Mount Desert public meetings in 2021

Selectboard

The Board of Selectmen will review several financial requests, including a $8,258.57 purchase for new police rifles and a $145,000 wastewater bond reserve use. The meeting also includes discussions on firefighter recruitment and employee leave issues caused by COVID-19.

• Authorization to purchase new police rifles for $8,258.57
• $145,000 request from Wastewater Bond Reserve to subsidize a loan payment
• Acceptance of a $1,000 grant from the Bulletproof Vest Partnership
• Approval of $593,578.75 in total Treasurer's Warrants
• Authorization for new Firefighter recruitment

The Mount Desert Selectboard approved several routine and substantive items, including a $8,258.57 purchase of new rifles for the police department, a five-year employee leasing agreement with Bar Harbor, and acceptance of a $1,000 Bulletproof Vest Partnership grant. They also authorized recruitment for new firefighter positions, approved $145,000 from a wastewater bond reserve for a loan payment, and directed the finance director to explore options for employees' accrued time off. All votes were unanimous (5-0) except for one abstention on a warrant approval.

• Approved $8,258.57 for new police rifles (5-0)
• Approved Police Department Employee Leasing Agreement (5-0)
• Accepted $1,000 Bulletproof Vest Partnership grant and authorized participation for 5 years (5-0)
• Authorized recruitment for new firefighter positions (5-0)
• Approved $145,000 from Wastewater Bond Reserve for loan payment (5-0)
• Directed Finance Director to explore accrued time off options (5-0)
• Approved Treasurer's Warrant for $323,304.21 (5-0)
• Approved payroll and benefit warrants totaling $181,517.26 (4-0-1)

Harbor Committee

The Harbor Committee will review minutes from the November 9, 2021 meeting. The agenda includes reviewing Greg Johnson bid results and discussing overtime docking.

• Review of Greg Johnson bid results
• Discussion regarding overtime docking
• Discussion on future use of Zoom versus in-person meetings

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee voted to reject all bids for a harbor project and directed Greg Johnston to reevaluate the bid package for cost savings. The committee also discussed concerns from Cranberry Isles about ferry service reliability and agreed to allow the Miss Lizzie to fill in scheduled trips with the Harbormaster's permission. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved minutes of 11/9/21 as presented
• Rejected all bids and asked Greg Johnston to reevaluate bid package for cost savings
• Agreed to allow Miss Lizzie to fill in scheduled ferry trips with Harbormaster's permission
• Continued meetings via Zoom

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board approved two conditional use applications for shoreline stabilization work: one at 72 Mill Cove Road and one at 26 Manchester Road. Both approvals were unanimous. The board also discussed two requests for waivers of road construction standards, continuing both discussions to future meetings.

• Approved conditional use application #022-2021 for shoreline stabilization at 72 Mill Cove Road (4-0)
• Approved conditional use application #023-2021 for terraced lawn and garden area at 26 Manchester Road (3-0, Chair recused)
• Continued discussion of road waiver request for Rasberry Lane property to January 19, 2022 meeting
• Continued discussion of road waiver request for Harborside Road property to January 26, 2022 meeting

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Board of Selectmen will vote on several items, including reopening the town's recycling center, adding Juneteenth as a paid holiday, and possibly joining a multi-town lawsuit against petroleum companies over climate change costs. They will also consider new dockage rates, equipment purchases, and approve warrants totaling over $961,000.

• Reopening recycling center at 307 Sargeant Drive
• Adding Juneteenth as paid holiday per state law
• Discuss joining MDI towns in climate lawsuit against petroleum companies
• Approve $4,548 for mooring float chains and $8,300 for dock power cable relocation
• Approve warrants totaling $961,669.81

The Mount Desert Selectboard approved adding Juneteenth as a paid holiday, reopening the recycling center at 307 Sargeant Drive without an attendant, and authorizing the Finance Director to close the Town Office from 12 to 1 p.m. as needed due to staffing shortages. The board also approved appointments, consent agenda items, dockage rates, and various expenditures, and took no action on joining a climate lawsuit, keeping the conversation open.

• Approved minutes from November 15 and November 22, 2021, 5-0.
• Appointed John Lynch as part-time on-call firefighter at $18.00/hour, effective December 7, 2021, 5-0.
• Appointed Mike Olsen to the Warrant Committee, effective December 7, 2021, 5-0.
• Approved the Consent Agenda, 5-0.
• Authorized Finance Director to close Town Office to business transactions between 12 and 1 p.m. as needed, 5-0.
• Added Juneteenth (June 19th) to paid holidays, closing the office per state law, 5-0.
• Reopened the recycling center at 307 Sargeant Drive without an attendant, authorizing Director Smith to start operations the following Monday, 5-0.
• Approved soliciting competitive prices for a new wastewater work truck, 5-0.

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Board of Selectmen is holding a special meeting to consider appointing Cathy Oehmke to fill a School Board vacancy and to discuss waiving the automatic foreclosure process for tax liens under $300. The meeting is remote via Zoom.

• Appointment of Cathy Oehmke as School Board member until 2022 municipal election
• Consider waiving automatic foreclosure for tax liens under $300 per Title 36

The Mount Desert Selectboard held a special meeting and approved two items unanimously. Cathy Oehmke was appointed as a School Board member to fill the vacancy left by Todd Graham until the 2022 municipal election. The board also approved waiving the automatic foreclosure process for tax liens under $300, as described in a memo from Finance Director Jake Wright.

• Appointed Cathy Oehmke to School Board to fill Todd Graham's vacancy until 2022 election (4-0)
• Approved waiving automatic foreclosure for tax liens under $300 (4-0)

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Board of Selectmen will hold a regular meeting covering routine approvals, reports, and several discussion items. Key topics include a progress report on the NEH fire station project with solar panel discussion, a citizen request to study firefighting water options near Long Pond, and a possible permit parking strategy for Northeast Harbor. The board will also review proposed funding for the General Fund and Marina Capital Improvement Plans for FY 2022-2023.

• Resignation of Todd Graham from the School Board effective October 22, 2021
• Progress report on NEH fire station project and discussion on solar panels, construction start date
• Citizen request to study costs/benefits of reliable firefighting water for north end of Long Pond
• Discussion of possible permit parking strategy for Northeast Harbor with Chief Willis
• Treasurer's warrants totaling $491,321.28

The Mount Desert Selectboard approved a motion directing Police Chief Willis to work with Public Works and the Harbormaster to explore resident and employee permit parking ideas for Northeast Harbor. The board also accepted a school board resignation, approved the consent agenda, and reviewed the FY 2022-2023 capital improvement plans. A citizen request to study additional firefighting water access points near Long Pond was discussed, with the fire chief and public works director tasked to gather proposals.

• Approved minutes of November 1, 2021 (4-0)
• Accepted Todd Graham's resignation from School Board effective Oct 22, 2021 (4-0)
• Approved consent agenda including Route 3 Safety Improvements Study letter and Otter Creek Cove Project update (5-0)
• Directed Chief Willis to explore permit parking with Public Works and Harbormaster (5-0)
• Approved Treasurer's Warrant AP#2227 for $178,992.37 (5-0)
• Approved Payroll, State Fees & PR Benefit Warrants totaling $170,403.05 (4-0-1)
• Acknowledged School Board AP/Payroll Warrants totaling $141,925.86 (5-0)
• Scheduled special meeting Nov 22, 2021 to consider waiving tax lien foreclosures under $300

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will hold a public hearing on a subdivision application by A.C. Fernald Sons, Inc. to create a new lot from a previously approved subdivision at 1049 Main Street, Somesville. The board will also approve minutes and address other business.

• Public hearing for Subdivision #004-2021: A.C. Fernald Sons, Inc., 1049 Main Street, Somesville
• Proposal: Section 5.13 plan revisions after approval to create a new lot
• Original plan recorded April 2, 2013; Amendment #1 recorded April 23, 2013
• Zoning districts: Village Commercial, Shoreland Residential 3, Shoreland Commercial

The Mount Desert Planning Board held a public hearing and approved a subdivision plan revision (Subdivision #004-2021) by A.C. Fernald Sons, Inc. to create a new lot from a previously approved subdivision at 1049 Main Street, Somesville. The board approved waivers for the performance bond and open space requirements, found the application in compliance, and approved the application, all by 5-0 votes.

• Approved waiver of performance bond (5-0)
• Approved waiver of open space requirement (5-0)
• Found application in compliance with Section 5.13 (5-0)
• Approved subdivision plan revision for new lot creation (5-0)

Harbor Committee

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee will meet via Zoom to discuss the 2021 mooring rental update and summer rates. The agenda also includes approval of the October 18 minutes and general discussions under old business.

• Mooring rental update 2021
• Summer rates discussion

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee voted to establish a new mooring rate of $5.00 per foot for vessels over 100 feet in length overall (LOA). They also approved construction of a 20-foot 'T' float at the end of the dinghy dock in Seal Harbor, to be built by the Highway crew this winter. The committee noted that mooring rentals increased 30% and that the North/South dock project will be voted on at a special town meeting in early March.

• Approved new rate of $5.00 per foot for vessels over 100ft LOA (motion carried)
• Approved construction and addition of a 20ft 'T' float at Seal Harbor dinghy dock (motion carried)
• Accepted minutes from 10/18/21 as presented (motion carried)

Economic Development Committee

The Mount Desert Economic Development Committee is holding a remote special meeting to continue discussing the Brainstorming Subgroup memo and Vision Statement, with a tentative parking update and planning for the next meeting. The agenda is mostly procedural, with no new decisions or proposals listed.

• Continuation of discussion on Brainstorming Subgroup memo and Vision Statement
• Parking update (tentative)

The Economic Development Committee held a discussion-only meeting, focusing on priorities related to its recently adopted Vision Statement. No formal votes or decisions were taken. The group discussed year-round and seasonal housing needs, infrastructure issues like Main Street and electricity capacity, and the potential for an incubator of ideas, agreeing to continue the discussion at the January 2022 meeting.

• No formal decisions or votes taken; meeting was discussion-only
• Agreed to continue housing, infrastructure, and incubator discussions at January 2022 meeting
• Martha and Durlin to look into electricity capacity issues on Main Street
• Dan to organize January 2022 meeting, including membership discussion

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Board of Selectmen will hold a regular meeting to approve minutes, consider extending Michael Vollmer's appointment date for the Packer Truck Drive position, and approve routine consent agenda items. The board will also approve treasurer's warrants totaling $1,275,897.76, including town invoices, payroll, and school warrants.

• Consider extending Michael Vollmer's appointment to Packer Truck Drive position to Dec 1, 2021, contingent on DOT physical/drug screening, at $20.54/hr probationary rate rising to $21.62/hr after probation and Class B CDL
• Approve town invoices AP#2224 for $447,319.56
• Approve payroll and state fees warrants totaling $196,383.35
• Acknowledge school board warrants totaling $632,194.85
• Amend Seal Harbor Library Fair special event application date to July 31, 2022

The Selectboard approved the final easement and a related indemnification agreement for Versant Power, required for the Main Street Project. It also extended a new hire's start date, approved routine consent items, and signed warrants totaling over $1.2 million. No major policy decisions were made; most items passed unanimously.

• Approved Versant Power easement for Main Street Project (5-0)
• Approved Versant indemnification agreement (5-0)
• Extended Michael Vollmer's start date to Dec 1, 2021 for Packer Truck Driver position (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda items B-E (5-0)
• Approved amendment to Seal Harbor Library Fair special event date (5-0)
• Approved Treasurer's Warrant AP#2224 for $447,319.56 (5-0)
• Approved payroll and state fee warrants totaling $196,383.35 (4-0-1, Littlefield abstained)
• Acknowledged School Board warrants totaling $632,194.85 (5-0)

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will meet in person and via Zoom to review a subdivision application from A.C. Fernald Sons, Inc. for a new lot at 1049 Main Street, Somesville. The application seeks approval for a plan revision after a prior subdivision approval, creating a new lot from the previously approved plan. The board will also approve minutes and address other business.

• Subdivision #004-2021: A.C. Fernald Sons, Inc. proposes new lot at 1049 Main Street, Somesville
• Application is a plan revision after approval (Section 5.13) of original 2013 subdivision
• Property spans Village Commercial, Shoreland Residential 3, and Shoreland Commercial zoning
• Meeting held in person at Town Hall, 21 Sea Street, Northeast Harbor; masks required
• Zoom option available for remote participation

The Mount Desert Planning Board voted 5-0 to find Subdivision Application #004-2021 by A.C. Fernald Sons, Inc. complete, allowing the process to proceed to a compliance meeting and public hearing scheduled for November 10. The application seeks to create a new lot from a previously approved subdivision at 1049 Main Street, Somesville, with no construction proposed. Two waiver requests (landscape plan and performance bond) were noted but not decided at this stage.

• Approved minutes of October 13, 2021 (5-0)
• Found Subdivision Application #004-2021 complete (5-0)
• Scheduled compliance meeting and public hearing for November 10

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will hold a public hearing to review a quarrying license application for a site off Crane Road in Hall Quarry. The applicant is Fresh Water Stone & Brickwork, Inc., with Harold MacQuinn, Inc. as owner. The board will consider the license permit #001-2014 in a Residential One zone.

• Public hearing on Quarrying License Permit #001-2014
• Location: Off Crane Road, Hall Quarry, Tax Map 007, Lot 075
• Zone: Residential One (R1)
• Applicant: Fresh Water Stone & Brickwork, Inc.; Owner: Harold MacQuinn, Inc.

The Mount Desert Planning Board voted 5-0 that Section 6B.11.2 of the Land Use Zoning Ordinance applies to the Harold MacQuinn, Inc. quarrying license application, meaning the Crane Road access must meet subdivision street design standards. The Board approved a motion requiring the applicant to resubmit a plan showing compliance with Section 5.14 of the Subdivision Ordinance or formally request a waiver. The public hearing was continued to January 12, 2022, with new submission deadlines set for all parties.

• Approved motion that LUZO Section 6B.11.2 applies to the quarry (5-0)
• Approved motion to amend prior motion adding findings of fact on QLO Section 2.8 (5-0)
• Approved motion requiring applicant to resubmit plan showing compliance with Subdivision Ordinance Section 5.14 or request waiver (5-0)
• Approved submission deadlines: applicant 30 days, replies 14 days, rebuttal 7 days before meeting (5-0)
• Continued meeting to January 12, 2022 at 6:00 PM (5-0)

Selectboard

The Board of Selectmen will discuss adopting specific MainePERS provisions for school support employees and review a request to carry $32,566 in sewer funds to the next fiscal year. The board will also consider an account agreement with Bar Harbor Bank & Trust for ARPA funds.

• Request to carry forward $32,566 from FY-21 to FY-22 for pump station improvements
• Adoption of MainePERS provisions for school department support employees
• Agreement with Bar Harbor Bank & Trust to open a non-interest-bearing ARPA fund account
• Public Space Special Event Application for USCG Morale Building Event at Northeast Harbor Marina Green
• Approval of Treasurer's Warrants totaling $647,804.86

The Mount Desert Selectboard approved a MainePERS open enrollment provision limited to school department support employees, while rejecting the same provision for all town employees. The board also approved a $32,566 carryforward for pump station improvements, a street light removal request, and several routine items.

• Approved minutes of October 4, 2021 (5-0)
• Appointed Carrie Eason as Warden for Nov. 2 referendum election (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda (5-0)
• Approved USCG Morale Building event at Northeast Harbor Marina Green (5-0)
• Approved removal of street light on Maple Lane (5-0)
• Approved $32,566 carryforward for pump station improvements (5-0)
• Adopted MainePERS open enrollment for school support employees only (5-0)
• Rejected MainePERS open enrollment for all town employees (0-5)

Harbor Committee

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee is meeting via Zoom to review the September minutes and hear an update from Greg Johnston on the Public and North Dock ramps. The agenda is mostly procedural, with only one substantive item listed.

• Greg Johnston Public and North Dock ramps update

The committee voted to request a special town meeting to secure funding for the North and South dock project before the annual town meeting, amid concerns about the project's start time. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included updates and approval of prior minutes.

• Approved 9/14/2021 minutes as presented (unanimous)
• Motion to ask selectmen for special town meeting for dock project funding carried

Economic Development Committee

The committee will review minutes from previous meetings and receive updates on the Main Street project, parking regulations, and broadband. Members will also discuss a draft Vision Statement and the Brainstorming Subgroup memo.

• Main Street project update
• Parking regulation update
• Broadband update
• Discussion of draft Vision Statement
• Discussion of Brainstorming Subgroup memo

The Economic Development Committee unanimously approved a Vision Statement for the town's future, emphasizing affordable housing and community character. The committee also discussed updates on the Main Street Project, parking regulation, and broadband, but took no other formal votes. A special session in November will address the Brainstorming Subgroup's memo.

• Approved Vision Statement unanimously
• Approved minutes of July 21, July 26, and Sept. 13 meetings unanimously
• Tabled discussion of Brainstorming Subgroup memo to November special session

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider two conditional use approval applications. These include a renovation and addition for the Fire Department at Town Hall and an expansion project for the Asticou Inn.

• Conditional Use Application #020-2021: Fire Department area renovation/addition at 21 Sea Street
• Conditional Use Application #021-2021: Asticou Inn renovations and expansion at 15 Peabody Drive

The Mount Desert Planning Board approved two conditional use applications. The first allows the Town of Mount Desert to renovate and expand the fire department and ambulance service area at the municipal building on Sea Street. The second re-approves the Asticou Inn renovation and expansion project, which had lapsed because construction did not begin within a year of the original approval.

• Approved conditional use application #020-2021 for Town Hall/Fire Department renovation and addition (5-0)
• Approved conditional use application #021-2021 for Asticou Inn renovations and expansion (5-0)
• Approved minutes of August 25, 2021 (4-0)
• Approved minutes of September 8, 2021 (5-0)
• Approved minutes of September 22, 2021 as amended (4-0)

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Board of Selectmen will hold a regular meeting with no public hearings. They will discuss Acadia National Park's proposed workforce housing on a Town Hill parcel, confirm a project to study Otter Creek Harbor health, and consider purchasing winter sand at $11.50 per cubic yard. The board will also vote on appointments, warrants totaling $427,189.34, and a letter opposing American Aquafarms in Frenchman Bay.

• Appoint Gail Marshall as School Board member until 2022 election
• Discuss Acadia National Park workforce housing on Town Hill parcel
• Purchase FY-22 winter sand from Harold MacQuinn, Inc. at $11.50/cubic yard delivered
• Approve carryforward of $4,000 (Community Development) and $35,677 (Planning Board Scenic Vistas/Steep Slopes)
• Approve warrants totaling $427,189.34 including town invoices, payroll, and school invoices

The Mount Desert Selectboard voted 5-0 to support Acadia National Park's proposed use of a 55-acre Town Hill parcel for workforce housing, with 40 acres to be given to Island Housing Trust. The board also approved several routine items, including the purchase of winter sand, a letter opposing American Aquafarms, and carry-forward budget amounts. All votes were unanimous except one abstention on a warrant approval.

• Approved minutes of September 20, 2021 (5-0)
• Appointed Gail Marshall to School Board until 2022 election (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda (5-0)
• Supported Acadia National Park workforce housing proposal (5-0)
• Approved FY-22 winter sand purchase from Harold MacQuinn, Inc. at $11.50/cubic yard (5-0)
• Authorized Fire Chief to contract with Maine Maritime Academy for breathing air support (5-0)
• Approved letter to Governor Mills opposing American Aquafarms (5-0)
• Approved carry-forward of $4,000 and $35,677 to FY22 budget (5-0)

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will meet to consider two applications: a sketch plan for a subdivision revision creating a new lot at 1049 Main Street, Somesville, and a conditional use application for an indoor climbing wall at 18 Main Street, Seal Harbor. Site visits are scheduled before the meeting. The board will also approve minutes and address other business.

• Subdivision #004-2021: A.C. Fernald Sons, Inc. proposes creating a new lot from a previously approved subdivision at 1049 Main Street, Somesville (Tax Map 010, Lot 147).
• Conditional Use Application #019-2021: Acadia Outdoor Center, LLC seeks approval for an indoor recreational facility (climbing wall) at 18 Main Street, Seal Harbor (Tax Map 030, Lot 008).
• Site inspection for the conditional use at 4:00 PM and site visit for the subdivision at 4:45 PM, masks optional.
• Meeting held in person at Town Hall, 21 Sea Street, Northeast Harbor, and via Zoom.

The Mount Desert Planning Board approved a conditional use application from Acadia Outdoor Center, LLC for an indoor climbing wall at 18 Main Street, Seal Harbor, with a 4-0 vote. The board also reviewed a sketch plan for a subdivision at 1049 Main Street, Somesville, and found it adequate for further review. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved conditional use application #019-2021 for indoor climbing wall (4-0)
• Found subdivision sketch plan #004-2021 adequate for pre-application review (no formal vote)
• Approved use of short form for conditional use application (4-0)

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Board of Selectmen will hold a public hearing and vote on amendments to the General Assistance Ordinance Appendices A-D. They will also consider appointing a part-time on-call firefighter and a Packer Truck Drive position, and approve warrants totaling $917,798.43.

• Public hearing and vote on General Assistance Ordinance Appendices A-D amendments
• Appoint Fred Mason as part-time on-call firefighter at $18.00/$26.00 per hour, effective Sept 21
• Consider appointing Michael Vollmer to Packer Truck Drive at $20.54/hr probationary, rising to $21.62/hr after DOT physical, drug/alcohol screening, and Class B CDL
• Approve treasurer's warrants totaling $917,798.43 (town invoices, payroll, school invoices)
• Funding for Climate Action Plan under unfinished business

The Mount Desert Selectboard voted 5-0 to direct Town Manager Durlin Lunt to draft a letter opposing the American Aquafarms project and send it to authorities, with the letter to be brought back for public comment. The board also approved amendments to the General Assistance Ordinance, appointed Fred Mason as a part-time on-call firefighter, and appointed Michael Vollmer as a Packer Truck Driver contingent on a DOT physical and drug/alcohol screening. A request for a Friendship Bench at Pond's End was deferred until the town develops a plan for memorials in public spaces.

• Approved amendments to General Assistance Ordinance Appendices A-D (5-0)
• Approved minutes of September 7, 2021 (4-0-1, Littlefield abstaining)
• Appointed Fred Mason as part-time on-call firefighter at $18/$26 per hour (5-0)
• Appointed Michael Vollmer as Packer Truck Driver contingent on DOT screening and probationary period (5-0)
• Accepted consent agenda including reports and thank-you letters (5-0)
• Directed Town Manager to draft letter opposing American Aquafarms project (5-0)
• Approved funding plan for Climate Action Plan (5-0)
• Approved Seal Harbor Library Fair special event application for July 31, 2022 (5-0)

Harbor Committee

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee is meeting via Zoom to discuss harbor operations. New business includes updates on the Public and North Dock ramps, the summer season, and FY 2020. Old business includes a parking update from a breakout group. The agenda is largely routine with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Update on Greg Johnston Public and North Dock ramps
• Summer season update
• FY 2020 update
• Parking update from breakout group

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee met via Zoom and approved the June 22, 2021 minutes and adopted Zoom meeting guidelines. The Harbormaster reported that 2021 revenue is expected to surpass all previous years. The committee discussed dock markings, parking survey updates, and harbor compliance issues, but no formal decisions were made on these topics.

• Approved June 22, 2021 minutes as presented
• Adopted Zoom meeting guidelines as presented

Economic Development Committee

The Mount Desert Economic Development Committee is meeting remotely to continue discussing the Brainstorming Subgroup memo, including survey results on member priorities, and to receive a parking update. The agenda is otherwise procedural.

• Continuation of Brainstorming Subgroup memo discussion
• Survey results of Committee member priorities
• Parking update

The Economic Development Committee discussed survey responses about the town's future, focusing on sustaining a year-round population while preserving character. Members agreed the committee should act as a communication tool to build consensus. Kerri Sands and Jamie Blaine will draft a vision statement to present at the October meeting. No formal decisions or votes were taken.

• Tasked Kerri Sands and Jamie Blaine to draft a vision statement for the town (no vote recorded)
• Agreed to present the draft vision statement at the regular October meeting (no vote recorded)

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will consider a request from Todd and Melissa K. Taylor for a waiver of street design standards for an existing private road off Buttonwood Lane in Somesville. The board will also approve minutes and address any other business. A site inspection is scheduled before the meeting.

• Waiver request by Todd & Melissa K. Taylor for private road off Buttonwood Lane, Somesville (Tax Map 010, Lot 136, VR2 zone)
• Discussion of Land Use Zoning Ordinance Section 6B.11 on lot access requirements
• Review of Subdivision Ordinance Section 6.1.1 waiver criteria
• Site inspection at 4:45 PM before the 6:00 PM meeting

The Mount Desert Planning Board approved a waiver of the Street Design and Construction Standards for an existing private road serving a lot off Buttonwood Lane in Somesville. The waiver was granted to Todd & Melissa K. Taylor, subject to a condition requiring written confirmation from the Fire Chief that access from Buttonwood Lane onto Route 102 and the proximity of a building are safe for emergency vehicles. The board also accepted the recusal of member Meredith Randolph due to a potential conflict of interest, and approved the minutes from the August 25, 2021 meeting.

• Approved the minutes of the August 25, 2021 meeting as presented (4-0).
• Accepted the recusal of board member Meredith Randolph due to a potential conflict of interest (4-0).
• Approved a motion affirming the board's jurisdiction over the waiver request (4-0).
• Approved a waiver of Street Design and Construction Standards for the private road off Buttonwood Lane, with a condition requiring written confirmation from Fire Chief Bender regarding safe access for emergency vehicles (4-0).
• Ended the recusal of Meredith Randolph (4-0).
• Adjourned the meeting at 7:28 PM (5-0).

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Board of Selectmen will hold a public hearing and vote on updating the Traffic Ordinance fine amounts and payment incentives. They will also consider several contracts and purchases, including wastewater system work, a new boiler, a police vehicle, and a climate action plan, along with other routine items.

• Public hearing and vote on Traffic Ordinance fine updates and payment incentives
• Approve $46,770 contract with Vortex for Year 2 GIS mapping and wastewater CCTV work
• Approve $22,245 boiler installation at Somesville wastewater plant by Ray Plumbing & Heating
• Authorize purchase of 2022 Ford Police Responder for net $20,551 after trade-in
• Consider $9,630 Climate Action Plan with A Climate to Thrive

The Mount Desert Selectboard approved changes to the traffic ordinance to integrate with Bar Harbor's parking enforcement system, and approved several contracts including wastewater work, a boiler replacement, and a police vehicle purchase. The board also tabled a climate action plan proposal pending funding options.

• Approved traffic ordinance changes for parking enforcement integration (4-0)
• Approved $46,770 wastewater GIS/CCTV contract with Vortex (4-0)
• Approved $22,245 boiler replacement at Somesville wastewater plant (4-0)
• Approved $34,146 police vehicle purchase with trade-in (4-0)
• Approved new dispatch console purchase (4-0)
• Authorized Town Manager as ARPA local authority (4-0)
• Approved $164,670 wastewater bond reserve use for loan payment (4-0)
• Tabled climate action plan proposal until Sept. 20 meeting (4-0)

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board approved all four conditional use applications on the agenda, each by a 4-0 vote. These included a ramp and deck expansion for the Union Meeting House, a fence addition at 28 New County Road, shoreline stabilization at Seal Harbor Beach, and a chicken coop at 13 Davis Lane. No applications were denied or tabled.

• Approved conditional use for Union Meeting House ramp/deck expansion at 1132 Main St (4-0)
• Approved conditional use for fence addition at 28 New County Road (4-0)
• Approved conditional use for shoreline stabilization at Seal Harbor Beach (4-0)
• Approved conditional use for chicken coop at 13 Davis Lane (4-0)

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Board of Selectmen will review routine consent items, including a final damage assessment for June 9, 2021, and consider appointing Francis Baltzell to the Broadband Committee. New business includes fuel oil bids for 2021-2022, a request from the Mount Desert Chamber to use the parking lot between the Museum and Shaw Jewelry for a public event, and a community room agreement for MDFD Station 3. The board will also approve treasurer's warrants totaling $795,847.36, covering town invoices, payroll, state fees, and school board payments.

• Approval of Treasurer’s Warrants totaling $795,847.36
• Consideration of appointment of Francis Baltzell to the Broadband Committee
• Fuel Oil Bids for 2021-2022
• Request from Mount Desert Chamber to use parking lot between Museum and Shaw Jewelry
• MDFD Station 3 Community Room Agreement

The Mount Desert Selectboard approved the Acadia Fuel LLC bid of $2.13 per gallon for the 2021-22 season, authorized up to $15,000 for a new respirator fit tester, and approved a Chamber of Commerce request to use a parking lot for a public event. The board also appointed Francis Baltzell to the Broadband Committee and accepted the consent agenda. No items were denied or tabled.

• Approved Acadia Fuel LLC bid of $2.13/gal for 2021-22 (5-0)
• Authorized up to $15,000 for PortaCount Respirator Fit Tester Model #8048 (5-0)
• Approved Chamber of Commerce use of parking lot between Museum and Shaw Jewelry (5-0)
• Appointed Francis Baltzell to Broadband Committee (5-0)
• Accepted consent agenda including Town Manager recertification (5-0)
• Approved Treasurer's Warrant totaling $414,785.23 (5-0)
• Signed payroll/state fee warrants totaling $219,467.69 (4-0-1)
• Acknowledged school board warrants totaling $161,594.44 (5-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider a conditional use application for a chicken coop at 13 Davis Lane. The board will also review a request to waive street design standards for an existing private road at 10 Bentley Lane and discuss adopting a Remote Meeting Policy.

• Conditional Use Application #015-2021: Chicken coop with run at 13 Davis Lane
• Waiver request for Street Design and Construction Standards at 10 Bentley Lane
• Discussion and adoption of Remote Meeting Policy

The Mount Desert Planning Board voted 5-0 to grant a waiver of street design standards for a private road at 10 Bentley Lane, allowing the property owner to proceed with a sale. The board also voted 5-0 to continue the conditional use application for a chicken coop at 13 Davis Lane to the August 25 meeting, allowing board members to visit the site. Additionally, the board adopted the town's remote participation policy with adherence to CDC guidelines.

• Approved waiver of street design standards for private road at 10 Bentley Lane (5-0)
• Continued chicken coop conditional use application to August 25 meeting (5-0)
• Adopted remote participation policy with CDC guidelines (5-0)
• Approved July 21, 2021 minutes (5-0)

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Board of Selectmen will consider approving a $518,848 wastewater pump station and treatment plant improvements project, including a $460,848 construction contract with TBuck Construction. They will also review schematic designs for the Northeast Harbor fire station addition and preliminary cost estimates for the Somesville fire station addition. Other items include purchasing a new truck and plow equipment for $179,630, and several policy and personnel policy revisions.

• Consider $518,848 wastewater project funding and $460,848 construction contract with TBuck Construction
• Review schematic designs for Northeast Harbor fire station (Station 1) addition/renovation
• Presentation of preliminary cost estimates for Somesville fire station (Station 3) addition
• Authorize purchase of 2022 International truck and plow equipment for $179,630 from Daigle & Houghton and H.P. Fairfield
• Consider appointment of Craig Ridley as Packer Truck Driver at $20.54/hr probationary rate

The Selectboard approved funding and contracts for the Pump Station and Treatment Plant Improvements Project, totaling $518,848, including a $460,848 construction contract with TBuck Construction and $38,000 for engineering services. It also authorized the purchase of a new truck and plow equipment for $179,630. The board approved several other items, including a remote meeting policy, personnel policy revisions, and a new hire. All votes were unanimous (4-0) except where noted.

• Approved $518,848 wastewater project funding and contracts (4-0)
• Approved $179,630 purchase of truck and plow equipment (4-0)
• Approved appointment of Craig Ridley as Packer Truck Driver (4-0)
• Adopted Remote Meeting Policy (4-0)
• Approved personnel policy revisions (4-0)
• Authorized DEP permit application for Seal Harbor erosion work (4-0)
• Approved $480,814.88 in town invoices (4-0)
• Approved $155,079.71 in payroll and benefit warrants (3-0-1)

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee will meet to discuss a memo from the Brainstorming Subgroup. No other specific agenda items or decisions are listed for this meeting.

• Discussion of Brainstorming Subgroup memo

The Economic Development Committee held a discussion-only meeting, continuing from June 14, about its role and goals for the community. No formal decisions were made. Members agreed to each submit three principles for guiding sustainable economic development, with responses due by August 4.

• Agreed to have each member submit three guiding principles for economic development (unanimous, informal)

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board is holding a special remote meeting to discuss a pre-application from The Community School of MDI to replace a canvas tent with a yurt on an existing platform and construct an ADA ramp at 585 Sound Drive. The board will also discuss transitioning back to in-person meetings. No final decisions are expected during this pre-application review.

• Pre-application review: replace canvas tent with yurt on 24' x 24' wooden platform at 585 Sound Drive
• Construct an ADA ramp at the same location
• Property in Shoreland Residential 3, Resource Protection, and Rural Woodland 3 zones
• Discussion on returning to in-person meetings

The Mount Desert Planning Board voted 5-0 to consider the Community School of MDI's proposal to replace a canvas tent with a yurt on an existing platform at 585 Sound Drive as a minor change to the original conditional use application, meaning it does not require further review from the Board and remains under the CEO's jurisdiction. The Board also voted 5-0 to hold the August 11, 2021 meeting as a Zoom meeting while it studies meeting protocols, and directed Chair Hanley to attend the August 2 Selectboard meeting for guidance. Both prior meeting minutes (May 12 and June 9) were approved unanimously.

• Approved May 12, 2021 minutes as presented (5-0).
• Approved June 9, 2021 minutes as presented (4-0).
• Approved the yurt replacement as a minor change, not requiring further Planning Board review (5-0).
• Approved holding the August 11, 2021 meeting as a Zoom meeting and directing Chair Hanley to attend the August 2 Selectboard meeting (5-0).
• Adjourned the meeting at 7:25 PM (5-0).

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard is meeting to consider routine approvals, a public works employee transfer, and an easement for utility lines. The board will also discuss a cemetery charter amendment, short-term rental policy, and personnel policy updates related to the American Rescue Plan Act.

• Transfer of Decatur French to MEO I position at $21.56/hr probationary, $22.69/hr after six months
• Easement conveyance to Versant Power and Consolidated Communications for utility purposes
• Discussion of Forest Hills Cemetery Charter Amendment
• Discussion of short-term rentals in town
• Treasurer's warrants totaling $1,681,860.92 for town, payroll, and school payments

The Mount Desert Selectboard voted 4-0 to proceed with drafting a Town Meeting warrant article for May 2022 to amend the Forest Hills Cemetery charter, designating the Town as the recipient if the cemetery association dissolves. The board also approved several routine items, including a personnel policy update, an easement, and a staff transfer. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved drafting Town Meeting article for Forest Hills Cemetery charter amendment (4-0)
• Approved transfer of Decatur French to MEO I position at $21.56/hr probationary, $22.69/hr after (4-0)
• Approved easement to Versant Power and Consolidated Communications (4-0)
• Approved repeal of CARES Act personnel policy amendments, replaced with American Rescue Plan Act (4-0)
• Approved Treasurer's Warrants totaling $1,681,860.92 (4-0)
• Approved minutes of June 7 and July 6, 2021 (4-0)

Economic Development Committee

The committee will review previous meeting minutes and elect officers for the 2022 fiscal year. The agenda includes updates on the Main Street project, parking regulations, and broadband, as well as discussions regarding memos on a Brainstorming Subgroup and Promenade Park.

• Election of Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary
• Main Street project update
• Parking regulation update
• Broadband update
• Discussion of Brainstorming Subgroup memo

The Economic Development Committee discussed an EV fast-charging station idea, approved April minutes, and elected officers for FY 2022. They postponed updates on the Main Street project and parking due to absences. The meeting was paused and will resume in two weeks to discuss a brainstorming memo.

• Approved the minutes of the April 14th meeting unanimously
• Elected Dan McKay as chair, Megan Bailey as vice chair, and Jamie Blaine as secretary for FY 2022
• Agreed to pause the meeting and continue in two weeks to discuss the brainstorming memo
• Postponed updates on the Main Street project and parking issue due to Tony Smith's absence

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Board of Selectmen will hold a regular meeting on July 6, 2021, via Zoom and in person. They will consider several appointments, including a new firefighter/EMT and a summer helper, and will discuss or decide on items such as a three-year Public Works union agreement, a request to form a traffic committee in Seal Harbor, and a FEMA COVID-19 funding request. The board will also consider a $389,142 paving contract with Northeast Paving and review conceptual plans for the Somesville Fire Station renovation.

• Consider awarding FY-22 paving contract to Northeast Paving for $389,142
• Approve appointment of Robert Norwood as Municipal Firefighter/EMT at $25.97/hour
• Sign three-year Public Works agreement with Local 340 (7/1/21-6/30/24)
• Discuss conceptual plans for Somesville Fire Station renovation
• Authorize FEMA COVID-19 Public Assistance funding application

The Mount Desert Selectboard approved the FY-22 paving contract with Northeast Paving for $389,142, authorized the Public Works Director to spend the remaining $20,858 of the paving budget at his discretion, and authorized him to sign the contract. The board also endorsed the Sustainability Committee's Action Plan in Support of the Emergency Climate Action Plan and approved several appointments and special event permits.

• Approved FY-22 paving contract with Northeast Paving for $389,142
• Authorized Public Works Director to expend remaining $20,858 of paving budget
• Authorized Public Works Director to sign paving contract
• Endorsed Sustainability Committee's Action Plan in Support of the Emergency Climate Action Plan
• Appointed Robert Norwood as Municipal Firefighter/EMT at $25.97/hour
• Approved Public Space Special Event Application for St. Mary's & St. Jude's Annual Picnic
• Approved Public Space Special Event Application for Help Portrait MDI
• Authorized FEMA COVID-19 Public Assistance Funding application

Harbor Committee

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee will meet via Zoom on June 22, 2021, at 4:30 p.m. The agenda includes approval of minutes from June 8, 2020, and a new business item on updates to the Public and North Dock ramps by Greg Johnston. Other agenda items are general discussion and old business, but no specific details are provided.

• Update on Public and North Dock ramps by Greg Johnston
• Approval of minutes from June 8, 2020

The committee approved the permitting plan and application for the Greg Johnston Public and North dock updates as presented, with no changes. They also discussed a parking survey form, jitney sign removal, and agreed to add mooring field expansion to a future agenda.

• Approved minutes from June 8, 2021 as presented
• Approved North dock application and permit as presented

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard's June 21, 2021 regular meeting covers personnel appointments, a $125,000 state grant for a culvert replacement on Beech Hill Cross Road, harbor maintenance spending, and a proposed increase to the Seafood Buyers Permit fee. The board will also consider routine consent agenda items and approve warrants totaling over $958,000.

• Approve $125,000 DEP StreamSmart grant for Beech Hill Cross Road culvert replacement over Denning Brook
• Consider $4,101.20 payment to Alvah B. Barge Service Inc. for harbor dock mooring chain replacement and inspections
• Proposed increase of Seafood Buyers Permit from $1,000 to $5,000 per year for 2022 season
• Appoint Genya Grover as Assistant Harbormaster/Office Manager at $23.38/hour probationary rate
• Authorize soliciting bids for a new 2022 plow truck and gear

The Mount Desert Selectboard approved acceptance of a $125,000 DEP StreamSmart grant for replacing and upgrading the culvert system on Beech Hill Cross Road, and authorized retaining VHB for engineering services at $34,993. The board also approved several appointments, including Genya Grover as Assistant Harbormaster, and raised the Seafood Buyers Permit fee from $1,000 to $5,000 per year starting in 2022. All votes were unanimous except where noted.

• Approved DEP StreamSmart grant of $125,000 for Beech Hill Cross Road culvert project (5-0)
• Approved retaining VHB for engineering services at $34,993, funded by grant and road reserve (5-0)
• Approved appointment of Genya Grover as Assistant Harbormaster/Office Manager at $23.38/hr (5-0)
• Accepted resignation of Justin Kelley from MEO2 position effective June 18, 2021 (5-0)
• Approved appointment of Aaron Lichtenstein as summer helper at $15.00/hr (5-0)
• Approved raising Seafood Buyers Permit from $1,000 to $5,000 per year for 2022 season (5-0)
• Approved extending 2020 clam license expiration to June 30, 2022 due to COVID-19 (5-0)
• Approved $606,484.63 town invoices warrant (5-0)

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board unanimously approved Conditional Use Application #014-2021 from FMAC, LLC for a 7-foot cedar fence at 1 Rock End Road in Northeast Harbor, after a site inspection and public comment. The board also approved the minutes from May 26, 2021, and discussed a proposed state bill on accessory dwellings and the reinstatement of in-person meetings.

• Approved May 26, 2021 minutes (4-0)
• Found FMAC, LLC application #014-2021 complete (4-0)
• Approved use of short form for application review (4-0)
• Approved conditional use for 7-foot cedar fence at 1 Rock End Road (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:53 PM (4-0)

Harbor Committee

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee will meet via Zoom on June 8, 2021, to discuss several harbor-related items. New business includes updates on the Public and North Dock ramps, a seafood buyers permit, and the appointment of Cody Seavey as a new inspector. Old business includes an update on parking from a breakout group. The meeting is largely routine administrative and operational in nature.

• Greg Johnston Public and North Dock ramps update
• Seafood Buyers permit discussion
• Cody Seavey new inspector appointment
• Parking update from breakout group

The committee approved raising the Seafood Buyers permit fee from $1,000 to $5,000 annually, starting next cycle, limited to 4 permits. They also approved accepting Cody Seavy as the new barge service operator, and scheduled a special meeting for June 22 to review the NRPA permit application for float abutment work. No other substantive decisions were made; discussions included concerns about Jitney bus zoning violations and parking issues.

• Approved raising Seafood Buyers permit fee to $5,000 annually (motion by Bright, seconded by Savage)
• Approved accepting Cody Seavy as barge service operator (unanimous)
• Approved holding special meeting June 22 to review NRPA permit application

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Board of Selectmen will vote on increasing on-call firefighter hourly rates from $14.08 to $18.00, effective June 14, 2021. The board also plans to authorize a $15,000 payment to Kofile Technologies for historic preservation and approve several Treasurer’s Warrants totaling over $700,000. Additional items include extending a temporary agreement with the Maine Department of Transportation through 2026 and discussing a proposed tobacco-free policy.

• Increase hourly rate for on-call firefighters from $14.08 to $18.00 effective June 14, 2021
• Authorize payment of $15,000.00 to Kofile Technologies for Historic Preservation (Invoice #237351)
• Extend Temporary Agreement with Maine DOT from September 6, 2021, through September 6, 2026
• Approve Treasurer’s Warrant AP2168 in the amount of $169,707.86
• Discuss proposed Tobacco Free Policy for the Town of Mount Desert

The Mount Desert Selectboard approved a tobacco-free policy for all town property, reinstated in-person board and committee meetings with mask guidance based on vaccination status, and raised on-call firefighters' hourly rate from $14.08 to $18.00. The board also denied a special event application from Backroads for Suminsby Park, approved a rainbow crosswalk request from elementary school students, and authorized up to $8,500 for a parking enforcement system integration.

• Approved Tobacco Free Policy for all Town property (5-0)
• Approved in-person meetings with mask guidance for unvaccinated attendees (5-0)
• Approved on-call firefighter hourly rate increase to $18.00 effective June 14, 2021 (5-0)
• Denied Backroads' Suminsby Park picnic lunch application (0-5)
• Approved Rainbow Pride Crosswalk in front of Elementary School (4-1)
• Authorized parking enforcement system integration with Bar Harbor, up to $8,500 (5-0)
• Approved $15,000 payment to Kofile Technologies for historic preservation (5-0)
• Approved liquor license renewal for Milk & Honey (5-0)

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Board of Selectmen is holding a special meeting to discuss whether to request that the Municipal Review Committee call a special meeting to review changes related to the sale of the Coastal Resources of Maine solid waste plant in Hampden to a new company. No formal action is listed; the agenda includes only this discussion item and adjournment.

• Discussion on requesting Municipal Review Committee to review sale of Coastal Resources of Maine plant

The Mount Desert Selectboard voted 1-4 to deny a motion requesting the Municipal Review Committee (MRC) call a special meeting to review changes tied to the sale of the Coastal Resources of Maine waste plant to Delta Thermal Energy. The board discussed the proposed changes, including land purchase option, rebate structure, and term extensions, but most members felt the concerns raised did not fall within the fundamental matters warranting a meeting. The motion was denied, with only Geoff Wood supporting it.

• Denied motion to request MRC special meeting on waste plant sale changes (1-4)
• Discussed proposed changes: land purchase option, rebate structure, term extensions
• Noted Bar Harbor voted to request a member meeting, but no other town has

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will consider a conditional use application for temporary school tents at 9 Lower Dunbar Road, Seal Harbor, and a sketch plan for a 6-unit workforce housing subdivision at 5 Manchester Road, Northeast Harbor. The board will also review a signage request from The Claremont Hotel for MDOT directional signs. Site inspections are scheduled before the meeting.

• Conditional Use Application #013-2021: four 30'x10' tents and one 20'x10' tent for school use at 9 Lower Dunbar Road, Seal Harbor (VR1 zone)
• Subdivision #003-2021: 6 dwelling units for workforce housing at 5 Manchester Road, Northeast Harbor (VR1 zone)
• Ann Ratcliff (The Claremont Hotel): one replacement and one new MDOT directional sign request
• Site inspection at 4:30 PM and site visit at 5:00 PM, masks required

The Mount Desert Planning Board approved a conditional use application for temporary tents at a school for outdoor dining and recreation due to COVID-19. The board also held a sketch plan review for a proposed 6-unit workforce housing subdivision on Manchester Road, with no formal decision made at this stage.

• Approved May 3, 2021 minutes (5-0)
• Tabled MDOT signage request for Claremont Hotel (no vote)
• Approved conditional use application #013-2021 for school tents (5-0)
• Held sketch plan review for subdivision #003-2021; no decision made

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Board of Selectmen will hold a public hearing and consider several license renewals, including liquor licenses for local businesses and a special amusement permit for Asticou Inn. They will also review special event applications for weddings and farmers markets, and discuss a stormwater easement and harbor parking concerns. The meeting includes routine approvals of minutes, appointments, and warrants.

• Special Amusement Permit Renewal for Asti-Kim /DBA Asticou Inn
• Liquor License Renewals for Asticou Inn, COPITA (Choco-Latte), The Docksider, and Burning Tree Restaurant
• Special Event Applications for Seal Harbor Village Green wedding and MDI Farmers' Market at Northeast Harbor Village Green
• Approval to hire Nathan Formby as Full Time Dispatcher at $23.09/hour for six-month probation
• Request to pay $2,639.75 from Selectmen's Contingency fund for Annual Town Meeting costs

The Mount Desert Selectboard approved all agenda items unanimously, including special amusement and liquor license renewals for several businesses, the hiring of a full-time dispatcher, and multiple public space special event applications. The board also discussed concerns about the Backroads bicycle tour company's use of the Northeast Harbor marina, with the Harbor Committee requesting denial of a future permit, but no action was taken on that matter.

• Approved Special Amusement Permit Renewal for Asticou Inn (5-0)
• Approved pay rate of $30/hr for Joelle Nolan as substitute town clerk (5-0)
• Approved hiring Nathan Formby as full-time dispatcher at $23.09/hr (5-0)
• Accepted resignation of Christopher Johansen (5-0)
• Approved $2,639.75 from Contingency fund for Annual Town Meeting costs (5-0)
• Approved special event permits for Seal Harbor Village Green wedding, MDI Farmers' Market, and MDI Elementary 8th grade promotion (5-0 each)
• Approved liquor license renewals for Asticou Inn, COPITA, The Docksider, Burning Tree, and Jordan Pond House (5-0 each)
• Approved Treasurer's Warrant AP2164 for $570,622.09 (5-0)

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will hold a public hearing on a request to modify the previously approved Woods Road Subdivision (Amendment #5), involving owners Wendy L. Woods, Suzanne B. Hopkins, and Johnathan D. & Melissa A. Edwards. The board will also consider an extension of outdoor seating for Seaside Deli and Sweets at 5 Sea Street/120 Main Street in Northeast Harbor for the 2021 season. The meeting is remote via Zoom.

• Public hearing on Amendment #5 to Woods Road Subdivision (File 21 Number 138, recorded April 12, 1988, and subsequent amendments)
• Subdivision modification application by owners Wendy L. Woods, Suzanne B. Hopkins, Johnathan D. & Melissa A. Edwards, agent Greg Johnston
• Tax map 012, lots 013-013-001, 013-012, and 015, zones SR3 and RW3
• COVID-19 temporary outdoor seating accommodation for Manchester Bros., Inc., leasee Jennifer Kelley, d/b/a Seaside Deli and Sweets, LLC, at 5 Sea Street/120 Main Street, Northeast Harbor
• Extension of outside seating for 2021 season, same amount as last year

The Mount Desert Planning Board approved a 32,000-square-foot land exchange between the Woods/Hopkins and Edwards lots in the Woods Road Subdivision, allowing the Edwards to build a garage. The board also extended COVID-19 temporary outdoor seating for Seaside Deli and Sweets for the 2021 season. Both motions passed unanimously.

• Approved Woods Road Subdivision Amendment #5 (land exchange of 32,000 sf) 5-0
• Extended COVID-19 outdoor seating accommodation for Seaside Deli and Sweets (5 Sea Street) for 2021 season 5-0
• Approved minutes of April 28, 2021 5-0
• Made alternate member Tracy Loftus Keller a full board member 4-0

Harbor Committee

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee will meet via Zoom to discuss updates on the Public and North Dock ramps, a possible light for the North side hoist, and parking issues from a breakout group. The meeting includes approval of minutes from April 13, 2020, and general old business discussions.

• Update on Public and North Dock ramps
• Discussion of light for North side hoist
• Parking update from breakout group
• Approval of April 13, 2020 minutes

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Board of Selectmen will meet after the Annual Town Meeting to handle routine appointments, approvals, and financial warrants. Key items include hiring seasonal staff, approving a $24,800 expenditure for dock access engineering, and adopting several annual policies.

• Approve $24,800 to G F Johnston for engineering and permitting to replace access points to North and Public Docks
• Approve summer dock hands Gavin Dow and Mia Sawyer at $14.00/hour
• Appoint Ralph Colson, Jr. as summer helper in Wastewater Division at $18.00/hour
• Appoint Paul Accomando as part-time seasonal employee in Buildings & Grounds at $17.00/hour
• Approve Treasurer's Warrant AP2162 for $212,312.83

The Mount Desert Selectboard unanimously approved several personnel appointments, including a new firefighter recruitment, summer dock hands, and seasonal Public Works helpers. They also authorized $24,800 for engineering and permitting to replace access points to the North and Public Docks, and approved multiple annual policies and account signatories. The board agreed to resume in-person meetings starting May 17, 2021, with the public joining via Zoom.

• Authorized recruitment for new firefighter position (5-0)
• Approved Gavin Dow and Mia Sawyer as summer dock hands at $14.00/hour (5-0)
• Appointed Ralph Colson, Jr. as summer helper in Wastewater/Public Works at $18.00/hour (5-0)
• Appointed Paul Accomando as part-time seasonal employee in Buildings and Grounds at $17.00/hour (5-0)
• Accepted resignation of Joanne R. Eaton from Planning Board effective May 11, 2021 (5-0)
• Approved $24,800 expenditure to G.F. Johnston for dock access engineering and permitting (5-0)
• Approved annual policies on treasurer's disbursement warrants, education costs, unpaid taxes, and more (5-0)
• Approved signed warrants AP2160, AP2161, PR2125 totaling $120,849.02 (4-0-1, Littlefield abstained)

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board is holding a special drive-in public meeting to review a quarrying license application. The agenda includes a public hearing for the application, followed by other business and adjournment. The meeting is scheduled for May 3, 2021, at the Mount Desert Island High School parking lot.

• Public hearing for Quarrying License Permit #001-2014
• Application owner: Harold MacQuinn, Inc.
• Application operator: Fresh Water Stone & Brickwork, Inc.
• Location: Off Crane Road, Hall Quarry (Tax Map 007, Lot 075)
• Zone: Residential 1 (R1)

The Mount Desert Planning Board continued deliberations on a quarrying license application for Harold MacQuinn, Inc., but took no final action. The board voted 5-0 to request additional information from the applicant regarding road standards, the right-of-way easement, and waiver justification. The meeting was tabled to a future date.

• Approved motion to request additional information from applicant (5-0)
• Tabled meeting to a date to be determined

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will hold a public hearing on a proposed amendment to the previously approved Woods Road Subdivision, involving modifications to the recorded plan. The board will also consider two conditional use applications: one for a fence exceeding code officer authority at 39 Neighborhood Road, and another for a non-commercial swimming pool at 95 Woods Road. Site inspections are scheduled before the meeting, which will be held remotely via Zoom.

• Public hearing on Amendment #5 to Woods Road Subdivision (owners: Wendy L. Woods, Suzanne B. Hopkins, Johnathan D. & Melissa A. Edwards)
• Conditional Use Application #011-2021: fence exceeding CEO authority at 39 Neighborhood Road, Northeast Harbor (owner: Neighborhood Road, LLC)
• Conditional Use Application #012-2021: non-commercial outdoor recreation swimming pool at 95 Woods Road (owners: Gregory F. & Tresa Johnston)
• Site inspections at 4:30 PM and 5:00 PM with masks required
• Meeting held remotely via Zoom; next meeting scheduled for May 12, 2021

The Mount Desert Planning Board approved two conditional use applications: one for a fence at 39 Neighborhood Road (Application #011-2021) and one for a swimming pool at 95 Woods Road (Application #012-2021), both by unanimous 5-0 votes. A subdivision modification item (Woods Road Subdivision) was rescheduled to May 12, 2021, because abutters were not properly notified. The board also deemed a foundation modification for a property at 131 Northern Neck Rd. as not requiring reconsideration, and noted the resignation of board member Joanne Eaton, effective May 10, 2021.

• Approved conditional use application #011-2021 for a fence at 39 Neighborhood Road (5-0)
• Approved conditional use application #012-2021 for a swimming pool at 95 Woods Road (5-0)
• Rescheduled subdivision modification item (Woods Road Subdivision) to May 12, 2021 due to improper abutter notification
• Deemed a 6x6 mechanical space under a building at 131 Northern Neck Rd. as not requiring Planning Board reconsideration (5-0)
• Approved minutes of April 14, 2021 (4-0-1, Eaton abstaining)
• Made Tracy Loftus Keller a voting member for the meeting (4-0)

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Board of Selectmen is holding a special workshop meeting with no minutes or new business. The only unfinished business is a discussion about a fire station forum. The meeting is being held via Zoom.

• Fire Station Forum Discussion

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Board of Selectmen will hold a regular meeting to finalize and sign the warrant for the Annual Town Meeting, consider appointments including a new Finance Director, and hold public hearings on liquor license requests. The board will also review the annual audit, discuss summer retail sidewalk possibilities, and approve multiple treasurer's warrants totaling over $900,000.

• Public hearings for liquor licenses: Northeast Lobster Co. (The Nor'Easter, 10 Huntington Rd) and Abel's Lobster Pound (On The Shore, LLC)
• Consider appointment of Jacob Wright as Director of Finance and Treasurer
• Approve Treasurer's Warrant AP2159 for $539,245.39
• Approve payroll and benefit warrants totaling $130,926.47 (AP2157, AP2158, PR2124)
• Acknowledge School Board warrants #11 and #21 for $152,594.54 and $83,968.49

The Mount Desert Selectboard approved special amusement permits for The Nor'Easter and Abel's Lobster Pound, both by 5-0 votes. The board also approved several appointments, including Jacob Wright as Director of Finance and Treasurer, and approved a sidewalk retail plan for summer 2021 by a 4-1 vote. The meeting included a discussion about parking issues in Northeast Harbor and Seal Harbor, with no formal action taken.

• Approved special amusement permit for The Nor'Easter (5-0)
• Approved liquor license and special amusement permit renewal for Abel's Lobster Pound (5-0)
• Approved appointment of Jacob Wright as Director of Finance and Treasurer (5-0)
• Approved sidewalk retail and restaurant plan for summer 2021 (4-1, Wood opposed)
• Approved appointment of Kerri Sands to Economic Development Committee (5-0)
• Approved appointment of ballot clerks and election clerks (5-0)
• Approved Treasurer's Warrant AP2159 for $539,245.39 (5-0)
• Approved payroll and benefit warrants totaling $130,926.47 (4-0-1, Littlefield abstained)

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will hold a public meeting to consider a directional sign request from Adam Fraley and four conditional use applications, including a fence, a commercial fishing shed, a chicken coop, and a swimming pool. Site inspections are scheduled before the meeting. The board will also approve minutes from a previous meeting.

• MDOT signage request by Adam Fraley (The Nor'Easter Pound & Market) for directional signs at state road intersections
• Conditional Use #007-2021: Fence at 18 Harborside Road, Northeast Harbor (VR1 zone)
• Conditional Use #008-2021: Commercial fishing shed and trap storage at 39 Oak Grove Road (RW2 zone)
• Conditional Use #009-2021: Chicken coop and run at 5 Grover Avenue, Otter Creek (VR2 zone)
• Conditional Use #010-2021: Non-commercial swimming pool off Kimball Road, Northeast Harbor (VR2 zone)

The Mount Desert Planning Board approved all four conditional use applications on the agenda, covering a fence, a commercial fishing storage shed, a chicken coop, and a swimming pool. The board also voted to recommend approval of two directional signs for The Nor'Easter Pound & Market to the Selectboard. All votes were unanimous (4-0).

• Approved recommendation for MDOT directional signs for The Nor'Easter Pound & Market (4-0)
• Approved conditional use for fence at 18 Harborside Road (4-0)
• Approved conditional use for commercial fishing shed at 39 Oak Grove Road (4-0)
• Approved conditional use for chicken coop at 5 Grover Avenue (4-0)
• Approved conditional use for swimming pool off Kimball Road (4-0)

Economic Development Committee

The Mount Desert Economic Development Committee will meet via Zoom to review prior minutes, receive a broadband update, and discuss parking limitations in Northeast Harbor. They will also hear updates on the pandemic's economic impact, the Main Street project, and the Kimball Road Medical Building. The committee will consider future topics, including its fundamental objectives and potential regulatory changes.

• Review of January 13, 2021 minutes
• Broadband Committee update
• Parking limitations in Northeast Harbor Village
• Economic impact of coronavirus pandemic
• Status of Kimball Road Medical Building

The Economic Development Committee approved January minutes, received updates on broadband, parking, pandemic recovery, and the Main Street project, and discussed its future role. No formal votes were taken on substantive items; the committee agreed to have Tony Smith and Chief Willis manage parking issues and formed a think tank subcommittee. Main Street project completion was delayed to spring 2022 due to outstanding easements.

• Approved January 13, 2021 minutes as amended (unanimous)
• Agreed Tony Smith and Chief Willis will manage parking issues
• Formed think tank subcommittee (Nancy, Kathy, Megan, Micki, Kerri, Jamie)
• Discussed broadband plan urgency; no formal action taken

Harbor Committee

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee meets via Zoom to review minutes, hear updates on the Public and North Dock ramps, discuss a light for the north side hoist, and get an update on parking from a breakout group. The agenda is mostly routine with no votes or dollar amounts listed.

• Greg Johnston Public and North Dock ramps update
• Light for North side hoist discussion
• Update on parking from break out group
• Minutes from March 9, 2020

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Board of Selectmen will hold public hearings on liquor license and special amusement permit requests for two local businesses, then take action. They will also consider appointments to the fire department, approve warrants totaling over $680,000, and discuss the Northeast Harbor Main Street Improvements project.

• Public hearing: Northeast Lobster Co. LLC d/b/a The Nor’ Easter, 10 Huntington Rd, Northeast Harbor, liquor license and special amusement permit
• Public hearing: Mandy Fountaine/DBA Abel’s Lobster Pound (On The Shore, LLC), liquor special amusement permit renewal
• Appoint Benjamin Gilley and Margaret Houghton as part-time on-call firefighters at $14.08/hour
• Approve Treasurer's Warrant AP2156 for $290,740.65 and other warrants totaling about $395,000
• Discuss Northeast Harbor Main Street Improvements Project cost summary

The Selectboard approved spending $195,000 to complete the Northeast Harbor Main Street project, covering a $48,564 cost overrun and adding $50,000 to the contingency fund. It also approved liquor licenses for The Nor'Easter and Abel's Lobster Pound, appointed three part-time firefighters, and approved several routine items including a triathlon event and treasurer's warrants.

• Approved $195,000 expenditure to complete the Main Street project, charged to the project contingency line (4-0).
• Approved transfer of $48,564 from bond balance to contingency line, leaving $665,189 (4-0).
• Approved transfer of $50,000 from bond balance to contingency line, leaving $615,189 (4-0).
• Approved liquor license for Northeast Lobster Co. LLC d/b/a The Nor'Easter (4-0).
• Approved liquor special amusement permit renewal for Abel's Lobster Pound (4-0).
• Appointed Margaret Houghton, Molly Brown, and Kelly Brown as part-time on-call firefighters at $14.08/hour (4-0).
• Approved consent agenda including thank-you note, hiking trail letter, and Pretty Marsh reclassification (4-0).
• Approved Public Safety Training Agreement for fire department training in Seal Harbor (4-0).

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Board of Selectmen is holding a special meeting to approve minutes from two prior meetings and to act on the purchase price for LED lighting. No other substantive business is listed.

• Approve minutes from March 8 and March 15, 2021 meetings
• Act on LED purchase price

The Mount Desert Selectboard approved the Public Works Director's recommendation to purchase LED streetlights, with the total project cost set at $41,468.00 after a revised rebate of $7,132.00. The board also approved minutes from March 8 and March 15, 2021, amending the latter to correct the title of a part-time position from 'Part Time Treasurer' to 'Treasury Assistant'. No other substantive business was conducted.

• Approved LED streetlight purchase, total project cost $41,468.00 after rebate (5-0)
• Approved minutes from March 8, 2021 meeting (4-0)
• Approved minutes from March 15, 2021 meeting as amended, changing 'Part Time Treasurer' to 'Treasury Assistant' (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board denied a conditional use application for a pier, ramp, and float at 90 Mill Cove Road, citing incompatibility with the small, undeveloped cove. The board approved a 10-inch water main installation in Seal Harbor and two subdivision plan revisions.

• Denied pier, ramp & float at 90 Mill Cove Road (0-5)
• Approved 10-inch water main at 39 Cooksey Drive/Steamboat Wharf Road (5-0)
• Approved subdivision plat revision for 3.02-Acre Subdivision, Somes Sound (5-0)
• Approved lot merger in Woodland Acres Subdivision (5-0)
• Approved March 10, 2021 minutes (5-0)

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board approved two conditional use applications. The first, for a fence and gate at 28 Sargeant Drive, was approved 5-0. The second, for a multiple-dwelling unit at 141 Main Street, was approved 5-0 with a condition requiring seven additional parking spaces be secured before a certificate of occupancy is issued. Two nonconformity applications were continued from the March 10 meeting with no new action.

• Approved conditional use for fence/gate at 28 Sargeant Drive (5-0)
• Approved conditional use for multiple-dwelling unit at 141 Main Street (5-0)
• Added condition: 7 additional parking spaces for residential use before certificate of occupancy (5-0)

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will review four applications at its March 10, 2021 meeting: two for reconstruction/replacement/relocation of nonconforming structures, and two for conditional use approvals (a fence/wall and a multi-family dwelling). Site inspections are scheduled before the meeting, and the board will also approve minutes from a prior session.

• Application #001-2021: Kevin M. Royer & Andrea L. Spalla, 130 Northern Neck Road, reconstruction/replacement/relocation/expansion of non-conforming camp/residential dwelling (SR2 zone)
• Application #002-2021: NN Cove, LLC, 7 Evergreen Way, reconstruction/replacement/relocation of non-conforming camp/residential dwelling (SR2 zone)
• Application #003-2021: Stewart Family Waters Edge, LLC, 28 Sargeant Drive, conditional use for fence/wall exceeding CEO authority (SR2 zone)
• Application #004-2021: Mount Desert 365 / College of the Atlantic, 141 Main Street, conditional use for multiple dwelling: 5-bedroom and 2-bedroom units in one structure (Village Commercial zone)

The Mount Desert Planning Board approved a reconstruction/replacement application for a non-conforming camp at 130 Northern Neck Road (Application #001-2021) with a 5-0 vote. The board denied a similar application for 7 Evergreen Way (Application #002-2021) with a 2-3 vote, after discussion about whether the building could be relocated to a more conforming location. Two conditional use applications (fence at 28 Sargeant Drive and multiple dwelling at 141 Main Street) were continued to March 17, 2021. The meeting was also continued to that date.

• Approved Application #001-2021 (130 Northern Neck Road) for reconstruction/replacement of a non-conforming structure, 5-0.
• Denied Application #002-2021 (7 Evergreen Way) for reconstruction/replacement of a non-conforming structure, 2-3.
• Continued Conditional Use Application #003-2021 (28 Sargeant Drive) to March 17, 2021.
• Continued Conditional Use Application #004-2021 (141 Main Street) to March 17, 2021.
• Approved minutes of February 10, 2021, 4-0-1.
• Approved minutes of February 24, 2021, 4-0.
• Approved making Tracy Loftus Keller a voting member for the meeting, 4-0.
• Continued the meeting to March 17, 2021, 6PM, 5-0.

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Board of Selectmen will hold a special meeting to review and take final votes on warrant articles for the May 2021 Annual Town Meeting, including third-party requests. They will also hear a report on a meeting with the ambulance service and consider a utility location permit for Steamboat Wharf. The meeting is conducted via Zoom.

• Public hearing on proposed warrant articles for appropriation of funds, ordinance amendments, and ordinances
• Final votes on warrant articles for May 3 and 4, 2021 Annual Town Meeting, including third-party requests
• Report on meeting with ambulance service
• Steamboat Wharf utility location permit

The Mount Desert Selectboard held a public hearing with no comments and approved minutes from three prior meetings. The board voted 5-0 to recommend several warrant articles for the May 2021 Annual Town Meeting, including allowing non-voters to speak, accepting additional funds, and appropriating funds for libraries, village improvement societies, recreation, and public/social service agencies. The board also recommended a climate emergency resolution by a 4-1 vote, with Matt Hart opposed, and approved a utility location permit for a water main extension on Steamboat Wharf Road.

• Approved minutes from February 16, February 22, and March 1, 2021 meetings, all 5-0.
• Recommended passage of article allowing non-voters to speak at 2021 Annual Town Meeting, 5-0.
• Recommended passage of article authorizing acceptance of additional state, federal, and other funds, 5-0.
• Recommended approval of 3rd party requests for Libraries ($35,500), Village Improvement Societies ($78,315), Recreation ($90,000, with Hart abstaining), and Public/Social Service Agencies ($128,032, amended), all 5-0 or 4-0-1.
• Recommended passage of article to increase property tax levy limit by $0.00, 5-0.
• Recommended passage of Resolution to Endorse a Declaration of a Climate Emergency, 4-1 (Hart opposed).
• Approved Steamboat Wharf Utility Location Permit for water main extension, 5-0.
• Adjourned meeting at 7:44 PM, 5-0.

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Board of Selectmen will consider testing inflow to three wastewater treatment plants for COVID-19 at an estimated annual cost of $55,000 to $75,000, and review 2021 summer dockage rates for Northeast Harbor Marina. The board will also review a draft warrant, service group budget requests, and approve routine warrants and a liquor license renewal. The agenda includes consent items such as culvert replacement grant funding on Beech Hill Cross Road.

• COVID-19 wastewater testing at three treatment plants, est. $55,000-$75,000/year
• 2021 summer dockage rates for Northeast Harbor Marina
• Liquor license renewal for Colonel's Restaurant, 143 Main Street, Northeast Harbor
• Treasurer's warrants totaling $657,640.87
• Grant funding for two culvert replacements on Beech Hill Cross Road

The Selectboard voted unanimously to recommend approval of numerous 2021-2022 budget warrant articles, including the Alewife Ordinance, Public Right-of-Way Ordinance, and various departmental budgets. They also approved the 2021 summer dockage rates for the Northeast Harbor Marina and a liquor license renewal for Colonel's Restaurant. The board directed the Town Manager to recruit volunteers for existing committees before forming new ones, and accepted the recommendation not to test wastewater for COVID-19.

• Approved minutes from February 8, 2021 meeting (5-0).
• Approved Consent Agenda including department reports, thank you note, and culvert replacement grant funding (5-0).
• Directed Town Manager to reach out to potential volunteers to fill current committee positions before establishing new committees (5-0).
• Recommended approval of Alewife Ordinance and Public Right-of-Way Ordinance for town meeting (5-0 each).
• Recommended approval of multiple budget articles for 2021-2022, including $500,000 transfer from Undesignated Fund Balance to reduce tax commitment (5-0).
• Approved 2021 summer dockage rates for Northeast Harbor Marina (5-0).
• Approved liquor license renewal for Winter Spring Inc. d/b/a Colonel's Restaurant (5-0).
• Approved Clerks being unavailable during seven training dates (5-0).

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will hold a public hearing on proposed Land Use Zoning Ordinance amendments for the 2021 Annual Town Meeting. The board will also consider a conditional use application to place an RV temporarily at 9 Lower Dunbar Road in Seal Harbor for use as an incubation area during the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Public hearing on Land Use Zoning Ordinance Amendments for 2021 Annual Town Meeting
• Conditional Use Approval Application #002-2021 by Sheryl C. & H. James Gilmore for temporary RV at 9 Lower Dunbar Road, Seal Harbor (Tax Map 031, Lot 091-002, Zone VR1)

The Planning Board voted 5-0 to recommend approval of four Land Use Zoning Ordinance amendments for the 2021 Annual Town Meeting, covering setback definitions, outdoor lighting, setback measurement from private roads, and Stream Protection District uses. The board also approved a conditional use application for a temporary RV at 9 Lower Dunbar Road, Seal Harbor, for use as a COVID-19 isolation space during a summer educational program.

• Recommended approval of amendment to modify setback definition to exclude footpaths and sidewalks (5-0).
• Recommended approval of amendment to reorganize and clarify outdoor lighting ordinance (5-0).
• Recommended approval of amendment to clarify setback measurement from private roads or rights-of-way (5-0).
• Recommended approval of amendment to remove footnote 4 from some permitted uses in Stream Protection District (5-0).
• Approved conditional use application #002-2021 for temporary RV at 9 Lower Dunbar Road, Seal Harbor, for COVID-19 isolation (5-0).

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Board of Selectmen is holding a special meeting, jointly with the Warrant Committee, to consider third-party budget requests from service groups for the 2021-2022 fiscal year. The meeting begins with an executive session for personnel matters, followed by approval of prior minutes and a consent agenda item. No other substantive business is listed.

• Joint meeting with Warrant Committee for 3rd Party Requests
• Executive session for personnel matters
• Approval of minutes from February 1, 2021
• Hancock County Commissioners Special Meeting Minutes of January 30, 2021
• Service Groups/3rd Party Budget 2021-2022 Requests

The Mount Desert Selectboard met via Zoom and unanimously approved the February 1, 2021 minutes and the consent agenda. The board also entered executive session for personnel matters and later changed the March 8 meeting time to 6:30 PM. No formal decisions were made on third-party budget requests, which were presented for discussion only.

• Approved February 1, 2021 minutes (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda (5-0)
• Entered executive session for personnel matters (5-0)
• Changed March 8, 2021 meeting time to 6:30 PM (consensus)

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Board of Selectmen will meet jointly with the Warrant Committee to discuss 2021-2022 budget requests from service groups and third parties. They will also consider several items, including re-establishing the Director of Finance/Treasurer position, approving a $3,059 snow blower purchase, and placing a $357,500 article on the town meeting warrant for engineering services for a new public safety building. The board will also review and approve various warrants totaling over $450,000.

• Consideration of $357,500 for professional engineering services for a new public safety building
• Approval of Fire Chief's request to amend motion to spend up to $7,500 from Fire Station Building Reserve for public safety building review
• Purchase of Honda commercial snow blower for $3,059 from Greenway Equipment Sales
• Re-establish position of Director of Finance/Treasurer
• Approve Treasurer's Warrant AP2146 for $113,247.35 and other warrants totaling $346,194.94

The Mount Desert Selectboard voted 5-0 to place a $357,500 article on the 2021 town meeting warrant for professional engineering services for a new public safety building. The board also approved re-establishing the Director of Finance/Treasurer position, amended a prior motion to fund a public safety building review from a different reserve account, and directed the town manager to begin discussions with Northeast Harbor Ambulance Service about transferring emergency medical services to the town by January 1, 2023.

• Approved re-establishing Director of Finance/Treasurer position at salary grade 7 (5-0)
• Approved amending prior motion to allow Fire Chief to spend up to $7,500 from Fire Station Building Reserve Account (5-0)
• Approved directing town manager, fire chief, and police chief to discuss ambulance service transfer with Northeast Harbor Ambulance Service (5-0)
• Approved transferring Mount Desert Regional High School Scholarship and Stipend amounts as presented (5-0)
• Approved purchasing Honda commercial snow blower for $3,059 from Public Works Equipment Reserve (5-0)
• Approved including $357,500 public safety building design article on 2021 town meeting warrant (5-0)
• Approved Treasurer's Warrant AP2146 for $113,247.35 (5-0)
• Approved payroll and benefit warrants AP2144, AP2145, PR2106, PR2119 (4-0-1, Littlefield abstained)

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board approved a subdivision application by College of the Atlantic for a 15-bed student housing building at 141 Main Street, Northeast Harbor, with a condition requiring the applicant to secure and maintain seven additional off-site parking spaces before a certificate of occupancy is issued. The board also adopted amended findings of fact and conclusions of law for the Otium, LLC remand, including definitions of 'new' and 'replacement' from the ordinance.

• Appointed Vice Chair Meredith Randolph as acting chair (3-0)
• Made alternate member Tracy Loftus Keller a voting member for the meeting (4-0)
• Approved minutes of January 27 and January 13, 2021 (5-0 each)
• Found subdivision application #002-2020 complete (5-0)
• Approved subdivision application with condition to provide and maintain seven additional parking spaces before certificate of occupancy (5-0)
• Adopted findings of fact and conclusions of law for Otium, LLC remand, including definitions of 'new' and 'replacement' (5-0)

Harbor Committee

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee will meet via Zoom to review minutes from February 2020 and hear updates from Greg Johnston on the Public and North Dock ramps, as well as a timeline for their replacement. The agenda includes new business, general issues, old business, and discussions, but no specific decisions or votes are listed.

• Greg Johnston Public and North Dock ramps update
• Greg Johnston timeline for North and Public dock replacement

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee voted unanimously to increase the electric service fee to $150 per month to align with rising electricity costs. They also discussed a revised plan for marina dock repairs, noted increased 2020 revenue, and formed a subcommittee to explore tourist parking issues.

• Approved electric service fee increase to $150/month (unanimous)
• Formed subcommittee (Motenko, Black, Litchfield) to study tourist parking at NEH marina and Seal Harbor
• Discussed revised marina dock repair plan, possibly including handicap-accessible ramp and winter 2022-23 scheduling

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Board of Selectmen is holding a special meeting to review the MDES budget and proposed Land Use Zoning Ordinance articles. The board will also consider accepting the resignation of Jeanne Fernald from the Traffic Committee. The meeting begins with an executive session for personnel matters.

• MDES Budget Review
• Proposed Land Use Zoning Ordinance Articles
• Consider resignation of Jeanne Fernald from the Traffic Committee

The Mount Desert Selectboard held a remote meeting on February 8, 2021. The board approved a letter of support for A Climate To Thrive's (ACTT) grant application to the Department of Energy for alternative energy integration. The board also accepted the resignation of Jeanne Fernald from the Traffic Committee. The meeting included a budget review from Mount Desert Elementary School and a presentation of proposed Land Use Zoning Ordinance amendments, but no formal action was taken on those items.

• Approved letter of support for ACTT grant application (5-0)
• Accepted resignation of Jeanne Fernald from Traffic Committee (5-0)
• Entered and exited executive session for personnel matters (5-0)

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Board of Selectmen will discuss a proposed addition to the existing Fire/EMS station for a new public safety building, including costs and floor plans (Concept 8), and consider authorizing the Public Works Director to obtain design cost estimates. They will also consider several other items, including appointments, a culvert replacement issue, and approval of warrants totaling over $1 million.

• Discussion of Concept 8 for a public safety building addition to the Fire/EMS station
• Consideration of authorizing Public Works Director to get design cost estimate from Hedefine Engineering
• Appointment of Donna Reis to Harbor Committee and Robert Bickmore to Broadband Committee
• Approval of Treasurer's Warrants totaling $1,085,409.16
• Review of culvert replacement on Northern Neck Road and legal reply

The Selectboard voted 5-0 to reject a petition asking the town to accept the Northern Neck causeway as a public way, citing state ownership of submerged lands and lack of town authority. The board also authorized the Public Works Director to obtain design cost estimates for a new public safety building, with a vote of 4-0-1 (Littlefield abstaining). Other actions included appointing Donna Reis to the Harbor Committee and Robert Bickmore to the Broadband Committee, and denying a wastewater rebate request for 140 Northern Neck Road.

• Rejected petition to accept Northern Neck causeway as public way (5-0)
• Authorized Public Works Director to request design cost for public safety building Concept 8 (4-0-1, Littlefield abstained)
• Appointed Donna Reis to Harbor Committee (5-0)
• Appointed Robert Bickmore to Broadband Committee as IT Consultant/Ex Officio (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including department reports and minutes (5-0)
• Denied wastewater rebate for 140 Northern Neck Road (5-0)
• Authorized Fire Chief to contract with Maine Maritime Academy for breathing air vehicle (5-0)
• Approved Treasurer's Warrants AP2143, AP2141, AP2142, PR2118, and School Board Warrant 16 (various votes)

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will hold a remote public meeting to approve minutes, discuss Land Use Zoning Ordinance amendments for the 2021 Town Meeting, and consider a conditional use application for excavation/filling over 150 cubic yards for shoreline stabilization at 84 Manchester Road, Northeast Harbor. A site inspection is scheduled before the meeting.

• Conditional Use Application #001-2021 by Charles C. Butt for 84 Manchester Road, Northeast Harbor (Shoreland Residential 2 zone)
• Purpose: Section 3.4 – Excavation or Filling of >150 cubic yards for shoreline stabilization
• Site inspection at 3:30 PM, masks required
• Update on Land Use Zoning Ordinance Amendments for 2021 Town Meeting
• Next meeting: February 10, 2021, 6:00 PM

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will discuss the proposed Public Safety Building for Fire, EMS and Police, reviewing new design concepts (6, 6A, and 7) and considering authorizing the Public Works Director to request design-through-bidding cost estimates for Concept 7. They will also consider appointments, resignations, a fiber connection proposal from Bar Harbor, and approve several warrants totaling over $974,000.

• Discussion of Public Safety Building concepts 6, 6A, and 7
• Authorize cost request for Concept 7 design services from Hedefine Engineering
• Appoint John Adams to Warrant Committee; confirm Claire Woolfolk as Registrar of Voters
• Approve Treasurer's Warrant AP2140 for $766,318.69
• Discuss Bar Harbor proposal to connect municipal buildings to fiber

The Selectboard discussed options for a new public safety building for Fire, EMS, and Police, with a $10 million estimate for the preferred Option 7. No decision was made; the board asked for a revised plan with a target price of $5-6 million for Fire and EMS only, to be presented at the next meeting. The board also approved several routine appointments, resignations, and expenditures.

• Approved minutes from Dec 21, 2020 and Jan 4, 2021 (5-0)
• Appointed John Adams to Warrant Committee (5-0)
• Confirmed Claire Woolfolk as Registrar of Voters (5-0)
• Accepted resignation of Treasurer Kathryn Mahar (5-0)
• Accepted resignation of Dana Haynes from Harbor Committee (4-0-1)
• Accepted resignation of Jeff Burnham from Broadband Committee (5-0)
• Approved $6,000 for fiber engineering study (5-0)
• Authorized retaining Maine Municipal Association for Finance Director search (5-0)

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will hold a public meeting to review a subdivision application from College of the Atlantic for property at 141 Main Street in Northeast Harbor. The board will also address a remand from the Zoning Board of Appeals regarding a non-conforming structure at 11 Barnacles Way, and hear an informal pre-application discussion from James Whitehead about a project in Seal Harbor.

• Subdivision #002-2020: College of the Atlantic, 141 Main Street, Northeast Harbor, Village Commercial zone
• Remand: Otium, LLC (formerly Lapsley Family, LLC), 11 Barnacles Way, Northeast Harbor, Shoreland Residential One zone
• Informal discussion: James Whitehead, proposed project in Seal Harbor
• Meeting held remotely via Zoom

The Mount Desert Planning Board voted 5-0 to find the College of the Atlantic's subdivision application for 141 Main Street complete, contingent on the applicant submitting more information on parking, a potential performance bond, building elevations, and a photo montage from Tracy Road by noon on January 22, 2021. The board also continued discussion of the Otium, LLC remand to February 10, 2021, and heard an informal pre-application discussion for the proposed Acadia Outdoor Center in Seal Harbor.

• Approved December 9, 2020 minutes (5-0)
• Found COA subdivision application complete contingent on 4 submittals by Jan 22 (5-0)
• Continued Otium, LLC remand discussion to Feb 10, 2021 (5-0)
• Took a five-minute recess (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Economic Development Committee

The Mount Desert Economic Development Committee is meeting via Zoom to introduce a new member, accept a resignation, and approve past meeting minutes. They will also hear a report on broadband priorities and discuss parking limitations in Northeast Harbor as they relate to economic development, along with updates on the pandemic's economic impact and the Main Street project.

• Introduction of Megan Bailey as new Committee member
• Acceptance of resignation of Minot Weld; election of successor secretary
• Report of Broadband Committee progress on broadband priorities and community engagement
• Discussion on parking limitations in the Village of Northeast Harbor
• Updates on economic impact of coronavirus pandemic and Main Street project

The Economic Development Committee approved the July 8 and October 14, 2020 meeting minutes as amended, and elected a new secretary. The committee decided to provide oversight and encouragement to the Broadband Committee, which will receive $12,000 in contingency funds through the EDC. No other formal decisions were made; discussions covered the Main Street project, parking issues, and pandemic economic impact.

• Approved July 8, 2020 minutes as amended (moved by Kathy, seconded by Nancy)
• Approved October 14, 2020 minutes as amended (moved by Kathy, seconded by Nancy)
• Elected Jamie Blaine as secretary by acclamation
• Agreed to share broadband discussion minutes with Broadband Committee
• Determined EDC's role as oversight and encouragement for Broadband Committee

Harbor Committee

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee meets via Zoom to discuss new business including a financial update, Greg Johnston pier/public and North dock ramps, and Dayna Haynes' resignation. The agenda is otherwise routine with minutes, general issues, old business, and discussions.

• Financial update
• Greg Johnston pier/public and North dock ramps
• Dayna Haynes resignation

Selectboard

The Board is considering a proposal to hire Hedefine Engineering for up to $10,000 to develop plans for Fire, EMS, and Police needs. The meeting also includes a review of the FY 2022 Public Safety budgets and the appointment of a new Highway Division employee.

• Proposed $10,000 contract with Hedefine Engineering for facility floor plans and cost estimates
• Appointment of Jonathan Sargent to MEO I position in the Highway Division
• Review of FY 2022 Public Safety budgets
• Approval of Treasurer’s Warrant AP2137 in the amount of $417,059.56
• Approval of various payroll and benefit warrants totaling over $112,000