Vermont Business Magazine The Shelburne Selectboard approved on January 21 the formation of an economic and community development commission tasked with preserving, promoting and enhancing the town’s economic, historic and social vibrancy. Experience Shelburne, the non-profit entity associated with the commission, also seeks to foster and support community infrastructure investment and development for the benefit of residents, businesses and visitors. The initiative was recommended by a recent economic development study and informed by extensive community input.
“Experience Shelburne represents a bold and collaborative approach to ensuring our town’s long-term vitality. With a remarkable Board of Directors and broad community support, we are poised to align economic initiatives with Shelburne’s values and unique character,” said Andrew Everett, Shelburne Selectboard member who co-led Experience Shelburne’s design.
Shelburne, home to several of the state’s most important cultural resources and iconic attractions, including Shelburne Museum, Shelburne Farms and Vermont Teddy Bear, will leverage Experience Shelburne to catalyze sustainable growth and strengthen its position as a center for cultural and economic activity in Chittenden County and throughout the region.
The inaugural Board of Directors for Experience Shelburne includes distinguished community and business leaders:
• Meagan Buckley, President and CEO, Wake Robin;
• Tom Denenberg, Director, Shelburne Museum;
• Joan Goldstein, Shelburne resident and Commissioner, Vermont Department of Economic Development;
• Kate Lalley, Representative, Chittenden-6, Vermont House of Representatives;
• Brian Precourt, Precourt Investment Co.;
• Bill Shouldice IV, Former President/CEO, Vermont Teddy Bear Company;
• Alec Webb, President, Shelburne Farms.
Additional Board and Advisory Committee members will be appointed in the coming months to further strengthen and diversify the organization’s leadership.
Chunka Mui, Shelburne Selectboard member and liaison to Experience Shelburne, noted the strategic ambition of the effort.
“The best way to predict the future is to build it. Our task is to help build a vibrant future for Shelburne—a future we can proudly leave to our kids, and yours,” Mui said.
Experience Shelburne will prioritize four strategic focus areas to support high-quality, sustainable development:
• Community Alignment: Ensure economic initiatives align with community goals, enhancing financial resilience, connectivity, vitality and livability while preserving Shelburne’s unique rural character.
• Economic Coordination: Facilitate strategic brand-building, placemaking and economic development plans benefiting the entire community.
• Historic Preservation: Celebrate and sustain the historic charm of Shelburne’s downtown and landmarks.
• Government/Corporate Partnership: Collaborate with town officials, state agencies, educational institutions and commercial sector to create jobs, protect the environment, promote housing and strategically target infrastructure investments.
About Shelburne, Vermont
Shelburne is a vibrant town in Chittenden County known for its historic landmarks, thriving local businesses and scenic landscapes. Home to the Shelburne Museum, Shelburne Farms and Vermont Teddy Bear, the town welcomes residents and visitors to explore its rich heritage and innovative spirit.
Source: SHELBURNE, Vermont – January 22, 2025 – Shelburne
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