The key to affordable housing lies in the Tier 2 and 3 land that Act 181 has effectively removed from development. Most Vermont homes built since the 70’s when Act 250 was adopted were built on reasonably priced land that was zoned “farming and rural residential” or similar and allowed homes on minimum 2 acre lots so that a drilled well and primary and replacement leach fields could be sited. The vast majority of the subdivisions that created these building lots did not need Act 250 permits. There is still plenty of such land that could support single family homes for young families that want the Vermont heritage lifestyle of a house, room for the kids to play, a garden plot, an accessory building for a customary home industry (such as home building) and broadband access. But Act 250 is a showstopper. It will make reasonably priced land unavailable because it will deter land owners from even considering going through the approval process, which has neither predictable cost, timelines or outcomes. Repeal Act 181 if you want young people to come to, or stay in Vermont.
Thank you for your note, Irene. The headline has been updated and an editor's note reflects that the change has been made. We appreciate your contacting us.
The key to affordable housing lies in the Tier 2 and 3 land that Act 181 has effectively removed from development. Most Vermont homes built since the 70’s when Act 250 was adopted were built on reasonably priced land that was zoned “farming and rural residential” or similar and allowed homes on minimum 2 acre lots so that a drilled well and primary and replacement leach fields could be sited. The vast majority of the subdivisions that created these building lots did not need Act 250 permits. There is still plenty of such land that could support single family homes for young families that want the Vermont heritage lifestyle of a house, room for the kids to play, a garden plot, an accessory building for a customary home industry (such as home building) and broadband access. But Act 250 is a showstopper. It will make reasonably priced land unavailable because it will deter land owners from even considering going through the approval process, which has neither predictable cost, timelines or outcomes. Repeal Act 181 if you want young people to come to, or stay in Vermont.
Thank you for your note, Irene. The headline has been updated and an editor's note reflects that the change has been made. We appreciate your contacting us.