Select Board — May 18, 2026
The meeting was highly procedural, focused on standard appointments, proclamations, and routine fund allocations with no significant public opposition.
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During the May 18 Select Board meeting, a discussion took place regarding the use of handicap parking violation funds that touches on how our town approaches enforcement versus revenue.
The Disability Access Commission (DAC) requested $27,570 in funds—sourced from handicap parking fines—to support essential programs, including therapeutic horseback riding, the 'I Can Bike' program, and adaptive swings in our parks. The Board voted unanimously to approve this allocation.
However, the discussion also revealed a pragmatic, revenue-focused approach to parking enforcement. With fine revenue now exceeding $82,000, board members discussed whether current fine amounts effectively deter violators. One member noted that if the behavior cannot be stopped, the town should "capitalize on it" by using the money for community programs.
As a result, the Board Chair is now following up with the Police Department to explore increasing the cost of these fines. Residents should consider whether increasing fines serves the goal of ensuring accessibility for those with disabilities, or if it is simply being viewed as a tool to expand the town's budget for other programs.
Public impact
Appointment of a new patrol officer to backfill a vacancy
The Board voted unanimously to appoint Steer and waived the 15-day waiver.
The Chief plans to introduce Steer and other new officers at a meeting in June.
Promotions of two key leadership figures (Lieutenant and Captain)
The Board unanimously approved both promotions, effective May 19, 2026.
$27,570 allocation for adaptive programs and services
The Board approved the $27,570 allocation.
The Chair will follow up with the Police Department regarding potential increases to handicap parking fines.
Topics discussed
The Board reviewed and issued a proclamation to recognize National Public Works Week.
The Board approved the proclamation for the week of May 17th through the 23rd, 2026.
The Board considered the appointment of Kevin J. Steer as a patrol officer.
The Board voted unanimously to appoint Kevin J. Steer to the Burlington Police Department effective May 19, 2026, and waived the 15-day waiver.
The Chief plans to bring Steer and other new officers to a meeting in June.
The Board reviewed and approved two promotions within the Fire Department.
The Board unanimously approved both promotions effective May 19, 2026, and waived the 15-day waiver.
The Board considered approval for the third annual James Gang 5K event.
The Board approved the 5K scheduled for September 27th, with a rain date of October 4th.
The organization may utilize the town common sign and coordinate with the communications director for promotion.
The Board discussed continuing the public hearing for Eggholic at 10 Wall Street.
The Board voted to continue the public hearing to June 8th at or after 6:00 p.m.
The hearing is rescheduled for June 8th.
The Board reviewed a request from the DAC to allocate handicap parking violation funds to various disability support programs.
The Board approved the allocation of $27,570 for the listed programs.
The Chair will follow up with the Police Department and DAC regarding the possibility of increasing fine amounts in the future.
Controversy & dissent
Potentially controversial issues
Handicap Parking Fine Revenue and Deterrence
Public comment
Decisions logged
Action items
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grok-4.3, gemma-4-26b, grok-4.20-0309-reasoning · analyzed 2026-06-07.
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