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What is the current status of the Shelburnewood project?
The town is currently in the process of rewriting the zoning bylaws to implement the 2007 town plan (which has to be finalized by March of 2009). The Planning Commission has agreed to changes in the bylaws that are inclusive enough to allow for the construction of the Shelburnewood project. However, the Selectboard, which is currently reviewing the Planning Commission’s recommendations, has to provide final approval.
So, what’s the a problem?
Some of the Selectboard members have expressed concern about the scale of the project and the height of the two senior residences (which are about the same height as the Shelburne Inn and the Creamery across the street). This is certainly something that has to be considered, but if the third floor of the senior residences were disallowed, the rents and prices of the remaining housing would have to be increased to the level where they are no longer affordable. This would unfortunately undermine the intent and purpose of the project, as well as the town plan which encourages more diverse housing within the village center.
It took months of discussion and public input to forge the Planning Commission’s recommendations. We would hope the Selectboard would honor that effort and approve what the Planning Commission has already proposed.
Does approval of the new zoning articles
mean the project is approved?
No. If the Selectboard approves the zoning bylaws in question, all it does is make it possible for the Shelburnewood project to continue. The project still has to undergo the rigorous examination of…
. The Design Review Board (who will pass judgment on the esthetics of the project).
. The Development Review Board (who will pass judgment on the impact of the project – traffic, water, sewer, environment, etc.).
So there are many checks and balances to ensure the Shelburnewood project is esthetically pleasing and that it ties in with the character of the town. The goal is to make this a natural, pedestrian friendly neighborhood, connected to the village with landscaped walkways and benches…an integrated part of the town rather than a gated community separate from the town. Can you think of a better use for the last developable land in the village center?
What can you do to help?
If you believe as we do that this is a needed and desirable addition to the town, here are some things you can do.
1. You can sign one of the many “Show Your Support” forms that you will see in local
stores and at various gatherings.
2. If you personally know any of the Selectboard members, you might discuss it with
them.
3. The Selectboard will hold its final public hearing on the zoning bylaws sometime in January. Watch for the announcement in the Shelburne News and plan to be there to
show your support.
4. Write a letter to the Shelburne News expressing your opinion.
This is going to be one of the most critical decisions the Selectboard will make relative to the future of our lovely town. This is not an easy decision and we appreciate the hours of thought and deliberation the Selectboard and the Planning Commission have devoted to the process. But we know in our hearts this is the right thing to do.
Show your support for this important project. Click on SUPPORT FORM print, sign and mail-in a form today
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