HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda - City Council - 06/01/2020AGENDA
SOUTH BURLINGTON CITY COUNCIL
IMPORTANT:
This will be a fully electronic meeting, consistent with recently-passed legislation. Presenters and members
of the public are invited to participate either by interactive online meeting or by telephone. There will be
no physical site at which to attend the meeting.
Participation Options:
Interactive Online Meeting (audio & video): https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/544048197
By Telephone (audio only): Phone # (571) 317-3122, Access Code: 544-048-197
Regular Session 5:30 P.M. Monday, June 1, 2020
1.Agenda Review: Additions, deletions or changes in order of agenda items. (5:30 – 5:32 PM)
2.Possible Executive Session to discuss pending or probable civil litigation to which the public body
may be a party and confidential attorney-client communications made for the purpose of providingprofessional legal services to Council (5:32 – 6:32 PM)
3. Comments and questions from the public not related to the agenda. (6:32 – 6:47 PM)
4.Announcements and City Manager’s Report. (6:47 – 6:58 PM)
5.Consent Agenda: (6:58 – 7:00 PM)
A. *** Consider and Sign Disbursements
B.*** Approve minutes March 9th, April 6th & 20th, May 4th
6.***Update on the status of the Kimball Avenue Bridge project – Justin Rabidoux, Director of PublicWorks (7:00 – 7:15 PM)
7.***Council discussion and possible direction to staff related with closing some South Burlington roads
to through traffic (7:15 – 7:30 PM)
8.***Final Public Hearing for $625,000 in Vermont Community Development Program grant, awarded tothe City of South Burlington for the recently-completed Garden Street Apartments at 310 Market
Street. (Warned for 7:30 pm) (7:30 – 7:40 PM)
9.Presentation on “Raise the Blade,” a method of providing greater stormwater runoff control – LindaPatterson (7:40 – 8:00 PM)
10.Presentation and possible action on the proposed Chittenden Solid Waste District FY ’21 Budget –
Sarah Reeves, CSWD Executive Director (8:00 – 8:20 PM)
11.Interviews of Applicants for South Burlington Boards, Commissions and Committees. (11 applicants)(8:20 – 9:00 PM)
12.***Council discussion and guidance on the Chittenden County Regional Planning Commission I-89Corridor Study – Charlie Baker, Executive Director, CCRPC (9:00 – 9:30 PM)
13.***Council discussion and possible approval of a name for the City building located at 180 MarketStreet – Kevin Dorn, City Manager (9:30 – 9:45 PM)
14.Consider and possibly approve an instrument to assure that a future Council will enter into aconservation easement on the Wheeler property exclusive of the homestead. (9:45 – 10:00 PM)
15. Appointment of a representative to serve on the Green Mountain Transit Board of Directors Board(10:00 – 10:05 PM)
16.Reports from Councilors on Committee assignments (10:05 – 10:15 PM)
17.Other Business (10:15 – 10:20 PM)
18. Adjourn (10:20 PM)
Respectfully Submitted:
Kevin Dorn
Kevin Dorn, City Manager
*** Attachments Included
South Burlington Water Dept. Accounts Payable Check Register Date: 06/02/20
Date Check No. Paid To Memo Amount Paid
6/2/2020 4073 Aldrich & Elliott, PC Void 0.00
** VOIDED CHECK **
6/2/2020 4074 Champlain Water District - Colchester Town Water 18,895.00
Date Voucher Number Reference Voucher Total Amount Paid
5/11/2020 VI-15089 5080-SERVER 18,895.00 18,895.00
6/2/2020 4075 E.J. Prescott, Inc.147.77
Date Voucher Number Reference Voucher Total Amount Paid5/12/2020 VI-15087 5697771 13.09 13.09 5/13/2020 VI-15088 5698479 69.30 69.30 5/18/2020 VI-15094 5700463 65.38 65.38
6/2/2020 4076 Ferguson Waterworks #576 120.72
Date Voucher Number Reference Voucher Total Amount Paid
5/18/2020 VI-15093 0954270 120.72 120.72
6/2/2020 4077 FirstLight Fiber 19.91
Date Voucher Number Reference Voucher Total Amount Paid5/15/2020 VI-15095 7228684 19.91 19.91
6/2/2020 4078 Heritage Aviation 95,513.86
Date Voucher Number Reference Voucher Total Amount Paid
5/20/2020 VI-15091 REFUND SEWER 55,158.39 55,158.39 5/20/2020 VI-15092 REFUND WATER 40,355.47 40,355.47
6/2/2020 4079 Ti-Sales Inc.8,973.90
Date Voucher Number Reference Voucher Total Amount Paid
5/18/2020 VI-15086 INV0117958 8,973.90 8,973.90
6/2/2020 4080 Aldrich & Elliott, PC 10,196.00
Date Voucher Number Reference Voucher Total Amount Paid5/7/2020 VI-15084 79064 5,701.00 5,701.00 4/6/2020 VI-15085 79005 4,495.00 4,495.00
Printed: May 27, 2020 Page 1 of 2
South Burlington Water Dept. Accounts Payable Check Register Date: 06/02/20
Date Check No. Paid To Memo Amount Paid
Total Amount Paid:133,867.16
SOUTH BURLINGTON CITY COUNCIL
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Printed: May 27, 2020 Page 2 of 2
CITY COUNCIL 9 March 2020
The South Burlington City Council held a special reorganization and business meeting on
Monday, 9 March 2020, at 6:30 p.m. in the Conference Room, City Hall, 575 Dorset Street.
MEMBERS PRESENT: H. Riehle, Chair; M. Emery, T. Barritt, T. Chittenden, D. Kaufman
ALSO PRESENT: K. Dorn, City Manager; T. Hubbard, Deputy City Manager; P. Conner, Director of
Planning & Zoning; M. Mittag, M. Simoneau, J. Kochman, R. Greco, S. Dopp, A. Gill, J. Louisosn,
M.Ostby, E. Langfeldt, R. Gonda, F. von Turkevich, J. Morway, A. Chalnick, J. Nick, J. Larkin, T.
O’Connell, K. Lord, other members of the public
Mr. Dorn presided over the meeting until a Chair was elected.
Mr. Chittenden was not present at the beginning of the meeting.
1.Instructions on Leaving the Building in Case of an Emergency:
Mr. Dorn provided instructions in case of an emergency.
2.Election of City Council officers:
Mr. Dorn opened the floor for nominations for City Council Chair.
Mr. Barritt nominated Ms. Riehle. Mr. Kaufman seconded. There were no further nominations,
and Ms. Riehle was elected 4-0 and presided over the remainder of the meeting. She opened
the floor for nominations for Vice Chair and Council Clerk.
Mr. Kaufman nominated Ms. Emery for Vice Chair and Mr. Barritt for Clerk. Ms. Emery
seconded. Motion passed 4-0.
Ms. Riehle thanked the Council for its support and said she will continue to be open and
respectful even though Council members come with different ideas and different skills. She
noted that the Council has an enormous list of things to complete and she hoped they can
continue to move forward with budgeting and bonding and also work with the School Board.
3.Set dates and time for regular meetings being held March 2020-February 2021:
Members agreed to continue to meet on the first and third Mondays of the month at 6:30 p.m.
4.Annual Appointments to be made by majority vote of City Council pursuant to City
Charter Chapter 13, Section 301(2):
CITY COUNCIL
6 MARCH 2020
PAGE 2
Ms. Emery moved to approve the following annual appointments for a one year term:
City Treasurer Tom Hubbard
City Attorney Andrew Bolduc
Zoning Administrator Dalila Hall
Acting Assistant Zoning Administrator Paul Conner
Acting Assistant Zoning Administrator Cathyann LaRose
Acting Assistant Zoning Administrator Marla Keene
Acting Assistant Zoning Administrator Betsy Brown
First Constable Corporal Kevin Grealis
Second Constable Officer Cassandra Ellison
Grand Juror Kevin Dorn
City Agent & Trustee of Public Funds Kevin Dorn
Code Enforcement Officer Dalila Hall
Acting Asst. Code Enforcement Officer Paul Conner
Acting Asst. Code Enforcement Officer Cathyann LaRose
Acting Asst. Code Enforcement Officer Marla Keene
Acting Asst. Code Enforcement Officer Betsy Brown
Telecommunications Officer Dalila Hall
Acting Asst. Telecom Officer Paul Conner
Acting Asst. Telecom Officer Marla Keene
Emergency Management Director Terry Francis
Health Officer Justin Rabidoux
Mr. Kaufman seconded the motion which then passed 4-0.
5.Designate Official Paper of Record:
Mr. Kaufman moved to designate The Other Paper as official paper of record. Ms. Emery
seconded. Motion passed 4-0.
6.Designate Official Depositories:
Mr. Barritt moved to designate TD Bank as the official depository. Ms. Emery seconded. Motion
passed 4-0.
CITY COUNCIL
9 MARCH 2020
PAGE 3
7.Appoint Council Representative to the Pension Advisory Committee:
Ms. Emery moved to appoint Mr. Barritt as Representative to the Pension Advisory Committee.
Mr. Kaufman seconded. Motion passed 4-0.
8.Comments and Questions from the public not related to the Agenda:
Ms. Greco expressed concern with the amount of spending by candidates in the recent election
campaign. She felt that this means only the wealthy will be able to run for office and make
decisions. She asked the Council to something about this before the next election.
Ms. Dopp felt this is a nationwide problem that is destroying the country.
9.Consent Agenda:
a.Approve and Sign Disbursements
b. Authorize the City Manager to negotiate and execute a contract with Marathon
Health to provide wellness and primary health care services to employees of the
City of South Burlington
With regard to item “b,” Mr. Dorn explained that several organizations are also looking at this.
The obvious benefit is to address health of employees. It can operate as a primary care
physician in addition to other services. The clinic will provide some primary care services in
addition to wellness. From a policy standpoint, it is where the State is going. Marathon is now
in 34 states. It is being fit up at the City’s expense. If other communities join, they will pay a
prorated share. Marathon manages everything. A 1500 sq. ft. office will also provide health
care for PC Construction and Vermont Country Store. Marathon will refer to other specialists
when needed and may contract with other providers, if it is a lower cost provider. Mr. Dorn
stressed that this is not a replacement for a primary care physician, and employees can keep
their primary care physicians. Employees will not be docked for going in during work hours.
The operation will be overseen by a physician. The rent on the office is $23,000 for the year, not
including heat and cleaning.
Ms. Emery moved to approve the Consent Agenda as presented. Mr. Kaufman seconded.
Motion passed 4-0.
CITY COUNCIL
9 MARCH 2020
PAGE 4
Mr. Chittenden arrived at this point of the meeting.
10.Convene as Liquor Control Commission to consider the following Applications:
Night Flight, Inc. – request to move location of liquor license from 1710 Shelburne
Road to 1712 Shelburne
Cheese Traders & Wine Sellers, Second Class License
Gonzo’s Indoor Golf, First Class and Third Class Restaurant/Bar License
Holiday Inn (S. Burlington), First Class & Third Class Restaurant/Bar License
Jiffy Mart #468, Second Class License
Maplefields #52, Second Class License
Shaw’s Beer & Wine, Second Class License
Silver Palace, First Class & Third Class Restaurant/Bar License
Sugarsnap, First Class & Third Class Commercial Kitchen License
Target Store #T-3306, Second Class License
Vermont Pool & Bar, First Class & Third Class Restaurant/Bar License & Outside
Consumption Permit
Walgreen’s #11526, Second Class License
Zachary’s First Class Restaurant/Bar License
Ms. Emery moved that the Council convene as Liquor Control Board. Mr. Chittenden seconded.
Motion passed unanimously.
Mr. Dorn noted that liquor licenses have to be renewed every year. This is the first batch.
Mr. Kaufman moved to approve all of the liquor licenses presented. Ms. Emery seconded.
Motion passed unanimously
Mr. Barritt moved to reconvene as City Council. Mr. Chittenden seconded. Motion passed
unanimously.
11.Council working session on the status of Interim Zoning and Council input
regarding priorities:
Ms. Riehle reviewed the history and noted that the Earth Economics report is not ready tonight
and will be presented next week.
CITY COUNCIL
9 MARCH 2020
PAGE 5
Mr. Conner noted that the Council had been provided with a written status report on IZ
projects. Mr. Dorn said staff hopes for guidance from the Council regarding next steps to be
taken.
Mr. Conner said staff met with Regional Planning people to look at their resources. They
responded with the limited amount of assistance they can provide, so staff is looking further
afield. Mr. Dorn said there is still some funding in the consulting budget.
Ms. Riehle said she had been under the impression that the PUDs need to be completed before
all of the goals of IZ can be implemented. That is not necessarily true; what needs to be
completed is work on Article 12. Mr. Conner said a year ago the Planning Commission was
working on PUDs. One of the first questions in the PUD discussion was “what land should be
removed from development?” The Commission felt a better way to look at resources, rather
than when there is a PUD or subdivision is to look at the resource itself. At this point, drafts
now tie together PUDs, subdivisions and Article 12. The Commission views these as a single
project. The intent is for all 3 to be done at the same time.
Ms. Riehle asked whether that will align with what the State is working on. Ms. Louisos said
some resources are regulated by both State and local. Mr. Kaufman noted that Act 250 has
changed tremendously. Mr. Conner said staff is following those changes.
Ms. Emery said she wasn’t sure what “hazards” refer to. Mr. Conner said the Commission is
looking at a variety of natural resources and put them I buckets as to how they are to be
treated. Hazards have a long list of regulations and refer to such things as step slopes, flood
plains, etc. They are largely no-build areas except for infrastructure and are generally to be
removed from density calculations.
Mr. Conner went on to explain that Level 1 resources are largely the forested habitat blocks.
Regulation of these areas is more policy-related. The amount of land still counts in density
calculation. The Commission will discuss whether there may be exceptions to this (e.g., a forest
area in City Center or an exception for a very small lot).
Mr. Kaufman asked how fare is all this from getting done. Mr. Conner said part of the answer
come back to the City Council, settling what is the correct balance will allow the Commission to
get to the finish line. Mr. Conner added that there has been feedback that additional or
different things should be looked at at the same time.
CITY COUNCIL
9 MARCH 2020
PAGE 6
Ms. Emery asked about the Conservation PUD and how it would work. Mr. Conner reviewed the
history and noted that when there is a certain percentage of resources on a property, only 30%
of the property could be developed, and 70% would have to be conserved. The city could also
create PUD districts where there are conservation PUDs on a case by case basis. The current
thinking is that when resources cover a very large percentage of the property, it would become
a Conservation PUD. However, this is a bit of a “blunt instrument” and may not work for all
properties because all properties are not the same.
Mr. Conner explained that the PUD types require development to take place in a clustered
form. Whatever the PUD type, a developer would have to build at least 4 per acre. If the
developer doesn’t get TDRs, more land would be open. The Natural Resource Protection zones
would be unbuildable.
In most cases, Mr. Conner continued, the PUD would be the Traditional Neighborhood PUD.
These would be a minimum of 4-acres, mostly residential, with provisions for a small store, and
green spaces. TDRs would be a choice and would not be required. The objective would remain
that buildable areas would be allowable for development up to 4/acre with purchased TDRs.
Mr. Conner added that there would also be building types defined by height and other criteria
which would create natural limitations on the scale of a development.
Mr. Kaufman asked how he would be compensated for what he can’t develop but previously
could. He felt that is the biggest crunch point. Mr. Conner said that is a discussion to have with
the City Attorney.
Mr. Chittenden said that “crunch point” is his concern and requires conversation with the City
Attorney at some point. Mr. Barritt said it comes down to what the Council’s response is to the
city and to landowners. He said he wouldn’t “trash ourselves over a few more units on a piece
of land.” Mr. Kaufman questioned changing the rules once the game is underway. He felt you
can’t deny someone the ability to do what is fair. Mr. Conner agreed there is a question of
property rights and also the policy question of what the city wants to happen.
Mr. Dorn asked where the Comprehensive Plan stands in the overall discussion. Ms. Emery said
there are a lot of competing goals. Ms. Riehle said the LDRs don’t necessarily reflect the
Comprehensive Plan.
Ms. Emery asked about the link between Article 12 and Map 7. Mr. Conner explained that
Article 12 is trying to achieve the goals in the Comprehensive Plan. There are competing goals,
CITY COUNCIL
9 MARCH 2020
PAGE 7
and the Comprehensive Plan asks for balance. Every piece of land has value. There are natural
resources. Development affects natural resources. Map 7 proposed what should be regulated.
It doesn’t say everything should be non-developable.
Mr. Conner went on to say that a big part of future PUDs looks at a larger picture, connectivity
in many forms. The Planning Commission is looking at where things are already protected and
whether there are “holes.” Ms. Louisos added that PUDs and Chapter 12 are always looked at
together. Some things may call for a more detailed analysis, and there is a question as to
whether there are resources to do that.
Ms. Ostby stressed that “co-existing” can occur. It’s not all one thing or another. She noted that
the Open Space Report is based on lot lines. She noted there are things other than regulatory
measures. She noted that the Planning Commission is not looking at lot lines; it is looking at the
resources. If there is a lot the city has a priority vision for, it would be helpful for the
Commission to know that. Mr. Conner said there are tools available to the city for this (e.g.,
official city map).
Mr. Chalnick said connectivity is the key. Map 7 provides that. It was taken from the State to
provide the highest level of protection. It also drove the parcels identified in the Open Space
Report. He felt there should be a connection between the IZ reports and regulations. Identified
parcels shouldn’t be burdened by extra development. He also felt the open space and
affordable housing have to be balanced and that some density should be moved out of the
Southeast Quadrant.
Ms. Morway said the first step is to figure out Section 12. She said they have been told a
habitat block can be developed carefully. They spend 2 hours on the phone with the State
today regarding slopes, etc. They are hearing 2 different stories. There is also a question of
removing TDR value. She said that they would lose 80%^ of the value of their property because
of slopes. She was concerned that by changing the rules, the city is diminishing people’s
property values.
Mr. von Turkevich said the owners of the 25 identified open space properties haven’t yet been
brought into the discussion. Act 171 doesn’t touch Title 24 and didn’t get into Act 250. It is
very important, he said, that local regulations be connected to Act 250; otherwise the city will
end up in Court. Act 171 required a study committee to look at Act 250. The committee
realized it had failed and needed more work.
CITY COUNCIL
9 MARCH 2020
PAGE 8
Mr. von Turkevich said he isn’t surprised the city is struggling with this. He felt that dealing with
TDRs will help. He also felt the habitat idea is not ready for prime time and will delay the
process. Above all, landowners want their interests considered.
Mr. Gonda urged the Council to take time to fit together all the moving parts and understand all
the issues.
Mr. Nick noted that he owns property (Hill Farm) zoned Industrial-Open Space. They could have
built a bunch of industrial lots, but didn’t feel that was the right thing to do. Four years ago,
they brought a mixed use plan to the Planning Commission, and it got a good review. They are
still working toward that. However, now they could lose all the rights to that property. They
want to know where this is headed.
Ms. Riehle said the final decision may be a combination of ideas. That is the challenge. Mr. Nick
said they want to be treated fairly.
Mr. Mittag cited the volume of work facing the Planning Commission. He felt that completing
Article 12 and the RDRs are the 2 things that will give landowners more certainty. He felt it
could be done with added resources.
Ms. Dopp said the South Burlington Land Trust is “chewing on” how to make people “whole,”
but it is complicated.
Ms. Greco felt the Open Space Report is not getting enough action. It may be unfair to the
landowner, but we don’t get to choose where natural resources are. PUDs have to fit in where
they fit with resources. She felt the Council has to think about the “greater good.” She
acknowledged this may be hard to do when people are not treated fairly.
Mr. Langfeldt said developers know that things change. He also noted that many investments
are long-term. He said they have been patient, they have paid taxes, and they have invested in
the community as well. He did not want those facts diminished.
Mr. Simoneau of the Affordable Housing Committee stressed that he is not a landowner. He is
concerned about the environment. But he also supports housing at all levels. He said that
South Burlington is part of a greater community. He urged the Council to spend more time on
housing as well as on the environment. There needs to be a balance.
CITY COUNCIL
9 MARCH 2020
PAGE 9
Mr. O’Connell, owner of the Windjammer and other property, said he was involved in the Form
Based Code discussions. He felt that this process is different from what happened in the past,
and it his him “in the pit of the stomach.” He wants the process to be transparent.
Ms. Riehle asked what is not transparent.
Ms. Morway said everyone is saying something different, the committees, the Planning
Commission, etc.
Ms. Riehle stressed that nothing is law yet, and the economic piece is yet to be presented.
Mr. O’Connell said being transparent is being part of the decision. He wanted to be involved.
He has been a taxpayer for 40 years and sometimes feels he is being looked at as a “bad guy.”
Mr. Kaufman said he sees the O’Connell property as important for the economic health of the
community.
Mr. Larkin said he is confused. He noted how hard it is to develop in South Burlington. Now he
is hearing it may be even harder. He said that if the goal is to include development, it is not
being made easier. Ms. Riehle said there is a goal for development in the City Center.
Mr. Gill said the Open Space map of the 25 parcels said they were evaluated for environment on
the basis of 16 criteria. However, those parcels don’t have the most of those 16 criteria, and it
is unclear why they were chosen. The Windjammer property scored 5 while others with a score
of 10 weren’t chosen. He noted that the Open Space Committee Chair said “it was subjective.”
Ms. Lord felt the changes are being based on more scientific information being available. She
felt there are many ways to protect the 25 identified properties. Some may conserve only part
of a parcel. There could be Conservation PUDs. The question is how the resources can be
evaluated to provide the best information and what is best type of PUD to be chosen.
Ms. Emery noted how decision were made by reading from the Open Space IZ report. She
asked how the Planning Commission accepted the TDR report. Ms. Louisos said the Planning
Commission reviewed and discussed the report and considered the next steps in the bigger
context. That information was provided to the City Council. There was also a presentation of
the Open Space IZ report. The Commission said it was not going to regulate the identified
parcels as parcels. They would be regulated per Section 12. Anything more is up to the Council.
CITY COUNCIL
9 MARCH 2020
PAGE 10
Mr. Conner added that the Planning Commission also had staff put on the work list that the 25
parcels might have the option to be TDR sending areas, thought this would not be required.
The big question is where to put the receiving areas.
Ms. Louisos said the Planning Commission is trying hard to be transparent.
12.Other Business:
Mr. Dorn noted that Cairns Arena is groundbreaking for the addition on the 20th or 23rd of
March. He will confirm the date.
Mr. Chittenden reminded members that the 21st of March is the Firefighters’ Appreciation
dinner.
As there was no further business to come before the Council Mr. Chittenden moved to
adjourn. Mr. Barritt seconded. Motion passed unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at
9:23 p.m.
_________________________________
Clerk
CITY COUNCIL 6 APRIL 2020
The South Burlington City Council held a regular meeting on Monday, 6 April 2020, via Go to
Meeting.
MEMBERS PRESENT: H. Riehle, Chair; M. Emery, T. Barritt, T. Chittenden, D. Kaufman
ALSO PRESENT: K. Dorn, City Manager; T. Hubbard, Deputy City Manager; R. Greco, M. Mittag,
W. Racine, B. Sirvis, L. Nadeau
1.Opening Remarks from the Chair:
Ms. Riehle advised that due to the state of emergency, the City Council is authorized to meet
electronically. All members of the Council are participating remotely, and members of the
public are invited to participate by electronic means. Instructions for access have been
provided. There is a means to alert the public if there are access issues.
Ms. Riehle then conducted a roll call of Council members, and all were present.
2.Additions, deletions or changes in the order of Agenda items:
Mr. Kaufman suggested a brief discussion of activities of other committees under Other
Business.
3.Comments and Questions from the public not related to the Agenda:
Ms. Greco thanked the Council and City staff for their efforts during the medical emergency.
She expressed concern that although other committees are not meeting, the DRB is continuing
to meet. She felt they are not and “essential” body and their continuing to meet could result in
“uninformed decisions.” Members of the public may not have the technology to participate.
4.Announcements & City Manager’s Report:
Ms. Riehle said that she, the City Manager, Director of Planning & Zoning, and DRB Chair Matt
Cota spoke on the phone regarding public input at DRB meetings. Mr. Cota felt it was important
for the DRB to continue and look forward to things returning to “a new normal.” The city is
trying to do more for people who can’t participate electronically.
Mr. Conner noted that some extra steps have been taken regarding posting of agendas on social
media. He had not heard of anyone who is seeking more help. CCTV will also be available.
CITY COUNCIL
6 APRIL 2020
PAGE 2
Ms. Riehle noted that there have also been requests from committee members to be able to
meet during this time.
5.Consent Agenda:
a.Approve and Sign Disbursements
b.Approve Minutes of 16 March and 23 March 2020
c.Approve VTrans Municipal Highway Grant Application for Kimball Avenue-
Marshall Avenue Culvert Replacement
Ms. Emery moved to approve the Consent Agenda as presented. Mr. Chittenden seconded. By
a roll call vote, the motion was passed unanimously.
6.Update on City Management Measures to Address COVID-19 Threat:
Mr. Dorn said there is a focus on getting the payroll out. March financial will be out next week,
and there will be narratives from department heads as well. Revolving funds from the State
have been suspended which means the city won’t have to make payments on the sewage
treatment plant for a year.
The City will be filing a request for public assistance with FEMA. Justin Rabidoux will be leading
that effort.
There has been an increase in 211 calls, and the City is looking to see what expenses may be
reimbursable (at 75%). To date, the city has spent about $20,000, so they would receive
$15,000 of that back.
Tax credits, employee retention credits and emergency preparedness credits are also being
tracked.
The local option tax will take a hit. The City plans to inquire whether the State would be willing
to waive taking its 30% of that tax.
There has not been a huge uptick in the number of calls for emergency services. The Fire
Department is seeing an increase in the number of calls related to COVID19, some related to
211 facilities in the city. The City is plugged into Vermont Emergency Management every Friday
and to the Governor’s daily updates. Police are reminding people to keep social distancing as
they patrol parks. They are finding the majority of people very compliant and respectful.
CITY COUNCIL
6 APRIL 2020
PAGE 3
A management team meeting is held every Wednesday, and there is a Town Hall for all staff to
call into after that. Staff that can work from home is doing so. Some staff are on paid
administrative leave. Public Works can do some limited work.
All City first responders and water quality personnel are symptom free from the virus. PPE
supply is adequate for the foreseeable future. The city has asked for medical personnel in
hotels where there are 211 placements.
There have been calls about people congregating in parks. These calls are passed onto the State
Police as the city has no enforcement power regarding the executive order.
Ms. Riehle said the State will be asked to extend the TIF time period as work on projects has had
to cease. Mr. Dorn said the City will communicate with VEPSI on that.
Ms. Riehle asked whether the 211 population is generating increased volume of work for mental
health people. Mr. Dorn said this is a topic for the State leadership, and there are people
working on these issues. The City is very concerned about this.
Mr. Barritt asked if there had been an increase in people not paying property taxes in March.
Mr. Dorn said there has not. The city has agreed to waive penalties for late payment until July.
Mr. Dorn said the City and School District budgets may have to be separated as the school
budget has not yet been approved. The School Board is meeting at the same time as this
meeting to discuss the budget and a warning for a vote. The later it goes, the more it will affect
the August tax payment.
Ms. Emery noted an increase in domestic violence nationwide and asked if that is an issue in
South Burlington. Mr. Dorn said it hasn’t been yet. There was at least one recent incident
responded to by the Police Department.
7.Reports from Councilors on Committee Assignments:
Ms. Riehle: Had a phone conversation with Airport Commissioners. Revenues are down.
Mr. Barritt noted that he had seen an ad for the Kirby Cottages in the Free Press. Ms. Riehle
said the Airport and the City of Burlington want to save the cottages. They pressed the FAA to
let them stay since they are outside the 75 db line. The FAA said OK, but the Airport will have
CITY COUNCIL
6 APRIL 2020
PAGE 4
to pay back the money it received for the cottages. They are looking for the revenue to cover
that cost and don’t know how that will pan out. The sale of the buildings won’t cover all the
costs. Mr. Dorn said the Airport paid about $300,000 above market value for such things as
relocation costs. Ms. Riehle said that Gene Richards said the total amount could be $1,500,000.
Mr. Conner noted that the FAA has put a time-line for selling the homes, and the Airport has
reached out to people interested in affordable housing. Ms. Riehle suggested that the FAA may
have to back off a bit since airports around the country are in trouble now.
Mr. Barritt: There hasn’t been a pension fund update. Mr. Hubbard said they are still in a 60-
40 mix that protects the city a bit, but they will still take a hit. Anything to the plus side would
be great. The valuation will depend on the market as of 30 June. Mr. Barritt added there will be
a period of time before the market recovers.
8.Other Business:
Ms. Riehle raised the question of having the DRB and possibly other committees meet. She
noted that Patrick Leduc was interested in having the Library Board of Trustees meet remotely.
Mr. Chittenden said that UVM committees are functioning. He would support having City
committees conduct some business. Mr. Kaufman agreed. He said UVM used technology to
keep everything moving, though not at the usual pace. He cited the need to be careful with
things that might be controversial to be sure that all voices are heard. Mr. Barritt agreed. He
felt this may be the norm again if the virus resurfaces in the winter.
Ms. Sirvis said the Council has to consider the average person in the city. She was OK with
people meeting but not in their making decisions until the first of May.
Mr. Dorn said he knows the Energy Committee would like to meet. Ms. Emery said there have
been requests for members of the Natural Resources Committee to speak up regarding things
coming to the DRB. Mr. Dorn noted that Committee is short members and doesn’t have a
quorum.
Ms. Riehle suggested putting this on the next agenda and asking committees what they want to
do. Members agreed.
Mr. Conner noted the DRB has a meeting tomorrow night and the plan is to move forward as
scheduled. Mr. Cota has made a commitment that everyone will be heard.
CITY COUNCIL
6 APRIL 2020
PAGE 5
Ms. Emery asked about the possible 7 May vote on a school budget. Mr. Hubbard said the
School Board is meeting to decide what to do. There is a question of whether BCA members
would be willing to work at the polls if there is a vote scheduled. Ms. Kinville is hearing from
members with this concern. Ms. Riehle noted that School Superintendent Young has asked to
come to the next Council meeting to present their proposed budget.
Mr. Kaufman suggested getting an update from each city committee regarding their priorities,
etc., and what is next from their perspective. He felt that would help to keep people connected.
As there was no further business to come before the Council Mr. Chittenden moved to
adjourn. Mr. Kaufman seconded. Motion passed unanimously. The meeting was adjourned
at 7:52 p.m.
_________________________________
Clerk
CITY COUNCIL 20 APRIL 2020
The South Burlington City Council held a regular meeting on Monday, 20 April 2020, via
remote participation.
MEMBERS PRESENT: H. Riehle, Chair; M. Emery, T. Barritt, T. Chittenden, D. Kaufman
ALSO PRESENT: K. Dorn, City Manager; T. Hubbard, Deputy City Manager; P. Conner, Director of
Planning & Zoning; Chief T. Francis, Fire Department; D. Young, Superintendent of Schools; E.
Fitzgerald, B. Burkhardt, School Board; C. Baker, CCRPC, J. Murray, Librarian; D. Crawford, B.
Sirvis, J. Lees, D. Leban, G. Marcus, F. Von Turkevich, M. Mittag
1.Additions, deletions or changes in the order of Agenda items:
No changes were made to the Agenda.
2.Comments and Questions from the public not related to the Agenda:
Ms. Riehle noted receipt of an email from Michael Mittag asking for the status of the Wheeler
Conservation Agreement. He felt it should be a priority. Ms. Leban agreed. Mr. Dorn noted
that most of that property is not being used as agricultural soil mitigation which has restrictions
on it.
3.Announcements and City Manager’s Report:
Ms. Riehle noted that she and the City Manager had a conference call with Superintendent
Young and Elizabeth Fitzgerald of the School Board. They are interested in being part of the
sexual and domestic violence initiative now that schools are closed and there may be more of a
need to address these issues
Mr. Dorn: There are now 35 furloughed employees, some of whom are working part time.
The City and state are both involved in paying these employees. Mr. Dorn cited the work of Ms.
Holm, Mr. Rabidoux and Ms. Held in setting up this process. Assuming the State meets its
obligation, there will be no loss of income to the furloughed employees. Some Public Works
people have returned to work as of today under very strict guidelines.
The City will begin to advertise for openings on city committees in next
Thursday’s Other Paper. Mr. Dorn noted that this is the year to appoint a representative to the
Regional Planning Commission. Chris Shaw has indicated that he is interested in continuing in
this position. Charlie Baker of the RPC wants to know when he can come back to address some
issues regarding the I-89 Corridor Study and Tilley Drive study. Mr. Baker said they have a
CITY COUNCIL
20 APRIL 2020
PAGE 2
timeline for the rest of the year for these projects. He would like Council feedback. Mr. Dorn
said this can be on the first May Council agenda. Ms. Riehle asked that any materials be sent to
the Council ahead of time.
Friends at Front Line Foods Vermont, who have been providing food to hospitals, will
provide meals this week to South Burlington Fire and Police and Water Quality personnel. This
is greatly appreciated. Ms. Riehle added her thanks to all who are working so hard and putting
themselves at risk to help get us through this.
4.Consent Agenda:
a.Approve and Sign Disbursements
b. Approve the waiver of late fees applied to dog and cat registrations through
June 30, 2020.
Mr. Chittenden moved to approve the Consent Agenda as presented. Mr. Barritt seconded.
Motion passed unanimously via a roll call vote.
5.Consider and possibly approve annual update to local Emergency Operations Plan:
Chief Francis said this is the time of year when this update occurs. He noted that the Plan has
certainly been used in the past weeks, and it has worked very well with only a few “hiccups.”
The City has been able to deal with the State regarding issues (e.g., how to serve people living in
the City’s hotels). The City has set up a second ambulance. Last month the Department
transported 83 Corona Virus patients to the hospital. Mr. Dorn noted the City has benefited
from Chief Francis’s experience during these difficult times.
Mr. Chittenden moved to approve the Local Emergency Operations Plan as presented. Mr.
Barritt seconded. Motion passed unanimously via a roll call vote.
Mr. Leas asked to address the Council regarding a letter from the Vermont National Guard Wing
Commander. He noted that the City of Burlington City Council has adopted a Resolution asking
that the training flights of F35s be halted during the pandemic because the flights are causing
pain and stress to families. There have been 297 responses testifying to this harm. The letter
seems to direct attention away from the issue. Mr. Leas said the Governor has the power to
halt the training flights as it has control over the Militia except when the Guard is called up for
federal service. He asked the Council to join Burlington in asking Governor Scott to stop the
waste of resources while the pandemic is underway.
CITY COUNCIL
20 APRIL 2020
PAGE 3
6.Presentation by Superintendent David Young regarding the proposed FY2021
School District Budget:
Superintendent Young noted that following the March vote in which the school budget did not
pass, the School Board and administration have been looking at reductions and figuring out the
next steps for a voting process. The vote date has been moved to 28 May.
Supt. Young then reviewed the proposed budget changes but stressed that this proposal has not
yet been voted on by the School Board. The proposal would result in an increase of 3.80%
which represents a reduction from the failed budget of $2,730,000. The reductions include a
school bus, delay in facility stewardship, reductions in High School athletics, reduction in hours
for a Business and Health teacher, and reductions in the Middle School Library.
The proposed budget would result in an increase for the average condo owner of $219.00 for
the year and for the average single family home owner of $319.00 for the year.
Ms. Fitzgerald noted that there have been a lot of comments asking to “level fund” the school
budget. She said that would take another $2,000,000 from the budget and would jeopardize
school programs and proficiency-based graduation requirements.
Supt. Young noted that many of the items already reduced or cut from the budget will have to
be factored back in at some time.
The Superintendent cited the efforts of teachers to work with students during the pandemic as
well as the efforts of nutrition people and support staff. 1600 meals are being provided to
families this week.
Supt. Young also noted that the Governor and the State Legislature are talking about what they
are going to do, and the School Board and administrators are paying very close attention to this.
Mr. Kaufman asked what the increase in teachers’ salaries is for 2021. Supt. Young said they are
in negotiations now. There is money appropriated for contract settlement.
Mr. Kaufman suggested asking the teachers to forego an increase for 2021. He noted that it will
take some people 2 years or more to catch up with losses due to huge financial hits because of
the pandemic. Some people have gone to zero income overnight.
CITY COUNCIL
20 APRIL 2020
PAGE 4
Ms. Fitzgerald said that right now they are in conversation with the 3 bargaining groups and
have to follow the collective bargaining process.
Mr. Barritt asked whether the Governor has the authority to delay contract negotiations. Ms.
Fitzgerald said they are not aware that this could happen. She added that there would still be a
significant budget increase due to medical insurance.
Ms. Emery asked whether any federal funds have been earmarked for education. Supt. Young
said they have not been the recipient of any stimulus money except for some food money. The
school district has also picked up childcare for people in the health care profession, and there
may be some funding for that. Supt. Young noted that they have been able to keep almost
everyone employed.
Ms. Emery cited the need to rethink what are the “usual expectations” so the system doesn’t
collapse. Supt. Young said everyone is thinking of how to make reductions, and they have made
reductions in non-union lines. He added that like city services, school services will be needed
more than ever, not only educationally but emotionally.
Mr. Kaufman asked whether money could be saved if there weren’t tuition students. Supt.
Young said that program brings in money and enables the schools to offer more programs.
Mr. Kaufman said he felt there would be a much better chance of getting a budget passed if
teachers’ salaries stayed the same for another year.
7.Update from Paul Conner on staff work related to Interim Zoning:
Mr. Conner noted that the Planning Commission is currently not meeting which is giving staff
time to get work done on the PUD process. Mr. Conner then reviewed some of what staff is
working on as follows:
a.completing the update on subdivision standards, including standardizing
terminology
b.completing Master Plan standards
c.development/update of Environmental Protection Standards (Chapter 12)
d.update/replacement of street standards for applicability in PUDs and
subdivisions
e.update of open space standards for applicability in PUDs
CITY COUNCIL
20 APRIL 2020
PAGE 5
f.development and testing of building typologies for applicability in PUDs
Mr. Conner said they have been communicating with community members including UVM
Campus Planning people and those pursuing projects.
Ms. Riehle asked if the hope is that a number of the work outputs will be completed by the end
of May. Mr. Conner said that is a possibility. There is one piece that will be delivered by the
consultant at the end of this month, and that will help sew things together (the consultant is
currently heading her town’s pandemic response, which may slow that process).
8.Approve Extension of the Deadline to hold a public hearing and take public
comment on extending the duration of Interim Zoning Bylaws from 13 May to 22
June:
Mr. Chittenden moved to extend the deadline to hold a public hearing and take public comment
on extending the duration of Interim Zoning Bylaws from 13 May to 22 June as proposed. Mr.
Barritt seconded. Motion passed unanimously via a roll-call vote.
Mr. Chittenden then moved to extend the deadline to take action to extend the duration of
Interim Bylaws from 13 May to 22 June 2020. Ms. Emery seconded. Motion passed
unanimously via a roll-call vote.
9.Consider and possibly approve a policy on Gifts and Donations to the City:
Mr. Dorn reviewed the history and noted that the proposed policy allows the City Council to
accept or reject donations and gifts to the city.
Ms. Emery said she would vote in favor but noted this could put the City in a difficult position.
Mr. Barritt moved to approve the policy on Gifts & Donations to the City as presented. Mr.
Kaufman seconded. Motion passed unanimously via a roll-call vote.
10.Consider and possibly approve a resolution related to asking the Legislature and
Governor to extend the period of time during which a community can issue TIF
debt by one year and also extend the period of time to collect TIF revenue by one
year:
CITY COUNCIL
20 APRIL 2020
PAGE 6
Mr. Dorn thanked Ms. Riehle for having raised this issue. He noted that due to the expected
downturn in the economy that could affect construction companies, the city is asking to extend
the period during which it can incur debt and collect TIF revenue. If this is approved, the City
would advise others involved with TIFs of this extension.
Mr. Kaufman moved to approve the resolution asking the Legislature and Governor to extend
the period of time during which a community can issue TIF debt by one year and also extend
the period of time to collect TIF revenue by one year. Mr. Chittenden seconded. Motion passed
unanimously via a roll-call vote.
11.Review report from standing committees outlining priorities and need to resume
meetings. Consider allowing one or more committees to begin meeting again
electronically:
Mr. Dorn reported that feedback from most committees indicated that none had a dire need to
return to meeting. Team members are under stress now and are respectfully asking to delay
committee meetings.
Ms. Sirvis said she would like this to apply to the DRB as well. She found the electronic meeting
hard to follow and there was one very controversial issue. Mr. Kaufman agreed.
Mr. Dorn advised that the DRB’s authority is based in Statute, and the City Council has no
authority to compel them not to meet. The same is the case with the Board of Civil Authority.
The city did get a legal opinion on this which back this up.
Ms. Emery said she got emails related to this and went on-line and found that sometimes it was
hard to understand the documents. She hoped this could be communicated to the DRB. Ms.
Riehle agreed and hoped that soon there could a room set up where people can attend and be
far enough apart.
Mr. Barritt noted the public is free to appeal any DRB decision if they feel they didn’t have fair
representation.
Mr. Conner noted that the DRB Chair has specifically said he could not choose what was/wasn’t
“controversial.” The full agenda of the DRB is posted 3-4 days in advance with notes and a full
packet for each item which the public can review. Mr. Conner also noted the DRB meetings are
booked out through April and May.
CITY COUNCIL
20 APRIL 2020
PAGE 7
Ms. Sirvis stressed that the staff and the Board were great at the meetings. It was just difficult
to be a participant. Some things were easy, some were more complicated.
Ms. Emery was concerned there were no members of the press at that DRB meeting or at this
City Council meeting.
Mr. Kaufman noted the BCA has to meet to deal with the school budget issue.
Mr. Barritt asked if there could be a legal reaction if the Council suspended DRB meetings. Mr.
Dorn said the Council can’t suspend DRB meetings. The DRB has autonomy.
When asked, Mr. Conner noted that all other DRBs in surrounding communities are continuing
to meet. Mr. Barritt said that with this in mind, the documents should be improved. Mr. Dorn
said they would be as user friendly as possible and he would pass this on to the DRB and staff.
12.March Financials:
Mr. Hubbard said that three quarters of the year through, revenues are at 86% of projections
and expenses are at 70% of projections.
Mr. Hubbard stressed that the pandemic will impact revenue, and that the city is controlling as
best they can. There are meetings with department heads regarding what is essential to be
spent. Revenues, however, can’t be controlled, the big ones being ambulance and fire
inspections and the local option tax. The next local option tax statement will be in mid-May,
and it will reflect some income from 15 February to 15 March but not much since then. Hotels
can’t take reservations until mid-June. The city will try to make up any shortfall moving forward.
93% of March tax payments were received on time.
Mr. Hubbard also noted that the City Clerk is generating money in fees that weren’t anticipated
at the beginning of the year.
Mr. Hubbard noted that a group of city/town managers is talking with the State about the
August tax payments. The State is considering waiving penalties and also taking out a loan on
behalf of cities and towns. It is hard to say what the impact will be.
CITY COUNCIL
20 APRIL 2020
PAGE 8
8. Consider Convening as South Burlington Liquor Control Board to approve the
following:
Applebees – 1st and 3rd class restaurant/bar license
Bliss Bee – 1st class restaurant/bar license & outside consumption permit
Bueno y Sano – 1st and 3rd class restaurant/bar license
Chipotle Mexican Grill – 1st & 3rd class restaurant/bar license
CVS Pharmacy #10690 – 2nd Class license
Dorset Hana (fka Osaka Hana) – 1st & 3rd class restaurant/bar license
Duke’s Public House (Delta by Marriott) – 1st & 3rd class restaurant/bar license &
outside consumption permit
Eagles Club – 1st & 3rd class license for Club & 2 outside consumption permits
802 Cocktails, LLC – 1st & 3rd class commercial caterer license
Farms & Foragers – 1st class commercial kitchen license
Fish & Chips – 1st & 3rd class restaurant/bar license
Gracey’s Store – 2nd Class license
Gracey’s Liquor Store – 2nd class license
Guild Tavern – 1st & 3rd class restaurant/bar license
Halyard Brewing – 1st class restaurant/bar license & outside consumption permit
Hannaford Supermarket & Pharmacy (Dorset St.) – 2nd class license
Healthy Living Market & Café – 2nd class license
Independent Brewers United Corp. – 2nd class license & outside consumption permit
Interstate Shell – 2nd class license
Jiffy Mart #445 (Williston Rd.) 2nd class license
#104 Jolley Shelburne Rd. – 2nd class license
#146 Jolley Shelburne Rd. – 2nd class license
Klingers Bread Company – 2nd class license
Magic Hat Brewing Company – 1st & 3rd class restaurant/bar license
Maplefields at the Airport – 2nd class license
Mimmo’s Pizza – 1st & 3rd class restaurant/bar license
Moe’s Southwest Grill – 1st class restaurant/bar license & outside consumption permit
Old Post, LLC (The) – 1st & 3rd class restaurant/bar license and Entertainment permit
Olive Garden Italian Restaurant #1520 – 1st & 3rd class restaurant/bar license
Outback Steakhouse – 1st & 3rd class restaurant/bar license
Pauline’s Café & Restaurant – 1st & 3rd class restaurant/bar license
Price Chopper #228 (Hinesburg Road) – 2nd class license
Quarry Hill Club – 1st & 3rd class restaurant/bar license & outside consumption permit
CITY COUNCIL
20 APRIL 2020
PAGE 9
Rotisserie – 1st & 3rd class restaurant/bar license & outside consumption permit
Shelburne Road Variety – 2nd class license
Skinny Pancake at the Airport – 1st & 3rd class restaurant/bar license
Uno Pizzaria – 1st & 3rd class restaurant/bar license
Windjammer Restaurant – 1st & 3rd class restaurant/bar license and outside
consumption permit
Zen Garden – 1st & 3rd class restaurant/bar license
Mr. Chittenden moved that the Council convene as Liquor Control Board. Mr. Barritt seconded.
Motion passed unanimously via a roll-call vote.
Mr. Barritt moved to approve the Liquor license permits as presented. Mr. Chittenden
seconded. Motion passed unanimously via a roll-call vote.
Mr. Chittenden moved to reconvene as City Council. Ms. Emery seconded. Motion passed
unanimously via a roll-call vote.
13.Councilors’ Reports from Committee Assignments:
Ms. Riehle: The Airport Commission is not meeting, but they did have one request for a line of
credit to pay contractors. There are 19 flights a week, the minimum required by law. The usual
number is 222. Mr. Kaufman noted the airlines are getting bailout money to help cover losses.
Mr. Barritt: The Pension Committee will be meeting on 28 April.
14.Other Business:
No other business was presented.
15.Possible Executive Session to discuss negotiating or securing of real estate
purchase or lease options as well as records exempt from the access to public
records provisions of Title 1, Section 316:
Mr. Barritt moved that the Council meet in executive session as indicated and to invite Messrs.
Dorn, Hubbard and Conner to attend the executive session. Ms. Emery seconded. Motion
passed unanimously via a roll-call vote.
CITY COUNCIL
20 APRIL 2020
PAGE 10
As there was no further business to come before the Council Ms. Emery moved to adjourn.
Mr. Barritt seconded. Motion passed unanimously via a roll-call vote. The meeting was
adjourned at 9:17 p.m.
_________________________________
Clerk
CITY COUNCIL 4 MAY 2020
The South Burlington City Council held a regular meeting on Monday, 4 May 2020, via remote
participation.
MEMBERS PRESENT: H. Riehle, Chair; M. Emery, T. Barritt, T. Chittenden, D. Kaufman
ALSO PRESENT: K. Dorn, City Manager; T. Hubbard, Deputy City Manager; P. Conner, Director of
Planning & Zoning; I. Blanchard, Project Manager; J. Rabidoux, Public Works Director; C. Holm,
B. Sirvis, M. Clark, C. Baker, S. Dooley, P. Smiar, S. Dopp
1.Additions, deletions or changes in the order of Agenda items:
Mr. Dorn asked to add to Other Business an item to authorize the City Manager to submit an
application to the Vermont Bond Bank regarding improvements to 180 Market Street.
2.Comments and Questions from the public not related to the Agenda:
Ms. Sirvis said she was still unhappy about the DRB meeting even though the agenda item that
concerns her is in a very preliminary stage.
3.Announcements & City Manager’s Report:
Mr. Barritt: 3 members of the Pension Advisory Board were given a presentation to SEI. They
reviewed the current condition of the fund and had some suggestions the Board was
comfortable with. These suggestions will be presented to the rest of the Board. Ms. Riehle
asked if the changes were percentages or different kinds of funds. Mr. Barritt said they were
related to fixed income. Mr. Hubbard added that the 60-40 mix stays the same.
Mr. Chittenden: Green Mountain Transit closed the search for a General Manager without a
candidate. They are meeting tomorrow to discuss options but don’t anticipate hiring soon since
nobody seems ready to move here.
Ms. Riehle: The Airport Commission did not meet. She and Mr. Dorn met with the Librarian and
Library Board Chair. The Library will be starting a curbside pick-up and drop off tomorrow via a
cart at the rear door. Ms. Murray also laid out proposals to get back to an open Library. Mr.
Chittenden asked if there would be a requirement for masks. Ms. Riehle said that would be her
preference.
Mr. Dorn: Announced receipt of a notice from the City of Burlington for a “change of use”
application for the Burton facility. There will probably be time for Council to decide what to do.
CITY COUNCIL
4 MAY 2020
PAG3E 2
They may want to discuss this at the next Council meeting. Mr. Conner noted the application
will probably be scheduled at the Burlington DRB in July. He will send all the materials he
received, including a traffic study, to Council members.
Mr. Chittenden asked if there has been progress regarding the lights on Dorset St. Mr. Rabidoux
said that he and Mr. Dorn spoke with Healthy Living people to take them up on their offer to
fund Phase 1. There has been no communication since the beginning of the year. He will reach
out to them for an update.
Mr. Dorn: Regarding the stormwater issues at Pinnacle, the city has offered to cover an
independent engineering evaluation of the situation. Pinnacle has not responded as yet.
The city managers’ meeting was held electronically last week. Most communities
are facing the same issues, 90% of which are budget related. The education issue is particularly
a very costly concern.
He will be a guest speaker at the Rotary
4.Consent Agenda:
a.Approve and Sign Disbursements
b. Approve FY21 Unified Planning Work Program requests to Chittenden County
Regional Planning Commission
c. State Class 2 Paving Application – Dorset St.
d. Approve Highway Impact Fee Credit for 1068 Williston Road
e. Approve 2020 BUILD Grant application to fund the I-89 Exit 14 Pedestrian-
Bicycle Bridge Connection
Ms. Emery moved to approve the Consent Agenda as presented. Mr. Kaufman seconded.
Mr. Barritt asked whether the city has a chance for the grant with all that’s going on in
Washington. Mr. Dorn said the city’s project is “shovel ready” which could help. Ms. Blanchard
added they will try very hard to get the grant, but it is very competitive.
In the vote that followed, the motion passed unanimously via a rollcall vote.
5.(previously #7) Discuss and possibly appoint South Burlington representative to the
Chittenden County Regional Planning Commission Board of Commissioners:
CITY COUNCIL
4 MAY 2020
PAGE 3
Ms. Riehle noted that Chris Shaw, the current representative, is interested in continuing. It is a
2-year appointment.
Mr. Barritt moved that the Council appoint Chris Shaw as representative to the Chittenden
County Regional Planning Commission Board of Commissioners. Mr. Kaufman seconded. The
motion passed unanimously via a rollcall vote.
6.(previously #8) Council Review and Discussion of Process to Establish Names on
City Buildings:
Ms. Blanchard noted that part of the entryway at 180 Market Street will be signage for the
building. It will be important in the next month to know the name of the building. The Council
could pick a name or develop a process for a name. The Library will officially be the South
Burlington Public Library. The Auditorium and Senior Center could be named for a donor. Ms.
Blanchard showed an image of the building and indicated where the sign will be. There will also
be a place for banners on the east side of the building which could announce the Library name
which could also appear in a widow sign.
Mr. Barritt saw this as an opportunity to honor an important person in the city’s history. Ms.
Emery said she would prefer someone who is no longer alive.
Mr. Dorn said that without a major donor, the Council should consider something life “South
Burlington Community Center.” Mr. Kaufman agreed.
Ms. Riehle suggested considering this at the next meeting. She noted the sign could possibly be
changed if a donor comes forward.
7.(previously #6) Update and review of timeline for the Chittenden County Regional
Planning Commission I-89 Study:
Mr. Baker said CCRPC needs city input on the Tilley Drive study and the I-89 study. He then
showed a potential timeline.
Ms. Emery asked if there has been any development since the Winooski meeting. Mr. Baker
said they are digesting and using input from that meeting to guide the work. They received a
lot of generic input. They are now looking for details, especially for interchanges, so they can be
reviewed in a month.
CITY COUNCIL
4 MAY 2020
PAGE 4
Mr. Baker said that there will be a larger committee for the I-89 study including CATMA, the
business community, bike/ped people, etc. He then showed a map of the area.
Mr. Conner noted that the map is from the city’s Comprehensive Plan from 2016 for potential
improvements to the transportation network. The Planning Commission felt there were too
many questions for them to strongly make a statement, so there has not been a full vetting at
this time.
Mr. Baker noted that regionally they had been looking at the Circ Highway to take traffic from
Exit 14. Then the plug was pulled on that project. CCRPC spent time with surrounding
communities as to what should replace the Circ, and it became apparent that problems with
Exit 14 would not be solved without the Circ. A lot of things have been on the table, but there
has been no closure as to what the final decision will be. Mr. Baker felt that with enough
discussion there can be closure in time, and they are trying to take steps along that way.
Mr. Conner cited the need to be sure that all of the metrics for review of an interchange are laid
out.
Mr. Chittenden suggested getting feedback from the city’s standing committees (e.g., Bike/Ped,
Natural Resources, Economic Development, etc.). Ms. Riehle agreed. Mr. Baker said he would
be happy to spend time with each committee to get as much input as possible. Mr. Dorn said
the city can facilitate a joint meeting of committees to cut down on the time commitment. Ms.
Riehle said this issue needs to be presented as a “solution to a long-term congestion issue which
does not enhance our quality of life.”
Mr. Baker said he would like to get back to the Council in early June to see what interchanges
they will be working with and to see how much information they can get.
Mr. Dorn said the he, Mr. Conner and Mr. Rabidoux will work to get this scheduled with the
committees. These are huge issues for the city and the region, and staff will work closely with
CCRPS to get the information they need.
8.(previously #5) Update on School District draft FY2021 budget:
Mr. Barritt questioned how voting on a school budget would be carried out.
CITY COUNCIL
4 MAY 2020
PAGE 5
Mr. Dorn said Ms. Kinville has been speaking with staff as to how to hold a vote on 28 May. All
the polling places would be open, but there would be a promotional effort to get voters to vote
via early ballots. Ballots are now being printed. Mr. Hubbard noted that polling locations can
change up to 7 days before a vote. Right now it’s all voting locations.
Mr. Barritt asked about having people to handle ballots at the end of the night. Mr. Dorn said
there is a lot of detail being talked about including construction of screening/shields to separate
voters from workers. He stressed that this is foremost in their minds and that details are being
worked out.
9.Update on City Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic:
Mr. Dorn said staff continues to maintain contact with employees. Meetings are held with
managers every Wednesday and then with staff with as many as 65 members present. There
were a maximum of 43 people on furlough working less than 35 hours a week. They will get
checks for the past 2 weeks.
Mr. Dorn recognized the efforts of Coralee Holm, Tom Hubbard and Justin Rabidoux in putting
together the furlough program.
Staff is beginning to return to work at Public Works, and they should be fully staffed on Monday.
All Police, Fire and Water Quality people are working. Where people can function from home,
they will continue to do that until 18 May when there will be a decision as to whether that is
still reasonable based on the Governor’s Executive Order.
PPE and cleaning materials are being put together to keep the staff safe.
The City Clerk’s office is open to one person at a time to do title searches. Staff is separated
from people coming in to do that work.
Ms. Kinville has spend a lot of time talking with the Secretary of State regarding the school
budget vote, and staff is working to be sure Ms. Kinville has everything she needs.
Ms. Riehle asked for an update on anyone who has contracted the virus. Mr. Dorn said there
have been 2 cases among city employees, both of whom have recovered. No one is currently
being monitored.
CITY COUNCIL
4 MAY 2020
PAGE 6
The Leadership team meets every day at 3 p.m. to get updates on emergency calls.
Mr. Dorn noted that ass things begin to open up, there will be more and more people entering
buildings. The Governor has issued guidance on social distancing, but there is currently no
requirement for masks in public places. The City Attorney researched whether the city can
compel masks to be work in public space. Mr. Dorn said his inclination is to require people to
wear masks in all city-owned buildings. Council members unanimously supported this. Ms.
Riehle felt they should be required for people voting as well. Ms. Emery said there should be
some available for people who come without a mask so that no one is turned away. Mr. Dorn
said he will see what can be done in the way of inventory.
Mr. Kaufman asked why they don’t have only one or 2 polling places open. Ms. Riehle said the
Board of Civil Authority wanted to keep the election process as normal as possible. Voters can
go to any of the polling places since the ballot item is not specific to any area of the city.
Mr. Barritt asked if there will be early voting in City Hall. Mr. Hubbard said Ms. Kinville is
exploring setting up booths in the Conference Room. Mr. Hubbard was not sure City Hall would
be open to the public by 28 May.
Ms. Riehle noted that Supt. Young and the School Board Chair volunteered to help get the word
out about voting early and what you can and can’t do.
Mr. Barritt said if City Hall can’t be entered, there is no way there should be voting. He noted
that a lot of the Board of Civil Authority members are over 60 and 70. Mr. Dorn said the city is
very sensitive to that issue.
Mr. Dorn then addressed the question of whether the city can compel masks to be worn in all
public buildings. He noted that a number of years ago, the city banned smoking in all public
buildings. The City Attorney believes that requiring masks falls into the same category and can
be done. It would, however, be hard to enforce. Mr. Kaufman said the word today is that the
Governor will be requiring an extension of the 15 May stay-at-home date which would include
the wearing of masks.
Ms. Riehle felt it would be prudent to require masks. She noted that countries requiring masks
have been more successful in dealing with the pandemic. Mr. Kaufman said it would give peace
of mind to people working in those buildings. Mr. Barritt agreed.
CITY COUNCIL
4 MAY 2020
PAGE 7
It was noted that Costco and Trader Joe’s are requiring masks to be worn.
Mr. Barritt felt the city shouldn’t wait for the Governor to act. Mr. Barritt said it is not trampling
on anyone’s freedom, and it is an appropriate response to keep people safe. Mr. Kaufman said
the City Attorney should be asked to work out something to require this. Mr. Dorn said it will
probably require a special City Council meeting. He will get together with the City Attorney as
to the best way to do this. Ms. Riehle suggested letting the South Burlington Business
Association know about this.
10.Council review and discussion of property tax payment guidelines and obligations
of the city to pay educations taxes to the School District:
Mr. Hubbard said that cities are facing the same challenges as states and the federal
government. The city is anticipating a 3-5% shortfall for FY20 and as much as 15-20% for FY21.
That translates to a $3,900,000 to $5,200,000 impact in 2021. The city is also anticipating a
significant shortfall in local option tax income. The City Manager’s Association and Vermont
League of Cities and Towns are asking the State for resources to fill these gaps. There may also
be an aid package to cities from the federal government. None of this, however, addresses the
education property tax crisis. This money has to be paid to the State by the City regardless of
whether the City can collect it. There is an 8% penalty for late payment. There is a concern
about the city’s ability to collect school taxes for FY21. The city is committed to borrowing for
municipal taxes if needed, but it can’t do this for the school taxes.
A request is being made of the State to eliminate the 8% penalty and to allow the borrowing of
funds to pay for education with the State paying the interest on any money borrowed.
Mr. Hubbard noted that Bill #S344 which was passed by the State Legislature allows a municipal
body to:
1.Establish a new time to collect property taxes
2.Waive fees for late payment
3.Reduce the municipal tax rate
The municipality has until January 2021 to adopt any or all of these options. However, this
applies only to municipal taxes, not education taxes.
There are proposals being made as to how to deal with this regarding CARES Act funding.
CITY COUNCIL
4 MAY 2020
PAGE 8
This needs to be settled by 1 June when the next education tax payment is due.
Mr. Barritt asked if the city was OK with the March tax payments. Mr. Hubbard said it was. 93%
of taxes were paid at that time. The August payment may be problematical.
Mr. Hubbard said Legislators have been brought up to date on this issue. Staff will review any
proposal that is made before it is presented to the Council.
Mr. Kaufman asked if the City would be in a better position if CARES Act money can be applied
to the education fund. Mr. Hubbard said it would.
Mr. Dorn said staff doesn’t think the bill that came out of the Senate helps the city which is still
on the hook for meeting the ed fund payment.
Ms. Riehle asked if the city and school budgets can be changed to address this issue. Mr.
Hubbard said the municipal budget can be changed. There is still an obligation to fund the
educational budget, regardless of whether the city can collect the money. Mr. Dorn added that
even cutting the school budget won’t help South Burlington tax payers because the cuts would
be spread out.
Ms. Emery said there is a need for the federal government to act. Mr. Hubbard said there has
been a push so that small communities are protected in a third stimulus package. That may be
what the state is hoping for.
Mr. Chittenden asked if the city can borrow against the Sewer Fund with interest changed. Mr.
Dorn said that has been done several times. Mr. Hubbard said they can do that for the
municipal budget but there is no way they can borrow the amount needed for the school tax.
11.Update on status of city wellness clinic:
Ms. Holm said the program will be named Summit Employees Health Center. It will be located
at #1 Kennedy Drive. Signage is going up this week, and the location is fully ready. A Nurse
Practitioner has been hired as provider. Opening day is set for Wednesday, 8 July. The provider
will be involved in the hiring of a Medical Assistant to intake, appointments, etc. There is also a
commitment to hire a behavioral specialist.
CITY COUNCIL
4 MAY 2020
PAGE 9
VSAC has joined the program as the city’s first partner, and the city is working with 6 or 8 other
possible partners.
Ms. Holm noted that 2 of the 3 bargaining units are required to have yearly biometric health
screenings, and the city will be encouraging this as a baseline for 2021 for health coaching to
reduce risks. The feeling is that partnering with Marathon Health will also reduce drug costs
because they can get pharmaceuticals at a very low cast. Some will be available on site.
Employees know this is coming. The unions have met with the provider, and there are many
communications that will be going out.
Ms. Riehle asked if the hired provider is a local person. Ms. Holm said she is.
12.Convene as South Burlington Liquor Control Board to hear the following
application:
Hannaford Supermarket (Shelburne Road): 2nd Class License
Ms. Emery moved to convene as Liquor Control Board. Mr. Barritt seconded. Motion passed
unanimously.
Mr. Barritt moved to approve the 2nd class license for Hannaford Supermarket (Shelburne Road)
as presented. Mr. Kaufman seconded. Motion passed unanimously via rollcall vote.
Mr. Barritt moved to reconvene as City Council. Mr. Chittenden seconded. Motion passed
unanimously.
13.Discuss the possibility of rescheduling of the 18 May public hearing on the
proposed Inclusionary Zoning Amendments to the South Burlington Land
Development Regulations:
Mr. Conner asked what Council members thought about holding the hearing and taking action
on 18 May.
Mr. Kaufman thought it best to postpone it to a later date.
Ms. Riehle asked if anything is impacted by postponing.
CITY COUNCIL
4 MAY 2020
PAGE 10
Mr. Conner said the item warned in March and is in effect for 150 days. It will not have a
massive effect if it is delayed 2 or 4 weeks. If the Council doesn’t take action within 150 days, it
reverts to the current rules. Mr. Conner added the Council could open the hearing and
immediately continue it to a later date.
Ms. Sirvis thought it would be better to do it when people can be present either in person or on
Zoom.
Members agreed to postpone the public hearing. A new date will be determined at the next
meeting.
14.Councilors’ Reports from Committee Assignments:
Reports were presented under Agenda Item3.
15.Other Business:
Mr. Dorn asked the Council for authority to submit an application to the Bond Bank regarding
debt for 180 Market Street. Money is needed prior to the winter round of bonding. This item
was inadvertently left off the Consent Agenda. It will be on the next agenda for ratification. Mr.
Dorn noted that Bond rates are very good now. The city will be asking for $5,000,000. This has
already been approved by voters.
Mr. Kaufman moved to authorize the City Manager to submit an application to the bond bank
regarding debt for 180 Market Street. Ms. Emery seconded. The motion passed unanimously
via a rollcall vote.
Mr. Kaufman asked how long the city anticipates meeting electronically. Ms. Riehle said there
will be up to the Governor allowing more than 10 people to gather in one place. Mr. Dorn said
they have to wait for the Governor to amend the Executive Order. Ms. Riehle said she hoped
that even when they can meet in person this electronic format will be maintained to allow more
people to participate.
Ms. Sirvis asked if there are pictures of progress at 180 Market St. Ms. Blanchard showed
recent photos or the construction project.
CITY COUNCIL
4 MAY 2020
PAGE 11
Ms. Dooley said she was pleased that the Library is starting curbside service.
As there was no further business to come before the Council Mr. Barritt moved to adjourn.
Mr. Chittenden seconded. Motion passed unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 9:10
p.m.
_________________________________
Clerk
Following adjournment, Ms. Emery moved that the Council meet in Executive Session to
discuss real estate related matters where premature public disclosure would put the City at a
competitive disadvantage. Mr. Chittenden seconded. Motion passed unanimously.
MEMO
To: Kevin Dorn, City Manager
From: Tom DiPietro, Deputy Director/Stormwater Superintendent Justin Rabidoux, Director
Date: May 28, 2020
Re: Kimball Avenue Culvert Replacement Project Update
SUMMARY
The City of South Burlington and the Town of Williston co-own the culvert that carries Muddy
Brook under Kimball Avenue. The existing 15’ diameter corrugated metal pipe culvert (top of culvert was 16’ below the road surface) was originally constructed in 1986. Due to substantial corrosion the pipe failed in the spring of 2017 causing a temporary closure of Kimball Avenue at this crossing until a temporary bridge, on loan from VTrans, was installed in August 2017.
During the 2019 Halloween storm, the corrugated metal culvert washed out completely and the
temporary bridge abutments were fully exposed. Damage from the storm required that the temporary bridge be closed for safety reasons. Work was completed to temporarily stabilize the area and reopen the bridge to traffic on December 31, 2019, but a permanent stream crossing needs to be installed. When staff updated the City Council at their November, 5 2018, meeting on the project and shared the results of its scoping study, a preferred alternative was recommended by staff and endorsed by Council.
The preferred alternative’s summary is below (emphasis added for project duration):
B.Alternative 2 – Precast Concrete Arch Structure (Recommended)This structure type meets the project purpose and need and is a cost-effective solution forthis crossing. Additionally, the precast components allow for better quality control and
faster installation. The following cost only includes the cost of the structure and does notinclude the roadway alternatives described in Section VI. The estimated [total project]cost of Alternative 2 is approximately $2,000,000 (see Appendix C). Cost is in 2018dollars.
The following is a summary of design parameters that apply to this alternative: • 8-ft rise by 33-foot span Precast Arch type culvert with a total length of 120-ft•The anticipated roadway closure duration is approximately 7-weeks, with an
additional 3 weeks before and after the closure for a total construction duration of 13-weeks.
For the past 18 months we have continued to design the culvert replacement and are at the end of our conceptual design phase. Our final design revealed the duration of the shutdown could be
reduced from three months to three weeks, but this alternative construction technique would cost an extra $500,000, bringing the project’s total cost to $2,500,000 (South Burlington and Williston are splitting all costs 50/50).
The project’s current schedule has construction beginning in the spring of 2021.
FISCAL IMPACT
We have been budgeting for this project for a few years, additionally below is an update on the grants we have received/requested to date:
Grants received include: TA Grant 2019 – received $300,000, requires a $75,000 match Town Highway Structures Grant FY’20 – received $157,371, requires a $15,737 match
Grants applied for include: Town Highway Structures Grant FY’21 – requested $175,000 Better Roads Grants FY’21 – requested $60,000
At a total cost of $2,000,000 (for the preferred, approved alternative), South Burlington is responsible for half of the cost, $1,000,000. We hope to receive $500,000 in total grants, further
reducing our project share to $750,000.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends the City Council approve the final design and its approximate three-month road closure and direct staff to complete the project.
To: South Burlington City Council
From: Amy Demetrowitz, Director of Real Estate Development, CHT
CC: Kevin Dorn, City Manager
Tom Hubbard, Deputy City Manager / Treasurer Paul Connor, Director of Planning & Development
Date: May 18, 2020
RE: Final Public Hearing Vermont Community Development Program Garden Apartments
The Champlain Housing Trust (CHT) would like to thank the South Burlington City Council
for holding this final public hearing, Monday, June 1, 2020, on the Garden Street Apartments project. We would also like to acknowledge and thank the City staff for their work on this successful project. CHT has provided the basic information on the project in this memorandum to the Council. In 2017, the City of South Burlington received $625,000
from the State of Vermont for a grant under the Vermont Community Development Program
(VCDP). The City in turn sub- granted these funds to the Garden Street Apartments project, the project is now complete and all funds have been expended. The Champlain Housing Trust manages the property and expects all units to be leased and moved into by June 1, 2020. We will be at the hearing on the project to receive comments on the project from the
public and Council along with answering any questions from the Council.
Project Background and Information
In 2013 the City of South Burlington commissioned an Affordable Housing Report which
found a critical need for more housing in the City that local residents can afford – including young adults just starting out, young families looking for a first home, employees of local businesses and a growing number of seniors on fixed incomes. The median rent of South Burlington apartments was found to be higher than for the county as a whole and out of reach of its lower income households. “1,000 South Burlington households pay more than
half of their incomes for housing. Combined with low vacancy rates and steady growth of new households, the need to develop additional affordably-priced housing remains critical for South Burlington.” In order to serve people of all incomes, the target is for 20% of new apartments to be affordable.
The Garden Street Apartments, 310 Market Street, provides 60 new affordable apartments in a smart growth location. This multi-unit, secure building offers one, two, three, and four bedroom apartments. Conveniently located just off Dorset Street in South Burlington's new
2
city center and is close to shopping, schools and the bus line. The building was built to the VT Energy Stretch Code for maximum energy efficiency. Of the 60 homes, 45 are
affordable to people earning less than 80% of AMI including 11 specifically for homeless
households and the remaining 15 will be targeted to household earning between 80%-120% AMI. The housing is located in close proximity to jobs, goods and services. The South Burlington school district is one of the highest rated schools in the state. Assuming a conservative 2 persons per household and given there are 3 four bedroom and 11 three
bedroom units that accommodate larger families, the total number of beneficiaries is over
120 people.
Photographs of the Completed Garden Street Apartments Project
Garden Apartments – 310 Market Street
Garden Apartments Façade along Market Street
3
Typical Living Room Typical Kitchen & Living Room
Typical bedroom
Typical Bathroom Typical Entry Area
To:South Burlington City Council and
Interested Parties
Date:May 27, 2020
From:Charlie Baker, CCRPC Re: Progress Report and Feedback Request
Thank you for the opportunity to discuss the progress on the I-89 2050 Study with you at your meeting on June 1,
2020. Attached you will find a presentation that provides you an update and asks for your feedback on a couple of
specific topics that will be considered by the Study Advisory Committee at their meeting on June 30. Those two
questions are described below. The next steps and when input will be needed are at the bottom.
As you will see in the presentation, the first few slides provide some background on the study. We then summarize
the public engagement that was conducted from the end of January through early March seeking input on issues and
opportunities for the I-89 corridor.
The Draft Vision and Goals are presented next. These were also reviewed during the public engagement process.
They will be reviewed and acted upon by the Advisory Committee in June.
Any comments/concerns with the Draft Vision & Goals?
At this stage, we are performing a first level screening of potential interchange investments to see which are not
beneficial enough to continue into the second round of evaluation. This first round interchange screening reviewed 8
potential interchanges for improvement (exclusive of Exit 14) against easy to measure metrics tied to the Draft Goals.
In the second round of evaluation of potential interchange investments, we will examine improvements that can be
made at Exit 14 and also another two interchange locations. The intention is to determine which interchange
improvements make sense to carry forward into the larger analysis of “Full Recommendation Bundles” that will be
multi-modal and consider all of the issues in the corridor.
The screening resulted in Exit 13 and Exit 12B scoring the highest and the Technical Committee is recommending
these two locations to the Advisory Committee for further analysis.
Any comments/concerns on first round interchange recommendations?
The Next Steps in the process are:
Advisory Committee Meeting #3 (June 30th)
o Finalize Vision, Goals, and Objectives
o Final List of 2-3 Interchanges to Advance to Second Round Evaluation
Second Round Interchange Screening (June – November)
o Secondary Growth Evaluation (July)
o Determine Second Round Evaluation Metrics – Input needed
o Interchange Recommended to be included in Corridor Recommendations – Input needed
Develop Corridor Recommendations (November – June 2021)
o Second Round Public Outreach Reviewing Corridor Recommendations (Winter 2020-21) – Input
needed
Implementation Plan and Final Report (June – November 2021)
o Third Round Public Outreach Reviewing Draft Final Report (Winter 2020-21) – Input needed
South Burlington City Council
Presentation
June 1st, 2020
Presentation Overview
1.Project Background & Overview
2.Summary of First Round of Public Engagement
3.Draft Vision & Goals
4.Draft 1st Round Interchange Screening
Evaluation
5.Next Steps
Project Overview
Project Study Area
37 miles & 7 interchanges,
arterials immediately adjacent to
the interchanges.
Project Study Area (Urban Core)
Summary of Public
Engagement
First Round Stakeholder & Public Input
▪Public Outreach
–South Burlington: January 31, 2020
–Williston: February 13, 2020
–Winooski: March 11, 2020
–Envision89.com
•Website Comment Form
•Website Survey
▪309 individual comments received
First Round Stakeholder & Public Input
▪Public Outreach
–South Burlington: January 31, 2020
–Williston: February 13, 2020
–Winooski: March 11, 2020
–Envision89.com
•Website Comment Form
•Website Survey
▪309 individual comments received
Issue / Opportunity # Comments Issue / Opportunity # Comments
Increased Investment in Public Transportation 38 Exit 10B Bolton Interchange - Support 8
Additional Bike/Ped Infrastructure 34 HOV / Transit Lanes 7
Exit 12B - Support 34 Promote Livable Communities 5
Reduce Auto Dependency 22 Exit 11 - Geometric Improvements 4
Exit 13 Full Interchange - Support 17 Exit 15 Full Interchange - Support 4
Exit 14 Bike/Ped Bridge - Support 15 ITS/Technology 4
Exit 14 Improvements - Support 14 Vision 3
Widen I-89 - Support 14 Exit 12B - Not Support 2
US 2 Traffic Improvements at Exit 14 13 Exit 16 - Support 2
Widen I-89 - Not Support 12 Exit 17N - Support 2
Circ Highway - Support 11 Exit 10B Bolton Interchange - Not Support 1
Noise Walls - Support 10 Exit 17 - Support 1
Climate Change 8
Draft Vision & Goals
Draft Vision & Goals
Draft Vision Statement
The 2050 Vision for the I-89 Corridor through Chittenden County is an interstate system (mainline and
interchanges) that is safe, resilient, and provides for reliable and efficient movement of people and goods in
support of state, regional, and municipal plans and goals.
Draft Goals
•Safety: Enhance safety along the I-89 Study Corridor and Adjacent Interchanges for all users.
•Livable, Sustainable and Healthy Communities: Promote compact growth that supports livable, affordable,
vibrant, and healthy communities.
•Mobility & Efficiency: Improve the efficiency and reliability of the I-89 Corridor and Adjacent Interchanges for all
users.
•Environmental Stewardship & Resilience: Establish a resilient I-89 Corridor that minimizes environmental impacts
associated with the transportation system.
•Economic Access & Vitality:Improve economic access and vitality in Chittenden County.
•System Preservation: Preserve and improve the condition and performance of the I-89 Corridor.
Discussion:
➢Any comments/concerns on Draft Vision & Goals?
Draft Interchange
Screening Evaluation
Interchange Screening Evaluation
Process to Develop Recommendations for the I-89 Plan:
1.Interchange Recommendations
•First Round “High-Level” Interchange Screening (May –June 2020)
•Second Round Interchange Evaluation (June –November 2020)
2.Full Recommendation “Bundles”
•Inclusive of interchanges and other improvements (November 2020
–June 2021)
3.Final Report
•Inclusive of interchanges and other improvements (June 2021 –
November 2021)
Interchange Screening Evaluation
▪First Round Interchange Screening
–Utilized previous interchange scoping / feasibility studies for interchange configuration,
impacts, and cost
–Evaluation metrics tied to project goals
–High level screening of eight new or expanded interchanges (see maps at end for more detail)
1.Exit 10A –Bolton
2.Exit 12B –South Burlington
3.Exit 13 Full Interchange –South Burlington
4.Exit 13 U-Turn –South Burlington
5.Exit 13 Hybrid –South Burlington
6.Exit 14N –South Burlington
7.Exit 15 Full Interchange –Winooski
8.Exit 17N -Milton
Draft First Round Interchange Screening Evaluation
Double weighting
of these metrics
Evaluation metrics
organized by Goals
Eight Interchanges
Each metric value
assigned a score
from 0 (white) to 4
(dark blue)
Metric descriptions
Greyed-out rows
provided for
information only
(i.e. not scored)
Technical Committee Recommendation (5/14):
➢The Technical Committee agreed to recommend to the Advisory Committee to move
Exits 12B, 13, and 14 forward for further analysis.
Draft First Round Interchange Screening Evaluation Results
Discussion:
➢Any comments/concerns on first round interchange recommendations?
Next Steps
Next Steps
▪Advisory Committee Meeting #3 (June 30th)
–Finalize Vision, Goals, and Objectives
–Final List of 2-3 Interchanges to Advance to Second Round
Evaluation
▪Second Round Interchange Screening (June –November 2020)
–Secondary Growth Evaluation (July)
–Determine Second Round Evaluation Metrics –Input needed
–Interchange Recommended to be included in Corridor
Recommendations –Input needed
▪Develop Corridor Recommendations (November –June 2021)
–Second Round Public Outreach Reviewing Corridor
Recommendations (Winter 2020-21) –Input needed
▪Implementation Plan and Final Report (June –November 2021)
–Third Round Public Outreach Reviewing Draft Final Report
(Winter 2020-21) –Input needed
Stay Connected!
Web: www.envision89.com
Twitter: @envision89
Facebook: Envision89
Interchange Maps
Exit 17 N
Exit 15
Exit 14 N
Exit 13
Full
Exit 13
U-Turn
Exit 13
Hybrid
Exit 12B
Exit 10A
Kevin Dorn, City Manager, City of South Burlington, 575 Dorset Street, South Burlington, VT 05403 802.846.4107
To: City Council
From: Kevin Dorn, City Manager
Subject: Possible names for 180 Market Street
Date: June 1, 2020
Background: The City Council needs to make a decision on a permanent name for 180 Market Street
so that the final design for the building can incorporate the appropriate support
structure for the signage and any accompanying needs. Below is a list of possible
names submitted by staff.
City Center Municipal Complex
Community Center Plaza
Community Center Marketplace
City Hall Square
Community Place at City Center
(A Comment from a member of the staff) My personal recommendation is to call the
building City Hall. Here’s my argument: For a long time, the building at 575 Dorset
Street was called the “municipal offices.” We changed that to City Hall with the new
sign, in part because we wanted to share the message that we’re a city with a
downtown under development. If one looks at cities all across the country, those with
true downtowns have buildings called “City Hall” – even when those spaces contain
other users. Montpelier’s City Hall, for instance, has a theater inside that is used
exclusively by the non-profit “Lost Nation Theater.” Suburban communities tend to
use the word “complex” or “center” to encompass all of the different users in the
building as the hub of activity for the town, but to me, it also says that they don’t have
a downtown to serve as that hub in a larger sense. So, I’d call it City Hall, and then
have great names for the library, for the event space, etc. that represent either
important people or features of our community.
South Burlington Community Center
Community Place / Plaza
Or associate it with a person of significance to the community. A couple of ideas were
Jim Jeffords or Madeline Kunin, but of course they weren’t residents.
Kevin Dorn, City Manager, City of South Burlington, 575 Dorset Street, South Burlington, VT 05403 802.846.4107
Something specific to the citizens of the City
South Burlington Community Center
City of South Burlington Community Center
SBC Center
South Burlington Civic Center
South Burlington Space
Citizen’s Center
Northwest Community Center
Champlain Community Center
City Community Center
Appalachian Community Center
South Burlington Civic Center
South Burlington Community Center
Named in the honor of a prominent city figure/donor:
The Szymanski Community Center at 180 Market Street
The Hafter …. (same as above)
The Condos …
The (fill in the blank donor name) …
South Burlington City Center Facility
City Center at 180 Market Street (the whole “at …” is a recently used naming
nomenclature, think Oriole Park at Camden Yards)
180 Market Street Community Center
180
PLEASE nothing with SoBu in the name, this much I’m sure of
South Burlington Library at City Hall
City Hall
City Hall at 180
South Burlington Downtown Civic Center