Town of Lincoln

This document serves as a comprehensive report and set of recommendations for Lincoln Township to protect its groundwater and surface water resources. It compiles 16 years of scientific research to identify agricultural practices, particularly liquid manure application on karst geology with shallow soils, as the primary source of water contamination. The report provides detailed action items for homeowners, landowners, the farming community, and the Township government. Its long-term vision includes achieving contaminant-free drinking water, preserving wetlands, eliminating manure spills and sedimentation runoff, and fostering sustainable land use practices by developing and implementing appropriate buffers, setbacks, and land management policies.

The board meeting agenda focused on various administrative, planning, and infrastructure matters. Key items included a planning commission session regarding conditional use permits for milk silo construction and feed pad repairs at Kinnard Farms, Inc. Discussions were slated for several town operations, including a contract with A Cause for PAWS, culvert installations on Elm Road, lawn maintenance and internet services for the Town Hall, and asphalt patching. Additionally, the board addressed road maintenance and debris management, Maple Road project bidding, fire and rescue service coordination, digital payment system updates, cemetery plot management, and site maintenance related to the flag pole.

The agenda for the Board of Review meeting includes the adoption of the agenda, confirmation of proper meeting notices, and the selection of a Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson. The Board will verify mandatory training requirements, confirm the presence of necessary policy documents, and receive the assessment roll and sworn affidavit from the assessor. Key tasks involve reviewing the assessment roll to correct errors, considering waivers for hearing requests and objections, evaluating requests for testimony procedures, and scheduling any required future meeting dates.

The meeting agenda includes discussions and action plans regarding Conditional Use Permits for a tower and farm additions. Additional topics include culvert and road improvements, damage repairs, weed spraying, sign placement, and the planning of a road tour. The board also addressed a municipal disaster declaration, event logistics for a farm breakfast and rummage sale, fire and rescue services, and administrative procedures such as bill payments and town hall cleaning.

This 2017 Supplement updates the Town of Lincoln's 2006 Comprehensive Plan, providing revised demographic data, planning elements, and implementation strategies. It addresses key areas including housing, transportation, utilities, community facilities, agriculture, natural and cultural resources, and economic development. A primary focus is groundwater and surface water protection, promoting sustainable agricultural practices and well-planned development to preserve the town's rural character and foster economic growth, including agri-tourism, for future generations.