HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda - City Council - 11/30/2022AGENDA
SOUTH BURLINGTON CITY COUNCIL South Burlington City Hall 180 Market Street SOUTH BURLINGTON, VERMONT
Participation Options In Person: 180 Market Street - Auditorium - Main Floor Assistive Listening Service Devices Available upon request Electronically: https://meet.goto.com/SouthBurlingtonVT/special-city-council-meeting11-30-2022 You can also dial in using your phone. +1 (646) 749-3122 Access Code: 315-404-485
Special Meeting 6:30 P.M. Wednesday, November 30, 2022
1.Pledge of Allegiance (6:30 PM)
2.Instructions on exiting building in case of emergency and review of technology options –Jessie Baker, City Manager (6:31 – 6:32 PM)
3.Agenda Review: Additions, deletions or changes in order of agenda items (6:33 – 6:34 PM)
4.Comments and questions from the public not related to the agenda (6:35 – 6:45 PM)
5. Councilors’ Announcements and Reports on Committee assignments and City Manager’s
Report (6:45 – 6:55 PM)
6.*** Consider placing a proposed change to the City's Charter on the Town Meeting Day2023 ballot enabling the regulation of thermal energy systems in existing residential andcommercial buildings and setting two Public Hearings for January 3, 2023 at 8:30 PM andJanuary 17, 2023 at 8:30 PM. – Paul Conner, Planning & Zoning Director, Colin McNeil,
City Attorney (6:55 – 7:20 PM)
7.***Receive an update from the Vermont League of Cities and Towns, on services provided
and American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) assistance – Ted Brady, Executive Director (7:20 –7:40 PM)
8.*** Receive an overview on the City's current allocation of American Rescue Plan Act(ARPA) funds – Andrew Bolduc, Deputy City Manager (7:40 – 7:50 PM)
9. Receive presentations from City Committees on how best to use ARPA funds fortransformational projects to support community resiliency and provide direction to staff (7:50–10:00 PM)
a.*** Recreation and Parksb.*** Public Art
c.*** Natural Resource and Conservationd.*** Library Board of Trustees
e.*** Energyf.*** Economic Developmentg.*** Common Area for Dogs
h.*** Bicycle & Pedestriani.*** Affordable Housing
10.Other Business (10:00 – 10:05 PM)
11. Adjourn (10:05 PM)
Respectfully Submitted:
Jessie Baker City Manager
*** Attachments Included
180 Market Street South Burlington, VT 05403 tel 802.846.4106 fax 802.846.4101 www.sbvt.gov
MEMORANDUM
TO: Jessie Baker, City Manager
South Burlington City Council
FROM: Paul Conner, Director of Planning & Zoning
Colin McNeil, City Attorney
SUBJECT: Language and hearing dates for possible Charter Change enabling regulation of
thermal energy systems in existing buildings
DATE: November 30, 2022 Special City Council meeting
This past week Council directed staff to present language and hearing schedule for a potential charter
change enabling regulation of heating systems in existing buildings for consideration by the voters at
Town Meeting Day 2023.
As presented by the Climate Action Plan Task Force chair and Vice Chair at your November 21, 2022
meeting, the proposed Charter Change mirrors one approved by the voters of the City of Burlington,
approved by the Legislature and signed by the Governor this past session.
The language would read as follows:
“Shall the Charter of the City of South Burlington, 24 App. V.S.A. Ch. 13, §§101 – 2101, as amended, be
further amended to permit the City Council to regulate thermal energy systems in residential and
commercial buildings, through the amendment to Section 310 Powers and Duties to add the following
power:
(b)(9) To regulate thermal energy systems in residential and commercial buildings, including assessing
carbon impact or alternative compliance payments, for the purpose of reducing greenhouse gas
emissions throughout the City; no assessment of carbon impact or alternative compliance payment shall
be imposed unless previously authorized by a majority of the legal voters of the City voting on the
question at an annual or special City meeting duly warned for that purpose.?”
Key Dates:
To be considered for inclusion on the Town Meeting Day 2023 ballot, staff would recommend the
following schedule:
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•November 30, 2022: Council votes to place the proposed City Charter amendment on the Town
Meeting Day ballot and hold two public hearings, to be warned not less than 30 and not more
than 40 days in advance of each, for the following dates:
•January 3, 2023 Public Hearing #1, 8:30 PM
•January 17, 2023 Public Hearing #2, 8:30 PM
Possible motion: “I move to place the proposed change to the City’s Charter, enabling regulation of
thermal energy systems in existing buildings, as presented in this evening’s packet, on the ballot of
the Annual City Meeting to be held on March 7, 2023 and hold public hearings on the proposed
Charter change on January 3, 2023, at 8:30 pm and January 17, 2023, at 8:30 pm with each hearing to
be noticed and held in accordance with state law.”
November 30, 2022Introduction to the Vermont League of Cities and Towns:City of South BurlingtonTed BradyExecutive DirectorVermont League of Cities and Townstbrady@vlct.org(802) 316-4475Katie BuckleyDirector, Federal Funding Assistance ProgramVermont League of Cities and Townskbuckley@vlct.org(802) 343-6323
September 9, 2021About VLCT•All 247 Cities and Towns are Members•Another 142 units of municipal government are Associate Members (villages, counties, etc)“The Vermont League of Cities and Towns (VLCT) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that was founded in 1967 with the mission of serving and strengthening Vermont local government.”www.vlct.org
Your Charge…It take a dynamic partnership between federal, state and local government to get the funding, the policy and the “doing” right…Read about it online at vlct.org/2022‐2027‐strategic‐plan…VLCT’s Five‐Year Strategic Plan To Support Vibrant Local Government
Your Charge…It take a dynamic partnership between federal, state and local government to get the funding, the policy and the “doing” right…
American Rescue Plan Act Coordination and Assistance ProgramVisit vlct.org/arpaSend your questions to:ARPA@vlct.org
Your Charge…Searchable database, technical assistance, grant “bootcamps” A toolkit aimed at rural available at whitehouse.gov/build/ruralThis government propaganda is actually very helpful! www.build.gov
Justice, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging Resourcesfor Vermont Municipalities•Vlct.org/DEI•VLCT Equity Committee•VLCT Justice, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Action Plan•Partnership with Declaration of Inclusion advocates•Abundant Sun Welcoming and Engaging Communities Cohort•Equity Consultations•Equity Toolkit•Partnership with Vermont Community Foundation and Office of Racial Equity•$10,000 VCF Grants Available for Communities to do this work…
https://www.vlct.org/resource/technology‐services‐catalog‐and‐rfq‐templatesInformation Technology / Cybersecurity
Under the Golden Dome…•H. 518 / Act 172 – Municipal Energy Resilience Grant Program: $5 million for energy audits, $36.6 million ($500k grants) for Municipal Energy Resilience Grant Program, $2.4 million for RPCs to help municipalities access resources•$40 million for Community Recovery and Revitalization Grant Program: “to support municipalities…to recover and revitalize their businesses and local communities, with a preference for projects located in regions and communities with declining or stagnant grand list values. ”•S. 181 / Act 157 – Municipal Authority Bill –new ordinance authorities and miscellaneous provisions (nonresident officers, town constables, changing size of various municipal panels, emergency authorities, municipal deadlines•Preserving Qualified Immunity for law enforcement officers•Expanding the Think Vermont relocation initiative to include municipal employees, and law enforcement•Creation of the VLCT Federal Assistance Program to assist communities when navigating federal infrastructure funding•Housing Investments – Community Partnership Pilot, Downtown Tax Credits, Missing Middle Housing, Municipal Planning Grants (Municipal Bylaw Modernization Grants, Expansion of Act 250 priority housing program, Read more in the VLCT end of session report @ vlct.org
2023/2024 Municipal Policy•Adopted at Town Fair in October 2022•Available online at VLCT.org•Talk to Your Representatives and Senators•2022 Municipal Action Papers•Vermont’s Housing Crisis•A Statewide Recommitment to Public Safety•Taxation and Budgets•Climate Action – Thinking Globally, Acting Locally•Transportation
The future is digital….
MEMORANDUM
TO: South Burlington City Council
FROM: Andrew Bolduc, Deputy City Manager/City Treasurer
DATE: November 30, 2022 City Council Special Meeting
RE: South Burlington American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funds – Background
Accounting To-date
______________________________________________________________________________
Background
For Council’s benefit in advance of its November 30th Special Meeting on the allocation of
American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, please find below an up-to-date accounting of council-
approved allocations/expenditures to-date along with two additional requests from prior council
meetings. The CIP request is from the FY24 budget discussion in mid-September. It is a step-down
funding from the over $700,000 pandemic-deferred one-time ARPA allocations in the FY23 budget.
These CIP expenditures would continue to fund deferred one-time expenditures in future budgets
and provide an incremental rebuild of tax capacity to more adequately fund the CIP.
As a reminder, the City of South Burlington received a total allocation of $5,654,533.00. Under the
Act, these funds must be allocated by December 31, 2024 and expended by December 31, 2026.
To date, the Council has allocated the following share of ARPA funds:
To-date City Council Approved ARPA allocations
FY 22 Refunding 3 City staff (100%) $257,872.281
FY 23 Refunding 3 City staff (80%) $213,518.25
Ambulance $310,000.00
Dispatch consoles $225,000.00
FF staff $50,000.00
FF PPE $48,000.00
Permitting software $50,000.00
Microsoft 365 $39,000.00
Illuminate VT City grant match $32,000.00
Affordable Housing $1,000,000.00
FY 24 Refunding 3 City staff (60%) $165,743.54
FY 25 Refunding 3 City staff (40%) $114,363.04
FY 26 Refunding 3 City staff (20%) $59,182.87
Allocated Total $2,564,679.00
Unallocated $3,089,854.02
1 Please note here that because these positions were not hired until well into the fiscal year, actual spending was only
$108,185.19 in FY22. At the September 1st 2022 Council meeting, Council reallocated these funds between a cost
overage with the FY23 ambulance purchase ($58,084) and the remainder in salary contingency for these three positions
through FY26 based on higher than anticipated salary increases in the City’s Collective Bargaining Agreements. For
presentation clarity, these are not separated out here as the total value remains the same.
Previously Discussed Proposed ARPA allocations
FY 24 CIP support (75% of FY22) $541,500.00
FY 25 CIP support (50%) $361,000.00
FY 26 CIP support (25%) $180,500.00
Community Child Care Service Support $1,000,000.00
Additional allocation $2,083,000.00
Remaining unallocated, if approved $1,006,853.02
South Burlington Recreation and Parks
Committee
180 Market Street
South Burlington, VT 05403
www.SouthBurlingtonVT.gov
MEMORANDUM
TO: Helen Riehle, Chair of South Burlington City Council
FROM: Mike Simoneau, Acting Chair of South Burlington Recreation and Parks Committee
Oliver Pierson, Recreation and Parks Committee Member
CC: Jessie Baker, South Burlington City Manager
Holly Rees, Recreation Director
DATE: November 1, 2022
RE: Recreation and Parks Committee Recommendations for Use of ARPA Funding
The purpose of this memo is to request that the City Council approve use of $1.565M of ARPA Funding
for a transformational investment in South Burlington’s Recreation and Parks Services and Infrastructure
that will significantly improve the overall quality of the user experience, address challenges created by
the pandemic (including increased use and social isolation), resolve longstanding deferred maintenance,
bring South Burlington’s infrastructure onto a level of quality commensurate with neighboring towns,
and increase access to our parks in an equitable manner.
The City of South Burlington has received about $5.6 million in federal economic relief funding through
the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) of 2021. The funding provided under ARPA provides a unique
opportunity for state and local governments to make strategic investments in long‐lived assets and build
a stronger, more equitable economy as the country recovers. According to the US Department of the
Treasury, ARPA funds can be used to address negative economic impacts caused by the pandemic, and
cities have broad flexibility to decide how to use this funding to meet the needs of their communities,
providing South Burlington with a unique opportunity to improve services in key eligible sectors.
To provide City Leadership with guidance on how best to use the ARPA Funds, a survey was conducted
and over 350 responses were received. Many respondents clearly highlighted the importance of outdoor
recreational opportunities as both an important coping strategy during the pandemic and a priority for
the use of these ARPA funds. For example:
In response to question #1 on how they have been most impacted by the pandemic, 80% of
respondents cited Socially / Loss of Social Connection, an issue that our committee believes can
be partially addressed via transformational investments that improve access to and equitable
use of parks and recreational infrastructure and services.
In response to question #5 asking respondents to rate eligible projects, investments in
Recreation and Parks infrastructure we listed as the fifth and eight “very important” priorities.
In response to question #6 asking respondents how they would like to see this once in‐a‐
generation funding spent to support the community, the top response from 40 people was
Recreation Spaces and the second response from 22 people was Bike / Ped Infrastructure.
Also, in response to question #6, the top three project specific responses were Park
Improvements, a Community Pool, and a Recreation Center respectively
A key summary trend identified in the survey was that COVID lead to increased use of green and
recreational spaces
Collectively, these results show broad support for use of ARPA funds to support investments in
improving Recreation and Parks infrastructure and services in South Burlington, preferably in a manner
that addresses the social isolation and loss of connection challenges identified in the memo and
increases access to parks in an equitable manner.
The mission of the Recreation and Parks Department is to create and support dynamic public spaces and
programs which grow, inspire, and create inclusive social interactions through land and people. This
mission has been hampered by inadequate investment in maintenance of existing park facilities over the
last twenty years, and the increased use of these facilities during the pandemic has exacerbated issues
created by many years of maintenance deferrals and under investment. The lack of a “regular funding
resource” or specific funding allocation to the Recreation and Parks Department has further limited the
Department’s ability to proactively address these challenges and respond to needs and opportunities
created by the pandemic.
The Recreation and Parks Committee is therefore proposing a strategic investment in improving the
accessibility, quality, and safety of the City’s Recreation and Parks Infrastructure, as well as improving
the diversity and range of the programs they support. We believe that that the ARPA funds provide an
important opportunity for the City to correct deficiencies and bring conditions up to par in places that
people have sought refuge in during the pandemic and continue to utilize for their personal well‐being.
The Committee believes that if the City doesn’t take this opportunity to address longstanding deferred
maintenance challenges with these once‐in‐a‐generation ARPA funds, it will be extremely difficult to find
funding for this work in the future, and the suboptimal conditions in our parks and recreational facilities
will persist or worsen at a time when the community is increasing use of these facilities.
Specifically, the Committee proposes the following investments:
1.Parks Master Plan: The SB Parks System needs to inventory and assess our current assets,
identify maintenance needs, and plan for additional facility growth identified via an existing gap
analysis and meet our goal of a park with ¼ mile of every residence. In addition, it is essential
that we prepare for the future, highlighting additional desired parks, lands, and amenities to
provide for our growing community and ensure that diversity and equity considerations are fully
integrated into our planning efforts.
a.Estimated Cost is $150,000.
2.Transformative Package of Deferred Maintenance on SB Parks: To improve access, safety,
usability, and quality of our existing Recreation and Parks facilities, the Committee strongly
recommends a significant investment in deferred maintenance at two sites, Veterans Memorial
Park and Red Rocks Park. The package, estimated at $1.415 million, includes:
a.Veterans Memorial Park Projects (Total Requested Amount is $815,000):
Regrowing each of the Soccer Fields, $150,000
Creation of additional soccer field $100,000
Bandshell ceiling beam replacement and lighting installation, $45,000
Basketball Court Renovation, $50,000
Replacing/Upgrading Irrigation to all sport fields, $100,000
Paving‐ South Parking Area from Bathrooms to Entry way, $100,000
Creation of Onsite Storage Facilities, $120,000
Electric Mower, $20,000
Baseball field backstop replacements, $25,000
Full replacement of Baseball Dug Out Sets, $105,000
b.Red Rocks Park Projects:
Creation/Renovation of New Bathhouse Facility, $600,000
The Recreation and Parks Committee is mindful of existing ARPA guidance to avoid using these funds in
a manner that will create new staffing burdens and/or an ongoing financial commitment for the city,
such as for support to the construction of an indoor recreational facility. Rather, this proposal envisions
a set of ARPA‐funded activities to improve recreational offerings in South Burlington that can be handled
via existing staff and contracts without creating any unsustainable or overly demanding staff burdens.
Additionally, the Recreation and Parks Committee is aware that staff capacity to implement these
projects is finite, and we therefore propose taking advantage of the entire allowable use period for
APRA funds by spreading out the proposed construction and maintenance over three fiscal years, as
described in the table below.
Timeline of Proposed Investments with ARPA Funds in SB Parks Facilities
Funding Item FY24 FY25 FY26
Parks Master Plan $150,000
Regrowing each of the soccer fields $50,000 $50,000 $50,000
Creation of additional soccer field $100,000
Bandshell ceiling beam and lighting $45,000
Basketball court renovation $50,000
Replacing/upgrading irrigation for sport
fields $30,000 $70,000
Paving in south parking $100,000
Creation of Onsite Storage Facilities $120,000
Electric Mower $20,000
Baseball field backstop replacements $25,000
Full replacement of Baseball Dugout Sets $35,000 $35,000 $35,000
New bath house facility at Red Rocks $400,000 $200,000
TOTAL $525,000 $755,000 $285,000
Note: Grand Total cost across all three years is $1,565,000.
South Burlington Cultural Plan – ARPA Recommendation from the Public Art Committee
Approved unanimously by the Public Art Committee August 30, 2022
During Covid, arts organizations were often the first to close and last to reopen and they are still
not back to delivering many pre-pandemic programs. Artists lost all opportunities for public
engagement with their work and are still struggling while juggling multiple jobs to continue
living in our city. A South Burlington Cultural Plan will identify our cultural assets, articulate a
vision and action plan for strengthening our creative economy, and position it to grow.
A plan is essential to understand how we can support the needs and aspirations of our creative
and cultural sector. An RFP will be developed to engage consultants to work with the Public Art
Committee (PAC) to define a cultural plan that includes working with artists, organizations,
libraries, schools, parks, and the community. The plan will encourage the creation, appreciation,
and understanding of the arts to nurture a vibrant inclusive community, foster artistic excellence,
and bring people together for powerful shared experiences that inspire a creative exchange of
ideas. The arts touch people’s lives in profound ways, providing enrichment for everyone –
children to seniors, stimulating creativity and innovation, and enhancing and strengthening our
overall community.
A plan can also be integrated into all facets of local government to advance broader objectives in
the areas of economic prosperity, social equity, the environment, and cultural vitality. As the
Vermont Art Council’s Action Plan for Vermont’s Creative Sector states:
●Creativity is essential to the cultural and economic vitality of Vermont.
●Arts, culture, and creativity are just as essential to Vermont’s future as roads, bridges, and
broadband.
●Theaters, museums, libraries, parks, and community centers are essential for creative
activity.
The consultants and PAC will convene stakeholder artists and arts organizations in focus groups,
take public testimony, and research how other cities support cultural engagement. Lessons will
be drawn from The Creative City Network of Canada and plans from Bennington (VT), Chicago
(IL), Chattanooga (TN), Portland (ME), and other municipalities. Surveys and asset mapping
will identify South Burlington creative sector enterprises and compare them to state numbers. In
2018, data indicated that 41,000 Vermonters were employed in the creative sector, representing
9.3% of all Vermont jobs in 2018. (Source: Mt. Auburn Associates Report, Assessing Vermont’s
Creative Sector, December 2019)
Timeline for completion of a proposed plan to present to the City Council is projected to be one
year from the approval of the use of the funds and hiring of consultant(s) to work with the PAC,
with an estimated cost of $50,000.
In the development of this cultural plan, mission, values, operational and financial possibilities,
and strategies will be developed and refined with the community as to how South Burlington
can:
●Provide the widest variety of opportunities for artists and arts organizations in all
disciplines to thrive and build capacity.
●Provide quality, diverse arts and cultural opportunities in all South Burlington
neighborhoods for shared artistic expression, inspiring participation in the creation,
understanding, and appreciation of the arts.
●Collaborate across artists and arts organizations, community partners, schools, libraries,
recreation departments, and businesses in pursuit of richer cultural experiences.
●Explore opportunities to access tax credits and other permit or funding benefits available
in the City’s two State Designated areas (New Town Center and Neighborhood
Development Area) to support infrastructure rehabilitation, accessibility upgrades as well
as new cultural facilities.
●Explore grant programs to directly support local artists and arts organizations.
●Identify and prioritize locations, areas, and other opportunities for new and temporary
public art.
NOTE: The Vermont League of Cities and Towns reports creative industries often kickstart
local economies. Strengthening this sector will help make our city more resilient and a place that
more people will want to visit and live. Its suggestions for the use of ARPA funds includes:
●Investment in community-driven creative projects.
●Revitalize downtown areas and created artful spaces.
●Improve and/or increase digital capacity.
●Direct assistance.
●Improvement for disaster recovery and resilience.
The outline for the development of a South Burlington Cultural Plan is congruent with these
suggestions and align with quality-of-life objectives and strategies outlined in South Burlington’s
Comprehensive Plan.
November 16, 2022
TO: South Burlington City Council, City Manager Baker
From: Natural Resources and Conservation Committee
RE: recommendations for additional ARPA funding for 2 Conservation
related topics: Treescape maintenance and preparing the Open Space
Plan
1)While there are different opinions as to the treatment or removal of ash
trees, the Committee recommends that City Council allocate $50,000
of ARPA funds in order to maintain the City Treescape. The city’s CIP
will fund the removal and replacement of street trees, ash trees in
parks and forests are still vulnerable. With funding from ARPA, the city
could offset the loss of these trees by planting additional trees or could
hire a contractor to treat select ash trees in forests with an insecticide,
with the goal of keeping the trees alive long enough for a new method
using parasitoid wasps currently under study to become available.
The Committee has met several times with DPW Director Tom DiPietro
and City arborist Craig Lambert to discuss the City’s plans to remove
ash trees from select neighborhoods in anticipation of the emerald ash
borer infestation. We recommend ARPA funds be added to the yearly
City budget for treescape maintenance and be used at the discretion of
the City arborist whether for purchasing new trees as replacements or
for selectively treating Ash trees of note.
2)The NRCC is in the early stages of creating an Open Space Plan, as
directed by our charge from Council. No one on the committee feels
that they have the skills to facilitate the development of a significant
document like this. We request that $25,000 of ARPA funds to hire a
contractor/facilitator to help the committee organize ideas and hold at
least 2 public input meetings. The committee would like to gather
public input early in the process to help shape the plan’s vision and
goals. We feel that this is important so that the plan will reflect the
community’s values about land conservation. We then hope the
facilitator will help us incorporate the input we receive into the final
Open Space Plan. The NRCC anticipates doing this work in 2023 and
2024. We anticipate that the funds could be used for a consultant to do
outreach and advertising for public participation, convening meetings
with the technical requirements for hybrid meetings, and follow up
drafting of relevant input into the plan.
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South Burlington Public Library with
South Burlington Recreation and Parks
ARPA Bookvan Proposal
November 30, 2022
ARPA Project Request
The Library Board of Trustees requests consideration for a $160,000.00 grant to
purchase and fit up an electric panel van to best transport reading and recreation
around the community. We will fundraise to pay for limited new books once the bookvan
is on the road, and work with the Friends of the Library to add donated books to the
collection. This project will require a part time staff person in FY 24 to handle the library
collections and programs, plus volunteers. The Recreation piece will use existing staff.
Overview
Many residents of South Burlington are unable to get to 180 Market Street for library
services. Fragile older adults may not leave their homes. Young children may be in
childcare from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. Some individuals and families may only have one
vehicle that is used by someone else in the family to get to work. Others have
transportation but need us to go to them to invite them to 180 Market Street. In order to
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share books and a love of reading with these members of our community,
the South Burlington Public Library will hire a part time employee and use
volunteers to institute a bookvan program which will visit child care centers, senior
residences and neighborhoods in South Burlington. We will share the van with the
Recreation Department, which will use existing and seasonal summer staff to schedule
weekly activites at various locations to support impromptu recreation play.
Goals
➢Bring high quality books to homes, child care centers and senior residences
➢Help people overcome transportation barriers to getting to the library
➢Schedule and publicize stops that will include engagement options for multiple
age ranges
➢Serve as an outreach tool to provide services to underserved populations
➢Spark enthusiasm and interest in reading for childcare providers
➢Provide outreach programming such as storytimes, storytelling, and book
discussion groups
➢Disburse information about City of South Burlington services and programs,
including those presented by the Library and Recreation and Parks
Sites Served & Services Offered
Based on our values of diversity, inclusion and equity, the bookvan is designed to go to
locations we have identified as places where people may not or cannot get to the library
and may not take advantage of recreational programs.
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1.Catching kids in childcare
Monthly visits from October to May to South Burlington’s child care
centers and home daycares, on a rotating basis, from 10:00am-12:00pm. Carts are
brought into each classroom, where each child picks one book, and a bag of books is
left for class use. Books are checked out for the month and returned on the next visit,
at which point carts are rotated and another cart is brought. Depending on the site’s
interest, storytime or storytelling can be incorporated.
2.Bringing the library to our older adults
Monthly visits from October to May to the four senior living establishments in South
Burlington, one residence per week between 1:00-3:00pm. Carts are brought into the
lobby/living area for residents to browse. Books are checked out for the month and
returned on the next visit, at which point carts are rotated and another cart is
brought. If residents have specific requests, holds can be placed and brought at the
next visit. Library cards can be given if needed. Users will learn about library services
and about programs offered at the Senior Center.
3.Making Community Connections
Currently the Recreation and Parks Department coordinates with CHT (Chittenden
Housing Trust) to do a summer visit to each of their properties; meeting the residents
where they are. We would continue to do these as well as broaden the outreach to
other congregate housing communities. The Library will join us, giving children and
adults the opportunity to choose books from book carts that will be placed outside
the bookvan, as well as sign up for a library cards.
4.Rec On The Go!
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Through the use of current full time and seasonal summer staff, the
Recreation and Parks Department would utilize this resource to
schedule weekly activities at various locations to support impromptu recreation play.
A full calendar of these opportunities would be published and available in advance to
the community and would include engagement options for multiple age ranges and
varied locations.
5.Pop-Ups in the Parks
We would utilize current staff to support evening and weekend pop up events for
residents throughout the year in all of our parks and open spaces. We would utilize
full time staff as the primary resource for this, but also supplement with interns from
UVM who are interested in community healthy, wellness, physical education,
recreation and tourism etc.
Collection Development Policy
The Bookvan’s collection development policy aligns with that of the South Burlington
Public Library’s overall goal in collection development: to meet the informational,
educational, and recreational needs of the community. This policy is intended to provide
guidance for the evaluation, selection and deselection of materials and define the scope
and standards of the collection. The end result will be a well-balanced collection that
reflects factors including, but not limited to our community’s varying economic, racial,
ethnic, and educational backgrounds, within the limits of our budget. This policy will be
reviewed annually and will reflect changes in our community.
The Bookvan will carry popular fiction and nonfiction materials. Juvenile fiction, early
readers and picture books will be purchased new and used. Adult best sellers and new
releases will be kept current through the use of a leasing program. Other adult fiction
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and nonfiction will be borrowed from the library’s main collection or
donated by the Friends of the Library.
MEMORANDUM
TO: Helen Riehle, Chair of South Burlington City Council
FROM: Tim Perrin, Chair of South Burlington Energy Committee
CC: Jessie Baker, South Burlington City Manager
DATE: September 1, 2022
SUBJECT: Energy Committee Recommendations for ARPA Funding
The City has received about $5.6 million in federal economic relief funding through the American Rescue
Plan Act (ARPA) of 2021. These funds were awarded to:
●Fight the pandemic and support families and businesses struggling with the impacts
●Maintain public services
●Build a strong, resilient, and equitable recovery
This funding presents a unique opportunity to transform aspects of South Burlington’s infrastructure and
services to align with the City’s climate goals, drive the transition to a more equitable and sustainable
energy economy, and improve the resilience of our community. The Energy Committee would like to
submit these recommendations and examples for how ARPA funding can be utilized in the most impactful
ways for our energy systems and climate utilizing current technologies in high-visibility projects.
Support the electrification of heating systems and vehicles
⮚ We recommend ARPA funding be used to hire a partner organization to develop educational
materials, conduct outreach and community engagement activities, and accelerate heat pump
deployment across South Burlington. ICLEI Local Governments for Sustainability has determined
that 10% of South Burlington’s housing stock needs to be transitioned off fossil fuels each year to
hit our greenhouse gas reduction targets. Estimated cost = $100K.
⮚ The City should consider purchasing at least one electric ride-on lawnmower for Public Works to
use and promote as a technology demonstration. All types of lawn equipment now have
electrified options and the City can help validate performance and stimulate adoption by
households and businesses across the community. Estimated cost = $35K.
⮚ To help promote the transition to electrified lawn equipment, funding could be applied to buy
back existing gas-fired equipment from income-qualified households as an incentive for early
retirement of legacy lawn mowers, weed wackers, and leaf blowers. Estimated cost = $250K.
⮚ To help promote the transition to electric vehicles across the city, offering grants to businesses,
affordable housing, and institutions to invest in electric vehicle charging infrastructure on their
property. Estimated cost = $500K.
Reduce barriers to utilizing mass transit
⮚ Vermont’s weather can serve as a major deterrent to the utilization of mass transit, as most bus
stops do not provide adequate protection from the rain, snow, and wind. We encourage the City
to buy and install small shelters or simple covered areas for all the bus stops in South Burlington.
Offering this refuge from the elements can help increase bus ridership with a nominal investment
by the community. This project has been discussed with Green Mountain Transit leadership and
they are supportive of the concept and open to a partnership. Details of the partnership would
need to be finalized once this project receives approval from the City Council. Estimated cost =
$200K for (5) shelters.
⮚ While mass transit can be an attractive option for individuals who live close to a bus route, many
have to travel inconvenient distances to access a bus stop. ARPA funding could be utilized to bring
on a consultant to assess pathways for increasing access to public transit. Many communities are
exploring micro-transit using smaller vehicles like vans to help accommodate more customized
service for individuals who do not live near a bus stop. The City can invest in a pilot to better
understand the role that micro-transit services can play as a more sustainable transportation
option for community members. Estimated cost = $500K.
Create more pedestrian and bike-friendly transportation options
⮚ Accelerate the timeline of the "Penny for Paths" project plan to build more bike & pedestrian
paths and sidewalks. This will give people more options for how to get around South Burlington
safely and conveniently without a car. The result will be reduced traffic, reduced emissions,
reduced noise, improved health, and better personal connections between people as they see
each other on the path and sidewalk system. Estimated cost would be determined in coordination
with the Bicycle & Pedestrian Committee.
⮚ Add sidewalk or multi-use paths in targeted areas across the city to better accommodate
pedestrians & cyclists and provide faster and safer bike travel to locations across the community.
Connecting the separated sidewalks on Hinesburg Road between Tilley Drive and Rye Meadows
and extending the multi-use path on Williston Road to Kennedy Drive are two examples.
Estimated cost would be determined in coordination with the Bicycle & Pedestrian Committee.
⮚ Partner with appropriate organization(s) and subsidize the purchase of electric bikes and any
necessary charging equipment income-qualified households to accommodate local
transportation needs. Estimated cost = $35K.
Support formulation of the budgeted implementation program plan for the South Burlington Climate
Action Plan
⮚ Hire a consulting firm to follow up on the Climate Action Plan and subsequent implementation
plan to create a fully-fledged budgeted program. This would include identifying funding sources,
methods, and timelines to obtain funding. This plan would be to the level of detail of
administrative and overhead cost budget for the city and the salaries of the program management
unit. Estimated cost = $100K.
Energy Committee Recommendations for ARPA FundingNovember 30, 2022
11/30/2022 South Burlington Energy Committee RecommendationSupport the beneficial electrification of heating systems & vehiclesRecommendation Estimated Cost Alignment with SB PrioritiesCommunity engagement to accelerate heat pump deployment$100K Affordable & Community StrongGreen & CleanPurchase an electric ride‐on lawnmower for DPW $35K Green & CleanBuyback program for existing gas‐fired lawn equipment $250K Affordable & Community StrongGreen & CleanGrants for electric vehicle charging infrastructure $500K Affordable & Community StrongGreen & CleanOpportunity Oriented
11/30/2022 South Burlington Energy Committee RecommendationReduce barriers to utilizing mass transitRecommendation Estimated Cost Alignment with SB PrioritiesInstall small shelters for bus stops $200K Affordable & Community StrongWalkableGreen & CleanDevelop micro‐transit services $500K Affordable & Community StrongGreen & CleanOpportunity Oriented
11/30/2022 South Burlington Energy Committee RecommendationCreate more pedestrian & bike‐friendly transportation optionsRecommendation Estimated Cost Alignment with SB PrioritiesAccelerate “Penny for Paths” project plan Bike/Ped Committee ConsultationAffordable & Community StrongWalkableGreen & CleanAdd sidewalk or multi‐use paths in targeted areas across communityBike/Ped Committee ConsultationAffordable & Community StrongWalkableGreen & CleanSubsidize the purchase of electric bikes & charging equipment$35K Affordable & Community StrongWalkableGreen & Clean
11/30/2022 South Burlington Energy Committee RecommendationSupport development of implementation program plan for Climate Action PlanRecommendation Estimated Cost Alignment with SB PrioritiesHire outside firm to create a fully‐fledged budgeted program$100K Affordable & Community StrongWalkableGreen & CleanOpportunity Oriented
From:Michael Biama
To:Jessie Baker
Cc:jrbipad@gmail.com
Subject:"EXTERNAL"Updated & Revised Recommendations for ARPA Funds
Date:Tuesday, November 22, 2022 10:38:30 AM
This message has originated from an External Source. Please use proper judgment and
caution when opening attachments, clicking links, or responding to this email.
Dear City Council Members,
During its most recent public meeting, The Economic Development Committee spent some
additional time discussing the most effective use of the City’s remaining ARPA funds. The result of
this discussion was that the Economic Development Committee would like to revise its top three
recommendations for areas of support, as well as propose some specific ways in which the money
could be used to impact these areas. These recommendations are included below for your
consideration.
Ranked in Order of Priority:
1.Child Care
a.Establishing a grant program that existing operators could use to expand program
capacity.
b.Establishing a grant program that existing operators could use to provide bonuses to
educators working in regulated childcare programs, assisting in employee retention.
2.Support Local Businesses
a.Establishment of a Revolving Loan Fund. Revolving loan funds exist in other
municipalities around the State and have been highly successful in assisting local
businesses in times of need. With interest rates rising quite rapidly, this could be an
effective use of ARPA funds that would allow struggling businesses to access low-cost
capital. Assuming this is a feasible use for the ARPA funds, it would be a great way to
establish a program that could benefit the City for many years to come.
3.Water, Sewer, Stormwater Infrastructure
a.Supporting the stormwater division as they continue to help address the
implementation of the new general stormwater permit (9050) would be an excellent
use of ARPA funds. The city has already taken a leadership role in helping non-
conforming property owners design systems that will meet the new state
requirements. However, the implementation of the systems that are currently being
designed, and the cost associated with their construction, is still a big unknown.
Establishment of a general stormwater fund to address the new 9050 permits
requirements would be a great use of ARPA funds as well.
Please reach out to the Chair or any of the members of the Economic Development Committee
should you have any questions regarding these recommendations.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Economic Development Committee
Committee Common Area For Dogs
180 Market Street
South Burlington, VT 05403
www.SouthBurlingtonVT.gov
MEMORANDUM
TO: Helen Riehle, Chair of So Burlington City Council
FROM: Betty Milizia, Chair of So Burlington Committee on Common Areas for Dogs.
CC: Jessie Baker, South Burlington City Manager
Holly Rees, South Burlington Recreation & Park Director
Matt Cota, South Burlington City Council Liaison to the CCAD
Members, Committee on Common Areas for Dogs
DATE: November 21, 2022
RE: Committee on Common Areas for Dogs Requests for Use of ARPA funding
South Burlington is in an exciting time of transformation. If anything, positive came out of
COVID, it was the time we spent examining what is most important in our lives. The South
Burlington COVID survey asked: “HOW HAS COVID‐19 IMPACTED ON YOU?” It is striking that
80% of people reported the loss of connection and physical isolation from others as having had
the most profound impact on them, even though, people adjusted to working, attending
classes, worshiping, celebrating birthdays, socializing and even receiving healthcare, remotely.
We shopped online and ordered over the phone.
Other studies also showed that people living alone, experienced more isolation, depression,
anxiety or ability to cope. But, for those living with pet companions, the impact was lessened
by the ability to have physical contact with another living being. Pet adoptions rose by 30%. The
Human Society of Chittenden County reported a 50% increase in adoptions in 1 year.
Pet companions gave people purpose, routine and a way to have a physical connection. People
with dogs, had a reason to be outdoors for fresh air, exercise and socialize “in‐person”. If there
was a dog park nearby, they walked and their dogs could exercise. Everyone could socialize.
Those without a park, sought them out and drove.
All community members deserve to participate and enjoy community life safely and with
minimal interference from others, both people and dogs. Meeting the needs of dogs, reduces
the negative perceptions and challenges of their presence. Presently, their public lives are
governed by restrictive leash laws that prohibit them from being off‐leash to get essential
“play” or exercise, except in a dog park, if they can find one.
There are approximately, 3500 dogs living in South Burlington. Many more visit, daily. The
newly opened 1 acre, Wheeler Dog Park, is already becoming a “destination” dog park, drawing
people and dogs from all over the county. Our other small “neighborhood” dog park on Farrell
St is in disrepair, it can’t serve the needs of the hundreds of dogs living nearby. The lack of
space and sanitation infrastructure in the city, relegates dogs to being seen as interlopers and
nuisances and their guardians as irresponsible and law breakers.
South Burlington’s pursuit to be transformative and meet the needs of our community and the
region are exciting. The type and location of housing and planned public space will dictate the
type of infrastructure needed, not necessarily the number of dogs here. Will we need
destination or neighborhood dog parks? Will neighborhoods and public spaces have common
areas? Will concentrated housing have pet relief areas?
The following is the list of projects, timeframes and costs for use of ARPA funds.
Current needs:
•Complete Wheeler Dog Park (FY ’24)
•Refurbish Farrell Dog Park (FY ’24)
• Identify and install sanitation resources, as soon as possible. (FY ’24)
•Develop master plan for 3 new dog parks/runs (FY ’25)
o City Ctr “neighborhood” (walk <15 min) (FY ’25)
o SW district “neighborhood” (walk<15min) (FY ’26)
o NE district “destination” (walk< 35 min, short drive +/‐ 1 mile) (FY ’26)
•Comprehensive Plan needs to be more supportive of a growing pet population.
o Guidelines for new developments and redevelopment, should provide more
livable spaces and support the wellbeing of all users.
Require large compact multi‐unit housing to have sanitation amenities.
Require all large single/condo developments to include a “neighborhood”
dog park or contribute to a dog park fund for city to develop.
Install sanitation amenities on city owned open space/ entrances to parks
and trailheads.
Proposed ARPA Funds request to develop SB Dog Parks & Common Areas
Infrastructure
Funding Item FY24 FY25 FY26
Determine possible options to expand
area and improve accessibility in Wheeler
Dog Park 16,000
Purchase/ install 16 dog waste bag
dispensers (citywide) $300=tax/ dispenser 15,000
Add amenities to Wheeler Dog Park:
water, shade, seating 10,000 10,000
Complete refurbishment of Farrell Dog
Park 60,000
Add amenities to Farrell Dog Park: water,
seating, play structures 10,000
Dog Parks Master plan to select new
locations for additional dog parks/runs 60,000
Construct new dog park/run (NE district) 100,000
Construct new dog park/run (SW district) 60,000
Construct new dog park (City Ctr district) 100,000
TOTAL 101,000 180,000 160,000
Note: Grand Total cost across all three years is. $441,000
The Committee on Common Areas for Dogs is aware that project timeframes may interfere with
staff priorities. However, we emphasize the reality that addressing a number of these projects
have been delayed for years and will only create more challenges and issues, if they are delayed
further. We hope you will take this fact into consideration. And again, are grateful for the
opportunity to participate in this process.
Memorandum
To: South Burlington City Council
Cc: Jessie Baker, City Manager
Erica Quallen, Bicycle/Pedestrian Committee Staff Liaison
From: South Burlington Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee (SBPC)
Date: November 22,2022
Re: Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee ARPA funding request
Dear Council Members,
I’m writing on behalf of the SBPC to submit our request for project to be paid for with ARPA
funding.
Proposed Project: Scope, design and replace 5 ‘ shared use path into 10’ shard use path along
Hinesburg Road/Rt 116 between Kennedy Drive and Williston Road. The current paving is in
serious disrepair, and is too narrow for two-way use. Please see attached map.
Cost: Total cost is 1.3 million, with about half of this anticipated to be covered by grants. Any
portion of this would be welcome, and we could potentially start the project sooner than the FY
24-26 noted on our current CIP. Please see attached CIP plan for further details.
Rationale: This project addresses negative economic impacts on families and small businesses,
by allowing residents better access to shops and services of Market Street and Dorset Street,
and the plaza at the end of Hinesburg road- without need for a car or expensive gasoline. It
would also connect students to Central School, Tuttle Middle School and the High School. The
latter two schools via Greenway between Willison Road, Mayfair park and Prouty Parkway. This
would serve community members living in the neighborhoods immediately adjacent to
Hinesburg Road, as well as those living along Kennedy Drive, in the O’Brien Development, and
along the Greenway from Mayfair Park and Williston Road.
Summary: We think this project would serve many households and businesses in City Center
along with enhancing recreation opportunities and fostering a more pedestrian friendly culture.
Respectfully submitted on behalf of the BPC,
Havaleh Gagne
Chair, Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee
PROJECT:Hinesburg Road Shared Use PathJUSTIFICATION: Operational Impacts:DEPARTMENT: Bicycle/PedestrianCONTACT: Erica QuallenFINANCIALS (in $1,000)FY24 FY25 FY26 FY27 FY28 FY29 FY30 FY31 FY32 FY33Total:Estimated Costs:Studies, Design, Eng, Inspection, GC, Legal75 10 85 Land/ROW/Easement Acquisition10 10 Construction500 750 1,250 ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ Total Estimated Costs:‐ ‐ 75 520 750 ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ 1,345 Funding Sources:General Fund‐ Secured Grants‐ Anticipated Grants400 500 900 Penny for Path Debt Proceeds75 100 150 325 Recreation Impact Fee‐ Highway Impact Fee20 100 120 Developer Contributions‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ Total Estimated Funding:‐ ‐ 75 520 750 ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ 1,345 DESCRIPTION: Scope, design, and replace existing 5' sidewalk with 10' shared use path on Hinesburg Rd between Williston Rd and Kennedy DrImprove pedestrian and bicyle safety on Hinesburg Rd and make connection between future shared use path on Williston Rd and existing shared use path on Kennedy DrEstimated Annual Operating Cost:FINANCIALS COMMENT:Estimated Revenue Per Year:STATUS: Not started.Winter snow removal, periodic repavingChange to workload by requiring large plow for path, rather than sidewalk but in the vicinity of currently paved pathsN/A
1
ARPA PROPOSAL
Affordable Housing Committee
November 22, 2022
Committee Members
Janet Bellavance
Leslie Black-Plumeau
Vince Bolduc
Sandra Dooley – Vice-chair
Tom Getz
Emily Holt-Gosselin
Ariel Jensen-Vargas
Darriyln Peters
John Simson
Chris Trombly - Chair
Executive Summary
The Affordable Housing Committee was tasked to provide recommendations on the spend down
of the remaining ARPA funds and give consideration of the community ARPA survey as well as
the city council’s desire for recommendations that would deliver transformational change and the
biggest bang for its buck.
The Affordable Housing Committee requests that the City Council fund one-time expenses for
two of our FY2023 priorities by using a portion of the remaining ARPA funds. The use of the
funds is consistent with the program's intent by providing an equitable recovery and saving the
general fund in FY2024.
1/ Housing Needs Assessment & Opportunities Up to $100,000
2/ RFP for Child Care Grant City Council Discretion
3/ ADU Grant Program $225,000
The motion for the proposal was passed unanimously.
Thank you for your consideration.
Christopher Trombly
Chair, Affordable Housing Committee
2
Housing Needs Assessment and Opportunities
Background
A housing needs assessment is a critical planning tool for identifying local policy solutions for a
community’s most urgent needs. It involves using data and local voices to identify gaps between
a community's existing housing stock and the current and future needs of residents.
It is ideal to update a town's housing needs assessment every 5-10 years, due to ongoing changes
that affect the demand for and supply of housing, such as population demographics, impacts on
housing quality, changing state and federal resources and housing market fluctuations.
The last South Burlington housing needs assessment was conducted almost 10 years ago
The housing section of the municipal plan should provide current information and guidance
regarding local housing needs, including how much housing is needed in the community and
regulations proposed to meet local needs. The Housing Needs Assessment will provide the
needed data for the City to set sustainable targets, types, locations and goals for housing growth
in South Burlington.
South Burlington has experienced unprecedented changes in the last five years, including the
groundbreaking of the City Center, the COVID-19 pandemic, and efforts to establish federal
state and local goals regarding climate change.
Action recommended
We recommend that the South Burlington City Council task the Affordable Housing Committee
with developing a scope of work and an RFP for hiring a consultant to conduct this assessment.
We recommend that the South Burlington City Council budget up to $100,000 to pay an external
consultant to conduct and prepare a report about the housing needs assessment and highlight
opportunities to increase housing affordability.
Data obtained through City, state, and Census Bureau sources, including on the Vermont
Housing Data Website, by the consultant, will be used to analyze the current conditions of South
Burlington housing market and assess future housing needs. The types of data analysis to be
conducted by the consultant will include, but will not be limited to, availability, affordability,
and future needs for owner homes, rental housing, and perpetually affordable housing.
Both raw data and the results of the data analysis will be provided to the South Burlington
Affordable Housing Committee in a written report or similar format. The consultant will review
this document with the Affordable Housing Committee at a regular Affordable Housing
Committee meeting.
This document will include data, data analysis, and recommended implementation measures to
address identified housing challenges in the city of South Burlington.
3
Housing Needs Assessment and Opportunities (continued)
Model scope of work outline
Demographic, geographic and economic data review
The consultant will gather and analyze information through city, state and Census Bureau data
sets regarding population, households, housing and employment including, but not limited to,
historical and population growth trends, demographic data, household data, and employment
data.
Housing Stock, Trends and Projections
This will include information about new residential units, types of building permits issued, trends
across the City and estimated rental and owner home vacancy rates.
Market Analysis
The Consultant will study residential real estate trends of all types of housing, including an
analysis of past residential sales prices, length of time on the market, and other relevant real
estate metrics. As part of the market analysis, a survey of community stakeholders and residents,
particularly of underserved communities, would be preferred to hear their voices in the final
report.
City housing levers
Review of land development regulations and other city requirements that affect housing
affordability and availability. Areas of specific interest are:
•Planning and Zoning Regulations Analysis
•Density
•Impact Fees
•Parking Requirements
•Landscaping Requirements
•Energy Efficiency Requirements
•Inclusionary Requirements
•State and City Designations (Downtowns, NDAs, Transit Overlay Districts, etc.)
•Planning and Zoning Process Analysis
•Staffing
•Average Time To Review and Approve Applications
•Staff and DRB Discretion / Waiver Regulations
•Intangibles (attitude, availability, collaborative vs. adversarial)
Implementation Strategies and Recommendations
The Consultant will develop recommendations for specific types, rates, and other housing needs
based on the data review, projections, market analysis, and regulation review.
4
RFP for Childcare Proposal
The Affordable Housing Committee recognizes the overwhelming support in the Community
APRA survey identifying Childcare as the highest priority to spend the remaining ARPA funds.
We recommend that the City Council earmark some of the remaining ARPA funds to initiate an
RFP process, similar to the affordable housing program, to seek requests from the Child Care
community, who can most effectively deliver this assistance to the community with the highest
impact.
While childcare is not within the scope of the Affordable Housing Committee, members have
expressed an interest in participating in helping accomplish this objective. Childcare also
indirectly supports other high priorities reflected in the survey: addressing income disparities,
local business support, and racial disparities.
5
Accessory Dwelling Unit Incentive Program
The Affordable Housing Committee proposes that the City Council provide $225,000 from the
ARPA allocation to launch a grant program to incentivize the construction of 15 Accessory
Dwelling Units (ADUs) in the City. Grants could be used for detailed design and construction.
It would serve as a demonstration program to add rental units to the housing stock and create
publicity and interest for City homeowners going forward. Grants could be up to $15,000 each.
ADUs approved under the program would involve interior renovations and small additions to an
existing house footprint. It is anticipated that ADUs developed would average 500 to 750 square
feet and would cost $60,000 to $125,000. Homeowners would be invited to submit an
application including preliminary design, a budget and financing plans.
Prior to launching the program, the City will develop educational materials, including how to be
a landlord, sourcing designs, financing and finding a contractor. Programs of this kind already
exist in Montpelier and elsewhere in the US and model educational materials would be available
for adaptation.
The program would require that the City’s grant be for “early money” such as detailed design,
material purchase, and foundation work to ensure that it is spent within the parameters of the
ARPA timing requirements. Proof of firm financing would be required before a grant is made
and guarantees confirmed that the resulting housing unit would be a long-term rental with a one-
year or more lease and a long-term commitment by the owner.
Although the program is only likely to deliver 15 affordable rental housing units, it could be
easily and quickly implemented compared to alternatives. Under inclusionary zoning, it would
require 100 units of multi-family housing to equal the number of affordable units we expect this
program to complete. Such development in our City would take many months before
construction and months to complete. All ADU development contemplated would be within
existing neighborhoods and comply with our Land Development Regulations by right.
Another significant benefit to homeowners is the opportunity to receive additional income from
rent. We know that there are many homeowners in the City who are struggling financially. If
they can afford to access this program with financing plus a City grant, the added income will
help long term.
It has been suggested that grants be restricted to homeowners at or below median income.
Although desirable, such a requirement might stifle the program because few lower-income
households would want the burden of debt or be unable to obtain a home equity loan large
enough to complete an ADU. We believe most applicants will choose to remain in their current
house and rent the ADU. By definition, a 500 to 750 sq ft home will be affordable to households
in need of housing.
The Affordable Housing Committee is prepared to research and develop the information packet
for prospective applicants. Champlain Housing Trust can be approached about helping with
administration.