Mount Desert public meetings in 2024

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will hold a regular meeting on December 16, 2024. The board will consider several financial items including a $4,000,000 transfer to an ICS reserve account, a $17,500 police radio purchase, and approval of warrants totaling over $2 million. Also on the agenda are appointments, a comprehensive plan update, and discussion on the new Maine Paid Family & Medical Leave program and the town's foreclosure process.

• Authorize transfer of $4,000,000 from operating account to ICS Reserve account to increase interest earnings
• Authorize expenditure up to $17,500 for portable radios and accessories for Mount Desert Police Department
• Confirm appointment of Kelly Herrick as Deputy Clerk at $27.74 per hour, effective Dec 30, 2024
• Consider accepting $500 gift from Christopher Campbell to Mount Desert Fire Department
• Review FY2026 General Government and Debt Budgets, including MOU requests

The Mount Desert Selectboard approved several routine items, including appointments, a $17,500 police radio purchase, a $500 fire department gift, a waiver for delinquent taxes, and a $4 million transfer to a reserve account. They also set the 2025 Town Meeting location and closed the Town Office early on Christmas Eve. No major policy changes were made.

• Approved minutes of Dec 2, 2024 (3-0-1)
• Confirmed Claire Woolfolk as Registrar of Voters (4-0)
• Appointed Howard Lawrence and Mike Olson to Comprehensive Plan Committee (4-0)
• Approved $17,500 for police radios (4-0)
• Accepted $500 gift to Fire Department (4-0)
• Approved waiver to Rural Wastewater Rebate policy (4-0)
• Approved $4M transfer to ICS Reserve account (4-0)
• Approved 2025 Town Meeting at Neighborhood House (4-0)

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will hold a public hearing on a conditional use application for excavation or filling over 150 cubic yards at 57 Harborside Road. The board will also discuss an application for reconstruction and replacement of a non-conforming recreational boat house at 6 South Shore Road. Site inspections for both properties are scheduled before the meeting.

• Conditional Use Approval #012-2024 for excavation/filling >150 cubic yards at 57 Harborside Road (Shoreland Residential 1 zone)
• Section 4.3 non-conforming structure application for reconstruction/replacement of a recreational boat house at 6 South Shore Road (Shoreland Residential 3 zone)

The Mount Desert Planning Board approved two applications: a conditional use permit for excavation/filling at 57 Harborside Road, and a non-conforming structure reconstruction for a boathouse at 6 South Shore Road. Both were approved unanimously (5-0). The board also approved the November 13, 2024 minutes.

• Approved conditional use application #012-2024 for excavation/filling at 57 Harborside Road (5-0)
• Approved reconstruction/replacement of recreational boathouse at 6 South Shore Road (5-0)
• Approved November 13, 2024 minutes as presented (5-0)

Harbor Committee

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee approved a motion to hire Johnston and Associates as consulting engineer for the main pier project RFP. The committee also discussed proposed changes to seafood buyer permit ordinances, including grandfathering language, and agreed to draft a permit system. Concerns about heavy dock usage in Seal Harbor were raised by residents Steve Pinkham and Rodney King.

• Approved Johnston and Associates as consulting engineer for main pier project RFP
• Discussed seafood buyer permit ordinance changes and grandfathering language
• Reviewed a copy of Southwest Harbor's proposed seafood buyer regulations
• Agreed to draft a system for issuing seafood buyer permits
• Heard concerns from residents about heavy dock usage in Seal Harbor

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee approved Johnston and Associates as the consulting engineer for the main pier project RFP. The committee also discussed seafood buyer permits and ordinance changes, agreeing to draft a permit system. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved Johnston and Associates as consulting engineer for main pier project RFP
• Agreed to draft a system for issuing seafood buyer permits for the ordinance

Selectboard

The Selectboard will discuss the potential impact of the incoming administration on Mount Desert as a Sanctuary Community. The board is also reviewing salary survey data and the FY 2026 Capital Improvement Plan.

• Review of Capital Improvement Plan for FY 2026
• Proposed increase of safety toe footwear purchase limits to $225 for standard and $150 for slush boots for Teamsters Local 340
• Approval of Treasurer’s Warrants totaling $540,301.81
• Discussion with Police Chief David Kerns regarding Sanctuary Community status
• Request to close Town Office at 2 PM on December 13, 2024, for employee holiday party

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will discuss and vote on multiple funding requests and expenditures, including payments for Seal Harbor Pier work, release of reserves for fire equipment and LED lighting, authorization to bid on a truck, and the sale of a comfort station. They will also review consent agenda items and approve treasurer's warrants totaling $900,350.93.

• Discuss third-party funding requests from Mount Desert Chamber of Commerce and Historical Society (no amounts specified)
• Authorize payments totaling $8,346 to C&C Lynch Excavation and MCM Electric for new power pole at Seal Harbor Pier
• Consider releasing $60,280 from Fire Equipment Reserve for extrication equipment
• Consider releasing $2,000 from Fire Stations Building Reserve for LED lighting
• Approve sale of Seal Harbor Pier comfort station to Rodney King for $1.00 and repair of pier surface for $13,270.50

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will hold a pre-application discussion for a Conditional Use Approval regarding signage at 10 Huntington Road in Northeast Harbor, submitted by Harbor View Corporation. No other substantive items are on the agenda.

• Pre-application discussion for signage Conditional Use Approval by Harbor View Corporation at 10 Huntington Road, Northeast Harbor (Tax Map 024, Lot 125, Village Commercial zone)

Harbor Committee

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee will meet on November 12, 2024, at Northeast Harbor to review and potentially discuss updates to the harbor ordinance and the condition or use of the Main Pier. The meeting includes approval of prior minutes and a general new business session. No specific proposals or dollar amounts are listed on the agenda.

• Ordinance review under old business
• Discussion of Main Pier under old business
• General new business period with no listed items
• Approval of October 8, 2024 meeting minutes

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will hear a town manager report on a meeting with Acadia National Park officials regarding the Working Waterfront Resolution. The board will also consider appointments of two firefighters, a resignation, and routine business including a conditional $20,000 gift for the skating rink. Several fiscal warrants totaling over $720,000 will be approved.

• Appointment of Adam Fraley as per diem Firefighter at $25.97/hr and Brian McLellan as full-time Firefighter/EMT at $29.21/hr
• Discussion of Great Harbor Maritime Museum Third Party Funding Request/MOU
• Authorization to solicit competitive bids for new dump body and plowing equipment on a 2025 International cab and chassis
• Conditional $20,000 gift from Community Development Corporation for skating rink operations
• Approval of warrants totaling $720,715.89, including town and school payroll and invoices

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider a conditional use application for a solid fence at 8 Spring Lane that exceeds the CEO's 6-foot height limit in the Shoreland Residential zone. The board will also receive an update from the Land Use Zoning Ordinance Advisory Group.

• Conditional Use Application #011-2024 for fence at 8 Spring Lane exceeding the 6-foot height limit (Lawrence E. Larson 2016 Trust)
• Site inspection scheduled for 4:00 PM before the meeting
• Update from Land Use Zoning Ordinance Advisory Group

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will consider appointing two firefighters, discuss a policy for third-party funding requests, and authorize replacing a section of dingy dock for $11,191.60. The board will also decide on accepting a donated minibus for the fire department and approve routine minutes, consent agenda items, and treasurer's warrants totaling $873,176.97.

• Appointment of Theodore Cake as paid on-call firefighter at $18.00/hour and William Renault as per diem firefighter at $25.97/hour
• Authorization to replace a 40'x6' section of dingy dock using Seawood Services Inc. for $11,191.60
• Consideration of accepting a donated 2009 Chevrolet/Girardin 15-passenger minibus as a conditional gift from the Neighborhood House for the fire department
• Discussion of third-party funding requests and review of the policy dated October 22, 2022
• Approval of treasurer's warrants totaling $873,176.97

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing regarding a subdivision application on Aspen Way. The board will also consider a conditional use application for excavation and a request for non-conforming structure reconstruction.

• Public hearing for Subdivision #002-2024 to divide Lot #5 on Aspen Way
• Conditional Use Application #010-2024 for excavation under 50 cubic yards at 14 Oak Hill Road
• Non-conforming structure request for Northeast Harbor Tennis Club at 44 Manchester Road to reconstruct locker room, kitchen, pavilions, and deck

Harbor Committee

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee will meet to approve prior minutes, review a letter from the Parking Committee, continue ordinance review, and discuss the Main Pier. No decisions are specified; all items are listed as new or old business for discussion.

• Review of letter from Parking Committee
• Ordinance review (old business)
• Main Pier discussion (old business)

Selectboard

The Selectboard will hold a public hearing and consider amendments to the General Assistance Ordinance appendices. They will also discuss the Chamber of Commerce becoming a contracted municipal service, appoint a warden for the November election, and approve various contracts and expenditures including heating oil, winter sand, and sidewalk projects.

• Public hearing and potential approval of amendments to General Assistance Ordinance Appendices A-H
• Appointment of Heidi Smallidge as Warden for the November 5, 2024 General and Referendum Election
• Discussion on Chamber of Commerce becoming a contracted municipal service with report on 2024 activities
• Approval of $5,100 from Fire Stations Building Reserve for overhead door repairs at two fire stations
• Approval of Memorandum Agreements with MaineDOT for Somesville and Seal Harbor sidewalk projects and Babson Brook Bridge utility relocation

Planning Board

The Planning Board is continuing reviews of two requests to reconstruct or replace non-conforming structures in Shoreland Residential Two zones. The board will also receive an update from the Land Use Zoning Ordinance Advisory Group.

• Reconstruction/Replacement request for Dodge Point, LLC at 29 Dodge Point Road, Seal Harbor
• Reconstruction/Replacement request for Northeast Harbor Tennis Club at 44 Manchester Road, Northeast Harbor
• Update from Land Use Zoning Ordinance Advisory Group

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will consider authorizing two agreements with SolarLogix for photovoltaic systems at the Somesville Fire Station ($154,000) and the Northeast Harbor Wastewater Treatment Plant ($99,900). Other business includes adjusting Northeast Harbor Marina rates, funding for historical document preservation ($10,532), and releasing $9,800 for structural firefighting gear. The board will also discuss the Town Manager's Otter Creek Memo and a special event application for the Seal Harbor Library Fair.

• Authorize two SolarLogix photovoltaic system agreements: $154,000 for Somesville Fire Station and $99,900 for Northeast Harbor Wastewater Treatment Plant
• Adjust Northeast Harbor Marina rates: vessels <49' to $3.45/ft, 50'-60' to $3.95/ft, 60'-99' to $4.45/ft, 100'+ to $5.15/ft; summer electricity rates from $20 to $60 per day
• Request $10,532 from Historical Preservation account for preservation and imaging of Town documents
• Release up to $9,800 from Fire Equipment Reserve for purchasing structural firefighting gear
• Public Space Special Event Application – Seal Harbor Library Fair on August 9, 2025, at Seal Harbor Village Green

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will hold a public hearing on a subdivision application by Broadway Cabin, LLC to divide a lot within the Sol Terre Subdivision at Aspen Way. The board will also consider a conditional use approval for excavation and filling under 50 cubic yards at 14 Oak Hill Road. Additionally, a non-conforming structure request from the Northeast Harbor Tennis Club for reconstruction of several buildings at 44 Manchester Road is on the agenda.

• Public hearing on Subdivision #002-2024 (Aspen Way) to divide Lot #5 within the Sol Terre Subdivision Amendment
• Conditional Use Approval #010-2024 at 14 Oak Hill Road for excavation/filling <50 cubic yards
• Non-conforming structures review for Northeast Harbor Tennis Club at 44 Manchester Road, including reconstruction of Men's Locker Room, Kitchen, Shade Pavilion, Dining Pavilion and Deck
• Site inspections scheduled at 3:15 PM (Oak Hill Road) and 3:45 PM (Manchester Road)

The Mount Desert Planning Board approved a conditional use application from Ringing Point, LLC for retaining walls and excavation at 39 Cooksey Drive, Seal Harbor. The board also reviewed a subdivision amendment for completeness, finding it complete pending receipt of a map and abutter list. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved conditional use application #009-2024 for retaining walls and excavation at 39 Cooksey Drive (5-0)
• Found subdivision amendment #002-2024 complete pending receipt of map and abutter list (4-0)
• Approved minutes of August 14, 2024 (4-0, Hanley abstained)
• Made alternate member Dan Burke a voting member for the meeting (5-0)

Harbor Committee

The Harbor Committee will meet to discuss updates on the North and Public Docks and the replacement of the main pier. The body will also review summer rates and current ordinances.

• Main pier replacement
• Summer rates
• North and Public Dock update
• Marina Eye presentation
• Ordinance review

The committee approved the June minutes, accepted the completed North and South dock projects with final payment minus penalties, allowed filming of the Northeast Harbor Marina at no cost, and approved a $0.15 per foot rate increase for summer mooring. It also approved increases in shore power rates, new enforcement policies including loss of marina facilities after 60 days and credit card requirements, and directed the harbormaster to ask the Board of Selectmen to secure an RFP for the Main pier replacement. No decisions were made on the parking subcommittee dissolution or Seal Harbor pier power issues.

• Approved June 11, 2024 minutes as presented
• Approved final payment for North and South dock projects, minus penalties
• Allowed filming of Northeast Harbor Marina layout at no cost to town
• Approved $0.15 per foot summer rate increase across the board
• Approved shore power rate increases: $3/day for 30-50 amp, $10/day for 100 amp
• Approved loss of all town marina facilities after 60 days of written notice for corrective action or money owed
• Approved requirement for valid credit card number on all rental agreements
• Approved motion for harbormaster to ask BOS to secure RFP for Main pier replacement

Economic Development Committee

The Mount Desert Economic Development Committee will meet to approve prior minutes, receive updates on the skating rink, Main Street Project, workforce housing, and routine expenses. Members will review a business profile based on Chamber membership data, discuss how to interface with the forthcoming comprehensive plan update, and consider adjustments to committee membership structure. Public questions are invited.

• Update on skating rink (J. Blaine)
• Update on Main Street Project (D. Lunt and G. Snead)
• Update on workforce housing (K. Miller)
• Presentation of Mount Desert Business Profile based on Chamber membership
• Discussion on committee interface with comprehensive plan update

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will begin with an executive session on personnel matters, then consider a consent agenda including a proposal for the Northeast Harbor Fleet Pier rebuild. Unfinished business includes signing a release and settlement agreement with 1112 Main Street LLC and the Otter Creek Resolution. New business items cover a wedding permit at Suminsby Park, liquor license renewal for Milk and Honey, sale of a 2011 Ford F-350 for $6,500, and pole permits for Seal Harbor Pier. The board will also approve financial warrants totaling over $1.33 million.

• Appointment of Kevin Stradley as MEO I/Refuse at $29.83/hr effective Sept 9
• Consent agenda: Bureau of Parks and Lands proposal for Northeast Harbor Fleet Pier rebuild
• Sign release and settlement agreement between the town and 1112 Main Street, LLC
• Sale of 2011 Ford F-350 4WD Super Duty to Hugh Reynolds for $6,500
• Liquor license renewal for Milk and Honey at 3 Old Firehouse Lane, Northeast Harbor

The Mount Desert Selectboard approved several items, including the Otter Creek Resolution, a settlement agreement with 1112 Main Street LLC, and a $6,500 sale of a fire truck. They also approved a wedding event permit, a liquor license renewal, and permits for repowering the Seal Harbor Pier. All votes were unanimous except one abstention on payroll warrants.

• Approved Otter Creek Resolution (5-0)
• Signed Release and Settlement Agreement with 1112 Main Street LLC (5-0)
• Approved sale of 2011 Ford F-350 to Hugh Reynolds for $6,500 (5-0)
• Approved Public Space Special Event Application for wedding at Suminsby Park (5-0)
• Approved Liquor License Renewal for Milk and Honey (5-0)
• Approved Pole and Utility Location Permits for Seal Harbor Pier repowering (5-0)
• Approved Treasurer's Warrant AP#2516 for $861,479.99 (5-0)
• Approved Payroll and State Fees Warrants totaling $305,035.70 (4-0-1)

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will consider approving a $2,845,000 general obligation bond at 5.49–5.50% interest to finance projects approved at the 2024 Town Meeting. They will also review a resolution to restore the working waterfront of Otter Creek, discuss a contract with SolarLogix for photovoltaic systems, and vote on using up to $60,000 from the Wastewater Capital Reserve for sewer system inspection.

• Approve resolutions for a $2,845,000 General Obligation Bond at 5.50% (Bar Harbor Bank & Trust) or 5.49% (Katahdin Trust Company), 20-year term.
• Authorize up to $60,000 from Wastewater Capital Reserve to fund Vortex Company's video inspection, cleaning, and GIS mapping of the sanitary sewer system.
• Appoint William Renault as per diem firefighter at $27.97/hour and Michael Slater as dockhand at $20.00/hour.
• Review resolution to restore the working waterfront of Otter Creek.
• Review and approve recommendation to proceed with SolarLogix for photovoltaic system contracts.

The Mount Desert Selectboard approved a $2.845 million general obligation bond with Bar Harbor Bank & Trust at 5.50% interest over 20 years, rejecting a competing bid from Katahdin Trust Company. The board also approved several appointments, a public comment policy, and funding for sewer inspections. All decisions were made in regular session with votes recorded.

• Approved $2.845M bond with Bar Harbor Bank & Trust at 5.50% for 20 years (5-0)
• Rejected $2.845M bond with Katahdin Trust Company at 5.49% (0-5)
• Approved adding 3-minute public comment to future agendas (5-0)
• Approved $60,000 from Wastewater Capital Reserve for sewer video inspection and GIS mapping (5-0)
• Approved appointments: William Renault as per diem firefighter, Michael Slater as dockhand, Todd Daley Jr. to Buildings & Grounds (all 5-0)
• Approved SolarLogix to develop final contract for two photovoltaic systems (5-0)
• Approved HR services agreement with Aloha HR Consulting LLC (5-0)
• Approved settlement agreement with 1112 Main Street LLC (5-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will meet to discuss the reconstruction or replacement of a non-conforming structure. The board will evaluate the proposal based on setback requirements for water bodies, tributary streams, and wetlands.

• Reconstruction/Replacement of a Non-Conforming Structure for Dodge Point, LLC at 29 Dodge Point Road, Seal Harbor

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will consider several contracts and appointments at its August 5 meeting. Notable items include a $240,000 contract with Olver Associates for technical services, a $15,000 solar implementation support contract, and a $14,208 climate vulnerability assessment. The board will also review a propane bid, appoint a firefighter/EMT, and fill planning board vacancies. Approval of $1.68 million in warrants is on the consent agenda.

• Review and approve $240,000 contract with Olver Associates for professional/technical services
• Review and approve $15,000 contract with A Climate to Thrive for solar support
• Review and approve $14,208 contract with Gulf of Maine Research Institute for climate vulnerability assessment
• Consider authorizing fire chief to sign indemnification agreement with Bar Harbor for storage of 1937 Seagrave fire truck
• Request appointment of Kyle Rounsavall as full-time firefighter/EMT at $29.21/hour

The Mount Desert Selectboard approved several contracts and appointments. The largest was a $240,000 contract with Olver Associates for professional and technical services covering Jordan Pond Road work, Sea Street pump station study, and Sea Street repairs. The board also approved a $15,000 solar implementation support contract with A Climate to Thrive, a $14,208 climate vulnerability assessment with Gulf of Maine Research Institute, and a propane bid from Coastal Energy at $1.37 per gallon. All votes were 4-0.

• Approved $240,000 contract with Olver Associates for road and sewer services (4-0)
• Approved $15,000 contract with A Climate to Thrive for solar support (4-0)
• Approved $14,208 contract with Gulf of Maine Research Institute for climate assessment (4-0)
• Approved propane bid from Coastal Energy at $1.37/gallon (4-0)
• Appointed Kyle Rounsavall as Full-time Firefighter/EMT at $29.21/hr (4-0)
• Appointed Anne Dalton to full Planning Board member (4-0)
• Approved $924,388.46 in town invoices (4-0)
• Approved $525,861.43 in payroll and benefit warrants (4-0)

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will hold a public hearing and decide on a conditional use application (No. 008-2024) from Marci and Robert Lash for a fence and wall at 1243 Main Street in the Rural/Woodland Two (RW2) and Shoreland Residential Two (SR2) zones. The board will also meet and greet a potential alternate member.

• Conditional use application #008-2024 for a fence and wall at 1243 Main Street, Somesville (Tax Map 010, Lot 193-001, zones RW2 and SR2)
• Site inspection scheduled for 4:30 PM prior to the meeting
• Meet and greet with a potential Planning Board alternate member

The Mount Desert Planning Board approved a conditional use application for a fence at 1243 Main Street, Somesville, and recommended Anne Dalton as a full voting member and Daniel Burke as an alternate to the Selectboard. Minutes from three prior meetings were also approved.

• Approved conditional use application #008-2024 for fence at 1243 Main St (5-0)
• Recommended Anne Dalton as full-time voting member to Selectboard (5-0)
• Recommended Daniel Burke as alternate member to Selectboard (5-0)
• Approved minutes of Jan 3, 2024 (3-0)
• Approved minutes of Mar 27, 2024 (4-0)
• Approved minutes of Jul 10, 2024 (5-0)

Selectboard

The Selectboard will review several administrative requests, including liquor license renewals and a hybrid dispatcher schedule. The board is also considering a mutual aid payment for police services and the approval of a collective bargaining agreement.

• Mutual aid payment of $48,384.62 for police supervision (Sept 6, 2023 – June 30, 2024)
• Liquor license renewals for Lighthouse Inn and Restaurant and COPITA
• Request for The Salt Market to place cafe tables and chairs outside
• Appointment of John Wells as per diem Firefighter at $25.97 per hour
• Treasurer's warrants totaling $657,551.30

Planning Board

The Planning Board will review a pre-application sketch plan for Subdivision #001-2024. The application by Broadway Cabin, LLC proposes dividing Lot #5 within the Sol Terre Subdivision on Aspen Way.

• Sketch plan review for subdivision #001-2024 at Aspen Way
• Proposal to divide Lot #5 within the Sol Terre Subdivision

Economic Development Committee

The Committee will discuss strategies for preserving year-round housing following the defeat of a short-term rental ordinance. Updates are scheduled for the Broadband, Heel Way, and Main Street projects. The meeting also includes officer elections and discussions regarding committee funding.

• Election of Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary
• Updates on Broadband, Heel Way Project, and Main Street Project
• Discussion on year-round housing preservation
• Consideration of funding for legal, accounting, insurance, and staffing expenses

Selectboard

The Selectboard will review several infrastructure and financial items. This includes a request to solicit bids for a $2,845,000 General Obligation Bond and a paving bid of $352,410. The board will also consider committee disbandment and new staff appointments.

• Soliciting bids for a $2,845,000 General Obligation Bond
• Reviewing a $352,410 paving bid from Northeast Paving
• Authorizing the purchase of a Ram 5500 dump truck with plow equipment
• Disbanding the Broadband Committee effective July 1, 2024
• Approving fire suppression equipment for Maple Lane Apartments via CDBG grant

Planning Board

The Planning Board will review applications from Northeast Harbor Fleet, Inc. regarding properties at 48 South Shore Road. Proposed work includes reconstructing a marine structure, shoreline stabilization, and the relocation of the existing Fleet House. The board will also receive an update from the Land Use Zoning Ordinance Advisory Group.

• Marine structure reconstruction and shoreline stabilization at 48 South Shore Road
• Reconstruction of a concrete slab and flagpole at 48 South Shore Road
• Relocation of the existing Fleet House at 48 South Shore Road
• Update from the Land Use Zoning Ordinance Advisory Group

Selectboard

The Selectboard will discuss a resident claim regarding sewer overflow and labor negotiations with Teamsters Local 340. The board is also reviewing an engineering agreement for the Northeast Harbor fire station project. Other items include road salt contracts and mooring float repairs.

• Revised agreement with Hedefine Engineering & Design, Inc. for fire station construction administration
• $6,633.55 payment to Alvah B. Barge Service Inc. for mooring float chains
• $15,000 Maine Department of Public Safety EMS Stabilization Program Grant Agreement
• Contract review with New England Salt for 2024-2025 winter road de-icing salt
• Resignations from the Zoning Board of Appeals and Broadband Committee

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will review several conditional use applications. Asticou Hospitality, LLC has proposed expanding hotel facilities with new guest rooms and amenities at 15, 11, and 23 Peabody Drive. The board will also consider a request for a solid fence at 29 Dodge Point Road.

• Hotel expansion at 15 Peabody Drive including 15 suites and 18 guest rooms
• Hotel expansion at 11 Peabody Drive including 15 suites and 18 guest rooms
• Hotel expansion at 23 Peabody Drive including 15 suites and 18 guest rooms
• Request for an 8' high by 250' long solid fence at 29 Dodge Point Road

Harbor Committee

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee will review minutes from the May 14, 2024 meeting. The agenda includes updates regarding the North Dock and the parking subcommittee. Additionally, the committee will conduct reviews of commercial operators.

• North Dock update
• Parking subcommittee update
• Commercial operator reviews

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will review several town ordinances and authorize bidding for a new Ram 5500 truck with plow equipment. The board will also consider committee appointments and special event permits. Financial warrants totaling $646,352.85 are scheduled for approval.

• Authorization of bids for a new model year 2023/2024 Ram 5500 truck with dump body and plow equipment
• Review of ordinances including floodplain management, plumbing permit fees, and quarry licensing
• Appointment of Georgeann Snead to the Economic Development Committee
• Approval of treasurer's warrants totaling $646,352.85

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will approve minutes and sign a Statement of Findings and Conclusions for the Harold MacQunn Inc. & Freshwater Stone & Brickwork, Inc. court remand. Three conditional use applications from Asticou Hospitality, LLC to construct hotel/motel expansions at 15, 11, and 23 Peabody Drive in Northeast Harbor are postponed to the June 12, 2024 meeting. The board will also receive an update from the Land Use Zoning Ordinance Advisory Group.

• Sign Statement of Findings for Harold MacQunn Inc. & Freshwater Stone & Brickwork court remand
• Postpone Conditional Use Application #003-2024: 15 Peabody Drive hotel expansion (15 suites, 18 rooms, pool, spa)
• Postpone Conditional Use Application #004-2024: 11 Peabody Drive hotel expansion (15 suites, 18 rooms, pool, spa)
• Postpone Conditional Use Application #005-2024: 23 Peabody Drive hotel expansion (15 suites, 18 rooms, pool, spa)
• Update from Land Use Zoning Ordinance Advisory Group

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will hold a public hearing and consider action on a liquor license for The Salt Market, then vote on a $271,834 contract with Spectrum Northeast LLC to complete high-speed broadband coverage, funded by Hancock County and town ARPA awards. The board will also consider numerous other items, including appointments, liquor license renewals, payments for electrical work, and a conditional gift for the fire department. The meeting includes an executive session on personnel matters related to the Affordable Care Act.

• Public hearing and action on liquor license for The Salt Market, 141 Main Street, Northeast Harbor
• Authorize Town Manager to sign $271,834 contract with Spectrum Northeast LLC for broadband coverage
• Approve payment of $5,870 to MCM Electric for power pedestals at Northeast Harbor Marina
• Consider accepting $21,000 gift from Northeast Harbor Ambulance Service for a LUCAS device
• Approve treasurer's warrants totaling $747,648.25

Harbor Committee

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee is meeting to discuss updates on the North Dock and public facilities, including Seal Harbor rest rooms. They will also review commercial operator permits as part of old business. The meeting is largely routine, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• North Dock and public update
• Seal Harbor rest rooms
• Commercial Operator reviews
• Approval of April 9, 2024 minutes

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will meet on May 8, 2024, to consider several applications. These include a determination of use for the Somes-Meynell Wildlife Sanctuary, two conditional use approvals (a storage/maintenance building and temporary office space, and excavation/filling for shoreland stabilization), and a sketch plan for a subdivision modification creating a new lot. Site inspections are scheduled before the meeting. The agenda also includes approval of minutes and other business.

• Determination of Use for Somes-Meynell Wildlife Sanctuary at 57 Pretty Marsh Road
• Conditional Use #001-2024: Storage/Maintenance Building and Temporary Office Space at 11 Stanley Brook Road
• Conditional Use #002-2024: Excavation/Filling >150 cubic yards for shoreland stabilization at 11 Dodge Point Road
• Subdivision #001-2024: Modification to create new lot at 17 Shipwright Lane, Hall Quarry
• Site inspections at 3:45 PM, 4:10 PM, and 4:40 PM before the 6:00 PM meeting

Annual Town Meeting

The Town of Mount Desert is holding its Annual Town Meeting on May 6-7, 2024, where voters will decide on 76 warrant articles. These include elections for municipal officers, multiple ordinance amendments (such as zoning changes, a short-term rental licensing ordinance, and a one-year alewife fishing ban), and the municipal and school budgets. The meeting also covers road acceptances, sidewalk improvements, and capital projects.

• Election of one Selectboard member, two Elementary School Board members, and one MDIRSD trustee
• Enactment of a one-year ban on taking alewives and blue back herring (July 1, 2024–June 30, 2025)
• Amendments to Land Use Zoning Ordinance: Little Echo Lake setback reduction from 100 ft to 75 ft
• Short-Term Rental Licensing Ordinance (Appendix I)
• Road acceptance for Denning Brook and rehabilitation of Summit Road & Sea Street

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will hold its organizational meeting, electing a chair, vice chair, and secretary. They will also consider routine consent agenda items, approve several annual policies, and vote on multiple expenditures, including a $127,399 truck purchase and $14,306 in dock repairs. The board will also approve a large batch of treasurer's warrants totaling over $1.79 million, including tabled items from the previous meeting.

• Approve $821,255.55 town invoice warrant (AP#2468)
• Authorize up to $127,399 for Western Star cab/chassis from Freightliner of Maine
• Approve $14,306.10 for Seal Harbor dock mooring chain repairs by Alvah B. Barge Service LLC
• Approve $3,600 from PD Capital Reserve for new antenna for Station #3 fire frequency
• Approve special event applications for MDIAA District 18 cookout and MDES 8th grade promotion

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will meet to consider a determination of use for a property owned by Somes-Meynell Wildlife Sanctuary at 57 Pretty Marsh Road. The board will also receive an update from the Land Use Zoning Ordinance Advisory Group. The item on general provisions has been postponed to May 8, 2024.

• Determination of Use for 57 Pretty Marsh Road (Somes-Meynell Wildlife Sanctuary)
• Update from Land Use Zoning Ordinance Advisory Group
• Postponed item: Section 2 General Provisions (similar uses) until May 8, 2024

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will consider several spending items, including selling marina ramps to Southwest Harbor for $25,000, buying equipment for a new fire department vehicle (up to $28,333.47), and purchasing a 2024 refuse packer truck for $200,080.68. They will also discuss a skating rink donation, approve a bridge construction on the Reservoir Trail, and review a request to match GoFundMe donations for Otter Creek fishermen up to $5,000. The board will also approve warrants totaling $1,110,104.64.

• Sell marina ramps to Southwest Harbor for $25,000
• Buy fire truck equipment up to $28,333.47
• Purchase 2024 refuse packer truck for $200,080.68
• Match Otter Creek fishermen GoFundMe up to $5,000
• Approve $1,110,104.64 in warrants

Economic Development Committee

The Mount Desert Economic Development Committee is meeting to review and approve minutes from its January quarterly meeting, receive updates on several town projects, and consider funding sources for routine ongoing expenses. The committee will also discuss potential initiatives including a village golf cart proposal and a maker space, as well as future agenda items and committee leadership.

• Update on Broadband project
• Update on Heel Way Project
• Update on Main Street Project
• Discussion of village golf cart proposal
• Consideration of funding for legal, accounting, insurance, and staffing expenses

Harbor Committee

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee meets April 9, 2024, at Northeast Harbor to discuss several harbor-related items. New business includes commercial operator reviews, updates on North Dock and public facilities, a storm update, and an Otter Creek discussion. The agenda also covers approval of February 13, 2024 minutes and general/old business before adjournment.

• Commercial operator reviews
• North Dock and public update
• Storm update
• Otter Creek discussion
• Minutes from February 13, 2024

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will meet April 3, 2024, at 6 p.m. in the Town Hall Meeting Room, 21 Sea Street, Northeast Harbor, with Zoom access. The main item is a court remand judgment from January 9, 2024, involving Harold MacQuinn Inc. and Freshwater Stone Brickwork, Inc., for Tax Map 007 lot 075. The board will also approve minutes and handle other business before adjourning.

• Court remand judgment for Harold MacQuinn Inc. & Freshwater Stone Brickwork, Inc., Tax Map 007 lot 075
• Approval of minutes from prior meeting
• Meeting offered in-person and via Zoom; masks may be required
• Next meeting scheduled for April 10, 2024, at 6 p.m.

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will hold a public hearing on a special amusement permit for Northeast Lobster Co. d/b/a The Nor'Easter, then consider its liquor license renewal and special amusement permit renewal. The board will also discuss a CDBG grant application for fire safety upgrades at Maple Lane Apartments, an amendment to a previously authorized truck purchase, and several other items including PFAS research support and a speed display sign gift.

• Public hearing: Northeast Lobster Co. d/b/a The Nor'Easter, 10 Huntington Rd, special amusement permit
• Liquor license renewal and special amusement permit renewal for The Nor'Easter
• CDBG grant application for $238,000 for Maple Lane Apartments fire safety upgrades
• Amendment to truck purchase authorization from $56,320 to $56,445 for 2024 GMC 3500HD
• Gift of $2,000 from Friends of Acadia for speed display sign on Jordan Pond Road

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will consider a Maine Department of Transportation signage request from Holly Masterson for Golf of Maine Mini Golf at 55 Main Street, Southwest Harbor. The board will vote on whether to recommend approval of a directional sign at a state road intersection, which would then go to the Board of Selectmen. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes and other routine business.

• Signage request by Holly Masterson for Golf of Maine Mini Golf, 55 Main Street, Southwest Harbor
• Directional sign at intersection of two or more state roads in Mount Desert requires Planning Board recommendation
• Approval of meeting minutes
• Next meeting scheduled for April 10, 2024 at 6:00 p.m.

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will hold public hearings on proposed warrant articles for fund appropriations and ordinance amendments, then take action if needed. They will also review and vote on several town meeting articles, approve a $491,647 sidewalk bid from C+C Lynch Excavation for Seal Harbor, and consider special event permits. The board will approve routine consent agenda items and sign warrants totaling over $1.15 million.

• Public hearings on town meeting warrant articles for appropriations and ordinance amendments
• Review and approve rejection of bids for Somesville sidewalk construction
• Approve $491,647 bid from C+C Lynch Excavation for Seal Harbor sidewalk improvements
• Final votes on town meeting articles 22, 28-32, 44 (amended), and 59
• Approve treasurer's warrants totaling $1,151,951.57

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard is holding a special meeting to hold a public hearing on proposed warrant articles for ordinance amendments and ordinances, and to take action if necessary. Following the hearing, the board will consider certifying the official text of proposed ordinances and amendments to appear on the annual Town Meeting warrant. The agenda includes a wide range of proposed changes, including to the Land Use Zoning Ordinance and a new Short-Term/Vacation Rental Licensing Ordinance.

• Public hearing on Town Meeting proposed warrant articles for ordinance amendments and ordinances
• Certification of Alewife Ordinance
• Certification of amendments to Consumer Fireworks Ordinance, Disbursement Warrant Ordinance, and Special Amusement Permit Ordinance
• Certification of 14 amendments to the Land Use Zoning Ordinance, including sewer connections, Little Echo Lake setback, private campsites, residential dwellings, conditional use notices, lot access, definitions, marine/freshwater structures, non-conforming sections, and a zone change on Map 10
• Certification of Short-Term/Vacation Rental Licensing Ordinance

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will review the MDES budget, consider rejecting bids for Somesville sidewalk construction, and discuss non-profit funding recommendations. They will also review a contract for solid waste handling with EMR in Southwest Harbor and approve routine appointments and warrants.

• Approve contract with EMR for solid waste handling services
• Review and reject bids for Somesville sidewalk construction
• Review MDES budget
• Approve $350 Reynolds Trust and $100 Stanley Trust scholarships
• Approve warrants totaling $607,045.93

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will hold a public hearing on proposed amendments to the Land Use Zoning Ordinance, Subdivision Ordinance, and Land Use Map for the 2024 Annual Town Meeting on May 7, 2024. The board will also approve minutes and meet a potential alternate member.

• Public hearing on Land Use Zoning Ordinance, Subdivision Ordinance, and Land Use Map amendments
• Amendments to be considered at the 2024 Annual Town Meeting on May 7, 2024
• Meet and greet with potential Planning Board alternate member

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will consider appointing Colby Hamor to Buildings & Grounds, recognize personnel changes, and discuss FY2025 funding requests from service groups and nonprofits. They will also discuss a new contract with EMR for solid waste handling and approve warrants totaling over $941,000.

• Appointment of Colby Hamor to Buildings & Grounds at $23.28/hour effective March 11, 2024
• Discussion of FY2025 service group and non-profit funding requests
• Request from Camp Beech Cliff to be included in the Town Report
• Discussion of new solid waste handling contract with EMR in Southwest Harbor
• Approval of warrants totaling $941,595.92

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will hold a public hearing to consider amendments to the Land Use Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance for the 2024 Annual Town Meeting on May 8, 2024. The board will also approve minutes and address other business.

• Public hearing on Land Use Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance amendments
• Amendments to be considered for the 2024 Annual Town Meeting on May 8, 2024
• Meeting held in person at Town Hall Meeting Room, 21 Sea Street, Northeast Harbor, with Zoom option

Harbor Committee

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee meets February 13, 2024, at Northeast Harbor to discuss new business including setting a date for commercial operator reviews, an update on North Dock, and a storm update. The agenda is mostly routine with no votes or dollar amounts listed.

• Commercial Operator reviews set date
• North Dock update
• Storm update

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will hold its regular meeting, covering routine approvals, appointments, and several notable items. Key actions include reviewing the proposed FY25 revenue budget, considering a $113,144 purchase of a new fire department boat, and approving a contract amendment for the Northeast Harbor Village Center Improvement Project. The board will also act on special event permits for the MDI Farmers' Market and Help Portrait MDI, and approve warrants totaling over $1.65 million.

• Contract amendment with Haley Ward for CCA-I Northeast Harbor Village Center Improvement Project, $79,290.91
• Authorize purchase of 2024 6.5-meter rigid inflatable boat, motor, trailer from Ribcraft USA, $113,144.00 from Fire Department Equipment Reserve
• Proposed FY25 Revenue Budget review
• Public Space Special Event Application 1-2024: MDI Farmers' Market, Northeast Harbor Village Green, Thursdays 9am-noon, June 27-August 29, 2024
• Approve Treasurer's Warrants totaling $1,653,606.94

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will consider two conditional use approval applications. The board will also hold a meet and greet with a potential Planning Board alternate member.

• Conditional Use Application #013-2023: Fences and Walls at 4 Huntington Road, Northeast Harbor
• Conditional Use Application #014-2023: Non-Commercial Animal Husbandry at 8 Cobbles End, Hall Quarry
• Meet & Greet with potential Planning Board Alternate Member

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will review a proposed Short-term Rental Ordinance and consider several equipment purchases, including a new fire truck and ambulance. They will also discuss a request to extend enforcement of accrual maximums for employees and a proposal for enhanced law enforcement services in Tremont.

• Review of proposed Short-term Rental Ordinance
• Request to extend enforcement of accrual maximums to June 30, 2024
• Authorization to release $9,850 from Police Capital Reserve for cruiser upfit and decommission
• Purchase of 2024 GMC Sierra 3500HD for $56,320 and 2024 Ford E450 ambulance for $370,749 from Fire Equipment Reserve
• Purchase of 2025 International Cab & Chassis for $105,000 from Public Works Equipment Reserve

Economic Development Committee

The Mount Desert Economic Development Committee is meeting to review past minutes, receive updates on several town projects, and discuss a request for a charitable contribution to support part-time staffing for the Community Development Corporation. They will also consider potential new initiatives like village public transportation and a maker space.

• Discussion of request for charitable contribution to support CDC part-time staffing
• Broadband update (K. Miller)
• Heel Way Project update (K. Miller)
• Main Street Project update (D. Lunt)
• Skating rink update (J. Blaine)

Harbor Committee

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee is meeting on January 9, 2024, at Northeast Harbor. The main item is a review of an ordinance with a legal opinion, under new business. The agenda is otherwise light, with only minutes approval and old business listed.

• Ordinance review with legal opinion
• Approval of December 12, 2023 minutes

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a workshop to review and discuss Sections 1-6 of the Subdivision Ordinance. The board will also review proposed Land Use Ordinance amendments intended for the 2024 Town Meeting.

• Review and discussion of Subdivision Ordinance Sections 1-6
• Review of Land Use Ordinance Amendments for 2024 Town Meeting

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will consider advancing three solar projects, including a $270,000 warrant article for phase one, and authorize the fire chief to apply for a Maine EMS grant. They will also review the FY 2025 Public Safety budget and approve warrants totaling $591,511.32.

• Consider warrant article to raise $270,000 for solar projects at Somesville Fire House, Otter Creek Pumping Station, and Northeast Harbor Treatment and Pump Station
• Authorize Fire Chief Mike Bender to apply for Maine EMS Stabilization Funding Program grant
• Authorize use of WW Bond Reserve balance to subsidize final principal payment on MMBB CWSRF loan 2003FFRS
• Review FY 2025 Public Safety budget
• Approve treasurer's warrants totaling $591,511.32