Planning Commission Minutes 12.18.24

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Town of Guilford

Planning Commission DRAFT Minutes

Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024, 6:30pm, 236 School Rd, Guilford VT

Planning Commission members attending: Charlie Light, Jeannette Tokarz, Marty Ramsburg, Jethro Eaton, Julie Holland and Christina Belogour.

Call to Order. The meeting was called to order at 6:33pm.

Recognition of the Public: Betty Frye

Rules and Procedures: No changes, as outlined by Select Board. Basic respect and civility

Changes to Agenda:  None

Jeannette moved to accept the minutes from the October meeting. Charlie seconded and motion was carried unanimously.

We spoke about the request from the Guilford Guide to use $5977.14 in left over ARPA funds to help complete and publish “The Guilford Guide.” Total completion funds are $14,300:

Design                        4000                Lesley Malouin

Print                           7800                Howard Printing

Postage                      2500                USPS

Total                           $14,300

The Planning Commission has $10,000 in our account, some of which we may appropriate for the Guilford Guide Project.

In response to Betty Frye/s questions about the Guide, the members explained that the Guide was loosely based on the town of Bethel’s, Town Operators Manual and would be a resource to publish in written form and keep updated virtually and available through the town website. The Guide would include information on Guilford’s services, schools, organizations, recreation, town government commissions, library, businesses, and other useful information for residents.

Discussed the concept of land use planning and what we would discuss at the public March meeting on the topic:

Put together a glossary with a definition of land use planning terms

Case studies of how the issue has been dealt with by other towns, especially towns without zoning.

Try to work out what criteria to use on parcels to earmark for protection and preservation.

Look at various parcels that fit the criteria.

Be mindful about where growth and development is appropriate.

Discussed communication with other town commissions re visioning goals and strategies. Various PC members took responsibility to reaching out to specific Commissions. This meeting of town commissions might consist of 30-40 people. Location and Date TBD.

Discussed a larger meeting for all of Guilford’s volunteers. Christina offered the facilities at Viking Village.  Tentatively spoke of a weekend afternoon in April.

Discussed applying for an available, not town match, grant to develop land use by-laws. We could partner with Windham Regional to apply for the up to $30,000 grant. The application is due by 3/31/25.

Betty Frye brought up forest destruction near her house caused by invasive species and other factors. Was wondering if the town could help. Christina advised that help might be available through the Vermont Dept of Forests that does assist private landowners to maintain the health of forests.

Jeannette motioned to adjourn the meeting. Marty seconded and it was carried unanimously.