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Council approves movable playground 'playhouse' structures pending state compliance and permitting
Summary
Zoning administrator Tom Bernier described movable, themed playhouse structures staff built to complement a new playground; council approved continuing construction and adding materials pending state/floodplain review and grant timing, while residents raised transparency and budget concerns.
Tom Bernier, the city’s zoning administrator, presented plans and a memo describing movable themed playhouse structures that city crews have built as additions to a larger playground project. Bernier said he kept the design intentionally low‑profile to surprise the public at ribbon cutting and that the structures will meet insurance requirements after review by the Vermont League of Cities and Towns (VLCT).
Bernier said the primary playground remediation had originally been estimated at roughly $315,000; current work to date is “just under $140,000.” He asked the council to allow staff to add materials costs to a roughly $200,000 borrowing that has been allocated to the playground project so crews could continue winter work. Bernier also noted the city is awaiting floodplain manager comments and a developmental review board (DRB) review; a separate $100,000 equipment grant is contingent on permit timing and could affect billing and reimbursement schedules.
Resident Pamela criticized the process and asked for transparency, saying the timing of funds and the surprise design felt “weird” and gave the appearance of secrecy. Bernier and the mayor responded that the surprise was a design choice and not intended to be nefarious; staff stressed compliance with state and insurance requirements before any public placement.
Council voted to approve continuing construction of the movable playhouse units and to authorize adding material purchases provided the structures meet state, DRB and floodplain requirements and any required permits are obtained. Staff said they will seek comments from the floodplain manager and, if necessary, resubmit site plans to the DRB. The council’s approval included direction that staff return with any required compliance steps before permanent public installation.
