2021.02.19--Falmouth Focus, Volume 3, Issue 4

Please note:  This newsletter will be sent to subscribers of both The Falmouth Focus newsletter and Town News & Announcements. Please excuse cross postings. To change your subscription settings, visit E-Alerts. 

Town Services, Offices, & Facilities

• Town of Falmouth Facility Closures, Cancellation, and Status of Services
• Online and Remote Services
• A Guide to Participating in Virtual Town Council Meetings
• Transfer Station and Waste Disposal
• Falmouth Parks, Playgrounds, Trails & Trailhead Parking
• Falmouth Schools Updates

• News & Issues​​​​​​  
  • Browntail Moth Update
  • Vision & Values Update
• Ongoing Initiatives
  • CCM Cell Phone Coverage Survey
  • Directory of COVID-19 Vaccine Sites
  • Revaluation Project
• Committee News
  • Conservation Commission & REAC:  Break Free from Plastic Pollution (Part 3)
• Events
  • Future Summit #1, March 1
  • Kindergarten Registration
  • Spring Lawn Care Workshops
• Take Note
  • Trail Access Parking
• Town Council, Board & Committee Meetings
  • Town Council
  • Planning Board
  • Board of Zoning Appeals
• Stay Informed

* Please note, currently the Table of Contents links feature is not supported by all email clients or browsers. 

Update on Browntail Moth in Falmouth

The infestation of browntail moth on the Southern Maine coast in recent years is the largest in the world since 1915. Fortunately, in the past few years, Falmouth has seen a reduction in nests and levels of infestation. In 2020, the Town of Falmouth conducted a spraying program to target areas in the public right-of-way that were deemed to be high risk. The spray program was completed in May. While not fully eradicating browntail moth, the Town’s goal was to preserve the health of the street trees and to minimize the public health effects of this infestation. In January 2021, the Town contracted Lucas Tree Experts to perform an assessment of browntail moth nests along all public ways in Falmouth within 15 to 20 feet of public roads and Town-owned property in order to identify high risk areas that should be treated again for control. The high-risk threshold level was set at approximately 8 to 10 nests per tree, or areas where there were multiple trees with 6 or more nests along or in a public way. This assessment found that no areas in Falmouth met the moderate criteria (high number of trees along the public way with at least 8 or 10 nests in each tree) and found no nests at all along the majority of the community's public roadways. Based on this assessment, the Town has decided to discontinue the browntail moth spraying program for this year.

As the assessment was intended to identify high risk areas using the above-described thresholds, the findings do not indicate that browntail moth has been eradicated in Falmouth. It is likely that there will be nests in some trees. Residents are advised to assess their own properties for nests during the winter months. The best means of preventing a browntail moth infestation on your property is to clip and destroy overwintering webs between October and mid-April. It is also best practice to treat trees before leaves have filled in, generally by the end of May or the first week in June. Residents with trees on their property that they want treated will need to hire a qualified contractor to do so. A list of licensed pesticide applicators willing to treat browntail moth is available here: https://www.maine.gov/dacf/mfs/forest_health/documents/pesticide_applicators_bm_hwa_others.pdf

Residents are advised that the poisonous hairs responsible for the rash that accompanies exposure to browntail moth can remain in the environment and toxic for up to three years after an infestation. Therefore, there is still a possibility of exposure this year. The Town has created a fact sheet with additional information on browntail moth problems, precautions, and prevention.

Vision & Values Project: Community Survey #1 Results Are Online!

by David Beurle, CEO, Future iQ

The initial results of the Vision and Values Community Survey #1 are now online!

The first big batch of results have been posted on the Vision and Values portal data visualization platform. You can view the data, on the project portal. There is also a video that explains how to use the platform and outlines some initial high-level results. The data is presented in interactive charts, so you can go in and explore what the community thinks about a range of key issues, and then drill in and see where various cohorts may share or differ in perspective.

We are still posting more data, and the next batch will be up by Monday, February 22. This batch will include results regarding the importance of a range of issues shaping the future of Falmouth.

We will be exploring the survey results throughout February and March, and then moving into the next major steps in the project. This will include taking a "deep dive" into the key future shaping issues that have emerged in the survey.

Reminder:  Survey to Identify Cell Phone Coverage Issues in Falmouth Still Open

1-3 Minute Online Survey Closes February 28, 2021

In recent years, some Falmouth residents have remarked on issues regarding wireless cell phone service in our community.  Spotty coverage and dropped calls are the most common complaints. The Town was offered an opportunity to help gather data that may point to possible solutions to these coverage issues.  

Cell Coverage Mapping (“CCM”) is a consumer-centric data collection and analytics survey focused on identifying wireless cell phone service issues and helping with facilitating wireless solutions for communities, such as building more cell towers in the most optimal locations. To gather data on coverage issues, CCM has created a brief survey for Falmouth residents to identify issues and specific areas in Falmouth where coverage has shown to be problematic. Data gathered from the survey, will allow Town officials to assess service issues and facilitate possible solutions with wireless service providers. There is no cost to the Town or residents to participate in this new and innovative data-driven project.

The survey takes 1-3 minutes to complete and allows residents to give feedback on multiple coverage issues. The survey can be found at: www.cellcoveragemapping.com and is open until February 28, 2021.

For more information about this survey, please contact: Brad Gorham, Principal, CCM, 978-376-5427, bradg@cellcoveragemapping.com or Theo Holtwijk, Director of Long-Range Planning and Economic Development, Town of Falmouth, 207-699-5340, tholtwijk@falmouthme.org. CCM is owned and operated by WRA, a Massachusetts based wireless infrastructure company.  

State Launches Website Directory of COVID-19 Vaccine Sites in Maine

Maine residents age 70 and older are now eligible for vaccination against COVID-19 as part of Phase 1B. Gov. Janet Mills’ office has published a list of health providers who have begun scheduling appointments for seniors 70 and older to the get the COVID-19 vaccine. Find the list here. The list will be updated as more providers set up sites and systems to make appointments. All sites will require an appointment to receive a vaccine.

If you are over 70, you may hear directly from your health care provider about how to get a vaccine or you may visit the State’s COVID-19 response website to find providers currently taking appointments. Please note: Because Maine’s supply of vaccine is limited, appointments may not be immediately available and will be scheduled on a rolling basis. Appointment availability is dependent on vaccine supply. There is no charge for the COVID-19 vaccine, but you should be prepared to provide any insurance information and proof of eligibility at the vaccination site. To find out if you are currently eligible, click here. 

Falmouth EMA is monitoring this evolving situation closely and will continue to provide updates via E-Alerts as needed and as additional information becomes available. As always, we are relying on the Maine CDC, the Governor’s office, and appropriate state agencies for guidance on this issue and encourage residents to visit Maine CDC and the State’s COVID-19 response website for the most current and up-to-date information.  

Town-Wide Revaluation Project Underway

As noted in previous issues of The Falmouth Focus, the Town of Falmouth's revaluation project is now underway. Data collectors from Vision Government Solutions have begun visiting Falmouth properties to conduct exterior evaluations (interior evaluations will not occur until later in 2021 and 2022). Residents will receive notice by mail indicating when data collectors will be in their neighborhood. Data Collection will begin in the northwest corner of Falmouth, near Cumberland and Windham. The Town of Falmouth has created a Revaluation Project Page which will include updates as the revaluation project progresses. The page will include information on the process as well as a project schedule. The Revaluation Project Page can be accessed via the home page of the Town website or by clicking here. Additional updates can be found via our social media pages, this newsletter, and in our regular ads in The Northern Forecaster.

Conservation Commission and Recycling and Energy Advisory Committee (REAC)

The Conservation Commission is a Town committee consisting of seven members appointed by the Town Council, for 3-year terms. The Commission strives to protect the natural resources of Falmouth and improve the Town’s ecological integrity and wildlife diversity. It increases public awareness of the intrinsic value of the Town’s natural resources and works to study and conserve them. One way to increase public awareness is through informational articles in The Falmouth Focus. The article below is the third and final installment in a series developed in conjunction with the Recycling and Energy Advisory Committee (REAC) to address the use of plastics and challenge all of us to consider their use and impact on our environment.

Make 2021 Your Year to Break Free from Plastic Pollution, Part 3

by Karen Jacobsen, Conservation Committee

Dear Falmouth Residents: 

Let’s admit right up front that during this pandemic using plastics is hard to avoid. But let’s also look forward to a brighter day when safety concerns won’t be front and center, a time when we can make a commitment to reduce single use plastics and break free from plastic pollution. 

So, consider these suggestions when the time is right for you:

1. Return to using reusable shopping bags. Many supermarkets now allow customers to use their reusable shopping bags.  This effort will go a long way toward eliminating those plastic bags that litter the roadways or get buried and burned at landfills.
2. Bring your own reusable produce bags to the grocery store. There are many USA-made cotton options available.
3. Carry a reusable water bottle.
4. Carry your own reusable fork, spoon, or knife.
5. Avoid plastic straws. Carry your own metal straw.
6. When available, buy in bulk. Stores that offer items in bulk often make paper bags available. Otherwise find out if the store will allow you to use your own bags or containers.
7. Use your own reusable mug at the cafeteria or support those coffee shops that support the use of reusable mugs.
8. Avoid buying items in clamshell packaging. That plastic is never recyclable.
9. Pack lunches in reusable containers. 
10. Support restaurants that allow use of reusable take-out containers. 

Remember that recycling is very worthwhile for metal, glass, and paper. But less than 10% of plastics are recycled; the rest is buried, burned, or tossed into the waterways. Reuse is possible. Please make a commitment to protecting our Earth from polluting plastics.

Future Summit #1, March 1, 7:00pm

As part of the Vision & Values Project, Future iQ will provide residents with a variety of ways to join in the discussion regarding Falmouth’s future. One such opportunity is the first Future Summit which will be held on March 1, via Zoom, beginning at 7:00pm.  Future Summits will be held at key points in the visioning process. These forward-looking community events (currently held virtually) will combine a presentation of data and results gathered to date, live interactive polling on key questions, and an opportunity for community comment. Additional information and a link to join Future Summit #1 by phone or Zoom will be provided in advance of the meeting on the home page of the Town website and via a News & Announcements E-Alert.

Kindergarten Registration at Falmouth Elementary School is Open

It's time for Kindergarten registration at Falmouth Elementary School. Online registration for Falmouth Kindergarten for the 2021-2022 school year is now open. A child must be five years old on or before October 15, 2021 in order to attend kindergarten in the fall. This is state law as well as school board policy. There are no exceptions. To register, please go to the Falmouth School District web page at www.falmouthschools.org. Click on the Elementary School link and go to Student Registration at the bottom. Please make sure to choose the 2021-2022 school year when registering! Kindergarten screening dates at FES will be May 26th and June 9th.

For more information on the documents necessary to complete information and to sign up for either an In-Person or Virtual appointment to present your child’s documents to be copied for their child’s registration packet, please contact Carolyn Edwards at Falmouth Elementary School, 781-3988 or email carolyn.edwards@falmouthschools.org

Spring Lawn Care Virtual Workshops

Do you want a lush green lawn that is safe for kids, pets, and the environment while saving you time and money? Join Cumberland County Soil & Water Conservation District to learn how to create a more resilient, beautiful lawn, without relying on chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Learn strategies for fertilizing correctly, controlling weeds and thatch, renovating poor lawns, transitioning to organic care, and more. Whether you maintain your lawn or hire a professional, round up your neighbors and join us! Program teachings are compatible with the City of Portland’s pesticide ordinance, the City of South Portland’s landcare management ordinance, and the Town of Falmouth’s Living Lawns program. 

Workshops will be held:

• Tuesday, March 23, 4-6pm 
• Tuesday, March 30, 6-8pm 
• Wednesday, April 14, 4-6pm
• Thursday, April 29, 6-8pm 

Register at https://www.cumberlandswcd.org/conservation-shop/tickets to receive the webinar link. The cost to attend each workshop is $15. For more info, visit: https://www.falmouthme.org/sites/g/files/vyhlif11826/f/uploads/spring_2021_lawncare_workshops.pdf

Reminder Regarding Trail Access Parking

Attention, Trail Users: We are glad that so many of you are getting out and exploring and using our trail system this time of year. Please be sure to use designated trail access points when visiting Falmouth trails. Using our Trail and Park Finder digital map will help locate them for you. Please do not park on private streets or private property. It is very important that we respect our neighbors!  If you are unsure of where to park to access Open Space properties, please be in touch at openspace@falmouthme.org. 

Town Council Virtual Meeting, Monday, February 22, 7:00pm

The Falmouth Town Council will conduct a virtual meeting using emergency legislation, Sec. G-1 MRSA §403-A, that allows cities and towns to conduct meetings online. The meeting will be held on Monday, February 22 at 7:00pm using Zoom. This application will allow attendees to connect via computer or phone. A meeting link and phone instructions will be provided in advance of the meeting via the Town website homepage and E-Alerts that will allow you to join the meeting via computer or phone, as well as, a phone number to dial in. An agenda can be found here. Check out our Guide to Participating in Virtual Public Meetings. If you have questions, please call (207) 699-5329. 

At the Most Recent Town Council Meeting…

The Town Council held a meeting on February 8 at 7:00pm via Zoom. See agenda here. 

There was an update on the Community Vision and Values Project.

The Council approved the re-enactment of Ordinance 128-2020, and emergency ordinance to temporarily suspend certain provisions of the Falmouth Code of Ordinances relating to outdoor eating areas and outdoor retail display to assist businesses suffering economic loss due to COVID-19 in a manner consistent with the Governor's re-opening plan. 

There was an update from the Highland Lake Leadership Team (HLLT).

There was an update on the development of Falmouth's Strategic Watershed Plan. 

The Council passed a resolution regarding the Sustainable Business Recognition Program proposed by the Recycling and Energy Advisory Committee (REAC).

There was an introduction of amendments to the Code of Ordinances to (1) add a new section to CH, II-12, Section 12-4 regulating construction noise and (2) to amend Ch. II-19, Section 19-72.5 to remove outdated references. The public hearing was scheduled for March 8.

The Council considered a resolution in support of establishing a new section of the Town purchasing guidelines and policy, Section X, regarding the acquisition of property for highway, stormwater, and wastewater collection and treatment purposes. The Council tabled this item.  

View past Town Council meetings here. 

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider the following items at its March 2 meeting. An agenda can be found here. When possible, links will be provided to direct users to any additional information available on each project at the time of this publication, including building elevations and images when available. Planning Board agendas for upcoming meetings may not always be complete at the time of this newsletter's publication. Information on planning board projects and activities, including agendas and minutes, can be found at: https://www.falmouthme.org/planning-board

• 9 Hidden Oaks Way – Anthony Wilkins –Request for Private Way Amendment to extend the existing way to establish frontage for one new lot.  Map/lot R08-009.
• 4 Mountain Road – West Falmouth Development II, LLC – Request for Second Amendment to Homestead Farms Subdivision to remove or reduce rear structural setbacks abutting Open Space within the development.  Map-lot U42-015.
• 28 Merrill Road – Larry Jensen –Request for Private Way Approval for 1 new house lot and an open space parcel.  Map/lot U30-005.
• 111 Allen Avenue Ext – Fred Robinson & Gina Angiolillo – Request for Private Way Approval for 1 new lot.  Map/lot U31-008.
• 8 Plumwood Way – Maxwell Beck – Request for 4^th Private Way Amendment.  The applicant proposes swapping 215 square feet of land with an abutter.  The resulting boundary line will resolve a setback issue. Additionally the applicant is requesting approval to fill 212 square feet of a wetland to accommodate the construction of a single family home.  No new lots are being created.  Map/lot R04-049-C1, Zoned RA, RCZO.
• 251 US Route One – Bailey Sign Inc on behalf of Commercial Properties Management – Request for Sign Permit Approval for one new 33.82 square foot internally illuminated wall sign next to the existing Goodwill store.  Map/lot U12-002, Zoned VC1.

Board of Zoning Appeals 

There will be no BZA meeting on February 23 because no applications were received.

For more information please visit: https://www.falmouthme.org/board-of-zoning-appeals

Stay Informed with the Town of Falmouth Website and E-Alerts

There are many Town committees and boards that meet on a regular basis. The events calendar on the Town of Falmouth website homepage lists upcoming board, committee, and Town Council meetings. We send E-Alerts when Town Council, Planning Board, and Board of Zoning Appeals meeting agendas and minutes are posted to the website. Subscribe via E-Alerts to those that most interest you. Agendas and Minutes for these meetings are also posted online. Town Council, Planning Board, and School Board meetings are live-streamed on Falmouth Community TV Channel 1301 (Former Channel 2). Recordings of these meetings are also available for viewing online. Board of Zoning Appeals Meetings are not broadcast live but can be viewed online within 24 hours after the meeting. E-Alerts allows you to subscribe to specific e-mail lists about Town-related issues that interest you. Over 70% of respondents to our Communications Methods Survey found E-Alerts to be an effective means of getting info about Town activities. The Falmouth Focus, this bi-weekly newsletter, is another way to stay in the loop. Subscribe via E-Alerts. Please let us know what kind of information you would like to see included in your town newsletter.