Commission on Act 250 will hold Springfield public forum

The Vermont Legislative Commission on Act 250 is seeking public input through a series of forums and through social media outreach engagements to envision Vermont’s future landscape.


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Commission on Act 250 will hold Springfield public forum SPRINGFIELD, Vt. — The Vermont Legislative Commission on Act 250 is seeking public input through a series of forums and through social media outreach engagements to envision Vermont’s future landscape. One of the public forums is scheduled to take place from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, June 27 in Springfield, Vermont. The public input will inform the Legislative Commission’s report and any potential legislation to modernize the statutes. Act 250 grew out of citizen involvement 50 years ago and will be strengthened through citizen involvement now, according to a press release. The Commission kicked off the community engagement activities on June 6. Leadership from the House and Senate Commission will be describing the process and outlining their goals for engaging the public. Six forums will be held around the state to allow Vermonters to share their perspectives and engage in conversation. Rep. Sheldon of Addison-1, Chair of the Commission on Act 250, said, “Vermonters are united in our love of the Vermont landscape. Act 250 has done a lot to protect our water, air, wildlife, and historic resources. The law was forward thinking in many ways, but today we have more information available and our experience to guide us in improving the process, both for environmental protection as well as economic vibrancy. The fiftieth anniversary is a great time to evaluate what’s worked and what needs improvement and to address issues like climate change. I hope Vermonters young and old will take some time to learn about Act 250 and give us their input this summer and fall. This information will give the Commission direction on possible recommendations for future changes.” A survey will be launched in July to gather more input. All materials will be made accessible to all Vermonters. Since Act 250 became effective in June 1970, this law has regulated development to protect Vermont's environment and preserve its landscape. The Commission will conduct six forums to engage Vermonters on their priorities for the future of Vermont's landscape and how to maintain its environment and sense of place. Other events will be held in Manchester, Randolph, Island Pond, Rutland, and Burlington. Representatives or senators from the Commission will be present at all forums, and a report of findings will be made available after public engagement initiatives have ended. Each forum is designed to generate rich dialogue to "capture the wisdom of Vermonters," organizers said. All feedback received will be considered in preparing the Commission’s report and any recommended legislation. All questions on the public engagement forum should be directed to Cope and Associates, Inc. (802) 951-4200. Fore information on the history of Act 250, visit nrb.vermont.gov/act250- program/history.