Heather L'Hommedieu Perreault

This document presents a strategic plan for the Town of Falmouth's Route One corridor, intended to guide development and improvements over the next three decades, starting in 2013. The plan aims to accommodate anticipated growth, increase business and lifestyle activity, and transform the area into a distinctive and dynamic destination. Key initiatives include comprehensive infrastructure upgrades such as wider sidewalks, landscaped medians, improved lighting, storm water management, traffic signal modernization, and potentially underground utilities and natural gas lines, alongside necessary zoning amendments. Funding is primarily proposed through the Route One South tax increment financing (Tiff) District, emphasizing efficient resource allocation and responsiveness to community input.

This plan outlines the redevelopment strategy for the Route One business district in Falmouth. It focuses on comprehensive infrastructure improvements, including landscaped median islands, wider handicapped-accessible sidewalks, crosswalks, pedestrian lighting, street trees, storm water retrofits, upgraded traffic signals, and potential installation of natural gas and underground power. Concurrently, zoning amendments are being developed to foster a 'village' atmosphere and encourage private investment. The project is funded by existing tax increment financing, with debt repayment anticipated by 2030, and aims to enhance safety and the overall environment of Route One.

The primary focus of this segment was a special recognition and honoring of Police Chief Edward Tolan on the occasion of his retirement after extensive public service, including 23 years as the Falmouth Police Chief since 1995, and a prior career spanning military service and roles in other police departments. The event included remarks from a State Representative and Chief Tolan himself, expressing gratitude for the support from the Council, department staff, and citizens. It was noted that the Town Council plans to issue a formal resolution expressing a similar sentiment at a later meeting in January, and the proceedings included a break before resuming the main agenda.

This joint public forum between the Town Council and the Long Range Planning Advisory Committee (LPAC) addressed serious concerns regarding the results of the 2016 zoning amendments, which introduced new housing starts and duplexes, and overall growth and development in Falmouth. The discussion acknowledged that the 2013 Comprehensive Plan is aging. Key discussion points included evaluating the impact of the 2016 zoning changes, focusing specifically on the RA district, and considering adjustments to policy regarding residential growth, including duplexes and accessory dwelling units. The forum aimed to gather input to develop greater trust and collaboration in the policy revision process.

The Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program (ACSP) for Golf, administered by Audubon International, is designed to provide high-quality environmental education and facilitate sustainable management of natural resources for golf courses. The program outlines six core categories for certification: Environmental Planning, Wildlife and Habitat Management, Chemical Use Reduction and Safety, Water Conservation, Water Quality Management, and Outreach and Education. It aims to promote environmental stewardship, reduce resource use, and enhance the ecological health of golf course environments.