Nathan Bond

The board engaged in 2026 goal setting, focusing on strategies to address housing shortages and the challenge of vacant buildings. Key discussion points included reviewing Land Use policies, updating the Comprehensive Plan, revising Chapter 59A, and streamlining local ordinances to ensure state compliance. Additionally, staff provided updates on ongoing business development initiatives related to community aesthetics and economic growth.

The regular council meeting agenda included several key items. Public hearings were scheduled for the Chapter 67 Vacant Building Ordinance reintroduction, following substantive changes to its enforcement framework, and for a proposed moratorium on the Chapter 59A Adult Use and Medical Marijuana Businesses Ordinance. The Council also considered the second public hearing for proposed amendments to the Chapter 12 Taxicab Ordinance, establishing a late application fee. Business items included the approval of the renewal application for a marijuana license for Peter Haines d/b/a Northern Maine Flower, the appointment of Lois Brewer to the Library Board of Trustees, a tourism update, approval of a Proclamation for Founder's Week, and a presentation by the Airport Director regarding the Essential Air Service (EAS) recommendation process and the proposed expansion of the Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) / Snow Removal Equipment (SRE) Building, which has an estimated total cost of $8,300,000. The Council also reviewed and authorized overspending for certain 2025 departmental finances and reviewed the updated 2026 5-Year Schedule of Fees for the Recreation & Parks Department. Executive sessions were planned to discuss real estate disposal of tax-acquired property and personnel matters.

The City Council meeting included the introduction of Ellie Blankenship, the new community tree steward for 2026, who detailed upcoming conservation initiatives such as reestablishing the Star City Arbor Council, updating the city tree inventory with an interactive map, creating a tree nursery, reinstating tree ID stations, and planning beautification plantings and maintenance trainings. The council also held a public hearing regarding Chapter 67, the Vacant Building Ordinance, which was being reintroduced with significant substantive changes, notably removing registration/renewal fees in favor of a notice-based enforcement process centered on securing properties and maintaining basic stewardship, and the council scheduled the next public hearing for April 1, 2026. Furthermore, the council conducted the second public hearing concerning a proposed moratorium on Chapter 59A, the Adult Use and Medical Marijuana Business Ordinance, eventually approving a temporary moratorium of up to 12 months to allow the planning board to evaluate zoning, operational standards, and economic impacts. Finally, the council approved a renewal application for a marijuana license for Peter Haynes, operating as Northern Maine Flower at 540 Main Street.

The key discussion topics involved scheduling public hearings for several ordinance changes. The council moved to schedule a public hearing for March 4th regarding Chapter 67, the Vacant Building Ordinance, which aims to protect public safety, prevent blight, and encourage property reuse. Another hearing was set for March 4th concerning amendments to Chapter 43, the Planning Board Ordinance, specifically addressing a conflict of interest clause and clarifying term limits for board officers versus general board membership. The council also approved updates to Chapter 16, the Land Use and Development Code, to permit new and used vehicle dealerships in the General Development Zone to support economic development and improve land use efficiency. Additionally, public hearings were scheduled for March 4th for proposed changes to Chapter 59A (Adult Use and Medical Marijuana Business Ordinance), seeking a six-month moratorium to assess impact and regulations, and Chapter 12 (Taxi Cab Ordinance), proposing a $125 late application fee for habitually late submissions. Consent agenda items, including the approval of previous minutes, warrants, and the reappointment of a parks board member, were also approved in one motion.

The board conducted the annual election of officers, appointing a new Chair, Vice-Chair, and Secretary. Members reviewed and finalized their formal goals for the 2026 calendar year, prioritizing housing, vacant buildings, Land Use policy updates, the Comprehensive Plan revision, and a review of Chapter 59A. Additionally, the board discussed logistics for upcoming document updates and received a brief administrative report on department activities and digital tool developments.