The work on Burlington Forward continues

Neighbors,

Last night, after hours of public comment and debate, the Burlington City Council voted to send the Burlington Forward resolution to committees for further public review and improvement.

This was not a final vote on every proposal in the resolution. It was a decision to continue the work rather than end the conversation.

In the days leading up to the meeting, hundreds of residents used BBF’s advocacy tools to send more than 2,500 emails to City Council. You asked Councilors to keep this process moving while taking the time to listen, review the details, and strengthen the resolution.

Thank you for speaking up.

The committee process now gives Councilors, City staff, service providers, community members, and the Mayor’s administration an opportunity to examine the resolution carefully, address legitimate concerns, and develop policies that can produce better outcomes. In the coming days and weeks, BBF will work with service providers and residents to propose and advocate for amendments to this resolution.

Last night also made clear how deeply people care about these issues. Residents shared serious concerns about homelessness, substance use, public safety, harm reduction, enforcement, and the future of our public spaces. It is important that Burlington continues to find ways to include the diversity of experiences and perspectives - beyond public forum on a Monday night in August. One of the most encouraging outcomes of last night was that Burlington can both care deeply for people experiencing hardship and expect our public places to be safe, welcoming, and shared by everyone.

As we heard from the mayor and both major parties on council, compassion and accountability are not competing goals. Burlington needs an approach that helps people connect to shelter, treatment, recovery, housing, and long-term stability, and ensures our public spaces are safe, accessible, and welcoming for everyone.

City employees and community partners are already working hard to address these challenges. The committee process gives Burlington an opportunity to build on that work and strengthen an approach rooted in both compassion and safety.

We will continue following this process closely and keep residents informed. We will support thoughtful improvements, advocate for greater State and regional partnership, and share opportunities for residents to participate as the work continues.

Thank you again for making your voice heard.

Sam