Town of Madawaska

The meeting focused on reviewing and establishing a quorum. Key agenda items included a review of a new Land-Use table presented by Northstar Planning, which the board agreed would be useful after defining clarifications and potential ordinance changes, with a commitment to review further at the next meeting. Additionally, informational updates were provided regarding an initiative to collect and register cultural and historical sites in Madawaska, including the launch of a public-facing website and planned community outreach via Facebook events.

This strategic plan outlines the vision, mission, and guiding principles for the Town of Madawaska, aiming to build a welcoming, resilient, and culturally rooted community. It focuses on four key pillars: Culture and Place, Vibrancy, Economy, and Effective Government, to guide thoughtful growth, support a diverse economy, expand housing, protect landscapes, modernize infrastructure, and celebrate cultural identity, ensuring a vibrant and sustainable future for residents.

The Special Select Board Meeting addressed the Pledge of Allegiance and confirmed there was no public participation. Key agenda items included considering other business, with workshop dates to be discussed later. A proposal from the Maine DOT regarding a mill and fill project for 1.62 miles was considered. The Board approved partnering with the MDOT RFP process, including an 'Opt Out Option' for the Mill/Fill project, and authorized the town manager to execute the agreement, to be funded from the Pollution Control Reserve Fund. Additionally, there was a brief mention of the Community Development desire to start a Development Corporation following the budget season.

The meeting began with the recognition of the retiring Fire Chief after 13 years of service. Public participation raised concerns regarding property tax assessments, the use of tax money, school closures, and street maintenance (salt/sand usage). Key actions included accepting the November 2025 Revenue Expenditure Report, approving the Treasurer's Warrants, and renewing a 6-month Certificate of Deposit (CD) proposal for $1 million. The Board appointed Vincent Frailliccardi to the Finance Committee and approved donations to Angel Snowfest and the Long Lake Ice Fishing Derby. The archiving 3-year contract was tabled pending legal review of the indemnification clause. A 6-month contract for Ambulance Services with Aroostook County was approved. An update was provided on the EDA and CDS grant programs, noting progress on the Kmart Parking lot project. The Board discussed the deferred MTP Grant and compliance issues related to Birch Point, subsequently deciding to pursue hiring a 3rd party assessor to review the current assessment. The Board accepted the Fire Chief's resignation, effective December 31, 2025, and appointed Mark Daigle as interim Fire Chief starting January 1, 2026. Several executive sessions were held to consult with legal counsel, discuss personnel matters, and review confidential records.

The key agenda items for this meeting include establishing a quorum, determining conflicts of interest or bias, considering a Land Uses By District Table for the Land Use Ordinance, and conducting a Comprehensive Planning Review with Community Development.