November Debrief
Affordable Housing and Condo Conversion Ordinance (Nov. 12)
A contentious debate arose regarding proposed changes to Burlington’s condo conversion ordinance, aiming to ease rental-to-condo transitions. Housing affordability remains central to Burlington's livability. Legislative efforts continue to curb displacement.
Councilor Neubieser said that this resolution would increase good governance and support local control, especially given the seriousness of the housing crisis in the City.
Councilor Broderick said this resolution could help renters navigate the difficult housing market.
Councilor Grant said she doesn’t trust the legislature with this issue, given that most state legislators are property owners.
Public Safety and Harm Reduction (Nov. 12)
Concerns over rising safety issues were a theme across the meetings, including debates on syringe programs, youth engagement, and police reforms. These discussions highlight the city’s focus on proactive, community-driven solutions to public safety and equity challenges.
Councilor Grant: “Harm reduction is so important, as it will help reduce crime in the City. We must continue to focus on flexibility and support for the City’s public safety task force, using the example of the urban park rangers.”
Vacant Building Ordinance (Nov. 12)
The Burlington vacant buildings ordinance aims to address the city’s housing shortage by imposing fees on vacant, abandoned, or neglected properties to encourage their productive use. During recent City Council meetings, concerns were raised about ensuring effective enforcement to prevent property owners from evading these fees. A resident suggested revising property tax assessments to focus more on land rather than existing structures, incentivizing development and potentially increasing housing availability. The ordinance highlights the city's broader effort to tackle urban blight and promote sustainable property utilization.
Councilor Grant: “The penalties are not high enough, given the number of vacant buildings and the crime that occurs there.”
Major Investments in Water and Wastewater (Nov. 12)
Proposals for bonds totaling over $200 million to upgrade Burlington’s aging water infrastructure were reviewed, with emphasis on affordability and environmental sustainability. Upgrades are necessary to meet state mandates, protect Lake Champlain, and ensure long-term reliability of essential services. The challenge lies in balancing cost burdens fairly.
Councilor Grant: “Taxpayers are experiencing extraordinary pressures currently, and said that the City needs to be reaching out to all levels of government to receive support for this. Deferred maintenance is a problem across the state”
Councilor Neubieser: “I am focused on affordability for residents in the City. I support seeking commitments from the state to help pay for these investments. They should consider having large institutions pay more.”
Winooski Bridge Project and Bicycle Infrastructure (Nov. 18)
The November 18th City Council meeting included a detailed discussion of the Burlington-Winooski Bridge project. This initiative aims to address traffic safety and multimodal accessibility challenges, in an inexpensive way in terms of the local contribution. Concerns were raised about lane widening, increasing vehicular speeds, and bike and pedestrian safety. The bridge project will shape regional connectivity and the city’s ability to meet climate and mobility goals. Advocacy for safer, more inclusive designs reflects the community's commitment to sustainable urban planning.
Councilor Bergman: Advocated for narrowing car lanes to reduce speed.
Councilor Kane: Questioned why the highest-ranked safety alternative wasn’t adopted.
Councilor Neubieser: Stressed the importance of securing federal and state funding to ease the tax burden on residents. “It is important for the Council to support this project, given the RAISE grant.”
Great Streets Main Street Project (Nov. 18)
Discussions during both meetings revolved around the impact of the extended Main Street sewer project on local businesses, particularly during the holiday shopping season. Every effort should be made to ensure that infrastructure projects should not come at the expense of local businesses’ viability.
Councilor Grant: Suggested creative mitigation measures, such as parking solutions and increased pedestrian flow. “Could we use UVM lots or hire a trolley to take people downtown?”
