Mount Desert public meetings in 2023

Planning Board

The Planning Board is holding a workshop to discuss updates to local land use and subdivision rules. The body will also review housing density amendments and pending applications.

• Subdivision Ordinance review and discussion
• LD2003 housing density LUZO amendments
• Land Use Ordinance amendments
• Planning Board applications

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will hear a solar pre-development report from A Climate to Thrive, discuss a Short Term Rental Task Force report, and consider several appointments and purchases. The board will also approve warrants totaling over $832,000 and review budget carry-forwards and FY 24-25 budgets.

• Appointments to Comprehensive Planning Committee and LUZO Committee
• Solar pre-development report from A Climate to Thrive
• Short Term Rental Task Force report
• Authorize bids for 2025 International cab & chassis for Public Works
• Approve warrants totaling $832,356.08

Planning Board

The Planning Board will review a request to waive street design and construction standards for an existing private road. The board will also act on the final decision and findings for the Heel Way Subdivision.

• Waiver request for Street Design and Construction Standards at 7 Vacation Lane
• Approval and signing of Decision & Findings for the Heel Way Subdivision

Harbor Committee

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee is meeting on December 12, 2023, at Northeast Harbor (in person and via Zoom). The main item is continued review of harbor ordinances, with no other substantive decisions listed. The agenda is otherwise procedural, covering approval of November minutes and old business.

• Continued ordinance review
• Approval of November 14, 2023 minutes
• Meeting at Northeast Harbor, in person and via Zoom

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will consider appointing David Kerns as Chief of Police, accepting Patterson Hill Way as a public road, and approving several expenditures including $7,988 for mooring float chains. They will also review a $1.05 million warrant and other routine items.

• Appointment of David Kerns as Chief of Police
• Acceptance of Patterson Hill Way as a public road
• Payment of $7,988 to Alvah B. Barge Service Inc. for mooring float chains
• Approval of $1,051,669.02 in town invoices
• Waiver of rental fee for Seal Harbor fire station community room

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will consider several appointments, resignations, and financial items, including a $60,437.47 police vehicle purchase, creation of a Public Works foreman position, and approval of warrants totaling $511,468.66. The board will also review the Capital Improvement Plan and discuss the location of the 2024 Open Floor ATM.

• Approve $60,437.47 from Police Capital Reserve for 2023 Ford Police Interceptor ($52,415) and in-car camera system ($8,022.47)
• Create Public Works 'Foreman' position at $29.51/hour (probationary $29.56/hour) and include in Teamsters Local 340 agreement
• Authorize Fire Chief to sign fiber line installation agreement with Consolidated Communications for Somesville fire station
• Appoint Megan Bailey and Kathleen Miller to Comprehensive Planning Committee; appoint Gail Marshall to Planning Board
• Approve warrants totaling $511,468.66 including town invoices, payroll, and school payroll

Harbor Committee

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee is meeting to discuss harbor management items, including a mooring rental update, communication with Cranberry Island, and a review of harbor ordinances. The agenda is mostly routine business with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Mooring rental update
• Cranberry Island BOS discussion
• Ordinance review

Economic Development Committee

The committee will receive updates on broadband, the Heel Way Project, and the Main Street Project. Members will also discuss the future regulation of short term rentals and potential 2023-2024 initiatives.

• Update on skating rink planning and fundraising
• Report on transferring Promenade Park contributions to skating rink account
• Discussion regarding future regulation of short term rentals
• Discussion of village public transportation ideas
• Review of July 12, 2023, quarterly meeting minutes

Planning Board

The Planning Board is meeting to consider a conditional use application for the Mount Desert Land and Garden Preserve. The board will review plans for building renovations and additions at a Seal Harbor location.

• Conditional Use Application #012-2023: Renovate office building and construct new addition at 257 Peabody Drive
• Proposal to reconstruct maintenance buildings including carpentry, paint, and mechanic shops at 257 Peabody Drive

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will hold a regular meeting on November 6, 2023, following an executive session on a pending code enforcement matter. They will consider several appointments, including a new Finance Director, and discuss a $24,400 contract for a geopolymer coating at the Gilpatrick Cove pump station. The board will also review a bid for Seal Harbor Beach stabilization and approve routine financial warrants totaling over $1.3 million.

• Approve Mae Wyler as Director of Finance effective Nov 13, 2023
• Approve Joseph Accomando as full-time Building and Grounds at $23.28/hr probationary, rising to $24.50/hr
• Approve Todd Dailey Jr. as Refuse Packer Driver at $22.72/hr probationary, rising to $23.92/hr
• Consider $24,400 Vortex Company geopolymer coating for Gilpatrick Cove pump station wet well
• Review and accept bid from Atlantic Landscape Construction for Seal Harbor Beach stabilization

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will hold a meeting on October 25, 2023, to consider two 'Determination of Use' requests. These requests ask the board to classify proposed uses under the town's zoning ordinance, specifically whether they are similar to listed uses. The board will also approve minutes and address other business.

• Determination of Use for property at 11 Stanley Brook Road, Seal Harbor (David Rockefeller Jr., agent Noel Musson, applicant Mount Desert Land & Garden Preserve, zoning Rural Woodland 3)
• Determination of Use for property at 48 South Shore Road, Northeast Harbor (Northeast Harbor Fleet Inc., agent William B. Gartley, zoning Shoreland Residential One)

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will hold a continued public hearing on a subdivision application from Mount Desert 365 for 6 dwelling units at 5 Manchester Road in Northeast Harbor, designated as workforce housing. The board is deciding whether to approve the subdivision, which was continued from the October 18 meeting.

• Public hearing for Subdivision #002-2023, continued from October 18
• Proposal: 6 dwelling units on one parcel within 5 years (workforce housing)
• Location: 5 Manchester Road, Northeast Harbor (Tax Map 023, Lot 025)
• Zoning district: Village Residential One (VR1)
• Agent: Greg Johnston, G.F. Johnston & Associates

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board is meeting to continue a public hearing on a subdivision application from Mount Desert 365 for 6 dwelling units at 5 Manchester Road in Northeast Harbor, designated as workforce housing. The board will also approve minutes from a prior meeting and address other business.

• Public hearing continued for Subdivision #002-2023, Mount Desert 365, 5 Manchester Road, Northeast Harbor
• Proposal: 6 dwelling units on one parcel within 5 years, workforce housing
• Zoning district: Village Residential One (VR1), Tax Map 023, Lot 025
• Meeting held in-person at Town Hall, 21 Sea Street, with Zoom option

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will consider releasing up to $45,000 from the Fire Equipment Reserve for structural firefighting gear, and review 2024 interim revaluation adjustments. They will also appoint new town staff, approve a contract for online payments, and sign warrants totaling over $1.6 million.

• Release up to $45,000 from Fire Equipment Reserve for structural firefighting gear
• 2024 Interim Revaluation Real Estate Adjustments
• Appoint Justin Kelley as MEO II at $26.24/hr; Jonathon Zumwalt as Firefighter/EMT at $27.56/hr
• Sign contract with Harris Local Government for online payment services
• Approve Treasurer's Warrants totaling $1,609,203.99

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing regarding a subdivision application for Mount Desert 365. The proposal involves the construction or placement of 6 dwelling units on a single parcel of land within a 5-year period.

• Public Hearing for Subdivision #002-2023 at 5 Manchester Road, Northeast Harbor
• Proposal for 6 dwelling units for workforce housing

Harbor Committee

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee is meeting to review September minutes and discuss new business on moorings and a line of communications with Cranberry Island. The agenda is brief and contains no detailed proposals or dollar amounts.

• Discussion of moorings
• Cranberry Island BOS line of communications
• Approval of September 12, 2023 minutes

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will hold a public hearing and then vote on amendments to the General Assistance Ordinance Appendices A-H. The board will also discuss a proposed short-term rental ordinance, consider several special event applications, and approve multiple payments for harbor repairs and winter sand.

• Public hearing and vote on General Assistance Ordinance amendments
• Discussion with planning consultant on proposed short-term rental ordinance
• Special event applications: Friends of Acadia Benefit Auction (Aug 5-12, 2024) and Garden Club of Mount Desert (July 27, 2024)
• Payments: $5,479.36 for mooring float chains, $2,285.41 for dinghy dock repairs, $16.75/cubic yard for winter sand
• Treasurer's warrants totaling $1,011,023.72

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will hold a regular meeting with an executive session on personnel matters, followed by public business. Key items include reviewing proposals for a $5,000,000 investment portfolio, authorizing a $45,987 truck purchase, and funding the fourth year of a sewer inspection contract. The board will also consider a liquor license extension, a proclamation, and personnel policy amendments.

• Review proposals for $5,000,000 laddered maturity CD/treasury bond investment
• Authorize $45,987 purchase of 2023-2024 RAM 1500 truck from Darlings Ram
• Approve $50,250 for Vortex Company sewer video inspection and GIS mapping
• Consider liquor license extension for Asticou Inn through October 12, 2023
• Accept resignation of Treasurer Jacob Wright effective October 6, 2023

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will hold a public hearing on a subdivision application by Mount Desert 365 for six dwelling units at 5 Manchester Road, Northeast Harbor, designated as workforce housing. The board will also discuss rules for cell phone use and photography during proceedings, and approve minutes.

• Public hearing for Subdivision #002-2023: 6 dwelling units at 5 Manchester Road, Northeast Harbor (Tax Map 023, Lot 025, VR1 zoning)
• Discussion of Planning Board Proceedings Policy regarding cell phone use and photo/filming/taping rules
• Approval of minutes from previous meeting

Harbor Committee

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee will meet on September 12, 2023, at 4:30 p.m. in Northeast Harbor (with Zoom option) to discuss new business items including a Friends of Acadia gala in August 2024, mooring transfers, a commercial operators review, and communications with Cranberry Island. The agenda also includes approval of June 13, 2023 minutes and general/old business items.

• Friends of Acadia gala August 2024
• Mooring transfers
• Commercial operators review
• Cranberry Island BOS line of communications
• Minutes of June 13, 2023

The committee approved the use of Marina parking and green space for the 2024 Friends of Acadia Gala, provided no tents are placed over parking spaces. A motion was also passed to seek selectboard permission to communicate directly with the Cranberry Isle selectman.

• Approved Friends of Acadia 2024 Gala request for Marina parking and green space (option one: no tents over parking spaces)
• Approved request for Chairman Savage to ask Mount Desert selectboard for permission to open communication with Cranberry Isle’s selectman
• Approved 6/13/23 minutes

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will hold a regular meeting with appointments, consent agenda items, and several new business items. Key decisions include appointing a new firefighter/EMT, authorizing the purchase of a new pickup truck for the wastewater department, and approving fire station furniture and pavement work. The board will also discuss a code of ethics and consider a special event application from Friends of Acadia.

• Appoint Cynder Johnson as full-time Firefighter/EMT at $27.56/hour
• Authorize purchase of 2024 RAM 2500 for $58,918 from Darlings Auto Mall
• Authorize fire station furniture purchase up to $25,000
• Authorize change order for fire station truck bay pavement up to $19,635
• Approve Treasurer's warrants totaling $930,227.63

The Selectboard authorized the purchase of a new wastewater truck and approved several expenditures for the Northeast Harbor Fire Station project. The board also appointed two members to the Planning Board and one firefighter/EMT. A request to hold a benefit auction at the Northeast Harbor Marina was tabled.

• Approved purchase of 2024 RAM 2500 wastewater truck for $58,918 (5-0)
• Authorized furniture purchase for Fire Station #1 not to exceed $25,000 (5-0)
• Approved $19,635 change order for pavement at Fire Station #1 truck bays (5-0)
• Approved contract with Dingo Safety, LLC for Law Enforcement Executive Consulting (5-0)
• Appointed Allen Kimmerly as Planning Board Regular Member (5-0)
• Appointed Gail Marshall as Planning Board Alternate Member (5-0)
• Appointed Cynder Johnson as Full-time Firefighter/EMT at $27.56 probationary rate (5-0)
• Tabled Friends of Acadia Benefit Auction application pending Harbor Committee review (5-0)

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will consider Conditional Use Approval Application #009-2023 from Harbor Watch Yacht Club, LLC for a swimming pool and spa at an outdoor recreational facility off Harbor Watch Lane in Northeast Harbor. The board will also approve minutes from a prior meeting and address other business. A site inspection is scheduled for 5:00 p.m. before the 6:00 p.m. meeting.

• Conditional Use Approval Application #009-2023 for swimming pool & spa at Harbor Watch Yacht Club, LLC property off Harbor Watch Lane, Northeast Harbor (Tax Map 024, Lot 133-002, Zone SR2)
• Site inspection at 5:00 p.m. prior to meeting
• Meeting held in-person at Town Hall Meeting Room, 21 Sea Street, Northeast Harbor, with Zoom option

The Planning Board approved a conditional use application for a private swimming pool and spa in Northeast Harbor, pending a civil engineer's recommendation on water discharge. The Board also recommended a new alternate member to the Selectboard.

• Found application #009-2023 for swimming pool and spa complete (3-0)
• Approved use of short form for application #009-2023 (3-0)
• Approved application #009-2023 with condition that applicant provide a civil engineer's recommendation on water discharge and dechlorination prior to building permit (3-0)
• Recommended Gail Marshall to the Selectboard for Planning Board alternate membership (3-0)

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will hold a regular meeting on August 21, 2023, starting with an executive session on legal and personnel matters. They will consider appointments, approve routine consent agenda items, and discuss unfinished business including a mental health liaison position and several public works contracts. New business includes special event applications, a security camera purchase, and adoption of worker's compensation policies.

• Appointment of Allen Kimmerly to Planning Board as Alternate Member
• Authorize lease of front-end loader from Beauregard Equipment for $142,849.36
• Purchase security camera system from Omega Security Group for $7,989.00
• Authorize contract with G.F. Johnston & Associates for sidewalk design up to $50,000
• Contract with Coastal Energy for #2 heating oil at $3.08 per gallon for FY2024

The Selectboard authorized several engineering and equipment contracts, including a new front-end loader and sidewalk design. The board also approved a search for a new police chief and adopted town-wide worker's compensation policies.

• Approved hiring search for a new police chief
• Appointed Allen Kimmerly as Planning Board Alternate Member (4-0)
• Authorized $142,849.36 lease for a new front-end loader (4-0)
• Approved $7,989.00 purchase for a new Security Camera System (4-0)
• Authorized competitive bids for a FY24 cruiser purchase (4-0)
• Adopted town-wide worker's compensation policies for premium discounts (4-0)
• Authorized sidewalk design contract not to exceed $50,000 (4-0)
• Approved #2 Heating Oil contract at $3.08 per gallon (4-0)

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will hold a public hearing on a continued subdivision application for 6 dwelling units at 5 Manchester Road, Northeast Harbor, proposed as workforce housing. The board will also review a sketch plan for modifications to the Somes Sound Subdivision off Sargent Brook Road, and meet a potential alternate board member.

• Public hearing on Subdivision #002-2023: 6 dwelling units at 5 Manchester Road, Northeast Harbor (VR1 zoning)
• Sketch plan for Subdivision #004-2023: modifications to Somes Sound Subdivision off Sargent Brook Road (R1 & RW2 zoning)
• Site visit at 4:30 PM for Somes Sound Subdivision
• Meet and greet with potential Planning Board alternate member

The Planning Board conducted a compliance review and public hearing for a proposed six-unit workforce housing subdivision at 5 Manchester Road. The board heard arguments from the applicant and abutters regarding lot density calculations and open space requirements. No final decision was recorded in the minutes.

• Approved motion to take subdivision sketch plan procedures and other items out of order (4-0)
• Approved June 14, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will hold a regular meeting on August 7, 2023, starting with an executive session on personnel matters. They will consider appointments, approve routine consent agenda items, and discuss unfinished business including resident concerns about traffic on Jordan Pond Road, an update on Beech Hill Cross Road culvert construction, and a review of the Code of Ethics. New business includes special event applications, a request to solicit bids for a new ambulance and other vehicles, and approval of a revised agreement for the Northeast Harbor fire station project.

• Appointment of Christopher Wiebusch as Full-time Firefighter/EMT at $27.56/hour, effective August 14, 2023
• Appointment of George Adams as Launch Captain at Northeast Harbor Marina at $22.00/hour, effective August 8, 2023
• Discussion of resident concerns regarding traffic on Jordan Pond Road by Acadia National Park traffic
• Request authorization to solicit competitive bids for a new ambulance and a new SUV quick response vehicle for the Fire Department
• Approval of Treasurer's Warrants totaling $3,171,069.13

The Selectboard authorized competitive bids for a new ambulance and a quick response SUV for the Fire Department. The board also appointed a full-time Firefighter/EMT and a Launch Captain for the Northeast Harbor Marina. Discussions were held regarding traffic concerns on Jordan Pond Road, but no formal action was taken.

• Appointed Christopher Wiebusch as Full-time Firefighter/EMT at $27.56/hr (3-0)
• Appointed George Adams as Launch Captain at $22.00/hr (3-0)
• Approved Cadillac Challenge Aid Station event for Oct 7, 2023 (3-0)
• Approved DeSouza Wedding at Suminsby Park for June 1, 2024 (3-0)
• Tabled Garden Club of Mount Desert event pending logistical parking plan (3-0)
• Approved early office closure on Aug 11 for Police Chief retirement (3-0)
• Waived rental fee for Seal Harbor Village Improvement Society on Aug 10, 2023 (3-0)
• Authorized competitive bids for new ambulance and SUV quick response vehicle (3-0)

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will vote on several financial and operational items, including a $378,250 paving contract with B&B Paving, Inc., the sale of a surplus generator to the school district for $12,500, and a pay increase for an employee. They will also discuss the Harbor Committee's parking subcommittee report and consider authorizing bids for a new front-end loader. The meeting includes routine approvals of minutes, appointments, and warrants totaling over $1.9 million.

• Consider awarding FY-24 paving contract to B&B Paving, Inc. for $378,250
• Authorize sale of surplus Kohler 80 kW generator to MDI Regional School District for $12,500
• Approve pay increase for Heidi Smallidge from $15.00 to $20.00 per hour
• Discuss Promenade Park donation options and Harbor Committee parking report
• Approve Treasurer's Warrants totaling $1,993,381.13

The Selectboard approved the sale of a surplus generator for $12,500 and a 2006 fire truck for $3,902. The board also authorized competitive bids and a lease-to-purchase agreement for a new 4x4 diesel front-end loader. A request to move a Sustainability Committee event to August 10 was denied.

• Approved sale of surplus Kohler 80kW Generator to MDI Regional School District for $12,500 (5-0)
• Approved sale of 2006 Spartan/Smeal Rescue/Pumper firetruck to Tom Wallace for $3,902 (5-0)
• Authorized competitive bids and lease-to-purchase for a new 4x4 diesel front-end loader (5-0)
• Approved holding $30,000 in Promenade Park funds until Town Meeting for potential reallocation (5-0)
• Denied amendment to hold Sustainability Committee Tool Swap on August 10 (0-5)
• Approved appointment of Logan Blanchette and Nick Jacobs as Seasonal Public Works Helpers at $22/hour (5-0)
• Approved liquor license renewal for Lighthouse Inn and Restaurant (5-0)
• Approved pay increase for Heidi Smallidge from $15 to $20 per hour (5-0)

Economic Development Committee

The committee will elect officers for the 2023 fiscal year and review minutes from the April meeting. Members will receive updates on broadband, the Island Housing Summit, and a skating rink project.

• Election of Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary
• Status report on transferring Promenade Park contributions to the skating rink project
• Discussion of a proposed letter supporting the Heel Way housing project
• Updates on broadband and the Island Housing Summit

The committee approved a letter of support for the Heel Way housing project to be sent to the Planning Board. Officers for fiscal year 2023 were re-elected, and the committee reviewed updates on broadband, the Island Housing Summit, and skating rink upgrades.

• Approved minutes of the April 12th meeting (unanimous)
• Re-elected Dan McKay (chair), Megan Bailey (vice chair), and Jamie Blaine (secretary) (unanimous)
• Approved letter of support for Heel Way housing project (vote carried; Kathy Miller abstained)

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will hold a meeting on June 28, 2023, to consider three conditional use applications: a fence/wall exceeding CEO authority, a marine structure (pier, ramp, floats), and a chicken coop for six hens. Site inspections are scheduled before the meeting. The board will also approve minutes and address other business.

• Application #006-2023: Gulls Cove, LLC, fence/wall exceeding CEO authority at 3 Clifton Dock Road, Northeast Harbor (Shoreland Residential Three zone)
• Application #007-2023: Northeast Harbor Haven, LLC, marine structure (pier, ramp, floats) at 6 South Shore Road, Northeast Harbor (Shoreland Residential Three zone)
• Application #008-2023: Meghan Savage, animal husbandry (6 hens, chicken coop with run) at 8 Asticou Way, Northeast Harbor (Village Residential Two zone)

The Planning Board approved applications for a fence at 3 Clifton Dock Road, a marine structure replacement at 6 South Shore Road, and animal husbandry at 8 Asticou Way. The Board also determined that a specific sign replacement requires a change of use application.

• Approved conditional use for fence at 3 Clifton Dock Road (4-0)
• Approved conditional use for pier, ramp, and floats at 6 South Shore Road (4-0)
• Determined existing ramp and floats at 6 South Shore Road are legally existing, non-conforming structures (4-0)
• Approved conditional use for 6 hens and coop at 8 Asticou Way (4-0)
• Decided sign replacement for a Village Commercial Zone business requires a change of use application (4-0)

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will consider approving a $2.55 million general obligation bond with Bar Harbor Bank & Trust at a fixed 5.48% interest rate over 20 years, along with related resolutions and execution of bond documents. The board will also review bids for the bond, which finances projects approved at the 2023 Annual Town Meeting. Other business includes appointments, a fire truck purchase amendment, and a $500,142.43 transfer from reserves.

• Approve $2,550,000 General Obligation Bond at 5.48% for 20 years to Bar Harbor Bank & Trust
• Consider amending fire truck purchase from Ferrara Ignitor ($913,450) to Ferrara Inferno ($969,044), an increase of $55,944
• Consider $10.00 processing fee for recording Family and Private Burial Grounds
• Consider transfer of $500,142.43 from reserve portfolio to general operating account
• Approve appointments: Zachary DaRosa as Launch Captain at $20/hr, Zachary Mitchell as Packer Truck Driver at $22.72/hr

The Selectboard approved a $2.55 million bond at a 5.48% interest rate for 20 years to finance projects from the 2023 Annual Town Meeting. Other actions included limiting public notary services to town business and approving several personnel appointments.

• Approved $2,550,000 General Obligation Bond at 5.48% for 20 years with Bar Harbor Bank & Trust (4-0-1)
• Approved policy limiting Public Notary acts to town business (4-1)
• Approved $10.00 processing fee for recording Family and Private Burial Grounds (5-0)
• Approved transfer of $500,142.43 from reserve portfolio to general operating account (5-0)
• Appointed Zachary DaRosa as seasonal Launch Captain at $20/hour (5-0)
• Appointed Zachary Mitchell as Packer Truck Driver at $22.72/hour (5-0)
• Confirmed five-year reappointments of Katrina Carter and Wanda Fernald to Housing Authority Board (5-0)
• Eliminated July 3, 2023 Selectboard meeting (5-0)

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will hold a public hearing on a subdivision application by Mount Desert 365 to build 6 dwelling units on a single parcel at 5 Manchester Road, Northeast Harbor, designated as workforce housing. The board will also consider a conditional use application from Wasgatt Cove Corporation for a fence exceeding the CEO's authority at 13 Sinclair Road, Northeast Harbor. A site inspection for the fence application is scheduled for 5:00 PM before the meeting.

• Public hearing for Subdivision #002-2023: 6 dwelling units on one parcel, workforce housing, at 5 Manchester Road, Northeast Harbor (Tax Map 023, Lot 025, VR1 zone)
• Conditional Use Application #005-2023: fence exceeding CEO authority at 13 Sinclair Road, Northeast Harbor (Tax Map 027, Lot 013, VR1/R2 zones)
• Site inspection at 5:00 PM for the fence application
• Meeting held in person at Town Hall, 21 Sea Street, Northeast Harbor, with Zoom option

The Planning Board conducted a public hearing regarding a proposal by Mount Desert 365 to construct six dwelling units for workforce housing at 5 Manchester Road. No final decision was made; the Board will determine if the application is approved, denied, or approved with conditions within 30 days.

• Approved May 10, 2023 minutes (4-0)
• Approved April 26, 2023 minutes (4-0)
• Approved motion to take agenda items out of order (4-0)

Harbor Committee

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee is meeting on June 13, 2023, at Northeast Harbor. The agenda includes approval of May minutes, a 2022 parking update, and general/old business items. Most agenda items are procedural or unspecified.

• 2022 parking update
• Minutes from May 9, 2023
• General issue discussion
• Old business review

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will review bids for financing $2.55 million in voter-approved projects, consider a $10 liquor license processing fee, and approve routine appointments, resignations, and warrants totaling over $1.3 million. They will also act on several liquor license renewals and special event applications.

• Review bids for $2,550,000 in project financing per articles 38-43
• Consider raising truck purchase authorization from $85,400 to $90,520
• Consider $10 processing fee for BYOB, off-premises catering, and taste testing liquor licenses
• Approve $884,211.36 town invoice warrant and $249,273.29 payroll/state fee warrants
• Appoint Cynder Johnson as per diem FF/EMT at $25.97/hour

The Selectboard approved a $5 million initial investment for a laddered maturity portfolio and authorized $100,000 from the Capital Gains Reserve Account to reduce the 2023-2024 tax commitment. Other actions included renewing liquor licenses and approving fire department equipment sales.

• Authorized $5M initial investment for laddered maturity portfolio (3-0-1)
• Authorized $100,000 from Capital Gains Reserve Account to reduce 2023-2024 tax commitment (4-0)
• Approved $90,520 modified authorization for International truck and chassis (4-0)
• Approved liquor license renewals for Abel's Lobster Pound and Jordan Pond House (4-0)
• Approved liquor license renewal for The Docksider contingent upon amendments (4-0)
• Approved $10.00 processing fee for specific liquor license applications (4-0)
• Authorized competitive bid sale of surplus Fire Department equipment (4-0)
• Approved contract with Maine State Bureau of Purchases for bulk road salt (4-0)

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will hold its regular meeting, covering routine approvals, appointments, and a consent agenda. Key items include a $601,014.84 town invoice warrant, authorizing bond bids for projects from the 2023 town meeting, and considering the sale of a 2013 ambulance to the Northeast Harbor Ambulance Service for $1.00. The board will also review several special event applications for public spaces and a liquor license renewal.

• Approve Treasurer's Warrant AP#2374 for $601,014.84
• Authorize soliciting bids for bonds/notes for projects approved at 2023 Annual Town Meeting (articles 38-43)
• Consider sale of 2013 Ford/PL Custom ambulance to Northeast Harbor Ambulance Service for $1.00
• Consider accepting conditional gift of ballistic vests and helmets from Northeast Harbor Ambulance Service to Fire Department for $6,544.48
• Review Otter Creek Boat Landing feasibility study

The Selectboard authorized the Town Manager to pursue acquiring land from Acadia National Park to make the Otter Creek Boat Landing functional. The board also approved several personnel appointments, a liquor license renewal, and various public space event applications.

• Authorized Manager Lunt to begin efforts to acquire land for Otter Creek Boat Landing (4-0)
• Approved Change Order #10 for Northeast Harbor Village Center Improvement Project (4-0)
• Appointed William Shepherd as full-time FF/EMT at $26.75/hr (4-0)
• Approved sale of 2013 Ford/PL Custom ambulance to Northeast Harbor Ambulance Service for $1.00 (4-0)
• Accepted conditional gift of ballistic vests and helmets valued at $6,544.48 (4-0)
• Approved liquor license renewal for Michael C. Boland/DBA COPITA (4-0)
• Authorized soliciting bids for bonds/notes for projects approved at 2023 Annual Town Meeting (4-0)
• Approved Treasurer's Warrants totaling $1,042,148.00 (4-0)

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will meet on May 10, 2023, to consider a conditional use application for a shoreline stabilization project involving excavation or filling of more than 150 cubic yards at 11 Long Lane, and to review a subdivision application to divide Lot #5 in the Sol Terre Subdivision. The meeting will also include approval of minutes and other business.

• Conditional Use Application #004-2023: Shoreline stabilization project at 11 Long Lane (Tax Map 020, Lot 023, Shoreland Residential 3 zone)
• Subdivision Application #003-2023: Divide Lot #5 in Sol Terre Subdivision (Amendment #4) at Aspen Way (Tax Map 012, Lot 013-029-005, SR5 and RW3 zones)
• Site inspection for the conditional use application scheduled for 4:30 PM before the meeting
• Meeting offered in person at Town Hall and via Zoom

The Planning Board approved a conditional use application for a shoreline stabilization project involving the excavation and filling of more than 150 cubic yards. The board also approved the minutes from the April 26, 2023 meeting. A subdivision application for Aspen Way was postponed.

• Approved April 26, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Found Conditional Use Application #004-2023 for 11 Long Lane complete (4-0)
• Approved use of short form for Application #004-2023 (4-0)
• Approved shoreline stabilization project at 11 Long Lane (4-0)
• Postponed Subdivision #003-2023 for Aspen Way to June 14, 2023

Harbor Committee

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee is meeting on May 9, 2023, at Northeast Harbor to discuss new and old business. The main item is a legal opinion on commercial mooring transfers, and they will also revisit the marina landscape plan. The agenda is otherwise procedural, including approval of the April minutes.

• Legal opinion on commercial mooring transfers
• Marina landscape plan (old business)
• Approval of April 11, 2023 minutes

The committee voted to reject the Marina landscape plan as presented. Members discussed a legal opinion regarding a mooring transfer and received updates on Seal Harbor pier improvements.

• Approved 4/11/23 minutes
• Rejected Marina landscape plan

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will hold its regular and organizational meeting on May 2, 2023, immediately following the Town Meeting. The board will consider approving minutes, a consent agenda, and several annual policies, including those on treasurer's disbursement warrants, municipal education costs, and liquor license applications. It will also consider authorizing the town manager to sign various lease agreements, including for Cranberry Isles parking and future ticket sales and Chamber of Commerce leases. The board will approve and sign multiple warrants totaling $658,653.31, including town invoices, payroll, and school payroll.

• Approve Treasurer's Warrant AP#2371 for $318,643.51
• Approve payroll and state fee warrants totaling $161,071.86
• Acknowledge school payroll warrant PR#22 for $178,937.94
• Consider authorizing Town Manager to sign Cranberry Isles parking lease
• Consider annual policies on treasurer's disbursement warrants and municipal education costs

The Mount Desert Selectboard held a regular and organizational meeting, re-electing John Macauley as Chair, Wendy Littlefield as Vice Chair, and Geoffrey Wood as Secretary. The board approved several annual policies, including those for treasurer disbursements, municipal education costs, and liquor license applications, as well as authorizing the Town Manager to sign parking and lease agreements. All decisions were unanimous except for one abstention on the minutes and one on payroll warrants.

• Re-elected slate of officers: Chair John Macauley, Vice Chair Wendy Littlefield, Secretary Geoffrey Wood (5-0)
• Approved minutes of April 18, 2023 (4-0-1, Wood abstained)
• Approved Dobbs Productions Inc. request to use Public Access Channel 1301 for summer 2023 and winter 2024 (5-0)
• Approved annual policies on treasurer disbursements, municipal education costs, and liquor license applications (5-0 each)
• Authorized Town Manager to sign Cranberry Isle parking lease agreement (5-0)
• Authorized Town Manager to sign future Ticket Sales, Chamber of Commerce, and Neighborhood House municipal pool agreements (5-0 each)
• Approved Treasurer's warrants totaling $658,653.31 (5-0, with one abstention on payroll warrants)
• Acknowledged school board payroll and voided disbursements warrants (5-0)

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard is holding a special meeting to review and approve the annual audit report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022, prepared by James W. Wadman, C.P.A. The meeting is in person only at the Northeast Harbor Library. Public comments are held until the chairman opens agenda items, and speakers must state their full name.

• Review and approve annual audit report for FY2022 by James W. Wadman, C.P.A.
• Special meeting held in person at Mellon Room, Northeast Harbor Library
• Public comment allowed only when chairman opens items; full name required
• Next regular meeting scheduled for May 2, 2023, after Annual Town Meeting

The Selectboard approved the annual audit report, which noted a total combined fund balance of $18,275,928.00. Members discussed ongoing delays in receiving financial documentation from the school. The Board agreed to add school budget audit deadline compliance to a June meeting agenda.

• Approved Annual Audit Report for fiscal year ended June 30, 2022 (5-0)
• Agreed to add school budget audit deadline compliance to a June meeting agenda

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will hold a public hearing on a request to amend a previously approved subdivision off Quarry's Edge Road, and will review a completeness application for a 6-unit workforce housing subdivision at 5 Manchester Road in Northeast Harbor. The board will also approve minutes from prior meetings.

• Public hearing on Subdivision #001-2023: modification to previously approved 3.02-acre subdivision off Quarry's Edge Road
• Completeness review of Subdivision #002-2023: 6 dwelling units on 5 Manchester Road, Northeast Harbor, workforce housing
• Meeting held in-person at Town Hall, 21 Sea Street, with Zoom option

The Planning Board approved a request to modify a previously recorded subdivision to create one new lot for estate planning. The Board also conducted a completeness review for a proposed six-unit workforce housing project, finding several application sections complete.

• Approved subdivision modification for James F. Marcogliese Rev. Trust (4-0)
• Found Section 4.2.1 (Applicant Information) complete for Mount Desert 365 project (4-0)
• Found Section 4.2.2 (Parcel Information) complete for Mount Desert 365 project (4-0)
• Found Section 4.2.3 (Subdivision Information) complete for Mount Desert 365 project (4-0)
• Approved March 22, 2023 minutes (5-0)
• Approved April 12, 2023 minutes (4-0)

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will consider several financial and operational items, including authorizing up to $22,300 in ARPA funds for fiber infrastructure to the police department, approving a change order for the Northeast Harbor Village Center Improvement Project, and creating a shared communications supervisor position. The board will also act on routine consent items, appointments, and warrants totaling over $1 million.

• Authorize up to $22,300 ARPA funds to reimburse Bar Harbor for fiber infrastructure to Mount Desert Police Department at 21 Sea Street
• Approve Change Order #9 for Northeast Harbor Village Center Improvement Project
• Create Shared Communications Supervisor position and confirm appointment of Kenneth Mitchell
• Approve purchase of 2023 Ford Interceptor SUV and trade of 2017 Ford Interceptor SUV
• Approve Treasurer's warrants totaling $1,069,991.44

The Selectboard approved the purchase of a 2023 Ford Interceptor SUV and authorized up to $22,300 in ARPA funds for police department fiber infrastructure. Other actions included approving a ticket booth lease for the ASTICOU vessel and confirming a new Communications Supervisor. The board also scheduled a special meeting for May 1 to review the 2022 final audit report.

• Approved purchase of 2023 Ford Interceptor SUV and trade of 2017 model (4-0)
• Authorized up to $22,300 in ARPA funds to reimburse Bar Harbor for police department fiber infrastructure (4-0)
• Authorized Town Manager to enter Fiber Cost Sharing agreement with Bar Harbor effective May 1, 2023 (4-0)
• Approved Ticket Booth Sales lease agreement for Rick Savage/ASTICOU vessel (4-0)
• Confirmed appointment of Kenneth Mitchell as Communications Supervisor (4-0)
• Approved Change Order #9 for Northeast Harbor Village Center Improvement Project at no cost increase (4-0)
• Approved appointment of Seasonal Dock Hands and Boat Launch Operators (4-0)
• Scheduled special meeting for May 1, 2023, to review final audit report for FY ended June 30, 2022 (4-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board recommended that the Selectboard approve a DOT directional sign for Triple Chick Farm on Route 198. The board also held an informal discussion regarding a subdivision sketch plan for Aspen Way, though no action was taken on that application.

• Approved March 8, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Recommended approval of DOT signage request for Triple Chick Farm (4-0)
• Accepted Chair William Hanley's recusal from Aspen Way subdivision discussion (3-0)
• Appointed Vice Chair Tracy Loftus Keller as Acting Chair for the subdivision discussion (3-0)

Economic Development Committee

The committee will receive updates on broadband, the Island Housing Summit, and a proposed Short Term Rental Licensing Ordinance. Members will also discuss funding for skating rink operations and the Promenade Park Project.

• Broadband update
• Island Housing Summit update
• Proposed Short Term Rental Licensing Ordinance update
• Skating rink operations and future funding proposal
• Promenade Park Project status and funding discussion

The committee approved the creation of a small committee to improve the short-term rental ordinance after the select board withdrew the warrant. Members also discussed the potential reallocation of approximately $51,000 in unspent Promenade Park funds to support a permanent skating rink structure.

• Approved minutes of October 12, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Endorsed creating a small committee to improve the short-term rental ordinance (passed; Nancy abstained)

Harbor Committee

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee will meet on April 11, 2023, at Northeast Harbor to discuss new business including a marina generator for slips, a reservation update, and marina internet. The meeting is open to the public via Zoom.

• Marina generator for slips
• Reservation update
• Marina internet

The provided document is a meeting agenda rather than minutes. No decisions, votes, or outcomes are recorded.

Selectboard

The Selectboard voted to pull the proposed Short-Term Licensing Ordinance from the Warrant. Other actions included approving seasonal hires, a liquor license renewal, and fire station equipment upgrades. The board also authorized two public space event applications.

• Pulled proposed Short-Term Licensing Ordinance from the Warrant (4-0)
• Approved liquor license renewal for Winter Spring Inc. d/b/a Colonel’s Restaurant (4-0)
• Authorized $14,000 for PA and door alarm system at Fire Station #1 (4-0)
• Approved Change Order #8 for Northeast Harbor Village Center Improvement Project (4-0)
• Approved pay increase to $25.00 per hour for Carrie Eason (3-0)
• Appointed Logan Lemoine and Paul Accomando as seasonal employees (3-0)
• Approved public space applications for Qigong classes and Memorial Day BBQ (4-0)
• Approved Treasurer’s Warrants totaling $836,598.75 (4-0/3-0-1)

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will vote on a conditional use amendment for The Community School of Mount Desert at 585 Sound Drive. The board will also conduct a completeness review for a subdivision modification off Quarry’s Edge Road. Additionally, the board will hold an informal discussion regarding the use classification for the Mount Desert Garden and Land Preserve at 257 Peabody Drive.

• Conditional Use Approval Application #003-2023 for The Community School of Mount Desert at 585 Sound Drive
• Subdivision #001-2023 completeness review for James F. Marcogliese Rev. Trust off Quarry’s Edge Road
• Informal discussion on use classification for Mount Desert Garden and Land Preserve at 257 Peabody Drive

The Planning Board approved a conditional use amendment for a 20-foot diameter yurt at 585 Sound Drive. The Board also determined the land use category for the Mount Desert Garden and Land Preserve headquarters and found a subdivision application complete.

• Approved conditional use amendment for a 20-foot yurt at 585 Sound Drive (5-0)
• Rescinded March 8, 2023 motion regarding subdivision at Quarry’s Edge Road (4-0)
• Found subdivision application #001-2023 for James F. Marcogliese Rev. Trust complete (5-0)
• Determined Mount Desert Garden and Land Preserve site use is most similar to 'Services 3' (4-0)
• Approved making alternate member Gloria Kunje a voting member for the meeting (4-0)

Selectboard

The Selectboard established a $250 annual fee for short-term rental licenses. The board also approved several infrastructure projects, including underground electrical lines for the town office and a utility permit for Steamboat Wharf. Additionally, $22,000 was released for firefighting gear.

• Set short-term rental licensing fee at $250.00 per year (3-1)
• Approved Stone/Matheson Steamboat Wharf Utility Location Permit (4-0)
• Approved underground electrical service lines for town office using contingency funds (4-0)
• Released up to $22,000.00 from Fire Equipment Reserve for structural firefighting gear (4-0)
• Amended sections 5.2.4 and 5.3 of non-union personnel policy (4-0)
• Approved Treasurer's Warrant for $784,423.03 (4-0)
• Approved Payroll, State Fees, and PR Benefit Warrants for $196,250.69 (3-0-1)
• Approved February 27, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0-1)

Harbor Committee

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee is meeting to discuss new business items including a marina generator for slips, a reservation update, and marina internet service. The meeting will also review minutes from the February 14, 2023 meeting and address general and old business items.

• Marina generator for slips
• Reservation update
• Marina internet
• Minutes from February 14, 2023

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will hold a public hearing on proposed Land Use Zoning Ordinance and map amendments for the 2023 Annual Town Meeting, and will review two subdivision applications. One application seeks to modify a previously approved subdivision off Quarry's Edge Road, and the other proposes six workforce housing units on Manchester Road in Northeast Harbor.

• Public hearing on Land Use Zoning Ordinance and Land Use Map Amendments for 2023 Annual Town Meeting
• Subdivision #001-2023: Modification to previously approved subdivision off Quarry's Edge Road (Tax Map 008, Lot 134-003-001)
• Subdivision #002-2023: Six dwelling units for workforce housing at 5 Manchester Road, Northeast Harbor (Tax Map 023, Lot 025)
• Site visits scheduled at 4:00 PM and 4:45 PM before the meeting

The Board recommended passage of Land Use Zoning Ordinance and Map Amendments to align building height calculations with state rules. The Board also determined that a specific subdivision amendment does not require a public hearing.

• Recommended passage of Land Use Zoning Ordinance and Land Use Map Amendments (4-0)
• Determined Subdivision #001-2023 does not require a public hearing (4-0)
• Approved February 22, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will hold public hearings on a special amusement permit for Northeast Lobster Co. and on proposed warrant articles for the May 2 town meeting. They will also review and vote on warrant articles, consider a $18,000 feasibility study for a salt/sand building, and discuss police outside detail compensation changes.

• Public hearing: Northeast Lobster Co. special amusement permit (10 Huntington Rd, Northeast Harbor)
• Public hearing: May 2, 2023 Town Meeting warrant articles
• Consider authorizing $18,000 from Buildings & Grounds Reserve for salt/sand building feasibility study
• Consider request to increase police outside detail rate to $100/hour and officer pay to $75/hour
• Consider $4,800 payment to Norwood Delaittre & Sons for storm repair (Seal Harbor Docks CIP reserve)

The Selectboard recommended several warrant articles for the May 2023 Town Meeting, including a short-term rental licensing ordinance and various infrastructure bonds. The board also approved non-profit funding recommendations totaling $180,437.00 and authorized a feasibility study for a salt/sand building.

• Recommended passage of Short-Term Rental Licensing Ordinance (3-2)
• Recommended $180,437.00 in non-profit funding, contingent on legal review of Seal Harbor VIS request (5-0)
• Recommended $900,000 bond for Somesville sewer infrastructure relocation (5-0)
• Recommended $780,000 bond for three town-owned parking lot improvements (5-0)
• Recommended $210,000 bond for tennis and pickleball court renovations (5-0)
• Approved $18,000 for a salt/sand building feasibility study (5-0)
• Approved increasing police outside detail rate to $100/hour (5-0)
• Approved turning off the streetlight on Stanley Lane (5-0)

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard is holding a special meeting to review service group and non-profit agency funding requests for the FY 2024 budget and to review draft warrant articles for potential votes. The meeting is open to the public in person and via Zoom.

• Presentation of Service Groups/Non-profit Agency Funding Requests (M-Z) Budget FY 2024
• DRAFT Warrant articles for review and votes

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will hold a public hearing on proposed Land Use Zoning Ordinance and Land Use Map amendments for the 2023 Annual Town Meeting on May 2, 2023. The board will also review a conditional use application for a pier, dock, and float structure at 560 Sargeant Point Road. The meeting includes approval of prior minutes and other routine business.

• Public hearing on Land Use Zoning Ordinance and Land Use Map amendments for 2023 Annual Town Meeting
• Conditional Use Approval Application #002-2023 for concrete abutment, aluminum ramp & float at 560 Sargeant Point Road (Tax Map 008, Lot 010-005, Shoreland Residential 3 zone)
• Site inspection scheduled for 4:00 PM before the meeting

The Planning Board recommended a zoning amendment to allow residential storage buildings and sheds as permitted uses. The board also approved a conditional use application for a concrete abutment and seasonal ramp at 560 Sargeant Point Road.

• Recommended passage of Land Use Zoning Ordinance amendment to add Residential Storage Building/Shed as permitted uses in Section 3.4 (4-0)
• Approved conditional use application #002-2023 for concrete abutment, aluminum ramp and float at 560 Sargeant Point Road (4-0)
• Approved February 8, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will hold its regular meeting, primarily reviewing FY2024 funding requests from non-profit agencies (A-L) and approving warrants totaling $915,028.86. The board will also consider appointments, budget amendments, and several financial actions, including changes to the investment policy and processing of marina credit card activity.

• Approve appointment of Michael Bailey to Investment Committee; accept resignation of Brian Henkel
• Review FY24 non-profit agency funding requests (A-L)
• Approve Treasurer's warrants totaling $915,028.86
• Authorize closure of payment processing account ending 7881 and transfer funds to General Operating Account
• Review proposed changes to Town's Investment Policy

The Selectboard approved the appointment of Zach Brandwein as attorney for the MacQuinn appeal and updated scholarship remittance procedures. The board also authorized several financial account changes and accepted appointments and resignations for the Investment Committee.

• Approved appointment of Michael Bailey to the Investment Committee (4-0)
• Accepted resignation of Brian Henkel from the Investment Committee (4-0)
• Approved Zach Brandwein as attorney for the MacQuinn appeal (4-0)
• Amended award and remittance procedure of scholarships (4-0)
• Approved Bar Harbor Assessing Technician to assist Town of Mount Desert at no cost (4-0)
• Authorized processing Marina credit card activity through General Operating Account (3-0-1)
• Authorized closure of payment processing account ending 7881 (3-0-1)
• Authorized transfer of funds from account ending 7881 to General Operating Account (3-0-1)

Harbor Committee

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee is meeting to review minutes from January, hear a project update on the North and Public Dock, and discuss the Ice Rink Shed as old business. The agenda is mostly routine with one project update and one old business item.

• Project update on North and Public Dock
• Discussion of Ice Rink Shed (old business)
• Approval of minutes from January 10 and January 26, 2023

The committee approved a request to determine if eliminating granite veneer from the North and South dock abutments would speed up construction. The board also updated the residency requirement for 'resident' status to 183 days. Other items discussed included mooring oversight and parking monitoring.

• Approved minutes from January 10 and 26
• Approved updating 'resident' designation to require 183 days of residency
• Approved asking project engineer if granite veneer can be eliminated from dock abutments to speed up completion

Selectboard

The Selectboard recommended the passage of numerous budget appropriations and ordinance updates for the 2023-2024 fiscal year. The board also approved the appointment of a new full-time FF/EMT-P and authorized a $1,000 donation to the Maine Lobstermen’s Association Legal Defense Fund.

• Approved appointment of Christopher Baker as full-time FF/EMT-P (5-0)
• Authorized $1,000 donation to Maine Lobstermen’s Association Legal Defense Fund (4-0-1)
• Recommended passage of Alewife Ordinance (5-0)
• Recommended passage of 10 sunset clause removals for various town ordinances (5-0)
• Recommended passage of 2023-2024 budget appropriations for General Government, Public Safety, and Public Works (5-0)
• Recommended transfer of $600,000 from Undesignated Fund Balance to reduce tax commitment (5-0)
• Recommended ratification of $2,381.09 Debt Service overdraft from 2022 (5-0)
• Tabled Harbor Ordinance Article 5 and Capital Improvement Plan Article 65

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board is holding a public hearing on proposed Land Use Zoning Ordinance and Land Use Map amendments that will go before the 2023 Annual Town Meeting on May 2, 2023. The board will also approve minutes from a prior meeting and address other business. No specific details of the amendments are listed in the agenda.

• Public hearing on Land Use Zoning Ordinance and Land Use Map amendments for the 2023 Annual Town Meeting on May 2, 2023
• Approval of minutes
• Meeting held in person at Town Hall Meeting Room, 21 Sea Street, Northeast Harbor, with Zoom option

The Planning Board voted to recommend approval for 10 amendments to the Land Use Zoning Ordinance and Land Use Map for the May 2, 2023 Annual Town Meeting. The board also discussed a draft licensing ordinance for short-term rentals, which is currently being refined by the Land Use Ordinance Committee.

• Approved January 25, 2023 minutes (4-0)
• Recommended approval of amendment to deadline for establishment of use (4-0)
• Recommended approval of amendment to remove air landing sites (4-0)
• Recommended approval of amendment regarding lots in Northeast Harbor Village Commercial District (4-0)
• Recommended approval of amendment to date for lot creation for access purposes (4-0)
• Recommended approval of amendment clarifying duplex dimensional requirements (4-0)
• Recommended approval of amendment clarifying road/right-of-way setback measurements (4-0)
• Recommended approval of amendment adding residential storage buildings or sheds as permitted uses in Section 3.4 (4-0)

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will hold its regular meeting, covering appointments, consent agenda items, and several discussions. Key items include reviewing and potentially accepting bids for repairing approximately 200 feet of erosion at Seal Harbor beach shoreline, and discussing the Seal Harbor Library Memorandum of Understanding. The board will also consider waiving a $300 EMS account and writing off $2,279.50 in uncollectable EMS receivables.

• Review and consider acceptance of bids to repair ~200 feet of erosion at Seal Harbor beach shoreline
• Consider waiving $300 EMS accounts receivable and writing off $2,279.50 in uncollectable EMS accounts
• Approve Treasurer's Warrant totaling $670,089.22 for town invoices
• Approve payroll and benefit warrants totaling $390,098.97
• Appointments to Investment Committee and LUZO Committee; resignation of Planning Board alternate

The Selectboard approved several committee appointments, a revised Code of Conduct Policy, and a $1,000 donation to the Maine Lobstermen’s Association Legal Defense Fund. The board rejected bids for Seal Harbor beach shoreline erosion repair and denied a request to waive a $300 EMS account receivable.

• Approved $1,000 donation to Maine Lobstermen’s Association Legal Defense Fund (4-0)
• Appointed Jason Irwin to Investment Committee (4-0)
• Appointed Allen Kimmerly and Joseph Renault to LUZO Committee (4-0)
• Accepted resignation of Christie Anastasia from Planning Board (4-0)
• Accepted Revised Code of Conduct Policy (4-0)
• Rejected bids for Seal Harbor beach shoreline erosion repair (4-0)
• Denied request to waive $300 EMS accounts receivable (0-4)
• Approved writing off $2,279.50 in uncollectable EMS accounts receivable (4-0)

Harbor Committee

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee is meeting on January 26, 2023, at Northeast Harbor. The main item is an ordinance review for the upcoming Town Meeting, with no minutes or other new business listed. The agenda is otherwise mostly procedural, including discussions under old business and adjournment.

• Ordinance review for Town Meeting
• Meeting held at Northeast Harbor Meeting Room/Zoom
• No minutes to review

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will consider a proposed land use zoning ordinance amendment for the 2023 Town Meeting, review a conditional use application for a church ramp and deck expansion, and discuss a waiver request for private road standards. The meeting includes site inspections and public discussion.

• Conditional Use Application #001-2023: Union Meeting House Society, 1132 Main Street, Somesville, for expansion of a physically challenged ramp and deck.
• Waiver request by Jennifer & Brian Tamedl, off Wetlands Way, Seal Harbor, for private road standards under Section 5.14.
• Proposed Land Use Zoning Ordinance and Land Use Map Amendments for the 2023 Annual Town Meeting on May 2, 2023.
• Discussion of Section 6B.11 Lots § (2) Access for lots created on or after June 6, 2015.

The Planning Board approved a conditional use application for a ramp and deck expansion at the Union Meeting House Society. The Board also granted several road standard waivers for a property on Wetlands Way to allow for residential construction. Additionally, the Board reviewed proposed zoning and land use ordinance amendments for a future vote.

• Approved January 11, 2023 minutes (4-0)
• Approved expansion of physically challenged ramp and deck at 1132 Main Street (4-0)
• Approved waiver for 25-foot Right of Way instead of 50-foot minimum on Wetlands Way (4-0)
• Approved two-foot road shoulders instead of three-foot minimum on Wetlands Way (4-0)
• Approved hammerhead turnaround instead of cul-de-sac on Wetlands Way (4-0)

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Board of Selectmen will consider several routine appointments, approve warrants totaling over $1 million, and discuss unfinished business including renewing memorandums of understanding with local organizations, accepting a $29,025 state climate action grant, and reviewing a proposed code of conduct policy. New business includes authorizing a lease for a new loader backhoe, paying for mooring float chain replacements, and reviewing FY2024 budgets for Public Works and Marina.

• Appoint Sarah Adelberg as full-time FF/EMT at $26.75/hr, rising to $28.24 after probation
• Authorize lease of 2023 loader backhoe for $121,400, with $31,000 trade-in, financed at 4.57% over 5 years
• Accept $29,025 State of Maine Community Support Grant for Climate Action Plan
• Approve $2,434.50 payment to Alvah B. Barge Service for mooring float chain replacement
• Consider $13,000 request from MDI Historical Society to paint Somesville bridge and museum

The Selectboard authorized the lease of a 2023 loader backhoe and accepted a $29,025 state grant for the Town's Climate Action plan. The board also approved several personnel appointments and a contract for a fire protection water source feasibility study.

• Approved lease of 2023 loader backhoe for $121,400 (5-0)
• Accepted $29,025 State of Maine Community Support Grant for Climate Action plan (5-0)
• Authorized contractor agreement with A Climate to Thrive for Climate Emergency Plan (5-0)
• Approved bypassing bids for G.F. Johnston & Associates fire water feasibility study (5-0)
• Appointed Sarah Adelberg as full-time FF/EMT at $26.75/hr (5-0)
• Appointed William Shepard as part-time Fire Fighter at $18.00/hr (5-0)
• Approved $2,434.50 for Northeast Harbor Mooring Floats chain replacement (5-0)
• Modified $7,000 CDC donation to include liability insurance for ice rink contractor (5-0)

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee will review and approve minutes from October 2022, receive updates on broadband, a skating rink, a stakeholders' meeting, and comprehensive planning's impact on short-term rentals. They will also discuss D&O insurance renewal and consider ongoing funding for the Town of Mount Desert Economic Development Corporation and Community Development Corporation.

• Update on broadband (K. Miller)
• Update on skating rink (K. Miller)
• Update on comprehensive planning and potential impact on short-term rentals
• Consideration of ongoing funding for Economic Development Corporation and Community Development Corporation

The committee approved the minutes from the October 12, 2022 meeting. Members received updates on broadband availability, skating rink fundraising, and workforce housing efforts. No other formal votes were recorded.

• Approved October 12, 2022 meeting minutes

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will consider a change of use for a non-conforming structure at 5 Spruce Road, converting a garage into a private art studio. They will also review four conditional use applications, including amendments to a school's approval, a marine structure, a hot tub, and shoreline stabilization. Site inspections are scheduled before the meeting.

• Change of use: garage to private art studio at 5 Spruce Road, Northeast Harbor (Village Commercial zone)
• Amendment to previously approved conditional use for Community School of Mount Desert at 585 Sound Drive (CUA#10-2016 & 012-2020)
• Marine structure: seasonal 3'x40' ramp and 20'x20' float at 320 Sound Drive (Shoreland Residential Five)
• Outdoor recreational facility: 14'x10' hot tub at 125 Peabody Drive, Seal Harbor (Shoreland Residential 2)
• Shoreline stabilization excavation/filling at 309 Peabody Drive, Seal Harbor (Resource Protection)

The Planning Board approved the conversion of a garage to an art studio, a school woodworking space, a residential hot tub, and shoreline stabilization at Seal Harbor Beach. One application for a seasonal ramp and float was tabled pending further documentation.

• Approved conversion of garage to private art studio at 5 Spruce Road (4-0)
• Approved woodworking space in existing barn for Community School of Mount Desert (4-0)
• Approved installation of 14’ X 10’ hot tub at 125 Peabody Drive (4-0)
• Approved shoreline stabilization at Seal Harbor Beach (4-0)
• Tabled application for seasonal ramp and float at 320 Sound Drive (4-0)
• Approved December 14, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0)

Harbor Committee

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee is meeting to discuss parking updates, the Rodney King Seal Harbor pier, and possible ordinance changes. Old business includes discussions on parking regulations, resident definitions, commercial operator license contracts, and a proposed amendment from the South Shore Cove Association.

• Parking update
• Rodney King Seal Harbor pier discussion
• Possible ordinance changes: Parking 8.8.5, Resident Definition, Commercial Operators license contracts
• Full Harbor designation to other areas
• South Shore Cove Association proposed amendment to SSC

The committee approved new signage and dock shifts for the Seal Harbor dinghy dock and the installation of two grant-funded EV charging stations. The committee denied proposed ordinance changes from the South Shore Cove Association and updated the Harbor ordinance regarding resident definitions and mooring control dates.

• Approved signage at Seal Harbor dinghy dock for 14ft/25hp maximums and shifting of main pier docks
• Approved placement of two grant-funded EV charging stations in the town lot
• Denied South Shore Cove Association (SSCA) proposed ordinance changes
• Adopted Maine state definition of 'resident' for the Harbor ordinance
• Removed the control date in the Harbor ordinance regarding moorings
• Re-elected Savage as committee Chairman
• Accepted 12/13/22 meeting minutes

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Board of Selectmen will hold a regular meeting on January 3, 2023, covering routine approvals, a $7,000 donation, a marina skating rink maintenance contract, and several new business items including a special event permit, payments, and inter-municipal agreements. They will also review the FY2024 Public Safety budget and consider appointments to a Comprehensive Plan Committee.

• Approve appointment of Meg Ashur to Sustainability Committee
• Accept $7,000 donation from Town of Mount Desert Community Development Corporation
• Authorize payment of $5,625 to MCM Electric for power pedestals at Northeast Harbor Marina
• Authorize Town Manager to enter HR Employee Sharing Agreement with Town of Bar Harbor
• Approve Treasurer's Warrants totaling $752,396.46

The Selectboard authorized a shared HR employee agreement with the Town of Bar Harbor and adopted a new budget department for contracted municipal services. The board also approved funding for marina power pedestals and skating rink maintenance. A process to update the Town's Comprehensive Plan was initiated.

• Approved HR Employee Sharing Agreement with Town of Bar Harbor (5-0)
• Adopted MOU template and 'Number Two' budget model for Contracted Municipal and Community Oriented Services (5-0)
• Authorized $5,625.00 payment to MCM Electric for marina power pedestals (5-0)
• Accepted $7,000.00 donation for skating rink maintenance (5-0)
• Approved Peter Bronson's proposal for skating rink maintenance (5-0)
• Authorized MOU with Harold Alfond Center for employee training match (5-0)
• Approved process to appoint members to a Comprehensive Plan Committee (5-0)
• Approved wedding event application for Suminsby Park on February 4, 2023 (5-0)