Mount Desert public meetings in 2025

Harbor Committee

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee will hold its regular meeting on Dec. 17, 2025, at the Northeast Harbor meeting room and via Zoom. The agenda includes a new‑business item to meet with Gartley & Dorsky. No specific proposals, contracts, or ordinance items are listed.

• Meet with Gartley & Dorsky (new business item)

The Harbor Committee met on Dec. 17, 2025, and discussed a site visit with the Gartley and Dorsky team, scheduling it for Jan. 13, 2026. A motion to adjourn was made by Kimmerly, seconded by Reis, and was carried at 5:02 p.m.

• Adjourned meeting (motion carried at 17:02)

LUZO Advisory Group

The LUZO Advisory Group and Planning Board will hold a public meeting on Tuesday, December 16, 2025 at 5:00 PM in the Town Hall meeting room and via Zoom. The agenda includes general business, a review of the Road Standards Ordinance, policy discussions on maximum lot coverage, shared marine structures, and the location of mobile home parks, and a review of the current Subdivision Ordinance draft. Additional items may be addressed as needed.

• Review Road Standards Ordinance
• Policy discussion on maximum lot coverage
• Policy discussion on shared marine structures
• Policy discussion on location of mobile home parks
• Review current Subdivision Ordinance draft

Selectboard

The Selectboard will discuss several new business items, including a sole source purchase for police radio equipment and proposed adjustments to harbor vessel and electricity rates. The board will also review the FY 2027 Capital Improvement Plan and Debt Service.

• Sole source purchase of radio equipment from Brown's Communications, Inc. for $41,759.50
• Proposed harbor vessel rates: $3.70/ft (<49'), $4.20/ft (50'-60'), $4.70/ft (60'-99'), and $5.40/ft (100'+)
• Proposed summer electricity rates starting May 15, 2026: $25 (30amp), $36 (50amp), and $65 (100amp) per day
• Contract with General Code for ordinance codification estimated at $16,995
• Contract with Stantec Consulting Services for $9,992.48

The Selectboard adopted a revised fee schedule for harbor vessels of all sizes. It also authorized a sole‑source purchase of radio equipment from Brown's Communications for $41,759.50 and approved a contract with Stantec Consulting Services for $9,992.48. Additional actions included extending the administrative consent agreement with the Asticou Inn and appointing Timothy Weiss to the Warrant Committee.

• Approved harbor vessel fee schedule ($3.70‑$5.40 per ft) – vote 5‑0
• Authorized sole‑source radio equipment purchase $41,759.50 – vote 5‑0
• Approved Stantec Consulting Services contract $9,992.48 – vote 4‑1
• Extended administrative consent agreement with Asticou Inn – vote 5‑0
• Appointed Timothy Weiss to the Warrant Committee – vote 5‑0
• Approved Christmas Eve early closure at 12 noon – vote 5‑0
• Authorized ordinance codification agreement with General Code $16,995 – vote 5‑0
• Approved Treasurer’s Warrants totaling $1,377,913.98 – vote 5‑0

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing and decide on modifications to two previously approved subdivisions: one at 15 Blue Bell Lane, Seal Harbor, and another at 49 Hall Quarry Road, Hall Quarry. It will also consider a Conditional Use Approval Application #016-2025 to alter an existing vegetated buffer at the Hall Quarry Road site. An earlier subdivision item (Item A, 12‑9‑2025) has been withdrawn. The meeting continues a public hearing that began on November 12, 2025.

• Subdivision #002-2025 – modification of the Bicentennial Subdivision at 15 Blue Bell Lane, Seal Harbor
• Subdivision #003-2025 – modification of the Snowflake Subdivision at 49 Hall Quarry Road, Hall Quarry
• Conditional Use Approval Application #016-2025 – amendment to alter vegetated buffer at 49 Hall Quarry Road
• Withdrawal of Item A from Subdivision Approval Applications (12‑9‑2025)
• Continuation of public hearing from November 12, 2025

Harbor Committee

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee meeting on Dec. 9, 2025 will be held in the Northeast Harbor meeting room and via Zoom. The committee will consider approval of the minutes from the Nov. 12, 2025 meeting. The main new business item is a review of the bid opening for a pending Request for Proposals.

• Review of bid opening for pending RFP (new business)

The committee approved the November 12 minutes. It accepted renewal of the four existing seafood buyers. It approved a $0.25‑per‑foot increase in summer dock rates and a $5 increase in power rates. A motion to accept a proposal from Gartley and Dorsky was made, but the outcome was not recorded.

• Approved 11/12/25 minutes (motion carried)
• Accepted renewal of current seafood buyers (motion carried)
• Accepted proposal from Gartley and Dorsky (outcome not recorded)
• Increased summer dock rates by $0.25 per foot (motion carried)
• Raised power rates by $5 (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

Comprehensive Plan Committee

The Comprehensive Planning Committee will review a previous public meeting and discuss the town's vision statement. The committee will also determine the schedule for January and the 2026 outlook.

• Review and debrief of public meeting
• Discussion of Vision Statement
• Scheduling of January meeting and 2026 outlook

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will review the Decision & Findings for the Heel Way Subdivision Court Remand and, if approved, sign it. The meeting will be held in person at Town Hall, 21 Sea Street, Northeast Harbor, with a Zoom option. The board will adjourn after the review. The next meeting is scheduled for December 10, 2025, at the same location.

• Review and, if approved, sign Decision & Findings for Heel Way Subdivision Court Remand

The board voted to make Dan Burke a voting member and named Tracy Loftus Keller as acting chair for the meeting. The board approved the minutes from the November 18, 2025 meeting. The board adopted the final written decision and findings for the Heel Way Subdivision, including the open‑space provision.

• Dan Burke made a voting member (motion approved 3-0)
• Tracy Loftus Keller named acting chair (motion approved 4-0)
• Approved November 18, 2025 minutes (motion approved 4-0)
• Adopted final Decision & Findings for Heel Way Subdivision (motion approved 4-0)
• Adopted eleven‑page written decision including open‑space provision (motion approved 4-0)

Selectboard

The Selectboard will consider a professional services contract with Hedefine Engineering and a request to amend election clerk pay rates. The board will also review routine department reports and ambulance service agreement changes.

• Contract with Hedefine Engineering for $8,600.00
• Proposed amendment to election clerk pay rates
• Notice of change to the Ambulance Service Agreement with Southwest Harbor-Tremont Ambulance Service
• Cranberry Isles FY27 Parking Rate
• Submerged Lands Application lease renewal comments (deadline 12/5/2025)

The board approved a contract with Hedefine Engineering for $8,600 and authorized use of funds from the Public Works Road Reserve. It also adopted an amendment to election clerk pay rates, accepted the consent agenda, appointed David MacDonald to the Warrant Committee, and approved several treasury warrants. All motions passed with votes of 5‑0 except the payroll and fee warrant, which passed 4‑0‑1.

• Approved November 3, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Approved November 17, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Appointed David MacDonald to Warrant Committee (5-0)
• Accepted Consent Agenda (5-0)
• Approved $8,600 Hedefine Engineering contract (5-0)
• Approved amendment to election clerk pay rates (5-0)
• Approved Treasurer’s $84,793.37 warrant (5-0)
• Approved Payroll, State Fees & PR Benefit Warrants (4-0-1)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will review the MD 365 Heel Way subdivision case that has been remanded by the court. Counsel for the parties will give brief presentations summarizing the record. The Board will calculate the open‑space requirement as ordered by the court. The meeting is set for 6:00 p.m. at Town Hall, 21 Sea Street, with Zoom access available.

• Review of MD 365 Heel Way subdivision on court‑ordered remand – open‑space calculation
• Next public hearing scheduled for December 10 2025 at Town Hall, Sea Street

The board approved a motion, 5‑0, to grant voting rights to alternate member Meredith Randolph for this meeting. The board then reviewed the MD 365 Heel Way subdivision case, which the court remanded for a new open‑space calculation under Section 5.16.2.3 of the Subdivision Ordinance. No final decision on the subdivision’s open‑space requirement was recorded.

• Approved motion to make Meredith Randolph a voting member (5‑0)
• Reviewed MD 365 Heel Way subdivision open‑space requirement (no decision made)

LUZO Advisory Group

The LUZO Advisory Group and Planning Board will discuss general committee business. They will review suggested changes to the LUZO and other ordinances concerning road review standards. They will also examine the current draft of the subdivision ordinance. Additional items may be addressed as needed.

• Review suggested changes to LUZO and other ordinances for road review standards
• Review current subdivision ordinance draft
• General committee business
• Other items as needed

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will consider authorizing the purchase of a 2026 Ford Hybrid Police Interceptor SUV for $46,388 and the inspection of Northeast Harbor dock chains for $2,185.75. The board will also discuss accepting a $1,000 gift from Castine for fire department costs and appoint Rustin Taylor to the Warrant Committee.

• Authorize purchase of 2026 Ford Hybrid Police Interceptor SUV for $46,388
• Authorize payment for Northeast Harbor dock chain inspection ($2,185.75)
• Accept $1,000 gift from Castine for Mount Desert Fire Department
• Appointment of Rustin Taylor to Warrant Committee
• Approve Treasurer's Warrants totaling $704,369.95

The board authorized the release of funds to buy a 2026 Ford Hybrid Police Interceptor SUV with a net price of $46,388. It also approved payments for a dock inspection, an overage to a contractor, and accepted a $1,000 gift to the fire department. Treasurer’s warrants for town invoices and payroll were signed, and a new member was appointed to the Warrant Committee. All motions passed with unanimous or near‑unanimous votes.

• Appointed Rustin Taylor to the Warrant Committee (5-0)
• Authorized $2,185.75 payment for Northeast Harbor dock chain inspection (5-0)
• Accepted $1,000 unconditional gift to the Mount Desert Fire Department (5-0)
• Approved purchase of a 2026 Ford Hybrid Police Interceptor SUV, net $46,388 (5-0)
• Approved $3,825 overage payment to Kelley and Sons Small Excavation (5-0)
• Approved Treasurer’s Warrant for town invoices totaling $257,077.46 (5-0)
• Approved Treasurer’s Payroll, State Fees & PR Benefit Warrants totaling $273,180.14 (4-0-1)
• Acknowledged voided disbursements and school board warrants totaling $174,112.35 (5-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing regarding modifications to a previously approved subdivision. The board will also consider a conditional use application for a new heated boat storage building.

• Public hearing for subdivision modification at 15 Blue Bell Lane, Seal Harbor
• Conditional Use Application #015-2025 for a 120’ x 60’ one-story heated boat storage building at 17 Shipwright Lane, Hall Quarry

Harbor Committee

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee meeting will review the minutes from the October 14, 2025 session. New business includes a discussion of ghost traps presented by Emma Weed of the Gulf of Maine Lobster Foundation. Old business items are the commercial float opening and public dock use.

• New Business – Emma Weed Gulf of Maine Lobster Foundation ghost traps
• Old Business – Commercial float opening
• Old Business – Public dock use
• Review minutes from October 14, 2025

The committee approved the October 14, 2025 minutes. It accepted the commercial float lottery results drawn by Jason Clarck. The meeting was then adjourned. No vote counts were recorded for these motions.

• Approved 10/14/25 minutes (motion carried)
• Accepted commercial float lottery results (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

Selectboard

The Selectboard will approve the minutes from the October 20 meeting and recognize Mount Desert’s third‑place award in the Maine Municipal Association Annual Report Competition. Items on the consent agenda include the proposed 2026 State Valuation report and a Comprehensive Plan workshop. New business includes a payment request to Seawood Services Inc., a FEMA reimbursement transfer, and authorization for a Rabies Clinic on November 13.

• Approve payment of $1,607.50 to Seawood Services Inc. from Seal Harbor CIP reserve #6410200-24600
• Authorize transfer of $5,543.51 FEMA reimbursement to the Seal Harbor Village Improvement Society
• Approve holding a Rabies Clinic on Thursday, November 13, 2025, 5‑6 pm in the Meeting Room
• Consent agenda: review of the proposed 2026 State Valuation report (valuation $3,395,500,000)
• Unfinished business: update from Municipal WasteHub Executive Director on the Waste Solutions processing facility

Sustainability Committee

The Sustainability Committee will review updates to the Town of Mount Desert Climate Action Plan and a priority list of unfinished goals. The body will also discuss additions to the Comprehensive Plan and provide updates on coastal resources, solid waste, and composting.

• Discussion of additions to the Comprehensive Plan
• Update on Coastal Resources, Solid Waste, and composting
• Review of Town of Mount Desert Climate Action Plan update and priority list of unfinished goals

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will meet on October 22, 2025 at Town Hall, 21 Sea Street. The board will approve minutes and consider Conditional Use Approval Application #014-2025 submitted by Seal Harbor Boathouse, LLC for a 25’ × 25’ float and a 38’ × 3.75’ gangway at 28 Dodge Point Road in Shoreland Residential Two zone. The meeting also includes an update from the Land Use Zoning Ordinance Advisory Committee and a discussion of planning board applications, subdivision proposals, and land‑use zoning ordinance amendments.

• Conditional Use Approval Application #014-2025 – addition of 25’ × 25’ float and 38’ × 3.75’ gangway at 28 Dodge Point Road (Shoreland Residential Two zone)
• Approval of meeting minutes
• Update from Land Use Zoning Ordinance Advisory Committee
• Discussion of planning board applications, subdivision proposals, and land‑use zoning ordinance amendments

The board approved the September 10 and September 24, 2025 meeting minutes and made Dan Burke a voting member for this meeting. It approved the short‑form application process and conditionally approved Conditional Use Application #014‑2025, pending a letter from the Maine Historic Preservation Commission. The board agreed to bring the Subdivision Ordinance to the May Town Meeting and scheduled a remand meeting for November 18 at 6:00 p.m.

• Approved Dan Burke as voting member for the meeting (5‑0)
• Approved September 10, 2025 minutes as presented (5‑0)
• Approved September 24, 2025 minutes as presented (5‑0)
• Approved use of short form for the application (5‑0)
• Approved Conditional Use Application #014‑2025 (5‑0), pending Maine Historic Preservation Commission letter
• Agreed to bring Subdivision Ordinance to May Town Meeting
• Scheduled remand meeting for November 18 at 6:00 p.m.
• Adjourned the meeting (5‑0)

Selectboard

The board will hold a public hearing on a liquor license application from Maude Kusserow d/b/a Good Wolf at 123 Main Street. It will consider authorizing Fire Chief Mike Bender to buy furniture for $10,125.95 from Fire Station Furniture Company, Inc. for the Mount Desert Fire Station #1 project. The board will also approve contracts for professional services: $5,300 with Gartley & Dorskey and $11,350 with Hager‑Richter Geoscience, using public works reserve funds. Additional actions include appointing Alex Kimball as interim treasurer, approving prior meeting minutes, and signing treasurer’s warrants totaling $742,076.02.

• Public hearing for Good Wolf liquor license (Maude Kusserow, 123 Main Street)
• Authorize purchase of fire station furniture for $10,125.95 from Fire Station Furniture Company, Inc.
• Approve $5,300 contract with Gartley & Dorskey, funded from Public Works Road Reserve
• Approve $11,350 contract with Hager‑Richter Geoscience, funded from Public Works Road Reserve and Seal Harbor Docks and Piers Reserve
• Appointment of Alex Kimball as Interim Treasurer effective November 1, 2025

The board approved a liquor license for Good Wolf, appointed Alex Kimball as interim treasurer, and authorized several contracts and purchases, including fire station furniture and professional services, each passing with a 3‑0 vote. All items on the consent agenda and treasury warrants were also approved unanimously.

• Approved liquor license for Maude Kusserow d/b/a Good Wolf (3-0)
• Appointed Alex Kimball as Interim Treasurer effective Nov 1, 2025 (3-0)
• Accepted Consent Agenda (3-0)
• Authorized Fire Chief Mike Bender to purchase furniture for $10,125.95 (3-0)
• Authorized Town Manager to sign Agreement and General Release with CBC Holding Corporation (3-0)
• Approved contract with Gartley & Dorskey for $5,300 professional services (3-0)
• Approved contract with Hager‑Richter Geoscience for $11,350 professional services (3-0)
• Approved Treasurer’s Warrants and payroll/fees items totaling $742,076.02 (3-0)

Harbor Committee

The Harbor Committee will meet to discuss a Request for Proposals (RFP) and proposals regarding the opening of commercial floats. The meeting also includes a review of the September 9, 2025, minutes.

• RFP discussion
• Commercial float opening proposals

The committee approved the Main Pier Request for Proposals as presented. It also approved all four qualified commercial operator applicants to be entered into a lottery at the next meeting on November 12, 2025.

• Approved Main Pier RFP (motion carried)
• Approved lottery for commercial operator lease applicants (motion carried)
• Accepted 9/9/25 minutes as presented (motion carried)

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee will review updates on the skating rink, workforce housing, and 2026 winter gatherings. The body will also discuss a concept for a Mount Desert tech hub and potential outreach to local businesses.

• Mount Desert tech hub concept
• Workforce housing updates
• Skating rink updates
• Winter gatherings 2026
• Visitor information and events on town website

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will meet on October 8, 2025 at Town Hall, 21 Sea Street, and via Zoom. The board will approve the previous meeting’s minutes. The main agenda item is to discuss and review planning board applications, subdivision proposals, and any proposed zoning ordinance amendments.

• Discuss and review planning board applications
• Review subdivision proposals
• Consider zoning ordinance amendments

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will consider several actions, including a 3‑day unpaid suspension of the Town Assessor, adoption of amendments to the General Assistance Ordinance Appendices A‑H, and approval of a contract for winter sand at $18.50 per cubic yard for fiscal year 2026. The board will also confirm new appointments for a patrol officer, a custodian, and other positions, and will vote on routine treasury warrants totaling $2,042,207.89.

• 3‑day unpaid suspension of the Town Assessor for violating personnel policy section 9.5.10
• Adoption of amendments to the General Assistance Ordinance Appendices A‑H
• Appointment of Virginia Helton as a full‑time patrol officer at $31.1971, rising to $32.9303 after probation
• Contract with Harold MacQuinn, Inc. to supply winter sand for FY 2026 at $18.50 per cubic yard
• Approval of Treasurer’s warrants totaling $2,042,207.89

Selectboard

The Selectboard is meeting in a special executive session. The board will discuss personnel matters and confer with legal counsel regarding a pending personnel matter.

• Executive session regarding personnel matters
• Consultation with legal counsel on a pending personnel matter

The board voted 5-0 to enter an executive session for a personnel matter under MRS §405(6)(A). Later, it voted 5-0 to leave the executive session. Finally, it voted 5-0 to adjourn the meeting. No substantive policy or budget decisions were made.

• Enter executive session (5-0)
• Leave executive session (5-0)
• Adjourn meeting (5-0)

Planning Board

The board voted 4‑0 to approve the final plat plans for the Area 51 Subdivision and to sign them. It also approved taking Item IV.C out of order, nominated Meredith Randolph as an alternate member, and adjourned the meeting. No minutes were presented for approval.

• Motion to take Item IV.C out of order approved 4-0
• Nominate Meredith Randolph as Alternate Member approved 4-0
• Approve Area 51 Subdivision final plat plans approved 4-0
• Adjourn meeting approved 4-0

Sustainability Committee

The committee will discuss updates to the Town of Mount Desert Climate Action Plan and a priority list of unfinished goals. Members will also receive updates on solar projects and waste collection events.

• Climate Action Plan update and priority list of unfinished goals
• Solar project updates for Somesville Firehouse and NEH wastewater
• Household Hazard Collection Day and Schule Shredding Event for May 30, 2026
• Coastal Resources, Solid Waste, and composting updates
• Discussion on MDES students Green Team attending meetings

Selectboard

The Selectboard will consider several new business items, including a liquor‑license renewal for Milk and Honey, an abatement request, and a contract for heating oil at $2.47 per gallon for fiscal year 2026. It will also vote on a revocable license agreement with Island Housing Trust, a temp‑to‑hire hire for the Buildings & Grounds Custodian position, and a uniform and janitorial supply contract with Cintas Corporation. Additional items include a $12,000 change order for the Somesville Sidewalk Project and a $500 conditional gift to the Fire Department, while routine matters such as minutes, resignations and treasurer’s warrants will be approved.

• Liquor license renewal for Eliza Bishop/DBA Milk and Honey, 3 Old Firehouse Lane, Northeast Harbor
• Review and approve heating oil contract with Coastal Energy for FY 2026 at $2.47 per gallon
• Approve revocable license agreement with Island Housing Trust to authorize work on town land
• Approve contract with Cintas Corporation to provide uniform and janitorial supplies for Public Works Department
• Approve $12,000 change order to the Somesville Sidewalk Project with Gardner Concrete

The Selectboard approved the September 2, 2025 minutes, dismissed Buildings & Grounds Custodian Donald Sullivan, and renewed the liquor license for Milk and Honey at 3 Old Firehouse Lane. It also approved an abatement for Map/Lot 010-074 (≈$272), a heating‑oil contract with Coastal Energy for FY2026 at $2.47 per gallon, a $12,000 change order to the Somesville sidewalk project, and a $1,889,241 Treasurer’s warrant. Town Manager Alex Kimball was appointed Deputy Treasurer.

• Approved September 2, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Dismissed Buildings & Grounds Custodian Donald Sullivan (5-0)
• Renewed liquor license for Milk and Honey, 3 Old Firehouse Lane (5-0)
• Approved abatement for Map/Lot 010-074 (~$272) (5-0)
• Approved Coastal Energy heating‑oil contract FY2026 at $2.47/gal (5-0)
• Approved $12,000 change order to Somesville Sidewalk Project (5-0)
• Approved $1,889,241 Treasurer’s warrant (5-0)
• Appointed Town Manager Alex Kimball as Deputy Treasurer (5-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing regarding a subdivision application for a new residential unit. The board will also consider a request to waive street design and construction standards for a private road.

• Public hearing for Subdivision #001-2025 at 2 Eddie Way to construct a third residential dwelling unit
• Request for waiver of Subdivision Ordinance Section 5.14 Street Design and Construction Standards for a private road off Oak Grove Road

The Planning Board approved the August 27, 2025 minutes with a 5‑0 vote. No decision was made on Subdivision #001‑2025, which will be voted on at the next meeting. The request for a road‑standard waiver was not resolved, with the Board reserving a decision on jurisdiction for a future discussion.

• Approved August 27, 2025 minutes (5-0)

Harbor Committee

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee meeting on September 9, 2025 will review minutes from June 10, 2025, consider new business items including Lauren Gray oyster sales and a commercial float opening, and continue old business with a discussion of the Main Pier with Greg Johnston. No decisions are recorded in the agenda.

• Call to Order at 4:30 p.m.
• Review minutes from June 10, 2025
• Lauren Gray oyster sales
• Commercial float opening
• Main Pier discussion with Greg Johnston

The committee accepted the June 10, 2025 minutes. It approved Scott Trudy as a mooring inspector. Five of six proposed dock changes were approved, with item four postponed to the November meeting and item five limited to 20 permits. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Accepted June 10, 2025 minutes (motion carried)
• Approved Scott Trudy as mooring inspector (motion carried)
• Approved dock item 1 (motion carried)
• Approved dock item 2 (motion carried)
• Approved dock item 3 (motion carried)
• Deferred dock item 4 discussion to November meeting (motion carried)
• Approved dock item 5 with limit of 20 permits (motion carried)
• Approved dock item 6 (motion carried)

Comprehensive Plan Committee

The Mount Desert Comprehensive Planning Committee will meet to continue reviewing inventory chapters of the town’s 2025 Comprehensive Plan, focusing on fiscal capacity and regional coordination. The committee will also plan a fall public meeting to gather resident input.

• Review of Fiscal Capacity chapter (45 min)
• Review of Regional Coordination chapter (45 min)
• Planning for fall public meeting (45 min)

Selectboard

The Selectboard will review bids and resolutions for a General Obligation Bond not to exceed $7,645,000 to finance projects approved at the 2025 Annual Town Meeting. The board will also consider the appointment of a new Town Manager and a grant application for Mount Desert Island High School.

• Review of bids for a $7,645,000 General Obligation Bond
• Proposed bond resolutions for Katahdin Trust Company (5.47% rate) and Bar Harbor Bank & Trust (5.63% rate)
• Appointment of Alex Kimball as Town Manager
• Community Resilience Partnership grant application for ASHRAE Level 2 analysis of Mount Desert Island High School
• Treasurer’s Warrants totaling $3,087,262.42

The board approved a General Obligation Bond of up to $7,645,000 at a fixed 5.47% rate to Katahdin Trust Company. It denied a similar bond issuance to Bar Harbor Bank & Trust. Additional actions included appointing Alex Kimball as Town Manager, accepting a patrol officer’s resignation, and approving a public‑space permit and a school energy‑efficiency grant.

• Approved appointment of Alex Kimball as Town Manager (5-0)
• Accepted resignation of Patrol Officer Shelby O'Neil (5-0)
• Approved Public Space Permit 9-2025 for Arturo Barrett Picnic Potluck (5-0)
• Approved Community Resilience Partnership grant for ASHRAE Level 2 analysis of Mount Desert Island High School (5-0)
• Approved issuance of $7,645,000 General Obligation Bond to Katahdin Trust at 5.47% for 20 years (5-0)
• Denied issuance of $7,645,000 General Obligation Bond to Bar Harbor Bank & Trust at 5.63% (0-5)
• Approved Treasurer’s warrants totaling $3,087,262.42 (5-0)
• Approved Treasurer’s payroll, fees, and PR benefit warrants totaling $346,887.87 (4-0-1)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider a conditional use application for marine structures and a request for a subdivision ordinance waiver. These decisions affect property access and shoreline construction in Mount Desert.

• Conditional Use Application #013-2025 for piers, docks, or wharves at 52 Pojereno Road
• Request for a waiver of Street Design and Construction Standards for a private road off Oak Grove Road

The board appointed Vice Chair Loftus Keller as acting chair (3‑0) and made alternate Dan Burke a voting member (4‑0). The meeting minutes from August 13, 2025 were approved (5‑0). The conditional use application to extend a dock at 52 WIPojereno Road was found complete and approved, with the short‑form checklist used (each 5‑0). Discussion of a private‑road waiver was postponed to the September 10, 2025 meeting (5‑0).

• Appointed Vice Chair Loftus Keller as acting chair (3‑0)
• Made Dan Burke a voting member for the meeting (4‑0)
• Approved August 13, 2025 minutes (5‑0)
• Found Conditional Use Application #013‑2025 complete (5‑0)
• Approved Conditional Use Application #013‑2025 (dock extension) (5‑0)
• Approved use of short‑form application checklist (5‑0)
• Postponed private‑road waiver discussion to Sep 10, 2025 (5‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (5‑0)

Selectboard

The Selectboard will discuss an interim Town Manager agreement for Durlin E. Lunt and review a letter to local businesses regarding hemp-derived THC products. The board will also consider several donations to the Fire Department and a contract for restroom installation.

• Interim Town Manager agreement for Durlin E. Lunt beginning September 2, 2025
• Bid from Kelley and Sons Small Excavation for $11,480.00 for portable restroom installation
• Conditional gifts of $1,000.00 for EMS and $1,000.00 for Fire operations from William C. Trimble Jr.
• Monetary gift of $250.00 from Gilbert & Ildiko Butler Family Foundation to Fire Department
• Payment of $797.50 to Kimball Terrace Inn for sewer cleaning reimbursement

The board approved the minutes from the August 4 meeting and accepted the consent agenda. It accepted several unconditional and conditional monetary gifts totaling $2,350 for the Mount Desert Fire Department. The board approved a $11,480 contract for portable restroom installation and confirmed an interim Town Manager agreement for Durlin Lunt starting September 2. Additional financial items, including the Treasurer’s warrant and state fee warrants, were also approved.

• Approved August 4, 2025 minutes (4-0)
• Accepted consent agenda including ticket sales agreements (4-0)
• Accepted $250 gift to fire department from Butler Foundation (4-0)
• Accepted $100 gift to fire department from Welles & Geeanen (4-0)
• Accepted two conditional $1,000 gifts to fire department from William C. Trimble Jr. (4-0)
• Approved $11,480 portable restroom contract with Kelley and Sons (4-0)
• Approved interim Town Manager agreement for Durlin Lunt effective Sep 2 (4-0)
• Approved Treasurer’s warrant for $1,891,989.95 (4-0)

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will meet in person and via Zoom to review a subdivision application for a third residential dwelling unit on a single tract of land at 51 Oak Hill Road. The board will also consider approval of past meeting minutes and adjourn.

• Subdivision #001-2025 application by Mark E. Dunbar for third dwelling unit at 51 Oak Hill Road
• Zoning districts: Residential Two (R2) and Shoreland Residential Two (SR2)
• Completeness review of subdivision application

The Board found the Subdivision Application #001-2025 for 51 Oak Hill Road complete in all required sections. Motions to approve each section and the overall application were adopted unanimously (5‑0). The Board also approved the minutes from the July 9 and July 23 meetings. Next steps include scheduling a public hearing and final compliance meeting.

• Approved July 9, 2025 minutes (4-0-1)
• Approved July 23, 2025 minutes (3-0-2)
• Found Sections 4.2.1‑4.2.3 complete (5-0)
• Found Section 5 requirements complete (5-0)
• Found Section 6A complete (5-0)
• Found Section 6B provisions complete (5-0)
• Found Section 6C complete (5-0)
• Approved Subdivision #001-2025 application in entirety (5-0)

Selectboard

The Selectboard will discuss a zoning setback request and a propane bid. The board is also considering whether to have the League of Towns draft a moratorium on intoxicating hemp products.

• Setback nullification request for 2 Richardson Avenue, Otter Creek
• Propane bid from Coastal Energy at $1.31 per gallon
• Appointment of April O'Neal as Public Works Office Coordinator at $28.33-$29.91 per hour
• Authorization for Project Staffing, LLC for temporary HR Manager placement
• Approval of Treasurer's Warrants totaling $2,098,265.48

The board approved the July 21, 2025 minutes and appointed April O'Neal and Ann Bissell to town positions. It granted a setback nullification for 2 Richardson Avenue and accepted a propane bid of $1.31 per gallon. The board also authorized a temporary HR manager through Project Staffing, LLC and expressed support for drafting a moratorium on intoxicating hemp products. Treasurer’s warrants and related payroll and fee payments were also approved.

• Approved July 21, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Appointed April O'Neal as Public Works Office Coordinator (5-0)
• Appointed Ann Bissell to Economic Development Committee (5-0)
• Approved setback nullification for 2 Richardson Avenue (5-0)
• Approved Coastal Energy propane bid of $1.31 per gallon (5-0)
• Authorized Project Staffing, LLC for temporary HR Manager placement (5-0)
• Approved draft moratorium for intoxicating hemp products (5-0)
• Approved Treasurer's warrants and payroll/fees (4-0-1; Littlefield abstained)

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will hold a joint workshop with the Bar Harbor Council. The body will discuss next steps regarding police consolidation.

• Joint workshop with Bar Harbor Council on police consolidation

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a workshop to discuss and review amendments to the Subdivision Ordinance. The board will also review updates from the Maine State Legislature.

• Review of Subdivision Ordinance Amendments
• Discussion of Maine State Legislature updates

The Planning Board voted to make alternate member Dan Burke a voting member, approving the motion 3‑0. The board then adjourned the meeting by a 4‑0 vote. No minutes were approved because there were none to approve. No other formal actions were taken.

• Made Dan Burke a voting member (approved 3‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (approved 4‑0)

Selectboard

The Selectboard will discuss a legal consent agreement in executive session and review an operation and maintenance contract for the Town Garage solar array. The board will also consider accepting two monetary gifts for the Fire Department and approve nearly $1.7 million in warrants.

• Review of Operation & Maintenance contract with ReVision Energy for Town Garage solar array
• Proposed $500 unconditional gift from Chris Campbell to the Fire Department
• Proposed $1,500 conditional gift from Mary R. Morgan for ambulance services
• Approval of Treasurer's Warrants totaling $1,690,038.14
• Executive session regarding an Administrative Consent Agreement under Section 7.11 of the LUZO

The board entered and later left executive session, approved the Administrative Consent Agreement, and accepted resignations from the Economic Development Community. It then approved the operation and maintenance contract with ReVision Energy for the town garage solar array, accepted two monetary gifts to the fire department, and signed the Treasurer’s warrant for $799,619.36. All motions passed unanimously except one abstention on a payroll warrant.

• Entered executive session (5-0)
• Approved Administrative Consent Agreement (5-0)
• Accepted resignations of Averel Wilson and Rick Wheeler from Economic Development Community (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda (5-0)
• Approved Operation & Maintenance contract with ReVision Energy for garage solar array (5-0)
• Accepted $500 unconditional gift to Fire Department from Chris Campbell (5-0)
• Accepted $1,500 conditional gift to Fire Department from Mary R. Morgan (5-0)
• Approved Treasurer’s warrant for $799,619.36 (5-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider four conditional use applications. These requests include property modifications, animal husbandry, and the reconstruction of town recreational facilities.

• Reconstruction of tennis courts at 40 Harbor Drive for tennis, pickleball, and ice skating
• Request to exceed 6-foot fence height limit at 5 Hills Road
• Request for 6-foot fence setback waiver at 1 Harborside Road
• Application to keep 8 chickens at 212 Kimball Camp Road

The Planning Board made Dan Burke a voting member (4‑0) and approved the June 25 minutes (5‑0). It approved three private conditional‑use fence applications (#009‑2025, #010‑2025, #011‑2025) each with a 5‑0 vote. It also approved the town’s application to reconstruct the tennis courts, accepting a recusal of Allen Kimmerly (4‑0) and finding the application complete (4‑0).

• Dan Burke made voting member of Planning Board (4‑0)
• June 25, 2025 minutes approved (5‑0)
• Conditional Use #009‑2025 (fence) approved (5‑0)
• Conditional Use #010‑2025 (fence setback waiver) approved (5‑0)
• Conditional Use #011‑2025 (chicken coop) approved (5‑0)
• Recusal of Allen Kimmerly accepted for Application #012‑2025 (4‑0)
• Application #012‑2025 found complete (4‑0)

Selectboard

The Selectboard will discuss financing for projects approved at the 2025 Annual Town Meeting and review several equipment and infrastructure purchases. The board will also hold a public hearing regarding a new liquor license for a business in Northeast Harbor.

• Authorization to solicit bids for a $7,645,000.00 General Obligation Bond
• Liquor license request for Emma Johnson d/b/a Arties at 5 Sea Street, Northeast Harbor
• Purchase of a 2025 Ram 2500 crew cab 4x4 for $49,544.00
• $44,800.00 agreement with Hedefine Engineering & Design, Inc. for a Seal Harbor Fire Station generator
• Road salt purchase from New England Salt at $73.50 per ton for an estimated 1,700 tons

The Selectboard approved a new Class III/IV liquor license for Arties and accepted a $100 gift to the fire department. It authorized a $44,800 engineering contract for a generator at the Seal Harbor fire station and approved the solicitation of a $7,645,000 general‑obligation bond. The board also accepted a land donation for road extensions and approved several equipment and service purchases.

• Approved Class III/IV liquor license for Arties (5-0)
• Authorized $44,800 engineering contract for Seal Harbor fire station generator (5-0)
• Authorized solicitation of $7,645,000 general‑obligation bond (5-0)
• Accepted land donation from Island Housing Trust for Sydneys Way & Farnhams Way extensions (5-0)
• Approved purchase of 2025 Ram 2500 crew cab 4x4 for $49,544 (5-0)
• Approved road salt purchase: 1,700 tons at $73.50 per ton (5-0)
• Approved UV disinfection system upgrades for Somesville and Seal Harbor wastewater plants (5-0)
• Accepted $100 unconditional gift to the fire department (5-0)

Selectboard

The Selectboard is holding a special meeting to discuss the search for a Town Manager. This discussion will take place in an executive session with a representative from the Maine Municipal Association.

• Executive session regarding Town Manager search

The Selectboard voted 5-0 to enter an executive session to discuss the town manager search. After the session, they voted 5-0 to leave the executive session. The board then adjourned the meeting with a 5-0 vote.

• Enter executive session approved 5-0
• Leave executive session approved 5-0
• Adjourn meeting approved 5-0

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a workshop to discuss and review Planning Board applications. The board will also review subdivision and land use zoning ordinance amendments.

• Review of Planning Board applications
• Discussion of subdivision and land use zoning ordinance amendments

The board approved the June 11, 2025 minutes with a 3‑0‑1 vote (one abstention). The remainder of the meeting consisted of discussion on checklist and ordinance revisions, but no formal actions were adopted. The meeting was then adjourned by a 4‑0 vote.

• Approved June 11, 2025 minutes (3-0-1, 1 abstention)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Selectboard

The Selectboard will review several infrastructure contracts and financial transfers. The body is also deciding on liquor license renewals and the appointment of board and committee members.

• Contract with Wellman Paving for FY 2026 annual paving in the amount of $238,162.50
• Authorization of $200,000 from Capital Gains Reserve to reduce 2025–2026 tax commitment
• Liquor license renewals for COPITA (102 Main Street) and Lighthouse Inn and Restaurant (12 Main Street)
• Payment of $22,180.00 to Coastal Energy for boiler replacement in The Yachtsmen building
• Payment of $19,248.08 to Maine Equipment Company for 2017 Heil PT1000 packer truck repairs

The board approved the June 2, 2025 minutes and made several appointments, including Norman Gray to Buildings & Grounds and Martha Dudman as the LUZO Advisory Committee liaison. It approved multiple financial actions, most notably authorizing up to $1,662,500 for debt service payments to Bar Harbor Bank & Trust and a $238,162.50 paving contract with Wellman Paving (additional expenditures up to $420,000). All motions passed unanimously (5‑0) except one payroll warrant vote of 4‑0‑1.

• Approved June 2, 2025 minutes (5‑0)
• Appointed Norman Gray to Buildings & Grounds position (5‑0)
• Appointed Martha Dudman as LUZO Advisory Committee liaison (5‑0)
• Approved liquor license renewal for Michael C. Boland, DBA COPITA, 102 Main St (5‑0)
• Authorized $4,483 payment to Omega Security for marina camera replacements (5‑0)
• Approved contract with Wellman Paving for FY2026 paving $238,162.50, additional up to $420,000 (5‑0)
• Authorized debt service payments up to $1,662,500 to Bar Harbor Bank & Trust (5‑0)
• Approved Treasurer's warrant for $574,997.88 invoices (5‑0)

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will consider three requests for conditional use approvals. These include requests for a retaining wall, pond expansion, and shoreline stabilization.

• Application #006-2025: Retaining wall exceeding 6-foot height limit at 21 Rowland Road
• Application #007-2025: Expansion of man-made pond at 15 Golf Club Road
• Application #008-2025: Stabilization of 106 linear feet of coastal bluff erosion at 26 Manchester Road

The board made Dan Burke a voting member (3‑0) and approved the May 28 minutes (4‑0). It then approved Conditional Use Applications #006‑2025, #007‑2025, and #008‑2025, each by a 4‑0 vote. The meeting was adjourned at 7:07 p.m. (4‑0).

• Made Dan Burke a voting member (3-0)
• Approved May 28, 2025 minutes (4-0)
• Approved Conditional Use Application #006-2025 (4-0)
• Approved Conditional Use Application #007-2025 (4-0)
• Approved Conditional Use Application #008-2025 (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Harbor Committee

The Harbor Committee will meet to review minutes from May 13, 2025. The primary item of new business is a discussion regarding the Main Pier with Greg Johnston.

• Main Pier discussion with Greg Johnston

The committee accepted the May 13, 2025 minutes as presented. It approved ultra‑sounding of the Seal Harbor pier. The meeting was then adjourned. No other actions were decided.

• Accepted 5/13/25 minutes (motion carried)
• Approved ultra‑sounding of Seal Harbor pier (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

Selectboard

The Selectboard will discuss various town appointments, liquor license renewals, and fire department equipment funding. The board is also reviewing a setback reduction request for a Versant substation and a construction contract termination in executive session.

• Transfer of $909,248.78 from Money Market Account to operating account
• Spending up to $92,594.00 for fire department extrication tools and stabilization equipment
• Liquor license renewals for Jordan Pond House and The Docksider
• Versant request for setback reduction at Harborside Rd and Peabody Dr
• Authorization to solicit bids for a new Ram pickup truck

Planning Board

The Planning Board will determine the use of a property at 16 Main Street and review two conditional use applications. The board will also receive an update from the Land Use Zoning Ordinance Advisory Committee.

• Determination of Use for 16 Main Street, Seal Harbor (Zephyr Holdings, LLC)
• Conditional Use Application #004-2025 for 6 chickens at 128 Hall Quarry Road
• Conditional Use Application #005-2025 for a structure exceeding 40 feet at 30 Broad Cove Road

The Planning Board classified the 16 Main Street location in Seal Harbor as an Office Building, allowing psychiatric services, with a 5-0 vote. It also approved Conditional Use Application #004-2025 for a chicken coop on Hall Quarry Road and Conditional Use Application #005-2025 for a structure on Broad Cove Road, each passing 5-0. All motions were unanimous.

• Approved Office Building classification for 16 Main St, Seal Harbor (5-0)
• Approved Conditional Use Application #004-2025, chicken coop at 128 Hall Quarry Rd (5-0)
• Approved Conditional Use Application #005-2025, structure at 30 Broad Cove Rd (5-0)
• Approved May 14, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Adopted short form for applications (5-0)
• Found applications complete (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Sustainability Committee

The Mount Desert Sustainability Committee will meet to approve the previous meeting summary, receive updates on solar projects, climate action plan goals, and local sustainability initiatives, and discuss future events like a sport equipment swap day and student green team participation.

• Shredding Day scheduled for May 31, 9:00 AM at Town Garage
• Sport Equipment Swap Day on June 14, 9:30 AM at NEH Library
• Update on Solar Projects at Somesville Firehouse and NEH wastewater facility
• Town of Mount Desert Climate Action Plan update and unfinished goals review
• Discussion on MDES students Green Team participation starting in fall

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will hold a public hearing on a CDBG Housing Assistance Grant for fire safety upgrades at Maple Lane Apartments, serving low-income elderly and disabled adults. The board is also set to discuss and act on Article 57 of the 2025-26 warrant, authorize funds for structural firefighting gear, and consider a modified solar array installation at the Somesville Fire Station. Other items include appointments, approval of minutes, and acceptance of donated gifts to the fire department.

• Public hearing on CDBG grant for fire safety upgrades at 24 Maple Lane, Northeast Harbor
• Consider authorizing $2,389.88 from prior encumberment for structural firefighting gear
• Review and approve modified solar array installation at Somesville Fire Station (34kW peak)
• Consider releasing up to $13,273.93 from Fire Equipment Reserve for structural firefighting gear
• Request by Dobbs Productions Inc. to use Public Access Channel 1301 for summer 2025 and winter 2026

The board entered and left an executive session to discuss collective‑bargaining matters. It accepted a CDBG housing assistance grant for fire‑safety upgrades at Maple Lane Apartments and voted 4‑1 to deny the New England Fishermen Stewardship Association’s $5,000 third‑party funding request as directed by the Town Meeting. The board also approved a modified 34 kW solar array at Somesville Fire Station, changed the enrollment of the Northeast Harbor wastewater‑treatment solar array, released $13,273.93 for fire‑gear purchases, and approved several public‑access and community‑event requests.

• Denied New England Fishermen Stewardship Association $5,000 funding (4-1)
• Approved modified solar array at Somesville Fire Station, capped at 34 kW (5-0)
• Changed enrollment of Northeast Harbor wastewater‑treatment solar array to Kilowatt Hour Program (5-0)
• Released up to $13,273.93 from Fire Equipment Reserve for structural firefighting gear (5-0)
• Accepted CDBG Housing Assistance Grant for fire‑safety upgrades at Maple Lane Apartments (5-0)
• Approved Dobbs Productions Inc. use of Public Access Channel 1301 for summer 2025 and winter 2026 (5-0)
• Approved Qigong Class for Seniors public‑space event at Suminsby Park (5-0)
• Approved Annual Employee Appointments as presented (5-0)

Shellfish Conservation Committee

The Shellfish Committee will hold a regular meeting to approve minutes from March 2024 and receive updates from the warden and state officials. The primary discussion item is a review of budget spending. No old business is on the agenda.

• Approval of minutes from March 27, 2024
• Discussion of budget spending

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a workshop to discuss and review Planning Board applications, subdivision and land use zoning ordinance amendments. No public hearings or votes are scheduled; the next meeting is May 28, 2025.

• Workshop to review subdivision and land use zoning ordinance amendments
• Approval of previous meeting minutes
• Next meeting scheduled for May 28, 2025

The Planning Board voted to grant voting rights to Alternate Member Dan Burke, passing the motion 4‑0. The Board also approved the April 23, 2025 minutes with a 3‑0 vote. No other formal actions were taken during the meeting.

• Made Alternate Member Dan Burke a voting member (4-0)
• Approved April 23, 2025 minutes (3-0)

Harbor Committee

The Harbor Committee will meet to discuss new business regarding the ice rink and the Main Pier. The committee also intends to review an ordinance as part of its old business.

• Discussion of the Main Pier
• Discussion of the Ice Rink
• Ordinance review

The Harbor Committee accepted the west‑side rink compressor location (6 yeas, 2 nays). The committee approved the minutes from April 8, 2025. It also approved Mike McEnroe’s proposal to operate a landing‑craft charter at Bartletts landing ramp, with the town named on the insurance and a fee of $650 per year plus $0.28 per passenger. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Accepted west‑side rink compressor location (6 yeas, 2 nays)
• Accepted April 8, 2025 minutes as presented
• Approved landing‑craft charter proposal ($650/yr, $0.28 per passenger)
• Adjourned meeting

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will hold a regular meeting following the Annual Town Meeting. They will elect officers, approve minutes from April 22, and consider several seasonal and probationary appointments including a part-time patrol officer, refuse workers, and a Mechanic B. New business includes adopting annual policies on treasurer disbursements and town counsel, and voting on a $50,000 storm-damaged sidewalk repair in Seal Harbor and a $20,500 tire replacement for fire apparatus. The board will also approve warrants totaling over $1.6 million.

• Appointment of Jacob Robert Thompson as part-time patrol officer at $28.00/hour effective May 6, 2025
• Appointment of Joshua Wedge to Buildings & Grounds at six-month probationary rate of $27.07/hour
• Consider expenditure of up to $50,000 to repair storm damaged sidewalk in Seal Harbor from Public Works Road Reserve
• Consider releasing up to $20,500 from Fire Equipment/Engine Reserve for tire replacement on 3 fire apparatus
• Approve annual policies including Treasurer's Disbursement Warrants and Town Counsel

The board kept the existing officer slate and approved several seasonal staff appointments. It moved regular meeting start time to 6:00 p.m., adopted annual policies, and authorized $50,000 for a Seal Harbor sidewalk repair and up to $20,500 for fire‑engine tire replacement. The Treasurer's Warrant for $879,241.17 and payroll/fees warrants totaling $519,757.97 were also approved. The meeting adjourned at 8:41 p.m.

• Approved election of officers (Chair John Macauley, Vice Chair Wendy Littlefield, Secretary Geoff Wood) (4-0)
• Approved seasonal appointments for Buildings & Grounds, Refuse, Mechanic and patrol officer positions (4-0)
• Approved regular selectboard meetings to begin at 6:00 p.m. (4-0)
• Approved annual policies (4-0)
• Approved $50,000 sidewalk repair in Seal Harbor (4-0)
• Approved up to $20,500 fire apparatus tire replacement (4-0)
• Approved Treasurer's Warrant for $879,241.17 (4-0)
• Approved payroll, state fees and PR benefit warrants totaling $519,757.97 (3-0-1)

Annual Town Meeting

At the Annual Town Meeting on May 5-6, 2025, Mount Desert voters will elect two Selectboard members, two school board members, and one MDI regional school trustee. They will also decide on the municipal and school budgets for FY2026, and vote on several ordinance amendments including harbor rules, manufactured home zoning, and solar energy systems. The meeting includes a secret ballot election on May 5 and an open-floor session on May 6.

• Election of two Selectboard members (3-year terms) and two Elementary School Board members (3-year terms)
• Repeal of the 1970 Mobile Home and Trailer Park Ordinance to comply with state law
• Amendments to Land Use Zoning Ordinance for manufactured homes and solar energy systems
• Harbor Ordinance amendments updating mooring priorities, dinghy use, and seafood buying regulations
• Municipal and school budgets for fiscal year 2026 (dollar amounts not specified in agenda excerpt)

At the May 6, 2025 open‑floor meeting, the Town of Mount Desert approved a series of articles by voice vote. Articles 4 through 10 amended the Alewife ordinance, Harbor ordinance, repealed the Mobile Home ordinance, and updated several land‑use zoning provisions including certificates of occupancy, manufactured homes, shoreland residential use, and solar energy systems. Additional articles authorized the Selectboard to accept gifts for the fire equipment fund, accept extra state and federal funds, and lease portions of the Visitor Center to local operators.

• Article 4 Alewife ordinance enacted (voice vote)
• Article 5 Harbor ordinance amendments enacted (voice vote)
• Article 6 Mobile Home and Trailer Park ordinance repealed (voice vote)
• Article 7 Certificate of Occupancy amendment enacted (voice vote)
• Article 8 Manufactured homes amendment enacted (voice vote)
• Article 9 Shoreland Commercial District residential use amendment enacted (voice vote)
• Article 10 Solar Energy Systems standards added (voice vote)
• Article 11 Authorization to accept gifts for Fire Equipment Reserve Fund (voice vote)

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard is holding a special meeting on May 1, 2025, to review and approve the annual audit report for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024, prepared by James W. Wadman, C.P.A. The agenda also includes approval of prior meeting minutes and public comment. No other substantive items are listed.

• Approval of minutes from April 7, 2025 meeting
• Review and approval of FY2024 annual audit report by James W. Wadman, C.P.A.

The board approved the April 7, 2025 meeting minutes with a 3‑0 vote. It then accepted the town’s FY 2024 audit report, also by a 3‑0 vote. The meeting was adjourned with a final 3‑0 vote.

• Approved April 7, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Accepted FY 2024 audit report (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Sustainability Committee

The Mount Desert Sustainability Committee will discuss the Town's Climate Action Plan update and prioritize unfinished goals. They will review a Community Resilience Partnership Grant for solid waste/recycling/composting hours and a potential generator cost share with the Somesville Union Meeting House for a resilience hub. The committee will also note that the Board of Selectmen voted to retire Renewable Energy Credits (RECs).

• Community Resilience Partnership Grant re-allocation of hours for Solid Waste/recycling/composting
• Potential generator cost share with Somesville Union Meeting House (resilience hub) update
• Town of Mount Desert Climate Action Plan update and priority list of unfinished goals
• BOS voted REC to be Retire Credits
• Composting Workshop April 30th and Shredding Day May 31st

Planning Board

The Planning Board will review and discuss the Town's Housing Assistance Community Development Block Grant application for compliance with the Comprehensive Plan and Land Use Zoning Ordinance. A vote is scheduled to authorize the chair to sign a letter certifying conformance. No other substantive items are on the agenda.

• Review of Housing Assistance CDBG grant application for compliance with Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Ordinance
• Vote to authorize chair to sign conformance letter

The Planning Board approved the April 9, 2025 minutes (3‑0). It then voted to authorize the Chair to sign a letter stating that the Housing Assistance Community Development Block Grant project for Maple Lane Apartments conforms to the Comprehensive Plan and the Town's Land Use Zoning Ordinance (3‑0). No public comments were received and the meeting adjourned at 6:25 p.m.

• Approved April 9, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Authorized Chair to sign compliance letter for housing grant (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Selectboard

The Selectboard will hold public hearings on a new liquor license and special amusement permit for the Asticou Hotel, followed by possible action. Other business includes appointments, discussions on a hunting bill (LD 1438), and approval of multiple expenditures including $30,000 for fire station resurfacing and $10,532.50 for records digitization.

• Public hearing and possible action on new liquor license and special amusement permit for Asticou Hotel, 15 Peabody Drive, Northeast Harbor
• Discussion of LD 1438, a bill to require hunting on Mount Desert Island
• Request to release up to $30,000 from Fire Stations Building Reserve for resurfacing at Mount Desert Fire Station #2
• Authorization to pay MCM Electric $4,930 for electrical hookup at Seal Harbor Pier
• Approval of $10,532.50 for historical preservation and digitization of town records by Kofile

The board approved a new liquor license and a special amusement permit for the Asticou Hotel, both with 3‑0 votes. It also authorized $30,000 from the Fire Stations Building Reserve for resurfacing the truck apron and parking area at Fire Station #2. Additional approvals included seasonal dock hand appointments, a refuse position hire, and several financial expenditures, all passed unanimously.

• Approved Asticou Hotel liquor license (3-0)
• Approved Asticou Hotel special amusement permit (3-0)
• Approved $30,000 release from Fire Stations Building Reserve for resurfacing (3-0)
• Approved seasonal dock hands and boat launch operators appointments (3-0)
• Approved appointment of Robert Parlante to Refuse position (3-0)
• Approved $7,899.40 use from Public Works Road Reserve for Beech Hill culvert overage (3-0)
• Approved $10,532.50 payment for historical preservation and digitization of town records (3-0)
• Approved $9,200 seasonal portable toilet services contract with MDI Porta Potties (3-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will review a sketch plan for a new residential dwelling unit and a conditional use application for marine structures. These items involve properties in Mount Desert and Somesville.

• Subdivision #001-2025: Proposal for a third residential dwelling unit at 51 Oak Hill Road
• Conditional Use Application #003-2025: Proposal for marine structures (piers, docks, wharves) at 1122 Main Street, Somesville

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee will hold a quarterly meeting with updates on a skating rink, workforce housing, committee expenses, and the Mount Desert Comprehensive Plan. They will also discuss the Winter Gathering Place project, reviewing progress and next steps. The meeting includes approval of prior minutes and planning future agenda items.

• Review and approval of minutes from January quarterly meeting
• Update on skating rink (J. Blaine & K. Miller)
• Update on workforce housing (K. Miller)
• Update on Mount Desert Comprehensive Plan (K. Miller)
• Winter Gathering Place: review progress and next steps

Harbor Committee

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee will meet on April 8, 2025, at Northeast Harbor to discuss the Main Pier, a potential ice rink, and review harbor ordinances. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the agenda consists of discussion items only.

• Main Pier discussion
• Ice rink general issue
• Ordinance review (old business)

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will consider routine business including liquor license renewals and appointment of ballot clerks, and discuss a proposal for Somesville Church to serve as an emergency warming center. The board will also vote on several expenditures from reserve funds, including $4,850 for a fire station site survey and $4,200 for a heat pump replacement in the police department server room. Additionally, the board will review a draft scope of work with A Climate to Thrive for $11,460 and discuss the sale or retirement of Renewable Energy Certificates from the town-owned solar array.

• Discussion of proposal for Somesville Church to become emergency warming center for Somesville area
• Approve $4,850 release from Fire Stations Building Reserve for site survey of fire station #2 in Seal Harbor
• Approve $4,200 replacement of heat pump in Police Department server room from Public Works Building Reserve
• Approve scope of work with A Climate to Thrive for $11,460 to incorporate Vulnerability Assessment into Comprehensive Plan
• Discussion on sale or retirement of Renewable Energy Certificates from town-owned solar array at Town Garage

The board approved three liquor‑license renewals, three Neighborhood House public‑space event permits, and the release of $4,850 from the Fire Stations Building Reserve for a site survey of Fire Station #2. It also approved a $4,200 heat‑pump replacement in the police department, a $5,812 line‑stripper purchase for Public Works, and the retirement of renewable‑energy certificates generated by the town’s solar array. Additional routine financial warrants and a Sustainability Committee table at the farmer’s market were also approved.

• Approved three liquor license renewals (4-0 each)
• Approved three Neighborhood House public‑space event applications (4-0 each)
• Approved release of $4,850 for fire‑station #2 site survey (4-0)
• Approved replacement of police department heat pump for $4,200 (4-0)
• Approved purchase of line‑stripper for $5,812 (4-0)
• Approved draft scope of work with A Climate to Thrive up to $11,460 (4-0)
• Approved retirement of renewable‑energy certificates (4-0)
• Approved Treasurer’s warrants totaling $1,251,225.11 (4-0)

Shellfish Conservation Committee

The committee will consider approval of the allocation plan for July 2025 and review the DMR annual report for 2024. Updates from the warden and state DMR, including the Fishermen's Forum and softshell landings report, will be discussed. No old business is listed.

• Allocation Plan Approval for July 2025
• Review of DMR Annual Report for 2024
• 2024 Softshell Landings Report
• Ogunquit Seeding Project Report
• 2023 Nearshore Annual Review Summary

The committee approved the October 24, 2024 meeting minutes with a 4‑0 vote. They voted to keep the 2025 allocation plan unchanged, also 4‑0. The 2024 DMR Annual Report was accepted by a 4‑0 vote. The meeting was adjourned with a 4‑0 vote.

• Approved October 24, 2024 minutes (4‑0)
• Maintained 2025 allocation plan (4‑0)
• Accepted 2024 DMR Annual Report (4‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (4‑0)

Sustainability Committee

The Sustainability Committee will review updates to the GMRI Vulnerability Study and the Town of Mount Desert Climate Action Plan. The body is discussing resilience planning and the allocation of hours for solid waste, recycling, and composting.

• Community Resilience Partnership Grant hour re-allocation for solid waste, recycling, and composting
• Potential generator cost share with Somesville Union Meeting House
• Climate Action Plan update and priority list of unfinished goals
• Discussion on whether to sell or retire REC credits
• Review of GMRI Vulnerability Study updates

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will hold a public hearing on three conditional use applications: two for fences and walls at residential properties and one for a mobile food vendor at College of the Atlantic. The board will also receive an update from the Land Use Zoning Ordinance Advisory Committee.

• Conditional Use Approval #003-2025 for a fence/wall at 13 Lower Dunbar Road, Seal Harbor (Zavalia & Miguens)
• Conditional Use Approval #004-2025 for a fence/wall at 201 Huntington Place, Northeast Harbor (Edgar Scott III Rev. Trust)
• Conditional Use Approval #005-2025 for a mobile food vendor at 169 Beech Hill Road, Mount Desert (College of the Atlantic)
• Update from the Land Use Zoning Ordinance Advisory Committee

The board approved the March 21, 2025 minutes with a 5‑0 vote (one abstention). It then approved Conditional Use Application #003‑2025 for a fence at 13 Lower Dunbar Road and Application #004‑2025 for a fence and fill at 201 Huntington Place, each by a 5‑0 vote. Application #005‑2025 for a mobile food vendor was withdrawn by the applicant and not considered.

• Approved March 21, 2025 minutes (5-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved Conditional Use Application #003-2025 for fence at 13 Lower Dunbar Road (5-0)
• Approved Conditional Use Application #004-2025 for fence and fill at 201 Huntington Place (5-0)
• Withdrawn Conditional Use Application #005-2025 (mobile food vendor) – not considered
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Warrant Committee

The Mount Desert Warrant Committee will meet to approve minutes from March 11 and vote on warrant articles for the upcoming town meeting. No specific articles are listed in the agenda, and the meeting includes time for other business as legally permitted.

• Approve minutes from March 11, 2025
• Vote on warrant articles for town meeting

LUZO Advisory Group

The LUZO Advisory Committee and Planning Board will meet to conduct committee business. The group will discuss future work projects, including allowed uses and the subdivision ordinance.

• Discussion of allowed uses
• Discussion of subdivision ordinance

Selectboard

The Selectboard will hold a public hearing on proposed warrant articles for the annual Town Meeting, covering appropriation of funds and ordinance amendments including LUZO changes. The board will also discuss a proposed union contract with Teamsters Local 340 in executive session and consider several appointments, including an on-call firefighter at $18/hour. Other business includes accepting a delinquent tax payment for a foreclosed parcel and allocating Stanley Trust funds for athletic field maintenance. The meeting will conclude with approval of treasurer's warrants totaling $693,019.

• Public hearing on 2025 Town Meeting warrant articles for appropriation of funds and ordinance amendments
• Executive session to review proposed union contract with Teamsters Local 340
• Appointment of Aaron Lichenstein as on-call firefighter at $18.00 per hour
• Consideration of accepting delinquent tax payment on foreclosed parcel 025-114 and authorizing quitclaim deed
• Allocation of $113.80 (2023) and $130.98 (2024) from Stanley Trust for Frank F. Stanley Athletic Field maintenance

The Mount Desert Selectboard ratified a union contract with Teamsters Local 340 and approved recommendations for numerous 2025 Annual Town Meeting warrant articles, including budget appropriations and bond authorizations. The board also approved appointments, accepted a resignation, and handled financial warrants. All votes were unanimous (4-0) except for one abstention on minutes approval.

• Ratified Teamsters Local 340 union contract (4-0)
• Recommended approval of warrant articles for 2025 Town Meeting, including $6M school bond, $470K road extension bond, and $525K backup generator bond (all 4-0)
• Approved $2,299,378 for General Government budget article (4-0)
• Approved $1,621,779 for Police and Communications budget article (4-0)
• Approved $3,001,797 for Fire Department budget article (4-0)
• Approved $3,409,411 for Public Works budget article (4-0)
• Appointed Aaron Lichtenstein as on-call Firefighter at $18.00/hour (4-0)
• Accepted resignation of Megan Bailey from Comprehensive Planning Committee (4-0)

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will hold a public hearing on a conditional use application from Somesville Landing Corporation to add two 16' x 5' finger floats off Main Street/Route 102 in the Shoreland Residential Two zone. The board will also approve minutes and conduct other business.

• Conditional Use Application #002-2025 for marine structures (two 16' x 5' finger floats) at Tax Map 021, Lot 032 off Main Street/Route 102
• Owner: Somesville Landing Corporation, agent Seth Gray
• Site inspection scheduled for 4:00 PM before the meeting

The Mount Desert Planning Board approved Conditional Use Application #002-2025 from Somesville Landing Corporation to add two 16' x 5' finger floats to the north side of the pier off Main Street/Route 102. The board found no conflicts of interest despite disclosures from three members, and the application was approved 5-0 after a site inspection and public comment period.

• Approved making alternate member Dan Burke a voting member for the meeting (4-0)
• Approved minutes of February 26, 2025 as presented (5-0)
• Found no conflict of interest for Mr. Kimmerly's disclosure (4-0)
• Found no conflict of interest for Ms. Marshall's disclosure (4-0)
• Found no conflict of interest for Chair Hanley's disclosure (4-0)
• Found application #002-2025 complete (5-0)
• Approved use of short form for review (5-0)
• Approved conditional use application for two finger floats (5-0)

Warrant Committee

The committee will receive a budget review and presentation from the MDES School Board and AOS 91. Members will vote on MDES education articles and discuss the schedule for final votes on March 18.

• MDES School Board budget review and presentation
• Vote on MDES education articles

The Warrant Committee voted 15-0 on all 16 school warrant articles, approving the recommended amounts totaling $2,489,946 for article 61, $974,401 for article 62, and other figures as listed. The committee also discussed a proposal for a combined meeting with the select board, with one dissent, and approved the previous meeting's minutes with a date correction.

• Approved article 61 at $2,489,946 (15-0-0)
• Approved article 62 at $974,401 (15-0-0)
• Approved article 63 at $0 (15-0-0)
• Approved article 64 at $125,628 (15-0-0)
• Approved article 65 at $686,002 (15-0-0)
• Approved article 66 at $142,182 (15-0-0)
• Approved article 67 at $361,001 (15-0-0)
• Approved article 68 at $286,618 (15-0-0)

Harbor Committee

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee will meet to approve prior minutes and discuss two main topics: the Main Pier and a general review of harbor ordinances. The agenda is procedural with no specific proposals or dollar amounts listed.

• Main Pier discussion
• Ordinance review

The committee directed the harbormaster to prepare a request for proposals for the new dock project and to explore grant options, acknowledging the pier will be out of service for six months. No formal decisions were made on attendance reviews or other general issues, which remain under discussion.

• Directed harbormaster to create RFP for new dock project with Greg Johnston
• Directed harbormaster to gather grant options and terms
• Accepted 2/19/2025 meeting minutes as presented

Comprehensive Plan Committee

The Comprehensive Plan Committee will discuss guiding principles that will shape the town's future land use and development. They will also review the inventory review process and hear preliminary key findings on history, population, and economy. Public comment periods are scheduled both before and after these discussions.

• Discussion of guiding principles for the comprehensive plan (30 minutes)
• Review of inventory review process (10 minutes)
• Preliminary key findings on history, population, and economy (20 minutes)
• Update on public outreach and survey efforts

Warrant Committee

The Mount Desert Warrant Committee will review the marina budget with Harbormaster John Lemoine and begin voting on warrant articles. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes and announcements. No specific dollar amounts or street names are mentioned in the agenda.

• Marina budget review with Harbormaster John Lemoine
• Begin voting on warrant articles
• Approve minutes from February 11 and 25 meetings
• Discussion of last meeting's final votes and departmental call-backs
• Next meeting scheduled for March 11 with MDES School Board/Education articles

The Mount Desert Warrant Committee reviewed and voted on draft warrant articles for the 2025-2026 town budget, approving 13 articles unanimously (13-0) and several others with 12-0 votes. They recommended $1,905,140 in revenue from excise taxes and fees, and set budget recommendations for several departments. Several articles were deferred because draft numbers were not current.

• Approved 13 warrant articles unanimously (13-0), including alewife ordinance, harbor ordinance amendments, and zoning changes
• Recommended $1,905,140 in revenue from excise taxes and fees (13-0)
• Recommended $5,000 for General Assistance (13-0)
• Recommended $237,287 for Rural Wastewater Support (13-0)
• Recommended $23,750 for Street Lights (13-0)
• Recommended $10,000 for Economic/Community Development (13-0)
• Recommended $2,169,391 for Debt Service (13-0)
• Recommended $1,208,318 for Capital Improvement Plan transfers (13-0)

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will consider non-profit funding recommendations and continue reviewing warrant articles for the upcoming Annual Town Meeting. They will also vote on appointments of two firefighters/EMTs, approve a late mobile vendor license, authorize scholarships from trust funds, and update the personnel policy. The meeting includes approval of warrants totaling $866,775.12.

• Appoint Jordan Lapka as per diem Firefighter/EMT at $25.97/hour, effective March 4, 2025
• Appoint Seth Libby as per diem Firefighter/EMT at $27.74/hour, effective March 10, 2025
• Consider late Mobile Vendor License application for The Nor’ Easter Pound & Market, LLC
• Authorize $375 from Reynolds Trust Fund and $100 from Stanley Trust Fund for scholarships at Mount Desert Regional High School
• Approve purchase of two ADA compliant portable toilets to replace Seal Harbor Comfort Station

The Mount Desert Selectboard approved recommendations for the 2025 Annual Town Meeting warrant articles, including budget appropriations for general government, public safety, public works, sewers, recreation, and the marina fund. The board also recommended $177,248 for third-party funding in the 2026 budget, after a motion to increase Island Housing Trust funding to $50,000 was withdrawn. Two new firefighter/EMT and code enforcement appointments were approved, along with several other administrative items.

• Approved third-party funding recommendation of $177,248 for 2026 budget (5-0)
• Recommended approval of Article 5, Harbor Ordinance amendments (5-0)
• Recommended approval of Article 17, Versant Power easement (5-0)
• Recommended approval of Article 19, Denning Brook Estates deed extension (5-0)
• Recommended approval of Articles 38-41, ratifying budget overdrafts (5-0 each)
• Recommended approval of Articles 42, 46-50, 55, 2025-2026 budget appropriations (5-0 each)
• Approved appointment of Jordan Lapka as per diem Firefighter/EMT at $25.97/hr (5-0)
• Approved appointment of Seth Libby as Deputy Code Enforcement Officer at $32.45/hr (5-0)

Sustainability Committee

The Mount Desert Sustainability Committee will discuss an update to the town's solar ordinance and review a draft vulnerability study from GMRI. They will also consider a possible contract with A Climate to Thrive and discuss fulfillment of the State of Maine Community Resilience Partnership Grant. Additional items include updates on the Climate Action Plan and a renewable energy credit discussion.

• Update on the Solar Ordinance
• Discussion of GMRI Vulnerability Study Draft
• Review of State of Maine Community Resilience Partnership Grant fulfillment
• Possible contract with A Climate to Thrive
• Town of Mount Desert Climate Action Plan update and unfinished goals

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing on proposed amendments to the Land Use Zoning Ordinance for the May 6, 2025 Annual Town Meeting. The board will also receive an update from the Land Use Zoning Ordinance Advisory Group and consider approval of previous meeting minutes.

• Public hearing on Land Use Zoning Ordinance Amendments for the 2025 Annual Town Meeting
• Update from Land Use Zoning Ordinance Advisory Group
• Consideration of meeting minutes approval

The Mount Desert Planning Board voted 5-0 to recommend passage of warrant article amending the Land Use Zoning Ordinance to add regulations for solar energy systems, including definitions, allowed uses, and height limits. The board also approved the February 12, 2025 minutes and discussed future LUZO Committee work items.

• Approved February 12, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Recommended passage of solar energy system zoning amendments (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Selectboard

The Selectboard and Warrant Committee will meet to hear presentations from 21 non-profit agencies requesting aid. The meeting will also include a session for other legally conductible business.

• Presentation of requests from Aid Society Otter Creek
• Presentation of requests from Bar Harbor Food Pantry
• Presentation of requests from Island Housing Trust
• Presentation of requests from Lifeflight Foundation
• Presentation of requests from SPCA of Hancock County

The Mount Desert Selectboard and Warrant Committee met on February 25, 2025, to hear presentations from 21 nonprofit organizations requesting funding for the upcoming year. No decisions were made on the requests during this meeting; the presentations were informational only. The board adjourned at 7:24 p.m. after approving the motion to adjourn 4-0.

• Adjourned meeting at 7:24 p.m. (4-0)

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will accept the resignation of Town Manager Durlin E. Lunt Jr., effective August 31, 2025, and vote on a $828,880 contract with Gardner Concrete for resurfacing two parking lots. The board will also consider renewal of a liquor license and special amusement permit for The Nor’Easter Pound & Market, a $7,000 float bridge installation, and a maintenance contract with Stanley Elevator. Over $1.8 million in warrants and payroll will be approved.

• Accept resignation of Town Manager Durlin E. Lunt Jr., effective August 31, 2025
• Review and approve $828,880 bid from Gardner Concrete for resurfacing Cranberry Isles and Town Office parking lots
• Consider renewal of liquor license and special amusement permit for The Nor’Easter Pound & Market at 10 Huntington Rd, Northeast Harbor
• Authorization to pay $7,000 to Superior Docks for a new float bridge at Seal Harbor Docks
• Approve Treasurer's Warrants totaling $1,807,818.58

The Mount Desert Selectboard approved a $828,880 contract with Gardner Concrete for resurfacing the Cranberry Isles and Town Office parking lots, despite a slightly lower bid from RF Jordan. The board also accepted Town Manager Durlin Lunt's resignation effective August 31, 2025, and approved several warrant articles for the 2025 Annual Town Meeting, including a $600,000 transfer from the Undesignated Fund Balance to reduce the tax commitment. Several budget articles were tabled for further review.

• Approved $828,880 parking lot resurfacing bid from Gardner Concrete (4-0)
• Accepted Town Manager Durlin Lunt's resignation effective Aug 31, 2025 (4-0)
• Approved liquor license and special amusement permit renewal for Nor'Easter Pound & Market (4-0)
• Approved Stanley Elevator maintenance contract for Town Office elevators (4-0)
• Approved easement agreement with Clubhouse Way residents for wastewater pump station (4-0)
• Approved $7,000 payment to Superior Docks for new float bridge at Seal Harbor Docks (4-0)
• Approved $1,203,779.44 in town invoices (4-0)
• Tabled Harbor Ordinance amendment and several budget articles for further review

Harbor Committee

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee will meet on February 19, 2025, to review an article for Seafood Buyers and conduct an ordinance review. The meeting also includes approval of minutes from January 14, 2024, and discussion of general issues. No votes or financial items are listed.

• Review article for Seafood Buyers
• Ordinance review
• Approval of minutes from January 14, 2024
• General Issue discussion

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee voted to add a prohibition on radar operation at the main pier to Article 8 of the Harbor Ordinance. It also approved changes to the Seafood Buyers ordinance as discussed. The next meeting will review committee member attendance.

• Approved motion to add no radar operation at main pier to Article 8 of Harbor Ordinance
• Approved Seafood Buyers ordinance changes with discussed amendments

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will hold a public hearing on proposed Land Use Zoning Ordinance amendments to be considered at the May 6, 2025 Annual Town Meeting. The board will also consider a conditional use application for a marine structure (pier/dock) at 115 Huntington Lane in Northeast Harbor. The meeting includes approval of previous minutes and is open both in-person and via Zoom.

• Public Hearing – Land Use Zoning Ordinance Amendments for 2025 Annual Town Meeting (May 6, 2025)
• Conditional Use Approval Application #001-2025 for marine structure at 115 Huntington Lane, Northeast Harbor (Shoreland Residential One zone)
• Applicants: Mark E. Theirfelder & Courtney Lederer; agent: Greg Johnston, G.F. Johnston & Associates
• Site inspection scheduled for 3:30 PM prior to the meeting

The Mount Desert Planning Board recommended passage of three zoning ordinance amendments for the 2025 Annual Town Meeting, covering residential use in the Shoreland Commercial District, certificates of occupancy, and manufactured homes. A fourth amendment on solar energy systems was discussed but no action was taken. The board also approved a conditional use application for a new pier at 115 Huntington Lane, Northeast Harbor, after the chair and an alternate member recused themselves due to conflicts of interest.

• Approved minutes of January 22, 2025 (5-0)
• Recommended passage of zoning amendment on residential use in Shoreland Commercial District (5-0)
• Recommended passage of zoning amendment on certificates of occupancy for structures after March 3, 1998 (5-0)
• Recommended passage of zoning amendment on manufactured homes (5-0)
• Discussed solar energy systems amendment; no action taken
• Approved conditional use application #001-2025 for pier at 115 Huntington Lane (5-0)

Warrant Committee

The Warrant Committee is meeting to review specific articles and budget items. The session includes a review of LUZO articles with Noel Musson and an examination of the Code Enforcement budget.

• LUZO Article review with Noel Musson
• Code Enforcement Budget Review

The Warrant Committee reviewed multiple proposed Land Use Zoning Ordinance (LUZO) amendments, including a correction to shoreland commercial district dimensional standards, clarifications for certificates of occupancy, and updates to manufactured home rules. They also discussed a proposed solar energy system standards section, which would allow small and medium systems but not large-scale ones. The committee approved the minutes of the previous meeting and scheduled the next meeting for February 25th at 6:30 PM.

• Approved minutes of 2/4/2025 meeting
• Reviewed LUZO correction for shoreland commercial district dimensional standards
• Reviewed LUZO Section 7.5 clarification for certificates of occupancy
• Reviewed repeal of town's building code ordinance (May 8, 2012)
• Reviewed repeal of mobile home and trailer park ordinance (March 2, 1970)
• Reviewed LUZO Section 6 modifications for manufactured homes
• Discussed proposed LUZO solar energy system standards (Section 6B23)
• Scheduled next meeting for Feb 25th at 6:30 PM

Warrant Committee

The Mount Desert Warrant Committee will review the Public Works budget with director Brian Henkel. The committee will also approve minutes from the previous meeting and hold a round table discussion. No votes on the budget are scheduled at this meeting, only review.

• Approve minutes from January 28, 2025
• Public Works budget review with director Brian Henkel
• Round Table discussion
• Next meeting set for February 11, 2025: Code Enforcement Budget Review and LUZO Articles

The Warrant Committee heard from Hancock County Commissioner Sam DeBella about county services, including the planned move of the courthouse and emergency management agency, and from Public Works Director Brian Henkel about the proposed budget. No formal votes were taken on these items; the committee only approved the previous meeting's minutes unanimously.

• Approved previous meeting minutes unanimously
• Discussed county courthouse move and emergency management relocation
• Reviewed public works budget highlights, including new clerical position
• Discussed waste management changes, including gating dumpsters
• Noted Somesville sidewalk project completed $187k under budget

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will vote on a $105,274 solar installation purchase and review a revised fire department budget after Bar Harbor's withdrawal from a shared agreement. They will also discuss a proposal for marina parking lot/tennis courts use, a $20,000 donation for medical equipment, and appointments to the fire department and comprehensive plan committee.

• Purchase of solar installation from Revision Investments for $105,274.00
• Carryforward of $20,000 donation from Northeast Harbor Ambulance Service for a Lund University Cardiopulmonary Assist System
• Bar Harbor withdrawal from shared Deputy Chief Agreement and revised fire department budget
• Appointment of Alice Fernald as paid on-call firefighter at $18.00/hour
• Proposal for use of Marina Parking Lot/Tennis Courts in Northeast Harbor Village Green

The Mount Desert Selectboard denied a request from Henry Newhall to use the Marina Parking Lot/Tennis Courts in Northeast Harbor for paid personal training classes during summer mornings, voting 0-4. The board approved several other items, including appointments, a $20,000 ambulance donation carryforward, a $105,274 solar installation purchase, and authorization to submit testimony opposing LD 32 and LD 257. The board also approved the consent agenda, minutes, and various warrants.

• Denied use of Marina Parking Lot/Tennis Courts for personal training classes (0-4)
• Approved appointment of Alice Fernald as paid on-call Firefighter at $18.00/hour (4-0)
• Approved appointment of Stephanie Kelley-Reece to Comprehensive Plan Committee (4-0)
• Approved carryforward of $20,000 donation from Northeast Harbor Ambulance Service for Lund University Cardiopulmonary Assist System (4-0)
• Approved purchase of solar energy installation on Town Garage from Revision Investments for $105,274.00 (4-0)
• Authorized drafting and submittal of testimony in opposition to LD 32 and LD 257 (4-0)
• Approved Treasurer's Warrant AP#2551 for $96,384.41 (4-0)
• Approved Treasurer's Payroll, State Fees, & PR Benefit Warrants totaling $297,052.63 (3-0-1)

Sustainability Committee

The Mount Desert Sustainability Committee will hold a discussion with Noel Musson about incorporating climate actions and resilience into the town's Comprehensive Plan. The agenda also includes introducing Wilson Haims ACTT, a potential power purchase agreement for the Array Town Garage, site evaluations for solar projects, and updates on the vulnerability study and EV charging plans. Other topics include solid waste and recycling issues, a tool/sport equipment swap, and recruiting new committee members.

• Comprehensive Plan discussion with Noel Musson on climate actions and resilience
• Introduce Wilson Haims ACTT
• PPA purchase of Array Town Garage
• Solar projects site evaluations
• Update Vulnerability Study

Planning Board

This is a routine meeting with approval of minutes and an update from the Land Use Zoning Ordinance Advisory Group. No votes on specific projects or ordinances are scheduled.

• Update from Land Use Zoning Ordinance Advisory Group

The Mount Desert Planning Board heard a consultant's presentation on proposed Land Use Zoning Ordinance (LUZO) amendments for the May 2025 Town Meeting, covering certificates of occupancy, shoreland commercial district residences, solar energy systems, and manufactured homes. No votes were taken on the amendments; the board approved the January 8, 2025 minutes and adjourned. A public hearing is scheduled for February 12, 2025.

• Approved January 8, 2025 minutes (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

LUZO Advisory Group

The LUZO Advisory Group and Planning Board will review several draft warrant articles for a future town meeting, including a repeal of the Mobile Home Ordinance and amendments to sections governing mobile homes. They will also consider clarifications to the Certificate of Occupancy process and the allowed uses table, as well as solar energy system regulations. The group will discuss the schedule for public meetings and future work projects on allowed uses and subdivision ordinance.

• Review of draft warrant article to repeal Mobile Home Ordinance
• Amendments to Sections 6B.12 and 6B.14 for mobile homes
• Amendment to Section 7.5.6 for COI clarification
• Amendment to Footnote G (Allowed Uses Table) to clarify 'adjacent district'
• Discussion of solar energy system regulations

Selectboard

The Selectboard will review FY2026 budgets, consider appeals of wastewater rebate decisions, and act on several financial items including a bid for truck equipment and a change order for concrete work. A request from Island Housing Trust for financial support toward roadway and sewer infrastructure for Ripples Hill Phase III development will also be discussed. Routine matters include appointments and consent agenda items.

• Appointment of Shelby O'Neil as Full-Time Patrol Officer at $29.29/hour
• Request from Island Housing Trust for financial support for Ripples Hill Phase III roadway and sewer infrastructure
• Bid from Viking Cives for $129,711 to equip a new International truck
• Change Order #2 with Gardner Concrete reducing contract from $747,451.00 to $557,559.30 (reduction of $189,891.70)
• Release of $3,543.30 from Fire Equipment Reserve for repairs to 2013 fire truck

The Mount Desert Selectboard approved all agenda items, including financial support for Island Housing Trust's Ripples Hill Phase III road and sewer infrastructure, a new patrol officer, and several special event permits. The board also discussed a potential Regional School Unit (RSU) reorganization and reviewed the FY 2026 Public Works and municipal budgets.

• Approved Island Housing Trust Ripples Hill Phase III road and sewer infrastructure support (5-0)
• Appointed Shelby O'Neil as Full-Time Patrol Officer at $29.29/hour (5-0)
• Approved Farmers' Market special event permit, June 19-August 28, 2025 (5-0)
• Approved McFarland wedding ceremony permit at Suminsby Park (5-0)
• Approved Rural Wastewater Rebate appeals for M. Lear and A. Fernald (5-0 each)
• Accepted Viking Cives bid of $129,711.00 for truck equipment (5-0)
• Approved Change Order #2 with Gardner Concrete reducing contract to $557,559.30 (5-0)
• Approved Treasurer's Warrant totaling $905,401.06 (5-0)

Harbor Committee

The Mount Desert Harbor Committee will meet to review a proposed article for the harbor wait list and continue discussions on ordinance revisions and seafood buyer language. The meeting also includes approval of previous minutes and general issues.

• Review of article for harbor wait list
• Ordinance review (old business)
• Seafood buyers language review (old business)
• Approval of December 10, 2024 minutes
• General issue discussion

The committee approved the 2025 harbor ordinance changes as presented by the harbormaster and town attorney, and re-elected current officers. It also discussed refunding commercial fishing fees for Seal Harbor, proposed revisions to seafood buyers' permits, and concerns about the skating rinks project. No final decisions were made on these latter items.

• Approved 12/10/24 minutes as presented
• Re-elected current officers for 2025
• Approved 2025 harbor ordinance changes for warrant

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee will receive updates on the skating rink, Main Street Project, workforce housing, committee expenses, and the Mount Desert Comprehensive Plan. They will also discuss ideas for a winter gathering place for the community.

• Update on Main Street Project (D. Lunt)
• Update on workforce housing (K. Miller)
• Discussion of Winter Gathering Place ideas
• Update on Mount Desert Comprehensive Plan (M. Bailey & K. Miller)
• Review and approval of October meeting minutes

Planning Board

The Mount Desert Planning Board will hold a public hearing on a revised subdivision plan for the Ripples Hill Subdivision, proposed by Island Housing Trust, which would reduce the number of lots from 19 to 18, remove a walking access path, and extend a roadway. The board will also consider a conditional use application to allow keeping four Nigerian Dwarf Goats at 61 Beech Hill Cross Road. Additionally, the board will approve minutes from previous meetings and address any other business.

• Conditional Use Application #013-2024 by Joshua B. Luce & Cameron Depaola to keep 4 Nigerian Dwarf Goats at 61 Beech Hill Cross Road (R1 zone)
• Subdivision plan revision for Ripples Hill Subdivision (Farnham's Way) to reduce lots from 19 to 18, remove walking path, and extend roadway connecting Farnham's Way & Sydney's Way
• Site inspection scheduled at 3:30 PM for the goat application
• Discussion of Plan Revisions After Approval procedures under Section 5.13 of the Subdivision Ordinance

The Mount Desert Planning Board approved a conditional use application for keeping four Nigerian Dwarf goats at 61 Beech Hill Cross Road, and approved a subdivision amendment for the Ripples Hill Subdivision that reduces lots from 19 to 18 and removes a walking path. Both approvals were unanimous (5-0). The board also accepted recusals for conflicts of interest and made an alternate member voting for the meeting.

• Approved conditional use for 4 Nigerian Dwarf goats at 61 Beech Hill Cross Road (5-0)
• Approved subdivision amendment for Ripples Hill Subdivision, reducing lots from 19 to 18 (5-0)
• Accepted recusal of member Kimmerly for goat application (4-0)
• Made alternate member Burke a voting member for the meeting (4-0)
• Accepted recusal of member Dalton for subdivision application (4-0)
• Returned member Kimmerly to voting status (4-0)
• Determined subdivision amendment does not require public hearing (5-0)
• Approved minutes of December 11, 2024 (5-0)

Warrant Committee

The Warrant Committee will hold a largely organizational meeting to elect officers and discuss its meeting schedule. No votes on specific expenditures or policy items are on the agenda. The next meeting, on January 14, will focus on the Administration Budget Review.

• Elect officers for 2025
• Discuss meeting schedule

The Mount Desert Warrant Committee met on January 7, 2025, and elected officers: Lauren Kuffler as Secretary, Phil Lichtenstein as Chairman, and Alan Kimmerly as Co-Chairman. The committee clarified that Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) organizations will be discussed on January 14th, while third-party requests will be discussed on February 25th, and that MOUs will not make third-party requests. No substantive votes were taken on funding or policy items; the meeting was primarily procedural and organizational.

• Elected Lauren Kuffler as Secretary
• Elected Phil Lichtenstein as Chairman
• Elected Alan Kimmerly as Co-Chairman
• Scheduled MOU organizations discussion for Jan 14
• Scheduled third-party requests discussion for Feb 25

Selectboard

The Mount Desert Selectboard will hold an executive session on proposed salary structure, then consider a trade-in and payment for a new pickup truck, a $20 processing fee increase for business and special event licenses, and up to $9,720 for fire ladder truck repairs. The board will also review the FY26 public safety budget and consider an ambulance service agreement with Southwest Harbor-Tremont.

• Authorize payment of $39,170 and trade 2016 Ford F-150 for 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
• Proposal to increase processing fees to $20 per application for business, liquor, and special event licenses
• Consider releasing up to $9,720 from Fire Equipment/Engine Reserve for ladder truck repairs
• Consider approving an Ambulance Service Agreement with Southwest Harbor-Tremont Ambulance Service
• Confirm appointment of Evan Sweeney as Deputy Clerk at $27.74 per hour

The Mount Desert Selectboard approved several actions, including a $39,170 truck purchase with trade-in, increased processing fees to $20 per application, and a $9,720 release for fire truck repairs. They also confirmed appointments, approved an ambulance service agreement, and reviewed the FY 2026 Public Safety budget. All votes were unanimous except for one abstention on minutes and one on payroll warrants.

• Approved $39,170 payment and trade of 2016 Ford F-150 for 2025 Chevrolet Silverado (5-0)
• Approved processing fee increase to $20 per application (5-0)
• Approved release of up to $9,720 from Fire Equipment/Engine Reserve for ladder truck repairs (5-0)
• Approved Ambulance Service Agreement with Southwest Harbor-Tremont Ambulance Service (5-0)
• Confirmed Evan Sweeney as Deputy Clerk at $27.74/hr (5-0)
• Appointed Allen Kimmerly to Board of Assessment Review (5-0)
• Appointed Shoshona Smith to Comprehensive Plan Committee (5-0)
• Approved Treasurer's Warrant totaling $160,821.11 (5-0)