The Saco City Council met on Monday, April 27, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. with Mayor Jody L. McPhail presiding. All councilors were present except Councilor Onan, with Councilor Doyle arriving later. The meeting featured proclamations, extensive public comment from organizations seeking funding, presentations from city-supported entities and departments, approval of a housing grant first reading, and administrative updates.
Good evening, everyone, and welcome to the Socco City Council meeting for Monday, April 27th, 2026 at 6 30 p.m. I would like to make note of all members of the council present this evening, with the exception of Councillor Onan and Councillor Doyle, Councillor Doyle will should be attending in a little bit. He was just going to be running a little bit late and will join us after. We also have with us City Administrator Pelletier tonight. Would you please join me for the Pledge of Allegiance? Thank you, everyone. Okay, moving on to item number four tonight, under general, we do have four uh three proclamations to read, um very special ones near and dear to the city. So if you will bear with me, I will start with number one, and that is to uh make a proclamation in for autism awareness month. Whereas autism spectrum disorder is a developmental condition that affects many individuals and families within our community, influencing communication uh commun communication, excuse me, behavior and social interaction, and whereas individuals with autism make meaningful contributions to our communities, workplaces, and schools, enriching our lives with their unique strength, talent and perspective. And whereas the city of Sacco is committed to fostering a welcoming, inclusive and supportive community where all residents are valued and have the opportunity to thrive, and whereas increased understanding and acceptance of autism fosters stronger, more inclusive communities where all individuals are valued and empowered to reach their full potential. And whereas families, educators, healthcare professionals, advocates, and organizations throughout SOCO play a vital role in supporting individuals with autism and promoting early diagnosis, access to services, and inclusive opportunities. And whereas National Small Business Week presents an opportunity to celebrate the important contributions of small business owners and employees and to encourage residents and visitors to support Socco Small Business, not only this week, but throughout the entire year. Now, therefore, I, Jody L. McPhail, mayor of the city of Sacco, Maine, do hereby proclaim the week of May 3rd through the 9th, 2026 as National Small Business Week in the city of Socco, and urge all residents, businesses, and community partners to join in recognizing, celebrating, and supporting the small businesses that strengthen our local economy, enrich our neighborhoods, and help make Saco an outstanding place to live, work, and grow. Signed this 27th day of April 2026 by myself, the Mayor Jody McPhail. Thank you. And last but not least, a resolution endorsing May as National Bike Month. Whereas the League of American Bicyclists promotes May as National Bike Month, which is celebrated in communities from coast to coast. And whereas National Bike Month was established in 1956 to showcase the many benefits of biking and encouraging individuals to try biking. And whereas biking brings people together, encourages discovery, and fosters community engagement. And whereas biking can integrate physical activity into an individual's daily routine. And whereas biking reduces greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution, and reliance on fossil fuels. And whereas biking helps to reduce traffic congestion and the need for large parking lots and other externalities of automobile usage. And whereas all bicyclists, whether riding for fun, fitness, or functionality, are part of the movement for safer streets, connected communities, happier people, and a healthier planet. So be it resolved that the City of Sacco hereby recognizes May 2026 as National Bike Month. Be it further resolved that the City of Sacco hereby recognizes May 3rd, 2026 as National Ride a Bike Day. Be it further resolved that the City of Sacco hereby recognizes May 11th to May 17th, 2026 as bike to work week. Be it further resolved that the City of Socco hereby recognizes May 15th, 2026 as bike to work day. Signed this 27th day of April 2026 by myself, the mayor of Socco, Jody McPhail, and get out and ride a bike and enjoy this beautiful weather. Thank you, everyone. Alrighty, moving on to item number five, that is committee correspondence to council. Do we have any committee members wishing to speak? Councillor Hewitt. I just want to remind everybody that this week is the beginning of the Sacco Pre-K through 8 student art show at the Sacco Museum. There's going to be an opening reception Friday from 5 to 7, so definitely come by and celebrate the kids' art. It's going to be wonderful, and the exhibits gonna go until May 29th. Thank you. Anyone else? Hey, not seeing anyone. Moving on to item six, that is public comment this evening. And I do have a list of signups that I will read and call up the people by order of sign-up, and then I will ask for any other members of the audience if they wish to speak. When called up, please come to the podium, state your name and address for the record. You will have three minutes to address the council, and because of the large encouraging and supporting community that we have out tonight, I am going to strictly enforce the three-minute rule. So, first on the list, we do have Doug Doherty. Hi, good evening, folks. My name is Doug Doherty. I reside at 10 Dakotas Way in Hollis, Maine. I was a longtime Socco resident up till a year and a half ago, though. I'm also the president of the Socco Pathfinder Snowmobile Club. We're the club that's out on 42 Heath Road in North Socco.