Rockland public meetings in 2025

Harbor Management Commission

The Harbor Management Commission will review several items, including an ACL proposal, updates to the cruise policy, and an amendment to the Public Landing USACE Harbor Management Plan. The meeting also includes routine reports from the harbormaster and the fish pier, as well as public comment and approval of minutes. No new business items are listed.

• ACL proposal
• Cruise Policy proposed updates
• Public Landing USACE Harbor Management Plan amendment
• Harbormaster's Report
• Fish Pier Report

The commission unanimously approved an amendment to the Public Landing USACE Harbor Management Plan (6‑0). No other motions were voted on. The commission also directed that Molly Eddy draft two memoranda—one on the ACL proposal and one on cruise‑ship policy—to be reviewed by the commission before sending to the city council. The meeting adjourned at 7:30 p.m.

• Amend Public Landing USACE Harbor Management plan (6-0)
• Commission to have Molly Eddy draft ACL proposal memo for council (planned)
• Commission to have Molly Eddy draft cruise‑ship policy memo for council (planned)

OS PBC

The Opioid Settlement Participatory Budget Committee will discuss a 2026 prevention education meeting. They will consider two possible dates—Feb 3 and Feb 9, 5:30‑7 pm—decide who to invite, and discuss food options such as soup. The meeting will also set next steps and schedule a follow‑up meeting.

• Discuss 2026 opioid prevention education meeting
• Consider meeting dates: Feb 3 2026 (5:30‑7 pm) and Feb 9 2026 (5:30‑7 pm)
• Determine invitee list for the education meeting
• Discuss food options, e.g., soup
• Plan next steps and schedule the next committee meeting

Planning Board

The Rockland Planning Board will review an application to construct a six-unit apartment building at 26 Gay St and consider two zoning map amendments. The board will also discuss a memo and ordinance.

• Review application PB26-5 for 6-unit apartment building at 26 Gay St
• Amendment #59: Change 1 Park Drive zone from split DT/Waterfront 2 to all Downtown
• Amendment #60: Change Camden Street Terrace & Bay View Square zone from split Res B/Plaza to all Res B
• Memo and Ordinance discussion
• Public comment period

Harbor Management Commission

The Harbor Management Commission will review the annual fee structure, consider a proposal for cruise ship policy, and discuss an amendment to the Chapter 9 harbor park weekend festival restrictions. The meeting also includes standard items such as welcome remarks, public comment, approval of minutes, and reports from the harbormaster and fish pier.

• Annual fee structure review
• Cruise ship policy proposal review
• Amendment to Chapter 9 harbor park weekend festival restrictions

Harbor Trail Committee

The Harbor Trail Committee will meet to discuss the placement of benches and review the committee's 2025 accomplishments. The group will also coordinate a future discussion regarding a History Walk.

• Review of bench locations
• Review of 2025 accomplishments
• Planning for January meeting with Ann Morris regarding History Walk

The committee approved the November 2025 minutes, incorporating a single amendment. Several action items were assigned: Bonnie will complete a library display‑case application, Louise will inquire about bench pricing and contact Joe Steinberger, Tabby will order additional thank‑you cards, and Annette will distribute the updated contact list.

• Approved November meeting minutes with one change
• Bonnie assigned to fill out library display case application (to discuss Jan)
• Louise assigned to contact city about bench prices
• Tabby assigned to order more thank‑you cards
• Louise assigned to contact Joe Steinberger for WERU interview
• Annette assigned to distribute updated Harbor Trail contact list

OS PBC

The Opioid Settlement Participatory Budget Committee will discuss scheduling for the 2026 4‑Pillar Education Meeting, reviewing suggested dates in January, February, March, and April. The meeting will also include reporting from MOSS, OS PBC 2025 grantees, and the City of Rockland. No decisions are recorded in the agenda.

• Discuss 2026 4‑Pillar Education Meeting dates (Jan 21 or 28, Feb 25, Mar 25, Apr 29)
• MOSS reporting
• OS PBC 2025 grantees reporting
• City of Rockland reporting
• Set next meeting date

The committee talked about possible dates for a 2026 four‑pillar education meeting, proposing Jan 21 or 28, Feb 25, March 25, and April 29. They set reporting deadlines, with MOSS reporting due Jan 15 and OS PBC 2025 grantees reporting due Jan 10. The mayor’s report was noted as due, and the next meeting was scheduled for Dec 17 at 4:30 pm. No approvals, votes, or formal decisions were recorded.

City Council

The City Council will consider several ordinance amendments, including a rewrite of the Subdivision & Site Plan Review and the elimination of minimum parking requirements. The body will also discuss policies regarding federal immigration enforcement and the establishment of a property tax assistance program.

• Ordinance #52 to eliminate minimum parking requirements in the Zoning Ordinance
• Ordinance #53 and Order #90 regarding limits on city cooperation with federal immigration enforcement
• Ordinance #61 to establish a property tax assistance program for eligible residents
• Order #92 to distribute $7,500 in charitable funds to AIO and St. Bernard’s Soup Kitchen
• Order #91 to set a public hearing for a dangerous building at 2 Pine Street

The Rockland City Council approved several ordinances, most notably a new immigration‑enforcement limitation that prohibits city employees from assisting federal immigration actions, passing 4‑1. It also eliminated minimum parking requirements, set a winter‑parking‑ban policy, and created a tax‑assistance program for residents. Additional actions included appointing planning‑board members, approving quit‑claim deeds for city property, and directing a lease‑to‑own study for a new police facility.

• Approved immigration‑enforcement limitation ordinance (4-1 Kalloch dissent), effective 01/07/2026
• Eliminated minimum parking requirements in zoning ordinance (5-0), effective 01/07/2026
• Adopted winter parking‑ban amendment (5-0), effective 01/07/2026
• Established Rockland Tax Assistance Program ordinance (5-0), public hearing set for 01/12/2026
• Appointed David Eberhart and Devon Moeser to Planning Board (5-0)
• Authorized quit‑claim deed sale of 10 Camden Street Terrace to Darren Robbins for $72,000 (5-0), effective 01/07/2026
• Directed City Manager to explore a lease‑to‑own arrangement for a new police facility (determined best option)
• Ordered public hearing on Dangerous Building status for 2 Pine Street (5-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Rockland Zoning Board of Appeals will review Administrative Appeal ZBA25-1 filed by Michael Mullins, who is contesting a notice of violation dated August 26, 2024 issued by the Code Office and Fire Department for a pre‑conveyance inspection at 32 Camden St (Tax Map #26‑E‑10). The board will decide whether to uphold or dismiss the violation. All other agenda items are procedural.

• Administrative Appeal (ZBA25-1) – Michael Mullins – 32 Camden St – appeal of Aug 26 2024 Code Office and Fire Department violation notice

Planning Board

The Rockland Planning Board will review a 6‑unit apartment application (PB26‑5) for 26 Gay St. It will hold public hearings on two zoning ordinance amendments: one to revise Conditional Uses and Performance Standards under Chapter 16, and another to eliminate minimum parking requirements. The board will also discuss the usual memo and ordinance items.

• Review of application PB26‑5 by Broad Vision Builders LLC for a 6‑unit building at 26 Gay St, Tax Map #23‑A‑27
• Public hearing on Chapter 19 edits to align Conditional Uses and Performance Standards with Chapter 16 rewrite
• Public hearing on Chapter 19, Sec. 19‑301 amendment to eliminate minimum parking requirements
• Memo and ordinance discussion (standard agenda item)

City Council

The agenda‑setting meeting on December 1 will include a presentation from the Energy & Sustainability Advisory Committee and a discussion of upcoming agenda items for the regular council meeting. Council members will consider several ordinance amendments, including a replacement of Chapter 16 Subdivision & Site Plan Review and the elimination of minimum parking requirements. The council will also review resignations and appoint a new Planning Board member.

• Ordinance amendment #450: Repeal & replace Chapter 16 Subdivision & Site Plan Review
• Ordinance amendment #52: Eliminate minimum parking requirements in the Zoning Ordinance
• Ordinance amendment #53: Prohibit city involvement in federal immigration enforcement
• Resolve #34: Appointment of David Eberhart as a full member of the Planning Board
• Ordinance #455: Quit Claim Deed to remove deed restriction on 10 Halls Lane

On December 8, 2025 the Rockland City Council approved several ordinances. The immigration enforcement amendment was passed 4‑1 and will take effect on January 7, 2026, with an added clarification on state and local law enforcement. Other approvals included eliminating minimum parking requirements, updating winter parking bans, and adopting a new Subdivision & Site Plan Review ordinance. All votes were recorded in the meeting minutes.

• Approved immigration enforcement ordinance amendment (4-1)
• Approved elimination of minimum parking requirements (5-0)
• Approved winter parking bans amendment (5-0)
• Approved Subdivision & Site Plan Review ordinance repeal and replacement (5-0)
• Approved appointment of David Eberhart and Devon Moeser to Planning Board (5-0)
• Approved re‑appointment of boards and committees, adding Richard Schneller to Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee (5-0)
• Approved quit claim deed sale of 17 Sherer Lane to Brad McDonald (5-0)
• Approved quit claim deed sale of 10 Camden Street Terrace to Darren Robbins for $72,000 (5-0)

OS PBC

The Opioid Settlement Participatory Budget Committee will meet on November 20, 2025 at the CRCC, 11 White St, Rockland. The committee will discuss the timeline for 2026 implementation of the settlement. It will also review reporting from the OS PBC and the City of Rockland, and consider next steps and scheduling of the next meeting.

• 2026 timeline discussion
• OS PBC reporting
• City of Rockland reporting
• Planning next steps
• Scheduling the next meeting

The Opioid Settlement Participatory Budget Committee reviewed the proposed 2026 timeline and suggested dates for educational meetings. It set a reporting deadline of Jan 15, 2026 to the MOSS center and scheduled the next meeting for Dec 10, 2025 at 4:30 pm. No formal approvals or votes were recorded.

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider two amendments to the City’s Zoning Ordinance. Amendment #51 proposes revisions to Conditional Uses and Performance Standards to align with the updated Chapter 16 Subdivision and Site Plan Review. Amendment #52 proposes eliminating the minimum parking requirements to allow more flexible use of limited developable land. The meeting also includes routine items such as call to order, communications, and public comment.

• #51 Chapter 19 Edits: revise Conditional Uses and Performance Standards per Chapter 16 rewrite
• #52 Chapter 19 Sec. 19-301: eliminate minimum parking requirements

The Planning Board agreed to consider two memos—one from Ledoux and one from Burke—for Council review. It decided to advertise a public hearing on the parking‑minimum amendment for December 2. The Chair will prepare a memo to guide discussion at the next meeting, and the Board unanimously approved the motion to adjourn.

• Agreed to consider two memos (Ledoux and Burke) for Council review
• Decided to advertise a public hearing on parking amendment on Dec 2
• Chair will prepare a memo to guide next meeting discussion
• Planner will provide a memo to accompany the Chair’s memo
• Unanimously approved motion to adjourn (unanimous)

Harbor Management Commission

The Harbor Management Commission will convene to review the minutes from a prior meeting and receive reports from the Harbormaster and Fish Pier. The primary focus is on discussing an ordinance regarding mobile food trucks and a potential contract with the Maine Lobster Festival.

• Approval of prior meeting minutes
• Harbormaster's report
• Fish Pier report
• Mobile food truck ordinance discussion
• MLF/Food truck contract discussion

City Council

The Rockland City Council will consider an Order directing the City Manager to implement policies restricting local resources and personnel from participating in federal immigration enforcement, except where required by law or court order. The meeting will also include a discussion with the Planning Board regarding overlay zones.

• Order directing City Manager to limit local involvement in federal immigration enforcement
• Discussion with Planning Board regarding overlay zones
• City Council Special Meeting on November 17, 2025 at 5:45 P.M.

The council adopted several changes to the city zoning ordinance, moving permitting authority for seasonal container restaurants and food wagons to the Code Enforcement Officer and adding new dimensional variances. It also approved amendments designating a historic district on Main Street, setting maximum assistance levels, and updating the subdivision and site‑plan review ordinance. All ordinance changes passed unanimously and take effect on December 10, 2025.

• Ordinance #44 (Container Restaurants & Food Wagons) passed 5‑0, effective 12/10/2025
• Ordinance #45 (Variances) passed 5‑0, effective 12/10/2025
• Ordinance #46 (Maximum Levels of Assistance) passed 5‑0, effective 12/10/2025
• Ordinance #47 (10 Halls Lane zoning amendment) passed 5‑0, effective 12/10/2025
• Ordinance #48 (Main Street historic district) passed 5‑0, effective 12/10/2025
• Ordinance #49 (Quit claim deed authorizing sale of 81 New County Rd) passed 5‑0, effective 12/10/2025
• Ordinance #50 (Subdivision & Site Plan Review repeal & replace) passed 5‑0, public date 12/08/2025
• Resolution #33 nominating Nicole Kalloch to Knox County Budget Committee passed 4‑0 with 1 abstention

City Council

The Rockland City Council will hold a special meeting on November 12, 2025. The council will vote on Ordinance Amendment #58, which authorizes the city manager to issue a municipal quitclaim deed for the tax‑acquired parcel at 10 Camden Street Terrace. The meeting also includes an executive session on poverty abatement and discussions on a tax relief program, the county budget, and an immigration order.

• Ordinance Amendment #58: authorize municipal quitclaim deed for 10 Camden Street Terrace
• Executive session on Poverty Abatement
• Discussion of Tax Relief Program
• Discussion of County Budget
• Discussion of Immigration Order

At the special meeting on Nov 3, 2025, the Rockland City Council adopted several ordinances and a nomination. Ordinances amending the zoning code to allow seasonal container restaurants, add disability and practical‑difficulty variances, and modify the 10 Halls Lane and Main Street historic‑district zones were each approved unanimously (5‑0). The council also approved a nomination of Nicole Kalloch to the Knox County Budget Committee (4‑0, 1 abstention) and adopted additional measures on assistance limits, a quit‑claim deed sale, and a subdivision‑plan rewrite (all 5‑0).

• Ordinance #44 Container Restaurants & Food Wagons amendment approved (5-0)
• Ordinance #45 Variances amendment approved (5-0)
• Ordinance #46 Max levels of assistance amendment approved (5-0)
• Ordinance #47 10 Halls Lane zoning amendment approved (5-0)
• Ordinance #48 Main Street Local Historic District amendment approved (5-0)
• Ordinance #49 Quit claim deed sale of 81 New County Road approved (5-0)
• Nomination #33 of Nicole Kalloch to Knox County Budget Committee approved (4-0, 1 abstention)
• Ordinance #50 Subdivision & Site Plan Review repeal & replace approved (5-0)

Harbor Trail Committee

The committee is planning potential 2026 themed walks and exploring the expansion of the trail north of the ferry terminal. Members are also coordinating the placement of new benches and investigating sidewalk plans for the Up and Smoke property.

• Investigation of building permits and sidewalk plans for Up and Smoke property
• Proposed trail expansion north of the ferry terminal and in the old Lime Kiln area
• Planning for 2026 themed walks: History, Bird, Scavenger, and Ghost
• Identification of bench types and placement locations
• Discussion of 2026 budget spending ideas

City Council

The Rockland City Council will vote on final readings of zoning amendments, including changes to container restaurants and parking requirements, as well as an immigration enforcement policy and a historic district designation. The Council will also consider a student representative on the council and a business assistance program.

• Zoning amendment for container restaurants and food wagons
• Zoning amendment eliminating minimum parking requirements
• Immigration enforcement policy for city employees
• Student representative on City Council
• Venture Forward Rockland business assistance program

The Rockland City Council adopted several ordinance amendments, including changes to the permitting authority for seasonal container restaurants and food wagons, new dimensional variances, a maximum assistance level amendment, a reclassification of 10 Hall Lane, and a historic district designation on Main Street. The council also approved a quit‑claim deed for 81 New County Road, nominated Nicole Kalloch to the Knox County Budget Committee, and replaced the Subdivision & Site Plan Review ordinance. All votes were unanimous except the budget committee nomination, which recorded one abstention.

• Approved #44 Container Restaurants & Food Wagons permitting amendment (5‑0, eff 12/10/2025)
• Approved #45 Variances amendment adding disability and practical difficulty variances (5‑0, eff 12/10/2025)
• Approved #46 Max Levels of Assistance amendment (5‑0, eff 12/10/2025)
• Approved #47 10 Hall Lane zoning reclassification from Residential to Commercial (5‑0, eff 12/10/2025)
• Approved #48 Main Street Historic District designation (5‑0, eff 12/10/2025)
• Approved #49 Quit‑claim deed authorizing sale of 81 New County Road (5‑0, eff 12/10/2025)
• Nominated Nicole Kalloch to Knox County Budget Committee (4‑0, 1 abstention)
• Approved #50 Subdivision & Site Plan Review repeal & replace (5‑0, public date 12/08/2025)

Planning Board

The agenda consists of procedural boilerplate. The board will conduct a memo and ordinance discussion and review minutes from October 7 and October 21, 2025.

• Memo and ordinance discussion
• Review of October 7, 2025 meeting minutes
• Review of October 21, 2025 meeting minutes

The Board voted 4‑0‑0 to recommend the Council receive revised memos for Ordinance Amendments #44, #45, and #47. It also approved the minutes from the October meetings and adjourned the session.

• Recommend sending revised Memo for Ordinance Amendment #44 to Council (4-0-0)
• Recommend sending Memo for Ordinance Amendment #45 to Council (4-0-0)
• Recommend sending Memo for Ordinance Amendment #47 to Council (4-0-0)
• Approve minutes of 10/07/2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Approve minutes of 10/21/2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Unanimously approve motion to adjourn at 7:00 p.m.

City Council

The Rockland City Council will adopt three commendation resolves honoring the Oceanside High School soccer team, player Elliott Trott, and coach Robbie Kruhl for their KVAC achievements. A presentation by the Public Services Director will provide an update on the public services garage. Council members will discuss neighborhood parking program revenues and the impact of cruise ships. The meeting will also set the agenda for the November 10 regular meeting, which includes several ordinance amendments and a nomination to the Knox County Budget Committee.

• Resolve #30: Commendation of the Oceanside High School soccer team for winning the KVAC Championship
• Resolve #31: Commendation of Elliott Trott as KVAC Class B South Boys Player of the Year
• Resolve #32: Commendation of Coach Robbie Kruhl as KVAC Class B South Coach of the Year
• Presentation by the Public Services Director – update on the public services garage
• Discussion of neighborhood parking program revenues and cruise ship impacts

The Rockland City Council adopted three commendation resolves honoring the Oceanside Mariners soccer team, player Elliott Trott and coach Robbie Kruhl. Each resolve was moved by Councilor Lachman and passed with five votes in favor. No other substantive actions were taken at the special meeting.

• Approved Resolve #30 – Commendation of Oceanside High School soccer team (5 for)
• Approved Resolve #31 – Commendation of Elliott Trott, KVAC Player of the Year (5 for)
• Approved Resolve #33 – Commendation of Coach Robbie Kruhl, KVAC Coach of the Year (5 for)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Rockland Zoning Board of Appeals will consider applications for practical‑difficulty and disability variances as provided by Chapter 19, section 102. This review is the only substantive item on the agenda; all other agenda points are procedural.

• Review of Chapter 19 sec. 102 practical‑difficulty and disability variances

The Rockland Zoning Board of Appeals voted 5‑0‑0 to support staff‑proposed amendments to Chapter 19‑102, adding Practical Difficulty Variances and updating Disability Variance language. The board also approved the amended draft minutes from the December 2024 and January 2025 meetings. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Supported Chapter 19‑102 variance amendments (Disability & Practical Difficulty) – vote 5‑0‑0
• Approved amended draft minutes of Dec 18 2024 and Jan 9 2025 meetings – unanimous
• Approved motion to adjourn – unanimous

Planning Board

The Rockland Planning Board will review modifications to an approved site plan submitted by LeVigeon LLC for 20 Elm St. (Tax Map #1‑G‑4) during a public hearing. The board will consider three zoning ordinance amendments: moving permitting authority for seasonal container restaurants and food wagons to the Code Enforcement Officer, adding disability and practical difficulty variances, and changing the zone classification of 10 Halls Lane to all Residential B. A Chapter 16 review with Rhett is also on the agenda. The meeting concludes with public comment and approval of prior minutes.

• Review modifications to approved site plan for LeVigeon LLC, 20 Elm St., Tax Map #1‑G‑4 (public hearing)
• Amendment to move permitting authority for seasonal container restaurants & food wagons to Code Enforcement Officer (Chapter 19, Sec. 19‑401)
• Amendment to add disability and practical difficulty variances to the zoning ordinance (Chapter 19, Sec. 19‑102)
• Zoning map amendment changing 10 Halls Lane from split Residential B/Commercial 2 to all Residential B
• Chapter 16 review with Rhett

The Planning Board found the revised application for the 18 Elm Street project complete, determined it met Section 16.2 of the ordinance, and unanimously approved the modified site plan and the accompanying Findings of Fact. A Working Group of the Chair and Ms. Burke was formed to draft language for Ordinance Amendment #44 concerning container restaurants and food wagons. No other business was taken.

• Found revised application for 18 Elm Street complete (vote 4-0-0)
• Found the application meets Section 16.2 of the Ordinance (vote 4-0-0)
• Approved the modifications to the site plan for 18 Elm Street (vote 4-0-0)
• Approved the revised Findings of Fact for the project (vote 4-0-0)
• Formed a Working Group (Chair and Ms. Burke) to develop language for Ordinance Amendment #44

Harbor Management Commission

The Harbor Management Commission will review a fee waiver request for the fishing vessel Western Sea and discuss possible appeals related to mooring movements. The meeting also includes routine agenda items such as public comment, approval of minutes, and reports from the harbormaster and fish pier.

• Fee waiver request for F/V Western Sea
• Discussion of mooring movements and potential appeals

The commission heard a fee‑waiver request from FV Western Sea and discussed a half‑rate reduction estimated at about $13,000. A 5‑0 recommendation to waive the fee was recorded, but no final approval or denial was made. Commissioners also noted plans to remove old kayak racks and to install wave buoys outside the breakwater.

• Recommended half‑rate fee waiver for FV Western Sea (5‑0)
• Planned removal of old kayak racks at Snow, Pearl, and Chickie locations
• Wave buoys ordered with location planned outside the breakwater

OS PBC

The Opioid Settlement Participatory Budget Committee will meet to discuss a Memorandum of Understanding, reporting schedules, and the timeline for 2026. The meeting is scheduled for 2 pm on October 16, 2025, at the CRCC on White Street.

• Discussion of Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)
• Review of 2026 timeline
• Organization reporting timeline
• Next meeting date to be determined

The committee decided the City of Rockland will ensure organizations receive their opioid settlement funds. The OS PBC will file a single annual report each January. A reporting timeframe was confirmed and will be sent to the three 2025 recipient organizations. The 2026 timeline was reviewed and will be included with the minutes.

• Assigned City of Rockland responsibility for ensuring organizations receive settlement funds
• Designated OS PBC to file one annual report each January
• Confirmed reporting timeframe to be sent to the three 2025 recipient organizations
• Reviewed 2026 timeline and will distribute it with the meeting minutes

City Council

At its regular meeting, the Rockland City Council will consider a series of ordinance amendments, including a final‑reading change that reduces front setbacks in Residential A and AA zones from 20 ft to 15 ft and repeals the Talbot Avenue Contract Zone. The council will also take first‑reading actions on a zoning‑map amendment for 10 Halls Lane, a historic‑district designation on Main Street, and a quit‑claim deed for 81 New County Road, along with several orders authorizing $9,995 from the fire‑dept reserve, accepting a land donation at 239 Rankin Street, and approving an employee appreciation day. Two resolutions will confirm an appointment to the Harbor Trail Committee and honor the late Alexander “Zander” Shaw.

• Ordinance #40: Reduce front setback in Residential A & AA zones from 20 ft to 15 ft
• Ordinance #47: Change zoning of 10 Halls Lane to Residential B only
• Ordinance #49: Authorize quit‑claim deed for sale of 81 New County Road
• Order #80: Expend up to $9,995 from Fire Department Building Reserve for storage boxes and flooring repairs
• Order #81: Accept donation of property at 239 Rankin Street from the Richard and Mary Nightingale Trust

The council amended Order #79 to authorize bids for eight tax‑acquired properties, voting 5‑for. It confirmed an appointment to the Harbor Trail Committee and recognized Alex Shaw for community contributions, each with a 5‑0 vote. Several ordinance amendments were adopted, including a front‑setback reduction, repeal of the Talbot Contract Zone, and updates to fire‑prevention codes, all passing 5‑0. Two zoning‑related amendments were postponed pending public hearings.

• Amended Order #79 to authorize bids for eight tax‑acquired properties – Approved (vote 5 for)
• Confirmed appointment to Harbor Trail Committee – Approved (vote 5‑0)
• Recognized Alex Shaw for community contributions – Approved (vote 5‑0)
• Front‑setback reduction amendment (Chapter 19, Sec. 19-207) – Passed (vote 5‑0)
• Repeal of Talbot Contract Zone (Chapter 19, Sec. 19-209) – Passed (vote 5‑0)
• Fire Prevention Ordinance NFPA update – Passed (vote 5‑0)
• Zoning amendment for 10 Halls Lane – Passed (vote 5‑0)
• Amendment for seasonal container restaurants & food wagons – Postponed (vote 5‑0)

Affordable Workforce Housing Tak Force

The Affordable Workforce Housing Task Force will meet to receive a presentation from Jeff Levine. The session includes time for public comment and a review of new action items.

• Presentation by Jeff Levine

Planning Board

The Rockland Planning Board will consider Memo and Ordinance numbers 40 and 41. An update on Chapter 16 will be presented by Rhett. The meeting will also include a public comment period and a review of minutes from the May 6, September 2, and September 16 2025 meetings.

• Discussion of Memo and Ordinance #40
• Discussion of Ordinance #41
• Chapter 16 update presented by Rhett
• Public comment period
• Review of minutes from May 6, Sept 2, and Sept 16 2025

City Council

The City Council is meeting to determine which items will be voted on at the October 15 regular meeting. The session includes presentations on a new police facility and the Rockland Main Street update, as well as a vote to authorize bids for the sale of tax-acquired properties.

• Order #79: Authorizing bids for the sale of tax-acquired properties including 81 New County Road and 122 Thomaston Street
• Order #80: Expenditure of up to $9,995 from Fire Department Building Reserve for storage boxes and flooring
• Order #81: Accepting donation of land at 239 Rankin Street
• Ordinance #40: Proposed change to front setbacks in Res. A & AA Zones from 20 feet to 15 feet
• Ordinance #47: Proposed zoning map change for 10 Halls Lane to all Residential B

The City Council authorized the City Manager to solicit bids for eight tax‑acquired properties (vote 5‑for). It confirmed appointments to the Harbor Trail Committee and recognized Alex Shaw (each 5‑0). The council also passed several ordinance amendments, including a front‑setback reduction, repeal of the Talbot Contract Zone, and updates to fire‑prevention codes, all with 5‑0 votes.

• Authorized bids for eight tax‑acquired properties (vote 5‑for)
• Confirmed appointment to Harbor Trail Committee (vote 5‑0)
• Recognized Alex Shaw for community contributions (vote 5‑0)
• Amended front setback in Res. A & AA zones from 20 ft to 15 ft (vote 5‑0)
• Repealed Talbot Avenue Contract Zone (vote 5‑0)
• Updated Fire Prevention Ordinance to NFPA 101 2018 edition (vote 5‑0)
• Amended Fire Prevention & Suppression Ordinance terminology (vote 5‑0)
• Changed zoning classification of 10 Halls Lane to Residential (vote 5‑0)

City Council

The City Council approved a street closure for the Camden International Film Festival and received a presentation on the distribution of opioid settlement funds. The body also held extensive discussions regarding residential property tax increases following a recent revaluation.

• Order #73: Authorized closure of a portion of Winter Street on September 11, 2025, for the Camden International Film Festival
• Opioid Settlement Funds distribution: Waldo CAP Transportation ($10,000), Mid-Coast Recovery Coalition ($8,000), and Pen Pay Community Health Partnership ($2,760)
• Discussion of waiving interest charges on FY 2026 taxes until June 30, 2026, to provide tax relief
• Discussion with AIO Executive Director Alan Kearl regarding food insecurity and federal funding cuts

Affordable Workforce Housing Tak Force

The Rockland Affordable Workforce Housing Taskforce will meet to review a revised memo from Genesis Fund and discuss the property tax impact of housing initiatives. The meeting will also cover subcommittee workstreams and allow for public comment.

• Review of Genesis Fund memo
• Discussion on property tax impact
• Formation of subcommittee workstreams
• Public comment period
• Review of new action items

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold public hearings regarding zoning ordinance amendments and a site plan modification. The board is discussing changing front setback requirements and repealing a specific contract zone.

• Public hearing on site plan modifications for LeVigeon LLC at 20 Elm St.
• Public hearing on amending front setbacks in Res. A & AA Zones from 20 feet to 15 feet
• Public hearing on repealing the Talbot Avenue Contract Zone
• Chapter 16 update with Rhett

Harbor Management Commission

The Rockland Harbor Management Commission will meet to hear public comments, approve the previous meeting's minutes, and receive reports from the harbormaster and the fish pier. The commission will also discuss a grant application for expanding Landings Marina.

• Public Comment
• Approval of Minutes
• Harbormaster's Report
• Fish Pier Report
• Landings Marina expansion Grant application

Harbor Trail Committee

The Harbor Trail Committee will consider several items, including a review of the City Snow Marine Park Resilience Project and the Harbor Trail Reserve Fund. They will also approve the July meeting minutes and discuss plans for a trail extension with city councilors. Additional agenda points cover a volunteer gathering, Name Tag Day on October 5, and navigation of the new city website.

• Approval of July meeting minutes
• Review of City Snow Marine Park Resilience Project
• Review of Harbor Trail Reserve Fund
• Planning Name Tag Day – October 5, noon to 2 pm
• Meeting with City Councilors to discuss Trail Extension Process

The Harbor Trail Committee approved the July meeting minutes as written. Members voted in favor of Louise writing a Harbor Trail jingle. Action items were assigned to organize the upcoming Name Tag Day event and to develop a guidebook for the “Discover the Trail Series” walk. The committee also agreed to remind city council members about the October meeting and to prepare a short presentation for the Oct. 23 City Committee gathering.

• July minutes approved as written
• Committee approved Louise to write Harbor Trail jingle
• Bonnie assigned to contact Peter for spring guidebook event
• Bonnie and Annette to schedule fall meeting to scout trail route
• Committee will remind all city council members about October meeting
• Members will discuss and assign presenters for Oct. 23 City Committee gathering
• Name Tag Day tasks assigned: Bonnie handouts, Louise poster, Annette money box, Tabby tables

City Council

The council voted 3‑for, 0‑against, with one abstention to authorize the Camden International Film Festival to close a portion of Winter Street on September 11, 2025. It also approved the distribution of opioid settlement funds, allocating $10,000 to Waldo CAP Transportation, $8,000 to Mid‑Coast Recovery Coalition, and $2,760 to Pen Pay Community Health Partnership. Councilors voted to extend the public forum twice, each time by a 4‑for vote.

• Authorize CIFF street closure on Winter Street Sep 11 (3‑for, 0‑opp, 1 abstain)
• Allocate $10,000 to Waldo CAP Transportation (approved)
• Allocate $8,000 to Mid‑Coast Recovery Coalition (approved)
• Allocate $2,760 to Pen Pay Community Health Partnership (approved)
• Extend public forum by 40 minutes (vote 4‑for)
• Extend public forum by additional 20 minutes (vote 4‑for)

City Council

The City Council authorized the Camden International Film Festival to close a portion of Winter Street on September 11, 2025, with a 3‑for, 0‑against, 1‑abstention vote. It also approved the distribution of opioid settlement funds to three community groups totaling $20,760. The Council extended the public forum twice, first by 40 minutes and later by an additional 20 minutes, each with a unanimous 4‑for vote.

• Authorized CIFF street closure on Winter Street Sep 11, 2025 (3 for, 0 opposed, 1 abstention)
• Approved opioid settlement fund allocations: $10,000 Waldo CAP Transportation; $8,000 Mid-Coast Recovery Coalition; $2,760 Pen Pay Community Health Partnership
• Extended public forum by 40 minutes (vote 4 for)
• Extended public forum by additional 20 minutes (vote 4 for)

Energy and Sustainability Advisory Committee

The Energy and Sustainability Advisory Committee decided that all future meetings will be conducted in person in the City Hall boardroom. The committee also approved a letter of support for the Maine Trails Program application for the Benner Hill trail project. Several members were assigned follow‑up tasks, including thank‑you outreach to garden tour hosts and coordination on waste‑management and wetlands assessments.

• In‑person meetings will be held at City Hall boardroom (approved)
• RESAC will issue a Letter of Support for the Maine Trails Program application (Benner Hill) (approved)
• Jenny to send a thank‑you letter to garden tour hosts and invite them to a follow‑up event (task assigned)
• Nan to compile a report from Eco Maine Tour key takeaways (task assigned)
• Lee and Jenny to meet about the MacDougal Community Garden (task assigned)
• Henri to review RSU’s waste‑management contract with EcoMaine (task assigned)
• Nathan to schedule a presentation at the City Council meeting on 11/3 (task assigned)
• Lee and Jan to coordinate a wetlands assessment with Nate and loop in Nathan (task assigned)

City Council

The council adopted a bond ordinance authorizing up to $20.9 million for construction of a public safety facility, pending voter approval at the Nov 4, 2025 election. It also approved the C‑PACE ordinance, a recreation/entertainment facility zoning amendment, and a $75,000 community‑action grant for the Harbor Trail extension. Additional actions included appointing Brenda Garrand to the Economic Development Advisory Committee and nominating Stephen L. Manning to the Knox County Budget Committee.

• Approved bond ordinance for up to $20.9M public safety facility (3‑0)
• Adopted C‑PACE ordinance enabling commercial energy‑improvement financing (3‑0, effective 09/10/2025)
• Approved recreation/entertainment facility zoning amendment in WF‑2 zone (3‑0, effective 09/10/2025)
• Appointed Brenda Garrand to Economic Development Advisory Committee (3‑0)
• Nominated Stephen L. Manning to Knox County Budget Committee (3‑0)
• Approved $75,000 community‑action grant for Harbor Trail extension (3‑0)
• Authorized acceptance of $1,000,000 CWSRF forgiveness funding for sewer project (3‑0)
• Passed amendment to sign ordinance for special event banners (first reading, 3‑0)

Planning Board

The Rockland Planning Board voted to find the site plan for 28 Lincoln Street and 82 Summer Street in compliance with Article 16 Section 16.204. The board then approved that site plan and also approved the revised Findings of Fact for DC McLain GP LLC and DC McLain LLC. All three motions passed unanimously, 5‑0‑0.

• Find site plan in compliance with Article 16 Section 16.204 (5-0-0)
• Approve site plan for 28 Lincoln St and 82 Summer St (5-0-0)
• Approve revised Findings of Fact for DC McLain GP LLC and DC McLain LLC (5-0-0)

City Council

The Rockland City Council approved a bond ordinance authorizing up to $20.9 million to finance a new public safety (police) facility, pending voter approval at the November 4, 2025 election. The council also adopted a C‑PACE ordinance, appointed Brenda Garrand to the Economic Development Advisory Committee, and nominated Stephen L. Manning to the Knox County Budget Committee. Several other measures were approved, including a zoning amendment for an indoor recreation facility, a grant for the Harbor Trail extension, and acceptance of $1 million in CWSRF forgiveness funding.

• Approved bond ordinance for public safety facility (up to $20.9 M) – vote 3-0
• Adopted C‑PACE ordinance enabling commercial energy financing – vote 3-0
• Appointed Brenda Garrand to Economic Development Advisory Committee – vote 3-0
• Nominated Stephen L. Manning to Knox County Budget Committee – vote 3-0
• Approved zoning amendment for indoor recreation/entertainment facility in WF‑2 – vote 3-0
• Authorized placement of public safety bond referendum on 11/04/2025 ballot – vote 3-0
• Authorized $75,000 community action grant for Harbor Trail extension – vote 3-0
• Accepted $1,000,000 CWSRF forgiveness funding for sewer collection system – vote 3-0

City Council

The council postponed the order to apply for a $50,000 Community Development Block Grant until the July 14 regular meeting, voting 5‑0. It approved the temporary closure of Oak Street on July 11 to host a musical jam session, also voting 5‑0. Councilors moved to enter an executive session to discuss contract negotiations, which passed unanimously.

• Postponed CDBG Public Services Grant application order until July 14 (5‑0)
• Approved Oak Street closure July 11 for a jam session (5‑0)
• Entered Executive Session to discuss contract negotiations (5‑for)

Planning Board

The board found the Loud Dog Medical application complete and determined it met all Chapter 16.204 and Chapter 19.G.12 standards. It then approved the site plan for 185 Pleasant Street with a 3‑0‑0 vote. The board also approved the revised Findings of Facts for the project, also by a 3‑0‑0 vote. No public comments were received at the hearing.

• Found Loud Dog Medical application complete (3-0-0)
• Found application meets Chapter 16.204 and Chapter 19.G.12 standards (3-0-0)
• Approved site plan for 185 Pleasant Street (3-0-0)
• Approved revised Findings of Facts (3-0-0)

City Council

The City Council postponed the CDBG Public Services Grant application (Order #53) to the July 14 regular meeting, voting 5‑0. It authorized the closure of Oak Street from Main Street to 328 Main Street on July 11, 2025 for a jam session, voting 5‑0. The Council also moved into an executive session to discuss contract negotiations, voting 5‑0.

• Postponed Order #53 CDBG grant application to July 14, 2025 (5-0)
• Approved Oak Street closure for July 11, 2025 jam session (5-0)
• Entered executive session on contract negotiations (5-0)

City Council

The council postponed the CDBG Public Services Grant application (Order #53) until the July 14 regular meeting, voting 5‑0. It approved the closure of Oak Street from Main Street to the westerly boundary of 328 Main Street on July 11, 2025, to host a Jam Session, also voting 5‑0. The council entered an executive session to discuss contract negotiations, with a 5‑0 vote.

• Postponed CDBG grant application order until July 14 (vote 5‑0)
• Approved Oak Street closure July 11 for Jam Session (vote 5‑0)
• Entered executive session on contract negotiations (vote 5‑0)

Planning Board

The Board found the subdivision application meets the General Requirements of Article 16‑105 and approved the Findings of Fact as revised, each with a 4‑0‑0 vote. It then approved the Subdivision Application for Lake City Holdings, LLC with a 4‑0‑0 vote. The Board also required proof of a signed Extension of the Option Agreement, added a sidewalk completion condition, and mandated affordable‑housing deed covenant language.

• Board finds Subdivision Application meets General Requirements – approved (4-0-0)
• Findings of Fact approved as revised – approved (4-0-0)
• Subdivision Application for Lake City Holdings, LLC approved – approved (4-0-0)
• Board requires proof of signed Extension of Option Agreement before proceeding
• Sidewalk must be completed within 8 months of last house or 5 years, whichever comes first
• Affordable‑housing deed covenant language to be added to the plan
• Site Plan PB25-13 (Medical Marijuana Storefront) completeness review – no decision, pending public hearing
• Adaptive reuse/affordable‑housing project – introductory discussion only, no formal decision

Energy and Sustainability Advisory Committee

The committee discussed possible changes to meeting dates, a financing ordinance for commercial property owners, and upcoming projects, but did not adopt any resolutions or record any votes. Action items were assigned, including confirming a new Wednesday schedule, exploring alternative meeting locations, and planning the August garden tour. No approvals, denials, or tabling of proposals were recorded.

City Council

The council approved three commendations for a high school salutatorian and Fire/EMS personnel (each 5‑0). It confirmed appointments to the Harbor Management and Historic Preservation commissions (5‑0) and adopted several ordinance amendments, including a commercial vacant‑property fee (4‑1) and harbor‑related regulations (5‑0). The proposed federal immigration‑enforcement ordinance was defeated (2‑3). The agenda for the June 9 regular meeting was set.

• Commended Gracie Stevens, Certificate presented (5‑0)
• Commended Fire/EMS personnel for EMS licensing upgrades (5‑0)
• Commended Fire/EMS personnel for Phoenix Award (5‑0)
• Confirmed appointments to Harbor Management and Historic Preservation commissions (5‑0)
• Passed harbor & waterfront ordinance amendment on mooring ball markings (5‑0)
• Passed harbor & waterfront ordinance amendment defining watercraft terms (5‑0)
• Adopted commercial vacant‑property fee ordinance (4‑1)
• Defeated federal immigration‑enforcement ordinance (2‑3)

Harbor Management Commission

The commission voted 4‑0 to accept one kayak rack in lieu of this season's fees. It also approved three US Coast Guard event applications—Bouy Park (July 10‑11), the August 22 race, and the BCM Lobster Ride (Oct 18)—with no fees recommended. Additionally, the commission voted 4‑0 to recommend the MBH&H banner schedule with appropriate pro‑rating.

• Accepted one kayak rack in lieu of season fees (4‑0)
• Approved USCG Bouy Park event July 10‑11, no fees (4‑0)
• Approved USCG race event August 22, no fees (4‑0)
• Approved BCM Lobster Ride event Oct 18 at Snow Marine Park (4‑0)
• Recommended MBH&H banner schedule, pro‑rated time (4‑0)

Harbor Trail Committee

The committee approved the June 11 meeting minutes as written. It agreed to sponsor a 90‑minute "Herb Walk" led by Amie Daniels, with a limit of ten participants. Committee members were assigned follow‑up actions for sea‑level‑rise data sharing, volunteer recruitment, a thank‑you card for Terry Pinto, and a meeting with city counselors. Posters and map cards for the upcoming Discover the Trail event were printed and the event will be held on June 22 unless it rains.

• Approved minutes as written
• Sponsored 90‑minute Herb Walk with Amie Daniels (limit 10 people)
• Poster and map cards printed for Discover the Trail event
• Scheduled Discover the Trail event for 6/22, contingent on weather
• Committee members assigned to contact partners for sea‑level‑rise project
• Committee members assigned to recruit new volunteers
• Committee will send thank‑you card to Terry Pinto
• Committee will propose meeting with city counselors on 6/24

City Council

The council approved an order directing the Rockland Police Department to refuse any U.S. Department of Homeland Security grant funds unless a written agreement is approved, passing 4‑1. It also passed a new commercial building vacancy fee ordinance with a 4‑1 vote. The proposed federal immigration enforcement ordinance was defeated 2‑3, and several zoning and public‑safety amendments were postponed or approved as noted.

• Order directing Police Department not to use DHS grant funds for immigration activities – Passed (4‑1)
• Commercial Vacant Property Fee ordinance – Passed (4‑1)
• Federal Immigration Enforcement ordinance – Defeated (2‑3)
• Moorings ordinance amendment (Harbor & Waterfront) – Passed (5‑0)
• Commercial Corridor Overlay Zone amendment – Postponed to July 14, 2025 (5‑0)
• Loitering ordinance repeal amendment – Postponed to July 14, 2025 (4‑1)
• Begging ordinance repeal amendment – Postponed to July 14, 2025 (4‑1)
• Parking ordinance amendment for Atlantic and Scott Streets – Passed (5‑0)

Energy and Sustainability Advisory Committee

The Energy and Sustainability Advisory Committee met on June 3, 2025. Attendees included Jenny Carter, Nathan Smith, Ellie Mersereau, Jan Heimlich, Lee Humphreys, David Statman, Nancy Galland, and guest Sophie. The minutes contain no recorded decisions, approvals, or votes. No action items were documented.

City Council

The council adopted an order directing the Police Department to refuse any U.S. Department of Homeland Security grant funds unless a written agreement is approved by the council, passing 4‑1. It also passed a commercial vacant‑property fee ordinance (4‑1) and defeated a federal immigration‑enforcement ordinance (2‑3). Several other measures were approved, including two Harbor & Waterfront amendments, a parking‑restriction amendment, a fire‑sprinkler code amendment, and appointments to two city commissions.

• Order directing Police Dept not to accept DHS grant funds without council agreement – Passed 4-1
• Commercial Vacant Property Fee ordinance – Passed 4-1
• Federal Immigration Enforcement ordinance – Defeated 2-3
• Harbor & Waterfront Ordinance amendment on mooring markings – Passed 5-0
• Harbor & Waterfront Ordinance amendment defining watercraft terms – Passed 5-0
• Parking amendment restricting Atlantic and Scott streets – Passed 5-0
• Fire Prevention Code amendment adding sprinkler requirement – Passed 5-0
• Appointments to Harbor Management and Historic Preservation commissions – Passed 5-0

Wayfinding Signage Advisory Committee

The advisory group confirmed the three proposed vehicular signs and ordered the header on the downtown museums sign removed. It approved reversing the order of signs VD2 and VD3, moving sign VD4 south of the maroon house, and adding a Wyeth Center sign. The group also decided that the community center and library signs (VD7) will not be installed in year 1, and that a similar sign (VD16) will be placed on Maverick Street. Finally, the signage will be referred to as “walking map signs.”

• Approved three vehicular signs as proposed
• Removed header on downtown museums sign
• Reversed order of signs VD2 and VD3
• Moved sign VD4 south of the maroon house
• Added Wyeth Center as a vehicular sign
• Deferred community center and library signs (VD7) to after year 1
• Approved placement of a similar sign on Maverick Street (VD16)
• Renamed kiosk signs to “walking map signs”

Planning Board

The Board approved the Chapter 16 standards and the site plan for 4 & 6 White Street and 87 Limerock Street, each with a 4‑0‑0 vote. It also approved the findings of facts for that project. The Board then found that the Funny Farm site plan at 2 Main Street meets Chapter 16 standards and conditionally approved it, also by a 4‑0‑0 vote. No decision was made on the subdivision plan for Rockland Street.

• Approved Chapter 16 standards for 4 White Street (4-0-0)
• Approved site plan for 4 & 6 White Street and 87 Limerock Street (4-0-0)
• Approved findings of facts for 4 & 6 White Street project (4-0-0)
• Found Funny Farm site plan at 2 Main Street meets Chapter 16 standards (4-0-0)
• Conditionally approved Funny Farm site plan with edits (4-0-0)
• Approved findings of facts for Funny Farm site plan (4-0-0)

City Council

The Rockland City Council approved several amendments to the Zoning Ordinance, removing minimum lot‑size requirements for sewered residential lots, eliminating maximum building‑story limits in many residential zones, and deleting the Commercial Corridor Overlay Zone. The Council also adopted a parking ordinance amendment for handicapped and short‑term spaces at the Custom House lot, changed historic commission membership rules, and removed sprinkler requirements for one‑ and two‑family homes. All of these measures passed unanimously (5‑0) and will take effect on June 11, 2025.

• Amended Zoning Ordinance to eliminate minimum lot size for sewered residential lots (5‑0)
• Amended Zoning Ordinance to eliminate maximum building‑story limits in residential zones (5‑0)
• Amended Zoning Ordinance to eliminate the Commercial Corridor Overlay Zone (5‑0)
• Amended Parking Ordinance to add handicapped and 20‑minute parking spaces at Custom House lot (5‑0)
• Amended Historic Preservation Commission membership to reduce members and allow alternates to vote (5‑0)
• Amended Fire Prevention and Life Safety Code to remove sprinkler requirement for one‑ and two‑family dwellings (5‑0)
• Ordered Police Department not to accept DHS grant funds without a written agreement (postponed, 5‑0)
• Established Participatory Budgeting Committee, with mayor‑appointed members (5‑0)

Energy and Sustainability Advisory Committee

The committee decided that the Windows Dressers initiative will receive additional support from RESAC. They also agreed to provide more updates to the City Council. No other formal decisions were recorded at this meeting.

• Increase support for Windows Dressers program (decision)
• Provide more updates to City Council (decision)

City Council

At the May 12 regular meeting, the Rockland City Council approved several zoning ordinance amendments, including removing minimum lot size requirements for sewered residential lots, eliminating maximum building height limits, and abolishing the Commercial Corridor Overlay Zone. The council also adopted a parking ordinance amendment adding handicapped and 20‑minute parking spaces at the Custom House lot, and approved a fire‑code change removing sprinkler requirements for one‑ and two‑family homes. Additional actions included establishing a participatory budgeting committee, directing the police department to refuse DHS grant funds without a written agreement, and revising historic preservation commission membership rules.

• Eliminated minimum lot size for sewered residential lots (5‑0)
• Eliminated maximum building height limits in multiple zones (5‑0)
• Eliminated the Commercial Corridor Overlay Zone (5‑0)
• Added handicapped and two 20‑minute parking spaces at Custom House lot (5‑0)
• Removed sprinkler requirement for one‑ and two‑family dwellings (5‑0)
• Established Participatory Budgeting Committee for charitable donations (5‑0)
• Directed Police Department to reject DHS grant funds without written agreement (postponed, 5‑0)
• Reduced Historic Preservation Commission membership from seven to five members (5‑0)

Wayfinding Signage Advisory Committee

The Wayfinding Signage Advisory Committee reviewed vehicular and pedestrian destination ideas, branding concepts, and potential sign locations. Members expressed general agreement on using city branding and reducing visual clutter, and offered suggestions for sign designs and placement. No formal approvals, denials, or votes were recorded during the meeting.

Harbor Management Commission

The Harbor Management Commission approved the February and March minutes by a 4‑0 vote. It also voted 4‑0 in favor of allowing the Makers Market at the buoy during cruise ship visits. The commission directed the mooring sections to be sent to council, assigned Molly to edit and circulate the non‑water‑dependent floating structures language, and instructed notification of Tim Carol and discussion with Tom about a Memorial Day Harbor Park request, with a $400 fee to be paid if the park is used.

• Approved February and March minutes (4‑0)
• Approved Makers Market at buoy during cruise ships (4‑0)
• Send mooring sections to council
• Molly to edit and send non‑water‑dependent floating structures language
• Notify Tim Carol about Harbor Park Memorial Day request
• Discuss Harbor Park request with Tom
• Pay $400 fee if Harbor Park is used on Memorial Day

City Council

The Rockland City Council adopted several zoning amendments, including new contract zones for affordable housing and mixed‑use development, and updated parking regulations. It also passed resolves supporting municipal bond tax‑exempt status and a No Mow May initiative, confirmed an appointment to the Comprehensive Planning Commission, and authorized a lease for a portable ADA‑compliant restroom.

• Approved Rockland Street Contract Zone for affordable housing (5-0)
• Approved White Street Contract Zone for mixed‑use development, amended (5-0)
• Approved Parking Violation ordinance with fines and waivers (5-0)
• Approved 2‑hour parking limit on east side of Main Street (5-0)
• Passed resolve to preserve tax‑exempt status of municipal bonds (5-0)
• Passed resolve encouraging No Mow May for pollinator habitat (5-0)
• Confirmed appointment of Russell Beauchemin to the Comprehensive Planning Commission (5-0)
• Authorized lease for ADA‑compliant portable restroom up to $81,465 for MacDougal Park (5-0)

Harbor Trail Committee

The Harbor Trail Committee approved the meeting minutes as written. The city council decided that the trail extension parallel to Rt.1 at the north end by Steel House will be a multi-use trail for cyclists. The city plans to extend the Atlantic Avenue segment with pea stone and to widen the Park Drive area with pea stone to define the trail path.

• Minutes approved as written
• City council decided the north‑end Steel House trail extension will be a multi‑use trail for cyclists

City Council

At the April 7 special meeting, Council extended the public forum by 30 minutes (vote 5-0) and entered an executive session for personnel and legal matters (vote 5-0) with no actions taken. At the April 14 regular meeting, the Council unanimously approved a series of resolves and ordinances, including support for municipal bond tax‑exempt status, a “No Mow May” initiative, the mayor’s appointment to the Comprehensive Planning Commission, and amendments to the city’s administration and parking codes. Notably, ordinances creating contract zones on Rockland Street and White Street were passed to provide affordable housing and mixed‑use development (both 5‑0).

• Extended public forum by 30 minutes (5-0)
• Entered executive session for personnel and legal matters (5-0)
• Passed resolve supporting tax‑exempt status for municipal bonds (5-0)
• Passed “No Mow May” resolve encouraging pollinator habitat (5-0)
• Confirmed Mayor’s appointment of Russell Beauchemin to the Comprehensive Planning Commission (5-0)
• Amended City Administration Ordinance to encourage diverse board appointments (5-0)
• Approved Parking Violation ordinance establishing fines and waiver fees (5-0)
• Approved Contract Zone on Rockland Street for affordable housing units (5-0)

Wayfinding Signage Advisory Committee

The Wayfinding Signage Advisory Committee identified high‑priority vehicular and pedestrian destinations for signage. It agreed to have the consultant review the city‑prepared walking map and to begin a preliminary wayfinding map. No votes were recorded. The next meeting is set for April 29.

• Agreed on high‑priority vehicular wayfinding destinations
• Agreed on high‑priority pedestrian wayfinding destinations
• Consultant to review walking map prepared by City Staff
• Consultant to begin preliminary wayfinding map
• Next meeting scheduled for April 29

Energy and Sustainability Advisory Committee

The committee decided to support the WindowDressers community build. RESAC will organize a group shift, promote volunteering to its networks, and coordinate at least half of the food donations. New action items assign Jenny to check city press outreach and Mary Ellen to obtain food coordination details from Connie.

• Approved support for WindowDressers: organize group shift, promote volunteering, coordinate half of food donations

Planning Board

The Planning Board held public hearings on Ordinance Amendments #14 (Rockland Street) and #15 (White Street). After a brief comment period, the Board voted 3‑0‑0 to send a memo urging the City Council to pass Amendment #14. The Board also voted 3‑0‑0 to support the Council approving Amendment #15 for a mixed‑use Contract Zone on White Street. The Board agreed to begin a site‑plan review for the White Street project, contingent on Council approval.

• Motion to send memo to Council encouraging passage of Amendment #14 approved (3-0-0)
• Motion supporting Council approval of Amendment #15 Contract Zone approved (3-0-0)
• Board authorized start of site‑plan review for White Street project, pending Council approval