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Regional plan revisions propose quantifiable 'substantial regional impact' tests, telecom and renewables siting rules
Summary
Staff presented a revised regional plan that adds a visualized future land use map, public engagement layers, and a set of quantifiable criteria for determining substantial regional impact under Act 250 (section 2-48). The presentation also introduced draft telecommunication siting standards and updated renewable-energy siting guidance.
Staff reviewed progress on the regional plan and introduced a visualized future land use map and three-tier public-review approach at the April 7 meeting. The map is intended as a public-facing illustration; staff said they hired a cartoonist to create an accessible poster to use at pop-up events and town meetings.
Why it matters: The plan revisions include proposed, measurable tests for when development is ‘‘substantially regionally significant’’ under Act 250 section 2-48. Those tests would let the regional review committee require developers to supply specific impact information earlier in the project process and help the commission decide whether to weigh in on projects that affect multiple towns, infrastructure, or natural resources.
Key proposed criteria staff presented include: a change in level of service from D to E (or E to F) on roads with average annual daily…
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