Kevin Chu from the Vermont Chamber of Commerce discusses housing and the Vermont Futures Project. Courtesy photo.
Discussion Regarding Action on Act 250 Reform and Rural Housing Development
Vermont Business Magazine Regional leaders from across the Northeast Kingdom gathered Tuesday at Community National Bank in Derby to tackle one of the region’s most pressing challenges: housing.
Hosted by the Northeast Kingdom Chamber of Commerce, the NEK Housing Conversation brought together developers, financial institutions, planners, nonprofits, legislators, and employers to define the region’s top priorities and shape statewide efforts through the Let’s Build Homes Coalition, such as Act 250 and Act 181 reforms.
"This is not just about identifying barriers—it’s about imagining what’s possible," said Loralee Tester, Executive Director of the NEK Chamber and facilitator of the event. “What we’ve been doing isn’t working. It’s time to think outside the box and create real solutions that fit the needs and realities of rural Vermont.”
The summit opened with Kevin Chu of the Vermont Futures Project presenting data on population trends, workforce challenges, and housing needs across the region. From there, Jak Tiano of Let’s Build Homes, outlined the campaign’s current policy work and upcoming legislative timeline.
Additional agenda highlights included:
- Developers and planners, sharing real-world challenges around permitting, infrastructure, and project viability in the NEK
- A discussion of employer needs, focusing on how the housing shortage is affecting recruitment and retention
- A look at community-driven solutions, including models for revitalization through local real estate investment
- Small group working sessions to surface regional priorities, actionable tools, and commitments to carry forward
The outcomes of the day will be used to inform Let’s Build Homes’ advocacy strategy and to guide local action in the NEK.
“Whether you’re in policy, planning, construction, or community leadership, we need everyone leaning in,” said Tester. “This is about more than just housing—it’s about the future of our region.”
7.8.2025. Derby, VT – Northeast Kingdom Chamber of Commerce
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