2023.07.07--Falmouth Focus, Volume 5, Issue 15

Please note: This newsletter will be sent to subscribers of both The Falmouth Focus newsletter an Town News & Announcements. Please excuse cross postings. To change your subscription settings, visit E-Aerts. 

General Information

• Online and Remote
• Service
• A Guide to Participating in Virtual Town Council 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​​​​​​ 
  • 2022 Citizen of the Year
  • Municipal Recognition Ceremony
  • Social Services Grants
  • Twombly Pond
• Ongoing Initiatives
  • Comprehensive Planning Update
  • From the Wellness Committee
• Events
  • Food Drive
  • Concerts in the Park
• Take Note
  • CMP Line Work
  • LPAC Applications 
  • Falmouth PD Scam Warning
• Falmouth Public Schools
  • Highlights: 8th Grade Trip & Career Opportunities
  • In the News School Budget & School Board: 
  • Upcoming Events & Meetings
• Town Council, Board & Committee Meetings
  • Town Council
  • Planning Board
  • Board of Zoning Appeals
• Stay Informed

Please note, currently the Table of Contents links feature is not supported by all email clients or browsers. Scroll down to read the newsletter.

Town of Falmouth Names 2022 Citizen of the Year

On Thursday, June 22, at its annual Municipal Recognition Ceremony, Town Councilor Tommy Johnson presented Falmouth's 2022 Citizen of the Year Award posthumously to Kevin Fahrman affectionately known in the Greater Portland area as the Valentine’s Day Bandit. The Citizen of the Year award, established in 1964, acknowledges exceptional contribution to the community and positive examples of citizenship.

Fahrman moved to Falmouth in 2002. Born in Port Jefferson, New York, he later moved to Danbury, Connecticut where he graduated from high school. He came to Maine to study forestry at the University of Maine in Orono. His sense of adventure and creativity eventually led him to pursue his interest in art. He moved to Portland in 1977 where he met his wife, the mother of two children. Together they welcomed a third child. The couple relocated to Falmouth to provide their children with a childhood similar to his own, in a close-knit neighborhood.

Falmouth's 2022 Citizen of the Year Kevin Fahrman

Throughout his life, and especially in Falmouth, Fahrman was known for spreading kindness and offering assistance to his neighbors. One of his greatest passions was Sailmaine, a nonprofit organization that supports sailing in Maine at the community level. He made it his mission to provide parents with images of their children out on the water, images they often wouldn’t be able to capture themselves. “These acts of kindness touched a great many families in Falmouth, but his reach went even beyond his own neighborhood and beyond our community, to touch tens of thousands throughout Greater Portland,” said Johnson, upon presenting the award. For four decades, every February 14th, Fahrman anonymously plastered storefronts and business windows with red hearts, carrying out a tradition begun in his early years as a Portland resident. His secret mission grew more elaborate over the years. Large hearts appeared at Fort Gorges in Portland Harbor, over the entrance of the Portland Library, and on the sides of multi-story buildings.

Councilor Tommy Johnson presented the award to Fahrman's wife Patti Urban and daughter Sierra Fahrman who accepted on his behalf.

Fahrman passed away in April 2023. His wife, Patti Urban, along with his children and family friends, accepted the award on Kevin’s behalf. “Kevin was a selfless, loyal, and hilarious force in every community he served and will be greatly missed by everyone who was lucky enough to be touched by his warmth,” said Johnson.

To learn more about the Citizen of the Year award visit: https://www.falmouthme.org/town-council-town-manager/pages/citizen-of-the-year-2

Councilor Peter LaFond addresses attendees at the annual Municipal Recognition Ceremony

Falmouth's Annual Municipal Recognition Ceremony

On Thursday, June 22, the Town of Falmouth held its annual Municipal Recognition Ceremony to acknowledge the work of volunteers who serve on Town boards and committees and to thank them for their service to the community. The Town of Falmouth relies on several volunteer boards and committees to assist and advise the Falmouth Town Council and staff in carrying out the Council work plan each year. Approximately 125 individuals volunteer to serve on these boards, contributing hundreds of hours of work each year to the Town of Falmouth.

Council Chair Peter LaFond acknowledges the work of outgoing Councilor Ted Asherman.

In addition to naming the 2022 Citizen of the Year, Councilor LaFond acknowledged the service of outgoing Councilor Ted Asherman whose term on the Town Council has expired. Ted was elected to a two-year term in 2018 and re-elected in 2020.  Councilor LaFond noted the wealth of knowledge and steadying influence Councilor Asherman brought to the Council and his steadfast dedication throughout his terms. 

Newly elected Council Chair Hope Cahan acknowledges the leadership of former Council Chair Peter LaFond

Councilor LaFond then turned the podium over to Falmouth's newly elected Town Council Chair, Hope Cahan. Hope was elected to the Town Council in 2018 and re-elected in 2021 for a second term. She has served as vice-chair for the past year. On June 21, her fellow councilors unanimously elected her to serve as Council Chair. Jay Trickett was voted in as vice-chair. Councilor Cahan acknowledged the excellent leadership of her predecessor, especially with regards to environmental initiatives such as bringing the solar array project to fruition and presented Councilor LaFond with a ceremonial gavel to mark his service as Council Chair.

Social Services Agencies Grant Applications Available July 10

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. The application period will formally open on Monday, July 10. 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 2023-2024 grant cycle, submit an application to Marguerite Fleming at mfleming@falmouthme.org or by mail to 271 Falmouth Road, Falmouth, ME 04105 by September 30, 2023. For more information visit: https://www.falmouthme.org/community-wellness-committee. Applications will be available beginning on July 10.

Town of Falmouth Presents Check in Support of Twombly Pond 

At its May 22 meeting, Falmouth's Town Council voted unanimously to approve a donation of $100,000 in support of the preservation of Lee Twombly Pond. The contribution is the result of ongoing efforts to revitalize the ice-skating pond at Family Ice, which launched its campaign to “Save the Pond” in February. The initiative aims to raise $1 million to rebuild the 25-year old pond infrastructure, ensuring its longevity. In only four months the campaign has raised nearly 75% of its goal. "It's a tremendous asset to the Town," said Councilor Ted Asherman during the meeting, echoing comments by other councilors and residents who spoke in favor of the donation during public comment. “The Lee Twombly Pond is a cherished local facility that aligns with our vision and values, and we are pleased to contribute toward its restoration," said Councilor Amy Kuhn. 

On June 26, Family Ice Center, a 501(c)3 organization, expressed its gratitude for the Town Council’s endorsement and generous contribution. “We are thrilled by the Town Council’s support and their recognition of the Lee Twombly Pond’s value to our community,” said Godfrey Wood, President of the Board. “This contribution brings us one step closer to reopening the pond this year, providing recreation and entertainment for generations to come.”

The fundraising campaign continues to welcome donations from individuals, businesses and organizations interested in preserving this local treasure. Together, the community can make a lasting impact and secure the future of the Lee Twombly Pond for all to enjoy. For further information about the fundraising campaign or to make an online donation, please visit: https://www.familyice.org/savethepond. Checks may also be mailed to Family Ice, P.O. Box 6127, Falmouth, ME 04105

For more information about the Save the Pond Campaign, Family Ice, or Lee Francis Twombly, visit www.familyice.org.

Comprehensive Planning Update

Work on Falmouth's Comprehensive Plan continues as staff and consultants from BerryDunn compile comments from the three public workshops held this spring, as well as survey results and discussions taking place on the project website. The Comprehensive Plan Committee is also working with the consultants to outline next steps in the process and provide additional opportunities for public input. In the meantime, the Long Range Planning Advisory Committee has been re-established and seeks new members. This committee will have a role in advising Town Council on policies and projects related to growth, capital improvements, affordable housing, economic development, and transportation. If you have experience or perspectives that you feel would be useful, we encourage you to apply to serve on this important committee. Please apply by July 14 to expedite the Committee's formation. Find an application here. 

Residents are also encouraged to visit the project website for updates and additional opportunities to engage in the planning process, including: 

• a weekly discussion question
• surveys
• a project timeline
• links to the 2013 Comp Plan and the Vision & Values final report
• interactive maps, including housing and growth in Falmouth, conservation lands, recreational facilities, land use, and more. 
• opportunities to get involved in the process online by leaving a comment on the Vision Board or Interactive Map
• additional information on upcoming events and activities      

From the Wellness Committee: Summer Neighborhood Block Parties in Falmouth

Finally, it’s summer!  The kids are out of school, summer camps and other activities are booming, and the days of distancing from our neighbors during COVID have thankfully ended. We are all enjoying communing with one another and with the great outdoors again.

We at the Falmouth Wellness Committee strongly believe in the power of neighborhoods to help knit together communities and to contribute in a significant way to our health and well-being. Neighborhoods can be essential building blocks of a strong community. Studies have consistently shown the relationship between a sense of belonging to a community and improved physical and mental health, increased confidence and self-esteem, and resiliency in the face of hardship (1,2).

We are encouraging Falmouth residents to consider hosting a neighborhood party this summer. All that is required is putting a date on the calendar and getting the word out to your neighbors. Fire up a grill, toss on some meat and veggies, and share some dishes to pass. Set up some activities for the kids and enjoy watching their enthusiastic play. What a great opportunity to reacquaint yourself with neighbors you haven’t seen in ages, or chat with that new neighbor you haven’t had a chance to get to know, all while enjoying a beautiful summer afternoon or evening. 

Neighborhood parties can not only enhance a feeling of community, but also foster an identity that bonds neighbors together. The interactions of today can deepen relationships over time that can sustain and support all of us for when an unforeseen circumstance might arise and we are in need of a helping hand.

So, when are you going to have your neighborhood party?? If you do organize a gathering, please take a few pictures and send them to our committee. We would love to post them on our web and social media pages. Your pictures can be sent to: mfleming@falmouthme.org

Food Drive for Falmouth Food Pantry

The Cumberland Farmers Market Association (CFMA) is holding a food drive every Wednesday in July at the Farmers Market at Hat Trick Drive from 10am to 1 pm to benefit the Falmouth Food Pantry. Non-perishable food and/or cash donations will be accepted and CFMA will match cash donations up to $250! Please join us in support of our neighbors in need this summer. 

Concerts in the Park

Summer Concerts in the Park hosted by Falmouth Parks & Community Programs kicks off in June! Bring your lawn chair, blanket, and picnic and join your neighbors for free musical entertainment in Village Park beginning at 6:30pm. The summer lineup includes: 

• July 10, The Few--Recreational musicians from Yarmouth playing music for all ages.
• July 24, 2 For Jackson--National award winning duo playing old country and new.
• August 7, Maine POPS Concert Band--Pop, show tunes, big band, jazz, and more.

In case of inclement weather, contact the FCP office at 699-5302 or check our social media pages. Rain decisions will be made by 2pm.

CMP to Inspect Distribution Lines in Falmouth

Central Maine Power (CMP) is undertaking a series of line projects in Falmouth, known as Distribution Line Inspections, which include replacing poles and cross arms, line transfers, and correcting any deficiencies in the lines. These inspections and replacements will help improve the structural integrity, capacity, and reliability of CMP’s distribution system, and will also help CMP address regulatory requirements.

The work is anticipated to begin on July 10 and will take approximately 4 weeks, weather permitting. Equipment used may include digger trucks, bucket trucks, and other vehicles. Areas impacted include:

• Depot Road
• Fundy Road
• Harriet Road
• Lunt Road

CMP does not anticipate any extended power outages because of this work. A member of a crew will notify property owners if this need arises. Restricted access to businesses and residences is not anticipated. If obstructions do occur, they will be on a limited basis and coordinated by the construction crews. Each work area will be maintained throughout the project to minimize property impact, dust, and to keep neighborhoods clean. All trash or debris will be removed daily. In the rare cases where work could impact abutting properties, such as the need to trim or remove trees to protect the distribution system or access the work location, construction crews will contact property owners and work with them on an individual basis.

Additional Resources:  

Distribution Line Inspections Frequently Asked Questions

Central Maine Power

For more information or questions, contact CMP at: 800-750-4000 (7:30 a.m. - 6 p.m., Monday - Friday)

Long-Range Planning Advisory Committee Re-Established

The Long-Range Planning Advisory Committee has been re-established to provide input on the development and implementation of the Comprehensive Plan Update. This committee will have a role in advising Town Council on policies and projects related to growth, capital improvements, affordable housing, economic development, and transportation. If you have experience or perspectives that you feel would be useful, we encourage you to apply. Please apply by July 14 to expedite the Committee's formation. Find an application here. Learn more about the Updated Comprehensive Planning Process at: https://www.falmouthme.org/comprehensive-plan-update

Falmouth Police Department Warns of Scam

The Falmouth Police Department would like to share information from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) regarding a scam involving regular mail. The mailing attempts to mislead people into believing they are owed a refund on their taxes. The mailing comes in a cardboard envelope from a delivery services. The enclosed letter includes the IRS masthead and wording that the notice is “in relation to your unclaimed refund.” The enclosed letter includes contact information and a phone number that do not belong to the IRS and seeks a variety of sensitive personal information from taxpayers – including detailed pictures of driver’s licenses. The recipient is asked to provide a cell phone number, bank routing information, Social Security number, and bank account type via email or phone. This scam tries tricking people to email or phone this very detailed personal information which can be used by identity thieves to obtain a tax refund for themselves or to access other sensitive financial information. There are many warning signs within the mailing, including awkwardly worded requests, odd punctuation, and a mixture of fonts. Scams should be reported by sending a copy of the letter as an attachment to phishing@irs.gov. Taxpayers can also report scams to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration. 

Highlight: 8th Grade Trip to London!

Our 8th-grade students experienced incredible adventures during their unforgettable exchange trip in Harrogate, England, which included an 11-day journey through Yorkshire, UK, followed by 5 exciting days in the bustling city of London. Family homestays in Harrogate provided a window into English culture and lifestyle, and fostered friendships likely to endure for decades to come. In Yorkshire, our young explorers delved into history at the magnificent Harewood House, soaked in the haunting beauty of Whitby, marveled at the architectural wonders of Kirkstall Abbey, and were captivated by the rich heritage of Clifford's Tower and the enchanting Shambles in York. Their London expedition included a view of the city from the London Eye, and tours of Tower Bridge and the historic Tower of London. Our students embraced the vibrant spirit of the city, strolling through Covent Garden and Harrods and seeing a performance of "Six" at the Vaudeville Theater.  No trip to London would be complete without witnessing the iconic changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace.

Highlight: Careers at Falmouth Public Schools

Are you interested in working at Falmouth Public Schools? There are a number of District-Wide, School, Substitute, and Coaching positions available. Please visit our Careers page to learn more and apply.

In the News: School Budget and School Board

Local elections were held on June 13, and much appreciation to everyone who came out to vote in support of our 2023-2024 school budget. The Budget Referendum passed by a wide margin and will allow our staff to dive into preparing our schools for the coming year. Additionally, on Tuesday, June 20, three newly elected school board members were welcomed and sworn in: Analiese Larson, Emily Martin, and Alicia Johnson. 

Upcoming: Events & Meetings

School Board Meetings

A schedule of upcoming 2023 Falmouth School Board meetings, and agendas and minutes from prior meetings, are available. 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 on Falmouth Community Television (FCT).

Town Council Meeting, Monday, July 10, 2023, 7:00pm

The next meeting of the Falmouth Town Council will take place on Monday, July 10 at 7:00pm. An agenda can be found here. The meeting will be held in person at Town Hall in the Town Council Chambers. Members of the public may participate in the meeting by either attending the meeting in person or via Zoom. 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 Meetings…

The Town Council held the Annual Caucus on June 21.

• The Council discussed the 2023-2024 Council leadership and committee liaisons.
• Hope Cahan was elected Council Chair and Jay Trickett was elected Vice-Chair of the Town Council.

The Town Council held a meeting on June 21. Find an agenda and video here. 

• The Council approved an order to certify the June 13, 2023 Election Results.
• The Council approved an order for the 2023-2024 Council Leadership and Committee Appointments.
• The Council approved the minutes of the May 8, May 15 and May 22 Council meetings.
• The Council approved an order to change the date of the 2023/2024 Council meetings impacted by holidays.
• The Council approved the renewal of permanent food licenses for Dockside Grill, Dockside Provisions (Dock Store) and Portland Yacht Club.
• The Council approved the new liquor license for Fuego.
• There was a presentation and discussion on the Underwood Park Master Plan.
• The Council had consensus not to take action on the Ordinance to amend Chapter II-19 of the Code of Ordinances to implement the requirements of L.D. 2003 “An Act To Implement the Recommendations of the Commission To Increase Housing Opportunities in Maine by Studying Zoning and Land Use Restrictions" as codified at 30-A M.R.S. §§4364, 4364-A, and 4364-B.
• There was a presentation on Planning for Town Electric Vehicle Charging.
• The Council approved an Order to go into Executive Session pursuant to the Laws of Maine to discuss Union contracts, pursuant to 1 M.R.S.A. § 405 (6) (D).

Planning Board 

The Falmouth Planning Board will conduct a site walk for the proposed Hidden Hills Estates Subdivision (Map-lot R04-022) on Tuesday, July 11, 2023. An agenda can be found here. The Board will convene the site walk at 5:45 pm at the intersection of Falls Road and Falmouth Road. The site walk is open to the public. PLEASE PARK ON FALLS ROAD IF DRIVING TO THE SITE WALK.

At the July 11 Planning Board meeting, the board will consider the following items. An agenda can be found here.  

• A public hearing regarding amendments to CH. II-19 of the Code of Ordinances to add Restaurants and Carry-out Restaurants as conditional uses in certain portions of the RB District.

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 

At the Board of Zoning Appeals meeting on June 27, the board considered the following items. An agenda can be found here.

• 1 & 7 Underwood Road - Underwood Road LLC (Theodore Heidrich) - Request for Conditional Use Approval under Section 19-77 for the construction of a detached structure. Map/lot U18-025; Zoned RA, RCZO, SZ-LR, WVOD.  (Previously tabled) APPROVED
• 11 Hammond Road – Rob King representing Brian & Julie O’Coin – Request for Conditional Use Approval under Section 19-84 for a tear-down and rebuild of existing dwelling. Map/lot U02-020; Zoned RA, RCZO, WVOD.  APPROVED
• 16 Ayers Court – Odette Thurston – Request for Conditional Use Approval under Section 19-77 to extend bump out on north side of dwelling. Map/lot U16-046; Zoned RA, RCZO, WVOD. TABLED PRIOR TO MEETING AT REQUEST OF APPLICANT

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.