MINUTES

TOWN OF VERMONT PLAN COMMISSION MEETING

MAY 2, 2006

The meeting was called to order by Mark Sherven at 7:30 p.m. for the purpose of working on the Town of Vermont Comprehensive Plan. Marian Swoboda reported the meeting notice had been posted at the Black Earth State Bank, Amcore Bank in Mt. Horeb, on the front door of the Town Hall and on the town web site www.townofvermont.com.

Members present: Mark Sherven, Marian Swoboda, Donald McKay, Marc Robertson, Barbara Grenlie, and Jim Elleson. Members absent: Bruce Ellerson

Mark Sherven introduced Neil Dixon, a graduate student at the University of Wisconsin-Madison specializing in Urban Regional Planning. He was referred by David Stanfield as a potential intern working with the commission on the new land use plan. He presented a proposal on how he might work with the commission. He will be available from May through Mid-September on a 200-hour unpaid internship and after that time for a modest fee. He would propose to work on demographic projections, research on transfer development rights, and helping to draft the plan itself. Neil's proposal was accepted and he was given several assignments for the next special meeting on June 5, 2006.

It was proposed that the history of land use in the town be incorporated into the Plan Purpose section. Marian Swoboda will gather pertinent material. The importance of maintaining consistency between the Land Use Plan and the ordinances was recognized. Neil volunteered to write up a brief demographic history of the town. He also suggested a more complete definition section which should be moved to the front of the plan. He would also obtain any plans the county might have on transportation corridors. The process for adding and accepting new roads when residents petition the town will also be researched by Neil.

A fifth assumption about the future was added to address the impact of rising energy costs on the town's population. Ways of approching the subject of ridgetop building was discussed. Three alternatives were suggested: through the ordinances, through the land use plan or through educational efforts. Mark Sherven asked Marian Swoboda to draft a paper on the subject for consideration at the meeting on June 5.

Motion was made by Barbara Grenlie seconded by Marc Robertson and carried that the meeting be adjourned.

The meeting was adjourned at 10:20 p.m.

Marian Swoboda, Commission Secretary