Town of Shapleigh

The meeting included a detailed review of an Unfinished Business application for Shawn Woods regarding a request for a best practical location to replace a structure at 5 Cypress Road, Map 35, Lot 23. Discussions centered on adherence to dimensional requirements, specifically setbacks from the high-water mark and road, lot coverage calculations, and comprehensive revegetation plans to compensate for vegetation removal. The Board conditionally approved this application pending the submission of an updated final plan addressing the road setback measurement and providing explicit square footage for the revegetation area. The second item involved a Conditional Use Permit for Carl Beal, representing Francis Gingrich and Richard Bowerman, to replace a failing retaining wall at 34 Hitchman Road (Map 22, Lot 14). Key discussions involved compliance with the tree point system for removed vegetation along the shoreline buffer and the required quantity and type of native replacement vegetation. This application was tabled pending the submission of an updated revegetation plan addressing the point system requirements for removed trees. The third item introduced a New Business application for Tyler Matthews to obtain a Conditional Use Permit for riprap to stabilize the shore at 169 23rd Street (Map 25, Lot 16), which was only partially discussed.

The meeting addressed several key administrative and financial matters. The Town Administrator provided updates, including quotes for metal roof replacement on the Williams property, pending estimates from a fourth pest control company, and an agreement to split the cost of a recently repaired vehicle. The Board decided to poll residents on the Town Meeting warrant regarding Article 3 via referendum on election day. A motion was carried to purchase the Solar Array for $86,000. The Board also approved renewing the Revize website contract for four years at $1,900 annually. Road Commissioners provided updates on current cutting locations. A future workshop will be scheduled to discuss compensating Fire Department personnel who have assisted with open shifts in the Rescue department.

The Shapleigh Planning Board meeting focused on the review of the application by Matthew Penney concerning the replacement of an existing structure with an expansion and remodeling of an existing garage at 32 Jib Way (Map 5, Lot 3-7-2). The Board reviewed compliance with several ordinances, including Basic Requirements (§105-3), Nonconformance (§105-4), Dimensional Requirements (§105-18), Stormwater runoff (§105-26), Sanitary provisions (§105-46), and Vegetation Clearing/Removal (§105-51). Key discussions centered on the 'greatest practical extent' determination for structure relocation, lot coverage calculations (which were found to be under the 10% maximum), and the detailed revegetation and tree removal plans, which involved correspondence with the Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). The Board unanimously voted to approve the application subject to eight stated conditions, including requirements for post-construction photography, surveyor confirmation of structure placement, adherence to lot coverage limits, use of Best Management Practices, and a completion deadline of January 27, 2028.

The Select Board meeting covered several items under Unfinished Business, including updates from the Administrator regarding an inverter installation, the donation of a camera for the Transfer Station, and the forthcoming renewal contract for the Contract Deputy. The Board awarded the winter road maintenance bid, splitting the responsibility between Longship Construction (Southern side) and DW Excavation (Northern side), both at $6,800 per mile. Gene Streck was appointed as Rescue Chief for 90 days, while the CEO appointment was tabled. The meeting schedule for 2026 was adjusted. Under New Business, Department Heads provided updates, notably regarding COVID caution and unsafe ice conditions, brush clearing activities on various roads, and the status of new ambulance tires. The Board also discussed the Ampion Community Solar Proposal, noting potential annual savings and a community fundraising campaign benefiting the local food bank. The Board held two Executive Sessions to discuss personnel matters and road maintenance budget reviews.

This Comprehensive Plan serves as a long-range roadmap for the Town of Shapleigh, developed by the Comprehensive Plan Update Review Committee. Its purpose is to advise the Board of Selectmen and Planning Board, incorporating input from residents and town committees. The plan outlines goals, objectives, and priorities to guide long-term physical development, the delivery of town services, and fiscal management, providing a foundation for future decision-making.