Church Street Marketplace Commission Urges Governor Scott for Increased State Support in Burlington
The Church Street Marketplace Commission in Burlington, Vermont, has formally requested additional state support from Governor Phil Scott to address growing challenges in the downtown area. The commission, which oversees operational policies for the marketplace and includes local business representatives, sent a letter outlining several key actions. These requests include continued Vermont State Police patrols in Burlington, state funding for a year-round low-barrier emergency shelter, the reinstatement of the Community Accountability Court, and a comprehensive plan to expand mental health services. The appeal comes as downtown businesses express concerns about public safety, homelessness, substance use, and unmet mental health needs, with some businesses reportedly facing potential closure within months due to these issues. Burlington Mayor Emma Mulvaney-Stanak has voiced support for several of the commission's requests, particularly regarding the emergency shelter and mental health services, emphasizing ...