Preparing for hard challenges

Water. We need detailed analysis of the condition of our municipal water system along with a public budget on the time and resources needed to ensure that we have a durable, safe public water resource.

Housing. Workers need an affordable place to live. New workforce housing is an immediate need and will not wait for 10 years.

Preparation. We must redirect municipal planning to prepare for inevitable climate challenges, including heat waves, food shortages and extended utility failures.

The Power Grid. Coordinate planning with our local utilities on grid fragility issues. Our recent, multi-day power outages have shown the need for such essential discussions.           

Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT). Update the agreement with the State of Vermont through which the city is paid for municipal services provided to the many state buildings and facilities in the city.  Land use priorities must also be addressed.

Taxes. We need an immediate analysis of the city’s growing tax burden and a strategy for managing the proposed tax increases.

Support for Capital Area Neighborhoods (CAN).  This effort should be part of encouraging more democratic participation and insuring a more robust emergency communications system.

Restructuring city committees. Committees should reflect the predictable management and resource challenges we are facing.

Such an ambitious agenda will require a close examination of budget priorities and personnel requirements.