Sanford, Maine

City Council

The Sanford City Council will hold public hearings and vote on several items, including extending the Route 109 TIF district by 10 years, amending zoning to allow dispensaries to cultivate and manufacture cannabis, and deciding on a citizen-initiated 180-day moratorium on biosolids and sewage thermal processing facilities. The council will also hold a hearing to determine if 26 Nason Street is a dangerous building and consider a contract zoning agreement for redevelopment at 13 River Street. Appointments for code enforcement officers, plumbing inspectors, and constables are also on the agenda.

• Public hearing and vote on extending the Route 109 TIF district term by 10 years and amending project costs
• Public hearing on ordinance amendments to allow registered dispensaries to engage in cultivation and manufacturing (first reading)
• Public hearing on a citizen-initiated ordinance for a 180-day moratorium on biosolids and sewage thermal processing facilities
• Second reading and vote on a contract zoning agreement with Stenton Mill, LLC for redevelopment at 13 River Street
• Hearing to determine if 26 Nason Street is a dangerous building or nuisance under state law

The council extended the Route 109 Tax Increment Financing district by 10 years, updating eligible costs to fund public safety improvements, recreational trails, and affordable housing. The council also declared a bank-owned property at 26 Nason Street a dangerous nuisance and ordered corrective actions to address repeated complaints about trash and safety. Additional approvals included zoning for the 13 River Street redevelopment, a first reading on dispensary cultivation rules, and several municipal appointments.

• Extended Route 109 TIF district by 10 years and updated eligible costs for public safety, trails, and affordable housing (7-0)
• Declared 26 Nason Street a dangerous building/nuisance and ordered corrective actions to abate the condition (7-0)
• Authorized contract zoning agreement with Stenton Mill, LLC to redevelop 13 River Street with residential units on all floors (7-0)
• Adopted first reading of ordinance amendments allowing registered dispensaries to cultivate and manufacture within the City (7-0)
• Appointed code enforcement officers and plumbing inspectors for July 2026–June 2027 (7-0)
• Appointed three constables with civil violation enforcement powers, excluding firearm carry or arrest authority (7-0)
• Approved inter-governmental agreement with Veterans Association for one-year leased space at Anderson Learning Center (7-0)
• Appointed four members to the Lot Rent Stabilization Board (7-0)

City Council - Executive Session

The Sanford City Council will convene an executive session on June 2, 2026, consisting entirely of four motions to discuss matters behind closed doors. Three motions pertain to economic development and one to municipal property, all under state law. No public business or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Motion 26-12-01: Executive session for economic development (M.R.S. Title 1, §405(6)(C))
• Motion 26-111-01: Executive session for municipal property (M.R.S. Title 1, §405(6)(C))
• Motion 26-178-01: Executive session for economic development (M.R.S. Title 1, §405(6)(C))
• Motion 26-173-01: Executive session for economic development (M.R.S. Title 1, §405(6)(C))

The City Council approved an administrative consent agreement regarding vacant property fees at 9 Devotion Ave. The council also authorized a property easement for Lot 14-13B in Shapleigh.

• Authorized City Manager to sign agreement with US Bank National Association regarding $47,100 in license fees for 9 Devotion Ave (6-0)
• Authorized City Manager to proceed with an easement for Lot 14-13B in Shapleigh (6-0)

City Council

The City Council will receive a presentation on Cottage Street summer construction and detours, and hold a public hearing for a new liquor license for Jasmine Thai Kitchen at 459 Main Street. Key votes include authorizing a $53,000 parking plan study with VHB, accepting criminal forfeiture funds, and approving a property donation on Barbara Street.

• Presentation on Cottage Street (Route 202) summer construction and detours
• Public hearing and vote on new liquor license for Jasmine Thai Kitchen, 459 Main Street, Springvale
• Order to authorize $53,000 contract with VHB for Parking Plan Study (with $25,000 grant, $28,000 additional city funds)
• Order to accept criminal forfeiture funds pursuant to 15 M.R.S.A. § 5824 (3) and § 5826 (6)
• Order to authorize donation of property on Barbara Street in Springvale

City Council

The Sanford City Council will hold public hearings and vote on several items, including a contract zoning agreement for redevelopment at 13 River Street, the second reading of a mobile home lot rent stabilization ordinance, and an emergency ordinance imposing a temporary 91-day moratorium on data center development. The council will also consider accepting three FAA grants totaling over $1.1 million for airport infrastructure improvements and road closures for local events.

• Public hearing and vote on contract zoning agreement with Stenton Mill, LLC for redevelopment of 13 River Street
• Second reading of Mobile Home Lot Rent Stabilization Ordinance (effective June 14, 2026)
• Emergency ordinance to enact a 91-day moratorium on data center development
• Accept three FAA grants totaling $1,135,036 for airport improvements (new runway service road and taxi lane reconstruction)
• Road closures for NECBL All-Star Game (Roberts Street, July 26) and Pete Levasseur Fall Classic/Soccer Festival (Shaw Road, October)

The Sanford City Council voted 6-1 to adopt a mobile home lot rent stabilization ordinance limiting annual increases to 3%, effective June 14, 2026. A motion to declare five roads private failed 3-4, meaning city maintenance will continue on those roads. The council also approved a Bobcat skid steer purchase and accepted three FAA grants totaling over $1.1 million for airport runway and taxilane projects.

• Approved minutes from May 5, 2026 meetings (7-0)
• Recognized Fife Lane as private roadway (7-0)
• Adopted Mobile Home Lot Rent Stabilization Ordinance (6-1)
• Failed to declare five roads private (Dunaway, Hermione, Oak Hill, Punky Parkway, Sunny) (3-4)
• Approved purchase of Bobcat skid steer sidewalk tractor (7-0)
• Accepted FAA Grant AIG-041-2026 for $504,310 for vehicle service road (7-0)
• Accepted FAA Grant AIG-042-2026 for $332,861 for taxilane reconstruction (7-0)
• Accepted FAA Grant AIP-043-2026 for $298,865 for taxilane reconstruction (7-0)

City Council

The City Council will hold public hearings regarding a mobile home lot rent stabilization ordinance and a grant for five affordable homeownership units. The body will also consider a data center permitting moratorium and a contract zoning agreement for 13 River Street.

• Public hearing on Mobile Home Lot Rent Stabilization Ordinance
• Public hearing on CDBG 2026 Housing Assistance Grant for five Habitat for Humanity units
• Contract Zoning Agreement with Stenton Mill, LLC for 13 River Street
• Proposed moratorium on Data Center Permitting
• 2026 tax commitment due dates: September 15, 2026 and March 15, 2027

The Council approved a three-year extension of the banking services agreement with Camden National Bank (4-3) after an amendment to issue an RFP after two years. It also appointed City Manager Steve Buck to the MMA Legislative Policy Committee and tabled a contract zoning agreement for 13 River Street. A first reading of the mobile home rent stabilization ordinance was held with no action taken.

• Approved banking agreement extension with Camden National Bank through June 2029 (4-3)
• Appointed City Manager Steve Buck as MMA LPC representative (7-0)
• Tabled contract zoning agreement for 13 River Street (7-0)
• Approved minutes of April 21, 2026 meetings (6-0, Councilor Hanselmann abstaining)

City Council

The Sanford City Council will vote on the FY 26/27 school budget and hold a public hearing and vote on a new marijuana manufacturing license for Green Truck Farms at 27 Hancock Lane. The second reading of a Parks and Recreation Ordinance is also on the agenda for adoption. Other business includes multiple road closures for parades and summer camp, contracts for airport pavement marking and taxilane reconstruction, and a code enforcement action against a property owner.

• Public hearing and vote on new Marijuana Manufacturing Tier II license for Green Truck Farms at 27 Hancock Ln, Building 2
• Vote on FY 26/27 school budget
• Second reading of Parks and Recreation Ordinance
• Authorization of contract for pavement marking at Auburn Lewiston Airport for $24,296.75
• Code enforcement action (80 K) against owner of Lot R15-B11 for land use violations

The council approved the FY 2026/27 school budget of $73,274,176 with $786,596 for capital improvements, including $230,490 in one-time state funding directed to the school capital program (4-2). It also adopted a Parks and Recreation Ordinance with an amendment on mass gatherings (6-0), and tabled recognition of Fife Lane as a private roadway to May 19 (6-0). Several airport-related contracts and appointments were approved unanimously.

• Approved FY 2026/27 school budget appropriations $73,274,176, CIP $786,596, revenue $53,237,994 (4-2)
• Directed $230,490 one-time state funding to school capital improvements (4-2)
• Adopted Parks and Recreation Ordinance with amended mass gathering language (6-0)
• Tabled Fife Lane private roadway recognition to May 19, 2026 (6-0)
• Appointed election clerks for general election (6-0)
• Authorized MOU with Sanford Springvale Historical Society (6-0)
• Approved $24,296.75 pavement marking contract at Auburn Lewiston Airport, funds to airport reserves (6-0)
• Approved $3,500 independent fee estimate and contract negotiation for Seacoast Taxilane reconstruction (6-0)

City Council

The Council will hold public hearings on a proposed Parks and Recreation Ordinance and an amendment to the Downtown TIF District. They will then consider approving a $13,450,000 bond for a new fire station, taking action on the FY 26/27 municipal and school budgets, and calling a school budget validation referendum.

• $13,450,000 bond for new fire station construction
• Action on FY 26/27 Municipal and School budgets
• First reading of Parks and Recreation Ordinance
• Eighth Amendment to Sanford Downtown TIF District (acreage and assessed value adjustment)
• School Budget Validation Referendum election to be held June 9, 2026

The council authorized $13,450,000 in partial bond financing for a new fire station, approved the FY 2026/27 municipal budget of $42,612,263, and adopted the Eighth Amendment to the Downtown Omnibus TIF District. It also set the school budget validation referendum for June 9, 2026, accepted resignations and made an appointment to the Airport Advisory Committee, and received four tax-acquired properties. No action was taken on the Parks and Recreation Ordinance first reading.

• Approved $13,450,000 partial bond financing for new fire station (6-0)
• Adopted FY 2026/27 municipal budget: $42,612,263 appropriation (6-0)
• Adopted Eighth Amendment to Downtown Omnibus TIF District (6-0)
• Approved consent agenda including fundraiser license for Waypoint Maine (voice vote)
• Received four tax-acquired properties for 2023/2024 tax liens (6-0)
• Accepted resignation of Matthew Blackmon from Arts Commission (6-0)
• Accepted resignation of Geoffrey Howe from Airport Advisory Committee (6-0)
• Appointed Adam Cutler to Airport Advisory Committee (6-0)

City Council

The City Council and School Committee will hold a joint public hearing on the proposed Municipal and School Budgets for Fiscal Year 2026/27. The council will also consider a consent agenda with multiple contracts, leases, and road closures. Other items include a presentation on Maine ACE Camp 2026 and an update on homelessness.

• Joint public hearing on the proposed Municipal and School Budgets for FY 2026/27
• Accept bid of $118,217.00 from BP Property Services/TB Earthworks for splash pad and walkways at Carpentier Park
• Approve up to $242,500 contract with Dirigo Architectural as Owner's Representative for Headquarters Fire Station construction
• Approve 8-unit aircraft storage hangar lease with MAS Hangars LLC at Sanford Seacoast Regional Airport
• Accept $29,539.71 grant from William Oscar Emery Trust for electronic message board and City Hall sign refurbishment

The council unanimously approved a land lease for two new 8-unit aircraft storage hangars at the airport, a food truck court lease, and a $118,217 splash pad at Carpentier Park. Other approvals included a $242,500 owner's representative for the new fire station, a $253,550 dam repair, and a 3-4 week closure of Route 202 for utility work. All votes were 7-0. A public hearing on the proposed FY2026/27 budgets was held without a decision.

• Approved land lease with MAS Hangars LLC for two 8-unit aircraft hangars (7-0)
• Approved lease and operating rights for food truck court at airport with Airside Management LLC (7-0)
• Accepted $118,217 bid for splash pad and walkways at Carpentier Park (7-0)
• Accepted $242,500 proposal from Dirigo Architectural as owner's representative for new fire station (7-0)
• Accepted $253,550 bid from Bickmore Diversified for Number One Pond dam repair (7-0)
• Authorized closure of Route 202/Cottage Street for 3-4 weeks summer 2026 for utility work (7-0)
• Approved seven-year lease-to-own for a 26,000 GVW Freightliner truck with plow, wing, and sander (7-0)
• Accepted $29,539.71 grant from William Oscar Emery Trust for City Hall monument sign refurbishment (7-0)

City Council - Executive Session

The City Council is holding an executive session to discuss the appointment of board members, as permitted under Maine law. No public votes or decisions are scheduled for this meeting.

• Executive session to discuss appointment of Board members pursuant to M.R.S. Title 1, §405(6)(A)

The City Council entered into an executive session to discuss the appointment of board members. No substantive decisions were recorded in the minutes.

• Voted 7-0 to enter executive session to discuss board appointments

City Council - Executive Session

The City Council will enter into executive sessions to discuss various economic development matters. The council will also meet privately to discuss labor contract negotiations with the Sanford Police Association and Maine Association of Police.

• Economic development discussions (Items 26-12-01, 26-130-01, 26-137-01)
• Labor contract negotiations with Sanford Police Association and Maine Association of Police

The City Council entered several executive sessions to discuss economic development and labor contract negotiations with the Sanford Police Association. No substantive decisions or outcomes were recorded in these sessions.

• Entered executive session for economic development (7-0)
• Entered executive session for economic development (7-0)
• Entered executive session for economic development (7-0)
• Entered executive session for police labor contract negotiations (7-0)

City Council - Executive Session

The Sanford City Council will hold an executive session to discuss economic development matters under state law. Two identical orders authorize the closed-door discussion. No other business is scheduled.

• Order 26-12-01: Executive session for economic development under M.R.S. Title 1, § 405 (6)(C)
• Order 26-127-01: Executive session for economic development under M.R.S. Title 1, § 405 (6)(C)

The City Council voted to accept a settlement offer from US Bank, including all legal fees and a non-disclosure statement. The council also held two executive sessions to discuss economic development matters.

• Approved settlement offer from US Bank including legal fees and a non-disclosure statement (6-0)

City Council - Executive Session

The City Council is meeting in executive session to discuss specific confidential items. The session covers economic development and municipal property matters.

• Economic development matters (Item 26-12-01)
• Economic development matters (Item 26-110-01)
• Municipal property matters (Item 26-111-01)

The Sanford City Council met in executive session and voted unanimously to discuss economic development and municipal property matters. An earlier order to enter executive session on economic development was tabled. No other decisions were made in open session.

• Tabled order 26-12-01 to enter executive session for economic development
• Approved motion 26-110-01 to enter executive session for economic development (6-0)
• Approved motion 26-111-01 to enter executive session for municipal property (6-0)

City Council Budget Meeting

The City Council Budget Committee will review progress on the FY27 Municipal and School Budgets. The meeting includes a review of a School Department budget reduction proposal and a final committee vote on the budgets.

• Final Budget Committee Vote on FY27 Municipal and School Budgets
• School Department Budget Reduction Proposal

The Sanford City Council voted unanimously (6-0) to forward the FY27 municipal and school budgets as presented. The municipal budget shows a 3.86% increase, while the school budget was reduced to a 7.1% expense increase and a 10% taxation increase through cuts such as health insurance adjustments, elimination of an assistant athletic director position, and use of reserves. Council also approved the previous meeting's minutes. The budgets now move toward final adoption.

• Approved minutes from March 17, 2026 budget meeting (6-0)
• Received update on FY27 municipal budget (3.86% increase) and school budget progress
• Reviewed school budget reduction proposal yielding $454,940 in expense cuts and $606,425 total reduction in taxation
• Voted 6-0 to forward the FY27 municipal and school budgets as presented

City Council

The City Council will hold public hearings regarding a new industrial development district and marijuana grower applications. The meeting also includes votes on license renewals and amendments to the library's memorandum of understanding.

• Public hearing for Kind Farms Confections LLC medical marijuana license at 81 Industrial Ave, Unit C
• Public hearing for Kind Farms Confections LLC adult use marijuana license at 81 Industrial Ave, Unit C
• Public hearing and adoption of the South Sanford Industrial Development Omnibus TIF District (74.09 acres)
• License renewal requests for Kind Farms Confections LLC and Above & Beyond Catering
• Amendments to the Memorandum of Understanding for the Louis B. Goodall Memorial Library

The Sanford City Council voted 7-0 to adopt the South Sanford Industrial Development Omnibus Municipal Tax Increment Financing and Development District, covering 74.09 acres. The council also unanimously approved amendments to the library operation MOU and consented to several marijuana licenses and a catering permit. Public hearings were held on the TIF district and two marijuana license applications, but no decisions were made on those items during the hearings.

• Approved South Sanford Industrial Development TIF district (7-0)
• Approved amendments to the Library Association MOU for library operations (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda including adult-use retail marijuana license renewal for RL2 LLC (Friendly Fire Recreational), new medical grower license for Lost Horse Cultivations LLC, and off-premise catering permit for Above & Beyond Catering
• Approved minutes from February 17, 2026 regular meeting and executive session (both 7-0)

City Council

The City Council will consider recognizing Fisher Pond Road as a private roadway under the consent agenda. Other items include approving minutes from previous meetings and receiving a homelessness update from the City Manager. The agenda is largely procedural.

• Recognizing Fisher Pond Road as a private roadway
• Approval of minutes from February 3 and February 10, 2026
• Homelessness update from City Manager

The City Council voted to recognize Fisher Pond Road as a private road after an investigation found no record of city acceptance. This change impacts the maintenance and plowing of the road.

• Recognized Fisher Pond Road as a private roadway (7-0)
• Approved minutes from February 3 regular meeting (6-0)
• Approved minutes from February 3 Executive Session (7-0)
• Approved minutes from February 10 Executive Session (6-0)

City Council

The City Council will consider the road closure of Gowen Park Drive for an upcoming event. The meeting also includes the introduction of a new Recreation Coordinator and reports on economic development and trails.

• Road closure of Gowen Park Drive from 8:00am to 1:00pm on February 14, 2026, for Family Winterfest
• Appointment of David Parent to the Sanford Arts Commission
• Appointment of Brian Samia as Sanford Water District Trustee
• Introduction of Shannon Rogers as Recreation Coordinator
• Presentation of Trails Committee Annual Report

The City Council approved minutes from previous meetings, appointed two individuals to local boards, and authorized a temporary road closure for Family Winterfest. Additionally, the City Manager reported that $5 million in federal funding was approved for public safety facilities.

• Approved January 6, 2026, regular meeting minutes (7-0)
• Approved January 6, 2026, executive session minutes (7-0)
• Approved Gowen Park Drive road closure for February 14, 2026 (6-0)
• Appointed David Parent to the Sanford Arts Commission (6-0)
• Appointed Brian Samia to the Sanford Water District Trustee (6-0)

City Council - Executive Session

The City Council is holding an executive session consisting of four identical orders to discuss economic development matters under state law. No old or new business is listed; the agenda is entirely procedural and closed to the public.

• Four orders to enter executive session for economic development discussions pursuant to M.R.S. Title 1, § 405(6)(C)

The City Council authorized the Assistant City Manager to negotiate an Administrative Consent Agreement regarding 9 Devotion Ave. The Council also authorized the City Manager to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with FLG. Multiple executive sessions were held to discuss economic development matters.

• Authorized Assistant City Manager to negotiate Administrative Consent Agreement with Brock & Scott, PLLC for 9 Devotion Ave (7-0)
• Authorized City Manager to enter into MOU with FLG (7-0)

City Council - Executive Session

The City Council will hold an executive session to discuss a request for poverty abatement, as permitted by state statute. No other business is scheduled; the meeting is closed to the public.

• Discussion of a request for poverty abatement under M.R.S.A. Title 1 § 405 (6) (F)

The Sanford City Council met in executive session on February 10, 2026, to discuss a request for poverty abatement under Maine law. After the closed session, the council voted unanimously (6-0) to deny the request.

• Denied poverty abatement request (6-0)

City Council Budget Meeting

The City Council is holding a budget work session to receive a presentation on the FY27 School Department Budget. This is an advisory session to develop consensus before any legislative action is taken at a formal business meeting.

• Presentation of the FY27 School Department Budget

The City Council held a budget meeting focused on the FY27 School Department budget presentation. Over $500,000 in cuts were noted, and the proposed budget includes a 13.3% increase ($2.5 million). Councilors discussed targets (10-11% increase) and possible cuts, but no decisions were made on the school budget; the only formal action was approval of the previous meeting's minutes (7-0).

• Approved minutes from March 17, 2026 budget meeting (7-0)

City Council Budget Meeting

The City Council will hold a budget work session to receive a presentation of the FY27 Municipal Budget. The council will also consider approving minutes from the previous budget meeting. This is a work session, not a business meeting, and public input is limited.

• Approval of minutes from the March 3, 2026 budget meeting
• Presentation of the FY27 Municipal Budget

The Sanford City Council held a budget meeting on March 10, 2026, primarily to review and discuss the proposed FY27 Municipal Budget. No votes were taken on the budget itself; the only formal action was the approval of minutes from the previous budget meeting (6-0). The presentation covered revenue projections, expenditure trends, and factors such as General Assistance costs and debt service for the new fire stations.

• Approved minutes from March 3, 2026 City Council Budget Meeting (6-0)

City Council Budget Meeting

The City Council is conducting a budget work session to review upcoming fiscal year projections. The meeting includes presentations on the school budget, municipal expenditures, and revenue projections.

• School presentation and 2026/2027 budget overview
• Municipal presentation and memorandum overview of the 2026/2027 budget
• Combined City/School tax rate projection sheet
• Municipal expenditures, revenue projections, and undesignated fund balance
• Library and outside agency requests

The City Council received budget presentations from the School Superintendent and City Manager. No formal votes were taken; the meeting focused on reviewing expenditure increases and tax rate projections.

City Council

The City Council will review several administrative updates including social media and code of conduct policies. The meeting includes a presentation on the Jellison Bridge on S-Curve Road and decisions regarding committee vacancies.

• Presentation on City-Maintained Jellison Bridge (#1302) on S-Curve Road
• Determination of private roadway status for Lefrancois Lane
• Contract authorization with Motorola for GIS services for the Spillman Flex CAD
• Appointment of Hazen Carpenter to the Sanford Trails Committee
• Appointment of Jim Deyermond to the Airport Advisory Committee

The City Council formally designated Lefrancois Lane as a private road, meaning the city will no longer provide maintenance or plowing. The council also approved several committee appointments and updated city administrative policies.

• Recognized Lefrancois Lane as a private road (7-0)
• Authorized City Manager to contract with Motorola for GIS services for Spillman Flex CAD (7-0)
• Adopted proposed Social Media Posting Policy (7-0)
• Approved amendments to City Council Rules of Procedure (7-0)
• Approved amendments to City Council Code of Conduct (7-0)
• Appointed Hazen Carpenter to the Sanford Trails Committee (7-0)
• Appointed Jim Deyermond to the Airport Advisory Committee (7-0)
• Accepted resignation of Lawrence Furbish from the Sanford Trails Committee (7-0)

City Council

The Sanford City Council will hear the FY2024-2025 audit presentation from Wipfli, hold a public hearing on a marijuana store license renewal, and consider declaring 145 Deering Neighborhood Road a dangerous building. The council will also swear in new members, elect a deputy mayor, set meeting schedules and compensation, and adopt rules and committee assignments for 2026.

• Fiscal Year 2024/2025 Audit presented by Christian A. Smith, CPA, of Wipfli
• Public hearing on renewal of Adult Use Retail Marijuana Store license for Blossom LLC (Stache) at 9 Renaissance Way, Suite 3
• Order to confirm dangerous building finding at 145 Deering Neighborhood Road
• Election of Deputy Mayor for 2026
• Adoption of 2026/2027 budget review schedule and format

The City Council voted unanimously to increase councilor compensation by 5% to $4,200 annually and set the mayor's salary at $5,250, a 25% premium. Other actions included confirming a dangerous building order, re-electing Maura Herlihy as Deputy Mayor, accepting the FY2024/2025 audit with no deficiencies, and authorizing a lease amendment for a flight school at the airport. The council also approved a budget review schedule and electronic payments at the transfer station.

• Approved councilor pay raise to $4,200/year (7-0)
• Set mayor annual compensation at $5,250 (7-0)
• Confirmed 145 Deering Neighborhood Road as dangerous building (7-0)
• Elected Maura Herlihy as Deputy Mayor for 2026 (7-0)
• Accepted FY2024/2025 annual audit with no deficiencies (7-0)
• Approved lease amendment with Southern Maine Aviation for flight school interim space (7-0)
• Approved electronic payment systems at Sanford Transfer Station (7-0)
• Approved adult-use marijuana store license renewal for Blossom LLC (consent agenda)

City Council

The City Council will hold public hearings on two adult-use marijuana store license renewals and vote on a $17.2 million contract with Benchmark Construction to build a new Fire & EMS Headquarters at 1280 Main Street. Other items include extending a moratorium on mobile home park rent increases, authorizing electronic payments at the Transfer Station, a dangerous building hearing for 145 Deering Neighborhood Road, and approving the sale of tax-acquired property on Lafayette Street for $50,000.

• $17.22 million construction contract for new Fire Headquarters at 1280 Main Street with Benchmark Construction
• Public hearings and license renewals for two adult-use marijuana stores: Landrace Cannabis at 22 Smada Drive and Green Truck Farms at 27 Hancock Lane
• Second reading to extend moratorium on mobile home park lot rent increases
• Authorize electronic payment systems at Sanford Transfer Station
• Public hearing on dangerous building determination at 145 Deering Neighborhood Road

The council voted 5-0 to accept a $22.9M bid from Benchmark Construction for a new fire headquarters at 1280 Main Street, $4.2M under the referendum-approved amount. It also extended a moratorium on mobile home park rent increases (4-1), authorized fire engine lease replacements (5-0), and declared 145 Deering Neighborhood Road a dangerous building (5-0). The sale of a tax-acquired Lafayette Street property for $50,000 was approved (5-0). A proposal for electronic payment at the transfer station was tabled to the January 6 meeting.

• Accepted $22,931,245 bid from Benchmark Construction for new fire headquarters (5-0)
• Extended moratorium on mobile home park lot rent increases (4-1)
• Authorized contract for two fire engine lease replacements with Rosenbauer (5-0)
• Declared 145 Deering Neighborhood Road a dangerous building and ordered abatement (5-0)
• Approved sale of tax-acquired Lafayette Street property to Rogers for $50,000 (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including marijuana store license renewals and games of chance (5-0)
• Tabled proposal for electronic payment systems at transfer station (5-0)
• Approved minutes from December 2, 2025 meetings (5-0)

City Council

The Sanford City Council will hold public hearings on a renewal adult-use marijuana store license and a new medical marijuana grower license, and will also consider extending a moratorium on mobile home park lot rent increases (first reading). The council will also vote on amending the Mission Square Retirement Plan for compliance with the Secure 2.0 Act and approve licenses.

• Public hearing on renewal of Adult Use Retail Marijuana Store License for RL2 LLC (Friendly Fire Recreational) at 72 Emery Street, Unit 105
• Public hearing on new Medical Marijuana Grower/Cultivator license for Lost Horse Cultivations LLC at 81 Industrial Ave, Unit B
• Public hearing and first reading on extending the Moratorium on Mobile Home Park Lot Rent Increases
• Order to amend the Mission Square Retirement Plan for compliance with Secure 2.0 Act
• Order to approve the marijuana license requests (renewal and new)

The City Council approved a renewal for an adult-use marijuana store and a new medical marijuana grower license. The council also voted to amend the Mission Square Retirement Plan for Secure 2.0 Act compliance. A first reading was held for a moratorium extension on mobile home park lot rent increases.

• Approved renewal Adult Use Retail Marijuana Store License for RL2 LLC (6-0)
• Approved new Medical Marijuana Grower/Cultivation license for Lost Horse Cultivations LLC (6-0)
• Approved amendments to Mission Square Retirement Plan for Secure 2.0 Act compliance (6-0)
• Approved minutes from November 18, 2025 regular meeting (4-0)
• Approved minutes from November 18, 2025 Executive Session (4-0)
• First reading held for moratorium extension on Mobile Home Park Lot Rent Increases (no action taken)

City Council

The Sanford City Council will hold public hearings and vote on multiple items, including creating a new Tax Increment Financing (TIF) district for the Eastside Neighborhood Revitalization project, which includes 150 market-rate housing units at the Stenton Trust Building. The Council will also hold a hearing on a new liquor license for Green Tea at 1005 Main Street and consider amendments to park closing hours, a $4,000 K-9 donation, and a snow plowing contract.

• Public hearing and vote on 'Eastside Neighborhood Revitalization' TIF District (32.07 acres) including 150-unit market-rate housing at Stenton Trust Building (Map/Lot J29-18)
• Public hearing and vote on Eighth Amendment to Downtown Omnibus TIF District to remove parcel J29-18 for inclusion in new TIF
• Public hearing on new liquor license (Malt, Spirituous, Vinous) for Green Tea ZXF d/b/a Green Tea at 1005 Main Street
• Order to adopt amendments to park closing hours from sunset to sunrise (second reading)
• Order to accept $4,000 donation from Harrison Development LLC for Police K-9 Program

The Council approved the Eastside Neighborhood Revitalization TIF District (32.07 acres) and authorized a Credit Enhancement Agreement with the developer for the Stenton Mill parcel, supporting 150 market-rate housing units. They also amended the Downtown Omnibus TIF to remove that parcel. Other actions included adopting park closing hours changes, accepting a K-9 donation, approving a winter snow plowing contract, additional hazardous waste cleanup funding, and a MOU to end syringe distribution in Sanford.

• Approved Eastside Neighborhood Revitalization TIF District (4-0)
• Approved Eighth Amendment to Downtown Omnibus TIF removing parcel J29-18 (4-0)
• Adopted park closing hours change from sunset to sunrise (4-0)
• Approved MOU with Maine Access Points to end syringe distribution and collection, amended to include paraphernalia (4-0)
• Authorized $28,755.86 for additional 3-day cleanup of hazardous waste at 26 Gerrish Drive (4-0)
• Approved winter snow plowing contract with Landry Landscaping for public lots (4-0)
• Approved amendments to Sanford Arts Commission bylaws with quorum change (4-0)
• Accepted $4,000 donation from Harrison Development LLC for police K-9 program (4-0)

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing and first reading on changing park opening hours to dawn to dusk. The body will also conduct a second reading of amendments to the General Assistance Ordinance.

• Public hearing on proposed changes to Article II Parks, Schools, Malls and Cemeteries § 158-4 Prohibited Acts
• Second reading of amendments to the General Assistance Ordinance
• License requests for Beano/Bingo and Cribbage for Sanford Lodge of Elks #1470 at 13 Elm St
• Approval of a new City of Sanford logo design
• Presentation on the Sanford Sewerage District

The City Council approved a new modern logo for all branding materials. They also passed amendments to the General Assistance Ordinance and held a first reading on proposed changes to park hours.

• Approved October 21, 2025 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved October 21, 2025 Executive Session minutes (6-0)
• Approved General Assistance Ordinance amendments (6-0)
• Approved new City of Sanford logo (5-1)
• Held first reading for proposed park hour changes to dawn-to-dusk

City Council

The Sanford City Council will hold a public hearing and vote on a new liquor license for Pho Time LLC, conduct a public hearing on proposed amendments to the General Assistance Ordinance, and vote on authorizing a $195,000 contract with Berry Dunn to develop a comprehensive plan update. Other items include formally recognizing Estes Road as a private way and reassigning $154,910.22 in FEMA funds from the April 2024 storm.

• Public hearing on new liquor license for Pho Time LLC at 890 Main Street
• Public hearing and first reading of amendments to General Assistance Ordinance
• $195,000 contract with Berry Dunn for Comprehensive Plan update
• Reassignment of $154,910.22 in FEMA storm event funds to offset FY27 CIP
• Formal recognition of Estes Road as a private way

The Sanford City Council passed seven motions unanimously during its October 21 meeting. Key actions include authorizing a $195,000 contract with Berry Dunn to update the city’s comprehensive plan, which establishes long-term zoning and development guidelines for residents, and reassigning $154,910.22 in FEMA disaster funds to offset next year’s capital improvement budget that finances local infrastructure repairs. The council also approved a new liquor license for a Main Street business, created an account for selling crushed gravel, and transferred maintenance responsibility for Estes Road to private owners.

• Approved new malt liquor license for Pho Time LLC at 890 Main Street, Suite 203 (6-0)
• Authorized $195,000 contract with Berry Dunn for comprehensive plan update (6-0)
• Reassigned $154,910.22 in FEMA disaster funds to offset FY2027 capital improvement budget (6-0)
• Created special revenue account for Public Works crushed gravel sales (6-0)
• Recognized Estes Road as a private way and ceased city maintenance (6-0)
• Approved minutes from October 7 regular and executive sessions (6-0)
• First reading of General Assistance Ordinance amendments; no action required yet

City Council - Executive Session

This is an executive session agenda with no public business. The council will discuss economic development matters under two orders and consider actions on 2023 real estate tax liens and potential waivers of foreclosure under a third order.

• Executive session for economic development matters (two items)
• Executive session for disposition of 2023 real estate tax liens and potential waiver of foreclosure

The City Council held two executive sessions: first on economic development (7-0) with no action, then on real estate tax liens and waivers of foreclosure (7-0). After the second session, the Council voted 7-0 to waive foreclosure on six properties (13 River St, 48 Terry Dr, 46 Willow Dr, and three Regco parcels J29-21, J30-46, J29-24) and a special assessment lien on Regco for J29-24. A second economic development item (26-17-01) was tabled and not acted upon.

• Entered executive session for economic development (7-0)
• Tabled second economic development order (26-17-01)
• Entered executive session for tax liens and waiver of foreclosure (7-0)
• Voted to waive foreclosure on 13 River Street, 48 Terry Drive, 46 Willow Drive, Regco parcels J29-21, J30-46, J29-24, and special assessment lien on Regco for J29-24 (7-0)

City Council - Executive Session

The Sanford City Council will enter executive session to discuss the disposition of publicly held property and economic development matters. No public decisions or votes are scheduled; the session is closed per state law.

• Order 26-11-01: Executive session to discuss disposition of publicly held property (M.R.S. Title 1, §405(6)(C))
• Order 26-12-01: Executive session to discuss economic development matters (same statute)

The Sanford City Council met in executive session on January 20, 2026, to discuss disposition of publicly held property and economic development matters. After each closed session, the council voted 7-0 to authorize proposals as presented, but the contents of those proposals are not detailed in the public minutes.

• Authorized proposal related to disposition of publicly held property (7-0)
• Authorized proposal related to economic development matters (7-0)

City Council - Executive Session

The City Council will enter an executive session to discuss the disposition of publicly held property, as allowed by state law. No other business is on the agenda. This is a procedural closed session.

• Ordered to enter executive session to discuss disposition of publicly held property (M.R.S. Title 1, §405(6)(C))

The City Council entered into executive session to discuss the disposition of publicly held property. Following the session, the Council voted to authorize the proposal as presented.

• Authorized proposal for disposition of publicly held property (6-0)

City Council - Executive Session

This is a procedural executive session meeting where the City Council will discuss the disposition of city property, including an offer on 30 North Avenue, as well as other real estate and economic development matters. No public votes or decisions are scheduled; discussions are held in closed session under state law.

• Discuss disposition of city property and offers made on 30 North Avenue
• Discuss real estate matters under 1 M.R.S.A. § 405(6)(C)
• Discuss economic development matters under M.R.S. Title 1, § 405(6)(C)

The City Council approved the sale of city property located at 30 North Avenue to G&D Mayombe LLC. The council also held executive sessions regarding other real estate and economic development matters.

• Accepted $115,000 offer from G&D Mayombe LLC for 30 North Avenue (4-0)

City Council - Executive Session

The City Council will hold an executive session, meeting in private to discuss real estate matters and two personnel matters as authorized by state law. No public business or votes are scheduled; the agenda is entirely procedural.

• Order 25-352-01: Enter executive session for real estate matters under 1 M.R.S.A. § 405(6)(C)
• Order 25-353-01: Enter executive session for personnel matters under M.R.S. Title 1, § 405(6)(A)
• Order 25-354-01: Enter executive session for personnel matters under M.R.S. Title 1, § 405(6)(A)

Sanford City Council met in executive session on October 21, 2025, to discuss real estate and personnel matters. Following the sessions, the council voted unanimously to authorize the return of two Sanford Police Officers from the MDEA Unit and adjust a revenue line from $239,000 to $79,666. The council also authorized the addition of two Firefighter-Medics to the Sanford Fire and EMS Department, funded by reduced overtime and increased ambulance revenues within the current FY26 budget.

• Authorized return of two Sanford Police Officers from MDEA Unit and adjusted General Fund Revenue Org 1000 490018 from $239,000 to $79,666 (6-0)
• Authorized addition of two Firefighter-Medics to Fire and EMS Department, funded through reduced overtime and increased ambulance revenues within current FY 26 Budget (6-0)