By Kolby R. LaMarche

Building Burlington’s Future (BFF), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit launched earlier this year, has published several advertising campaigns as part of its work on public safety in collaboration with Progressive Mayor Emma Mulvaney-Stanak. 

In the 90 second video, released last week, the mayor described the Queen City to prospective cop candidates, saying “Here in the City of Burlington, we are proud of the dedicated team… who show up every day with a commitment to the safety and well-being of our community,” the mayor said. 

The video also featured testimony from current Burlington police officers, including Officer Alex Chun, who spoke about community visibility, saying “I know their faces, I know their names, and they know me as well.” 

In 2025, the Burlington Police Department (BPD) intensified its recruitment efforts amid a national law enforcement staffing shortage, launching targeted campaigns and incentives to attract new officers. 

BPD has promoted its $15,000 recruitment bonus for new hires and lateral transfers, alongside competitive starting salaries ranging from $74,415 to $81,030. The department also signed a new three-year contract with its police union in September, introducing enhanced benefits like improved shift differentials and wellness incentives to boost retention and appeal to candidates. 

While exact hire numbers for 2025 remain pending academy completions, the influx has already exceeded prior years’ totals, signaling renewed optimism for stabilizing BPD’s workforce.

Recruitment requirements include a physical fitness test, a personal history questionnaire, panel interview, polygraph, a psychological exam, and more. Hires must complete academy training and field programs within one year.

Today, the BBF issued a statement on a short-term action plan announced last week by Governor Phil Scott and Mayor Mulvaney-Stanak. The plan seeks to address city challenges in safety, housing and mental health. 

Sam Donnelly, BBF executive director, said, “BBF applauds Governor Scott and Mayor Mulvaney-Stanak for their detailed short-term action plan… This is a timely development and BBF supports the recommendations laid out today.” He described the state-city effort as “exactly what we need right now to move forward in a productive and meaningful way.” 

“When people in our city feel safer and when those who are struggling are getting full access to the support they need to recover,” Donnelly said. He called for ongoing collaboration and long-term solutions, adding, “BBF stands ready to support in any way we can,” including work with the mayor’s team and City Council on implementation.