Daniel Bradstreet

The board conducted an election, appointing David Johnson as chairman and Tom DePre as secretary. Key discussions included reviewing proposed revisions to Section 6.2.E.(4) of the Zoning Ordinance concerning variances to improve residential accessibility for persons with disabilities. The board recommended adoption of the proposed language to the City Council, which would allow the Code Enforcement Officer to issue permits for handicap ramps that do not meet setback requirements without Zoning Board of Appeals approval. Additionally, discussion was held regarding requested revisions to Ordinance 109-2022, a contract zone for 70 Pleasant Street, but action was postponed to a subsequent meeting due to the developer's scheduling conflict.

The meeting addressed multiple requests and reviews. It included a Final Plan Review for a Rusty Lantern convenience store with gas pumps, which involved discussions on traffic, stormwater management, and public comments regarding potential impacts on local businesses and residences. Another Final Plan Review was conducted for a four-unit multifamily development, focusing on fire safety, traffic, water service, and storm drainage. Additionally, there was a request for rezoning a property to allow the reopening of an automotive repair shop and a site plan review for a florist to open at a specific location, with conditions set for traffic flow and signage.

The Waterville Planning Board meeting included discussions and actions on several key items. The board addressed an appeal by Elm City 173, LLC, regarding the denial of an exterior sign for 173 Main Street by the Historic Preservation Commission. The board also conducted an informal preapplication review for a Rusty Lantern convenience store with gas pumps at 222 Main Street, and another informal review for a four-unit multifamily development at 49 Drummond Avenue.

This Vision Plan for Downtown Waterville outlines a comprehensive strategy for its revitalization and future development. It is structured around four recurring themes: Business & Economic Development, Housing & Community, Open Space & Accessibility, and Mobility, Parking & Transit. Key planning principles include activating Main Street, leveraging existing strengths, supporting businesses, enhancing connectivity to the water, building economic fundamentals such as jobs, housing, and tourism, ensuring accessibility, fostering inclusivity, and maintaining momentum. The plan aims to address ongoing needs, challenges, and opportunities while prioritizing an inclusive approach to benefit the entire Waterville community.

The Downtown Waterville Vision Plan outlines a strategic direction for the continued revitalization of downtown Waterville, Maine. It is structured around four key themes: Open Space & Accessibility, Mobility, Parking, & Transit, Housing & Community, and Business & Economic Development. The plan aims to foster a vibrant, inclusive, and economically sustainable downtown by attracting residents, workers, and visitors, and supporting the entire community through short, medium, and long-term actions and policies.