Old Town public meetings in 2023

Committee Special 12 19

The Administrative Services Committee will discuss the R2 Residential Ordinance, prompted by a resident's account of a code enforcement dispute over chickens at 29 High Street that led to a lawsuit. The Finance Committee will receive an update on November 2023 financials. The agenda includes detailed resident testimony and revenue summaries.

• Discussion on R2 Residential Ordinance regarding chickens at 29 High Street
• Resident's timeline of code enforcement letters, lawsuit, and court notice
• Finance Director Danielle Berube to present November 2023 financial update
• Revenue summary shows property taxes at 112% collected, ambulance agreements at -150%
• City Council Chambers, 265 Main Street, 6:00 pm

The Old Town City Council voted 6-0 to approve the consent agenda, including renewing a victualer's permit and liquor license for Happy Thai Cuisine. The Council also accepted $3,953 in criminal forfeiture funds and several firearms for the Police Department, approved an after-deadline property redemption for 97 Taylor Road, and granted two tax abatements for 856 Kirkland Road due to a software error. A resident's request to revisit the crossbow ban was denied, with the Council President stating they would stay with the approved motion.

• Approved consent agenda renewing a Victualer's Permit and Liquor License for Happy Thai Cuisine at 151 Main Street, pending inspections (6-0).
• Accepted $3,953 in criminal forfeiture funds and four firearms from the State of Maine for the Police Department (6-0).
• Approved after-deadline redemption of foreclosed property at 97 Taylor Road for Jeremy Pinkham for $555.70 (6-0).
• Approved two tax abatements totaling $735.63 and $785.40 for William and Gwen Woodard and Victoria Hashey at 856 Kirkland Road (6-0).
• Denied a resident's request to revisit the decision not to allow crossbows in the expanded archery season on city-owned property.
• Approved the December 4, 2023 Regular Council Meeting Minutes (6-0).
• Adjourned the Special Council Meeting at 8:03 p.m. (6-0).

Organizational Council 12 04

This is the organizational meeting where newly elected councilors and RSU 34 board members will be sworn in, followed by the election of a Council President and Vice President. The Council will also consider adopting its Rules of Order and Procedure and a resolution setting regular meeting times. No other substantive business is on the agenda.

• Oath of office for Councilors Linda McLeod, David Wight, Stanley Peterson
• Oath of office for RSU 34 Board Members Hunter Umphrey, Christina Lannan, Joanna Preble
• Election of Council President and Vice President
• Adoption of Council Rules of Order and Procedure
• Resolution 2023-3 establishing regular meeting times (first Monday, 6:00 p.m.)

The Old Town City Council approved reducing the fee for winter parking permits in signed municipal lots from $250 to $25 per year, for tenants in downtown apartments without on-site parking. Guests are permitted at no extra charge if the tenant notifies the Police Station of the guest's dates and license plate number. The council also approved an after-deadline redemption on a foreclosed property at 244 Stillwater Ave. for $27.61 in sewer fees, and requested that crossbows not be allowed for the extended archery deer hunt on Marsh Island.

• Approved reducing winter parking permit fee from $250 to $25 per year for downtown apartment tenants without on-site parking, with free guest parking upon notification to Police Station (6-0).
• Approved after-deadline redemption of foreclosed property at 244 Stillwater Ave. for $27.61 in sewer fees, authorizing a Municipal Quit-Claim Deed (6-0).
• Approved requesting Maine Inland Fisheries and Wildlife to exclude crossbows from allowed archery equipment for the extended deer hunt on Marsh Island (6-0).
• Approved re-appointment of Jane Sturgeon to the Old Town Housing Authority Board of Directors, term expiring December 31, 2028 (6-0).
• Approved adoption of the City Council's Rules of Order and Procedure (6-0).
• Approved Resolution 2023-3 establishing time and place for City Council meetings (6-0).
• Elected Councilor Chris Pushor as Council President and Councilor Mike May as Vice President (6-0 each).
• Approved minutes from November 20, 2023 meetings (6-0).

Committee Special 11 20

The Finance Committee will hear an update from Finance Director Danielle Berube on October 2023 financials, including revenue and expense summaries. Councilors Mike May and Chris Pushor will also update the committee on the partnership between the City and the YMCA. The meeting is informational, with no votes scheduled.

• October 2023 revenue summary shows total YTD revenue of $14,815,242.74 against a budget of $25,670,206.50 (57.7% collected)
• October 2023 expense summary shows total YTD spending of $3,272,306.84 against a budget of $7,803,679.35 (41.9% spent) for General Government
• Property taxes collected at 112.18% YTD, exceeding budget by $1,235,268.12
• YMCA phone reimbursement revenue of $280 YTD (33.33% collected)
• Partnership with YMCA to be discussed by Councilors May and Pushor

The Finance Committee and Committee of the Whole discussed reducing the winter parking permit fee from $250 to $25, with the Council agreeing to bring a motion to the next regular meeting for a vote. The Council also approved four grants totaling $16,000 from The Nature Conservancy for electric car charging stations, and approved two tax abatements totaling $2,990.40 for a property at 1050 Kirkland Road. A motion to extend free YMCA memberships for students for another year is scheduled for the December 4 Council meeting.

• Approved four grants totaling $16,000 from The Nature Conservancy for electric car charging station installation (6-0).
• Approved two tax abatements totaling $1,497.30 and $1,493.10 for Gary Craig and Sarah Turner at 1050 Kirkland Road (6-0).
• Approved renewal of a Victualer's License for Subway at 255 Main Street, pending inspections (6-0).
• Approved minutes from the November 6, 2023 regular Council meeting (6-0).
• Agreed to bring a motion to the December 4 Council meeting to reduce winter parking permit fee from $250 to $25 for downtown apartments lacking on-site parking.
• Discussed continuing the expanded archery deer hunt on city-owned property; no vote taken.
• Discussed extending free YMCA memberships for Old Town students for another year; motion scheduled for December 4 Council meeting.
• Adjourned at 8:03 p.m. (6-0).

Council

The Old Town City Council is holding a special meeting to consider accepting the official return of votes from the November 7, 2023, State of Maine Referendum and Municipal Election. The agenda includes standard items like minutes, reports, and consent agenda, but the only substantive action is the proposed motion to accept the election results. The attached returns show tallies for local races and state contests.

• Acceptance of the Return of Votes for the Nov. 7, 2023 election
• City Council election results (2 seats, 3-year term) with winners Zachary Wyles, Carol May, Timothy Foister
• School Board election results (2 seats, 3-year term) with winners James Mitchell and Moriah Geer
• Ward Clerk election results (1 position, 2-year term) with winner Katrina Wynn
• Warden election results (1 position, 2-year term) with winner Michael Hodgkins

Council 11 06

The Old Town City Council will meet to discuss several new business items including infrastructure grants, airport site work, and trash can exchange options. The meeting also includes decisions on criminal forfeiture funds and tax abatements.

• Acceptance of $45,667.50 in Efficiency Maine grants for electric car charging stations
• Adoption of a resolution regarding the $4.5 million bond approved October 02, 2023
• Redemption of foreclosed property at 198 Fourth Street for $19,800.00
• Option for single-family residents to exchange 96-gallon trash cans for smaller bins
• $50,000 bid from Thornton Construction for site work at Dewitt Airport lots 6 and 7

Committee Special 10 16

The Finance Committee will hear an update from Finance Director Danielle Berube on September 2023 financials. Immediately after, a Special Council Meeting will consider entering executive session to discuss the City Manager's annual performance evaluation, along with routine items like minutes approval and reports.

• September 2023 financials update by Finance Director Danielle Berube
• Executive session to discuss City Manager's annual performance evaluation
• Approval of October 2, 2023 Regular Council meeting minutes

Council 10 02

The Old Town City Council will consider final approval of a $4.5 million bond for repairs at 122 Penny Road, approve two airport grants, and set election details for November 7. The agenda also includes routine license renewals and a catering permit.

• Final approval of $4.5M bond for 122 Penny Road structures and related facilities
• Accept $926,000 and $304,000 FAA AIP grants for Dewitt Field Airport apron expansion (5% city match)
• Renew liquor license and victualer's permit for Angelo's Pizzeria, 484 Stillwater Ave
• Renew liquor license and victualer's permit for Kosta's, 268 Main St
• Approve off-premises catering permit for Governors Restaurant event at 1002 Stillwater Ave

The Council unanimously approved a $4.5 million bond to finance acquisition, design, construction, and renovation of structures at 122 Penny Road and related facilities. They also accepted two FAA airport grants totaling $1.23 million for apron expansion at Dewitt Field, with a 5% city match. Consent agenda items renewing liquor licenses for Angelo's Pizzeria and Kosta's were approved. The Council agreed to send a letter to Governor Mills about concerns over municipal solid waste at Juniper Ridge Landfill.

• Approved $4.5M bond for Penny Road facilities (7-0)
• Accepted $926,000 and $304,000 FAA airport grants for Dewitt Field apron expansion (7-0)
• Approved liquor license renewals for Angelo's Pizzeria and Kosta's (7-0)
• Approved municipal warrant for November 7, 2023 referendum/election (7-0)
• Approved Registrar of Voters hours for November 7 election (7-0)
• Approved off-premises catering permit for Governors Restaurant (7-0)
• Agreed to send letter to Governor Mills on landfill waste concerns (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of September 18, 2023 meetings (7-0)

Committee Special 09 18

The Old Town City Council and its committees meet on September 18, 2023, to discuss and decide several items. The Council will hold a public hearing on a $3.8 million bond for facilities at 122 Penny Road, consider final approval of welfare assistance limits and a parking ordinance amendment, and consider waiving late fee interest on FY 2023-2024 property taxes. Committees will discuss expanded archery deer hunting permits, August financials, and 2023 revaluation FAQs.

• Public hearing and first reading of order to issue up to $3,800,000 in bonds for facilities at 122 Penny Road
• Second reading and final approval of General Assistance maximum amounts for Oct 2023-Sep 2024
• Second reading and final approval of parking ordinance amendment prohibiting blocking driveways
• Consideration of waiving all late fee interest on FY 2023-2024 property taxes until June 30, 2024
• Discussion on expanded archery deer hunting permit within city limits

The City Council approved a first reading of a $3.8 million bond for acquisition, design, and construction of structures at 122 Penny Road, and scheduled a second reading for final approval on October 2, 2023. The Council also approved amendments to welfare assistance limits and parking regulations, and voted to waive late interest fees on the first half of FY2024 property taxes due September 29, 2023, until November 1, 2023. A proposal to waive all late fee interest for the full fiscal year failed unanimously.

• Approved first reading of $3.8M bond for 122 Penny Road facility, 7-0, with second reading set for October 2, 2023
• Approved amendment to Chapter 21 Welfare assistance limits for October 1, 2023–September 30, 2024, 7-0
• Approved amendment to Chapter 19 parking ordinance prohibiting blocking driveways, 6-1
• Failed motion to waive all late fee interest on FY2023–2024 property taxes, 0-7
• Approved waiver of late interest fees on first half FY2024 property taxes due September 29, 2023, until November 1, 2023, 7-0
• Approved September 5, 2023 regular meeting minutes, 6-0 with 1 abstention

Council 09 05

The Old Town City Council is meeting to conduct public hearings on proposed amendments to the General Assistance maximum amounts and to parking regulations, with second readings scheduled for September 18. The council will also consider several action items, including purchasing an ATV trailer for the fire department, converting a police patrol position to a civilian role, and demolishing two city-owned buildings.

• Public hearing on amending Chapter 21 (Welfare) General Assistance maximum amounts for Oct 1, 2023–Sep 30, 2024
• Public hearing on amending Chapter 19 parking rules to prohibit blocking driveways and allow traffic engineer to designate hazardous parking areas
• Authorize purchase of 2023 Alcom ATV trailer for $12,499 for Fire and Rescue, funded by sale of used ambulance to Newport
• Authorize conversion of a patrol officer position to a civilian Law Enforcement Support Administrator
• Authorize demolition of two city-owned former Water Works buildings at 1 and 2 Fourth Street

Committee Special 08 21

The City of Old Town is holding a series of committee meetings and a special council meeting on August 21, 2023. Committees will discuss a road connection, the old Water Works Building, a potential civilian patrol position, July financials, and a parking ordinance change. The council will consider a lunch wagon permit and an executive session on economic development.

• Discussion on road connection of Sullivan Drive to Young's Lane
• Presentation by Nick Sabatine (Ransom Environmental) on old Water Works Building on Fourth Street
• Discussion on converting a Patrol Position to civilian employee position
• Ordinance change on parking in Chapter 19
• Lunch Wagon permit for Lalu Dedi Purnawan Sutanto, d/b/a Ninja Japanese Express, parked on Stillwater Ave. at closed Dunkin Donuts

Council 08 07

The Old Town City Council will consider accepting bids for several construction projects, including the College Avenue Culvert, City Brook Pipe, and 4th Street sidewalk repair, along with approving the FY 2024 paving list and transferring funds from the Solid Waste Reserve. They will also discuss a curbside waste contract presentation, grant acceptances, and an ambulance sale.

• Accept $105,000 bid from Freedom Paving for College Avenue Culvert Construction, plus $5,000 for project management from Olver Associates
• Accept $159,000 bid from Lou Silver Inc. for City Brook Pipe Project
• Accept $623,864 bid from FCS for 4th Street sidewalk repair
• Approve FY 2024 paving list not to exceed $70,000
• Transfer $252,000 from Solid Waste Reserve Fund for CDD landfill closeout

The council approved multiple infrastructure contracts, including $623,864 for 4th Street sidewalk repair, $105,000 for the College Avenue Culvert project, and $159,000 for the City Brook Pipe Project. A five-year curbside trash collection contract with Pine Tree Waste was authorized, and the council accepted grants for police and fire equipment. All votes were unanimous 7-0.

• Approved $105,000 bid with Freedom Paving for College Avenue Culvert Construction, plus $5,000 project management from Olver Associates, funded by Maine DEP and ARPA.
• Approved $159,000 bid with Lou Silver Inc. for City Brook Pipe Project, funded by ARPA.
• Approved $623,864 bid with FCS for 4th Street sidewalk repair, funded by ARPA and fund balance.
• Approved FY 2024 paving list not to exceed $70,000 with Street's Paving, funded from prior paving bond.
• Approved transferring $252,000 from Solid Waste Reserve Fund to close CDD landfill project.
• Accepted $43,000 grant from Fire House Subs for an Argo ATV and $15,000 from Stephen and Tabitha King for gas meters and thermal imaging equipment.
• Approved sale of an ambulance to Town of Newport for $37,000.
• Authorized five-year curbside trash collection contract with Pine Tree Waste.

Committee Special 07 17

The Finance Committee will review June 2023 financials and discuss bids for several construction projects, including the College Avenue culvert, City Brook pipe, and 4th Street sidewalk repair. They will also discuss the Penobscot Energy Recovery Co. foreclosure auction, CDD Landfill, 2023-2024 paving, grant acceptances for police/fire, and the sale of an ambulance. Following this, a Special Council Meeting will consider license renewals for Hidden Meadows Golf Course and a catering permit for a wedding.

• Bids for College Avenue Culvert Construction project
• Bids for City Brook Pipe and 4th Street sidewalk repair
• Grant acceptances: $43,000 for new ATV, $15,000 from Steven and Tabitha King for meters and thermal imaging
• Sale of ambulance for $37,000 to Newport
• License renewals for Hidden Meadows Golf Course (victualer's, liquor, pinball)

The Finance Committee discussed bids for the College Avenue Culvert Construction Project, City Brook Pipe ($159,000 low bid), and 4th Street sidewalk repair ($788,000 low bid), and moved these items to the August 7th Regular Council meeting for a vote. The Committee also moved acceptance of police/fire grants ($43,000 for an ATV, $15,000 for gas meters and thermal imaging) and the sale of an ambulance for $37,000 to the Newport Fire Department. The Special Council meeting approved minutes, a consent agenda for liquor and victualer's licenses, a catering event permit, and entered executive session to consult with the City Attorney.

• Moved College Avenue Culvert, City Brook Pipe, and 4th Street sidewalk bids to August 7 council vote (4-0)
• Moved police/fire grants and ambulance sale to August 7 council vote (4-0)
• Approved June 20, 2023 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Approved renewal applications for Hidden Meadows Golf Course licenses and permits (7-0)
• Approved State of Maine catering event permit for wedding at 759 Woodland Ave (7-0)
• Approved executive session to consult with City Attorney (7-0)

Committee Special 06 20

The Administrative Services Committee will hear a virtual presentation from Madeline Jensen of BACTS on the regional Climate Action Plan, which includes a completed vulnerability assessment and greenhouse gas inventory, and outlines Phase 2 strategies. The Finance Committee will receive an update from Finance Director Danielle Berube on May 2023 financials, including revenue and expense summaries. Both meetings are procedural, with no votes scheduled.

• Climate Action Presentation by BACTS covering regional climate risks (flooding, extreme heat, storms, sea level rise) and Phase 2 toolkit development
• May 2023 revenue summary: total collected $23,194,330 (100.2% of budget), with notable items like property taxes at 91.4% collected
• May 2023 expense summary: total spent $6,688,488 (102% of budget) in General Government, with City Manager department over budget at 115.4%
• Airport revenue at 302% of budget due to runway improvement grants and hangar rentals
• Sanitation revenue at 120.6% of budget, driven by pay-as-you-throw bag sales

The Old Town City Council held a special meeting on June 20, 2023, and approved the FY 2023-2024 Municipal, County and School Budget totaling $24,209,967 with a net property tax requirement of $10,140,644. The Council also approved the FY 2023-2024 Pollution Control Budget and adopted a new Floodplain Management Ordinance, replacing older regulations and flood maps. A motion to accept a paving bid was tabled for further discussion.

• Approved FY 2023-2024 Municipal, County and School Budget of $24,209,967 (7-0)
• Approved FY 2023-2024 Pollution Control Budget with gross appropriations of $1,926,210 (7-0)
• Adopted new Floodplain Management Ordinance, repealing Section 104.22 and old FIRM maps (7-0)
• Tabled paving bid motion for later meeting after street condition list is prepared (7-0)
• Appointed Joanna Preble as interim RSU 34 School Board member through Dec. 31, 2023 (7-0)
• Approved June 6, 2023 regular council meeting minutes (6-0, Peterson absent)

Committee Special 05 15

The Old Town City Council approved a $733,020 Clean Water State Revolving Loan Fund Grant from the Maine DEP, with a $50,000 city match, for the Llewellyn Estes Bridge Force Main replacement, a Climate Adaptation Plan, and a Fiscal Sustainability Plan. The Council also approved a Victualer's License renewal for Riverside House of Pizza and a liquor license for VFW Post #3381's beer tent at Wings and Wheels. The Public Services Committee received updates on ambulance services and a new waste/recycling truck, while the Finance Committee reviewed April 2023 financials and FY 2024 budget notes.

• Approved $733,020 state grant with $50,000 city match for Llewellyn Estes Bridge project, climate plan, and fiscal sustainability plan (6-0).
• Approved Victualer's License renewal for Thymios Kotsias d/b/a Riverside House of Pizza, 4 Free Street (6-0).
• Approved off-premises liquor license for VFW Post #3381 beer tent at Wings and Wheels event, June 10, 2023 (6-0).
• Approved minutes from April 18, 2023 Financial Services Committee and Special Council meetings (6-0).
• Approved entering executive session for personnel matter (6-0).
• Public Services Committee heard update that Old Town's ambulance/EMT services are doing an excellent job overall.
• Public Services Committee received presentation on new single-driver waste/recycling truck with weekly pickup, starting September 2023.
• Finance Committee reviewed April 2023 financials and discussed FY 2024 budget; Committee of the Whole meeting scheduled for May 24, 2023.

Committee Special 04 18

The Finance Committee will hear updates on March 2023 financials and the FY 2023-2024 budget. The Special Council Meeting will consider several items, including a $650,000 purchase of 122 Penny Road for Global Secure Shipping, a $2.3M financing for a 15,000 sq ft expansion, tax abatements, surplus property bids, and ordinance changes on park hours and loitering.

• Purchase of 122 Penny Road for $650,000 from Blanchet Logging and Lumber Company
• Financing $2.3M for 15,000 sq ft manufacturing space at 122 Penny Road
• Tax abatements for Brian Folster at 50 Bowdoin Avenue: $571.50 (FY2021) and $542.50 (FY2022)
• Surplus property bids: West Old Town Rd ($26,222), 27 Bodwell St ($27,000), 2422 Bennoch Rd ($44,587), 68 Lincoln St ($20,222), Kirkland Rd ($3,815)
• Ordinance changes: park occupancy from 10 p.m.-6 a.m. to sunset-sunrise; loitering restrictions near driveways, entrances, hydrants

The Old Town City Council approved the purchase of land and buildings at 122 Penny Road for $650,000, funded from the fund balance, and authorized the city manager to enter into a purchase agreement and lease with Global Secure Shipping. The council also approved financing for a 15,000-square-foot manufacturing addition and electrical/roof upgrades at the same site. Other actions included tax abatements, surplus property sales, and final approval of ordinance amendments on park occupancy and loitering.

• Approved $650,000 purchase of 122 Penny Road for Global Secure Shipping lease (7-0)
• Approved financing for 15,000 sq ft manufacturing addition and upgrades at 122 Penny Road (7-0)
• Approved tax abatements of $571.50 (FY2021) and $542.50 (FY2022) for 50 Bowdoin Avenue (6-0, Folster recused)
• Approved sale of five surplus properties, including 27 Bodwell Street to Councilor Peterson for $27,000 (6-0, Peterson recused)
• Approved second reading and final approval of park occupancy ordinance amendment (7-0)
• Approved second reading and final approval of loitering ordinance amendments (7-0)
• Approved renewal of Victualer's License for Energy North Inc d/b/a Tradewinds (7-0)
• Approved going into executive session for personnel matter (7-0)

Council 04 03

The Old Town City Council voted 5-0 to schedule second readings on two ordinance changes: one replacing the park curfew with a sunset-to-sunrise rule, and another adding specific obstruction prohibitions to the loitering ordinance. The council also approved a victualer's permit and liquor license transfer for Governor's Restaurant, renewed a special amusement permit for Kosta's Restaurant, appointed Gary Sullivan to the Pollution Control Advisory Board, and issued a Sarcoidosis Awareness Month proclamation. No public comment was received on either public hearing.

• Scheduled second reading of park occupancy change from 10 p.m.-6 a.m. to sunset-sunrise (5-0)
• Scheduled second reading of loitering ordinance adding obstruction rules near driveways, entrances, hydrants, bike lanes (5-0)
• Approved victualer's permit and liquor license transfer for Governor's Restaurant at 963 Stillwater Ave (5-0)
• Approved renewal of special amusement permit for Kosta's Restaurant and Bar at 268 Main St (5-0)
• Appointed Gary Sullivan to Pollution Control Advisory Board term ending 12/31/2025 (5-0)
• Issued proclamation declaring April Sarcoidosis Awareness Month (5-0)
• Approved executive session for economic development discussion (5-0)

Committee Special 03 20

The Old Town City Council and its committees meet on March 20, 2023, to discuss and decide several items. The Administrative Services Committee will hear about the Recreation Department and proposed ordinance changes to park hours and loitering rules. The Finance Committee will review February 2023 financials. The Special Council Meeting will consider a liquor license renewal, an after-deadline property redemption, and an interim school board appointment.

• Proposed change to park occupancy hours from 10 p.m.–6 a.m. to sunset–sunrise
• Proposed loitering ordinance additions restricting sitting, lying, or sleeping near driveways, entrances, fire hydrants, and in streets or bike lanes
• Renewal of Victualer's and Malt, Vinous & Spirituous Liquor Licenses for Pepper's Landing, 170 Main Street
• Acceptance of $2,587.04 after-deadline redemption for sewer liens on foreclosed property at 58 Gilman Falls Avenue
• Appointment of Christina Lannan, 97 Prentiss Street, as interim RSU #34 School Board member

The Administrative Services Committee voted 4-0 to recommend two municipal code changes to the full City Council: replacing the park curfew from 10 p.m.–6 a.m. to sunset-to-sunrise, and adding seven new loitering restrictions (e.g., blocking sidewalks, driveways, building entrances, fire hydrants, bike lanes). The full Council also approved a liquor license for Pepper's Landing, accepted a late redemption on a foreclosed property at 58 Gilman Falls Avenue, and appointed Christina Lannan as interim RSU #34 School Board member.

• Approved 4-0 to move park curfew change (sunset-to-sunrise) and new loitering restrictions to the April 3 regular council meeting for first reading
• Approved 7-0 the March 20 regular council meeting minutes as presented
• Approved 7-0 a Victualer's License and liquor license for Pepper's Landing (170 Main Street), pending inspections
• Approved 7-0 accepting an after-deadline redemption of $2,587.04 for the Heirs of Craig Johnston at 58 Gilman Falls Avenue, authorizing a quit-claim deed
• Approved 7-0 appointing Christina Lannan (97 Prentiss Street) as interim RSU #34 School Board member until the November 2023 municipal election

Council 03 06

The council voted 6-0 to donate city-owned property at 85 Veazie Street to Greater Bangor Habitat for Humanity for a collaborative rehabilitation project. It also approved the sale of seven surplus properties by sealed bid, accepted a late redemption on a foreclosed property, and reappointed Donald Sturgeon to the Water District Board. The meeting included two executive sessions for economic development discussions.

• Approved donation of 85 Veazie Street to Habitat for Humanity (6-0)
• Approved sale of 7 surplus properties by sealed bid (6-0)
• Accepted late redemption on 186 Prentiss Street for $360.11 (6-0)
• Reappointed Donald Sturgeon to Water District Board (6-0)
• Approved renewal of liquor license for American Legion Post 75 (6-0)
• Approved minutes of February 21, 2023 meetings (6-0)
• Held executive session for economic development (6-0)

Committee Special 03 18

The Old Town City Council held a public hearing and then voted 6-0 to approve a zoning map change for Tax Map 33, Lot 52 from Resource Protection (P) to Rural Residence Farming (R-4). The Planning Board had unanimously recommended the change on March 12, 2024. No public comments were made during the hearing.

• Approved zoning map change for Tax Map 33, Lot 52 from P to R-4 (6-0)
• Approved sale of city-owned surplus property at 29 Union Street for $1,500 plus deed costs, to be brought to full council (4-0, Administrative Services Committee)
• Approved March 4, 2024 Regular Council Meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved warrant for March 5, 2024 Presidential Primary Election (6-0)
• Approved Registrar of Voters hours for March 5, 2024 Presidential Primary Election at Elks Lodge (6-0)
• Approved discharging Finance Director from collecting balance due for tax years 2007-2022 (6-0)
• Approved renewal of Victualer's Permit, Liquor License, and Special Amusement Permit for American Legion Post 75 (6-0)
• Approved entering and exiting Executive Session for a Public Safety Personnel matter (6-0)

Committee Special 02 21

The Old Town City Council and its committees are meeting to discuss and vote on several items. The Council will hold public hearings and vote on creating two Tax Increment Financing (TIF) districts: the Black Bear Omnibus and the Gilman Falls Omnibus. They will also consider transferring additional funds from the fund balance to cover cost overruns on the downtown traffic lights BACTS construction project, which exceeded its initial $200,000 estimate. Committees will also hear updates on the Llewellyn Estes Bridge, the 2022 audit, January 2023 financials, a housing rehab partnership for 85 Veazie Street, and property tax cost schedule reevaluations.

• Public hearing and vote on Black Bear Omnibus TIF District (approx. 73.50 acres, Tax Maps 11, 14, 18, 19)
• Public hearing and vote on Gilman Falls Omnibus TIF District (approx. 723.27 acres, Tax Maps 5, 11, 12, 23, 24)
• Vote to transfer funds from Account #09-52165-7210 for downtown traffic lights BACTS project cost overrun (initial estimate not to exceed $200,000)
• Discussion of partnership for rehab of city-owned property at 85 Veazie Street with Habitat for Humanity, Old Town Housing Authority, and Old Town Development LLC
• License renewals for VFW Post #3381 at 173 Main Street (Victualer's and Malt, Vinous & Spirituous Liquor licenses)

The City Council approved the creation of two new Tax Increment Financing (TIF) districts: the Black Bear Omnibus Development TIF Program and the Gilman Falls Omnibus Development TIF Program, both by a 6-0 vote. The Council also authorized a transfer of funds from the city's fund balance to cover the over-budget cost of the downtown traffic lights BACTS construction project, which exceeded the initial $200,000 estimate. Earlier, the Administrative Services Committee discussed the Llewellyn Estes Bridge project and agreed to recommend that the City Manager send a letter to MDOT requesting a temporary bridge during construction, and the Finance Committee received the completed 2022 city audit and discussed a partnership to rehab the city-owned property at 85 Veazie Street.

• Approved Black Bear Omnibus Development TIF Program (6-0)
• Approved Gilman Falls Omnibus Development TIF Program (6-0)
• Authorized fund transfer for downtown traffic lights BACTS project (6-0)
• Approved Victualer's and liquor licenses for VFW Post #3381 (6-0)
• Approved minutes from February 6, 2023, Regular Council meeting (6-0)
• Adjourned Administrative Services Committee (3-0)
• Adjourned Finance Committee (3-0)
• Adjourned Special Council Meeting (6-0)

Council 02 06

The Old Town City Council will discuss and consider approving one of three bids for constructing an access road to Dewitt Field Airport, from Airport Road to lots 5 and 5A. They will also consider several license renewals and a new victualer's license, plus a proclamation for Congenital Heart Awareness Week.

• Approve bid for access road construction at Dewitt Field Airport (3 bids received)
• New Victualer's License for Corey Thibodeau, d/b/a Meme G's, 296 Main Street
• Renew Victualer's License & Special Amusement Permit for Alex Gray, Main Street Bookstore, LLC, d/b/a Kanú, 283 Main Street
• Renew Victualer's License for DMCP Group, LLC, d/b/a Dunkin Donuts, 975 Stillwater Avenue
• Proclamation for Congenital Heart Awareness Week, Feb 7-14, 2023

The council approved a $135,230 bid from Maine Earth for an access road from Airport Road to lots 5 and 5A, minus paving. They discussed a $178,000 overage on the downtown traffic light project and agreed to use fund balance to cover it, including Water Street lights. A $769 check from the Fire and Ice event was given to Penquis for heating assistance. Several business licenses and a proclamation for Congenital Heart Awareness Week were approved.

• Approved $135,230 bid from Maine Earth for Airport Road access road (7-0)
• Agreed to use fund balance to cover $178,000 traffic light project overage (consensus)
• Approved Victualer's License for Meme G's at 296 Main Street, pending inspections (7-0)
• Approved renewal of Victualer's License and Special Amusement Permit for Kanú at 283 Main Street (7-0)
• Approved renewal of Victualer's License for Dunkin at 975 Stillwater Avenue (7-0)
• Approved proclamation for Congenital Heart Awareness Week, Feb 7-14, 2023 (7-0)
• Approved minutes from January 3 and January 17, 2023 meetings (7-0)

Council 02 05

The Council denied a resident's request to make an exception to the ordinance banning backyard animals in residential zones, with the Council President stating the ordinance stands pending legal trials on the right to food law. The Council also approved a zoning map change for a property from Resource Protection to Rural Residence Farming, set for a second reading. Several license renewals for local businesses were approved, and a proclamation for Congenital Heart Awareness Week was issued.

• Denied resident's request for exception to backyard animal ban (no vote recorded on request)
• Approved zoning map change for Tax Map 33, Lot 52 from Resource Protection to Rural Residence Farming (6-0)
• Approved renewal applications for liquor, victualer, and special amusement licenses for Kanú, Dunkin', Elks Lodge, and VFW Post 3381 (6-0)
• Approved issuance of a Proclamation for Congenital Heart Awareness Week, Feb 7-14, 2024 (6-0)
• Accepted after-deadline tax redemption from Kaja Holdings 2 LLC for $4,545.08 (6-0)
• Approved entering Executive Session for an Economic Development matter (6-0)
• Approved entering Executive Session for a Public Safety Personnel matter (6-0)
• Approved minutes of the January 02, 2024 Regular Council Meeting (6-0)

Committee Special 01 17

The Administrative Services Committee will hear presentations on transportation from BACTS, zoning areas, and an update on Old Town Development, LLC. The Finance Committee will review December 2022 financials and discuss bids for constructing an access road from Airport Rd to lots 5 and 5A.

• Presentation by Madeline Jensen of BACTS on transportation
• Zoning areas presentation by Code Enforcement Officer David Russell
• Old Town Development, LLC update by Economic Development Director EJ Roach
• December 2022 financials update by Finance Director Danielle Berube
• Review of bids for access road from Airport Rd to lot 5 and 5A

The Finance Committee voted 3-0 to bring a motion on the Airport access road construction project to the next Regular Council meeting on Feb. 6, 2023, pending review of contractor background and letters of recommendation. Three bids were received: BMB ($113,060), Maine Earth ($135,230), and Sargent ($198,748). The Administrative Services Committee heard presentations on BACTS bus stop changes and Old Town Development LLC. but took no votes on those items.

• Approved 3-0 to bring Airport access road construction bid to full council on Feb. 6, 2023, pending contractor review
• No votes taken on BACTS bus stop conversion or Old Town Development LLC. funding

Council 01 03

The Old Town City Council will hold a regular meeting to consider several routine items, including re-appointments to various boards and committees, renewal of the animal control agreement with Penobscot County, acceptance of an after-deadline tax redemption, and renewal of licenses for local businesses. The agenda also includes an executive session to discuss a real estate matter.

• Re-appointments to Landfill Advisory Board, BACTS Advisory Board, Old Town Development LLC, Board of Assessment Review, Dewitt Advisory Board, Planning Board, and Sewer Advisory Board
• Renewal of annual Animal Control Agreement with Penobscot County
• Acceptance of after-deadline tax redemption of $654.24 for Antoninos Dimoulas at 52 Spring Street
• License renewals for Old Town Elks Lodge #1287 (37 Fourth Street) and Angelo's Pizzeria (484 Stillwater Avenue)
• Executive session for real estate matter

The Old Town City Council approved reappointments to several boards and committees, renewed an animal control agreement with Penobscot County, accepted an after-deadline tax redemption for a foreclosed property, and renewed liquor and victualer's licenses for the Elks Lodge and Angelo's Pizzeria. All votes were unanimous (7-0) except one abstention on the minutes approval. No public hearings or old business were discussed.

• Approved reappointments to Landfill Advisory Board, BACTS, Old Town Development LLC, Board of Assessment Review, Dewitt Advisory Board, Planning Board, and Sewer Advisory Board (7-0)
• Approved renewal of Animal Control Agreement with Penobscot County (7-0)
• Accepted after-deadline tax redemption for Antoninos Dimoulas for $654.20 (7-0)
• Approved renewal of Victualer's License, On-Premises Liquor License, and Special Events permit for Old Town Elks Lodge #1287 (7-0)
• Approved renewal of Victualer's License for Angelo's Pizzeria (7-0)
• Approved entering Executive Session to discuss a real estate matter (7-0)