2022.09.09--Falmouth Focus, Volume 4, Issue 21
Please note: This newsletter will be sent to subscribers of both The Falmouth Focus newsletter and Town News & Announcements. Please excuse cross postings. To change your subscription settings, visit E-Alerts.
General Information
Table of Contents |
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- News & Issues
- Ongoing Initiatives
- Events
- Take Note
- Falmouth Public Schools
- Town Council, Board & Committee Meetings
Please note, currently the Table of Contents links feature is not supported by all email clients or browsers. Scroll down to read the newsletter.
News & Issues |
Fire-EMS Receives FEMA Grant
Falmouth Fire-EMS has received a grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The highly competitive grant totaled $165,713.33 and required a 5% match by the Town of $8,285.66 for a total project budget of $173,999. This funding will be used for training new full-time hires as well as current call, full-time, and per diem firefighters/EMTs. Training will include confined space operations, fire and emergency services instructor, fire officer, rapid intervention team training, and a safety officer program. "We regularly send members out for training or hold programs in-house both of which we pay for out of our operating budget," noted Chief Howard Rice. "Given all the new staff, it would take us at least five years to bring new staff up to the same certification levels as current staff and active long-term members. This grant will allow us to complete all training over the two-year grant period and at only a nominal cost to the Town which is a huge benefit to the department." The grant will cover not only the cost of training but the overtime costs of those attending the training as well as the overtime cost of covering shifts for those attending classes during a workday. Training is already lined up for October and will now be covered by grant monies. Deputy Chief Colin Shea wrote the grant on behalf of the department. This is the second major FEMA grant Deputy Chief Shea has secured for Falmouth Fire-EMS.
New Parking Area at North Falmouth Community Forest
Falmouth Parks and Community Programs, with the assistance of Falmouth Public Works, has completed a new off-street parking lot and connector trail at the North Falmouth Community Forest Blackstrap Road trailhead. Funding for the project came from an Access Improvement Grant from the State of Maine's Land for Maine's Future program. The new lot provides trail users with safe parking off of Blackstrap Road. North Falmouth Community Forest consists of 274 acres and connects two other large conservation areas, Blckstrap Community Forest and Blackstrap Hill Preserve, to create a large block of forested open space and trails. "The construction of a new parking area for this property was included in the 2013 North Falmouth Community Forest Forestry Management Plan," said Open Space Manager Caleb Hemphill. "We are excited to see it brought to fruition as it will allow more residents to safely enjoy this remote property."
Learn more about this property at: https://www.falmouthme.org/land-management-acquisitions-committee/pages/north-falmouth-community-forest
Falmouth Trail and Park Finder link: https://falmouthmaine.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=3986de7c9e274b2cb4666301024bf628
Maine Water Assistance Program
MaineHousing, the Maine State Water Authority, has launched a limited-time program to assist Maine residents who may have fallen behind or had difficulty paying their drinking water and wastewater bills. The Maine Water Assistance Program will clear past due balances and/or establish a one-time benefit that can be applied to a current and/or future water or wastewater bill. In both cases the payment will be made directly to the utility provider on behalf of an eligible customer. This program will be available to income-qualified Maine households who receive their water through public water or wastewater utilities and have an account in their name. It will cover unpaid bill balances, property liens for water utility non-payment, and bills for customers facing a disconnection notice. The program may also provide a credit to eligible households to defray future water costs. This program is tentatively scheduled to begin in mid-September of 2022 and will run until the funds, approximately $4.7 million, are expired. This is a one-time program that is currently not expected to be reauthorized by Congress.
You can learn more about the program details and sign up for updates at: https://www.mainehousing.org/programs-services/energy/energydetails/mwap?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
Pesticide Collection Event
The Board of Pesticides Control is partnering with the Maine Department of Environmental Protection to offer a collection event for unwanted or obsolete pesticides for Maine Residents and family-owned farms free of charge. The next obsolete pesticide collection days will be held during October 2022, one day each in Presque Isle, Bangor, Augusta, and Portland. More details will be provided to applicants prior to the event, including dates, times, drop-off locations/directions, and paperwork necessary for transport. Pre-registration is required by September 26 to participate, drop-ins are not permitted.
For more details about how to apply and registration forms, visit https://www.maine.gov/dacf/php/pesticides/public/obsolete_pesticide_collection.shtml, email pesticides@maine.gov, or call 207-287-2731.
Ongoing Initiatives |
Road Construction & Road Closures
West Falmouth Sewer Project: Middle/Bucknam Road Intersection
Sewer construction continues along Middle Road, entering into the Middle Road/Bucknam Road intersection. There will be significant impacts to traffic during this phase of construction. Middle Road south of the intersection will remain closed. The intersection traffic lights will be turned off and traffic will be controlled by flaggers. Only one direction of traffic will be allowed to proceed through the intersection at a time. Residents will have access to their properties and businesses will remain accessible. Motorists are advised to avoid the intersection to reduce congestion. If you must travel this way, please proceed slowly and with caution through the construction zone. Thank you for your patience during this important project.
Traffic Flow (see map below)
- Traffic traveling south on Middle Road will be allowed to turn east onto Bucknam Road or west onto Falmouth Road but will enter Falmouth Road in the eastbound lane.
- Traffic traveling east on Falmouth Road will be allowed to turn north onto Middle Road or proceed straight on Bucknam Road.
- Traffic traveling west on Bucknam Road will be allowed to turn north onto Middle Road or east onto Falmouth Road, entering the intersection in the eastbound lane.
Please note, this traffic pattern may be adjusted as necessary during the construction period.
Mast Road Culvert Project Completed
During the week of August 22, the Town replaced the badly deteriorated Suckfish Brook Culvert on Mast Road. The project was completed by Skid Steer Services, LLC from Naples, ME at a total contract price of $187,568.00. The Town was awarded a $125,000 Stream Crossing Grant from the Maine Department of Environmental Protection for the project. The design included an embedded culvert with natural stream bed to allow for fish to pass through. The entire project, which included removing the old culvert, installing the new culvert, backfilling, and paving, was completed in one week. Thanks to the local residences for their patience during the project.
Bucknam Road Bridge Replacement Begins in September
As a reminder, in mid- to late-September, MaineDOT will begin work on the Bucknam Road bridge over I-295. The work includes replacing the aging bridge and improving traffic signals. Significant traffic disruption is anticipated during this substantial project. Additional details are forthcoming.
Pine Grove Forestry Management Update
The harvesting of dead, dying and declining trees at Pine Grove Preserve is well underway and will continue for a few more weeks. For safety reasons, the preserve is closed during the harvest. While the harvest may appear extreme, it is necessary to address significant safety issues by removing the most dangerous hazards and will also improve the health of the forest. To learn more about the history of the preserve, the challenges presented by this property, the management plan developed to address these issues, and what work residents can expect, check out, "Focus on Pine Grove," a series of articles which appeared in The Falmouth Focus in early 2022. For more information or questions, email openspace@falmouthme.org.
Social Services Agencies Grant Application Deadline September 30
The Town of Falmouth is pleased to make available grants to social services providers who meet the needs of Falmouth residents whose safety or health is at risk. Funding could include support for such community needs as trauma response, domestic violence response, food insecurity, counseling, mental health and substance use treatment, dental health, refugee services, transportation, senior services, disability services, home health, and end-of-life care.
To apply for a grant from the Town of Falmouth for the fiscal year 2022-2023, submit an application to Marguerite Fleming at mfleming@falmouthme.org or by mail to 271 Falmouth Road, Falmouth, ME 04105 by September 30, 2022. The application is available here.
Senior Property Tax Assistance
Stabilization of Property Tax Law (LD290) Updated guidance for Applicants
As you may be aware, a new law, LD290 "An Act to Stabilize Property Taxes for Individuals 65 years of age or older Who Own a Homestead for at Least 10 years," will allow certain senior residents to stabilize, or freeze, the property taxes on their homestead. Several residents have already taken advantage of this program and submitted applications. Recently, the State has clarified some of the requirements and paperwork needed to accompany an application. If you have already applied with the Town, you will receive a letter describing additional documentation, if any, that may be needed.
An applicant must be:
- At least 65 years old*
- A permanent resident of Maine*
- Owned a Maine homestead for at least ten years.
- Eligible for a homestead exemption on the property they are placing in the Program.
*All applicants must provide a copy of their driver's license or State Issued ID as proof of age and further confirmation of residency.
The State has also clarified the requirements for demonstrating homestead exemption eligibility under the following scenarios.
- The applicant(s) owned property in the same municipality and have been receiving the Homestead Exemption for 10 years or more.
- The Town Finance Department can verify this information.
- The applicant(s) has owned a Falmouth property for 10 years or more but has been receiving the Homestead Exemption LESS than 10 years.
- Applicant must provide proof the property was their primary residence between the dates of ownership to when they applied for the Homestead Exemption.
- The applicant has owned the current property LESS than 10 years but owned and qualified for the Homestead Exemption in another municipality or multiple municipalities.
- Applicant must provide proof of ownership of the prior property including:
- copies of tax bills going back 10 years from any and all municipalities
- written letter from municipality stating the applicant's name, the property address and the date they received the Homestead Exemption to the date it was removed along with copy of the application
- copies of tax returns with social security numbers and any unneeded personal information redacted
If you have not yet submitted an application, contact the Finance Department for assistance in gathering the appropriate documents to accompany your application. Call 207-699-5311 or pmchugh@falmouthme.org. Click here for the APPLICATION. Interested taxpayers will need to apply with the municipality where their homestead is located on or before December 1.
Please note: If you have already applied with the Town and additional documentation is needed, you will receive a letter requesting additional information.
As long as the individual files an application each year, the tax on their homestead is fixed at the amount assessed in the year prior to the initial application. Eligible residents may transfer the fixed tax amount to a new homestead, even between municipalities. The State will fully reimburse municipalities for lost revenue. The law applies to property tax years beginning April 1, 2023. The text of the new law is available here. For additional questions, please contact the Maine Revenue Services Property Tax Division at (207) 624-5600 or prop.tax@maine.gov. You may also contact the Town of Falmouth Finance Department at 207-699-5311, for more information.
Falmouth's Senior Property Tax Assistance Program
The Town of Falmouth is accepting applications for its Senior Property Tax Relief Program. The program is open to current Falmouth residents, age 62 or older, with an annual household income below $60,000. Both property owners and renters are eligible to apply. Refunds will be determined based on the number of valid applications received. Recipients will be refunded a proportional share of the available program funds based on income level. The total amount budgeted for this program in fiscal year 2023 is $60,000. Residents can mail in the application and backup documents to Town of Falmouth, Finance Department, 271 Falmouth Road, Falmouth, Maine 04105. Or call Pete McHugh at 699-5311 to make an appointment to submit your application in person. Residents are encouraged to apply early. The deadline for applications is October 13, 2022. For additional information on program requirements and an application, visit: https://www.falmouthme.org/finance/pages/senior-property-tax-assistance, or contact Pete McHugh at 207-781-5253 x5311.
Living Lawns
Living Lawns offers lawn care tips to help make your lawn healthy and vibrant. Over the spring, summer, and fall, Falmouth's Conservation Commission will share tips in The Falmouth Focus and on social media.
Living Lawns Tip #15: Your lawn loves clover and dandelions! A nitrogen-fixing plant, clover brings nutrients to your soil and requires no fertilization. When mixed with other grasses, clover can reduce or eliminate the need for regular fertilizing. Clover is drought tolerant and, once established, grows despite lack of water. Dandelions are also good for nature’s beneficial insects and pollinators. They have taproots that accumulate nutrients deep down in the soil and bring them to the surface, which help the other plants in your yard.
For more information, visit the Livings Lawns web page at: https://www.falmouthme.org/environmental-initiatives/pages/living-lawns-your-healthy-lawn-care-resource
Events |
Barn Fest
Join the Falmouth Land Trust and Cultivating Community for Barn Fest, a fun evening out in aid of saving the barn at Hurricane Valley Farm. African immigrant farmers produce thousands of pounds of produce each year right here in Falmouth but they need your help to restore the 100+ year-old barn. Enjoy live music, farm tours, local food trucks and more! Go to FalmouthLandTrust.org for tickets.
Falmouth Climate Talk Series: Vector Born Disease Workshop
Join the Town of Falmouth, the Maine Center for Disease Control, and the Falmouth Memorial Library for the season's first Climate Talk at 6:00pm on September 14 at Falmouth Memorial Library. Most Mainers are no strangers to ticks or mosquitoes, but what can you do about them and the disease they carry? Come take part in a "tick talk," presented by Emer Smith, Field Epidemiologist from the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention. In this hour-long program, attendees will learn about ticks, mosquitoes, common vector-borne diseases, and what you can do to prevent these diseases from affecting you and your loved ones.
Climate Action Plan Public Workshop
Please join us for a Climate Action Planning Public Workshop on Thursday, September 22 at 6:30pm in the Council Chambers at Falmouth Town Hall. Over the past year, the Town of Falmouth has undergone a process to develop an updated climate action plan, including an inventory of community greenhouse gas emissions and an assessment of the community assets most vulnerable to the intensifying impacts of climate change. Before finishing the plan, the Town wants to hear from the public on what aspects of climate action planning they find most important. This workshop will bring together community-based and regional stakeholders to discuss the major aspects of climate action planning, including the long-term planning necessary to develop a community that is resilient to the future impacts of climate change. All residents are encouraged to attend and identify the priorities of the community as we work together to face a changing climate.
Window Dressers Build Opportunity
The Towns of Falmouth and Cumberland are partnering again to offer residents WindowDressers’ insulating window inserts. These wood inserts fit inside existing windows to let all the sunshine and views in while keeping the cold out!
What is Window Dressers?
WindowDressers brings volunteers together to improve the warmth and comfort of homes, lower heating costs, and reduce CO2 emissions by producing low-cost insulating window inserts that function as interior-mounted storm windows.
How Does It Work:
- Participants place orders for custom window inserts.
- Trained volunteers make a house-call to measure windows.
- Everyone comes together at a Community Build to construct the window inserts. No experience is needed. Skills are taught on site.
- Participants take their window inserts home at the end of the Community Build.
- Because of the volunteer component, participants enjoy discounts on the price of the inserts and, in cases of need, can even receive free inserts.
- Everyone benefits from greater efficiency and comfort in heating their homes this winter and in knowing they helped their neighbors as well!
COMMUNITY BUILD: November 10-12, 2022, Cumberland Congregational Church, 282 Main St, Cumberland Center
COST: $32-$77 per window depending on size and materials. Free inserts available to qualifying households. Participants are also asked to volunteer at the Community Build.
ORDER: Community Builds have limited capacity. Orders are taken first come-first served.
Learn more at: http://windowdressers.org/insulating-inserts/. Falmouth residents may call 699-5337 for more info.
Falmouth Trails Day
Saturday October 8, 11:00am and 1:00pm (Rain Date: Sunday, October 9)
The Falmouth Community Wellness Committee and Falmouth Land Trust invite you to explore some of Falmouth's Fabulous Trails with easy-to-moderate 1-hour guided hikes offered at 11:00am and 1:00pm. At 11:00am, attendees may choose to hike at Suckfish Brook Conservation Area, Tidewater Farm Preserve, or Falmouth Community Park. At 1:00pm, attendees may choose to hike at Underwood Springs Forest or Morrill-Stillings Bird Sanctuary. No pets, please. For more information visit: https://www.falmouthme.org/community-wellness-committee
Take Note |
Vote for FCP Winter Kids
WinterKids created the Downhill 24 Outdoor Fund to help get even more kids outside and active across Maine and beyond. This fund will help to address the barriers to healthy outdoor activity, including but not limited to equipment, clothing, and transportation. For the inaugural year of the WinterKids Downhill 24 Outdoor Fund will be granting $25,000 to 4 organizations to help get kids outside and active more often. Winning organizations will be determined by community vote. Vote for Falmouth Community Programs today! https://winterkids.org/D24Fund. With your help, we could win a grant that helps us get more kids in our community outside and active this winter!
Maine Marathon
Sunday, October 2 is the Maine Marathon and Falmouth will welcome runners through town from Martin's Point Bridge to the side streets off Route 1, and then north on Route 88. Falmouth residents have traditionally lined the route to cheer runners on with waves and smiles. Please seek alternate routes between 7:45am and 11:00am. Notification of closings and delays are posted along the route and, as in past years, Falmouth Police Department will work to direct traffic and keep runners safe. More information about the marathon can be found at: https://mainemarathon.com/
Absentee Voting
The Clerk’s Office is now accepting requests for absentee ballots for the November 8 General Election. NOTE: Absentee ballots will not be mailed out until they are received, which is 30 days prior to the election.
Who can vote absentee?
Any registered voter may cast an absentee ballot instead of voting in person at a voting place on Election Day.
How do I get an absentee ballot?
Absentee ballots are available 30 days prior to the election. There are four ways to request an absentee ballot:
- By Phone: Call and request your own ballot, which will be mailed to the address you provide. Call the Voter Registrar in Falmouth at: 699-5320 or 699-5308.
- Electronically: Request your own ballot electronically using the Secretary of State’s online absentee ballot request service at: http://www.maine.gov/cgi-bin/online/AbsenteeBallot/index.pl
- By Mail: Print the Absentee Ballot Request Form at: https://www.falmouthme.org/sites/g/files/vyhlif11826/f/pages/absenteeballotrequest11.8.22.pdf Mail or drop off the form at Falmouth Town Hall.
- In Person: Request a ballot at Falmouth Town Hall.
Is there a deadline to request a ballot?
The deadline to request an absentee ballot is Thursday, November 3.
Can I request a ballot for someone else?
You can request a ballot for an immediate family member by filling out a request form at Town Hall.
Where can I find more information?
Town of Falmouth Election Information--https://www.falmouthme.org/town-clerk/pages/election-information
State of Maine Upcoming Elections Page--https://www.maine.gov/sos/cec/elec/upcoming/index.htm
Falmouth Public Schools |
Highlight: Pre-Kindergarten Survey
Falmouth Elementary School (FES) is in the process of planning a public 4-year-old Pre-Kindergarten (Pre-K) program or the 2023-24 school year, pending School Board and budget approval. As FES begins this planning it is important to understand the interest and need among the Falmouth community. We invite public input and assistance with this important initiative. Please complete a short Falmouth Elementary Pre-Kindergarten Survey at: www.falmouthschools.org/about/pre-k or by scanning the QR code above.
Focus: Maine Farm and Sea to School Institute
Alongside four other school districts, Falmouth is participating in the Maine Farm and Sea to School Institute. The Institute supports Maine schools to increase healthy food access, create a culture of equity and wellness, and strengthen their local food systems. The institute will train school communities and other stakeholders to establish their own farm to school programs and explore approaches to promote student nutrition education, including school gardens and local food sourcing. Martha Poliquin, Director of Food Services at Falmouth Public Schools, was recently featured in a NEWS CENTER Maine report about the district’s involvement in the Institute. Martha reflected, “The most nutritious foods we can feed our students are available, grown, raised, produced, and fished right here in Maine.
Upcoming: School Board Meetings
The Falmouth School Board held its last meeting on August 15. The next School Board meeting is Monday, September 19, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. All meetings are held in the Falmouth Elementary School Cafeteria, unless otherwise noted. A schedule of upcoming 2022-23 School Board meetings, and agendas and minutes from prior meetings, are available here. All Board Reports, as well as documents associated with the next School Board meeting can be accessed through the agenda.
Learn more about Falmouth Public Schools at their website, and stay connected through their social media channels, calendars, and Principals Notes here.
Town Council, Board & Committee Meetings |
Town Council Meeting, Monday, September 12, 7:00pm
The Town Council will meet on Monday, September 12, at 7:00pm. The meeting will be held in person at Town Hall in the Town Council Chambers as authorized by Section 28, Policy Eight of the Town Council Rules and 1 MRSA §403-B. Members of the public may participate in the meeting by either attending the meeting in person or via Zoom. The agenda and Zoom link can be found here. The Zoom application will allow attendees to connect and participate remotely via computer or phone. The public may also watch (no participation option) the meeting on Channel 2 or on the Town website streaming channel. Check out our Guide to Participating in Virtual Public Meetings. If you have questions, please call (207) 699-5335.
At the Most Recent Town Council Meetings…
The Town Council held a meeting on August 22. An agenda and video can be found here.
- The Council approved the minutes of the July 11 Council Meeting, July 20 Council Work Planning Session, and July 25 Council Meeting.
- There was a public hearing on an Ordinance to Amend Ch. II-14, Art. II-14-2, DIV. II-14-2-3 of the Code of Ordinances Regarding Street Addressing. The Council agreed to vote on this at the September 12 Council meeting.
- Order for a supplemental appropriation to fund a new position in the Finance Department, titled Accounts Payable (A/P) Clerk. The Council agreed to table this item.
The Town Council held a meeting on September 8. An agenda can be found here.
- The Council discussed the comprehensive plan update process.
Planning Board
At the September 6 Planning Board meeting, the board considered the following items. An agenda can be found here.
Bailey Sign Inc – 241 US Route 1 – Request for approval for 12 wall signs. Map/lot U12-002; Zoned VC1, SZ-SP. APPROVED WITH CONDITIONS
Eagles Lane – Presumpscot River LLC (David Chase) – Request for Preliminary Subdivision Approval for a 12-lot single family conservation subdivision. Map/lot U56-11 & -14-A; Zoned RD, RCZO, SZ-RP/SP. APPROVED
Nicholi’s Way – Nicholas Karahalios – Request for Private Way Amendment Approval to add one new lot to be accessed from the private way. Map/lot R06-037; Zoned F, RCZO, RT100 CO. TABLED
US Route 1 – The Shops at Falmouth Center LLC – Request for Site Plan Approval for a proposed mixed-use commercial/ residential development. Map/lot U12-007-A; Zoned VC1, SZ-LC. TABLED
Please note: Planning Board agendas for upcoming meetings may not always be complete at the time of this newsletter's publication. Within the agendas, when possible, links will be provided to direct users to any additional information available on projects at the time of publication, including building elevations, plans, and images when available. Information on Planning Board projects and activities, including agendas and minutes, can be found at: https://www.falmouthme.org/planning-board. For additional information or questions, contact Lisa Sangillo at 207-699-5303 or lsangillo@falmouthme.org
Board of Zoning Appeals
The Board of Zoning Appeals considered the following items at its meeting on August 23. An agenda can be found here.
- 268 Blackstrap Road – Megan Blanchard– Request for Conditional Use Approval under Section 19-119 for a home daycare. (Previously tabled from July meeting) APPROVED WITH CONDITIONS
- 6 Webber Way – Josh Soley - Request for Conditional Use Approval under Section 19-84 for a Tear down and rebuild of a single-family dwelling. APPROVED
- 10 Brookside Drive – Alison Lakin – Request for Conditional Use Approval under Section 19-119 & 19-123 for a home daycare. APPROVED WITH CONDITIONS
For more information please visit: https://www.falmouthme.org/board-of-zoning-appeals
Stay Informed with the Town of Falmouth Website and E-Alerts
There are many Town committees and boards that meet on a regular basis. The events calendar on the Town of Falmouth website homepage lists upcoming board, committee, and Town Council meetings. We send E-Alerts when Town Council, Planning Board, and Board of Zoning Appeals meeting agendas and minutes are posted to the website. Subscribe via E-Alerts to those that most interest you. Agendas and Minutes for these meetings are also posted online and can be accessed from the home page. Town Council, Planning Board, and School Board meetings are live-streamed on Falmouth Community TV Channel 1301 (Former Channel 2). Recordings of these meetings are also available for viewing online. Board of Zoning Appeals Meetings are not broadcast live but can be viewed online within 24 hours after the meeting. E-Alerts allows you to subscribe to specific e-mail lists about Town-related issues that interest you. The Falmouth Focus, this bi-weekly newsletter, is another way to stay in the loop. Subscribe via E-Alerts. Please let us know what kind of information you would like to see included in your town newsletter.
Town of Falmouth, 271 Falmouth Road, Falmouth, ME 04105207-781-5253
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