Montpelier Planning Commission debates land use plan amid housing urgency

The Montpelier Planning Commission convened on March 24, 2025, to discuss the city's land use plan and gather public input on its future direction. The meeting highlighted various perspectives on the plan's ambition and the need for immediate action.

The session began with a member expressing concerns about the plan's effectiveness, stating it did not adequately prepare Montpelier for the future. Despite these reservations, the member recommended passing the plan to the city council for further consideration, emphasizing the importance of aligning it with the council's strategic goals and expediting the approval process with regional and state authorities.

Ben Doyle, a city council member, praised the commission's efforts and urged them to adopt bolder housing goals, referencing Rutland's ambitious target of adding 1,000 housing units in five years. He advocated for a "yes in my backyard" movement to foster a more supportive environment for housing development.

The commission then discussed the input received from the public, noting the significant turnout and feedback. Joyce, chair of the Public Arts Commission, clarified that their commission does not wish to oversee performing arts and culinary arts, which were inaccurately included in the plan.

As the meeting progressed, members acknowledged the need for ongoing revisions to the plan and the importance of addressing public comments systematically. A proposal was made to create a matrix to document public feedback alongside staff recommendations, ensuring transparency in decision-making.

The commission faced a decision on whether to schedule a second public hearing or to conclude the public input phase. After deliberation, it was suggested to forgo another hearing, allowing the commission to refine the plan and forward it to the city council for further public engagement.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the urgency of finalizing the land use plan while remaining receptive to public input. The commission aims to present a revised document to the city council, facilitating a collaborative approach to Montpelier's future development.