We have to be the sustainer that keeps it in the daylight.
Ian Baltutis is a community-driven leader who turns grassroots vision into civic engagement and change. His journey into community leadership began on a back patio in 2009 with a homebrew club. While brewing beer with friends, they talked about Burlington’s future and the lack of a local brewery, sparking Ian’s entrepreneurial instincts. The project became about more than beer, it was about “building a new vision for downtown” and engaging community members in shaping their city. These early conversations helped Ian see the importance of listening to residents and understanding their needs.
Noticing a disconnect between city government and the community, Ian ran for office in 2013 with no formal platform, guided by the advice to “go knock on doors.” This grassroots approach allowed him to learn Burlington block by block, gathering residents’ stories and turning them into the foundation of his campaign. Even before being elected, Ian focused on accountability, always asking what policies would mean for people like Thelma, an elderly resident seeking connection, or Ryan, a father whose daily commute improved with public transit.
Today, Ian continues to champion community-centered leadership and the preservation of local history. He emphasizes that meaningful change comes from showing up, listening, and elevating community voices.