Town of Westford

This presentation introduces Act 181, a legislative initiative aimed at advancing Vermont's smart growth objectives through the promotion of diverse housing options, efficient infrastructure utilization, streamlined permitting processes, and natural resource protection. It details how Act 181 updates Act 250 and imposes new requirements for regional plans, which encompass meaningful public participation, standardized regional future land use maps, the establishment of housing targets, and an emphasis on climate resilience and environmental justice. The Chittenden County Regional Planning Commission (CCRPC) outlines its ongoing efforts in developing a draft regional future land use map in accordance with state definitions and municipal plans, and its methodology for setting housing targets for municipalities.

The Selectboard discussed library funding and transparency issues, the resolution of VAST trail vandalism, and municipal communication strategies via public forums. Key administrative updates included the review of CCRPC grant applications, road maintenance schedules, and the status of both the Highway and General Fund budgets. Technical infrastructure discussions focused on potential fiber optic and phone system upgrades, as well as an IT contract with VTC. The board also addressed the annual approval of Town and Bridge Standards, reviewed the Chittenden County Clerk budget, and initiated a partnership with UVM students for an environmental consulting capstone project. Additionally, the board presented the Town Meeting Day budget and approved accounts payable and payroll warrants.

The meeting involved a reorganization segment including the election of officers, the establishment of a meeting schedule, and revisions to agenda formats and public comment procedures. The board engaged in a detailed discussion regarding the Tier 1B designation, ultimately voting to defend the original submission. Additional business included designating official newspapers for municipal notices, reviewing the Selectboard's rules of procedure, re-adopting conflict of interest and ethics policies, and reviewing highway and general fund budget status reports. The meeting concluded with an executive session regarding a legal matter.

The working group discussed housing targets and future land use areas, including considerations for defining rural categories and potential growth locations. A key focus was the evaluation of Tier 1B areas for partial Act 250 exemption, with consensus reached on advancing this in existing Neighborhood Development Areas. The group also deliberated on mapping adjustments to align with zoning and conservation goals, as well as the strategy for future community outreach and recommendations to be presented to the Planning Commission and Selectboard.

This Housing Data Supplement to the Chittenden County Regional Plan details the methodology used by the Chittenden County Regional Planning Commission to calculate regional housing estimates and municipal housing targets. The document outlines a strategic approach to address housing needs as mandated by Vermont statute, focusing on disaggregating targets for urban, mixed urban/rural, and rural municipalities. It provides estimates for housing by zoning district, unit type, unit size, and affordability levels, with targets extending to 2050, aiming to ensure an adequate supply of affordable housing while supporting sustainable land use and community development goals.