Town of Stowe

The meeting covered updates on the town's water supply and land purchase, a review of STR data, and discussions on desired housing types and affordability. Guest speakers from White & Burke provided insights on real estate development consulting, TIF districts, and funding mechanisms for affordable housing. The Planning Commission reviewed draft elements of the Stowe Town Plan, focusing on solid waste management, communications infrastructure, and transportation improvements. The Development Review Board addressed projects including residential additions, a pop-up food tent, and a final PRD review for duplexes, with discussions on site plans, stormwater management, and development impacts.

The agenda includes proposed updates and amendments to the Cady Hill Forest Management Plan. Key amendments involve factual updates reflecting changes since the last plan adoption and permits for motorized winter grooming on select trails with approved equipment, provided there is sufficient snow cover. The Conservation Commission solicited public input and received overwhelming support for the proposed amendments. The Selectboard will review these updates, which conform to Stowe Town Plan policies regarding the management of town-owned conservation land and sustainable timber harvesting.

The commission reviewed several projects, including an addition of an exterior light and updated railing design, exterior alterations to a property including garage door and window replacements, and the construction of single-family dwellings. Discussions involved design modifications, adherence to design guidelines, and compatibility with the historic district. The commission also conducted an informal review of a three-unit residential building and the demolition of an existing bank with the construction of new mixed-use buildings. Other business included a review of the draft Town Plan element related to historic and cultural resources.

The Stowe Planning Commission meeting included discussions and decisions on several key topics. The agenda was adjusted to include a discussion on the Commission's letter to the Selectboard. A work session was held to review draft elements of the Stowe Town Plan, including the Health & Wellness Element, Development Trends, and revised Transportation Goals, Policies, & Tasks. The commission reviewed and provided feedback on proposed Tier 1B boundaries and recommendations. The commission also discussed short-term rental recommendations and their potential impact on condominiums and timeshares. Finally, the commission touched on inclusionary zoning and affordable housing, as well as updates and correspondence.

The meeting included updates on the town's water supply and land purchase, with a focus on completing testing and permitting by 2027. The task force reviewed STR data from a Selectboard meeting, discussing incentivizing the conversion of STR units to LTR, the impact of regulations on STRs, and state fire safety requirements. They also discussed Tier 1B status for Act 250 exemption and the regional plan update, and a timeline on inclusionary zoning. Additionally, there was a revisit of desired housing types and affordability definitions, including the challenges of incentivizing affordable development and the importance of clear requirements for developers. The Task Force asked to examine examples from other towns for housing reserve fund town meeting articles.