Rita Seto

The board discussed several administrative and regional planning matters. Key topics included the acceptance of unaudited financial reports for January 2026, legislative updates regarding Act 250 bills and brownfields assessment funding, and potential regionalization of assessment services. The board also reviewed the FY27 dues structure, deciding to maintain current rates. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a detailed discussion of the Land Use Chapter of the Regional Plan, specifically focusing on Tier 1B designation, village center definitions, and the regional plan development schedule.

The committee discussed updates on state and national legislation, including RPC roles under FEMA and EDA appropriations. Financial reports for January 2026 were accepted, featuring a discussion on ACCD contracts, state budget adjustments, and various expense lines. The committee also conducted a review of three draft Regional Plan Chapters: Economic Development, Transportation, and the Introduction, addressing feedback on equity goals, outreach, and specific policy recommendations. Finally, the committee deliberated on and made a recommendation regarding level dues for member towns for FY 27.

The meeting featured a presentation on the VTrans Right of Way process and the Federal Uniform Act, as well as discussions regarding town highway classification and reclassification. Key topics included preparations for the summer field season, specifically regarding Municipal Roads General Permit compliance, the submission of the annual report and fee, and updates on road erosion inventory and culvert inventory status. Additionally, the committee reviewed various grant opportunities, including VTrans District Grants and Small Scale HSIP grants, and noted upcoming programs for municipal signage and temporary lighting.

The Board reviewed financial reports, including details on audit payments and scholarship funding. Staff provided updates on state legislative activities regarding Act 250, brownfields assessment funding, and regional assessment districts, as well as national legislation like the Farm Bill and Surface Transportation Bill. Discussions also covered ongoing projects such as municipal energy resilience and brownfields consulting. The Board voted to maintain current dues for the upcoming fiscal year and engaged in a detailed discussion regarding the Regional Plan Land Use Chapter, specifically concerning Tier 1B designation and mapping, before planning future reviews for other chapters.

The committee discussed updates on federal and state legislation, including a federal housing bill, potential FEMA contract opportunities, and adjustments to the Act 250 housing reform legislation. The committee accepted the unaudited February financial reports, noting fiscal year progress and net income status. Additionally, the committee reviewed and approved updates to the accounting manual and discussed edits for the Natural Resources chapter of the regional plan, specifically focusing on the need for background information regarding the Current Use Program.