The bill H.42 proposes the establishment of a new Housing Board of Appeals in Vermont, which will be responsible for hearing appeals related to municipal zoning decisions concerning housing projects. The Board will consist of three members with expertise in land use law or housing development, including at least one attorney and one professional engineer or land surveyor. Members will be appointed by the Supreme Court for five-year terms, with provisions for removal and compensation similar to that of Superior Court Judges. The Board will have the authority to hear appeals, administer oaths, and compel witness attendance, with a filing fee of $250 for appeals.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws to clarify that appeals related to housing zoning decisions will be directed to the new Board rather than the Environmental Division or Superior Court. It establishes a process for filing appeals, including timelines for hearings and decisions, and allows for appeals to the Supreme Court from decisions made by the Housing Board of Appeals. The bill also creates new positions within the Board and appropriates $600,000 for its establishment and operational costs, with an effective date set for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 10-8503, 10-8504, 10-8505