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Draft housing targets and Tier 1 maps prompt questions about feasibility and infrastructure needs
Summary
CCRPC staff presented draft housing targets and Tier 1A/1B maps on April 9; members raised concerns about meeting targets, wastewater capacity, and the need for targeted infrastructure and state investment. Public comment and municipal feedback deadlines were announced.
Kate McCarthy, Senior Planner, presented the draft regional future land use map, draft housing targets, and draft Tier 1A and 1B Act 250 exemption areas to the Planning Advisory Committee on April 9.
Charles Dillard, a PAC member from Burlington, summarized public reaction: "How in the world are we going to meet the housing targets?" Several members said they welcome having specific targets but raised concerns about whether the labor market, wastewater capacity and transit investments will keep pace with the numbers.
Aaron DeNamur, representing Shelburne, told the committee his Selectboard thinks the target is challenging but achievable; other members said some communities prefer a higher medium target rather than the low target. Mike Giguere reported mixed resident feedback in Essex Junction, with transportation impact concerns balanced by interest in capitalizing on existing transit access.
McCarthy told members that public comment on the draft maps and housing targets is open through May 19 and that municipalities must provide specific feedback on Tier 1B areas by July 15. She said CCRPC staff will aggregate feedback for municipal planning commissions and legislative bodies in late May or early June and is forming a Tier 1A working group; the first meeting was targeted for the week of April 28.
Committee members asked staff about the Priority Housing Projects density bonus, scheduled to end Jan. 1, 2027; concerns were raised about how the expiration could affect multi-phased affordable projects. Staff said they expect the Legislature to discuss potential extensions.
