Tamara Allen

The meeting includes a review of updates to the Flood Hazard Bylaws (Article 5), a discussion regarding the draft reorganization of the Administration and Enforcement sections (Articles 3 and 11), and a review of project updates and next steps concerning the process of rewriting the bylaws.

The meeting focused on public comments regarding reappraisal experiences and marketing strategies for the town. The board approved a 30-day extension for lodging the grand list and discussed logistical plans for printing and mailing documents to residents. Additionally, the status of the water system loan opportunity was deferred pending further information gathering by the water task force, and a potential appointment to the DR was mentioned.

The board reviewed two primary applications: one for a conditional use permit involving an attached garage with mudroom and deck at a residential property, and another regarding a flood hazard area development for the removal of the Snow Lake dam. The board discussed construction timelines, lighting standards, flood risk mitigation, and environmental impact assessments including stormwater treatment through gravel wetlands. Additionally, the board addressed organizational matters including a resignation and subsequent appointments for the board membership and vice chair position.

The board discussed several items, including a Water Task Force update regarding feasibility study funding, the adoption of the updated Local Emergency Management Plan, and a follow-up on the Rock River community meeting. Presentations were made on the 2027-29 Strategic Marketing Plan and a potential response to state Act 181 regarding land use and development. Additionally, the board approved the referral of a Justice of the Peace appointment, authorized funding for the Vermont Wildlife Festival, reviewed procedures for selling a retired police cruiser, and addressed concerns regarding water contamination at the town garage. The board also convened as the Board of Liquor Control to approve several liquor licenses.

The committee discussed working group priorities, including refocusing on actionable items from the 2019 housing analysis, website maintenance, fund balance inquiry, and targeted digital advertising strategies to engage landlords. There was exploration into forming a landlord group, investigating incentives for short-term rental operators to shift toward long-term rentals, and potential program alignment with local incentive initiatives. The session also covered town housing updates, including municipal registration programs, regional housing webinars, and participation in upcoming housing resource fairs and regional coalitions.