Brunswick public meetings in 2025

Town Council

The Town Council will hold a Capital Improvement Program workshop. The agenda includes presentations from the Fire Department on a new engine, the School Department on its 2026‑2027 CIP proposal, and the Parks & Recreation Department on its 2027‑2031 CIP plan.

• Fire Department New Engine Presentation
• Brunswick School Department CIP Proposal 2026‑2027
• Parks & Recreation Department CIP Presentation 2027‑2031

Town Council

The Brunswick Town Council will consider a resolution titled “Resolution Branden Todd Perreault.” No other agenda items are listed, indicating the meeting focuses on this resolution.

• Consider Resolution Branden Todd Perreault

The council adopted a resolution recognizing Branden Todd Perreault, the former Finance Director, with a motion that passed with eight yeas. Councilor Watson moved to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Councilor Wilson, and the motion also carried with eight yeas. The meeting adjourned at 6:15 p.m.

• Adopted resolution honoring Branden Todd Perreault (8 yeas)
• Adjourned meeting (8 yeas)

Finance Committee

The Brunswick Finance Committee meeting will consider several financial documents, including the 2024-25 Audit Completion Financial Report (ACFR), the 2024-25 Preliminary Annual Financial Report (PAFR), and the November 2025 expenditure, revenue, and balance sheet reports. The committee will also review a year‑in‑review summary for 2025. No specific motions or decisions are listed in the agenda.

• 2024-25 ACFR (Audit Not Final)
• 2024-25 PAFR (Not Audited)
• November 2025 Expenditure Report
• November 2025 Revenue Report
• November 2025 Balance Sheet

The committee approved an amendment to the November 17, 2025 meeting minutes to attach the PowerPoint presentation on the Senior Property Tax Assistance Program. The amendment was approved by Chair Nathaniel Shed and Councilor James Ecker. No other actions were decided at this meeting.

• Approved amendment to attach PowerPoint to Nov 17 minutes (approved by Chair Shed and Councilor Ecker)

Recreation Commission

The Brunswick Recreation Commission will receive the Town Council’s public‑hearing results on amending the Municipal Code to update duties of the Parks & Recreation and Conservation commissions. It will also discuss adopting the 2025 Comprehensive Plan for the department, a $160,000 funding shortfall for the Brunswick Landing Perimeter Trail, and an updated design for the Androscoggin Riverwalk. Additional items include a program report and open staffing positions.

• Result of Town Council public hearing on Municipal Code amendment for Parks & Recreation and Conservation commissions
• Adoption of the 2025 Comprehensive Plan and its implications for the Parks & Recreation Department
• Brunswick Landing Perimeter Trail application shows a $160,000 funding shortfall for Maine Trails Bond Grant
• Androscoggin Riverwalk project redesign to a 5‑foot pedestrian walkway off the roadway
• Recreation program report with registration numbers and open seasonal staff positions

Town Commons

The Town Commons Committee will review a proposed trail map and discuss future budget considerations for projects like trail signage, a natural resource inventory, and maintenance. The committee will also address the 'Goat Trail' adoption, noting that costs are currently unknown pending a spring assessment.

• Review of Proposed Trail Map Updates and Draft 7
• Discussion of future budget considerations for trail signage
• Review of Natural Resource Inventory/Management Plan
• Goat Trail adoption: costs pending DEP report and spring assessment
• Discussion of trail maintenance and accessibility assessment

Town Council

The Brunswick Town Council will hold a public hearing on the final Comprehensive Plan and its appendix. It will also consider text amendments to the plan and to the Parks‑Recreation and Conservation Commission documents. The council will review the Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Committee’s recommendation and the Appointments Committee recommendations, and will approve the consent agenda.

• 163 – Public Hearing: Comprehensive Plan (final plan and appendix)
• 164 – Public Hearing: Comprehensive Plan text amendments
• 165 – Public Hearing: Parks‑Recreation and Conservation Commission text amendments
• 166 – TIF Committee Recommendation to Town Council
• 168 – Appointments Committee Recommendations

The council adopted the 2025 Comprehensive Plan with added action strategies A.10 and H.13. It approved zoning text amendments tied to the new plan. The Municipal Code was amended to update the Parks & Recreation and Conservation Commissions. A resolution authorizing a $1,393,300 appropriation to the Midcoast Regional Redevelopment Authority was also adopted.

• Adopt 2025 Comprehensive Plan with strategies A.10 & H.13 (9 yeas)
• Adopt zoning text amendments related to the 2025 Comprehensive Plan (9 yeas)
• Amend Municipal Code to update Parks & Recreation and Conservation Commissions (9 yeas)
• Approve $1,393,300 tax‑increment financing grant to MRRA (9 yeas)
• Enter executive session for personnel matters (9 yeas)

Staff Review Committee/Staff Level Review

The Staff Review Committee is meeting to review application materials for a renovation project at the MaineHealth Mid Coast Cancer Center.

• Review of application 25-059 for MaineHealth Mid Coast Cancer Center Renovation

Planning Board

The Brunswick Planning Board will discuss the Garnet Ridge Subdivision, holding a workshop and a public comment session. It will also review the Priority Park project (item 25-047) using the provided sketch packet. Additionally, the board will consider a BACSE letter of concern regarding construction on Brunswick Landing.

• Review of Priority Park (item 25-047) – sketch packet
• Consideration of BACSE Letter of Concern about construction on Brunswick Landing
• Garnet Ridge Subdivision workshop (item 25-037)
• Garnet Ridge Subdivision public comment session

Town Council

The Town Council meeting includes a Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) workshop. The agenda lists three presentation documents: a CIP workshop agenda, an Engineering/Public Works presentation, and a Town Manager engineering presentation. No specific decisions or votes are detailed in the agenda.

• CIP Workshop Agenda (PDF)
• Engineering/Public Works Presentation (PDF)
• Town Manager Engineering Presentation (PDF)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will review updates on the Mare Brook Watershed and Town-owned lands. The body will discuss resuming efforts to update town ordinances regarding pesticides and fertilizer, and plan priorities for 2026.

• Discussion on resuming efforts to update Town of Brunswick pesticide and fertilizer ordinances
• Review of the Mare Brook Watershed 319 Grant wrap up
• Update on the Brunswick Executive Airport Masterplan
• Reappointment of Chair and Vice Chair
• Discussion on Tree Committee integration

Rivers & Coastal Waters Commission (RCWC)

The Rivers & Coastal Waters Commission discussed its advisory role in Brunswick’s 2025 Climate Action Plan, focusing on three strategies that involve wetland protection, watershed management, and blue‑carbon resources. Commissioners also presented a draft memo to the Planning Director requesting a zoning ordinance amendment to expand the definition of “Marine Activity” so the commission can review all pier, dock, and wharf proposals. The commission approved the minutes from the June 25, 2025 meeting and noted ongoing items such as the Simpson Point Boat Launch project and a No‑Wake buoy for Mere Point Bay.

• Review of RCWC advisory role in the Climate Action Plan (strategies 5.3, 5.4, 5.5)
• Draft memo requesting zoning ordinance amendment to broaden “Marine Activity” definition for piers, docks, and wharves
• Approval of the June 25, 2025 meeting minutes
• Discussion of the Simpson Point Boat Launch project (tabled pending more information)
• Consideration of a No‑Wake buoy placement in Mere Point Bay

Shellfish Committee (Formerly Marine Resources Committee)

The Shellfish Committee will receive the Coastal Resource Manager report and review minutes from the September, October, and November meetings. It will discuss the Moving Out Of Town summary of other communities' residency license requirements. The committee will also examine survey results regarding winter closures.

• Coastal Resource Manager Report
• Review of September, October, and November Shellfish Committee minutes
• Moving Out Of Town – Summary of Other Communities (town residency license requirements)
• Survey Results Regarding Winter Closures

Housing Committee

The Housing Committee is meeting to discuss a moratorium on subdivisions and a moratorium on mobile home park rent increases. The agenda also includes a review of the November 4, 2025, meeting minutes.

• Moratorium on Subdivisions (Emergency Adopted 11-17-25)
• Moratorium on Mobile Home Park Rent Increases (Adopted 11-17-25)
• Review of November 4, 2025, meeting minutes

Town Council

The Brunswick Town Council will conduct several public hearings on land‑use matters, including zoning text amendments for the Brunswick School Department, changes to Chapter 11 marine activities, a public works facility ordinance, and a rural subdivision moratorium. Additional hearings will address zoning map amendments for the Hawthorne and MRRA areas, and the council will set future hearings on the 2025 Comprehensive Plan, its zoning text, and updates from the Recreation and Conservation Commission. A Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Committee recommendation and a consent agenda will also be considered.

• Public Hearing: Zoning Text Amendments – Brunswick School Department (Item 153)
• Public Hearing: Amendments to Chapter 11, Marine Activities (Item 154)
• Public Hearing: Public Works Facility Ordinance (Item 155)
• Public Hearing: Rural Subdivision Moratorium (Item 156)
• Public Hearings: Zoning Map Amendments – Hawthorne and MRRA (Items 157 & 158)

The council adopted several ordinances, including a revised $4.7 million Public Works Facility Phase 1a bond, a moratorium on rural‑area subdivisions effective May 16 2026, and multiple zoning amendments. All motions passed with nine yeas except the public‑works ordinance, which passed with eight yeas after an amendment.

• Adopted zoning text amendment to exempt public school facilities from max building footprint (9 yeas)
• Adopted amendment to Municipal Code Chapter 11 on student apprentice program (9 yeas)
• Adopted revised Public Works Facility Phase 1a ordinance authorizing $4,700,000 project cost and bonds (8 yeas)
• Adopted moratorium on subdivisions within the Rural Area effective until May 16 2026 (9 yeas)
• Adopted zoning map amendment rezoning 46 Federal Street from GR7 to GM6 (9 yeas)
• Adopted zoning map amendment rezoning ~22.6 acres near Admiral Fitch and Seahawk Avenue from GI to GM7 (9 yeas)
• Adopted amendment to Marine Activities ordinance regarding student apprentice program and harvester reporting (9 yeas)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider the Jones Farm Subdivision application, including the amended application, site plan, stormwater plan, and NRPA permit. The board will also review the draft comprehensive plan, its appendix, the proposed zoning text amendments, and the updated Brunswick Land Use Map dated 2025.11.18. Decisions may include approval of the subdivision and adoption of the comprehensive plan and zoning changes.

• Jones Farm Subdivision – amended application, site plan, stormwater plan, NRPA permit
• Draft Comprehensive Plan for Brunswick
• Zoning Text Amendments accompanying the comprehensive plan
• Comprehensive Plan Appendix
• Updated Brunswick Land Use Map (2025.11.18)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold a special work session and site visit at the Western Sawtooth Parcel. The body will address the encroachment of white pines on protected sandplain grasslands, including cutting and removal based on the Town Arborist's advice.

• Site visit to Western Sawtooth Parcel for white pine removal from protected sandplain grasslands

Sustainability Committee

The Sustainability Committee will review the status of the Casella bid for school and municipal collection. The body will also meet with the Brunswick Housing Authority and receive reports from working groups on solid waste, transportation, and stationary energy.

• Status of Casella bid for school and municipal collection
• Meeting with Brunswick Housing Authority
• Municipal Building energy audits report

Town Council

The council voted to go into executive session to discuss acquisition of real property or economic development, with nine yeas. After the executive session, the council voted to adjourn the meeting, also with nine yeas. No other actions were taken.

• Entered executive session on acquisition of real property/economic development (9 yeas)
• Adjourned the meeting (9 yeas)

Town Council

The Town Council is meeting for a workshop to discuss the tax rate and the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). The session includes presentations on Economic Development and the Public Works facility.

• Tax rate discussion
• Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) workshop
• Economic Development CIP presentation
• Public Works facility presentation

Tax Increment Financing (TIF)

The MRRA TIF Committee will review documents related to the town's Tax Increment Financing program. Items include the Base Redevelopment Account for FY 2025‑26, the TIF Appropriation Request for FY 2026, and the MRRA Town CEA signed on 9‑22‑2016. No specific decisions are detailed in the agenda.

• Base Redevelopment Account 2025‑26
• TIF Appropriation Request FY 2026
• MRRA‑Town CEA 2016 (signed 9‑22‑2016)
• Review of MRRA TIF Committee agenda documents

Recreation Commission

The Recreation Commission will discuss potential changes to its ordinance and membership, including a proposal to add seats and change the name to the Parks and Rec Commission. The group will also review updates on the 2 Columbus Drive property acquisition and the Brunswick Landing Perimeter Trail.

• Town Council Appointments Committee request for ordinance changes
• Update on 2 Columbus Drive property acquisition ($2 million)
• Brunswick Landing Perimeter Trail design and environmental survey results
• Recreation Center approved for future voting location
• Recreation Commission to draft new charge for Town Council review

Town Commons

The Town Commons Committee will discuss recommendations to merge the committee into the Parks and Recreation Commission and to appoint two committee members to the commission. The board will review proposed trail‑map updates and next steps for the Natural Resource Inventory/Management Plan. Budget items such as new trail signage, trail‑map redesign, and a goat‑trail adoption will be considered, with cost details ranging from low to large or unknown.

• Recommendation to merge the Town Commons Committee into the Parks and Recreation Commission
• Recommendation for two Town Commons Committee members to join the Parks and Recreation Commission
• Review of proposed trail‑map updates (attachments “Proposed Trail Map Updates” and “Town Commons Trails DRAFT 7”)
• Discussion of the Natural Resource Inventory/Management Plan (large cost)
• Consideration of new trail signage (large cost) and goat‑trail adoption (costs unknown pending state report)

The committee voted unanimously to adopt a set of recommendations for the new merged Town Commons and Recreation Commission, including student voting members, trail map and signage projects, and expanded Friends of the Commons activities. The committee also voted to designate Blaine and Mark as designees to the new committee, with four votes in favor and two abstentions. No other motions were decided.

• Approved unanimous recommendation to Town Council: add 2 student voting members, complete new trail map, trail adoption, signage, expand Friends of the Commons, continue quarterly events, add content to Parks & Recreation newsletter, complete management plan and botanical survey (unanimous)
• Designated Blaine and Mark as designees to the new committee (4 in favor, 2 abstained)

Tree Committee

The Tree Committee will review updates to the Tree Protection draft and discuss ordinance violations. The committee will also consider dissolving itself and recommending the transfer of its duties and members to the Conservation Commission.

• Review of Tree Protection draft and ordinance violations
• Discussion on dissolving the Tree Committee
• Recommendations to add duties to the Conservation Commission Charge
• Recommendations for two Tree Committee members to join the Conservation Commission

Town Council

The Brunswick Town Council meeting will review the manager's report and hold public hearings on several topics, including Jordan Avenue parking, a weapons ordinance amendment, a mobile‑home lot rent moratorium, and a rural subdivision moratorium. It will also set hearings for amendments to marine activities regulations, zoning map changes for Hawthorne and the MRRA, and zoning text updates for the Brunswick School Department. Additional items include a public works facility ordinance, public‑works site upgrade materials, and a purchase and sales agreement for 2 Industry Road. A letter of support for Bill LR 2787 from Representative Poppy Arford will also be considered.

• Purchase and sales agreement for 2 Industry Rd
• Weapons ordinance amendment public hearing
• Mobile home lot rent moratorium public hearing
• Rural subdivision moratorium public hearing
• Zoning map amendment hearing for Hawthorne

The Town Council approved a 180‑day emergency moratorium that prevents any increase in mobile home lot rents, defining lot rent to exclude utilities and other fees. It also passed an amendment to the traffic ordinance on Jordan Avenue, adopted weapons‑code changes, and set several December 1 public hearings on marine activities, rezoning and subdivision matters.

• Approved executive session on real‑property acquisition (8 yeas)
• Amended Chapter 15 Traffic and Vehicles, Article IV on Jordan Avenue (9 yeas)
• Adopted text amendments to Chapter 17 Weapons, Section 17‑5 (9 yeas)
• Adopted 180‑day moratorium on mobile‑home lot rent increases (main motion 8 yeas, amendment 9 yeas)
• Directed manager to send letter supporting Rep. Golek’s appeal on mobile‑home park legislation (9 yeas)
• Enacted 50‑day emergency moratorium on rural subdivisions (8 yeas)
• Set Dec 1 public hearing to amend Marine Activities ordinance (9 yeas)
• Set Dec 1 public hearing to rezone 46 Federal Street to Growth Mixed Use 6 (9 yeas)

Finance Committee

The Brunswick Finance Committee will discuss the Property Tax Assistance article and the Brunswick TIF and CEA Policy. It will also review the October 2025 expenditure report, revenue report, and general fund balance sheet. A TIF presentation will be given to the committee.

• Review of Property Tax Assistance (Article IV)
• Discussion of Brunswick TIF and CEA Policy – adopted 2022-06-06
• TIF presentation to the Finance Committee
• October 2025 Expenditure Report (FC version)
• October 2025 Revenue Report and General Fund Balance Sheet

The committee approved the minutes of the October 27, 2025 meeting unanimously. No other formal actions were taken; the senior property tax assistance program and affordable housing support fund were discussed without a decision. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved October 27, 2025 minutes (unanimous)

Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee

The Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee is meeting to review the draft Brunswick Comprehensive Plan and its accompanying appendix. The agenda includes a review of an updated growth map and public comment from Clark Labbe.

• Review of Draft Brunswick Comprehensive Plan
• Review of Draft Brunswick Growth Map dated October 29, 2025
• Review of Draft Appendix
• Public comment from Clark Labbe

Town Council

The agenda for the November 6, 2025 Town Council and School Board workshop consists solely of references to PDF documents. No specific rezoning, contracts, ordinances, fee changes, or public hearings are listed for decision or discussion.

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider a site plan for Phase II of the Thomas Point Campground. The board will also review three zoning amendments, including both text and map changes. Additionally, an amendment for Moody's Collision is on the agenda.

• Thomas Point Campground - Phase II (25-043)
• Zoning Text Amendment (25-044)
• Zoning Map Amendment (25-050)
• Zoning Map Amendment (25-054)
• Moody's Collision Amendment (25-049)

Shellfish Committee (Formerly Marine Resources Committee)

The Shellfish Committee will consider draft changes to Chapter 11 of the shellfish ordinance, including provisions for student applications, office closure, and landing reporting. It will also review a draft Apprenticeship Program Policy. Additionally, the committee will discuss survey results concerning winter shellfish closures.

• Draft changes to Chapter 11 Shellfish Ordinance (student application, office closure, landing reporting)
• Draft Apprenticeship Program Policy
• Survey results on winter shellfish closures

The Shellfish Committee approved amendments to Chapter 11 Marine Activities Structures Way’s Article III covering harvester reporting and a student apprenticeship program, with six yeas. The committee also approved moving forward with the program without residence incentives for mentor certification, also by a 6‑yea vote. An amendment to general mentorship language passed with four yeas. The winter shellfish closure harvester survey results were tabled to December.

• Approved amendment to Chapter 11 Marine Activities Structures Way’s Article III (Harvester Reporting & Student Apprentice) – 6 yeas
• Approved moving forward with the program without residence incentives for mentor certification – 6 yeas
• Amended mentorship language to be more general – 4 yeas, 2 opposed
• Tabled Winter Shellfish Closure Harvester Survey Results to December – no vote recorded
• Adjourned the meeting – 6 yeas

Conservation Commission

The Brunswick Conservation Commission will review the Draft Tree Protection Ordinance and discuss updates on public lands, watersheds, and related issues. It will also hear a proposal for a 180‑day moratorium on development in rural zones. The meeting includes public comment and updates on ongoing conservation projects.

• Draft Tree Protection Ordinance – review of draft language
• Jones Farm Subdivision – takeaways from site visit
• $319 grant expenditure for Mare Brook Watershed
• Road Salt discussion
• 180‑Day Moratorium Proposed on Development in Rural Zones

Rivers & Coastal Waters Commission (RCWC)

The Rivers & Coastal Waters Commission will review strategies in the 2025 Climate Action Plan and Draft Comprehensive Town Plan. The body will also receive updates on the Mare Brook Watershed and Maquoit Bay sanitary survey. Members will revisit previous discussions regarding local regulations for piers and wharves.

• Review of 2025 Climate Action Plan strategies 5.3, 5.4, and 5.5
• Review of Draft Comprehensive Town Plan Key Policy Area F: Marine Resources
• Mare Brook Watershed update
• Maquoit Bay Sanitary Survey investigation update
• Discussion of Piers & Wharves local regulations and zoning code amendments

Housing Committee

The Housing Committee will review a memo and documents regarding a proposed moratorium on rent increases for mobile home parks and a separate moratorium on subdivisions. The committee is also forwarding a memo to the Town Council regarding the public hearing for the subdivision moratorium.

• Review of Mobile Home Park Rent Increase Moratorium
• Review of Subdivision Moratorium for Town Council Public Hearing
• Review of Growth Management Town Council Memo 10.20.25
• Review of 2198 AHSF 10.29.25
• Review of Housing Committee Minutes 2025.10.07

Town Council

The council will schedule a public hearing on proposed parking amendments for Jordan Avenue. It will also schedule public hearings on a rent‑moratorium for a mobile home lot. The meeting includes the Appointments Committee and a consent agenda of routine items.

• Public hearing scheduled for Jordan Ave parking amendments
• Public hearing scheduled for mobile home lot rent moratorium
• Appointments Committee items
• Consent agenda of routine items

The council voted to hold a public hearing on November 17, 2025 to amend traffic stopping, standing and parking regulations on Jordan Avenue. They also voted to hold a public hearing on the same date to adopt a 180‑day moratorium on lot rent increases in mobile home parks. The council unanimously approved the nominated members for several boards and committees. The consent agenda, including a utility pole request and a speed‑limit study on Moody Road, was approved.

• Executive session on real‑property acquisition approved (8 yeas)
• Public hearing set for traffic amendment on Jordan Ave (9 yeas)
• Public hearing set for 180‑day mobile‑home lot‑rent moratorium (9 yeas)
• Board and committee nominations accepted unanimously
• Consent agenda approved (Utility Pole ULP‑25‑15 Lisbon Rd & Speed Limit Study on Moody Rd) (9 yeas)

Midcoast Regional Redevelopment Authority

The Midcoast Regional Redevelopment Authority Board of Trustees will meet to review financial statements and capital planning. The board is deciding on several authorizations, including a new staff position and service contracts.

• Acceptance of the FY 2026 Capital Improvement Plan
• Authorization to contract Crooker Construction for 2025–2026 winter snow removal
• Creation of a Deputy Director position reporting to Executive Director Daniel B. Stevenson
• Approval of FY 2025 Audited Financial Statements
• Authorization to sign Power Purchase Agreements

Staff Review Committee/Staff Level Review

The Brunswick Staff Review Committee meeting on Oct. 29, 2025 includes a review of the Brunswick Landing Zoning Map Amendment (item 25-054). The committee will examine the amendment packet provided. No other agenda items are listed.

• 25-054: Brunswick Landing Zoning Map Amendment packet

Planning Board

The Planning Board is meeting to review site plans and applications for two development projects. The board will consider a phase II expansion for a campground and a new shellfish processing building.

• Review of 25-043: Thomas Point Campground - Phase II
• Review of 25-046: Wet Storage Shellfish Processing Building

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review draft unaudited 2025 financial statements and the draft Management's Discussion and Analysis. The body will also examine revenue, expenditure, and general fund balance reports for September 2025.

• Draft unaudited 2025 Financial Statements
• Draft Management's Discussion and Analysis (10/26/25)
• September 2025 Expenditure Report
• September 2025 Revenue Report
• September General Fund Balance Sheet

The committee approved the September 22, 2025 meeting minutes unanimously. The scheduled CIP workshop on November 10, 2025 was cancelled and moved to November 24, 2025. The Finance Committee meeting originally set for November 24, 2025 was rescheduled to November 17, 2025. The committee also discussed proposed changes to the processing facility, but no formal vote was recorded.

• Approved 9/22/25 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Canceled 11/10/2025 CIP workshop
• Rescheduled Finance Committee meeting to 11/17/2025

Midcoast Regional Redevelopment Authority

The Midcoast Regional Redevelopment Authority will hold a public meeting on Oct. 23, 2025 to discuss the Brunswick Airport Master Plan. Attendees will be presented with the Master Plan document and the BXM Alternatives report (file 329985). No specific decisions or votes are listed on the agenda.

• Presentation of the Brunswick Airport Master Plan
• Review of the BXM Alternatives report (2025-10-16, file 329985)
• Public comment period on airport planning

Bicycle & Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC)

The Brunswick Bicycle & Pedestrian Advisory Committee will review the town's Capital Improvement Plan and hear a draft Complete Streets policy language. Sub‑committee reports on the network map, Safe Routes to Schools, and outreach will also be presented. Several items, including the Bike Parking Ordinance, Pleasant Street two‑way conversion, and Maine Street sidewalks, are listed as information‑only topics. The committee will note a preliminary public meeting on the Brunswick/Topsham Bridge (Rt 24B) scheduled for Oct 27, 2025, 6‑8 pm at Brunswick Town Hall.

• Discussion of the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP)
• Presentation of draft Complete Streets policy language for review
• Information‑only review of the Bike Parking Ordinance
• Information‑only review of Pleasant Street two‑way conversion
• Preliminary public meeting on Brunswick/Topsham Bridge (Rt 24B) – Oct 27, 2025, 6‑8 pm, Brunswick Town Hall

Mare Brook Watershed Steering Committee

The Mare Brook Watershed Steering Committee will receive updates on the Maquoit Bay water‑quality study, grant‑funded restoration projects, and Trout Unlimited activities. The committee will then consider education and outreach on runoff, salt, and pesticide ordinances, review the condition of the Coffin Ice Pond Dam and discuss future remediation, and examine updates to the Mare Brook Watershed Management Plan, including cost estimates. Public comment will be allowed at the end of the meeting.

• Review of Coffin Ice Pond Dam conditions and discussion of future remediation efforts
• Update to Mare Brook Watershed Management Plan cost estimates
• Education & outreach presentation on runoff, salt use, pesticides, and related town ordinances
• Progress update on Maquoit Bay Water Quality Study
• Presentation of Trout Unlimited efforts

Staff Review Committee/Staff Level Review

The Brunswick Staff Review Committee will meet on October 22, 2025 to consider three items on its agenda. The items are the Moody's Collision Amendment (including application, site plan, and stormwater documents), the Simpson's Point Access Path (final packet), and the Priority Park proposal (packet). The committee will discuss these submissions and any related recommendations.

• 25-049 Moody's Collision Amendment – application, site plan, and stormwater documents
• 25-045 Simpson's Point Access Path – final packet
• 25-047 Priority Park – packet

Town Commons

The Town Commons Committee will discuss the 2025-26 budget and future projects, including large costs for new trail signage and a Natural Resource Inventory/Management Plan. The committee will also consider the future of the committee itself and review a state report regarding the Goat Trail.

• 2025-26 Budget Discussion
• New Trail Signage (large cost)
• Natural Resource Inventory/Management Plan (large cost)
• Goat Trail Adoption (unknown costs)
• Future of the Town Commons Committee

The committee reviewed a proposal to merge the Town Commons Committee with the Recreation Commission and considered related staffing and budget impacts. No votes or formal approvals were recorded. Members were assigned action items to develop merger recommendations, propose two names for the new committee, and prepare a draft trail map for the next meeting.

Hawthorne School Redevelopment Task Force

The Hawthorne School Redevelopment Task Force will discuss a zoning amendment, a proposal to combine parcels, and an appraisal review. The meeting will also include a review of public engagement feedback from the Community Feedback Survey and a period for public comment. No formal decisions are noted on the agenda.

• Zoning amendment proposal
• Combining the parcels
• Appraisal review
• Review of CFS public engagement
• Public comment period

The Hawthorne School Redevelopment Task Force met on Oct. 21, 2025. The agenda included staff updates on a zoning amendment, combining parcels, and an appraisal review, followed by a review of public engagement. No actions were approved, denied, or tabled during the meeting. The next meeting is scheduled for Nov. 18, 2025.

Village Review Board (VRB)

The Brunswick Village Review Board meeting will consider a zoning amendment memo, a memo on concrete products, and an addendum concerning a dormer (item 25-029). No specific decisions or vote totals are provided in the agenda. The agenda consists mainly of document references without detailed proposals.

• Zoning amendment memo (VRB Zoning Amendment Memo)
• Concrete products memo (VRB MEMO CONCRETE PRODUCTS.PDF)
• Dormer addendum for item 25-029 (25-029 Addendum (Dormer))

Town Council

The Brunswick Town Council will hold a regular meeting with a public hearing on a revised emergency moratorium for subdivisions in rural areas. Other agenda items include a public hearing on general assistance maximums, land preservation ordinance text amendments, a tree fund ordinance, and a public hearing for the 2 Columbus ordinance. The meeting also includes the Town Manager's Report and a consent agenda with no materials.

• Public Hearing for General Assistance Maximums
• Public Hearing on Land Preservation Ordinance Text Amendments
• Tree Fund Ordinance
• Public Hearing for 2 Columbus Ordinance
• Subdivision Moratorium – Revised Emergency Moratorium for Rural Subdivisions

The council adopted an ordinance to purchase real and personal property at 2 Columbus Drive for up to $2,000,000. It also approved $45,000 in Social Services grants and set a public hearing for an emergency subdivision moratorium on November 17. The General Assistance Maximums were amended, and the Landscape Preservation Ordinance was tabled pending a Tree Preservation Ordinance.

• Adopted General Assistance Maximums amendments (9 yeas)
• Tabling Landscape Preservation Ordinance until Tree Preservation Ordinance (5 yeas)
• Tabling Tree Fund ordinance (9 yeas)
• Adopted acquisition ordinance for 2 Columbus Drive, purchase up to $2,000,000 (9 yeas)
• Approved Social Services Funding Committee grants totaling $45,000 (9 yeas)
• Set public hearing for emergency subdivision moratorium on Nov 17, 2025 (9 yeas)
• Approved consent agenda appointing Warden, Deputy Warden, and Interim Finance Director (9 yeas)
• Adjourned meeting (9 yeas)

Recreation Commission

The Brunswick Recreation Commission will discuss several items, including an ordinance to acquire the 2 Columbus Drive property for Parks Division use and an ordinance designating the Recreation Center as a future voting location. The commission will also hear citizen requests to sell baked goods at youth soccer games on October 18 and 25 and to sell Girls on the Run merchandise at a 5K event on November 9. Updates on the Brunswick Landing Perimeter Trail alignment and the Pejepscot Reservoir Project funding will be provided.

• Ordinance authorizing acquisition of 2 Columbus Drive for Parks Division operations
• Ordinance approving the Recreation Center as a future voting and municipal elections site
• Letter from David Venegas requesting permission to sell baked goods at Brunswick Youth Soccer League games on Oct. 18 and 25
• Letter from Allison Ayan requesting permission to sell Girls on the Run merchandise at a 5K event on Nov. 9
• Update on Pejepscot Reservoir Project Land for Maine’s Future award of $357,500 with $107,500 still to be raised

Staff Review Committee/Staff Level Review

The Staff Review Committee will review three project applications: Phase II of the Thomas Point Campground, a wet‑storage shellfish processing facility, and an amendment to Moody’s Collision. Staff will examine the submitted applications, site plans, and storm‑water reports. The committee will decide whether to recommend the projects for further action.

• 25-043 – Thomas Point Campground Phase II (application, site plan, storm‑water report)
• 25-046 – Wet Storage Shellfish Processing (application, site plan)
• 25-049 – Moody's Collision Amendment (application, site plan, storm‑water report)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider a zoning text amendment and a zoning map amendment for 46 Federal St. The board is also reviewing subdivision applications for 346 Old Portland Road and Garnet Ridge.

• Zoning Text Amendment 25-044
• Zoning Map Amendment for 46 Federal St (20-050)
• Subdivision application for 346 Old Portland Road (25-038)
• Subdivision application for Garnet Ridge (25-037)

Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee

The Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee will review recent public comments, draft meeting minutes, and two growth‑area scenario maps (A and B). It will consider recommendations for updates to the draft comprehensive plan. The committee will also revisit discussion topics from the August 21, 2025 meeting.

• Review recent public comment document
• Review draft meeting minutes
• Examine Scenario A growth‑area map
• Examine Scenario B growth‑area map
• Consider recommendations for draft plan updates and revisit prior discussion topics

Staff Review Committee/Staff Level Review

The Staff Review Committee is meeting to review three specific applications. These include a phase II project for a campground and two zoning amendment requests from the school department.

• 25-043: Thomas Point Campground - Phase II
• 25-044: Brunswick School Dept Zoning Text Amendment Request
• 25-050: Hawthorne School Zoning Map Amendment Request

Shellfish Committee (Formerly Marine Resources Committee)

The Shellfish Committee will hear a report from the Coastal Resource Office. It will review draft changes to the town’s shellfish ordinance and a proposed student apprenticeship program. The committee will also consider a draft on office closure and landing reporting.

• Coastal Resource Office manager report (10-2-2025)
• Draft changes to the Shellfish Ordinance
• Student Apprenticeship Program policy draft (10-1-2025)
• Draft on office closure and landing reporting (10-01-25)

The Shellfish Committee decided to plant half of the quahogs in Maquoit Bay and the other half over winter elsewhere. Members moved and seconded a motion to have no quahog closures between now and the end of the year; the motion carried with five yeas. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Decided to plant half of the quahogs in Maquoit Bay and half over winter elsewhere
• Motion to have no quahog closures for the remainder of the year carried with five yeas
• Motion to adjourn the meeting carried with five yeas

Housing Committee

The Brunswick Housing Committee is scheduled to review committee minutes from September 2, 2025, and a report on the Affordable Housing Stabilization Fund as of September 24, 2025. The agenda lists multiple document items but provides no specific topics or decisions to be made.

• Review Housing Committee minutes from September 2, 2025
• Review Affordable Housing Stabilization Fund report as of September 24, 2025

Town Council

The Brunswick Town Council will hold public hearings on several ordinance and zoning proposals, including a change to the Chapter 17 Weapons Ordinance. Other items include updates to landscape preservation zoning text, a Tree Fund Ordinance, and a proposed acquisition of 2 Columbus Drive. The council will also discuss general assistance benefit maximums and the town’s growth area plan.

• Public hearing on Chapter 17 Weapons Ordinance amendment
• Public hearing on Landscape Preservation Zoning Text amendments
• Public hearing on Tree Fund Ordinance
• Public hearing on acquisition of 2 Columbus Drive
• Public hearing on General Assistance maximums

The Brunswick Town Council set several public hearings for October 20, 2025, including ordinances on landscape preservation, a tree fund, and a $2 million property acquisition. It also approved a November 17 hearing on weapons ordinance amendments and authorized the Town Manager to execute the purchase agreement for 2 Columbus Drive. Additional actions included updating General Assistance limits, directing staff to refine an emergency moratorium, and confirming board appointments.

• Set public hearing on Nov 17, 2025 to adopt weapons ordinance amendments (9 yeas)
• Set public hearing on Oct 20, 2025 to adopt Landscape Preservation Ordinance (9 yeas)
• Set public hearing on Oct 20, 2025 to adopt Tree Fund ordinance (9 yeas)
• Set public hearing on Oct 20, 2025 to adopt acquisition ordinance for 2 Columbus Drive (9 yeas)
• Authorized Town Manager to execute Purchase and Sales Agreement for 2 Columbus Drive (9 yeas)
• Set public hearing on Oct 20, 2025 to consider updated General Assistance Maximums (9 yeas)
• Directed staff to refine emergency moratorium language (7 yeas, 2 opposed)
• Approved appointments to Sustainability Committee, Assessment Review Committee, and Village Review Board (9 yeas)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will review and vote on a final recommendation for a proposed conservation easement at the Jones Farm Subdivision. The body will also discuss the dissolving of the Tree Committee and review 319 Grant expenditures.

• Vote on final recommendation for Jones Farm Subdivision proposed conservation easement
• Discussion on dissolving the Tree Committee and updates to Commission charge/ordinance
• Review of 319 Grant expenditure
• Planning for Western Sawtooth town-owned lands
• Draft Tree Protection Ordinance tabled until November

Rivers & Coastal Waters Commission (RCWC)

Commissioners will discuss site‑visit findings for Coffin Ice Pond and Pejebscot Fishing Park. They will review actions from Brunswick’s Climate Action Plan and Draft Comprehensive Plan related to marine resources and harbor management. An update on the Simpsons Point rehabilitation will note that the boat launch construction has been approved to move forward. The meeting will also include a Mare Brook watershed update.

• Site‑visit recap for Coffin Ice Pond – dam functionality, habitat loss, sediment concerns
• Site‑visit recap for Pejebscot Fishing Park – entrance sign visibility and road improvements
• Review of RCWC advisory role in Climate Action Plan strategies 5.3‑5.5 and Comprehensive Plan actions F.1‑F.10
• Simpsons Point rehabilitation – boat launch construction approved to proceed
• Mare Brook watershed update from the chair

The commission voted to approve the minutes from the July 23, 2025 meeting, with the motion passing unanimously. A motion to adjourn the September 24, 2025 meeting was also carried unanimously. Site visit recaps and several updates were discussed but no further actions were taken.

• Approved July 23, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Tree Committee

The Brunswick Tree Committee will review and approve minutes from its last meeting. It will provide updates on the Landscape Preservation Zoning Amendment and the draft tree protection ordinance, and discuss any remaining questions. The committee will also consider locations for new tree plantings and review the tree nursery inventory.

• Review and approve minutes from the previous meeting
• Update on the Landscape Preservation Zoning Amendment
• Discussion of the draft tree protection ordinance
• Consideration of locations for tree planting
• Review of the tree nursery inventory

The committee did not approve the minutes from the previous meeting and postponed that action. The next committee meeting was scheduled for November 18 at 7:00 PM. No other actions were approved or denied.

• Postponed approval of previous meeting minutes
• Scheduled next meeting for November 18 at 7:00 PM

Planning Board

The Brunswick Planning Board meeting on September 23, 2025 includes item 25-035, the Burbank Subdivision Amendment. The board will discuss and potentially decide on this amendment. No other agenda items are listed.

• 25-035: Burbank Subdivision Amendment

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review the 2025 Budget and Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) schedule. The meeting includes a review of the adopted CIP policy and projected FY25 fund balances. Members will also examine revenue and expenditure reports from August 2025.

• CIP Policy Review
• 2025 Budget / CIP Schedule
• DRAFT FY25 Budget Vs Actual
• August 2025 Expenditure Report
• August 2025 Revenue Report

The committee confirmed the meeting was properly noticed and approved the Finance Committee minutes from August 28, 2025 with a unanimous vote. No other actions, policy changes, or budget adjustments were adopted during this meeting.

• Approved 8/28/25 Finance Committee minutes (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission and Planning Board will conduct a joint site visit to evaluate a proposed conservation easement for a phased 13‑lot subdivision on Lisbon Road (Lot 70) within the Rural Farm and Forest zoning district. Observations from the visit will be discussed at the Commission’s meeting on October 1 2025, when a formal recommendation on the easement will be made to the Planning Board. No public comment will be taken during the site visit, but comments may be submitted at the October meeting.

• Joint site visit to assess proposed conservation easement for 13‑lot subdivision on Lisbon Road (Lot 70) in Rural Farm and Forest district
• Formal recommendation on the easement to be presented at Conservation Commission meeting on Oct 1 2025
• Major Development Review Sketch/Final Plan date for the application has not yet been set
• Public comment not accepted during site visit; can be offered at the Oct 1 meeting
• Contact Town Environmental Planner (207‑721‑4025, [email protected]) for questions

Recreation Commission

The Recreation Commission will meet to elect leadership for the current fiscal year and receive updates on several trail and facility projects. The body will also discuss amendments to the Parks and Recreation Areas Ordinance and the naming of the Pond, Fitgerald, and former Maine Gravel sites.

• Amendments to the Parks and Recreation Areas Ordinance
• Naming of former Maine Gravel Property, Pond, and Fitgerald Site
• Brunswick Landing Perimeter Trail RFP update
• Recreation Center Field House Roof Replacement update
• Request from Brunswick High School Senior Class to sell baked goods at youth soccer games

Staff Review Committee/Staff Level Review

The Staff Review Committee will review the subdivision application identified as 25-038 for the property at 346 Old Portland Road. The agenda includes the sketch application and site plan documents for the proposed subdivision. The committee will discuss the merits of the proposal and determine next steps.

• Subdivision application 25-038 for 346 Old Portland Road
• Sketch application document for 25-038
• Site plan document for 25-038

Village Review Board (VRB)

The September 16, 2025 VRB agenda consists of file references (VRB 25-021, VRB 25-023) without any described rezoning, contracts, ordinances, or fee changes. No specific decisions or public hearings are identified in the agenda. Therefore the meeting appears to be procedural with no substantive agenda items.

Town Council

The Brunswick Town Council will hold public hearings on a Chapter 15 Roads Ordinance amendment, concealed‑carry fee changes, and an amendment to the Parks and Recreation Ordinance. It will also hear a public hearing on Brunswick Auto Recycling and discuss naming possibilities for Parks and Recreation facilities. The council will consider a resolution to receive Maine Trails Program grant funding and a tax abatement item (no backup materials provided).

• Public hearing on Chapter 15 Roads Ordinance amendment (Item 118)
• Public hearing on Concealed Carry Fees amendment (Item 119)
• Public hearing to amend Parks and Recreation Ordinance (Item 120)
• Resolution for Maine Trails Program grant funding (Item 123)
• Tax abatement item with no backup materials (Item 124)

The council approved several ordinance amendments and actions. An all‑way stop was added at Pleasant Hill Road and Baribeau Drive, and concealed handgun permit fees were adjusted. Public‑land designations were changed, a junkyard license was granted, and town‑owned properties were formally named. A grant application for the Brunswick Landing Perimeter Trail was also authorized.

• Amended Chapter 15, Section 15-49 to add all‑way stop at Pleasant Hill Rd & Baribeau Dr (9 yeas)
• Amended Appendix B, Section 17-2 to adjust concealed handgun permit fees (9 yeas)
• Repealed Chapter 14, Article 14, Section 14-165 and amended Section 14-124 for specific park lands (9 yeas)
• Approved junkyard and automobile graveyard license for Brunswick Auto Recycling, LLC (9 yeas)
• Formally named town‑owned properties: Francis & Mahitable Heuston Park, retained Captain William A. Fitzgerald Recreation and Conservation Area, and named Crooker Pond (9 yeas)
• Adopted resolution to apply for up to $250,000 Maine Trails grant for Phase 1 of Brunswick Landing Perimeter Trail (9 yeas)
• Approved Consent Agenda items: new liquor license for Elevenses (50 Maine St) and renewal of special amusement license for Social Goose (94 Maine St) (9 yeas)
• Adjourned meeting (9 yeas)

Landing Community Center Complex Committee (LC4)

The Landing Community Center Complex Committee will receive a staff update, review two photo recaps of the recent MARC 5K run, examine the MARC's revenue and expense report, and discuss plans for a 2025 movie event at the MARC. No formal decisions are indicated in the agenda.

• LC4 Staff Update (9/11/25)
• MARC 5K Recap 1 (photo documentation)
• MARC 5K Recap 2 (photo documentation)
• MARC revenue and expense review (as of 9/9/25)
• Movie at the MARC 2025 planning

Planning Board

The Brunswick Planning Board meeting on September 9, 2025 will review two development items. Item 25-025 concerns the Simpson's Point Boat Launch proposal. Item 25-033 concerns the Woodside Private Street Development proposal. No other agenda items are listed.

• Item 25-025 – Review of Simpson's Point Boat Launch proposal
• Item 25-033 – Review of Woodside Private Street Development proposal

Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee

The Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee will review summarized responses to questions and two growth area scenarios. The committee will also examine a staff memo regarding Capital Improvement Program (CIP) investment by location and a list of recommended 2026-2030 CIP projects.

• Review of Growth Area Scenarios A and B
• Review of 2026-2030 CIP projects recommended for funding
• Review of CIP investment by location
• Review of summarized responses to questions

Shellfish Committee (Formerly Marine Resources Committee)

The committee approved the minutes from the August 5, 2025 meeting with six yeas. Members approved the Shellfish Apprenticeship program by consensus. The committee voted to close Barnes Landing effective September 15, 2025, with six yeas. No other actions were taken; the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved August 5, 2025 minutes (6 yeas)
• Approved Shellfish Apprenticeship program (consensus)
• Approved closure of Barnes Landing effective Sep 15, 2025 (6 yeas)

Town Commons

The board voted unanimously to rename all references from "Town Commons" to "Brunswick Town Commons," delete the trails east of Harpswell Road, label points 36‑40 as future trail, and clearly highlight town‑owned property on the map. The motion was approved without opposition. The minutes also noted that none of the 20 chestnut seedlings survived and that Dennis will order 10‑12 more, and that the Maine Primitive event with Michael Douglas remains scheduled for September 25. The meeting adjourned at 5:50 p.m.

• Motion to rename references, remove east Harpswell Rd trails, label points 36‑40 as future trail, and highlight town property passed unanimously

Town Council

The Council adopted an amendment to the Affordable Housing Support Fund allowing emergency and regular use, passing with eight yeas. It also approved a $32,000 study of rent‑stabilization policies for mobile home parks and authorized a letter of support to NNEPRA after removing a reference to Site 3. Several public‑hearing dates and a sidewalk‑seating license were also approved.

• Amended Affordable Housing Support Fund use on emergency and regular basis (8 yeas, Councilor Shed opposed)
• Appropriated $32,000 for rent‑stabilization study for mobile home parks (8 yeas, Councilor Shed opposed)
• Authorized letter of support to NNEPRA for Portland train station relocation, amended to remove Site 3 (9 yeas, Councilor Ecker and Chair Updegraph opposed)
• Set public hearing Sep 15, 2025 to adjust concealed handgun permit fees (9 yeas)
• Set public hearing Sep 15, 2025 to repeal public lands ordinance and amend park description (9 yeas)
• Set public hearing Sep 15, 2025 to add all‑way stop signs at Pleasant Hill Road and Baribeau Drive (9 yeas)
• Approved Tern Coffee & Tea, 141 Maine Street, for sidewalk food license with outdoor seating (8 yeas, Councilor Shed absent)
• Appointed Eliza Jacobs to Sustainability Committee (unanimous)

Housing Committee

The Housing Committee will review draft text amendments and a proposal for a Maine Housing study. The body will also consider a grant agreement amendment.

• Review of draft text amendments (redlined version)
• Consideration of MHP Housing Study Proposal
• Review of MHP Market Study and Policy Analysis Memo
• Discussion of Grant Agreement Amendment (dated 08.07.2025)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review the status and funding options for the Downtown Streetscape project, including an analysis of bonding versus advancing. The body will also discuss TIF financing for the Jordan Avenue project and a conservation easement for Maquoit Woods.

• Downtown Streetscape project funding analysis (bonding vs advancing)
• Jordan Avenue Project TIF financing
• Maquoit Woods Conservation Easement debt paydown vs flexibility analysis
• Annual review of the 2023 Investment Policy
• July 2025 General Fund expenditure, revenue, and balance sheet reports

The committee approved the amended July 24 minutes unanimously. It agreed to hold Finance Committee meetings on the fourth Monday of each month at 9:00 a.m. through the end of the year. The existing town investment policy was retained with no changes.

• Approved amended July 24 minutes (unanimous)
• Set meeting schedule: fourth Monday monthly at 9:00 a.m. through year‑end
• Retained existing investment policy (no changes)

Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee

The committee is meeting to review public feedback on the draft plan. The agenda includes a review of density maps and materials related to LD 1829 regarding ADUs and housing densities.

• Review of public feedback on the draft plan
• Review of density maps and staff-identified high density areas
• Review of LD 1829 (2025) regarding ADUs and housing densities

Recreation Commission

The Recreation Commission will meet to elect leadership for the upcoming fiscal year and review updates on various town trail and park projects, including the Brunswick Landing Perimeter Trail and the Pejepscot Reservoir Land for Maine's Future project.

• Election of Recreation Commission leadership
• Former Maine Gravel Services Parking Lot Project
• Brunswick Landing Perimeter Trail RFP Update
• Androscoggin to Kennebec Trail Update
• Pejepscot Reservoir Project Land for Maine's Future Update

Town Council

The Brunswick Town Council will hold a public hearing for a Jordan Avenue bond and a Maquoit Woods conservation easement. The meeting also includes a public hearing to set a date for an Affordable Housing Support Fund amendment and a discussion on sidewalk seating. The council will also consider a Red, White and Blue crosswalk.

• Public Hearing: Jordan Avenue Bond
• Public Hearing: Maquoit Woods Conservation Easement
• Public Hearing: Affordable Housing Support Fund Amendment
• Discussion: Sidewalk Seating
• Discussion: Red, White and Blue Crosswalk

The council adopted an ordinance to reconstruct Jordan Avenue from Lori Drive to Bath Road, including a new multi‑use path and culvert replacement, with a project cost not to exceed $3,250,000; the motion passed with seven yeas and one nay. They also approved a resolution accepting a $2,000,000 offer from the Brunswick‑Topsham Land Trust to purchase a conservation easement on 240 acres of the Maquoit Woods property, with eight yeas. The council set a public hearing for September 2, 2025 to amend the Affordable Housing Support Fund provisions, and approved a food‑service license for Elevenses at 50 Maine Street, both with eight yeas. Additional actions approved with eight yeas each included authorizing a red/white/blue crosswalk on Maine Street, adopting the consent agenda, and adjourning the meeting.

• Approved Jordan Avenue reconstruction ordinance (7 yeas)
• Approved $2M conservation easement purchase (8 yeas)
• Set public hearing for affordable housing amendment (8 yeas)
• Approved food license for Elevenses at 50 Maine St (8 yeas)
• Authorized red/white/blue crosswalk on Maine St (8 yeas)
• Approved consent agenda items (8 yeas)
• Entered executive session on acquisition (8 yeas)
• Adjourned meeting (8 yeas)

Shellfish Committee (Formerly Marine Resources Committee)

The committee approved the minutes of the July 1, 2025 meeting with a 5‑yea vote and one abstention. It approved opening Maquoit Bay for softshell clams effective August 15, 2025 with six yeas. It voted to rescind the Harpswell Cove quahog closure, also effective August 15, 2025, with six yeas. The committee approved an Intertidal Limited Purpose Aquaculture lease for Ferda Farms LLC, passing with five yeas and one abstention.

• Approved July 1, 2025 minutes (5 yeas, 1 abstention)
• Approved opening Maquoit Bay for softshell clams (6 yeas)
• Approved rescinding Harpswell Cove quahog closure (6 yeas)
• Approved Intertidal LPA for Ferda Farms LLC (5 yeas, 1 abstention)
• Adjourned meeting (6 yeas)

Town Council

The Town Council approved an amendment to EV charging and parking fees, set a public hearing for the Jordan Avenue reconstruction project, moved voting to the Recreation Center, and authorized a special election for a vacant council seat. It also adopted a $925,000 TIF appropriation for the downtown streetscape project, confirmed several board appointments, and approved the consent agenda.

• Amended EV charging stations and parking fee ordinance (8 yeas)
• Set public hearing for Jordan Avenue reconstruction project (8 yeas)
• Moved voting to Recreation Center at 220 Neptune Drive (8 yeas)
• Set special election for District 4 seat on Nov 4, 2025 (8 yeas)
• Approved $925,000 TIF appropriation for downtown streetscape (6 yeas)
• Confirmed appointments to Conservation, Bicycle & Pedestrian, and Recreation commissions (7 yeas)
• Approved Consent Agenda items including July minutes and Utility Pole Permit (7 yeas)
• Adjourned meeting (7 yeas)

Finance Committee

The committee approved the April 24, 2025 Finance Committee minutes by unanimous consent. Councilor Shed agreed with Director Perreault to keep the town's unassigned fund balance policy unchanged. No other actions were formally adopted during the meeting.

• Approved April 24, 2025 Finance Committee minutes (unanimous)
• Retained current unassigned fund balance policy (no changes)

Rivers & Coastal Waters Commission (RCWC)

The commission unanimously approved the final draft RCWC charge changes. Commissioners selected Pej ep scot Fishing Park and Coffin Ice Pond as the August field‑trip locations. The meeting was adjourned by a unanimous motion. The Planning Board has tabled approval of the Simpson Point Boat Launch Project until the next meeting.

• Approved final draft RCWC charge changes (unanimous)
• Selected Pej ep scot Fishing Park and Coffin Ice Pond for August field trip (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Town Council

The council approved amendments to the rental registration code (8 yeas) and to traffic and vehicle regulations (8 yeas). It also removed the Sunday shellfish harvesting prohibition (8 yeas) and sent the Maquoit Woods land‑trust proposal to the Conservation Commission (8 yeas). A public hearing was scheduled for August 4 on EV charging station fees (7 yeas), and the consent agenda items—including a new liquor license, an abatement, a construction overload permit, and a speed‑limit review segment—were approved (7 yeas each). The meeting was adjourned with a vote of seven yeas.

• Amended Municipal Code Chapter 8 rental registration sections 101‑105 (8 yeas)
• Amended Municipal Code Chapter 15 traffic and vehicles articles (8 yeas)
• Removed Sunday shellfish harvesting prohibition in Chapter 11 (8 yeas)
• Sent Maquoit Woods proposal to Conservation Commission (8 yeas)
• Set public hearing Aug 4 to amend EV charging station fees (7 yeas)
• Approved consent agenda items A‑C: liquor license, abatement, construction overload (7 yeas)
• Approved consent agenda D: speed‑limit review segment (7 yeas)
• Adjourned meeting (7 yeas)

Town Commons

The Town Commons committee scheduled the Maine Primitive event for September 25 at 5 p.m., will create a Google Form for registration, and will limit attendance to committee members plus 12 guests. The quarterly newsletter draft was approved with additions including a QR code link, a seasonal photo, and removal of spring‑cleanup participant names. The August Town Commons meeting was moved to August 26, and the trail‑mapping brochure will be printed once a new map is ready. The town approved a $2,500 budget for the 2025‑2026 cycle and assigned outreach tasks to Tim, Nat, and Bobin.

• Scheduled Maine Primitive event for Sept 25 at 5 pm
• Will set up Google Form registration and limit attendees to committee members plus 12
• Quarterly newsletter draft approved with added QR code, seasonal photo, and omission of spring cleanup participant names
• Rescheduled August meeting to Aug 26
• Approved $2,500 budget for 2025‑2026 cycle
• Tim and Nat to contact Professor Johnson; Bobin to contact summer GIS class coordinators
• Trail‑mapping brochure ready to print after new map is completed
• Committee agreed to begin a spreadsheet to track potential trail grant opportunities

Tree Committee

The committee approved the minutes from the previous meeting unanimously. No other actions were voted on. The committee heard a presentation on a landscape preservation zoning amendment and discussed tree planting under power lines and improvements to tree cover on Pleasant Street and Cook’s Corner. The next meeting was scheduled for September 16, 2025 at 7:00 PM.

• Approved minutes from previous meeting (unanimous)

Personnel Board

The Personnel Board voted to enter an executive session under MRSA § 405(6)(A) to conduct interviews for the open Captain position. Chairperson William Locke moved the motion, Russ Wrede seconded, and all four members present voted yeas. The board then adjourned immediately after the executive session.

• Entered executive session for Captain promotion interviews (4 yeas)
• Adjourned immediately following the executive session

Town Council

The Town Council adopted several amendments to the zoning ordinance after suspending rules, approving them with nine yeas. It approved a fee waiver for Pathway Vineyard Church’s December 5 downtown event and authorized a $300,000 TIF appropriation for design and permitting of the Stephen Drive Extension. The council also set public hearings for rental‑property registration and traffic‑regulation amendments, and confirmed multiple board and committee appointments.

• Moved to enter executive session on real‑property acquisition; motion carried with eight yeas
• Adopted zoning ordinance amendments (Appendix A, Chapter 1, Chapter 3, Chapter 4); motion carried with nine yeas
• Approved Pathway Vineyard Church event fee waiver for Dec. 5, 2025; motion carried with nine yeas
• Authorized $300,000 TIF appropriation for Stephen Drive Extension design; motion carried with nine yeas
• Set public hearing for July 21 on rental‑property registration amendments; motion carried with nine yeas
• Set public hearing for July 21 on traffic‑regulation amendments; motion carried with nine yeas
• Confirmed appointments to various town boards and committees; vote of nine yeas
• Approved consent agenda items; motion carried with nine yeas

Shellfish Committee (Formerly Marine Resources Committee)

The Shellfish Committee approved the minutes from the June 3, 2025 meeting with four yeas. It then approved the revised Shellfish Management Plan and removed Sunday harvesting, also with four yeas. The meeting was adjourned by a motion that passed with four yeas.

• Approved June 3, 2025 minutes (4 yeas)
• Approved revised Shellfish Management Plan and removed Sunday harvesting (4 yeas)
• Adjourned meeting (4 yeas)

Town Council

The Brunswick Town Council adopted a motion to inform Viridi Energy that the council does not support the proposed biodigester expansion project, citing potential environmental and nuisance impacts. The motion carried with eight yeas. A separate motion to adjourn the meeting also carried with eight yeas.

• Motion to inform Viridi Energy of non‑support for biodigester expansion – carried (8 yeas)
• Motion to adjourn the meeting – carried (8 yeas)

Rivers & Coastal Waters Commission (RCWC)

The commission approved the meeting minutes with a name spelling correction, unanimously. A motion to write a letter of support for the Simpsons Point Rehabilitation was passed unanimously. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved meeting minutes with correction (unanimous)
• Approved letter of support for Simpsons Point rehabilitation (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Town Council

The council approved a resolution to transfer funds between municipal functions, with all eight members voting yes. It also approved a $40,000 encumbrance and carry‑forward for permitting and developing trails on the 144‑acre parcel on Harpswell Road. Additionally, the council authorized the finance director to abate certain uncollectable real estate and personal property taxes. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Adopted Resolution Authorizing Transfer of Funds Between Municipal Functions (8 yeas)
• Adopted Resolution Authorizing Encumbrance and Carry-Forward of $40,000 for trail development on 144‑acre Harpswell Road parcel (8 yeas)
• Authorized Finance Director to abate certain uncollectable real estate and personal property taxes (8 yeas)
• Adjourned meeting (8 yeas)

Town Commons

The committee unanimously approved a recommendation to use intersection numbers as the primary trail navigation system, trail names as secondary markers, and a simple color‑coding scheme (white for the main trail, blue for side trails). Dennis was assigned to handle distribution of the quarterly newsletter and to explore a shared Google Drive for photos and drafts. Jeremy will coordinate a walk‑through of the Town Commons with Michael Douglas, targeting September 18 or 25, and will draft a new trail map to send to Jessica for the July meeting before recommending it to the Recreation Commission and Town Council.

• Adopt intersection numbers as primary navigation, trail names secondary, white main/blue side color coding – passed unanimously
• Dennis to coordinate distribution of quarterly newsletters to council and relevant parties
• Dennis to investigate a shared Google Drive for newsletter photos and draft documents
• Jeremy to coordinate Town Commons walk‑through with Michael Douglas, proposing Sept 18 or 25
• Jeremy to draft new trail map and send to Jessica for July meeting before recommendation to Tom Ferrell, Rec Commission, and Town Council

Town Council

The council accepted the Hawthorne School property at 46 Federal Street and authorized up to $30,000 for the transfer. It also adopted an amendment allowing domesticated chickens, removed the Sunday shellfish harvesting prohibition, and ratified the Brunswick Police Benefit Association contract. Additional actions included a $59,500 recreation‑impact fee appropriation, fee waivers for two downtown events, and setting a July 7 public hearing on zoning amendments.

• Accepted Hawthorne School property at 46 Federal Street, authorize $30,000 expenditure (8 yeas)
• Adopted amendment to allow domesticated chickens (8 yeas)
• Removed Sunday shellfish harvesting prohibition on emergency basis (8 yeas)
• Approved $59,500 recreation‑impact fee appropriation for MARC design (8 yeas)
• Waived $1,000 fees for two Brunswick Downtown Association events (8 yeas)
• Set public hearing for July 7, 2025 on multiple zoning ordinance amendments (8 yeas)
• Ratified Union Contract for Brunswick Police Benefit Association (8 yeas)
• Approved Consent Agenda items (8 yeas)

Shellfish Committee (Formerly Marine Resources Committee)

The Shellfish Committee approved the minutes from the May 6 meeting. Members elected Katie Sellers-Reynolds as chair and Max Burtis as vice chair for the remainder of 2025. The committee voted to delete the Sunday commercial harvesting prohibition from Chapter 11 of the town code. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved May 6 minutes (5 yeas)
• Elected Katie Sellers-Reynolds as chair (5 yeas)
• Elected Max Burtis as vice chair (4 yeas, Burtis did not vote)
• Removed Sunday commercial harvesting ban from Chapter 11 (5 yeas)
• Adjourned meeting (5 yeas)

Town Council

The Council approved an ordinance to mill and resurface Maine Street from Bath Road to Mere Point Road at an estimated cost of $2,050,000, adding language for traffic‑calming improvements. The ordinance was adopted with an amendment and passed by an 8‑yea vote. The Council also approved the repeal and replacement of the Personnel Policy, adopted a resolution to adopt the new Personnel Policy, approved $27,455 in Nathaniel Davis Fund grants, and accepted the Master Development Plan with a 7‑yea vote.

• Adopt Maine Street milling and resurfacing ordinance (estimated $2,050,000) – 8 yeas
• Amend ordinance to include traffic‑calming costs – 8 yeas
• Repeal and replace Municipal Code Chapter 12 Personnel Policy – 8 yeas
• Adopt Resolution to adopt the new Personnel Policy – 8 yeas
• Approve Nathaniel Davis Fund Committee grant recommendations totaling $27,455 – 8 yeas
• Accept Master Development Plan (first amended motion) – 7 yeas
• Second amended motion to eliminate ball fields from the plan – failed (2 yeas)
• Final acceptance of Master Development Plan (amended main motion) – 7 yeas

Sustainability Committee

The committee unanimously approved the meeting agenda and approved the April meeting minutes. It also approved waste‑management signs (trash, composting, recycling) to be offered to the Brunswick Development Authority for business use. Tyler Spillane agreed to assist Abby Westberry with the Sustainability Newsletter.

• Agenda approved unanimously
• April minutes approved
• Approved waste‑management signs for BDA use (no vote recorded)
• Tyler Spillane agreed to help with the Sustainability Newsletter

Tree Committee

The committee unanimously approved the minutes from the previous meeting. It voted to move the Tree Protection Ordinance draft to other town municipal departments and committees for feedback. The remainder of the meeting covered Arbor Week updates, tree planting ideas, and tree‑nursery maintenance. The next meeting is scheduled for July 22 at 7:00 pm.

• Approved minutes from previous meeting (unanimous)
• Approved moving Tree Protection Ordinance draft to other departments/committees for feedback

Town Council

The council adopted a series of school‑budget articles that commit $57,525,818 for the 2025‑2026 fiscal year. It also set public hearings for a Maine Street resurfacing project and for repealing the municipal personnel policy. Additional actions included approving a sidewalk food‑service license, ratifying the AFSCME Local 2011 contract, and entering executive session on labor negotiations.

• Approved 2025‑2026 school budget articles (total $57.5M) (8 yeas)
• Set public hearing June 2, 2025 for Maine Street resurfacing ordinance (8 yeas)
• Set public hearing June 2, 2025 to repeal and replace Municipal Code Chapter 12 personnel policy (8 yeas)
• Approved sidewalk food‑service license for Shere Punjab, 46 Maine Street (8 yeas)
• Ratified AFSCME Local 2011 union contract (8 yeas)
• Moved to executive session for labor negotiations and legal counsel consultation (7 yeas)
• Approved Region Ten Technical High School budget up to $4,312,957 (8 yeas)
• Approved Merrymeeting Adult Education budget up to $1,346,552 (8 yeas)

Town Council

The council approved the school budget validation referendum warrant for June 10, 2025 and adopted the FY 2025‑2026 budget resolution, a $2,267,520 supplemental appropriation for capital projects, and a $738,000 tax‑increment financing appropriation, each passing with eight yeas. The meeting was then adjourned with eight yeas.

• Approved school budget validation referendum warrant (June 10, 2025) – 8 yeas
• Adopted FY 2025‑2026 budget resolution – 8 yeas
• Adopted $2,267,520 supplemental budget appropriation for capital projects – 8 yeas
• Adopted $738,000 tax increment financing supplemental budget appropriation – 8 yeas
• Adjourned meeting – 8 yeas

Shellfish Committee (Formerly Marine Resources Committee)

The committee approved the April 1, 2025 minutes with five yeas. Members unanimously agreed to support the Shellfish Management Plan submitted to the DMR. Two working groups were created: a Shellfish Management Plan group (Sellers‑Reynolds and Melendy) and a student apprentice program development committee (Thompson and Burtis). The meeting was adjourned with a five‑yea vote.

• Approved minutes of April 1, 2025 (5 yeas)
• Unanimously supported Shellfish Management Plan submitted to DMR
• Formed Shellfish Management Plan working group (Sellers‑Reynolds, Melendy)
• Formed student apprentice program development committee (Thompson, Burtis)
• Adjourned meeting (5 yeas)

Town Council

The council ratified the Union Contract for the Brunswick Professional Firefighters #1718 with an eight‑yea vote. It also approved a letter of support for the Brunswick‑Topsham Land Trust grant, adopted a Kids to Parks Day proclamation, and authorized two Pride events with waived fees. Board and committee appointments were confirmed, and the consent agenda for prior meetings was approved.

• Ratified Union Contract for Brunswick Professional Firefighters #1718 (8 yeas)
• Approved letter of support for Brunswick‑Topsham Land Trust grant (8 yeas)
• Adopted Kids to Parks Day proclamation for 2025 (8 yeas)
• Approved two Pride events, waived $500 fee, allowed extra food trucks (8 yeas)
• Appointed members to Tree Committee, Town Commons, Fence Viewer, Shellfish Committee (8 yeas)
• Approved Consent Agenda (minutes from April 17, 22, 28) (8 yeas)
• Adjourned meeting (8 yeas)

Town Council

The council held a public hearing on the 2024‑25 budget and the 2025‑2029 Capital Improvement Program. No formal approvals or rejections were recorded. The meeting was adjourned by a motion that carried with nine yeas.

• Adjourned meeting (9 yeas)

Finance Committee

The committee unanimously approved the March 11, 2025 meeting minutes. It also unanimously approved the electric vehicle charging ordinance with revised language to allow flexible fee adjustments. Finally, the committee unanimously approved raising the long‑term parking fee from $2 to $5 per day.

• Approved March 11, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved EV charging ordinance with revised fee language (unanimous)
• Approved increase of long‑term parking fee to $5 per day (unanimous)

Rivers & Coastal Waters Commission (RCWC)

The commission approved the February 26, 2025 minutes with a 5‑yea vote. It decided to return the draft commission charge and the 2025 priorities to the next meeting for further work. The Coastal Waters Guide will also be revisited at the next meeting. The meeting was adjourned with a 5‑yea vote.

• Approved February 26, 2025 minutes (motion carried with five yeas)
• Moved to bring the draft commission charge back at the next meeting (motion carried with five yeas)
• Moved to bring the 2025 priorities back at the next meeting (motion carried with five yeas)
• Decided to revisit the Coastal Waters Guide at the next meeting
• Adjourned the meeting (motion carried with five yeas)

Town Council

The council approved an amendment to the Municipal Code that sets late fees for rental property registration between $50 and $400, passing with eight yeas. It also adopted an amendment establishing an 11‑foot minimum vehicle travelway width on town roads, and directed staff to add traffic‑calming design guidelines to the Zoning Code and Complete Streets Policy. Additional actions included adopting the Wilson Avenue extension, approving sidewalk food‑service licenses for three businesses, and clearing the consent agenda.

• Amended Municipal Code Chapter 8, Article III, Sections 101‑106 – rental registration late fees $50‑$400 (8 yeas)
• Amended Municipal Code Chapter 14, Article VI, Section 187 – minimum vehicle travelway width 11 ft (8 yeas)
• Directed staff to update Zoning Code Appendix F and Complete Streets Policy with traffic‑calming design considerations (8 yeas)
• Adopted extension of Wilson Avenue to add it to the town public ways record (motion carried)
• Approved Sellers of Prepared Food on Public Sidewalks licenses for Social Goose, Portland Pie, Broadway Deli (8 yeas)
• Approved Consent Agenda items (minutes, proclamations, etc.) (8 yeas)
• Suspended council rules to allow vote on rental amendment (7 yeas)
• Adjourned the meeting (motion carried)

Town Council

The council voted to schedule a public hearing on Monday, April 28, 2025, to consider the 2025-26 Municipal Budget and the 2026-30 Capital Improvement Plan. The motion passed with nine yeas. The meeting was then adjourned with a nine‑yea vote.

• Set public hearing for 2025-26 Municipal Budget and 2026-30 Capital Improvement Plan (9 yeas)
• Adjourned meeting (9 yeas)

Bicycle & Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC)

The committee voted unanimously to provide a letter of support to the Town Council for the proposed lane width ordinance update. The meeting was then adjourned by a unanimous vote.

• Approved letter of support for lane width ordinance update (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Town Commons

The council approved the quarterly Town Commons newsletter with the listed content and photo changes, assigning Bobin to make the edits, Dennis to serve as the final editor, and scheduling publication for the first week of May. They also set the Spring cleanup day for May 31, 2025, and delegated advertising duties to Jeremy, Bobin, and Caleb. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Approved quarterly newsletter with changes (unanimous)
• Bobin to make requested photo and content changes to newsletter
• Dennis to act as final editor for newsletter
• Publish newsletter in first week of May
• Scheduled Spring cleanup day for May 31, 2025
• Jeremy to create flyer advertising cleanup day
• Bobin to include cleanup information in the Spring newsletter
• Caleb to post cleanup flyer at the high school

Tree Committee

The committee discussed the Tree Protection Ordinance draft but took no formal action. It scheduled a ladybug beetle release at Coffin ice pond for May 20 at 5:30 PM and another at Richard drive for May 21 at 5:30 PM. A tree information booth was planned for the Lower Mall, and possible plantings at Kate Furbish or HBS were noted. No vote tallies were recorded.

• Scheduled ladybug release at Coffin ice pond for May 20, 5:30 PM
• Scheduled ladybug release at Richard drive for May 21, 5:30 PM
• Planned tree information booth at Lower Mall
• Noted possible tree plantings at Kate Furbish or HBS (no decision made)

Town Council

The council approved an amendment to the Municipal Code covering peddlers and special amusement licenses. It also adopted two proclamations, set two public hearings for April 22, and approved several licensing and labor actions. All motions passed with nine yeas unless noted otherwise.

• Amended Municipal Code Chapter 10, Article II Section 10-26(3) and Article IV Section 10-70 (9 yeas)
• Adopted the 2025 “Poem in Your Pocket” proclamation (9 yeas)
• Adopted the 2025 “Dark Sky Week” proclamation (9 yeas)
• Set a public hearing for April 22, 2025 to amend the Street Standard and Acceptance Ordinance (9 yeas)
• Set a public hearing for April 22, 2025 to amend the Rental Property Registration ordinance (9 yeas)
• Approved outdoor‑seating licenses for Gelato Fiasco, Bombay Mahal, Otto Pizza, and Ritual Bakehouse (9 yeas)
• Approved a Farmers Market on a Public Way license for Brunswick Farmers Market Association (9 yeas)
• Ratified Union Contracts for Teamsters Local #340 Parks & Rec Maintenance and Public Works unions (9 yeas)

Conservation Commission

The Brunswick Conservation Commission approved the January 8, 2025 meeting minutes as amended, with a unanimous vote among those present. No new business was taken up, and the meeting concluded after public comments on local subdivision, salt use, and tree concerns. The session adjourned at 6:27 p.m.

• Approved January 8, 2025 Conservation Commission minutes (unanimous)

Sustainability Committee

The Sustainability Committee approved the February meeting minutes, the draft sustainability newsletter, the application for EcoMaine’s Eco-Excellence Award, and the 2025 annual sustainability goals. All four items received unanimous votes.

• Approved February minutes (unanimous)
• Approved sustainability newsletter draft (unanimous)
• Approved EcoMaine Eco-Excellence Award application (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 annual sustainability goals (unanimous)

Landing Community Center Complex Committee (LC4)

The Landing Community Center Complex Committee voted to move forward with the design for the basketball courts. The committee also voted to move forward with the design for the synthetic turf field. Both motions were seconded and passed.

• Approved moving forward on design for basketball courts (motion passed)
• Approved moving forward on design for synthetic turf field (motion passed)