BACC and Burlington Economic Development Office Share Business Community Update at Town Meeting

At Burlington’s Town Meeting on January 28, 2026, the Burlington Economic Development Office and the Burlington Area Chamber of Commerce (BACC) jointly presented an update on the state of business in Burlington—highlighting the community’s strong foundation, emerging challenges, and the importance of proactive planning to ensure long-term economic vitality.

Economic Development Director Melisa Tintocalis opened by underscoring the critical role the business community plays in Burlington’s overall success. “Out of every $100 collected in property taxes, approximately $60 comes from commercial properties,” Tintocalis noted, emphasizing that a significant portion of municipal services and programs are supported by the commercial tax base.

While Town Meeting frequently hears from residents, Tintocalis explained that it is equally important to bring forward the perspective of Burlington’s business community. She introduced Rick Parker, President of the Burlington Area Chamber of Commerce, as a representative voice for local businesses and a partner in helping Burlington plan for the future.

Tintocalis also spoke about the Town’s forward-looking approach to land use and development, including the adoption of a mixed-use zoning district last year. Since the vote, the Town has been actively engaging with property owners, working with the Planning Board, and developing design guidelines to ensure thoughtful implementation.

“Zoning is just one step,” Tintocalis said. “Markets continue to shift, but even in uncertain economic times, Burlington is in a really good position because of the way we are monitoring these changes and working collaboratively. This creates new opportunities for reinvestment and long-term stability.”

Following this context, Parker delivered a “state of business” perspective from the Chamber and local employers. 

Parker spoke to the long-standing partnership between residents, businesses, and local government. “Burlington has been a fortunate community in that the businesses and residents have worked in harmony for many years,” Parker said.

He highlighted how residents benefit from a relatively low tax rate because the commercial sector has historically covered roughly two-thirds of the tax burden. Burlington has also been able to offer many services without user fees, including school sports, buses, trash pickup, award-winning recreation programs, and more. Major capital projects have been incorporated into the Town’s budget through careful planning by the administration.

Parker noted that many Burlington businesses have prospered over the years thanks to strong daytime population numbers and favorable demographics—so much so that surrounding communities often try to replicate Burlington’s model.

However, Parker acknowledged that the business landscape is evolving. “Competition to attract businesses is stronger than ever,” he said. While Burlington continues to see success stories—such as the Broad Institute, the transformation of Burlington Square, and the strong performance of the Burlington Mall and Third Avenue—there are also challenges.

The daytime population is not what it once was. Class A office space is no longer the predominant model for how people work. Increasing vacancies and empty parking lots have had a direct impact on ancillary businesses that relied on employees working on-site. Parker emphasized that Burlington has always been a forward-thinking community that prefers to be proactive rather than reactive.

“I’m not saying the sky is falling,” he said, “but there are signs there may be slight cracks in the ceiling.”

The Chamber’s goal, Parker explained, is to help the Town deliver this information to Town Meeting and the broader community “so that we can all continue to benefit by working together and by helping our businesses continue to prosper.”

He concluded by thanking Burlington Police Department Chief Thomas Browne and Captain Dan Hanafin for their work in The District, ensuring public safety while allowing people the opportunity to express their views. “It means a lot to the business community,” Parker said. “We’re very lucky to have the Burlington Police Department taking care of business for us.”

Together, the presentation reinforced a shared message: Burlington’s success has been built on collaboration between residents, businesses, and Town leadership—and that same partnership will be essential as Burlington navigates a changing economic landscape and plans for the future.