Portland public meetings in 2022

Rent Board

The Board approved rent increases based on capital improvements and renovations for 26 Poland St and 44 Pleasant St. An application for 4 Bay View Dr was rejected, and three other applications were tabled for further documentation.

• Approved $71.67 monthly rent increase for 26 Poland St (4-0)
• Approved new base rent of $1,397.00 for 44 Pleasant St (4-0)
• Rejected rent increase application for 4 Bay View Dr (4-0)
• Tabled rent increase application for 39 Holly St (4-0)
• Tabled rent increase application for 25 Grant St (4-0)
• Tabled rent increase application for 27 Grant St (4-0)
• Accepted meeting minutes as written (4-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals is reviewing an appeal for a practical difficulty variance at 4 Dale Street. The owners are requesting to reduce the minimum front setback from 25 feet to 3 feet to construct a one-story addition. This item was previously tabled during the December 1, 2022 meeting.

• Variance appeal (ZBA-002279-2022) for 4 Dale Street to reduce front setback from 25 feet to 3 feet

The Zoning Board of Appeals reviewed a request for a Practical Difficulty Variance at 4 Dale Street. The board voted to deny the request to reduce the front setback for a home addition.

• Denied Practical Difficulty Variance to reduce front setback from 25 feet to 3 feet at 4 Dale Street (7-0)

Portland Fish Pier Authority

The PFPA Board will discuss joining the Portland Fish Exchange in exploring a single governance entity. The agenda also includes approvals for the Marine Trade Center refinance and the Dropping Springs sublease. Staff will provide updates on CARES Act funding, finances, and facilities.

• Marine Trade Center Refinance Approval
• Dropping Springs Sublease Approval
• CARES Act infrastructure and program funding update
• Homeport Fleet Berthing Agreement revisions
• Governance exploration for PFE and PFPA

The Board voted to explore a non-binding process to create a single governance entity for the Portland Fish Pier Authority and the Portland Fish Exchange. The Board also approved a leasehold mortgage for the Marine Trade Center and a sublease for Dropping Springs Bait Co LLC.

• Approved November 14, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved Marine Trade Center, LLC leasehold mortgage and collateral assignment (4-0)
• Approved sublease agreement between PFEX and Dropping Springs Bait Co LLC (4-0)
• Approved non-binding exploration of a single governance entity for PFX and PFPA (3-1)

Public Art Committee

The committee will review updates on various public art projects, including the Bramhall Square Redesign and Gathering Stones. Discussions also include upcoming conservation work and potential new sites for public art.

• Bramhall Square Redesign: Artist Chris Miller to begin design development phase
• Gathering Stones: Committee to determine next steps for signage following sculpture reset
• Passing the Torch: Request for shop drawings for two signs once artwork description is received
• Conservation: Planned conservation of 'Untitled- Armillary' in spring 2023
• Riverton Trolley Park identified as a potential public art site

City Council

The City Council approved several liquor and business licenses, including a scrap metal recycling facility. The Council also passed a resolution supporting the Advancing Equality for Wabanaki Nations Act and approved a land exchange agreement for 58 Fore Street.

• Approved appointment of Rachel L. Millette as Associate Corporation Counsel (9-0)
• Approved appointment of 2023 Constables (9-0)
• Approved 2023 Special Council and Outside Board and Commission appointments (9-0)
• Approved scrap metal recycling facility for Schnitzer Northeast at 568 Riverside Street (9-0)
• Approved 7 liquor license applications for various establishments (all 9-0)
• Passed resolution supporting Advancing Equality for Wabanaki Nations Act as amended (9-0)
• Approved appropriation of $5,000 anonymous donation for those in need (9-0)
• Approved Sixth Amendment of Land Exchange Agreement for 58 Fore Street (9-0)

Civil Service Employment Subcommittee

The Board of Assessment Review will meet to approve minutes from the October 21, 2022 meeting. The board will consider property tax appeals for 100 Middle Street A and B and 49 Dartmouth Street. Additionally, a written decision regarding 453 St. John Street is scheduled for approval.

• Review of appeal for 100 Middle Street A and B
• Withdrawal of appeal for 49 Dartmouth Street
• Approval of written decision for 453 St. John Street
• Approval of October 21, 2022 meeting minutes

Emergency Shelter Assessment Committee

The Emergency Shelter Assessment Committee will review November 2022 shelter bed usage statistics and hold a discussion on winter planning. The agenda also includes updates regarding the Emergency Rental Assistance program, Region I, and the Cumberland County Service Hub. Additionally, members will receive updates on federal, state, and local legislation.

• November 2022 shelter bed usage statistics
• Emergency Rental Assistance program update
• Winter planning discussion
• Cumberland County Service Hub update from United Way
• Federal, State, and Local Legislation update

Portland Development Corporation

The Portland Development Corporation Board will review a new loan application for Friends and Family, Inc. at 593 Congress Street. The meeting also includes the election of board officers and a review of the November 2022 Treasurer's Report.

• Vote on new loan application for Friends and Family, Inc., 593 Congress Street
• Election of President, Treasurer, and Secretary
• Review of FYE2022 draft Annual Report
• Setting the date for the Annual Meeting of Corporator for January 4, 2023

Land Bank Commission

The commission will meet to accept minutes from the November 9, 2022 meeting. The agenda includes reports from the secretary and treasurer, as well as an update from the High Priority Parcel Committee.

• Acceptance of November 9th, 2022 meeting minutes
• High Priority Parcel Committee Update
• Parks Report
• Treasurer's Report

The Commission approved the 2022-2023 Annual Report subject to edits. Members discussed updates to the scorecard to increase transparency and numerical elements. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved November 9, 2022 meeting minutes
• Approved 2022-2023 Annual Report pending edits

Rent Board

The Portland Rent Board will discuss the Revised Rent Control Ordinance. The agenda also includes approval of minutes from November 30, 2022, and a potential executive session to consult with legal counsel regarding the Board's rights and duties.

• Discussion of the Revised Rent Control Ordinance
• Approval of November 30, 2022 minutes
• Potential executive session regarding legal rights and duties

The Board approved the minutes from the previous meeting. Members entered an executive session to receive legal advice from the Corporation Counsel's office regarding the implementation of a new referendum.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved motion to enter executive session for legal advice on new referendum implementation (6-0)
• Approved motion to exit executive session (7-0)
• Approved motion to adjourn (7-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a workshop to consider rezoning 4.4 acres at 50 Industrial Way to accommodate the future growth of Allagash Brewing Company. A public hearing is also scheduled to consider rezoning 52 acres at 1772 Westbrook Street for warehousing and distribution uses.

• Workshop: Rezoning 4.4 acres at 50 Industrial Way from I-M to I-Mb
• Public Hearing: Rezoning 52 acres at 1772 Westbrook Street from I-L to I-M

City Council

The City Council is conducting a workshop focused on establishing and distilling goals. The session includes a presentation from the City Manager regarding the 'State of the Staff' reality.

• Goal setting whiteboard activity
• City Manager presentation on 'State of the Staff' reality

Historic Preservation Board

The Historic Preservation Board will hold elections for a new Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson. The meeting also includes preliminary reviews of proposed alterations at 175 Vaughan Street and 25 Forest Avenue.

• Election of new Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson
• Preliminary review of proposed alterations at 175 Vaughan Street
• Preliminary review of proposed alterations at 25 Forest Avenue

Ad Hoc Committee

The Pesticide Management Advisory Committee will review minutes from August and November meetings. The committee will also discuss education outreach and the outcome of an ordinance violation.

• Review of August 2 and November 1 meeting minutes
• Outcome of ordinance violation at 605 Stevens Avenue
• Discussion of education and outreach to residents and businesses
• Discussion regarding LMAC website content and a dedicated city email

City Council

The Portland City Council will hold its inaugural meeting to swear in newly elected councilors Regina L. Phillips and Pious Ali. The session includes appointing a Mayor Pro Tempore and establishing standing committees. Additionally, the Council will consider updates to the Rules of Procedure.

• Swearing-in ceremony for new councilors
• Appointment of Pious Ali as Mayor Pro Tempore
• Appointment of City Council Standing Committees
• Approval of 2022-2023 Council Rules of Procedure
• Resolution supporting Justice, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

The City Council swore in Regina Phillips and Pious Ali following the November 8, 2022 elections. The council appointed Pious Ali as Mayor Pro Tempore and established standing committees and rules of procedure for 2022-2023.

• Swore in City Councilor District 3 Regina Phillips and City Councilor At-Large Pious Ali
• Appointed Councilor Pious Ali Mayor Pro Tempore (8-0-1)
• Appointed City Council Standing Committees (8-0-1)
• Approved Council Rules of Procedure for 2022-2023 (8-0-1)
• Approved Resolve 5-22/23 Supporting Justice, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (8-0-1)

City Council

The City Council will review a staff memo regarding the implementation of initiatives passed by voters in the November election. The meeting also includes a report on the 2022 achievements of the Sustainability & Transportation Committee. No formal council action is required for these communications.

• Staff memo on implementing initiatives passed by voters in the November election
• Report on 2022 achievements of the Sustainability & Transportation Committee
• Announcement of Portland's score of 96 from the Human Rights Campaign's 2022 Municipal Equality Index

The City Council approved the minutes from the November 21, 2022, meeting. No other substantive decisions were made during the session.

• Approved November 21, 2022 meeting minutes (8-0-1)

City Council

The Rules Committee will review draft changes to the Council Rules. The committee will also approve minutes from the November 21, 2022 meeting and receive public comment on the rule changes.

• Review of draft changes to Council Rules
• Approval of November 21, 2022 meeting minutes

Parks Commission

The Parks Commission will discuss the PRF Department's recommended food truck policy and CIP departmental recommendations. The meeting also includes citizen comments regarding Payson Park and food truck policies.

• PRF Department Recommended Food Truck Policy
• C3 Concert at Payson Park
• CIP Departmental Recommendations
• Citizen comments on Payson Park
• Citizen comments on food truck policy

The commission accepted the meeting minutes from November 3, 2022. Members discussed the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) and a proposed food truck policy, and reviewed extensive public opposition to a proposed C3 concert at Payson Park.

• Accepted November 3, 2022 meeting minutes

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Portland Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on December 1, 2022. The board will review an application for a marijuana retail store at 425 Forest Ave and a request to reduce a front setback for a home addition at 4 Dale Street.

• Conditional Use Appeal (CU-002274-2022) for a marijuana retail store at 425 Forest Ave
• Variance request (ZBA-002279-2022) to reduce front setback from 25 feet to 3 feet at 4 Dale Street

The Zoning Board of Appeals granted a conditional use permit for a marijuana retail store. A variance request for a residential addition was tabled for a future date.

• Granted Conditional Use Appeal for marijuana retail store at 425 Forest Ave for two years (6-0)
• Tabled Practical Difficulty Variance Appeal for front setback reduction at 4 Dale Street

Rent Board

The Rent Board will review written public comments and discuss Question C, An Act To Protect Tenants in Portland. The meeting also includes the approval of minutes from October 26, 2022.

• Review of written public comments
• Discussion regarding Question C - An Act To Protect Tenants in Portland
• Approval of October 26, 2022 minutes

The Board discussed necessary updates to forms and procedures following the passage of Question C, 'An Act to Protect Tenants in Portland.' Members reviewed potential changes to mediation, penalties, and reporting requirements. No formal policy changes were decided, but a special meeting was authorized.

• Approved meeting minutes as written (7-0)
• Approved motion for Chair and Vice Chair to schedule a special meeting with an Executive Session in consultation with Corporation Counsel (7-0)

Sustainability and Transportation Committee

The committee will receive presentations regarding offshore wind energy development in the Gulf of Maine and its impact on the Port of Portland. The meeting also includes updates on sustainability programs, an annual report on Energy Benchmarking, and a report on the Electrify Everything! pilot program.

• Presentation on the Maine Offshore Wind Roadmap and port infrastructure
• Annual report on Energy Benchmarking
• Report on Electrify Everything! pilot program
• Review of 2022 committee accomplishments

The committee approved the minutes from the October 12 meeting. Members received updates on energy benchmarking, the ElectrifyEverything! pilot program, and potential offshore wind development in the Gulf of Maine.

• Approved October 12 meeting minutes (2-0)

City Council

Councilor Anna Trevorrow will host the District 1 annual meeting via Zoom. City staff will present information regarding CDBG grants and city communications. The agenda also includes a community Q&A session.

• CDBG Grant Information presentation
• City Communications Information presentation
• Community Q&A session

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The Committee agreed to propose a resolution to the full council regarding the Advancing Equality for Wabanaki Nations Act (H.R.6707). Members also discussed funding for asylee services and a proposed amendment to GA statute. The minutes from the November 1, 2022 meeting were approved.

• Approved November 1, 2022 meeting minutes (2-0)
• Agreed to propose sending a resolution to the full council regarding HR 6707 (Advancing Equality for Wabanaki Nations Act)

Civil Service Employment Subcommittee

The City Council workshop includes a staff presentation regarding the Planning & Urban Development overview of housing and zoning approaches. The session will also include a Q&A for the Council.

• Staff presentation on housing/zoning approach and current initiatives
• Council Q&A

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing on updates to the City Technical Manual regarding street and sewer design. They will also consider a zoning amendment for IDEALS at 1 Bean Pot Circle to create an Institutional Overlay Zone. A workshop regarding recovery housing was postponed.

• Zoning map and text amendment for 1 Bean Pot Circle
• Technical Manual updates for transportation, sewer, and landscaping standards
• Postponed workshop on recovery housing at Forest Avenue, Pleasant Avenue, and Concord Street

City Council

The Rules Committee will review Council Rules and discuss possible changes. Discussion topics include guidelines for issuing proclamations and scheduling workshops on Mondays when council meetings are not held.

• Proposed guidelines for issuance of proclamations
• Discussion on scheduling non-Council-Meeting Mondays as standing workshops

The Committee reviewed proposed guidelines for issuing proclamations and the possibility of scheduling non-Council-Meeting Mondays as standing workshops. No final decisions were made on these items; staff were directed to produce a redlined version of the changes for the next meeting.

• Directed staff to produce redlined version of proposed proclamation guidelines
• Directed staff to include standing workshop scheduling in redlined document for next meeting
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

City Council

The council will consider appropriating $12,850,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funding. They will also hold public hearings on reallocating HUD funds for Valley Street Park and Sagamore Village projects. Additionally, the council will vote on a new union contract and a land purchase for North Deering Park.

• Appropriation of $12,850,000 in ARPA funding
• Reallocation of HUD funds: $195,000 for Valley Street Park and $72,000 for Sagamore Village
• $80,000 expenditure to purchase North Deering Park land
• New collective bargaining agreement with the Professional and Technical City Employee Association
• Approval of the Payson Park Music Festival for July 2023

The City Council approved several funding allocations, including $12.85M in ARPA funds with specific amendments for community dental, electrification, and housing. The Council also approved a land purchase for North Deering Park and a collective bargaining agreement.

• Approved $12.85M ARPA funding appropriation as amended (9-0)
• Amended ARPA funds to invest $490K in community dental, reducing Housing Trust Fund by $490K (7-2)
• Amended ARPA funds to invest $200K in Electrify Everything, reducing Housing Trust Fund by $200K (8-1)
• Amended ARPA funds to invest $200K in Quality Housing Coalition, reducing Housing Trust Fund by $200K (8-1)
• Approved $80,000 from Land Bank Fund for North Deering Park land purchase (9-0)
• Approved Collective Bargaining Agreement with Professional and Technical City Employee Association (9-0)
• Approved zoning map amendment for 50 County Way from IL to B-2 (9-0)
• Approved HUD Consolidated Plan and Annual Action Plan amendment (9-0)

Emergency Shelter Assessment Committee

The Emergency Shelter Assessment Committee is meeting to review October bed shelter usage statistics. The agenda also includes updates on the Emergency Rental Assistance program and discussions regarding winter planning.

• Review of October bed shelter usage statistics
• Update on the Emergency Rental Assistance program
• Winter planning discussion
• Cumberland County Service Hub update from United Way
• Federal, State, and Local Legislation update

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will consider two appeals regarding the property at 70 Island Avenue. The board will review a request to reduce minimum lot area requirements and a proposal to add two dwelling units to an existing post office and residential use.

• Hardship variance appeal (ZBA-002263-2022) to reduce required lot area from 20,000 SF to 5,014 SF at 70 Island Avenue
• Conditional use appeal (CU-002264-2022) to add two dwelling units to the existing building at 70 Island Avenue

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a conditional use request to add two dwelling units to a building at 70 Island Avenue. A separate request for a hardship variance at the same address was withdrawn.

• Approved Conditional Use Appeal (CU-002264-2022) to add two dwelling units at 70 Island Avenue for a period of two years (6-0)
• Withdrawn Hardship Variance Appeal (ZBA-002263-2022) to reduce minimum lot area at 70 Island Avenue

Ad Hoc Committee

The City Manager Search Subcommittee will meet to review materials provided by a search consultant. The committee will also determine next steps for the subcommittee and set the date for the next meeting.

• Review of materials from search consultant
• Determination of next steps for the subcommittee
• Determination of next meeting date

Public Art Committee

The Portland Public Art Committee is reviewing progress on various public art installations, including Congress Square Park and Bramhall Square. The meeting also covers conservation efforts for existing works and upcoming subcommittee reports.

• Phase 2 contract coordination for Congress Square Park
• Sculpture reset for 'Gathering Stones' in late November
• Design development phase for Bramhall Square Redesign
• Glass replacement for the Jewel Box artwork
• End of Kavya Seshachar's committee term

Historic Preservation Board

The Historic Preservation Board will hold a public hearing regarding a proposed addition at 465 Congress Street. The board will also conduct a workshop for a preliminary construction review at 25 Commercial Street.

• Public hearing for proposed addition at 465 Congress Street
• Workshop for construction review at 25 Commercial Street
• Report of 7-0 vote to approve alterations at 1 Commercial Street

City Council

The City Council will hold a workshop featuring a staff presentation by the Acting Director of Housing & Economic Development. The agenda also includes a question and answer session for the Council. No specific projects or ordinances are detailed in this agenda.

• Staff presentation from the Acting Director of Housing & Economic Development

Peaks Island Council

The council will discuss developing data regarding island population and housing trends. They also plan to establish a Nominating Committee for open seats and consider approving a budget submission for the City's FY 24 Capital Budget.

• Approval of a submission to the City for the FY 24 Capital Budget
• Establishing a Nominating Committee for open PIC seats
• Discussion on developing data regarding island population and housing trends
• Committee updates on ferry service, parking, and jetport flight path

The Council approved an island-wide survey to gather resident input for the city's five-year Capital Improvement Plan, which will also include questions on composting and Trott Littlejohn Park. Members also voted to investigate a land dispute on Ryefield Street. The Treasurer's report and September meeting minutes were approved.

• Approved September 28, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Treasurer's report including $3,298 for student passes and $281.05 for needs-based tickets (unanimous)
• Approved motion to inquire with Zoning Department and City Manager regarding disputed land on Ryefield Street (unanimous)
• Approved motion to issue island-wide survey on capital improvement priorities, composting, and Trott Littlejohn Park (unanimous)

Housing & Economic Development Committee

The joint Housing & Economic Development and Sustainability and Transportation Committees will review the 2022 Food Truck Pilot Program. The meeting includes a staff recommendation for the 2023 Food Truck Program. Public comment will be taken on this item.

• Review of 2022 Food Truck Pilot Program
• Staff recommendation for 2023 Food Truck Program

Housing & Economic Development Committee

The committee will review the 2022 Committee Accomplishments Annual Report and the Fiscal Year End 2022 Annual TIF Report. Members will vote to forward both reports to the City Council as communications. The committee will also enter an executive session regarding negotiations for a proposed Tourism Development District.

• Review of 2022 Committee Accomplishments Annual Report
• Review of Fiscal Year End 2022 Annual Tax Increment Financing Report
• Executive session regarding negotiations for a proposed Tourism Development District
• Approval of October 18, 2022 meeting minutes

The Housing and Economic Development Committee approved the forwarding of the 2022 Committee Accomplishments Annual Report and the Fiscal Year End 2022 Annual Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Report to the City Council. The committee also entered an executive session to discuss a proposed Tourism Development District.

• Accepted October 18, 2022 draft meeting minutes (4-0)
• Voted to forward 2022 Committee Accomplishments Annual Report to City Council (4-0)
• Voted to forward Fiscal Year End 2022 Annual Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Report to City Council (4-0)
• Voted to enter executive session regarding negotiations for a proposed Tourism Development District (4-0)

City Council

Councilor Victoria Pelletier will host the District 2 Annual Meeting via Zoom. The agenda includes presentations on CDBG Grant Information and City Communications Information, followed by a community Q&A session.

• CDBG Grant Information presentation
• City Communications Information presentation
• Community Q&A session

Portland Fish Pier Authority

The Portland Fish Pier Authority will discuss updates on CARES Act funding and facility projects. The board will also review the Portland Fish Exchange management RFP process and proposed changes to vessel berthing agreements.

• Proposed increase of Front Lot monthly parking rate from $120 to $130
• Update on RFP process for alternative Portland Fish Exchange management
• Review of CARES Act infrastructure and program funding
• Revisions to standard Homeport Fleet berthing agreement forms

City Council

The City Council will hold a workshop regarding the Payson Park Festival. The agenda includes a presentation by event organizers and a Q&A session with the Council.

• Presentation by event organizers regarding the Payson Park Festival

City Council

The Council is considering several appointments to the Corporation Counsel's office. Members will also review funding modifications for Washington Avenue and West Commercial Street projects. Additionally, the agenda includes grant allocations for neighborhood improvements.

• Appointing Michael Goldman as Acting Corporation Counsel at $155,946
• Approving $31,765 in Maine Medical Center grants for neighborhood projects
• Modifying Washington Avenue improvement agreement following a $2,950,377.04 bid
• Reallocating HUD funds for Valley Street Park and Sagamore Village projects
• Increasing City funding for West Commercial Street Pathway to $137,000

The City Council approved several administrative appointments and business licenses. The council also authorized funding for community grants and approved agreements with the Maine Department of Transportation for road and pathway improvements.

• Appointed Michael Goldman as Acting Corporation Counsel (7-0-2)
• Confirmed Nicole M. Albert as Associate Corporation Counsel (7-0-2)
• Approved outdoor dining for Ramen Factory Miyake II LLC at 188 State Street (7-0-2)
• Approved indoor entertainment for Cocktail Mary LLC at 229 Congress Street (7-0-2)
• Approved MDOT agreement for Washington Avenue Improvements Modification 3 (7-0-2)
• Accepted Public Art Committee FY22 Annual Report and FY23 Budget Plan (7-0-2)
• Appropriated $31,765 in Caring Community Grants from Maine Medical Center (7-0-2)
• Approved MDOT agreement Modification Two for West Commercial Street Pathway (7-0-2)

City Council

The City Manager Search Subcommittee will meet to review and finalize a draft list of stakeholders and their contact information. The committee also plans to determine next steps and the date for its next meeting.

• Review and finalize draft stakeholder list with contact information
• Approval of October 13, 2022, meeting minutes
• Determination of subcommittee next steps

City Council

Councilor Tae Chong will host the District 3 annual meeting via Zoom. City staff will provide presentations regarding CDBG grant information and city communications. The meeting includes a community Q&A session.

• CDBG Grant Information presentation by Mary Davis
• City Communications Information presentation by Jessica Grondin
• Community Q&A session

Land Bank Commission

The Land Bank Commission will meet to consider using funds for North Deering Park contract legal expenses. The agenda also includes updates on the High Priority Parcel Committee and various parcel communications, including Redlon Woods and Coolidge Lots.

• Vote on use of Land Bank funds for North Deering Park contract legal expenses
• High Priority Parcel Committee update
• Update on North Deering funding
• Redlon Woods Letters
• Update on Coolidge Lots

The Commission approved using Land Bank funds to cover legal and closing costs for the North Deering Park purchase. The body also accepted the previous meeting's minutes pending changes.

• Approved use of Land Bank funds for North Deering Park legal costs, not to exceed $5,000 (unanimous)
• Accepted October 12, 2022 meeting minutes pending changes (7 Yea, 3 Abstain)

Police Citizen Review Subcommittee

The Police Citizen Review Subcommittee will hold a virtual meeting on November 9, 2022. The agenda includes approving minutes from October 12 and conducting an executive session regarding items IA2022-005 and IA2022-009.

• Approval of October 12, 2022 minutes
• Executive session to discuss IA2022-005 and IA2022-009

The subcommittee approved the timeliness, thoroughness, fairness, and objectivity of internal affairs case IA2022-005. It also determined that the categorization of case IA2022-009 was appropriate and consistent with SOP 90. The group decided to cancel the December meeting.

• Adopted October 12, 2022 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Found IA2022-005 was timely (6-0)
• Found IA2022-005 was thorough (6-0)
• Found IA2022-005 was fair (6-0)
• Found IA2022-005 was objective (6-0)
• Found IA2022-009 categorization was appropriate and consistent with SOP 90 (7-0)
• Cancelled December meeting

Planning Board

The Portland Planning Board will hold public hearings for two applications. The board will consider a traffic movement permit for a brewery and distillery at 170 Anderson Street. They will also review a conditional use application for a commercial kitchen at 134 Park Street.

• Traffic Movement Permit for a brewery and distillery at 170 Anderson Street
• Conditional Use application for a commercial kitchen at 134 Park Street

Parks Commission

The commission will introduce new members and Supervising Park Ranger Liz Collado. Updates are expected regarding the Capital Improvement Program timeline and the Food Truck Policy. The meeting also includes a discussion of the C3 Concert at Payson Park.

• C3 Concert at Payson Park
• Update on CIP timeline
• Update on Food Truck Policy
• Introduction of Supervising Park Ranger Liz Collado

The Commission heard a presentation regarding a proposed two-day, two-stage music festival at Payson Park. No vote was taken on the event; a workshop is scheduled for November 14, 2022, with a vote set for November 21, 2022. The Commission also received updates on land bank purchases and a presentation from Friends of Trott Little John Park.

• Approved purchase of Redlawn Woods and Rosemont (Land Bank update)
• Tabled C3 Concert at Payson Park vote until 11/21/2022

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Portland Zoning Board of Appeals will meet to review two property appeals. The board will consider a request for a preschool facility at 200 Stevens Avenue and a hardship variance for 1 Ryefield Street.

• Conditional use request for a preschool facility at 200 Stevens Avenue
• Hardship variance to reduce rear setback from 30 feet to 9.45 feet at 1 Ryefield Street
• Request to increase maximum lot coverage from 20% to 41.6% at 1 Ryefield Street

The Board approved a conditional use appeal to allow a preschool for up to 12 children at 200 Stevens Avenue for two years. A hardship variance appeal for 1 Ryefield Street was withdrawn by the applicants.

• Approved Conditional Use Appeal for preschool for up to 12 children at 200 Stevens Avenue (4-0)
• Hardship Variance Appeal for 1 Ryefield Street withdrawn

Creative Portland Corporation

The Creative Portland Corporation Board of Directors will review the FY2023 work plan and budget. The meeting includes votes to approve October minutes, September financials, and the renewal of Executive Committee officers. The board will also discuss updates regarding the Artist Relief Fund and the FY2022 Annual Report.

• Vote to renew Executive Committee officers for the 2022-2023 term
• Review of FY2023 Work Plan and Budget
• Presentation of draft FY2022 Annual Report for City Council
• Update on Artist Relief Fund Round 6 applications due November 15, 2022
• Vote to accept October meeting minutes and September financials

Historic Preservation Board

The board will hold a public hearing regarding proposed exterior alterations and dormer additions at 1 Commercial Street. The agenda also includes reports on decisions made during the October 26, 2022, meeting.

• Public hearing for exterior alterations and dormer additions at 1 Commercial Street
• Report of approval for 176 Eastern Promenade
• Report of conditional approval for 9 Bowdoin Street
• Report of recommendation for 605 Stevens Avenue

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The committee will receive an update from city staff regarding emergency shelter and public health challenges. Members will also discuss advocacy priorities related to these issues. The meeting includes the approval of minutes from the October 25, 2022, meeting.

• Update on emergency shelter and public health challenges
• Discussion regarding advocacy priorities for emergency shelter and public health
• Approval of October 25, 2022, meeting minutes

The committee discussed emergency shelter and public health challenges, including the need for temporary housing and coordinated services for asylum seekers. Members agreed to have staff draft testimony for the state Housing Committee for final approval via email.

• Approved October 25, 2022 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Agreed to have staff draft testimony for the state Housing Committee
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Ad Hoc Committee

The committee will discuss updates regarding alleged illegal Round-up spraying at the Motherhouse on August 2. Members will also review changes needed for the LMAC ordinance on the City website and discuss Portland Fix-It 2022 pesticide complaints.

• Alleged illegal Round-up spraying at the Motherhouse on Aug 2
• Changes to the LMAC ordinance on the City website
• Review of removals from the City website per Gary Fish
• Portland Fix-It 2022 pesticide complaints and actions

City Council

Councilor Mark Dion will host the District 5 Annual Meeting via Zoom. City staff will present information regarding CDBG grants and city communications. The meeting includes a community Q&A session.

• CDBG Grant Information presentation by Mary Davis
• City Communications Information presentation by Jessica Grondin
• Community Q&A session

Rent Board

The Rent Board will review the August 24, 2022, minutes and receive an update on the annual report. The meeting includes public comment sessions regarding two rent increase applications.

• Rent increase application for 17 Codman Street, Condo #1 (capital improvement costs)
• Rent increase application for 71 Maggie Ln, Unit 71A (renovation or reconfiguration)
• Annual Report update and drafts review

The Board approved a rent increase based on capital improvement costs for one property and tabled another renovation-based request for further documentation. The Board also accepted its annual report with minor changes and rescheduled the November meeting.

• Approved minutes as written (7-0)
• Approved annual report with three minor changes (7-0)
• Approved capital improvement rent increase for 17 Codman St, Condo #1 (7-0)
• Tabled rent increase application for 71 Maggie Lane, Unit 71A to November meeting (7-0)
• Rescheduled November meeting from the 23rd to the 30th (7-0)
• Approved final decision form for 17 Codman St, Condo #1 (7-0)

Historic Preservation Board

The board will hold public hearings regarding proposed alterations at 176 Eastern Promenade and 9 Bowdoin Street. They will also review a National Register boundary increase for 605 Stevens Avenue and discuss a new gazebo at Western Promenade.

• Proposed alterations and dormer additions at 176 Eastern Promenade
• Proposed construction and site alterations at 9 Bowdoin Street
• National Register boundary increase review for 605 Stevens Avenue
• Preliminary review of a new gazebo at Western Promenade (51 Valley Street)

Civil Service Employment Subcommittee

The Peaks Island Council will hear presentations regarding the 2023 Marginal Way to CBL shuttle restart and a community composting project. The meeting also includes an inquiry about disputed land on Ryefield St and discussion of recommendations for the City five-year Capital Improvement Plan.

• Presentation on restarting the Marginal Way to CBL shuttle in 2023
• Community Composting project presentation
• Inquiry regarding disputed land on Ryefield St
• Discussion of recommendations for the City five-year Capital Improvement Plan

The council approved a request to modify appointment terms, supported a $70,000 grant for an electric vehicle, and voted to participate in the City's five-year capital budgeting process. They also approved a $300 honorarium for a zoning consultant and a non-partisan voting guide for November elections.

• Approved request for City Council to modify ordinance allowing PIC to appoint members to terms other than one year (Unanimous)
• Approved resolution supporting Island Transportation System's $70,000 grant application for an electric vehicle and charging station (Unanimous)
• Approved participation in the City's annual five-year capital budgeting process (Unanimous)
• Approved resolution supporting the redevelopment of the former Post Office building (Unanimous)
• Approved distribution of non-partisan, plain language explanations of November ballot referendums and charter questions (Unanimous)
• Approved $300 consulting honorarium for Rachel Conly regarding zoning issues (Unanimous)
• Approved return to in-person meetings for councilors with remote attendance for audience members (Unanimous)
• Approved July 27 and August 24, 2022 meeting minutes (Unanimous)

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The committee will hold a discussion regarding shelter for asylum seekers and mothers and newborns. The meeting also includes the approval of minutes from September 27, 2022.

• Approval of September 27, 2022, meeting minutes
• Discussion: Shelter for Asylum Seekers / Mothers and Newborns

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold workshops regarding development at 385 Congress Street and 1 Bean Pot Circle. Staff will also provide an update on ReCode communications. No public hearings are scheduled for this meeting.

• Site plan workshop for 385 Congress Street featuring an 11-story building and hotel rooms
• Zoning amendment for 1 Bean Pot Circle to create an Institutional Overlay Zone
• Staff update on ReCode communications

City Council

This is a District 4 annual meeting hosted by Councilor Andrew Zarro. City staff will provide presentations on CDBG grant information and city communications, followed by a community Q&A session.

• CDBG Grant Information presentation
• City Communications Information presentation
• Community Q&A session

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will hold a public hearing and vote on recommendations for the second tranche of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding. If approved, these recommendations move to the City Council for readings on November 14 and November 21.

• Public hearing and vote on ARPA second tranche funding recommendations
• First reading at City Council scheduled for November 14
• Second reading and vote at City Council scheduled for November 21

The Finance Committee held a public hearing and voted unanimously (3-0) to approve the ARPA second tranche funding recommendations. The recommendations will go to the City Council for first reading on November 14 and final vote on November 21.

• Approved ARPA second tranche funding recommendations (3-0)

Public Art Committee

The committee is reviewing updates for the Congress Square Park and Bramhall Square Redesign projects. Members will also consider nominations for the chair and vice-chair positions. Additionally, the group discussed conservation efforts for the Jewel Box and Cleeves Memorial.

• Review of Sarah Sze Studio Phase 2 contract for Congress Square Park
• Approval of contingency funds for Jewel Box glass replacement
• Nominations for committee chair and vice-chair positions
• Update on Bramhall Square Redesign design development phase

City Council

The Land Bank Commission will provide a presentation to the City Council during a workshop. Commissioner Pat Bailey and Commissioner Jon Kachmar are scheduled to present. The session includes a Q&A period for the Council.

• Presentation by Land Bank Commission Chair Pat Bailey and Commissioner Jon Kachmar
• Council Q&A

Housing & Economic Development Committee

The Housing and Economic Development Committee voted unanimously to enter executive session to provide staff direction on lease negotiations with the United Soccer League for use of Fitzpatrick Stadium. The committee also approved the September 20, 2022 meeting minutes by a 3-0 vote. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved September 20, 2022 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Voted to enter executive session for lease negotiations with United Soccer League for Fitzpatrick Stadium (3-0)

City Council

The Portland City Council will hold a special meeting to hear the annual State of the City Address from Mayor Kate Snyder. The Council will also vote to suspend rules regarding public comment on non-agenda items for this session.

• Annual State of the City Address by Mayor Kate Snyder
• Vote to suspend Council Rules of Procedure regarding public comment on non-agenda items

The Portland City Council voted unanimously to suspend its rules of procedure to postpone public comment until the 5:30pm meeting, then heard the annual State of the City Address from Mayor Snyder. No substantive decisions were made; the meeting was procedural and adjourned at 5:30pm.

• Suspended Council rules to postpone public comment (9-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:30pm (9-0)

City Council

The Portland City Council is reviewing a proposal for the 45 Dougherty affordable housing development, which includes 63 rental units. The meeting also includes discussions on a radio system maintenance contract and a historic landmark designation for 1 Beanpot Circle.

• 63-unit 45 Dougherty affordable housing development at 43 & 91 Douglass Street
• Five-year radio system maintenance agreement with Motorola Solutions, Inc.
• Historic landmark designation for the Burnham and Morrill Cannery Building
• Naming a section of Congress Street 'Donatelli Square'
• Washington Avenue improvement funding modification using $2,299,276.60 in City funds

The council voted 9-0 to designate the 45 Dougherty Street Affordable Housing Development District and adopt the municipal development program, and also approved a credit enhancement agreement with 45 Dougherty LP. Other actions included granting a Class A lounge license to Vena's Fizz House, supporting naming a street Donatelli Square, designating the Burnham and Morrill Cannery Building a historic landmark, and approving a radio system maintenance contract with Motorola Solutions.

• Designated 45 Dougherty Affordable Housing Development District and adopted municipal development program (9-0)
• Approved credit enhancement agreement with 45 Dougherty LP for affordable housing (9-0)
• Granted Class A lounge license to Vena's Fizz House at 867 Congress Street (9-0)
• Supported naming Congress Street between North and Lafayette streets Donatelli Square (9-0)
• Designated Burnham and Morrill Cannery Building at 1 Beanpot Circle a historic landmark (9-0)
• Approved radio system maintenance contract with Motorola Solutions, Inc. (9-0, emergency)
• Appointed directors of Portland Widows' Wood Society for 2022-2023 term (9-0)
• Approved minutes of October 3, 2022 meeting (9-0)

City Council

The City Manager Search Subcommittee will discuss a preliminary list of stakeholder groups and a stakeholder questionnaire. The meeting also includes a discussion on key issues facing the City of Portland.

• Approval of September 8, 2022 minutes
• Discussion of stakeholder groups and questionnaire
• Discussion of key issues facing the City of Portland

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee met on October 13, 2022, but the minutes record no motions, votes, or substantive decisions. The document is a procedural record of the meeting's date, time, and location, with a note that full audio/video is archived online. No actions were approved, denied, or tabled.

Ad Hoc Committee

This stakeholder meeting provides a status update on the Portland Harbor CAD Cell and Dredge Project. The committee will receive feedback on ways to address an estimated $8 million funding gap in a project costing over $30 million.

• Status update on Portland Harbor CAD Cell and Dredge Project
• Discussion of paths to close an estimated $8 million funding gap
• Review of total project cost exceeding $30 million

Land Bank Commission

The Land Bank Commission is meeting to discuss open space conservation and property updates. The agenda includes reviewing a scorecard for the Coolidge/Davenport parcels and receiving updates on the Davis Family Pines property.

• Updated scorecard for the Coolidge/Davenport parcels
• Davis Family Pines property update
• Tax Aquired Property Committee update
• Parks Report

The Commission discussed an updated scorecard for the Coolidge/Davenport parcels and decided to include the TAPIC parcel in their report and express interest in the property, while continuing due diligence and wetland mapping. A motion to formally accept the parcel was not pursued due to the need for additional research. The Commission also discussed the Davis Family Pines property as a potential donation to preserve old-growth white pines, but no action was taken. Meeting minutes from September 12, 2022 were unanimously approved.

• Unanimously approved meeting minutes from September 12, 2022
• Decided to include Coolidge/Davenport TAPIC parcel in Land Bank report and express interest, with continued due diligence
• Discussed but did not vote on accepting Davis Family Pines property as a donation
• Noted that the Pheasant Hill neighborhood group voted 6-5 not to pursue the project

Sustainability and Transportation Committee

The committee will review and approve minutes from the September 14, 2022, meeting. The agenda also includes October updates for the Sustainability Program and a presentation by Central Maine Power regarding the electrical grid in Portland.

• Approval of September 14, 2022, meeting minutes
• October sustainability program updates
• Presentation by Central Maine Power regarding the electrical grid in Portland

The committee received a presentation from Central Maine Power on the electrical grid in Portland and planning for beneficial electrification. No substantive decisions were made; the meeting was informational only. The September 14 meeting minutes were approved unanimously.

• Approved September 14 meeting minutes (3-0)

Police Citizen Review Subcommittee

The Police Citizen Review Subcommittee will meet to approve September minutes and discuss a future presentation by the Police Department regarding certain SOPs. The agenda also includes an executive session to discuss investigations IA2022-07 and IA2022-08, as well as records involving juvenile information.

• Approval of September 14, 2022 minutes
• Discussion of upcoming Police Department presentation on certain SOPs
• Executive session regarding investigations IA2022-07 and IA2022-08
• Executive session regarding review of records involving juvenile information
• Follow up on goal assignments including training and meeting access

The Police Citizen Review Subcommittee voted unanimously to affirm that the categorization of two internal affairs complaints (IA2022-007 and IA2022-008) was appropriate and consistent with SOP 90. The subcommittee also tabled a discussion about a Police Department presentation on SOPs until early 2023, and discussed goals for training and expanding meeting access.

• Approved minutes of September 14, 2022 meeting (5-0)
• Tabled discussion of Police Department SOP presentation until early 2023
• Entered executive session to discuss IA2022-007, IA2022-008, and juvenile records review (6-0)
• Upheld IA2022-007 categorization as appropriate and consistent with SOP 90 (6-0)
• Upheld IA2022-008 categorization as appropriate and consistent with SOP 90 (6-0)
• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold workshops to consider several development projects. Topics include a proposed 165-unit residential development and zoning amendments for institutional and industrial uses.

• Proposed 165-unit affordable housing development at 165 Lambert Street
• Zoning amendment for an institutional campus at 1 Bean Pot Circle
• Rezoning of 52 acres at 1772 Westbrook Street to allow industrial use

HHS and Public Safety Committee

The Health & Human Services and Public Safety Committee received updates on school safety measures, including emergency plans and drills, and discussed the rise in overdoses and shelter census. No formal votes were taken; the meeting was informational and procedural.

• Approved minutes from previous meeting (3-0)
• Discussed school safety protocols with Portland Public Schools and Police
• Reviewed HHS update on shelter census, needle exchange, and overdose data
• Outlined formation of HSC Neighborhood Advisory Committee
• Discussed 2022 work plan priorities including overdose prevention and cannabis delivery

Parks Commission

The commission discussed the city's policy on encampments in parks, noting that camping is not allowed in Deering Oaks or Oxford Street and that cleanups occur 2-3 times weekly. Members agreed to draft a letter thanking park staff and discussed the need for additional funding to address staffing shortages. No formal votes were taken on these topics; the only action was approving the September 1 meeting minutes.

• Approved minutes from September 1, 2022 meeting
• Commissioners Marie and Cheri will draft a letter to park staff
• Discussed encampment policy, no formal action taken
• Discussed fundraising ideas, no decision made

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing regarding a hardship variance appeal at 70 Island Avenue. Gorges Sunset, LLC is seeking to extend the two-year limit for reconstructing a building damaged by fire.

• Hardship Variance Appeal (ZBA-002206-2022) for 70 Island Avenue
• Request to extend the two-year reconstruction limit for a fire-damaged building

The Zoning Board of Appeals voted unanimously to grant a hardship variance allowing the owners of 70 Island Avenue an additional 12 months to rebuild a nonconforming structure damaged by fire. The extension pushes the deadline to obtain a building permit and commence construction to June 9, 2023.

• Granted hardship variance to extend reconstruction timeline for 70 Island Avenue by 12 months (5-0)

Creative Portland Corporation

The Board of Directors will review the approved FY2023 Work Plan and Budget. The meeting includes updates on the Creative Bush Shelter and Artist Relief Fund Round 5 Distribution. The board will also vote to appoint Tae Chong for a new term.

• Vote to accept September minutes
• Review of approved FY2023 Work Plan and Budget
• Update on Creative Bush Shelter
• Artist Relief Fund Round 5 Distribution update
• Vote to appoint Tae Chong for a new term effective 12/2022

Historic Preservation Board

The Historic Preservation Board will hold public hearings regarding proposed alterations and new construction at 176 Eastern Promenade and 9 Bowdoin Street. The board will also review a National Register Boundary Increase for 605 Stevens Avenue. A workshop is scheduled to discuss a new gazebo at Western Promenade.

• Public hearing: Proposed alterations and dormer additions at 176 Eastern Promenade
• Public hearing: Proposed alterations, additions, and new construction at 9 Bowdoin Street
• Review of National Register Boundary Increase for 605 Stevens Avenue
• Workshop: Preliminary review of a new gazebo at 51 Valley Street

City Council

The City Council is considering a $3,000,000 EPA grant for the Brownfield Revolving Loan Program. Members will also discuss the 45 Dougherty affordable housing development and an easement for electric vehicle charging stations.

• $3,000,000 EPA grant for Brownfield Revolving Loan Program
• 45 Dougherty Affordable Housing Development District proposal
• Central Maine Power easement for EVgo charging station
• Transfer of $7,838 in forfeited assets to Police Department
• New food service licenses for several local restaurants

The City Council voted 9-0 to accept and appropriate a $3,000,000 EPA grant for the Brownfield Revolving Loan Program. They also approved several food and lounge licenses, set election polling hours, established the Rules Committee, and appointed members to boards and commissions. Two items regarding the 45 Dougherty Street affordable housing development were introduced as first readings with no action taken.

• Approved $3M EPA brownfield grant (9-0)
• Approved setting polling hours for Nov 8 election (9-0)
• Approved establishing the Rules Committee (9-0)
• Approved transfer of funds re: Jason Boston (9-0)
• Approved KMK Noodle House license at 245 Commercial St (9-0)
• Approved Papi Portland license at 10 Exchange St (9-0)
• Approved Root Wild lounge at 135 Washington Ave (9-0)
• Approved Merveille Restaurant at 683 Forest Ave (9-0)

Civil Service Employment Subcommittee

The Board of Assessment Review will meet to approve minutes from the September 16, 2022 meeting. The board will also review a written decision regarding an appeal for 5 Monument Street. Additionally, they will consider a request to postpone an appeal for 100 Middle Street.

• Approval of written decision for Investment Core LLC at 5 Monument Street
• Request to postpone Albany Road-Portland LLC appeal for 100 Middle Street
• Approval of September 16, 2022 meeting minutes

City Council

The Portland City Council will hold an executive session to discuss the duties of the City Council, City Manager, and Corporation Counsel. The session includes training with facilitators Rebecca Nisetich and Vaishali Mamgain.

• Council Training #3 (Executive Session)

Peaks Island Council

The Peaks Island Council will discuss an ordinance change for appointed positions and recommendations for the City Capital Improvement Plan. The agenda also includes resolutions regarding electric vehicle charging stations and a zoning appeal for the former Post Office building.

• Resolution in support of Island Transportation System’s grant application for an electric vehicle and charging station
• Resolution in support of Peaks Island Fuel Company’s Zoning Board appeal for the former Post Office renovation
• $300 expenditure for a consulting honorarium for Rachel Kessler
• Motion to distribute November election and charter revision voting guides
• Discussion regarding ordinance changes for staggered terms of appointed positions

The Peaks Island Council unanimously approved spending up to $250 for audio/visual equipment to enable hybrid meetings with remote participation. The council also discussed ferry traffic management, including signage and a webcam, and heard updates on the Jetport Flight Path committee's efforts to shift flights over water. No other substantive decisions were made; most items were informational or postponed.

• Approved up to $250 for A/V equipment for hybrid meetings (unanimous)
• Postponed discussion on ordinance change for staggered council terms until hearing from City Clerk (unanimous)
• Approved June 22, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Treasurer's Report (unanimous)

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The Legislative/Nominating Committee is meeting to discuss legislative priorities for both the committee staff and the Portland Delegation. The agenda also includes the approval of minutes from the September 20, 2022, meeting.

• Approval of meeting minutes from September 20, 2022
• Discussion of committee and staff legislative priorities
• Discussion of Portland Delegation priorities

The Legislative/Nominating Committee met jointly with the Portland Delegation to discuss priorities for the upcoming legislative session, including General Assistance costs, housing for unhoused and asylum-seeking populations, and harbor dredging. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was limited to discussion and approval of prior minutes.

• Approved minutes of September 20, 2022 (3-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a workshop regarding a residential development at 31 Forest Street. Public hearings are also scheduled for a new emergency teen shelter and a university expansion.

• Conditional use for a 24-bed, 7,981 square foot emergency teen shelter at 343 Cumberland Avenue
• Major site plan and conditional use for a 111,813 square foot Center for Health Sciences building at 780 Stevens Avenue
• Major site plan for a three-unit residential building at 31 Forest Street

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee of Portland, ME met on September 22, 2022. The minutes consist solely of a procedural statement about how meeting records are maintained and archived, with no motions, votes, or substantive decisions reported.

Public Art Committee

The committee is reviewing updates on several public art projects, including Congress Square Park and Bramhall Square Redesign. Members will vote on using funds to replace a vandalized glass panel at the Jewel Box. The agenda also covers the $57,500 acquisition of "Gathering Stones."

• $57,500 acquisition of "Gathering Stones" at Fish Point
• Vote to use conservation funds for vandalized Jewel Box glass replacement
• $15,500 conservation plan for Plourde’s Untitled- Armillary
• Chris Miller contract for Bramhall Square Redesign design development
• Approved cost proposal for signage at USM Roundabout

Historic Preservation Board

The board will hold a public hearing regarding proposed alterations at 59 Atlantic Street. A workshop is scheduled for a preliminary review of an addition at 465 Congress Street. Staff will also provide an update on the Historic Preservation Impact Study.

• Public hearing for proposed alterations at 59 Atlantic Street
• Preliminary review of proposed addition at 465 Congress Street
• Update on the Historic Preservation Impact Study

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The committee will discuss upcoming legislative priorities for both city staff and the committee itself. The meeting also includes the approval of draft minutes from the September 13, 2022 meeting.

• Discussion of City Staff legislative priorities
• Discussion of Committee legislative priorities
• Approval of September 13, 2022 meeting minutes (draft)

The Legislative/Nominating Committee discussed staff and committee priorities for the upcoming legislative session, focusing on improving the General Assistance program and securing funding for dredging. No formal decisions were made beyond approving the previous meeting's minutes and adjourning.

• Approved September 13, 2022 meeting minutes (2-0)
• Adjourned meeting (2-0)

Housing & Economic Development Committee

The committee will review a proposal for a Portland Tourism Development District and may vote to recommend it to the City Council. Members will also discuss direction for funding requests involving the Jill C. Duson Housing Trust Fund, HOME Program, and ARPA housing requests.

• Review of Portland Tourism Development District Proposal
• Direction on Jill C. Duson Housing Trust Fund and HOME Program funding requests
• Review of ARPA housing requests
• Approval of July 19, 2022 meeting minutes

The Housing and Economic Development Committee discussed but did not vote on the proposed Portland Tourism Development District, pending completion of a legal analysis. The Committee also reviewed funding requests for affordable housing developments, noting a $11.3 million gap between requests and available funds, and directed staff to prepare a project spreadsheet.

• Approved July 19, 2022, draft meeting minutes (4-0)
• Discussed but did not vote on Portland Tourism Development District proposal; legal analysis pending
• Directed staff to prepare a spreadsheet of affordable housing funding requests
• Adjourned meeting at 6:26 p.m. (4-0)

City Council

The Portland City Council is reviewing a proposed three-year collective bargaining agreement with AFSCME Local 481-00. The council will also consider amendments to the Portland Fish Pier Authority and new parking restrictions on Thames Street. Other items include business license approvals and appointments.

• Proposed $1,954,728 three-year contract for AFSCME Local 481-00
• Expansion of Portland Fish Pier Authority Board from five to seven seats
• New parking restrictions on Thames Street between Ocean Gateway and Freedom Way
• Transfer of $1,332.00 and a handgun from state forfeited assets to the city
• Proposed amendments to regulate synthetic fertilizer use in the Landcare Ordinance

The City Council voted 9-0 to approve an amendment to the landcare ordinance (Order 60-22/23) with a six-month implementation delay, and also approved laying out Thames Street as a city street (Order 69-22/23). Several other items were passed, including collective bargaining agreements, liquor licenses, and grant acceptances. The council also held a special meeting of the Portland Fish Pier Authority and Fish Exchange to amend their articles and bylaws.

• Approved Order 60-22/23 amending Chapter 34 (Landcare Ordinance) with a six-month implementation delay, passed 9-0
• Approved Order 69-22/23 laying out Thames Street as a city street, passed 9-0
• Approved Order 58-22/23 collective bargaining agreement with AFSCME Local 481-00, passed 9-0
• Approved Order 66-22/23 granting Class A lounge license to Yam Tamblin LLC (Blue) at 638 Congress Street, passed 9-0
• Approved Order 67-22/23 granting Class XI restaurant/lounge license to Four Ball LLC (Rathskeller on Wharf) at 51 Wharf Street, passed 9-0
• Approved Order 68-22/23 granting Class A lounge license to Fat Dragon LLC (Empire Venue) at 575 Congress Street, passed 9-0
• Approved Order 72-22/23 accepting $200,409 FEMA grant for firefighter equipment with $21,040 local match, passed as emergency 9-0
• Approved Order 71-22/23 accepting Riverside Street sidewalk easement from Waste Management of Maine, passed as emergency 9-0

Civil Service Employment Subcommittee

The Board of Assessment Review will meet to approve minutes from the September 9, 2022 meeting. The board is also scheduled to approve decisions regarding appeals for properties on Willis Street and Waterville Street.

• Approval of September 9, 2022, meeting minutes
• Decision approval for appeal at 24 Willis Street
• Decision approval for appeal at 72 Waterville Street

Emergency Shelter Assessment Committee

The Emergency Shelter Assessment Committee will review August shelter bed usage statistics and receive an update on the Cumberland County Service Hub. The meeting also includes updates on legislation and Region I.

• Review of August monthly shelter bed usage statistics
• Update on the Cumberland County Service Hub
• Discussion regarding winter planning
• Update on Federal, State, and Local Legislation
• Region I update

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing regarding a hardship variance appeal for properties at Meadow Avenue and Great Diamond Avenue. Casco Bay Island Holdings, LLC seeks to merge two noncontiguous lots to meet minimum lot size requirements. The request includes a variance from the conservation lot size requirement in the IR-2 Island Residential Zone.

• Hardship Variance Appeal (ZBA-002162-2022) for Meadow Avenue and Great Diamond Avenue
• Request to merge two noncontiguous lots to meet minimum lot size requirements
• Variance from conservation lot size requirement in the IR-2 Island Residential Zone

Land Bank Commission

The commission reviewed the Coolidge parcel for potential addition to the Land Bank, with discussion on its environmental significance and development challenges, but took no formal action pending further research. It denied a request to increase funding for North Deering Park from $80k to $160k, citing limited funds. The meeting also included updates on other properties and administrative matters.

• Approved minutes from July 13, 2022
• Denied request to increase North Deering Park award from $80k to $160k
• Discussed Coolidge parcel for Land Bank addition, no action taken
• Scheduled further discussion on Coolidge parcel after scorecard and city review
• Volunteers assigned to annual report and high-priority parcel review

Sustainability and Transportation Committee

The Sustainability and Transportation Committee will review July meeting minutes and receive September sustainability program updates. The agenda includes a presentation on the Portland Bike Share and a discussion regarding the naming of Donatelli Square. Representatives from the Casco Bay Trail Alliance will also provide an update on the St. Lawrence and Atlantic rail corridor.

• Review and approval of July 13 minutes
• Portland Bike Share update
• Discussion on naming Donatelli Square
• Casco Bay Trail Alliance presentation regarding the St. Lawrence and Atlantic rail corridor

The committee voted 3-0 to recommend naming Donatelli Square on Munjoy Hill, with amendments to include Lafayette and North Streets and correct the spelling to 'Vange'. The committee also received updates on the sustainability office, the Portland Bikeshare program, and the Casco Bay Trail Alliance, but took no other binding votes.

• Approved recommendation to name Donatelli Square with amended language (3-0)
• Approved amendments to add Lafayette and North Streets and correct spelling to 'Vange' (3-0)
• Approved motion to recommend the naming to the full council (3-0)
• Approved July 13 meeting minutes (3-0)

Police Citizen Review Subcommittee

The Police Citizen Review Subcommittee will meet virtually to approve July 13, 2022 minutes. The committee will also discuss the final draft of an IA checklist and prioritize goals for 2022. An executive session is scheduled to discuss IA2022-004 and IA2022-006.

• Approval of July 13, 2022 minutes
• Discussion of final draft of IA checklist
• Executive session regarding IA2022-004 & IA2022-006
• Prioritizing goals for 2022

The Portland Police Citizen Review Subcommittee voted 6-0 to approve the categorization of two internal affairs complaints (IA2022-004 and IA2022-006) as appropriate and consistent with SOP 90. The subcommittee also discussed training opportunities, public engagement goals, and plans for reviewing a Category 2 case involving two officers with extensive body camera footage at the next meeting.

• Approved minutes of July 13, 2022 meeting (6-0)
• Approved entering executive session to discuss IA2022-004 and IA2022-006 (6-0)
• Approved IA2022-004 categorization as appropriate and consistent with SOP 90 (6-0)
• Approved IA2022-006 categorization as appropriate and consistent with SOP 90 (6-0)
• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The committee will review legislative updates from Bernstein Shur and discuss staff and committee priorities. The agenda also includes a nominations update and the approval of minutes from July 19, 2022.

• Legislative update from Bernstein Shur
• Review of staff and committee legislative priorities
• Nominations update
• Approval of July 19, 2022 meeting minutes

The Legislative & Nominating Committee met to discuss legislative priorities for the upcoming state session, including potential changes to General Assistance, affordable housing funding, and a local option tax. No formal decisions were made; the meeting focused on discussion and planning. The committee also reviewed a nominating update and set a meeting schedule for the coming months.

• Approved minutes from July 19, 2022 meeting (3-0)
• Set meeting schedule: weekly in September, biweekly in October, twice in November

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a workshop to discuss updates to the City Technical Manual and a conditional use application for an emergency teen shelter at 343 Cumberland Avenue. A public hearing is also scheduled to consider rezoning land at 50 County Way.

• Conditional use application for a 24-bed, 7,981 square foot emergency teen shelter at 343 Cumberland Avenue
• Proposed updates to the City Technical Manual regarding street design and utilities
• Zoning map amendment for 50 County Way to allow Governmental Use

HHS and Public Safety Committee

The committee will introduce new leadership for public health and the Barron Center. Members will also receive updates regarding school safety and overdose trends. The meeting includes a discussion on creating an advisory group for a Homeless Services Center.

• Introduction of Dr. Alfredo Vergara, Public Health Director
• Introduction of Mary Beth Daigneault, Barron Center Administrator
• Discussion on forming a Homeless Services Center Advisory Group
• School safety update
• Overdose update

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The Nominating Committee is meeting to conduct interviews for various boards and commissions. These interviews are scheduled to take place during an executive session.

• Interviews for Boards and Commissions

Ad Hoc Committee

The Board of Assessment Review will review responses regarding two appeal reconsiderations. The board will also approve draft minutes from the August 19 and August 25, 2022 meetings.

• Reconsideration of Patricia Bleech appeal at 24 Willis Street
• Reconsideration of Karen Snyder appeal at 71 Waterville Street
• Approval of draft minutes from August 19 and August 25, 2022 meetings

City Council

The City Manager Search Subcommittee will discuss stakeholder groups and key issues facing the City of Portland. The committee is also scheduled to review a draft brochure.

• Approval of August 11, 2022 meeting minutes
• Discussion of stakeholder groups
• Discussion of key issues facing the City of Portland
• Review of draft brochure

Historic Preservation Board

The board will hold a public hearing regarding proposed new construction at 185 Commercial Street. Staff will also present an overview of a request to modify the Munjoy Hill Historic District. Additionally, the board will conduct preliminary reviews for design proposals at 76 Congress Street and 9 Bowdoin Street.

• Public hearing for new construction at 185 Commercial Street
• Request to modify the Munjoy Hill Historic District
• Preliminary review of revised design proposal for 76 Congress Street
• Preliminary review of proposed alterations at 9 Bowdoin Street

City Council

The Portland City Council will hold an executive session for council training. The session includes discussions regarding the duties of the City Council, City Manager, and Corporation Counsel with facilitators Rebecca Nisetich and Vaishali Mamgain.

• Council Training #2 (Executive Session) regarding roles of city officials

Parks Commission

The Parks Commission will review Capital Improvement Program (CIP) projects and select their top three recommendations. The meeting also includes updates on the bike share program and discussions regarding parks, recreation, and facilities hiring.

• Selection of top three CIP projects by Commissioners
• Review of CIP Projects
• Parks, Recreation and Facilities hiring
• Update on Bike Share Program
• Acceptance of August 4, 2022 meeting minutes

The Portland Parks Commission met on September 1, 2022, and approved the August 4 meeting minutes. They discussed Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) projects, with members suggesting priorities such as Deering Oaks pond wall and ADA improvements, Fort Gorges wharf, and playgrounds. No formal votes were taken on CIP priorities; the commission also received updates on hiring, the Land Bank, and the bike share program.

• Approved August 4 meeting minutes (all approved)
• Discussed CIP priorities; no formal vote taken
• Received update on PRF hiring; new project manager starts 9/6/22
• Noted no funds dedicated to Fort Gorges reinforcement plan at this time

City Council

The City Council approved placing Charter Commission modifications to the Portland City Charter on the November 8, 2022 ballot, with citizen initiatives lettered A-E and charter commission initiatives numbered #1-8. The council also postponed a gender-neutral language charter amendment until March 2023 and indefinitely postponed two cruise ship restriction ordinances. Several grants, appointments, and licenses were approved unanimously.

• Approved ballot questions for charter commission modifications (9-0)
• Postponed gender-neutral language charter amendment to March 6, 2023 (9-0)
• Postponed cruise ship restriction ordinances indefinitely (8-0-1)
• Appointed Sarah Colton as Constable for Public Works (9-0)
• Approved outdoor dining license for Cellardoor Winery at 127 Middle Street (9-0)
• Approved Class A lounge with outdoor dining for Dock Fore at 336 Fore Street (9-0)
• Accepted $255,800 HOME funds for Community Housing of Maine (9-0)
• Accepted FAA airport infrastructure grants (9-0)

Civil Service Employment Subcommittee

The Board of Assessment Review postponed hearings for three property tax appeals by 60 days, dismissed one appeal with prejudice after a settlement, and set limited reconsideration hearings for two other appeals. All decisions were unanimous (2-0).

• Postponed Holiday Inn by the Bay appeals (40 & 88 Spring St, 81 Riverside St) for 60 days (2-0)
• Postponed Unifirst Corporation appeal (414 Riverside Industrial Pkwy) for 60 days (2-0)
• Dismissed with prejudice Forest Avenue Plaza LLC appeal (449 Forest Ave) after settlement (2-0)
• Postponed 49 Dartmouth LLC appeal (49 Dartmouth St) for 60 days (2-0)
• Set limited reconsideration hearing for Patricia Bleech (24 Willis St) with deadlines and 15-min testimony limit (2-0)
• Set limited reconsideration hearing for Karen Snyder (72 Waterville St) with deadlines and 15-min testimony limit (2-0)

Rent Board

The Portland Rent Board will review an annual report update and drafts. The board will also consider a rent increase application for three units at 90 Brackett St based on capital improvement costs. Additionally, the board will address a request for reconsideration of the February 2022 Trelawny Order.

• Rent increase application for 90 Brackett St (capital improvement costs)
• Annual Report update and drafts review
• Request for reconsideration of February 2022 Trelawny Order
• Approval of July 27, 2022 minutes

The Portland Rent Board approved a rent increase for three units at 90 Brackett Street based on capital improvement costs, subject to a 10% annual cap. The board also rejected a request for reconsideration of a February 2022 Trelawny order, citing lack of jurisdiction. Both decisions passed 4-0 with two vacancies and one absence.

• Approved rent increase for 90 Brackett St: $113.28 (Unit 1), $125.79 (Unit 2), $204.90 (Unit 3), subject to 10% cap (4-0)
• Rejected reconsideration of February 2022 Trelawny order, citing jurisdiction under Sec. 6-262 (4-0)
• Accepted decision forms for 90 Brackett St and Trelawny items (4-0 each)
• Approved August 24, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0)

Finance Committee

City staff will review pre-applications received for the second tranche of American Rescue Plan funding. The committee will also discuss next steps for applicants and review public feedback from the participatory process. Key dates for City Council approval of funding recommendations will be reviewed.

• Review of American Rescue Plan pre-applications received by August 14, 2022
• Discussion of next steps for full application applicants
• Review of public feedback from the participatory process
• Review of key dates for City Council approval of funding recommendations

The Finance Committee meeting on August 24, 2022, was a public proceeding, but the minutes contain only procedural boilerplate about recording requirements and no record of any motions, votes, or decisions. No substantive actions were taken or discussed in the provided text.

Peaks Island Council

The Peaks Island Council will discuss an ordinance change regarding terms for appointed positions. The council will also consider a resolution supporting a grant for an electric vehicle and charging station.

• Ordinance change for staggered or variable length terms for appointed positions
• Resolution in support of Island Transportation System’s electric vehicle and charging station grant application
• $300 expenditure for a consulting honorarium for Rachel Kessler
• Expansion of Portland Bikeshare to include Bell Buoy Park
• Recommendations for the City five-year Capital Improvement Plan

Civil Service Employment Subcommittee

The Board of Assessment Review approved reductions for three property owners, denied one appeal, and postponed two others. Patricia Bleech's assessment at 24 Willis Street was reduced from $389,000 to $374,200. Liv Chase's assessment for Investment Core LLC at 5 Monument Street was reduced to $590,000. Karen Snyder's appeal for 72 Waterville Street was denied. Appeals for Carol Pike and Patrick O'Toole were postponed.

• Approved minutes of August 12, 2022 hearing by 2-0 vote.
• Reduced Patricia Bleech's assessment at 24 Willis Street from $389,000 to $374,200 by 2-0 vote.
• Denied Karen Snyder's appeal for 72 Waterville Street by 2-0 vote.
• Reduced Liv Chase's assessment for Investment Core LLC at 5 Monument Street to $590,000 by 2-0 vote.
• Granted postponement of Carol Pike's appeal for 453 St. John Street by 2-0 vote.
• Continued Patrick O'Toole's appeal for 57 Park Street to a date before end of October by 2-0 vote.
• Dismissed with prejudice Jo Coyne's appeal for 36 Salem Street by 2-0 vote.
• Adjourned meeting at 11:55 p.m. by 2-0 vote.

Emergency Shelter Assessment Committee

The Emergency Shelter Assessment Committee will review July shelter bed usage statistics. The meeting includes discussions on the South Portland hotel/ERA update and city encampment policy enforcement.

• July monthly shelter bed usage statistics
• South Portland hotel/ERA update and discussion
• Intersection of City Encampment Policy with Dept. of Transportation enforcement
• Cumberland County Service Hub update
• Federal, State, and Local Legislation update

Civil Service Employment Subcommittee

The Portland Fish Exchange Board of Directors will vote on the July 21, 2022, meeting minutes and a management report. The board will also consider discharging Bert Jongerden as temporary General Manager and renewing the Dropping Springs lease.

• Discharge of Bert Jongerden as temporary General Manager
• Dropping Springs Lease renewal
• Approval of July 21, 2022, meeting minutes

Portland Development Corporation

The Portland Development Corporation Board will meet remotely to consider several items. The agenda includes a vote on a Brownfield Assessment Grant and a request to modify a loan security for Healthworx Properties, LLC.

• Brownfield Assessment Grant application for Phase III of Front Street Development Project up to $20,800
• Request for modification of security/guaranty for a $126,000 loan to Healthworx Properties, LLC
• Review and vote on August 4, 2022, meeting minutes

Civil Service Employment Subcommittee

The Board of Assessment Review met virtually on August 12, 2022, with no appeals scheduled for hearing. The agenda included a request to accept a settlement for the property at 100 Marginal Way. Other pending appeals were postponed or delayed due to ongoing discussions or attorney absence.

• Settlement acceptance for Granite Coast Properties, LLC (Planet Fitness) at 100 Marginal Way
• Postponement of appeal for 100 Middle Street A and B
• Request to postpone Holiday Inn by the Bay and Fireside Suites appeal to August 25, 2022
• Approval of June 24, 2022 minutes

The Board of Assessment Review approved a settlement agreement to dismiss with prejudice a tax appeal filed by Granite Coast Properties (Planet Fitness, 145 Marginal Way). Two other appeals were postponed: one for 100 Middle Street to after October 11, 2022, and another for Holiday Inn by the Bay and Fireside Suites to August 25, 2022. All votes were unanimous (2-0).

• Approved minutes of June 24, 2022 hearing (2-0)
• Dismissed with prejudice Planet Fitness tax appeal after settlement (2-0)
• Postponed 100 Middle Street A & B appeals to after October 11, 2022 (2-0)
• Postponed Holiday Inn by the Bay and Fireside Suites appeals to August 25, 2022 (2-0)

City Council

The subcommittee is meeting to discuss the search process for a new City Manager. Members will review sample hiring brochures, city manager profiles, and current charter language. The group will also discuss which stakeholder groups to include in the search.

• Approval of June 23, 2022 meeting minutes
• Review of current charter language
• Review of sample hiring brochures and city manager profiles
• Discussion of stakeholder groups for the City Manager search

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct workshops on zoning amendments at 1 Bean Pot Circle and a residential project at 165 Lambert Street. A public hearing will also consider a master development plan for 385 Congress Street. This proposal includes a hotel, retail space, and 297 dwelling units.

• Zoning amendment for 1 Bean Pot Circle to create an Institutional Overlay Zone
• Planned Residential Unit Development with 165 affordable units at 165 Lambert Street
• Master development plan for 385 Congress Street
• Proposed 156-room hotel and 297 dwelling units at 385 Congress Street

Portland Fish Pier Authority

The Portland Fish Pier Authority Board of Directors will discuss financial assistance and rent forgiveness requests for the Portland Fish Exchange. The agenda also includes updates on CARES Act funding, facility projects, and revisions to berthing agreements.

• $80,000 financial assistance request for Portland Fish Exchange
• $30,908.30 past rent forgiveness request for Portland Fish Exchange
• Public restroom installation along Commercial Street
• $400 property line survey estimate for Lot 12 and Lot 12A
• Revisions to Homeport Fleet Berthing Agreement

City Council

The Portland City Council approved an amended ordinance revising panic alarm and retail license rules, removing a retroactive provision. It also approved contracts with the City Employees Benefit Association and the Communications Employees Association, confirmed a retirement plan amendment, and increased tow company fees. All votes passed with majorities, with some councilors absent or recused.

• Approved amended panic alarm/retail license ordinance (6-0-3, Dion recused)
• Approved City Employees Benefit Association contract (8-0-1)
• Approved Communications Employees Association collective bargaining agreement (8-0-1)
• Approved Maine PERS Special Plan 3C amendment (8-0-1)
• Approved tow company fee increase (8-0-1)
• Appointed Andy Martin as Parking Division Constable (7-0-2)
• Appointed Dena Libner to EcoMaine Board (7-0-2)
• Approved 6 liquor/entertainment licenses (7-0-2 each)

City Council

The City Council will vote to set an election date of November 8, 2022, for multiple citizen-led initiatives. These proposals include regulations for short-term rentals, tenant protections, minimum wage increases, and cruise ship restrictions. The Council will also consider charter amendments regarding gender-neutral language and governance.

• Vote on election date and ballot language for short-term rental regulations
• Vote on election date and ballot language for tenant protection amendments
• Vote on election date and ballot language for sub-minimum wage elimination
• Vote on election date and ballot language for cruise ship passenger limits
• Approval of charter amendments regarding gender-neutral language and governance

The Portland City Council held public hearings and voted to set election dates for five citizen initiatives: regulating short-term rentals, reducing short-term rentals, protecting tenants, eliminating sub-minimum wage, and restricting cruise ships. All five orders passed 9-0, with the sub-minimum wage order amended to include the term 'tipped credit' in the summary. The council also set public hearings for charter amendments on gender-neutral language and charter commission ballot questions, and tabled a motion to pass a cruise ship ordinance as an emergency, which will return for a second reading on September 1, 2022.

• Approved Order 36-22/23 setting election date for short-term rental regulation initiative (9-0)
• Approved Order 37-22/23 setting election date for reducing short-term rentals initiative (9-0)
• Approved Order 38-22/23 setting election date for tenant protection initiative (9-0)
• Approved Order 39-22/23 setting election date for sub-minimum wage elimination initiative, amended to add 'tipped credit' (9-0)
• Approved Order 40-22/23 setting election date for cruise ship restriction initiative (9-0)
• Approved Order 41-22/23 setting public hearing on gender-neutral language charter amendment (9-0)
• Approved Order 42-22/23 setting public hearing on charter commission ballot questions (9-0)
• Failed motion to waive second reading of Order 49-22/23 (cruise ship ordinance) as emergency (6-3)

Parks Commission

The commission will review updates on Capital Improvement Program development and listen to presentations from Friends Groups regarding priority projects. The agenda also includes reports from the Land Bank Commission and various committees.

• Update on CIP development
• Friends Groups presentations on Parks Capital Improvement Priority Projects
• Land Bank Commission Report
• Acceptance of June 2, 2022 meeting minutes

The commission reviewed the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) project list and heard presentations from Friends groups, including a request to increase Fort Gorgeous Wharf funding to $1 million. No formal votes were taken on project priorities; the commission will vote on top projects at a future meeting. Minutes from June 2nd were approved unanimously.

• Approved June 2nd meeting minutes (5-0)
• Reviewed CIP project list including Deering Oaks irrigation, Evergreen Cemetery expansion, and ADA improvements
• Heard Friends of Fort Gorgeous request to increase wharf project funding to $1 million
• Heard Friends of Lincoln Park update on fence restoration and matching grant application

Ad Hoc Committee

The Pesticide Management Advisory Committee will discuss a toolkit for implementing the fertilizer ordinance. The committee will also receive an update on an organic lawn care event and discuss state shoreland zoning.

• Fertilizer ordinance implementation toolkit discussion
• Organic Lawn Care Event update
• State Shoreland zoning (75ft and 250ft) discussion
• Review of June 7th minutes

The Pesticide Management Advisory Committee approved the May 3rd minutes unanimously. The ordinance converting to a Land Care Ordinance is not ready yet, with a draft expected by July. The committee discussed website updates, lessons from BTM spraying, business license review, and violation tracking, but made no other formal decisions.

• Approved May 3rd minutes unanimously
• Set next meeting for August 2nd at 6:30pm

Rent Board

The Rent Board will review public comments regarding four rent increase applications related to capital improvement costs. The board will also review drafts of the annual report and approve minutes from the June 22, 2022 meeting.

• Rent increase application for 7 units at 71 Danforth St
• Rent increase application for Units 16-1 to 16-B at 304 Eastern Prom
• Rent increase application for 62 units at 18 Casco St
• Rent increase application for 92 units at 37 Casco St
• Annual Report update and drafts review

The Rent Board approved four rent increase applications based on capital improvement costs, all with no tenant or public comment. Three applications were approved unanimously, while one (18 Casco St) initially failed on a 3-2 vote before a revised motion passed 5-0. The board also reviewed annual report drafts and discussed filling vacancies.

• Approved 71 Danforth St rent increase using applicant's alternative method (5-0)
• Approved 304 Eastern Prom rent increase with 10-year straight-line amortization (5-0)
• Denied 18 Casco St 10-year amortization motion (3-2)
• Denied 18 Casco St 20-year amortization motion (2-3)
• Approved 18 Casco St rent increase with 10-year straight-line amortization (5-0)
• Approved 37 Casco St rent increase with 10-year straight-line amortization (5-0)
• Approved decision forms for all four properties (5-0 each)

City Council

The City Council will hold executive sessions to consult with its attorney regarding legal rights for citizen-initiated ordinances and Charter Commission proposals. The council will also discuss litigation involving Old Port Development and Silver Therapeutics, as well as proposed amendments to Chapter 35 of the Portland City Code.

• Consultation on citizen-initiated ordinance proposals
• Review of Charter Commission proposals
• Discussion of Old Port Development v. City of Portland
• Discussion of Silver Therapeutics
• Proposed amendments to Chapter 35 of the Portland City Code

Peaks Island Council

The Peaks Island Council approved a plan to distribute the remaining FY22 budget surplus of $2,040.61 among four island organizations, with each receiving $510 and the 61-cent remainder returned to the city. The motion passed unanimously. The council also discussed but did not vote on returning to in-person meetings, continuing the discussion to the July meeting.

• Approved FY22 budget reconciliation distributing $510 each to PI Taxi, PEAT, Fifth Maine, and PITEA (unanimous)
• Accepted May 25, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted Treasurer's Report (unanimous)
• Discussed but tabled return to in-person meetings; no motion made

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals voted 5-0 to grant an appeal to rescind a low-income housing agreement for 52 Fessenden Street, as it is no longer required for an accessory dwelling unit. The Board also voted 5-0 to grant two interpretation appeals for 110 Thames Street, ruling the City erred in denying building permits due to occupant load calculations, and ordered the permits be issued subject to code reviews.

• Granted appeal to rescind Low Rental Income Housing Agreement at 52 Fessenden Street (5-0)
• Granted interpretation appeal for 110 Thames Street, overturning denial of building permit BLDC2022-02496 (5-0)
• Granted interpretation appeal for 110 Thames Street, overturning denial of building permit BLDC2021-02424 (5-0)

Historic Preservation Board

The Historic Preservation Board will hold a public hearing regarding a certificate of appropriateness for proposed new construction at 185 Commercial Street. The board will also review workshop attendance from the July 6, 2022 meeting.

• Public hearing for proposed new construction at 185 Commercial Street
• Attendance report for workshops at 404 Cumberland Avenue and 63 Chadwick Street

Legislative/Nominating Committee

This meeting consists of procedural items. The committee will approve minutes from the June 21, 2022, meeting and hold an introduction for City Clerk Ashley Rand.

• Approval of June 21, 2022, meeting minutes
• Introduction of City Clerk Ashley Rand

The Legislative & Nominating Committee met remotely and approved the minutes from its June 21, 2022 meeting by a 2-0 vote. The committee also introduced incoming City Clerk Ashley Rand and discussed potential upcoming housing projects and funding with Representative Brennan. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved minutes of June 21, 2022 meeting (2-0)

Housing & Economic Development Committee

The Housing and Economic Development Committee voted 4-0 to approve a graduated Affordable Housing TIF for the 45 Dougherty project at 43 & 91 Douglass Street, after a 2-2 vote failed on the developer's requested flat 75% TIF. The committee also approved an additional $255,800 subsidy for the Phoenix Flats project at 83 Middle Street. Both items will be recommended to the City Council.

• Approved graduated Affordable Housing TIF for 45 Dougherty project (4-0)
• Rejected flat 75% TIF for 45 Dougherty project (2-2)
• Approved $255,800 additional funding for Phoenix Flats project (4-0)
• Accepted June 21, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0)

Land Bank Commission

There are no items scheduled for vote at this meeting. The commission will participate in a field trip to review Hobart St Open Space, the Stroudwater Preserve Easement, and the Coolidge/Davenport Lots. The agenda also includes the acceptance of minutes from June 8, 2022.

• Field trip to Hobart St Open Space
• Site review of Stroudwater Preserve Easement
• Site review of Coolidge/Davenport Lots
• Acceptance of June 8, 2022 meeting minutes

The Land Bank Commission met in person for a field trip to Hobart St Open Space, Stroudwater Preserve Easement, and Coolidge/Davenport Lots. No agenda items were voted on, as the meeting focused on site visits. The commission accepted the June 8th, 2022 minutes with 5 in favor and 1 abstention.

• Accepted June 8th, 2022 minutes (5-1, 1 abstention)

Sustainability and Transportation Committee

The committee will review minutes from the June 8, 2022 meeting and receive July sustainability program updates. The agenda includes a presentation regarding proposed amendments to Chapter 34 regulating fertilizer use. Public comment will be taken during this discussion.

• Proposed amendments to Chapter 34 regulating fertilizer use on landscapes and turf
• Review and approval of June 8, 2022 meeting minutes
• July sustainability program updates

The Sustainability and Transportation Committee voted unanimously (3-0) to recommend amendments to Chapter 34, the fertilizer ordinance, to the full council. The amendments, which include restrictions on fertilizer application near water bodies and on frozen or saturated ground, were presented by the Sustainability Office and included additional changes from the Pesticide Management Advisory Committee. The committee also received updates on sustainability programs, including new EV charging stations and the Electrify Everything campaign.

• Approved June 8 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Recommended amended Chapter 34 fertilizer ordinance to council (3-0)
• Recommended Chapter 34 amendments with PMAC additions to council (3-0)

Police Citizen Review Subcommittee

The Police Citizen Review Subcommittee will meet to review the draft annual report and approve the minutes from the June 8, 2022, meeting. The subcommittee will also hold an executive session regarding IA2022-001 and IA2022-003.

• Approval of June 8, 2022, draft meeting minutes
• Discussion of the draft annual report
• Executive session to discuss IA2022-001 and IA2022-003

The Police Citizen Review Subcommittee voted 6-0 to adopt its 2021 Annual Report with agreed-upon edits, including a new category. It also unanimously concurred that the categorization of two internal affairs cases (IA2022-001 and IA2022-003) was appropriate and consistent with SOP 90. The August meeting was cancelled, and no public comment was received.

• Adopted 2021 Annual Report with agreed-upon edits (6-0)
• Concurred IA2022-001 categorization appropriate per SOP 90 (6-0)
• Concurred IA2022-003 categorization appropriate per SOP 90 (6-0)
• Cancelled August subcommittee meeting (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a workshop and public hearings regarding several development projects. Proposed items include multi-unit housing on Powsland Street and East Oxford Street. The board will also review a request for a food pantry at 1498 Westbrook Street.

• Major Site Plan: 73 Powsland Street (nine dwelling units)
• Major Site Plan: 26 E. Oxford Street (six-unit residential building)
• Conditional Use: 1498 Westbrook Street (food pantry site)

HHS and Public Safety Committee

The HHS and Public Safety Committee will review a report on the gun violence landscape in Portland and Cumberland County. The meeting also includes discussions regarding the public safety building, the Barron Center, and city shelters.

• Public Health Report Out on Gun Violence
• Public Safety Building Discussion
• Barron Center Update
• City Shelters Update (June HHS Department Updates)
• Review and Approval of June 14, 2022 minutes

Portland Fish Pier Authority

The Portland Fish Pier Authority is reviewing updates on CARES Act funding and facility projects, including restroom installations on Commercial Street. The board will also discuss financial requests from the Portland Fish Exchange and lease amendments for the Marine Trade Center.

• Request for $80,000 in financial assistance for Portland Fish Exchange
• Request for $30,908.30 in past rent forgiveness for Portland Fish Exchange
• Update on public restroom installation along Commercial Street
• Update on CARES Act infrastructure and program funding
• $400 estimate for Lot 12 and Lot 12A property line survey

City Council

The City Council will consider several appointments, including a new Associate Corporation Counsel and members for a newly created Ethics Committee. The agenda also includes various business license applications and a resolution regarding abortion rights.

• Appointment of Amy R. McNally as Associate Corporation Counsel at $109,872
• Formation of an Ethics Committee through amendments to Council Rules
• Confirmation of Ashley Rand as Registrar of Voters
• Resolution expressing support for the right to abortion
• Federal Street closures for the 96th Annual St. Peter's Bazaar

The Portland City Council approved a resolution supporting the right to abortion, along with several appointments and license applications. All items passed with an 8-0-1 vote, with Councilor Dion absent. The meeting was procedural in nature, with no substantive policy debates or denials.

• Approved resolution supporting the right to abortion (8-0-1)
• Appointed members to the Ethics Committee (8-0-1)
• Confirmed Amy R. McNally as Associate Corporation Counsel (8-0-1)
• Appointed Michael Murray as Treasurer of Portland Technology Park Condominium Association (8-0-1)
• Appointed Ashley Rand as Registrar of Voters (8-0-1)
• Approved license for Garden Concerts LLC dba Portland House of Music (8-0-1)
• Approved license for Bella Maine LLC dba The Ugly Duckling (8-0-1)
• Approved license for Allagash Brewing Company expansion (8-0-1)

City Council

The City Council will consider a resolution regarding regional rapid transit and climate impacts for the South Portland/Gorham Connector. The meeting also includes discussions on a City Manager search and pathway design agreements. Additionally, the Council is setting public hearing dates for several citizen initiatives.

• Resolution supporting GPCOG Rapid Transit Study and evaluating highway connector climate impacts
• Agreement with Baker Tilley US, LLP for Phase 1 of a City Manager search
• $40,500 agreement with MaineDOT for pathway design near Portland Transportation Center
• Transfer of TIF Credit Enhancement Agreement at Marginal Way and Preble Street
• Public hearings for citizen initiatives on short-term rentals and tenant protection

The Portland City Council held a special meeting on July 11, 2022, and approved all resolutions and orders on the agenda. Key actions included supporting a rapid transit study, approving a contract for a city manager search, and setting public hearings on five citizen initiatives. A motion to suspend rules for a second public comment period failed unanimously.

• Approved Resolve 2-22/23 supporting GPCOG rapid transit study and climate evaluation (9-0)
• Approved Order 13-22/23 contract with Baker Tilley for city manager search (9-0)
• Approved Order 14-22/23 agreement with Maine DOT for trail pathway design (9-0)
• Approved Order 15-22/23 TIF credit enhancement assignment to Portland MOB Partners (8-0-1)
• Approved Orders 16-18/23 amending and approving Front Street housing redevelopment agreements (9-0 each)
• Set public hearings on five citizen initiatives (short-term rentals, tenants, sub-minimum wage, cruise ships) (9-0 each)
• Failed motion to suspend rules for second public comment period (0-9)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Portland Zoning Board of Appeals will consider two interpretation appeals regarding building permit denials at 110 Thames Street. These cases involve challenges to the city's occupant load calculations under the IBC code.

• Interpretation appeal (ZBA-002053-2022) for 110 Thames Street regarding building permit #BLDC2022-02496
• Interpretation appeal (ZBA-002056-2022) for 110 Thames Street regarding building permit #BLDC2021-02424

The Zoning Board of Appeals heard two interpretation appeals regarding building permits for 110 Thames Street, both challenging the denial of permits based on occupant load calculations. No final decisions were made; the Board will vote on the Findings of Fact at the July 21, 2022 meeting.

• Heard appeal ZBA-002053-2022 (110 Thames St, owner PF One DevCo LLC) on denied permit BLDC2022-02496; final vote deferred to July 21
• Heard appeal ZBA-002056-2022 (110 Thames St, lessee Sun Life Financial) on denied permit BLDC2021-02424; final vote deferred to July 21

Creative Portland Corporation

The Board of Directors will vote to accept June minutes and financial reports. The meeting includes updates on a new cultural app, website launch, and an arts and culture summit. The President will also discuss a new meeting schedule that includes in-person sessions.

• Vote to accept June minutes and financials
• FY2023 Work Plan and Budget approval
• Cultural App and Website launch update
• Arts and Culture Summit update
• Discussion on new meeting schedule with in-person meetings

Historic Preservation Board

The Historic Preservation Board will hold workshops for preliminary reviews of two projects. These include a mural installation at 404 Cumberland Avenue and proposed new construction at 63 Chadwick Street. The agenda also includes reports on previous meeting attendance and decisions.

• Preliminary review of mural installation at 404 Cumberland Avenue (55 Forest Avenue)
• Preliminary review of proposed new construction at 63 Chadwick Street

Civil Service Employment Subcommittee

Commissioners will vote on several amendments to the governance proposal, including changes to the Chief Operating Officer title and the Mayor's policy sponsorship powers. The commission will also vote to submit its Final Report to the City Council by July 11.

• Vote on 'minor modifications' finding for charter revisions
• Change of Chief Operating Officer title to Chief Administrator
• Amendment regarding Mayor's power to sponsor policy
• Repeal of part of Ethics Board role in mayoral removal
• Vote to submit Final Report to City Council

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a workshop and public hearings regarding several land use applications. The agenda includes a zoning map amendment for the County Jail property and subdivision applications for properties on State Street and Brighton Avenue.

• Zoning map amendment for 50 County Way to rezone 14.83 acres from I-L to B-2
• Subdivision application for 102 State Street to create ten new parcels
• Subdivision and amendment for 300 Rand Road/1190 Brighton Avenue
• Executive session with Corporation Counsel regarding legal rights and duties

City Council

The Portland City Council will hold an executive session to conduct mid-year performance evaluations. These sessions involve the Interim City Manager and the Acting Corporation Counsel.

• Mid-year performance evaluation of Interim City Manager Danielle P. West
• Mid-year performance evaluation of Acting Corporation Counsel Jen Thompson

Ad Hoc Committee

The Board of Assessment Review is reviewing an appeal from Granite Coast Properties regarding the assessment of 145 Marginal Way. An appeal concerning 28 Meadow Avenue was withdrawn.

• Appeal from Granite Coast Properties (dba Planet Fitness) for 145 Marginal Way
• Withdrawal of appeal for 28 Meadow Avenue, Great Diamond Island

The Board of Assessment Review voted 2-0 to continue the tax appeal hearing for Granite Coast Properties (Planet Fitness, 145 Marginal Way) to August 12, 2022, after a signed postponement agreement was submitted. No substantive decisions were made; the meeting was procedural only.

• Continued Planet Fitness tax appeal hearing to Aug 12, 2022 (2-0)
• Adjourned meeting (2-0)

Civil Service Employment Subcommittee

The subcommittee will review the final RFP scoresheet and vote on recommending a search firm to the City Council. The meeting also includes approving minutes from the June 9, 2022 meeting.

• Vote to recommend final search firm to the City Council
• Review of the final RFP scoresheet
• Approval of minutes from the June 9, 2022 meeting

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will discuss progress on American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 projects. Staff will provide updates on the Microenterprise Grant program, Portland Growing Child Care Grant program, and public restrooms. The committee will also review the timeline for second tranche funding and public outreach.

• American Rescue Plan Act project updates
• Microenterprise Grant program update
• Portland Growing Child Care Grant program update
• Public restrooms projects update
• Second tranche funding timeline and outreach discussion

The Finance Committee meeting on June 23, 2022, was procedural only. The minutes contain no motions, votes, or decisions, only a statement about public record requirements and a link to archived recordings.

City Council

The Portland City Council will meet in an executive session. The meeting focuses on contract negotiations with the Professional and Technical City Employees Association.

• Contract negotiations with the Professional and Technical City Employees Association

City Council

The City Council will consider zoning amendments for the Riverton Park Campus to increase residential and commercial density. The agenda also includes property acquisitions for Redlon Woods and the approval of the Portland Downtown development program budget. Additionally, the council will review security requirement changes for marijuana businesses.

• Rezoning Riverton Park Campus from R-5 to R-5a and B-2 zones
• $99,000 purchase of property for Redlon Woods
• Approval of the $1,200,000 Portland Downtown development program budget
• Revisions to marijuana business alarm system requirements
• Acquisition of .69 acres for Redlon Woods

The Portland City Council approved a zoning map amendment for the Riverton Park Campus, changing it from R-5 Residential to R-5a Residential and B-2 Community Business, and passed related code amendments. It also approved purchase and sale agreements for the Redlon Woods property, placing the land into the Portland Land Bank. Several license orders for local businesses were approved, and a panic alarm ordinance was postponed to August 15, 2022.

• Approved zoning map amendment for Riverton Park Campus (9-0)
• Approved code amendment for permitted uses in residential zones (9-0)
• Postponed panic alarm ordinance to August 15, 2022 (8-0, Dion recused)
• Approved purchase & sale agreement for Redlon Woods property (8-0, Chong absent)
• Approved donation acceptance for Redlon Woods property (8-0, Chong absent)
• Placed Redlon Woods land into Portland Land Bank (8-0, Chong absent)
• Approved development program for Portland Downtown FY 2022-2023 (9-0)
• Approved repeal of Munjoy Hill Neighborhood Conservation Overlay District (9-0)

Rent Board

The Rent Board will hold public comments on multiple rent increase applications for various properties. These include requests based on capital improvement costs and fair rate of return. The board will also discuss updated forms and an annual report update.

• Rent increase application for 37 Casco St (92 units)
• Rent increase application for 18 Casco St (62 units)
• Rent increase application for 71 Danforth St (7 units)
• Rent increase application for 28 Crosby St, Units 28 & 28A
• Discussion of updated forms and annual report update

The Portland Rent Board approved five rent increase applications, denied one, and tabled four others. Approved increases included a $1,400 base rent for 5 Bryant Street, capital improvement increases for 28 Crosby Street and 96 Florida Ave, and a $142.12 increase for 96 Florida Ave. The board denied a $300/month increase for 5 Bryant Street and a request for 723 Riverside Street. Four applications from David Bergeron were tabled to the next meeting.

• Approved $1,400/month base rent for 5 Bryant Street (4-1)
• Denied $300/month increase for 5 Bryant Street (3-2)
• Approved capital improvement increase for 28 Crosby Street (5-0)
• Approved capital improvement increase for 96 Florida Ave (3-2)
• Approved $142.12 increase for 96 Florida Ave (4-1)
• Denied rent increase for 723 Riverside Street (5-0)
• Tabled 4 applications from David Bergeron (5-0)

Charter Commission

The Charter Commission will conduct a public hearing regarding its Preliminary Report. Commissioners will also discuss proposed amendments to the report, including items related to police oversight and clean elections.

• Public hearing on the Preliminary Report
• Proposed amendments regarding police oversight, clean elections, and universal resident voting
• Review and approval of June 8, 2022, meeting minutes
• Discussion of Commissioner Barowitz's 'other considerations' for the Final Report

Peaks Island Council

The Peaks Island Council voted unanimously to combine its Housing and Zoning committees into a single Housing and Zoning Committee. It also approved sending a letter to the city requesting that 37 metered spaces on Thames and Commercial Street be available to island residents with IR Zone stickers starting at 4 p.m. The council postponed discussion on returning to in-person meetings until next month.

• Approved combining Housing and Zoning committees into PIC Housing and Zoning Committee (unanimous)
• Approved sending letter to city requesting 37 metered spaces on Thames and Commercial Street be available to IR Zone sticker holders from 4 p.m. (unanimous)
• Postponed action on returning to in-person meetings until next month (unanimous)
• Accepted April 27, 2022 meeting minutes with corrections (unanimous)
• Accepted treasurer's report as of April 27, 2022 (unanimous)

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The Legislative & Nominating Committee will meet to discuss updates regarding GA, emergency shelters, and asylum seekers. The committee will also review the minutes from the May 24, 2022 meeting.

• Approval of May 24, 2022 meeting minutes
• Updates regarding GA, emergency shelter, and asylum seekers

The Legislative & Nominating Committee approved the minutes from its May 24, 2022 meeting by a 2-0 vote (Councilor Ali absent). The committee also received an update from staff on General Assistance and emergency shelter operations, noting an increase in single asylum seekers at the Oxford Street shelter and continued high numbers of families at the family shelter. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved minutes from May 24, 2022 meeting (2-0)

Housing & Economic Development Committee

The Housing & Economic Development Committee will hold a panel discussion regarding minimum wage. The meeting includes a presentation of Part II of the 2021 Housing Report, featuring an interim review of Green New Deal impacts on housing production. The committee will also review minutes from the June 7, 2022 meeting.

• Panel discussion regarding Minimum Wage
• Presentation of Part II of the 2021 Housing Report
• Review of Green New Deal impacts on housing production
• Review and acceptance of June 7, 2022 meeting minutes
• Communication regarding the 2022 Workplan and Schedule

The Housing and Economic Development Committee met remotely and heard presentations on minimum wage options and the 2021 Housing Report Part II. No policy decisions were made; the only votes were to accept the June 7 minutes and to adjourn. The committee discussed potential minimum wage increases and requested further research on housing construction comparisons.

• Accepted June 7, 2022 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:36 p.m. (3-0)

Emergency Shelter Assessment Committee

The committee will review monthly shelter bed usage statistics and discuss community emergency shelter capacity for families. Members will also receive updates on imminent hotel closures and the Cumberland County Service Hub.

• Update on community emergency shelter capacity and ERA changes
• Discussion of imminent hotel closures and congregate space planning
• Cumberland County Service Hub update
• Review of monthly shelter bed usage statistics

The Emergency Shelter Assessment Committee approved its May minutes and voted to add ESAC to the list of groups thanking Senator Collins for cosponsoring the LIFELINE Act. The City of Portland abandoned a proposed congregate shelter site due to costs and delays, and is coordinating with South Portland to keep hotels open. The committee discussed rising asylum-seeker intakes, ERA hotel rate challenges, and data quality efforts for a countywide by-name list.

• Approved May meeting minutes (none opposed)
• Approved adding ESAC to list of groups thanking Senator Collins for LIFELINE Act cosponsorship (none opposed)

Ad Hoc Committee

The Portland Fish Exchange Board will discuss pallet fee increase proposals and financial overview options for FY2022. The agenda also includes updates on refrigeration repairs and a presentation of a draft Request for Interest.

• Pallet fee increase proposals
• Financial overview options for FY2022
• Update on refrigeration repairs and Camel installations
• Presentation of first Draft Request for Interest
• Nomination of John Arnold as Secretary

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hear two appeals related to the property at 1 Ryefield Street. The items include an interpretation appeal regarding a deck encroachment and a hardship variance request. Both matters were previously tabled by the board during its May 5, 2022 meeting.

• Interpretation appeal for a deck encroaching on a 'Marginal Right of Way' at 1 Ryefield Street
• Hardship variance to reduce rear setback from 30 feet to 9.45 feet at 1 Ryefield Street
• Request to increase maximum lot coverage from 20% to 41.6% at 1 Ryefield Street

The Portland Zoning Board of Appeals met remotely on June 16, 2022, with four members present. An interpretation appeal regarding a deck encroaching on a right-of-way at 1 Ryefield Street was withdrawn before the meeting. A hardship variance request for the same property was tabled by a 4-0 vote at the request of the city and applicants.

• Withdrawn: Interpretation appeal ZBA-001986-2022 for 1 Ryefield Street
• Tabled 4-0: Hardship variance ZBA-001985-2022 for 1 Ryefield Street

Public Art Committee

The committee is reviewing the FY22 Annual Report and proposed FY23 budget. Discussion includes construction documentation for Congress Square Park and a $15,500 conservation proposal for Plourde’s Untitled- Armillary. The meeting also addresses temporary art applications and website updates.

• $15,500 conservation proposal for Plourde’s Untitled- Armillary
• Congress Square Park Redesign Phase B construction documentation update
• $30,000 allocation for Gathering Stones acquisition at Fish Point
• Review of FY22 Annual Report and proposed FY23 budget
• Application for 10 painted crosswalks in the downtown neighborhood

Historic Preservation Board

The Historic Preservation Board will conduct preliminary reviews for new construction and building alterations at three locations. The meeting also includes reports on decisions made during the June 1, 2022, meeting.

• Preliminary review of proposed new construction at 185 Commercial Street
• Preliminary review of proposed dormer addition and window alterations at 281 Spring Street
• Preliminary review of proposed alterations and additions at 51 Congress Street
• Landmark designation recommendation for B&M Cannery Building

City Council

The City Council will enter an executive session to consult with its attorney. The discussion concerns the city's legal rights and duties in administering general assistance benefits under state and local law.

• Executive session regarding administration of general assistance benefits

Planning Board

The Portland Planning Board will hold workshops regarding zoning changes for 1 Bean Pot Circle and a master development plan for 385 Congress Street. The board will also conduct a public hearing for a three-unit residential building at 7 Marion Street.

• Zoning amendment for 1 Bean Pot Circle to create an Institutional Overlay Zone
• Master development plan for 385 Congress Street featuring a hotel and 312 units
• Site plan hearing for a three-story residential building at 7 Marion Street

HHS and Public Safety Committee

The committee will review the May 10, 2022, draft minutes and receive updates regarding Health and Human Services and Dispatch. The agenda also includes a discussion on school focused active shooter policies.

• Review of May 10, 2022, draft minutes
• HHS update
• Dispatch update
• School focused active shooter policy discussion

The committee heard updates on Narcan distribution, the Cumberland County Homeless Services Hub, and dispatch staffing, including a tentative union agreement. They discussed active shooter response policies and agreed to request a memo on a new Public Safety Center. No formal votes were taken; the meeting was informational.

• Approved committee minutes unanimously
• Agreed to send memo to City Manager requesting history of Public Safety Center building and remodeling costs
• Discussed active shooter policy; no formal action taken
• Heard update on dispatch staffing; no formal action taken

City Council

The City Council is holding a workshop regarding the Munjoy Hill Conservation Overlay Amendment. The meeting includes a staff presentation by the Director of Planning & Urban Development followed by council discussion and Q&A.

• Munjoy Hill Conservation Overlay Amendment

City Council

The City Manager Search Subcommittee will review and discuss mini proposals from GovHR and Baker Tilly regarding the selection of a search firm. The meeting also includes the approval of minutes from May 19, May 26, and June 2.

• Review of GovHR proposal
• Review of Baker Tilly proposal
• Discussion of RFP Additional Scoresheet
• Approval of meeting minutes from May 19, May 26, and June 2

Portland Fish Pier Authority

The board will vote on the May 19, 2022, meeting minutes and consider a pallet fee increase. Members will also discuss overtime services and an overview of the CARES Act. Additionally, the board will consider affirming Bert Jongerden as temporary General Manager.

• Vote on May 19, 2022, meeting minutes
• Proposed pallet fee increase
• Discussion of overtime services and fees
• Affirmation of Bert Jongerden as temporary General Manager
• Executive session regarding staffing issues

Land Bank Commission

The Land Bank Commission will meet to accept meeting minutes from May 11, 2022, and receive secretary and treasurer reports. The agenda includes updates on several land parcels and planning for July site visits.

• Acceptance of May 11th, 2022 meeting minutes
• Update on 198 Pheasant Hill Drive Lots
• Map update for Coolidge and Davenport Lots
• Updates on Hobart Street Parcel and North Deering Park
• Planning of July site visits

The commission discussed the potential purchase of 198 Pheasant Hill Drive, noting it is not under contract and exploring creative financing options like long-term payment plans. They also planned site visits to Coolidge/Davenport lots, Stroudwater, and Hobart Street, and received updates on various parcels and grants. No formal votes were taken on these items.

• Accepted May 11, 2022 meeting minutes unanimously
• Planned site visits to Coolidge/Davenport lots, Stroudwater, and Hobart Street
• Discussed financing options for 198 Pheasant Hill Drive, including long-term payment plans
• Noted Hobart Street parcel purchase price of $50K with $24K committed by Land Bank
• Reported $239K approved for North Deering Park from state and federal sources

Sustainability and Transportation Committee

The committee will review May 11 minutes and receive sustainability program updates. Presentations are scheduled regarding adjusting tow fees and Thames Street parking. The meeting also includes a discussion on gasoline-powered small equipment regulations.

• Adjusting Tow Fees presentation
• Thames Street Parking discussion
• Regulation of gasoline powered small equipment
• Bird friendly glass ordinance update

The Sustainability and Transportation Committee voted to recommend adjusting tow fees and establishing parking on Thames Street Extension. The tow fee adjustment, requested by tow operators, was approved 2-0. The Thames Street parking proposal, adding one-hour parking for island residents and two-hour metered parking, was also approved 2-0. No public comment was received on either item.

• Approved recommendation to adjust tow fees (2-0)
• Approved recommendation for Thames Street parking changes (2-0)
• Approved May 11 meeting minutes (2-0)

Police Citizen Review Subcommittee

The subcommittee will discuss and decide whether to adopt a policy regarding the review of new IA categories. Members will also prioritize 2022 goals and review a draft annual report.

• Approval of May 11, 2022 minutes
• Decision on policy for reviewing new IA categories
• Prioritization of 2022 subcommittee goals
• Review of draft annual report

The Police Citizen Review Subcommittee adopted new policy/review guidelines for Category U complaints and approved the minutes of the May 11 meeting, both by 6-0 roll call votes. Members discussed but did not finalize goals, public forums, or the annual report, with a draft report planned for July.

• Adopted minutes of May 11, 2022 meeting (6-0)
• Adopted new policy/review guidelines for Category U complaints (6-0)

Charter Commission

The Charter Commission will deliberate on how to present ballot questions to voters. Commissioners are also scheduled to vote on proposed amendments regarding clean elections and governance.

• Approval of May 25, 2022, meeting minutes
• Discussion on presenting ballot questions to voters
• Vote on Commissioner Buxton's Clean Elections Amendment
• Vote on Commissioner O'Brien's Governance Amendment
• Vote on Commissioner Chann's Governance Amendment

The Portland Charter Commission voted to amend the Clean Elections proposal to change its implementation date to the FY 2023-2024 budget for the November 2023 election, and to add provisions barring foreign contributions and allowing additional campaign spending regulations. A proposed governance amendment by Commissioner Chann was rejected, while Commissioner O'Brien's governance amendments were directed for drafting. The Commission also began grouping proposals into five ballot questions.

• Approved May 25, 2022 minutes (9-0)
• Amended Clean Elections implementation date to FY 2023-2024 for November 2023 election (9-0)
• Added Section 13(b) to Clean Elections prohibiting foreign contributions (8-2)
• Added Section 13(c) to Clean Elections allowing additional campaign spending regulations (8-2)
• Withdrew contract bar for candidate donations amendment
• Directed drafting of O'Brien governance amendments for June 22 meeting
• Rejected Chann governance amendments (4-7)
• Directed drafting of ballot question groupings

Housing & Economic Development Committee

The committee will review the minutes from the May 17, 2022 meeting. A presentation will be provided regarding housing safety and inspection programs. Members will also receive updates on the 2022 workplan and HUD allocations for FY2023.

• Presentation on Short-Term and Long-Term Housing Safety and Inspection Program
• Review of May 17, 2022 meeting minutes
• Update on final HUD Allocations for FY2023
• Review of 2022 Workplan and Schedule

The Housing and Economic Development Committee voted 4-0 to accept the May 17, 2022 draft minutes. They received a presentation from Permitting and Inspections on short-term and long-term housing safety programs, discussing registration and inspection data. No other formal decisions were made; the committee agreed to meet once in July and not in August, and discussed scheduling for a tourism improvement district agreement.

• Accepted May 17, 2022 draft meeting minutes (4-0)
• Agreed to meet once in July and not in August 2022

Ad Hoc Committee

The committee will review May 3rd minutes and discuss the status of converting the Pesticide Ordinance to a Land Care Ordinance. The agenda also includes updates on sustainability website edits and business license sources.

• Review and approve May 3rd draft minutes
• Status of Pesticide Ordinance conversion to Land Care Ordinance
• Sustainability website updates
• Review of potential business licenses and sources
• Violation tracking status

City Council

The City Council will consider appointing Ashley Rand as City Clerk and several constables for city departments. The council will also review a proposed $10 monthly increase for parking in the Spring and Elm Street garages. Other items include food service licenses and the declaration of the July 4th Festival.

• Appointment of Ashley Rand as City Clerk
• Proposed $10 monthly increase for Spring and Elm Street garage parking
• Appointment of constables for Police, Parking, and Parks departments
• Declaration of July 4, 2022, as the July 4th Festival
• Approval of various food service and outdoor dining licenses

The Portland City Council approved the Fiscal Year 2023 municipal budget, including several related orders and fee adjustments, all by 9-0 votes. A proposed amendment to emergency shelter license requirements (Order 88) failed 4-5 and was postponed indefinitely. Several other items, including zoning changes and the Redlon Woods land purchase, were postponed or given first readings.

• Approved FY2023 budget orders (245-257) as amended, 9-0
• Rejected emergency shelter license amendment (Order 88), 4-5
• Postponed Order 88 indefinitely, 9-0
• Postponed zoning map and code amendments (Orders 259, 260, 261) to June 22, 9-0
• Approved gender-inclusive language policy (Resolve 13), 9-0
• Approved resolution calling for state homelessness task force (Resolve 14), 9-0
• Approved three-year Jetport airline agreement extension (Order 276), 9-0
• Approved appointments including new City Clerk Ashley Rand, 9-0

Ad Hoc Committee

The City Manager Search Subcommittee is meeting to review a candidate for the position of City Clerk. The committee will consider the cover letter and resume for Ashley Rand.

• Consideration of final candidate for City Clerk

Parks Commission

The Portland Parks Commission is meeting to hold a commission election by vote. The agenda also includes updates on the annual parks report and discussions regarding greenspace.

• Parks Commission Election (VOTE)
• Annual Parks Report Update
• Greenspace discussion
• Land Bank Commission Report

The Portland Parks Commission elected Jamie Parker as Chair and Jon Kachmar as Vice-Chair. The commission also discussed the annual parks report, which is not yet ready, and heard presentations on greenspace. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Elected Jamie Parker as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Jon Kachmar as Vice-Chair (unanimous)
• Accepted May 5, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Creative Portland Corporation

The Board of Directors will discuss the amended FY2023 Work Plan and Budget for a vote. The meeting also includes a vote to accept May minutes and April financials via the consent agenda.

• Vote to approve amended FY2023 Work Plan and Budget
• Vote to accept May minutes and April financials

Historic Preservation Board

The board will hold public hearings regarding a gate installation at 143 Spring Street and conditions for Congress Square. It will also consider a new landmark designation for the Burnham & Morrill Cannery Building. A workshop is scheduled to review a proposed addition at 99 Capisic Street.

• Proposed landmark designation for Burnham & Morrill Cannery Building
• Public hearing for gate installation at 143 Spring Street
• Review of approval conditions for Congress Square & Congress Square Park
• Preliminary review of proposed addition at 99 Capisic Street

Charter Commission

The Charter Commission will meet remotely to examine Commissioner Chann's governance amendment. The agenda includes a discussion by Commissioner Sheikh-Yousef concerning the number and distinction of branches.

• Examination of Commissioner Chann's governance amendment
• Discussion regarding the number and distinction of branches

City Council

The City Manager Search Subcommittee is meeting in executive session to interview applicants for the Council-appointed City Clerk position. The meeting will be held via Zoom.

• Interviews with City Clerk applicants

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will hold a public hearing on the FY23 City Manager Recommended Budget and receive answers to remaining Council questions. Staff will also provide an update on the Portland Growing Child Care Grant program.

• Public hearing for the FY23 City Manager Recommended Budget
• Update on the Portland Growing Child Care Grant program

The Finance Committee approved the FY23 City Manager's Recommended Budget, including a $3.2M fund balance and an amendment to add one FTE to the Sustainability Office. The amendment and the budget as amended both passed 3-0. The committee also received an update on the Portland Growing Child Care Grant program, but no action was taken on that item.

• Approved amendment to add one FTE to Sustainability Office (3-0)
• Approved FY23 City Manager's Recommended Budget with $3.2M fund balance, as amended (3-0)

Civil Service Employment Subcommittee

The Remote Rental Housing Advisory Committee will review minutes from the April 28, 2022 meeting. The committee will also discuss a draft memo concerning rental property holding fees and develop its work plan for 2022.

• Review of April 28, 2022 meeting minutes
• Discussion of draft memo regarding rental property holding fees
• Development of committee work plan and ideas for 2022

Rent Board

The Rent Board will discuss rental registration data received from the Housing Safety Office. The meeting includes planning for the required annual report and further discussion on fair rate of return. Additionally, the board will address updates to application forms and decision form methodology.

• Discussion of rental registration data from the Housing Safety Office
• Planning for the required annual report
• Further discussion on fair rate of return
• Updates to application forms
• Methodology for decision forms

The Rent Board voted to prepare a memo on rental registration data integrity and to draft an annual report. It also tabled fair rate of return discussion and approved form revisions. All votes were unanimous among present members.

• Approved memo on rental registration data constraints (6-0)
• Approved drafting annual report with five outlined items (6-0)
• Tabled fair rate of return discussion (6-0)
• Approved Vice Chair to revise forms and create new Fair Rate of Return form (4-0)
• Approved minutes with amendment (6-0)

Charter Commission

The Charter Commission will hold a public hearing regarding its Preliminary Report. Commissioners are also scheduled to suggest amendments to reforms proposed in that report. The meeting includes the approval of minutes from May 11, 2022.

• Public hearing on the Preliminary Report
• Discussion of amendments to reforms in the Preliminary Report
• Approval of May 11, 2022 draft meeting minutes

The Portland Charter Commission approved an amendment to Article I-A, Section 3(d) of the Preliminary Report, removing the phrase 'business community' to avoid emphasizing business over other groups. The motion passed unanimously (11-0). Other proposed amendments and clarifications were discussed but deferred until the Commission considers how to combine proposals into ballot questions.

• Approved amendment to Article I-A, Section 3(d) removing 'business community' reference (11-0)
• Approved minutes of May 11, 2022 (8-2)
• Deferred decision on assigning at-large School Board seats to district seats
• Deferred decision on combining Governance Model and Redistricting proposals
• Deferred decision on COO/City Clerk/Corporation Counsel confirmation vote threshold
• Deferred decision on separate ballot question for communications between elected officials and staff
• Added June 29 meeting by consensus

Peaks Island Council

The Peaks Island Council unanimously approved the mission statement for its Jetport Flight Path Committee, which aims to minimize noise impacts from Portland Jetport operations. The council also voted to create an ad hoc Election Committee to organize a candidates forum for the June election. No other formal votes were taken; the meeting was largely informational, featuring a presentation on the Peaks Island Ferry Landside Operations Study and committee updates.

• Approved Peaks Island Flight Path Committee mission statement (unanimous)
• Created ad hoc Election Committee to organize June candidates forum (unanimous)
• Accepted March 23, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted treasurer's report as of April 27, 2022 (unanimous)

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The committee will meet with the Portland Delegation to receive updates on FEMA reimbursements and GA work. Mayor Kate Snyder will also present a proposal for a new task force. Additionally, the committee will review upcoming board and committee openings for September 2022.

• FEMA Reimbursements Update
• Update on GA Work
• Proposed Task Force
• September 2022 Boards and Committees Openings
• Preview of New Board/Committee Platform

The Legislative & Nominating Committee met with the Portland state delegation to discuss FEMA reimbursement delays for COVID-19 non-congregate sheltering and rising General Assistance caseloads. No formal decisions were made on these topics; the committee approved the prior meeting's minutes and adjourned.

• Approved minutes from May 17, 2022 meeting (2-0)
• Discussed FEMA reimbursement delays for non-congregate sheltering
• Discussed high General Assistance numbers in Portland and statewide
• Continued discussion on statewide coordination task force to next meeting

Planning Board

The Portland Planning Board will hold a workshop and public hearings regarding several development proposals. The agenda includes site plans for residential buildings at 180 Washington Avenue and 57 Douglass Street, as well as a conditional use permit for 11 Pomeroy Street.

• Major Site Plan: 4-unit residential building at 180 Washington Avenue
• Conditional Use Permit: Place of assembly use at 11 Pomeroy Street
• Major Site Plan: 120-unit affordable development at 57 Douglass Street

Charter Commission

The Charter Commission will meet remotely to discuss the Mayor's role in developing the city's draft budget. The agenda also includes a review of councilor pay and additions to the Clean Election Proposal.

• Mayor's role in developing the city's draft budget
• Review of councilor pay by Commissioner Washburn
• Additions to the Clean Election Proposal by Commissioner Buxton
• Discussion on constituent services and access to public documents

Ad Hoc Committee

The subcommittee will meet to review applications for the City Clerk position during an executive session. Members will also discuss next steps for the City Clerk selection and receive an update on the City Manager Search RFP.

• Review of City Clerk applications
• Determination of next steps for City Clerk selection
• Update on City Manager Search RFP
• Approval of April 21 and April 28 meeting minutes

Emergency Shelter Assessment Committee

The committee will review April shelter bed usage statistics and discuss updates regarding community emergency shelter capacity for families. The meeting also includes discussions on imminent hotel closures and shelter licensing.

• April shelter bed usage statistics
• Community emergency shelter capacity and policy changes update
• Imminent hotel closures update
• Shelter licensing update
• South Portland eviction moratorium request

The committee discussed that family shelters and hotels are at capacity, so shelter can no longer be guaranteed; families now get one night and must self-direct housing searches. A potential congregate shelter site was identified for 295 singles displaced from hotels on May 31. The shelter licensing proposal was discussed but not voted on, with a fiscal note of $93,000 and further public comment at the June 6 City Council meeting. The committee approved the April meeting minutes unanimously.

• Approved April meeting minutes (none opposed)
• Shelter policy changed: families get first night only, then self-directed housing search
• Identified potential congregate shelter location for 295 displaced singles
• Shelter licensing proposal discussed, no vote; goes to full Council June 6

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will conduct a detailed review of the FY23 City Manager’s Recommended Budget. The discussion includes several city departments, including Police, Dispatch Services, and Human Resources. Members will also discuss options for addressing a $2 million budget gap in Health & Human Services.

• Detailed review of FY23 budget for Police, Dispatch, and Human Resources
• Discussion of options to address a $2 million budget gap in Health & Human Services
• Review of upcoming budget public hearing dates

The Finance Committee meeting on May 19, 2022, was held as a public proceeding, with the record noting the date, time, place, and member attendance. No motions, votes, or substantive decisions were recorded in the minutes; the document primarily outlines the legal requirements for public meeting records and directs readers to the official archive for full proceedings.

Charter Commission

The Charter Commission will discuss what powers or limitations should apply to the mayor in directing city staff. The meeting includes interviews with Westbrook Mayor Michael Foley and City Administrator Jerre Bryant. Members will also review draft language and proposed edits for a preliminary report.

• Interviews with Westbrook Mayor Michael Foley and City Administrator Jerre Bryant
• Review of Commissioner Lizanecz's language proposal
• Review of Commissioner Barowitz's suggested edits to the preliminary report
• Discussion of draft language provided by members

Public Art Committee

The committee will discuss goal setting for the FY23 budget and annual plan. Updates include the Congress Square Park redesign and the Gathering Stones acquisition. A vote is scheduled regarding $15,500 for artwork conservation.

• Vote to include $15,500 for conservation of Plourde’s Untitled- Armillary in FY23 budget
• Update on Congress Square Park Redesign Phase B construction documents
• Discussion of remaining $30,000 needed for Gathering Stones acquisition
• Appointment of new committee members Kat Zagaria Buckley and Gillian Cook
• Review of temporary art applications including a painted crosswalk project

Historic Preservation Board

The board will hold a workshop regarding window replacements at 32 Thomas Street. Public hearings are scheduled for solar panel installations at 12 Bakery Lane and gate installation at 143 Spring Street. The meeting also includes reports on previous decisions.

• Workshop: Window replacement review for 32 Thomas Street
• Public Hearing: Dormer addition and solar panel installation at 12 Bakery Lane
• Public Hearing: Gate installation at 143 Spring Street
• Report of approved window replacement at 504 Congress Street

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The Legislative & Nominating Committee will meet to approve the May 3, 2022 meeting minutes. The committee will also receive a legislative update regarding the 130th Maine Legislature.

• Approval of May 3, 2022 meeting minutes
• Legislative update for the 130th Maine Legislature

The Legislative & Nominating Committee approved the minutes from its May 3, 2022 meeting. Members discussed the final legislative tracker for the 130th Maine Legislature, noting no vetoes, and reviewed budget and General Assistance reimbursement topics. The committee also agreed to meet on May 24 and cancel the May 31 meeting.

• Approved minutes of May 3, 2022 meeting (2-0)
• Agreed to meet May 24, 2022
• Cancelled meeting scheduled for May 31, 2022

Housing & Economic Development Committee

The committee will vote on a recommendation for the Land Bank Commission to purchase Redlon Woods property. Members will also receive staff guidance regarding negotiations for Thames Street City-owned property and the Sea Dogs lease at Hadlock Field. Additionally, the meeting includes updates on outdoor dining and downtown public restrooms.

• Vote to recommend a purchase and sale agreement for Redlon Woods property
• Staff guidance on negotiations for the sale of remaining Thames Street City-owned property
• Staff guidance on negotiating the Sea Dogs Lease at Hadlock Field
• Presentation of Public Restroom Plan for Downtown Portland
• Outdoor Dining Follow-Up

The Housing and Economic Development Committee voted 4-0 to recommend that the City Council approve purchase and sale agreements for the Land Bank Commission's acquisition of Redlon Woods property, creating 4.5 acres of open space. The committee also discussed extending the outdoor dining season and received a presentation on a downtown public restroom pilot program, but took no formal votes on those items.

• Approved May 3, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Voted to enter executive session for Thames Street property sale and Sea Dogs lease negotiations (4-0)
• Recommended Redlon Woods property purchase to City Council (4-0)
• Voted to enter executive session for Redlon Woods negotiations (4-0)
• Agreed to hold one meeting in July and none in August (consensus)

Portland Fish Pier Authority

The Portland Fish Pier Authority will discuss a proposal to expand its Board of Directors from five to seven members. The meeting also includes reviews of a $240,000 request for Portland Fish Exchange operations and a request to increase funding for the Waterfront Coordinator position.

• Proposal to expand Board of Directors from 5 to 7 members
• $240,000 request from Portland Fish Exchange for three months of operations
• Request to increase PFPA funding for Waterfront Coordinator salary and benefits to 50%
• Election of a new Board President following the departure of Nick Mavodones

City Council

The Portland City Council will conduct a workshop and an executive session. This session is for discussing contract negotiations with the Labor & Trades Union.

• Executive session regarding contract negotiations with the Labor & Trades Union

City Council

The Portland City Council approved the FY2023 school operating budget at $126,407,899 after a series of amendments, including a failed attempt to increase it by $225,000 and a successful amendment to restore it to the original request. The council also approved several other school-related orders, including state/local EPS funding, non-state funded construction debt service, and adult education. Several budget items were postponed to the June 6 meeting, and the council accepted Benjamin Way as a city way.

• Approved FY2023 school operating budget of $126,407,899 (6-2)
• Approved state/local EPS funding allocation for Portland Public Schools (8-0)
• Approved non-state funded school construction debt service (8-0)
• Approved raising and appropriating additional local funds for Portland Schools (7-1)
• Approved adult education funding for FY2023 (8-0)
• Approved food service funding for Portland Public Schools (8-0)
• Accepted Benjamin Way as a city way (8-0)
• Postponed several FY2023 budget orders to June 6 meeting (8-0 each)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee meeting on May 12, 2022, was held, but the minutes contain only procedural information about public record requirements and no substantive decisions, motions, or votes. The record notes that official audio/video recordings are archived online and that a vote summary would be posted separately if votes were taken.

Land Bank Commission

The commission approved $112,500 for Redlon Woods, reducing the Land Bank balance to $275,289.87. They also discussed potential acquisitions, including Coolidge and Davenport lots from the TAPIC list, a property at 198 Pheasant Hill Drive, and a bridge for the Stroud Water Preserve, but no formal decisions were made on these items. The meeting was largely informational and procedural.

• Approved $112,500 for Redlon Woods (unanimous)
• Accepted April 13, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Discussed Coolidge and Davenport lots for potential Land Bank acquisition (no vote)
• Discussed 198 Pheasant Hill Drive lots for potential purchase (no vote)
• Discussed Stroud Water Preserve bridge project (no vote)

Sustainability and Transportation Committee

The committee will review minutes from the April 27 meeting and receive sustainability program updates. The agenda also includes presentations regarding Portland Harbor Commons and the cruise ship industry's environmental efforts.

• Review and approval of April 27 minutes
• Sustainability Program Updates
• Portland Harbor Commons update presentation
• Cruise Lines International Association environmental efforts presentation

Charter Commission

The Charter Commission will deliberate on the schedule and process for actions required before filing a Final Report by July 11, 2022. The meeting also includes discussion regarding the grouping and order of proposals into charter revision ballot questions.

• Approval of April 27, 2022, meeting minutes
• Discussion on process for actions prior to July 11, 2022, report filing
• Deliberation on grouping and ordering charter revision ballot questions

The Portland Charter Commission approved the April 27 minutes (11-0) and discussed scheduling and processes for completing its work. It agreed that governance amendments must be discussed at public work sessions before coming to the full Commission, and that all amendments must be in final language form. The Commission also discussed how to group proposals into ballot questions, with no final decision made. No substantive policy decisions were made at this meeting.

• Approved April 27, 2022 meeting minutes (11-0)
• Agreed governance amendments must be discussed at a work session before full Commission consideration
• Agreed all amendments must be submitted in final language form
• Adjourned meeting (11-0)

Police Citizen Review Subcommittee

The subcommittee will discuss and decide whether to adopt a policy regarding the review of new IA categories. The meeting also includes the approval of April 13, 2022, draft minutes.

• Decision on new category policy
• Approval of April 13, 2022, draft minutes
• Potential executive session regarding legal rights and duties under the subcommittee ordinance
• Executive session to discuss IA2022-02

The Police Citizen Review Subcommittee unanimously voted to transmit a draft policy for reviewing new complaint categories (Cat. 1 and Cat. U) to the police department for input and approval. The policy was developed in response to body-worn camera footage and includes guidelines for truncated reviews. The subcommittee also unanimously found internal affairs case IA2022-002 fair, thorough, timely, and objective. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved minutes of April 13, 2022 (7-0)
• Entered executive session to consult with attorney (7-0)
• Voted to transmit new category review policy to police department for input (7-0)
• Found IA2022-002 fair (7-0)
• Found IA2022-002 thorough (7-0)
• Found IA2022-002 timely (7-0)
• Found IA2022-002 objective (7-0)
• Adjourned (7-0)

Planning Board

The Portland Planning Board will hold a remote workshop to consider amendments to the City's Technical Manual, focusing on transportation, sewer/storm drain, landscaping, and street lighting standards. They will also workshop a proposal for a 120-unit affordable residential development at 57 Douglass Street under Planned Residential Unit Development standards. The meeting includes reports on prior decisions, including approvals for projects at 392 St. John Street and 54 York Street.

• Technical Manual amendments to Sections 1, 2, 4, and 10
• 120-unit affordable housing development at 57 Douglass Street (3.34 acres, R-5a zoning)
• Approved site plan for 392 St. John Street with waivers for driveway and drive aisle widths
• Approved site plan for 54 York Street

HHS and Public Safety Committee

The Health & Human Services and Public Safety Committee will discuss syringe waste practices and staff recommendations for additional steps. The committee is also scheduled to review the Good Samaritan Law and hold a vote regarding the reconsideration of shelter licensing.

• Review of April 12, 2022 meeting minutes
• Discussion on syringe waste practices and staff recommendations
• Overview of the Good Samaritan Law
• Vote on the reconsideration of shelter licensing

The committee heard updates on the emergency shelter crisis, including a record 1,761 individuals in city-provided shelter and a new policy directing families to General Assistance. They also discussed syringe waste, the Good Samaritan law, and shelter licensing, but took no votes. Councilor Trevorrow proposed a working group to address shelter best practices and zoning, to be presented when the licensing ordinance returns to the council.

• Approved committee minutes unanimously
• No vote on shelter licensing; discussion only
• Trevorrow to draft resolution for a working group on shelter best practices and zoning

Parks Commission

The Portland Parks Commission will review its role, procedures, and strategic direction. The agenda includes welcoming new commissioners and receiving an update on the Greenspace Gathering. Members will also discuss upcoming Capital Improvement Projects (CIP).

• Acceptance of April 7, 2022, meeting minutes
• Welcome new Parks Commissioners
• Greenspace Gathering update
• Reminder of upcoming Capital Improvement Project (CIP)
• Vote on April business meeting Food Truck records

The Portland Parks Commission corrected the April 3, 2022 meeting minutes, changing the vote count from 5-3 to 4-4 with one abstention. The commission discussed its advisory-only role, reviewed committee assignments, and set a July 19 deadline for Capital Improvement Project feedback from Friends Groups. No formal policy decisions were made.

• Corrected April 3, 2022 meeting minutes vote count to 4-4 (one abstention)
• Adopted advisory role for commission, no decision-making authority
• Set July 19, 2022 deadline for CIP feedback from Friends Groups
• Assigned committee memberships: Outreach (Stephen, Beth, Zack, Jon), Parks Initiative (Beth, Nell, Jamie, Cheri), Finance (Marie, Kristen)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is continuing its detailed review of the FY23 City Manager’s Recommended Budget. The meeting includes discussions regarding the Parking, Facilities & Waterfront, Public Works, Parks & Recreation, Library, and Executive departments. No action is scheduled for this meeting.

• Review of FY23 budget for Parking, Facilities & Waterfront, and Public Works
• Review of FY23 budget for Parks & Recreation, Library, and Executive

The Finance Committee meeting on May 5, 2022, was held as a public proceeding, but the minutes contain only procedural information about recording requirements and no specific agenda items, motions, or votes. No substantive decisions were made or recorded in the provided text.

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will review two appeals for 1 Ryefield Street involving a deck permit denial and setback variances. The board will also consider an application for a child care facility at 874 Washington Ave. Additionally, the board will hold elections for its Chair and Secretary.

• Appeal regarding deck permit denial at 1 Ryefield Street
• Variance request for reduced rear setback at 1 Ryefield Street
• Conditional-use application for child care at 874 Washington Ave
• Election of Zoning Board Chair
• Election of Zoning Board Secretary

The Portland Zoning Board of Appeals met remotely on May 5, 2022, and took three substantive actions. It granted a conditional-use appeal for a child care facility at 874 Washington Ave, and tabled two appeals concerning 1 Ryefield Street to the June 16 meeting. The board also elected new officers.

• Granted conditional-use appeal for child care facility at 874 Washington Ave (6-0)
• Tabled interpretation appeal for deck at 1 Ryefield Street to June 16, 2022 (6-0)
• Tabled hardship variance for 1 Ryefield Street to June 16, 2022 (6-0)
• Elected Joseph Zamboni as Chair (5-0, Zamboni abstained)
• Elected Jared Falcon as Secretary (5-0, Falcon abstained)

Creative Portland Corporation

The Board of Directors will discuss the second draft of the FY2023 Work Plan and Budget. The meeting includes an executive director update on grants, community engagement, and recent events. The board will also vote to accept the consent agenda.

• Vote to accept Consent Agenda
• Discussion of FY2023 Work Plan and Budget Draft #2
• Update on NEA and MOT Grant status
• Review of AEP6 Survey

Historic Preservation Board

The board will hold a public hearing regarding storefront window replacements at 504 Congress Street. The meeting also includes a workshop for the preliminary review of proposed new construction at 185 Commercial Street.

• Public hearing: storefront window replacement at 504 Congress Street
• Workshop: preliminary review of proposed new construction at 185 Commercial Street

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The committee will review draft minutes from the April 19, 2022 meeting. Discussion items include a legislative recap by Bernstein Shur and a supplemental budget recap from the Portland Delegation.

• Approval of April 19, 2022 meeting minutes
• Legislative Recap (Bernstein Shur)
• Supplemental Budget Recap (Portland Delegation)
• Discussion on engagement inbetween sessions

The Legislative & Nominating Committee approved the April 19, 2022 meeting minutes (3-0). They discussed LD 910, which did not pass with 90% reimbursement but included a one-time $10 million transfer from the liquor fund to general assistance, potentially giving Portland about $7.5 million. The committee also talked about strengthening engagement with the state delegation, including routine meetings and an advance planning session.

• Approved April 19, 2022 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:55 AM (3-0)

Housing & Economic Development Committee

The committee will hold a public hearing to discuss and vote on recommending the Portland Downtown Fiscal Year 2023 Budget and Work Plan to the City Council. The agenda also includes a presentation regarding development plans for Rock Row and a review of housing fund requests.

• Public Hearing: Portland Downtown Fiscal Year 2023 Budget and Work Plan
• Presentation: Future Development Plans for Rock Row by Waterstone Properties
• Review of Affordable Housing TIF CEA and Housing Development Fund Requests

The Housing and Economic Development Committee voted unanimously to forward the Portland Downtown FY2023 budget and work plan to the City Council for approval. The budget includes a $1.2 million assessment and a rate of $0.66 per $1,000 of property value. The committee also heard a presentation on Rock Row's future development plans and reviewed five affordable housing funding requests, with financial analysis to follow at the May 17 meeting.

• Approved April 19, 2022 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Forwarded Portland Downtown FY2023 budget and work plan to City Council (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Ad Hoc Committee

The Pesticide Management Advisory Committee will discuss the overhaul of PMAC to LMAC. The meeting also includes updates on PFA laws, 100 Resilient Yards, and No Mow May.

• Review of April 5th minutes
• Update on PMAC to LMAC overhaul
• Update on PFA laws being enacted
• 100 Resilient Yards update
• No Mow May discussion

The Pesticide Management Advisory Committee approved the April 5 minutes unanimously. They discussed plans to present a fertilizer ordinance in June, with a separate tree ordinance, and are organizing a regional roundtable with other committees. No formal votes were taken on substantive policy decisions.

• Approved April 5 minutes unanimously
• Planned to present fertilizer ordinance to committee in June
• Scheduled roundtable with other PMAC/LMAC and conservation committees
• Set next meeting for June 7 at 6:30 PM

Rules and Reports Committee

The committee will review and discuss the draft Code of Ethics and hold a vote on the document. The agenda also includes a period for public comment on the code and the approval of minutes from the April 11, 2022 meeting.

• Review and discussion of draft Code of Ethics
• Public comment on Code of Ethics
• Committee vote on Code of Ethics
• Approval of April 11, 2022 meeting minutes

City Council

The Portland City Council will hold a workshop regarding the 2022 Census Reapportionment. The agenda includes a presentation by City Clerk Katherine L. Jones and council discussion.

• Workshop on 2022 Census Reapportionment

City Council

The City Council is conducting the first reading for several components of the Fiscal Year 2023 school budget, including a proposed $125,407,899 total operating budget. The agenda also includes outdoor dining applications and funding for adult education.

• First reading of the FY 2023 school budget totaling $125,407,899
• $65,000 city contribution to the Portland-Libbytown Safety and Accessibility Project
• Outdoor dining applications for Rathskeller on Wharf, LB Kitchen, Bonfire Country Bar, and Bird and Company
• Emergency appointment of Brentley Martin as Assistant Assessor
• Central Maine Power easement for Presumpscot Elementary School

The City Council held a first read on the FY2023 school budget, including several related funding orders, and scheduled a public hearing for May 16 and a referendum for June 14. The council also approved appointments, licenses for outdoor dining, and other routine items. All votes were unanimous (9-0).

• Approved minutes of April 25, 2022 meeting (9-0)
• Appointed Brentley Martin as Assistant Assessor (9-0)
• Approved outdoor dining license for Four Ball LLC dba Rathskeller on Wharf at 51 Wharf Street (9-0)
• Approved outdoor dining license for Tiny Operations dba LB Kitchen at 249 Congress Street (9-0)
• Approved outdoor dining license for Bonfire LLC dba Bonfire Country Bar at 37 Wharf Street (9-0)
• Approved parklet outdoor dining for Deering 539 LLC dba Bird and Company at 539 Deering Avenue (9-0)
• Approved CMP easement for Presumpscot School (9-0)
• Approved Portland-Libbytown Safety and Accessibility Project agreement (9-0)

Ad Hoc Committee

The City Manager Search Subcommittee will hold meetings to conduct RFP interviews. The committee also plans to address letters to RFP finalists and establish the next meeting date.

• RFP Interviews
• Letters to RFP finalists

Portland Development Corporation

The Portland Development Corporation Board will review a $120,000 loan application for Gulf of Maine Sashimi, Inc. The meeting also includes voting on various ARPA Microenterprise Grant applications totaling $291,500. Additionally, the Board will review recent meeting minutes and the Treasurer's Report.

• $120,000 loan application from Gulf of Maine Sashimi, Inc. (d/b/a True Fin)
• ARPA Microenterprise Grant applications totaling $291,500
• Review and vote on March 17, 2022 meeting minutes
• Discussion regarding additional debt for Driscoll Child Development Center

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will hold a public hearing and vote on the FY23 Superintendent’s Proposed Budget for Portland Public Schools. The committee will also receive an overview of the FY23 City Manager's recommended budget. A detailed review of individual city departments is scheduled to begin.

• Vote on the FY23 Portland Public Schools proposed budget
• Proposed school budget includes a 4.1% increase in the school tax levy portion
• Estimated $102.20 increase to the tax bill for a home valued at $365,000
• Presentation on the FY23 City Manager recommended budget overview

The Finance Committee voted 3-0 to reduce the FY23 School Board Recommended Budget by $1,000,000. The proposed budget, before the cut, would have increased the school portion of the tax levy by 4.1% and added about $102.20 to the tax bill of a home valued at $365,000. The committee also heard a presentation on the FY23 City Manager's Recommended Budget but took no action on it.

• Reduced School Board Recommended Budget by $1,000,000 (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Rent Board

The Rent Board will review multiple applications for rent increases at various properties. The board will also consider nominations for the Chair and Vice Chair positions. Additionally, members may discuss a methodology for a Fair Rate of Return.

• Rent increase application for 90 Westminster Ave
• Rent increase application for 123 Sherman St, Units 01 through 13
• Nominations for Chair and Vice Chair positions
• Rent increase application for 9 Briggs St, Unit 1
• Rent increase application for 164 Pearl Street, Condo C

The Portland Rent Board approved rent increases for 90 Westminster Ave ($200/month), 123 Sherman St ($25.96/unit/month), 9 Briggs St (base rent reset), and 164 Pearl St ($95.58/month), all subject to a 10% annual cap. The Board also adopted a motion to use MNOI as the default methodology for fair rate of return calculations, with exceptions for disproportionately low base rent, and elected Elliott Simpson as the new Chair.

• Approved $200/month increase for 90 Westminster Ave (7-0)
• Approved $25.96/unit/month increase for 123 Sherman St (4-3)
• Approved base rent reset for 9 Briggs St (7-0)
• Approved $95.58/month increase for 164 Pearl St (7-0)
• Adopted MNOI as default fair rate of return methodology (7-0)
• Elected Elliott Simpson as Chair (7-0)
• Reappointed Barbara Vestal as Vice Chair (7-0)

Sustainability and Transportation Committee

The Sustainability and Transportation Committee will review April 13 minutes and receive sustainability program updates. The agenda includes a presentation on a resolution supporting rapid transit and information regarding passenger rail service between Portland and Lewiston. A demonstration of En-Roads climate modeling is also scheduled.

• Resolution Supporting Rapid Transit
• Passenger rail service ideas between Portland and Lewiston
• En-Roads Climate Modeling Demonstration
• Review of April 13 meeting minutes

The Sustainability and Transportation Committee unanimously approved a resolution supporting GPCOG's rapid transit study and requesting evaluation of climate impacts of the South Portland/Gorham Connector. The committee also received updates on composting expansion, a $50,000 grant for climate resilience, and informational presentations on passenger rail and climate modeling. No other formal decisions were made.

• Approved resolution supporting GPCOG rapid transit study and climate impact evaluation (3-0)
• Approved April 13 meeting minutes (3-0)

Charter Commission

The Portland Charter Commission will deliberate and vote on the final language for multiple proposed changes. These items include proposals regarding redistricting, clean elections, and the school budget process. The commission will also review minutes from the April 20 meeting.

• Ratification of final language for school budget process proposal
• Vote on Mayor's Economic Development Leadership Amendment
• Ratification of final language for Clean Elections Proposal
• Ratification of final language for Redistricting Proposal
• Ratification of final language for Proportional Ranked Choice Voting Proposal

The Portland Charter Commission ratified final language for multiple charter proposals to include in its Preliminary Report, including the Governance Model (8-4), school budget process (8-2), capital improvement program (10-0), and others. Amendments to the Governance Model, including one to limit the mayor's powers and another to create an executive committee, failed. The Commission also voted to reconsider the Governance vote, then reversed that reconsideration, and canceled its May 4 meeting.

• Ratified school budget process language (8-2)
• Ratified capital improvement program language (10-0)
• Included Mayor's Economic Development Leadership Amendment in Preliminary Report (7-4)
• Ratified Governance Model language (8-4)
• Rejected amendment limiting mayor's powers (4-7, 1 abstention)
• Rejected amendment creating executive committee (6-6)
• Ratified Peaks Island Council proposal (12-0)
• Ratified Clean Elections, Redistricting, Ethics, Proportional RCV, Universal Resident Voting, and Vacancies proposals

Peaks Island Council

The Peaks Island Council unanimously approved a response to the City Manager regarding mainland parking, adopted the Jetport Noise Committee as a PIC committee, and created a Housing Committee. The meeting also included a presentation on the city's ReCode Project, with discussion on zoning and dimensional standards for the island.

• Approved response to City Manager on mainland parking (unanimous)
• Adopted Jetport Noise Committee as PIC committee (unanimous)
• Created Housing Committee (unanimous)
• Approved February 23, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Moved ReCode presentation to beginning of meeting (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a workshop regarding a three-unit residential building at 7 Marion Street. Public hearings are also scheduled to consider a mixed-use project at 392 St. John Street and a renovation at 54 York Street.

• Major Site Plan for a three-story, three-unit residential building at 7 Marion Street
• Major Site Plan and Conditional Use for a 10,726 square foot mixed-use building at 392 St. John Street
• Major Site Plan for renovation of 54 York Street to include 14 dwelling units and two commercial spaces

City Council

The Portland City Council will conduct a workshop and an executive session. This meeting includes discussions regarding contract negotiations with the Labor & Trades Union.

• Executive session for contract negotiations with the Labor & Trades Union

City Council

The City Council is reviewing the proposed Fiscal Year 2023 municipal budget and referring it to the Finance Committee for review. The agenda also includes declarations for several summer festivals and various food service license applications.

• Referral of FY 2023 municipal budget to Finance Committee
• Declaration of Shipyard Old Port Half Marathon & 5K Festival
• Declaration of Pride Portland! Parade & Festival
• Approval of various food service and outdoor dining licenses
• Brown Tail Moth treatment plan for Deering Oaks Park

The Portland City Council held a special meeting on April 25, 2022, and approved several items. They received and referred the City Manager's FY2023 Municipal Budget to the Finance Committee, set a public hearing date, and approved numerous licenses for food and beverage establishments. They also approved purchase and sale agreements for properties, including 622 Auburn Street and 165 Lambert Street, and postponed a Central Maine Power easement to May 2, 2022. All votes were 5-0.

• Approved FY2023 Municipal Budget referral to Finance Committee (5-0)
• Approved 20+ food and beverage licenses (5-0)
• Approved purchase and sale agreement for 622 Auburn Street and 0 Gray Road (5-0)
• Approved first amendment to purchase and sale agreement for 165 Lambert Street (5-0)
• Approved RFP for sale of former Fort McKinley Hospital building (5-0)
• Postponed Central Maine Power easement for Presumpscot School to May 2, 2022 (5-0)
• Approved interlocal agreement for stormwater sewer system (5-0)
• Approved overlimit permit agreement with Maine DOT (5-0)

Ad Hoc Committee

The City Manager Search Subcommittee will review the City Clerk salary range and receive an update on the RFP process. The committee will also approve minutes from the April 14, 2022 meeting.

• Review and approve City Clerk salary range
• Brief update on RFP process

Emergency Shelter Assessment Committee

The Emergency Shelter Assessment Committee will review March shelter bed usage statistics and a presentation from Work Works. The committee will discuss hotel updates following a South Portland city council vote and provide an update on the Cumberland County Homeless Response Service Hub. Members will also discuss legislative updates and a letter to Lewiston regarding a proposed shelter moratorium.

• March shelter bed usage statistics
• Presentation by Isabelle McDevitt from Work Works
• Discussion of South Portland hotel license renewals
• Update on Cumberland County Homeless Response Service Hub
• Update on ESAC letter to Lewiston regarding a proposed shelter moratorium

The committee heard updates on homelessness data, a presentation from Work Works on a transitional employment and housing model, and discussed the South Portland City Council's April 19 vote to renew licenses for four hotels used as shelters. The committee approved its March meeting minutes. No formal decisions were made by the committee itself.

• Approved March meeting minutes (none opposed)
• South Portland City Council approved license renewal for 4 hotels used as shelters (3 with conditions, 1 without)

Public Art Committee

The committee will vote on the permanent location and acquisition of the "Gathering Stones" artwork. Members will also discuss FY23 budget goals and review conservation proposals for the Cleeves Memorial fence and Plourde’s Untitled- Armillary.

• Vote to approve location and acquisition of "Gathering Stones" into permanent collection
• Congress Square Park redesign Phase B update including Sarah Sze installation
• Conservation proposals for Cleeves Memorial fence and Plourde’s Untitled- Armillary
• Temporary art application for Payson Park by Pamela Moulton

Historic Preservation Board

The Historic Preservation Board will consider a landmark designation for the Burnham & Morrill Cannery Building. Public hearings are scheduled for renovations at 1227 Westbrook Street and Congress/Preble Streets. The board will also receive a report on the Munjoy Hill Neighborhood Conservation Overlay District.

• Landmark designation consideration: Burnham & Morrill Cannery Building
• Public hearing: 1227 Westbrook Street building additions and site alterations
• Public hearing: 477 and 481 Congress Street and 10-20 and 22 Preble Street rehabilitation
• Report on Munjoy Hill Neighborhood Conservation Overlay District repeal

Ad Hoc Committee

The Rent Board will hold a workshop to discuss methodologies for a Fair Rate of Return. The Board also plans to enter an executive session with its attorney regarding meeting procedures and application requirements. A memo from the Housing Safety Office is scheduled for communication.

• Workshop on Fair Rate of Return methodologies
• Executive session regarding procedural requirements and application submissions
• Consultation on methodology for calculating permissible rent increases
• Communication of a memo from the Housing Safety Office

Charter Commission

The Charter Commission will hold public hearings and votes on proposals regarding the city's governance model, communication policy, and an Office of Information. The commission will also ratify final language for proposals from the Education Committee concerning school budgeting and capital improvement processes. Additionally, members will discuss scheduling future meetings.

• Vote on Governance Model in Charter language
• Vote on Communication Policy proposal
• Vote on Office of Information proposals
• Ratification of School Budget Proposal language
• Ratification of Capital Improvement Program Process Proposal language

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The committee will review draft minutes from the April 12, 2022 meeting. The agenda also includes a legislative update from Bernstein Shur.

• Approval of April 12, 2022 meeting minutes
• Legislative update from Bernstein Shur

The Legislative & Nominating Committee approved the draft minutes from its April 12, 2022 meeting (3-0). It received updates on legislative matters, including housing bill LD 2003 and LD 1673, which awaits funding. The committee cancelled its April 26, 2022 meeting due to scheduling conflicts and will seek an alternate date with the State Delegation.

• Approved April 12, 2022 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Cancelled April 26, 2022 meeting; staff to find alternate date with State Delegation

Housing & Economic Development Committee

The committee will discuss preliminary findings from the Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing. Members will also receive an overview of the Outdoor Dining Permitting and Licensing Program. The agenda includes reviews of the 2022 workplan and communications regarding minimum wage.

• Presentation on Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing findings
• Overview of the Outdoor Dining Permitting and Licensing Program
• Review of the 2022 Committee Workplan and Schedule
• Discussion of memoranda regarding minimum wage and hazard pay

Finance Committee

The Committee will hold a public hearing on the FY23 Superintendent’s Proposed Budget. This proposal includes a 4.1% increase in the school portion of the tax levy, which would add approximately $102.20 to the tax bill for a home valued at $365,000. The Committee may take action on the budget following the hearing.

• Public hearing on the FY23 Superintendent’s Proposed Budget
• Review of the revised FY23 City Budget Calendar

The Portland, ME Finance Committee met on April 14, 2022, but the minutes contain only procedural boilerplate about public record requirements under Maine law. No motions, votes, or decisions are recorded in the provided text.

Civil Service Employment Subcommittee

The Civil Service Employment Subcommittee is meeting to discuss a request for approval regarding promotions within the Police Department. No other business items are listed on the agenda.

• Police Department Promotional Appointments Request

Land Bank Commission

The commission will consider a draft purchase and sale agreement for Redlon Woods with an allocation of up to $112,500.00. The meeting also includes a recommendation to add parcels 177 F023001 and 177F019001 to the Land Bank. Additionally, there will be updates regarding North Deering Park and the High Priority Parcel Committee.

• Approval of draft purchase and sale agreement and up to $112,500.00 allocation for Redlon Woods
• Recommendation to add parcels 177 F023001 and 177F019001 to the Land Bank
• High Priority Parcel Committee update
• North Deering Park update

The Land Bank Commission unanimously approved a draft purchase and sale agreement with Coastal Oaks and King Weinstein to buy a parcel in Redlon Woods, allocating up to $112,500 to match neighborhood fundraising. The commission also unanimously voted to add two additional parcels (177F023001 and 177F019001) in the Redlon Woods area to the Land Bank for open space. The Redlon Woods purchase still requires City Council approval.

• Approved draft purchase and sale agreement for Berry Properties in Redlon Woods with Coastal Oaks and King Weinstein (unanimous)
• Allocated up to $112,500 for Redlon Woods parcel purchase (unanimous)
• Added parcels 177F023001 and 177F019001 to the Land Bank (unanimous)
• Approved March 9, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Sustainability and Transportation Committee

The committee will review March 23 meeting minutes and receive sustainability program updates. Discussion includes the community composting program and the impact of Emerald Ash Borer on city trees. A presentation regarding the Bird Safe Maine initiative is also scheduled.

• Review and approval of March 23 minutes
• Sustainability Program Updates
• Community Composting Program update
• Impacts of Emerald Ash Borer on City Trees
• Bird Safe Maine initiative presentation

The committee received updates on the composting program, including plans to expand drop-off sites and launch a curbside collection subscription service. It also heard presentations on the Emerald Ash Borer threat to Portland's ash trees and on bird-safe glass initiatives. No formal votes were taken on these items; the only action was approving the January meeting minutes.

• Approved January meeting minutes (3-0)
• Composting program expansion to Payson Park Garden, Riverton Garden, and Brentwood Garden discussed
• RFP for curbside collection program responses due end of April; launch targeted for early June
• Riverside Recycling compost drop site removed; Clark St Garden location to be moved
• Councilor Zarro requested RFP responses be shared with committee
• Councilor Zarro requested research on bird-safe glass ordinance and Lights Out program

Police Citizen Review Subcommittee

The Police Citizen Review Subcommittee met remotely and voted unanimously to enter executive session to consult with legal counsel about its ordinance duties. Members discussed 2022 goals and timelines, agreeing to keep objectives tangible and doable within the calendar year. No public comment was offered. The group decided to defer review of Category U and 1 cases, but will add any new Category 2 cases to future agendas.

• Adopted minutes of March 9, 2022 (4-0)
• Entered executive session to consult with attorney (5-0)
• Deferred review of Category U and 1 cases
• Agreed to add new Category 2 cases to future agendas
• Adjourned (4-0)

Charter Commission

The Charter Commission will hold public hearings and votes on proposals regarding the school budget process, capital improvement program, and code of ethics. The meeting also includes first reads for governance models and an information office proposal.

• Vote on School Budget Process Proposal
• Vote on Capital Improvement Program Process Proposal
• Vote on Code of Ethics proposal
• First read of Governance Model in legal language
• Ratification of Preamble and Land Acknowledgement language

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The committee will consider a draft comment regarding proposed changes to the Maine EMS Chapter 21 rule. The proposal would require all licensees to be vaccinated against influenza. The Fire Department is seeking support for its comment on this matter.

• Draft comment on Maine EMS Chapter 21 immunization rule revision
• Proposed influenza vaccination requirement for Maine EMS licensees
• Approval of April 6, 2022 meeting minutes
• Legislative update from Bernstein Shur

The Legislative & Nominating Committee approved a motion to submit testimony on a proposed Maine EMS rule requiring all licensees to be vaccinated against influenza. The decision was made unanimously (3-0) after discussion with Fire Chief Sean Donaghue. The committee also approved the minutes from the April 6, 2022 meeting and received a legislative update from Bernstein Shur.

• Approved testimony on proposed Maine EMS flu vaccination rule (3-0)
• Approved minutes from April 6, 2022 meeting (3-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a workshop regarding a six-unit residential building at 26 E. Oxford Street. Public hearings are also scheduled to consider zoning amendments at 2 Riverton Drive and a conditional use permit for 11 Pomeroy Street.

• Major Site Plan: four-story, six-unit residential building at 26 E. Oxford Street
• Zoning map and text amendment at 2 Riverton Drive to allow Places of Assembly as a conditional use
• Conditional Use Permit for a place of assembly at 11 Pomeroy Street

HHS and Public Safety Committee

The committee will review minutes from the March 8, 2022 meeting. Staff are scheduled to present updates regarding NIMS/ICS, a mobile medical outreach clinic, and the HHS emergency shelter. No action items are scheduled for this meeting.

• Review of March 8, 2022 minutes
• NIMS/ICS overview presentation
• Mobile Medical Outreach Clinic presentation
• HHS Emergency Shelter update

The committee discussed the ongoing asylum seeker crisis, with 1,579 people sheltered across 12 hotels in 6 municipalities. Members debated sending a letter to MEMA requesting an Emergency Operations Center, with Councilors Trevorrow, Pelletier, and Chong supporting it, but Councilor Dion wanting more information first. No formal action was taken on the letter. The committee also received updates on the Mobile Medical Outreach program and shelter operations.

• Approved minutes from March 8, 2022 (unanimous)
• Discussed sending letter to MEMA for EOC; no vote taken
• Heard update on Mobile Medical Outreach Clinic; no action
• Received shelter update; no action

Rules and Reports Committee

The committee will meet to approve the minutes from March 28, 2022. Members will also review an updated draft of the Code of Ethics and discuss possible changes. Public comment on Council Rules is scheduled.

• Approval of March 28, 2022 minutes
• Review of updated draft Code of Ethics
• Public comment on Council Rules

The Rules and Reports Committee met and approved the minutes from March 28, 2022. They reviewed an updated draft of the Code of Ethics and discussed possible changes, but no final decisions were made on the code. Public comment on council rules was also taken, and the meeting adjourned.

• Approved March 28, 2022 minutes
• Reviewed updated draft Code of Ethics (no action taken)
• Discussed possible changes to Code of Ethics (no vote)
• Heard public comment on council rules (no action)

City Council

The City Council is considering a $20 million increase in spending authority to cover expected reimbursements for emergency shelter costs. This follows an increase in asylum seekers requiring assistance, with hotel expenses reaching up to $4 million per month. The council will also review the school district's budget estimate and several restaurant outdoor dining applications.

• $20 million increase in spending authority for General Assistance
• Adoption of 2022-2026 Five-Year Consolidated Plan ($6,005,657 budget)
• Appointment of Election Clerks for 2022 to 2024
• Setting poll hours for the June 14, 2022 election
• Multiple restaurant outdoor dining and parklet applications

City Council

The subcommittee will discuss the City Clerk job posting, including interview questions and selection criteria. Members will also continue reviewing RFP proposals and approve minutes from the March 10 meeting.

• Approval of March 10, 2022 meeting minutes
• Update on City Clerk job posting and selection criteria
• Continued review of RFP proposals

Parks Commission

The Portland Parks Commission will discuss budget updates and welcome new commissioners. The agenda also includes a food truck presentation and an update on the Greenspace Gathering.

• Acceptance of March 3, 2022 meeting minutes
• Welcoming new Parks Commissioners
• Budget updates
• Food Truck presentation by Alex
• Greenspace Gathering update from Zach Anchors

The Portland Parks Commission voted on a motion to recommend relocating all food trucks from the Eastern Promenade to the Cutter Street mid-level parking lot, with limits on truck numbers and electric service. The motion failed in a 4-4 vote (with one abstention initially, then a corrected count of 3-5). No final recommendation was made to the city manager.

• Approved March 3, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Motion to recommend relocating food trucks to Cutter Street failed (4-4, then corrected to 3-5)
• Welcomed new Commissioner Cheri Musgrave
• Noted budget update: City Council review moved to April 25

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The Legislative & Nominating Committee will meet remotely to discuss General Assistance issues, including an update on LD 910 and a letter to the Appropriations Committee, as well as resettlement efforts and the upcoming end of FEMA funding in June 2022. They will also confirm the next meeting date and receive a legislative update from Bernstein Shur.

• Update on LD 910 (An Act To Amend the General Assistance Laws Governing Reimbursement)
• Letter to the Appropriations Committee from the City of Portland
• Discussion on resettlement efforts
• FEMA funding to end June 2022
• Legislative update from Bernstein Shur

The Legislative & Nominating Committee met remotely and approved the minutes from March 29, 2022. They discussed General Assistance issues, including LD 910 and the City's resettlement efforts, but took no formal action on these topics. The next meeting was scheduled for the last Tuesday in May.

• Approved minutes from March 29, 2022 (2-0)
• Scheduled next meeting for last Tuesday in May
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Creative Portland Corporation

The Board of Directors will vote to approve February minutes and March financials. The meeting includes an update from the Executive Director regarding various arts programs and operations. The board will also discuss the draft FY23 work plan and budget, which includes a TIF increase request.

• Vote to approve February minutes and March financials
• Discussion of the draft FY23 work plan and budget
• Update on operations including plumbing and facade improvement
• Review of program updates such as Art Banners for Revival - Round 2
• FY23 budget includes an FY22 TIF increase request

Historic Preservation Board

The Historic Preservation Board is conducting public hearings regarding certificates of appropriateness for several properties. These include requests for exterior rehabilitations at 54 York Street and 179 Vaughan Street, as well as site alterations at 1227 Westbrook Street. A hearing for Congress Street and Preble Street was postponed to April 20, 2022.

• Exterior rehabilitation for 54 York Street
• Building additions and site alterations at 1227 Westbrook Street
• Exterior renovation for 179 Vaughan Street
• Report of approved exterior alterations for 482 Congress Street

Charter Commission

The Charter Commission will deliberate and vote on reforms to Portland's government structure. The meeting includes public hearings and votes on a Code of Ethics proposal and school budget processes. Commissioners will also conduct a first reading on school board vacancies.

• Vote on governance models including the Chann-O'Brien proposal
• Public hearing and vote on Code of Ethics proposal
• Public hearing and vote on School Budget Process Proposal
• Public hearing and vote on Capital Improvement Program Process Proposal
• First reading on School Board Vacancies

The Portland Charter Commission held straw polls on governance model details, voting that the executive mayor can introduce legislation through a public process, but not have veto power over legislation. They also approved an executive committee of three members, processes for removing city staff and the mayor, and tabled several proposals including the Code of Ethics and School Budget Process.

• Approved mayor can introduce legislation/policy (8-1, 2 abstentions)
• Approved mayor introduces legislation via public process (10-0, 1 abstention)
• Rejected mayor veto power over legislation (3-7, 1 abstention)
• Approved executive committee of 3 members (11-0)
• Approved mayor cannot unilaterally hire/fire staff (11-0)
• Approved removal process for constitutional officers (9-0, 2 abstentions)
• Approved removal process for department heads (9-0, 2 abstentions)
• Tabled Code of Ethics proposal (7-4)

Housing & Economic Development Committee

The committee will consider a request for proposals to sell and redevelop the former Fort McKinley Hospital property at Diamond Cove. The meeting also includes discussions regarding minimum wage ordinance guidance and the roles of the Housing Safety and Rent Board.

• Vote on RFP for sale and redevelopment of Diamond Cove Former Fort McKinley Hospital Property
• Recommendation for a Community Development Week proclamation
• Discussion of Corporation Counsel guidance on the Minimum Wage Ordinance
• Overview of roles for the Housing Safety and Rent Board

The Housing and Economic Development Committee voted 4-0 to recommend that the City Council approve issuing a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the sale and redevelopment of the city-owned Diamond Cove former Fort McKinley Hospital property. The committee also voted 4-0 to recommend a proclamation for National Community Development Week. No other formal decisions were made; other items were discussions only.

• Recommended RFP for sale/redevelopment of Diamond Cove former Fort McKinley Hospital property (4-0)
• Recommended proclamation for National Community Development Week (4-0)
• Approved March 22, 2022 draft meeting minutes (4-0)

Ad Hoc Committee

The Pesticide Management Advisory Committee will discuss feedback from S&T Committee Councilors regarding a pesticide presentation. The committee also plans to outline its 2022 work plan, which includes reviewing 2021 applicator reports and responding to SeeClickFix complaints.

• Review and approval of March 16th minutes
• Discussion of feedback from S&T Committee Councilors on pesticide presentation
• Development of the 2022 work plan, including reviewing 2021 applicator reports
• Update on 100 Resilient Yards

The Pesticide Management Advisory Committee approved the March 16 minutes and discussed next steps for its recommendations to the Sustainability and Transportation Committee. Troy Moon will draft a Fertilizer Ordinance, and the committee recommends requiring a pesticide applicator license in Portland and researching bans on sludge-derived fertilizer and compost with PFAS. The committee also outlined its 2022 work plan, including educational events and compliance checks, and noted that Portland will launch the 100 Resilient Yards program later than South Portland due to capacity and funding.

• Approved March 16 minutes unanimously
• Troy Moon to draft Fertilizer Ordinance language
• Recommended requiring a license to apply pesticides in Portland
• Recommended more research into banning sludge-derived fertilizer and compost with PFAS
• Prioritized educational events and website updates in 2022 work plan
• Karen Snyder to start compliance analysis of 2021 applicator reports
• Jesse O'Brien to invite BPC representative to discuss pesticide reports
• Set next meeting for May 3rd at 6:30pm

Charter Commission

The Charter Commission will deliberate and vote on reforms to Portland's basic government structure. The meeting includes a public hearing and vote on a Code of Ethics proposal from the Procedures Committee. Commissioners will also vote on final language for the Citizen Police Oversight Board.

• Vote on governance models and structural reforms
• Public hearing and vote on Code of Ethics proposal
• Vote on final language for the Citizen Police Oversight Board
• Approval of March 23, 2022, meeting minutes

The Commission conducted straw polls on governance reforms, favoring a mayor as chief executive officer who supervises a chief operating officer (COO), with the mayor directing budget preparation. It approved final language for a Citizen Police Oversight Board (11-0) and tabled ethics and school budget proposals. No binding decisions were made on governance; votes were straw polls.

• Approved March 23, 2022 minutes (12-0)
• Straw poll: Mayor as CEO supervising COO (8-2-2)
• Straw poll: Mayor oversees council policy implementation (8-2-2)
• Straw poll: City staff managed exclusively by department heads (12-0)
• Straw poll: Mayor has supervisory role over COO (7-2-2)
• Straw poll: COO title not 'City Manager' (8-2)
• Straw poll: Mayor to preside as council chair (6-6 tie; later 9-2-1 on unempowered chair)
• Approved final language for Citizen Police Oversight Board (11-0)

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The committee will receive a legislative update from Bernstein Shur and discuss LD 1988, which relates to establishing emergency medical services as an essential service. The agenda also includes approval of minutes from the March 22, 2022 meeting.

• Legislative update from Bernstein Shur
• Discussion of LD 1988 regarding emergency medical services
• Approval of March 22, 2022 meeting minutes
• Scheduling next meeting with the Portland Delegation

The Legislative & Nominating Committee voted 2-0 to support LD 1988, which would make emergency medical services an essential service in Maine and establish a commission to study EMS training, workforce, and reimbursement. The committee also approved the minutes from the March 22 meeting and discussed scheduling a future meeting with the Portland Delegation.

• Approved minutes from March 22, 2022 meeting (2-0)
• Voted to support LD 1988, making EMS an essential service (2-0)

Rules and Reports Committee

The committee will review the draft Code of Ethics and compare it to the Portland, Oregon Code of Ethics. The meeting also includes the approval of draft minutes from February 28 and March 7, 2022. Public comment on the ethics code is scheduled.

• Approval of February 28, 2022, and March 7, 2022, draft minutes
• Review of draft Code of Ethics
• Public comment on Council Code of Ethics

The Rules Committee reviewed a draft Code of Ethics based on Bangor's version, discussing changes like removing employee applicability and considering an ordinance for broader board coverage. No final decision was made; the code will be revised and reconsidered at a future meeting. The committee also approved minutes from prior meetings.

• Approved minutes of Feb 28 and Mar 7 meetings (4-0)
• Reviewed draft Code of Ethics, no vote taken
• Tabled Code of Ethics for revisions and future consideration

Finance Committee

The Joint City/School Finance Committee will discuss the proposed FY23 budget for Portland Public Schools with Superintendent Xavier Botana. The committee will also receive an update on the development of the FY23 City Manager’s recommended budget.

• Portland Public Schools FY23 Superintendent’s Proposed Budget discussion
• FY23 City Manager’s Recommended Budget update

Rent Board

The Portland Rent Board is reviewing several rent increase applications that are open for public comment. These requests involve changes due to increased housing service costs and fair rate of return. The board will also approve the minutes from the February 23, 2022 meeting.

• Rent increase application: 89 Irving St, Unit 1 & 2
• Rent increase application: 90 Westminster Ave
• Rent increase application: 123 Sherman St, Units 01 through 13
• Approval of February 23, 2022 minutes

The Portland Rent Board approved a $377.96 rent increase for 89 Irving St, reclassified as a capital improvement cost, split between two units. A $4,049.04 increase request for 123 Sherman St failed on a 3-1 vote, and was tabled to the next meeting. A fair rate of return request for 90 Westminster Ave was tabled pending a workshop on methodology.

• Approved $377.96 rent increase for 89 Irving St, split $182.84 (Unit 1) and $195.13 (Unit 2), subject to 10% yearly cap (4-0)
• Tabled 90 Westminster Ave rent increase to April 27 meeting, with workshop on April 20 (4-0)
• Denied $4,049.04 rent increase for 123 Sherman St (3-1, failed to reach 4 affirmative votes)
• Tabled 123 Sherman St increase to next meeting as unfinished business (4-0)
• Approved decision form for 89 Irving St (4-0)

Sustainability and Transportation Committee

The committee will review minutes from March 9 and hear several presentations. These include a report on pesticide management, a presentation by the Center for Climate Integrity, and an update on food composting.

• Food Truck Management Plan for the Eastern Promenade
• Pesticide Management Advisory Committee Annual Report
• Sustainability Program Updates
• Center for Climate Integrity presentation
• Food Composting Update

Charter Commission

The Charter Commission will deliberate on reforms to Portland's government structure. The meeting includes public hearings and votes on clean elections, council redistricting, a code of ethics, and participatory budgeting. Members will also hear presentations regarding school budget and capital improvement processes.

• Vote on Clean Elections proposal
• Vote on Council Redistricting proposal
• Vote on Code of Ethics proposal
• Vote on Participatory Budgeting proposal
• Deliberation on governance models

Peaks Island Council

The Peaks Island Council approved a $42,670 budget request for FY2023, which includes funding for various island programs and services. The council also voted on individual funding requests, approving most but denying funds for PITEA, the Clock Tower Project, and Peaks Island Barn Concerts. The meeting was largely procedural, with no major policy decisions beyond the budget.

• Approved FY2023 budget request of $42,670 (6-0)
• Approved $8,850 for ferry ticket programs (unanimous)
• Approved $2,000 for administration (unanimous)
• Denied $3,000 contingency for PITEA (1-4-1)
• Approved $22,246 for Island Transportation System (1 abstention)
• Approved $1,000 for Fifth Maine Museum program (unanimous)
• Denied $14,826 for Clock Tower Project (0-5-1)
• Approved $2,000 for Friends of Brackett Cemetery (4-1-1)

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The Legislative & Nominating Committee will discuss legislative updates and the committee's 2022 work plan. This includes a review of LD 484, an act to change Maine's tax laws. The committee will also review the Bernstein Shur legislative tracker.

• Review of LD 484 (An Act To Change Maine’s Tax Laws)
• Review of Legislative Tracker (Bernstein Shur)
• Review of 2022 Work Plan
• Approval of March 15, 2022 meeting minutes

The Legislative & Nominating Committee voted to support LD 484, a bill to change Maine's tax laws, with the caveat that homelessness and resettlement remain the committee's top priority. They directed Bernstein Shur to discuss this support with the Appropriations Committee. The committee also reviewed the 2022 work plan and directed staff to create a 'cheat sheet' for legislators on the City's policy positions.

• Approved minutes of March 15, 2022 meeting (3-0)
• Supported LD 484 with homelessness and resettlement as top priority
• Directed Bernstein Shur to discuss support with Appropriations Committee
• Directed staff to create a 'cheat sheet' for legislators on City policy positions
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Housing & Economic Development Committee

The committee will hold a public hearing to recommend approval of the Draft 5-Year HUD Consolidated Plan and FY2023 HUD Annual Allocation Plan. The agenda includes presentations regarding a food truck plan for the Eastern Promenade and updates on the Tourism Improvement District. Members will also review purchase agreements for properties at 622 Auburn Street, 0 Gray Road, and 165 Lambert Street.

• Public hearing: HUD Consolidated Plan and FY2023 Annual Allocation Plan
• Presentation on Eastern Promenade Food Truck Plan
• Update on Tourism Improvement District
• Purchase and Sale Agreement for 622 Auburn Street and 0 Gray Road, Falmouth
• Amendment to Purchase and Sale Agreement for 165 Lambert Street

The Housing and Economic Development Committee voted 3-0 to forward the draft 5-Year HUD Consolidated Plan and FY 2023 Annual Action Plan to the City Council with a recommendation for approval. The Committee also voted 3-0 to recommend approval of a Purchase and Sale Agreement for City-owned property at 622 Auburn Street and 0 Gray Road, Falmouth, and to recommend approval of an amendment to the Purchase and Sale Agreement for 165 Lambert Street, extending the due diligence period from 13 to 25 months. The Committee discussed but took no formal action on a food truck plan for the Eastern Promenade and a proposed Tourism Improvement District.

• Approved March 1, 2022 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Forwarded 5-Year HUD Consolidated Plan and FY2023 Annual Allocation Plan to City Council with recommendation for approval (3-0)
• Forwarded Purchase and Sale Agreement for 622 Auburn Street and 0 Gray Road, Falmouth to City Council with recommendation for approval (3-0)
• Forwarded amendment to Purchase and Sale Agreement for 165 Lambert Street to City Council with recommendation for approval (3-0)
• Adjourned at 8:13 p.m. (3-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a workshop regarding a 120-unit affordable residential development at 57 Douglass Street. A public hearing is also scheduled to consider converting lodging rooms into four apartments at 94 Portland Street. An item for 716 Stevens Avenue has been postponed.

• 120-unit affordable residential development proposal at 57 Douglass Street
• Conversion of lodging rooms into four apartment units at 94 Portland Street
• Postponed zoning map and text amendment for 716 Stevens Avenue

City Council

The City Council is conducting the first reading and public hearing for a five-year consolidated plan with an estimated budget of $6,005,657. This plan allocates funds for programs including CDBG, HOME, and the Emergency Solutions Grant Program. The agenda also includes several board appointments and various business license applications.

• First reading/hearing for the 2022-2026 Five-Year Consolidated Plan and Annual Action Plan
• Approval of $1,826 in forfeited assets from drug investigations for police use
• Appointment of various members to city boards including Parks Commission and Land Bank Commission
• New business license applications for Bread and Olive LLC and Urban Farm Fermentory LLC
• Agreement with MaineDOT for Forest Avenue paving and curb ramp updates

Emergency Shelter Assessment Committee

The committee will review February shelter bed usage statistics and receive a hotel update. The meeting includes a presentation on the proposed 2022-2023 ESG budget. Updates regarding ARPA funding and the Cumberland County Homeless Response Service Hub are also scheduled.

• Proposed 2022-2023 ESG budget
• February shelter bed usage statistics
• Update on local ARPA funding directions
• Cumberland County Homeless Response Service Hub update
• Federal, State, and Local legislation update

The Emergency Shelter Assessment Committee approved the proposed $164,857 Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) budget unanimously. They also voted to send a letter to the City of Lewiston urging expedient exploration of homelessness issues amid a proposed shelter moratorium. The committee discussed the upcoming closure of the Days Inn and Comfort Inn, which will displace about 300 single adults at the end of May, and heard updates on CDBG funding recommendations, United Way hub selections, and legislative activity.

• Approved $164,857 ESG budget unanimously
• Approved motion to send letter to Lewiston urging expedient exploration of homelessness (none opposed)
• Approved January meeting minutes (none opposed)

Portland Development Corporation

The Portland Development Corporation Board will review and vote on a $2,500 COVID-19 Microenterprise Grant application for Dylan Suhr d/b/a Lotus Maine. The Board is also scheduled to vote on the ARPA Microenterprise Grant Program Guidelines. Additionally, the meeting includes a review of the February 28, 2022, Treasurer's Report.

• $2,500 COVID-19 Microenterprise Grant application for Dylan Suhr d/b/a Lotus Maine
• Vote on ARPA Microenterprise Grant Program Guidelines
• Approval of February 24, 2022, meeting minutes
• Review of Treasurer's Report including administrative budget and loans

Public Art Committee

The committee is discussing progress on several public art projects, including the Congress Square Park redesign and the placement of the PINECONE Plinth at Deering Oaks. Members are reviewing budget estimates for the 'Gathering Stones' installation and addressing conservation needs for existing works. The meeting also covers upcoming committee appointments and temporary art applications.

• $5,000 estimated budget for a two-day 'Gathering Stones' installation
• Congress Square Park redesign Phase B includes public art by Sarah Sze
• Recommendation of five individuals for committee appointments at the March 21 meeting
• Establishment of a review panel for temporary art in Payson Park

Historic Preservation Board

The Historic Preservation Board will hold a public hearing regarding exterior alterations at 482 Congress Street. The meeting also includes preliminary reviews of proposed construction at Western Cemetery and 185 Commercial Street.

• Public hearing for exterior alterations at 482 Congress Street
• Preliminary review of a proposed toolshed at Western Cemetery
• Preliminary review of new construction at 185 Commercial Street

Charter Commission

The Charter Commission will discuss and vote on a proposal regarding school board vacancies based on a memo from Attorney Katsiaficas. The commission will also review the March 3, 2022, draft meeting minutes.

• Vote on School Board Vacancy proposal
• Approval of March 3, 2022 draft minutes

Charter Commission

The Charter Commission will discuss proposals regarding the basic structure of Portland's government. The Elections Committee will also present a Council Redistricting proposal for a first reading. Additionally, the commission will hold a general discussion regarding costs and government spending.

• Deliberation on governance model reforms
• First read of Council Redistricting proposal
• Discussion on government costs and spending
• Review of March 9, 2022 meeting minutes

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The Legislative & Nominating Committee met remotely and approved the minutes from the March 1, 2022 meeting. They discussed several legislative items, including a letter on LD 1945 (biometric identifiers) and expressed support for a stakeholder group or study. The committee also asked Bernstein Shur to alert the Portland Delegation about concerns with LD 1446 (concealed handgun permits). The only formal decision was the unanimous nomination of Sherry Musgrave to the Parks Commission.

• Approved minutes of March 1, 2022 meeting (3-0)
• Nominated Sherry Musgrave to Parks Commission (3-0)

City Council

The City Manager Search Subcommittee will meet to approve minutes from the February 24, 2022, meeting. The committee will also receive an update on the City Clerk posting and review five RFP packets.

• Approval of February 24, 2022, minutes
• Update on City Clerk posting
• Review of five RFP packets

Land Bank Commission

The commission will consider a purchase contract for Redlon Woods and an action item regarding the 165 Sheridan Site Plan. The agenda also includes a review of HP Parcel 15 and updates on the Hale Parcel.

• Approval of purchase contract for Redlon Woods
• Action item for 165 Sheridan Site Plan
• Review of HP Parcel 15
• Update on Hale Parcel City Council outcome

The Land Bank Commission voted 5-4 against recommending the use of soil nails for the approved development at 165 Sheridan St, meaning pile drivers will be used instead. The Commission unanimously approved the purchase contract for the Berry Properties in Redlon Woods. No formal action was taken on creating a High Priority Parcel Committee, which will be formalized next month.

• Denied soil nail recommendation for 165 Sheridan St (5-4)
• Approved purchase contract for Berry Properties in Redlon Woods (unanimous)
• No formal action on High Priority Parcel Committee; to be formalized next month

Sustainability and Transportation Committee

The Sustainability and Transportation Committee will review several city initiatives. Agenda items include updates on the Harbor Dredging Project and the Portland Rapid Transit Study. The committee will also hear a presentation regarding the Complete Streets Policy.

• Harbor Dredging Project updates
• Portland Rapid Transit Study presentation
• Complete Streets Policy review
• Approval of January 12, 2022 minutes

The committee unanimously recommended that the City Council support the Portland Rapid Transit Study and request more data on its impacts. They also approved the January minutes and heard updates on the Electrify Everything! campaign, harbor dredging, and the Complete Streets Policy review.

• Approved January meeting minutes (2-0)
• Recommended council support for Portland Rapid Transit Study with additional data request (2-0)

Charter Commission

The Portland Charter Commission will hold public hearings and votes on reforms to the city's government structure, universal resident voting, and councilor pay. The commission will also conduct first readings for proposals regarding a code of ethics and participatory budgeting.

• Vote on governance model reforms
• Vote on universal resident voting proposal
• Vote on city councilor pay proposal
• First reading of Code of Ethics proposal
• First reading of Participatory Budgeting proposal

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The Legislative & Nominating Committee will discuss state bills regarding property tax exemptions for disabled veterans and housing zoning changes. The committee will also review the Governor's proposed supplemental budget and consider a letter of support for federal legislation regarding immigrant employment opportunities.

• LD 1986: Property tax exemption for permanently disabled veterans
• LD 2003: Zoning and land use study for housing opportunities
• LD 906: Clean drinking water access for Passamaquoddy Tribal Members
• Review of Governor's Proposed Supplemental Budget
• Support for Bridging the Gap for New Americans Act (S. 3157)

The Portland Legislative & Nominating Committee voted unanimously to submit testimony in support of several state bills, including LD 2003 (housing opportunities), LD 906 (clean drinking water for Passamaquoddy tribal members), LD 1673 (support for legislation), and to send a letter of support for LD 1945. They also approved testimony neither for nor against LD 1986 (property tax exemption for disabled veterans) and decided the Mayor would sign a letter supporting the Bridging the Gap for New Americans Act. The meeting was procedural with no local ordinances or contracts considered.

• Approved minutes of March 1, 2022 meeting (3-0)
• Approved submitting testimony neither for nor against LD 1986 (3-0)
• Approved drafting and submission of testimony in support of LD 2003 (3-0)
• Approved drafting and submission of testimony in support of LD 906 (3-0)
• Approved creation and distribution of letter supporting LD 1945 (3-0)
• Approved completion and submittal of draft testimony in support of LD 1673 (3-0)
• Decided Mayor would sign letter supporting Bridging the Gap for New Americans Act
• Approved adjournment (3-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a workshop for 54 York Street and public hearings for several new projects. These include a three-parcel subdivision at 33 McAlister Farm Road and residential developments at 50 Exchange Street and 102 State Street.

• Subdivision of 33 McAlister Farm Road into three parcels
• Renovation of 54 York Street to include 14 dwelling units and two commercial spaces
• Conversion of floor area at 50 Exchange Street into four dwelling units
• Development of nine townhouse condominium units at 102 State Street

HHS and Public Safety Committee

The Health & Human Services and Public Safety Committee will review minutes from January and February 2022. The meeting includes updates regarding the Cumberland County Jail and overdose mapping and reporting. No action items are scheduled for this meeting.

• Review of January 11, 2022, and February 8, 2022, meeting minutes
• Cumberland County Jail updates with Sheriff Joyce
• Overdose mapping and reporting update from Fire, Police, and Public Health

Charter Commission

The Charter Commission will discuss and vote on proposals regarding a Code of Ethical Conduct and Citizen Initiatives. The meeting also includes the review and approval of minutes from the February 22, 2022, meeting.

• Vote on Code of Ethical Conduct Proposal
• Vote on Citizen Initiatives proposal
• Approval of February 22, 2022, meeting minutes

Rules and Reports Committee

The Rules and Reports Committee is meeting to review the Council Rules of Procedure. The agenda includes discussing a redline version of the rules and a proposed change to Rule 2 B by Councilor Ali. The session will also include public comment on council rules.

• Review of Council Rules of Procedure Redline
• Discussion of Councilor Ali's proposed change to Rule 2 B
• Public comment on Council Rules

The Rules Committee unanimously approved revisions to council rules, including replacing 'majority' with 'prevailing side' and 'scurrilous' with 'abusive or disrespectful'. The committee also voted 4-0 to move the non-agenda item public comment period to either the beginning or end of council meetings, leaving the final decision to the full council. A proposal to allow public comment at workshops was withdrawn after discussion.

• Approved revisions to council rules (4-0)
• Approved moving non-agenda public comment to beginning or end of meeting (4-0)
• Withdrew proposal to allow public comment at workshops
• Deferred approval of previous meeting minutes to next meeting

City Council

The Portland City Council will consider bond authorization for the Fiscal Year 2023 Capital Improvement Program and an agreement for electric vehicle charging stations. The council will also review restaurant licenses, parking changes at 101 York Street, and the renaming of Bedford Park.

• Authorization of up to $21,145,000 in bonds for the Fiscal Year 2023 Capital Improvement Program
• Agreement with EVgo Services LLC for electric vehicle charging stations at no cost to the City
• Purchase and sale agreement for property at 834 Riverside Street to be added to the Portland Land Bank
• City share of approximately $65,575 for Forest Avenue paving work in partnership with MaineDOT
• Renaming Bedford Park to Noyes Park

The Portland City Council approved a resolution expressing solidarity with Ukraine, amended to remove 'NATO member,' and passed several orders including the purchase of property at 834 Riverside Street with a $23,000 donation from Allagash Brewing Company. The council also approved a height bonus amendment for the India Street zone and an EV charging station agreement. Several items were postponed, including a Forest Avenue paving agreement and a parklet application for Black Cow.

• Approved resolution expressing solidarity with Ukraine, amended to remove 'NATO member' (8-0)
• Approved purchase and sale agreement for 834 Riverside Street, accepting $23,000 donation from Allagash Brewing (8-1, Rodriguez dissenting)
• Approved amendment to Chapter 18 renaming Bedford Park to Noyes Park (8-0)
• Approved traffic schedule amendment for 101 York Street (9-0)
• Approved height bonus amendment in India Street Form-Based Code Zone (9-0)
• Approved EV charging station agreement with EVgo Services LLC (9-0)
• Postponed Forest Avenue paving agreement to March 21, 2022 (9-0)
• Postponed Black Cow outdoor dining application to April 25, 2022 (8-0)

Parks Commission

The Portland Parks Commission will review a proposal to rename Farm Field in Payson Park to Ron A. Farr Field and discuss the 165 Sheridan St. site plan. The commission will also consider requesting that the City Council declare 2022 the 'Year of Portland Parks.' Additionally, members will receive updates on tree planting grants and Olmsted Bicentennial events.

• Renaming Farm Field in Payson Park to Ron A. Farr Field
• 165 Sheridan St. Site Plan review
• Request for 2022 to be declared 'Year of Portland Parks'
• Tree Planting ARPA Grant update
• Olmsted Bicentennial Events update

The Parks Commission voted 9 in favor with one abstention to deny the site plan request for 165 Sheridan St., recommending the City Council not approve the encroachment. The Commission also unanimously approved bringing a proposal to rename Farm Field in Payson Park to Ron A. Farr Field to the City Council, and voted to request the City Council declare 2022 the 'Year of Portland Parks'.

• Denied 165 Sheridan St. site plan encroachment request (9-0-1)
• Approved motion to bring Farm Field renaming to Ron A. Farr Field to City Council (unanimous)
• Approved motion to request City Council declare 2022 'Year of Portland Parks' (unanimous)
• Approved February 3, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Civil Service Employment Subcommittee

The Rental Housing Advisory Committee will review minutes from the December 27, 2021 meeting and plan its 2022 schedule. The committee will also discuss a new Maine law requiring fuel gas leak detectors in multi-family units and develop a work plan for the year.

• Review of December 27, 2021 meeting minutes
• Discussion of Maine's law on fuel gas leak detectors in multi-family units
• Development of the 2022 committee work plan
• Planning for 2022 committee meetings
• Discussion regarding Permitting & Inspections staff attendance

Charter Commission

The Charter Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a Council Districts Proposal sponsored by Commissioner Chann. The meeting includes committee deliberations and a period for At Large City Councilors to comment on the proposal.

• Approval of February 15, 2022, meeting minutes
• Public hearing on the Council Districts Proposal sponsored by Commissioner Chann
• Committee deliberations regarding the district proposal
• Comments from At Large City Councilors on the District Proposal

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The Legislative/Nominating Committee will conduct interviews for boards and commissions during an executive session. The committee will also approve the minutes from the February 22, 2022, meeting.

• Interviews for Boards and Commissions
• Approval of February 22, 2022, meeting minutes

Historic Preservation Board

The board will discuss the landmark designation nomination for the Burnham & Morrill Cannery Building. Members will also conduct a preliminary review of proposed building additions at 1227 Westbrook Street.

• Nomination of Burnham & Morrill Cannery Building for landmark designation
• Preliminary review of proposed building additions at 1227 Westbrook Street
• Report on approved construction at 102 State Street
• Report on tabled roofing replacement at 176 Vaughan Street

Charter Commission

The Portland Charter Commission will hold public hearings and votes on several proposals regarding school governance. These include the Houston Proposal for the School Budget Process and bonding authority for the School Board. The commission will also consider proposals for capital improvement projects and school board vacancies.

• Public hearing and vote on Houston Proposal for School Budget Process
• Public hearing and vote on proposal for Bonding Authority for School Board
• Public hearing and vote on Capital Improvement Projects proposal
• Public hearing and vote on School Board Vacancies proposal

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The Legislative & Nominating Committee will discuss several Maine legislative bills and review draft testimony for remote meeting laws. The committee also plans to review the Governor's proposed supplemental budget and a regional housing report.

• Public hearing for LD 1899 regarding healthcare access
• Discussion of LD 1673 regarding affordable housing permit processes
• Review of draft testimony for 1772 regarding remote meeting laws
• Public hearing for LD 1986 regarding property tax exemptions for disabled veterans
• Review of the Governor's proposed supplemental budget

Housing & Economic Development Committee

The Housing & Economic Development Committee will review minutes from the February 15, 2022 meeting. The agenda includes a presentation on the Age Friendly Portland program and a discussion regarding TIF funds for workforce training. The committee will also discuss the 2022 Work Plan and Minimum Wage Ordinance amendments.

• Approval of February 15, 2022 meeting minutes
• Presentation on Age Friendly Portland and the Portland Age Friendly Business Program
• Discussion on using TIF funds for workforce training
• Review of 2022 Work Plan and Schedule
• Communication regarding Minimum Wage Ordinance amendments

The Housing and Economic Development Committee voted unanimously to accept the February 15, 2022 meeting minutes. The committee expressed full support for Portland Adult Education's $200,000 TIF workforce training funding request for FY2023, which includes new programs like ESOL for low-level English speakers and a clean energy training partnership with PATHS. No formal vote was taken on the TIF request; staff will relay the committee's support to the Finance Director. The committee also discussed but took no action on a possible minimum wage ordinance amendment and additional TIF funding for Creative Portland.

• Approved February 15, 2022 draft meeting minutes (4-0)
• Expressed full support for $200,000 TIF workforce training request for FY2023 (no formal vote)
• Adjourned at 7:05 p.m. (4-0)

Ad Hoc Committee

The Pesticide Management Advisory Committee will review the January 31st minutes and discuss the PMAC Annual Report. The meeting also includes member updates and discussion regarding educational events.

• Review and approval of January 31st minutes
• PMAC Annual Report
• Educational events

Rules and Reports Committee

The committee will review a draft redline regarding potential changes to Council Rules. Members will also approve the minutes from the February 7, 2022 meeting and hold a session for public comment on the rules.

• Approval of February 7, 2022 meeting minutes
• Review of draft redline for Council Rule changes
• Public comment on Council Rules

The Rules Committee approved several changes to City Council rules, including replacing 'majority' with 'the prevailing side' in Rule 19 and substituting 'abusive or disrespectful' for 'scurrilous' in Rule 32. The committee decided against allowing questions directed at individual councilors and agreed to require public commenters to state their first and last name and city of residence. Discussion on moving non-agenda public comment timing and further rule changes was deferred to the next meeting.

• Approved minutes of February 7, 2022 meeting (4-0)
• Approved Rule 19 change from 'majority' to 'the prevailing side'
• Approved Rule 32 language change to 'abusive or disrespectful'
• Rejected allowing questions directed at individual councilors
• Agreed public commenters must provide first and last name and city of residence
• Deferred discussion on moving non-agenda public comment timing to next meeting

Portland Fish Pier Authority

The Board will elect a new President following the departure of Nick Mavodones. Members will also review a term sheet for potential lease amendments regarding Lot 2 of the pier. Additionally, staff will provide updates on CARES Act funding and berthing agreements.

• Election of a new Board President
• Review of Marine Trade Center lease amendment term sheet for Lot 2
• Discussion of potential infrastructure funding via the CARES Act
• Update on monthly berthing agreement revisions
• Approval of December 13, 2021, meeting minutes

City Council

The City Council will consider a three-year contract for AFSCME supervisors that includes wage increases and a total direct cost of approximately $370,000. The agenda also covers the creation of a committee to redraw precinct lines and several infrastructure and zoning items.

• Three-year labor contract for AFSCME supervisors with $370,000 in direct costs
• Creation of a Re-Apportionment Committee to redraw precinct lines
• Purchase of 834 Riverside Street using a $23,000 donation from Allagash Brewing Company
• Agreement for Forest Avenue paving with a $65,575 municipal share
• Zoning amendment for a height bonus in the India Street Form-Based Code Zone

City Council

The subcommittee will review, finalize, and vote on the City Clerk job description and job posting. The meeting also includes a discussion regarding the process for reviewing and finalizing the RFP for the City Manager search.

• Vote to approve final City Clerk job description
• Vote on City Clerk job posting
• Discussion of the RFP process for the City Manager search

Portland Development Corporation

The Portland Development Corporation board approved a $200,000 Brownfields loan to Forefront Commons I, LLC for remediation of Lot 13 on Thompson's Point, after a 7-0 vote following executive session. The board also accepted the January 20, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0-2) and the January 31, 2022 treasurer's report (7-0). No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved $200,000 Brownfields loan to Forefront Commons I, LLC for Thompson's Point cleanup (7-0)
• Accepted January 20, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0-2, Dowd and Hicklin abstained)
• Accepted January 31, 2022 treasurer's report (7-0)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will hold a public hearing and potential vote on the City Manager's recommended Capital Improvement Plan. The committee will also review key dates for the FY23 budget calendar.

• Public hearing and potential vote on the recommended Capital Improvement Plan
• Review of the FY23 budget calendar and upcoming key dates

The Finance Committee held a public hearing on the City Manager's recommended Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) and voted to recommend the funding appropriation and bond authorization to the full City Council. The motion passed unanimously (3-0). No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting adjourned immediately after.

• Recommended CIP funding appropriation and bond authorization to City Council (3-0)

Rent Board

The Rent Board will review decision forms for rent increases at 655 Congress St, 69 Woodmont St, and 179 Capisic St. The meeting also includes public comment periods for proposed rent increases at 68 Walton St and 89 Irving St.

• Rent increase appeal decision for 655 Congress St
• Rent increase application decisions for 69 Woodmont St and 179 Capisic St
• Public comment on rent increase at 68 Walton St, Units 2-5
• Public comment on rent increase at 89 Irving St, Unit 1 & 2

Charter Commission

The Charter Commission will workshop reforms to Portland's government structure. The meeting includes a public hearing and vote on an amended police oversight proposal, alongside presentations regarding ranked choice voting, councilor pay, and resident voting.

• Workshop on governance models for city government structure
• Public hearing and vote on Amended Police Oversight Proposal
• First read of Councilor Pay and code of ethics proposal
• First read of Universal Resident Voting proposal
• Approval of February 9, 2022 meeting minutes