FEMA Cancels Trailer Housing Plan in Montpelier, Commits to Funding for City Land Lease

Takeaways:

• FEMA has decided not to place temporary housing units, known as "FEMA trailers," on a tract of city-owned land in Montpelier, originally intended for July flood victims.

• Despite abandoning the housing project, FEMA will still pay Montpelier $513,210, the equivalent of a year's rent under the original lease contract, and then terminate the lease.

• Montpelier city officials are pleased with the payment as it will contribute to the development of a planned mixed-income housing project on the site, potentially leveraging additional grants and funding.

• FEMA has found alternative housing options for the displaced households, including direct lease apartments and placements in existing manufactured home communities, avoiding the need for the Montpelier site.

• The number of households eligible for FEMA's direct housing assistance has decreased significantly, and the agency aims to have all displaced individuals in their new locations by mid-January. Governor Phil Scott acknowledges the ongoing housing shortage in Vermont and the need for more permanent solutions.

References:

[1] FEMA trailers are no longer coming to Montpelier, but feds will still pay the city $500K. Link

[2] Why FEMA changed plan to put flood trailers in Montpelier. Link

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