Governor Scott Plans Stakeholder Meetings After Burlington Council Votes to Enforce City Hall Park Ordinances
The governor also noted that any state assistance would likely depend on collaboration with Burlington’s mayor.
The Burlington City Council voted 9–2 this week to enforce existing ordinances in City Hall Park, following months of public testimony describing open drug use, aggressive behavior, and safety concerns downtown. The decision marks a shift toward stricter enforcement after residents and business owners urged action. Many had also called for Governor Phil Scott to add state resources, but according to Scott, no formal request had come from Burlington’s mayor.
Governor Responds to Council Action
Asked by Compass Vermont if he had been contacted since the vote, Scott said he had not received a direct request from city leadership. However, he indicated the council’s move was a step in the right direction. “I think they're moving in the right direction,” Scott said, adding that City Hall Park is “an area that I think needs to be addressed.”
Scott emphasized that his office is beginning to evaluate possible involvement. According to his comments, he is scheduling meetings in the coming weeks with a Burlington business group and with individuals who have background knowledge of the city’s needs.
Possibility of State–City Collaboration
The governor also noted that any state assistance would likely depend on collaboration with Burlington’s mayor. “We’ll come up with a plan that we’ll address with the mayor and see if there’s any interest in working together on this,” Scott said.
While no state resources have yet been committed, Scott’s remarks suggest a willingness to coordinate if Burlington’s leadership formally asks for help.
Park Rules and Ordinances Now Set for Enforcement
Park Hours
City Hall Park is closed from midnight to 6 a.m. Overnight camping or sheltering is not allowed.Drug and Alcohol Use
Open use of drugs or alcohol in public spaces is prohibited.No-Trespass Authority
Individuals with repeated violations or disruptive behavior can be issued no-trespass orders barring them from the park.Public Conduct
Fighting, harassment, threats, or other disorderly behavior are violations.Sanitation Rules
Public urination, defecation, or littering in the park is prohibited.
💡 What’s new is enforcement.
According to city officials, these ordinances have long existed but had not been consistently enforced. Supporters say enforcement is necessary to restore safety and public use of the park, while critics caution it could further marginalize vulnerable populations without expanded social services.
Balancing Enforcement and Support
The city council’s decision reflects ongoing debate about how to balance compassion and accountability in Burlington’s downtown. Supporters of the resolution say ordinances must be enforced to restore safety for residents, visitors, and businesses. Opponents have cautioned that enforcement alone could push vulnerable populations further into crisis without expanded social services.
The governor’s upcoming meetings with stakeholders may shape whether Vermont brings additional state support to the city. For now, Burlington is preparing to carry out the council’s mandate, while Montpelier watches closely for signs of collaboration.