South Burlington Council debates housing targets and Act 2 50 exemptions for development

The South Burlington City Council meeting on May 5, 2025, spotlighted a pivotal discussion on housing development and land use regulations, particularly focusing on the implications of Act 250. The council is considering a resolution to request Tier 1B status from the state Land Use Review Board, which would allow for expedited housing projects in designated growth areas.

The proposed changes aim to alleviate pressure on rural farmlands by encouraging urban farming and increasing housing units in growth areas. This strategic shift is designed to balance development with environmental preservation, as highlighted by council members who emphasized the need for more housing to support the community's growth while protecting agricultural land.

Council discussions revealed that the current Act 250 regulations have historically imposed significant constraints on residential development, particularly for projects involving ten or more homes. The proposed Tier 1B status would exempt new projects of ten acres or less and fifty homes or fewer from these regulations, streamlining the approval process and potentially reducing costs for developers.

However, concerns were raised about the adequacy of local regulations to protect environmental and historic resources if the council moves forward with the request. Council members stressed the importance of incorporating necessary protections into local development regulations to ensure that growth does not come at the expense of the community's environmental integrity.

The council also discussed statewide housing targets set by the Vermont Housing Finance Agency, which aim to guide municipalities in planning for future growth. While some members expressed skepticism about the feasibility of these targets, others highlighted the need for strategic planning to align local development with broader state goals.

As the council prepares to vote on the resolution, the outcome could significantly influence South Burlington's approach to housing and land use, potentially setting a precedent for how the city balances growth with sustainability in the years to come.