The Planning Commission (PC) of North Hero has quietly posted their changes to the zoning by-laws which will be voted on at the Town Meeting on March 7, 2023 (see links below to the by-law changes and to the meeting information).
The proposed changes include the COMPLETE REMOVAL of all North Hero zoning on Shoreland Protection (old section 7.8) and Lake Access Structures (old section 8.10) and allow a RADICAL increase in waterfront housing density (Section 5.2).
The PC will tell you that North Hero will revert to the [minimal] state requirements, however, in doing so, they will not tell you that this RADICALLY decreases Shoreland Protection and significantly increases building density in our community.
1. North Hero Shoreland Protection used to protect 500 feet from the lake, while Vermont shoreland protection only protects 250 feet from the lake.
2. Most importantly, Vermont state shoreland protection STOPS AT THE ROAD... and 50% of North Hero shoreland has a road right on the waterfront
3. North Hero Zoning used to allow only 1 HOME on a 2-acre waterfront lot, whereas the new by-laws allow 4 HOMES (including waterfront condos if it is across from the road).
Preserve the rural character of North Hero and don't strip North Hero's Shoreland Protection
What can you do?
- Attend the Planning Commission Hearing on November 15th at 7pm at the Town Office or by Zoom
- Attend the Select Board Hearing (TBD)
- Vote at the Town Meeting on March 7th (mail in ballots can be requested)
Link to the Planning Commission Proposed Changes:
https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/north-hero-town.appspot.com/o/Planning%20Commiss[...]011
Link to Planning Commission Hearing Meeting and Zoom information:
https://www.northherovt.com/page/planning
Nov 26, 2024, 2 to 4 PM
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