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Starksboro DRB weighs farm‑exemption rules, accepts Haney application as complete
Summary
Board members discussed municipal limits under VSA Title 24, farm determination letters and the town’s authority under Section 342.B before voting to accept the Haney application as complete for review despite the applicant not submitting a comprehensive business plan.
During both hearings the board and staff discussed how state agricultural exemptions interact with local review. Zoning Administrator Stephen Rooney explained that while the state issues farm‑determination letters and provides guidance, VSA Title 24 and Section 342.B give the town the final say in whether an operation qualifies for an on‑farm exemption and what municipal restrictions may be applied.
Board members debated whether the Haney submission should include a comprehensive business plan; some said the submittal met the town’s site‑plan requirements while others said more detail would improve review. Ultimately the board voted to accept the Haney application as complete for the purpose of conducting the hearing and review; the DRB will address any conditions or restrictions during deliberation.
