This law addresses agricultural land, forest preservation and affordable housing. The state provides technical assistance and information and offers grants to towns working on plans as well as those with approved plans. Vermont's 251 municipalities must have approved town plans to be eligible for state planning funds. Towns may collect impact fees from developers to help fund municipal projects made necessary by development. Planning officials say the town plans are an aid to development because they remove ambiguity, can speed the process and clarify expectations.
Many states add at least a couple of days that are special on a statewide or even local level.
Vermont has few, but they are worth noting. If you are planning cold calls in the state in early March, you might want to call ahead. In most cases, businesses remain open whether town meeting is held Tuesday or Saturday. Because voting by Australian ballot has to be held on that first Tuesday, many people arrive at work a little late or leave a half hour early in order to vote. The event not only allows them to participate in democracy but also provides a chance to see neighbors they haven't seen since winter began.