Community Planning Partnership
A core objective of our work involves assisting communities to manage development in a manner that balances economic, social and environmental priorities. We receive calls every week from community leaders requesting our assistance. These frequent requests for assistance are the result of Vermont’s reliance on citizen-based government.
Most land use decisions in Vermont are made by local planning commissions and review boards (contrary to common perception, approximately 60% of new development is not subject to Act 250 review, the state’s development law). While this ensures a high level of civic engagement, it relies on volunteers to grapple with the complicated challenge of drafting plans, bylaws and policies to effectively manage growth. We developed the Community Planning Partnership to offer volunteer boards, community leaders and active citizens a variety of tools, assistance and successful examples to make informed decisions.
Training
To respond to the growing number of community requests for hands-on assistance, Smart Growth Vermont offers 2 to 2 ˝ -hour trainings for municipal staff and volunteer boards on specific land use planning issues. If you are interested in a training session, please contact our Program Director, Jason Van Driesche, at (802) 864-6310.
Community Planning Toolbox
Looking for specific examples of zoning, bylaws, community development programs and educational materials that promote smart growth? Our new online Planning Toolbox enables you to quickly locate information and assistance on a variety of growth and conservation issues, including:
- Revitalizing downtowns
- Providing a range of housing options
- Creating transit options, parking and safe bike and pedestrian opportunities
- Planning for growth centers
- Redeveloping brownfields
- Protecting farmland, forests and other open space
Community Assistance
We know good planning takes time, patience and perseverance. To help communities accomplish their land use goals, we can provide help over the long term. Our sustained assistance can help communities create land use plans and rules to encourage growth in appropriate areas and protect important resources, scenic landscapes and productive farm and forestland. To determine if your community is ready to work with us, please review our Program Guidelines.
Our assistance may include work such as:
- Conducting public meetings and workshops to explore development options for a specific parcel or area of the community;
- Training local officials and volunteers on specific land use issues and strategies;
- Providing guidance on revising a municipal plans and land use regulations; and
- Helping communities obtain state growth center designation.
To learn how we can help your community, please contact Jason Van Driesche at (802) 864-6310.