May 7, 2025

Agenda:

• Welcome

• Update on Act 181 Map Development

• Discussion of S.127

• Regional Planning Commissions

• Land Use Review Board

Minutes:

• Welcome

• Update on Act 181 Map Development

1. Charlie Baker, Chittenden County RPC & David Snedeker, Northeastern Vermont Development Association

   1. Presentation linked here

2. Peter Gill, Land Use Review Board

1. Peter shared that tier 3 is currently in development and they are focusing on engagement with the public and stakeholders. The LURB currently has a website with pages dedicated to each study and updated timelines.

1. LURB’s landing page on all ongoing projects related to Act 181

• Discussion of S.127

1. Rep. Olson explained that the goal of CHIP is to assist with infrastructure in rural towns. Adjustments in the Senate version, Commerce version, and General & Housing version have created separate ideas on what specific locations would be eligible to use the program and the timeline of continued eligibility.

2. Rep. Lipsky emphasized the need within rural communities for sensible development, especially in areas that are losing population and community resources. 

3. Miro Weinberger from Let’s Build Homes shared that S.127 is their top priority and views it as a transformative tool. This bill would take on one of the primary hurdles currently present to building housing, the cost and implementation of necessary infrastructure. Defining the geographic eligibility is concerning as the tiers have not been formed. He views these programs as a likely net add to rural communities, their grand lists, and the education fund.

1. LBH CHIP Letter

2. LBH Overview of CHIP

4. Rep. Feltus shared that S.127 is currently in House Ways & Means where there is support for TIF and CHIP programs, but concerns about the effect on the education fund. The committee is considering limitations on location and usage.

Meeting recording coming soon.