Public Meetings - Brunswick, Maine

This was the second annual joint workshop between the Brunswick Town Council and School Board, held on November 6, 2025, to discuss the budget process, review progress from the previous year, and generate new ideas for collaboration. The meeting was facilitated by Liz Hertz and included presentations from the Town Manager, Superintendent, and councilors on budget parameters, survey results, and topics such as long-term planning, aspirational tax targets, and transparency. Budget Process Overview - Town Manager Julia Henzi explained the legal framework: Maine statute (MRSA Title 20A) and the Brunswick Town Charter define the roles of the council (determines total school budget amount) and the school board (directs expenditure of those funds). She outlined the annual budget cycle, including capital improvement planning (CIP) and the timeline for budget adoption and the school budget referendum. - School Board Finance Committee (Beth Bison) described how the school board's finance/human resources committee works, and noted that CIP for facilities goes to a separate facilities committee. Budget Process Survey Results - Councilor Nathan McDonald presented survey responses from council and school board members about the previous year's process. Positive feedback included early coordination, leadership meetings, and council attendance at school board sessions. Challenges included a desire for more detailed financial information from the school department, concerns about audit delays, and interest in more structured updates. A recurring suggestion was to establish standing joint meetings. Discussion on Long-Term Joint Budget Planning - The group revisited the idea of long-term joint budget planning using the CIP model. The town currently has a five-year capital improvement plan and a five-year operational planning model. The school department participates in the town's CIP process, submitting projects for funding. Superintendent Phil Potenziano noted that the school board has its own CIP and that projects not funded by the town are either deferred or included in the school budget. - Councilor Steve Wiens raised the value of integrating both municipal and school capital projects into a single comprehensive CIP for better planning. The discussion highlighted the need for long-term enrollment projections and addressing major facility needs like the high school roof and junior high school. Aspirational Tax Rate Target Debate - Beth Bison led the discussion on setting an aspirational tax impact target. She noted that in the past two years, a target of no more than 3% total tax impact was met, but that further reductions would cut into programs. She expressed caution due to significant uncertainties from federal and state funding, rising health insurance costs, and student enrollment changes. - Councilor Nathan McDonald suggested a baseline budget with contingency plans (Plan B, Plan C) for potential shortfalls. Councilor Steve Wiens emphasized the importance of having some target, even with uncertainties, and called for enhanced long-range operational planning. - School board members noted that long-term operational planning is difficult due to variable student needs and mandates. They supported the idea of an economic growth study to inform population and facility planning. Transparency and Public Communication - The group discussed improving public access to budget information. The superintendent demonstrated the school department's website, which includes a budget link, FAQs, and a public data dashboard. Suggestions included adding a link from the town website to the school budget page, creating a social media campaign, and producing a budget-focused podcast or video. - Councilor Sandy Upstill proposed a "must-watch TV" approach for the budget driver workshop to engage the public early. Councilor Jen Hicks raised the need to communicate clearly about potential federal funding cuts as soon as information is available. New Ideas for Improving Collaboration - Councilor Steve Wiens suggested a joint finance committee meeting once a year to discuss detailed issues like audits, CIP, and debt management. - Councilor Nathan McDonald proposed a rapid communication channel through leadership to update both bodies on federal funding developments. - School board member Beth Bison advocated for creating an endowment for education to shield taxpayers from fluctuations and stabilize funding. - Councilor Matt Shedd called for a sustained joint long-term planning mechanism, using the town's operational model, to perform sensitivity analysis on future capital projects. - Several participants reiterated the value of the aspirational tax target (with an asterisk for uncertainty) and of continued cross-attendance at meetings. Key Outcomes - Leadership teams will compile notes from the meeting and distribute them to all members to guide future work. - The group agreed to continue the joint workshop as an institutionalized annual event. - There was consensus to explore more frequent communication between finance committees and to consider a joint meeting to discuss specific financial topics. - The school department will examine adding a direct link to the town budget page, and the town will ensure school budget information is easily accessible during the budget season. - The idea of a budget podcast or video tutorial to walk citizens through finding budget data was positively received, with the superintendent indicating interest in producing one. - No formal votes were taken; the workshop was informational and idea-generating.

The Brunswick Planning Board met on November 5, 2025 to review five cases: a campground expansion, a school bus garage zoning text amendment, a Hawthorne School zone map amendment, a Brunswick Landing zone map amendment, and a site plan amendment for Moody's Collision. All items received unanimous approval or recommendations. Public Comments & Testimony - A letter from Ann Rankin of 38 Columbia Avenue was entered into the public record regarding Case 2544 (School Bus Garage Zoning Text Amendment). - No other members of the public spoke during the meeting. Case 2543: Thomas Point Campground Phase 2 (Major Development Review) - The application had been tabled from a previous meeting; the board voted unanimously to take it off the hold. - Tara (applicant representative) presented a detailed cost breakdown for the 91-site project (phases 1 and 2): building permits ($9,000), engineering ($182,000), tree removal ($54,000), electrical ($136,500), septic and utilities ($109,000), septic field ($145,000), plumbing and well/water ($45,000), gravel pads ($81,000), stormwater features ($20,000), and roads ($22,000 and $31,000), totaling approximately $837,000 (excluding labor). - The board approved the application with conditions: prior to building permit, submit an approved Maine DEP stormwater permit; performance guarantee for stormwater improvements must be in place before groundbreaking; any new lighting must be full cutoff and maximum 3,000 Kelvin. - Vote: unanimous (motion by Kelly, second by Rob). Case 2544: Brunswick School Department Bus Garage Zoning Text Amendment - Andy Johnston of Atlantic Resource Consultants presented: the amendment would exempt public school facilities from the 5,000 sq ft maximum building footprint requirement in growth zoning districts. This fix resolves a contradiction in the ordinance that made all existing schools non-conforming and restricted the school district from constructing a new 6,800 sq ft bus garage at 65 Columbia. - Board member noted the amendment properly limits the exemption to public schools. - The board voted unanimously to recommend the amendment to the Town Council, finding it compatible with the comprehensive plan. Case 2550: Hawthorne School Zone Map Amendment - Sally Postello (town staff and Hawthorne School Redevelopment Task Force) presented: the property at 46 Federal Street is split between GR7 and GM6 zones; the requested rezoning of the entire parcel to GM6 would allow higher density (from 5 units/acre to more permissive standards) to facilitate redevelopment of the historic building for housing and other uses, preserving the structure. The task force plans community engagement, an RFP by late December/early January. - The board voted unanimously to recommend the zone map amendment to the Town Council. Case 2554: Brunswick Landing Zone Map Amendment - Jake Lavac of Midcoast Regional Redevelopment Authority (MRRA) presented: rezoning approximately 22.6 acres from Growth Industrial (GI) to Growth Mixed Use 7 (GM7) to allow existing businesses (e.g., Wild Oats, Flight Deck Brewing) to expand with more flexible setback requirements. The surrounding area is already GM7. - The board voted unanimously to recommend the amendment to the Town Council. Case 2549: Moody's Collision Site Plan Amendment - Shawn Marshall (engineer) presented: amendments to Case 24-7 include relocating the driveway, modifying landscaping (more intensive planting), and adding a small pavement area for vehicle egress. Changes were driven by site grading adjustments. - Discussion: a board member noted the lighting specification in the submittal appeared to be 4,000K, but the original approval required 3,000K; the applicant stated the fixtures may be adjustable. Another board member raised concerns about using white pine for screening (they become bare at the bottom); staff agreed to add a condition requiring the white pines to be maintained to promote full lower screening. - The board approved the amendment with conditions: all conditions from Case 24-7 must be met before building permit; all site work must be completed before certificate of occupancy; any new lighting must be full cutoff and max 3,000K; the white pine buffer must be maintained to promote full lower infrastructure. - Vote: unanimous (motion by Kelly, second by Allison). Key Outcomes - All five cases received unanimous votes: Case 2543 approved with conditions; Cases 2544, 2550, and 2554 recommended to Town Council; Case 2549 approved with conditions. - The board briefly discussed the next regularly scheduled meeting on November 25, 2025, with most members indicating availability.

The Brunswick Town Council met on November 3, 2025, with all councilors present except initially Counselor McDonald, who later participated and voted. The meeting included public comments, reports from the town manager, state representative, and advisory boards, and new business items including a public hearing on parking restrictions and an emergency moratorium on mobile home park lot rent increases. All votes were unanimous. Public Comments & Testimony - Steve Walker (900 River Road) expressed support for preserving large rural forest blocks in Brunswick, noting that the town's commitment to rural planning has protected hunting traditions. He opposed a request for dead-end road and density waivers, arguing that granting them would divide the largest forest block and harm rural character and climate resilience without addressing affordable housing. - Jim Trusani (149 Main Street, Brunswick) criticized the town's priorities, stating that road maintenance spending is misallocated (e.g., $500,000–$700,000 on Crussy Road) while other roads are neglected. He also questioned transparency, claiming the town has not disclosed legal defense costs for appeals and that the town was misled about ownership of the fire station project. - Peter Countway (resident for 15 years) reported that a town contractor cut down a mature birch tree and heavily trimmed maples on his property without notice, within the 25-foot road zone but also beyond. He requested a process for homeowner consultation before such work. - Marie Garzon (via Zoom) expressed concerns about the mobile home park survey, stating that offering only an online option excludes many residents who lack technology or literacy. She urged the town to ensure broader participation to inform the study. Manager's Report - Election Reminder: Voting is Tuesday, November 4, at the recreation center (220 Neptune Drive). Absentee ballots must be returned by 8 p.m. on election day. - Mobile Home Park Survey: Approximately 1,200 notices mailed October 23; online survey with paper copies available at the clerk's office or by calling the town manager. About 16% return rate as of the meeting. The survey is open until November 17. Director Costello noted that ambassadors are helping distribute paper copies, and landlords will be interviewed separately. - Community Connect Registration: Rental property owners must register units in the fire department's online database by January 31, 2026, to avoid late fees. The registration is free and intended for life safety. - Trash and Recycling Routes: New routes started November 3; maps and street lists are available on the public works website. - Brunswick Landing/Brunswick Executive Airport: The airport master plan meeting was held October 25; recording available. The MIRA board meeting on October 29 covered Pool Fire Services' root cause analysis. The next Restoration Advisory Board meeting is scheduled for February 26, 2026. Reports - Representative Poppy Arford (State House District 101) presented a legislative update, focusing on the government shutdown's impact on food insecurity and heating insecurity. She highlighted the expiration of enhanced premium tax credits (EPTC) for health insurance under CoverME.gov, which will cause premium increases of up to 435% for some enrollees. She noted that a state bill (LR 2902) to fund EPTC was not approved but may be appealed. She urged collaboration and provided resource handouts. - Village Review Board (Phil Carey): The board reviewed and approved 16 applications in the past year, including additions to Morning Glory Natural Foods, solar panels on First Parish Church, and new windows for the Maine State Music Theatre. They are seeking an ordinance amendment on substitute materials and anticipate applications for the J&J Cleaner and 7-Eleven sites. - Planning Board (Bill Dana): Chair Dana clarified the board's quasi-judicial role, noting that ex parte communications are prohibited. He explained the two-stage review process (sketch plan and final plan) and that the zoning ordinance, not the comprehensive plan, is regulatory. He addressed waivers, stating that they are identified early but cannot be decided until final plan review. The board uses outside consultants when needed. - Melissa Focusado (Director of Community Health, MaineHealth Midcoast Hospital) reported on food resources. She recommended calling 2-1-1 or using findhelp.org to find food. She announced a new food pantry at Midcoast Hospital's Parkview campus (open Mon/Wed 10-2) and a "Food is Medicine" program (free 15-week class with cooking education and food bags). She emphasized the importance of supporting Midcoast Hunger Prevention Program and noted increased need due to SNAP reductions. Discussion Items - Item 139 – Parking Restrictions on Jordan Avenue: Assistant Town Manager Jay Astill presented a proposal to add parking restrictions (8 a.m. to 4 p.m.) on Jordan Avenue from Charles Court/Wadsworth to Maine Avenue/Edwards Field to improve safety during school drop-off and pickup. The council voted unanimously to set a public hearing for November 17, 2025. - Item 140 – Emergency Moratorium on Mobile Home Park Lot Rent Increases: Director Costello presented a revised moratorium, exempting parks where tenants rent homes rather than lots. The moratorium would last 180 days, halting all lot rent increases (including those previously notified) to allow completion of the mobile home park study. Violations incur a $200 fine per lot per day, plus refunds. The council voted unanimously to set a public hearing for November 17, 2025. - Item 141 – Appointments to Boards and Committees: Vice Chair McDonald presented the appointments committee's recommendations: Lauren Arford (Zoning Board of Appeals, 3-year term), Nick Livsey (Zoning Board of Appeals, 3-year term), Sean Hogan (Personnel Board, 3-year term), Ben Gaines (Housing Committee, 3-year term), and Iris Rays (Conservation Commission, student member, 1-year term). No recommendation was made for the Planning Board. The council voted unanimously to approve the slate. Consent Calendar - The council approved the consent agenda (routine items) with a unanimous vote. No specific items were listed. Key Outcomes - Public hearing set for November 17, 2025, on Jordan Avenue parking restrictions (Item 139). - Public hearing set for November 17, 2025, on the emergency moratorium on mobile home park lot rent increases (Item 140). - Appointments approved for five boards/committees (Item 141). - All votes were unanimous.

The Brunswick Planning Board met on October 28, 2025, to review two major development applications: the Thomas Point Campground Phase 2 (case 2543) and a wet storage shellfish processing building at Mir Point (case 2546). The board also approved minutes from the September 23, 2025 meeting. Consent Calendar - Minutes from the September 23, 2025 meeting (Burbank Avenue subdivision) were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made on either agenda item. Discussion Items Thomas Point Campground Phase 2 (Case 2543) - Applicant Tara Aquilina (SFC Engineering) presented a final plan to relocate 42 existing campsites outside the 75-foot stream buffer, extend utilities, and install stormwater management. The site is in RP1, SPO, and other overlays. - A waiver for a photometric lighting plan was requested and unanimously approved, conditioned that any future lighting comply with ordinance standards (full cut-off, 3000K). - Board members discussed stormwater details, including a grass soil filter with underdrain daylighting in the buffer, and the cost of stormwater materials ($8,300, with installation by owner). - Kelly Matson raised a concern about the financial capacity documentation: the applicant provided a $2.76 million loan commitment letter but only an $8,300 cost estimate for stormwater. The board requested a complete project cost breakdown and proof of funding. After discussion, the board voted to table the application to the November 5, 2025 meeting for additional documentation. - Rob Burgess expressed confusion about the lighting waiver, but the board resolved to add a condition. Wet Storage Shellfish Processing Building (Case 2546) - Joe Martin (Site Lines PA) presented a sketch plan for a 4,725 sq ft three-story building on a 2.3-acre lot at Mir Point. The building is for processing and cold storage of shellfish, with future wet storage and a pier/intake system not part of this application. - The site is constrained by a 10,890 sq ft impervious limit under RP1 zoning. The design uses pervious pavement for a 25% credit, achieving a net of 10,820 sq ft impervious. - Laura Hatmaker asked about sea level rise, tree clearing, and treatment of outflows. The applicant noted the coastal bluff was reclassified from unstable to stable by the Maine Geological Survey, affecting setbacks. - Rob Burgess and Kelly Matson discussed traffic, landscaping, and the need for a strong maintenance agreement for pervious pavement. Board members expressed support for the project, emphasizing screening and visibility. - The sketch plan was approved unanimously without a public hearing. Key Outcomes - Thomas Point Campground Phase 2: Tabled to November 5, 2025, pending submission of a project cost estimate and financial capacity documentation. - Lighting Waiver: Approved, with a condition that any future lighting must meet ordinance standards. - Wet Storage Shellfish Processing Building: Sketch plan approved unanimously. Final plan expected at a future meeting. - Minutes: Approved unanimously.

The Brunswick Town Council met on October 20, 2025, at 6:30 PM after an executive session. The meeting addressed public concerns about rapid growth, infrastructure safety, and environmental protections. Key actions included setting a public hearing for a rural subdivision moratorium, tabling a landscape preservation ordinance, and approving the acquisition of 2 Columbus Drive for parks and recreation. Public Comments (Non-Agenda) - Steve Walker (900 River Road) criticized the Planning Board for advancing a major subdivision on Moody Road despite non-compliance with zoning ordinances, citing waivers for dead-end road length and unit density. He urged the council to enforce ordinances and curb what he called "agency capture." - Greg O'Donnell (157 Brackett Road) opposed the Opal Estates development, citing four issues: proposed road length exceeds ordinance by 2.5x, total units exceed limit by 2.5x, omission of a 250-foot upland zone around a high-value wetland, and disqualification of a significant vernal pool due to excavation. - Patty Dunning (Brunswick resident) supported the comprehensive plan update but noted that variances easily override its objectives. She suggested strengthening ordinances to limit variances and questioned why the public cannot email the entire Planning Board. - Jennifer Navarro (Thomas Point Road) described dangerous road conditions (potholes up to 9x28 inches, standing water, driver swerving) and urged the council to remove Thomas Point Road from the growth area, oppose Myrna's TIF cap increase, and halt growth without infrastructure upgrades. She cited a recent pedestrian injury in Bath as a warning. - John Kilborne (760 Mare Point Road) expressed concern about septic systems in Maquoit Bay, noting new driveways without visible septic records, and urged the town to tighten septic system registration and inspection. - Dan Roche (Brackett Road) highlighted a surge in new residences (from a handful per year to hundreds) and argued that the planning process lacks holistic review, especially for traffic safety and cumulative environmental impacts. He requested a pause on growth until comprehensive planning is updated. - Amy Preston (112 Brackett Road) detailed non-compliance issues in the Garnet Ridge and Opal State subdivisions, including proximity to protected wetlands, dead-end road capacity, and builders clearing trees without permits. She called for a clearer mission for the Planning Board. Manager's Report - Town Manager shared the unexpected passing of Finance Director Brandon Peralt on October 7, 2025, with a moment of silence. - Financial Reports (September): Revenue sharing slightly below budget; excise tax above budget; expenditures in line with expectations. - Election Reminders: Voting location moved to Brunswick Rec Center (220 Neptune Drive) for November 4, 2025. Absentee ballots available until October 30; town hall open Fridays for absentee voting. - Trash/Recycling Routes: Updated routes effective November 3, 2025; postcards mailed to residents. Routes were last updated in 2003 and are now more efficient. - Main Street Sidewalk Project: Near completion, with bricks laid at Bull Moose and trees being planted. Lamont block work will be addressed separately. - Upcoming Meetings: Airport Master Plan public meeting October 23, 2025; MARA meeting October 29, 2025. General Assistance Maximums (Item 133) - Human Services Director Deb Crocker presented state-mandated increases (e.g., one-bedroom rent max $1,440, two-bedroom $1,893). Rents remain high, and state budget proposals may reduce assistance months. - Public Comment: Jennifer Navarro opposed the state mandate, arguing it imposes unfunded liabilities and risks without local infrastructure capacity analysis. She urged the council to formally object. - Vote: Unanimously adopted (9-0). Landscape Preservation Ordinance (Item 134) - Principal Planner presented amendments requiring a landscape preservation permit for clearing over one acre, preserving 30% of trees (10" DBH or larger) within 30 feet of property lines, with waivers available. Penalties start at $100 per acre per day. - Public Comment: Steve Walker called the ordinance confusing and suggested it would encourage clearing interiors while leaving a 30-foot strip. Jennifer Navarro and Laura Hatmaker echoed concerns about complexity and enforcement. - Council Discussion: Several councilors supported tabling the ordinance to align with a pending tree preservation ordinance. Councilor Shedd moved to table until both ordinances could be considered together. - Vote on Tabling: Passed 5-4 (Councilors Watson, Eckert, Anderson, Shedd, Wilson in favor; Hicks, Weems, McDonald, Chair opposed). The ordinance was tabled. Tree Fund Ordinance (Item 136) - Staff noted the fund is predicated on the landscape preservation ordinance. Councilor Shedd moved to table to the same timeframe as the landscape ordinance. - Vote on Tabling: Unanimously passed (9-0). Acquisition of 2 Columbus Drive (Item 136) - Town Manager introduced the purchase of the former Pathway Vineyard Church property (8.4 acres, 6,000 sq ft building) for $2 million from unassigned fund balance, to relocate the Parks Division from Edwards Field. - Council Discussion: Councilors highlighted the need to vacate Edwards Field for parking related to the new Kate Furbish School, the well-maintained facility, and the opportunity to use the event space. Councilor Shedd noted potential for an enterprise event space but emphasized the primary need. - Public Comment: None. - Vote: Unanimously adopted (9-0). Social Services Funding Recommendations (Item 138) - Vice Chair McDonald presented $45,000 in grants to seven organizations: Bath Area YMCA ($7,500 for meal services), Umasis Free Clinic ($7,500 for mental health), Midcoast Hunger Prevention ($7,500 for food), First Parish Church/Jane's Team ($6,000 for gas/food cards), Tedford Housing ($5,000 for warming center meals), Through These Doors ($5,000 for domestic violence survivors), Midcoast Literacy ($5,000 for tutoring materials), and Iris Network ($1,500 for assistive devices). - Vote: Unanimously approved (9-0). Subdivision Moratorium Public Hearing (Item 138) - Planner presented a draft emergency moratorium on subdivisions outside the designated growth area (rural area) for six months, due to 90 units in review on dead-end roads with safety and environmental concerns. The comprehensive plan update (to be adopted in December) will include a new growth area map. - Council Discussion: Councilor Shedd objected to the use of "emergency." An amendment to move the public hearing from November 17 to November 3 failed 5-4 (Councilors Watson, Eckert, Hicks, Chair in favor; Anderson, Shedd, Weems, McDonald, Wilson opposed). The original motion passed unanimously. Consent Agenda - Approved unanimously (9-0). Key Outcomes - General Assistance Maximums: Adopted unanimously. - Landscape Preservation Ordinance: Tabled 5-4 to await tree ordinance. - Tree Fund Ordinance: Tabled unanimously. - 2 Columbus Drive Acquisition: Approved unanimously. - Social Services Grants: Approved unanimously. - Subdivision Moratorium Public Hearing: Set for November 17, 2025, unanimously. - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously. - Meeting adjourned around 9:01 PM.

The Brunswick Planning Board held a meeting on October 14, 2025, at 4:00 PM (EDT) to consider four agenda items: two zoning amendments (for a bus garage at Coffin School and the Hawthorne School area) and two sketch plan reviews for subdivisions on Old Portland Road and Moody Road. The meeting included extensive public comment, particularly on the Garnet Ridge subdivision, which drew opposition from numerous residents and board members due to environmental, traffic, and safety concerns. The board approved all sketch plans, but with significant reservations noted for Garnet Ridge. Public Comments & Testimony - Garnet Ridge Subdivision (Moody Road): Multiple residents (Sarah Steadniki, Christina Angel, Braden Alster, Jade Stewart, and others) expressed strong opposition, citing traffic safety on the narrow dead-end Moody Road, harm to wildlife and vernal pools, groundwater contamination risks, and inconsistency with the town's comprehensive plan. Steve Walker (former board member) argued the waivers violate the 2008 comprehensive plan and the rural farm and forest zoning objectives. Several speakers noted that the proposal would add up to 284 daily vehicle trips and fragment a large unfragmented forest block. Others, including Councilor Sandy UpdeGraft, urged the board to deny the waivers and protect rural character. - Other items: No public comment was offered for the bus garage zoning amendment, the Hawthorne School rezoning, or the Old Portland Road subdivision. Discussion Items - Bus Garage Zoning Text Amendment (Case 2544): Andy Johnston (Atlantic Resource Consultants) and Sarah Singer (School Board) explained the need to exempt public school facilities from the 5,000 sq ft maximum building footprint in growth zones. The current bus garage at 65 Columbia Ave is deteriorating and undersized; the proposed replacement (≈6,800 sq ft) exceeds the limit. The amendment would remove a contradiction that effectively prohibits building any school in those zones. The board noted that all existing school facilities are non-conforming. The workshop concluded with a plan to hold a future public hearing. - Hawthorne School Zoning Map Amendment (Case 2550): Chrissy Adamowitz (Economic Development) proposed rezoning 46 Federal Street from GM7 to GM6 to allow higher density for redevelopment of the former school administration building. The board discussed potential impacts on surrounding properties and the ability to limit undesired uses through the RFP and deed restrictions. Staff noted that a broader zoning update will occur after the new comprehensive plan is adopted. The workshop will proceed to a public hearing. - 346 Old Portland Road Subdivision (Case 2538): Joe Martin (Site Lines PA) presented a nine-lot open space subdivision on a 675-ft private road. The site (16.7 acres, 11.6 acres open space) includes wetlands, vernal pools, and a stream. The board discussed stormwater, road ownership, and HOA responsibilities. Public works requested a turnaround at Moody Road. The board approved the sketch plan unanimously. - Garnet Ridge Subdivision (Case 2537): Matt Pelletier (Teradine Consultants) proposed a 22-lot open space subdivision with 34 total units (single-family, duplexes, ADUs) on a 2,520-ft private road off Moody Road. The site is in the rural farm and forest district with multiple overlays. The applicant seeks waivers for exceeding the maximum dead-end road length and number of units. Board members Laura Hatmaker, Kelly Matson, and Rob Burgess expressed concerns about fragmentation of wildlife habitat, traffic safety (284 daily trips), emergency access, water quality, and the comprehensive plan. The board noted the project cannot proceed without the waivers. Despite these concerns, the board voted 4-1 to approve the sketch plan, acknowledging the early stage of review but emphasizing the high burden for future approval. Key Outcomes - Bus Garage Zoning Text Amendment: Workshop held; public hearing to be scheduled. - Hawthorne School Zoning Map Amendment: Workshop held; public hearing to be scheduled. - 346 Old Portland Road Subdivision: Sketch plan approved unanimously; applicant to proceed to final plan. - Garnet Ridge Subdivision: Sketch plan approved 4-1 (one dissenting vote). Board directed applicant to address traffic impact, environmental impacts, waiver justifications, and HOA governance in future submissions. The board stressed that approval of the sketch plan does not imply final approval and that the required waivers face a very high bar.

The Brunswick Town Council met on October 6, 2025, to discuss a range of topics including a proposed moratorium on rural subdivisions, the potential acquisition of 2 Columbus Drive for parks and recreation, landscape preservation and tree fund ordinances, and public comments on mobile home park conditions and community resources. The meeting included multiple public hearings set for October 20 and unanimous votes on most items, with a 7-2 vote to refine a draft moratorium for further consideration. Public Comments & Testimony - Kati Rogers (Director, Little Sparrows Clothing Closet) described the new clothing resource at Barabo and McKean Streets, serving 20-30 people weekly since July 23. She noted the need for volunteers and renovations to meet fire codes. - Steve Walker (900 River Road) urged the council to adopt a planning board and project review board model (like Freeport) to address ordinance bottlenecks, and later expressed strong support for the moratorium on rural growth, arguing sprawl increases property taxes and harms natural resources. - Marika Gyason (Bay Bridge Estates) criticized the delay in addressing mobile home park rent stabilization, noting alarms raised since December 2024 and the $800,000 granted to Lynnhaven (now Blueberry Fields) residents in September 2024, while over 800 households remain at risk. - Carolyn Eklund (Brunswick) thanked the council for their service and emphasized the importance of the Pledge of Allegiance as a reminder of values like unity and justice for all. - Marcia Good Townsend (Baybridge) described personal hardship as a caregiver for a husband with Alzheimer's, living on a fixed income facing large rent increases from a new company, and called the lack of a moratorium a "slap in the face." - Steve Walker (again) and Sean Hogan (via Zoom) supported the rural growth moratorium; Hogan also raised concerns about abutter notification reliability and the need to update traffic safety standards beyond trip generation. - Brett Shields (Woodside Road homeowner) expressed frustration about clear-cutting near his property and potential traffic dangers, but was informed his area is within the growth zone and not affected by the proposed rural moratorium. Manager's Report - Main Street Project: Trees installed on east side; raised crosswalks now perpendicular. - Brunswick Landing/Airport Updates: RAB meeting Oct 9, Airport Master Plan meeting Oct 23, MURA board meeting Oct 29. - Root Cause Analysis for MIRROR: Posted online; attributed to an electronic flaw. - Election Location Change: All voting moves to Brunswick Rec Center starting November; absentee voting begins at Town Hall. - Trash/Recycling Routes: New routes effective November 3; maps on website. - Road Salt Practices: Public Works Director Ryan Leighton presented the transition to salt-only anti-icing with liquid deicer (Magic Minus Zero), annual MDOT training, and ground speed controls on 11 of 19 routes. - Warming Center Update: Abby King (Gathering Place board) and Carol O’Donnell reported the center at 10 Tenney Way will open Nov 15-Apr 30, with expanded hours (4pm-8am), hot meals served, and need for volunteers and donations. Last year served 70-80 individuals, with capacity of 35 per night. Discussion Items - Weapons Ordinance (Item 125): Planning Director Erdman explained an outdated reference to Section 701 of the 1997 zoning ordinance. Councillor Ecker requested moving the public hearing to November 17 to allow an affected party to attend. Motion passed 8-0 (one absent). - Landscape Preservation and Tree Fund (Items 126 & 127): Principal Planner Jimmy Dielman presented amendments requiring a landscape preservation permit for clearing over one acre, preserving a 30-foot buffer with 30% of trees (10" DBH or greater) along property lines, and a new Tree Fund to accept fees in lieu of preservation. Councilors raised questions about definitions, application to small lots, waiver fees ($100 per DBH), and whether the Tree Fund should be narrowly focused. Motion to set public hearing on Oct 20 passed unanimously for both items. - Acquisition of 2 Columbus Drive (Item 128): Manager Henzi and Parks & Recreation Director Tom Farrell described the opportunity to buy the Pathway Vineyard Church property for $2 million (from unassigned general fund balance). The facility would consolidate parks operations, provide indoor training space, locker rooms, and a commercial kitchen, and include a baseball diamond, playground, and pavilion. Councilor Watson and Ecker expressed strong support. Motion to set public hearing Oct 20 passed unanimously. - Growth Moratorium (Item 131): Planning Director Erdman and Town Attorney Collins presented a draft moratorium on new subdivisions outside the designated growth area for six months, to allow time for comprehensive plan adoption and ordinance updates. Collins noted that state law protects projects with complete applications. Council discussion included data showing accelerating rural growth (14 units/year 2010-2014, now 111 under development). Councilor Shedd questioned the emergency basis and scope; Councilor Ecker proposed specific deliverables (comprehensive plan, growth cap, land clearing ordinance, updated traffic rules, state law analysis). Councilor Hicks wanted to move quickly without listing actions. After debate, Councilor Ecker moved to direct staff to refine the draft moratorium language with actionable items and bring it back for setting a public hearing on Oct 20. Motion passed 7-2 (Hicks and Shedd opposed). - Appointments (Item 132): Vice Chair McDonald reported the appointments committee met twice, recommending William White and Karen Topp for Sustainability Committee (3-year terms), Richard McGuinness for Assessment Review Committee, and Claudia Knox for Village Review Board. A preview of planned committee consolidations (Town Commons to Parks & Rec, Tree Committee to Conservation) was given for November. Motion to accept appointments passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Item 125 (Weapons Ordinance): Public hearing set for November 17, 2025 (8-0). - Item 126 (Landscape Preservation): Public hearing set for October 20, 2025 (unanimous). - Item 127 (Tree Fund): Public hearing set for October 20, 2025 (unanimous). - Item 128 (2 Columbus Drive Acquisition): Public hearing set for October 20, 2025 (unanimous). - Item 129 (Purchase & Sales Agreement): Town Manager authorized to execute agreement conditional on council ratification (unanimous). - Item 130 (General Assistance Maximums): Public hearing set for October 20, 2025 (unanimous). - Item 131 (Growth Moratorium): Motion passed 7-2 to direct staff to refine draft language and bring back for public hearing setting on October 20. - Item 132 (Appointments): All recommendations approved (unanimous). - Consent Agenda: Approved (unanimous).

The Brunswick Planning Board met on September 23, 2025, to review and act upon a subdivision amendment application for properties at Burbank Avenue, and to approve minutes from the September 9 meeting. The board unanimously approved the amendment with conditions. Discussion Items - Subdivision Amendment (Case 2535 Burbank Avenue) - Applicant Kevin Clark (Sight Lines PA), representing property owner TBW LLC, presented a proposal to divide two existing lots (Map 40, Lots 24 and 83) into four lots on the existing Brunswick Landing Subdivision Phase 1 plan. No new construction is proposed; the amendment only concerns lot division. - The two lots are at 29 and 30 Burbank Avenue. Lot 37 (1.28 acres) currently holds a daycare and office building with a shared parking lot. The proposal would split this lot along a red line, maintaining shared access and parking. Lot 38 (1.17 acres of improvements plus 0.87 acres) would be divided from an existing lot with parking and outbuildings, with utilities available. - Board members asked clarifying questions: - Chris Baldwin inquired about shared drive access; Kevin confirmed it will continue to be shared even under separate ownership. - Kelly Matson raised the need to memorialize shared access on the plan. The applicant agreed to add a note before recording. - Laura Hatmaker asked about written covenants for maintenance; Kevin stated that when lots are sold to separate owners, an agreement will be placed in the deeds. - No public comments were received (no attendees online or in the audience). - Minutes Approval - The board reviewed minutes from September 9, 2025. Two corrections were noted: (1) a stray line of text on page 2 should be struck, and (2) language describing the motion outcome should state it was unanimous. The minutes were approved with those corrections. Key Outcomes - Subdivision Amendment Approved – Motion by Kelly Matson, second by Laura Hatmaker, to approve the major development review application for the subdivision amendment at 29 and 30 Burbank Avenue, with conditions: (1) The board's review and approval refers to the findings of fact, plans, and materials submitted; (2) Prior to recording the plan, a note shall be added that both lots (specifically lot 37) will be served by common access, to the satisfaction of the Director of Planning and Development. The motion carried unanimously. - Minutes Approved – Motion by Chris Baldwin, second by Rob Burgess, to approve the September 9, 2025 minutes with the noted corrections. Carried unanimously.

The meeting began with an executive session for real estate/economic development, resumed for public comment and official business. Key topics included housing growth, PFAS contamination, a land-use moratorium, and naming of town-owned properties. The council voted on several ordinances and resolutions, all passing unanimously. Consent Calendar - The council approved the consent agenda, which included routine items and approvals. Public Comments & Testimony - Sean Hogan (resident): Presented data showing 380 dwelling units approved from 2022–2024 (equal to the prior 10 years' total of 372) and 398 units under consideration in 2025. He called for a moratorium or a comprehensive impact analysis on growth. - Haley Bernier (resident): Expressed health concerns from PFAS contamination, urged oversight of pipe conditions during MIRA's EPA consent agreement, and requested a task force. - Brenda Day (resident): Opposed rural housing developments on Brackett Road, Moody Road, and Route 1. Cited tree-clearing, drought, and infrastructure strain. Questioned the town's commitment to climate goals versus development. - Emily Schmidt (CPUSC chair, Recreation Commission): Corrected the record on the McCoy Woods vote: 8 of 9 members (not 12) supported 80 acres of development, and Steve Walker abstained (not dissented). - Greg O'Donnell (resident): Argued Opal Estates and Garnett Ridge developments violate 250-foot setback requirements from a high-value freshwater wetland. - Ellen Lahay (Brunswick Indivisible): Announced a "No Kings" rally on October 18 and a candidate forum at the library. - Susanna Rowe (resident): Supported a moratorium on rural subdivisions, especially those requiring numerous permits, to allow thorough review. - Patty Dunning (resident): Highlighted wildlife corridors and urged respect for the comprehensive plan's protection of wild areas. - Jennifer Navarro (resident): Detailed a "pattern of abuse and neglect" including Bowdoin College's tax exemption ($146K paid on $278M in property), PFAS contamination at Thomas Point Road, and inadequate public engagement. Discussion Items - Manager's Report: Julia Hense reported on August financials (excise tax above budget, revenue sharing below), the 2025 tax commitment (mill rate 100% certified ratio), the Main Street project nearing completion, and the upcoming RAB meeting October 9. - MIRA Report (Dan Stevenson): Outlined his background, transparency initiatives (notification system), the ACLF cleanup at 1.8 million cost, EPA consent agreement, root cause analysis by end of October, airport master plan update, a proposed annual music festival, road infrastructure study, Stark Building expansion, and hiring a new CFO (Heather Neal). - Village Improvement Association (Jane Millett): Described plans to repair and potentially expand the gazebo on the mall, including ADA accessibility. The council holds sole authority over the mall. Structural assessment expected in early October. - Polling Location Change (Fran Smith): The polling location will move from Brunswick Junior High to the Brunswick Rec Center for the November election, following resolution of accessibility issues. Key Outcomes - Stop Signs at Pleasant Hill Road & Barbo Drive (Item 118): Unanimously approved an all-way stop after a fatal accident. The council also noted ongoing speed limit reviews requested for Pleasant Hill Road. - Concealed Handgun Permit Fees (Item 11): Unanimously approved fee increases: regular application from $35 to $50, renewal from $20 to $35, aligned with state statute. - Hunting Restrictions on Town Properties (Item 12): Unanimously repealed an ordinance allowing hunting on Sturgeon Lane/Lindbergh Crossing properties and added Old Bath Road, Fitzgerald Recreation Area, and McCoy Woods to the list where hunting is prohibited. - Junkyard and Auto Graveyard License (Item 121): Unanimously renewed the license for Brunswick Auto Recycling. - Naming of Town-Owned Properties (New Business): After debate on process, the council unanimously approved naming the combined 229.6 acres (former Navy and Maine Gravel Services) as Francis and Mahitable Houston Park, retaining the 66.2-acre Captain William A. Fitzgerald Recreation and Conservation Area, and naming the 42-acre water body Crooker Pond. - Perimeter Trail Grant (Item 123): Unanimously authorized a resolution to apply for up to $250,000 from the Maine Trails Program for phase one of the Brunswick Landing perimeter trail. Additionally, the council noted the cancellation of Item 124 (no details given) and a series of road closures and water main repairs.