VLCT advocates for flood response legislation amid ongoing Vermont flood crisis

During a recent Senate Government Operations meeting in Vermont, a significant focus was placed on a bill deemed crucial by the Vermont League of Cities and Towns (VLCT). The bill encompasses key legislative priorities, with flood response and resiliency at the forefront.

Representatives from VLCT emphasized the urgent need for this legislation, highlighting the ongoing impact of flooding on communities across the state. They noted that the floods have severely affected their members, underscoring the necessity for immediate action to support recovery efforts.

A notable discussion point was the potential use of future surpluses from the Local Option Tax (LOT) for flood response initiatives. VLCT representatives pointed out that the top contributors to this special fund are Burlington, Colchester, and South Burlington, indicating a regional interest in how these funds could be allocated for future flood management.

As the meeting concluded, the urgency of passing the bill was reiterated, reflecting a strong consensus on the need for effective flood response measures to protect Vermont communities. The discussions highlighted the ongoing challenges posed by climate-related events and the importance of legislative support in addressing these pressing issues.