In Vermont, the winds of change are unmistakable. With them comes an urgent need to reassess how we approach growth, housing, and taxation. Feedback from my recent legislative survey sends a clear message: Vermonters are calling for thoughtful reforms to keep our state affordable, functional, and equitable for all residents.
Act 250: Balancing Growth and Protection
Act 250, Vermont's landmark land-use legislation, has served our state well for nearly 50 years. However, times have changed. While environmental preservation remains crucial, the majority of respondents believe it's time to reform Act 250 to better address Vermont’s current challenges—especially the need for housing. Streamlining the permitting process, reducing bureaucratic delays, and easing restrictive zoning regulations are key steps toward solving our housing crisis.
Vermont is facing a significant shortfall, with experts indicating that 40,000 new housing units must be built in the next decade. Without sensible reform, the very red tape designed to protect our communities may end up strangling their growth and affordability. However, this cannot mean we turn a blind eye to environmental stewardship. Many Vermonters agree, and I’m with them. Reform must strike a careful balance, enabling smart development while preserving Vermont’s natural beauty and our farmland.
Addressing Housing Affordability and Availability
Affordable housing is at the core of Vermont’s future sustainability. Building 40,000 units isn’t just about increasing numbers; it’s about increasing the right kinds of housing. This means higher-density developments in town centers, renovating existing buildings, and supporting accessory dwelling units (ADUs) to provide more flexibility in options for families, seniors, and young professionals.
Private-sector involvement and strategic incentives can drive this effort, but excessive regulations are stifling progress. Cutting unnecessary bureaucracy and modernizing building codes will allow developers to meet our housing needs without compromising quality. Additionally, many who responded to our survey suggest revising tax policies on second homes and short-term rentals to prioritize local families over speculative investments.
At the same time, expanding infrastructure—water, sewer, broadband—is essential to support this growth. Without it, new housing projects will remain stalled, and affordability will remain out of reach for many Vermonters.
Taxes: A Growing Burden
Affordability in Vermont isn’t just about housing costs—it’s about taxes. Property taxes are pushing retirees and working families to their financial limits. Calls to eliminate taxes on Social Security and pensions reflect a broader concern that Vermont’s aging population is being priced out of their homes. Tax relief, especially for seniors and most vulnerable, is not just compassionate; it’s necessary for maintaining the integrity of our communities.
At the same time, respondents are frustrated by perceived inefficiencies in school spending. Consolidating school districts and supervisory unions could reduce administrative costs while preserving quality education. It’s clear by recent votes and Vermonters choosing more balance in the Legislature, we must find ways to fund our schools that are more equitable and not tied solely to the ability to own a home.
Healthcare Costs: The Hidden Driver of Tax Hikes
Healthcare costs and education funding are deeply intertwined. As healthcare premiums for teachers and staff rise, so too do school budgets—and subsequently, taxes. Vermonters are calling for innovative solutions, including exploring single-payer systems or other healthcare reforms that remove profit-driven increases. Addressing healthcare costs could provide long-term relief to taxpayers and ensure that education remains accessible and sustainable.
Finding the Path Forward
What’s clear from these responses is that Vermonters are seeking a balanced approach. They want reforms that tackle affordability without sacrificing Vermont’s core values of environmental protection, strong education, and community integrity. This isn’t about partisan politics; it’s about practical solutions that work for everyone.
As elected officials we must rise to the challenge, working across party lines to deliver results. Whether it's reforming Act 250, rethinking tax structures, or modernizing healthcare, the time for action is now. Vermont’s future depends on it.
Let's ensure Vermont remains a place where families, seniors, and future generations can thrive—without being priced out, overburdened, or left behind.
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