BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) – Burlington voters will get to weigh in on upwards of $192 million in bond measures on Town Meeting Day.
The Burlington City Council on Monday gave final approval to three bond measures aimed at improving the city’s wastewater, drinking water, and general infrastructure.
The $152 million wastewater bond is geared towards an overhaul of the city’s main wastewater treatment plant to prevent the kinds of failures that have led to beach closures and other water quality problems in recent years. The cost was reduced from estimates earlier this fall that were pegged at over $200 million. City officials have said the work is critical and that any delays will only increase the cost and risk the possibility of catastrophic failure.
A $20 million bond would be used to shore up critical parts of the Queen City’s drinking water supply network.
Another $20 million general obligation bond would be used to invest in vehicle fleets, traffic calming and paving, and park upgrades.
“If approved by voters, these three bonds will support needed investments in critical City infrastructure, ensuring Burlington continues to make progress on our goals to create a responsive community safety system, build ample and affordable housing, and build a climate resilient and vibrant City,” Mayor Emma Mulvaney-Stanak said in s statement. “The final language going to voters represents many hours of hard work by City staff, engaging community members and incorporating feedback into these bond proposals.”
City officials estimate that under the two water bonds, the typical single-family household water bill could increase up to 89% overall between 2025 and 2030.
The maximum tax impact of the general obligation bond would be $12/month on a $500k home.
