The Burlington City Council January 13 covered police department concerns, proposed changes to impact fees, and a land use agreement with the University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC).

Police Department Report and Rebuilding Efforts: A central point of discussion was the Police Chief’s report on recruitment and retention. The report, which contained data through the end of 2024, was presented by Chief Jon Murad. In sum, the report says police hiring has stalled.

Councilor Melo Grant noted the survey results from the police officers’ union, highlighting concerns about morale, deferred maintenance, lack of wellness prioritization, and internal issues. Some councilors expressed concern that the report did not address the root issues or provide a comprehensive assessment.

Mayor Emma Mulvaney-Stanak said she could not endorse the report, citing concerns about its impact on bargaining with the police union and a lack of data. A resolution to show the City Council’s commitment to rebuilding and reconciling with the police department was on the agenda but was not discussed.

Impact Fee Program: The council also discussed proposed changes to the city’s impact fee program. A consultant presented recommendations to eliminate several fee categories, including school, library, police, and fire, and replace them with water/sewer and transportation improvement fees. The proposal would increase residential impact fees by $1,000-$3,000 per unit. The rationale for focusing on water, sewer, and transportation is that these are the most expensive capital projects and have the most potential for growth. The City plans to assess impact fees every five years.

UVMMC Land Use MOU: The council reviewed a proposed land use Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with UVMMC, which would allow for the construction of additional inpatient beds.. UVMMC is requesting changes to the Comprehensive Development Ordinance to expand the Height Overlay District and increase allowable building heights. In return, UVMMC has committed to several things, including a transitional buffer to any development and a commitment to multi-modal transportation options. Concerns were raised about the potential for “canyon” development and impacts on residential neighborhoods.

Other notable items: The council also discussed the city’s cold weather shelter policy, with updates made to be more reasonable and accessible. The council also heard from a variety of Burlington residents during the public forum portion of the meeting. Some concerns raised include the impact of construction around UVMMC on nearby neighborhoods, the importance of public officials focusing on tangible outcomes, and the need for solutions to the public safety issues in Burlington.

Charter Change Amendments: The council held its first public hearing on proposed charter change amendments for the March 4, 2025 annual election, including a proposal on banning guns in bars, a proposal on the redistricting process, and a proposal on rental period notifications.

The meeting adjourned at 11:42 PM.

This news story was condensed and rewritten from Burlington City Council meeting minutes by BDN staff with the assistance of Notebook LM.