IMPORTANT: to add a post you must go to the bottom of this page and click "comments" that will take you to a posting page where you can see what has been posted. Then if you want to write a comment or suggestion do so, then go to sign in + hit the drop down and select,"any open ID", click anonymous, and publish or preview. It's a pain but it will enable us to communicate and exchange ideas. David Bray has joined ranks with Debi and Barry, so if you responded to his petition email your signature(s) will be carried into the same effort to effect change.
SO NOW TO BEGIN:
The time has come to adjust our zoning regulations for the Island. Recent issues involving sub-division and harmful development require us to take this opportunity to be heard. The Town of North Hero is required to update the Town Plan every five years and 2008 is the next cycle. It has been suggested (by John Lambert, (NHero development review board chairman) that Butler Islanders present any ideas that we have to create a more functional Island zoning procedure.
We can, for instance, bring ideas and suggestions: like 1) change the rules of sub-division- to increase the shoreline requirement(currently 100') to create a new legal lot- maybe change it to 200'. 2) change set backs from property lines and shorelines for building permits(currently 75' from lake,25' side and rear),from a deeded ROW (50' front, 25'side and rear), or a complete moratorium for a couple of years just to study this and get our feet under us, remember we can always fall back to any less extreme changes should the planning commision not agree. Or any other changes that the Town will pass.
The procedure for change is that any person or organization can petition the Planning Commision(hopefully by their first meeting 1/14/08). WE as a political population must act promptly to improve the future. The Town won't do it for us! Please give sub-division and zoning issues careful thought and post a reply, IDEAS are key at this stage.
To find the current regs. Go to http://www.northherovt.com/, then departments, then boards, then zoning administrator- bam! you're there. We are Off-Island Zone on page 4.
Debi Westover, Dave Bray and I have seen fit to volunteer as coordinators of ideas. Let's see what we can come up with. Deb and/or I will be attending those meetings that need attending, but you are all welcome to come too.
Maybe we can even get the Town to follow its 2003 plan and "Promote Town parking for Off-Island residents" Sec. 1, para. 19, line k" of the '03 Town Plan.
When we get some ideas and opinions from you all, we will need to circulate(not quite sure how at this time but we have till about the 12'th) a petition and get your signatures on it, no special number needed but the more the better. B
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
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Hi all - Steve Feldman here with comments on two issues:
POSSIBLE ZONING CHANGES: This is a difficult issue, as it pits our property rights against the general welfare of the island's environment and animal communities. My feeling is that we need to change the current regulations and my suggestions are as follows: Change the minimum frontage requirement for any new development to 200' and establish a maximum setback limit for development. My original suggestion this past summer, was to make the max setback 400'. This may even be too far from the lake and may impact established habitat and wildlife corridors too much, so perhaps the 300 foot range is more appropriate.
My hope is that this limit would not stop any of us from adding outbuildings near our camps, but would stop new development in the island's interior, which - with all of the new development of the "outer ring" - is now the only animal habitat left.
There will be some sacrifice required by many of us who own a lot of interior land (as we do), but sometimes the greater good is just more important.
PARKING ISSUE: The Town of North Hero's selling of the old Town Hall to the Historical Society and the HS's subsequent letter to BI residents saying that we can no longer park there, is outrageous. There is now no place - other than paid parking at Hero's Welcome - for islanders to park in the town where we pay taxes. It was the only service that we received other than record keeping for our tax dollars. We not only need parking as access to our property, we need it to be in the village close to Hero's Welcome and N. Hero House, as this is where our boats are kept or we can pick up visitors who need to park.
It seems to me that if the ski towns provide roads, road maintenance, sewage, etc. to the ski houses and condos that are owned by second home taxpayers, that the least that N. Hero could do for us is provide basic parking as access to our property.
Peg wrote two letters on this issue; one to the Select Board and one to the Historical Society. The Selcet Board letter was read at the last meeting and we have received a response from them. She also received a response from the Historical Society stating that they would contact her for a meeting on this issue. I've asked her to publish her letter and a synopsis of the town's reply on this blog soon.
Barry has now provided me with a copy of the North Hero Town Plan 2003, which under the heading "Transportation" has a line stating "Promote Town parking for Off-Island residents". This statement ought to make our case much easier to win.
Our plan, if our schedule allows as we travel for work constantly, is to attend the next Select Board Meeting to discuss the parking issue, as this must be resolved before the spring season arrives.
We all need to work together to make the changes that we want to see for the future of Butler Island and her residents.
The Town of Georgia has establihed a 25 acre minimum subdivision rule. I believe there is a similar district in Fairfield, but am not positive. I'm wondering if that type of a district is reasonable for Butler Island.
If zoning changes are to be authorized for the Off Island Zoning District, North Hero voter support will be necessary. It has been suggested that as we get closer to the Town Meeting Day vote a letter campaign and a feature story on the need for change for the Off Island (conservation) District be undertaken in The Islander news paper. Are there people who have the skills to take on this task?
I've thought long and hard about a move to restrict further subdivision on Butler Island. Property rights have been an issue that people around the world have gone to war for. By restricting the current subdivision rights of people on Butler Island are we imposing our values on their economic rights? On the other hand, could it be argued that more restrictive changes in the zoning could infact make Butler Island a more exclusive community and those large property owners would remaim economically whole? Currently there is a large acerage property on the northwest part of the Island listed for sale at over $1 million. I can only assume this property is being marketed to a exclusive group. If that sale is consumated then it is a solid arguement that more restricitive zoning would enhance the value of every property owner?
I am in complete agreement with Steve Feldman - on both issues: Zoning and parking.
1. The negative environmental impact of developing "center island" is irreversible. I am willing to sign a petition to limit the fontage and setback changes proposed by Steve.
2. The parking issue is just another example of how the town is willing to take our money and provide nothing in return. I encourage Peggy to post her letter on the blog so we can use it as a template to write our own to the town - (maybe we can publish something in the Islander?)
Hi all, Peg Zilinsky here. I have included the two letters I wrote to North Hero Selectboard and the Historical Society. Still have not heard back from the Historical Society re: a date to review parking situation. All other info below; please feel free to use all or part of the parking letter to send your own. P
North Hero Selectboard’s Reply on December 10:
“Your letter of November 27 was read at the December 3, 2007 Selectboard Meeting. It is our understanding that the North Hero Historical Society will be scheduling a meeting with you.
Louis Dorwaldt, Chair”
November 27, 2007
Town of North Hero
P.O. Box 38
North Hero, VT 05474
Attn: Ruth Miller
Dear Ruth,
I am copying you on an e-mail we sent to Jo-ann Tier and the North Hero Historical Society regarding their recent letter denying parking access to Butler Island residents at the former Town Hall.
We are all extremely concerned about this change in status and would like to be able to meet with the town to discuss options to resolve the issue. If you could please put us on the agenda for your next available Select Board meeting, we can personally review our concerns and explore a resolution moving forward.
Thank you so much for your help with this. Please let us know when we will be scheduled so that we can allocate the time around our business travel schedules.
Best Wishes for the Holiday Season!
Steve Feldman and Peg Zilinsky
Butler Island Residents
Phone: 802.388.8008
Email: zilinsky@together.net
Email letter follows:
To: Jo-Ann Tier and North Hero Historical Society via e-mail
From: Peg Zilinsky and Steve Feldman, Butler Island Residents
Date: November 16, 2007
Dear Jo-Ann,
Thanks so much for speaking with me on Tuesday, Nov 14 regarding the letter sent from the Historical Society to Butler Island residents. As you requested, I am outlining my concerns for you to share with your board. In turn, I will be sharing this information with other Butler Island residents who will be contacting you.
We were dismayed when we read your letter since we were not aware that the town had sold the property and your letter denying access to the former Town Hall property for Butler Island residents has major negative impacts on us.
This is the only place to park for Butler Island Residents Who Are North Hero Taxpayers
The parking situation in town is stressed during the summer months. Those of us who rent moorings or parking spaces from Hero’s Welcome will park cars in the HW lot. As is the case with today’s busy families and hectic schedules, quite often there will be two cars even though there is one boat.
Because traffic is so congested in this area due to boats, trailers, customers, state park visitors etc., HW renters will often park a car in the former Town Hall space to free up driving and boat trailering room at Hero’s Welcome. In addition, many of the Butler Island camps have multiple owners, therefore multiple cars. Guests of BI residents park in the former town hall spaces as well as people whose boats are at the North Hero House slips. Other BI owners park there who have no other safe location to keep their vehicles.
There are also many campers during the summer using the State Park facility on Knight Island who are parking in the vicinity. On busy summer weekends there was insufficient parking already, so, needless to say, the situation could be much worse now. We cannot legally or safely park on Route 2. Where are people supposed to park?
A Healthy Tourist and Waterfront Economy is Important to North Hero
The tourist business and lakefront activity is critical to the economic health and tax revenues of the town, therefore all residents, community members, businesses, and the town need to work together to ensure the safest traffic, parking and waterfront access possible to support that vital revenue stream. Even though the Town Hall is now privately owned, it is still surrounded by other businesses and people needing to use the land. Even where some of us pay a private business (Hero’s Welcome) for our access, there just isn’t enough parking space for the all the Butler Islanders who are North Hero taxpayers and property owners.
Our Goal
Our immediate goal is to secure a downtown parking area for all North Hero residents, with a reserved area for Butler Island residents who contribute to the tax rolls and demand few services other than from Ruth and her dedicated team. This can only happen with the coordinated efforts of the area businesses, town, residents and community organizations such as yours. The first stage of this plan, and certainly one that is germane to your organization would be to investigate options for parking that can be used by taxpayers first, and summer tourists and visitors as well. This may sound like a big plan, but it is critical for Butler Islanders to have a place to park. We are also confident that involving Hero’s Welcome, North Hero House, and other area businesses will provide additional alternatives and options.
Next Steps
This is just the initial list of our concerns and we certainly look forward to meeting with you and the other trustees to address this issue so that is can be resolved before Ice Out in Spring 2008. We are also happy to attend any town meetings that you would suggest so that we can tackle this issue collaboratively.
Please feel free to share this letter with your board; I will do the same with the Butler Island residents and let’s get together to plan next steps before the holidays.
Thanks so much for your time and attention,
Peg and Steve
Peg Zilinsky and Steve Feldman
Butler Island Residents
Here is my e-mail to the HS with copies to the Town and Bob Camp at Hero's.
Peggy/Steve - I ahve sent copies to Ed and Rachael. Do you have an e-mail address for Chuck and/or any other folk syou know park at Hero's?
Dear Tracy Giroux and Eileen Mitchell, Co-Presidents North Hero Historical Society,
I am a summer resident of Butler Island and upon reading the letter stating your intention of limiting residential parking (and, particularly that of Butler Island residents) at the “old town” hall I was extremely disappointed.
Being a taxpayer in North Hero and a long time resident of Butler Island, I would like to better understand your reasoning relative to eliminating the only parking available to Butler Island residents – especially those who are loyal customers of Hero’s Welcome where we rent moorings, purchase gas, provisions, etc. and contribute substantially to the North Hero economy. Would you please forward to me any minutes, etc. that are available relative to this decision.
I am copying Hero’s Welcome in the hope that Bob Camp and his team will lend his support and guidance relative to this matter.
I am copying the North Hero Town Clerk to let it be known that the North Hero Historical Society is making it difficult for the Town to live up to it’s promise in the 2003 Town Plan (under transportation) to “promote Town parking for off-island residents”. Also, I would like to ask the Town if the Historical Society’s decision to eliminate parking by Butler Island residents was known prior to the favorable purchase terms afforded to the Historical Society by the Town.
I am available at your convenience for discussion on this matter. I may be reached at this return e-mail address, jay@leduc.com or at my home 802-862-2625.
Thank you for your consideration.
Jay LeDuc
For those of us who aren't yet in the know, what are the subdivision and development concerns?
Are there specific development actitivies going on (new development, rebuilding existing structures, subdivision of existing lots) that people should know about? Or is the concern more generic and proactive (i.e. - take proactive action now, to avoid future problems)?
Are the environmental concerns tied to this development, or are there greater Island environmental concerns that should be addressed? Are there environmental issues/concerns already happening on the island that people should be aware of?
Hello,(this is Barry Hickok) the specific concerns triggered by the Lawrence sub-division application revolve around preserving the character and alleviating boat traffic congestion in Sandy Beach Bay.These are items that the Board of Adjustment, now known as the Development Review Board are required by the existing"Conditional Use" Zoning Bylaws to consider. Primarily the Character of the Island is tied to "traffic congestion" and overuse of this very fragile eco system.
In a quote from State bioligist Jens Hilke in a letter to the NHero Planning Commission(after he personaly walked and surveyed BI this fall),"suggest that future development on the interior of the island be discouraged" this issue is intrinsic to property values as well.
It may well be that the Lawrence sub-d will yet go through(reduced from 3 lots to 2), we are awaiting the final decision now. But, it demonstrated that we need to get active and preserve our little rock or it will become literally that.
So in order to derive ideas from BI residents and interested people this blog was established.
I think we need to move now to protect our wildlife communities and to preserve the character of our environment.
I further think that intrusion into the woods needs to be limited if not stopped altogether.I favor a 200' from the shoreline limit on building(to preserve wildlife corridors) and keep the conditional use bylaws(but updated) so people in the future can have some flexibility in building when circumstances meet realities.
The bottom line is the current bylaws are not restrictive enough if we expect and want our future generations to enjoy what we have.
I will gladly forward the biologist's letter to whomever wants to read the whole thing.
b@bhickok.com
There are currently 115 lots on BI and if just those are built upon we will have a population density greater than downtown NHero.
Barry Hickok
Below is the status of Butler Island's natural communities as reported by Jens Hilke, the state's biologist. In addition he has noted that a more complete wildlife habitat assessment be done in the future to attain a full understanding of the impact of future development on Butler Island:
Planning Commission
Town of North Hero
Re. Impacts of Development on Butler Island.
In response to the request by the Town of North Hero for the Department to assess the impact of future development on Butler Island in Lake Champlain, a field visit was conducted on November 19 th, 2007.
Development on the Island generally occurs in a ring of houses accessed by the right of way that loops Butler. This pattern creates a central area of core habitat with a varied mix of natural communities in the center. It is that mix of communities that is most important for wildlife species and it is a mix that Butler currently affords.
Butler Island is a mix of several different natural communities and habitat for a great diversity of wildlife species. Dry Oak forests, cattail swamps, as well as pine and hemlock forests are found in patches across the island. Dry Oak forests are uncommon outside of the Taconic Mountains and are a pleasant addition to the feel of the outer ring of the island. This community is often home to a variety of rare species. Inside the island is a mix of wetlands, softwoods and mixed forests. These various natural communities appear to be functioning well together as habitat for a host of species and represents an impressive diversity of communities for such a small area.
Wetlands on Butler vary from a large cattail swap to other varied vernal pools and forested swamps. These wetlands occupy significant acreage in the interior and provide important food and water for a host of species, both herbivores and predators. Connecting these important sources of food with adjacent areas for shelter is critical in providing a varied and viable matrix of natural communities for wildlife species to use differently. Development near wetlands is already regulated by the Vermont Wetland Rules, and connectivity with other habitats is encouraged.
The entire island is mapped as deer wintering area by the Department. These maps represent deer wintering range where the softwoods in the middle of the island provide shelter during the harshest winter storms and the hardwood forest and old field patches around the outside ring provide quite a bit of food that the softwoods don't offer. Certainly, I saw ample evidence (Deer stands) that hunting deer is an important value of the landowners on Butler Island. Further subdivision would not only reduce the habitat available to wildlife species such as deer, but development reduces hunting opportunity for safety reasons. When development in deeryards goes through the Act 250 process, though future development on Butler probably won't, the Fish & Wildlife Department generally restricts development in the softwood core of the deeryard and actively protects adjacent mixed hardwood or transitional habitat for browse.
The current pattern of ringed development affording core habitat, the mix of natural communities, connectivity with wetland food sources, and community values of having hunting opportunity, suggest that future development on the interior of the island be discouraged.
The Department acknowledges the good work of the Town in regulating new development and is eager to assist in the future with any services that may be needed. We fully understand how difficult it is to balance the needs of more housing with the desire of the public to protect their natural resources. Please feel free to call if I can be of further assistance.
Sincerely,
Jens Hilke
Thanks for setting this up.
A few specific idea's in line with Steve's: 1) increase frontage requirement to at least 200' of shoreline (e.g. avoid internal 'frontage') 2) max setback 400' (to maintain external ring of development 3) minimum lot size for subdivision of 15 acres..assumes other criteria supporting external development ring is met 4) maintain character and appearence of shoreline with limited tree clearing formula 5) Prohibit construction of roads and motorized access...again to support external ring of development and preserve internal natural areas.
While the exact parameters of these provisions could be adjusted they are all easily justified based on the existing intent of land use laws (e.g. maintain character, limit traffic impact, avoid off-island tax impact by expanding need for town to provide on-island services, etc..) and professional studies. We think regulations based on the concept of an external ring of development while protecting the island's interior and overall character is very defensible on a number of levels.
Again thanks. We understand this is a tough issue and offer these suggestions with respect.
Mark and Sharon Sperber
Hi again,
Steve Feldman here.
Thanks Mark and Sharon. We agree with your comments with one exception. We feel that within the 400' setback limit that paths for motorized vehicles are OK. We are all getting older and some of us have disabilities and having the ability to move people, materials, etc. by vehicle, particularly when one area may be in a lee vs. in the wind, can be very helpful. Beyond the 400' mark, no development or "road" building would be acceptable.
Does this make sense to you?
Calling all Islanders! If you are reading this blog, please comment whether you agree or not. We are talking about serious change here that will affect us all and you need to speak up!
Lastly, to address the questions from "Anonymous" about pending development issues: There is also the potential subdivision of land owned by Mr. Bedard on the NW side of the island of the land between his place and Sand Beach. It is all flagged in the woods now and is of great concern as this is the true core of the island and important wildlife habitat.
Steve & Peg
We, too, are concerned with the future well being of our island and
therefore agree with proposing restrictions re: frontage, setback,
minimum acreage for lot subdivisions, "roads" outside setback, etc.
Mic Metz, then District Wetland Ecologist, visited our lot to review
our build plans in 2005 to ensure that we were meeting all Vermont
Wetlands Rules (Butler is home to class two wetlands and these rules
require a 50' buffer around the wetlands unless a waiver is issued)
and would not negatively impact the wetlands that are on our property.
Like Jens, Mic he was both impressed with what he saw and eager to
keep it protected. He offered the services of his office as we needed
them - should we take him up on his offer and request that the town
require a letter from the Department of Environmental Conservation
confirming adherence to this 50' buffer as part of the building permit
package? From our experience, this would include one or both of the
following:
1) Sending the Ecologist a copy of the tax map identifying the lot and
the current build plans (location, size, etc)
2) If, like in our situation, it is hard to ascertain the exact
location on the State's aerial maps, host the Ecologist for a site
visit (during which you're guaranteed to learn cool stuff about our
beloved island!)
As far as the parking situation is concerned... outrageous! Just one
point on that subject: King Bay Fishing Access is not only already over-burdened with boat/car traffic but offers no services - not an acceptable solution.
Steve & Rachel Seremeth, West Side
I'm going to be "off line" for a few days, so here is where I stand relative to the proposed "off island" zoning changes:
Retain the current "off island" zoning except:
Modify current Section 240,A: Increase minimum lot frontage on the lake from 100 feet to 200 feet.
Add Section 240,A(1): No development or construction is allowed beyond a 400 feet set-back from the low water line to protect the "inner island")
Add Section 240,F: Motor Vehicles: No roads shall be constructed nor motorized vehicles operated beyond the 400 ft set-back as outlined in Section 240,A(1)
Add Section 240, G: All development or construction must adhere to Vermont State wetland and wildlife regulations (specifically, but not limited to, those regulations relative to deer yard protection and wetland set-backs)
Happy New Year
I think the best we can do is to concentrate on resolving the parking availability at North Hero. That represents a benefit to all of the owners on Butler Island without infringing on individual property rights.
Attempting to implement change in zoning regulations is a more difficult process and cannot be adequately addressed by a few landowners trying to push their own (although noble) agendas without regard to the legal rights of others ...
This could result in a legal challenge that would not be in the best interests for all of us at this point...
Lets get parking taken care of and address zoning changes at a later date with the constuctive input and a meaningful dialogue of all Butler Islanders.
From the input on this blog, it seems that about 5% of the owners on the island are trying to regulate the rights of the other 95%. I do not think this is the way to go....
Hi,
This is Walt Blasberg responding. I agree wtih Steve's recommendation to limit building on new subdivisions to 200' of frontage and to set a maximum development line at 400' to restrict internal development.
As for parking, it is a critical need for all BI property owners. Parking at the community hall site has always been offered by the Town Clerk. The right to park at this site should be preserved and I will do what I can as a North Hero full time resident, business owner and member of the Historical Society (new owner of the community hall) to make sure we can continue to park there.
Good Morning, All.
It's Tina Haase just now putting my thoughts in order:
I'm in agreement with the 200 ft lot minimum, 400 ft lot depth, no interior development, including roads. I don't think I'm in favor of limiting total lot size for building purposes, as long as the other requirements are met.
I want to make sure everyone with any care about the future of Butler take a stroll behind Mr Bedard's camp on the north west corner, at your earliest convenience. It's probably trespassing, but up the road on the north of his building, he has a fairly substantial land fill accumulating. Its grown at an alarming rate over the years and I'm sure many of the things are leaking toxins like fuel and oil. His property is on/in a wetlands area and he is one of those people who are above all rules and regulations. He's rearranged his shoreline with heavy equipment and taken down large old trees within the restricted shoreline area...
So, my additional concern is the importance of gentle and appropriate use of the land. Hopefully this is something the Town can help clarify, regulate and enforce. The Town was made aware of this situation this past fall and has seen pictures of Mr Bedard's land fill area. And don't you need special permits for a land fill?
And parking! This alone could be cause for secession. We pay gold town tax rates, the same as non-shoreline No Hero residents, but get no school, police, fire, public works or any other benefits. We do enjoy town office secretarial services which are heavier than they should be because we all feel the tax burden on Butler Islanders is totally out of line and unfair, so we complain alot. We NEED a place to park and it's not negotiable. Hero's Welcome should not subsidize our parking and neither should the State of Vermont, at the fishing accesses or on their roadways. I feel the Historical Society is way out of line with their directive. I'm patiently awaiting their reconsideration of this issue. I hope they don't force us to challenge them on this.
Happy Hew Year to everyone, Tina.
Steve and I have read the news about the possible North Hero zoning changes affecting parking.
We are selling our property located on Lapan Bay Road, off Maquam Shore Road, St. Albans Town, with a 50-foot trailer. The deed includes lake access to Jimmy’s Rock in Lapan Bay as well as Sand Beach and Gravely Point on the island. It is also close to Tylee’s marina as well.
Steve and I would welcome all inquiries for people who might be interested in the Lapan Bay area by either calling 802-524-6404.
I’m not aware of any commercial operations on Butler Island at this time, but have heard that a so called “environmental camp” is being considered. The rumored idea is to conduct environmental tours for children on the Island. While I like the idea of educating all children (and adults) about environmental topics effecting Butler Island, I think the State has three islands, Burton, Woods & Knights, where this activity could be conducted. I believe the Off Island Zoning District restricts commercial activities. I think the introduction of more people hiking throughout the Island, even children, would have an increased negative impact. I would hope that North Hero would consider this a commercial activity (noble as it may be) and to rule it an inappropriate activity for Butler Island. I would hope that North Hero will continue to restrict any commercial activity on the Island.
Addendum to MaureLa2's comment above re Lapan Bay property with trailer.
This comment is from Fred and Steve Hopkins.
Steve Payne checking in. Happy holidays and thanks to Barry for setting this up and everyone who's taking the time to participate. In a nutshell, with many property issues at play here, if we're going to ask for something by the January meeting, I think it needs to be simple and focussed and have the most protective impact for the island and the least impact on those who own inland property who have good intentions and if pushed too hard, will block any preservation moves. (ie, might want to build a camp for their kids, etc.) I agree with:
1) a 200' shoreline minimum for any new lot
2) a restriction of ability to build any type of road or vehicle access of any kind beyond a 400' setback from the low water mark.
3) any building beyond the 400' line would require a minimum of 10 acres of contiguous property and to meet all State wetland, deer yard, etc. requirements.
This would allow people who already own property to build a camp accessed by foot that is on non-wetland land but would discourage most aggressive developers from doing much with any inland property. Most of the south end of the island has wetland at or near their back property lines so the wetland regs should protect those areas without a 400' building set back requirement. For those on the north end who legitimately may want their families to be able to build a new camp some day (Gayle may be one of these) I feel having a 400' and beyond moritorium may be too much of an intrusion into their rights as property owners. If they can only apply for a permit for each 10 acres and no roads can be built beyond 400', I suspect the kind of mass development we fear will be prohibited. We're collecting a few more signatures on the petition Dave emailed us. My only other thought is we need to keep all the other issues (as important as they are) out of the central preservation discussion, or we'll never get to a clear consensus in time. Thanks. Steve
Hi, This is Dylan and Jessica Cardwell weighing in. We are probably the newest to the Island and thought our perspective may be helpful since it may represent what a "new-comer" and "prospective buyer" values.
We agree with:
1) a 200' shoreline minimum for any new lot.
2) a restriction of ability to build any type of road or vehicle access of any kind beyond a 400' setback from the low water mark.
3) any building beyond the 400' line would require a minimum of 10 acres of contiguous property and to meet all State wetland, deer yard, etc. requirements.
We would also suggest considering a zoning change from allowing "PUDs" to "PUDs Exclusively for Residential Use". While it might not matter with the other suggested zoning changes, PUDs do allow for non-residential activities like lodges, inns, hotels, restaurants, retail stores, recreational facilities, and educational facilities. PUDs Exclusively for Residential Use would restrict those non-residential activities. We would prefer to not have commercial establishments on the island.
We value the island's balance of community, nature, and remoteness. That is what makes Butler Island so rare and appealing to us. We hope that balance can be maintained.
Dylan and Jessica Cardwell
I agree with Steve Payne.
Mike and Wendy Lyons here, first Happy New Year!
Barry, thanks to you for your time and concern to construct this blog.
Modifying existing zoning laws is a difficult and complex subject. The only way to reach a solution space is with a healthy community effort.
We agree with most of the current proposed revisions:
1.) Minimum of 200' frontage
2.) Maximum building setback of 400' from low water mark though we'd much prefer that to be 300' or 200'.
3.) We understand the desire for some level of motorized vehicles due to the proximity of camps to perspective docks and aging visitors. Our concern would be limiting the space they can operate in an protection against potential beach/bank erosion.
I bought an acre lot in '93 so in that sense, I know my perspective will be different than others with large land holdings. I respect other's opinions and want only to express mine.
The main draw outside of family, was BI's remoteness, beauty, peace and serenity. If at the time I had had the opportunity to buy a larger track of land, I would have to extend and protect these qualities I value.
Of the other land owners I have spent time with, I believe all value these same qualities. My investment was in these qualities, not it's monetary value. I wanted a place to recharge my soul with each visit and hopefully (unless NH taxes me into oblivion) pass it onto my kids to do the same.
Hi all Debi Westover here. Hello neighbors, thank you Barry for creating this blog and for all your time spent to help me stimulate individual and cooperative efforts for the preservation of Butler Island. "Gentle and appropriate use of the land" (well said Tina) is the aim here for Butler Island's future.
As Steve Payne has pointed out the Jan 14th meeting is coming up fast and as important as all the other issues are we need to stick to the main issue of protecting our wildlife communities and to preserve the character of our environment through out new zoning perspectives that we are starting unify.
I'm hoping that more people will respond so we are able to represent a larger voice to petition the DRB with ideas that we have created for a more functioning island zoning procedure.
Anyone who is for change please get your signature on the petition with either Barry Hickok- barry@bhickok.com or Dave Bray davidlisa@yahoo.com. This is just so we as a political population can begin the process to proceed forward.
A good point that Barry had was to call for a moratorium on subdivisions for as long as a couple of years so we can study this and get our feet under us and get more people involved. I'd like to hear some thought out there on this because we could bring this to the first meeting.
I believe with earnestness and perseverance our magical world will be preserved.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT:
The Lake Champlain Land Trust could be considered for purchasing particular interior properties (such as behind Sand Beach) for preservation of established habitat and wildlife corridors. The individual or family would donate not the whole property but a conservation easement on their land. This easement will permanently limit development and preserve the property's conservation values. The land will still remain in the private hands as open space. The benefit to this arrangement are scenic open space and conserved wildlife habitat. The property would be sold with the easement to the next landowner.
The way the tax structure is now the more land you own as opposed to how much lake frontage you have depends on how much you pay.
"Some sacrifice will be required by many who own alot of island interior but sometimes the greater good is just more important" (Steve Payne)
For more info www.lclt.org (Lake Champlain Land Trust) or call Chris Boget @ (802) 862-4150
Happy New Year
Debi
Correction: Quote was by Steve Feldman not Steve Payne.
Hi there, Peg Z here
There is a meeting with the North Hero Historical Society to address the parking issue on Saturday, Jan 26 at 9 a.m. Meeting will be held at the Chamber of Commerce on Route 2, just south of Hero's Welcome. I'll be there, and a few other folks too. Will post as soon as I can once we have heard the plan from the Historical Society. P
The "Land Trust" idea proposed by Debi is a win-win for everyone. Those who have large parcels and lean towards "land-use" restrictions can exercise their rights and limit future development on "their" parcel through the Land Trust...... Those who have a legal right to develop their land on Butler Island should be able to do so without needing a popular vote of the neighbors. This is a fair, logical and proper way to go at this point to avoid potential litigation which will not be in the best interest of anyone....
The only "long term solution" is to develop a land use plan for Butler Island with the input of "all" of the land owners. This is doable but requires time, effort, and input from everyone and cannot be a 2 week -- shoot from the hip --- planning initiative. I would estimate that a proper land use proposal for Butler Island would be a 3-4 year planning cycle at best...
Hello, Barry here:
I agree that careful thought must go into the process of Land Planning and Use. There are in existance right now many models of what we are talking about. The process may very well take three to four years. Is the previous contributer proposing a "moratorium"? Or a land rush? I think that any project of this type will leave some feathers ruffled BUT the issues must be brought into the sunlight and discussed.
First, amoung the landholders(i.e.this blog,we did our best to contact everyone) and then, with the town authorities. This initial process is only the very first baby step.
On January 14'th,before the NHero Planning Commision, we will present your concerns and all contributions to this blog will be represented as best they can be. It is an open meeting,everyone is welcome.
Hi all. First off thank you to all those Butler Island neighbors who have been involved with spearheading the efforts to voice the concerns we have as a community to the North Hero DRB. While we haven't been property owners on BI as long as some of you, Bonnie and I have owned our litte slice of paradise since 1982. In that time we have seen a significant amount of new development on Butler and there are still many existing building lots that haven't been developed yet. Collectively we have already infringed on the wildlife habitat and the fragile ecosystem. So in that respect we would like to see something done to curb the growth and are in favor of the change in zoning to 200' minimum frontage for any new subdivision considerations.
Our other concern is that marina space and parking becomes more of an issue with each passing year. Hero's Welcome in North Hero and Butler Island Marina in St. Albans are the two main marinas that are used by BI residents and they are both maxed out. In most instances any new camps built means one more boat and at least one more car that needs a place to park on the mainland. It is beyond outrageous that the Town of North Hero were so unbelievable inconsiderate in taking away the designated parking for BI residents. It was the only meager perk we had as taxpayers. We all complain from time to time on how little the town does for us for our tax money and now they truly do nothing. We are fortunate to moor our boat in Lapans Bay and don't have the dilemma that many of you now face reagarding a place to park. We feel bad for those of you that rely on North Hero for parking and hope that some resolution can happen before spring.
Keith and Bonnie Conchieri
Hi folks,
As the meeting approaches I've been thinking over the many thoughtful comments by BI people on this blog and it seems to me that the one thing there is pretty much univeral agreement on is asking for a minimum 200' of frontage for any new lots. I understand that being granted a moratorium is possible but I think it highly unlikely when exposed to public scrutiny. I also worry that if we don't at least go for the 200' minimum, subdivisions will go on unabated while we spend the next few years working on all of this. There is significant danger in not facing the fact that we need at least a minimum change NOW. As far as the LC Land Trust goes that is a great outfit with a lot of experience but they work with private landowners and anyone can contact them at anytime unrelated to any public zoning work we are doing. In short, if we go to the town asking for a moratorium I think we'll be turned down. If we ask for too much or things that are too controversial, nothing will change. Asking for at least the 200' rule change would be a major, simple, clear step in the right direction while many other potential changes are investigated.
Thanks everyone.
Steve Payne
First off, thanks to Barry and others who have made this page possible and have contributed thoughful comments. I wanted to offer my two cents. I fully support the efforts to change the minimum frontage and to establish a maximum set back. I like the distances offered by Steve Feldman. I also think that crreating a restricition for the ability to build roads is an excellent idea. I understand that there may be the need for limited motorized vehicle use on any given property but I think it would greatly alter the character of the island if a road network was established. If the interior of the island was allowed to be developed it would require the need for roads. As many folks have indicated, this would greatly effect the wildlife habitat. And once this habitat is altered it is very difficult if not impossible to get back. I also support the idea to contact the Land trust to see if they can help us provide funds to conserve the unique undeveloped lands on the island. Butler Island is such a special place. Thanks for the opportunity to comment.
Chuck Schwer
2/12/08 Hello Butler Islanders:
Last night Debi and Barry attended a Development Review Board meeting at which the issues of sub-division on BI were the topic.It was determined that John Lambert, the chair,should approach the Select Board to sound them out on a possible moratorium(on sub-division) while we have the state Community Ecologist conduct an ecological survey in late June '08. That should reveal to us what, if anything, is environmentally at risk out there.
Barry will be attending the next week's SB meeting but to see what is going on with the parking situation, which is also still unresolved.
Hopefully we can settle these issues and get down to summer relaxation,our real mission.
Barry
Below is an excerpt from the 2/18/2008 North Hero Select Board Meeting where Barry Hickok discussed parking with them.
Barry, thank you for your attendance at the meeting. It's more difficult for some of us farther away to attend, so I appreciate your attendance.
You can get all the Select Board Minutes at:
http://www.northherovt.com/selectbrdmins.htm
but here's the relevant part...
"Barry Hickok - Butler Island: Barry shared that he thought that the Selectboard were going to meet with Butler Island people who have a concern about the Town providing a parking area for them due to the sale of the Town Hall.
The Board shared that they expected Butler Island folks at the February 04, 2008, however, no one attended. Discussion took place as to possible future locations, Butler
Island folk seeking out to North Hero Island residents to see if
someone would allow them to access to Butler Island from their property.
It was the understanding of those attending the original meeting at the Chamber of Commerce, that the Butler Island group would
meet as a group to collectively come up with a plan.
Discussion….. i.e. future parking area for the village….
Walter Blasberg to talk with Bob Camp…. Butler Island folks leasing land.. parking at the Chamber, etc.
The site of Knights Point was shared with Barry…. It was noted that this is a time for creative thinking to be put into place
i.e. dealing with private property owners, Catholic Church property, etc. "
Barry, did you have any comments about how it went? Did the Select Board seem sympathetic or concerned or interested in addressing the issue? Are any of the ideas mentioned better or worse?
Hi, Barry here, actually no, I did not get the idea that the Select Board was sympathetic. In fact, quite the opposite. We (Butlerites) will have to solve this problem ourselves by good old fashioned neighborlyness.
The most desireable parking exists at Hero's Welcome and Walt has been in touch with Mr Bob Camp, the owner,and that option seems most likely to happen although there is no agreement at this time. Walt is working with Steve Feldman and Peg Zilinsky to close some kind of parking arrangement in currently unused space on the Hero's Welcome lot, yes,Hero's has it.
The other State park idea has flaws in the ground transportation/or water distance element.
The Chamber idea is limited by available space.
Contacting local landowners is simply too complicated but might serve some of the needy, and it also seems rather competitive amoung BI parkers.
The Town plan for future development is at least a couple of years away but looks great on paper. It also seems to involve several local social componants, any of which could hold it up or ditch it altogether.
The Catholic church is at best temporary since it is presently for sale at $345,000., I think.
The Court house is afraid of terrorists.
At this time Walt is working with Bob Camp and if Hero's Welcome can't be brought to fruitition we WILL be hurting and have to work the other less desireable ideas. So, keep your fingers crossed and have confidence in good old fashioned neighborlyness(with a small commercial touch).
I missed the first Tuesday meeting because it was not clear to me what the Select Board meeting schedule was. There exists just too little land in NHero, and to make it worse the open land out behind the town (westerly)is owned by a family trust that doesn't want anything to change.
That is it for now, if you have any more questions I'll do my best to answer them, but information is still tentative.
Northland Boat has a lot of field space.....don't know if that is an option but somebody might want to talk with Paul Clark to see if there is something temporary that can be arranged in terms of an individual monthly parking rate.
4/15/08 Barry here:
We finally got the word that we can park behind Hero's Welcome,on the South side of the Marine Store.
Walt B. did the trail blazing work to open this up and deserves a big THANK YOU.
Now,... the cost is $100.00 for the season and the space is at this point fuzzy but will be clarified as things get more organized.It looks bigger than the old parking behind the Town Hall.
Go to the store and talk to Bob, Pauline, or Paul for instructions.
We can also park in the Chamber of Commerce lot or either of the State lots if you don't want to pay or if there is overflow.
There will be a work project the 17'th of May to clean up any debris that the snow reveals so PLEASE volunteer.
The zoning project is still up in the air but looking like something will happen.
ANNOUNCEMENT!!!
In case you haven't heard there will be a "clean-up" at Hero's Welcome Saturday May 17'th to enhance the new parking area. Anyone who can contribute a few hours should ARRIVE at about 08:30 and if you have a pick-up truck there will be some travel to the dump, which is taking about anything that day. Bob Camp will provide a brush hog and a pick-up too. Also there will be the opportunity to sign in for parking behind the store for the upcoming season.
I'll be there. Barry
Barry
Hello, Barry here,
Monday night I attended the NHero Select Board meeting and was delighted that they declared a six month moratorium on sub-division for Butler Island. This will be in conjunction with an ecological study to identify "significant natural and fragile areas" as per 24VSA 4302 para. 5&6.
This study will be conducted by Eric Sorensen state "cummunity ecologist" and possibly other experts from the state and private sector. It is scheduled for the end of June. We will be receiving a notice and permission document from the Town to allow access to private properties and removal of samples if necessary. Please return this promptly so the study can be done in time for public meetings this summer.
The parking area cleanup went very well with Barb deLima,Paul Comey, Sharon and Mark Sperber,Walt Blasberg, myself, and Paul Letourneau (from Hero's Welcome) putting in a few hours to pick up glass, cut brush, move large heavy docks, mow and take about 3or 4 pickup loads to the dump. Spaces are available and convenient to the docks for $100.00 this season.
There will be room for trailers.
If you have questions or concerns you can leave an entry here or contact me directly at: Butler@bhickok.com
Happy boating 2008!
Hi, Everyone. This is Tina Haase.
Thanks for all the hours being put in by Barry and others on the subdivision and parking issues. It's great of Bob Camp to make a lot available for BI resident parking and $100.00/season seems very fair. But as tax paying North Hero residents, shouldn't we get SOMETHING for our tax money? Paying an extra $100.00 every season to park our cars, to use our taxed land seems totally unfair. And the burden shouldn't be on Bob Camp or the State of VT ( at the fishing access). Any comments?
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