Church Street Marketplace Commission
Regular MeetingBurlington, VT · May 20, 2026
Minutes
CHURCH STREET MARKETPLACE DISTRICT COMMISSION
May 20, 2026
9:00 AM
Location: City Hall, Sharon Bushor Conference Room, 149 Church St., Burlington, VT
Attendance:
Commissioners: Mark Bouchett, Becky Holt, Linda Magoon, Erik Monsen, Romeo von Hermann, and
Sarah Beal (Zoom), Chris Haessly (arrived at 9:09 am), Cara Tobin (Zoom, arrived at 9:15 am)
Staff: Samantha McGinnis – CSM Director, Aida Washburn – Project & Event Coordinator, Andrew
Bacher – CSM Coordinator, Kara Alnasrawi – CEDO Director, Jackie Esperti – Division Director for Parking
& Traffic, Jessica Dudley – Marketing Director, Isa Parades – Marketing Coordinator
COME TO ORDER
a. Meeting is brought to order at 9:04am
I. APPROVE AGENDA
a. Motion to approve – Romeo
i. Seconded – Becky Holt
b. Vote to approve agenda
i. Agenda approved unanimously
II. APPROVE MINUTES
a. Motion to approve – Romeo Von Herman
i. Seconded – Becky Holt
b. Vote to approve minutes
i. Minutes approved unanimously
III. PUBLIC FORUM – GENERAL
a. Councilor Grant spoke about the OPC Location Resolution.
b. Jeff Nick – Spoke about the OPC Location Resolution.
c. Llyndara Harbour – Spoke about business community struggles and OPC Location
Resolution.
d. Lara Allen – Spoke about OPC Location Resolution.
e. Chris Haessly – Spoke on behalf of the Ward 3 neighborhood planning assembly’s resolution
regarding the OPC Location Resolution.
f. Andrew LeStourgeon – Spoke about the OPC Location Resolution.
g. Public forum closed at 9:26 am
IV. COMMISSIONER UPDATES
a. Chris Haessly – Recognizes David Melincoff for reopening Sweetwater’s. Recognizes national
wait staff day is Thursday, May 21. Recognizes Lt Gov Rogers event in Contois Auditorium at
6:30 pm that evening.
V. FY 27 DID District Fees
b. Parking Director Jackie Esperti presents on downtown parking fees and updates for the
upcoming fiscal year.
c. Motion to accept the DID tax recommendation: Linda Magoon
a. Second: Becky Holt
d. Vote on Motion
a. Motion Approved Unanimously
VI. Mathew’s Montreal’s Famous Food Cart Menu Change
a. Mathew Panetta and Jared Carter present on proposed food cart menu and management
change.
b. Motion to accept the menu change: Erik Monsen
a. Second: Chris Haessly
c. Vote
a. Motion Approved Unanimously
VII. Overdose Prevention Center Location Resolution
a. Motion To adopt the resolution: Erik Monsen
a. Second: Romeo Von Hermann
b. Discussion ensues regarding the resolution language.
c. Motion to amend the resolution to include new language: Chris Haessly
a. Second: Romeo Von Hermann
d. Discussion ensues on the proposed new language
e. Friendly amendment to swap “establishment” for “development”: Chris Haessly
f. Vote to adopt the amended language suggested by Chris Haessly as follows:
“NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that as appointed representatives of both the businesses
on the Church Street Marketplace and members of the broader Burlington community, the
Church Street Marketplace Commission has serious concerns and would like to be proactively
consulted on and collaboratively contribute to the exploration, development and future
oversight of any potential downtown location for an Overdose Prevention Center or other
similar service providers.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Church Street Marketplace Commission is presently opposed
to the establishment of an Overdose Prevention Center within the downtown core or the
Central Business District, without the prior development of social, medical, housing, and other
related support services.”
a. All in favor
g. Motion by Romeo Van Herman to amend the language of the resolution as follows:
To remove the sentence “without the prior development of social, medical, housing, and other
related support services.”
a. Second: Chris Haessly
h. Discussion ensues on the new proposed language
i. Vote on the amendment Proposed by Romeo Von Hermann:
a. In Favor: Romeo von Hermann, Linda Magoon
b. Opposed: Mark Bouchett, Becky Holt, Erik Monsen, Sarah Beal, Cara Tobin
c. Abstain: Chris Haessly
d. Motion fails
j. Vote to adopt the amended the language suggested by Chris Haessly:
a. In favor: Sarah Beal, Mark Bouchett, Chris Haessly, Becky Holt, Linda Magoon, Erik
Monsen, Cara Tobin, Romeo Von Herman
b. Motion passes
k. Vote to adopt the resolution as amended:
a. In favor: Sarah Beal, Mark Bouchett, Chris Haessly, Becky Holt, Linda Magoon, Erik
Monsen, Cara Tobin, Romeo Von Herman
b. Motion Passes
c. Amended Resolution Exhibit A
IIX. Reports
a. Treasurer’s Report
a. < 90% of all revenues for cafes, CAFs and interdepartmental transfers are accounted for
b. Revenue continues to be below the original goal due to lack of fund raising and
sponsorship dollars
c. Expenses remain well managed and below budget to offset reduced revenues
b. Director’s Report
a. State grant awarded to purchase new bollards for the street
b. Main Street Accreditation awarded to the Church Street Marketplace
c. Mayor Virtual Town Hall meeting went well according to anecdotal reports from
businesses
d. New stores on the marketplace: Project Vintage, Amberli, Pop-up Bagels, Sabah’s House
e. Closed store: Quarterstaff games (moved to another downtown location)
f. Programs and events: Una Passaggiata, Downtown Jazz, Helly Hansen Windows,
Burlington Watches Together, BHS parade, Party on the Bricks, Summer in the City,
Main Street Celebration, BTV Market
c. Chair Report
a. Mark spoke with multiple businesses regarding the OPC Location Resolution.
b. The engine of optimism for Burlington is revving up and starting to move the needle in
the right direction
c. Visitors are saying great things, need to remind the locals of Church Street’s appeal
IX. Executive Session
a. Motion to Enter Executive Session: Chris Haessly
a. Second: Linda Magoon
b. Vote to enter executive session
a. Vote passes unanimously
c. Discussion of director’s performance
X. Adjournment
d. Meeting adjourned at 11 am
Next Meeting: Wednesday, June 17,2026 at 9 am in City Hall, Sharon Bushor Conference Room, 149
Church Street, 05401.
Exhibit A
Resolution Relating to RESOLUTION_____
THE LOCATION OF THE PROPOSED Sponsor(s): Haessly, Monsen
OVERDOSE PREVENTION CENTER Date: May 20, 2026
CHURCH STREET MARKETPLACE COMMISSION
In the year Two-Thousand Twenty-Five……………………………………………………………………
Resolved by the Church Street Marketplace Commission, as follows:
1 WHEREAS, there are a number of individuals currently living within the City of Burlington who
2 are struggling with an untreated substance use disorder; and
3 WHEREAS, a number of service providers for individuals struggling with substance use disorder
4 are located in or within close proximity to downtown Burlington; and
5 WHEREAS, the accumulation of syringe litter has created a public health and safety issue that
6 has been identified as a major problem for city residents and business alike; and
7 WHEREAS, downtown residents and businesses have been adversely impacted by the behaviors
8 of individuals struggling with substance use disorder; and
9 WHEREAS, the public use and consumption of illegal drugs and narcotics has contributed to
10 negative perceptions about downtown Burlington; and
11 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that as appointed representatives of both the
12 businesses on the Church Street Marketplace and members of the broader Burlington community, the
13 Church Street Marketplace Commission has serious concerns and would like to be proactively consulted
14 on and collaboratively contribute to the exploration, development and future oversight of any potential
15 downtown location for an Overdose Prevention Center, or other social service provider that could
16 substantially impact the downtown business climate.
17 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Church Street Marketplace Commission is presently
18 opposed to the establishment of an Overdose Prevention Center within the downtown core or the Central
19 Business District, which may contribute to a further increase in open drug use and crime, without the
20 prior establishment of social, medical, housing, and other related support services.
Agenda
Church Street Marketplace Commission
Wednesday, May 20, 2026, 9:00 AM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room (bottom floor or
City Hall) 149 Church Street, Burlington, VT 05401
PLEASE NOTE:
This meeting is will be held on zoom and in-person in the Sharon Bushor Conference Room in City Hall.
Zoom Info: https://zoom.us/j/6798652576
1. Adopt the Agenda
Subject 1.1. Adopt the Agenda
Meeting May 20, 2026 - Church Street Marketplace Commission Agenda - Wednesday, May 20,
2026, 9:00 AM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room (bottom floor or City Hall) 149 Church
Street, Burlington, VT 05401
Category 1. Adopt the Agenda
Department Church St. Marketplace
Type Action
2. Adopt Minutes
Subject 2.1. Adopt Minutes
Meeting May 20, 2026 - Church Street Marketplace Commission Agenda - Wednesday, May 20,
2026, 9:00 AM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room (bottom floor or City Hall) 149 Church
Street, Burlington, VT 05401
Category 2. Adopt Minutes
Department Church St. Marketplace
Type Action
3. Public Forum
Subject 3.1. Verbal Comments
Meeting May 20, 2026 - Church Street Marketplace Commission Agenda - Wednesday, May 20,
2026, 9:00 AM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room (bottom floor or City Hall) 149 Church
Street, Burlington, VT 05401
Category 3. Public Forum
Department Church St. Marketplace
Type Discussion
4. Commissioner Items (5 Minutes Per Commissioner)
Subject 4.1. Commissioner Items
Meeting May 20, 2026 - Church Street Marketplace Commission Agenda - Wednesday, May 20,
2026, 9:00 AM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room (bottom floor or City Hall) 149 Church
Street, Burlington, VT 05401
Category 4. Commissioner Items (5 Minutes Per Commissioner)
Department
Type Discussion
5. FY 27 Downtown Improvement District Fees
Subject 5.1. Public Forum
Meeting May 20, 2026 - Church Street Marketplace Commission Agenda - Wednesday, May 20,
2026, 9:00 AM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room (bottom floor or City Hall) 149 Church
Street, Burlington, VT 05401
Category 5. FY 27 Downtown Improvement District Fees
Department Church St. Marketplace
Type
Recommended Action
Subject 5.2. Vote Anticipated
Meeting May 20, 2026 - Church Street Marketplace Commission Agenda - Wednesday, May 20,
2026, 9:00 AM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room (bottom floor or City Hall) 149 Church
Street, Burlington, VT 05401
Category 5. FY 27 Downtown Improvement District Fees
Department Church St. Marketplace
Type Action
Recommended Action
6. Mathew's Montreal's Famous Food Cart Menu Change
Subject 6.1. Vote Anticipated
Meeting May 20, 2026 - Church Street Marketplace Commission Agenda - Wednesday, May 20,
2026, 9:00 AM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room (bottom floor or City Hall) 149 Church
Street, Burlington, VT 05401
Category 6. Mathew's Montreal's Famous Food Cart Menu Change
Department Church St. Marketplace
Type
Recommended Action
7. Overdose Prevention Center Location Resolution
Subject 7.1. Vote Anticipated
Meeting May 20, 2026 - Church Street Marketplace Commission Agenda - Wednesday, May 20,
2026, 9:00 AM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room (bottom floor or City Hall) 149 Church
Street, Burlington, VT 05401
Category 7. Overdose Prevention Center Location Resolution
Department Church St. Marketplace
Type
Recommended Action
8. Reports
Subject 8.1. Treasurer's Report
Meeting May 20, 2026 - Church Street Marketplace Commission Agenda - Wednesday, May 20,
2026, 9:00 AM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room (bottom floor or City Hall) 149 Church
Street, Burlington, VT 05401
Category 8. Reports
Department Church St. Marketplace
Type Report
Subject 8.2. Director's Report
Meeting May 20, 2026 - Church Street Marketplace Commission Agenda - Wednesday, May 20,
2026, 9:00 AM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room (bottom floor or City Hall) 149 Church
Street, Burlington, VT 05401
Category 8. Reports
Department Church St. Marketplace
Type Report
Subject 8.3. Chair's Report
Meeting May 20, 2026 - Church Street Marketplace Commission Agenda - Wednesday, May 20,
2026, 9:00 AM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room (bottom floor or City Hall) 149 Church
Street, Burlington, VT 05401
Category 8. Reports
Department Church St. Marketplace
Type Report
9. Executive Session
Subject 9.1. Discussion of Director's Performance
Meeting May 20, 2026 - Church Street Marketplace Commission Agenda - Wednesday, May 20,
2026, 9:00 AM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room (bottom floor or City Hall) 149 Church
Street, Burlington, VT 05401
Category 9. Executive Session
Department Church St. Marketplace
Type
Recommended Action
10. Adjournment
Subject 10.1. Motion to adjourn
Meeting May 20, 2026 - Church Street Marketplace Commission Agenda - Wednesday, May 20,
2026, 9:00 AM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room (bottom floor or City Hall) 149 Church
Street, Burlington, VT 05401
Category 10. Adjournment
Department Council and Board
Type
Recommended Action
11. Informational and Non-Discrimination Statements
Subject 11.1. This agenda is available in alternative formats upon request. For more
information on access, call Lori Olberg, Licensing, Voting and Records
Coordinator (802-865-7136)(TTY 802-865-7142). Persons with disabilities who
require assistance or special arrangements to participate are encouraged to
contact 802-865-7000 (voice) or 802-865-7142 (TTY) at least 72 hours in
advance so that proper arrangements can be made. This meeting will also air
on Town Meeting TV the Wednesday after the meeting, starting at 8:00 pm and
repeating at 1:00 am and 7:00 am the following day. The City of Burlington will
not tolerate unlawful harassment or discrimination on the basis of political or
religious affiliation, race, color, national origin, place of birth, ancestry, age,
sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, veteran status,
disability, HIV positive status, crime victim status or genetic information.
Meeting May 20, 2026 - Church Street Marketplace Commission Agenda - Wednesday, May 20,
2026, 9:00 AM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room (bottom floor or City Hall) 149 Church
Street, Burlington, VT 05401
Category 11. Informational and Non-Discrimination Statements
Department Church St. Marketplace
Type Information
Packet
Church Street Marketplace Commission
Wednesday, May 20, 2026, 9:00 AM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room (bottom floor or
City Hall) 149 Church Street, Burlington, VT 05401
PLEASE NOTE:
This meeting is will be held on zoom and in-person in the Sharon Bushor Conference Room in City Hall.
Zoom Info: https://zoom.us/j/6798652576
1. Adopt the Agenda
Subject 1.1. Adopt the Agenda
Meeting May 20, 2026 - Church Street Marketplace Commission Agenda - Wednesday, May 20,
2026, 9:00 AM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room (bottom floor or City Hall) 149 Church
Street, Burlington, VT 05401
Category 1. Adopt the Agenda
Department Church St. Marketplace
Type Action
2. Adopt Minutes
Subject 2.1. Adopt Minutes
Meeting May 20, 2026 - Church Street Marketplace Commission Agenda - Wednesday, May 20,
2026, 9:00 AM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room (bottom floor or City Hall) 149 Church
Street, Burlington, VT 05401
Category 2. Adopt Minutes
Department Church St. Marketplace
Type Action
3. Public Forum
Subject 3.1. Verbal Comments
Meeting May 20, 2026 - Church Street Marketplace Commission Agenda - Wednesday, May 20,
2026, 9:00 AM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room (bottom floor or City Hall) 149 Church
Street, Burlington, VT 05401
Category 3. Public Forum
Page 1 of 24
Department Church St. Marketplace
Type Discussion
4. Commissioner Items (5 Minutes Per Commissioner)
Subject 4.1. Commissioner Items
Meeting May 20, 2026 - Church Street Marketplace Commission Agenda - Wednesday, May 20,
2026, 9:00 AM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room (bottom floor or City Hall) 149 Church
Street, Burlington, VT 05401
Category 4. Commissioner Items (5 Minutes Per Commissioner)
Department
Type Discussion
5. FY 27 Downtown Improvement District Fees
Subject 5.1. Public Forum
Meeting May 20, 2026 - Church Street Marketplace Commission Agenda - Wednesday, May 20,
2026, 9:00 AM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room (bottom floor or City Hall) 149 Church
Street, Burlington, VT 05401
Category 5. FY 27 Downtown Improvement District Fees
Department Church St. Marketplace
Type
Recommended Action
Subject 5.2. Vote Anticipated
Meeting May 20, 2026 - Church Street Marketplace Commission Agenda - Wednesday, May 20,
2026, 9:00 AM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room (bottom floor or City Hall) 149 Church
Street, Burlington, VT 05401
Category 5. FY 27 Downtown Improvement District Fees
Department Church St. Marketplace
Type Action
Recommended Action
6. Mathew's Montreal's Famous Food Cart Menu Change
Subject 6.1. Vote Anticipated
Meeting May 20, 2026 - Church Street Marketplace Commission Agenda - Wednesday, May 20,
2026, 9:00 AM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room (bottom floor or City Hall) 149 Church
Street, Burlington, VT 05401
Category 6. Mathew's Montreal's Famous Food Cart Menu Change
Department Church St. Marketplace
Page 2 of 24
Type
Recommended Action
7. Overdose Prevention Center Location Resolution
Subject 7.1. Vote Anticipated
Meeting May 20, 2026 - Church Street Marketplace Commission Agenda - Wednesday, May 20,
2026, 9:00 AM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room (bottom floor or City Hall) 149 Church
Street, Burlington, VT 05401
Category 7. Overdose Prevention Center Location Resolution
Department Church St. Marketplace
Type
Recommended Action
8. Reports
Subject 8.1. Treasurer's Report
Meeting May 20, 2026 - Church Street Marketplace Commission Agenda - Wednesday, May 20,
2026, 9:00 AM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room (bottom floor or City Hall) 149 Church
Street, Burlington, VT 05401
Category 8. Reports
Department Church St. Marketplace
Type Report
Subject 8.2. Director's Report
Meeting May 20, 2026 - Church Street Marketplace Commission Agenda - Wednesday, May 20,
2026, 9:00 AM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room (bottom floor or City Hall) 149 Church
Street, Burlington, VT 05401
Category 8. Reports
Department Church St. Marketplace
Type Report
Subject 8.3. Chair's Report
Meeting May 20, 2026 - Church Street Marketplace Commission Agenda - Wednesday, May 20,
2026, 9:00 AM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room (bottom floor or City Hall) 149 Church
Street, Burlington, VT 05401
Category 8. Reports
Department Church St. Marketplace
Type Report
9. Executive Session
Page 3 of 24
Subject 9.1. Discussion of Director's Performance
Meeting May 20, 2026 - Church Street Marketplace Commission Agenda - Wednesday, May 20,
2026, 9:00 AM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room (bottom floor or City Hall) 149 Church
Street, Burlington, VT 05401
Category 9. Executive Session
Department Church St. Marketplace
Type
Recommended Action
10. Adjournment
Subject 10.1. Motion to adjourn
Meeting May 20, 2026 - Church Street Marketplace Commission Agenda - Wednesday, May 20,
2026, 9:00 AM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room (bottom floor or City Hall) 149 Church
Street, Burlington, VT 05401
Category 10. Adjournment
Department Council and Board
Type
Recommended Action
11. Informational and Non-Discrimination Statements
Subject 11.1. This agenda is available in alternative formats upon request. For more
information on access, call Lori Olberg, Licensing, Voting and Records
Coordinator (802-865-7136)(TTY 802-865-7142). Persons with disabilities who
require assistance or special arrangements to participate are encouraged to
contact 802-865-7000 (voice) or 802-865-7142 (TTY) at least 72 hours in
advance so that proper arrangements can be made. This meeting will also air
on Town Meeting TV the Wednesday after the meeting, starting at 8:00 pm and
repeating at 1:00 am and 7:00 am the following day. The City of Burlington will
not tolerate unlawful harassment or discrimination on the basis of political or
religious affiliation, race, color, national origin, place of birth, ancestry, age,
sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, veteran status,
disability, HIV positive status, crime victim status or genetic information.
Meeting May 20, 2026 - Church Street Marketplace Commission Agenda - Wednesday, May 20,
2026, 9:00 AM, Sharon Bushor Conference Room (bottom floor or City Hall) 149 Church
Street, Burlington, VT 05401
Category 11. Informational and Non-Discrimination Statements
Department Church St. Marketplace
Type Information
Page 4 of 24
CHURCH STREET MARKETPLACE DISTRICT COMMISSION
March 18, 2026
9:00 AM
Location:
City Hall, Sharon Bushor Conference Room, 149 Church St., Burlington, VT
Attendance:
Commissioners: Mark Bouchett, Becky Holt, Linda Magoon, Erik Monsen, Romeo von Hermann, and
Cara Tobin (Zoom)
Staff: Samantha McGinnis – CSM Director, Jessica Dudley – Marketing Manager, Aida Washburn –
Project & Event Coordinator, Isa Parades – Marketing Coordinator (Zoom), Andrew Bacher – CSM
Coordinator, Kimberly Rojas – Community Engagement Coordinator, Kara Alnasrawi – CEDO Director
COME TO ORDER
a. Meeting is brought to order at 9:05am
I. APPROVE AGENDA
a. Motion to approve – Erik Monsen
i. Seconded – Becky Holt
b. Agenda approved unanimously
II. APPROVE MINUTES
a. Motion to approve – Becky Holt
i. Seconded – Romeo Von Hermann
b. Minutes approved unanimously
III. PUBLIC FORUM – GENERAL
a. No members of the public had comments for public forum
IV. COMMISSIONER UPDATES
a. Erik Monsen – Still working on OPC resolution
V. VOTE ON NEW TREASURER
a. Mark Bouchett nominates Romeo Von Hermann as new CSM Commission
Treasurer.
Page 5 of 24
b. Vote
i. All in favor of the appointment of Romeo Von Hermann.
VI. PARKING PRESENTATION
a. Presentation of proposed changes by Jackie Esperti.
b. Commissioners discussed pros and cons of recommended changes to:
i. Employee parking program
ii. Parking promotions
c. Director Samantha McGinnis will reach out to Merchants and downtown
businesses regarding proposed changes and opportunities with the parking
program ahead of the May meeting.
VII. BUDGET PRESENTATION
a. Presentation of the proposed changes to Common Area Fees by Samantha
McGinnis.
b. Motion to discuss recommended increase of 1% to Common Area Fees.
i. Motion put forward – Romeo Von Hermann
ii. Seconded – Becky Holt
c. Presentation of memo by Samantha McGinnis.
d. Commissioner discussion
e. Vote to adopt recommended increase of 1% to Common Area Fees.
i. Vote In Favor – Erik Monsen
ii. Vote Against – Mark Bouchett, Becky Holt, Linda Magoon, Romeo
von Hermann, and Cara Tobin
f. Motion Fails - Common Area Fee remains flat at $3.03
VIII. SIDEWALK CAFE FEES PRESENTATION
a. Presentation of the proposed changes to Sidewalk Cafe Fees by Samantha
McGinnis.
b. Motion to discuss 5% decrease in Sidewalk Cafe Fees.
i. Motion put forward – Becky Holt
ii. Seconded – Erik Monsen
c. Comments by CSM Merchants Tim Halvorson and David Melincoff on the
challenges in operating sidewalk cafes fees on the Marketplace.
d. Commissioner discussion
e. Motion to discuss the reduction of sidewalk cafe fees by 10%.
i. Motion put forward – Linda Magoon
Page 6 of 24
ii. Seconded – Romeo Von Hermann
f. Commissioner discussion
g. Vote on 10% Sidewalk Cafe Fee reduction
i. In Favor – Linda Magoon, Cara Tobin, Romeo Von Hermann
ii. Against – Mark Bouchett, Erik Monsen, Becky Holt
iii. Motion Fails with a tie.
h. Vote in favor of original 5% decrease in Sidewalk Cafe Fees
i. All commissioners in favor.
IX. CSM BUDGET FY27
a. Presentation of proposed FY27 budget for the Church Street Marketplace
by Samantha McGinnis.
b. Motion to adopt proposed FY27 budget, as proposed with the following
budget amendments, CAF stays flat and includes a 5% decrease in sidewalk
café fees to reduce buffer down to approximately $48,000.
i. Motion put forward – Romeo Von Hermann
ii. Seconded – Linda Magoon
iii. All commissioners vote in favor.
X. DIRECTOR’S REPORT
Samantha McGinnis reports that:
a. Maple Madness was a huge success – excellent merchant feedback
b. New system for newsletters plus new merchant newsletters and online
portal.
c. Samantha now has a monthly column in the Burlington Community
Newspaper
d. PlanBTV Community Open House on 4/30 at One Main Street
e. Director McGinnis will be out 4/22-5/1
XI. CHAIR’S REPORT
a. Shoutout to Director McGinnis for her work and leadership in Q1
ADJOURN
b. Motion to adjourn
i. Moved by Romeo Von Hermann
ii. Seconded by Becky Holt
c. Meeting is brought to close at 10:50 am
Page 7 of 24
Next Meeting: Wednesday, May 20, 2026 at 9 am in City Hall, Sharon Bushor Conference
Room, 149 Church Street, Burlington, VT.
Page 8 of 24
Downtown Parking
Update
MAY 15, 2026
Page 9 of 24
Marketplace Garage (MPG)
Date Total Revenue Total Transactions Average Length of Stay (minutes)
FY26 YTD $296,821 111,357 176
FY26 Estimated $345,140 129,485
FY25 $420,853 134233 180
FY24 $458,688 156879 189
FY23 184
*FY23 information not available due to parking infrastructure changes
Page 10 of 24
MPG
500000
450000
400000
350000
300000
250000
200000
150000
100000
50000
0
FY23 FY24 FY25 FY26 Estimated FY26 YTD
Total Revenue Total Transactions Average Length of Stay (minutes)
Page 11 of 24
Downtown Garage (DTG)
Date Total Revenue Total Transactions Average Length of Stay (minutes)
FY26 YTD $ 181,667 61,345 377
FY26 Estimated $ 211,240 71,331
FY25 $ 195,922 68,917 364
FY24 $ 212,965 61,713 434
FY23 509
*FY23 information not available due to parking infrastructure changes
Page 12 of 24
Page 13 of 24
FY25 DID Assessment Allocation
FY25 DID Assessment Allocation
Programs supported by the Downtown Improvement District
DID Tax Contribution Program Cost Future Estimated
Program
(Estimated) (Estimated)
% Subsidy Program Cost
2 Hours Free Parking
at the Downtown Garage
$114,995 125,336 92% $100,000
Free Employee Parking*
(Restaurant/Retail Only)
$0 $595,200 0% $500,000
Total $114,995 $720,536 15% 20%
*The "Free Employee Parking" program was expected to be financially sustainable based on increased revenues at the MPG with the removal of "2hrs Free." However, revenues
realized are running at about $200K (less than a third of expected based on pre-pandemic opportunity cost of "2 hrs Free") threaten the viability of the program, which is
estimated to cost ~$892,800. This graph shows an estimate of 2/3 this cost based on estimated usage.
Page 14 of 24
FY26 DID Assessment YTD
• Current Estimate of 2 hours Free Program at
DTG - $112,612
• Estimate at end of year - $130,944
• Current DID Tax contribution is unknown
Page 15 of 24
DID Rate – Requesting the same
Fiscal Year DID Amount Tax Rate
2026 TBD* $0.035/$100
2025 $114,995.00 $0.035/$100
2024 $102,991.68 $0.035/$100
2019 $302,043.53 $0.07/$100
*Fiscal Year 2026 DID amount has not yet been determined.
Page 16 of 24
Future
▪Employee parking program
▪ Have better usage information coming soon - possible change mid FY27
▪Budget is looking positive
▪Capital Repairs in the DTG South
▪Our garage maintenance team is INCREDIBLE!
▪ No Graffiti
▪ Stairwells open and clean
▪ Looking into murals
▪Vehicle Mounted Camera –Coming soon!
▪ Punch Card
Page 17 of 24
Downtown
Parking Update
Page 18 of 24
To: Church Street Marketplace Commission
From: Samantha McGinnis, Director
Date: May 15, 2026
Re: DID tax rate for fiscal year 2027
Background:
The Burlington Downtown Improvement District (DID) tax was formed in 1999 to fund two
hours of free parking. Through City Charter the Church Street Marketplace Commission must
annually recommend a downtown improvement district tax rate that shall not exceed $0.12. The
revenues of this tax must be utilized for the purpose of providing a parking program which shall
include no less than two hours free of parking for anyone parking in any designated municipally
or privately owned or operated parking garage or lot located within the downtown improvement
district.
In FY2020, the rate was $0.07/$100 but following the covid pandemic the rate was reduced by
the CSM Commission in FY21 to $0.035/$100. In FY 2025, the commission voted on the rate of
$0.035/$100 which generated $114,995.00 in revenue for the DID tax fund. This generated 92%
of the coverage for the 2-hour free parking program at the Downtown Garage which cost
$125,336.
The commission voted to leave the rate unchanged for FY 2026.
Recommended Action:
Staff recommends keeping the Downtown Improvement District tax rate unchanged for fiscal
year 2027 at $0.035/$100.
Page 19 of 24
To: Church Street Marketplace Commission
From: Andrew Bacher, Marketplace Coordinator
CC: Samantha McGinnis, Director
Date: May 15, 2026
Re: Mathew’s Montreal’s Famous Cart Menu Change
Background:
Earlier this year, Church Street staff launched the 2026 Church Street cart vendor program
application. The application was open from January 28 through February 22, 2026 at 11:59pm.
Mathew’s Montreal’s Famous Cart, a returning vendor from the 2025 season, reapplied with
their original menu which included gyros, falafel, rice bowls and poutine.
On Wednesday, May 6th, Mathew Panetta reached out to Marketplace Coordinator Andrew
Bacher and proposed a menu change for the upcoming 2026 season since he was unable to find
someone to operate his cart. He plans to partner with the Cuban Kitchen, a local Cuban catering
business, to manage the cart and serve food from The Cuban Kitchen’s menu. This change does
not raise concerns with the Church Street Cart Vendor non-compete clause as there are no brick-
and-mortar Cuban restaurants on Church Street.
Mathew Panetta and representatives from the Cuban Kitchen met with Marketplace staff on
Wednesday, May 13th to discuss their proposed menu and operating logistics. The Cuban
Kitchen is a fully licensed home caterer that will use Mathew Panetta’s fully licensed food cart to
prepare and serve Cuban style street food and beverages.
Recommended Action:
Staff recommends approving the menu change for Mathew’s Montreal’s Famous cart to allow
local business Cuban Kitchen’s menu which will add to the vibrancy and activation of the
Marketplace this season.
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To: Church Street Marketplace/CEDO
From: The Cuban Kitchen Food Cart (Matthew Panetta, Jared Carter, Yunieksy Cruz
Hernandez)
Re: Vending on Church Street — menu and hours
A. The Cuban Kitchen Food Cart will vend on Church Street oOering a small menu of classic
Cuban Street Food including, sandwiches, entrees, sides, snacks, drinks, and salads.
B. Proposed Menu (prices)
• Classic Cuban Sandwich — $15.
• Congrí (Cuban rice and beans) with roast lechón asado — $15.
• Chicharrones — $8.
• Side: Cuban rice and beans — $6.
• Side: Small Cuban Salad — $6.
• Maduros (Cuban plantains) — $6.
• Cuban Batidos Tropicales — $8.
• Bottle of water — $3.
C. Operating hours (proposed)
• Thursday: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM.
• Friday: 12:00 PM – 2:00 AM.
• Saturday: 12:00 PM – 2:00 AM.
• Sunday: 12:00 PM – 2:00 AM.
D. For imagery or a bit more information about the Cuban Kitchen, please see our website
at
https://yurisleidiscuba.wixsite.com/thecubankitchen/menus
*Please note, that this website includes other food items from our Catering Business, but
the actual menu of the cart is listed above in Section B.
E. All food will be cooked onsite and if you need proof of insurance, a food service permit,
or an updated menu PDF for the marketplace permit application, I can prepare those
documents and a short insurance/permit cover letter on request.
Page 21 of 24
/s/ Jared K. Carter
/s/Matthew Panetta
/s/Yuniesky Cruz Hernandez
Page 22 of 24
To: Church Street Marketplace Commission
From: Erik Munsen, Commissioner
Date: May 14, 2026
Re: Location of the proposed overdose prevention center
Background:
The City of Burlington, in collaboration with Vermonters for Criminal Justice Reform (VCJR),
is looking to launch a comprehensive, evidence-based Overdose Prevention Center (OPC) pilot
program. This initiative would directly respond to Vermont's overdose crisis and fulfills the
mandates of Act 178 (2024) and the Vermont Department of Health's OPC Operating
Guidelines. In July 2025, the City of Burlington received a contract from the State of Vermont to
move forward with this pilot project and identify a location for an OPC in Burlington.
At the May 2025 CSM Commission meeting, Commissioner Haessley first brought forward a
resolution on the location of the proposed overdose prevention center for discussion and a vote.
The vote failed with five abstentions and four in favor. At the March 2026 CSM Commission
meeting, Commissioner Monsen brought a more focused version of the resolution forward for a
vote. A motion was made to table the vote to integrate more collaborative language.
Following the March 2026 CSM Commission meeting, Commissioner Monsen endeavored to
add more collaborative and constructive language to the evolving Overdose Prevention Center
(OPC) resolution. In particular, language about the need for wrap-around support services as
well as a desire to be collaboratively engaged in discussions involving a potential downtown
location for the OPC was introduced.
Recommended Action:
Discussion and Vote
Page 23 of 24
Resolution Relating to RESOLUTION_____
THE LOCATION OF THE PROPOSED Sponsor(s): _________________
OVERDOSE PREVENTION CENTER Date: ______________________
CHURCH STREET MARKETPLACE COMMISSION
In the year Two-Thousand Twenty-Six……………………………………………………………………
Resolved by the Church Street Marketplace Commission, as follows:
1 WHEREAS, there are a number of individuals currently living within the City of Burlington who are
2 struggling with an untreated substance use disorder; and
3 WHEREAS, a number of service providers for individuals struggling with substance use disorder
4 are located in or within close proximity to downtown Burlington; and
5 WHEREAS, the accumulation of syringe litter has created a public health and safety issue that
6 has been identified as a major problem for city residents and business alike; and
7 WHEREAS, downtown residents and businesses have been adversely impacted by the behaviors
8 of individuals struggling with substance use disorder; and
9 WHEREAS, the public use and consumption of illegal drugs and narcotics has contributed to
10 negative perceptions about downtown Burlington; and
11 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Church Street Marketplace Commission has
12 serious concerns about the establishment of an Overdose Prevention Center within the downtown core or
13 the Central Business District, without the prior development of social, medical, housing, and other
14 related support services.
15 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that as appointed representatives of both the businesses on the
16 Church Street Marketplace and members of the broader Burlington community, the Church Street
17 Marketplace Commission would like to be proactively consulted on and collaboratively contribute to the
18 exploration, development and future oversight of any potential downtown location for an Overdose
19 Prevention Center or other similar service provider.
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