BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) – Burlington city councilors are expected to consider a measure next week requiring the University of Vermont and Champlain College to detail their dorm inspection processes and ensure compliance with city housing codes.
It comes after UVM student government officials have raised concerns that poor housing conditions, including mold, bugs, and leaks, have not been adequately addressed.
City Councilor Marek Broderick, P-Ward 8, drafted the resolution, which was co-signed by Councilor Evan Litwin, D-Ward 7.
The measure doesn’t call for any specific change but rather the enforcement of current housing codes. Broderick says it also seeks to determine accountability. “If we need to go into our housing code and our ordinances, whether to clarify things or potentially change some things, giving the city the opportunity to do that,” he said.
“For me, the goal is not to have more inspections. I think that would overburden our city’s capacity. We already don’t have enough inspectors as it is for over 11,000 and growing units in the city,” Litwin said.
The resolution includes a walk-through of dorm buildings by council members when students are gone over winter break.
The council is expected to consider the resolution on Monday.
