Good morning, this is your Burlington Local Frequency for February 4, 2025. We're starting off the day with some updates from Mayor Emma Mulvaney-Stanak. In a recent interview on Vermont Edition, the mayor discussed several pressing issues facing the city, including public safety and taxes. The Burlington City Council has voted to remove the cap on the number of police officers, a move aimed at addressing concerns over open drug use and crime. Currently, the police force has 65 officers, with a budgeted goal of 77 for the current fiscal year. The mayor emphasized the need to focus on data-driven recruitment strategies to improve morale and retain high-quality officers.On the topic of taxes, Mayor Mulvaney-Stanak assured residents that there will be no request for a tax rate increase on Town Meeting Day. However, residents will be asked to vote on three bonds aimed at addressing infrastructure issues, including longstanding concerns with the city's drinking water and wastewater systems. These bonds would be repaid through residents' water bills.In other news, the city is moving forward with several projects. The $30 million TIF-funded Great Streets Main Street project is underway, which will comprehensively renew key downtown infrastructure and revitalize the area with new bike lanes, public art, gardens, and wider sidewalks.Looking ahead to the weekend, there are plenty of events to enjoy in and around Burlington. The Banff Mountain Film Festival is coming to Skirack on February 7 and 8, featuring captivating stories from the 49th Banff Centre Mountain Film and Book Festival. If you're in the mood for something different, the NYC Yacht Lobsters will be performing at Valley Craft Ales in Wilmington on February 8, bringing the smoothest hits from the 70s.For those interested in outdoor activities, the Snowshoe for Hope fundraiser is happening on February 9 at the Grafton Trails & Outdoor Center, benefiting Susan G. Komen. And if you're planning ahead, mark your calendars for the 2025 Vermont Flower Show at the Champlain Valley Expo on March 7.In local arts, the Middlebury Community Music Center faculty will perform an inspiring concert at the Town Hall Theater on February 5, benefiting the music center. And for a unique experience, the Billings Farm & Museum is hosting a Torchlight Snowshoe event on February 14, where you can discover the land's history while snowshoeing along the farm loop.This has been Burlington Local Frequency. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

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