THIS IS THE SECOND OF A TWO PART POST

Dear Ward 6 Neighbors,

Continuing where we left off with PART ONE of this post, here are the SPECIFICS, NEXT STEPS, and MY REQUEST OF YOU...

WHAT ARE THE SPECIFICS OF THE CODE? Here are the key points (keeping in mind that there are lot coverage rules, setback rules, spacing between building rules so not every current single-family lot would have the dimensions for a second structure):

1. The HOME Act will allow a property owner to have a maximum of 4 units in their primary structure. This is State law.

2. The Neighborhood Code will take this change further. The proposed change would mean a property owner who meets the dimension requirements and provided the units in a structure are at least 350 square feet per unit, could build a second structure on their property with 4 units in that building in the RL district.

3. Another important change is that some areas of Ward 6 would be rezoned. The Code would rezone the South Union and Clymer/Hoover Street area from RL to RM to align with what is actually on the ground but that does mean that, provided the lot dimensions and other standards are met, a property in these areas could have two structures with up to 10 units on their lot.

WHAT IS NEXT? Since the first public hearing, City Councilors have introduced several proposed amendments to the Neighborhood Code. In total, there are 7 amendments, some that would limit the number of units in some areas that have been "upzoned," some that want to completely eliminate the RL district and others that attempt to find more common ground across the city. I have one amendment that addresses landlord accountability and would mandate that property owners wishing to add a second structure or amend in some other way would have to have all outstanding code violations addressed and resolved.

THIS IS WHERE YOU COME IN! I would like to hear from you. We have three options with the vote on March 25:
A. We can pass the Neighborhood Code, which is a change to our Comprehensive Development Ordinance, after the second hearing.
B. We can amend the Neighborhood Code with one or several of the amendments before us and then pass it.
C. We can vote to refer the Neighborhood Code back to the Ordinance Committee for further review.

I hope you will take a look at the Neighborhood Code webpage as it is well done and full of details. The link is: https://www.burlingtonvt.gov/CityPlanning/NeighborhoodCode and the page with the amendments is: https://www.burlingtonvt.gov/DPI/CDO/Amendments

During many hours of public input, we have heard from many supporters who are advocating for greater housing in our city, particularly younger people who seek the dream of home ownership and are struggling to see that as a reality with home prices, property values and wages as they are and feel Burlington must work to accommodate the evolving needs of our city as we continue to face a housing crisis. Equally, there are those who are raising concerns with the level of development, the significant level of infill, feeling it is not "gentle" but too overwhelming.

I would welcome your feedback and would ver much like to hear from you. Please email me with any questions. I am here to listen to your ideas, concerns, and insight. Please be in touch.

My best,
Karen

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