2021.09.10--Falmouth Focus, Volume 3, Issue 24
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.
General Information
- Town of Falmouth Hours of Operations and Status of Services
- Online and Remote Services
- A Guide to Participating in Virtual Town Council Meetings
Table of Contents |
Please note, currently the Table of Contents links feature is not supported by all email clients or browsers.
- News & Issues
- Ongoing Initiatives
- Events
- Take Note
- Town Council, Board & Committee Meetings
- Stay Informed
News & Issues |
The Time is Now: Get Involved in Falmouth's Vision & Values Process
Join the Discussion Boards and September Forums
Discussion Boards
Falmouth’s Vision & Values Project Discussion boards are open and residents are weighing in with their thoughts for Falmouth's future. Future iQ, the Town’s consultant for the Visioning process, has identified 10 key discussion topics based upon the responses and input received from Community Survey #1 and through the Future Summits held in March. See topics below. Discussion Boards can be found on the project portal at: https://lab2.future-iq.com/town-of-falmouth-vision-and-values-project/focus-groups/overview/. Residents can find background information on the complexities of each Focus Group topic, provide their feedback on the subject, engage with neighbors on these issues, and sign up for meetings being held in September.
- Topic #1 Residential development
- Topic #2 Non-residential development and future Town Center
- Topic #3 Housing affordability
- Topic #4 Shared community areas, green and open spaces
- Topic #5 Connectivity, walkability, and recreation
- Topic #6 Community diversity, inclusivity, and resident experience
- Topic #7 Lifelong community learning opportunities and our school system
- Topic #8 Environmental focus
- Topic #9 Governance and collaboration
- Topic #10 Cost of living in Falmouth
Focus Groups
A key component of the Vision & Values project are the Focus Groups. Given the uncertainties surrounding the ongoing pandemic, the Vision & Values project team has decided to move all Focus Group meetings from in-person to virtual. Dates and times will remain the same and meetings will be held via Zoom. We hope this will allow for the maximum amount of participation from our community without the fears and difficulties posed by large in-person gatherings.These workshops are a chance for residents to take a deep dive into specific, often complex, topics regarding Falmouth’s vision for its future. In the Focus Groups, attendees will receive an overview of the discussion topic, macro trends that could impact Falmouth, and the trade-offs involved in choosing one path over another. Small group discussions will allow residents to hear from their neighbors and give their own input on these issues. Dates, times, and registration for Focus Groups can be found below and at: https://lab2.future-iq.com/town-of-falmouth-vision-and-values-project/focus-groups/overview/
Focus Groups | |||
Topic | Date/Time | Venue | Registration Link |
Environmental Issues | Saturday, September 18, 9:00-10:30am | Virtual via Zoom | |
Governance and collaboration | Saturday, September 18, 11:00am-12:30pm | Virtual via Zoom | |
Shared community areas, green and open spaces | Monday, September 20, 5:30-7:00pm | Virtual via Zoom | |
Connectivity, walkability, and recreation | Monday, September 20, 7:30-9:00pm | Virtual via Zoom | |
Housing affordability | Tuesday, September 21, 5:30-7:00pm | Virtual via Zoom | |
Cost of living in Falmouth | Tuesday, September 21, 7:30-9:00pm | Virtual via Zoom | |
Non-residential development and future Town Center | Wednesday, September 22, 5:30-7:00pm | Virtual via Zoom | |
Residential development | Wednesday, September 22, 7:30-9:00pm | Virtual via Zoom | |
Community diversity, inclusivity, and resident experience | Thursday, September 23, 5:30-7:00pm | Virtual via Zoom | |
Lifelong learning opportunities and school system | Thursday, September 23, 7:30-9:00pm | Virtual via Zoom | |
Special Public Comment Opportunity
At the Town Council Meeting on Monday, September 13, 2021 at 7:00pm via Zoom, there will be a special public comment opportunity related to a proposed Forestry Management Plan for Pine Grove Preserve. The agenda and zoom link as well as more information on the plan can be found here: https://play.champds.com/falmouthme/event/2225
The Town of Falmouth continues to monitor the number of COVID cases in Cumberland County and guidance from the Federal and Maine Centers for Disease Control (CDC). The Town of Falmouth, in an abundance of caution, will continue to require masks for all staff and visitors indoors at all Town offices and facilities regardless of vaccination status. We will review this policy weekly and continue to monitor the CDC's designations to determine if changes are appropriate. Changes and updates to this policy will be communicated to residents via E-Alerts, social media, and the Town website.
Ongoing Initiatives |
Road Closures for Veranda Bridge Replacement Project in October Will Impact Falmouth Traffic
The Veranda Street Bridge Replacement Project will significantly impact traffic in Falmouth and your easy access to Portland for one week in October. MaineDOT is replacing the Veranda Street Bridge over I-295. This project also involves reconfiguring the roadways beneath the bridge to improve safety and mobility.
When will this happen?
Veranda Street (under the bridge) will be closed from 2:00 p.m. on Monday, October 18 until 2:00 p.m. on Monday, October 25.
Interstate-295 will be closed from 7:00 p.m. on Friday, October 22 to 11:00 a.m. on Monday, October 25.
What does that mean for Falmouth?
This closure is expected to significantly increase traffic in Falmouth, especially along Route 1 and Middle Road, as well as on the Maine Turnpike and in Portland.
During the closure, access to Portland via Route 1 and Veranda Street will be rerouted to Middle Road. Over the closure weekend, I-295 will be closed to public travel southbound beginning immediately south of Exit 10 (Bucknam Road) and ending at Exit 8 (Washington Avenue) and northbound beginning immediately north of Exit 9 (Veranda Street) and ending south of Exit 10 (Bucknam Road). Significant traffic and delays on Route 1, Route 88, Middle Road, and Bucknam Road in Falmouth are anticipated. Anyone who must use I-295 in Portland or Veranda Street on the closure weekend should also plan for significant delays.
What can you do?
Residents are encouraged to avoid this area during the closure weekend. The latest information about this project can be found on the project website: www.maine.gov/mdot/projects/portland/verandastreetbridge/. This site includes detour maps, videos, and other information about the project and the planned closures. The project website also links to virtual public involvement tools that allow members of the public to submit feedback and questions.
MaineDOT has prepared some helpful informational videos about the project and planned detour routes. For a project overview regarding construction phases, visit: https://youtu.be/uWQmZrw-WAg
Check out this detour presentation outlining the three main detour routes for I-295 traffic, two of which divert motorists through Falmouth, at: https://youtu.be/s_074HYPEP0
Wondering how to get into Portland from Falmouth? Check out this video of Route 1/Veranda Street Detour Routes at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hS35xUtKNdo
Senior Property Tax Assistance Program Accepting Applications
The Town of Falmouth’s Senior Property Tax Assistance Program is now accepting applications from eligible residents for property tax assistance. The program, now in its fourth year, is open to current Falmouth residents age 62 or older with annual income under $50,000. Both property owners and renters are eligible to apply. Refunds will be determined based on the number of valid applications received. Recipients will be refunded a proportional share of the available program funds based on income level. The total amount budgeted for this program in fiscal year 2022 is $60,000. Refunds for eligible applicants will be paid on or before November 18, 2021. Residents can mail in the application and backup documents to Town of Falmouth, Finance Department, 271 Falmouth Road, Falmouth, Maine 04105. Or call Pete McHugh at 699-5311 to make an appointment to submit your application. Residents are encouraged to apply early. The deadline for applications is October 14, 2021.
Contact Pete McHugh, Finance Director, at pmchugh@falmouthme.org or 699-5311 for more information. Application materials, additional information, and an eligibility worksheet, can be found at: https://www.falmouthme.org/finance/pages/senior-property-tax-assistance.
Events |
WindowDressers Build Opportunity
The Towns of Falmouth and Cumberland are partnering again to offer residents WindowDressers’ insulating window inserts. These wood inserts fit inside existing windows to let all the sunshine and views in while keeping the cold out!
What is Window Dressers?
WindowDressers brings volunteers together to improve the warmth and comfort of homes, lower heating costs, and reduce CO2 emissions by producing low-cost insulating window inserts that function as interior-mounted storm windows.
How Does It Work:
- Participants place orders for custom window inserts.
- Trained volunteers make a house-call to measure windows.
- Everyone comes together at a Community Build to construct the window inserts. No experience is needed. Skills are taught on site.
- Participants take their window inserts home at the end of the Community Build.
- Because of the volunteer component, participants enjoy discounts on the price of the inserts and, in cases of need, can even receive free inserts.
- Everyone benefits from greater efficiency and comfort in heating their homes this winter and in knowing they helped their neighbors as well!
COMMUNITY BUILD: November 11-13, Cumberland Congregational Church
COST: $30-$60 per window depending on size. Free inserts available to qualifying households. Participants are also asked to volunteer at the Community Build.
ORDER: Community Builds have limited capacity. Orders are taken first come-first served. The deadline to order is October 15 or whenever full capacity is reached.
Learn more at: http://windowdressers.org/insulating-inserts/. Falmouth residents may call 699-5337 for more info.
Fall Healthy Lawn Care Made Easy Workshops
The Cumberland County Soil and Water Conservation District will offer multiple workshops on healthy lawn care this fall. Learn how to grow a beautiful lawn that’s safe for families, pets, and the environment while saving money, time, and effort. All classes are $15 and run from 6-8 PM. Questions? Call Cumberland County SWCD at (207) 892-4700.
- Thursday, September 23, Riverton Community Center, Portland. Register online at: www.cumberlandswcd.org/workshops
- Tuesday, September 14, Bonny Eagle High School, Standish. Register online at www.sad6.maineadulted.org
Take Note |
Connect 2045 Seeks Your Questions about the Future of Transportation
The Greater Portland Council of Governments has launched Connect 2045 – an effort to plan for Greater Portland’s transportation future. Connect 2045 is collecting questions about the future of transportation from people who live, work, and play in the region. Click here to watch the fun video (filmed in Westbrook!) and to share your own questions about transportation in the future. You can also participate on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn by posting your questions with the hashtag #Connect2045. The Connect 2045 team is also getting out and about for events and pop-ups across the region with our Question Board and fun giveaways. Check out the Question Campaign page for dates and locations where you can visit us, and to see what other people are asking.
Town Council, Board & Committee Meetings |
Town Council Virtual Meeting, Monday, September 13
The Falmouth Town Council will conduct a virtual meeting via Zoom as authorized by Section 28, Policy Eight of the Town Council Rules and 1 MRSA §403-B. The meeting will begin at 7:00pm. The agenda and zoom link can be found here. The Zoom application will allow attendees to connect and participate remotely via computer or phone. The public may also watch (no participation option) the meeting on Channel 2 or on the Town website streaming channel. 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 August 23. See agenda and video here.
- The Council approved the minutes of the July 12 and July 26 Town Council meetings and July 21 Annual Work Planning Retreat.
- The Council approved the appointment of Joseph Lloyd to the Board of Zoning Appeals as a regular member and Karen Farber to the Planning Board as a regular member. The Council approved the re-appointment of Lindsey Dumais to the Library Board of Trustees.
- There was an update on the Community Vision and Values Project.
- The Council approved the renewal of permanent food service establishment licenses for Ricetta’s Brick Oven Ristorante and Walgreens.
- The Council approved an order authorizing general obligation refunding bonds to refinance and advance refund a portion of the Town’s outstanding 2013 and 2014 general obligation bonds.
- The Council approved a resolution in support of the Community Wellness Committee’s plans for the administration of the Town’s social services funding program.
- The Council approved a resolution regarding the American Rescue Plan Act funding proposed spending plan.
- The Council approved an 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.
- The Council approved an ordinance to amend Section 19-69 of the Code of Ordinances relative to the Rate of Growth Ordinance.
- There was a discussion about the current condition of Pine Grove Preserve. At the September 13 meeting, there will be a special public comment period on a proposed forestry management plan for the Preserve.
- There was a discussion about an application to accept Stone Ridge Road, Hilltop Trail, and Rogers Trail as public streets.
- The Council considered an order for the approval of a consent agreement related to a mislocated single family dwelling, and the violation of setbacks associated therewith, at 279 Foreside Road. This item was tabled until a future meeting.
Planning Board
The Planning Board considered the following items at its September 7 meeting. An agenda can be found here.
- 129 & 133 Hurricane Road – Timothy & Christine Nolan – Request for Private Way Amendment for a boundary line adjustment. Map/lot R08-080 & 080-D; Zoned F, RCZO. APPROVED WITH CONDITIONS
- Falmouth Road – Blackstone Development LLC – Request for Preliminary Subdivision Approval for Hidden Hills Estates, a major subdivision of 13 residential lots consisting of 10 Conservation lots and 3 Country Estate lots. Map-lot R04-022, Zoned F, RCZO. REMOVED FROM AGENDA
- Meeting Policy Discussion, Public Hearing, and Vote - Discussion and possible action regarding adopting a policy on remote meeting procedure. ADOPTED
Please note: Planning Board agendas for upcoming meetings may not always be complete at the time of this newsletter's publication. Within the agendas, when possible, links will be provided to direct users to any additional information available on projects at the time of publication, including building elevations and images when available. Information on planning board projects and activities, including agendas and minutes, can be found at: https://www.falmouthme.org/planning-board
Board of Zoning Appeals
The Board of Zoning Appeals considered the following items at its August 24 meeting. An agenda can be found here.
53 Falmouth Road – Deena S. Ball - Request for Conditional Use Approval under Section 19-54 for a home occupation, to renovate the existing horse barn into an art studio to house small group classes. APPROVED WITH CONDITIONS
30 Johnson Road – Ashlan & Meagan Oberholtzer -- Request for Conditional Use Approval under Section 19-84 for an expansion of the structure by adding a second floor and reconfiguration of the first floor. APPROVED WITH CONDITIONS
Discussion and possible action regarding adopting a policy on remote meeting procedure. ADOPTED
For more information please visit: https://www.falmouthme.org/board-of-zoning-appeals
Board of Assessment Review
The Board of Assessment Review considered the following items at its August 24 meeting. An agenda can be found here.
- Foreside Place LLC c/o Wal-Mart Stores East, LP (Tenant-Taxpayer), 2021 appeal for 206 US Route One, The Board will meet to approve the minutes from the August 2, 2021 hearing and approve the Notice of Decision for Foreside Place LLC Map/lot U52-002. DENIED
For more information please visit: https://www.falmouthme.org/board-of-assessment-review
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 and can be accessed from the home page. 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. 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.
Town of Falmouth, 271 Falmouth Road, Falmouth, ME 04105 207-781-5253
|
