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Housing Committee Profile: Montpelier Housing Task Force

Having a presence and being the voice of affordable housing – I think that is really important.”

Montpelier Housing Task Chair Polly Nichol

The Montpelier Housing Task Force was established more than 15 years ago in response to a lack of affordable housing in the state’s capital city. The Task Force advocates for an increased housing supply with homes that are energy-efficient, disability-accessible, and free from discrimination.

Like much of Vermont, Montpelier has a very low vacancy rate – around 1%. Rentals are scarce and expensive, meaning that many who work in the city commute from the surrounding area. The Task Force envisions an increased affordable housing supply as a way to enhance Montpelier’s economic development and sense of community.

The Task Force’s achievements include working with City Council on its ongoing housing plan, successfully advocating for changes to local zoning ordinances, raising public awareness of affordable housing, creating the Montpelier Housing Trust Fund, and establishing Central Vermont Home Share (which became a part of HomeShare Vermont in the fall of 2019).

Task Force Chair Polly Nichol said that January 2018 zoning laws that allow for increased density have been one of the most significant steps towards progress. Members of the Task Force attended public hearings and encouraged policymakers to make this change despite some local opposition. “We wanted to show the City Council that we had a lot of people supporting it,” Polly said, “… and that takes some courage – really important. But it’s hard in a small town where you know everyone.”

The Task Force is made up of 15 volunteer community members, one of whom is a representative from City Council. Although the Task Force is not an official city body, the local government supports the Task Force by assisting with administrative duties and seeking input on strategic planning. “We get asked for our opinion by the city council on issues around housing, which is incredible, and we’re just a group of volunteers,” Polly said. “Having a presence and being the voice of affordable housing – I think that is really important.”
 

- Ryan Murphy & Annie McAneny, CVOEO