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2022.09.23--Falmouth Focus, Volume 4, Issue 22

September 23, 2022
Posted on: September 23, 2022 - 3:00pm

Focus Masthead

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

Please note, currently the Table of Contents links feature is not supported by all email clients or browsers. Scroll down to read the newsletter.

Please note, currently the Table of Contents links feature is not supported by all email clients or browsers. Scroll down to read the newsletter.

News & Issues

  community supper flier

Falmouth's Community Supper Returns!

After two years without our beloved Community Supper, Falmouth's Faith Communities are pleased to offer an outdoor Community Cookout on Thursday, October 6th from 4:30-6:00pm at Falmouth Congregational Church's backyard lawn (267 Falmouth Road). Rain or shine, enjoy a menu of chicken, hot dogs, veggie burgers, salads, apple crisp, and s'mores while socializing with your neighbors. The event is free but free will giving to the Falmouth Food Pantry is welcome. Please note: To keep this event safe and manageable, attendance will be limited this year and registration is required. Register here to reserve your place. We look forward to continuing this tradition and hope you will join us.

Improve Transit

Transit Together Seeks Input 

Led by the Greater Portland Council of Governments (GPCOG), the regional planning agency for the greater Portland region, Transit Together is a study to identify opportunities for increased coordination and integration among the seven public transit providers in the Portland region. Ultimately, the group will develop a plan that will improve the experience of current riders, attract new riders, and make the system more effective and efficient. The project is seeking input on ideas for improving transit.  Click here to take the Transit Together Scenario Survey. The survey will be open for several weeks, and we encourage you to share with fellow riders, friends, neighbors, and family.

Ongoing Initiatives

falmouth trails

From top (1-4): Falmouth Community Park hiker; Tidewater Gardens; Falmouth Community Park; Mt. Washington from Suckfish Brook Trail. Photo credits: Doug Zlatin (1,4); Andy Cadigan (2); Carrie Aube (3) 

From the Wellness Committee: Falmouth's Fabulous Trails

by Doug Zlatin, Community Wellness Committee member

  "In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks." - John Muir

From the half-mile Suckfish Brook Bog Trail to over twelve miles of Cross-Falmouth Trail, there’s something for everyone in our town’s amazing trail system: Casco Bay views, vast acres of woodland, beautiful meadows, open fields, scenic rivers, Tidewater Farms’ tidal estuary, and even a few modest waterfalls. Delightful vistas, interesting wildlife (especially birds), and incomparable peace and serenity await your steps! For a town of its size, Falmouth has an abundant amount of land available for public use: more than 2,700 acres of open space under stewardship (nearly 15% of its total acreage) with 30 trails covering approximately 55 miles. Most every resident lives within a half-mile of open space!

Residents interviewed for this article are very familiar with town trails due either to their long-standing experience with trail use and development and/or roles with Falmouth Land Trust or Town departments that plan and maintain use of public space. “We’re blessed with the best, largest, and easiest-to-access trail system in all of southern Maine,” said Tommy Johnson. His personal favorite is Falmouth Nature Preserve, which he appreciates for the peace and quiet it offers just a few steps from his densely populated Foreside neighborhood.

Caleb Hemphill draws his knowledge, in part, from many years volunteering in trail blazing, marking and maintenance. He is particularly fond of hiking in Falmouth Community Park, enjoying the unique forest views the trail offers as it follows a meandering tributary stream. If you’re looking for a great property to walk in every season with fascinating historical aspects as well, Lucky D’Ascanio favors River Point. “Although it’s close to “civilization” you feel like you are miles away in the wilderness,” she said.

Richard Bicknell is a fan of Morrill-Stillings, a relatively new trail and bird sanctuary offering unparalleled meditative peacefulness. Mila Plavsic’s favorite (one shared by this author) is the Suckfish Brook Conservation Area. “I enjoy the meditative serenity of the beaver dam and pond at the start of the hike and the incredible views of Mount Washington and the Presidential Range from the ridge trail above a Christmas tree farm,” she said.

Rick Scala, who has led dozens of walks over the years, particularly likes Underwood Springs Forest Preserve with one of the trail system’s newer paths. “Despite being surrounded by the most densely settled part of Falmouth, once on the trail you feel as if you’re in the least densely populated area in all of Maine,” he said.

Recommendations for particular types of trails include:

  • Family-friendly – Suckfish Brook Bog, Falmouth Nature Preserve, Tidewater Farms, River Point, Community Park, Woods Road Community Forest
  • Wildlife viewing (birds, in particular) - Hurricane Valley Farms, Morrill-Stillings, River Point, Tidewater Farms, Gilsland Farms (Audubon Society)
  • Biking – Blackstrap Hill Community Forest, North Falmouth Community Forest
  • Scenic views – Suckfish Brook Conservation Area, Tidewater Farms, Mill Creek Preserve, Blackstrap Community Forest, Falmouth Nature Preserve

Resources to learn more about our trails and guided trail walks include:     

Falmouth Community Wellness Committee and Falmouth Land Trust invite one and all to Falmouth Trails Day, Saturday, October 8, (rain-date, October 9) to explore one or two fabulous trails on easy-to-moderate, one-hour guided hikes. See below for more information or visit: www.falmouthme.org/community-wellness-committee

West Falmouth Sewer Construction Images

West Falmouth Sewer Project Update

Sewer construction along Middle Road is proceeding smoothly. The contractor has advanced through the Bucknam Road intersection and is continuing up Middle Road towards the rotary. We will be replacing the culvert that carries Skitterygusset Stream across Middle Road in the next few days.  Middle Road south of Bucknam Road will remain closed and traffic control measures in the intersection will remain in place for a couple more weeks while the work advances further away from the intersection.  As always, please travel safely through the work zone, and THANK YOU for your patience as we upgrade our aging sewer system! Learn more about the project and sign up for updates at: https://www.falmouthme.org/west-falmouth-sewer-project

Pine Grove

Pine Grove Forestry Management Update

The implementation of the Pine Grove Preserve Forestry Management Plan continues at Pine Grove Preserve off Route 88. The Town Forester predicts that the majority of the ​tree work will be completed by mid-week next week. The mulcher continues to grind a lot of the ​branches, deadwood, and stumps which will enable us to restore some trails and allow for the creation of new walking paths. This work will also importantly smooth and remediate the necessary trails left by the drag skidder.

While ​a large number of the pines had to be removed due to disease and deterioration which posed safety risks, many were preserved and there is quite a bit of new pine ​and hardwood growth waiting for sunshine to thrive. Several ​American Chestnut trees were located and preserved ​along with many Oak trees. Crews strategically left several ​snags and tall tree stumps as ​habitat and shelter for wildlife. We are hopeful that this forestry management will serve as the push for wildlife such as squirrels, chipmunks, and birds to find the area attractive once again.

Residents should note that although work with major equipment may be complete, the project is not yet finished. There is still work to be done that requires continued closure of the preserve for a few more weeks.

Questions about the project may be directed to openspace@falmouthme.org. For more information about the Pine Grove Preserve Forestry Management Plan, visit: https://www.falmouthme.org/sites/g/files/vyhlif11826/f/uploads/focus_on_pine_grove_january_2022_final.pdf

social services grants

Social Services Agencies Grant Application Deadline September 30

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.

senior tax assistance

Senior Property Tax Assistance 

Falmouth's Senior Property Tax Assistance Program Deadline Approaching

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.

Stabilization of Property Tax Law (LD290) Updated guidance for Applicants

As you may be aware, a new law, LD290 "An Act to Stabilize Property Taxes for Individuals 65 years of age or older Who Own a Homestead for at Least 10 years," will allow certain senior residents to stabilize, or freeze, the property taxes on their homestead. Several residents have already taken advantage of this program and submitted applications. Recently, the State has clarified some of the requirements and paperwork needed to accompany an application. If you have already applied with the Town, you will receive a letter describing additional documentation, if any, that may be needed. 

An applicant must be:

  • At least 65 years old*
  • A permanent resident of Maine*
  • Owned a Maine homestead for at least ten years. 
  • Eligible for a homestead exemption on the property they are placing in the Program.

*All applicants must provide a copy of their driver's license or State Issued ID as proof of age and further confirmation of residency. 

The State has also clarified the requirements for demonstrating homestead exemption eligibility under the following scenarios. If you have not yet submitted an application, contact the Finance Department for assistance in gathering the appropriate documents to accompany your application. Call 207-699-5311 or pmchugh@falmouthme.org. Click here for the APPLICATION. Interested taxpayers will need to apply with the municipality where their homestead is located on or before December 1.

As long as the individual files an application each year, the tax on their homestead is fixed at the amount assessed in the year prior to the initial application. Eligible residents may transfer the fixed tax amount to a new homestead, even between municipalities. The State will fully reimburse municipalities for lost revenue. The law goes into effect in 2023. The property tax for your homestead will be frozen at the amount you were billed the prior tax year. For applications received in 2022, this means that the amount that appears on the tax bill you receive in October 2022 will be the frozen amount going forward. The application deadline is December 1, 2022.  For additional questions, please contact the Maine Revenue Services Property Tax Division at (207) 624-5600 or prop.tax@maine.gov. You may also contact the Town of Falmouth Finance Department at 207-699-5311, for more information.

living lawns logo

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. 

Living Lawns Tip #16: As we have mentioned, the spring and summer are not ideal times to fertilize. The best time, if necessary, is now that fall is approaching, but not after September 15. But make sure you get your soil tested, if you haven’t already done so, to be sure you know what your lawn needs. Test your soil before you fertilize to find out if some nutrients are lacking. Many Maine soils lack nitrogen but have plenty of phosphorus. Always fertilize with phosphorus-free fertilizer (look for “0” as the middle number in a fertilizer bag’s analysis), unless a soil test shows that your lawn needs phosphorus. If blended fertilizers are only available, use the formula with the lowest level of phosphorus. Buy fertilizers that contain at least some nitrogen that is labeled “slow-release,” “slowly available,” or “water insoluble.” These provide nitrogen for a longer period and reduce the likelihood of some nitrogen running off into surface water. Never apply fertilizer before moderate or heavy rain is expected, it has the potential to run off and pollute nearby waterbodies.

Living Lawns Tip #17: Cool-season turf grown in Maine, such as tall fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, and ryegrass, should be aerated in the fall when the grass emerges from summer dormancy. Aerate your lawn with a core aerator just prior to reseeding. The main reason for aerating is to alleviate soil compaction. Compacted soils have too many solid particles in a certain volume or space, which prevents proper circulation of air, water, and nutrients within the soil. Turf aerators are available at your local tool rental retailer. Full-service lawn-care professionals offer aeration as a service too.

For more information, visit the Livings Lawns web page at: https://www.falmouthme.org/environmental-initiatives/pages/living-lawns-your-healthy-lawn-care-resource

Events

 Trail Days Poster

Falmouth Trails Day

Saturday October 8, 11:00am and 1:00pm (Rain Date: Sunday, October 9)

The Falmouth Community Wellness Committee and Falmouth Land Trust invite you to explore some of Falmouth's Fabulous Trails with easy-to-moderate 1-hour guided hikes offered at 11:00am and 1:00pm. At 11:00am, attendees may choose a guided hike at Suckfish Brook Conservation Area, Tidewater Farm Preserve, or Falmouth Community Park. At 1:00pm, attendees may choose a guided hike at Underwood Springs Forest or Morrill-Stillings Bird Sanctuary. No pets, please. For more information visit: https://www.falmouthme.org/community-wellness-committee

Fire-EMS Open House

Falmouth Fire-EMS Open House and Touch-A-Truck, October 15, 9-Noon

As part of Fire Prevention Week, join us for the Falmouth-Fire EMS Open House and Touch-A-Truck on Saturday, October 15, 2022, from 9am-12pm at Central Station (8 Bucknam Road). Meet firefighters and officers, climb on fire trucks and other big equipment, learn fire safety tips, and meet Buckle Bear and his friends. Games and activities, refreshments, raffles, and trick-or-treat bags round out the fun! Co-sponsored by Falmouth Community Programs. 

pesticides

Pesticide Collection Event

The Board of Pesticides Control is partnering with the Maine Department of Environmental Protection to offer a collection event for unwanted or obsolete pesticides for Maine Residents and family-owned farms free of charge. The next obsolete pesticide collection days will be held during October 2022, one day each in Presque Isle, Bangor, Augusta, and Portland. More details will be provided to applicants prior to the event, including dates, times, drop-off locations/directions, and paperwork necessary for transport.  Pre-registration is required by September 26 to participate, drop-ins are not permitted.

For more details about how to apply and registration forms, visit https://www.maine.gov/dacf/php/pesticides/public/obsolete_pesticide_collection.shtml, email pesticides@maine.gov, or call 207-287-2731.

Window Dressers Logo

Window Dressers 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 10-12, 2022, Cumberland Congregational Church, 282 Main St, Cumberland Center

COST: $32-$77 per window depending on size and materials. 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. 

Learn more at: http://windowdressers.org/insulating-inserts/. Falmouth residents may call 699-5337 for more info.

Take Note

maine marathon

Maine Marathon

Sunday, October 2 is the Maine Marathon and Falmouth will welcome runners through town from Martin's Point Bridge to the side streets off Route 1, and then north on Route 88. Falmouth residents have traditionally lined the route to cheer runners on with waves and smiles. Please seek alternate routes between 7:45am and 11:00am. Notification of closings and delays are posted along the route and, as in past years, Falmouth Police Department will work to direct traffic and keep runners safe. More information about the marathon can be found at:  https://mainemarathon.com/

elections

Voter Registration

How do I register to vote? You may obtain a Maine Voter Registration Application at Town Hall or by calling the Clerk’s Office at 781-5253 and requesting one be mailed to you. A valid identification and proof of residency are required. Completed voter registration cards may be delivered by hand or by mail to Town Hall. Voter registrations completed by mail must be received 21 days prior to the election. If you are registering to vote within two weeks of the election, you are in the closed period and must register in person with proper i.d. and proof of residency.

Can I register to vote on Election Day? Yes. On Election Day you can register to vote at the polls. When registering, you must provide a valid identification and proof of residency.

Can I change my registration? Yes. All changes, including name and address changes, require completing a new registration application. If you are unenrolled in a political party you may enroll at any time. If you are enrolled and want to change parties you may, but there is a 15 day waiting period between changing parties and voting. Once enrolled, you must remain in the party for 90 days.

Absentee Voting

The Clerk’s Office is accepting requests for absentee ballots for the November 8 General Election. NOTE: Absentee ballots will not be mailed out until they are received, which is 30 days prior to the election.

Who can vote absentee? Any registered voter may cast an absentee ballot instead of voting in person at a voting place on Election Day.

How do I get an absentee ballot? Absentee ballots are available 30 days prior to the election. There are four ways to request an absentee ballot:

Is there a deadline to request a ballot? The deadline to request an absentee ballot is Thursday, November 3.

Can I request a ballot for someone else? You can request a ballot for an immediate family member by filling out a request form at Town Hall.

Where can I find more information?

Falmouth Public Schools

Navigators Logo

Highlight: Join the Conversation!

The public is invited to two upcoming Community Events: 

  • Community Information & Feedback Session: CAMPUS MASTER PLANNING, Wednesday, September 28 at 6:30 p.m. in the Falmouth High School Theater. Learn more about the Campus Master Plan here
  • Community Presentation & Discussion: STRATEGIC PRIORITIES with focus on PRE-KINDERGARTEN (PRE-K), Monday, October 3 at 7:00 p.m. (during regularly scheduled School Board Workshop) in the Falmouth Elementary School Cafeteria. Learn more about the District Strategic Plan: Setting the Course for 2022 & Beyond here

We want your Feedback: Prior to finalizing our proposed Strategic Plan, we seek additional feedback from our constituent groups of staff, students, parents/guardians, and community members. Learn more about the plan and share your thoughts here:  District Strategic Plan: Setting the Course for 2022 & Beyond (feedback survey closes 9/30).

Focus: Show Your Pride for Our Navigators!

Navigator gear

The new Falmouth Online School Store is open! The store will be available all year to purchase apparel. The order deadline is the 15th of each month. Visit the Falmouth Online School Store

Upcoming: School Board Meetings

The next School Board meeting, a Workshop, is Monday, October 3, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. (Community Presentation & Discussion: Strategic Priorities with focus on Pre-K will occur during this time). All meetings are held in the Falmouth Elementary School Cafeteria, unless otherwise noted.

A schedule of upcoming 2022-23 School Board meetings, and agendas and minutes from prior meetings, are available here. All Board Reports, as well as documents associated with the next School Board meeting can be accessed through the agenda. Past meetings can be viewed here. 

Learn more about Falmouth Public Schools at their website, and stay connected through their social media channels, calendars, and Principals Notes here.      

Town Council, Board & Committee Meetings

public meeting icon

Town Council Workshop Meeting, Wednesday, September 28, 5:30pm

On Wednesday, September 28, 2022 at 5:30 pm, the Falmouth Town Council will hold an in person workshop meeting at Town Hall in the 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 in person or via Zoom. The Zoom application will allow attendees to connect remotely via computer or phone. The agenda and Zoom link can be found here.

Town Council Meeting, Wednesday, September 28, 7:00pm

Due to Rosh Hashanah on Monday, September 26, the Town Council will meet on Wednesday, September 28, 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 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 Meeting…

The Town Council held a meeting on September 12. An agenda and video can be found here.

  • Senator Cathy Breen and Representative Teresa Pierce provided an update.
  • The Council approved an order to renew the food service license for Portland Yacht Club.
  • The Council approved an ordinance to adopt amendments to Amend Ch. II-14, Art. II-14-2, DIV. II-14-2-3 of the Code of Ordinances regarding Street Addressing.
  • There was an update and discussion regarding the Town Council Annual Retreat and FY2023 Work Plan.
  • There was discussion on workforce housing.

Planning Board 

At the October 11 Planning Board meeting, the board will consider the following items. An agenda can be found here in advance of the meeting.  

  • Planning Board 3  Nicholi’s Way – Nicholas Karahalios – Request for Private Way Amendment Approval to add one new lot to be accessed from the private way.  Map/lot R06-037; Zoned F, RCZO, RT100 CO. 

  • Planning Board 4US Route 1 – The Shops at Falmouth Center LLC – Request for Site Plan Approval for a proposed mixed-use commercial/ residential development.  Map/lot U12-007-A; Zoned VC1, SZ-LC.

  • Planning Board 3 108 Winn Road – Justin M. Fletcher Inc – Request for Preliminary Approval for a 5-Lot major conservation subdivision.  Map/lot R06-006-A; 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 next Board of Zoning Appeals meeting will be held on Tuesday, October 25 at 6:30pm. An agenda will be posted here in advance of the meeting. Please note: Board of Zoning Appeals agendas for upcoming meetings may not always be complete at the time of this newsletter's publication. For more information please visit: https://www.falmouthme.org/board-of-zoning-appeals

information sign

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
www.falmouthme.org

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