Public Meetings - Brunswick, Maine

The Brunswick Town Council met on February 17, 2026, at 5:00 PM (EST) with all councilors present. The session included public comments, a manager’s report, presentations, public hearings, votes on zoning amendments, grant applications, a resolution on state housing legislation, and annual shellfish license renewals. Key topics included PFAS contamination at Brunswick Landing, school budget concerns, federal ICE activity, and a proposed sculpture using bridge steel. Consent Calendar - The council approved the consent agenda (three items) by unanimous voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony Public comment opened for 30 minutes, with an additional session offered after business. Speakers addressed non-agenda items. Key points: - Sean Hogan (Town resident) presented data showing school enrollment has remained flat since 2014, while the proposed 2027 school budget of $62.1 million has increased 54.5% (21.9 million) since 2020. He argued that achievement scores in English, math, and science have declined over the same period and urged the council to rein in school spending. - Ralph Keys (Brunswick resident) raised concerns about PFAS contamination from soil piles at Brunswick Landing, noting that test results for water have shown PFAS and comprehensive soil results are pending. He asked for ongoing oversight. - Peggy Siegel (Sandpiper resident) expressed hope that the town council would continue its vigilance on PFAS contamination and citizen engagement following the August 2024 spill. - Brenda Day (Durham Road resident) urged councilors to consistently stand for the Pledge of Allegiance, emphasizing the importance of unity and respect for veterans. - Caroline Eklund (Douglas Park resident) requested that Brunswick police act as de-escalating witnesses during any ICE actions, citing Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s letter on just laws. - David Webbert (neighbor of Eklund) argued that the police chief’s public statement that he has no authority to intervene with federal agents is inaccurate; he asked the council to follow up and seek a correction. - Bruce Cantner (temple resident) recommended public workshop on PFAS contamination at the landing and urged better education of planning and economic development staff. - Max Burtis (clam digger, oyster farmer, Vice Chair of the Shellfish Committee) introduced himself and expressed readiness to work with the council. - Donna Sheale (Brunswick area indivisible) thanked public works for snow removal and asked that police prioritize community safety should ICE operate in town. - Judy Melcher King (Forest Hill Drive resident) asked police to document any ICE actions that may violate constitutional rights. - Jennifer Navarro (Brunswick resident via Zoom) expressed confidence in police and ICE, noting her family of color has not experienced discrimination. She also criticized the Capital Improvement Program for assuming ongoing tax increases and reliance on Tax Increment Financing (TIF) that does not relieve the tax burden. Discussion Items Manager’s Report - January financials: Excise tax slightly below January 2025 but still above budget; state revenue sharing lower than budget (by $575,000 through January 2026) due to reduced state income/sales tax collections, not legislative changes. Public works overtime is 90% expended due to snow events. - Announcements: Hawthorne School redevelopment survey closes early March; neighborhood meeting on February 19 and open house on February 21. - Upcoming budget/CIP workshops; draft two of CIP due next Monday. - Acknowledgment of former State Senator Stan Grozowski’s passing. Bridge Remembrance Project (Presentation by Sarah Brayman) - Brunswick Public Art has been planning a sculpture using steel from the Frank J. Wood Bridge, located on the Brunswick side near the new park. A team (Laura Haddad and Tom Drogan) was selected after a multi-step process including a regional call and finalist review. Proposed project budget: $250,000–$350,000, to be privately fundraised. The sculpture will have internal and/or colored lighting. The steel will be abated for lead, repainted a color close to the original bridge. The town will own the sculpture, which will be installed on MDOT land. The council expressed support. Resolution on LD 1829 (State Housing Density Bill) - Principal Planner Dillman presented a draft resolution expressing concerns that LD 1829 imposes a one-size-fits-all density mandate without regard for existing municipal infrastructure capacity, removes growth caps, restricts impact fees, and places administrative burdens on towns. The resolution requests legislative corrective action. Councilors Ellis, Weems, Ecker, Hicks, and Teemey voiced support, emphasizing the need for local control and better state funding. The council adopted the resolution unanimously. Key Outcomes - Zoning Amendments (Public Hearing and Vote) : After a public hearing with no comment, the council suspended rules and voted unanimously to adopt amendments related to minimum height requirements, off-street parking along Main Street (GM6 district), facade materials in the village review overlay, and continuance period for non-conforming uses/structures (sections 1.6.3 and 1.6.4). - CDBG Grant for Blueberry Fields Sewer: Council set a public hearing for March 2, 2026, to consider applying for a $1 million Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) for sewer infrastructure to Blueberry Fields Cooperative. The total project cost is about $7 million; a 25% match is required but not yet secured. The grant application deadline is March 13, 2026. - Zoning Amendments for Off-Premises Signage: Council set a public hearing for March 2, 2026, to consider amendments allowing off-premises business directory signage at development entrances (serving three or more businesses) under specific conditions. - Shellfish Licenses 2026–27: Council approved the recommended license numbers and limits: 68 commercial (60 resident, 7 non-resident, 1 bushel limit), 9 student (8 resident, 1 non-resident, 2 bushel limit), 2 student apprentice (1 resident, 1 non-resident), unlimited recreational (10% to non-residents), and unlimited day licenses (no residency restriction). This is a net increase of one license over last year. - Consent Agenda approved without discussion.

At its February 10, 2026 meeting, the Brunswick Planning Board considered four cases: a zoning text amendment for off-premises signage, waiver and sketch plan requests for a three-lot subdivision on Moody Road, and a site plan amendment for the Maine Health Mid Coast Cancer Center renovation. The board voted unanimously to forward the signage amendment to the town council, deny the waiver request and subsequent sketch plan, and approve the cancer center renovation with conditions. Public Comments & Testimony - Susanna Rowe (Bracket Road) urged denial of the Moody Road waiver, arguing the proposal violates ordinances protecting rural areas and that granting waivers undermines the moratorium on rural development. - Christina Angel (Moody Road) argued the waiver does not meet Section 141876 standards; the inability to meet the dead-end road limit is a design choice, not a hardship, and cumulative safety concerns support denial. - Jade Stewart (abutting property) said Moody Road is already over capacity, noting multiple approved lots on side roads, and that the cumulative impact of continued approvals erodes the rural character. - Amy Preston (112 Brackett Road) cited environmental protections under SPO overlays, exceeding dead-end road limits (28 units now, projected 43 if combined with Garnet Ridge), and urged denial. - Greg O'Donnell (Bracket Road) noted the waiver application lacked a narrative describing hardship as required by Section 14190. - Joe McLaughlin (Wood Pond Road) raised concerns about narrow road width and lack of turnaround, questioning who would pay for widening. - Colin Mack (Jasper Drive) opposed the waiver, citing wetlands and a dug-up right-of-way, and characterized Moody Road as at maximum capacity. - Dan Roch (Bracket Road) urged treating multiple projects collectively, argued prior waivers do not justify future ones, and asserted the moratorium intent should guide denial. - Mark Rosenthal (238 Durham Road) said every public speaker opposes further development and asked the board to honor the law. Discussion Items Off-Premises Signage Text Amendment (Case 256) Staff presented a proposal to allow business directory signs at development entrances to improve wayfinding for businesses separated from corridors. Board discussed sign size limits (up to 200 sq ft) and compatibility with the comprehensive plan. The board forwarded a recommendation to the town council for a March 2 public hearing. 102 LLC Subdivision Waiver Request (Case 25057) The applicant sought a waiver to exceed the dead-end road unit limit for a three-lot subdivision on Moody Road. Town Attorney Gray Lewis clarified the applicable standards (Section 141876 for existing streets). Public testimony overwhelmingly opposed. Board members debated: Steve Walker cited rural sprawl and cumulative impacts; Alison Harris and others found the fifth standard (reasonable safety) not met due to existing traffic and narrow road. The board voted unanimously to deny the waiver, citing failure to demonstrate a hardship and safety concerns. 102 LLC Subdivision Sketch Plan (Case 25057) Following the waiver denial, the board reviewed the sketch plan completeness. Public comments reiterated opposition. Board members noted missing information: wetlands delineation report, building envelope details, and septic feasibility. The board voted unanimously to deny the sketch plan, concluding the proposal is not viable without the waiver and lacks required natural resource data. Maine Health Mid Coast Cancer Center Renovation (Case 25059) Applicants John Boyd (E4H Architects) and Jeremy Prue (Pine Tree Engineering) presented plans for two additions (linear accelerator vault and compounding pharmacy) and site improvements including a crosswalk and landscaping. They addressed Cook’s Corner design standards, explaining the lack of windows in radiation areas and proposed complementary materials. Board members praised the design. Public comment: none. The board approved the site plan amendment with four conditions (lighting, stormwater permit, construction entrance removal, and revised bike rack requirement), striking the original bike rack condition after applicant noted existing racks already exceed requirements. Key Outcomes - Off-Premises Signage Amendment: Unanimous vote to forward staff recommendation to town council. - Waiver Denial: Unanimous vote to deny the waiver request (all board members present) based on failure to meet safety and hardship standards. - Sketch Plan Denial: Unanimous vote to deny the sketch plan citing incompleteness and reliance on the denied waiver. - Cancer Center Approval: Unanimous vote to approve the site plan amendment with conditions 1-4 as read (condition 5 struck).

The Brunswick Town Council met on February 2, 2026, at 5:00 PM. The meeting included an executive session, announcements, public comments, and action on traffic amendments, sidewalk funding, zoning hearings, and appointments. Key votes included approval of a one-way street on Town Hall Place (8-1), a $600,000 TIF appropriation for the Lamont block sidewalk (unanimous), and setting a public hearing for zoning amendments (unanimous). Consent Calendar - Approved consent agenda items unanimously, including routine approvals. Public Comments & Testimony - Sean Hogan (Brunswick resident): Asked about the status of extending Catotan Drive to Bath Road and a housing needs assessment. Expressed opposition to using the Affordable Housing Support Fund (current balance $297,540) to fill a $193,000 budget gap for the for-profit Wilbur Woods development, stating he does not believe taxpayer dollars should fund for-profit developers. - Carolyn Eklund (Brunswick resident, retired rector): Thanked the council for their work and urged the town to adopt a "neighborist" approach to protect vulnerable immigrants from federal ICE raids, referencing organized neighbor care in Minneapolis. - Jim Trusani (Brunswick resident): Criticized the Central Fire Station project, alleging corruption and lack of transparency, and stated support for ICE. - Rep. Poppy Arford (State House District 101): Speaking as a neighbor, reported that many asylum seekers and immigrants are terrified to travel to work. Asked if the town can provide any emergency support, such as from emergency housing funds, and noted she referred a person to General Assistance. - Jennifer Navarro (Brunswick resident): (First comment) Raised safety concerns on Thomas Point Road: potholes, buried fire hydrants, and unsafe waiting areas for Tedford students; urged parking bans and enforcement. Supported ICE. (Second comment) Questioned the fairness of using $600,000 in public TIF funds for the Lamont block sidewalk redesign, arguing that better planning at the time of the former fire station redevelopment (including a parking garage) could have avoided reactive infrastructure changes. Asked whether developer cost sharing was considered and whether ordinance waivers are applied selectively. Discussion Items - Item 7 – Town Hall Place Traffic Amendments: Town Engineer Troy Cruz presented amendments to make Town Hall Place a one-way street westbound, relocate a loading zone, and add two-hour parking on the north side. This change is part of the Main Street streetscape project to widen the sidewalk on the Lamont block, which will eliminate angle parking in favor of parallel stalls. The lost parking will be regained on Town Hall Place. Council discussion addressed traffic impacts on Cumberland Street, outreach to business owners, and whether the road is public or private. Town Manager Henzi clarified that Town Hall Place is a public road. The amendments passed 8-1 (Councilor Wilson dissenting). - Item 8 – Lamont Block Sidewalk TIF Funding: Town Manager Henzi presented a resolution to appropriate $600,000 from the downtown TIF district for construction of the Lamont block sidewalk. The project is the final block of the Main Street streetscape, estimated at $584,000 plus 25% contingency. The existing project has cost $5,606,974 to date, and the overall project (excluding J&J block) will total about $6.2 million. Council discussed cost overruns, lessons learned, and the need for regular progress reports. Councilor Hicks requested more frequent updates on project costs. The resolution passed unanimously. - Item 9 – Zoning Amendments Public Hearing: Planner Dielman presented draft amendments including: clarifying minimum height requirements in GR1 and GM7 districts (average building height calculation), prohibiting off-street parking within 20 feet of the public right-of-way along Main Street in the GM6 district, and other amendments. Council questioned the impact on existing properties (e.g., Tontine Mall, former 7-11) and the enforceability of the parking prohibition. No waiver for the parking standard is available. The council voted unanimously to set a public hearing for February 17, 2026. - Item 11 – Appointments: Appointments Committee Chair Anderson reported that Maurice Dion Jr. was recommended for a three-year alternate member position on the Personnel Board. The council unanimously approved the appointment. Key Outcomes - Passed: Amendments to Chapter 15 making Town Hall Place a one-way street, relocating loading zone, and designating two-hour parking (vote 8-1). - Passed: Resolution authorizing $600,000 in TIF revenues for the Lamont block sidewalk construction (unanimous). - Passed: Motion to set a public hearing for February 17, 2026 on zoning amendments (unanimous). - Approved: Appointment of Maurice Dion Jr. to the Personnel Board (unanimous). - Approved: Consent agenda (unanimous). - Stricken: Item 10 was removed from the agenda. - Next Steps: Town Manager will provide regular updates on the Lamont block project. Town staff will address the public safety concerns raised about Thomas Point Road. The zoning amendments will be the subject of a public hearing on February 17, 2026.

The Brunswick Planning Board held a meeting on January 27, 2026, to review four cases: a workshop for Molneka Healthcare's expansion (Case 2560), a sketch plan for Priority Park development (Case 2547), a public hearing on zoning text amendments (Case 2603), and a workshop on off-premises signage amendments (Case 26005). The board discussed stormwater management, soil contamination, design guidelines, and wayfinding. Key outcomes included approval of the Priority Park sketch plan, a recommendation to the town council on zoning text amendments, and guidance for future hearings. Consent Calendar - No items were considered under the consent calendar; all cases received individual review. Public Comments & Testimony - Eric Mora (construction project manager for Onlica) requested that Chris Baldwin forward information on the alternative cover material Flex Terra for soil stockpiles. He noted that using tarps near an airport is not feasible due to high winds. Discussion Items - Case 2560: Molneka Healthcare Workshop – Wendy McDaniels (civil engineer, SMRT) presented a major development review final plan application for a 78,000 square foot addition to the existing surgical bandage manufacturing facility at 192 Admiral Fitch Avenue. The expansion includes a second loading dock, expanded parking, stormwater features, and landscaping. Board members raised concerns about groundwater contamination (PFAS), soil management, stormwater treatment levels, and erosion control. Chris Baldwin (via Zoom) emphasized the need for rigorous erosion and sedimentation control, covering stockpiles daily, and treating stormwater to 95% rather than 60% due to the urban impaired stream (Mare Brook). Laura Hatmaker echoed these concerns. Rob Burgess asked about ownership structure (current owner Mira, lessee Molneka purchasing the second parcel). Allison Harris appreciated the landscaping and amenities but noted the importance of addressing soil piles. Staff recommended conditions including an environmental media management plan. The applicant acknowledged ongoing coordination with DEP and the Navy to develop a comprehensive materials management plan. - Case 2547: Priority Park – Kurt Newfield (Priority Real Estate Group) presented a sketch plan for a 19.26-acre site on Cataton Drive to be subdivided into four lots for three buildings: two 10,000 square foot and one 45,000 square foot. Access is from Line Drive and Cataton Drive. Discussion focused on stormwater management, soil stockpiles (from the adjacent Stark project), PFAS testing, and well abandonment. Jim Howard (president) explained that soil from the Stark project is piled on the future building site and that testing showed PFAS in some soil samples (six of twelve detected at 58.5 parts per billion) and water at 41 to 10,000 parts per billion, but treated water met standards. Board members urged better cover of stockpiles (e.g., Flex Terra or similar) and closer coordination with DEP and Navy. Chris Baldwin requested the full stormwater management plan and review of comments by Ross Codlitz. The board approved the sketch plan unanimously. - Case 2603: Zoning Text Amendments (Public Hearing) – Matt James (land use planner) presented updated amendments: reducing the off-street parking prohibition along Main Street frontages from 30 feet to 20 feet; exempting changes of use; applying height averaging to the adjacent GR1 district; and removing unnecessary language in the GM6 build-to zone. The board discussed the averaging calculation for minimum height (24 feet) and clarified that existing buildings predating January 1, 2026 are excluded. Kelly Matson noted that the 2008 comprehensive plan had planning areas but the 2025 plan does not; compatibility is now judged against the current comprehensive plan. Alison Harris expressed mixed feelings about exempting changes of use but recognized practicality. The board voted to recommend the amendments as compatible with the comprehensive plan. - Case 26005: Off-Premises Signage Workshop – Matt James proposed allowing off-premises business directory signage at entrances to developments if the sign serves three or more businesses, is equally sized for each, and complies with other signage requirements. The amendment aims to improve wayfinding in industrial parks. Board members discussed the minimum of three businesses, size limits, and potential for unintended clutter. Kelly Matson asked about recording an easement for signage. Alison Harris supported the concept but cautioned against a

The Brunswick Town Council held a regular meeting on January 20, 2026. Key topics included the annual priorities for 2026, public comments on immigration and the Tedford shelter, the Restorive Advisory Board report on PFAS contamination, approval of police forfeiture funds and towing policy, a discussion on the Lamont Block sidewalk redesign, and setting a public hearing for changes to Town Hall Place. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of December 1 and December 15, 2025. Three new councillors abstained. - Approved the remaining consent agenda items: January 5, 2026 minutes, Knights of Columbus cribbage license, and shellfish committee closure authority. Public Comments & Testimony - Jim Truzzani (149 Main Street) criticized the council's fiscal priorities, questioned police cooperation with federal agencies, raised concerns about cost overruns on Main Street sidewalk project ($3 million over budget on a $4.3 million project), and asked about delayed armored vehicle and fire engine purchases. - Judy Melter King (Mariner's Landing, member of Brunswick Area Indivisible) expressed concern for immigrant neighbors. - Alice Basky (Brunswick resident) voiced support for immigrant community and urged the council to ensure safety and dignity for all. - Remy McEchan (Maple Street) seconded support for immigrant communities, noting they improve the town. - Jennifer Navarro (Brunswick resident, near Tedford site on Thomas Point Road) argued that Tedford is operating as a low-barrier 24/7 shelter without proper disclosure or conditions in the planning board approvals, citing due process failures and observable impacts (liquor/beer cans on the trail). She requested information on how to challenge the state comprehensive plan. Discussion Items - Manager's Report: Town Manager reported December 2025 financials: excise tax above budget by $19,000, state revenue sharing below budget by $30,000. The annual comprehensive financial report received a clean audit opinion. Dog licensing deadline is January 31. Short-term rental registration deadline extended informally to end of January. The comprehensive plan has been accepted for state review with a consistency determination expected by March 5. - Restoration Advisory Board (RAB) Report: David Page presented the annual report. He noted ongoing PFOS/PFOA contamination from the former Naval Air Station, the slow pace of the remedial investigation (expected to take years, possibly beyond 2030), and frustration with communication from the Navy. The Navy states residential properties generally have no soil land use restrictions if there is no groundwater contact. A letter of concern regarding construction at Brunswick Landing was sent in November 2025. The town is working with Maine DEP and MIRA on enhanced oversight. - Lamont Block Sidewalk Redesign (Discussion Only): Town staff explained the need to widen the sidewalk to improve ADA compliance and provide more outdoor space for businesses. The redesign would reduce on-street parking from 9 angled spots to 5 parallel spots, but add 5 new spaces on Town Hall Place for a net gain of one parking space. Estimated cost is $584,769, to be funded from downtown TIF revenues (up to $600,000). Construction planned after Labor Day 2026 to minimize business impact. Councillors discussed financial implications, lessons learned from previous streetscape projects, and outreach to local property owners. Key Outcomes - Police Forfeiture Funds: Approved transfer of $4,700.99 to the Brunswick Police Department from three completed court cases for drug enforcement use. (Unanimous) - Towing Policy Update: Adopted updated town towing policy and guidelines, including increased insurance requirements and adjusted fees. (Unanimous) - Public Hearing Setting: Voted to set a public hearing for February 2, 2026 to amend Chapter 15 (Traffic and Vehicles) to make Town Hall Place one-way, relocate a loading zone, and designate 2-hour parking on the north side. (Unanimous)

The Brunswick Planning Board held a workshop on January 13, 2026, to review two sets of zoning text amendments drafted by the Planning and Development Department. The first case (26-001) addressed establishing a compensation fee program for developments in the Merribrook urban impaired stream watershed. The second case (26-003) covered updates to minimum height requirements, off-street parking restrictions on Main Street, facade materials in the Village Review Overlay, and the continuance period for nonconforming uses. The board provided feedback and directed staff to refine the proposals for future public hearings. Public Comments & Testimony - Jennifer Navarro submitted an emailed public comment (distributed to the board) and briefly noted date errors in the draft materials (showing 2025) and requested clarification on how mitigation parcels would be selected and grouped for stormwater conservation. She intended to comment on the first agenda item but was unable due to a technical issue. Discussion Items Case 26-001: Merribrook Watershed Compensation Fee Utilization Plan (CFUP) - Staff presented proposed zoning amendments (Sections 1.7 and 4.5.4) to allow the city to accept compensation fees from developers in lieu of mitigation credits for projects subject to the state Site Location of Development Law within a direct watershed of an urban impaired stream. The goal is to fund restoration projects identified in the 2022 Merribrook Watershed Management Plan, which aims to restore Merribrook to Class B standards by 2037. - Board members expressed concerns about whether fee assessments would be sufficient to fund meaningful restoration, citing the example of Long Creek in South Portland where millions of dollars yielded little improvement. They discussed lowering the threshold for fee collection (e.g., from the current site law trigger down to 20,000 square feet or a quarter acre) to capture smaller developments and address "death by a thousand cuts." - Staff noted that the fee amount is set by DEP and may be modest; they committed to providing estimates of potential fee revenues. The board also suggested allowing funds to be used for on-site mitigation projects, not just off-site, and increasing specificity in the ordinance about fund use (e.g., tied to projects in the watershed management plan). - The possibility of developing watershed management plans for other impaired streams was raised, and staff noted that 2026 EPA grants (604B) may be available to fund such plans. Case 26-003: Miscellaneous Zoning Text Amendments - Minimum Height Requirements (GM7 District): Staff proposed clarifying that the minimum height is calculated as the average height of a proposed building, exempting existing buildings, accessory structures, and certain architectural features. Board members supported the clarification. - Off-Street Parking Prohibition on Main Street (GM6 District): Staff proposed banning parking within 30 feet of the right-of-way along Main Street to promote active frontages. Discussion focused on whether 30 feet was sufficient (some favored 60 feet) and potential unintended consequences, such as hardship for small lots or scenarios where change of use triggers the requirement. Staff agreed to study lot depths and consider alternative language (e.g., requiring parking behind the building). - Village Review Overlay Facade Materials: Staff proposed allowing concrete-based products if the board finds they resemble wood or stone. Some board members argued concrete should be allowed to look like concrete, provided it meets the board's aesthetic intent. Staff noted the language originated from the Village Review Board. - Continuance Period for Nonconforming Uses: Staff proposed reducing the period from 36 to 24 months (outside specified overlay districts) to bring inactive nonconforming uses into compliance sooner. The board generally supported the change. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken; the workshop was for feedback only. - Staff will refine the CFUP and related zoning amendments based on board input, including exploring a lower fee threshold and clarifying fund use. The Merribrook Watershed Steering Committee will review the plan, then the DEP will review for consistency before returning to the Planning Board and ultimately the Town Council. - The miscellaneous amendments will be revised to address board comments (e.g., studying lot depths for the parking setback, clarifying height calculation, reconsidering concrete language) and brought to a public hearing scheduled for January 27, 2026. - Jennifer Navarro's written comment and request for clarification on mitigation parcel selection will be considered in future drafts.

This meeting served as the inauguration and annual organizational meeting for the Brunswick Town Council and School Board for the year 2026. The council administered oaths of office to newly elected members, elected leadership, made annual appointments, set the schedule for regular meetings, and approved a consent agenda item. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were heard during this meeting. Discussion Items - Oath of Office: Town Clerk Fran Smith administered the oath to new Town Councilors: District 1 Richard Ellis, District 2 James Ecker, District 4 Corrine Peralt, District 6 Ramona Teamy; and new School Board members: District 1 Elizabeth Kettner, District 2 Elizabeth Bisson, District 6 Elizabeth Sokolov. All raised their right hands and repeated the oath to support the Constitution and faithfully discharge their duties. - Election of Chair: Councilor Wilson nominated Nathan McDonald for Town Council Chair. The nomination was unopposed, and the roll call vote was unanimous (9–0). - Remarks by New Chair: Chair McDonald noted that to the best of his knowledge he is the youngest person and the first openly queer person to serve as chair, and that this council is the first to have a majority of women. He stated his goal is to ensure an approachable, respectful, and efficient town government. - Election of Vice Chair: Councilor Wilson nominated Jennifer Hicks for Vice Chair. The vote was unanimous (9–0). - Appointment of Town Attorney: The council voted unanimously to appoint the firm Preti Flaherty with Kristen Collins as lead attorney for 2026. - Appointment of Council Representatives to Boards & Committees: Chair McDonald presented a slate of appointments, including: Appointments Committee (Ellis, Anderson, Teamy); Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (Ecker); Brunswick Development Corporation (Peralt, Weems); Cable TV Advisory Committee (Hicks); Conservation Commission (Ecker); Finance Committee (Ellis, Ecker, Weems); Gross Town School Committee (Wilson); Hawthorne Task Force (Teamy, McDonald); Housing Committee (Peralt, Teamy); LC4 Landing Community Center Committee (Ellis, Hicks); McCoy Bay Water Quality Task Force (Hicks, Weems); Mayor Brad Mir Brook Watershed Steering Committee (Anderson); Mirror TIFF District Committee (Ecker, Hicks, Weems); Parks and Recreation Commission (Anderson); Rivers and Coastal Waters Commission (Ellis, Wilson); Shellfish Committee (Wilson); Social Services Committee (Anderson, Peralt, McDonald); Sustainability Committee (Teamy); and Trust Fund Advisory Committee (McDonald). No vote was required. - Setting 2026 Regular Council Meeting Dates: The town clerk presented a schedule based on first and third Mondays, with adjustments for holidays (including July 6th after Independence Day). The council unanimously adopted the proposed dates with a motion by Councilor Wilson and second by Councilor Ecker, confirming the meeting time remains 6:30 PM. - Consent Agenda: A utility permit for Central Maine Power (CMP) was approved unanimously by show of hands. Key Outcomes - The council elected Nathan McDonald as Chair and Jennifer Hicks as Vice Chair, both unanimously. - The town attorney was reappointed (Preti Flaherty, Kristen Collins lead) unanimously. - Council representatives to all listed boards and committees were appointed as presented. - The 2026 regular council meeting dates were adopted unanimously. - The consent agenda (CMP utility permit) was approved unanimously. - The meeting adjourned by motion, with no further business.

This special meeting of the Brunswick Town Council was convened to honor the life and service of Brandon Todd Peralt, the town's finance director who passed away on October 7, 2025. Council members, state representatives, town staff, and family members delivered tributes highlighting his dedication, kindness, and community impact. The council unanimously approved a resolution to place a memorial bench at town hall in his memory. Presentations - Maddie Doherty (State of Maine): Read a legislative memorial into the state record, noting that the legislature will adjourn on January 7, 2025, in honor of Mr. Peralt. The memorial highlighted his roles as finance director, owner of Brendan's Books, and co-owner of the Animal House. - Jen Hicks (for State Representative Dan Anchiles): Shared written remarks from Representative Anchiles, who recalled Mr. Peralt's extra effort in personally calling eligible seniors about the property tax relief program. Discussion Items - Reading of the Town Resolution: Councilor Shedd read the resolution, which recognizes Mr. Peralt's service from March 9, 2015, to his death on October 7, 2025, and dedicates a memorial bench at town hall. Councilor McDonald seconded the motion. - Council Member Tributes: - Councilor Hicks noted Mr. Peralt's work on the town website and graphics for public communication. - Councilor Weems described him as a "really good guy" and looked forward to every interaction. - Councilor Watson recalled Mr. Peralt's passion for financial minutiae, his office decorations (globes of the solar system, a vintage cash register), and his habit of eagerly showing new analyses. - Councilor McDonald, as a queer person, expressed gratitude for Mr. Peralt as a role model for a queer young professional. - Councilor Wilson (acting chair) added that Mr. Peralt went out of his way to help elderly residents with tax matters. Public Comments & Testimony - Tom Farrell (Director of Parks and Recreation): Called Mr. Peralt the most extraordinary municipal employee he had worked with, highlighting his habit of returning calls even without a message and his ability to explain complex financial topics to a veterans committee in an accessible way. - Brandon's Father: Shared a story about Mr. Peralt leaving a $100 tip on a $60 breakfast bill, saying "I have the money and she needs the money." He thanked the community for helping shape his son. - John Loser (Colleague): Recalled Mr. Peralt's ability to deliver last-minute negotiation data and called him the "boy wonder." He noted the bench will be a fitting tribute. - Darian Plant (Deputy Finance Director): Described her close mentorship with Mr. Peralt, including late nights during audits, his coffee habit, and his devotion to his husband Will. She said he modeled integrity and kindness, and she continues to seek his "divine assistance" with reconciling cash. Key Outcomes - Unanimous Vote: The council voted 8-0 (all present in favor) to approve the resolution. Councilors present: Watson, Ecker, Anderson, Hicks, Williams, McDonald, Will Wilson, and Shedd (acting chair). Councilors Uptograph and Watson were initially absent; Watson arrived later and voted. - Next Steps: A memorial bench will be placed at town hall. A copy of the resolution will be entered into the minutes and presented to the family. Note on date discrepancy: The meeting transcript indicates the date as December 24, 2025, but the instruction specifies the meeting date as December 22, 2025. This summary uses the date provided in the instruction.

The Brunswick Town Council convened on Monday, December 22, 2025, just before 7:00 PM for a Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Workshop. All councilors were present except Councillor Watson. The meeting was properly noticed. The workshop featured presentations from the Fire Department, School Department, and Parks and Recreation Department on their priority capital projects for the coming years. No formal votes were taken; the session was informational and deliberative. Fire Department – Engine Replacement - Fire Chief Brilliant presented the need to replace one of two aging fire engines (twins purchased in 2009 for $435,000 each). Both engines have about 91,000 miles and 7,000 hours of use, with increasing electrical and corrosion issues due to age and road salt. A new Select Series truck (similar to Engine Two purchased in 2018 for $630,000) would cost $1.1 million and take 12–14 months to deliver. The chief noted the urgency to stagger replacement schedules and discussed the possibility of adding a fourth engine to the fleet. - Council questions addressed industry consolidation driving up costs, the use of engines for EMS calls (85% of runs), the vehicle replacement reserve, and the limited resale value of older trucks. The chief confirmed that a bond or general fund balance would be needed for the $1.1 million purchase. A new ambulance chassis remount costs about $200,000 (half of a new ambulance) and takes several months. School Department – Window and Heat Pump Replacements - Scott Smith, Director of Facilities, Grounds, and Food Service, presented two projects for FY 2026: - Window replacement at Brunswick High School (first floor): Approximately 100 windows, 31 years old, inefficient and difficult to operate. Estimated cost: $465,000. A summer 2026 installation is planned, with a second phase for the second floor expected next year. No state revolving renovation funds were available for windows. - Water source heat pump replacement at Harriet Beecher Stowe School: Two of four large heat pumps at end of 15-year life span. Estimated cost: $102,500 ($102,000+ per pump). The heat pumps serve common areas (gym, cafeteria, library, etc.) using the school's geothermal system. Replacement planned for summer 2026. - Councilors discussed alignment with the Climate Action Plan, the school's capital reserve fund, and the need for a multi-year CIP schedule. Smith noted that a comprehensive lighting retrofit project (previously approved) is moving forward after resolving solar credit issues; it may come back for council approval if funded through the town. Parks and Recreation Department – Major Projects Overview - Director Tom presented a comprehensive overview of high-priority capital improvements, emphasizing the need to balance funding sources (grants, private fundraising, tax revenue) and maintain momentum on the MARC project. - Perimeter Trail (Phases 1–4): Phase 1 (connecting to Furbish trail system) is fully funded by a $250,000 Maine Trails Bond grant, with a local share request (TIF revenue from Brunswick Landing) to be brought to council in January/February 2026. Total cost for Phase 1: $404,000. Subsequent phases (2–4) total about $1.5 million, with plans to apply for $250,000 grants per phase. - Bike path resurfacing: The 2.6-mile path, built in 1998, needs an overlay (shim and overlay) estimated at under $250,000, planned for FY 2028–2029. - Houston Park (William Fitzgerald Conservation and Recreation Area): The full build-out is estimated at $12.6 million across 10 phases. Near-term priorities include environmental assessment of the former police firing range (possible brownfield contamination) and Phase 2 (Sturgeon Lane access, paving, parking, vault toilets) at $842,000. A playground near Bay Bridge (across from the park) is proposed. Director Tom noted the need for a dedicated fundraising strategy, possibly a friends group, and acknowledged the park's potential for swimming access. Councilor Weems expressed support for prioritizing structured swimming and picnicking at the pond. - MARC Project: While not part of this CIP presentation (it falls under Economic Development), Director Tom stressed the importance of maintaining momentum to attract private and grant funding. Current phases include basketball courts and lighting; future phases include a lighted field, pool, and rink. Revenue from pickleball courts is earmarked for future MARC development. - Councilors discussed coordination of grant writing across departments, the five-year no-capital-investment agreement for the Columbus property (beyond vehicle storage), and the potential for a friends group for Houston Park. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken during this workshop. The council received information for deliberation on the FY 2026 Capital Improvement Program. - The Fire Department's request for a $1.1 million engine replacement is expected to be brought forward for bonding or general fund consideration. - School Department projects ($465,000 windows, $102,500 heat pumps) will be considered as part of the CIP, with possible use of the school's capital reserve fund for the roof project ($385,000). - Parks and Recreation will seek council approval for the Phase 1 perimeter trail local share (TIF funds) in early 2026 and plans to apply for additional Maine Trails Bond grants for subsequent phases. - Environmental assessment of the Houston Park firing range will proceed using grant funds (MCOG/MDEP) to determine clean-up costs before further development. - The council discussed creating a friends of Houston Park group to pursue private fundraising, with Councilor Weems expressing interest in leading such an effort after his term ends. - The comprehensive lighting retrofit for schools is progressing and may come before the council for financing approval.