2017.12.11 Council Agenda Item 09
Summary
Discussion about permitted land uses on Mackworth Island and a request from the Maine Educational Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing and the Disability Rights of Maine.
A public comment period will not be included with this item.
ACTION: Council action is not anticipated.
Description
Mackworth Island has a long history of land uses that are, among other things, associated with education and advocacy. It is also a well-used conservation and passive recreation area. Through the Maine Educational Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, the Disability Rights of Maine is occupying some space as an office. This arrangement occurred through several processes and approval from the State. It was discovered that the use may not be consistent with what is allowed in this zone, Farm and Forest. There is now a request to have the Town Council support a temporary zoning amendment that would allow the current use by Disability Rights of Maine. This organization is occupying a small space with 12 staff and expects on average no more than 10 to 15 clients each day.
A letter from the Maine Educational Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing is attached. Also attached is a table from the Land Use Ordinance that lists all permitted uses in the Farm and Forest Zone. The specific request is to create a narrow overlay zone that will allow the current use with a narrow definition. The request also suggest the amendment would be temporary by instituting a sunset provision (three years).
