BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) – At the Burlington city council meeting on Monday night, an overdue project to save Burlington’s harbor was approved, councilors weighed in on Vermont State Police in the Queen City, and a new parks director was approved.
Councilors agreed that a dredging project needed to happen in order for Burlington to have successful boating seasons in the future, but there was more discourse on the topic of public safety and the state police’s role in the city.
Burlington’s harbor master says removing built-up sediment and debris in the lake should happen every 10-15 years. It’s been 25 years since it was last done in this area of Lake Champlain. The buildup, coupled with the drought, lessened lake levels and available slip space.
Now, the city will request bids and select a contractor. They’re hoping to finish the project before next summer.
Mayor Emma Mulvaney-Stanak appointed Phil Lewis as the city’s new director of parks, recreation & the waterfront.
“It really is a passion of mine connecting people to the natural environment, being a steward of the public land and making sure we’re providing inclusive experiences to all members of our community,” said Lewis.
City councilors also commended Governor Scott’s deployment of Vermont State Police, who are patrolling the area around church street. Councilor Evan Litwin hopes this is just the beginning of enforcement efforts, but Councilor Melo Grant worries about the effectiveness.
“Some of the individuals that are in the park are not technically doing anything illegal. It is not going to be the trooper’s job to push people out of the park,” said Grant.
The next city council meeting is Monday, November 17th.
Copyright 2025 WCAX. All rights reserved.
