Braintree Town Plan – Adopted February 28, 2006 i

A. PURPOSE........................................................................................................................................ 2

B. GOALS AND OBJECTIVES ........................................................................................................... 2

A. DEMOGRAPHICS ......................................................................................................................... 3

1. Population Patterns ....................................................................................................................... 3

2. Population Projections.................................................................................................................. 4

Policy..................................................................................................................................................... 4

Recommendation .................................................................................................................................... 4

B. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ................................................................................................... 5

1. Economic Base............................................................................................................................ 5

a. Location of Economic Activity................................................................................................... 5

b. Employment Characteristics....................................................................................................... 6

c. Future Economic Development .................................................................................................. 6

2. Employment ................................................................................................................................ 6

a. Occupations.............................................................................................................................. 6

b. Employment Sectors.................................................................................................................. 6

Policy..................................................................................................................................................... 7

Recommendation .................................................................................................................................... 7

A. EXISTING LAND USE................................................................................................................... 7

1. Grand List as Land Use Indicator .................................................................................................. 7

2. Tax Rate as Function of Land Use .................................................................................................. 8

3. Projected Tax Implications ............................................................................................................. 8

B. FUTURE LAND USES................................................................................................................... 9

1. Floodplain ..................................................................................................................................... 9

Policy..................................................................................................................................................... 9

Recommendation .................................................................................................................................... 9

2. Village......................................................................................................................................... 10

Policy................................................................................................................................................... 10

Recommendation .................................................................................................................................. 10

3. Rural Areas II............................................................................................................................. 10

Policy................................................................................................................................................... 10

Braintree Town Plan – Adopted February 28, 2006 ii

Recommendation .................................................................................................................................. 11

4. Rural Areas I.............................................................................................................................. 11

Policy................................................................................................................................................... 11

Recommendation .................................................................................................................................. 11

5. Rural Scenic ............................................................................................................................... 11

Policy................................................................................................................................................... 12

Recommendation .................................................................................................................................. 12

6. Conservation .............................................................................................................................. 12

Policy................................................................................................................................................... 12

Recommendation .................................................................................................................................. 12

C. GENERAL LAND USE RECOMMENDATIONS ......................................................................... 13

A. WETLANDS................................................................................................................................ 14

Policy................................................................................................................................................... 14

Recommendation .................................................................................................................................. 14

B. WELL HEAD PROTECTION AREAS, BROOKS AND STREAMS............................................ 14

Policy................................................................................................................................................... 14

Recommendation .................................................................................................................................. 14

C. SCENIC ROADS .......................................................................................................................... 15

Policy................................................................................................................................................... 15

Recommendation .................................................................................................................................. 15

D. RIDGELINES AND SCENIC VISTAS ......................................................................................... 15

Policy................................................................................................................................................... 16

Recommendation .................................................................................................................................. 16

E. MEADOWLANDS AND PRIME AGRICULTURAL SOILS ....................................................... 16

Policy................................................................................................................................................... 16

Recommendation .................................................................................................................................. 16

F. TREES, FOREST RESOURCES AND ROCK OUTCROPPINGS................................................. 16

Policy................................................................................................................................................... 16

Recommendation .................................................................................................................................. 17

G. CRITICAL HABITATS; DEERYARDS, BEAR HABITAT, RARE SPECIES.............................. 17

Policy................................................................................................................................................... 17

Recommendation .................................................................................................................................. 17

H. INVASIVE SPECIES .................................................................................................................... 17

Policy................................................................................................................................................... 17

Recommendation .................................................................................................................................. 18

I. SPECIAL AREAS.......................................................................................................................... 18

Policy................................................................................................................................................... 18

Braintree Town Plan – Adopted February 28, 2006 iii

Recommendation .................................................................................................................................. 18

A. SCHOOLS ................................................................................................................................... 18

1. Elementary School........................................................................................................................ 19

2. Secondary Schools ....................................................................................................................... 19

Policy................................................................................................................................................... 19

Recommendation .................................................................................................................................. 19

B. SEWER AND WATER SYSTEMS............................................................................................... 19

1. Sewer.......................................................................................................................................... 19

Policy................................................................................................................................................... 20

Recommendation .................................................................................................................................. 20

2. Water Systems............................................................................................................................. 20

Policy................................................................................................................................................... 20

Recommendation .................................................................................................................................. 20

C. PUBLIC UTILITIES..................................................................................................................... 21

Policy................................................................................................................................................... 21

Recommendation .................................................................................................................................. 21

D. TOWN OFFICES......................................................................................................................... 21

Policy................................................................................................................................................... 21

Recommendation .................................................................................................................................. 22

E. TOWN HALL ............................................................................................................................... 22

Policy................................................................................................................................................... 22

Recommendation .................................................................................................................................. 22

F. EMERGENCY 911 SYSTEM ....................................................................................................... 22

Policy................................................................................................................................................... 23

Recommendation .................................................................................................................................. 23

G. POLICE PROTECTION ............................................................................................................... 23

Policy................................................................................................................................................... 23

Recommendation .................................................................................................................................. 23

H. FIRE PROTECTION .................................................................................................................... 24

Policy................................................................................................................................................... 24

Recommendation .................................................................................................................................. 24

I. EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICE............................................................................................ 24

Policy................................................................................................................................................... 24

Recommendation .................................................................................................................................. 24

J. SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL.......................................................................................................... 25

1. Existing System.......................................................................................................................... 25

a. Transfer Station or Private Collection ...................................................................................... 25

Braintree Town Plan – Adopted February 28, 2006 iv

b. Recycling Services................................................................................................................... 25

c. Septage................................................................................................................................... 25

2. Special Wastes ............................................................................................................................ 25

3. Future System ............................................................................................................................. 26

Policy................................................................................................................................................... 26

Recommendation .................................................................................................................................. 26

K. LIBRARY..................................................................................................................................... 26

Policy................................................................................................................................................... 26

Recommendation .................................................................................................................................. 26

L. TOWN GARAGE......................................................................................................................... 27

Policy................................................................................................................................................... 27

Recommendation .................................................................................................................................. 27

M. RECREATION............................................................................................................................ 27

Policy................................................................................................................................................... 27

Recommendation .................................................................................................................................. 27

N. CHILD CARE.............................................................................................................................. 28

Recommendations ............................................................................................................................ 28

O. CEMETERIES............................................................................................................................. 28

Policy................................................................................................................................................... 28

Recommendation .................................................................................................................................. 28

A. HOUSING TRENDS ..................................................................................................................... 29

1. Number of Housing Units............................................................................................................ 29

2. Affordability............................................................................................................................... 30

B. PROJECTIONS ............................................................................................................................. 30

Policy................................................................................................................................................... 30

Recommendation .................................................................................................................................. 31

Policy................................................................................................................................................... 33

Recommendation .................................................................................................................................. 33

Policy................................................................................................................................................... 33

Recommendation .................................................................................................................................. 34

Policy................................................................................................................................................... 35

Recommendation .................................................................................................................................. 35

Braintree Town Plan – Adopted February 28, 2006 v

A. BYLAWS..................................................................................................................................... 35

1. Zoning Ordinance....................................................................................................................... 35

2. Subdivision Regulations............................................................................................................... 35

3. Official Maps.............................................................................................................................. 36

4. Design Control District Ordinance ............................................................................................... 36

5. Flood Hazard District Bylaw ....................................................................................................... 36

B. ALTERNATIVES........................................................................................................................ 36

1. Land Trusts ................................................................................................................................ 36

2. Community Land Trusts .............................................................................................................. 37

C. ACT 250 REVIEW ....................................................................................................................... 37

A. CURRENT LAND USE MAP........................................................................................................ 38

B. FUTURE LAND USE MAP........................................................................................................... 38

C. TRANSPORTATION MAP ........................................................................................................... 38

D. UTILITIES & FACILITIES MAP.................................................................................................. 38

Braintree Town Plan – Adopted February 28, 2006 1

The Braintree Planning Commission is appointed by the Selectboard, and is responsible for the

preparation of the Braintree Town Plan. In working on the revision to the Town Plan adopted by the

voters in 2000, the Commission collected, reviewed and analyzed information provided by the 2000

census, from which it then updated the goals, objectives, policies, and recommendations for the

appropriate development of the Town of Braintree stated herein.

THE TOWN OF BRAINTREE

Direct excerpts from

The History of Braintree by H. Royce Bass

The Town of Braintree is situated in the western extreme of Orange County, forming a projection

bounded in part by the counties of Windsor, Addison, and Washington. It is more particularly bounded,

north by Roxbury and Brookfield, east by Randolph, south by Rochester, and west by Granville. The

center of Braintree is about fifteen miles due south from the geographical center of Vermont, about

twentyfive

miles from Montpelier, the capital, and about twenty miles east of the ridge, or principal

range, of the Green Mountains.

By the terms of its charter, signed on August 1, 1781 by Gov. Chittenden, Braintree is about six

and onehalf

miles long by about five and onehalf

miles wide. By act of the legislature, Nov. 10, 1824,

ten lots and four gores in the southwest corner of the town, about two square miles in area, were annexed

to Rochester, leaving the present area of Braintree about 35.5 square miles.

The valley of the third branch of the White River, known as the “Branch”, through which runs the

Central Vermont Railroad, divides Braintree into two principal divisions. That part south and west of the

branch is rough, rocky, with many bold and precipitous peaks, much of it incapable of tillage. Riford’s

brook and Thayer’s brook, both tributaries of the branch, are its largest streams. The branch flows

southeasterly through the whole width of the town. The part north and east of the branch is nearly

equally divided by the high ridge, commonly called Braintree hill, extending north and south through the

town, just east of its center. Spurs jut out eastward and southward from it, diversify the surface. The

chief points in this ridge are Neven’s hill, Belcher hill, Oak hill, and Quaker hill. Its highest point is also

called Alban’s hill. Its largest streams are Ayer’s brook, through Snowsville, and Spear’s brook, its

tributary. Spear’s brook is the outlet of Mud pond, the only natural pond in Braintree.

The position of Braintree is not favorable to the growth of large villages within it, though the

railroad might contribute thereto but for two or three large, thriving business places near by or not far

away, like West Randolph and Northfield. West Braintree is a rail road station on the branch, has a

postoffice, a hotel, two groceries, and a lumber mill doing quite an extensive business. Hutchinson’s

village, now known as “Peth”, is situated on Spear’s brook. Here were formerly the Braintree postoffice,

a church, a dry goods store, and oil, clover, and saw mills. In 1840 all business except that of the mills

was transferred to East Braintree, or Snow’s village, now Snowsville. It seemed quite probable that the

road up Ayer’s brook through Snowsville would be one of the main thoroughfares between Boston and

Burlington; that Snowsville, aided by it favorable site and abundant waterpower, would thereby get a

Braintree Town Plan – Adopted February 28, 2006 2

large business and population. The promise of this met with no disappointment till that business magnet,

the railroad, pushed its way up the branch, and drew all business into its line.

Few localities afford a view of so many points of interest as the hill tops of Braintree. From the

top of Quaker hill can be seen, to the east Mt. Washington and other principal peaks of the White and

Monadnock Mountains in New Hampshire, fifty to sixty miles distant; to the south, Mt. Ascutney in

Windsor, forty miles away; to the southwest, Killington and Shrewsbury peaks of the Green Mountain

range; to the west, a section of that range; and in various directions, numerous less elevated prominences

within a radius of twenty to thirty miles. Oak hill commands a view no less extensive and interesting. A

broad, beautiful landscape view ten miles in extent, checkered with forest and field and dotted with farmhouses,

are seen from the belfry of the Braintree hill meeting house.

As described above by H. Royce Bass, Braintree is located in a very beautiful section of Vermont and its

residents are blessed with a high quality of life attributable to its rural scenic environment. This updated

plan continues the protection of that quality of life that the residents required of the previous plan while

providing guidance for appropriate growth and development.

The Town of Braintree is authorized to develop a town plan by 24 Vermont Statutes Annotated (VSA),

Chapter 117.

The Braintree Town Plan represents the first and basic step of a continual planning process. The purpose

of this plan is to encourage the appropriate development of the land in Braintree in a manner that will

promote the health, safety, prosperity, comfort, convenience and general welfare of the residents of the

town. The plan is a general statement that maintains the philosophical direction of the previous plan. By

expressing the intent and desires of the residents of Braintree as established in that plan, it serves as a

guide for Braintree’s future growth and development. As the intent and desires of the residents of

Braintree change, this plan can be modified to express those changes and to address the administrative

and financial needs and concerns that accompany municipal growth. It is the intention of this planning

process, utilizing the purposes set forth in 24 VSA §4302, to encourage the protection of the special

scenic and rural quality of life that Braintree residents value through appropriate development based on

underlying this plan is that future growth and development not impose undue financial burdens upon

Braintree’s taxpayers.

Braintree is a beautiful, scenic rural and village community that provides the opportunity of a lifestyle

valued by its citizens. The citizens of Braintree desire to preserve that lifestyle through a town plan that

Braintree Town Plan – Adopted February 28, 2006 3

provides for growth in a manner that will sustain and protect the rural and village environment that

supports it.

1. In pursuit of the preservation goal and to promote a safe, healthy, pleasant and manageable

environment, the plan addresses the following community concerns:

(a) Housing: affordable and energy efficient housing;

(b) Public health and safety: water resources, sewage and solid waste disposal;

(c) Education: affordable, high quality school system;

(d) Transportation: adequate and efficient road network, protection of scenic corridors;

(e) Recreational: public facilities and parks;

(f) Economic: small scale businesses; and

(g) Resources: the ability of the resources, facilities and services of Braintree and the surrounding

areas to support a rate of development.

2. In further pursuit of the goal to preserve Braintree’s rural character and conserve Braintree’s

natural, scenic, historic and cultural resources, the plan addresses;

(a) The use of land in Braintree, including maintaining protection of agricultural, forest, wetlands,

soils, water, natural features and open space, giving first priority to agricultural and forest uses of

suitable land and encouraging their efficient management while discouraging the conversion of

prime agricultural and forest lands to other uses;

(b) The appropriate location of future residential, commercial, recreational and public and semipublic

facilities development;

(c) The protection of scenic roads, ridgelines and vistas;

(d) The preservation of open space and providing a sound economic basis for its maintenance; and

(e) Ensuring that the rate of growth does not exceed the ability of Braintree and the area to

provide facilities and services.

Statistically, population is an important element in the overall type and rate of development of the

community and in community land use. Increased population within a community results in increased

demand for municipal services and the ability of a town to provide for them. Through the implementation

of this Town Plan, Braintree may coordinate its ability to support the need for increased services with

population growth projections .

Figure 1 below shows Braintree's population growth rate compared to its neighbors over the last decade.

Braintree’s rate of growth during the period of 19801990

was 10.2%. Between 19902000

Braintree’s

growth rate slowed to 1.7%. Neighboring Randolph, an economic hub employing a relatively large labor

force from surrounding communities, including Braintree maintained a steady growth rate at nearly 2%

Braintree Town Plan – Adopted February 28, 2006 4

from 1980 2000.

Despite maintaining a steady growth rate for that time period, however, Randolph lost

a significant portion of its industrial base. This loss of industry in an important local economic hub

affected job availability for Braintree residents as most Braintree residents are employed in Randolph and

the surrounding areas.

Figure 1 Population

Change 19902000

Population projections are functions of two components: an estimate of natural changes in population

that considers births and death, and an estimate of migration. The Vermont Department of Aging &

Disabilities contracted with the Massachusetts Institute for Social and Economic Research (MISER) at

the University of Massachusetts in Amherst to produce population projections for the state of Vermont

for 20002020.

Future growth in Braintree is predicted to continue growing slowly over the next 20 years. One principal

reason for this is the aging of the baby boom generation out of its prime childbearing years.

To take population and changes thereto into consideration during official town deliberations concerning

development and other community issues that affect the Town financially.

1. That the Planning Commission work with state and local officials to estimate the age breakdown of

the expected population increase to determine: a). what demands will be placed on the school system and

other public services; b). housing needs; and c).the effect on the tax base.

Braintree Town Plan – Adopted February 28, 2006 5

Economic growth and change is another factor that affects community development and future land use.

During the early nineteenth century, Braintree evolved as a small community, largely independent of

economic forces from the outside. There was a strong dependence on the local agriculturebased

sheep

farming economy. Most persons worked within the Town as roads were unimproved and traveling was

often difficult. Most manufacturing and small mills were located along the major streams where

waterpower was readily available. Life was one of large families and selfsubsistence.

Beginning in the late nineteenth century and on into the early years of this century, the trend of prosperity

and economic stability began to change. The once successful hillside sheep farmers could no longer be

assured of a market for their wool. The people of Braintree became frustrated with working the rocky

soil hillside of the farm and headed for more fertile land in the Midwest. Once open land then began to

revert to brush and, finally, to trees. At this time, there was a massive migration of people leaving

Braintree and Vermont for better economic opportunities.

This trend of population decline lasted until about 1970, when, according to the U.S. Bureau of the

Census, population just about equaled the 1900 census count. During this period of population decline,

land values remained relatively stable. In the mid1960'

s, however, the construction of the Interstate

system made Vermont more accessible to outsiders interested in relocating or purchasing vacation homes.

With the loss of many of its farms, and the small mills and manufacturing enterprises, Braintree is no

longer an independent community. Due to the complexities of modern society and the strong influences

of state and national economic policies and activities, Braintree's economic future will continue to be

determined largely by factors outside of its direct control. Therefore, an effort to predict with any degree

of accuracy the economic future is speculative at best.

The economic changes that the Town of Braintree has experienced have had a direct affect on the ability

of Braintree to raise tax dollars in order to provide basic municipal services. This is due largely to the

system of property taxation which is based upon the 100 percent fair market value of real estate in

Braintree.

As stated previously, historically Braintree has not served as an economic hub for commercial and

industrial activity for area towns and Orange County in general. Randolph is the primary location for

many services, including banking, professional, and health services, for the area towns of Bethel,

Braintree, Brookfield, Chelsea, and Royalton. Vermont Routes 12, 12A, 66 and Interstate 89 are the

primary highways leading to and from the Braintree area. In addition, New England Railroad provides

freight rail service to Randolph and there is an Amtrak passenger stop in Randolph. Braintree is now a

bedroom community in that a major portion of its working resident population is employed outside of the

community. Despite this fact, there are several small business enterprises within the Town that employ

area residents. These enterprises are located throughout Braintree and are found in the village areas as

well as on the farms and in private homes.

Braintree Town Plan – Adopted February 28, 2006 6

Population, employment characteristics, and housing trends are factors that are considered when planning

for economic development. The general employment characteristics of Braintree's residents in the 1990

and 2000 U.S. Census Reports indicate that the development of jobs in the White River Valley impact

housing and population growth in Braintree. Braintree is not the selfsufficient

employment center that it

telecommunications and other conveniences have allowed for some residents to work from their homes,

many Braintree residents commute to surrounding communities.

The total number of workers age 16 and over living in Braintree decreased from 625 in 1990 to 614 in

2000. Of these workers, 14% work in Braintree, 46% work in Randolph, and 7% working Bethel. The

remaining 33% of the work force commutes to other areas throughout the region and beyond. Due to

the loss of several large employers in Randolph in the last few years, however, the 2000 census

employment figures are likely inaccurate.

Future economic investment in Braintree or area communities can have a significant economic impact on

the community. The type, location, and size of a business, its overall economy, and the timing of the

investment can substantially impact the service ability of municipal facilities and transportation networks,

housing availability and affordability, and surrounding land values. These future impacts are

unpredictable.

The economy of Braintree and the resulting land use patterns have been directly related to the availability

of jobs for its residents. Since the 1930's, the most apparent economic change has been the shift away

from agricultural employment. During the 1950's and 1960's, farm population dropped very rapidly,

although since 1970, the decrease has slowed somewhat to approximately four fulltime

operating farms.

Even so, agriculture may still be considered the largest single intown

employer.

Of Braintree's resident work force 16 years and older, 614 reported their occupations as part of the 2000

U.S. Census. Nearly three quarters of the reports indicated employment in one of three categories: 27%

worked as executives, administrators, managers and other professionals; 25% worked in production,

transportation and material moving; and 23% worked in sales and office occupations. The remaining

workers reported having jobs in service industries (12%), construction, extraction and maintenance

occupations (11%), and farming, fishing and forestry occupations (2%). Based upon an analysis of

occupational types, Braintree's work force profiles closely the typical work force for the State. (2000

U.S. Census of Population and Housing)

Braintree Town Plan – Adopted February 28, 2006 7

The private employment sector is the largest employer for persons residing in Braintree. Of all workers,

80% percent are employees of private businesses or nonprofit

organizations, 12% work in government,

and the remaining 8% are selfemployed.

(U.S. Census 2000). From 1990 to 2000 Braintree’s resident

work force decreased by 1.7%. This decrease is not unreasonable considering the slow population

growth in Braintree. The percentages for each of the three sectors remained relatively unchanged.

To foster an economic environment favorable to the establishment of local business enterprises such as

farming, forestry, and small clean business endeavors.

1. That discussion and coordination between the community and economic development interests

regarding future land use development options in the village areas be encouraged.

2. That review and analysis of proposed economic developments consider communitywide

impacts as

well as the financial capacity of government to service the economic development.

3. That local tax rebates be considered to support local business enterprises that hire Braintree residents.

Braintree is a scenic rural area situated in Orange County and contains a total land area of approximately

22,700 acres or 35.5 square miles. The town is located in the northern part of the Two Rivers Ottauquechee

Regional Commission's planning boundary and is bounded by six towns: Randolph,

Rochester, Granville, Roxbury, Brookfield, and Bethel. As is the case with most of Central Vermont,

Braintree's physical setting consists of rather steep mountains rising to an elevation in excess of 3,000 feet

interspersed in the lower elevations with streams and valleys that are less steep and contain deeper soils.

Braintree currently has two unincorporated village areas, namely West Braintree, and East Braintree (also

known as Snowsville), which serve as small community centers. The Third Branch of the White River

runs south through Braintree and eventually joins the White River in Bethel.

Braintree's tax base is the land use within the town. The local tax base and tax rate are important factors

in determining the financial capacity of the town to reasonably accommodate new growth. In addition, the

State Act 60 (the “School Tax”) has an effect on tax rates and therefore new growth.

In general, in Vermont year round residences are fiscal drains on towns in that they generate less in taxes

or income to the town than it costs to provide services to them. In 1992, the average listed value of a

residence on six acres or less in Braintree (permanent residence only) was $70,283. This residence

yielded typically $1,380 in taxes to the town. Average values listed for a primary residence with more

Braintree Town Plan – Adopted February 28, 2006 8

than six acres was $142,622 yielding about $2,482 in taxes per unit. With the cost per pupil in Vermont

estimated at $5,200 in 1992, it is evident that the average property tax bill Braintree did not pay the cost

of one student. These figures will be affected by the 2004 – 2005 town wide reappraisal, the results of

which are not available at this printing.

Farms, forests, vacation homes, and most commercial properties, on the other hand, generally pay more

in taxes than their cost for services. Ironically, however, communities that lure industrial and commercial

property into their jurisdiction may experience higher property taxes. The higher taxes are often due to

the secondary impacts from the resulting residential growth that requires more municipal services and

sees more children entering the schools.

Historically, land in Braintree has been used mainly for residential, agricultural and silvacultural/forestry

purposes. These historical land uses have continued through to the present although in changing

percentages. In 1992, about 81% of Braintree’s tax base was residential property, the remainder or 19%

was nonresidential,

including farms and woodland. The most significant component of the residential tax

base was permanent residences (54%) and the balance mainly vacation homes (16%). Mobile homes

represent 7.1% of the total tax base in Braintree. Farms, woodland and undeveloped land represent 14%

of the total dollar Grand List.

During the period 1982 to 1992, Braintree's tax base changed. Residential properties assumed a greater

proportion of the tax base (up 6.7%). In addition, the relative contribution of farms and forest lands

decreased 7.8% while other tax base components such as vacation and commercial properties increased.

Compared to the neighboring town of Brookfield, Braintree vacation homes contributed a large portion

of the tax base. Brookfield's vacation homes contribute 18% to the Grand List. Braintree's Listers

determined in 1992 that there were 107 vacation homes in Braintree and 278 yearround

residences.

In 1992, about 81% of the land was in residential use. The remaining 19% of the tax base was nonresidential

property, including farms and woodland. The most significant component of the residential tax

base was permanent residences (54%) and the balance mainly vacation homes (16%). Mobile homes

represent 7.1% of the total tax base in Braintree. Farms, woodland and undeveloped land represent 14%

of the total dollar Grand List.

Based upon the foregoing information, changes in the Grand List and tax rate over the next few years can

be expected to be as follows:

a. Growth in the Grand List will continue at a slow pace due to lack of available building sites and high

costs of new construction.

b. Tax rates will continue to increase more rapidly than the Grand List due largely to increased operating

costs such as new capital expenses for schools and highway equipment and maintenance.

c. The personal property tax was repealed and had only a small effect on the tax rate for Braintree.

Braintree Town Plan – Adopted February 28, 2006 9

d. The value of listed real estate will increase rapidly in areas afforded ease of access and services.

Commercial and industrial land will not likely be in high demand in rural Braintree.

The Town of Braintree has a distinct pattern of settlement which has emerged over time in response to

cultural and social attitudes and changes, as well as to natural processes and formations of the land. This

pattern features the establishment of two small and localized village centers with relatively highdensity

development and limited commercial uses. The villages are surrounded by very sparsely settled rural,

agricultural and forest lands. Over the years, this pattern of settlement worked well for the sociological,

psychological and aesthetic benefit of Braintree, while simultaneously supporting an economic system

which is both efficient and desired.

This Plan is designed to perpetuate this pattern of settlement and to fit the needs and desires of people

living in Braintree. The Plan is designed to be used by Braintree's decision makers to guide growth to the

most appropriate locations. The citizens of Braintree have both a need and a right to review and assess

proposed development, and to regulate new building to insure appropriate location and that too rapid

expansion of Braintree does not unreasonably and adversely affect the rural scenic quality of the town or

its ability to pay for the services that increased development requires. It is the intent of this Plan to

provide for the maintenance of the high quality of life in Braintree by protecting the rural, scenic quality

of the town through the appropriate use of land for residential, agricultural/forestry, small business and

recreational use. Future development within Braintree should be guided by and related to the existing

settlement patterns and the citizens’ desires to maintain the rural scenic quality of the town, as well as by

natural environmental constraints, and the ability of the taxpayers and the land to support the proposed

growth.

To assist regulators in the implementation of this Plan, Braintree has established and mapped the

following land use areas:

Adjacent to the branches of the White River and its tributaries are lands subject to periodic flooding and

erosion. A natural part of the river ecosystem, floodplains are nearly level areas bordering the banks of

streams that serve to retain excessive amounts of water during periods of heavy rains or spring thaws.

Floodplains often provide excellent, though impermanent, agricultural soils.

To protect the environment and private property in current and potential flood plain areas.

1. That only open space uses within federally designated flood hazard areas be permitted.

2. That a town official flood erosion hazard area map be established.

Braintree Town Plan – Adopted February 28, 2006

10

3. That the flood plain district be changed to an overlay district.

Braintree has two recognized village areas, West Braintree and East Braintree. They are the only existing

high concentration settlement areas of Braintree. These two areas, to varying degrees, serve as the focal

point to their respective locations in Braintree, in contrast to the outlying countryside. Their more

concentrated density of development, the mix of private, public and community facilities, and their

location give residents a desirable "sense of place" and add immeasurably to the social wellbeing

of the

community.

Although their role as community centers has changed due in large part to improved transportation, these

hamlet settlements continue to provide desired community facilities and services, such as churches, town

meeting hall, country stores, and commercial services, to the residents. Any growth in Braintree should

encourage the villages to continue to function as the centers of Town activity.

Their higher density of buildings and people, however, poses a problem in balancing the requirements of

safely disposing of wastewater without endangering water supplies on adjacent lands. Despite this

potential problem, the Village areas are appropriate for development that increases density. Uses allowed

in the villages include agriculture (where it does not pose health risks), residential, retail stores of a type

that will primarily serve the Braintree community, professional offices, schools, government buildings,

light industry and churches.

To protect and maintain the village quality of East Braintree and West Braintree.

1. That the establishment of small scale commercial uses in the existing villages while taking into

consideration balancing the requirements of safely disposing of increased volumes of

wastewater and septage without endangering water supplies on adjacent lands be encouraged.

Much of the land in this category borders existing State and Town highways and generally features soil

and slope conditions which will provide for easier installation of onsite

wastewater facilities. Also, the

Rural Areas II sections of Braintree are located along the public utility networks where there are fewer

impediments to development activities.

Uses allowed in Rural Area II include residential, light commercial, agriculture, forestry, public utilities,

and outdoor recreation.

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11

To maintain the rural character of Braintree and preserve agricultural and open space features.

1. That when economically viable agriculture is adjacent to low to moderate density residential growth

within Rural Areas II, clustered development techniques be utilized for larger project development to

maintain the rural character of Braintree, and preserve agriculture and open space features of these areas.

2. That affordable housing be encouraged in this district.

3. That agricultural and forestry lands be protected by discouraging the fragmentation of large land

blocks through flexible zoning.

This area includes those lands that exhibit limitations for development based principally on physical

criteria, such as steeper slopes, typically more shallow soils, or poor drainage. Access and proximity to

existing utility services is limited or nonexistent

in these areas.

The land contains physical limitations which hamper the ability of Braintree to provide services to them at

reasonable costs, particularly road maintenance. Nonintensive

land uses such as agriculture, forestry,

lowdensity

residential development and outdoor recreation are allowed in this area.

To discourage development in Rural Areas I.

1. That low density residential use that does not adversely impact the environment be considered while

commercial and industrial uses in Rural Areas I be discouraged.

One of Braintree's most valuable resources is the exceptional scenic quality of some of its upland areas.

The attractiveness of these areas is derived from and directly attributable to a variety of elements which

make up the land use pattern of the area. These factors, both natural and manmade, provide a rich visual

experience for both residents and visitors in Braintree. Characteristics that attribute to such scenic values

include the mixed pattern of open spaces to wooded areas, the prominence of clear unobstructed

panoramic views of distant ridges and ravines, the back road byways and roadsides, and the nonintensive

nature of the use of the land.

Indeed, the back road byways and roadsides are an integral element comprising the scenic features of this

uniquely beautiful area. These byways consist of narrow gravel roadways with roadsides of diverse and

Braintree Town Plan – Adopted February 28, 2006

12

contrasting features. The byways are not intended to act as highspeed

highways, but are intended to

provide for the safe traveling and enjoyment of the scenic beauty. Their back road features, combined

with the sequence of openings and closings in the roadside canopy, provide an experience which is not

obtainable on high speed and more efficient highways.

The designation of these areas as Rural Scenic ensures the maintenance and modification of the landscape

and byways in a manner which will not cause unnecessary or irreparable damage to or change the rural

scenic quality of these features. Their destruction would serve to degrade the scenic, economic and

cultural values that Braintree resident seek to preserve.

1. That an ordinance requiring that the exceptional scenic quality of the rural scenic areas be protected

by limiting Residential development and other types of development within this area to a manner that

serves to maintain:

• the visual focus on important scenic features through the screening of aesthetically displeasing

objects,

• the visual diversity and contrast through the placement of structures that will not adversely modify

the sequences and views to and from other areas, and

• the back road byway features

be adopted.

It is the goal of this Plan to provide for the conservation of certain natural areas which have been

identified as relatively undisturbed, consisting of large tracts of quality timber and serving as home for a

variety of wildlife. Such areas of the community are currently not serviced and intentionally lack such

facilities as roads and utilities. Generally, location and subsoil

conditions within these areas impose great

limitations on development. In order to provide a fair level of community services within these areas,

large amounts of public investment would be necessary with little public return but resulting in high costs

to the scenic beauty of these natural areas.

The land in current and proposed conservation areas must be protected from development as its physical

limitations are great and difficult to overcome without adversely affecting and degrading its

environmental quality.

1. That conservation lands be protected and that only those recreational land uses that will not impact or

affect the environmental and scenic quality of these areas be allowed.

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13

In addition to the above stated specific recommendations, the Plan sets forth the following general Land

Use recommendations:

1. That enrollment of properties in Current Use Taxation and sale of gift to the State of Vermont,

Vermont Land Trust, Nature Conservancy and other preservation organizations to reduce the tax burden

on large holdings and to preserve farms and large tracts of land be encouraged.

2. That the continuation of land use for low density housing and viable farms and woodland through

appropriate zoning regulations be encouraged.

3. That the protection of operating farms through local and state tax policy or the purchase of

development rights be encouraged.

The residents of Braintree are blessed with abundant wildlife, beautiful scenery and a rural character that

must be preserved if the way of life that chosen by them is to be maintained.

Human activity modifies the landscape and, in recent times, at an ever increasing rate. Modification takes

place at an accelerating rate as urban areas expand, suburban areas spread out and rural areas become the

homes of more and more people. With human activities, as with the natural processes of change, there

seems to be an organic consequence of the changes caused by the human activity. Changes here cause

changes there; what one person does effects what happens to other individuals; and what one person does

influences everyone else’s actions.

Our human activity can cause disastrous changes in the environment and create major adverse impacts on

our neighbors. As we enter the third century of the Industrial Revolution, we are learning what the real

costs of cavalier disposal of our trash, the burning of untold tons of fossil fuels and the industrial creation

of miraclelike

chemicals are to our planet and our way of life.

It is essential to be conscientious of the effects human activities have on the natural environment.

Inappropriate activities can foul the drinking water and degrade the soils upon which everyone depends

to sustain life. If many people are to live together in a community, each person has to be aware of and

considerate of our natural, as well as social, environment, and to direct his or her activities accordingly.

As residents struggle to solve environmental problems such as "where to dump the trash" and "where to

put a septic system on a rocky ledge," the limitations of the natural landscape have to be considered and

respected. A septic system "here" may pollute a well over "there." A home on this hillside may have a

nice view, and ruin the view of a beautiful hillside from the village or from Braintree’s unique scenic

roads.

Development in certain places where

the soil is shallow, or the hillside steep, or the land is wet much of

the time – is inappropriate and causes problems the natural environmental processes may not be able to

Braintree Town Plan – Adopted February 28, 2006

14

cure. We are learning that restraints are needed in dealing with the natural environment and that similar

restraints are needed in dealing with the social landscape.

It is the intent of this plan to provide for the continual protection and maintenance of the integrity of the

wild, natural and historic resources of the Town in furtherance of the way of life valued by the citizens of

Braintree. This Plan provides for the preservation and protection of the integrity of existing natural

features, including wetlands, well head protection areas water bodies, brooks and streams, scenic points

and roads, open meadowlands, trees and forest resources, rock outcroppings, prime agricultural soils, and

critical habitat areas, as well as of the special and historical areas of the Town.

The identified and mapped wetlands in Braintree are important to wildlife (plant and animal), surface

water purification, flood and erosion control and aquifer recharge, and education and recreation.

Wetlands are highly valuable and necessary to healthy ecosystems and shall not be drained, filled or

altered to accommodate development or for any other purpose.

1. That no development be allowed in any wetland area

2. That wetlands will not be allowed to be filled in or altered in any way.

3. That adequate setbacks be required for all construction, including but not limited to construction of

roads, buildings and sewage systems.

The vast majority of Braintree residents obtain their drinking water from underground sources. It is vital,

therefore, to protect the resource for all residents and for those using the same aquifer in surrounding

towns. Development in Braintree shall not result in the pollution of ground or surface waters or cause an

unreasonable reduction in supply.

To protect the ground and surface waters in Braintree for all residents.

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15

1. That development in Braintree shall be permitted only if it does not cause any environmental

degradation and does not result in the pollution of ground or surface waters or cause unreasonable

reductions in supply.

2. That no detrimental development of any kind be allowed by any brook, stream or tributary or in a

well head recharge area.

3. That all proposed development be reviewed for appropriate location away from brooks streams,

tributaries and well head recharge areas and for adequate protection of the recharge environment of

these resources.

4. That no septic system, tank or leach field, be allowed within 150’of a brook, stream, or tributary or

within a well head recharge area.

5. That the Town monitor all large water withdrawals in the regional area that have a potential to effect

the private water sources of Braintree residents and enter into negotiations with the withdrawer of large

quantities of water to protect resident water supplies if necessary.

The Town of Braintree is served by over thirty miles of scenic gravel back roads and byways.

Development proposals on those Braintree roads that are designated as scenic shall be reviewed by the

Town to ensure that the location of any proposed structure and any site alteration, including grading,

filling, removal of trees, stonewalls or other existing landscape features does not degrade the scenic

quality of the road or roadside. The intent is to minimize any interference with views or vistas afforded

from the scenic road and to maintain the rural scenic byway quality.

To maintain the rural and scenic character of the back roads and byways thereby protecting the rural

scenic quality of the town.

1. That all development proposals on all Town roads be reviewed by the Town to ensure that the location

of any proposed structure and any site or roadside alteration, including grading, filling, removal of trees,

stonewalls or other existing landscape features does not degrade the scenic quality of the road or

roadside.

2. That in keeping with the Town's desire to maintain its rural and scenic character, efforts to add

additional lanes for vehicular traffic to scenic routes and to increase the speed limits on scenic roads

should be vigorously opposed.

Braintree is fortunate to have miles of open and forested ridge tops that form an aesthetically significant

ridgeline and ridgeline vistas that enhance the scenic beauty of the town. The ridgelines are highly scenic

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16

due to their natural undeveloped beauty of the many ridgetops

and their visibility from public roads

throughout Braintree. These natural ridgelines and the significant scenic vistas around Braintree

contribute in large part to the quality of life that Braintree residents enjoy.

To protect the natural scenic beauty of the ridgetops

and the scenic vistas from the adverse aesthetic and

environmental impacts of development.

1. That all development proposals or applications for work to be conducted on or near ridgelines be

reviewed for consistency with the policy to protect the scenic beauty of ridgetops

and vistas.

The open spaces and meadowlands that are indigenous to farming in Braintree are those features that

most importantly define rural character and set Vermont apart from other northern New England states.

Therefore, any proposed development or subdivision should not be permitted in these areas if the

proposed development or subdivision disrupts the scenic quality of the site or removes agricultural or

forestry lands from their original use. Any proposed meadowland development must retain the maximum

possible meadowland for agricultural use through such means as clustering under Planned Unit

Development provisions, reduction in allowable density or the sale or donation of development rights.

To discourage the removal of agricultural and forestry lands from their primary use.

1. That a bylaw be adopted that requires that a proposed development or subdivision maximize the use

of the least productive land, protects prime agricultural soils, and utilizes alternative development models

that protect the environment.

Forests, tree stands and rock outcroppings all contribute to the serene scenic beauty of Braintree. There

are acres of forested land in Braintree and within those forested acres are found unique rock

outcroppings.

To manage the forests in a sustainable manner that will provide for logging and recreation activity for

years to come while protecting the beauty of the forest and the natural rock outcroppings.

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17

1. That all forestry operations be conducted using the Acceptable Management Practices as defined by

the State of Vermont Commissioner of Forests, Parks and Recreation.

2. That a bylaw be adopted that provides for the protection of forest rock outcroppings and other

irreplaceable forest features.

Braintree is home to many species of wildlife, and for many residents of Braintree, the opportunity to

view this wildlife is one of the pleasures of living in the town. The Vermont Department of Fish and

Wildlife has identified and mapped areas that are known to be deeryards, bear habitat and rare species

locations within the Town. Significant deer wintering areas have been located in Braintree. It is

recognized that the deeryards change in shape and size and that constant field verification is necessary for

accurate depictions. The same remains true for bear habitat and rare species location.

The Town desires to protect and maintain these special critical habitat areas and to discourage

development near or within them.

1. That a bylaw be adopted that strongly supports the necessity that all development in Braintree be

reviewed with consideration for the integrity of the areas of deeryards, bear habitat and rare species

locations, and that development be prohibited in those areas.

2. That in situations where development has already impacted these areas, the remainder of the area must

be managed in a manner compatible with the continued viability of each area.

3. That a bylaw be adopted that requires that when development is proposed on a lot involving or

adjacent to an existing deeryard, known bear habitat or rare species location, it shall be reviewed for

critical habitat location with representatives of the Vermont Department of Fish and Wildlife.

In the last decade, Braintree has experienced the invasion of various nonindigenous

plant species that are

taking hold along its back roads and byways, and in its fields and open meadows. These nonindigenous

species are crowding out the native plants and are interfering with established ecosystems. Eradication

initially required the efforts of every resident in Braintree who found the offending species takin