Montpelier residents advocate for aggressive housing growth and zoning reforms

The Montpelier Planning Commission convened on March 24, 2025, to discuss the city's development plan, focusing primarily on housing and zoning issues. The meeting highlighted community concerns regarding Montpelier's reputation as a "no build zone" and the urgent need for increased housing options.

The first speaker, a resident, expressed strong support for the proposed plan, particularly its emphasis on housing. They noted that the plan aims to shelter the unsheltered, grow the tax base, and enhance affordability while promoting diversity in income and age within the community. The speaker advocated for mixed-use developments outside the downtown floodplain, emphasizing the vulnerability of the historic area to flooding.

The discussion continued with another resident, James Moore, who underscored the need for a more aggressive housing strategy. He suggested that Montpelier should aim for an additional 1,500 to 2,000 housing units over the next 20 years to meet growing demands. Moore highlighted the importance of maintaining a vibrant downtown and utilizing existing green spaces for development.

Concerns were raised about the current zoning regulations, which some participants deemed overly restrictive and costly. Moore pointed out that the lengthy approval processes and high professional fees could deter potential developers. He called for clearer and more ambitious goals in the housing plan, along with accountability measures to track progress.

The meeting concluded with a call for collaboration between city officials and developers to create a more conducive environment for housing projects. Participants expressed a desire for a streamlined approach to zoning that would facilitate development while addressing the community's needs.

Overall, the meeting underscored a collective commitment to transforming Montpelier's housing landscape, with a focus on inclusivity, sustainability, and resilience against future challenges. The Planning Commission plans to incorporate the feedback received into the ongoing development of the city’s housing strategy.