For months, we've broken down Vermont's housing crisis—what's causing it, who's blocking solutions, and what other states are doing right. But here's the real question:
👉 Why isn't housing policy a more significant issue in Vermont elections?
Everyone agrees that housing costs are too high, there aren't enough homes, and businesses suffer because workers can't live nearby. But when it comes to elections, housing rarely dominates the conversation.
This article will break down:
✅ Why Vermont's housing crisis needs to be a top election issue
✅ How state and local officials control housing policy
✅ What voters can do to push candidates to take real action
📝 Why Housing Policy Needs to Be a Bigger Issue in Vermont Elections
1. Opening: If Everyone Cares About Housing, Why Isn't It a Top Election Issue?
Ask any Vermonter about their biggest concerns; housing is always near the top. But when election season rolls around, housing policy rarely dominates the debate.
📌 The contradiction:
- Candidates discuss affordability but avoid discussing specific policies that would fix the problem.
- Local zoning boards and state lawmakers have enormous control over housing policy, yet voters rarely challenge them.
- Taxes, healthcare, and climate policy often take center stage—while the housing crisis gets pushed aside.
📌 The reality check:
- If Vermont doesn't elect leaders prioritizing housing, the crisis will only worsen.
- Housing isn't just an economic issue—it's about quality of life, workforce stability, and Vermont's future.
💡 It's time to realize the power we hold as voters and demand that housing be a central issue in every Vermont election.
2. Who Controls Housing Policy in Vermont? Follow the Power.
📍 1. State Lawmakers Control Zoning and Housing Incentives
- The Vermont Legislature passes statewide zoning laws, land use policies, and tax incentives that directly affect housing.
- For example, Vermont's Act 250 law has been a major barrier to housing development—and it's entirely controlled at the state level.
📍 Example: The Stalled Act 250 Reforms
- Lawmakers have debated updating Act 250 for years to make building housing in town centers easier.
- Every year, reforms get watered down or delayed because of pressure from anti-growth groups.
💡 Why This Matters:
- State lawmakers could fix housing policy—if voters push them to act.
✅ Voters Should Ask Candidates:
- Do you support reforming Act 250 to make housing development easier?
- Will you support incentives for mid-priced housing and workforce housing?
📍 2. Local Zoning Boards Control What Gets Built—Or Doesn't
- Most people don't realize it, but small-town zoning boards have enormous control over Vermont's housing supply.
- These boards decide:
- Where duplexes and apartments can be built
- How long permits take to get approved
- What restrictions are placed on new developments
📍 Example: Williston's Battle Over Multi-Family Housing
- Developers proposed a 60-unit apartment complex near a job center in Williston.
- The zoning board delayed approvals for over a year due to resident complaints about traffic.
- The project was eventually canceled.
💡 Why This Matters:
- Zoning boards can block housing projects with little accountability.
✅ Voters Should Ask Local Officials:
- Do you support updating zoning laws to allow more housing in town centers?
- Will you commit to making the permitting process faster and more efficient?
📍 3. Vermont's Governor Can Push for Statewide Housing Reforms
- The governor sets the legislative agenda and influences which housing policies move forward.
- Governor Phil Scott has called for housing reforms, but progress has been slow without legislative support.
📍 Example: The Governor's Proposed Housing Bills
- Scott's administration proposed tax credits for workforce housing and permit streamlining.
- Some measures passed, but others were weakened or ignored.
💡 Why This Matters:
- The governor can't pass laws alone—but they can push lawmakers to act.
✅ Voters Should Ask Gubernatorial Candidates:
- What will you do in your first year to address Vermont's housing crisis?
- Will you support statewide zoning reform to allow more housing options?
3. How Vermont Voters Can Make Housing a Top Election Issue
📌 If we want better housing policies, we must elect leaders who will fight for them.
✅ 1. Ask Tough Questions at Candidate Events & Debates
- If a candidate isn't talking about housing, ask them why.
- Demand clear answers on zoning reform, tax incentives, and workforce housing.
✅ 2. Research Local & State Candidates' Housing Policies
- Check voting records to see if incumbents have supported or blocked housing solutions.
✅ 3. Support Candidates Who Prioritize Housing Reform
- Housing shouldn't be a side issue but central to every election.
✅ 4. Make Your Voice Heard Beyond Elections
- Show up at zoning board meetings and push for policies that make building housing easier.
💡 housing will only become a bigger priority if Vermont voters demand it.
4. 🚀 Take Action: Make Housing a Key Issue in Vermont Elections
📢 1. Demand Specific Housing Policies from Candidates
- Don't settle for vague promises—ask for real commitments.
📝 2. Research How Your Current Representatives Vote on Housing
- If they're blocking solutions, vote for someone who will act.
📬 3. Show Up at Town Meetings & Public Hearings
- Local officials often make the biggest housing decisions.
📣 4. Share This Article & Start the Conversation
- The more Vermonters push for action, the harder it is for politicians to ignore.
5. 🖊 About the Author
Tony Walton is a Vermont-based real estate professional with deep roots in the community and a passion for keeping the state livable for future generations. Whether you're buying, selling, or want to talk about Vermont's housing future, reach out at tonywalton@nelandmark.com.
🚨 If housing isn't a top issue in Vermont elections, it won't be a priority for policymakers. Voters have the power to push for real change—if they demand action.
Next Week: How Vermont's Housing Crisis Impacts Property Taxes & the State Budget.
