2022.10.07--Falmouth Focus, Volume 4, Issue 24
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 |
Please note: Town offices and facilities will be closed on Monday, October 10 in observance of Indigenous Peoples' Day.
Reminder Regarding Street Addressing
As part of Fire Prevention Week, Falmouth Public Safety would like to encourage residents to review the identifying address numbers on their homes to be certain they are visible from the roadway and ideally larger than 4 inches and of a reflective material. If identifying numbers are placed on mailboxes, it’s helpful to include them on both sides as emergency services may approach from either direction. Visible street addresses will not only help with convenience issues such as mail or package delivery but, more importantly, ensure public safety can identify your residence quickly and easily in an emergency. Questions can be directed to Falmouth’s Street Addressing Officer at 207-699-5306.
Falmouth’s Assistant Wastewater Superintendent Receives Award
Dwayne Brown, Assistant Superintendent of Falmouth’s Wastewater Department, has received the Maine Water Environment Association’s (MeWEA) Founders Award. This prestigious award honors individuals with long-term service in a Maine Wastewater system, meritorious service during a significant event, assumption of additional responsibility resulting in a benefit to the community, and community involvement outside of the job. The award was presented at the MeWEA annual conference at Sunday River on September 22.
Dwayne began his employment at the wastewater treatment facility in 1990 and has worked as an Operator, Mechanic, Chief Operator, and Assistant Superintendent, totaling 32+ years of dedicated service to the Town. Congratulations, Dwayne, on this well-deserved recognition!
Pine Grove Preserve Still Closed
Falmouth’s Open Space staff would like to remind residents that Pine Grove Preserve is still closed to the public. While most heavy equipment work is complete, the parking lot is not, and work continues to restore rough sections of the trail system. Thank you for your continued patience and understanding.
Questions about the project may be directed to openspace@falmouthme.org. For more information about the Pine Grove Preserve Forestry Management Plan, visit: https://www.falmouthme.org/sites/g/files/vyhlif11826/f/uploads/focus_on_pine_grove_january_2022_final.pdf
Ongoing Initiatives |
From the Wellness Committee: Yellow Tulips Grow Hope
by Julie Joy Butler, Falmouth Community Wellness Committee Member
If you or someone you know is in crisis, please call 988:
the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline available 24/7
Tulips were her best friend’s favorite flower. Yellow was the favorite color of her other closest friend. Both friends died by suicide independent of each other during the school year that Julia Hansen was a 15-year-old sophomore. Julia had also struggled with depression since middle school but kept silent rather than face stigma. After her friends’ deaths, she become a warrior fighting mental health stigma among youth. In April 2016, she and her mother, Suzanne Fox, started the Yellow Tulip Project (YTP) here in Falmouth.
More than half of all Americans will experience a mental illness or disorder during their lifetime.1 Despite the rates of depression, anxiety, and other mental illnesses in the population, stigma continues to permeate the culture. Dismissing or suppressing emotions and mental hardship can lead to further feelings of isolation, hopelessness, suicidal thoughts and acts. YTP seeks to “smash” that stigma with its stated mission that: “…someday mental illness will be as normal to talk about as any physical illness, and we are fiercely dedicated to making this goal a reality.”
At Falmouth High School, YTP Club leaders, seniors Chloe Libby and Eliza Belcher, began doing their part as sophomore club members. That year, their video of students sharing mental health stories (“faces you know in the hallway struggling alongside you”) was shown in every homeroom. Last year they videotaped student services staff explaining their roles. They also outfitted a quiet room where students could rest and recuperate if they felt anxious or depressed during the day. “Huge appreciation” from students for their efforts, the project and the club “…keep us going and shows that we’re making a difference here,” said Eliza.
They both say that the degree of focus on academic rigor contributes to a high-anxiety environment. “We live in an area that comes with many privileges, but it also comes with groups of parents who tend to be on the higher-pressure side,” said Eliza.
“We’re very fortunate to have a lot of parental involvement, but mental health can take a back seat when academic rigor is more prevalent in people’s lives,” said Chloe. “When students are so devoted to their learning, mental health really needs to be on the forefront of the agenda. It’s one thing to say you have a mental health organization and another to say, ‘We’re actively working on decreasing student anxiety,’” she said.
YTP’s staff and over 500 youth ambassadors in the United States and abroad are working in schools and with communities to effect youth-driven change. To build support and awareness, YTP also invites community members to plant a yellow tulip Hope Garden to remind folks that they are not alone and that: “Hope Happens.” Over 500,000 bulbs have been planted to date.
During National Mental Illness Awareness Week (October 2-8) the Falmouth Community Wellness Committee provided free bags of yellow tulip bulbs for residents to plant in their gardens. All of the available bags of bulbs have now been distributed.Thank you to everyone who picked up bulbs for supporting this vital Falmouth conversation. Please share photos of the bulbs blooming in May to mark Mental Health Awareness Month. Thank you also to Allen Sterling & Lothrop and Skillins Greenhouses for donating an additional 140 bulbs to this effort.
Falmouth's Solar Array Update
Installation work on the solar array at the Transfer Station began this week. The racking system, which holds the glass panels, is being installed along with the tub bases that hold the racks in place. Work will be ongoing. Residents can expect construction activity and some heavy truck traffic along Woods Road and in and out of the facility during this time. Please exercise caution when using the Transfer Station. Construction is not anticipated to impact Transfer Station operations in any way.
The array has an expected annual output of 1,500,000 kWh for the initial delivery year and will produce enough renewable energy to offset ~70% of municipal electric use. It is estimated to save the Town $1.995 million in energy costs over its 20-year lifespan. Questions can be directed to Public Works at: 207-781-3919.
West Falmouth Sewer Project Update
Paving will begin next week on Middle Road beginning at the Lunt Road intersection and moving towards Bucknam Road. North of Bucknam Road, lane closures with alternating traffic directed by flaggers will continue on Middle Road into November. As the work progresses toward Woods Road, please use extra caution at the roundabout.
Falmouth's Senior Property Tax Assistance Program Deadline October 13
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 #18: Adding grass seed to your lawn, known as “over-seeding,” is a more effective way to manage weeds than using herbicides. Seeding should be done primarily in late summer and early fall (following aeration when necessary) with a top dressing of ¼ inch of compost. If you have bare spots or areas where the grass is sparse, they should be reseeded or over-seeded with a mixture of grass cultivars. One of the best methods to ensure good germination is to aerate the lawn first before broadcasting seed across the area. Broadcasting seed across an established lawn will result in little to no germination. Finally, water is critical to the success of seeding at any time of the year. Once the seed germinates, the roots are tiny and have an immediate need for water. Depending on the variety of seed, you may need to keep the area moist for 4 to 6 weeks after seeding. Visit your local nursery for the best advice on the right variety of grass seed you should use.
Living Lawns Tip #19: We mentioned early on in our spring posts about thatch that the fall is the best time to dethatch. As a reminder, thatch is a layer of dead and living grass shoots, stems, and roots that shows up between the soil and the grass blades in your lawn. Thatch build-up starts when the turf produces organic debris faster than it can be broken down. A good thatch layer is a half-inch thick or less. Thatch builds up over time, so it’s not necessary to dethatch every year. Plan on doing it every five years or so if your lawn needs it. Unlike aerating, dethatching is performed only if needed and requires large equipment. This is a task best suited for a lawn-care professional who will be able to offer necessary guidance if your lawn, or parts of your lawn, should be dethatched.
For more information, visit the Livings Lawns web page at: https://www.falmouthme.org/environmental-initiatives/pages/living-lawns-your-healthy-lawn-care-resource
Transit Together Seeks Input
Led by the Greater Portland Council of Governments (GPCOG), the regional planning agency for the greater Portland region, Transit Together is a study to identify opportunities for increased coordination and integration among the seven public transit providers in the Portland region. Ultimately, the group will develop a plan that will improve the experience of current riders, attract new riders, and make the system more effective and efficient. The project is seeking input on ideas for improving transit. Click here to take the Transit Together Scenario Survey. The survey will be open for several weeks, and we encourage you to share with fellow riders, friends, neighbors, and family.
Events |
Falmouth Trails Day is Tomorrow!
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, tomorrow, October 8. At 11:00am, attendees may choose a guided hike at Suckfish Brook Conservation Area, Tidewater Farm Preserve, or Falmouth Community Park. At 1:00pm, attendees may choose a guided hike at Underwood Springs Forest or Morrill-Stillings Bird Sanctuary. No pets, please. For more information visit: https://www.falmouthme.org/community-wellness-committee
Falmouth Fire-EMS Open House and Touch-A-Truck, October 15, 9-Noon
As part of Fire Prevention Week, join us for the Falmouth-Fire EMS Open House and Touch-A-Truck on Saturday, October 15, 2022, from 9am-12pm at Central Station (8 Bucknam Road). Meet firefighters and officers, climb on fire trucks and other big equipment, learn fire safety tips, and meet Buckle Bear and his friends. Games and activities, refreshments, and raffles round out the fun! Co-sponsored by Falmouth Community Programs.
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.
Take Note |
Leaf Bags Available
Leaf bags are available to Falmouth residents at the Public Works Office (101 Woods Road) in quantities of 12 per Falmouth resident address while supplies last. Bags are distributed on a first come, first served basis.
Curbside collection dates for leaf bags have been scheduled for:
- Friday, October 28
- Friday, November 4
- Friday, November 11
- Friday, November 18
Leaf bags must be set curbside on collection dates by 7am to ensure collection. REMINDER: Brush is NOT collected curbside but can be brought to the Transfer Station. Please do not put brush or trash in leaf bags. Transfer station hours are:
- Tuesday: 12-4pm
- Thursday: 12-4pm
- Friday: 7am-5pm
- Saturday: 9am-5pm
Call the Public Works Office with any questions at 207-781-3919
Voter Registration
How do I register to vote? You may obtain a Maine Voter Registration Application at Town Hall or by calling the Clerk’s Office at 781-5253 and requesting one be mailed to you. A valid identification and proof of residency are required. Completed voter registration cards may be delivered by hand or by mail to Town Hall. Voter registrations completed by mail must be received 21 days prior to the election. If you are registering to vote within two weeks of the election, you are in the closed period and must register in person with proper i.d. and proof of residency.
Can I register to vote on Election Day? Yes. On Election Day you can register to vote at the polls. When registering, you must provide a valid identification and proof of residency.
Can I change my registration? Yes. All changes, including name and address changes, require completing a new registration application. If you are unenrolled in a political party you may enroll at any time. If you are enrolled and want to change parties you may, but there is a 15 day waiting period between changing parties and voting. Once enrolled, you must remain in the party for 90 days.
Absentee Voting
The Clerk’s Office is 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: Campus Master Planning & Pre-K
For those unable to attend the Master Planning Presentation & Community Charrette on September 28th, please find the presentation and updates on our Campus Master Planning Web Page. The Campus Master Plan establishes a framework for orderly growth and development of our school campus. It inventories current usage of all buildings and site facilities. The Plan evaluates the highest and best use of the entire property (developed and undeveloped), and creates an implementation roadmap for determining the use of the buildings and property in a way that will meet our current and projected future needs. Please check back often and stay engaged through community events related to this important strategic priority. We welcome your ongoing input. Please share your thoughts and ideas about our Master Planning process through the survey link on the web page linked above.
Likewise, for those unable to attend the October 3rd School Board Workshop presentation and discussion about Pre-K, the presentation slides are available on our Pre-Kindergarten (Pre-K) Web Page. We are still in the early stages of planning and program development. Community engagement is essential in informing our plans and shaping a program that meets the Falmouth community needs. Learn more about the District Strategic Plan: Setting the Course for 2022 & Beyond here.
Focus: Show Your Pride For Our Navigators
We continue to have great weather for spectator sports. You can support our Falmouth Navigators at any of a number of home athletic events (football, soccer, volleyball, and field hockey) throughout the week. Complete Falmouth Athletics calendar available here. Visit the Falmouth Navigators Online School Store.
Upcoming: Events & Meetings
Tickets on sale for CHICAGO - Teen Edition!
Tickets are on sale now for the first production of the season at The Theatre Company at Falmouth High School. CHICAGO - Teen Edition opens October 28. Get your tickets here.
Chicago is the longest-running American musical in Broadway history and the second longest-running Broadway production ever. In the Roaring Twenties, aspiring chorus girl Roxie Hart and fading vaudeville star Velma Kelly each face trial for murder. Both as cynical as they are cunning, the two women compete for the services of shady lawyer Billy Flynn, who promises to make them media celebrities and win them acquittals. With its killer score and knock-’em-dead dance numbers, this incredibly fun show packs some serious heat.
School Board Meetings
The next School Board meeting is on Monday, October 17 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. Past meetings can be viewed here.
Town Council, Board & Committee Meetings |
Town Council Meeting, Wednesday, October 12, 7:00pm
Due to Indigenous Peoples' Day on Monday, the Town Council will meet on Wednesday, October 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 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 Meeting…
The Town Council held two meetings on September 28.
The Town Council Workshop Meeting began at 5:30pm. An agenda and video can be found here.
- The Council had an update on the process of selecting a consultant to assist with updating the 2013 Comprehensive Plan. The Council agreed to move forward with Berry Dunn.
Town Council Meeting began at 7:00pm. An agenda and video can be found here.
- The Council approved the minutes of the August 8 Council Meeting and August 22 Council Meeting.
- The Council approved the following appointment: Richard Butt to the Falmouth Memorial Library Board of Trustees
- The Council approved an order to renew the food service license for Circle K.
- There was an update on the Underwood Park improvement schedule.
- The Council approved an order for a supplemental appropriation to fund a new position in the Finance Department, titled Accounts Payable (A/P) Clerk.
- There was an introduction of an ordinance to amend the General Assistance Ordinance, Appendices A-G to amend the maximum levels of income and expenses for the General Assistance program, Chapter 6, Article 6, Section 6.68, Appendices A-G of the Falmouth Town Ordinance. The public hearing is scheduled for October 24.
- There was discussion regarding the future of solid waste and recycling collection.
Planning Board
At the October 11 Planning Board meeting, the board will consider the following items. An agenda can be found here.
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. 
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.
108 Winn Road – Justin M. Fletcher Inc – Request for Preliminary Approval for a 5-Lot major conservation subdivision. Map/lot R06-006-A; Zoned F, RCZO.
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 next Board of Zoning Appeals meeting will be held on Tuesday, October 25 at 6:30pm. An agenda will be posted here in advance of the meeting. Please note: Board of Zoning Appeals agendas for upcoming meetings may not always be complete at the time of this newsletter's publication. 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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