Community Development and Neighborhood Revitalization Committee — Burlington, VT
Date: 2025-12-17
Time: 18:30

Sharon Bushor Conference Room, 1st Floor, City Hall
 149 Church Street
 Wednesday, December 17, 2025, 6:30 PM

Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/99795939640?pwd=awaot9BZ563aAz19Uz9vHZDEp1uf96.1

Meeting ID: 997 9593 9640
Passcode: 894521
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Meeting ID: 997 9593 9640
Passcode: 894521
1. Agenda
  1.1. Motion to amend/adopt agenda

2. Adopt Minutes
  Subject 2.1. Approval of 10/15/25 Minutes
  Meeting December 17, 2025 - CDNR Committee Meeting - Wednesday, December 17, 2025,
 6:30 PM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room, 1st Floor, City Hall
 149 Church Street


  Category 2. Adopt Minutes

  Department


  Type Action
 Minutes


  Recommended Action

3. Public Forum
  Subject 3.1. PUBLIC FORUM - Verbal Comments
  Meeting December 17, 2025 - CDNR Committee Meeting - Wednesday, December 17, 2025,
 6:30 PM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room, 1st Floor, City Hall
 149 Church Street
  Category 3. Public Forum
  Department


  Type

4. Regional Programs
  Subject 4.1. CDNR will review past and present regional programming budgets and
 propose a process for applicants to submit proposals for funds and for those
 proposals to be evaluated.
  Meeting December 17, 2025 - CDNR Committee Meeting - Wednesday, December 17, 2025,
 6:30 PM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room, 1st Floor, City Hall
 149 Church Street


  Category 4. Regional Programs

  Department Community & Economic Development Office (CEDO)


  Type

  Recommended Action

5. Presentation from Christine Curtis on Community Development Block Grant
(CDBG) and the current call for funding applications
  Subject 5.1. Brief discussion about the current 2026 CDBG Notice of Funding
 Availability (NOFA), eligible and successful CDBG activities, and application
 deadline.
  Meeting December 17, 2025 - CDNR Committee Meeting - Wednesday, December 17, 2025,
 6:30 PM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room, 1st Floor, City Hall
 149 Church Street


  Category 5. Presentation from Christine Curtis on Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)
 and the current call for funding applications

  Department Community & Economic Development Office (CEDO)


  Type

  Recommended Action

6. Revisiting Housing Trust Fund Report from Former CEDO Director Brian Pine
  Subject 6.1. CDNR will revisit the report prepared by Brian Pine with ideas for adding
 more funds to the HTF. Committee members will discuss what they think is
 actionable for further exploration.
  Meeting December 17, 2025 - CDNR Committee Meeting - Wednesday, December 17, 2025,
 6:30 PM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room, 1st Floor, City Hall
 149 Church Street


  Category 6. Revisiting Housing Trust Fund Report from Former CEDO Director Brian Pine

  Department Community & Economic Development Office (CEDO)
 Type

 Recommended Action

7. Adjournment
 Subject 7.1. Motion to adjourn
 Meeting December 17, 2025 - CDNR Committee Meeting - Wednesday, December 17, 2025,
 6:30 PM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room, 1st Floor, City Hall
 149 Church Street


 Category 7. Adjournment

 Department Council and Board


 Type

 Recommended Action

Sharon Bushor Conference Room, 1st Floor, City Hall
 149 Church Street
 Wednesday, December 17, 2025, 6:30 PM

Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/99795939640?pwd=awaot9BZ563aAz19Uz9vHZDEp1uf96.1

Meeting ID: 997 9593 9640
Passcode: 894521
---
One tap mobile
+13092053325,,99795939640#,,,,*894521# US
+13126266799,,99795939640#,,,,*894521# US (Chicago)
---
Meeting ID: 997 9593 9640
Passcode: 894521
1. Agenda
  1.1. Motion to amend/adopt agenda

2. Adopt Minutes
  Subject 2.1. Approval of 10/15/25 Minutes
  Meeting December 17, 2025 - CDNR Committee Meeting - Wednesday, December 17, 2025,
 6:30 PM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room, 1st Floor, City Hall
 149 Church Street


  Category 2. Adopt Minutes

  Department


  Type Action
 Minutes


  Recommended Action

3. Public Forum
  Subject 3.1. PUBLIC FORUM - Verbal Comments




 Page 1 of 46
  Meeting December 17, 2025 - CDNR Committee Meeting - Wednesday, December 17, 2025,
 6:30 PM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room, 1st Floor, City Hall
 149 Church Street
  Category 3. Public Forum
  Department


  Type

4. Regional Programs
  Subject 4.1. CDNR will review past and present regional programming budgets and
 propose a process for applicants to submit proposals for funds and for those
 proposals to be evaluated.
  Meeting December 17, 2025 - CDNR Committee Meeting - Wednesday, December 17, 2025,
 6:30 PM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room, 1st Floor, City Hall
 149 Church Street


  Category 4. Regional Programs

  Department Community & Economic Development Office (CEDO)


  Type

  Recommended Action

5. Presentation from Christine Curtis on Community Development Block Grant
(CDBG) and the current call for funding applications
  Subject 5.1. Brief discussion about the current 2026 CDBG Notice of Funding
 Availability (NOFA), eligible and successful CDBG activities, and application
 deadline.
  Meeting December 17, 2025 - CDNR Committee Meeting - Wednesday, December 17, 2025,
 6:30 PM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room, 1st Floor, City Hall
 149 Church Street


  Category 5. Presentation from Christine Curtis on Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)
 and the current call for funding applications

  Department Community & Economic Development Office (CEDO)


  Type

  Recommended Action

6. Revisiting Housing Trust Fund Report from Former CEDO Director Brian Pine
  Subject 6.1. CDNR will revisit the report prepared by Brian Pine with ideas for adding
 more funds to the HTF. Committee members will discuss what they think is
 actionable for further exploration.
  Meeting December 17, 2025 - CDNR Committee Meeting - Wednesday, December 17, 2025,
 6:30 PM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room, 1st Floor, City Hall
 149 Church Street


  Category 6. Revisiting Housing Trust Fund Report from Former CEDO Director Brian Pine

  Department Community & Economic Development Office (CEDO)



 Page 2 of 46
 Type

 Recommended Action

7. Adjournment
 Subject 7.1. Motion to adjourn
 Meeting December 17, 2025 - CDNR Committee Meeting - Wednesday, December 17, 2025,
 6:30 PM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room, 1st Floor, City Hall
 149 Church Street


 Category 7. Adjournment

 Department Council and Board


 Type

 Recommended Action




 Page 3 of 46
 CITY OF BURLINGTON, VERMONT
 CITY COUNCIL COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT &
 NEIGHBORHOOD REVITALIZATION COMMITTEE
 c/o Community & Economic Development Office
 City Hall, Room 32 • 149 Church Street • Burlington, VT 05401
 802-865-7144 VOX • 802-865-7024 FAX • www.burlingtonvt.gov/cedo




Councilor Evan Litwin (EL), Chair, Ward 7
Councilor Carter Neubieser (CN), Ward 1
Councilor Allie Schachter (AS), East District

 CDNR Committee Meeting
 Wednesday, October 15th, 2025
 6:30 – 8:30 PM
 Sharon Bushor Conference Room, 1st Floor – City Hall

Committee members: Evan Litwin (EL), Allie Schachter (AS), Carter Neubieser (CN) (attended
via Zoom)
City Staff: Christine Curtis, CEDO
Other Attendees: Robert Perry, Amy Kimmel, Charlotte McCorkel, Brooks Cummings, Susie
Dow, Darrell Fields, Jess Hyman, Jonathan Chapple-Sokol, Christopher Haessly, Laura Miller,
Sarah Russell, Theresa Vezina, Nora Aronds, Christopher-Aaron Felker, Andrew Juhasz




 Draft Minutes

Meeting Started at 6:34 PM

 1. Approve agenda
 MOTION by Councilor Schachter, SECOND by Councilor Neubieser, to
approve the agenda
VOTING: unanimous; motion carries.

 2. Approve Minutes: 9/17/25
 MOTION by Councilor Schachter, SECOND by Councilor Neubieser, to
approve the minutes
VOTING: unanimous; motion carries.

 The programs and services of the City of Burlington are accessible to people with disabilities.
 For accessibility information, call 865-7144. For questions about the meeting,
 contact Christine Curtis at ccurtis@burlingtonvt.gov


 Page 4 of 46
3. Public Forum
 • Robert Perry, Brooks Cummings, Susie Dow, Darrell Fields, Jess Hyman,
 Sarah Russell, Theresa Vezina, Christopher-Aaron Felker, Andrew Juhasz
 spoke during public forum
 • Several people expressed concerns about needle distribution, public
 safety, and the impact of SSP programs on the community
 • Others expressed support for needle exchange programs but criticized
 the current implementation in Burlington
 • Others highlighted concerns about syringe litter and the need for better
 tracking of needles
 • Others addressed the NPA resolution and the need for a standardized
 process and the language in the resolution makes it more difficult to
 have concrete expectations
 • NPA resolution needs stronger and clearer language that talks about the
 rights and responsibilities of both the City and the NPAs


4. Syringe Litter Recommendations
 • The committee discussed syringe litter and disposal in Burlington,
 with CN expressing concerns about placing too many requirements
 on service providers without adequate funding. Committee
 highlighted the need for better data tracking and coordination of
 volunteer-led cleanup efforts; CN suggested focusing on
 implementing the Board of Health's previous recommendations, such
 as increasing collection receptacles and passive collection methods.
 The group agreed that while more time could be spent discussing the
 issue, they should move forward with some actionable
 recommendations, including investing in active collection and
 expanding data tracking efforts.
 • The committee discussed the granular analysis of data related to
 public health and substance use prevention, emphasizing EL’s
 familiarity with the necessary documents and reports. EL expressed
 disagreement with the notion that $200,000 was a small amount for
 Burlington, highlighting the City's budget constraints and the need
 for State funding to address health initiatives. Committee also
 addressed the issue of syringe litter, noting the significant number of
 syringes unaccounted for in the community and advocating for
 further exploration of recommendations with input from various
 stakeholders. AS proposed amending the language in the report to


 Page 5 of 46
 reflect that the council should evaluate and consider the
 recommendations, allowing for flexibility in implementation.
 • The committee discussed concerns about the clarity of stakeholder
 engagement in a report on syringe litter recommendations. CN
 requested more detailed information on which organizations
 provided feedback, while EL explained that outreach was
 comprehensive but some organizations, like Howard Center, had
 technical issues. The committee agreed to amend the report's
 language to emphasize ongoing evaluation and expert input, and
 discussed the importance of engaging unhoused individuals in
 addressing the issue.

 MOTION by Councilor Schachter, SECOND by Councilor Litwin, to amend
language on top of page 6 of the CDNR report: “(keep first sentence)…….CDNR
recommends the City Council, with opportunity for input from the Mayor’s Office,
the Board of Health, other City staff, and community partners including the SSP
service providers operating in Burlington, evaluate and consider undertaking the
following recommendations:”
VOTING: unanimous; motion carries.

 MOTION by Councilor Litwin, SECOND by Councilor Schachter, to adopt the
CDNR report as amended and submit to City Council for further review and
discussion and inclusion on the consent agenda for October 21st.
VOTING: CN – no; AS – yes; EL – yes; motion carries.



 5. NPA Resolution – Councilor Neubieser
 • Jonathan Chapple-Sokol led a discussion about the history and
 development of a resolution regarding the relationship between City
 officials and neighborhood planning assemblies (NPAs) in Burlington.
 He explained that the resolution was passed by City Council in May
 2024 and outlined the process of creating a working group to
 formalize the NPA's role. The group, which included Lena Greenberg,
 Chris Haessly, and others, worked from July 2024 to January 2025 to
 draft a document that defines what must come to NPAs and what the
 City's obligations are. He noted that the document passed all eight
 NPA boards with strong support and was seen as a first round, with
 plans to review and potentially improve it annually.
 • CN discussed the need for more teeth in neighborhood planning
 assemblies (NPAs) and proposed working with CAO Schad to explore

 Page 6 of 46
 participatory budgeting. He outlined key changes, including a
 dedicated NPA position within the city and standardizing public
 processes across departments. CN emphasized the importance of
 involving NPAs in the hiring process and creating a system for NPAs
 to prioritize topic areas for city staff engagement. He also highlighted
 the need for training materials on legal requirements for NPA
 meetings.
 • The committee discussed and approved a resolution to strengthen
 the relationship between the city administration, City Council, and
 Neighborhood Planning Assemblies (NPAs). CN, who sponsored the
 resolution, agreed to share it with council members for feedback and
 potential amendments before bringing it to the full council for a vote
 by November 30th, 2025.

 MOTION by Councilor Neubieser, SECOND by Councilor Schachter, to adopt
the “Strengthening the Relationship between the City Administration, City
Council, and Neighborhood Planning Assemblies (NPAs)” Resolution as presented
and refer to City Council for review and potential amendments.
VOTING: no vote; motion does not carry

 MOTION by Councilor Neubieser, SECOND by Councilor Schachter, to adopt
the “Strengthening the Relationship between the City Administration, City
Council, and Neighborhood Planning Assemblies (NPAs)” Resolution as presented
and refer to City Council for approval no later than November 30th, 2025.
VOTING: unanimous; motion carries.


  6. Age Strong Burlington
 • Agenda item is tabled until next meeting due to time constraints

  7. Adjournment
 • ADJOURN at 9:01 p.m. by Councilor Litwin with no objection




 Page 7 of 46
 Budget Worksheet Repor
 Budget Year 202



 2024 Adopted 2025 Adopted
Account Account Description Budget 2024 Actual Amount Budget 2025 Actual Amount
Fund 101 - General Fund
  EXPENSE
 Department 01 - Regional Programs
 Division 001 - Regional Programs
 General Operating
7650_370 Regional Programs Expanded Mental Health 15,000.00 .00 .00 .00
7709 Accessiblity Committee 15,000.00 5,744.28 5,000.00 1,334.65
7825 Board and Commission Compensation 100,000.00 43,700.00 54,000.00 51,900.00
 General Operating Totals $130,000.00 $49,444.28 $59,000.00 $53,234.65
 Regional Programs
7600_100 Regional Services GMT 1,852,861.00 1,852,861.00 1,928,561.00 1,928,561.00
7600_105 Regional Services WINOOSKI VALLEY PARK DIST 127,316.00 127,316.00 133,682.00 129,573.00
7600_110 Regional Services County Tax 229,245.00 229,554.00 231,940.00 231,940.00
7600_115 Regional Services Visiting Nurse Association 125,000.00 125,000.00 121,250.00 121,250.00
7600_120 Regional Services G B I C 20,000.00 20,000.00 19,600.00 .00
7600_125 Regional Services Senior Cable TV Assistance 1,500.00 1,048.00 1,500.00 1,004.00
7600_330 Regional Services Howard Center Street Outreach 77,500.00 77,500.00 77,500.00 77,500.00
7610_130 Sister Cities OTHER 2,000.00 .00 2,000.00 .00
7610_140 Sister Cities Puerto Cabezas 2,000.00 2,000.00 2,000.00 .00
7610_145 Sister Cities Bethlehem/Ard 2,000.00 2,000.00 2,000.00 2,000.00
7610_150 Sister Cities Yaroslavl 2,000.00 .00 2,000.00 .00
7610_155 Sister Cities Honfleur 2,000.00 2,000.00 2,000.00 2,000.00
7610_165 Sister Cities Kuyalnick .00 .00 2,000.00 .00
7610_170 Sister Cities Thies-East .00 .00 2,000.00 2,000.00
7650_165 Regional Programs Generator 7,500.00 7,500.00 7,350.00 7,350.00
7650_170 Regional Programs Local Motion - Bike Ferry 4,500.00 4,500.00 4,410.00 4,410.00
7650_185 Regional Programs Steps to End Domestic Violence 14,000.00 14,000.00 14,000.00 14,000.00
7650_190 Regional Programs Hope Works 10,000.00 10,000.00 10,000.00 10,000.00
7650_195 Regional Programs Burlington Concert Band 5,000.00 5,000.00 4,900.00 5,000.00
7650_210 Regional Programs Chamber Of Commerce 2,200.00 2,110.00 2,156.00 2,156.00
7650_215 Regional Programs Martin Luther King Day 8,500.00 8,500.00 .00 .00
7650_220 Regional Programs Special Projects -Emerging Needs 15,000.00 250.00 .00 .00




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 Page 8 of 46
 Budget Worksheet Repor
 Budget Year 202



7650_225 Regional Programs Highlight 20,000.00 19,999.17 .00 .00
7650_230 Regional Programs American Red Cross 2,500.00 .00 2,450.00 .00
7650_235 Regional Programs Seaba-Art Hop 5,000.00 5,000.00 4,900.00 4,900.00
7650_240 Regional Programs Hands - Senior Holiday Dinner 1,500.00 1,500.00 1,500.00 .00
7650_255 Regional Programs VT & Natl League Of City 58,000.00 60,156.00 56,260.00 61,980.00
7650_260 Regional Programs Chitenden City Reg Plan Comm 55,000.00 54,410.00 53,350.00 55,384.00
7650_270 Regional Programs Sara Holbrook 6,000.00 6,000.00 5,880.00 5,000.00
7650_275 Regional Programs Boys And Girls Club 6,000.00 6,000.00 5,880.00 .00
7650_280 Regional Programs King Street Center 6,000.00 6,000.00 5,880.00 .00
7650_295 Regional Programs Us Conference Of Mayors 4,000.00 3,663.50 .00 .00
7650_300 Regional Programs Jazz Fest Commitment 7,500.00 7,500.00 .00 .00
7650_305 Regional Programs Turning Point Center 17,950.00 17,950.00 .00 .00
7650_310 Regional Programs CATMA 9,750.00 13,000.00 9,555.00 13,000.00
7650_315 Regional Programs VT International Film Festival 13,000.00 13,000.00 12,740.00 12,740.00
7650_320 Regional Programs Arts 35,000.00 61,250.00 .00 .00
7650_325 Regional Programs Heineberg Sr Ctr 88,000.00 88,000.00 85,360.00 85,360.00
7650_360 Regional Programs Vermont City Marathon 5,000.00 5,000.00 4,900.00 4,900.00
7650_365 Regional Programs JUMP 1,500.00 1,500.00 1,500.00 1,500.00
 Regional Programs Totals $2,851,822.00 $2,861,067.67 $2,821,004.00 $2,783,508.00
 Interfund
7900_138 Interfund Transfer Champlain Sr Center 47,272.00 47,271.00 47,272.00 47,272.00
 Interfund Totals $47,272.00 $47,271.00 $47,272.00 $47,272.00

 Division 001 - Regional Programs Totals $3,029,094.00 $2,957,782.95 $2,927,276.00 $2,884,014.65

 Department 01 - Regional Programs Totals $3,029,094.00 $2,957,782.95 $2,927,276.00 $2,884,014.65
 EXPENSE TOTALS $3,029,094.00 $2,957,782.95 $2,927,276.00 $2,884,014.65



 Fund 101 - General Fund Totals
 EXPENSE TOTALS $3,029,094.00 $2,957,782.95 $2,927,276.00 $2,884,014.65



 Fund 101 - General Fund Totals ($3,029,094.00) ($2,957,782.95) ($2,927,276.00) ($2,884,014.65)


 Net Grand Totals
 REVENUE GRAND TOTALS $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00




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 Page 9 of 46
 Budget Worksheet Repor
 Budget Year 202



 EXPENSE GRAND TOTALS $3,029,094.00 $2,957,782.95 $2,927,276.00 $2,884,014.65


 Net Grand Totals ($3,029,094.00) ($2,957,782.95) ($2,927,276.00) ($2,884,014.65)




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et Report
udget Year 2026




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et Report
udget Year 2026




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et Report
udget Year 2026




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 Budget Performance Repor
 Fiscal Year to Date 11/21/
 Include Rollup Account and Rollup to Accou

 Adopted Budget Amended Current Month Last Year YTD YTD Budget - YTD % Used/
Account Account Description Budget Amendments Budget Transactions Transactions Encumbrances Transactions Transactions Rec'd
Fund 101 - General Fund
  REVENUE
 Department 01 - Regional Programs
 Division 000 - Admin
4535 Misc Rev .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 +++
 Division 000 - Admin Totals $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 +++
 Department 01 - Regional Programs $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 +++
 Totals
 REVENUE TOTALS $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 +++
  EXPENSE
 Department 01 - Regional Programs
 Division 000 - Admin
5000 Salaries and Wages
5000_115 Salaries and Wages .00 .00 .00 .00 (1,830.00) .00 (1,881.25) 1,881.25 +++
 Seasonal/Temporary
 5000 - Salaries and Wages Totals $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 ($1,830.00) $0.00 ($1,881.25) $1,881.25 +++
5400 Employee Benefits
5400_100 Employee Benefits FICA .00 .00 .00 .00 (140.00) .00 (143.93) 143.93 +++
 5400 - Employee Benefits Totals $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 ($140.00) $0.00 ($143.93) $143.93 +++
 Division 000 - Admin Totals $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 ($1,970.00) $0.00 ($2,025.18) $2,025.18 +++
 Division 001 - Regional Programs
7600 Regional Services
7600_100 Regional Services GMT .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 +++
7600_105 Regional Services WINOOSKI 135,887.00 .00 135,887.00 135,887.00 .00 .00 135,887.00 .00 100
 VALLEY PARK DIST
7600_110 Regional Services County Tax .00 .00 .00 .00 115,970.00 .00 .00 .00 +++
7600_115 Regional Services Visiting Nurse 100,000.00 .00 100,000.00 .00 .00 .00 .00 100,000.00 0
 Association
7600_120 Regional Services G B I C 20,000.00 .00 20,000.00 .00 .00 .00 20,000.00 .00 100
7600_125 Regional Services Senior Cable .00 .00 .00 .00 84.00 .00 (284.00) 284.00 +++
 TV Assistance
7600_330 Regional Services Howard Center 249,000.00 .00 249,000.00 .00 .00 .00 .00 249,000.00 0
 Street Outreach
 7600 - Regional Services Totals $504,887.00 $0.00 $504,887.00 $135,887.00 $116,054.00 $0.00 $155,603.00 $349,284.00 31%
7610 Sister Cities
7610_130 Sister Cities OTHER 1,000.00 .00 1,000.00 .00 .00 .00 .00 1,000.00 0
7610_140 Sister Cities Puerto Cabezas 1,000.00 .00 1,000.00 .00 .00 .00 .00 1,000.00 0
7610_145 Sister Cities Bethlehem/Ard 1,000.00 .00 1,000.00 .00 2,000.00 .00 1,000.00 .00 100



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 Budget Performance Repor
 Fiscal Year to Date 11/21/
 Include Rollup Account and Rollup to Accou

7610_150 Sister Cities Yaroslavl 1,000.00 .00 1,000.00 .00 .00 .00 .00 1,000.00 0
7610_155 Sister Cities Honfleur 1,000.00 .00 1,000.00 .00 .00 .00 .00 1,000.00 0
7610_165 Sister Cities Kuyalnick 1,000.00 .00 1,000.00 .00 .00 .00 .00 1,000.00 0
7610_170 Sister Cities Thies-East 1,000.00 .00 1,000.00 .00 .00 .00 1,000.00 .00 100
 7610 - Sister Cities Totals $7,000.00 $0.00 $7,000.00 $0.00 $2,000.00 $0.00 $2,000.00 $5,000.00 29%
7650 Regional Programs
7650_165 Regional Programs Generator .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 +++
7650_170 Regional Programs Local Motion 4,500.00 .00 4,500.00 .00 .00 .00 .00 4,500.00 0
 - Bike Ferry
7650_185 Regional Programs Steps to End 14,000.00 .00 14,000.00 .00 .00 .00 .00 14,000.00 0
 Domestic Violence
7650_190 Regional Programs Hope Works 10,000.00 .00 10,000.00 .00 .00 .00 10,000.00 .00 100
7650_195 Regional Programs Burlington 5,000.00 .00 5,000.00 .00 5,000.00 .00 5,000.00 .00 100
 Concert Band
7650_210 Regional Programs Chamber Of 2,200.00 .00 2,200.00 .00 .00 .00 2,200.00 .00 100
 Commerce
7650_235 Regional Programs Seaba-Art 5,000.00 .00 5,000.00 .00 .00 .00 5,000.00 .00 100
 Hop
7650_240 Regional Programs Hands - 1,000.00 .00 1,000.00 .00 .00 .00 .00 1,000.00 0
 Senior Holiday Dinner
7650_255 Regional Programs VT & Natl 63,850.00 .00 63,850.00 .00 .00 .00 63,348.00 502.00 99
 League Of City
7650_260 Regional Programs Chitenden 56,000.00 .00 56,000.00 .00 .00 .00 .00 56,000.00 0
 City Reg Plan Comm
7650_270 Regional Programs Sara .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 +++
 Holbrook
7650_275 Regional Programs Boys And 6,000.00 .00 6,000.00 .00 .00 .00 6,000.00 .00 100
 Girls Club
7650_280 Regional Programs King Street 6,000.00 .00 6,000.00 .00 .00 .00 6,000.00 .00 100
 Center
7650_305 Regional Programs Turning Point 10,000.00 .00 10,000.00 .00 .00 .00 .00 10,000.00 0
 Center
7650_310 Regional Programs CATMA 16,250.00 .00 16,250.00 .00 .00 .00 6,500.00 9,750.00 40
7650_315 Regional Programs VT 10,000.00 .00 10,000.00 .00 .00 .00 10,000.00 .00 100
 International Film Festival
7650_325 Regional Programs Heineberg Sr 85,360.00 .00 85,360.00 .00 .00 .00 85,360.00 .00 100
 Ctr
7650_360 Regional Programs Vermont City 5,000.00 .00 5,000.00 .00 .00 .00 .00 5,000.00 0
 Marathon
7650_365 Regional Programs JUMP 1,500.00 .00 1,500.00 .00 .00 .00 .00 1,500.00 0
 7650 - Regional Programs Totals $301,660.00 $0.00 $301,660.00 $0.00 $5,000.00 $0.00 $199,408.00 $102,252.00 66%
7709 Accessiblity Committee .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 +++
7825 Board and Commission .00 .00 .00 .00 300.00 .00 .00 .00 +++
 Compensation
7900 Interfund Transfer
7900_138 Interfund Transfer Champlain Sr .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 +++
 Center
 7900 - Interfund Transfer Totals $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 +++
 Division 001 - Regional Programs $813,547.00 $0.00 $813,547.00 $135,887.00 $123,354.00 $0.00 $357,011.00 $456,536.00 44%
 Totals
 Department 01 - Regional Programs $813,547.00 $0.00 $813,547.00 $135,887.00 $121,384.00 $0.00 $354,985.82 $458,561.18 44%
 Totals
 EXPENSE TOTALS $813,547.00 $0.00 $813,547.00 $135,887.00 $121,384.00 $0.00 $354,985.82 $458,561.18 44%



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 Page 15 of 46
 Budget Performance Repor
 Fiscal Year to Date 11/21/
 Include Rollup Account and Rollup to Accou



 Fund 101 - General Fund Totals
 REVENUE TOTALS .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 +++
 EXPENSE TOTALS 813,547.00 .00 813,547.00 135,887.00 121,384.00 .00 354,985.82 458,561.18 44
 Fund 101 - General Fund Totals ($813,547.00) $0.00 ($813,547.00) ($135,887.00) ($121,384.00) $0.00 ($354,985.82) ($458,561.18)


 Grand Totals
 REVENUE TOTALS .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 +++
 EXPENSE TOTALS 813,547.00 .00 813,547.00 135,887.00 121,384.00 .00 354,985.82 458,561.18 44
 Grand Totals ($813,547.00) $0.00 ($813,547.00) ($135,887.00) ($121,384.00) $0.00 ($354,985.82) ($458,561.18)




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 Page 16 of 46
e Report
  Date 11/21/25
ollup to Account



 Prior Year Total




 92,980.00
 $92,980.00
 $92,980.00
 $92,980.00




 (25,845.02)
 ($25,845.02)


 (1,977.28)
 ($1,977.28)
 ($27,822.30)




 1,928,561.00
 129,573.00
 231,940.00
 121,250.00
 .00
 1,004.00
 77,500.00
 $2,489,828.00


 .00
 .00
 2,000.00



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 Page 17 of 46
e Report
  Date 11/21/25
ollup to Account

 .00
 2,000.00
 .00
 2,000.00
 $6,000.00


 7,350.00
 4,410.00
 14,000.00
 10,000.00
 5,000.00
 2,156.00
 4,900.00
 .00
 61,980.00
 55,384.00
 5,000.00
 .00
 .00
 .00
 13,000.00
 12,740.00
 85,360.00
 4,900.00
 1,500.00
 $287,680.00
 1,334.65
 51,900.00


 47,272.00
 $47,272.00
 $2,884,014.65
 $2,856,192.35
 $2,856,192.35



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 Page 18 of 46
e Report
  Date 11/21/25
ollup to Account




 92,980.00
 2,856,192.35
 ($2,763,212.35)




 92,980.00
 2,856,192.35
 ($2,763,212.35)




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 Page 19 of 46
 City of Burlington, Vermont
 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM
 Notice of Funding Availability


I. General Information

 The City of Burlington is allocated a certain amount of money each year by the U.S. Department
 of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) through the Community Development Block Grant
 (CDBG) Program. The CDBG Program is a principal revenue source for local communities to
 address the roots and consequences of poverty. The City solicits proposals for funding from
 community- and faith-based organizations, non-profits, and City Departments. Please review all
 of the information in this Application Packet so that you understand the process and the
 requirements for CDBG funding.


 Application
 Project applications for 2026 must be submitted on or before Thursday, January 15th, 2026
 at 4:00 p.m. Applications submitted after that time will not be considered for funding.

 Applications for Construction projects must also include a Construction Attachment and a Scope of
 Work. (Please request this attachment if you are applying for a construction project)

 Please submit one electronic PDF version of the Application (and construction attachments if
 applicable).

 Do not submit any information other than what has been requested, do not exceed the application
 page limit of twelve (12) pages, and do not submit attachments other than what has been
 previously mentioned. Additional information may be requested of you at a later date.

 Applications should be emailed to:

 Christine Curtis, ccurtis@burlingtonvt.gov
 Subject: CDBG 2026

 Community & Economic Development Office
 Burlington, VT

 An email acknowledging receipt will be returned to the submitting email address.


Applications are reviewed for eligibility by the Community & Economic Development Office (CEDO). As part
of the eligibility process, CEDO staff will be evaluating and scoring an organization’s past performance in
terms of reporting timeliness, accuracy and general manageability. These internal scores will be shared with
the CDBG Advisory Board and considered when making final funding recommendations.

Eligible applications are then reviewed by the CDBG Advisory Board which makes funding recommendations
to the Mayor and the City Council. A public hearing is held on those recommendations as the final step of the
allocation process.



Burlington VT CDBG 2026 NOFA
 Page 20 of 46
CITY OF BURLINGTON, VERMONT
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM




II. Timeline


 Application Assistance

 Appointments will be made available to any applicant needing assistance in determining an
 eligible project, filling out the application, or learning more about the CDBG program. Please
 reach out to Christine Curtis to schedule.

 Application Deadline January 15, 2026 at 4 p.m.

 CEDO reviews applications for eligibility January 16 – January 21, 2026

 Advisory Board meets and makes
 Recommendations January – March 2026

 Notice of funding recommendations
 goes out to applicants April 2026

 Mayoral review/City Council approval April - May 2026

 Final submission to HUD May - June 2026

 2026 CDBG Program year begins July 1, 2026


III. Funding Availability

 The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has yet to announce the appropriation for
 the 2026 program year but the City is anticipating approximately $730,000* of Community
 Development Block Grant Entitlement funds based on the City’s funding history. The number of
 applications funded, and the amounts, may be restricted depending on the City’s internal applications
 and administrative funding.

 Of the total amount appropriated to the City, the maximum allowable (20%) will be used for
 Administration. Public Service Projects are limited by Federal regulations to 15% of the total
 appropriation. The remaining funding is expected to be used for Development Projects. Funding for
 projects receiving awards is expected to become available on July 1, 2026.

 A. Public Service Projects
 Public Service Projects are restricted to 15% of the total CDBG allocation, estimated at
 $109,500 based on prior year HUD awards. Each agency may submit only ONE Public Service
 application, and it must fall into the following categories: Affordable Housing, Addressing
 Homelessness, Economic Development, and Community Services and Safety. A minimum level
 of funding of $10,000 applies to Public Service projects. There is no maximum amount.

 B. Development Projects
 Development funds can be used for Affordable Housing, Public Facilities & Infrastructure
 Improvements, and Microenterprise/Economic Development projects. An estimated $475,000 of
 new Development funds will be available based on prior year HUD awards. A minimum level of
 funding of $10,000 applies to development projects. There is no maximum amount.

*Please note, HUD typically announces CDBG allocations in the Spring – after the CDBG Advisory Board
reviews applications and makes award recommendations. If the 2026 CDBG allocation is substantially lower
or higher than the estimation determined above, CEDO administration may be evaluating applications and
adjusting award recommendations outside of the Advisory Board process.




Burlington VT CDBG 2026 NOFA
 Page 21 of 46
CITY OF BURLINGTON, VERMONT
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM



IV. General Funding Policies

 Burlington's goal through the CDBG Program is to reduce poverty and its impacts in Burlington.
 Toward this end, the City funds projects that address a priority need identified by the residents of
 Burlington in the City’s 2024-2028 Consolidated Plan ( https://www.burlingtonvt.gov/244/CDBG-
 Overview) and are consistent with the City’s Anti-Poverty Strategy. Priority Needs can be found on
 page 96 of the 2024 Consolidated Plan. For more information about the City of Burlington’s anti-
 poverty strategy, see page 116 of the 2024 Consolidated Plan. In addition, when applying for a
 project or activity that will serve the population experiencing homelessness, through
 housing or supportive services, applicants must certify on question VI.1. of the 2026 CDBG
 application that the organization or entity is partnered with the Chittenden County
 Continuum of Care and participating in the Coordinated Entry system.

 Each application for CDBG funding must comply with the Federal requirements described in Section
 VI below. In addition, each application must satisfy one of the three overarching federal goals:

  Providing decent affordable housing by increasing housing availability, preserving existing
 units, ensuring sufficient housing for persons with special needs, and ending and preventing
 homelessness through permanent housing, or
  Providing a suitable living environment through diverse, livable, revitalized neighborhoods,
 safe and accessible public spaces and energy resource conservation, or
  Expand economic opportunities by creating jobs and job retention, supporting microbusiness
 development and growth, providing employment public services and offering self-sufficiency
 opportunities for persons with low-incomes

 After looking for compliance with one of these three goals, the CDBG Advisory Board is asked to score
 each CDBG application based on the evaluation criteria listed in the following section (V.).

 Additional CDBG policies and regulations for all construction projects*:

 The Grantee and sub-grantee must comply with the requirements of the Build America, Buy America
 (BABA) Act, 41 USC 8301 note, and all applicable rules and notices, as may be amended, if applicable
 to the Grantee’s infrastructure project.
 *If you are applying for a construction project please contact the CEDO office for more information on
 the newly implemented BABA Act.

V. Evaluation Criteria

The CDBG Advisory Board will utilize evaluation forms with a set of specific criteria to evaluate all requests
for competitive grant funding. The evaluation form includes the categories as listed below. In addition to the
criteria listed below, CEDO staff will be evaluating and scoring an organization’s past performance in terms
of reporting timeliness, accuracy and general manageability. These internal scores will be shared with the
Advisory Board and considered when making final funding recommendations.

 Final proposals for the 2026 CDBG program will be evaluated, scored and ranked by the Advisory
 Board based on the following criteria and point system:



 CRITERIA MAXIMUM POINTS
 Demonstrated Need 15
 Program/Project Design 10
 Proposed Outcomes 15
 Impact/Evaluation 15
 Experience/Organizational Capacity 20
 Proposed Low- & Moderate-Income Beneficiaries 10




Burlington VT CDBG 2026 NOFA
 Page 22 of 46
CITY OF BURLINGTON, VERMONT
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM


 Commitment to Equity, Inclusion and Belonging 15
 Budget/Financial Feasibility 20
 Collaboration/Efficiency 12
 Sustainability 8
 Overall Impression of Application Excellence/Project 10
 Impact
 TOTAL 150




1. Demonstrated Need: (Maximum Points: “15”)
 The category will be evaluated in terms of the documentation and justification of the need/opportunity
 for the program/project.
 • Has articulated a rationale for the project related to the project’s purpose(s). The applicant
 should explain how the project will address the stated national objectives.
 • Has determined the demand for the project. This should include local data to demonstrate the
 need.

2. Program/Project Design: (Maximum Points: “10”)
 The category will be evaluated in terms of the explanation of the design of the project/program and
 how the organization implements its activities.
 • Has articulated the program activities clearly
 • Has explained how strategies result in positive outcomes
 • Has explained connection to City’s 2024-2028 Consolidated Plan priority needs and anti-poverty
 strategy
 • Has used community or participant input in program design

3. Proposed Outcomes: (Maximum Points: “15”)
 The category will be evaluated in terms of the goals, objectives and activities planned to complete
 the activity, how beneficiaries are better off
 • Intended outcomes respond to identified problems, needs, and community demand as
 determined by the applicant
 • Project Goals, Objectives and Activities are achievable, measurable, time-limited, and clearly
 stated
 • Project Goals, Objectives and Activities evidence the project’s value and facilitate the applicant’s
 organizational goals and objectives from Section 5

4. Impact and Evaluation: (Maximum Points: “15”)
 The category will be evaluated on the applicant’s ability to collect data to measure the outcomes of the
 activities and the project as a whole.
 • Provides a clear plan to measure outcomes
 • Demonstrates plan and capacity to collect data
 • Demonstrates previous success in reaching targeted outcomes

5. Experience/Organizational Capacity: (Maximum Points: “20”)
 The category will be evaluated on the basis of the organization’s administrative and programmatic
 capacity to effectively carry out the project.
 • Demonstrates capability, experience, and knowledge (i.e. managerial and technical) to
 implement the project. CEDO staff will provide a recommended score to the advisory board
 based on the organization’s past performance – if applicable
 • Demonstrates commitment to address racial equity, inclusion, and belonging internally
 • Proposed project matches mission of organization
 • Describes program quality, staff qualifications, best practices, external evaluations and feedback
 • Demonstrates success from past performance with grant funding




Burlington VT CDBG 2026 NOFA
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CITY OF BURLINGTON, VERMONT
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM

6. Proposed Low & Moderate Income Beneficiaries (Maximum Points: “10”)
 The category will be evaluated on the basis of creating opportunities for disadvantaged groups of
 people.
 • Describes low and moderate income target population
 • Demonstrates a clear plan to reach a target low/moderate income population
 • Will serve between 51-100% low/moderate population

7. Commitment to Equity, Inclusion and Belonging: (Maximum Points: “15”)
 The category will be evaluated on the basis of creating opportunities for disadvantaged groups of
 people.
 • Demonstrates programs are accessible, equitable, inclusive and culturally appropriate
 • Describes the steps taken to ensure the project/program addresses racial equity
 • Addresses how the program will select and reach the target population


8. Budget/Financial Feasibility: (Maximum Points: “20”)
 The category will be evaluated by the applicant’s ability to demonstrate their plans to deliver a
 financially sound project, utilize funds and manage them appropriately, and leverage sources of funds.
 • Budget narrative describes how CDBG money will be used
 • Budget reflects an understanding of the required costs to implement and maintain the project
 • Documents a reasonable percentage of CDBG funding versus total project cost
 • Documents a reasonable cost per beneficiary
 • Documents ability to secure/leverage other sources of funding
 • Demonstrates use of community resources
 • Demonstrates the financial ability to fund the project until reimbursement
 • Demonstrates a response to times of diminished resources
 • Does not have a more appropriate source of funding


9. Collaboration/ Efficiency: (Maximum Points: “12”)
 The category will be evaluated by the collaborative and efficiency efforts demonstrated by the
 applicant.
 • Demonstrates collaborative efforts with other programs and/or agencies to achieve outcomes
 • Demonstrates efforts at becoming more efficient in achieving outcomes
 • Program is not duplicative in the community

10. Sustainability: (Maximum Points: “8”)
 The category will be evaluated on the basis of the applicant’s ability to sustain the program/project
 and its benefits for the City of Burlington.
 • Demonstrates long-term, community value to the City of Burlington
 • Demonstrates ability to continue project beyond this round of CDBG funding or scale project to
 funding
 • Is sustainable over time and/or will have sustainable results

11. Overall Impression of Application Excellence/Project Impact (Maximum Points: “10”)
 The category will be evaluated based upon each CDBG Advisory Board member’s analysis of both the
 application and the program/project’s impact on the City and its residents
 • Demonstrates a well written, thorough and thoughtful application; all questions are addressed
 • Agency provides a necessary program/project to City and recipients; impact is critical to the City


VI. Eligibility Requirements

 Applications for CDBG funding must meet the requirements of both Section A (relating to national
 objectives) and Section B (relating to eligible activities) below. These are Federal requirements
 prescribed by the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended, and by the
 implementing Federal regulations at 24 CFR Part 570.




Burlington VT CDBG 2026 NOFA
 Page 24 of 46
CITY OF BURLINGTON, VERMONT
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM



 A. Threshold Criteria – National Objectives

 In order for a project to be funded with CDBG funds, it must meet one of the following three
 national objectives:

 1. Benefits low- and moderate-income persons as per the guidelines established by the U.S.
 Department of Housing and Urban Development. Locally, the primary use of CDBG funds is for
 services and programs for low- and moderate-income persons. In order to be eligible, the
 project must either serve a low- and moderate-income geographic area or it must benefit low-
 and moderate-income persons directly (through serving a targeted population). A direct
 benefit to low- and moderate-income persons may come through services, housing, or jobs.

 If your project falls in the direct benefit category, then at least 51% of the people served by
 your project/program must be low- and moderate-income Burlington residents. You must
 keep records (i.e., intake form, application, self-certifications etc.) to verify the income by
 household size and the residence of those served by your project/program. Certain groups of
 people are presumed by HUD to be principally low/moderate income persons. Those groups
 include: abused children, elderly persons, battered spouses, homeless persons, adults meeting
 Bureau of Census’ definition of severely disabled persons, illiterate adults, persons living with
 AIDS, and migrant farm workers. If your program/project exclusively serves one of these
 groups, you may document the limited nature of your clientele without documenting actual
 client income.

 "Low- and moderate-income" means a household whose income does not exceed 80% of the
 median family income for the area. The 2025 low- and moderate-income dollar guidelines are
 available at https://www.burlingtonvt.gov/743/HUD-Income-Limits. The 2026 low- and
 moderate-income dollar guidelines will be published in or around May 2026. Please call the
 CEDO office to obtain those guidelines or visit the CDBG website.

 2. Aids in the prevention or elimination of slums and blight.

 3. Meets other community development needs having a particular urgency because
 existing conditions pose a serious and immediate threat to the health and welfare of the
 community and where other financial resources are not available to meet such needs.

 If you are considering a project under either the “elimination of slums and blight” or the
 “urgency” objective, please contact CEDO prior to completing your application.

 B. Eligible Activities

 This section describes many of the activities which can be assisted with CDBG funds under the
 Federal regulations. There are a number of additional miscellaneous activities which may be
 eligible for funding. If you have a question about the eligibility of an activity for which you want to
 seek funding, please contact CEDO (Christine Curtis, ccurtis@burlingtonvt.gov).

 Eligible activities include:

 1. Purchase, sale, lease or other disposition of real property.

 2. Clearance, demolition and removal of buildings.

 3. Rehabilitation of publicly or privately-owned residential property; commercial/industrial
 property (but if privately-owned, only for exterior improvements and correction of code
 violations); and nonresidential buildings and improvements owned by a nonprofit. Funding
 can be used for:

 a. Labor, materials and other costs relating to rehabilitation.




Burlington VT CDBG 2026 NOFA
 Page 25 of 46
CITY OF BURLINGTON, VERMONT
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM

 b. Grants, loans, loan guarantees and other forms of assistance for financing rehabilitation.
 c. Loans for refinancing indebtedness.
 d. Improvements to increase the energy efficiency of buildings and/or the efficient use of
 water.
 e. Installing sprinkler systems, smoke detectors, deadbolt lock and other security devices.
 f. Connecting residential structures to water or sewer collection lines.
 g. Initial homeowner warranty premiums and hazard or flood insurance.
 h. Lead-based paint hazard evaluation and reduction.
 i. Rehabilitation services (counseling, energy auditing, preparation of work specifications,
 loan processing, inspections, etc.).
 j. Historic preservation.
 k. Converting a closed building from one use to another.
 l. Removal of architectural barriers to accommodate people with disabilities.

 Funding cannot be used for costs of equipment, furnishings or other personal property, or for
 the labor costs for homeowners to rehabilitate their own property.

 4. Relocation assistance to businesses, individuals, families, and non-profit organizations
 displaced by CDBG activities, and loss of rental income incurred in connection with the
 temporary relocation of displaced individuals and families.

 5. Code enforcement.

 6. Homeownership assistance.

 7. Interim assistance either to alleviate an emergency condition or to cover limited, immediately
 needed improvements to a deteriorating area as a prelude to permanent improvements.
 These limited improvements can include special neighborhood cleanup campaigns.

 8. Purchase, construction, reconstruction, rehabilitation or installation of public facilities and
 improvements. Public facilities include schools, libraries, and special needs shelter facilities
 (nursing homes, hospitals, domestic violence shelters, homeless shelters, halfway houses,
 group homes, emergency shelters). Public improvements include streets, sidewalks, curbs,
 parks, playgrounds, water and sewer lines, parking lots, and aesthetic amenities on public
 property (trees, sculptures, etc.).

 a. A “public facility” may be owned and operated by a non-profit (i.e., senior centers,
 neighborhood centers) as long as it is open to the general public.
 b. Buildings used primarily for the general conduct of government are ineligible.
 c. Flood and drainage facilities and parks established as a result of reclamation of land near a
 river are ineligible unless certain requirements are met.
 d. CDBG funds cannot be used to operate or maintain public facilities/improvements.
 e. CDBG funds cannot be used to buy construction equipment, to buy furnishings or other
 personal items, or for new construction of public housing.

 9. Public services are limited to Affordable Housing, Addressing Homelessness, Economic
 Development, and Community Services and Safety projects. If you have a question about
 what category your program falls into, please contact CEDO.

 a. Grants for public services may not exceed 15% of the City’s total annual CDBG
 appropriation.




Burlington VT CDBG 2026 NOFA
 Page 26 of 46
CITY OF BURLINGTON, VERMONT
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM

 b. CDBG funds cannot be substituted for recent City or State funds supporting public
 services. The service must be a new service or a "quantifiable increase in the level of
 service".
 c. Ongoing grants or non-emergency payments to individuals for food, clothing, rent, utilities
 or other income payments are not eligible activities.

 10. Special economic development activities, including:
 a. Acquisition, construction, reconstruction, rehabilitation or installation of commercial or
 industrial buildings, structures, and improvements.
 b. Grants, loans, loan guarantees, interest supplements, and technical assistance to private,
 for-profit businesses.
 c. Economic development services including outreach efforts to market available forms of
 assistance; screening of applicants; reviewing and underwriting applications for
 assistance; preparation of necessary agreements; management of assisted activities; and
 screening, training, referral, and placement of applicants for employment opportunities
 generated by CDBG-eligible economic development activities.

 11. Microenterprise assistance in the form of loans, grants, technical assistance and general
 business support services.

 12. Grants or loans to any qualified Community-Based Development Organization (CBDO) to carry
 out a neighborhood revitalization, community economic development, or energy conservation
 project. For a description of eligible CBDO's and activities, please contact CEDO.

 C. Ineligible Activities

 The general rule is that any activity which is not specifically authorized above is ineligible for CDBG
 funding. There are also some activities which are specifically identified in the Federal regulations
 as categorically ineligible. These activities cannot be assisted with CDBG funds under any
 circumstances:

 1. Buildings or portions thereof, used predominantly for the general conduct of government,
 including city halls, jails, police stations, courthouses, and other state and local government
 buildings. (This does not include removal of architectural barriers or land acquisition costs).

 2. General government expenses.

 3. Political activities.

 4. The following activities are generally ineligible unless authorized as a Special Economic
 Development Activity or when carried out by a Community-Based Development Organization:

 a. Purchase of equipment.
 b. Operating or maintaining public facilities (streets, parks, playgrounds, water and sewer
 facilities, parking, neighborhood centers, and similar public facilities).
 c. New housing construction (with certain exceptions).
 d. Income payments.

VII. Additional Considerations

 CDBG funding is on a reimbursement basis only. Your agency must pay for goods or services prior to
 requesting CDBG funds from CEDO. You cannot request reimbursement for expenses incurred prior to
 July 1, 2026.

 Your accounting records must adequately identify the use of CDBG funds. Generally, this means you




Burlington VT CDBG 2026 NOFA
 Page 27 of 46
CITY OF BURLINGTON, VERMONT
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM

 must separately account for CDBG funds in your financial recordkeeping. For example, if you use
 CDBG funds to pay for part of your rent, or part of a staff member’s salary, you should have a
 separate expense code, as well as a separate revenue code, specifically for CDBG. If a staff member
 spends time on both a program that is CDBG-funded as well as a non-CDBG-funded program, that
 staff person must have timesheets showing the division of time spent on the CDBG-funded program
 vs. the time spent on different programs which are not funded by CDBG. The timecards submitted as
 backup should include a narrative that captures the nature of the work completed for the CDBG
 program and differentiate work completed for other non-CDBG funded activities. Backup
 documentation will be required in order to receive reimbursement. This will include payroll and
 beneficiary records.

 If your project involves physical alterations or construction, it will require an environmental review
 before you can begin incurring costs to be reimbursed with CDBG funds. It may also be subject to
 Davis-Bacon wage and/or other special labor-related requirements. You must consult with CEDO on
 these requirements before the project begins.

 Instructions on how to fill out the CDBG application are attached.




Burlington VT CDBG 2026 NOFA
 Page 28 of 46
 Attachment: Instructions for Filling out CDBG Application Form




Application (limited to 12 pages including cover page)

 I. Demonstrated Need/Project Narrative:
 1. Should address the following points and use local data to demonstrate need:

 • What are the community needs being addressed;
 • One or two sentences to describe the program in general;
 • How the program CDBG meets national objectives; and
 • How it will address identified needs.

 II. Program/Project Design – Should address the following:
 1. Describe the program in detail; assume the reader is not familiar with your program
 2. Describe how the program will operate, highlight why the program is designed as it is
 3. How the program contributes to the City’s priority needs and anti-poverty strategy in
 Burlington’s 2024-2028 Consolidated Plan
 4. Self-explanatory

 III. Proposed Outcomes:

 1. How are beneficiaries better off – what are your intended outcomes

 2. List Goals/Objectives and Expected Outcomes - Only list the CDBG-funded services to
 be offered. You may want to create a table or a list. A goal/objective should be tied to CDBG
 objectives. Activities would be what your organization proposes to do, and outcomes would
 include the specific changes to a number of people served (as an example). These should be
 specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and time-related.

 Activity Funded Outcomes
 Suitable living Ex.:Case Management 100 families will be
 environment for for homeless - 1.5 placed in shelter /
 the very low Case Managers other emergency
 income housing
 60 families will be
 placed in transitional /
 permanent housing
 45 family members
 will get jobs

 Decent housing Ex.:Rehab XYZ 80 affordable housing
 for low/moderate Housing Project - Soft units will be renovated
 income families costs (development to improve living
 and financial staff, conditions
 legal services,
 permits, architects)

 Create economic Ex.:Entrepreneurial 6 people will start a
 opportunities Training - 2 classes, business within a year
 each lasting 6 weeks 6 people will be able
 to maintain and/or
 grow their existing
 business




Burlington VT CDBG 2026 NOFA
 Page 29 of 46
  IV. Impact/Evaluation

 1. How people benefit from the program; intended outcomes
 2. Previous year’s goals (Attachment A) and outcomes/activities as reported in final CDBG report
 (Attachment C) for current CDBG grantees. Non-grantees should report goals and outcomes.

  V. Experience/Organizational Capacity

 1. Self-explanatory
 2. How well do you do what you do: include staff qualifications, best practices, feedback,
 awards
 3. Internal cultural competence for staff and board – list trainings, seminars, diversity on staff
 and board, participation in ongoing diversity programs. List specific examples of new
 commitments that have been made to address racial equity, inclusion, and belonging
 internally in the year ahead.
 4-5. Self-explanatory

  VI. Proposed Low & Moderate Income Beneficiaries

 1. If your program exclusively serves one of HUD’s recognized categories of persons check the
 applicable box.
 • Does your specific activity or project serve the population experiencing
 homelessness? If yes, indicate if your organization/entity is partnered with the
 Chittenden County Continuum of Care and participates in the Coordinated Entry
 system.

 2. a. Estimate, by income, the number of unduplicated Burlington persons you hope to serve for
 the total grant period (7/1/2026 – 6/30/2027)
 b. Certify readiness to implement documentation system for Limited Clientele


  VII. Commitment to Equity, Inclusion and Belonging

 1. Describe the population you expect to serve by age, gender, income, location and how you
 reach your target population, how you select them
 2. Explain how your program is accessible to all. Discuss ways that you make certain your
 services are inclusive and culturally sensitive including translation and outreach to diverse
 populations.




Burlington VT CDBG 2026 NOFA
 Page 30 of 46
  VIII. Budget/Financial Feasibility
 Use this section to explain how your CDBG funding request fits within the present and future
 funding framework of your organization and how you will leverage other resources with CDBG
 funds.
 1. Budget Narrative: Describe how you will spend CDBG funds.
 2. If you plan to pay for staff salaries with CDBG funding, describe what they do in
 relation to the specific service(s) / activity(ies) in your Project/Program Design.

 a.
  Specific Position/Title Work Related to CDBG- # of Hours per % of Hours per
  Service / Funded Activity Week spent Week spent on
  Activity on this this Specific
 Specific Service /
 Service / Activity to be
 Activity paid with CDBG
  Ex.: Case Meet regularly with clients,
  management prepare individual service
 Case manager 40 100%
  for homeless plans, collect data, prepare
  families reports
  Ex.: Financial Program Develop curriculum, recruit
  education Manager students, teach classes, meet 25 50%
 with clients, collect data
  Ex.: XYZ Developer Develop pro formas, hire
  Housing architects, obtain permits,
  Project historic preservation, bid and 40 20%
 manage contracts, relocate
 tenants
  Ex.: XYZ Financial staff Process payroll and invoices, Varies week
  Housing prepare draw downs and to week, 5 on 25%
  Project reports, audit average
  Ex.: Access Program Interview clients, prepare
  Modifications Manager grant agreements, ensure
 compliance with historic Varies week
 preservation and other
 to week, 10 100%
 environmental review, Davis
 Bacon, lead safety on average
 requirements, help with city
 permitting and contractors
  Ex.: Program Develop curriculum, recruit
  Entrepreneurial Manager students, collect applications 35 100%
  Training & data
  Ex.: Teachers Teach classes
  Entrepreneurial 10 100%
  Training


 b. Certify that your organization understands the timesheet requirements and has the
 ability to implement a compliant timekeeping system by the grant start date.


 3. Program/Project Budget – include line items paid by CDBG and other funds.

 4. Funding Sources: Provide specific information about funding sources (i.e., the
 agency/entity and the program/activity which are the source of the funds).

 Project: The activity(ies) for which CDBG funds will be used. CDBG funds could be used to
 pay for all or part of the activity(ies). Include all project funding sources, current and
 projected.

 Agency: The entire agency, as incorporated as a non-profit agency. (City departments
 should consider themselves as agencies.) Include the entire agency budget, not just for this
 project.

 Current: The year in which you are now operating -- your current budget.



Burlington VT CDBG 2026 NOFA
 Page 31 of 46
 Projected: Your budget for next year. This includes your 2026 CDBG request as well as
 your requested or projected funding from other sources.

 5. Calculate the % of CDBG funds proposed to the total cost of project.

 6. Calculate the total cost per beneficiary/cost for CDBG beneficiary

 7-8. Self-explanatory

 IX. Collaboration/Efficiency

 1. Share how your agency collaborates with other programs or agencies to achieve outcomes.
 2. Identify identical or similar local programs and explain how your project/program collaborates
 rather than duplicates services.
 3. Describe ways your agency has become more efficient in managing your program or reaching
 outcomes.

 X. Sustainability
 1. Describe how your program/project contributes to the community long-term.
 2. Explain how you will fund this project in future years or in the absence of CDBG funding. How
 are you ensuring the sustainability of the project/program and the benefit to the community?
 3. Explain how you will scale the project or program if not fully funded.


Additional Information

Your completed application (excluding the Construction Attachment, and/or Scope of Work) cannot
exceed twelve (12) pages (including cover page) with 12 point font. You can re-adjust the spacing of
the questions, but the entire application, must still meet the twelve-page limit. Attached material,
other than what has been listed already, will be removed and discarded

Certification: note that the certification page of application must be signed.


Other Required Attachments to Include with Application:

 1. Conflict of Interest In order to ensure compliance with federal and local conflict of interest
 proscriptions, applicants must complete and submit one (1) signed original of the attached
 Conflict of Interest statement.
 2. List of current Board of Directors, as applicable, must be provided.
 3. IRS 501(c)(3) tax exemption letter, if applicable, must be provided.

Construction Attachments (if applicable)– applications for construction projects are not complete
 without a draft scope of work and a completed Construction Attachment. (Please request this
 attachment if you are applying for a construction project)




Burlington VT CDBG 2026 NOFA
 Page 32 of 46
 A Report on Increasing
 Burlington Housing Trust Fund
 Annual Revenue
 Prepared by the Community & Economic Development Office

 May 15, 2025




Report on Increasing BHTF Annual Revenue 1


 Page 33 of 46
Introduction
The Burlington Housing Trust Fund (BHTF) provides grants and loans for the promotion, retention, and
creation of long-term affordable housing within the city. Funds support the creation and rehabilitation
of homes for households with limited financial resources, and the capacity of non-profit organizations
who create or preserve affordable housing.

On February 10, 2025 the City Council of the City of Burlington adopted a resolution requesting the
Community & Economic Development Office (CEDO), in collaboration with the City’s Chief
Administrative Officer, Assessor’s Office, and other city staff identify ways in which the money dedicated
to the Burlington Housing Trust Fund could increase by at least $1 million annually.

History and Purpose
The Burlington Housing Trust Fund (BHTF) was established for the promotion, retention, and creation of
long-term affordable housing for very low, low, and moderate income households. BHTF funds may be
used for the retention or creation of affordable housing (project funding) or to support the operations of
non-profit organizations who are creating or preserving affordable housing (capacity funding).

On June 27, 1988, the Burlington City Council approved an ordinance (Chapter 18 Article VI in the City of
Burlington’s Code of Ordinances) creating the BHTF. The idea of a Housing Trust Fund had initially been
proposed, four years prior, by the City’s Community & Economic Development Office (CEDO). The BHTF
made its first disbursement in November of 1989. A full history of the inception of the Burlington
Housing Trust Fund is captured in a 2020 report entitled Ten-Year Report for the Burlington Housing
Trust Fund.

Non-profit corporations, municipal corporations, limited equity housing cooperatives, for-profit
corporations, partnerships, and individuals are eligible to apply for project funding.

Capacity grants are made for the staffing, training, planning, fundraising, and ongoing operations of non-
profit organizations creating or preserving housing for very low, low, and moderate-income households.

At least 50% of BHTF funds is expended on affordable housing projects – the creation of new affordable
housing, restoration of existing affordable housing or the transformation of existing market-rate housing
to affordable housing. Up to 35% of funds can be distributed as capacity grants to nonprofits who are
creating or preserving affordable housing. Up to 15% of the funds can be expended on the City’s
Community & Economic Development Office’s (CEDO) operation of the trust fund and activities within
CEDO that directly benefit the housing needs of households with very low and low incomes.

The majority of BHTF funding has assisted the City’s nonprofit housing organizations in building
affordable housing.

The Burlington Housing Trust Fund is a restricted municipal account, established outside of the general
budget. Created to provide grants and loans for the preservation and development of low-income
housing, any assets it receives do not revert to the General Fund at the end of the fiscal year. In cities
across the country, housing trust funds are administered either by an established city agency or by an
independent board of trustees.



Report on Increasing BHTF Annual Revenue 2


 Page 34 of 46
Funding for a housing trust fund can come through dedicated income streams, such as repayments of
loans, property taxes, or property transfer taxes; impact fees; sale of city property, the sale of height or
density bonuses, and payments in lieu of actual production of housing units through linkage programs;
inclusionary zoning; or demolition/replacement programs. Details on how the Burlington Housing Trust
Fund is funded are provided below.

Sources of Funding
The Burlington Housing Trust Fund is a special revenue account that is separate from the City’s general
account. Revenue is generated through a dedicated property tax of one cent per hundred dollars ($.01
per $100.00) of assessed property value, Inclusionary Zoning payment in-lieu for projects that opt to pay
a one-time fee to meet requirements rather than including affordable units in a project, a dedicated tax
on short-term rental properties, some impact fees, fees charged for the conversion of rental properties
to condominiums, donations, and any other revenues that may be specifically dedicated to the Housing
Trust Fund (this could come through an update to the City Charter, an ordinance, or by direction of the
City Council).

The revenue for the Burlington
 Burlington Housing Trust Fund FY25 Revenue
Housing Trust Fund will vary annually
 Funding Source FY25 Revenue
– in the 2000s annual revenues rarely
 Dedicated Tax $563,316
exceeded $250,000. With the
 Short-Term Rental Tax* $640,000
implementation of the short-term
 Inclusionary Zoning Payment-in-lieu $140,000
rental tax and a significant number of
payments-in-lieu from the Conversion of rental property to ownership $48,400
inclusionary zoning ordinance, BHTF Replacement Housing Fee $1,186
annual revenue has exceeded Total Anticipated 2025 Revenue $1,392,902.23
$1,000,000 in recent years. *Estimate based on revenue to date




Report on Increasing BHTF Annual Revenue 3


 Page 35 of 46
Funding Prioritization
Funding prioritization is determined by the BHTF ordinance. As noted above funds must be expended
on affordable housing projects making this the priority for the funding; funds may also be expended on
capacity grants for local non-profits and CEDO’s work administering the funds and activities that directly
benefit the housing needs of households with very low and low incomes. Project funding for the
acquisition, construction, rehabilitation and/or financing of housing units is prioritized by projects that
guarantee:

 1. Perpetual affordability of units for very low, low, or moderate income households
 2. A term of affordability for very low, low, or moderate income households between ten to forty
 years with the eventual recapture and return of funds to BHTF.

Grants and Awards
By ordinance, BHTF funding decisions are made through the Housing Trust Fund Administrative
Committee. This committee is composed of the Chair of the Community Development and
Neighborhood Revitalization (CDNR) Committee, CEDO Director, and an appointee of the mayor; the
CEDO Director also serves as the Housing Trust Fund Manager.

CEDO solicits applications for the BHTF awards through an annual request for proposals that is usually
posted in the fall and sent via email to previous applicants, community partners, and anyone who has
indicated interest in the funding.

Applications are collected and scored using a matrix developed by the administrative committee that
includes prioritizations from the ordinance. Committee members review applications and scoring
matrices and meet at a public meeting held at City Hall and online. Applicants are encouraged to join
the meeting to answer questions from committee members and/or elaborate on their projects.

Report on Increasing BHTF Annual Revenue 4


 Page 36 of 46
Awards may be granted at requested funding levels or decreased depending on fund availability and the
prioritization process.

Project applications have ranged from several thousand dollars to assist with repairs to existing units to
more than $1 million to support a large multi-unit building in the City.




Capacity grants are prioritized to organizations that are engaged in the construction of new affordable
housing. Capacity grants for programs or organizations not engaged in the construction of new housing
is currently limited to $10,000 per year.




Report on Increasing BHTF Annual Revenue 5


 Page 37 of 46
Impact
Since its creation in 1989, the Burlington Housing Trust
Fund has provided financial assistance to more than 2200
units. This means that one out of every ten housing units
in Burlington has been supported by the BHTF



Burlington Housing Trust Fund monies have been awarded to a variety of non-profit and affordable
housing developers within the City. The majority of project funds have supported the construction of
new units (838 units); BHTF grants have also created affordable units through the acquisition of market
rate or at-risk units within the City (630 units) and BHTF has funded the rehabilitation of 743 units in
Burlington.




In the last 30 years BHTF has supported a variety of housing projects throughout the city. A small
sample of the projects supported by the BHTF includes:




Report on Increasing BHTF Annual Revenue 6


 Page 38 of 46
 Transitioning Northgate
 Apartments to an
 affordable resident-owned
 rental housing community
 (ensuring the units were
 not sold as condominiums
 market-rate prices)




 Supporting the creation of
 11 Green Mountin Habitat
 for Humanity homes in
 Burlington




 Providing funding for large
 multi-unit buildings such as
 the project currently under
 construction on South
 Winooski Avenue at the
 former VFW site




Report on Increasing BHTF Annual Revenue 7


 Page 39 of 46
Limitations and Concerns
Despite the demonstrated value and benefits to the community of the BHTF, there are concerns about
its future and the future of affordable housing development in Burlington. In particular, the future of
federal funds, which many projects supported by the BHTF leverage, is uncertain and BHTF housing
revenue is increasingly in flux.

At this time, many federal programs that provide financial assistance for affordable housing are at risk of
elimination or significant cuts. Many projects supported by BHTF rely on federal funds to cover a large
proportion of their costs. In the absence of these federal funds, the City would be unable to sustain the
current pace of affordable housing development without significant replacement funding.

In terms of BHTF revenue specifically, two major sources – the short-term rental tax and the Inclusionary
Zoning payment-in-lieu fee – are in flux. Since 2023 the City of Burlington has collected taxes from short-
term rentals and has only allowed short-term rentals in properties that are owner-occupied or have an
affordable unit on site. Income from the short-term rental tax generated more than $700,000 in
housing trust fund revenue in fiscal year (FY) 2024 and is anticipated to generate around $600,000 in
FY2025 (total short-term rental tax collected in FY2024 was more than $900,000 and $800,000 is
anticipated in FY2025; the remaining portion of the tax ***). Although it is difficult to predict future
revenue, this source has trended downwards since the city started collecting the tax (averaging $10,000
less a month in revenue for BHTF). If this trend continues, this would represent a substantial loss in BHTF
revenue.

Another major source of BHTF revenue is the Inclusionary Zoning payment-in-lieu (PIL) fee.
Developments subject to the Inclusionary Zoning ordinance, which requires the inclusion of affordable
units in new construction, can opt to pay a fee – the PIL – instead of constructing the units. Currently,
fees range from $35,000 to $85,000, depending on the total number of units constructed. These figures
are out of line with market construction costs – recent affordable housing projects have had
development costs of approximately $500,000 per unit. An increase in the City’s payment-in-lieu fees is
anticipated in the coming year. The impact this might have on BHTF revenue is uncertain. Although
higher fees may result in increased BHTF revenue, it is also possible that developers would opt to
construct the units, rather than to pay the higher fees. This would increase the number of Inclusionary
Zoning units constructed in the city, but would reduce the revenue collected by the BHTF from PIL fees.

In summary, funding for affordable housing development in Burlington is increasingly uncertain. At the
same time, the need for affordable housing is ever greater. Housing remains unaffordable to many
residing in Burlington, and the rental and housing market is inaccessible to others who would like to live
in the city. In 2023, 25% of Burlington households were cost-burdened, meaning they expend between
30-49% of their income on housing, and an additional 19% were severely cost-burdened, meaning they
spend over 50% of their income on housing. Among renters, these figures rise to 31% and 24%,
respectively (source: U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 5-year estimates). Among low-
moderate income (LMI) renters (i.e., those earning below 80% of Area Median Income (AMI)), these
numbers are starker: 48% of LMI renters are cost-burdened and 76% of renter households earning
below 30% of AMI are cost-burdened or severely cost-burdened (source: 2013-2017 CHAS).




Report on Increasing BHTF Annual Revenue 8


 Page 40 of 46
Menu of HTF Revenue Options
Housing Trust Funds are found throughout the country at state, county and local levels. In preparing
this report, data was gathered by reviewing information from the Housing Trust Fund Project (a national
resource for Housing Trust Funds throughout the county), researching other housing trust funds and
municipalities and discussions with local experts and advocates who have been championing and
supporting Burlington’s Housing Trust Fund and other affordable housing initiatives. While there are
many possibilities for increasing revenue and support for BHTF, this report highlights six specific options
that best aligned with the committee’s directive. These options create new revenue through
progressive-taxation or tourists visiting the city and are revenue neutral on their impact to property
taxpayers.

 Option Steps to Implement Potential Revenue Other Notes
 1. City Council resolution
 Would create a
 for question on ballot
 Consistent revenue
 2. Approval from voters
 Property transfer tax $1 million + annually stream based on sales
 3. State legislative
 of properties within
 approval
 City
 4. Gubernatorial approval
 Minimal impact on
 current property tax
 Transfer previously
 system.
 exempt municipal
 $1.5 million + Methodology for
 property tax to HTF 1. City Council ordinance
 annually tracking would be
 when no longer developed by CEDO
 exempt and Tax Assessors
 office.
 Increase the creation Creates additional
 $250,000 annually
 of new units for 1. City Council resolution housing units
 (STR increased 50%)
 short-term rental Time-limited
 Interest from
 TBD – likely Still determining
 unexpended BHTF 1. City Council resolution thousands (not $1 potential revenue and
 collected and million) value.
 reinvested in BHTF
 The state is exploring
 Higher tax-rate for Requires changes to the classification system
 TBD – depends on the
 non-homestead state’s property changes, but this would
 rate charged
 residential properties classification system not be implantable at
 this time.
 City income tax on Requires changes to TBD – depends on the Not possible at this
 individuals state law rate charged time




Report on Increasing BHTF Annual Revenue 9


 Page 41 of 46
 Initiate a local property transfer tax
 A property transfer tax is a tax on the transfer of title to real property. The State of Vermont has a
 property transfer tax that is variable among principal and non-principal residences. The state property
 transfer tax includes a special tax rate (and clean water surcharge exemption) for the first $200,000 of
 value paid for a principal residence. A large proportion of the state property transfer tax is allocated to
 Vermont Housing and Conservation Board, which supports affordable housing development statewide.

 To initiate a local property transfer tax, the City of Burlington City Council would adopt a resolution
 adding the question to the ballot for voters. If the voters supported the transfer tax it would then go to
 state legislators for approval and would also require gubernatorial sign-off.

 Based on 2024 property sales a City Property Transfer Tax of 1.5% on sold property values above
 $500,000 would result in $1,000,000 in revenue. The median sale price for single-family homes in
 Burlington in the last 16 months (1/1/24 - 4/30/25) was $499,000. See below options for the
 implementation of a local property transfer tax:

 #1 Flat Rate Property Transfer Tax
 Based on 2024 property sales, the charts below show the revenue for a marginal property transfer tax at
 1% or 1.5%. The tax percentage stays consistent for all sale prices AND the tax only applies to the
 portion of the property sale above the marginal tax value.

 Marginal Tax Marginal Tax
 Tax Percentage City Revenue Tax Percentage City Revenue
 Above Above
 1% $300,000 $1.3 Million 1.5% $300,000 $1.9 Million
 1% $500,000 $770,300 1.5% $500,000 $1.2 Million
 1% $550,000 $684,300 1.5% $550,000 $1 Million


 #2 Modified Progressive Property Transfer Tax
 The charts below show the revenue for a tax rate that increases based on the sale price of the property,
 the revenue that would have been generated for the city based on the values of properties sold in
 recent years, and the proposed tax expense per property by sales price.

 Tax Percentage Sale Amount Sales Year City Revenue Property Value Proposed Tax
 0% <$200,000 2022 $1.69 million $250,000 $250
 .5% $200,001-$500,000 2023 $1.37 million $500,000 $1,500
 1.5% >$500,000 2024 $1.74 million $750,000 $5,250


 #3 Progressive tax rate at 50% of State Property Transfer Tax
Transfer Tax Sale Amount Revenue generated: Tax Burden by Property Value:
Percentage Year City Revenue Value Proposed
0% <$200,000 2022 $1.91 million Transfer Tax
.5% $200,001-$400,000 $250,000 $250
 2023 $1.57 million
1% $400,001-$600,000 $500,000 $2,000
 2024 $2.04 million
1.5% $600,001-$800,000
 $750,000 $5,250
2% >$800,000
 $1,000,000 $10,000

 Report on Increasing BHTF Annual Revenue 10


 Page 42 of 46
Property Taxes for Formerly Exempt Properties Given to Housing Trust Fund
Within the City of Burlington are multiple properties that are eligible for property tax exemption. In
some jurisdictions, the net new revenue from tax-exempt properties converting to a taxable use is
dedicated to the Housing Trust Fund. The rationale is that these new revenues are a “windfall” that
were not assumed to be part of the municipal budget and so therefore can be allocated to a Housing
Trust Fund. Below is a table of properties that currently have tax-exempt status and the possible new
tax revenue generated if these properties were changed to multi-unit residential properties. Most of
these properties are within the Downtown Tax Increment Financing district so the income generated by
these properties would be available for Fiscal Year 2036 and beyond. These calculations are based on:

 1. Properties that are exempt, but are currently for sale or exploring uses that would be taxable
 2. The number of potential units at a property
 3. An average value of $400,000 per new unit (based on current assessed values of a single unit)
 4. Multiplied by $4,248.44 – an average per-unit tax rate from four large multi-unit properties
 constructed in Burlington in the last fifteen years.

 Expected value Possible New
Potential Properties Potential Units (calculated at Municipal Tax End of TIF
 $400,000/unit) Revenue
176 South Winooski 38 $15,200,000.00 $56,504.22 6/30/35
266 College St. 79 $31,600,000.00 $117,469.31 6/30/35
108 Cherry St. 200 $80,000,000.00 $297,390.65 6/30/35
20 Pine St. 250 $100,000,000.00 $371,738.31 6/30/35
2 Cherry St. 100 $40,000,000.00 $148,695.33 6/30/35
St. Mark’s 200 $80,000,000.00 $297,390.65 n/a
Memorial Auditorium 300 $120,000,000.00 $446,085.98 6/30/35
 Total: $1,735,274.44

Short-term Rental Creation
Burlington needs more housing. While several large-scale multi-unit projects are underway and in the
planning stages smaller scale development (10-units or less) is limited. Despite recent changes to zoning
that allows for multiple units on all properties and multiple freestanding structures very few projects
have come into fruition. An option for creating additional units in the city and increasing BHTF revenue
could be a time-limited exemption to components of the short-term rental ordinance for newly created
housing only. Specifically placing a time-limited exemption to the owner-occupancy requirements for
newly created housing to allow a proportion (1-unit or 20%, whichever is greater) of new housing units
to be rented as short-term rentals for a finite period of time (perhaps 5, 10 or 15 years). It is difficult to
know how much funds could be generated by this exemption, but a 50% increase in the number of
short-term-rentals within the city would generate an additional $250,000 a year

Add the interest generated by unexpended BHTF monies into BHTF
On any given day BHTF has a balance of funds from newly received revenues and committed, but not yet
disbursed, awards. While some projects request grant funds quickly, it is common for larger renovation
or development projects to take several years before completion and funds to be fully drawn down


Report on Increasing BHTF Annual Revenue 11


 Page 43 of 46
(although the projects cannot start and receive their main funding without the guarantee of BHTF and
other funds).

While generated interest would not create the requested $1 Million annually, it may generate
thousands or tens of thousands of dollars in interest. An approximation of potential interest income is
in-process.

Higher Tax Rate on Non-Homestead Residential Properties
A future possibility for increasing BHTF revenue is a higher tax rate for non-homestead residential
properties in the city – this would include second homes, vacation homes, homes occupied seasonally,
etc. Vermont’s current property tax system only has two categories – primary residence and non-
homestead everything else. The state is exploring more categories and this could allow the city to tax
non-homestead residential properties at a higher rate.

Local income Tax
Another future possibility for increasing BHTF revenue is a local income tax. This is currently not an
option in Vermont, but several locales utilize income tax to support funding for their affordable housing
and support services. In 2020 the city of Portland Oregon started taxing personal income above
$125,000 at 1% ($200,000 for a couple) and also collects a 1% business income tax on net income for
businesses with gross receipts above $5 million. In Seattle Washington voters approved a 5% tax in
2023 for any Seattle-based employee with annual compensation exceeding $1 million.




Report on Increasing BHTF Annual Revenue 12


 Page 44 of 46
TO: City Council Community Development & Neighborhood Revitalization Committee

FROM: Brian Pine, CEDO Director
 Rebeka Lawrence-Gomez, Housing Programs Manager

DATE: May 19, 2025

RE: Report on Increasing Burlington Housing Trust Fund Annual Revenue

This memo is intended as a preface to the above-captioned report prepared by CEDO.

On February 10, 2025, the City Council adopted a resolution tasking the Community & Economic
Development Office (CEDO), in collaboration with the City’s Chief Administrative Officer, Assessor’s
Office, and other city staff, to identify pathways to increase the money dedicated to the Burlington
Housing Trust Fund by at least $1 million annually.

While Burlington has pioneered the use of a Housing Trust Fund at the local level for perpetually
affordable housing since 1990, HTFs are found throughout the country at state, county and local
levels. In preparing this report, data was gathered by reviewing information from the Housing Trust
Fund Project (a national resource for Housing Trust Funds throughout the county), researching other
housing trust funds and municipalities, and discussions with local experts and advocates who have been
championing and supporting Burlington’s Housing Trust Fund and other affordable housing initiatives.

While there are many possibilities for increasing revenue and support for BHTF, this report highlights six
options that we believe are best aligned with the directive of the Council Resolution. The options
offered in this report are intended to offer potential pathways to increase the BHTF by $1M, but we are
not making recommendations about the advisability and suitability for each option. Once the Council
decides which options to pursue, the CEDO team will assist in taking a deeper dive in the process of
bringing forward the preferred option(s).

The Council resolution called for offering a variety of pathways to increase BHTF revenue guided by the
following policy objectives:

 • Generate new revenue only through progressive-taxation, meaning that those residents and
 businesses with the highest incomes and largest amount of wealth pay more than Burlington’s
 working and middle class; and
 • Revenue may also be generated from tourists visiting our city; and




 Page 45 of 46
 • Be revenue-neutral in relation to their impact on property taxpayers.

The six options that are discussed in the attached report form the basis of ways to enhance the BHTF
revenue in a manner that is consistent with the above-referenced goals of the Council resolution. The
report focuses on the following options:
 1. Property transfer tax
 2. Transfer net new revenue when a tax-exempt property is converted to a taxable use
 3. Increase the creation of new units for short-term rental as a means of generating new HTF
 revenue
 4. Dedicate the interest income earned on BHTF funds back into the BHTF
 5. Higher tax-rate for non-homestead residential properties
 6. Levy taxes from businesses for individual compensation of more than $1M

For 35 years the Burlington Housing Trust Fund has supported the creation, retention and rehabilitation
of affordable homes in the city. One in ten Burlington homes have benefited from this resource. New
revenue sources have multiplied the BHTF in recent years increasing its impact and benefits to the
community. Exploring options to expand BHTF offers additional resources to leverage other public and
private funding so badly needed to advance the City’s ongoing commitment to affordable housing.




 Page 46 of 46

CITY OF BURLINGTON, VERMONT
 CITY COUNCIL COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT &
 NEIGHBORHOOD REVITALIZATION COMMITTEE
 c/o Community & Economic Development Office
 City Hall, Room 32 • 149 Church Street • Burlington, VT 05401
 802-865-7144 VOX • 802-865-7024 FAX • www.burlingtonvt.gov/cedo




Councilor Evan Litwin (EL), Chair, Ward 7
Councilor Carter Neubieser (CN), Ward 1
Councilor Allie Schachter (AS), East District

 CDNR Committee Meeting
 Wednesday, December 17th, 2025
 6:30 – 8:30 PM
 Sharon Bushor Conference Room, 1st Floor – City Hall

Committee members: Evan Litwin (EL), Allie Schachter (AS), Carter Neubieser (CN)
City Staff: Christine Curtis, CEDO
Other Attendees: Erin Jacobsen, Mayor’s office; Katherine Schad, CAO




 Draft Minutes

Meeting Started at 6:33 PM

 1. Approve agenda
 MOTION by Councilor Schachter, SECOND by Councilor Neubieser, to
approve the agenda
VOTING: unanimous; motion carries.

 2. Approve Minutes: 10/15/25
 MOTION by Councilor Schachter, SECOND by Councilor Neubieser, to
approve the minutes
VOTING: unanimous; motion carries.

 3. Public Forum
 • No one spoke at public forum

 The programs and services of the City of Burlington are accessible to people with disabilities.
 For accessibility information, call 865-7144. For questions about the meeting,
 contact Christine Curtis at ccurtis@burlingtonvt.gov
4. Regional Programs
 • Erin and Katherine both spoke to this item. The group discussed the
 regional programs budget, focusing on distinguishing between non-
 discretionary regional services and discretionary community grants.
 They agreed to start by identifying essential, non-discretionary
 investments, which account for about $200,000 of the budget. The
 group proposed creating a streamlined application process for the
 remaining discretionary funds, similar to the Housing Trust Fund
 model, with CEDO potentially helping to manage it. They decided to
 have a preliminary conversation about these categories in January
 and design a simple application process proportional to the available
 funds.

5. Presentation from Christine Curtis on Community Development Block Grant
 (CDBG) and the current call for funding applications
 • Christine Curtis presented an overview of the Community
 Development Block Grant (CDBG) program, explaining its national
 regulations and local administration. She detailed the process for
 allocating approximately $730,000 in CDBG funds, including the
 review of applications by the CDBG Advisory Board and the
 subsequent funding decisions. The program aims to address
 poverty's consequences in Burlington, with public services and
 development projects receiving different funding allocations.
 Applications are due January 15th, 2026, and the program will run
 from July 1st, 2026, to June 30th, 2027.

6. Revisiting Housing Trust Fund Report from Former CEDO Director Brian Pine
 • The committee discussed the Pine Report, focusing on potential
 actions to increase funding for the Housing Trust Fund. They agreed
 to revisit several recommendations, including adopting a local
 property transfer tax and increasing inclusionary zoning PIL fees.
 Carter Neubieser expressed interest in exploring short-term rental
 taxes and enforcement. The group decided to invite the new Housing
 Program manager and Kara, CEDO Director, to a future meeting to
 discuss these topics further. They also agreed to change their
 meeting time to 6 PM starting in January to accommodate city staff
 schedules.

7. Adjournment
 • ADJOURN at 8:22 p.m. by Councilor Litwin with no objection