Stephen Clay

The council workshop was held for the purpose of educating the council members about economic development activities. The session introduced board members of the Lincoln Lakes Innovation Corporation (LLIC) and featured presentations from consultant Steve Le and Economic Director Ruth Burks. Key discussion focused on the historical context and strategy behind the town's acquisition of the former Lincoln Mill site, including the creation of separate nonprofit entities to maximize opportunities for federal Brownfields Program funding for environmental assessment and cleanup. The significance of potential economic opportunities with companies like Biofine and Form Energy was also highlighted as a means to improve the local tax base.

The meeting commenced with the pledge of allegiance. Key agenda items included the approval of warrants totaling $1,16,819.84 and the acceptance of gifts and donations totaling $600, including $100 for the heating fund and a $500 grant for an outdoor projection screen. The Chairman and Town Manager provided comments, recognizing the passing of Representative Kathy Japer and introducing new police officer Anthony Mana, noting the department is now fully staffed. There was significant public commentary regarding concerns about the lack of a permanent permit for a project near the river, updates on code enforcement officers, potential amendments to council rules, and discussion about agenda items 21 and 23. A resident expressed strong disapproval regarding a proposal to reset town council leadership so soon after elections, advocating for stability and focus on growth initiatives like the mill site cleanup. Other public comments addressed the need to avoid raising property taxes given anticipated county increases and rising costs, the implications of adopting Tunnel Drive as a public way, and the process for handling town manager candidate resumes. The council recognized two individuals for their years of dedicated service. Finally, Bioine Developments Northeast provided an update on their project.

The meeting commenced with the approval of minutes from the November 10, 2025 regular and special meetings, and the November 24, 2025 special meeting. Discussion arose regarding the future provision of warrant packages to council members for prior review. The council accepted several donations to the library, following a re-vote to confirm approval. Key agenda items included comments from the Director of Public Works, who introduced the acting town manager and praised staff efforts during recent community events. A significant portion of the meeting involved public comments concerning the proposed renaming of the LON Festival back to Homecoming, with arguments presented regarding tourism impact and historical context. Concerns were also raised about the legal authority of the council to change the event name and procedural adherence. Furthermore, questions were addressed regarding the accountability and tracking of designated donation funds, such as those for the library, which are held in separate reserve accounts rather than the general fund. An update was provided on activating lighting for walking trail poles.

This document outlines the vision and strategic overview for transforming the former Lincoln Paper and Tissue mill site into the Lincoln Technology Park, a center for next-generation technology-driven industries. The ten-year redevelopment goals include attracting six new technology businesses to create 700 direct jobs and generate significant economic impact and tax revenue for the town. The strategy focuses on addressing environmental issues, securing infrastructure funding, and attracting business investment, with an emphasis on technology sectors such as forest products, advanced materials, renewable energy, value-added food manufacturing, and information technologies.

The Town Council held a special meeting to discuss several key issues. The council addressed concerns regarding property taxes and the evaluation of properties, as well as code violations related to unregistered seasonal trailers. They also discussed economic development issues, including progress on the mill site redevelopment. The council considered passing the firefighter EMT contract and addressed a potential resignation, weighing the costs of an interim replacement. Additionally, there was a discussion regarding a donation to Reeds Across America to fund wreaths for veterans' graves, including concerns about potential conflicts of interest. The council also entered an executive session to discuss a union contract.