Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Advocates pitch 'root zones' model code to speed housing; committee asked for follow-up work
Summary
A housing coalition presenter urged the committee to explore ‘root zones’ — state-supported model zoning overlays — to increase by‑right housing and reduce appeals, citing Burlington’s form-based code experience and earlier state housing efforts. Members requested additional analysis and pilot options.
A coalition representing builders, nonprofits and other stakeholders presented a proposal to the Natural Resources & Energy committee on Feb. 4 to create state-supported model zoning “root zones” that municipalities could adopt as overlay districts to enable more by‑right housing.
Presenter Gwyneth, from a housing coalition that described itself as representing nearly 270 organizations statewide, said the root-zone concept would create a state-crafted model zoning code towns could adopt and adapt. She argued that form-based and clear objective standards reduce subjective discretionary review and appeals that delay projects. “We need more housing opportunity,” she said, and urged the…
Already have an account? Log in
Subscribe to keep reading
Unlock the rest of this article — and every article on Citizen Portal.
- Unlimited articles
- AI-powered breakdowns of topics, speakers, decisions, and budgets
- Instant alerts when your location has a new meeting
- Follow topics and more locations
- 1,000 AI Insights / month, plus AI Chat
