2022.07.22--Falmouth Focus, Volume 4, Issue 18
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
Table of Contents |
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News & Issues |
Middle Road Closure
As part of the West Falmouth Sewer Project, construction along Middle Road will begin on Monday, July 25, starting at Lunt Road and ending at the Woods Road roundabout. The construction is expected to last into September.
As part of this work, Middle Road will be completely closed between Lunt and Bucknam Roads for several weeks beginning on Monday, July 25. Motorists will be detoured to Falmouth Road. Residents on Middle Road will be allowed access to their properties throughout the closure. See map below.
The West Falmouth Sewer Project includes upsizing the Falmouth Road Pump Station, its associated force main, and the sewer piping on Woods Road and Middle Road. These upgrades are critical to maintaining the efficient conveyance and treatment of wastewater, particularly from West Falmouth. For the most current information on the project, visit: https://www.falmouthme.org/west-falmouth-sewer-project and subscribe to West Falmouth Sewer Project E-Alerts for regular email updates. For questions or more information, contact the Wastewater Department at 207-781-4462.
Falmouth's Revaluation Update: New Assessment Letters Mailed July 19
Vision Government Solutions has informed us that the printing and mailing of new assessment letters was delayed. Letters were mailed July 19. Given the postal delays that Falmouth has recently experienced, we strongly advise property owners to review their new assessment data online. To review your new assessment:
- Visit www.vgsi.com and select the “TAXPAYER INFO” tab along the top of the page.
- Choose “ONLINE DATABASES” from the dropdown menu.
- Select the state of Maine symbol.
- Scroll to “Falmouth, ME,” and enter search information for your parcel.
Property owners who disagree with their assessment may review it with a representative of Vision Government Solutions by scheduling an informal telephone hearing. The deadline to make an appointment for an informal hearing has been extended to August 8 due to the delays outlined above. Appointments may be scheduled in the following manner:
ONLINE: Visit www.vgsi.com/schedules, click on “FALMOUTH MAINE HEARINGS,” and follow the instructions. To make appointments for more than one property, please use the number below. If, due to a conflict, you are unable to find an available appointment via the online portal, you may call the toll-free number below. Vision Government Solutions has assured us they will work to accommodate those residents requesting a hearing.
PHONE: Call toll-free 1-888-844-4300, 9am-4pm, Monday– Friday. Note: Call center operators taking appointments are not trained nor qualified to discuss home values or assessment data.
Informal hearings will be held primarily by phone however, in-person hearings are available on a limited basis and will be held by appointment in the Town Council Chambers at Falmouth Town Hall.
If you are unable to attend a hearing by phone or in-person, you may present evidence supporting your opinion of the fair market value of your property to Vision Government Solutions in writing by August 8. Letters should be sent to Vision Government Solutions c/o Appraisal Dept., 1 Cabot Road, Suite 100, Hudson, MA 01749.
If you are not satisfied in your attempts to schedule a hearing with Vision Government Solutions, please call Town Offices at 207-699-5335.
Find more information about the revaluation project, including answers to frequently asked questions, at: https://www.falmouthme.org/home/pages/revaluation-project-2021-2022 or call 207-699-5335.
Social Services Agencies Grant Application Open
The Town of Falmouth is pleased to make available grants to social services providers who meet the needs of Falmouth residents whose safety or health is at risk. Funding could include support for such community needs as trauma response, domestic violence response, food insecurity, counseling, mental health and substance use treatment, dental health, refugee services, transportation, senior services, disability services, home health, and end-of-life care.
To apply for a grant from the Town of Falmouth for the fiscal year 2022-2023, submit an application to Marguerite Fleming at mfleming@falmouthme.org or by mail to 271 Falmouth Road, Falmouth, ME 04105 by September 30, 2022. The application is available here.
June 29 Mackworth Island Informational Meeting Video Recording
On June 29, 2022, the Maine Department of Administrative and Financial Services, the Maine Educational Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing/Governor Baxter School for the Deaf, the Maine Department of Education, and the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry held an informational meeting at Falmouth Town Hall about facility assessment and planning work taking place on Mackworth Island. In early 2022, Harriman Associates, an architecture, engineering, and planning firm, began work on the Mackworth Island Concept Utilization Plan. Their work included: assessing all facilities, utilities, parking, circulation, transportation; considering environmental impacts; exploring potential future uses or necessary renovations of facilities and buildings; and developing a site plan with cost estimates.
The video recording of the meeting (ASL interpreted and wide-view versions), including a public question and answer session, and slide deck are available here.
Ongoing Initiatives |
Landfill Solar Array Update
Progress continues on the installation of the solar array at the Falmouth Transfer Station. The installation of an access road to the top of the landfill is complete. The next phase of construction will include Installation of the racking system which will hold the glass panels. This phase is anticipated to begin on August 1 and take approximately two to three weeks. Residents can expect construction activity and some heavy truck traffic along Woods Road and in and out of the facility during this time. Please exercise caution when using the Transfer Station. The final phase of construction will continue into October. Construction is not anticipated to impact Transfer Station operations in any way.
The array has an expected annual output of 1,500,000 kWh for the initial delivery year and will produce enough renewable energy to offset ~70% of municipal electric use. It is estimated to save the Town $1.995 million in energy costs over its 20-year lifespan.
Questions can be directed to Public Works at: 207-699-5370.
From the Wellness Committee: A Perfect “Tie-In”
By Carol Iverson Kauffman,
Falmouth Community Wellness Committee Member
In 1985, the National Recreation and Park Association endorsed July as National Park and Recreation month, and the U.S. House of Representatives passed its official resolution in 2009. The idea was to advance parks, recreation, and conservation efforts that enhance the quality of life for all people. To this end, at its July 11, 2022 meeting, our Town Council passed a resolution designating July as Park and Recreation Month in the Town of Falmouth.
At its November 2020 meeting, the Falmouth Community Wellness Committee chose a definition of wellness influenced by The National Wellness Institute that reads: Wellness is an active process of becoming aware of and making choices towards a healthy and fulfilling life and community. While there are many definitions and dimensions of wellness, our committee focuses on all aspects of our personal, social/relational, environmental, and community wellness.
The offerings of Falmouth’s Parks and Community Programs tie in perfectly with these dimensions of wellness. As for me personally, I enjoy Concerts in the Park presented in summertime. Since my hobby is sewing, I took advantage of viewing the current Maine Historical Society’s exhibition of Northern Threads: Two Centuries of Dress by signing up to go with Community Programs in June. Given recent mobility problems, this was a bonus. No driving. No parking. Tie in. Tie in. My emotional well-being was enhanced!
In Falmouth we are indeed fortunate that Falmouth Parks and Community Programs offers so many wellness choices to promote and participate in, including: over fifty-five miles of trails, nine tennis courts, five baseball diamonds, an ice-skating rink, the Mason-Motz Activity Center, the Presumpscot Senior Room at Mason-Motz, and Falmouth Community Park. These are all cross-generational opportunities with something for most everyone to tie into individual wellness. You can find more information about all the opportunities Falmouth Parks and Community Programs provides residents at: www.falmouthme.org/parks-and-community-programs
We invite you to explore the Falmouth Community Wellness Resource Guide. Our committee also has an opening for a committed, energetic volunteer who enjoys event planning and other fun ways to promote and encourage wellness opportunities. Click here for an application. More information is available on our webpage.
Falmouth's Parks and Community Programs Advisory Committee (PACPAC), a volunteer committee of 7 members appointed by the Town Council for 3 year terms, works in an advisory capacity with the Director of Parks & Community Programs and the Town Council to plan and provide programming for Parks, Recreation and Adult/Senior programming. Learn more about PACPAC here.
Living Lawns
Living Lawns offers lawn care tips to help make your lawn healthy and vibrant. Over the spring, summer, and fall, Falmouth's Conservation Commission will share tips in The Falmouth Focus and on social media.
Tip #11: Establish a No Mow Zone. This area is mowed only one or two times a year and allows native plants and grasses to grow. A No Mow Zone is a designated area that can progress through succession to return to a natural state. These areas provide an excellent habitat for pollinators such as native bumblebees. These zones allow plants to flower, which in turn provides a place for pollinators to stop and have a meal.
Tip #12: It is not the right time to fertilize your lawn! Applying extra fertilizer in the heat of summer can burn your lawn and create a flush of tender growth that will struggle in the hot summer weather. Never fertilize dormant lawns: Rather, wait until they green up in the fall if your soil test depicts needed nutrients. If you’re leaving your grass clippings behind when you mow, you’re giving your lawn all the fertilizer it needs, and it’s free!
For more information, visit the Livings Lawns web page at: https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/MEDIFW/bulletins/31d9e0e
Events |
National Night Out: Police vs. Fire Softball Game at Legion Field
The battle is on! To mark National Night Out on Tuesday, August 2 at 6:00pm, Falmouth's bravest will take to the field in an epic showdown between hometown heroes. On one side, Falmouth Police Department, led by Chief John Kilbride; on the other, Falmouth Fire-EMS, headed by Chief Howard Rice. Officiated by Falmouth Town Manager, Nathan Poore, this game will determine which department will hold the championship title and which team will wash the other's vehicle! It's the ultimate face-off and it's FREE! A 50/50 raffle and donations will be taken with all proceeds benefiting Maine Special Olympics. "The Special Olympics is near and dear to Falmouth PD's heart," said Chief Kilbride. "Next year, assuming the fire department wants to lose again, we will play for a charity of their choice." Burgers and hot dogs will be available for a suggested donation. Bring the whole family for a night of fun. Cheer your team: red or blue. "We hope we get good weather and a good crowd to come out to the ball field and watch Falmouth Fire-EMS win this thing," said Fire Chief Rice. "I hope the police department has a lot of soap. Our tower truck is much bigger than their police cruiser."
National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make our neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live. Thousands of communities across all fifty states, U.S. territories, and military bases worldwide mark National Night Out on the first Tuesday in August by hosting block parties, festivals, parades, cookouts, and various other community events. Learn more at: https://natw.org/
Concerts in the Park
Bring your lawn chair, blanket, and picnic and join your neighbors for free musical entertainment in Village Park beginning at 6:30pm. The summer lineup includes:
- July 25--12/OC--contemporary country
- August 8--Andi Fawcett--pop, country, and blues
In case of inclement weather, contact the FCP office at 699-5302 or check our social media pages. Rain decisions will be made by 2pm.
Take Note |
Upcoming Road Closure
This summer, construction will take place on Mast Road to replace a culvert over Suckfish Brook. This work will require the full closure of Mast Road for up to one week, with a detour route via Babbidge and/or Roads. The work is expected to begin in mid-August, depending upon weather and the arrival of materials and supplies. We will continue to update residents regarding this closure via News & Announcement E-Alerts (subscribe here), this newsletter, our website, and social media pages.
Senior Property Tax Assistance
Falmouth's Senior Property Tax Assistance Program
The Town of Falmouth is accepting applications for its Senior Property Tax Relief Program. The program is open to current Falmouth residents, age 62 or older, with an annual household income below $60,000. 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 2023 is $60,000. 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 in person. Residents are encouraged to apply early. The deadline for applications is October 13, 2022. For additional information on program requirements and an application, visit: https://www.falmouthme.org/finance/pages/senior-property-tax-assistance, or contact Pete McHugh at 207-781-5253 x5311.
New Property Tax Law for Seniors
During its most recent session, the Maine Legislature passed a law that allows certain senior residents ages 65 and older to stabilize, or freeze, the property taxes on their homestead. The State will fully reimburse municipalities for lost revenue. The text of the new law can be found here. The law goes into effect on August 8, 2022, and applies to property tax years beginning April 1, 2023. Maine Revenue Services is currently drafting forms and instructions, along with guidance for applicants and municipalities, which will be released in advance of the law’s effective date in August. Additional information will be included in upcoming editions of this newsletter and via News & Announcements E-Alerts and by visiting: https://www.falmouthme.org/finance/pages/senior-property-tax-assistance
Town Council, Board & Committee Meetings |
Town Council Meeting, Monday, July 25, 7:00pm
The Town Council will meet on Monday, July 25 at 7:00pm. The meeting will be held in person at Town Hall in the Town Council Chambers as authorized by Section 28, Policy Eight of the Town Council Rules and 1 MRSA §403-B. Members of the public may participate in the meeting by either attending the meeting in person or via Zoom. 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) 699-5335.
At the Most Recent Town Council Meetings…
The Town Council held its annual work planning meeting on Wednesday, July 20 from 1:00-9:00pm in the Town Council Chambers at Falmouth Town Hall. An agenda can be found here.
- Councilors discussed the 2022/2023 Annual Work Plan and Town Council Practice Guidelines
- Councilors considered next steps in the 2013 Comprehensive Plan update process.
The Town Council held a meeting on July 11. An agenda and video can be found here.
- Ben Thompson, Assessor, gave an update on the 2022 town-wide property revaluation project.
- There was a presentation from the Land Management & Acquisitions Committee.
- The Council approved an order relative to renewal of permanent food service establishment licenses.
- There was a public hearing on ordinance amendments to Chapter II-7 and Chapter II-19 of the Code of Ordinances relative to removing outdated and unnecessary language, bringing consistency to policies, and improving the usability of the ordinances. Council agreed to schedule the ordinance at the July 25 Council meeting.
- The Council approved a resolution designating July as Park and Recreation Month in the Town of Falmouth.
- The Council approved an order to vote for Janice de Lima to serve on the Maine Municipal Association’s Legislative Policy Committee.
- There was an update on the Route 100 TIF District.
- There was concept discussion regarding street addressing ordinance amendments.
- The Council entered Executive Session pursuant to the Laws of Maine to discuss real estate rights, pursuant to 1 M.R.S.A. § 405 (6) (C).
Planning Board
The July 5 Planning Board meeting was postponed until July 12 due to lack of a quorum. At the meeting, the board considered the items below. An agenda can be found here.
38 Pleasant Hill Road – Casco Bay Realty II, LLC – Request for Private Way Amendment to provide frontage and access for 1 additional house lot. Map/lot U32-056-001; Zoned RA, RCZO. Previously Tabled. APPROVED WITH CONDITIONS
52 Woodville Road – Falmouth School Department – Request for Site Plan Amendment for the placement of 3 modular classroom buildings. Map/lot R05-020; Zoned RD, RCZO. APPROVED WITH CONDITIONS
The next Planning Board Meeting will be held on August 2. An agenda can be found here.
Eagles Lane – Presumpscot River LLC (David Chase) – Request for Preliminary Subdivision Approval for a 12-lot single family conservation subdivision. Map/lot U56-11 & -14-A; Zoned RD, RCZO, SZ-RP/SP. Previously Tabled.
78 Leighton Road – 78 Leighton Road LLC (Dr. Kyra Chadbourne) – Request for Site Plan Approval for a 32’ x 38’ two-story building addition for Falmouth Dentistry. Map/lot U44-014; VMU, RT100CO. Previously Tabled.-
US Route 1 – The Shops at Falmouth Center LLC – Request for Pre-application sketch plan review for a proposed mixed-use commercial/residential development consisting of two, multi-story buildings. Map/lot U12-007-A; Zoned VC1, SZ-LC. 
Hardy Road - Caillin Miller – Request for Pre-Application Sketch Plan Review for a two-lot minor subdivision. Map/lot R07-102; Zoned F, RCZO.
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, plans, 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. For additional information or questions, contact Lisa Sangillo at 207-699-5303 or lsangillo@falmouthme.org
Board of Zoning Appeals
The Board of Zoning Appeals will consider the following items at its meeting on July 26 meeting. An agenda can be found here.
- 251 US Route One – Philadelphia Sign Company – Request for Variance under Section 19-120 to install 3 signs for Chase Bank. Map/lot U12-002; Zoned VC1, SZ-SP.
- 268 Blackstrap Road – Megan Blanchard– Request for Conditional Use Approval under Section 19-119 for a home daycare. Map/lot R07-029-B; Zoned F, SZ-SP, RCZO.
- US Route 1 – Verdad Real Estate Inc.– Request for Conditional Use Approval under Section 19-119 construction of three warehouse buildings. Map/lot U53-001; Zoned BP.
- 30 Casco Terrace – Kevin Browne Architecture representing Mary-Erin Casale & Benjamin K. Smith – Request for Variance under Section 19-120 to expand within setbacks. Map/lot U17-032; Zoned RA, SZ-LR, RCZO, WVOD.
- 30 Casco Terrace – Kevin Browne Architecture representing Mary-Erin Casale & Benjamin K. Smith - Request for Conditional Use Approval under Section 19-77 for an expansion. Map/lot U17-032; Zoned RA, SZ-LR, RCZO, WVOD.
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 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 04105207-781-5253
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