On February 28th, the Vermont Superior Court's Environmental Division struck down the City's Transferable Development Rights ("TDR") Bylaw because it did not comply with State law. The former TDR Bylaw was an ill-conceived policy that only allowed for the transfer of buildable residential density from one SEQ remote open space with no pedestrian access to public transportation, schools, stores or services – to another SEQ remote open space with no pedestrian access to public transportation, schools, stores or services.

Now that the TDR Bylaw has been invalidated, the City has an opportunity to create a sensible land-use policy that allows for the transfer of development rights from the SEQ to neighborhoods where citizens would have ready access to public transportation, schools, stores and services.

Even before the February 28th E-Court decision came down, the City formed a "Transfer of Development Rights Interim Zoning Committee" to consider various issues surrounding TDRs. The TDR Committee is meeting this Wednesday, April 3rd, at 7:00 PM at the Police Station at 19 Gregory Drive, to consider alternatives to the former TDR Bylaw.

If possible, please attend this Wednesday night's meeting and let the Committee know that South Burlington residents want a smart growth policy which preserves our precious open spaces and encourages development in areas where residents can go places without having to get into their cars. Thanks very much.

Oct 27, 2024, 4 to 5:30 PM

Oct 28, 2024, 6 to 7 PM

Nov 2, 2024, 5 to 8 PM