spear from Swift Street to
Allen Road (note that the east side has wetlands and topography issues). However, building a shared‐use path
on Spear now is not a viable alternative from a cost, utility pole obstruction, added Right‐of‐Way (ROW) issues
and a timeliness perspective. The Vermont Department of Transportation now estimates that the cost per
linear foot is $342 to design and construct a shared‐use path. The length between Swift Street and Allen Road
is 1.6 miles (8,448 feet), making the estimated cost for just that section to be approximately $2.9 million, and
that is not taking in the most likely added cost of moving all the utility poles and paying higher ROW costs for
all the homes along that section of Spear. The shared‐use path through Hubbard Park is a comparative
bargain at $156,000.
For comparison, it is costing over $900K for the 0.7‐mile shared‐use path on Dorset Street from Old Cross
Road south to Sadie Lane that is finally being constructed next spring after 9 years since the first grant
application was submitted, and that is only if the City can resolve the various remaining ROW issues.
Based on experience, if we started today to build a shared‐use path on Spear, it would take another 10 years
to: obtain such a large grant, design, go through the public meeting process, redesign, wetlands review, Native
American artifacts review, right‐of‐way approvals from homeowners, construction, etc., etc. Alternatively, we
can have the safe, smooth Hubbard path this fiscal year.
The Reasons for Supporting the Paved Shared‐use Path through Hubbard
With the above all said, I believe the City would be making a big mistake if it did not pave the shared‐use (bike)
path through Hubbard Park. Paving the path is a key link in having a safe, off‐Spear, year‐round(!),
north/south, bikeway stretching from the Shelburne town line to the UVM campus and Medical Center. Since
when did a paved bike path become “development?” What about the shared‐use path we all use from
Deerfield Road down to Szymanski Park and on to Farrell Park or the UVM white barn. That also travels
through wooded areas and fields. Would the Land Trust have worked to block that path if it were being built
today? After a recent meeting with two representatives of the Land Trust, they confirmed that, yes, they
would have tried to block it.
24
Hubbard Park is not a neighborhood park. It is a citywide park and I want the Park to be used by all residents
and, yes, I want the elderly who may not be able to use the unpaved trails to more easily reach the lake and
mountain view that the "anti‐pavers" gush about. I want people using wheelchairs, walkers, and strollers to
be able to see that view and enjoy the Park in ways that may not include hiking and snowshoeing as others
may be able to do. With the more frequent thaws in our warmer winters now, Hubbard Park’s fields are
extremely wet, icy, and muddy a lot of the time as it is.
Furthermore, only about 2% of the Park’s land will have any infrastructure when the project is done. The folks
who wish to see the shared‐use path unpaved get the other 98% in its natural state. Seems like a win‐win to
me. Users will not even be able to see the paved path once they walk out onto the grass or snow‐covered
trails. Let me also add that a paved bike path is not going to chase bobcats, foxes, and other wildlife away
from the Park. Bears don’t even seem to mind being in our area nowadays.
How do we make it safe for kids who live on Four Sisters Road or in the new Spear Meadow neighborhood to
ride to visit their friend who lives in South Pointe or South Village and vice versa? Are we going to send
him/her down Spear Street? How about the nurse or doctor who lives in South Village who wants to safely
bike commute year‐round to work at the medical center? I have friends in their 80s who live in South Pointe
that have been waiting for years to have a safe, year‐round path to walk or ride their bikes through to the
shared‐use paths on Nowland Farm Road and beyond without having to risk their lives walking and riding on
Spear Street from the entrance of South Pointe to Nowland Farm Road. We, who live east and west of
Nowland Farm Road and have a safe, plowed, year‐round shared‐use path to reach Hubbard, do not fully
understand the hazards our neighbors who live north and south must face not being able to safely access the
bike path network without venturing out on Spear Street.
This paved path is part of a much bigger multi‐modal transportation system and getting people out of cars is
one of the City's climate goals. I understand and empathize with the people who do not want anything built at
Hubbard, as they also are thinking of the Park’s impact on the environment, but I believe the CO2 reduction
will be greater with a paved shared‐use path than with the grass it will replace.
Sorry for the long narrative, but I wanted to provide you with a different perspective for the case to support
the paving of the shared‐use path through Hubbard Park. I ask you to write to all the City Councilors at
citycouncil@southburlingtonvt.gov in support of paving the shared‐use path. Please also comment for, or
against, the rest of the minor improvements planned for the Park. Instead of responding to this email, please
let your thoughts be known to the City Council by email and attend the City Council meeting on July 17th.
Thank you.
Bob Britt
802‐338‐6334 (cell)
From: robinhallvt@gmail.com <robinhallvt@gmail.com>
Sent: Sunday, June 18, 2023 7:50 AM
To: 5duffers@comcast.net <5duffers@comcast.net>; 'Aaron Cowan' <joeriffanucci@gmail.com>; 'Andrea Balazs'
<andreabalazs@yahoo.com>; 'Bill Bodette' <wjbodette@gmail.com>; 'Bob Britt' <brittvtbiz@msn.com>; 'CHEUNG
WONG' <twentewong@comcast.net>; 'Catherine Seward' <ckseward@comcast.net>; 'Chris Bleill'
<chrisbleill@gmail.com>; 'Danielle Cohen' <danielle@danielle‐cohen.com>; 'Dave Hartwell'
<dhartwell@achathorne.com>; 'Gene Steinfeld' <kim_gene@msn.com>; 'JOHN DIRMAIER' <jdirmaier@aol.com>; 'Jamie
Addessi' <jaddessi@gmail.com>; 'Jennifer Cohen' <jcohen@vermontcommons.org>; 'Jim Langan' <jlangan@dinse.com>;
'Joan Britt' <joanbrittvt@gmail.com>; 'Kevin M. Henry' <khenry@primmer.com>; Lafayette.chris@gmail.com
<Lafayette.chris@gmail.com>; 'Linda McGinnis' <lindamcginnis0@gmail.com>; 'Linda Norris' <ljnorris66@gmail.com>;
'Maria Jamieson' <Maria.Jamieson@uvm.edu>; 'Marisa Rorabaugh' <MRorabaugh@southburlingtonvt.gov>; 'Monika
25
Ingalls' <moingalls@southburlingtonvt.gov>; 'Patrick Leavey' <patrickjleavey@gmail.com>; 'Robin Hall'
<robin@hickokandboardman.com>; 'Sam Carlson' <samuelccarlson@gmail.com>; 'Suzanne Lowensohn'
<Suzanne.Lowensohn@uvm.edu>; 'Ted Colligan' <ted@appletreebay.com>; 'Tyler Sperry' <tyler_sperry@yahoo.com>;
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geochazman@gmail.com <geochazman@gmail.com>; guspoulos@yahoo.com <guspoulos@yahoo.com>;
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jack.comer@comcast.net <jack.comer@comcast.net>; jdmacdon29@comcast.net <jdmacdon29@comcast.net>;
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jsccomm@comcast.net <jsccomm@comcast.net>; julie.phillips@uvmhealth.org <julie.phillips@uvmhealth.org>;
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<ljrubin2@comcast.net>; markallensaunders@gmail.com <markallensaunders@gmail.com>;
martha.mcauliffe@uvmhealth.org <martha.mcauliffe@uvmhealth.org>; mbartholomew45@gmail.com
<mbartholomew45@gmail.com>; 'mtn_rydr@yahoo com' <mtn_rydr@yahoo.com>; nick@vtpma.com
<nick@vtpma.com>; pgras@gordonstamp.com <pgras@gordonstamp.com>; piasvt93@aol.com <piasvt93@aol.com>;
ralphineorourke@yahoo.com <ralphineorourke@yahoo.com>; richard.huestis@gmail.com
<richard.huestis@gmail.com>; rk.lafayette@gmail.com <rk.lafayette@gmail.com>; roysr1@comcast.net
<roysr1@comcast.net>; rzsaunders@yahoo.com <rzsaunders@yahoo.com>; scottjcohen@sbcglobal.net
<scottjcohen@sbcglobal.net>; slowenso@uvm.edu <slowenso@uvm.edu>; tenlhakhang@gmail.com
<tenlhakhang@gmail.com>; timothyduff@gmail.com <timothyduff@gmail.com>; tipelino@gmail.com
<tipelino@gmail.com>; twentewong@gmail.com <twentewong@gmail.com>; wnmarti@gmail.com
<wnmarti@gmail.com>; y.barbdean@gmail.com <y.barbdean@gmail.com>; LYoung@800response.com
<LYoung@800response.com>; djln5@yahoo.com <djln5@yahoo.com>; brendabalon@comcast.net
<brendabalon@comcast.net>
Subject: Hubbard Park development necessary?
Good morning neighbors,
I am forwarding on an informative email from the Pinnacle at Spear neighborhood association on the development of
Hubbard Park. As we prepare to pay for and implement an expensive stormwater system, the city’s plans to develop the
60‐acre park will impact our neighborhood with 30 additional parking spaces, a 10 ft wide paved path, and playground.
There has been no study by the city to understand the current use of the land which is for walking, snowing shoeing and
enjoying the woods. It appears that the project will cost tax payers $611,000 in addition to the Pennies for Paths funds. I
have tried to find new information on the status of the park but could not find much. The last public meeting I believe
was held (via zoom) in the fall of 2021. Please see email below from the Pinnacle neighborhood which summarizes some
of the issues. I have written to Meghan Emery and hope you can do the same today or Monday as there is a council
meeting that may vote to move forward with the project. A letter to the director of the Rec Department, Holly Rees at
hrees@sburl.com might be impactful. Hope you will take a moment to consider this important City issue.
Robin Hall, agent
26
eXp Realty
Robinhallvt@gmail.com
802‐233‐6849
Begin forwarded message:
Hello Neighbors ‐
This is an update to last week's email. How do you feel about Hubbard Park being
developed? The HOA is trying to understand the overall feeling of our Pinnacle at Spear
residents. Please take a moment to fill out this very brief survey. Thanks to those that
have filled it out already but we'd like to hear from more of you. You can also reply back
to this email with your thoughts.
For those neighbors that would like to keep Hubbard Park as it is, it's important to take
one of the following steps prior to the next City Council Meeting this coming Monday,
June 19. There is a good chance the City Council may vote to move forward on the
project during that meeting.
1. For the most impact, send an email to City Council member Meaghan
Emery(memery@southburlingtonvt.gov) and ask her to share your
concerns with the rest of the councilors.
2. Attend a City Council meeting (in person or by Zoom) on the first and
third Monday of every month. The next meeting is this Monday, June 19
at 6:30 pm. From 6:35pm to 6:45pm they have comments or questions
from the public not related to the agenda.
View Hubbard Park Plans HERE. See the specific pages listed below for Hubbard Park
info.
Page 161‐Project Design Elements:
o a 10 foot wide paved shared path across the middle of
the field to connect to the next community on
Unswept Lane. This paved path is for bikers to come
off Spear Street and connect over to Knowland Farm.
o Improved parking lot (for 30 cars) with lighted lot and
accessible parking
o Viewing area with stonewall, seating with Adirondack
chairs and picnic tables, open grass space and shade
trees
o Stormwater treatment areas
Page 162‐Current Design
Page 163 & 164‐Entrance and Parking Area with a drawing
Page 166‐Shared Use Path with drawing
Page 167 & 168‐Viewing area with a drawing
Page 171‐Project Cost ($611,000) tax payers
Page 172‐Next Steps:
o Development Review Board(late Summer 2023)
o Finalize Permitting(early Fall 2023)
o Complete Contract Plans(late Fall 2023)
o Construction(Spring 2024)
Kindly, the HOA Board
27
Susith Wijetunga ‐ Pinnacle
Jill Bohlmann ‐ Vale
Diane Nelson ‐ Vale
Send inquiries or suggestions for the Board of Directors
to: PinnacleAtSpearHOA@gmail.com
Send Architectural Review Board inquiries to: PinnacleAtSpearARB@gmail.com
‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐ Forwarded message ‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐
From: Board of Directors Pinnacle At Spear <pinnacleatspearhoa@gmail.com>
Date: Fri, Jun 9, 2023 at 5:32 PM
Subject: Hubbard Park Update
To: Board of Directors Pinnacle At Spear <pinnacleatspearhoa@gmail.com>
Hello Pinnacle at Spear Neighbors,
We would like to share some recent information on the development of Hubbard Park (the open
but asked the Hubbard Project team to evaluate alternative surface pricing for the pathway; so t
for construction bids or finalizing any construction schedules. (The current materials staged at th
If you are interested in learning more, please review the Hubbard plans using the link below. Se
Page 161‐Project Design Elements:
o a 10 foot wide paved shared path across the middle of the field to connect to the
Knowland Farm.
o Improved parking lot (for 30 cars) with lighted lot and accessible parking
o Viewing area with stonewall, seating with Adirondack chairs and picnic tables, op
o Stormwater treatment areas
Page 162‐Current Design
Page 163 & 164‐Entrance and Parking Area with a drawing
Page 166‐Shared Use Path with drawing
Page 167 & 168‐Viewing area with a drawing
Page 171‐Project Cost ($611,000) tax payers
Page 172‐Next Steps:
o Development Review Board(late Summer 2023)
o Finalize Permitting(early Fall 2023)
o Complete Contract Plans(late Fall 2023)
o Construction(Spring 2024)
Click here to access presentation:
PDF.js viewer
sbvt-records.info
Currently, there are a few neighbors that have concerns about the development. If you are conc
28
1. Send an email to City Council member Meaghan Emery(memery@southburlingtonvt.gov) to s
2. Attend a City Council meeting on the first and third Monday of every month. The next meeting
public not related to the agenda.
3. Contact Project Manager, Erica Quallen at equallen@southburlingtonvt.gov for questions and
In addition, we are trying to understand the overall feeling of our Pinnacle at Spear residents on
Thank you.
Kindly, the HOA Board
Susith Wijetunga ‐ Pinnacle
Jill Bohlmann ‐ Vale
Diane Nelson ‐ Vale
Please continue to send inquiries or suggestions for the Board of Directors
to: PinnacleAtSpearHOA@gmail.com
Please continue to send Architectural Review Board inquiries
to: PinnacleAtSpearARB@gmail.com
Kindly, the HOA Board,
Susith Wijetunga ‐ Pinnacle
Jill Bohlmann ‐ Vale
Diane Nelson ‐ Vale
Please continue to send inquiries or suggestions for the Board of Directors to:
PinnacleAtSpearHOA@gmail.com
Please continue to send Architectural Review Board inquiries to:
PinnacleAtSpearARB@gmail.com
29
Erica Quallen
From:Jessie Baker
Sent:Monday, July 3, 2023 10:35 AM
To:Beth Zigmund
Cc:Erica Quallen; Andrew Chalnick; Helen Riehle; Meaghan Emery; Tim Barritt; Tyler Barnes
Subject:RE: 'EXTERNAL'Hubbard bike path
Hello Dr. Zigmund,
Thank you for sharing your thoughts. The City Council will be discussing this project at their July 17th Council
meeting. With this email, I’m sharing your comments with them.
Thank you,
Jessie
From: Beth Zigmund <bzig23@gmail.com>
Sent: Monday, July 3, 2023 10:25 AM
To: Jessie Baker <jbaker@southburlingtonvt.gov>
Cc: Erica Quallen <equallen@southburlingtonvt.gov>
Subject: 'EXTERNAL'Hubbard bike path
This message has originated from an External Source. Please use proper judgment and caution when opening
attachments, clicking links, or responding to this email.
Hello, City Manager Baker.
I am pleased to read that climate resilience is a top priority for the City according to the 2024 draft
plan! Urgent action is necessary, from the local to global level - it is appropriate that this would be a
top priority, if not the single biggest priority - of our City. I am also happy to see that allowing for safe,
active transportation is listed as a priority. This will serve the goal of climate change mitigation and
would result in immediate health co-benefits (and healthcare cost savings) through reduction of fossil
fuel pollution - a serious concern as our City core becomes denser.
Regarding active transportation, a tremendous amount of vitriol and climate doomism is emanating
from a certain part of South Burlington over the potential construction of a bike path through Hubbard
park, solely from folks who would have to look at it and are used to seeing a large, open, green field.
Almost daily in my inbox, I have been receiving grim predictions of untold environmental destruction
that would result from.... a bike path. These claims are not reality- or science-based.
I am writing to express my strong support for the path. To be clear, I would not use it because I live
north of the proposed path. But I commute by bicycle (weather and air quality permitting), and I
believe people who live south of the park need a SAFE way to bike commute to the center of S.
Burlington and Burlington. Riding on Dorset Rd, Spear St, and Shelburne Rd are simply too
dangerous. I am fortunate enough to have access to safe, paved paths almost the entire way to work.
30
I ride on Spear St for the stretch between Songbird Rd and the path next to UVM forestry and have
almost been killed twice in the past 3 years, even on that very short piece of road. Few folks commute
by bicycle. I believe a big part of the reason is the lack of convenient, safe, contiguous south to north
routes. It is my understanding that there is no alternative location for the proposed Hubbard Park path
that would connect cyclists south of Hubbard to more northern routes.
As you know, S. Burlington cannot achieve its climate change goals without addressing
transportation, which represents our largest source of greenhouse gas emissions by far. People who
only use cars to commute and oppose bike paths - curiously, only the ones in their "backyards" - are
not thinking clearly about what is needed to address climate change, despite their endless homilies. I
believe a large number of folks in S. Burlington - who perhaps are not aware of City initiatives
because they are younger, have children, and are working full time or more - would be in favor of a
bolder vision for the future of our City, which would include comprehensive bicycle infrastructure.
Thank you for taking the time to read my email.
Sincerely,
Beth Zigmund
Beth Zigmund, MD
Director of Lung Cancer Screening, UVMMC
Climate Change and Sustainability Credentials:
UVMMC Sustainability Council (local)
Co-Chair, Radiologists for a Sustainable Future (national)
Steering Committee of the Medical Society Consortium on Climate and Health (national)
American College of Radiology Task Force on Climate Change and Sustainability (national)
Association of University Radiologists Committee on Climate Change and Sustainability (national)
31
Erica Quallen
From:Beth Zigmund <bzig23@gmail.com>
Sent:Monday, July 3, 2023 10:25 AM
To:Jessie Baker
Cc:Erica Quallen
Subject:'EXTERNAL'Hubbard bike path
This message has originated from an External Source. Please use proper judgment and caution when opening
attachments, clicking links, or responding to this email.
Hello, City Manager Baker.
I am pleased to read that climate resilience is a top priority for the City according to the 2024 draft
plan! Urgent action is necessary, from the local to global level - it is appropriate that this would be a
top priority, if not the single biggest priority - of our City. I am also happy to see that allowing for safe,
active transportation is listed as a priority. This will serve the goal of climate change mitigation and
would result in immediate health co-benefits (and healthcare cost savings) through reduction of fossil
fuel pollution - a serious concern as our City core becomes denser.
Regarding active transportation, a tremendous amount of vitriol and climate doomism is emanating
from a certain part of South Burlington over the potential construction of a bike path through Hubbard
park, solely from folks who would have to look at it and are used to seeing a large, open, green field.
Almost daily in my inbox, I have been receiving grim predictions of untold environmental destruction
that would result from.... a bike path. These claims are not reality- or science-based.
I am writing to express my strong support for the path. To be clear, I would not use it because I live
north of the proposed path. But I commute by bicycle (weather and air quality permitting), and I
believe people who live south of the park need a SAFE way to bike commute to the center of S.
Burlington and Burlington. Riding on Dorset Rd, Spear St, and Shelburne Rd are simply too
dangerous. I am fortunate enough to have access to safe, paved paths almost the entire way to work.
I ride on Spear St for the stretch between Songbird Rd and the path next to UVM forestry and have
almost been killed twice in the past 3 years, even on that very short piece of road. Few folks commute
by bicycle. I believe a big part of the reason is the lack of convenient, safe, contiguous south to north
routes. It is my understanding that there is no alternative location for the proposed Hubbard Park path
that would connect cyclists south of Hubbard to more northern routes.
As you know, S. Burlington cannot achieve its climate change goals without addressing
transportation, which represents our largest source of greenhouse gas emissions by far. People who
only use cars to commute and oppose bike paths - curiously, only the ones in their "backyards" - are
not thinking clearly about what is needed to address climate change, despite their endless homilies. I
believe a large number of folks in S. Burlington - who perhaps are not aware of City initiatives
because they are younger, have children, and are working full time or more - would be in favor of a
bolder vision for the future of our City, which would include comprehensive bicycle infrastructure.
Thank you for taking the time to read my email.
32
Sincerely,
Beth Zigmund
Beth Zigmund, MD
Director of Lung Cancer Screening, UVMMC
Climate Change and Sustainability Credentials:
UVMMC Sustainability Council (local)
Co-Chair, Radiologists for a Sustainable Future (national)
Steering Committee of the Medical Society Consortium on Climate and Health (national)
American College of Radiology Task Force on Climate Change and Sustainability (national)
Association of University Radiologists Committee on Climate Change and Sustainability (national)
33
Erica Quallen
From:Jessie Baker
Sent:Friday, June 23, 2023 9:04 AM
To:Erica Quallen
Cc:Tom DiPietro
Subject:FW: 'EXTERNAL'Paving Hubbard Park
FYI
From: taralovers@netzero.net <taralovers@netzero.net>
Sent: Thursday, June 22, 2023 8:06 PM
To: CityCouncil <CityCouncil@SouthBurlingtonVT.gov>
Subject: 'EXTERNAL'Paving Hubbard Park
This message has originated from an External Source. Please use proper judgment and caution when opening
attachments, clicking links, or responding to this email.
Greetings City Council,
I'm writing to voice my support for paving Hubbard Park. I'm a member of the bike/ped committee and have been to
multiple planning meetings for the property, multiple discussions with the BPC, and the most recent meeting on 5/15 for
this topic. I do note, that I write this letter as a member of the public, and not on behalf of the committee.
I think it is great we are all thinking of the environment as we debate this issue.
In my opinion there will be a few environmental "losses" if we pave the path, mild loss of habitat and some asphalt run
off (engineered to be minimal with storm water management already in the plan). However, I think we stand to gain
more in the big picture by paving than we lose. This is a key part of our north/south path system along spear street,
which will offer a low stress route for many employees to many employers in Burlington. Spear street is a high priority
street for offering off road bike/ped infrastructure. Getting cars off the road and reducing miles driven is a key
component of the Climate Action Plan, and this is what it looks like.
Rather than purchase a car for our daughter when she got her license, we share a car and I ride a pedal assist e‐bike to
work April through November and take the bus November through April. I rarely drive to work. Choices like this
decrease the need for cars and all the pollution involved in manufacturing, and the natural resources needed for
manufacturing. The key to improved climate is not to continue to purchase cars and have single drivers on the street, it
is to get people out of their cars. A mowed path, or crushed stone is not going to do this.
I don't love paving over a meadow. I don't love asphalt. However, we don't have other good options at this time. In 2022
we (BPC and DPW) thoroughly looked at impervious surfaces, they are expensive/difficult to maintain and require
special equipment that we don't have at this time. Other communities that have tired this have not had good
experiences. In the future, when this path is ready to be re‐surfaced, I am hopeful that we will have better options and
we should certainly revisit this issue at that time.
34
For the path to be used, it needs to be reliable (year round maintenance) and smooth/easy to use. We pave our other
roads for a reason, they are easier and more efficient to use. Many people in my neighborhood run and walk in the
street rather than on the side walk as the side walk is not smooth enough. Gravel is slippery and it is easier to fall.
Equity is last but not least. The property, as it is, is not really fully accessible by the public. Part of the Climate Action Plan
is also giving people parks to connect with nature and create community. With a mowed path we severely limit who can
participate. We would never put up a sign that says "Able Body People Only" but when you engineer a space without
accommodations, you are doing exactly this in a less overt, but no less clear way. It is a little like the Chemistry floor at
my college, there were no women's bathrooms for the female chemistry majors. It lets you know you aren't really
welcome and don't belong. This is not the message we should be sending. Everyone should have access to the splendid
view.
Thanks so much for reading this, and I truly appreciate your service to the city.
Havaleh Gagne (she/her)
35
Erica Quallen
From:Aaron Cowan <joeriffanucci@gmail.com>
Sent:Tuesday, June 20, 2023 1:22 PM
To:Meaghan Emery
Cc:Erica Quallen; Holly Rees
Subject:Re: 'EXTERNAL'Fwd: Hubbard Park development necessary?
Thanks for your response. The Stormwater issues are related to the state mandate and our neighborhood being
expected to foot the bill for the town’s existing infrastructure not complying with it . Dave Wheeler is the one in charge
of this now.
The new development I was referencing was O’brien, Spear Meadows and the ever expanding South Village. The impact
is far greater than we have infrastructure for. I believe there will need to be a traffic light installed at Nowhland and
Deerfield at overlook. My concerns are that there are more of these large communities planned and I see the
devastation this has brought to Williston. Explosive growth always ends at the expense of existing resident’s quality of
life. I’m not anti growth but I believe that it all needs to be approached with a lighter hand with more eco friendly
plans. I’m sure people moving from NY and California see this as living in the woods but Vermonters do not. We value
nature and the peace it provides in this stressful world.
I appreciate that the plan isn’t to decimate the 60 acres of Hubbard. It’s my mistake believing it was in land trust and
protected from any development. The 30 parking lots still makes me very wary but I don’t have much faith on it being
modified at this point.
Thank you for considering my voice and point of view.
Regards
Aaron Cowan
On Tue, Jun 20, 2023 at 12:27 PM Meaghan Emery <memery@southburlingtonvt.gov> wrote:
Dear Aaron,
Thank you for writing. I am not aware of the issues regarding the water line break and stormwater fees, and I
encourage you to follow up with Erica regarding both. Water lines do break from time to time, and repairs
are not an uncommon occurrence. I would be surprised to learn that you will be incurring new stormwater
fees on top of what you already pay. Erica, please copy me on any reply you send regarding this query.
Please know that I am only in favor of limited incursion into the park. I understand and value the existential
need we have to maintain our green spaces.
Regarding city center, which I believe you are referencing, I support smart growth municipal planning, which
includes concentrated, dense housing and mixed‐use development to reduce sprawl and vehicle miles
traveled, and strongly advocate housing and accessible green space for all, regardless of income level.
The City Council will next be discussing Hubbard Recreation and Natural Area on Monday, July 17. I hope that
you can join us either in person at 180 Market Street (in the auditorium) or virtually.
All my best,
Meaghan
36
Meaghan Emery
Vice‐Chair, South Burlington City Council
From: Aaron Cowan <joeriffanucci@gmail.com>
Sent: Sunday, June 18, 2023 3:22 PM
To: Meaghan Emery <memery@southburlingtonvt.gov>; Holly Rees <hrees@southburlingtonvt.gov>; Erica Quallen
<equallen@southburlingtonvt.gov>
Subject: 'EXTERNAL'Fwd: Hubbard Park development necessary?
This message has originated from an External Source. Please use proper judgment and caution when opening
attachments, clicking links, or responding to this email.
Hello Megan, Holly and Erica
I'm a concerned resident of Deerfield Drive who recently had a road closure due to a water main exploding in our
neighborhood last week. This oddly coincided with the water line construction at Hubbard park. This was an
inconvenience but now I'm hearing about this plan to destroy the open and unfettered greenspace of Hubbard natural
area with a very expansive park system. I feel as though this has been largely off radar for many residents and being
green lit for some strange reason. Why would a greenspace need to be covered in asphalt when Overlook Park is
across the street and Wheeler/Cairns is barely a mile away? The looming stormwater issues that the town/state is
about to unleash are a cruel and unusual punishment for taxpayers to incur on top of the already high tax rate. Another
park will only burden everyone with excessive taxation and destroy greenspace which is irreversible. This town is
sacrificing it's fundamental duty and should focus on maintaining and upgrading the parks we have. I'm disturbed by
the amount of waste and litter at Overlook daily. I'm also disturbed by the destruction of other greenspace in lieu of
new spraw construction(Luxury or low income)l. Please consider that nature is a primary draw to our city and not
excessive amenities for new out of state business. Once it's overdeveloped it's lost.
I look forward to your response and any clarification on this trend. (My previous correspondence with city planning has
only been met with ghosting and completely unresponded to.)
Aaron Cowan
Deerfield Drive, S Burlington
‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐ Forwarded message ‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐
From: Robin Hall <robinhallvt@gmail.com>
Date: Sun, Jun 18, 2023 at 2:34 PM
Subject: Re: Hubbard Park development necessary?
To: Aaron Cowan <joeriffanucci@gmail.com>
Cc: <5duffers@comcast.net>, Andrea Balazs <andreabalazs@yahoo.com>, Bill Bodette <wjbodette@gmail.com>, Bob
Britt <brittvtbiz@msn.com>, CHEUNG WONG <twentewong@comcast.net>, Catherine Seward
<ckseward@comcast.net>, Chris Bleill <chrisbleill@gmail.com>, Danielle Cohen <danielle@danielle‐cohen.com>, Dave
Hartwell <dhartwell@achathorne.com>, Gene Steinfeld <kim_gene@msn.com>, JOHN DIRMAIER
<jdirmaier@aol.com>, Jamie Addessi <jaddessi@gmail.com>, Jennifer Cohen <jcohen@vermontcommons.org>, Jim
Langan <jlangan@dinse.com>, Joan Britt <joanbrittvt@gmail.com>, Kevin M. Henry <khenry@primmer.com>,
<Lafayette.chris@gmail.com>, Linda McGinnis <lindamcginnis0@gmail.com>, Linda Norris <ljnorris66@gmail.com>,
Maria Jamieson <Maria.Jamieson@uvm.edu>, Marisa Rorabaugh <MRorabaugh@southburlingtonvt.gov>, Monika
37
Ingalls <moingalls@southburlingtonvt.gov>, Patrick Leavey <patrickjleavey@gmail.com>, Robin Hall
<robin@hickokandboardman.com>, Sam Carlson <samuelccarlson@gmail.com>, Suzanne Lowensohn
<Suzanne.Lowensohn@uvm.edu>, Ted Colligan <ted@appletreebay.com>, Tyler Sperry <tyler_sperry@yahoo.com>,
Wilkinson, Claire S. <cwilkinson@middlebury.edu>, <aimeebmarti@gmail.com>, <akestner@langrock.com>,
<annaleavey@gmail.com>, <atnorris66@gmail.com>, <bcsmmoore@comcast.net>, <bmoore96969@gmail.com>,
<bobbi.dirmaier@gmail.com>, <charlotte.ancel@gmail.com>, <cldesmet2@icloud.com>, <cmcapano@comcast.net>,
<courtneyawillson@gmail.com>, <dave.burkevt@gmail.com>, <debracoel@yahoo.com>,
<dennis.clougherty@gmail.com>, <djw@acm.org>, <feather1067@gmail.com>, <fran.clougherty@gmail.com>,
<geochazman@gmail.com>, <guspoulos@yahoo.com>, <heidi.addessi@coxautoinc.com>, <huestisfs@gmail.com>,
<jack.comer@comcast.net>, <jdmacdon29@comcast.net>, <jdp@scriberule.org>, <jeanne.kellner73@gmail.com>,
<jeskraus@comcast.net>, <jnn_lawrence@yahoo.com>, <jsccomm@comcast.net>, <julie.phillips@uvmhealth.org>,
<karadeleonardis@gmail.com>, <karen@kpsnorth.com>, <klmkms@comcast.net>, <ksjivie@yahoo.com>,
<leahburkevt@gmail.com>, <lgcapano@comcast.net>, <ljrubin2@comcast.net>, <markallensaunders@gmail.com>,
<martha.mcauliffe@uvmhealth.org>, <mbartholomew45@gmail.com>, mtn_rydr@yahoo com
<mtn_rydr@yahoo.com>, <nick@vtpma.com>, <pgras@gordonstamp.com>, <piasvt93@aol.com>,
<ralphineorourke@yahoo.com>, <richard.huestis@gmail.com>, <rk.lafayette@gmail.com>, <roysr1@comcast.net>,
<rzsaunders@yahoo.com>, <scottjcohen@sbcglobal.net>, <slowenso@uvm.edu>, <tenlhakhang@gmail.com>,
<timothyduff@gmail.com>, <tipelino@gmail.com>, <twentewong@gmail.com>, <wnmarti@gmail.com>,
<y.barbdean@gmail.com>, <LYoung@800response.com>, <djln5@yahoo.com>, <brendabalon@comcast.net>,
<memery@southburlingtonvt.gov>
I agree on value of green space and keeping things less developed. Plus we have Overlook Park too. Seems like they are
creating a solution that doesn’t have a problem. And South Burlington is a great place to live, but there are limits on
what we all can afford and enjoy.
Hope you will write a letter to the council member and the Park And Rec person.
Kind regards, Robin
Robin Hall, agent
eXp Realty
Robinhallvt@gmail.com
802‐233‐6849
On Jun 18, 2023, at 1:20 PM, Aaron Cowan <joeriffanucci@gmail.com> wrote:
Thanks for informing us. I had no idea this was the plan. I wonder if the water main that broke on
Deerfield closing the road had anything to do with the system being overtaxed with all the new
development... This is a sad development considering Wheeler is so close to the neighborhood. Green
space is a commodity that we can't get back
On Sun, Jun 18, 2023 at 7:54 AM <robinhallvt@gmail.com> wrote:
Resending to include Megan Emery’s email: memery@southburlingtonvt.gov
From: robinhallvt@gmail.com <robinhallvt@gmail.com>
Sent: Sunday, June 18, 2023 7:51 AM
38
To: 5duffers@comcast.net; 'Aaron Cowan' <joeriffanucci@gmail.com>; 'Andrea Balazs'
<andreabalazs@yahoo.com>; 'Bill Bodette' <wjbodette@gmail.com>; 'Bob Britt'
<brittvtbiz@msn.com>; 'CHEUNG WONG' <twentewong@comcast.net>; 'Catherine Seward'
<ckseward@comcast.net>; 'Chris Bleill' <chrisbleill@gmail.com>; 'Danielle Cohen' <danielle@danielle‐
cohen.com>; 'Dave Hartwell' <dhartwell@achathorne.com>; 'Gene Steinfeld' <kim_gene@msn.com>;
'JOHN DIRMAIER' <jdirmaier@aol.com>; 'Jamie Addessi' <jaddessi@gmail.com>; 'Jennifer Cohen'
<jcohen@vermontcommons.org>; 'Jim Langan' <jlangan@dinse.com>; 'Joan Britt'
<joanbrittvt@gmail.com>; 'Kevin M. Henry' <khenry@primmer.com>; Lafayette.chris@gmail.com;
'Linda McGinnis' <lindamcginnis0@gmail.com>; 'Linda Norris' <ljnorris66@gmail.com>; 'Maria
Jamieson' <Maria.Jamieson@uvm.edu>; 'Marisa Rorabaugh' <MRorabaugh@southburlingtonvt.gov>;
'Monika Ingalls' <moingalls@southburlingtonvt.gov>; 'Patrick Leavey' <patrickjleavey@gmail.com>;
'Robin Hall' <robin@hickokandboardman.com>; 'Sam Carlson' <samuelccarlson@gmail.com>;
'Suzanne Lowensohn' <Suzanne.Lowensohn@uvm.edu>; 'Ted Colligan' <ted@appletreebay.com>;
'Tyler Sperry' <tyler_sperry@yahoo.com>; 'Wilkinson, Claire S.' <cwilkinson@middlebury.edu>;
aimeebmarti@gmail.com; akestner@langrock.com; annaleavey@gmail.com; atnorris66@gmail.com;
bcsmmoore@comcast.net; bmoore96969@gmail.com; bobbi.dirmaier@gmail.com;
charlotte.ancel@gmail.com; cldesmet2@icloud.com; cmcapano@comcast.net;
courtneyawillson@gmail.com; dave.burkevt@gmail.com; debracoel@yahoo.com;
dennis.clougherty@gmail.com; djw@acm.org; feather1067@gmail.com; fran.clougherty@gmail.com;
geochazman@gmail.com; guspoulos@yahoo.com; heidi.addessi@coxautoinc.com;
huestisfs@gmail.com; jack.comer@comcast.net; jdmacdon29@comcast.net; jdp@scriberule.org;
jeanne.kellner73@gmail.com; jeskraus@comcast.net; jnn_lawrence@yahoo.com;
jsccomm@comcast.net; julie.phillips@uvmhealth.org; karadeleonardis@gmail.com;
karen@kpsnorth.com; klmkms@comcast.net; ksjivie@yahoo.com; leahburkevt@gmail.com;
lgcapano@comcast.net; ljrubin2@comcast.net; markallensaunders@gmail.com;
martha.mcauliffe@uvmhealth.org; mbartholomew45@gmail.com; 'mtn_rydr@yahoo com'
<mtn_rydr@yahoo.com>; nick@vtpma.com; pgras@gordonstamp.com; piasvt93@aol.com;
ralphineorourke@yahoo.com; richard.huestis@gmail.com; rk.lafayette@gmail.com;
roysr1@comcast.net; rzsaunders@yahoo.com; scottjcohen@sbcglobal.net; slowenso@uvm.edu;
tenlhakhang@gmail.com; timothyduff@gmail.com; tipelino@gmail.com; twentewong@gmail.com;
wnmarti@gmail.com; y.barbdean@gmail.com; LYoung@800response.com; djln5@yahoo.com;
brendabalon@comcast.net
Subject: Hubbard Park development necessary?
Good morning neighbors,
I am forwarding on an informative email from the Pinnacle at Spear neighborhood association on the
development of Hubbard Park. As we prepare to pay for and implement an expensive stormwater
system, the city’s plans to develop the 60‐acre park will impact our neighborhood with 30 additional
parking spaces, a 10 ft wide paved path, and playground. There has been no study by the city to
understand the current use of the land which is for walking, snowing shoeing and enjoying the
woods. It appears that the project will cost tax payers $611,000 in addition to the Pennies for Paths
funds. I have tried to find new information on the status of the park but could not find much. The last
public meeting I believe was held (via zoom) in the fall of 2021. Please see email below from the
Pinnacle neighborhood which summarizes some of the issues. I have written to Meghan Emery and
hope you can do the same today or Monday as there is a council meeting that may vote to move
39
forward with the project. A letter to the director of the Rec Department, Holly Rees at
hrees@sburl.com might be impactful. Hope you will take a moment to consider this important City
issue.
Robin Hall, agent
eXp Realty
Robinhallvt@gmail.com
802‐233‐6849
Begin forwarded message:
Hello Neighbors ‐
This is an update to last week's email. How do you feel about
Hubbard Park being developed? The HOA is trying to understand the
overall feeling of our Pinnacle at Spear residents. Please take a
moment to fill out this very brief survey. Thanks to those that have
filled it out already but we'd like to hear from more of you. You can
also reply back to this email with your thoughts.
For those neighbors that would like to keep Hubbard Park as it is, it's
important to take one of the following steps prior to the next City
Council Meeting this coming Monday, June 19. There is a good
chance the City Council may vote to move forward on the project
during that meeting.
1. For the most impact, send an email to City Council
member Meaghan
Emery(memery@southburlingtonvt.gov) and ask her
to share your concerns with the rest of the councilors.
2. Attend a City Council meeting (in person or by
Zoom) on the first and third Monday of every month.
The next meeting is this Monday, June 19 at 6:30
pm. From 6:35pm to 6:45pm they have comments or
questions from the public not related to the agenda.
40
View Hubbard Park Plans HERE. See the specific pages listed below
for Hubbard Park info.
Page 161‐Project Design Elements:
o a 10 foot wide paved shared
path across the middle of the field
to connect to the next community
on Unswept Lane. This paved path
is for bikers to come off Spear
Street and connect over to
Knowland Farm.
o Improved parking lot (for 30
cars) with lighted lot and accessible
parking
o Viewing area with stonewall,
seating with Adirondack chairs and
picnic tables, open grass space and
shade trees
o Stormwater treatment areas
Page 162‐Current Design
Page 163 & 164‐Entrance and Parking
Area with a drawing
Page 166‐Shared Use Path with
drawing
Page 167 & 168‐Viewing area with a
drawing
Page 171‐Project Cost ($611,000) tax
payers
Page 172‐Next Steps:
o Development Review Board(late
Summer 2023)
o Finalize Permitting(early Fall
2023)
o Complete Contract Plans(late
Fall 2023)
o Construction(Spring 2024)
Kindly, the HOA Board
41
Susith Wijetunga ‐ Pinnacle
Jill Bohlmann ‐ Vale
Diane Nelson ‐ Vale
Send inquiries or suggestions for the Board of Directors
to: PinnacleAtSpearHOA@gmail.com
Send Architectural Review Board inquiries
to: PinnacleAtSpearARB@gmail.com
‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐ Forwarded message ‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐
From: Board of Directors Pinnacle At
Spear <pinnacleatspearhoa@gmail.com>
Date: Fri, Jun 9, 2023 at 5:32 PM
Subject: Hubbard Park Update
To: Board of Directors Pinnacle At Spear
<pinnacleatspearhoa@gmail.com>
Hello Pinnacle at Spear Neighbors,
We would like to share some recent information on the development of Hubbard Park
but asked the Hubbard Project team to evaluate alternative surface pricing for the path
for construction bids or finalizing any construction schedules. (The current materials sta
If you are interested in learning more, please review the Hubbard plans using the link b
Page 161‐Project Design Elements:
o a 10 foot wide paved shared path across the middle of the field to c
over to Knowland Farm.
42
o Improved parking lot (for 30 cars) with lighted lot and accessible pa
o Viewing area with stonewall, seating with Adirondack chairs and pic
o Stormwater treatment areas
Page 162‐Current Design
Page 163 & 164‐Entrance and Parking Area with a drawing
Page 166‐Shared Use Path with drawing
Page 167 & 168‐Viewing area with a drawing
Page 171‐Project Cost ($611,000) tax payers
Page 172‐Next Steps:
o Development Review Board(late Summer 2023)
o Finalize Permitting(early Fall 2023)
o Complete Contract Plans(late Fall 2023)
o Construction(Spring 2024)
Click here to access presentation:
PDF.js viewer
sbvt-records.info
Currently, there are a few neighbors that have concerns about the development. If you
1. Send an email to City Council member Meaghan Emery(memery@southburlingtonvt
2. Attend a City Council meeting on the first and third Monday of every month. The nex
public not related to the agenda.
3. Contact Project Manager, Erica Quallen at equallen@southburlingtonvt.gov for ques
In addition, we are trying to understand the overall feeling of our Pinnacle at Spear resi
43
Thank you.
Kindly, the HOA Board
Susith Wijetunga ‐ Pinnacle
Jill Bohlmann ‐ Vale
Diane Nelson ‐ Vale
Please continue to send inquiries or suggestions for the Board of
Directors to: PinnacleAtSpearHOA@gmail.com
Please continue to send Architectural Review Board inquiries
to: PinnacleAtSpearARB@gmail.com
Kindly, the HOA Board,
Susith Wijetunga ‐ Pinnacle
Jill Bohlmann ‐ Vale
Diane Nelson ‐ Vale
Please continue to send inquiries or suggestions for the Board of
Directors to: PinnacleAtSpearHOA@gmail.com
Please continue to send Architectural Review Board inquiries to:
PinnacleAtSpearARB@gmail.com
44
Erica Quallen
From:Meaghan Emery
Sent:Tuesday, June 20, 2023 12:34 PM
To:Jamie Addessi; Holly Rees; Erica Quallen
Subject:Re: 'EXTERNAL'Please vote to move forward with Hubbard Park
Dear Jamie,
Thank you for writing and sharing your viewpoint. I'm glad to learn that there is not unanimity among
neighbors, which indicates public support for the plan. We need to know this, and I have forwarded your email
to the full Council.
The City Council will next be discussing Hubbard Recreation and Natural Area on Monday, July 17. I hope that
you can join us either in person at 180 Market Street (in the auditorium) or virtually.
All my best,
Meaghan
Meaghan Emery
Vice‐Chair, South Burlington City Council
From: Jamie Addessi <jaddessi@gmail.com>
Sent: Sunday, June 18, 2023 3:50 PM
To: Meaghan Emery <memery@southburlingtonvt.gov>; Holly Rees <hrees@southburlingtonvt.gov>; Erica Quallen
<equallen@southburlingtonvt.gov>
Subject: 'EXTERNAL'Please vote to move forward with Hubbard Park
This message has originated from an External Source. Please use proper judgment and caution when opening
attachments, clicking links, or responding to this email.
Hello,
It has come to my attention that there are a few people in the community who are concerned about the Hubbard Park
project. As with all changes, there are often people who are nervous about the future. Please know that this is not the
common viewpoint. I'm sure that the vast majority of all residents in the adjacent neighborhoods are ecstatic about the
project, and will be excited to see it move forward.
Our family has been eagerly awaiting this park for years. If there's an opportunity to donate/contribute funds to help
the project proceed, we would love to. The designs look absolutely beautiful! I expect a recreation area like this to
significantly improve the property value of all nearby homes, and to provide everyone with a place to walk, play, picnic,
enjoy spectacular lake views, and spend time together with friends and family.
The current site is overgrown, providing minimal opportunities for enjoyment for most of us. Even dog walking is
undesirable due to ticks in the high grass.
Please DO vote to proceed with this project! It's been years in planning, and I hope it doesn't get delayed from
here. Would love to enjoy it sooner rather than later.
45
Jamie Addessi
7 Pheasant Way
46
Erica Quallen
From:Meaghan Emery
Sent:Tuesday, June 20, 2023 12:28 PM
To:Aaron Cowan; Holly Rees; Erica Quallen
Subject:Re: 'EXTERNAL'Fwd: Hubbard Park development necessary?
Dear Aaron,
Thank you for writing. I am not aware of the issues regarding the water line break and stormwater fees, and I
encourage you to follow up with Erica regarding both. Water lines do break from time to time, and repairs are
not an uncommon occurrence. I would be surprised to learn that you will be incurring new stormwater fees on
top of what you already pay. Erica, please copy me on any reply you send regarding this query.
Please know that I am only in favor of limited incursion into the park. I understand and value the existential
need we have to maintain our green spaces.
Regarding city center, which I believe you are referencing, I support smart growth municipal planning, which
includes concentrated, dense housing and mixed‐use development to reduce sprawl and vehicle miles
traveled, and strongly advocate housing and accessible green space for all, regardless of income level.
The City Council will next be discussing Hubbard Recreation and Natural Area on Monday, July 17. I hope that
you can join us either in person at 180 Market Street (in the auditorium) or virtually.
All my best,
Meaghan
Meaghan Emery
Vice‐Chair, South Burlington City Council
From: Aaron Cowan <joeriffanucci@gmail.com>
Sent: Sunday, June 18, 2023 3:22 PM
To: Meaghan Emery <memery@southburlingtonvt.gov>; Holly Rees <hrees@southburlingtonvt.gov>; Erica Quallen
<equallen@southburlingtonvt.gov>
Subject: 'EXTERNAL'Fwd: Hubbard Park development necessary?
This message has originated from an External Source. Please use proper judgment and caution when opening
attachments, clicking links, or responding to this email.
Hello Megan, Holly and Erica
I'm a concerned resident of Deerfield Drive who recently had a road closure due to a water main exploding in our
neighborhood last week. This oddly coincided with the water line construction at Hubbard park. This was an
inconvenience but now I'm hearing about this plan to destroy the open and unfettered greenspace of Hubbard natural
area with a very expansive park system. I feel as though this has been largely off radar for many residents and being
green lit for some strange reason. Why would a greenspace need to be covered in asphalt when Overlook Park is across
47
the street and Wheeler/Cairns is barely a mile away? The looming stormwater issues that the town/state is about to
unleash are a cruel and unusual punishment for taxpayers to incur on top of the already high tax rate. Another park will
only burden everyone with excessive taxation and destroy greenspace which is irreversible. This town is sacrificing it's
fundamental duty and should focus on maintaining and upgrading the parks we have. I'm disturbed by the amount of
waste and litter at Overlook daily. I'm also disturbed by the destruction of other greenspace in lieu of new spraw
construction(Luxury or low income)l. Please consider that nature is a primary draw to our city and not excessive
amenities for new out of state business. Once it's overdeveloped it's lost.
I look forward to your response and any clarification on this trend. (My previous correspondence with city planning has
only been met with ghosting and completely unresponded to.)
Aaron Cowan
Deerfield Drive, S Burlington
‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐ Forwarded message ‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐
From: Robin Hall <robinhallvt@gmail.com>
Date: Sun, Jun 18, 2023 at 2:34 PM
Subject: Re: Hubbard Park development necessary?
To: Aaron Cowan <joeriffanucci@gmail.com>
Cc: <5duffers@comcast.net>, Andrea Balazs <andreabalazs@yahoo.com>, Bill Bodette <wjbodette@gmail.com>, Bob
Britt <brittvtbiz@msn.com>, CHEUNG WONG <twentewong@comcast.net>, Catherine Seward
<ckseward@comcast.net>, Chris Bleill <chrisbleill@gmail.com>, Danielle Cohen <danielle@danielle‐cohen.com>, Dave
Hartwell <dhartwell@achathorne.com>, Gene Steinfeld <kim_gene@msn.com>, JOHN DIRMAIER <jdirmaier@aol.com>,
Jamie Addessi <jaddessi@gmail.com>, Jennifer Cohen <jcohen@vermontcommons.org>, Jim Langan
<jlangan@dinse.com>, Joan Britt <joanbrittvt@gmail.com>, Kevin M. Henry <khenry@primmer.com>,
<Lafayette.chris@gmail.com>, Linda McGinnis <lindamcginnis0@gmail.com>, Linda Norris <ljnorris66@gmail.com>,
Maria Jamieson <Maria.Jamieson@uvm.edu>, Marisa Rorabaugh <MRorabaugh@southburlingtonvt.gov>, Monika
Ingalls <moingalls@southburlingtonvt.gov>, Patrick Leavey <patrickjleavey@gmail.com>, Robin Hall
<robin@hickokandboardman.com>, Sam Carlson <samuelccarlson@gmail.com>, Suzanne Lowensohn
<Suzanne.Lowensohn@uvm.edu>, Ted Colligan <ted@appletreebay.com>, Tyler Sperry <tyler_sperry@yahoo.com>,
Wilkinson, Claire S. <cwilkinson@middlebury.edu>, <aimeebmarti@gmail.com>, <akestner@langrock.com>,
<annaleavey@gmail.com>, <atnorris66@gmail.com>, <bcsmmoore@comcast.net>, <bmoore96969@gmail.com>,
<bobbi.dirmaier@gmail.com>, <charlotte.ancel@gmail.com>, <cldesmet2@icloud.com>, <cmcapano@comcast.net>,
<courtneyawillson@gmail.com>, <dave.burkevt@gmail.com>, <debracoel@yahoo.com>,
<dennis.clougherty@gmail.com>, <djw@acm.org>, <feather1067@gmail.com>, <fran.clougherty@gmail.com>,
<geochazman@gmail.com>, <guspoulos@yahoo.com>, <heidi.addessi@coxautoinc.com>, <huestisfs@gmail.com>,
<jack.comer@comcast.net>, <jdmacdon29@comcast.net>, <jdp@scriberule.org>, <jeanne.kellner73@gmail.com>,
<jeskraus@comcast.net>, <jnn_lawrence@yahoo.com>, <jsccomm@comcast.net>, <julie.phillips@uvmhealth.org>,
<karadeleonardis@gmail.com>, <karen@kpsnorth.com>, <klmkms@comcast.net>, <ksjivie@yahoo.com>,
<leahburkevt@gmail.com>, <lgcapano@comcast.net>, <ljrubin2@comcast.net>, <markallensaunders@gmail.com>,
<martha.mcauliffe@uvmhealth.org>, <mbartholomew45@gmail.com>, mtn_rydr@yahoo com
<mtn_rydr@yahoo.com>, <nick@vtpma.com>, <pgras@gordonstamp.com>, <piasvt93@aol.com>,
<ralphineorourke@yahoo.com>, <richard.huestis@gmail.com>, <rk.lafayette@gmail.com>, <roysr1@comcast.net>,
<rzsaunders@yahoo.com>, <scottjcohen@sbcglobal.net>, <slowenso@uvm.edu>, <tenlhakhang@gmail.com>,
<timothyduff@gmail.com>, <tipelino@gmail.com>, <twentewong@gmail.com>, <wnmarti@gmail.com>,
<y.barbdean@gmail.com>, <LYoung@800response.com>, <djln5@yahoo.com>, <brendabalon@comcast.net>,
<memery@southburlingtonvt.gov>
I agree on value of green space and keeping things less developed. Plus we have Overlook Park too. Seems like they are
creating a solution that doesn’t have a problem. And South Burlington is a great place to live, but there are limits on
what we all can afford and enjoy.
48
Hope you will write a letter to the council member and the Park And Rec person.
Kind regards, Robin
Robin Hall, agent
eXp Realty
Robinhallvt@gmail.com
802‐233‐6849
On Jun 18, 2023, at 1:20 PM, Aaron Cowan <joeriffanucci@gmail.com> wrote:
Thanks for informing us. I had no idea this was the plan. I wonder if the water main that broke on
Deerfield closing the road had anything to do with the system being overtaxed with all the new
development... This is a sad development considering Wheeler is so close to the neighborhood. Green
space is a commodity that we can't get back
On Sun, Jun 18, 2023 at 7:54 AM <robinhallvt@gmail.com> wrote:
Resending to include Megan Emery’s email: memery@southburlingtonvt.gov
From: robinhallvt@gmail.com <robinhallvt@gmail.com>
Sent: Sunday, June 18, 2023 7:51 AM
To: 5duffers@comcast.net; 'Aaron Cowan' <joeriffanucci@gmail.com>; 'Andrea Balazs'
<andreabalazs@yahoo.com>; 'Bill Bodette' <wjbodette@gmail.com>; 'Bob Britt'
<brittvtbiz@msn.com>; 'CHEUNG WONG' <twentewong@comcast.net>; 'Catherine Seward'
<ckseward@comcast.net>; 'Chris Bleill' <chrisbleill@gmail.com>; 'Danielle Cohen' <danielle@danielle‐
cohen.com>; 'Dave Hartwell' <dhartwell@achathorne.com>; 'Gene Steinfeld' <kim_gene@msn.com>;
'JOHN DIRMAIER' <jdirmaier@aol.com>; 'Jamie Addessi' <jaddessi@gmail.com>; 'Jennifer Cohen'
<jcohen@vermontcommons.org>; 'Jim Langan' <jlangan@dinse.com>; 'Joan Britt'
<joanbrittvt@gmail.com>; 'Kevin M. Henry' <khenry@primmer.com>; Lafayette.chris@gmail.com;
'Linda McGinnis' <lindamcginnis0@gmail.com>; 'Linda Norris' <ljnorris66@gmail.com>; 'Maria
Jamieson' <Maria.Jamieson@uvm.edu>; 'Marisa Rorabaugh' <MRorabaugh@southburlingtonvt.gov>;
'Monika Ingalls' <moingalls@southburlingtonvt.gov>; 'Patrick Leavey' <patrickjleavey@gmail.com>;
'Robin Hall' <robin@hickokandboardman.com>; 'Sam Carlson' <samuelccarlson@gmail.com>; 'Suzanne
Lowensohn' <Suzanne.Lowensohn@uvm.edu>; 'Ted Colligan' <ted@appletreebay.com>; 'Tyler Sperry'
<tyler_sperry@yahoo.com>; 'Wilkinson, Claire S.' <cwilkinson@middlebury.edu>;
aimeebmarti@gmail.com; akestner@langrock.com; annaleavey@gmail.com; atnorris66@gmail.com;
bcsmmoore@comcast.net; bmoore96969@gmail.com; bobbi.dirmaier@gmail.com;
charlotte.ancel@gmail.com; cldesmet2@icloud.com; cmcapano@comcast.net;
courtneyawillson@gmail.com; dave.burkevt@gmail.com; debracoel@yahoo.com;
dennis.clougherty@gmail.com; djw@acm.org; feather1067@gmail.com; fran.clougherty@gmail.com;
geochazman@gmail.com; guspoulos@yahoo.com; heidi.addessi@coxautoinc.com;
huestisfs@gmail.com; jack.comer@comcast.net; jdmacdon29@comcast.net; jdp@scriberule.org;
jeanne.kellner73@gmail.com; jeskraus@comcast.net; jnn_lawrence@yahoo.com;
jsccomm@comcast.net; julie.phillips@uvmhealth.org; karadeleonardis@gmail.com;
karen@kpsnorth.com; klmkms@comcast.net; ksjivie@yahoo.com; leahburkevt@gmail.com;
lgcapano@comcast.net; ljrubin2@comcast.net; markallensaunders@gmail.com;
martha.mcauliffe@uvmhealth.org; mbartholomew45@gmail.com; 'mtn_rydr@yahoo com'
<mtn_rydr@yahoo.com>; nick@vtpma.com; pgras@gordonstamp.com; piasvt93@aol.com;
ralphineorourke@yahoo.com; richard.huestis@gmail.com; rk.lafayette@gmail.com;
49
roysr1@comcast.net; rzsaunders@yahoo.com; scottjcohen@sbcglobal.net; slowenso@uvm.edu;
tenlhakhang@gmail.com; timothyduff@gmail.com; tipelino@gmail.com; twentewong@gmail.com;
wnmarti@gmail.com; y.barbdean@gmail.com; LYoung@800response.com; djln5@yahoo.com;
brendabalon@comcast.net
Subject: Hubbard Park development necessary?
Good morning neighbors,
I am forwarding on an informative email from the Pinnacle at Spear neighborhood association on the
development of Hubbard Park. As we prepare to pay for and implement an expensive stormwater
system, the city’s plans to develop the 60‐acre park will impact our neighborhood with 30 additional
parking spaces, a 10 ft wide paved path, and playground. There has been no study by the city to
understand the current use of the land which is for walking, snowing shoeing and enjoying the
woods. It appears that the project will cost tax payers $611,000 in addition to the Pennies for Paths
funds. I have tried to find new information on the status of the park but could not find much. The last
public meeting I believe was held (via zoom) in the fall of 2021. Please see email below from the
Pinnacle neighborhood which summarizes some of the issues. I have written to Meghan Emery and
hope you can do the same today or Monday as there is a council meeting that may vote to move
forward with the project. A letter to the director of the Rec Department, Holly Rees at
hrees@sburl.com might be impactful. Hope you will take a moment to consider this important City
issue.
Robin Hall, agent
eXp Realty
Robinhallvt@gmail.com
802‐233‐6849
Begin forwarded message:
Hello Neighbors ‐
This is an update to last week's email. How do you feel about Hubbard
Park being developed? The HOA is trying to understand the overall
feeling of our Pinnacle at Spear residents. Please take a moment to fill
out this very brief survey. Thanks to those that have filled it out
already but we'd like to hear from more of you. You can also reply back
to this email with your thoughts.
For those neighbors that would like to keep Hubbard Park as it is, it's
important to take one of the following steps prior to the next City
Council Meeting this coming Monday, June 19. There is a good chance
the City Council may vote to move forward on the project during that
meeting.
1. For the most impact, send an email to City Council
member Meaghan
Emery(memery@southburlingtonvt.gov) and ask her
to share your concerns with the rest of the councilors.
2. Attend a City Council meeting (in person or by
Zoom) on the first and third Monday of every month.
50
The next meeting is this Monday, June 19 at 6:30
pm. From 6:35pm to 6:45pm they have comments or
questions from the public not related to the agenda.
View Hubbard Park Plans HERE. See the specific pages listed below for
Hubbard Park info.
Page 161‐Project Design Elements:
o a 10 foot wide paved shared path
across the middle of the field to
connect to the next community on
Unswept Lane. This paved path is
for bikers to come off Spear Street
and connect over to Knowland
Farm.
o Improved parking lot (for 30 cars)
with lighted lot and accessible
parking
o Viewing area with stonewall,
seating with Adirondack chairs and
picnic tables, open grass space and
shade trees
o Stormwater treatment areas
Page 162‐Current Design
Page 163 & 164‐Entrance and Parking
Area with a drawing
Page 166‐Shared Use Path with drawing
Page 167 & 168‐Viewing area with a
drawing
Page 171‐Project Cost ($611,000) tax
payers
Page 172‐Next Steps:
o Development Review Board(late
Summer 2023)
o Finalize Permitting(early Fall
2023)
o Complete Contract Plans(late Fall
2023)
o Construction(Spring 2024)
Kindly, the HOA Board
Susith Wijetunga ‐ Pinnacle
Jill Bohlmann ‐ Vale
Diane Nelson ‐ Vale
Send inquiries or suggestions for the Board of Directors
to: PinnacleAtSpearHOA@gmail.com
Send Architectural Review Board inquiries
to: PinnacleAtSpearARB@gmail.com
51
‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐ Forwarded message ‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐
From: Board of Directors Pinnacle At
Spear <pinnacleatspearhoa@gmail.com>
Date: Fri, Jun 9, 2023 at 5:32 PM
Subject: Hubbard Park Update
To: Board of Directors Pinnacle At Spear
<pinnacleatspearhoa@gmail.com>
Hello Pinnacle at Spear Neighbors,
We would like to share some recent information on the development of Hubbard Park (t
but asked the Hubbard Project team to evaluate alternative surface pricing for the pathw
for construction bids or finalizing any construction schedules. (The current materials sta
If you are interested in learning more, please review the Hubbard plans using the link be
Page 161‐Project Design Elements:
o a 10 foot wide paved shared path across the middle of the field to co
over to Knowland Farm.
o Improved parking lot (for 30 cars) with lighted lot and accessible par
o Viewing area with stonewall, seating with Adirondack chairs and picn
o Stormwater treatment areas
Page 162‐Current Design
Page 163 & 164‐Entrance and Parking Area with a drawing
Page 166‐Shared Use Path with drawing
Page 167 & 168‐Viewing area with a drawing
Page 171‐Project Cost ($611,000) tax payers
Page 172‐Next Steps:
o Development Review Board(late Summer 2023)
o Finalize Permitting(early Fall 2023)
o Complete Contract Plans(late Fall 2023)
o Construction(Spring 2024)
Click here to access presentation:
PDF.js viewer
sbvt-records.info
Currently, there are a few neighbors that have concerns about the development. If you a
1. Send an email to City Council member Meaghan Emery(memery@southburlingtonvt.g
2. Attend a City Council meeting on the first and third Monday of every month. The next
public not related to the agenda.
3. Contact Project Manager, Erica Quallen at equallen@southburlingtonvt.gov for quest
In addition, we are trying to understand the overall feeling of our Pinnacle at Spear resid
Thank you.
Kindly, the HOA Board
Susith Wijetunga ‐ Pinnacle
Jill Bohlmann ‐ Vale
52
Diane Nelson ‐ Vale
Please continue to send inquiries or suggestions for the Board of
Directors to: PinnacleAtSpearHOA@gmail.com
Please continue to send Architectural Review Board inquiries
to: PinnacleAtSpearARB@gmail.com
Kindly, the HOA Board,
Susith Wijetunga ‐ Pinnacle
Jill Bohlmann ‐ Vale
Diane Nelson ‐ Vale
Please continue to send inquiries or suggestions for the Board of
Directors to: PinnacleAtSpearHOA@gmail.com
Please continue to send Architectural Review Board inquiries to:
PinnacleAtSpearARB@gmail.com
53
Erica Quallen
From:Jessie Baker
Sent:Monday, June 19, 2023 2:04 PM
To:Linda Norris; Helen Riehle; Meaghan Emery; Tim Barritt; Holly Rees
Cc:atnorris66@gmail.com; Chris Carpenter; Cathy Seward; Theodore Selfridge; Judy Selfridge; Sam
Carlson; lindamcginnis0@gmail.com; Trish Comer; Jack Comer; Aimee Marti; Walt Marti; Barbara
Dirmaier; Sheri Duff; janine.mike@yahoo.com; Jmhoehl; Dave Kaufman; Ralphine O'Rourke; Daniel
O'Rourke; Susan Gregoire; Boo Sinclair; Jenn Oakes; lindadianebradley@yahoo.com; Michael Mittag;
William McMeekin; Trish Warshaw; Fran Clougherty; Ralphine N. ORourke; Kelly Knudsen; Rosanne
Greco; robinhallvt@gmail.com; Erica Quallen
Subject:RE: 'EXTERNAL'SB Hubbard Park Neighbors input to City Council
Hi Linda,
Hubbard Park is not on the Council agenda tonight. The Council did receive an update on Hubbard Park on May
15th. You can review details from that meeting here. Currently, the Council intends to discuss it again on July 17th. Staff
is continuing forward with the plans as discussed on May 15th.
Thanks,
Jessie
From: Linda Norris <ljnorris66@comcast.net>
Sent: Monday, June 19, 2023 1:09 PM
To: Helen Riehle <hriehle@southburlingtonvt.gov>; Meaghan Emery <memery@southburlingtonvt.gov>; Tim Barritt
<tbarritt@southburlingtonvt.gov>; Jessie Baker <jbaker@southburlingtonvt.gov>; Holly Rees
<hrees@southburlingtonvt.gov>
Cc: atnorris66@gmail.com; Chris Carpenter <cscarp150@gmail.com>; Cathy Seward <ckseward@comcast.net>;
Theodore Selfridge <stucknvt@yahoo.com>; Judy Selfridge <judy.selfridge@yahoo.com>; Sam Carlson
<samuelccarlson@gmail.com>; lindamcginnis0@gmail.com; Trish Comer <PLENGA@aol.com>; Jack Comer
<jack.comer@comcast.net>; Aimee Marti <aimeebmarti@gmail.com>; Walt Marti <wnmarti@gmail.com>; Barbara
Dirmaier <bobbi.dirmaier@gmail.com>; Sheri Duff <5duffers@comcast.net>; janine.mike@yahoo.com; Jmhoehl
<JMHOEHL@aol.com>; Dave Kaufman <David.Kaufman@uvm.edu>; Ralphine O'Rourke <ralphineorourke@yahoo.com>;
Daniel O'Rourke <DO'Rourke@bpflegal.com>; Susan Gregoire <susancgregoire@yahoo.com>; Boo Sinclair
<eleanoresinclair@gmail.com>; Jenn Oakes <jennoakes50@gmail.com>; lindadianebradley@yahoo.com; Michael Mittag
<mittag.michael@gmail.com>; William McMeekin <jbmcmeekin@yahoo.com>; Trish Warshaw <twarsha@yahoo.com>;
Fran Clougherty <clougher@us.ibm.com>; Ralphine N. ORourke <RORourke@ppeclaw.com>; Kelly Knudsen
<KnudsenVT@comcast.net>; Rosanne Greco <Rosanne05403@aol.com>; robinhallvt@gmail.com
Subject: 'EXTERNAL'SB Hubbard Park Neighbors input to City Council
This message has originated from an External Source. Please use proper judgment and caution when opening
attachments, clicking links, or responding to this email.
Dear Helen, TIm, Megan , Jessie and Holly,
54
I just heard yesterday that there is a plan for a meeting on the City Council agenda to discuss Hubbard Park tonight.
Many of us have not heard of any activity on the Park's future development for over a year ? I will try and make the
meeting tonite but in the meantime, I wanted to resend a letter I sent in Sept 2022 ,summarizing and voicing many
concerns for over developing this bucolic , natural field that is a gem in our city.
Thank you in advance for reviewing this.
Linda J Norris
SEPT 2021 EMAIL to SB CITY COUNCILERS:
As always, let me reiterate my sincere appreciation for all of your time
and dedication to our city. We are incredibly fortunate to live where
we live and have leaders like you all volunteering your time to make
South Burlington a better place to live and the wonderful home that is it
is to now 20,000+ of us.
There is a project in the city I want to bring to your attention as I know
you have a lot on all of your plates. It is the future of the Tom Hubbard
Park Natural Area off Nowland Road. We have lived here and used this
field for walking, snowshoeing, x‐country skiing, and wildlife exploring
for over 25 years. We were so happy to see SB purchase the field to
protect it from development. We sincerely hope the intent is to keep it
as rustic and natural as possible‐‐the former Underwood Property (now
Hubbard Natural Area) is a gem to all of SB and its residents. We all
would like to make sure this area retains its natural beauty for future
generations.
I am sending this email with summary inputs from many SB residents
with regards to Hubbard Natural Park off of Nowland Farm Road. We
first heard of these plans at the Sept 23, 2021 public forum during the
pandemic last year. Many of us who have used the park for over the
years had some concerns and many couldn't attend the meeting. I have
attempted to summarize them for you. (These were also submitted for
input to the Rec dept and project manager for input and consideration
by OCT 8 , 2021 per deadline outlined).
Since the park was newly christened (I might add quite appropriately
for Tom Hubbard!) we have been impressed with the signage and clean
up of the parking area as well as some mowing of paths in the summer.
We are however concerned with the future design and development
plans outlined last fall. Our understanding is the project was put on
hold until spring 2022, which "may" be upon us (is it finally spring?) but
we haven't seen anything yet. So we wanted to try and get this input in
again before the project gets rebooted in 2022.
55
We would very much ask for your consideration before City Council
appropriates funding or approval for the Hubbard Park development
plans. We would like to have the project modify and reconsider some of
their plans particularly with planned excessive parking areas in the field
and on Nowland Farm Road, paving a multipurpose path through the
"middle" of the field and storm water impact to name a few key items .
Many of us wonder if the recently formed Climate Action Task Force has
seen these plans? Putting any impervious wall structure or paved path
for bikers seems to be quite opposite of the goal of preserving this park
for perpetuity in its natural state? It is truly one of the last beautiful
natural GEMS in South Burlington with a westerly view that we THANK
YOU for procuring for generations to come. Please consider a review of
the design and further discussion on the following areas as we strongly
believe the "Less is Best" for this important project :
1) An expanded parking (35‐40) space lot and Additional street parking on Nowland
Farm Rd? CONCERN: This seems like an excessive amount of parking? What is
inadequate with the recent parking area just finished when the park was named? Is it
prudent and necessary for street parking on that street? Will this have an impact to the
current Nowland Farm Rd car/biker traffic? Pinnacle neighbors have brought forward a
dangerous blind spot coming up Nowland Farm Rd from Spear St that should be
considered in any street parking scenario or entrance to the park. Will buses then park
along this neighborhood street?
2) A bike path through the middle of the field to connect Pinnacle neighborhood to
South Pointe neighborhood? CONCERN: This would significantly change the field and its
current natural use with only mowed field paths for walkers. Would our SB Climate
Impact Committee approve of this use and putting down gravel or stone or whatever is
the planned material? Putting bikers through this area‐‐and I am a biker‐‐really will
change the use and appearance of this rustic field that we thought was purchased to
conserve its natural state and habitat. And it will be plowed in the winter? Is this
necessary? There is a bike path across Spear Street below Overlook Park now that we
bikers use. Why is another one needed through a beautiful field? Maybe improving the
crosswalk at SPEAR and DEERFIELD would be more prudent approach along with
improvements to the existing bike lanes on SPEAR? The Bike/Ped Committee has done
outstanding work over the years and I understand that this has been on their plan for 20
years. However, a lot has changed in 20 years and there are other existing bike paths on
current roads like Deerfield Rd and Pheasant Way or Baycrest to Allen Rd for bike
connections needed. This roadway through the middle of Hubbard Park would be
through a field, not through a neighborhood. The real bike path plan should be Spear
Street and that is being bypassed due to safety we understand. But isn't this the wrong
fix? Why not move up and make the Spear St improvements that are desperately
needed sooner than later anyway? And also, bikes are not allowed in RED ROCKS or
WHEELER Parks...why should Hubbard be different?
3) Installing dry laid stone walls and maybe picnic area in the middle of the field (can't
recall material but stone walls and benches ?) CONCERN: Is the goal to make this
another Overlook Park which is a wonderful area and caters to many VT visitors and
56
tourists . Bus tours and bike tours stop and drop off at Overlook‐‐cars are parked for
hours‐‐do we want this at Hubbard Park also? Is then the design for SB residents or for
out of state visitors? Hubbard Park has benefited and is open to all the current
neighborhoods and SB residents as a nature field for people walking, dog walking, x/c
skiing and snowshoeing. None of these uses are like Overlook where people park their
cars for hours. If this becomes a biking, parking and viewing destination, it will totally
change the character and the surface wear and tear of this natural area. Wouldn’t this
potential increase in vehicle and bike traffic also have a negative impact on climate
change on this field to forest site?
4) A footbridge over the wetlands in the east end of the park Concern: None ‐‐‐making
this park handicap accessible and adding an entrance seems like a great idea and also
adding a footbridge to protect the underlying wetlands is very positive. There has also
been recent mention of artifacts found earlier this spring, If true, how will those artifacts
be protected?
5) Stormwater? Concern: What will the stormwater impact be on the two houses
currently adjacent to the field? And to the neighborhood homes across Spear Street
where they are currently being asked to work on stormwater issues without a clear path
forward? Is this being considered? I know you said the SB taxpayers paid $1.7M for this
Underwood Property out of a 1% tax. What is the budget to build in these design plans
laid out? Is stormwater in that budget and also what is the 5 year park maintenance
upkeep budget? Does the tax continue to fund the ongoing maintenance and upkeep of
Hubbard Park?
In summary, thank you in advance for reviewing these concerns many of
us have. We hope the City Council will review this plan and choose to
make some compromise and changes to help preserve this Underwood
Property. Our goal for SB residents is to retain as much of the natural,
bucolic beauty as possible to ensure that Hubbard Park will always
remain as natural as it is today and for future generations. "Less is best"
to retain it's natural state and we believe we can't get this field back if
we over develop it now. Let's please take it slowly and
thoughtfully. The field can't speak for itself, so hopefully some of our
voices will bring attention to some of these future plans and concerns .
Thank you for considering some of these inputs for a maintaing a
natural bucolic Hubbard park!
Appreciatively,
Linda and Allan Norris
57
--
Appreciatively,
Linda Johnson Norris
(802)734-0691
Virus-free.www.avg.com
58
Erica Quallen
From:Bob Britt <brittvtbiz@msn.com>
Sent:Sunday, June 18, 2023 6:07 PM
To:Erica Quallen; Havaleh Gagne; Susan Grasso; Mike Simoneau; Donna Leban
Subject:Fw: 'EXTERNAL'Re: Hubbard Park development necessary?
FYI. Please read the chain below. I have not responded.
Bob Britt
802‐338‐6334 (cell)
From: Meaghan Emery <memery@southburlingtonvt.gov>
Sent: Sunday, June 18, 2023 6:01 PM
To: Aaron Cowan <joeriffanucci@gmail.com>; robinhallvt@gmail.com <robinhallvt@gmail.com>
Cc: 5duffers@comcast.net <5duffers@comcast.net>; Andrea Balazs <andreabalazs@yahoo.com>; Bill Bodette
<wjbodette@gmail.com>; Bob Britt <brittvtbiz@msn.com>; CHEUNG WONG <twentewong@comcast.net>; Catherine
Seward <ckseward@comcast.net>; Chris Bleill <chrisbleill@gmail.com>; Danielle Cohen <danielle@danielle‐
cohen.com>; Dave Hartwell <dhartwell@achathorne.com>; Gene Steinfeld <kim_gene@msn.com>; JOHN DIRMAIER
<jdirmaier@aol.com>; Jamie Addessi <jaddessi@gmail.com>; Jennifer Cohen <jcohen@vermontcommons.org>; Jim
Langan <jlangan@dinse.com>; Joan Britt <joanbrittvt@gmail.com>; Kevin M. Henry <khenry@primmer.com>;
Lafayette.chris@gmail.com <Lafayette.chris@gmail.com>; Linda McGinnis <lindamcginnis0@gmail.com>; Linda Norris
<ljnorris66@gmail.com>; Maria Jamieson <Maria.Jamieson@uvm.edu>; Marisa Rorabaugh
<MRorabaugh@southburlingtonvt.gov>; Monika Ingalls <moingalls@southburlingtonvt.gov>; Patrick Leavey
<patrickjleavey@gmail.com>; Robin Hall <robin@hickokandboardman.com>; Sam Carlson
<samuelccarlson@gmail.com>; Suzanne Lowensohn <Suzanne.Lowensohn@uvm.edu>; Ted Colligan
<ted@appletreebay.com>; Tyler Sperry <tyler_sperry@yahoo.com>; Wilkinson, Claire S. <cwilkinson@middlebury.edu>;
aimeebmarti@gmail.com <aimeebmarti@gmail.com>; akestner@langrock.com <akestner@langrock.com>;
annaleavey@gmail.com <annaleavey@gmail.com>; atnorris66@gmail.com <atnorris66@gmail.com>;
bcsmmoore@comcast.net <bcsmmoore@comcast.net>; bmoore96969@gmail.com <bmoore96969@gmail.com>;
bobbi.dirmaier@gmail.com <bobbi.dirmaier@gmail.com>; charlotte.ancel@gmail.com <charlotte.ancel@gmail.com>;
cldesmet2@icloud.com <cldesmet2@icloud.com>; cmcapano@comcast.net <cmcapano@comcast.net>;
courtneyawillson@gmail.com <courtneyawillson@gmail.com>; dave.burkevt@gmail.com <dave.burkevt@gmail.com>;
debracoel@yahoo.com <debracoel@yahoo.com>; dennis.clougherty@gmail.com <dennis.clougherty@gmail.com>;
djw@acm.org <djw@acm.org>; feather1067@gmail.com <feather1067@gmail.com>; fran.clougherty@gmail.com
<fran.clougherty@gmail.com>; geochazman@gmail.com <geochazman@gmail.com>; guspoulos@yahoo.com
<guspoulos@yahoo.com>; heidi.addessi@coxautoinc.com <heidi.addessi@coxautoinc.com>; huestisfs@gmail.com
<huestisfs@gmail.com>; jack.comer@comcast.net <jack.comer@comcast.net>; jdmacdon29@comcast.net
<jdmacdon29@comcast.net>; jdp@scriberule.org <jdp@scriberule.org>; jeanne.kellner73@gmail.com
<jeanne.kellner73@gmail.com>; jeskraus@comcast.net <jeskraus@comcast.net>; jnn_lawrence@yahoo.com
<jnn_lawrence@yahoo.com>; jsccomm@comcast.net <jsccomm@comcast.net>; julie.phillips@uvmhealth.org
<julie.phillips@uvmhealth.org>; karadeleonardis@gmail.com <karadeleonardis@gmail.com>; karen@kpsnorth.com
<karen@kpsnorth.com>; klmkms@comcast.net <klmkms@comcast.net>; ksjivie@yahoo.com <ksjivie@yahoo.com>;
leahburkevt@gmail.com <leahburkevt@gmail.com>; lgcapano@comcast.net <lgcapano@comcast.net>;
ljrubin2@comcast.net <ljrubin2@comcast.net>; markallensaunders@gmail.com <markallensaunders@gmail.com>;
martha.mcauliffe@uvmhealth.org <martha.mcauliffe@uvmhealth.org>; mbartholomew45@gmail.com
<mbartholomew45@gmail.com>; mtn_rydr@yahoo com <mtn_rydr@yahoo.com>; nick@vtpma.com
<nick@vtpma.com>; pgras@gordonstamp.com <pgras@gordonstamp.com>; piasvt93@aol.com <piasvt93@aol.com>;
ralphineorourke@yahoo.com <ralphineorourke@yahoo.com>; richard.huestis@gmail.com
<richard.huestis@gmail.com>; rk.lafayette@gmail.com <rk.lafayette@gmail.com>; roysr1@comcast.net
59
<roysr1@comcast.net>; rzsaunders@yahoo.com <rzsaunders@yahoo.com>; scottjcohen@sbcglobal.net
<scottjcohen@sbcglobal.net>; slowenso@uvm.edu <slowenso@uvm.edu>; tenlhakhang@gmail.com
<tenlhakhang@gmail.com>; timothyduff@gmail.com <timothyduff@gmail.com>; tipelino@gmail.com
<tipelino@gmail.com>; twentewong@gmail.com <twentewong@gmail.com>; wnmarti@gmail.com
<wnmarti@gmail.com>; y.barbdean@gmail.com <y.barbdean@gmail.com>; LYoung@800response.com
<LYoung@800response.com>; djln5@yahoo.com <djln5@yahoo.com>; brendabalon@comcast.net
<brendabalon@comcast.net>
Subject: Re: 'EXTERNAL'Re: Hubbard Park development necessary?
Hello Neighbors of the Pinnacle and Spear Neighborhood Association,
Thank you for your trust in me as your representative. I have received many emails on this topic, and I read
each and every one of them. Since this email includes the people who wrote to me, I am responding to you as
a group.
The Council will next be discussing Hubbard Recreation and Natural Area as a regular agenda item on Monday,
July 17. I invite you all to attend. I have registered individual members' viewpoints. If, in response to this
email, you wish to engage with me individually, please feel free to write back.
Please know that I am supportive of only a limited incursion into the park to facilitate biking and walking as
part of a cycling/pedestrian network. Many cyclists who commute to work see this section of the network to
be of value and key to our climate action plan for reducing cars with internal combustion engines on our
roads.
Please also keep in mind that the City Engineer has identified the current location of the walking path as the
only possible location because of the high water table on the Hubbard parcel. Spear Street is too narrow to
create a safe bike lane for commuting or recreational use for people of all ages and abilities.
I will be on vacation with some travel starting on June 20 through July 11, but I will be checking my emails
from time to time.
Wishing you all a good evening, and best wishes.
Meaghan
Meaghan Emery
Vice‐Chair, South Burlington City Council
From: Aaron Cowan <joeriffanucci@gmail.com>
Sent: Sunday, June 18, 2023 1:20 PM
To: robinhallvt@gmail.com <robinhallvt@gmail.com>
Cc: 5duffers@comcast.net <5duffers@comcast.net>; Andrea Balazs <andreabalazs@yahoo.com>; Bill Bodette
<wjbodette@gmail.com>; Bob Britt <brittvtbiz@msn.com>; CHEUNG WONG <twentewong@comcast.net>; Catherine
Seward <ckseward@comcast.net>; Chris Bleill <chrisbleill@gmail.com>; Danielle Cohen <danielle@danielle‐
cohen.com>; Dave Hartwell <dhartwell@achathorne.com>; Gene Steinfeld <kim_gene@msn.com>; JOHN DIRMAIER
<jdirmaier@aol.com>; Jamie Addessi <jaddessi@gmail.com>; Jennifer Cohen <jcohen@vermontcommons.org>; Jim
Langan <jlangan@dinse.com>; Joan Britt <joanbrittvt@gmail.com>; Kevin M. Henry <khenry@primmer.com>;
Lafayette.chris@gmail.com <Lafayette.chris@gmail.com>; Linda McGinnis <lindamcginnis0@gmail.com>; Linda Norris
<ljnorris66@gmail.com>; Maria Jamieson <Maria.Jamieson@uvm.edu>; Marisa Rorabaugh
<MRorabaugh@southburlingtonvt.gov>; Monika Ingalls <moingalls@southburlingtonvt.gov>; Patrick Leavey
<patrickjleavey@gmail.com>; Robin Hall <robin@hickokandboardman.com>; Sam Carlson
60
<samuelccarlson@gmail.com>; Suzanne Lowensohn <Suzanne.Lowensohn@uvm.edu>; Ted Colligan
<ted@appletreebay.com>; Tyler Sperry <tyler_sperry@yahoo.com>; Wilkinson, Claire S. <cwilkinson@middlebury.edu>;
aimeebmarti@gmail.com <aimeebmarti@gmail.com>; akestner@langrock.com <akestner@langrock.com>;
annaleavey@gmail.com <annaleavey@gmail.com>; atnorris66@gmail.com <atnorris66@gmail.com>;
bcsmmoore@comcast.net <bcsmmoore@comcast.net>; bmoore96969@gmail.com <bmoore96969@gmail.com>;
bobbi.dirmaier@gmail.com <bobbi.dirmaier@gmail.com>; charlotte.ancel@gmail.com <charlotte.ancel@gmail.com>;
cldesmet2@icloud.com <cldesmet2@icloud.com>; cmcapano@comcast.net <cmcapano@comcast.net>;
courtneyawillson@gmail.com <courtneyawillson@gmail.com>; dave.burkevt@gmail.com <dave.burkevt@gmail.com>;
debracoel@yahoo.com <debracoel@yahoo.com>; dennis.clougherty@gmail.com <dennis.clougherty@gmail.com>;
djw@acm.org <djw@acm.org>; feather1067@gmail.com <feather1067@gmail.com>; fran.clougherty@gmail.com
<fran.clougherty@gmail.com>; geochazman@gmail.com <geochazman@gmail.com>; guspoulos@yahoo.com
<guspoulos@yahoo.com>; heidi.addessi@coxautoinc.com <heidi.addessi@coxautoinc.com>; huestisfs@gmail.com
<huestisfs@gmail.com>; jack.comer@comcast.net <jack.comer@comcast.net>; jdmacdon29@comcast.net
<jdmacdon29@comcast.net>; jdp@scriberule.org <jdp@scriberule.org>; jeanne.kellner73@gmail.com
<jeanne.kellner73@gmail.com>; jeskraus@comcast.net <jeskraus@comcast.net>; jnn_lawrence@yahoo.com
<jnn_lawrence@yahoo.com>; jsccomm@comcast.net <jsccomm@comcast.net>; julie.phillips@uvmhealth.org
<julie.phillips@uvmhealth.org>; karadeleonardis@gmail.com <karadeleonardis@gmail.com>; karen@kpsnorth.com
<karen@kpsnorth.com>; klmkms@comcast.net <klmkms@comcast.net>; ksjivie@yahoo.com <ksjivie@yahoo.com>;
leahburkevt@gmail.com <leahburkevt@gmail.com>; lgcapano@comcast.net <lgcapano@comcast.net>;
ljrubin2@comcast.net <ljrubin2@comcast.net>; markallensaunders@gmail.com <markallensaunders@gmail.com>;
martha.mcauliffe@uvmhealth.org <martha.mcauliffe@uvmhealth.org>; mbartholomew45@gmail.com
<mbartholomew45@gmail.com>; mtn_rydr@yahoo com <mtn_rydr@yahoo.com>; nick@vtpma.com
<nick@vtpma.com>; pgras@gordonstamp.com <pgras@gordonstamp.com>; piasvt93@aol.com <piasvt93@aol.com>;
ralphineorourke@yahoo.com <ralphineorourke@yahoo.com>; richard.huestis@gmail.com
<richard.huestis@gmail.com>; rk.lafayette@gmail.com <rk.lafayette@gmail.com>; roysr1@comcast.net
<roysr1@comcast.net>; rzsaunders@yahoo.com <rzsaunders@yahoo.com>; scottjcohen@sbcglobal.net
<scottjcohen@sbcglobal.net>; slowenso@uvm.edu <slowenso@uvm.edu>; tenlhakhang@gmail.com
<tenlhakhang@gmail.com>; timothyduff@gmail.com <timothyduff@gmail.com>; tipelino@gmail.com
<tipelino@gmail.com>; twentewong@gmail.com <twentewong@gmail.com>; wnmarti@gmail.com
<wnmarti@gmail.com>; y.barbdean@gmail.com <y.barbdean@gmail.com>; LYoung@800response.com
<LYoung@800response.com>; djln5@yahoo.com <djln5@yahoo.com>; brendabalon@comcast.net
<brendabalon@comcast.net>; Meaghan Emery <memery@southburlingtonvt.gov>
Subject: 'EXTERNAL'Re: Hubbard Park development necessary?
This message has originated from an External Source. Please use proper judgment and caution when opening
attachments, clicking links, or responding to this email.
Thanks for informing us. I had no idea this was the plan. I wonder if the water main that broke on Deerfield closing the
road had anything to do with the system being overtaxed with all the new development... This is a sad
development considering Wheeler is so close to the neighborhood. Green space is a commodity that we can't get back
On Sun, Jun 18, 2023 at 7:54 AM <robinhallvt@gmail.com> wrote:
Resending to include Megan Emery’s email: memery@southburlingtonvt.gov
From: robinhallvt@gmail.com <robinhallvt@gmail.com>
Sent: Sunday, June 18, 2023 7:51 AM
To: 5duffers@comcast.net; 'Aaron Cowan' <joeriffanucci@gmail.com>; 'Andrea Balazs' <andreabalazs@yahoo.com>;
'Bill Bodette' <wjbodette@gmail.com>; 'Bob Britt' <brittvtbiz@msn.com>; 'CHEUNG WONG'
<twentewong@comcast.net>; 'Catherine Seward' <ckseward@comcast.net>; 'Chris Bleill' <chrisbleill@gmail.com>;
'Danielle Cohen' <danielle@danielle‐cohen.com>; 'Dave Hartwell' <dhartwell@achathorne.com>; 'Gene Steinfeld'
<kim_gene@msn.com>; 'JOHN DIRMAIER' <jdirmaier@aol.com>; 'Jamie Addessi' <jaddessi@gmail.com>; 'Jennifer
61
Cohen' <jcohen@vermontcommons.org>; 'Jim Langan' <jlangan@dinse.com>; 'Joan Britt' <joanbrittvt@gmail.com>;
'Kevin M. Henry' <khenry@primmer.com>; Lafayette.chris@gmail.com; 'Linda McGinnis' <lindamcginnis0@gmail.com>;
'Linda Norris' <ljnorris66@gmail.com>; 'Maria Jamieson' <Maria.Jamieson@uvm.edu>; 'Marisa Rorabaugh'
<MRorabaugh@southburlingtonvt.gov>; 'Monika Ingalls' <moingalls@southburlingtonvt.gov>; 'Patrick Leavey'
<patrickjleavey@gmail.com>; 'Robin Hall' <robin@hickokandboardman.com>; 'Sam Carlson'
<samuelccarlson@gmail.com>; 'Suzanne Lowensohn' <Suzanne.Lowensohn@uvm.edu>; 'Ted Colligan'
<ted@appletreebay.com>; 'Tyler Sperry' <tyler_sperry@yahoo.com>; 'Wilkinson, Claire S.'
<cwilkinson@middlebury.edu>; aimeebmarti@gmail.com; akestner@langrock.com; annaleavey@gmail.com;
atnorris66@gmail.com; bcsmmoore@comcast.net; bmoore96969@gmail.com; bobbi.dirmaier@gmail.com;
charlotte.ancel@gmail.com; cldesmet2@icloud.com; cmcapano@comcast.net; courtneyawillson@gmail.com;
dave.burkevt@gmail.com; debracoel@yahoo.com; dennis.clougherty@gmail.com; djw@acm.org;
feather1067@gmail.com; fran.clougherty@gmail.com; geochazman@gmail.com; guspoulos@yahoo.com;
heidi.addessi@coxautoinc.com; huestisfs@gmail.com; jack.comer@comcast.net; jdmacdon29@comcast.net;
jdp@scriberule.org; jeanne.kellner73@gmail.com; jeskraus@comcast.net; jnn_lawrence@yahoo.com;
jsccomm@comcast.net; julie.phillips@uvmhealth.org; karadeleonardis@gmail.com; karen@kpsnorth.com;
klmkms@comcast.net; ksjivie@yahoo.com; leahburkevt@gmail.com; lgcapano@comcast.net; ljrubin2@comcast.net;
markallensaunders@gmail.com; martha.mcauliffe@uvmhealth.org; mbartholomew45@gmail.com; 'mtn_rydr@yahoo
com' <mtn_rydr@yahoo.com>; nick@vtpma.com; pgras@gordonstamp.com; piasvt93@aol.com;
ralphineorourke@yahoo.com; richard.huestis@gmail.com; rk.lafayette@gmail.com; roysr1@comcast.net;
rzsaunders@yahoo.com; scottjcohen@sbcglobal.net; slowenso@uvm.edu; tenlhakhang@gmail.com;
timothyduff@gmail.com; tipelino@gmail.com; twentewong@gmail.com; wnmarti@gmail.com;
y.barbdean@gmail.com; LYoung@800response.com; djln5@yahoo.com; brendabalon@comcast.net
Subject: Hubbard Park development necessary?
Good morning neighbors,
I am forwarding on an informative email from the Pinnacle at Spear neighborhood association on the development of
Hubbard Park. As we prepare to pay for and implement an expensive stormwater system, the city’s plans to develop
the 60‐acre park will impact our neighborhood with 30 additional parking spaces, a 10 ft wide paved path, and
playground. There has been no study by the city to understand the current use of the land which is for walking,
snowing shoeing and enjoying the woods. It appears that the project will cost tax payers $611,000 in addition to the
Pennies for Paths funds. I have tried to find new information on the status of the park but could not find much. The last
public meeting I believe was held (via zoom) in the fall of 2021. Please see email below from the Pinnacle neighborhood
which summarizes some of the issues. I have written to Meghan Emery and hope you can do the same today or
Monday as there is a council meeting that may vote to move forward with the project. A letter to the director of the
Rec Department, Holly Rees at hrees@sburl.com might be impactful. Hope you will take a moment to consider this
important City issue.
Robin Hall, agent
eXp Realty
Robinhallvt@gmail.com
802‐233‐6849
Begin forwarded message:
Hello Neighbors ‐
This is an update to last week's email. How do you feel about Hubbard Park being
developed? The HOA is trying to understand the overall feeling of our Pinnacle at Spear
62
residents. Please take a moment to fill out this very brief survey. Thanks to those that
have filled it out already but we'd like to hear from more of you. You can also reply
back to this email with your thoughts.
For those neighbors that would like to keep Hubbard Park as it is, it's important to take
one of the following steps prior to the next City Council Meeting this coming Monday,
June 19. There is a good chance the City Council may vote to move forward on the
project during that meeting.
1. For the most impact, send an email to City Council member
Meaghan Emery(memery@southburlingtonvt.gov) and ask her to
share your concerns with the rest of the councilors.
2. Attend a City Council meeting (in person or by Zoom) on the first and
third Monday of every month. The next meeting is this Monday, June
19 at 6:30 pm. From 6:35pm to 6:45pm they have comments or
questions from the public not related to the agenda.
View Hubbard Park Plans HERE. See the specific pages listed below for Hubbard Park
info.
Page 161‐Project Design Elements:
o a 10 foot wide paved shared path across the
middle of the field to connect to the next
community on Unswept Lane. This paved path is for
bikers to come off Spear Street and connect over to
Knowland Farm.
o Improved parking lot (for 30 cars) with lighted lot
and accessible parking
o Viewing area with stonewall, seating with
Adirondack chairs and picnic tables, open grass
space and shade trees
o Stormwater treatment areas
Page 162‐Current Design
Page 163 & 164‐Entrance and Parking Area with a
drawing
Page 166‐Shared Use Path with drawing
Page 167 & 168‐Viewing area with a drawing
Page 171‐Project Cost ($611,000) tax payers
Page 172‐Next Steps:
o Development Review Board(late Summer 2023)
o Finalize Permitting(early Fall 2023)
o Complete Contract Plans(late Fall 2023)
o Construction(Spring 2024)
Kindly, the HOA Board
Susith Wijetunga ‐ Pinnacle
Jill Bohlmann ‐ Vale
Diane Nelson ‐ Vale
Send inquiries or suggestions for the Board of Directors
to: PinnacleAtSpearHOA@gmail.com
Send Architectural Review Board inquiries to: PinnacleAtSpearARB@gmail.com
63
‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐ Forwarded message ‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐
From: Board of Directors Pinnacle At Spear <pinnacleatspearhoa@gmail.com>
Date: Fri, Jun 9, 2023 at 5:32 PM
Subject: Hubbard Park Update
To: Board of Directors Pinnacle At Spear <pinnacleatspearhoa@gmail.com>
Hello Pinnacle at Spear Neighbors,
We would like to share some recent information on the development of Hubbard Park (the ope
but asked the Hubbard Project team to evaluate alternative surface pricing for the pathway; so
for construction bids or finalizing any construction schedules. (The current materials staged at t
If you are interested in learning more, please review the Hubbard plans using the link below. Se
Page 161‐Project Design Elements:
o a 10 foot wide paved shared path across the middle of the field to connect t
over to Knowland Farm.
o Improved parking lot (for 30 cars) with lighted lot and accessible parking
o Viewing area with stonewall, seating with Adirondack chairs and picnic table
o Stormwater treatment areas
Page 162‐Current Design
Page 163 & 164‐Entrance and Parking Area with a drawing
Page 166‐Shared Use Path with drawing
Page 167 & 168‐Viewing area with a drawing
Page 171‐Project Cost ($611,000) tax payers
Page 172‐Next Steps:
o Development Review Board(late Summer 2023)
o Finalize Permitting(early Fall 2023)
o Complete Contract Plans(late Fall 2023)
o Construction(Spring 2024)
Click here to access presentation:
PDF.js viewer
sbvt-records.info
Currently, there are a few neighbors that have concerns about the development. If you are con
1. Send an email to City Council member Meaghan Emery(memery@southburlingtonvt.gov) to
2. Attend a City Council meeting on the first and third Monday of every month. The next meetin
public not related to the agenda.
3. Contact Project Manager, Erica Quallen at equallen@southburlingtonvt.gov for questions an
In addition, we are trying to understand the overall feeling of our Pinnacle at Spear residents on
Thank you.
Kindly, the HOA Board
Susith Wijetunga ‐ Pinnacle
Jill Bohlmann ‐ Vale
64
Diane Nelson ‐ Vale
Please continue to send inquiries or suggestions for the Board of Directors
to: PinnacleAtSpearHOA@gmail.com
Please continue to send Architectural Review Board inquiries
to: PinnacleAtSpearARB@gmail.com
Kindly, the HOA Board,
Susith Wijetunga ‐ Pinnacle
Jill Bohlmann ‐ Vale
Diane Nelson ‐ Vale
Please continue to send inquiries or suggestions for the Board of Directors to:
PinnacleAtSpearHOA@gmail.com
Please continue to send Architectural Review Board inquiries to:
PinnacleAtSpearARB@gmail.com
65
Erica Quallen
From:Jamie Addessi <jaddessi@gmail.com>
Sent:Sunday, June 18, 2023 3:51 PM
To:Meaghan Emery; Holly Rees; Erica Quallen
Subject:'EXTERNAL'Please vote to move forward with Hubbard Park
This message has originated from an External Source. Please use proper judgment and caution when opening
attachments, clicking links, or responding to this email.
Hello,
It has come to my attention that there are a few people in the community who are concerned about the Hubbard Park
project. As with all changes, there are often people who are nervous about the future. Please know that this is not the
common viewpoint. I'm sure that the vast majority of all residents in the adjacent neighborhoods are ecstatic about the
project, and will be excited to see it move forward.
Our family has been eagerly awaiting this park for years. If there's an opportunity to donate/contribute funds to help
the project proceed, we would love to. The designs look absolutely beautiful! I expect a recreation area like this to
significantly improve the property value of all nearby homes, and to provide everyone with a place to walk, play, picnic,
enjoy spectacular lake views, and spend time together with friends and family.
The current site is overgrown, providing minimal opportunities for enjoyment for most of us. Even dog walking is
undesirable due to ticks in the high grass.
Please DO vote to proceed with this project! It's been years in planning, and I hope it doesn't get delayed from
here. Would love to enjoy it sooner rather than later.
Jamie Addessi
7 Pheasant Way
66
Erica Quallen
From:Aaron Cowan <joeriffanucci@gmail.com>
Sent:Sunday, June 18, 2023 3:22 PM
To:Meaghan Emery; Holly Rees; Erica Quallen
Subject:'EXTERNAL'Fwd: Hubbard Park development necessary?
This message has originated from an External Source. Please use proper judgment and caution when opening
attachments, clicking links, or responding to this email.
Hello Megan, Holly and Erica
I'm a concerned resident of Deerfield Drive who recently had a road closure due to a water main exploding in our
neighborhood last week. This oddly coincided with the water line construction at Hubbard park. This was an
inconvenience but now I'm hearing about this plan to destroy the open and unfettered greenspace of Hubbard natural
area with a very expansive park system. I feel as though this has been largely off radar for many residents and being
green lit for some strange reason. Why would a greenspace need to be covered in asphalt when Overlook Park is across
the street and Wheeler/Cairns is barely a mile away? The looming stormwater issues that the town/state is about to
unleash are a cruel and unusual punishment for taxpayers to incur on top of the already high tax rate. Another park will
only burden everyone with excessive taxation and destroy greenspace which is irreversible. This town is sacrificing it's
fundamental duty and should focus on maintaining and upgrading the parks we have. I'm disturbed by the amount of
waste and litter at Overlook daily. I'm also disturbed by the destruction of other greenspace in lieu of new spraw
construction(Luxury or low income)l. Please consider that nature is a primary draw to our city and not excessive
amenities for new out of state business. Once it's overdeveloped it's lost.
I look forward to your response and any clarification on this trend. (My previous correspondence with city planning has
only been met with ghosting and completely unresponded to.)
Aaron Cowan
Deerfield Drive, S Burlington
‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐ Forwarded message ‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐
From: Robin Hall <robinhallvt@gmail.com>
Date: Sun, Jun 18, 2023 at 2:34 PM
Subject: Re: Hubbard Park development necessary?
To: Aaron Cowan <joeriffanucci@gmail.com>
Cc: <5duffers@comcast.net>, Andrea Balazs <andreabalazs@yahoo.com>, Bill Bodette <wjbodette@gmail.com>, Bob
Britt <brittvtbiz@msn.com>, CHEUNG WONG <twentewong@comcast.net>, Catherine Seward
<ckseward@comcast.net>, Chris Bleill <chrisbleill@gmail.com>, Danielle Cohen <danielle@danielle‐cohen.com>, Dave
Hartwell <dhartwell@achathorne.com>, Gene Steinfeld <kim_gene@msn.com>, JOHN DIRMAIER <jdirmaier@aol.com>,
Jamie Addessi <jaddessi@gmail.com>, Jennifer Cohen <jcohen@vermontcommons.org>, Jim Langan
<jlangan@dinse.com>, Joan Britt <joanbrittvt@gmail.com>, Kevin M. Henry <khenry@primmer.com>,
<Lafayette.chris@gmail.com>, Linda McGinnis <lindamcginnis0@gmail.com>, Linda Norris <ljnorris66@gmail.com>,
Maria Jamieson <Maria.Jamieson@uvm.edu>, Marisa Rorabaugh <MRorabaugh@southburlingtonvt.gov>, Monika
Ingalls <moingalls@southburlingtonvt.gov>, Patrick Leavey <patrickjleavey@gmail.com>, Robin Hall
<robin@hickokandboardman.com>, Sam Carlson <samuelccarlson@gmail.com>, Suzanne Lowensohn
<Suzanne.Lowensohn@uvm.edu>, Ted Colligan <ted@appletreebay.com>, Tyler Sperry <tyler_sperry@yahoo.com>,
67
Wilkinson, Claire S. <cwilkinson@middlebury.edu>, <aimeebmarti@gmail.com>, <akestner@langrock.com>,
<annaleavey@gmail.com>, <atnorris66@gmail.com>, <bcsmmoore@comcast.net>, <bmoore96969@gmail.com>,
<bobbi.dirmaier@gmail.com>, <charlotte.ancel@gmail.com>, <cldesmet2@icloud.com>, <cmcapano@comcast.net>,
<courtneyawillson@gmail.com>, <dave.burkevt@gmail.com>, <debracoel@yahoo.com>,
<dennis.clougherty@gmail.com>, <djw@acm.org>, <feather1067@gmail.com>, <fran.clougherty@gmail.com>,
<geochazman@gmail.com>, <guspoulos@yahoo.com>, <heidi.addessi@coxautoinc.com>, <huestisfs@gmail.com>,
<jack.comer@comcast.net>, <jdmacdon29@comcast.net>, <jdp@scriberule.org>, <jeanne.kellner73@gmail.com>,
<jeskraus@comcast.net>, <jnn_lawrence@yahoo.com>, <jsccomm@comcast.net>, <julie.phillips@uvmhealth.org>,
<karadeleonardis@gmail.com>, <karen@kpsnorth.com>, <klmkms@comcast.net>, <ksjivie@yahoo.com>,
<leahburkevt@gmail.com>, <lgcapano@comcast.net>, <ljrubin2@comcast.net>, <markallensaunders@gmail.com>,
<martha.mcauliffe@uvmhealth.org>, <mbartholomew45@gmail.com>, mtn_rydr@yahoo com
<mtn_rydr@yahoo.com>, <nick@vtpma.com>, <pgras@gordonstamp.com>, <piasvt93@aol.com>,
<ralphineorourke@yahoo.com>, <richard.huestis@gmail.com>, <rk.lafayette@gmail.com>, <roysr1@comcast.net>,
<rzsaunders@yahoo.com>, <scottjcohen@sbcglobal.net>, <slowenso@uvm.edu>, <tenlhakhang@gmail.com>,
<timothyduff@gmail.com>, <tipelino@gmail.com>, <twentewong@gmail.com>, <wnmarti@gmail.com>,
<y.barbdean@gmail.com>, <LYoung@800response.com>, <djln5@yahoo.com>, <brendabalon@comcast.net>,
<memery@southburlingtonvt.gov>
I agree on value of green space and keeping things less developed. Plus we have Overlook Park too. Seems like they are
creating a solution that doesn’t have a problem. And South Burlington is a great place to live, but there are limits on
what we all can afford and enjoy.
Hope you will write a letter to the council member and the Park And Rec person.
Kind regards, Robin
Robin Hall, agent
eXp Realty
Robinhallvt@gmail.com
802‐233‐6849
On Jun 18, 2023, at 1:20 PM, Aaron Cowan <joeriffanucci@gmail.com> wrote:
Thanks for informing us. I had no idea this was the plan. I wonder if the water main that broke on
Deerfield closing the road had anything to do with the system being overtaxed with all the new
development... This is a sad development considering Wheeler is so close to the neighborhood. Green
space is a commodity that we can't get back
On Sun, Jun 18, 2023 at 7:54 AM <robinhallvt@gmail.com> wrote:
Resending to include Megan Emery’s email: memery@southburlingtonvt.gov
From: robinhallvt@gmail.com <robinhallvt@gmail.com>
Sent: Sunday, June 18, 2023 7:51 AM
To: 5duffers@comcast.net; 'Aaron Cowan' <joeriffanucci@gmail.com>; 'Andrea Balazs'
<andreabalazs@yahoo.com>; 'Bill Bodette' <wjbodette@gmail.com>; 'Bob Britt'
<brittvtbiz@msn.com>; 'CHEUNG WONG' <twentewong@comcast.net>; 'Catherine Seward'
68
<ckseward@comcast.net>; 'Chris Bleill' <chrisbleill@gmail.com>; 'Danielle Cohen' <danielle@danielle‐
cohen.com>; 'Dave Hartwell' <dhartwell@achathorne.com>; 'Gene Steinfeld' <kim_gene@msn.com>;
'JOHN DIRMAIER' <jdirmaier@aol.com>; 'Jamie Addessi' <jaddessi@gmail.com>; 'Jennifer Cohen'
<jcohen@vermontcommons.org>; 'Jim Langan' <jlangan@dinse.com>; 'Joan Britt'
<joanbrittvt@gmail.com>; 'Kevin M. Henry' <khenry@primmer.com>; Lafayette.chris@gmail.com;
'Linda McGinnis' <lindamcginnis0@gmail.com>; 'Linda Norris' <ljnorris66@gmail.com>; 'Maria
Jamieson' <Maria.Jamieson@uvm.edu>; 'Marisa Rorabaugh' <MRorabaugh@southburlingtonvt.gov>;
'Monika Ingalls' <moingalls@southburlingtonvt.gov>; 'Patrick Leavey' <patrickjleavey@gmail.com>;
'Robin Hall' <robin@hickokandboardman.com>; 'Sam Carlson' <samuelccarlson@gmail.com>; 'Suzanne
Lowensohn' <Suzanne.Lowensohn@uvm.edu>; 'Ted Colligan' <ted@appletreebay.com>; 'Tyler Sperry'
<tyler_sperry@yahoo.com>; 'Wilkinson, Claire S.' <cwilkinson@middlebury.edu>;
aimeebmarti@gmail.com; akestner@langrock.com; annaleavey@gmail.com; atnorris66@gmail.com;
bcsmmoore@comcast.net; bmoore96969@gmail.com; bobbi.dirmaier@gmail.com;
charlotte.ancel@gmail.com; cldesmet2@icloud.com; cmcapano@comcast.net;
courtneyawillson@gmail.com; dave.burkevt@gmail.com; debracoel@yahoo.com;
dennis.clougherty@gmail.com; djw@acm.org; feather1067@gmail.com; fran.clougherty@gmail.com;
geochazman@gmail.com; guspoulos@yahoo.com; heidi.addessi@coxautoinc.com;
huestisfs@gmail.com; jack.comer@comcast.net; jdmacdon29@comcast.net; jdp@scriberule.org;
jeanne.kellner73@gmail.com; jeskraus@comcast.net; jnn_lawrence@yahoo.com;
jsccomm@comcast.net; julie.phillips@uvmhealth.org; karadeleonardis@gmail.com;
karen@kpsnorth.com; klmkms@comcast.net; ksjivie@yahoo.com; leahburkevt@gmail.com;
lgcapano@comcast.net; ljrubin2@comcast.net; markallensaunders@gmail.com;
martha.mcauliffe@uvmhealth.org; mbartholomew45@gmail.com; 'mtn_rydr@yahoo com'
<mtn_rydr@yahoo.com>; nick@vtpma.com; pgras@gordonstamp.com; piasvt93@aol.com;
ralphineorourke@yahoo.com; richard.huestis@gmail.com; rk.lafayette@gmail.com;
roysr1@comcast.net; rzsaunders@yahoo.com; scottjcohen@sbcglobal.net; slowenso@uvm.edu;
tenlhakhang@gmail.com; timothyduff@gmail.com; tipelino@gmail.com; twentewong@gmail.com;
wnmarti@gmail.com; y.barbdean@gmail.com; LYoung@800response.com; djln5@yahoo.com;
brendabalon@comcast.net
Subject: Hubbard Park development necessary?
Good morning neighbors,
I am forwarding on an informative email from the Pinnacle at Spear neighborhood association on the
development of Hubbard Park. As we prepare to pay for and implement an expensive stormwater
system, the city’s plans to develop the 60‐acre park will impact our neighborhood with 30 additional
parking spaces, a 10 ft wide paved path, and playground. There has been no study by the city to
understand the current use of the land which is for walking, snowing shoeing and enjoying the
woods. It appears that the project will cost tax payers $611,000 in addition to the Pennies for Paths
funds. I have tried to find new information on the status of the park but could not find much. The last
public meeting I believe was held (via zoom) in the fall of 2021. Please see email below from the
Pinnacle neighborhood which summarizes some of the issues. I have written to Meghan Emery and
hope you can do the same today or Monday as there is a council meeting that may vote to move
forward with the project. A letter to the director of the Rec Department, Holly Rees at
hrees@sburl.com might be impactful. Hope you will take a moment to consider this important City
issue.
69
Robin Hall, agent
eXp Realty
Robinhallvt@gmail.com
802‐233‐6849
Begin forwarded message:
Hello Neighbors ‐
This is an update to last week's email. How do you feel about Hubbard
Park being developed? The HOA is trying to understand the overall
feeling of our Pinnacle at Spear residents. Please take a moment to fill
out this very brief survey. Thanks to those that have filled it out
already but we'd like to hear from more of you. You can also reply back
to this email with your thoughts.
For those neighbors that would like to keep Hubbard Park as it is, it's
important to take one of the following steps prior to the next City
Council Meeting this coming Monday, June 19. There is a good chance
the City Council may vote to move forward on the project during that
meeting.
1. For the most impact, send an email to City Council
member Meaghan
Emery(memery@southburlingtonvt.gov) and ask her
to share your concerns with the rest of the councilors.
2. Attend a City Council meeting (in person or by
Zoom) on the first and third Monday of every month.
The next meeting is this Monday, June 19 at 6:30
pm. From 6:35pm to 6:45pm they have comments or
questions from the public not related to the agenda.
View Hubbard Park Plans HERE. See the specific pages listed below for
Hubbard Park info.
Page 161‐Project Design Elements:
70
o a 10 foot wide paved shared path
across the middle of the field to
connect to the next community on
Unswept Lane. This paved path is
for bikers to come off Spear Street
and connect over to Knowland
Farm.
o Improved parking lot (for 30 cars)
with lighted lot and accessible
parking
o Viewing area with stonewall,
seating with Adirondack chairs and
picnic tables, open grass space and
shade trees
o Stormwater treatment areas
Page 162‐Current Design
Page 163 & 164‐Entrance and Parking
Area with a drawing
Page 166‐Shared Use Path with drawing
Page 167 & 168‐Viewing area with a
drawing
Page 171‐Project Cost ($611,000) tax
payers
Page 172‐Next Steps:
o Development Review Board(late
Summer 2023)
o Finalize Permitting(early Fall
2023)
o Complete Contract Plans(late Fall
2023)
o Construction(Spring 2024)
Kindly, the HOA Board
Susith Wijetunga ‐ Pinnacle
Jill Bohlmann ‐ Vale
71
Diane Nelson ‐ Vale
Send inquiries or suggestions for the Board of Directors
to: PinnacleAtSpearHOA@gmail.com
Send Architectural Review Board inquiries
to: PinnacleAtSpearARB@gmail.com
‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐ Forwarded message ‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐
From: Board of Directors Pinnacle At
Spear <pinnacleatspearhoa@gmail.com>
Date: Fri, Jun 9, 2023 at 5:32 PM
Subject: Hubbard Park Update
To: Board of Directors Pinnacle At Spear
<pinnacleatspearhoa@gmail.com>
Hello Pinnacle at Spear Neighbors,
We would like to share some recent information on the development of Hubbard Park (t
but asked the Hubbard Project team to evaluate alternative surface pricing for the pathw
for construction bids or finalizing any construction schedules. (The current materials sta
If you are interested in learning more, please review the Hubbard plans using the link be
Page 161‐Project Design Elements:
o a 10 foot wide paved shared path across the middle of the field to co
over to Knowland Farm.
o Improved parking lot (for 30 cars) with lighted lot and accessible par
o Viewing area with stonewall, seating with Adirondack chairs and picn
o Stormwater treatment areas
72
Page 162‐Current Design
Page 163 & 164‐Entrance and Parking Area with a drawing
Page 166‐Shared Use Path with drawing
Page 167 & 168‐Viewing area with a drawing
Page 171‐Project Cost ($611,000) tax payers
Page 172‐Next Steps:
o Development Review Board(late Summer 2023)
o Finalize Permitting(early Fall 2023)
o Complete Contract Plans(late Fall 2023)
o Construction(Spring 2024)
Click here to access presentation:
PDF.js viewer
sbvt-records.info
Currently, there are a few neighbors that have concerns about the development. If you a
1. Send an email to City Council member Meaghan Emery(memery@southburlingtonvt.g
2. Attend a City Council meeting on the first and third Monday of every month. The next
public not related to the agenda.
3. Contact Project Manager, Erica Quallen at equallen@southburlingtonvt.gov for quest
In addition, we are trying to understand the overall feeling of our Pinnacle at Spear resid
Thank you.
Kindly, the HOA Board
Susith Wijetunga ‐ Pinnacle
Jill Bohlmann ‐ Vale
73
Diane Nelson ‐ Vale
Please continue to send inquiries or suggestions for the Board of
Directors to: PinnacleAtSpearHOA@gmail.com
Please continue to send Architectural Review Board inquiries
to: PinnacleAtSpearARB@gmail.com
Kindly, the HOA Board,
Susith Wijetunga ‐ Pinnacle
Jill Bohlmann ‐ Vale
Diane Nelson ‐ Vale
Please continue to send inquiries or suggestions for the Board of
Directors to: PinnacleAtSpearHOA@gmail.com
Please continue to send Architectural Review Board inquiries to:
PinnacleAtSpearARB@gmail.com
74
Erica Quallen
From:Bob Britt <brittvtbiz@msn.com>
Sent:Saturday, June 17, 2023 4:22 PM
To:Rosanne Greco; Mittag.Michael@gmail.com
Subject:'EXTERNAL'Fw: Hubbard Park Shared Use Path Paving Issue
Attachments:Mike Mittag's Memo Related to Not Paving Hubbard Park Shared Use Path.pdf; Britt Email to Council
on May 15, 2023.pdf; SBBPC_objections to pervious pavement Final_4-29-2022-1.pdf; 2016
Comprehensive Plan Planned Rec Lanes and Paths.pdf
This message has originated from an External Source. Please use proper judgment and caution when opening
attachments, clicking links, or responding to this email.
Hello. I presently serve as the vice chair of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee, but I am writing to you
today as a resident as I have no authority to speak on behalf of the Committee. Just for the record, I live in the
Summit at Spear neighborhood at 3 Adams Court that is below Overlook Park. I understand that you both
(and others) do not wish to have the shared use path through Hubbard Park paved. I want just the opposite,
the reasons taht I tried to explain below. Since we are both trying to fight climate change, I wanted to keep
things civil and try to find a way to make this issue a win‐win for both perspectives. That is why I am sharing
the email I just sent to City Council with you, and I would love to meet with you to discuss the issue
further. Please let me know a good time to meet. Thank you.
Best regards,
Bob Britt
802‐338‐6334 (cell)
From: Bob Britt <brittvtbiz@msn.com>
Sent: Saturday, June 17, 2023 3:49 PM
To: Helen Riehle <hriehle@southburlingtonvt.gov>; Meaghan Emery <meaghanee@yahoo.com>; Tim Barritt
<tbarritt@southburlingtonvt.gov>; achalnick@southburlingtonvt.gov <achalnick@southburlingtonvt.gov>; Tyler Barnes
<tbarnes@southburlingtonvt.gov>
Cc: Havaleh Gagne <taralovers@netzero.net>; Donna Leban <lightspd@comcast.net>; Erica Quallen
<equallen@southburlingtonvt.gov>
Subject: Fw: Hubbard Park Shared Use Path Paving Issue
Greetings. I understand that you have been receiving a number of emails from members of the South
Burlington Land Trust who presently do not want to see the shared use path through Hubbard Park paved. To
assure that you are receiving a balanced view of the issue, I am forwarding below the email that I sent to
members of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee prior to our June 14th meeting. I am speaking as a resident
in this email and not on behalf of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee. However, I do ask that you please
read the attached memo that the Committee sent a year ago last April to the City Council stating the
Committee's reasons for supporting the paving of the path. I understand that the two new councilors would
not have seen it, but I cannot understand why the other Councilors may never have seen it as I have the email
from Ashley Parker, the former Staff liaison to the Committee, where she stated that it was sent to Council
and providing us with the final version. The Committee will do a better job communicating in the future.
75
The great thing about this issue is that both sides are seeking to fight climate change. However, this is also an
equity issue since this Park is to serve the whole City, which I explain further in my email below. A paved path
will help create a north/south transportation link to connect neighborhoods south and north of the Park that
does not exist at this time. Residents living in nearby neighborhoods east and west of the Park already have
an east/west shared used path on Deerfield Road and Nowland Farm Road that allows them to easily walk or
bike to the Park.
My understanding is that the City's definition of a passive park includes having paved shared use paths and
parking lots in addition to picnic tables and benches. Paving the path does not cut down a swath of large
trees. It simply covers a minor portion of the Park's grassland that, as a I state below, will cover less than 5%
(probably 2%) of the Park and leaves the rest of the Park natural. Let alone the transportation climate benefits
of helping get people out of their cars, the added benefit of paving is all the added accessibility the paving will
provide including for the disabled, the elderly and parents pushing strollers, etc. You will not even be able to
see the paved path once you walk out onto the grass trails. I was very happy to learn recently that both the
Energy Committee and the Recreation and Parks Committee are fully in support of the path being paved.
The Land Trust members refer to the FY24 City Plan, which, I believe, is yet to be fully drafted or commented
upon. What about the still active 2016 Comprehensive Plan that includes a map (attached) of planned rec
paths that clearly shows the vision for a safe, off‐Spear Street route of the bikeway that the Committee has
been painstakingly trying to piece together including pushing for the shared use path through the Spear
Meadow neighborhood when that was in front of the DRB and the path along Spear Street from Swift Street to
the U.S. Forest Service path.
Thanks for listening and thank you for reading my email below. I'd be happy to speak further with anyone if
that would be of any added benefit.
Best regards,
Bob Britt
802‐338‐6334 (cell)
From: Bob Britt <brittvtbiz@msn.com>
Sent: Monday, June 12, 2023 12:39 PM
To: joel Klug <joel.klug@gmail.com>; Dana Farr <danafarr@gmail.com>; Doug Goodman <douggphoto@gmail.com>;
Donna Leban <lightspd@comcast.net>; Nic Anderson <nanderson@champlain.edu>; Ann Ellen Mason
<aehill1165@gmail.com>; Amanda Holland <akholland@yahoo.com>
Cc: Erica Quallen <equallen@southburlingtonvt.gov>; Havaleh Gagne <taralovers@netzero.net>
Subject: Fw: Hubbard Park Shared Use Path Paving Issue
Hello all. At our Wednesday meeting, the agenda calls for a discussion about the growing vocal outreach by
certain people in the community who do not want the shared use path through Hubbard Park to be paved (see
Mike Mittag’s memo to Council attached). They also do not want a paved parking lot, picnic tables, the stone
viewing wall and related seating, etc. to be built.
I finally had the time about a week and a half ago to watch the replay of the May 15th City Council meeting as I
was away visiting my youngest daughter who now lives in The Netherlands and had only found out that
Hubbard Park was on that meeting’s agenda on the evening of the 15th. With a six‐hour time difference, I
knew I could not attend on‐line, so I quickly sent off a few comments to Meaghan Emery and Helen Riehle
76
(unfortunately, I spelled Tim Barritt’s email address wrong, or he would have received it as well) using my cell
phone (please see attached). [Donna, thanks for attending the meeting and for your comments.] I had
assumed that all Councilors would have been given the memo that the Committee sent to the Council on April
29, 2022 (please also see attached) and I was horrified to learn upon returning home that it had not. Please
take the time to read the attachments before Wednesday’s meeting as we have little time on the agenda to
rehash the background information.
This issue keeps coming back like a bad penny. Following years of input at public meetings, etc., the City
moved forward with the decision to pave the path. I have the following comments to add to this discussion:
1. To reiterate the Committee’s position, paving the Hubbard Park path is a key link in having a safe year‐
round(!), north/south, bikeway stretching from the Shelburne town line to the UVM campus. The
bikeway will travel from South Village, over the “Long property” (TBD), through South Pointe, across
Hubbard Park, east on Nowland Farm and north on Vale Drive, through the new Spear Meadows
neighborhood (path being built now), along the path being built (grant and Penny for Paths funded and
in final design) from Swift Street to the Forest Service building and onto UVM. This bikeway was
included in the City's 2016 Comprehensive Plan (please see map attached).
2. The Committee and City staff spent a lot of time in early 2022 trying to accommodate the people who
do not want the path paved to find a viable alternative at the same time wanting to create a path that
could be used (and plowed) year‐round by residents. We (including the engineers hired to design the
park) looked into various permeable and crush stoned surfaces, but, due to the water table throughout
the park, found that the cost of maintenance would be extensive and, as we know with our current
path system, our DPW has little time and funding for maintenance of our current shared use
facilities. We even spoke with the City of Burlington, who gave up after 3 attempts to use a pervious
surface for sidewalks and biking because of the need for buying an expensive vacuum‐type of machine
to keep the surface pervious as they get blocked up with dirt, etc. Perhaps, we color the asphalt path
in brown or olive green using an additive like they do in The Netherlands.
3. The Park needs to serve all users, not just those that live east or west within easy walking distance. I
fear the "squeaky wheels" that attended the meeting on May 15th are seeking, perhaps inadvertently,
exclusivity for the few. This is an equity issue. I want the Park to be used by more residents and, yes, I
want the elderly who may not be able to use the unpaved trails to more easily reach the lake and
mountain view that the "anti‐pavers" of the City gush about. I want wheelchairs, people using walkers,
and strollers to be able to see that view. God knows that the view from Overlook Park has not been
able to be maintained. With more frequent thaws in our warmer winters now, Hubbard Park’s fields
are extremely wet and muddy as it is.
4. How do we make it safe for kids who live on Four Sisters Road or in the new Spear Meadow's
neighborhood to ride to visit their friend who lives in South Village or the planned soccer field
there? Are we going to send him/her down Spear Street? How about the nurse or doctor who lives in
South Village that wants to safely bike commute to work at the medical center?
5. Furthermore, only at most 5% of the Park will have any facilities (parking lot, bike path, stone wall and
seating) when the project is done. The “anti‐paver” folks get the other 95% in its natural state. Seems
like a win‐win to me.
77
6. This paved path is part of a much bigger transportation system and getting people out of cars is also
one of the City's Climate goals. I sometimes think that the "natural resources" folks forget where the
carbon dioxide is coming from. Yes, the City did scope widening the street and putting a recreation
path on Spear Street as has been suggested and the cost was estimated at over $3.5 million dollars. In
fact, Spear Street is not even wide enough now in sections to allow for 5‐foot bike lanes on both sides
of the road. It is not a viable alternative. Furthermore, last year the Council voted to take the project
to widen Spear Street out of the DPW road section of the CIP because it kept getting pushed out
further and further and the Council replaced it with a project in fiscal 2026 (?) at minimal cost to re‐
center the yellow line on the road and the DPW promised to widen the sections of Spear that are not
31 feet wide as "opportunities arise." [Note that the City web site does not appear to have been
updated to show the final, voter approved, FY24 CIP, so I cannot verify the exact fiscal year or the cost
for this replacement project.]
I have copied Mike Simoneau, the Chair of the Recreation and Parks Committee, as that Committee also wants
the shared use path paved for year‐round use. His feeling is "Now is the time to start networking to build
support for this." Based on viewing the May 15th City Council meeting on YouTube, it appears that 4 out of the
5 City Councilors are leaning towards supporting the anti‐pavers, but I believe that is because they have not
heard the positive reasons for paving the path. I do think we can get the bike crowd (residents who are
members of Local Motion, Silver Spokes, and Green Mountain Bike Club, bike commuters, etc.) and other
residents to show up at a City Council meeting to advocate for paving if given some notice.
Thanks for listening.
Bob Britt
802‐338‐6334 (cell)
78
Erica Quallen
From:Bob Britt <brittvtbiz@msn.com>
Sent:Saturday, June 17, 2023 3:49 PM
To:Helen Riehle; Meaghan Emery; Tim Barritt; Andrew Chalnick; Tyler Barnes
Cc:Havaleh Gagne; Donna Leban; Erica Quallen
Subject:'EXTERNAL'Fw: Hubbard Park Shared Use Path Paving Issue
Attachments:Mike Mittag's Memo Related to Not Paving Hubbard Park Shared Use Path.pdf; Britt Email to Council
on May 15, 2023.pdf; SBBPC_objections to pervious pavement Final_4-29-2022-1.pdf; 2016
Comprehensive Plan Planned Rec Lanes and Paths.pdf
This message has originated from an External Source. Please use proper judgment and caution when opening
attachments, clicking links, or responding to this email.
Greetings. I understand that you have been receiving a number of emails from members of the South
Burlington Land Trust who presently do not want to see the shared use path through Hubbard Park paved. To
assure that you are receiving a balanced view of the issue, I am forwarding below the email that I sent to
members of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee prior to our June 14th meeting. I am speaking as a resident
in this email and not on behalf of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee. However, I do ask that you please
read the attached memo that the Committee sent a year ago last April to the City Council stating the
Committee's reasons for supporting the paving of the path. I understand that the two new councilors would
not have seen it, but I cannot understand why the other Councilors may never have seen it as I have the email
from Ashley Parker, the former Staff liaison to the Committee, where she stated that it was sent to Council
and providing us with the final version. The Committee will do a better job communicating in the future.
The great thing about this issue is that both sides are seeking to fight climate change. However, this is also an
equity issue since this Park is to serve the whole City, which I explain further in my email below. A paved path
will help create a north/south transportation link to connect neighborhoods south and north of the Park that
does not exist at this time. Residents living in nearby neighborhoods east and west of the Park already have
an east/west shared used path on Deerfield Road and Nowland Farm Road that allows them to easily walk or
bike to the Park.
My understanding is that the City's definition of a passive park includes having paved shared use paths and
parking lots in addition to picnic tables and benches. Paving the path does not cut down a swath of large
trees. It simply covers a minor portion of the Park's grassland that, as a I state below, will cover less than 5%
(probably 2%) of the Park and leaves the rest of the Park natural. Let alone the transportation climate benefits
of helping get people out of their cars, the added benefit of paving is all the added accessibility the paving will
provide including for the disabled, the elderly and parents pushing strollers, etc. You will not even be able to
see the paved path once you walk out onto the grass trails. I was very happy to learn recently that both the
Energy Committee and the Recreation and Parks Committee are fully in support of the path being paved.
The Land Trust members refer to the FY24 City Plan, which, I believe, is yet to be fully drafted or commented
upon. What about the still active 2016 Comprehensive Plan that includes a map (attached) of planned rec
paths that clearly shows the vision for a safe, off‐Spear Street route of the bikeway that the Committee has
been painstakingly trying to piece together including pushing for the shared use path through the Spear
79
Meadow neighborhood when that was in front of the DRB and the path along Spear Street from Swift Street to
the U.S. Forest Service path.
Thanks for listening and thank you for reading my email below. I'd be happy to speak further with anyone if
that would be of any added benefit.
Best regards,
Bob Britt
802‐338‐6334 (cell)
From: Bob Britt <brittvtbiz@msn.com>
Sent: Monday, June 12, 2023 12:39 PM
To: joel Klug <joel.klug@gmail.com>; Dana Farr <danafarr@gmail.com>; Doug Goodman <douggphoto@gmail.com>;
Donna Leban <lightspd@comcast.net>; Nic Anderson <nanderson@champlain.edu>; Ann Ellen Mason
<aehill1165@gmail.com>; Amanda Holland <akholland@yahoo.com>
Cc: Erica Quallen <equallen@southburlingtonvt.gov>; Havaleh Gagne <taralovers@netzero.net>
Subject: Fw: Hubbard Park Shared Use Path Paving Issue
Hello all. At our Wednesday meeting, the agenda calls for a discussion about the growing vocal outreach by
certain people in the community who do not want the shared use path through Hubbard Park to be paved (see
Mike Mittag’s memo to Council attached). They also do not want a paved parking lot, picnic tables, the stone
viewing wall and related seating, etc. to be built.
I finally had the time about a week and a half ago to watch the replay of the May 15th City Council meeting as I
was away visiting my youngest daughter who now lives in The Netherlands and had only found out that
Hubbard Park was on that meeting’s agenda on the evening of the 15th. With a six‐hour time difference, I
knew I could not attend on‐line, so I quickly sent off a few comments to Meaghan Emery and Helen Riehle
(unfortunately, I spelled Tim Barritt’s email address wrong, or he would have received it as well) using my cell
phone (please see attached). [Donna, thanks for attending the meeting and for your comments.] I had
assumed that all Councilors would have been given the memo that the Committee sent to the Council on April
29, 2022 (please also see attached) and I was horrified to learn upon returning home that it had not. Please
take the time to read the attachments before Wednesday’s meeting as we have little time on the agenda to
rehash the background information.
This issue keeps coming back like a bad penny. Following years of input at public meetings, etc., the City
moved forward with the decision to pave the path. I have the following comments to add to this discussion:
1. To reiterate the Committee’s position, paving the Hubbard Park path is a key link in having a safe year‐
round(!), north/south, bikeway stretching from the Shelburne town line to the UVM campus. The
bikeway will travel from South Village, over the “Long property” (TBD), through South Pointe, across
Hubbard Park, east on Nowland Farm and north on Vale Drive, through the new Spear Meadows
neighborhood (path being built now), along the path being built (grant and Penny for Paths funded and
in final design) from Swift Street to the Forest Service building and onto UVM. This bikeway was
included in the City's 2016 Comprehensive Plan (please see map attached).
2. The Committee and City staff spent a lot of time in early 2022 trying to accommodate the people who
do not want the path paved to find a viable alternative at the same time wanting to create a path that
could be used (and plowed) year‐round by residents. We (including the engineers hired to design the
80
park) looked into various permeable and crush stoned surfaces, but, due to the water table throughout
the park, found that the cost of maintenance would be extensive and, as we know with our current
path system, our DPW has little time and funding for maintenance of our current shared use
facilities. We even spoke with the City of Burlington, who gave up after 3 attempts to use a pervious
surface for sidewalks and biking because of the need for buying an expensive vacuum‐type of machine
to keep the surface pervious as they get blocked up with dirt, etc. Perhaps, we color the asphalt path
in brown or olive green using an additive like they do in The Netherlands.
3. The Park needs to serve all users, not just those that live east or west within easy walking distance. I
fear the "squeaky wheels" that attended the meeting on May 15th are seeking, perhaps inadvertently,
exclusivity for the few. This is an equity issue. I want the Park to be used by more residents and, yes, I
want the elderly who may not be able to use the unpaved trails to more easily reach the lake and
mountain view that the "anti‐pavers" of the City gush about. I want wheelchairs, people using walkers,
and strollers to be able to see that view. God knows that the view from Overlook Park has not been
able to be maintained. With more frequent thaws in our warmer winters now, Hubbard Park’s fields
are extremely wet and muddy as it is.
4. How do we make it safe for kids who live on Four Sisters Road or in the new Spear Meadow's
neighborhood to ride to visit their friend who lives in South Village or the planned soccer field
there? Are we going to send him/her down Spear Street? How about the nurse or doctor who lives in
South Village that wants to safely bike commute to work at the medical center?
5. Furthermore, only at most 5% of the Park will have any facilities (parking lot, bike path, stone wall and
seating) when the project is done. The “anti‐paver” folks get the other 95% in its natural state. Seems
like a win‐win to me.
6. This paved path is part of a much bigger transportation system and getting people out of cars is also
one of the City's Climate goals. I sometimes think that the "natural resources" folks forget where the
carbon dioxide is coming from. Yes, the City did scope widening the street and putting a recreation
path on Spear Street as has been suggested and the cost was estimated at over $3.5 million dollars. In
fact, Spear Street is not even wide enough now in sections to allow for 5‐foot bike lanes on both sides
of the road. It is not a viable alternative. Furthermore, last year the Council voted to take the project
to widen Spear Street out of the DPW road section of the CIP because it kept getting pushed out
further and further and the Council replaced it with a project in fiscal 2026 (?) at minimal cost to re‐
center the yellow line on the road and the DPW promised to widen the sections of Spear that are not
31 feet wide as "opportunities arise." [Note that the City web site does not appear to have been
updated to show the final, voter approved, FY24 CIP, so I cannot verify the exact fiscal year or the cost
for this replacement project.]
I have copied Mike Simoneau, the Chair of the Recreation and Parks Committee, as that Committee also wants
the shared use path paved for year‐round use. His feeling is "Now is the time to start networking to build
support for this." Based on viewing the May 15th City Council meeting on YouTube, it appears that 4 out of the
5 City Councilors are leaning towards supporting the anti‐pavers, but I believe that is because they have not
heard the positive reasons for paving the path. I do think we can get the bike crowd (residents who are
81
members of Local Motion, Silver Spokes, and Green Mountain Bike Club, bike commuters, etc.) and other
residents to show up at a City Council meeting to advocate for paving if given some notice.
Thanks for listening.
Bob Britt
802‐338‐6334 (cell)
82
Erica Quallen
From:Bob Britt <brittvtbiz@msn.com>
Sent:Tuesday, June 6, 2023 6:43 PM
To:Tyler Barnes
Cc:Havaleh Gagne; Erica Quallen
Subject:'EXTERNAL'Paving Hubbard Park Shared Use Path
Attachments:SBBPC_objections to pervious pavement Final_4-29-2022.pdf
This message has originated from an External Source. Please use proper judgment and caution when opening
attachments, clicking links, or responding to this email.
Tyler,
Sorry that it has taken me so much time to reach out to you. I serve as the vice chair of the Bicycle and
Pedestrian Committee and am very happy that you are serving as our City Council liaison. I finally had the
time to watch the replay of the May 15th City Council meeting and I thank you so much for the support you
gave to the need to pave this path. Unfortunately, I was visiting my youngest daughter who now lives in The
Netherlands and only found out that Hubbard Park was on the agenda on the evening of the 15th with a six‐
hour time difference and quickly sent off a few comments to Meaghan and Helen using my cell phone. I had
assumed that all Councilors would have been given the memo that the Committee sent to the Council on April
29, 2022 (please see attached) and I was horrified to learn upon returning home that it had not. This issue
keeps coming back like a bad penny. Following public meetings, etc., the City moved forward with the
conclusion of paving the path.
Let me just say that paving the Hubbard Park path is a key link in having a safe year‐round(!), north/south,
bikeway stretching from the Shelburne town line to the UVM campus. The bikeway will travel from South
Village, over the Long property (TBD), through South Pointe, across Hubbard Park, east on Nowland Farm and
north on Vale Drive, through the new Spear Meadows neighborhood (path being built now), along the path
being built (grant and Penny for Paths funded and in final design) from Swift Street to the Forest Service
building and onto UVM. This bikeway was included in the City's 2016 Comprehensive Plan.
The Committee and City staff spent a lot of time in early 2022 trying to accommodate the people who do not
want the path paved to find a viable alternative at the same time wanting to create a path that could be used
(and plowed) year‐round by residents. We (including the engineers hired to design the park) looked into
various permeable and crush stoned surfaces, but, due to the water table throughout the park, found that the
cost of maintenance would be extensive and, as we know with our current path system, our DPW has little
time and funding for maintenance of our current shared use facilities. We even spoke with the City of
Burlington, who gave up after 3 attempts to use a pervious surface for sidewalks and biking because of the
need for buying an expensive vacuum‐type of machine to keep the surface pervious as they get blocked up
with dirt, etc. Perhaps, we color the asphalt path in brown or olive green using an additive like they do in The
Netherlands.
How do we make it safe for kids who live on Four Sisters Road or in the new Spear Meadow's neighborhood to
ride to visit their friend who lives in South Village or the planned soccer field there? Are we going to send
83
him/her down Sper Street? How about the nurse or doctor who lives in South Village that wants to safely bike
commute to work at the medical center? The Park needs to serve all users, not just those that live east or west
within walking distance. I fear the "squeaky wheels" that attended the meeting on May 15th were seeking
exclusivity (perhaps even elitism) for the few. I want the park to be used by more residents and, yes, I want
the elderly who may not be able to use the unpaved trails to more easily reach the lake and mountain view
that the "land trust folks" and other anti‐pavers of the City gush about. I want wheelchairs and strollers to be
able to see that view. God knows that the City has not maintained Overlook Park so that we can see the view
that it shows on the City's website. With more frequent thaws in our warmer winters now, that field is
extremely muddy as it is.
This paved path is part of a much bigger transportation system and getting people out of cars is also one of the
City's goals. The "natural resources" folks forget where the carbon dioxide is coming from. Yes, the City did
scope putting a recreation path on Spear Street as has been suggested and the cost was estimated at over
$3.5 million dollars. In fact, Spear street is not wide enough now in sections to allow for 5‐foot bike lanes on
both sides of the road. It is not a viable alternative. Furthermore, last year the Council voted to take the
project to widen Spear Street out of the DPW road section of the CIP because it kept getting pushed out
further and further and replaced it with a project in fiscal 2026 to re‐center the yellow line on the road and the
DPW promised to widen the sections of Spear that are not 31 feet wide as "opportunities arise."
Hopefully, the information above and attached provides you with more background on the Hubbard Park
issue. Haveleh may have already met with you, but I would love to meet with you at some point to get to
know you and review some of the other issues and reports that the Committee is working on or supplying the
DPW. Please let me know a time we can meet. I'm retired so I am somewhat flexible. Thank you again for
supporting the paving of the path through Hubbard Park on the 15th.
Best regards,
Bob Britt
802‐338‐6334 (cell)
84
Erica Quallen
From:Jessie Baker
Sent:Thursday, May 18, 2023 9:25 AM
To:Tom DiPietro; Erica Quallen
Subject:FW: 'EXTERNAL'Hubbard Natural Area
FYI
‐‐‐‐‐Original Message‐‐‐‐‐
From: Rosanne Greco <rosanne05403@aol.com>
Sent: Wednesday, May 17, 2023 5:57 PM
To: Helen Riehle <hriehle@southburlingtonvt.gov>; Meaghan Emery <memery@southburlingtonvt.gov>; Tim BarriƩ
<tbarriƩ@southburlingtonvt.gov>; Andrew Chalnick <achalnick@southburlingtonvt.gov>; Tyler Barnes
<tbarnes@southburlingtonvt.gov>; Jessie Baker <jbaker@southburlingtonvt.gov>
Subject: 'EXTERNAL'Hubbard Natural Area
This message has originated from an External Source. Please use proper judgment and cauƟon when opening
aƩachments, clicking links, or responding to this email.
Dear Councilors,
I wanted to menƟon to you a few other points regarding the Hubbard Natural area that I didn’t have Ɵme to express at
Monday night’s meeƟng.
All of the reputable climate scienƟsts, biologists, and other experts are urging humankind to stop destroying, impairing,
and encroaching upon our natural resource lands. We sƟll have some of these lands in South Burlington, but I fear we are
perilously close to losing or fragmenƟng them. The Hubbard open lands are one of a few intact land areas leŌ in our city.
But, the plans that I heard discussed on Monday will harm that area in ways that were menƟoned, and in ways that were
not menƟoned.
No one menƟoned how the runoff from paving, and walls, and benches, and artwork, not to menƟon human‐produced
trash etc. will impact the adjacent organic farm and the ferƟle soils. We already heard that it’s going to cost the city
thousands of dollars to try to undo the harm that we will be causing by puƫng all of this human stuff on the land. I
doubt those costly remediaƟon efforts will prevent damage to the organic farm or the waterways or the soil itself.
No one menƟoned the light polluƟon that will be caused by installing lighƟng in a meadow. There are studies that show
how light polluƟon is affecƟng the birds and other wildlife. Installing lightning not only uses more fossil fuels, it will affect
our birds and wildlife. They (and we) need darkness. Darkness is good. Without darkness we cannot see the stars. In the
past, the Vermont astrological society used Hubbard Park in order to see the night sky because there are so few dark
patches leŌ in our overbuilt ciƟes. They used to go to Dorset park, but that became too bright from lighƟng for them to
get a good view of the stars. Hubbard is one of the few dark areas in the city and we should keep it that way.
No one menƟoned how the plans for a large parking lot caters to and promotes more car usage. Paving a parking lot on a
meadow to accommodate cars does that. Another (or any) parking lot on Hubbard destroys more of the meadows and
wildlife habitats, and is totally unnecessary, as only a few steps from the fields there is a large paved area on which cars
can park: Nowland Farm Road. Public Works told us that this road was made too wide, which is one reason there is so
85
much speeding on it. They also told us that parking cars along it would slow down traffic and reduce speeding. So, if you
want people to visit Hubbard in their cars, that’s where cars should park. Encouraging street parking and prohibiƟng
parking on Hubbard will both save the meadows and slow down speeding cars in a residenƟal area.
And lastly, we talk so much about wanƟng to hear the voices of our young people. Well, we heard the voice of one young
man at Monday‘s meeƟng pleading with us not to touch this prisƟne land area. He spoke so passionately and so
eloquently about this land. Please listen to him and honor his request to protect this area from any more human
encroachment.
If we stop interfering with our natural lands, they will be around to help us now and in the future be healthier human
beings. We have plenty of opportuniƟes in our city and elsewhere to recreate on pavement and play organized sports.
The benefits of Hubbard for passive recreaƟon are just as important, if not more important, to us. As someone who
spends a lot of Ɵme someƟmes walking on these lands and on most days walking on the sidewalk/bike path along
Nowland Farm Road, words can’t express the kind of peace and even awe I get from just looking at this land and the
magnificence of the lake and mountains in the distance. These areas rouƟnely feed my heart and soul like very few other
places in South Burlington. If you have not spent Ɵme here, come park your car on Nowland Farm Road (there is enough
space for 40‐50 cars on that road), and just look south. I hope you too will come to the conclusion that this land cannot
be improved upon by human beings. It is perfect just as it is.
Thank you for listening and re‐thinking the proposed development plan; and for hopefully choosing to adopt a different
course of acƟon—one that does not damage or encroach on the homes of our wildlife neighbors (mammals, birds,
pollinators), our vegetaƟve growth and organic food producƟon, and our waterways; but treads lightly, if at all, on this
precious land.
Rosanne
86
Erica Quallen
From:Donna Leban <lightspd@comcast.net>
Sent:Tuesday, May 16, 2023 1:56 PM
To:Helen Riehle; Tim Barritt; Andrew Chalnick; Meaghan Emery; Tyler Barnes
Cc:Havela Gagne; Erica Quallen
Subject:'EXTERNAL'Hubbard Park Shared use path
This message has originated from an External Source. Please use proper judgment and cauƟon when opening
aƩachments, clicking links, or responding to this email.
Thank you all for the discussion last night on the planned shared use path at Hubbard Park.
One issue that wasn't discussed was ADA accessibility. While I am not
an expert, I have found menƟon that gravel paths may not be considered ADA accessible. This is an important thing to
consider for public parks. Its also a reason that some limited parking is needed off road.
Is there even a curb cut currently? How would someone with limited walking ability be able to safely enjoy the view from
this site?
I have not ridden my bike across Hubbard park, as others who may be much more familiar with the park may have. I
have once driven to the park in order to hike on the trails there. This should not be necessary, although its the main way
that people currently get to various city parks because we do not have a complete and safe shared use path system
to connect parks at this Ɵme. Not allowing an accessible, durable,
hard surface shared use path though this important city natural resource is to deny many city residents easy, non‐
vehicular access to it.
Those against creaƟng an accessible park seemed to imply that including
a hard path through the park would somehow destroy it, and nature. The
US NaƟonal Park Service would strongly disagree that making natural areas inaccessible to people is an appropriate way
to "save" nature.
If we cannot enjoy nature, making it harder for people who don't live close to the park, parks will have less support, not
more. This is not,
was not as a farm, and never will be a wilderness area. And yet, those
against even the lightest addiƟon of measures to make it more accessible want to treat it as one.
This company makes concrete and other systems for off road pathways, and reiterates the high maintenance
requirements as well as less than ideal condiƟons for bikers and walkers when gravel and fine stone paths are used.
hƩps://www.permatrak.com/news‐events/bid/102041/choosing‐mulƟ‐use‐trail‐surface‐types‐gravel‐asphalt‐concrete.
It would be good to have the design team look further into the cost and applicability of concrete pavers for use as an
alternaƟve to asphalt.
Having recently done my own installaƟon of concrete pavers at my home, I know that this material will last a very long
Ɵme when properly installed with a very staple stone base. Its also a lot of
back‐breaking work to install. Its my impression that asphalt paving
is generally used because of its much lower iniƟal cost. However, if you add in long term maintenance, concrete pavers
with a very solid base may look beƩer.
87
Placing a path at the boƩom of the hill near Spear St would put it in a wet and unstable area that is prone to flooding
from runoff, which is why this opƟon has been rejected.
I hope the City Council will conƟnue to uphold the need to complete our shared use path system for all users and reject
the desire of a small minority of city dwellers who reject local improvements that make the city a beƩer place for
everyone.
Thank you,
Donna Leban
‐‐
Light/Space/Design 7 Iris Lane South Burlington, VT 05403 802‐862‐1901 www.lightspacedesign.biz
‐‐
This email has been checked for viruses by AVG anƟvirus soŌware.
www.avg.com
88
Erica Quallen
From:Jessie Baker
Sent:Monday, May 15, 2023 3:55 PM
To:Tom DiPietro; Erica Quallen; Paul Conner; Holly Rees
Subject:FW: 'EXTERNAL'Proposed Development of the Hubbard Natural Area andPatk
Attachments:SB Highway Map March 2023.pdf
FYI
From: Michael Mittag <mittag.michael@gmail.com>
Sent: Monday, May 15, 2023 3:46 PM
To: Andrew Chalnick <achalnick@southburlingtonvt.gov>; Tim Barritt <tbarritt@southburlingtonvt.gov>; Tyler Barnes
<tbarnes@southburlingtonvt.gov>; Meaghan Emery <memery@southburlingtonvt.gov>; Andrew Chalnick
<achalnick@gmail.com>; Helen Riehle <hriehle@southburlingtonvt.gov>
Cc: Jessie Baker <jbaker@southburlingtonvt.gov>
Subject: 'EXTERNAL'Proposed Development of the Hubbard Natural Area andPatk
This message has originated from an External Source. Please use proper judgment and caution when opening
attachments, clicking links, or responding to this email.
THE CASE FOR A MINIMALIST, ENVIRONMENTALLY RESPONSIBLE APPROACH TO THE
UNDERWOOD/HUBBARD NATURAL AREA AND PARK.
We have all learned a lot since 2013, 2015 and 2018 and there is now a greater public awareness
about the importance of open space and habitat preservation.
Hubbard is one of the most valuable natural habitats in the city.
Hubbard encompasses within it meadow, shrubby grassland, wetland and forest.
The area supports significant biodiversity: many wildlife species e.g. ground nesting birds, ground
feeding small mammals, raptors, larger mammals, many aquatic species and pollinators (a list of
sightings can be provided).
Hubbard is connected to and is supporting habitat for the Great Swamp, the most important
habitat block in South Burlington.
Arrowood Scientific recommended that the Great Swamp and its connected supporting habitats
should not be fragmented.
For these reasons Hubbard should remain in its natural state with only mowed recreation paths
(possibly with puncheons over very wet sections as is the case in Wheeler) and maybe the
occasional bench for resting and viewing.
The Hubbard wetland area should not be encroached upon. Our Environmental Protection
Standards do not allow private landowners to encroach upon wetlands. The City should be held to
and comply with the same rules.
89
The proposed bridge should not be built across the wetland. Such a bridge would be quite costly as
it would have to be well above ground level to allow for the free flow of flood water and the free
movement of aquatic life.
Walking trails in the forested section of Hubbard can be accessed from Nowland Farm Road and/or
from South Pointe without having to cross the wetland.
The construction of a paved (impervious) path and parking area is inconsistent with many city
objectives – the Climate Action Plan, Environmental protection, the Open Space Plan and with City
Plan 2024 to name a few.
Without these impervious surfaces, stormwater treatment would not be needed.
A paved path with E-bikes whizzing along the ridgeline of the meadow at 20 MPH would be
unpleasant and hazardous for other users and incompatible with the peace and quiet which one
should expect in a natural area.
City Plan 2024 states that “it would not be City policy to convert passive/natural recreation
[areas] currently possessed to developed park”.
This proposed development plan for Hubbard does just that.
South Burlington is fortunate to have several neighborhood parks for sports and active recreation -
Veterans Memorial, Szymanski, Farrell, Jaycee, Baycrest, and there will be an additional playing
field or two in South Village.
Wheeler, Red Rocks and Hubbard are our only natural area/nature parks for passive recreation.
THERE ARE VIABLE ALTERNATIVES.
The attached “Highway Map, March 2023” which you reviewed at your April 17 meeting shows a
Planned Bike Path on the western side of Hubbard, South Pointe, Long properties and South
Village along Spear Street to the Shelburne town line.
This should be reconfigured as a shared use path and would connect Hubbard to all the
communities to the south.
The map shows the existing [narrow] bike lane from Nowland Farm Road to Swift Street which
should also be reconfigured as a shared use path.
No additional parking is needed.
The current gravel parking area can accommodate at least 18 vehicles and there is unrestricted
parking on Nowland Farm Road.
Use the $600,000+ as a contribution to the reconfiguration of the Planned Bike Path or other costs
associated with that.
PLEASE DON'T DAMAGE SUCH A WONDERFUL NATURAL ASSET WITH UNNECESSARY DEVELOPMENT.
Respectfully,
Michael Mittag.
90
Erica Quallen
From:simmy@buyvtrealestate.com
Sent:Monday, April 24, 2023 8:57 AM
To:taralovers@netzero.net; brittvtbiz@msn.com; Erica Quallen
Cc:simmy@buyvtrealestate.com; Holly Rees
Subject:'EXTERNAL'RE: Hubbard Park Shared Use Path Surface Debate
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attachments, clicking links, or responding to this email.
Dear Bike and Ped Committee Members:
The catalyst for this conversation was it being shared with me by a member of the SB staff that Helen Riehle had
commented that it was “unfortunate” that the path through Hubbard had to be paved. The communication implied that
the CC might take up the matter.
I’m just going to offer a couple of thoughts here, as this is your “realm”, but it does also concern R&P as the activities
occur in Hubbard, which is an SB Park.
I would confirm the “status” of the current Hubbard development plan. Is the plan a binding agreement? If so,
some public process would need to be gone through for it to be changed, and various stakeholder groups would
have the opportunity to advocate for their position/desired outcome here.
The CC has been pretty single‐minded when making decisions that are “climate action” and environmentally
oriented. If the matter is going to be discussed by the CC, assembling a coalition to support the path being paved
could be useful. This coalition could include B&P, R&P, DPW, South Point HOA, South Village HOA, and maybe
others. There is a group who will advocate for it not being paved. Their influence cannot be underestimated.
Let’s keep the lines of communication open, and keep an eye on future CC meeting agendas. If it becomes
known that the matter will be discussed, we can initiate a more collaborative campaign at that time?
With appreciation for all of your service, Mike S. R&P Chair
Michael Simoneau
Commercial Broker / Owner
Geri Reilly Real Estate
802-307-9612
802-233-2011
simmy@buyvtrealestate.com
BuyVTRealEstate.com
340 Dorset Street, Ste 4, So Burlington, VT 05403
91
From: taralovers@netzero.net <taralovers@netzero.net>
Sent: Monday, April 24, 2023 7:16 AM
To: brittvtbiz@msn.com; equallen@southburlingtonvt.gov; simmy@buyvtrealestate.com
Subject: Hubbard Park Shared Use Path Surface Debate
Hi All,
Mike Simoneau brought to our attention City Council not wanting the path paved at Hubbard. I don't know any further
details on this, and suspect if anyone is up to date on the official plan it is Erica, the project manager.
Also, unless this is item is specifically on the agenda, no decision can be made, to my knowledge. Also, this question has
come up before (in the last 3‐6 months) and per my conversations with Erica, the plan was still asphalt.
If this is the case, we do have a letter from the BPC that was previously submitted to council. I don't know where it is,
but it details the BPC rationale for recommending asphalt paved path, it could be brought back to council's attention if
needed.
Also, Erica is presenting our ARPA request tonight as well as I recall.
Thanks,
Havaleh
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What is the Municipal Plan?
It is the Overarching Policy Plan for the City
•Lays out a long term vision with shorter term goals and actions
•Effective for 8 years, but has a much further planning horizon
•Rooted in land use, but broadened by the Legislature to cover
major aspects of community
•Includes required elements (including land use, housing,
transportation, economic activity, natural resources & working
lands) and consideration of a series of statewide planning goals
•Grants the City greater policymaking power from the State;
required in order to amend bylaws, receive State grants, renew
designations, and more
Foundations of CityPlan 2024
The world is facing an existential threat
from a warming planet and climatic
changes with increasingly catastrophic
consequences. This Plan acknowledges
this threat and prioritizes mitigation and
adaptation measures to address these
consequences. Action on Climate Change
is the most important goal in this Plan.
— Draft CityPlan 2024
Guiding Principles
The overriding guiding principle of this Plan is to make every
policy decision through the lens of climate resilience and
reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.
•Climate-Resilient. Prioritize goals that mitigate climate change impacts
and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Emphasize sustainability by
rapidly shifting our energy profile to renewable and carbon-free sources
and increasing energy efficiency. Promote clean air, clean water, historic
conservation, environmental conservation, and recreational space for all
residents.
South Burlington also holds high the following guiding principles, in every
action we take as a community.
Inclusive, Fair, and Just. Be equity-oriented,
transparent, and fiscally responsible in
governance. Support high quality of life, public
safety, housing affordability, and education for
people of varying incomes, lifestyles, and stages
of life.
Thoughtful and Sustainable Built Environment.
Invest in a welcoming and walkable built
environment, thriving neighborhoods, and a
vibrant, pedestrian-oriented City Center. Build
community through housing, parks, facilities, and
infrastructure. Support a safe, resilient, and varied
transportation system that promotes our built
areas.
Collaborative and Engaged. Be a leader and
collaborator in the regional and statewide
community. Support the City’s role as an
economic engine for Vermont by encouraging
community businesses and local job creation.
Make decisions considering future implications
on tomorrow’s South Burlington, Chittenden
County, and Vermont.
Foundations of CityPlan 2024
•Builds on the 2016 Comprehensive Plan
•Focuses the four Vision & Goals from 2016
•See proposed updates from Fall 2022
•Added measurable metrics to goals where possible
•Streamlines discussion to be forward-looking and
informed by the past
•Umbrella Plan to do more planning
•Deeply informed by public input, committee review, and
staff recommendations
•Started discussions with City staff - November 2022
•Initial input on key topics from committees -
December 2022 to January 2023
•Public outreach began – January 2023
Preparation of the Plan
March to June 2022
•Planning Commission (PC)
Review of Statutory
Requirements
•Prepare overall process
•Initial background research
July to October 2022
•Overview to Council
•PC Review of “Knowns” Going
Into 2024 Plan
•PC Identify Key Planning Topics
•Joint Council/PC Meeting with
Council to Establish Working
Vision & Values
Nov ‘22 to Jan ‘23
•PC Endorsement of outreach
process
•PC Initial Discussion of Future
Land Use Plan & Thriving
Neighborhoods
•Staff Meet with Depts
•Initial Committee Input: Key
Issues; Questions
Feb to May 2023
•City Poll (300 responses)
•11 Community Conversations
(250+ participants)
•First Drafts of Each Section
•Review by Planning
Commission, City Committees,
Departments
May to August 2023
•Publish First Complete Draft
•PC Host 4 Listening Sessions
•Feedback from Community,
Committees, Departments
•External Review by Partners
•PC Review of Feedback, Warn
Public Hearing (Target Date
Aug 22)
Sept to Oct 2023
•PC Public Hearing (Target
September26)
•PC Review of Feedback; Make
Changes as Appropriate
•PC Vote to Approve Plan &
Report and Submit to Council
Oct to Dec 2023
•City Council Receive draft
(Target Date October 16)
•City Council Review and
Discussion of Draft Plan
•City Council Warn/Hold Two
Public Hearings
Dec ‘23 – Jan ‘24
•City Council Consider Changes
Post Public Hearing(s)
•Hold Final Public Hearing
•Adopt CityPlan 2024 by
February 2, 2024
Land Use Plan
Principally Conservation & Open Space
•Appropriately conserve ecologically-important lands while
allowing agricultural, limited residential, and renewable
energy uses
Primarily Residential: Lower Scale
•Maintain and invest in lower-scale, walkable, primarily
residential neighborhoods with limited neighborhood-scale
commercial and amenities
Primarily Residential: Higher Scale
•Maintain and invest in medium-scale, walkable, primarily
residential neighborhoods with community focal points,
neighborhood-focused commercial and amenities
Balanced, High-Scale Mixed Use
•Urban-style integrated residential and commercial places
with civic spaces, public art and facilities, and a sense of
identity
Commercial/Industrial with Supporting Residential
•Primarily commercial areas with more flexibility in
supporting residential and other auxiliary uses to
modernize commercial areas
Commercial/Industrial Only
•Areas dedicated to commercial/industrial uses generally
incompatible with housing
Future land use plan oriented around six land use types
•Uses 2016 Plan as Foundation;
•Primary Focus of Future Land Use Plan
•Refined Descriptions & Stronger Vision for Each
•Breaks Commercial/Industrial into two Categories
Future Land Use Plan (2016 -> 2024)
Plan Sections
Each Section Organized As Follows:
•Introduction/Overview
•Goals
Outcomes, measurable where possible, we are trying to
accomplish
•Actions
Steps to take to reach the Goals
•Inventory, Analysis, & Challenges
Discussion of the subject supporting the goals
•Additional Resources
Current studies and plans on the subject
Plan Sections
•Guiding Principles
•Introduction
•People & Population
•Environment
•Energy
•Housing
•Transportation
•Economy
•Community, History, Culture
•Recreation
•Community Services
•Water & Utilities
•Future Land Use
•Appendices
Supplemental
Slides
People and Population
•Plan for 1-1.5% average annual population growth
•South Burlington is growing faster than Vermont and
becoming more diverse
•Significant numbers of residents speak languages other
than English
•Household income varies in different areas of the city
•Variation across the city should be considered in
policymaking
•Vibrancy, diversity, and variation in our community
could be an even better community-builder than now
Environment
•Protect at least 51% of the City’s Land Area
•Address Environment at the Landscape Scale and
Resource Scale
•Rooted in work developing 2022 Environmental
Protection Standards & related LDR Amendments
•Conserve natural areas and connect them together
•Restrict development in environmentally sensitive areas
identified
•Manage public open spaces for human use and
environmental conservation
•Support South Burlington’s remaining agricultural
landscape and operations
Energy
•Climate Action Plan is primary driver of the energy
policy of the City;
•CAP targets included as Plan Goals; CAP High Impact
Actions and Supporting Actions included by reference
•Address reduction in greenhouse gas emissions,
climate-change mitigation, and adaptation
•Meet the requirements of Act 174 for the City Plan to
be an Enhanced Energy Plan
•Increase renewable energy generation
Housing
•Increase supply of housing that is permanently
affordable or naturally affordable to a range of low- to
middle-income households
•Focus development in transit-served areas supports
community goals
•Improve energy efficiency, weatherization, and
electrification of existing homes and new homes
•Use regulatory tools, non-regulatory tools, partnerships,
funding, creative and innovative solutions to tackle this
issue
•Prepare a Housing Needs Assessment
Transportation
•Focus on completing bike/ped infrastructure network,
with eye on accessibility and vulnerable users
•Improve crossings of large roads to reduce
fragmentation; explore reconfiguration of auto-oriented
roads
•Invest in existing neighborhoods to support community
•Reduce vehicle miles traveled and total gas vehicles
•Strategically Plan for new transportation connections
where needed
•Prepare a Bicycle/Pedestrian & Transportation Master
Plan
Economy
•Focus on economic vibrancy city-wide, with emphasis
on City Center
•Support local workforce by improving multi-modal
transportation options, supporting childcare, and
exploring innovative housing in commercial areas
•Focus on local businesses, small businesses, and specific
sectors of green technology, arts and entertainment,
hospitality, technology and innovation, and pedestrian-
scale retail and food service
•Collaborate with regional partners and neighboring
municipalities
Community, History, and Culture
•Focus on building community through enabling
community gathering, open and transparent
government, sharing of interests, and arts programming
•Engage with historic sites, structures, and landscapes
•Support cultural diversity in community events and
partnerships
•Protect important views
•Support artistic community in events, programs, public
buildings, and other efforts
•Prepare a Cultural Master Plan
Recreation
•Provide varied recreational opportunities to meet varied
needs in the community
•Equitably distribute recreational amenities city-wide,
including investment in multi-family areas, underserved
areas, and existing neighborhoods
•Increase participation in community events, rec
programming, and use of spaces
•Do further planning including a Parks Master Plan
Community Services
•Provide City Services that are accessible and equitable
•Invite public participation, communication, and
engagement
•Plan for current and future needs in facilities
•Provide just and equitable first response
•Be a collaborative regional partner with other
municipalities, entities and the State
Water & Utilities
•Plan for capital investment to accommodate anticipated
land use
•Focus on continuing to improve stormwater facilities
and planning: Implement Flow Restoration Plans
•Distribute focus and funding for water projects
equitably
•Improve telecommunications, including choice, access,
and competition, across the City
Land Use Types & Planning Areas
Principally Conservation & Open Space
Appropriately conserve ecologically-important lands while
allowing agricultural, limited residential, and renewable
energy uses
Primarily Residential: Lower Scale
Maintain and invest in lower-scale, walkable, primarily
residential neighborhoods with limited neighborhood-
scale commercial and amenities
Primarily Residential: Higher Scale
Maintain and invest in medium-scale, walkable, primarily
residential neighborhoods with community focal points,
neighborhood-focused commercial and amenities
Balanced, High-Scale Mixed Use
Urban-style integrated residential and commercial places
with civic spaces, public art and facilities, and a sense of
identity
Commercial/Industrial with Supporting Residential
Primarily commercial areas with more flexibility in
supporting residential and other auxiliary uses to
modernize commercial areas
Commercial/Industrial Only
Areas dedicated to commercial/industrial uses generally
incompatible with housing
Planning Areas
Central
•Focus on City Center development and transition to adjacent
areas
Northwest
•Engage in community-driven planning for lands northwest of
airport
•Explore infill opportunities along Williston Road
Northeast
•Focus on thoughtful commercial development, location of
commercial on transit routes, and improved transportation
connections
Southwest
•Build community by reconnecting across corridors,
establishing nodes of focus, and investing in community
spaces
Southeast
•Continue to balance needs of area residents, city residents,
and conservation
Appendices
Appendix A: Act 174 Enhanced Energy Plan Additional
Target Data
•Additional target data and information required to be
an Enhanced Energy Plan
•Primary regarding energy fuel usage and renewable
energy generation
Appendix B: Act 174 Enhanced Energy Plan Equity
Assessment
•Required assessment to satisfy requirements to be an
Enhanced Energy Plan
•Also identifies need for further work
180 Market Street, South Burlington, Vermont 05403 | 802‐846‐4107 | www.southburlingtonvt.gov
To: South Burlington City Council
From: Jessie Baker, City Manager
Date: July 7, 2023
Re: Climate Action Plan – Implementation Plans
On September 19, 2022 the Council received the Climate Action Plan from the Task Force. Accompanying this
presentation was a memo from staff on how this policy document would be implemented. Together, we’ve
talked about it several more times through ARPA conversations and other policy discussions.
As you consider the adoption of the shared FY24 Policy Priorities and Strategies workplan, I wanted to provide
an update on where we are with implementing this policy and how we can set strategic and reasonable
expectations moving forward.
As you know, there are three Implementation Plans outlined in the draft Climate Action Plan. We provide and
update on each below. Two of these plans have a city‐wide focus – how all residents and businesses share
work to achieve our climate goals. And one focuses solely on the operations of city government. I anticipate
that each implementation plan will outline additional resources needed to fully implement the policy of the
Council.
City‐wide Focus: Transportation Implementation Plan: This is funded in FY23 and FY24 through CCRPC’s UPWP
program with consultant support from VHB. The Transportation Implementation Plan is in draft development
with the intention of finalizing detailed plans for each of the high impact actions and a higher‐level overview
for the supporting actions. Plans for the high impact actions are underway and include descriptions of relevant
stakeholders, upfront and ongoing City staff workload, anticipated capital and ongoing funding needs, steps
for implementation, equity considerations, opportunities for innovation, and examples from other
municipalities around the country that have completed similar goals. The City Manager appointed Advisory
Group has met twice and has at least and one more meeting in August to provide feedback on the high impact
action implementation plans and identify areas of potential collaboration. The high impact actions will be
revised and incorporated into a report with an introduction and supporting actions overview, which is
anticipated to be complete in Fall 2023. In addition to the Implementation Plan itself, several of the identified
high impact actions are being advanced in FY24. Notably, the City successfully applied for funding to
undertake a citywide Bike/Pedestrian Master Plan; and the Planning Commission has identified amendments
to the Land Development Regulations to be undertaken including development of Transportation Demand
Management standards to replace existing traffic management tools.
Government Operations Implementation Plan: In 2022 the City received a grant from the VT Department of
Housing and Community Development to develop this implementation plan. This year we issued an RFP for a
consultant to support the development of this implementation plan. We received one response to this RFP
that was not complete. With the expiration of the grant and no available consultants, the staff went back to
the drawing board. We have now reprioritized work of Lou Bresee (part time Energy Project Manager) and
Nick Atherton (City Planner) to work over the next six to nine months to develop this implementation plan.
180 Market Street, South Burlington, Vermont 05403 | 802‐846‐4107 | www.southburlingtonvt.gov
The quarterly Extended Directors meeting on July 19th will focus on idea generation from the staff. Evaluation
matrix are under development and best practice research is underway. We recommend that this be the
priority focus of staff’s work in the FY24 Policy Priorities and Strategies shared workplan as, strategically, it will
best inform our future funding needs for the FY25 budget and beyond. It will build buy‐in across the staff and
will ensure we are focusing on the biggest impact and most strategic activities over the next seven years.
Buildings and Thermal Implementation Plan – This is not yet funded although the Council has started work
with the adoption of the Heating/Hot Water Ordinance in early 2023, the adoption of requirements to install
Solar PV on buildings subject to the Commercial Building Energy Codes in spring 2023, and consideration of
the FY24 work plan for the Planning Commission to examine electric vehicle parking standards for new
development in FY24.
180 Market Street, South Burlington, Vermont 05403 | 802-846-4107 | www.southburlingtonvt.gov
To: South Burlington City Council
From: Jessie Baker, City Manager
Leadership Team
Date: July 13, 2023
Re: FY24 Policy Priorities and Strategies (PP&S) Discussion and Approval
On June 26th, the Council and Leadership Team held our annual Policy Priorities and Strategies Retreat. Thank
you for your enthusiastic and thoughtful participation!
This year we have arranged these Priorities and Strategies according to the areas of the Comprehensive Plan,
Core Municipal government, City Center/Tax Increment Financing District, and Climate Action Plan.
Additionally, we’ve categorized each strategy as “must do,” “may do,” and “pending resources.” We’ve tried
to streamline it a bit to make it more accessible and integrated your feedback from the Retreat. We are also
providing the recommended FY24 Policy Priorities and Strategy workplans recommended by your policy
committees.
Pending your discussion and final feedback, please adopt a set of FY24 Policy Priorities and Strategies that will
guide the work of the Council, staff, and Committees over the fiscal year. The Leadership Team will regularly
report to the Council on progress made toward these shared goals. We will revisit this process in May and
June 2024. This will continue to be an iterative process of priority setting, acting, reviewing, and shared
accountability for years to come.
Finally, on behalf of the Leadership Team, our sincere thanks to all the of the City Councilors and community
members who engaged in this effort!
Recommended Motion: Move to approve the FY24 Policy Priorities and Strategies shared workplan for the
City Council and staff and the recommended workplans for the Committees as presented.
Role of Council Role of City Manager and Leadership Team"This is the vision for our community""This is how we are accomplishing this vision."Must doIn place of a municipal recreation facility, convene community partners to discuss bringing a non‐profit community center provider to the City Must doCity Assuming Ownership of Public Infrastructure*Complete DPW standards for assuming city ownership of privately developed infrastructure*Develop inventory of current agreements*Tie maintenance needs to resource planningMust doPlan for the transformational and effective use of ARPA fundingMust doHubbard Natural Area: Complete design phase and bid construction for summer 2024Must doSouth Village Field: Determine future use and work with developer on constructionMust doSupport and partner with the School District on long‐term capital planning for school capacityMust doFollowing the City Plan 2024 adoption, outline the multiyear strategy and funding for complementary plans to include: Parks Master Plan, Housing Needs Assessment, Economic Development Strategic Plan, and Cultural PlanMust doUpdate Recreation Impact Fee ordinance (with full impact fee ordinance review)May doIncrease Community Gardens throughout the communityMay doModernize rules and regulations on dogs and common spaces for dogs*Including considering LDR updates for multi‐family homesMay doWork with GMT to improve connectivity throughout the City to include in‐city connectionsPending ResourcesInitiate Parks Master Plan processMust doStrengthen Dispatch service provision*2 on at all times*Implement Computer Aided Dispatch*Contract with other communities*Monitor state legislationMay doStreamline Land Development RegulationsMay doActively work with City Center area building owners to seek out smaller scale, local businesses to occupy first‐floor commercial spaceMay doBuild a regional stormwater collaborationAffordable and Community Strong: Creating a robust sense of place and opportunity for our residents and visitors.Opportunity Oriented: Being a supportive and engaged member of the larger regional and statewide community.City of South BurlingtonFY24 Policy Priorities & StrategiesFor Adoption on July 17, 2023Category
Role of Council Role of City Manager and Leadership Team"This is the vision for our community""This is how we are accomplishing this vision."CategoryMay doUpdate Sign Ordinance: City Center appropriate standards and political signsMay doUpdate Peddlers Ordinance to support creative businesses and food trucksMay doAssess Commercial/Industrial Districts for opportunities for housing, support services, and for reserving space for industrial‐onlyPending ResourcesActivate Market Street and City Center with eventsMust doComplete Transportation Demand Management Regulations to be nimble for City CenterMust doComplete Transportation Impact Fee update (with full impact fee ordinance review)Must doSubstantially complete the Bike/Ped Master PlanPending ResourcesConduct a sidewalk condition inventory and prioritize maintenance in future budgets (current budget is $2k/year)*Weigh needs against shared use path and paving needsMust doBartlett Bay Wastewater Treatment Facility: Complete engineering and designMust doWater Tank in High Service Area: Engineering, bond vote, apply for fundingMust doFinalize Auclair conservation plan with Vermont Land TrustMust doAddress implications of S.100*Update LDRs *Establish a Water Service Area (including areas where we intend to infill and upzone)*Establish a Wastewater Service Area*Update Wastewater/Stormwater ordinance & update drinking water ordinance Must doImprove management/maintenance of City‐owned Natural Areas and Public ParksPending ResourcesEnhance City's municipal tree nursery Must doAdopt City Plan 2024Must doModernize the City's Personnel Policies and PracticesMust doAssess and modernize the City's financial system, policies, and procedures Must doAssess and modernize the City's hiring, onboarding, and evaluation processesMust doModernize City communications: Redesign website, implement communications policies, and focus on resident and neighborhood‐based engagement and outreachMust doModernize cross‐department permitting (and building history) systems and processesMust doAdopt a Rental Ordinance and stand up a Rental RegistryWalkable: Bicycle and pedestrian friendly with safe transportation infrastructure.Green & Clean: Emphasizing sustainability for long‐term viability of a clean and green South BurlingtonCore Municipal Services and Administration
Role of Council Role of City Manager and Leadership Team"This is the vision for our community""This is how we are accomplishing this vision."CategoryMust doFocus on equity and inclusion: Complete the 'Equity in Planning' Project, define shared goals, and work toward engaging more voices at policy tablesMust doComplete a utility rate study to ensure our wastewater and drinking water rates can appropriately fund the required maintenance of our existing system and can pay for future capital needs. Must doComplete Charter Committee process and support Council in considering recommendationsMust doComplete review, digitization, and modernization of City's municipal ordinances Must doDevelop a process, related procedures, and a database for affordability covenantsMust doConduct analysis of development trends, tax generation, and potential service capacityMust doPlan for the future of 575 and 577 Dorset Street including transfer of ownership to the School District and CHTMay doConsider revamping the Committee structure after the adoption of the City Plan 2024May doFollowing Charter and Comp Plan work, engage with community about how to best provide services at a more neighborhood levelMust do Dorset Street Signals: *Complete construction in October 2023*Plan for Adaptive signal technology. *Include upgrade of hardware at other signals around the City in CIP.Must do Focus on Redevelopment: Be nimble in support of future City Center areas for priority redevelopment in the next ten years*U Mall *San Remo Drive*Hinesburg Road/Williston Road*Small property owners *Land Development Regulations Updates: Continue revisions to City Center Form Based Code and associated Official Map updates to support successful development of the downtownMust do Garden Street* Complete right of way acquisition and finalize construction documents * Bid out project* Demolish 1270 Willison Rd* Coordinate with StateMust do Williston Road Streetscape: * Complete right of way acquisition and finalize construction documents * Coordinate with State* Prepare to bid project for FY25 constructionCity Center and Tax Increment Financing District
Role of Council Role of City Manager and Leadership Team"This is the vision for our community""This is how we are accomplishing this vision."CategoryMust doEast West Crossing ‐ Pedestrian Bicycle Bridge over I‐89 Project* Complete right of way acquisition and finalize construction documents * Identify other funding sourcesMust do City Center Park Boardwalk Connection:*Finalize design and engineering *Bid, award construction contract, and start constructionMust doRenew New Town Center and Renew and Expand Neighborhood Development Area DesignationMay doBegin exploration of converting the City's "Base" Designated New Town Center to a Designated DowntownPending ResourcesExplore creating a "village green" in City CenterMust do TIP1. Complete Transportation Implementation Plan (TIP) *Identify financial and human resources to implement the TIP ‐ What can we do and how do we pay for it?Pending resourcesTIP2. Inventory current multi‐family electric vehicle charging network needs/capabilities to inform a policy for existing multifamily properties (new and existing) to install electric vehicle charging equipment. Must do GOIP1. Complete Government Operations Implementation Plan (GOIP)*Strategically plan to achieve 2030 goals*Identify financial and human resources to implement the GOIP ‐ What can we do and how do we pay for it?Pending ResourcesGOIP2. Once completed prioritize:*Implement financial policy and CIP planning to integrate EV only vehicles into the Fleet once they are operationally feasible and meet budget goals*Develop a municipal green purchasing policy*Consider an ordinance to limit or ban small engines (leaf blowers and trimmers)Pending ResourcesExplore resources to develop a Buildings/Thermal Implementation PlanMust doUpdate LDRs to implement targets of Climate Action Plan, including bike/ped parking, EV charging, infill in built areas, othersClimate Action Plan
Role of Council Role of Committee
"This is the vision for our community""This is how our resident committees can inform policy and help implement policy."
Strategy Description
Continue to provide advice and recommendations to Planning commission and/or City Council on Comp
Plan content and LDR's that address the housing crisis.
Advocate for change to LDR's that reflect S-100 language when relevant to South Burlington.
Promote redevelopment and infill development of underutilized and vacant properties.
Create a working group of the AHC to advise staff on content of quarterly reporting on all housing
development, by stage of development, that are under review by the DRB and the Planning & Zoning
Department.
Support and recommend an additional funding source for Housing Trust Fund.
Advocate for rapid development of Rental Registry, including short-term rentals, and regulations that
support landlord-tenant resolutions regarding housing conditions.
Advocate for changes in zoning in commercial and industrial zoning districts to permit high density
housing
Research, in conjunction with other committees, the feasibility and potential trade-offs for developers
and the City to provide pocket parks, community gardens, and safe bike paths in high density
developments.
Request the library to partner with the AHC to provide a forum on ADU's.
Study feasibility, new models, and developer response to increasing perpetually affordable unit
requirements and make recommendations to the Planning Commission.
Participate in local and statewide activities that support affordable housing (Habitat for Humanity open
houses, COTS walk, Fair Housing Month, Community Book Discussion, etc.)
City of South Burlington
FY24 Policy Priorities & Strategies
Affordable Housing Committee
Affordable and Community Strong: Creating a robust sense of place and opportunity for our residents and visitors.
Opportunity Oriented: Being a supportive and engaged member of the larger regional and statewide community.
Role of Council Role of Committee"This is the vision for our community" "This is how our resident committees can inform policy and help implement policy."Strategy DescriptionProvide guidance to City Staff on the development and deployment of the Recreation Path wayfinding package and regulatory signage.Work with Local Motion to support community events, resources, etc. (e.g., bicycle valet parking at events, community rides)Participate in scoping studies, planning efforts, and development review applications that impact bike and pedestrian modes of travel and monitor the integration of the preferred alternative or permit condition through to construction.Coordinate with Local Motion and other state bicycling advocacy organizations to bring about better bike/ped facilities.Coordinate with the Recreation & Parks Department, Public Works, and appropriate City Committees to ensure City trails and paths are accessible and maintained. Support City Staff in conveying the progress of projects funded by the Penny for Paths Initiative with signage and announcements to indicate infrastructure improvements “coming soon” or completed.Identify partnerships to aid the education of all modes of travel (automobile, e‐assist devices, and non‐motorized) on the rules of the road and use of the South Burlington network.Increase awareness of South Burlington as a bikeable, walkable city through community outreach, digital/paper maps, signage and community surveys Communicate with City staff to develop ways of reducing vehicle speeds to promote a safer environment for bicyclists and pedestrians.Work with City staff and the CCRPC to develop the Walk/Bike Master Plan.Communicate bike and pedestrian network needs, priorities, successes through announcements, events, meetings, digital/paper maps, and publicity.Publicly advocate for greater alternative transportation use to reduce use of fossil fuel burning vehicles for local trips.Engage closely with City Staff on the allocation of the Penny for Paths Fund through the CIP development and grant applications, as well as assist in strategically planning for implementing priority projects. In coordination with City Staff, monitor the condition of the bike and pedestrian network (paint, signage, surface condition) and report maintenance concerns. Comprehensive Plan UpdateAnnually review and provide updates to the mapped data of bike and pedestrian infrastructure (existing and proposed GIS datasets) to maintain an accurate record of the system. Support City staff in their plans for the I‐89 East‐West Crossing.Participate in the City’s implementation of the Climate Action Plan through a Committee liaison, cognizant of the important roles micromobility and non‐vehicular travel play in a carbon‐neutral future. Partner with Energy Committee and communicate with South Burlington schools to increase bus, public transit, bicycle and pedestrian commuting for students, staff, and residents (statewide Way to Go School program, Safe Routes to School program and Committee's Neighborhood to Schools Greenway pilot).City of South BurlingtonFY24 Policy Priorities & StrategiesBike and Pedestrian CommitteeGreen & Clean: Emphasizing sustainability for long‐term viability of a clean and green South BurlingtonCore Municipal Services and AdministrationCity Center and Tax Increment Financing DistrictClimate Action PlanAffordable and Community Strong: Creating a robust sense of place and opportunity for our residents and visitors.Opportunity Oriented: Being a supportive and engaged member of the larger regional and statewide community.Walkable: Bicycle and pedestrian friendly with safe transportation infrastructure.
Role of Council Role of Committee"This is the vision for our community""This is how our resident committees can inform policy and help implement policy."Strategy DescriptionContinue working on lot line development at 575/577Continue advising Council on allocation of ARPA fundsWork on implementation of recommendations if approvedAdvise community on economic sustainability of the City through the development data resources in the CityProvide feedback to the PC on issues related to economic developmentExplore how microtransit options may reduce traffic and support the business community Continue to work with green businesses to assess their impact and needsStart the process of conducting an Economic Development Strategic Plan including finding fundingComprehensive Plan UpdateContinued participation in discussions around the Comprehensive PlanContinue to provide feedback to PC and Umall developers on redevelopment optionsExplore how business community has envisioned realizing the community Climate Action Plan goalsExplore CAP implications on South Burlington electrical grid Green & Clean: Emphasizing sustainability for long‐term viability of a clean and green South BurlingtonCore Municipal Services and AdministrationCity Center and Tax Increment Financing DistrictClimate Action PlanCity of South BurlingtonFY24 Policy Priorities & StrategiesEconomic Development CommitteeAffordable and Community Strong: Creating a robust sense of place and opportunity for our residents and visitors.Opportunity Oriented: Being a supportive and engaged member of the larger regional and statewide community.Walkable: Bicycle and pedestrian friendly with safe transportation infrastructure.
Role of Council Role of Committee"This is the vision for our community" "This is how our resident committees can inform policy and help implement policy."Strategy DescriptionCoordinate with and learn from other Energy Committees and organizationsSupport the City in implementing municipal infrastructure / equipment upgrades and tapping resources (revolving loan, grants) to realize CAP goals, such as EV charger stations, implementing building energy upgrades, transitioning to electrically powered equipment, and building out the bicycle and pedestrian path network. Assist monitoring and analysis of the energy performance of City facilities / equipment to identify areas where additional savings may be obtained with energy efficiency, conservation and carbon reduction investments and progress towards energy goals.Advocate for and assist with the creation of a decision‐making process that considers carbon and energy impacts to be developed and implemented with respect to policy and purchasing.Comprehensive Plan UpdateContinue to provide input and guidance to the Comprehensive Plan portions regarding Energy and Climate Change.Conduct public outreach, education, and engagement to implement the CAP: * Build a coalition of support, excitement, and knowledge among residents, businesses and other implementation partners through regular communication across media channels, in‐person and online events, and activities* Address historically underserved residents by increasing awareness of and connecting low‐income homeowners, renters, and multi‐family residential building owners to resources to weatherize homes, access renewable energy, and switch to low‐carbon transportation options.* Encourage residents to take steps to capture the benefits of energy efficiency and decarbonization.Advise and support City regulatory and policy changes to implement the CAP.City of South BurlingtonFY24 Policy Priorities & StrategiesEnergy Committee Core Municipal Services and AdministrationClimate Action PlanOpportunity Oriented: Being a supportive and engaged member of the larger regional and statewide community
Board of Trustees FY 2024 Goals
∙ Increase participation in community events on behalf of the library
∙ Work with the Foundation to support efforts to raise funds for additional web
resources
∙ Support staffing and operations to eliminate barriers for community members
with disabilities
∙ Continue work on a communications framework that amplifies publicity for
library events
∙ Update the Trustee and Foundation bylaws to align procedures
Role of Council Role of Committee"This is the vision for our community" "This is how our resident committees can inform policy and help implement policy."Explore equity, inclusion, access, and environmental justice in relation to natural resource and conservation policies. Educate ourselves about Land Acknowledgement. Work with the airport to support green space projectsAdvocate for implementation of Pesticide/Fertilizer Policy Continue development of Open Space Plan – Identify parcels for conservation and/or protection, as well as recommend management strategies for City owned lands. Promote habitat quality and ecological services through initiatives targeting pollinators, invasive species, water quality and wildlife. Canopy conservation: advocate for long‐term funding for Emerald Ash Borer response, education/outreach about Project TREEage, expand the City’s tree nursery at Wheeler Nature Park, update City Tree Ordinance Support water, sewer and stormater infrastructure projects on the City's CIPReview relevant sections of Comp PlanAssist with implementationCity of South BurlingtonFY24 Policy Priorities & StrategiesNatural Resources and Conservation CommitteeComprehensive Plan UpdateCore Municipal Services and AdministrationClimate Action PlanAffordable and Community Strong: Creating a robust sense of place and opportunity for our residents and visitors.Opportunity Oriented: Being a supportive and engaged member of the larger regional and statewide community.Green & Clean: Emphasizing sustainability for long‐term viability of a clean and green South Burlington
Role of Council Role of Committee"This is the vision for our community" This is how our resident committees can inform policy and help implement policy.Strategy DescriptionPrepare and approve amendments to the Land Development Regulations to enact the provisions of S100 as adopted by the Legislature & Governor in 2023, including allowed densities, update of policies in areas served and unserved by water/sewer, and allowances for duplexes, and other amendments as requiredIncludes addressing "1.8" units per acre density on parcels under 4 acres in the SEQRecommend proposed sewer /water service boundary & allocation consistent with Comprehensive Plan and complementary S100 LDR amendmentsEngage in review and dialogue on infill housing and amenities within existing lower‐density neighborhoodsDevelop an Equity Toolkit for outreach on future planning projects. PC role to provide feedback, review, approveExamine Mixed I‐C district allowed uses (including definitions) for any updates; examine Industrial‐Open Space for compatibility with additional residential useReview Land Development Regulations for clarifications, redundant language and sections and text that should be in DPW specs not LDRs May include review and consolidation of districts and/or use categoriesPlanning Commission Role: provide feedback on objectives, connectivity, recommendations; identify actions for FY '25Complete project underway to replace the Traffic Overlay District and Citywide LOS standard with a performance‐based Transportation Demand Management Standard that incentivizes non single‐occupancy vehicle travelProvide feedback on initial draft; make recommendations to CouncilReview and begin work of amending boundaries of Transit Overlay District (and consider replacing title) to reflect planned priority areas of the City for development & infillComplete Preparation of 2024 Comprehensive Plan, including gathering and incorporating community, committee, and department feedback, feedback from review by CCRPC, holding one or more public hearings, and approving / submitting to City Council Provide feedback on a priority list for preparation of plans identified in 2024 Comprehensive PlanReview and consider amendments within City Center Form Based Code T3+ zone and T4/T5 zones south and west of Mary StreetContinue to refine FBC to assure functionalityOutline possible amendments to Official Map & Planned Streets throughout FBCOutline possible amendments to San Remo Drive AreaReview and possibly approve expanded use of State Designation programs in City CenterUpdate LDRs to implement targets of Climate Action Plan, including bike/ped parking, EV charging, infill in built areas, othersReceive Implementation Plans; identify work to be undertaken by committee to implementReceive annual update on CAP Implementation; review actions each committee can be doingCity of South BurlingtonFY24 Policy Priorities & StrategiesPlanning CommissionClimate Action PlanCity Center and Tax Increment Financing DistrictAffordable and Community Strong: Creating a robust sense of place and opportunity for our residents and visitors.Opportunity Oriented: Being a supportive and engaged member of the larger regional and statewide community.Walkable: Bicycle and pedestrian friendly with safe transportation infrastructure.Green & Clean: Emphasizing sustainability for long‐term viability of a clean and green South BurlingtonComprehensive Plan Update
Role of Council Role of Committee"This is the vision for our community" "This is how our resident committees can inform policy and help implement policy."Strategy DescriptionMaintain content for the Residents/Public Art page on the City website.Install permanent public art in South Burlington outside of City CenterComplete a Cultural Plan for South BurlingtonSeek opportunities to support, fund, and install art on/integrated into public infrastructureEstablish a process to facilitate review of private development art installations in an advisory capacity when requestedContinue to showcase local, regional and state artists in the Public Gallery at all levelsClarify the Public Art Selection Committee Charge in a conversation with a broader base of stakeholders.Initiate a Public Art Selection Process for the Williston Road Streetscape project and Garden Street. City of South BurlingtonFY24 Policy Priorities & StrategiesPublic Art CommitteeCore Municipal Services and AdministrationCity Center and Tax Increment Financing DistrictAffordable and Community Strong: Creating a robust sense of place and opportunity for our residents and visitors.Opportunity Oriented: Being a supportive and engaged member of the larger regional and statewide community.
180 Market St South Burlington, VT 05403 802-846-4105
July 17, 2023
The following 2023 first class liquor license was approved by the South Burlington Liquor Control Board on July 17, 2023 after review by the City tax, fire and police departments:
NAME DESCRIPTION
La Quinta Inn & Suites First Class Hotel
SOUTH BURLINGTON LIQUOR CONTROL BOARD
Helen Riehle Meagan Emery
Tim Barritt Tyler Barnes
Andrew Chalnick