II. Free Curbside Christmas Tree Pick Up – Tuesday, Jan 13th @ 7 am!
III. Operation Snow Shovel Needs Volunteers!
IV. Save the Date for CEDO’s Annual Martin Luther King Day of Service & Celebration
IV. The Climate Action Project Update: Recommendations and feedback welcomed & encouraged!
V. .Neighborhood Planning Assembly Survey – There is still time!
VI. Bicycling and Walking Advocacy Groups to Merge: Singular Group Will Provide Stronger Voice on Local Projects
VII. Vacation Planning – Crime Prevention Message from your Burlington Police Department
VIII. Statement & Invitation to the Community – Community Policing Re-Assessment Process Meeting Information
IX. 4th Annual Holiday Dinner for Seniors
X. Save for Retirement – Save for Your Child’s Education – And Still Get Food Stamps!
XI. FREE Lead Dust and Soil Sampling
XII. BURLINGTON WINTER FARMERS MARKET
XIII. City Positions Available
XIV. Neighborhood Calendar
* * * * * * NEIGHBORHOOD BUZZ * * * * * * * *
I. WINTER BUSINESS FAIR
The Small Business Administration and The Community and Economic Development Office invite you to attend the Winter Business Fair on January 15, 2009 from 10 A.M. to 2 P.M.
Come to Contois Auditorium in City Hall and get answers to your questions about starting or maintaining a business. Whether it is business planning, borrowing money, marketing or assistance with energy efficiency, this business fair will have it all; in one place for one day, on January 15!
Three free workshops will be held during the Winter Business Fair. Workshops will include: *Commercial Lending from 10 – 10:45AM *Starting Your Own Business with Steve Densham of VT Small Business Development Center and Jerry Johnson of SCORE.
*Energy Efficiency for Your Commercial Space with Chris Burns of Burlington Electric
The workshops will have limited seating, so reserving a space is suggested. Call 802-865-7187 or email mailto:jadamskollitz@ci.burlington.vt.us or contact Vallerie Morse of SBA at:
II. Free Curbside Christmas Tree Pick Up – Tuesday, Jan 13th @ 7 am!
Turn your tree into fuel for the McNeil Generating Plant!
Trees must be curbside at 7am Only completely bare trees will be collected – no tinsel or decorations No wreaths or garlands Questions? Call 863-9094Let me know if you need anything else.
The City of Burlington is pleased to announce the return of Operation Snow Shovel, a referral program that connects residents who need help shoveling with volunteers who are willing to help them out. Assistance is available for Burlington residents who need snow shoveled from their walkways this winter.
This program is offered to only those people who are unable to pay for this assistance, and/or who are physically unable to shovel themselves.
Volunteers are matched with a person in need of shoveling who lives in a location convenient to them. Volunteers commit to shoveling the walk leading up to the front door of their match’s residence within 24-48 hours of each snowfall, when it snows over three inches. Operations Snow Shovel volunteers ensure that the most vulnerable of our citizens who cannot remove snow from their own walkways can get out and otherwise remain independent. It is a great and simple way to give back this winter. At present there are many people waiting to be matched up in the New North End of Burlington, so if you live in that neighborhood, please consider signing up to volunteer.
To volunteer or if you are interested in receiving this service please call 865-7548 or email Abby Knapp at aknapp@ci.burlington.vt.us.
IV. Save the Date for CEDO’s Annual Martin Luther King Day of Service & Celebration
Burlington, Vt, December 17, 2008– The Community and Economic Development Office (CEDO) AmeriCorps*VISTA Team will host the Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service & Celebration on Monday, January 19, 2009. CEDO cordially invites community members to join us as we honor Dr. King with inspirational speakers, community projects at area non-profits and enjoy a free community dinner and celebration for all. Event organizers are also seeking service project sites, and businesses to sponsor the evening’s community meal by providing cash or in-kind donations. This is a growing tradition calling Martin Luther King Day to be a “day on, not a day off” for Burlington residents.
On Monday, January 19, the King federal holiday, family, friends, community members and fellow VISTAs will gather from 12pm until 7pm to honor the life and teachings of one of our country’s greatest civil rights activists, Dr. King. The day will open with at City Hall’s Contois Auditorium, 149 Church St., Burlington where fellow community members will choose service projects and spend the afternoon helping at various sites. Participation in these service activities help celebrate and commemorate the life of service led by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. All ages are welcome; feel free to stay for a few hours or the whole day! Participants should contact Annie Reinhart for more information at 701-430-9430 or areinhart@ci.burlington.vt.us.
Earlier this month, the Presidential Inaugural Committee announced that President-elect Obama and Vice President-elect Biden and their families will participate in service on the King Holiday in the Washington, D.C. area. We also anticipate that the President-elect will urge Americans to serve on the King Holiday. This involvement from President-elect Obama, which continues a tradition started by former President Clinton and continued by President Bush, will add significant momentum to what was already shaping up to be the largest King Day ever. We urge Vermonters to spend the day in service and community in honor of a man that spent his whole life serving others.
“Everyone can be great, because everyone can serve.” Martin Luther King Jr.
The tentative schedule for Monday January 19 is:
1:00pm Sign Ups for Community Service Projects, please wear suitable work attire
Contois Auditorium, Burlington City Hall
1:30 – 4:30 Community Service Projects, at sites around Burlington and neighboring communities
5 pm Keynote speaker- Oliver Barkley, local activist and comedian
Contois Auditorium, Burlington City Hall
6 – 7 pm Free Community Dinner and Celebration, with Urban Flava Step Team and Very Merry Theatre Contois Auditorium, Burlington City Hall
A list of community service projects will be finalized and distributed shortly. Sign-ups for projects will take place in the Contois Auditorium at 1pm.
Last year’s project sites included:
The Turning Point Center of Chittenden County
Vermont Refugee Resettlement Program
ECHO Lake & Aquarium
Winooski Family Center
VEIC Change a light Winooski
VEIC Change a light Burlington
VNA Family Room
Flyering in Burlington Neighborhoods
Operation Snow Shovel
Bike Recycle Vermont
Welcome Baby Program
Riverside Housing Area
Franklin Square Apartments
Humane Society of Chittenden County
Joseph’s House
C.O.T.S.
The service project will be one of hundreds of activities held in states and cities nationwide to honor the legacy of Dr. King. In 1994, Congress passed the King Holiday and Service Act, directing the King Center and the Corporation for National and Community Service to carry out a day of service reflecting Dr. King’s life and teachings. Please join this commemoration of Dr. King’s Life and Legacy in Burlington.
CEDO’s Center for Community and Neighborhoods (C-CAN) is home to a broad spectrum of programs that improve our city through community participation and citizen action. CCAN works to engage residents in partnership with the public and private sector. We work together to shape municipal plans, allocate resources, respond to crime, resolve conflict, and improve neighborhoods. Each year over 4,000 citizens are involved in innovative activities from study circles on racism to neighborhood planning and problem solving, from graffiti removal to restorative justice panels, and in a variety of community improvement projects.
IV. The Climate Action Project Update: Recommendations and feedback welcomed & encouraged!
The Climate Action Plan update team – composed of dozens of residents, business leaders, non-profit representatives, city staff and others – wants to hear from you! Since September, this team of 8 working groups has collected over a 100 ideas and recommendations on how to reduce the City’s greenhouse gas emissions.
Please take a moment to review this initial work and weigh in with your own ideas, feedback or recommendations by visiting http://www.cedo.ci.burlington.vt.us/legacy/cap.html . The success of the final product depends on broad citizen input and participation – so thank you for your time and input!
For additional information on the Climate Action Plan, please contact Sandrine Thibault, Comprehensive City Planner, at sthibault@ci.burlington.vt.us (tel: 865-7193), or Jennifer Green, co-coordinator of the Burlington Legacy Project at jgreen@ci.burlington.vt.us (tel: 865-7532).
V. Neighborhood Planning Assembly Survey – There is still time!
Burlington’s Neighborhood Planning Assemblies are looking for help from you! Please take 5 minutes to complete this Neighborhood PLanning Assembly Report Card:
VI. Bicycling and Walking Advocacy Groups to Merge: Singular Group Will Provide Stronger Voice on Local Projects
Walking and biking advocates in Burlington will soon be able to offer a stronger, unified voice on Burlington projects. Beginning in 2009, the Burlington Bicycle Council (BBC) and Burlington Walking Work Group (BWWG) will merge into a single walking/bicycling advisory council.
A kick-off celebration will be held Monday, January 12, 5:00 p.m. in the Firehouse Center for the Visual Arts, downtown Burlington. The group – so new they have yet to determine their official name – will promote walking and bicycling in city and regional transportation projects; make recommendations on bicycle and pedestrian-related policies, programs and plans; promote safety for all transportation modes; and encourage public input on bicycle and pedestrian issues.
There is wide support among members of the two groups for the merger. A shared sentiment is that a combined bicycle/pedestrian advisory council will offer a stronger, unified voice on city projects that could potentially affect walking and bicycling. The recent “No Biking on Sidewalks” stencil project on downtown sidewalks is an example of a completed collaborative project. The merged group will also continue providing comments on local plans, such as the Burlington Transportation Plan.
The merged group will continue to enjoy broad support from agencies and organizations such as the City of Burlington, Local Motion, AARP Vermont, Burlington’s Community & Economic Development Office, Campus Area Transportation Management Association, Vermont Department of Health, and Chittenden County Metropolitan Planning Organization.
Meetings will be held the second Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at the Center for Community and Neighborhoods (CCAN) offices at 125 College Street, 2nd floor and food will be provided. The new advisory council will also have an elected steering committee to lead programs and projects, but everyone who attends the open meetings will have a vote in matters, similar to Burlington’s Neighborhood Planning Assemblies.
The BBC was established by the Mayor’s office in 1990 when the Department of Public Works was directed to identify and create a comprehensive system of bike lanes and routes. The ad hoc BWWG grew out of the 2006 Pedestrian Summit calling for more focus on the City’s walking environment.
VII. Vacation Planning – Crime Prevention Message from your Burlington Police Department
Planning a trip for vacation, business or other is often stressful. So many details need to be addressed prior to travel. Thinking about crime prevention usually isn’t a priority, but when your away for an extended period of time, your home is even more vulnerable to crime. Dark windows, driveway not plowed, lawn not mowed, absent vehicles in the driveway, trash left at curbside, a build up of mail or newspapers all advertise your absence to a potential burglar. In today’s world, we must now also consider what we post on the internet. Be careful not to post too many details regarding your departure and return plans when asking for house sitter referrals, car sharing, etc. For other crime prevention tips, please visit the Burlington Police Department website at www.bpdvt.org
VIII. Statement & Invitation to the Community – Community Policing Re-Assessment Process Meeting Information
The Burlington Police Department has provided law enforcement services to the Queen City since 1865. Since 1999 we have operated using community policing as our primary methodology. Described succinctly, community policing is a model of community safety in which all members of a community play a role in ensuring a safe, healthy, and self-reliant city.
The role of the police department, in addition to providing emergency response and criminal investigation (key parts of traditional policing), is to foster and facilitate community engagement and partnerships, and to be a foundational player in problem solving initiatives community-wide.
As we approach 2009 and the ten-year anniversary of our contemporary community policing efforts, we believe it is time to assess what strategies have been successful, which require improvement, and what lies ahead for Burlington’s community policing efforts. To that end, with the assistance of an Advisory Board made up of seven representatives from around the City, we have designed a community engagement process that will be deployed in January and February of 2009.
The primary goals of this process are three-fold. First, we hope to have an opportunity to discuss the future of policing with a sizable number of Burlington residents and businesses. Next, working from a list of ideas about future partnerships, initiatives, and programs we seek to gain the community’s assistance in refining and prioritizing these ideas. Finally, working from the discussions and the ideas we present, we will solicit new ideas from throughout the Burlington community.
To obtain meaningful feedback during this process, we will use a variety of strategies, including public forums, focus groups, and surveys. Meetings are to be held:
With the help of Champlain Valley Agency on Aging, Burlington Parks & Rec, Burlington Food Service and lots of local businesses and volunteers, we’re planning a FREE ham dinner for both delivery and a sitdown dinner on Christmas Day at 1:00 p.m. at Burlington High School so that senior citizens won’t be alone for the holiday. We’re hoping to deliver and serve 250 dinners and hand out that many giftbags.
There’s free transportation, too!
If you’d like to help out, please spread the word to seniors that you may know in your neighborhood. Folks can call the Champlain Valley Agency on Aging at 865-0360 to reserve a meal.
To donate to the giftbags, here’s the list of things we still need—-we’re really looking for basics in a tough year (PLEASE, NO
candles or sugar candy):
> Small giftbags
> Scotch tape
> Food items: peanut butter, canned soups, canned fruits or vegetables, tuna, meals in a can, packages of peanut butter and crackers, granola bars, etc.
> Toiletries: toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap, kleenex, hand lotion, etc.
> Socks
> Hats
> Gloves
> Scarves
> Fleece blankets
> Sugar-free candy
> Crossword puzzle books
> Magazines
> Stationery
> Handmade cards with non-denominational “Happy Holidays” themes
> Simple decorations for the tables—it would be nice if they were a generic theme of “Winter”
> $10 giftcards for such things as CCTA bus passes, local grocery
> stores, businesses that seniors frequent, etc.
Thank you for making someone else’s holiday nicer!!
X. Save for Retirement – Save for Your Child’s Education – And Still Get Food Stamps!
Food Stamp Rules Have Changed
In the past many people could not get food stamps because they had too much savings. Now you can have retirement and education savings accounts and still get the help you need, even if you have been denied before.
The Food Stamp Program is an important federal nutrition program that helps make sure people have enough food to be active and healthy. Households that participate can also receive other benefits like free school meals for your children and phone bill assistance!
For a food stamp application, call 1-800-287-0589 or visit www.vermontfoodhelp.com. For help with your application, dial 2-1-1, free from anywhere in Vermont, and ask to be connected to your nearest Community Action Agency.
If you are a senior, call the Senior Helpline at 1-800-642-5119.
Imagine a free service where a technician came to your home and tested for the presence of toxic lead paint dust so that you got a clear picture about the safety of your home.
FREE Lead Dust and Soil Sampling is now available through the City of Burlington’s Lead Program to all Burlington residents. This free service will help parents keep their children safe from lead poisoning by making sure you are aware of potential lead hazards.
Burlington has over 10,000 housing units with lead-based paint hazards. Take advantage of this FREE testing to keep your children safe from the life-long health, social and behavioral problems associated with lead poisoning.
For more information, or to set up an appointment please call Burlington Lead Program at 802-846-0149 or 865-LEAD (5323).
Burlington Winter Farmers’ Market will be held the third Saturday of each month all winter, December through April (December 20, January 17, February 21, March 21, and April 18).
Fresh eggs, cheeses, wines, maple syrup, veggies and much, much more, straight from local farmers, artists, and bakers. A great place to shop for the Thanksgiving meal or get a start on holiday shopping.
Burlington Happenings
I. WINTER BUSINESS FAIR
II. Free Curbside Christmas Tree Pick Up – Tuesday, Jan 13th @ 7 am!
III. Operation Snow Shovel Needs Volunteers!
IV. Save the Date for CEDO’s Annual Martin Luther King Day of Service & Celebration
IV. The Climate Action Project Update: Recommendations and feedback welcomed & encouraged!
V. .Neighborhood Planning Assembly Survey – There is still time!
VI. Bicycling and Walking Advocacy Groups to Merge: Singular Group Will Provide Stronger Voice on Local Projects
VII. Vacation Planning – Crime Prevention Message from your Burlington Police Department
VIII. Statement & Invitation to the Community – Community Policing Re-Assessment Process Meeting Information
IX. 4th Annual Holiday Dinner for Seniors
X. Save for Retirement – Save for Your Child’s Education – And Still Get Food Stamps!
XI. FREE Lead Dust and Soil Sampling
XII. BURLINGTON WINTER FARMERS MARKET
XIII. City Positions Available
XIV. Neighborhood Calendar
* * * * * * NEIGHBORHOOD BUZZ * * * * * * * *
I. WINTER BUSINESS FAIR
The Small Business Administration and The Community and Economic Development Office invite you to attend the Winter Business Fair on January 15, 2009 from 10 A.M. to 2 P.M.
Come to Contois Auditorium in City Hall and get answers to your questions about starting or maintaining a business. Whether it is business planning, borrowing money, marketing or assistance with energy efficiency, this business fair will have it all; in one place for one day, on January 15!
Three free workshops will be held during the Winter Business Fair. Workshops will include: *Commercial Lending from 10 – 10:45AM *Starting Your Own Business with Steve Densham of VT Small Business Development Center and Jerry Johnson of SCORE.
*Energy Efficiency for Your Commercial Space with Chris Burns of Burlington Electric
The workshops will have limited seating, so reserving a space is suggested. Call 802-865-7187 or email mailto:jadamskollitz@ci.burlington.vt.us or contact Vallerie Morse of SBA at:
802-828-4422 x211 or Vallerie.Morse@sba.gov
/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\
II. Free Curbside Christmas Tree Pick Up – Tuesday, Jan 13th @ 7 am!
Turn your tree into fuel for the McNeil Generating Plant!
Trees must be curbside at 7am Only completely bare trees will be collected – no tinsel or decorations No wreaths or garlands Questions? Call 863-9094Let me know if you need anything else.
/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\
III. Operation Snow Shovel Needs Volunteers!
The City of Burlington is pleased to announce the return of Operation Snow Shovel, a referral program that connects residents who need help shoveling with volunteers who are willing to help them out. Assistance is available for Burlington residents who need snow shoveled from their walkways this winter.
This program is offered to only those people who are unable to pay for this assistance, and/or who are physically unable to shovel themselves.
Volunteers are matched with a person in need of shoveling who lives in a location convenient to them. Volunteers commit to shoveling the walk leading up to the front door of their match’s residence within 24-48 hours of each snowfall, when it snows over three inches. Operations Snow Shovel volunteers ensure that the most vulnerable of our citizens who cannot remove snow from their own walkways can get out and otherwise remain independent. It is a great and simple way to give back this winter. At present there are many people waiting to be matched up in the New North End of Burlington, so if you live in that neighborhood, please consider signing up to volunteer.
To volunteer or if you are interested in receiving this service please call 865-7548 or email Abby Knapp at aknapp@ci.burlington.vt.us.
/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\
IV. Save the Date for CEDO’s Annual Martin Luther King Day of Service & Celebration
Burlington, Vt, December 17, 2008– The Community and Economic Development Office (CEDO) AmeriCorps*VISTA Team will host the Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service & Celebration on Monday, January 19, 2009. CEDO cordially invites community members to join us as we honor Dr. King with inspirational speakers, community projects at area non-profits and enjoy a free community dinner and celebration for all. Event organizers are also seeking service project sites, and businesses to sponsor the evening’s community meal by providing cash or in-kind donations. This is a growing tradition calling Martin Luther King Day to be a “day on, not a day off” for Burlington residents.
On Monday, January 19, the King federal holiday, family, friends, community members and fellow VISTAs will gather from 12pm until 7pm to honor the life and teachings of one of our country’s greatest civil rights activists, Dr. King. The day will open with at City Hall’s Contois Auditorium, 149 Church St., Burlington where fellow community members will choose service projects and spend the afternoon helping at various sites. Participation in these service activities help celebrate and commemorate the life of service led by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. All ages are welcome; feel free to stay for a few hours or the whole day! Participants should contact Annie Reinhart for more information at 701-430-9430 or areinhart@ci.burlington.vt.us.
Earlier this month, the Presidential Inaugural Committee announced that President-elect Obama and Vice President-elect Biden and their families will participate in service on the King Holiday in the Washington, D.C. area. We also anticipate that the President-elect will urge Americans to serve on the King Holiday. This involvement from President-elect Obama, which continues a tradition started by former President Clinton and continued by President Bush, will add significant momentum to what was already shaping up to be the largest King Day ever. We urge Vermonters to spend the day in service and community in honor of a man that spent his whole life serving others.
“Everyone can be great, because everyone can serve.” Martin Luther King Jr.
The tentative schedule for Monday January 19 is:
1:00pm Sign Ups for Community Service Projects, please wear suitable work attire
Contois Auditorium, Burlington City Hall
1:30 – 4:30 Community Service Projects, at sites around Burlington and neighboring communities
5 pm Keynote speaker- Oliver Barkley, local activist and comedian
Contois Auditorium, Burlington City Hall
6 – 7 pm Free Community Dinner and Celebration, with Urban Flava Step Team and Very Merry Theatre Contois Auditorium, Burlington City Hall
A list of community service projects will be finalized and distributed shortly. Sign-ups for projects will take place in the Contois Auditorium at 1pm.
Last year’s project sites included:
The Turning Point Center of Chittenden County
Vermont Refugee Resettlement Program
ECHO Lake & Aquarium
Winooski Family Center
VEIC Change a light Winooski
VEIC Change a light Burlington
VNA Family Room
Flyering in Burlington Neighborhoods
Operation Snow Shovel
Bike Recycle Vermont
Welcome Baby Program
Riverside Housing Area
Franklin Square Apartments
Humane Society of Chittenden County
Joseph’s House
C.O.T.S.
The service project will be one of hundreds of activities held in states and cities nationwide to honor the legacy of Dr. King. In 1994, Congress passed the King Holiday and Service Act, directing the King Center and the Corporation for National and Community Service to carry out a day of service reflecting Dr. King’s life and teachings. Please join this commemoration of Dr. King’s Life and Legacy in Burlington.
CEDO’s Center for Community and Neighborhoods (C-CAN) is home to a broad spectrum of programs that improve our city through community participation and citizen action. CCAN works to engage residents in partnership with the public and private sector. We work together to shape municipal plans, allocate resources, respond to crime, resolve conflict, and improve neighborhoods. Each year over 4,000 citizens are involved in innovative activities from study circles on racism to neighborhood planning and problem solving, from graffiti removal to restorative justice panels, and in a variety of community improvement projects.
/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\
IV. The Climate Action Project Update: Recommendations and feedback welcomed & encouraged!
The Climate Action Plan update team – composed of dozens of residents, business leaders, non-profit representatives, city staff and others – wants to hear from you! Since September, this team of 8 working groups has collected over a 100 ideas and recommendations on how to reduce the City’s greenhouse gas emissions.
Please take a moment to review this initial work and weigh in with your own ideas, feedback or recommendations by visiting http://www.cedo.ci.burlington.vt.us/legacy/cap.html . The success of the final product depends on broad citizen input and participation – so thank you for your time and input!
For additional information on the Climate Action Plan, please contact Sandrine Thibault, Comprehensive City Planner, at sthibault@ci.burlington.vt.us (tel: 865-7193), or Jennifer Green, co-coordinator of the Burlington Legacy Project at jgreen@ci.burlington.vt.us (tel: 865-7532).
/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\
V. Neighborhood Planning Assembly Survey – There is still time!
Burlington’s Neighborhood Planning Assemblies are looking for help from you! Please take 5 minutes to complete this Neighborhood PLanning Assembly Report Card:
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=PwTNBtkSkp3ZHYDdFDt42g_3d_3d
Thanks,
Your NPA Steering Committees, Staff and City Council
/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\
VI. Bicycling and Walking Advocacy Groups to Merge: Singular Group Will Provide Stronger Voice on Local Projects
Walking and biking advocates in Burlington will soon be able to offer a stronger, unified voice on Burlington projects. Beginning in 2009, the Burlington Bicycle Council (BBC) and Burlington Walking Work Group (BWWG) will merge into a single walking/bicycling advisory council.
A kick-off celebration will be held Monday, January 12, 5:00 p.m. in the Firehouse Center for the Visual Arts, downtown Burlington. The group – so new they have yet to determine their official name – will promote walking and bicycling in city and regional transportation projects; make recommendations on bicycle and pedestrian-related policies, programs and plans; promote safety for all transportation modes; and encourage public input on bicycle and pedestrian issues.
There is wide support among members of the two groups for the merger. A shared sentiment is that a combined bicycle/pedestrian advisory council will offer a stronger, unified voice on city projects that could potentially affect walking and bicycling. The recent “No Biking on Sidewalks” stencil project on downtown sidewalks is an example of a completed collaborative project. The merged group will also continue providing comments on local plans, such as the Burlington Transportation Plan.
The merged group will continue to enjoy broad support from agencies and organizations such as the City of Burlington, Local Motion, AARP Vermont, Burlington’s Community & Economic Development Office, Campus Area Transportation Management Association, Vermont Department of Health, and Chittenden County Metropolitan Planning Organization.
Meetings will be held the second Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at the Center for Community and Neighborhoods (CCAN) offices at 125 College Street, 2nd floor and food will be provided. The new advisory council will also have an elected steering committee to lead programs and projects, but everyone who attends the open meetings will have a vote in matters, similar to Burlington’s Neighborhood Planning Assemblies.
The BBC was established by the Mayor’s office in 1990 when the Department of Public Works was directed to identify and create a comprehensive system of bike lanes and routes. The ad hoc BWWG grew out of the 2006 Pedestrian Summit calling for more focus on the City’s walking environment.
/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\
VII. Vacation Planning – Crime Prevention Message from your Burlington Police Department
Planning a trip for vacation, business or other is often stressful. So many details need to be addressed prior to travel. Thinking about crime prevention usually isn’t a priority, but when your away for an extended period of time, your home is even more vulnerable to crime. Dark windows, driveway not plowed, lawn not mowed, absent vehicles in the driveway, trash left at curbside, a build up of mail or newspapers all advertise your absence to a potential burglar. In today’s world, we must now also consider what we post on the internet. Be careful not to post too many details regarding your departure and return plans when asking for house sitter referrals, car sharing, etc. For other crime prevention tips, please visit the Burlington Police Department website at www.bpdvt.org
/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\
VIII. Statement & Invitation to the Community – Community Policing Re-Assessment Process Meeting Information
The Burlington Police Department has provided law enforcement services to the Queen City since 1865. Since 1999 we have operated using community policing as our primary methodology. Described succinctly, community policing is a model of community safety in which all members of a community play a role in ensuring a safe, healthy, and self-reliant city.
The role of the police department, in addition to providing emergency response and criminal investigation (key parts of traditional policing), is to foster and facilitate community engagement and partnerships, and to be a foundational player in problem solving initiatives community-wide.
As we approach 2009 and the ten-year anniversary of our contemporary community policing efforts, we believe it is time to assess what strategies have been successful, which require improvement, and what lies ahead for Burlington’s community policing efforts. To that end, with the assistance of an Advisory Board made up of seven representatives from around the City, we have designed a community engagement process that will be deployed in January and February of 2009.
The primary goals of this process are three-fold. First, we hope to have an opportunity to discuss the future of policing with a sizable number of Burlington residents and businesses. Next, working from a list of ideas about future partnerships, initiatives, and programs we seek to gain the community’s assistance in refining and prioritizing these ideas. Finally, working from the discussions and the ideas we present, we will solicit new ideas from throughout the Burlington community.
To obtain meaningful feedback during this process, we will use a variety of strategies, including public forums, focus groups, and surveys. Meetings are to be held:
January 19 at 6pm
Burlington Police Department
1North Avenue
(Central location)
January 28 at 6pm
Greek Orthodox Church
600 South Willard Street
(South location)
February 2 at 6pm
Heineburg Senior Center
Heineburg Road
(North location)
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IX. 4th Annual Holiday Dinner for Seniors
With the help of Champlain Valley Agency on Aging, Burlington Parks & Rec, Burlington Food Service and lots of local businesses and volunteers, we’re planning a FREE ham dinner for both delivery and a sitdown dinner on Christmas Day at 1:00 p.m. at Burlington High School so that senior citizens won’t be alone for the holiday. We’re hoping to deliver and serve 250 dinners and hand out that many giftbags.
There’s free transportation, too!
If you’d like to help out, please spread the word to seniors that you may know in your neighborhood. Folks can call the Champlain Valley Agency on Aging at 865-0360 to reserve a meal.
To donate to the giftbags, here’s the list of things we still need—-we’re really looking for basics in a tough year (PLEASE, NO
candles or sugar candy):
> Small giftbags
> Scotch tape
> Food items: peanut butter, canned soups, canned fruits or vegetables, tuna, meals in a can, packages of peanut butter and crackers, granola bars, etc.
> Toiletries: toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap, kleenex, hand lotion, etc.
> Socks
> Hats
> Gloves
> Scarves
> Fleece blankets
> Sugar-free candy
> Crossword puzzle books
> Magazines
> Stationery
> Handmade cards with non-denominational “Happy Holidays” themes
> Simple decorations for the tables—it would be nice if they were a generic theme of “Winter”
> $10 giftcards for such things as CCTA bus passes, local grocery
> stores, businesses that seniors frequent, etc.
Thank you for making someone else’s holiday nicer!!
Happy Holidays!
Cheers,
Megan
864-7528
meganh@sover.net
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X. Save for Retirement – Save for Your Child’s Education – And Still Get Food Stamps!
Food Stamp Rules Have Changed
In the past many people could not get food stamps because they had too much savings. Now you can have retirement and education savings accounts and still get the help you need, even if you have been denied before.
The Food Stamp Program is an important federal nutrition program that helps make sure people have enough food to be active and healthy. Households that participate can also receive other benefits like free school meals for your children and phone bill assistance!
For a food stamp application, call 1-800-287-0589 or visit www.vermontfoodhelp.com. For help with your application, dial 2-1-1, free from anywhere in Vermont, and ask to be connected to your nearest Community Action Agency.
If you are a senior, call the Senior Helpline at 1-800-642-5119.
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XI. FREE Lead Dust and Soil Sampling
Imagine a free service where a technician came to your home and tested for the presence of toxic lead paint dust so that you got a clear picture about the safety of your home.
FREE Lead Dust and Soil Sampling is now available through the City of Burlington’s Lead Program to all Burlington residents. This free service will help parents keep their children safe from lead poisoning by making sure you are aware of potential lead hazards.
Burlington has over 10,000 housing units with lead-based paint hazards. Take advantage of this FREE testing to keep your children safe from the life-long health, social and behavioral problems associated with lead poisoning.
For more information, or to set up an appointment please call Burlington Lead Program at 802-846-0149 or 865-LEAD (5323).
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XII. BURLINGTON WINTER FARMERS MARKET
Burlington Winter Farmers’ Market will be held the third Saturday of each month all winter, December through April (December 20, January 17, February 21, March 21, and April 18).
Fresh eggs, cheeses, wines, maple syrup, veggies and much, much more, straight from local farmers, artists, and bakers. A great place to shop for the Thanksgiving meal or get a start on holiday shopping.
For more information www.burlingtonfarmersmarket.org or info@burlingtonfarmersmarket.org.
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XIII. City Positions Available
Open
Burlington Electric Department
Distribution Engineer
Full Time
$57,390/yr – $94,083/yr
DOE
Open
Burlington Electric Department
Senior Distribution Engineer
Full Time
$62,475/yr – $102,418/yr
DOE
Open
Burlington Police Department
Application & Technology Support Specialist
Full Time
$37,772/yr – $42,029/yr
DOE
Open
Burlington Police Department
Police Officer**
Full Time
$41,503.00 – $49,269.00/yr
DOE
For more information about these and other positions with the City of Burlington, visit: http://www.hrjobs.ci.burlington.vt.us/joblist.html
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XIV. Neighborhood Calendar
Monday, December 29
-Special Meeting of the Board of Airport Commissioners
-To discuss: Airport Parking Garage Project
-4:00p.m., Burlington International Airport
-Special Meeting of the Board of Finance
-To discuss: Business Matters of the City
-5:00p.m., Conference Room 12, 1st floor of City Hall
-Special Meeting of the Planning Commission Joint Institutional Development Committee
-To discuss: Champlain College Zoning Requests and Future Meeting Dates
-6:30p.m., Conference Room 12, 1st floor of City Hall
For more information, please visit http://www.ci.burlington.vt.us/events/