Montpelier State Reps Lead Charge to Convert State Properties into Affordable Housing
Montpelier, Vermont, a town grappling with a housing shortage, is on the brink of a potential game-changer. State representatives Conor Casey and Kate McCann have introduced a bill, H.50, aimed at repurposing state-owned properties into affordable housing units. This innovative initiative comes at a critical time for the community, as Montpelier continues to recover from the dual impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and devastating floods.
The pressing need for affordable housing in Montpelier is palpable, as echoed by Rep. Casey’s sentiment that “we need hope in Montpelier.” The town has been through a series of challenges, from decreased foot traffic due to the pandemic to a reduction in housing stock following the floods. The bill seeks to address these issues by directing the Department of Buildings and General Services to identify state buildings and lands suitable for conversion into affordable housing.
A Personal Connection to the Issue
Rep. McCann and Rep. Casey, the driving forces behind this bill, have a personal connection to the housing crisis in Montpelier. While on the campaign trail in 2022, they knocked on doors and engaged with constituents, discovering that housing and homelessness were the top concerns among residents. This firsthand experience underscores the urgency of the situation and the critical need for action.
Montpelier’s Housing Dilemma
The lack of affordable housing in Montpelier not only contributes to homelessness but also hinders in-town mobility and affects the local economy. With a shortage of housing stock, the town struggles to attract new residents, employees, and families. The bill aims to address these challenges by repurposing vacant state buildings and plots of land, potentially revitalizing the downtown area and boosting the local economy.
Expert Insights and Challenges Ahead
As the bill progresses through the legislative process, experts like Joshua Jerome, Montpelier’s Community and Economic Development Specialist, are already anticipating the potential wins and challenges that lie ahead. Jerome highlights the importance of assessing the adaptive reuse of existing buildings, acknowledging that retrofitting structures to meet residential standards can be a costly endeavor. Despite these challenges, there is optimism about the bill’s potential to activate underutilized assets in Montpelier and provide much-needed affordable housing solutions.
Looking Forward
While the bill, H.50, is in its early stages and has been referred to the House Committee on Corrections and Institutions, its impact could be far-reaching. By converting state properties into affordable housing units, Montpelier has the opportunity to address its housing crisis, attract new residents, and stimulate economic growth. The community’s collective effort to tackle this pressing issue is a testament to the resilience and determination of Montpelier residents in the face of adversity.
The potential benefits of this bill extend beyond addressing the immediate housing needs of Montpelier. By repurposing state properties into affordable housing units, the town has the opportunity to create a more inclusive and vibrant community for current and future residents. As this transformative initiative unfolds, Montpelier is poised to emerge stronger and more resilient, setting a positive example for other communities facing similar challenges.
The bill, H.50, has been referred to the House Committee on Corrections and Institutions. To track the progress of the bill and access additional information, visit legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.50. This story is part of The Bridge’s ongoing series on solutions to the housing crisis in Vermont, highlighting innovative approaches and community-driven initiatives to address the pressing issue of affordable housing.
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