Portland public meetings in 2023

Rent Board

The Rent Board will conduct public comment hearings regarding several rent increase applications. The agenda includes new business for one property and unfinished business for five others.

• Rent increase application: 55 Sherman St, units 2-7
• Rent increase application: 19 Parris St, Units 1-9
• Rent increase application: 20 Melbourne St, all 7 units
• Rent increase application: 40-42 West St, all 12 units
• Rent increase application: 55 William St, all 12 units and 60 Carleton St, all 4 units

Emergency Shelter Assessment Committee

The committee will review November 2023 shelter bed usage statistics and receive updates on the Harbor View encampment. Discussion topics also include Hub 2, winter planning, and the Providing for Unhoused People with Pets Act of 2023.

• November 2023 monthly shelter bed usage statistics
• Update on resolution of the Harbor View encampment
• Hub 2 update
• Review of Providing for Unhoused People with Pets Act of 2023

Public Art Committee

The committee will review several quotes for public art conservation, including glass replacement and statue repairs. Discussion includes a potential art site at 654 Riverside Street for the Portland Homeless Service Center. Staff will also provide updates on the public art fund balance and the Tidal Moon incident report.

• Port City Glass quote of $1,223.90 for Jewell Box glass replacement
• Taggart Objects Conservation quotes for statue repairs ranging from $1,300 to $1,500
• Potential art site consideration at 654 Riverside Street for the Portland Homeless Service Center
• $3,000 quote for evaluating East Bayside mural removal process
• Maine Med community art grant at Lowell Street Park

Peaks Island Council

The council will review committee updates on topics including ferry service, parking, and housing zoning. Members will also be sworn in and 2024 officers will be nominated. Public comment is invited regarding the FY2025 budget process and Ryefield St paper road/public right-of-way.

• Swearing-in of new Peaks Island councilors
• Nominating 2024 PIC officers
• Review of FY2025 budget process
• Ryefield St paper road/public right-of-way discussion
• Housing and Zoning ReCode recommendations

City Council

The Portland City Council will consider proposals for two affordable housing developments at Auburn Street and Douglass Street, including a $1.5 million appropriation and tax increment financing. The council will also review zoning map amendments to change commercial designations near Bates Street and Woodford Street. Additional items include routine 2024 appointments for constables and board members, plus committee reports on housing accomplishments and encampment policies.

• Order 80-23/24 & 81-23/24: Approve purchase agreement amendment and tax increment financing averaging $123,504 annually for 72 affordable rental units at 622 Auburn Street.
• Order 83-23/24: Appropriating $1,500,000 from the Jill C. Duson Housing Trust Fund for 20 condominiums at 43 & 91 Douglass Street.
• Order 61-23/24: Zoning map amendment to B-2b Community Business for parcels near Washington Avenue, Bates Street, and Veranda Street.
• Order 84-23/24: Zoning map amendment changing 182 Woodford Street Rear and 186 Woodford Street from residential/mixed zones to B-2 Community Business.
• Order 88-23/24: Appointing constables for the Fire Department, Police Department, Parking Division, and Portland Housing Authority for 2024.

Ad Hoc Committee

The committee will elect a Chair and Vice Chair for the upcoming term. Members will also receive an overview of the CDBG program, review the meeting schedule, and undergo training from a Neighborly representative.

• Vote on Committee Chair and Vice Chair
• Introduction of new scoring process
• Training from Neighborly Representative

Portland Development Corporation

The Board will review previous meeting minutes and receive staff updates regarding marketing and outreach. The agenda includes a vote on a microenterprise grant application and a review of the November treasurer's report.

• Review and vote on APRA Microenterprise Grant Program application for 4 Men Barbershop, LLC ($5,000)
• Review of November 2023 Monthly Administrative Budget Report
• Review of November 2023 Cash Management Report
• Review of November 2023 Schedule of Loans Receivable
• Review of November 2023 Confidential Delinquency Report

Rent Board

The Rent Board will hear a public comment regarding a rent increase appeal for 59 State Street. The board will also review written findings of fact and conclusions of law from the November 29, 2023 decisions.

• Rent Increase Appeal: Scott D. Gallant (Trelawny Tenants Union) vs. 59 State Street LLC
• Appeal location: 59 State St Apt 24-25
• Approval of Written Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law from November 29, 2023 decisions
• Discussion of MNOI Updates

Land Bank Commission

The commission will review the draft of its Annual Report and discuss a joint statement regarding encampments. The meeting also includes updates on high priority parcels, recruitment for commission seats, and the Juniper Street trailhead.

• Discussion of Encampment Joint Statement
• Approval of Annual Report Draft
• High Priority Parcels update
• Juniper Street trailhead update
• Recruitment to Land Bank Seats

Police Citizen Review Subcommittee

The subcommittee will meet to discuss increasing public interest and attendance in its work. The agenda also includes an update on the new Civil Police Review Board ordinance.

• Approval of November 8, 2023 minutes
• Executive session to discuss IA2023-009, IA2023-014, IA2023-015, and IA2023-016
• Update on the new Civil Police Review Board ordinance

Planning Board

The Portland Planning Board reported final decisions from its November 28 meeting, including approving a conditional use at 75 Oak Street and tabling a hearing for 2 West Commercial Street indefinitely. At this December 12 session, the board will hold public hearings to consider major site plan applications for three new developments. These proposals include converting an existing downtown office building into apartments and a hotel, constructing a five-unit residential building in the West End, and subdividing a parcel on Eighth Street with street improvements.

• Public hearing on a major site plan for 477 Congress Street to convert the Time and Temperature Building into 140 apartments, a 136-room hotel, and retail space.
• Public hearing on a major site plan at 15 Crescent Street for a three-story building with five residential units and ground-level parking.
• Public hearing on a subdivision application at 66 Eighth Street to create three lots, extend Eighth Street, and upgrade utilities.
• Report of decisions from the November 28 meeting, including approval of conditional use at 75 Oak Street (7-0) and indefinite tabling for 2 West Commercial Street (6-0).
• Planning Board officer elections.

Ad Hoc Committee

The committee will review its public meeting rules and official duties under City Ordinance 6-225. Members will also discuss the future of the committee, including potential work plan items or dissolution.

• Review of City Ordinance 6-225 regarding committee charge and duties
• Discussion of February 21, 2023 Housing and Economic Development Committee
• Discussion of next steps and potential committee dissolution

Portland Fish Pier Authority

The Portland Fish Pier Authority is reviewing the status of a proposed merger with the Portland Fish Exchange. The board will also consider authorizing additional legal funds for the merger and discussing interest in developing Lot 1-1.

• Authorization of up to $10,000 for merger completion and employment law services
• Review of expression of interest for potential development of Lot 1-1
• Financial update for December 2023
• Facilities update regarding pier condition assessment by TEC Associates

City Council

The City Council is holding a workshop focused on annual goal setting. The meeting is scheduled for December 11, 2023, at 5:00 PM.

• Annual Goal Setting

Parks Commission

The Parks Commission will meet to discuss the annual report and explore a statement on parks. The agenda also includes updates on the Green Space Gathering, the Outreach Committee, and the Land Bank Commission.

• Approval of November 2, 2023 meeting minutes
• Review of Annual Report for approval
• Discussion of Green Space Gathering
• Land Bank Commission report

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a remote public hearing regarding several land use appeals. Items include an interpretation appeal concerning pavement setbacks at 90 Blueberry Road and multiple conditional use requests for sheltered care group homes.

• Interpretation Appeal (ZBA-002743-2023): Pavement setback dispute at 90 Blueberry Road
• Conditional Use Appeal (CU-002736-2023): Sheltered care group home at 1582 Forest Ave
• Conditional Use Appeal (CU-002740-2023): Sheltered care group home at 99 Concord St
• Conditional Use Appeal (CU-002741-2023): Sheltered care group home at 85 Pleasant Ave
• Conditional Use Appeal (CU-002738-2023): Sheltered care group home at 251 Pleasant Ave

Historic Preservation Board

The board will elect a new Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson. The meeting includes public hearings for proposed alterations on Morning Street and a review of an administrative appeal for 14 Orchard Street.

• Election of new Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson
• Public hearing for proposed alterations at 25 Morning Street
• Public hearing for carriage house rehabilitation at 86 Morning Street
• Review of administrative appeal for 14 Orchard Street
• Workshop regarding B&M Cannery Building rehabilitation

Ad Hoc Committee

The committee will review previous meeting minutes from May 2nd and August 1st. The agenda includes a recap of the Deering Oaks event and discussions regarding sustainability office outreach and local ordinances.

• Review and approve May 2nd minutes
• Review and approve August 1st minutes
• Recap Deering Oaks Event
• Review and update Sustainability Office Outreach
• Updates on legislation and local ordinances

City Council

The City Council will conduct its inaugural meeting following the November 7, 2023 election. The session includes the administration of oaths of office to newly elected officials and several items regarding council organization.

• Swearing-in of newly elected Mayor Mark Dion and City Councilors
• Order 73-23/24: Appointing Councilor Pious Ali as Mayor Pro Tempore
• Order 74-23/24: Establishing the City Council Rules Committee
• Order 75-23/24: Appointing City Council Standing Committees and Library Trustee
• Resolve 5-23/24: Adopting Council Rules of Procedure for 2023-2024

City Council

The City Council is considering several housing projects, including a 72-unit development at 622 Auburn Street and a 20-unit project at Douglass Street. The agenda also includes zoning map amendments for Woodford Street and text amendments to comply with state law LD 2003.

• Transfer of $3,823.00 in forfeited assets to the Portland Police Department
• 72-unit affordable housing development at 622 Auburn Street and 0 Gray Road
• $1,500,000 in Housing Trust Funds for Dougherty Commons Condominiums
• Zoning map amendment for 182 and 186 Woodford Street
• LD 2003 Land Use Code text amendments

Rent Board

The Rent Board will review several rent increase applications for residential properties. The meeting includes public comment periods for these applications and a discussion of the annual report update.

• Rent increase application: 13 Montreal St, Units 1-8
• Rent increase application: 19 Montreal St, Units 1-8 & B
• Rent increase application: 25-27 Montreal St, Units 1-8
• Rent increase application: 304 Eastern Prom, Units 1-8
• Rent increase application: 63 Grant St, Units 1-6

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 75-minute community Q&A session.

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

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a workshop regarding the historic designation of 142 Free Street. Public hearings are scheduled to consider site plans for 2 West Commercial Street and 19 Willis Street. The board will also review a conditional use application for a commercial kitchen at 75 Oak Street.

• Historic preservation reclassification for 142 Free Street
• Site plan for container racks at 2 West Commercial Street
• Conditional use for a commercial kitchen at 75 Oak Street
• Findings of fact for 19 Willis Street residential building

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The committee will conduct interviews for various boards and commissions. The agenda also includes a discussion regarding the Land Bank Committee.

• Interviews for Boards and Commissions
• Land Bank Committee Discussion

City Council

The City Council will consider several items including a zoning map amendment for Ocean Avenue and the appropriation of $875,000 in asset forfeiture funds to the Portland Police Department. Other business includes proposed changes to city code regarding camping on public property and an extension of the police superior officers' contract.

• Zoning map amendment for 900 Ocean Avenue and adjacent parcels
• Appropriation of $875,000 in asset forfeiture funds to the Portland Police Department
• Amendments to City Code regarding camping and loitering on public property
• One-year extension of the collective bargaining agreement with Portland Police Superior Officers Association
• Acceptance of a $2,000 donation from OldCastle Lawn & Garden, Inc. for Shop with a Cop

Emergency Shelter Assessment Committee

The committee will review October shelter bed usage statistics and receive updates on encampments and Hub 2. The agenda also includes discussions regarding winter planning and the Providing for Unhoused People with Pets Act of 2023.

• October shelter bed usage statistics
• City Council encampment update
• Hub 2 update
• Winter planning discussion
• Review of the PUPP Act of 2023

Portland Development Corporation

The Board will review proposed amendments to the ARPA Microenterprise Grant Program Guidelines. Members will also vote on two $5,000 grant applications and a recommendation for a Community Development Block Grant letter of support.

• Proposed amendments to the ARPA Microenterprise Grant Program Guidelines
• $5,000 ARPA Microenterprise Grant application: Rewild Maine, 111 Sheridan Street, #3
• $5,000 ARPA Microenterprise Grant application: Still Life Studio, LLC, 222 St. John St., Ste 142
• Recommendation for James Dowd to execute Letter of Support for the Community Development Block Grant Application
• Appointment of Gregory P. Watson as Assistant Secretary to the PDC Board

City Council

Councilor Andrew Zarro is hosting the District 4 annual meeting. The agenda features presentations on CDBG grants and city communications, followed by a community Q&A session.

• CDBG Grant Information presentation
• City Communications Information presentation
• Community Q&A session
• Introduction of Councilor-Elect

Public Art Committee

The Portland Public Art Committee will review staff updates on city-funded art projects, discuss the FY24 budget and annual report, and evaluate potential locations for new installations. These items determine how municipal funds are allocated to public spaces and guide future artwork placements across the city.

• Finalize contract amendment #3 with Sarah Sze Studio and MOU with Friends of Congress Square Park
• Review FY24 budget and FY23 annual report
• Evaluate maintenance costs for the Gathering Stones installation by Jesse Salisbury
• Consider a potential art site at 654 Riverside Street (Portland Homeless Service Center)
• Approve emergency glass repair for the Jewell Box and review Lowell Street Park grant application

Historic Preservation Board

The Board will conduct a public hearing regarding an administrative appeal for alterations at 14 Orchard Street. The agenda also includes a certificate of appropriateness for roofing replacement at 184 State Street.

• Public hearing: Administrative Appeal for alterations to noncontributing garage at 14 Orchard Street
• Certificate of Appropriateness for roofing replacement at 184 State Street

City Council

This workshop agenda is limited to a motion for an executive session. The session will focus on the City Manager's employment and duties.

• Motion for executive session regarding City Manager's employment and duties

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a workshop to consider redeveloping a medical office building into five residential units and two duplexes at 19 West Street. A public hearing is also scheduled for 19 Willis Street regarding findings of fact related to court orders. Two other major site plan applications were tabled at the request of applicants.

• Workshop: Redevelopment of 19 West Street into residential units and duplexes
• Public hearing: Findings of fact for 19 Willis Street
• Tabled: Major site plan for 2 West Commercial Street
• Tabled: Major site plan for 246 Eastern Promenade

HHS and Public Safety Committee

The Health & Human Services and Public Safety Committee will discuss updates on warming centers and the Homeless Winter Emergency Response Plan. The committee will also receive updates regarding Harborview and other encampments. Members will review and approve minutes from October 2023.

• Updates on the Homeless Winter Emergency Response Plan
• Updates on Harborview and other encampments
• Review and approval of October 2023 meeting minutes

Housing & Economic Development Committee

The committee will review a recommendation for an affordable housing development subsidy at 57 Douglas Street. Members will also review the 2023 Annual Accomplishment Report.

• Affordable Housing Development Subsidy for 57 Douglas Street (Dougherty Commons Condo)
• Review of the 2023 Annual Accomplishment Report

City Council

The City Council will meet to consider several items including the appointment of a new Housing & Economic Development Director and an emergency declaration for Riverside Street. The agenda also includes a resolution supporting state-level gun regulations and a proposal for a sister city relationship with Garissa, Kenya.

• Appointment of Gregory Watson as Housing & Economic Development Director at $138,960.00
• Liquor license application for Argenta Brewing Company at 82 Hanover Street
• Resolution supporting an assault rifle ban and gun regulations in Maine
• Reconsideration of emergency declaration for 654 Riverside Street to increase shelter beds by 50
• Municipal Development Program for Riverton Park Affordable Housing involving $1,500,000 in funding

City Council

Councilor Regina Phillips will host the District 3 Annual Meeting. The agenda includes presentations on CDBG Grant Information and City Communications Information. A community Q&A session is scheduled to follow the presentations.

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

Land Bank Commission

The commission will review the Wayneflete Property Open Space and Davis Family Pines as part of a high priority parcel review. The meeting also includes discussion regarding a Kayak Dock and reports from the Parks Division and Parks Commission.

• High Priority Parcel Review: Wayneflete Property Open Space
• High Priority Parcel Review: Davis Family Pines
• Old Business: Kayak Dock
• Parks Division Report
• Parks Commission Report

Police Citizen Review Subcommittee

The subcommittee will hold an executive session to discuss IA2023-011 and three postponed votes. Members will also discuss increasing public awareness of the subcommittee’s work and receive an update on the new Civil Police Review Board ordinance.

• Executive session regarding IA2023-011 and three postponed votes
• Update on the new Civil Police Review Board ordinance
• Approval of October 11, 2023 minutes
• Discussion on increasing public interest in subcommittee meetings

Parks Commission

The Commission will review the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) update and accept minutes from the October 5, 2023, meeting. Discussion includes a presentation on Portland Trails and reviews of commission responsibilities, goals, and processes.

• CIP Update
• Portland Trails Presentation
• Commission Responsibilities and Goals
• Land Bank Commission Report
• Green Space Gathering

Creative Portland Corporation

The Board of Directors will vote on the September financials and a new officer slate for 2023/24. The meeting includes updates on community discussions, public art at 52 Hanover Street, and economic activity results.

• Vote to accept October minutes and September Financials
• Vote to approve 2023/24 officer slate including Kate Anker, Eliza Ginn, and David Brenerman
• Public Art by Clint Fulkerson at the Armature, 52 Hanover Street on 11/3
• AEP6 results reporting $86 million in Portland economic activity

Historic Preservation Board

The board will hold public hearings regarding the reclassification of 142 Free Street and new construction at 1168 Westbrook Street. A workshop is also scheduled to review a shared use pathway at 61 Park Avenue. The meeting includes reports on decisions made during the October 18 meeting.

• Proposed reclassification of 142 Free Street as noncontributing in Congress Street Historic District
• Certificate of Appropriateness for new construction at 1168 Westbrook Street
• Preliminary review of a shared use pathway at 61 Park Avenue (Deering Oaks Park)
• Report on approved applications for 73 Newbury Street, 84 Commercial Street, and 192 Danforth Street

City Council

This meeting consists of presentations from city staff followed by a community Q&A session. Staff will present information regarding CDBG grants and city communications.

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

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The Legislative/Nominating Committee will discuss LD 1896, which relates to indexing workers' compensation benefits to inflation. The committee will also review staff testimony regarding priorities for opioid settlement funds.

• Discussion of LD 1896 (Workers' Compensation Benefits)
• Review of Committee on Health and Human Services work session from Oct. 25
• Review of staff testimony regarding top priorities for opioid settlement funds

City Council

The City Council will receive a communication regarding transitional housing and private shelter expansion incentives. The meeting also includes a staff presentation and Q&A session concerning 900 Ocean Avenue.

• Communication on transitional housing and private shelter expansion incentives
• Staff presentation regarding 900 Ocean Avenue
• Executive Session to discuss contracts with Portland Police Benevolent Association and Portland Police Superior Officers Association

Portland Fish Pier Authority

The Portland Fish Pier Authority board is meeting to review and potentially recommend a merger with the Portland Fish Exchange, following a subcommittee's unanimous vote to approve draft bylaws and a plan of merger. The board will also discuss financial updates, facilities, CARES funding, and a request for budget deficit reimbursement. The final decision on the merger rests with the Portland City Council.

• Approval of August 21, 2023 meeting minutes
• Financial update presented by Bill Needelman
• Facilities update by Phil DiPierro
• CARES I/CARES II funding update
• Request for budget deficit reimbursement and funds for joint ice machine project

Rent Board

The Portland Rent Board is meeting to discuss routine business, including approving minutes from September 27, 2023, and receiving a staff memo. They will also review the annual Rent Board report and hold a public comment session on a rent increase application for 655 Congress St, owned by Trelawny 657 LLC.

• Public comment on rent increase application for 655 Congress St (Trelawny 657 LLC)
• Annual Rent Board Report update
• Approval of September 27, 2023 minutes
• Staff memo

City Council

This is the District 2 annual meeting hosted by Councilor Victoria Pelletier, held remotely via Zoom. The agenda includes presentations from city staff on Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) information and city communications, followed by a 75-minute community Q&A session. No formal decisions or votes are scheduled; it is primarily an informational and engagement session.

• CDBG Grant Information presentation by Mary Davis, Acting Director of Housing & Economic Development
• City Communications Information presentation by Jessica Grondin, Director of Communications & Digital Services
• Community Q&A session with Councilor Pelletier

Portland Development Corporation

The Portland Development Corporation Board will review and vote on 50 applications for the ARPA Microenterprise Grant Program, with each request seeking a $5,000 grant. The meeting is held remotely via Zoom and does not require public comment. The Board will also accept the September 21, 2023 minutes and review the September 2023 Treasurer's Report, including a confidential delinquency report that may be discussed in executive session.

• Vote on 50 applications for $5,000 ARPA Microenterprise Grants
• Review and accept Minutes of September 21, 2023 Board meeting
• Treasurer's Report for September 2023 including Administrative Budget and Cash Management
• Confidential Delinquency Report subject to potential executive session
• Staff update on marketing and outreach

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Portland Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a remote public hearing on October 19, 2023, to consider a conditional use appeal for off-street parking at a funeral home at 300 Allen Ave. The applicant, Allen Avenue Ventures, LLC, seeks approval under Section 14-6.5.6(H) in R-5 and R-P zones. Public comment can be submitted live via Zoom or in writing by noon the day before.

• Conditional Use Appeal CU-002654-2023 for 300 Allen Ave
• Off-street parking for a funeral home under Section 14-6.5.6(H)
• Owner: Allen Avenue Ventures, LLC; representative Doug Reynolds
• Remote meeting via Zoom, webinar ID 84345772977

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The Legislative/Nominating Committee will review proposed changes to Maine EMS Rules (Chapter 21). The agenda also includes a review of carry over bills and a discussion regarding general assistance.

• Proposed Maine EMS Rules Change (Chapter 21)
• Review of carry over bills
• General assistance discussion
• Approval of September 19, 2023, meeting minutes

HHS and Public Safety Committee

The committee will review a staff presentation regarding the cold weather plan for winter. Members will also discuss encampments, including ECRT updates and recommendations from Preble Street. Additionally, the committee will review its work plan covering public health, social services, and public safety staffing.

• Staff presentation on cold weather plan for winter
• ECRT updates and Preble Street recommendations regarding encampments
• Review of work plan topics including safe injection sites and dispatch center staffing

City Council

The Portland City Council will reconsider an emergency declaration to add 50 beds at the Riverside Street homeless services center. The agenda also includes $1,684,816 in loans for school renovations and updates to city parking regulations. Additionally, several board appointments and business license applications are up for consideration.

• Reconsideration of emergency declaration for 50 additional beds at 654 Riverside Street
• Authorization of $1,684,816 in loans from the School Revolving Renovation Fund
• Amendments to city parking regulations and a new $500 penalty for boot tampering
• Approval of the C-PACE clean energy funding program
• Business license applications for Bayou Kitchen, Oxbow Brewing, Thistle and Grouse, and Mesa Grande Taqueria

Land Bank Commission

The commission will review the September 13, 2023, meeting minutes and discuss new business regarding Juniper Street Parcels. The agenda also includes reports from Parks and the Land Bank Commission.

• Discussion of Juniper Street Parcels
• Acceptance of September 13, 2023, meeting minutes
• Parks Report
• Land Bank Commission Report

Police Citizen Review Subcommittee

The subcommittee will meet virtually to conduct business including the approval of previous minutes. The meeting includes an introduction and Q&A with Chief Mark Dubois.

• Approval of August 9, 2023 minutes
• Introduction and Q&A with Chief Mark Dubois
• Executive session to discuss IA2023-005, IA2023-007, IA2023-008, IA2023-010, and IA2023-011

Planning Board

The board will hold a workshop on zoning text amendments intended to implement State Bill LD 2003, which aims to reduce barriers to new housing. The meeting also includes a public hearing for rezoning 202 Woodford Street to facilitate affordable rental housing. Additionally, the board will consider a major site plan for a new 60,630 square foot warehouse at 180 Read Street.

• Workshop on zoning text amendments regarding density, parking, and accessory dwelling units
• Rezoning request for 202 Woodford Street to B-2 Community Business
• Major site plan for a new 60,630 square foot warehouse at 180 Read Street
• Report of decision approving the major site plan for 70 Thames Street

Housing & Economic Development Committee

The Housing & Economic Development Committee will review a proposed stadium use agreement for Portland United LLC at Fitzpatrick Stadium. Members will also review the FYE2023 TIF Annual Report and receive the 2023 Committee Work Plan.

• Review of Portland United LLC (USL Soccer) Stadium Use Agreement for Fitzpatrick Stadium
• Review of FYE2023 TIF Annual Report
• Executive session regarding United Soccer League financial due diligence negotiations
• Review of 2023 Committee Work Plan and Schedule

Parks Commission

The Parks Commission will review the Riverton Trolley Park Improvement Plan and discuss the Annual Report. The meeting also includes a recap of green space and updates on land bank and parks reports.

• Riverton Trolley Park Improvement Plan
• Annual Report discussion
• Green Space Re-Cap
• Introduction of Mark Reiland, New City Arborist

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on two land use appeals. The board will review a request for off-street parking at 300 Allen Ave and a lot coverage variance for 36 Wendy Way.

• Variance appeal (ZBA-002641-2023) to increase lot coverage from 20% to 21.47% at 36 Wendy Way
• Conditional use appeal (CU-002654-2023) for off-street parking at 300 Allen Ave

Civil Service Employment Subcommittee

The Board of Directors will review the September minutes and receive an update from the Executive Director. Discussion topics include a public art installation at 54 Hanover Street and upcoming legislative events.

• Public Art Installation at The Armature, 54 Hanover Street
• Staff Update regarding Operations & Program Coordinator position
• Legislative FLY-IN to Capital Hill, October 16-18
• Review of approved FY24 Work Plan & Budget
• Board Vacancies for a lawyer and fundraisers

Historic Preservation Board

The Historic Preservation Board will conduct a workshop regarding two specific projects. This includes a proposed reclassification of 142 Free Street and a review of proposed alterations at 25 Morning Street.

• Proposed reclassification of 142 Free Street as noncontributing in the Congress Street Historic District
• Preliminary review of proposed alterations at 25 Morning Street (Plan Number HPBR-002651-2023)

City Council

The Portland City Council will hold a workshop and executive session on October 2, 2023. City staff have requested this session to discuss and receive guidance regarding the city's contract with Local 740, International Association of Firefighters, AFL-CIO.

• Executive Session to discuss and receive guidance on the City's contract with Local 740, International Association of Firefighters, AFL-CIO

City Council

The Portland City Council will hold a special meeting for the Mayor's annual address. The council will vote to suspend rules to defer public comment on non-agenda items until later in the evening.

• State of the City Address by Mayor Kate Snyder
• Vote to suspend Rules of Procedure regarding public comment

City Council

The City Council is reviewing a $2.8 million local match for the Libbytown accessibility project. Members are also considering an emergency order to increase beds at the Homeless Services Center by 50. Other items include updates to parking regulations and a resolution regarding psychedelic plant prosecution.

• $2,800,000 local match for Libbytown Neighborhood Accessibility Project
• Increasing homeless services beds by 50 at 654 Riverside Street
• Updates to parking regulations and towing rules for unpaid tickets
• Resolution to deprioritize prosecution for personal use of psychedelics
• $1,684,816 in loans from the School Revolving Renovation Fund

Rent Board

The Rent Board will review public comments regarding the 2024 Annual Increase Percentage. The board will also consider a rent increase application for 164 Pearl St, Condo #C.

• Public comment on Sec 6-234(a) - 2024 Annual Increase Percentage (AIP)
• Rent increase application for 164 Pearl St, Condo #C

Peaks Island Council

The Council will discuss upcoming steps for the Peaks Island Assessment and ReCode recommendations. Members will also address parking issues in the IR zone and a city parking alert system.

• IR zone no parking/towing issue and city parking alert system
• ReCode recommendations
• 18 Central project zoning variance
• Island Composting Project progress
• Peaks Island Assessment next steps

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold workshops on a coffee franchise drive-through at 84 Auburn Street and a rezoning for 426 Presumpscot Street. A public hearing will also consider a proposal for a multi-tenant office building at 70 Thames Street.

• Major Site Plan for a 72,857 square foot office, retail, and restaurant building at 70 Thames Street
• Major Site Plan and Traffic Movement Permit for a coffee franchise drive-through at 84 Auburn Street
• Zoning Map Amendment for 426 Presumpscot Street from R-3 to R-5 and B-1b

City Council

The City Council will discuss a proposal to temporarily increase capacity at the City of Portland Homeless Services Center. This item is being considered via an emergency order and includes a staff presentation and public comment period.

• Proposal to increase capacity at the Homeless Services Center via emergency order

City Council

The City Council is holding a workshop to discuss a draft ordinance for the Civilian Police Review Board. Associate Corporation Counsel Rachel Millette will provide a staff presentation on the draft. The council may also enter an executive session to discuss the ordinance development and collective bargaining obligations with police associations.

• Presentation of Civilian Police Review Board draft ordinance
• Discussion of collective bargaining obligations with Portland Police Benevolent Association and Portland Police Superior Officers Association

Emergency Shelter Assessment Committee

The Emergency Shelter Assessment Committee will review August shelter bed usage statistics. The meeting includes updates on encampments, Region 1, Hub 2, and winter planning.

• August shelter bed usage statistics
• Encampment update
• Region 1 update
• Hub 2 update
• Winter planning

Portland Development Corporation

The Board will review previous meeting minutes and receive a staff update on marketing and outreach. The agenda includes the election of officers and votes regarding the FYE2023 Annual Report and the date for the Annual Meeting of the Corporator.

• Election of President, Treasurer, and Secretary
• Vote to forward Draft Annual Report for FYE2023 to the City Council
• Vote to set the Annual Meeting of the Corporator date for October 16, 2023
• Review of August 31, 2023 Treasurer's Report including Administrative Budget and Loans Receivable

Public Art Committee

The committee will review several public art projects, including the completion of Gathering Stones and a vote on installation costs for Passing the Torch. Staff will also discuss conservation estimates and potential damage to the Jewell Box bus shelter.

• Passing the Torch: $250 quote for sculpture replica installation
• Conservation assessment cost estimate from Jonathan Taggart
• Jewell Box bus shelter glass panel damage on Congress Street
• PMA Art Trail installation at Eastern Promenade Trail
• Black is Beautiful street mural repainting on Cove Street

Historic Preservation Board

The board will discuss a request to reclassify 142 Free Street as non-contributing within the Congress Street Historic District. A workshop is also scheduled for a preliminary review of new construction at 1168 Westbrook Street.

• Request to reclassify 142 Free Street as non-contributing in the Congress Street Historic District
• Preliminary review of new construction at 1168 Westbrook Street
• Report on approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 76 Congress Street

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The committee will review the minutes from the June 20, 2023, meeting. The agenda includes a legislative update from Bernstein Shur and a breakfast meeting with the Portland Delegation.

• Approval of minutes from the June 20, 2023, meeting
• Legislative update from Bernstein Shur
• Breakfast Meeting with Portland Delegation

Housing & Economic Development Committee

The committee will review and vote on the August 15, 2023 meeting minutes. Members will also consider a recommendation to the City Council regarding an affordable housing subsidy and TIF/CEA for the Riverton Park Project. An update on Maine Cooperative Development Partners is also scheduled.

• Recommendation for Riverton Park Project affordable housing subsidy and TIF/CEA
• Approval of August 15, 2023 meeting minutes
• Maine Cooperative Development Partners update

HHS and Public Safety Committee

The Health & Human Services and Public Safety Committee will review a draft resolution regarding psychedelic plants and fungi. The committee will also consider proposed changes to Chapter 35 of the city code.

• Draft Resolution for Psychedelic Plants and Fungi
• Proposed Changes to Chapter 35

City Council

The Council will review the establishment of a Portland Tourism Municipal Development District funded by assessments on lodging properties. They will also consider authorizing $1,684,816 in loans from the School Revolving Renovation Fund for school projects.

• Establishing the Portland Tourism Municipal Development District via lodging property assessments
• Authorizing $1,684,816 in loans from the School Revolving Renovation Fund for school renovations
• Accepting a $10,000 donation for Congress Square Park Phase B construction documents
• Approving three Maine Historic Preservation Commission grants for the Planning Department
• Declaring October 1, 2023, as the 32nd Annual Maine Marathon, Half Marathon & Relay Festival

City Council

The City Council will hold a workshop to discuss encampments. The discussion includes an update from the Fire Department's ECRT and a review of legal context regarding laws, case law, and city ordinances.

• ECRT Update by Chief Keith Gautreau
• Legal context discussion with Corporation Counsel

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The Nominating Committee is scheduled to conduct interviews for various boards and commissions. The committee will move into an executive session to perform these interviews.

• Interviews for Boards and Commissions

Land Bank Commission

The Land Bank Commission will review the June 14, 2023 meeting minutes and receive reports from the Secretary and Treasurer. The agenda includes updates regarding a hand carry boat launch and North Deering Park. The commission will also hear reports from the Parks Commission and Parks Division.

• Update on hand carry boat launch
• Update on North Deering Park
• Acceptance of June 14, 2023 meeting minutes
• Parks Commission Report
• Parks Division Report

Sustainability and Transportation Committee

The Sustainability and Transportation Committee will discuss several environmental and regulatory items. This includes a presentation regarding the coal pile at Cassidy Point by Maine DEP. The committee will also consider a new clean energy financing program and proposed changes to parking regulations.

• Presentation on the Cassidy Point coal pile
• Consideration of a Bird Safe Ordinance
• Adoption of a Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy Financing Program
• Proposed changes to Chapter 28, Parking Regulations

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The committee will review the minutes from the June 20, 2023, meeting. The agenda also includes a schedule update regarding Bernstein Shur and discussion of rescheduling a breakfast with the Portland Delegation.

• Approval of minutes from the June 20, 2023, meeting
• Schedule Update (Bernstein Shur)
• Rescheduling breakfast with Portland Delegation

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a workshop regarding a 60-unit residential development at 1 Hope Avenue. The meeting also includes public hearings for a large-scale master development at 58 Fore Street and a multi-property zoning map amendment near 17 & 25 Bates Street.

• Workshop: 60-unit Planned Residential Unit Development (12 triplexes, 12 duplexes) at 1 Hope Avenue
• Public Hearing: Phase 2 of Portland Foreside Master Development Plan at 58 Fore Street including 444 residential units, retail space, and a 128-room hotel
• Public Hearing: Zoning map amendment for mixed-use development at 17 & 25 Bates Street and several other properties

City Council

The City Council will conduct a workshop featuring a performance evaluation of City Manager Danielle West. The meeting also includes a project presentation regarding the Franklin Street Project.

• Performance evaluation of City Manager Danielle West
• Franklin Street Project presentation

Parks Commission

The Parks Commission will meet to review meeting minutes from August 3, 2023, and conduct a vote on the CIP. The agenda also includes reports regarding parks and the Land Bank Commission.

• CIP Vote
• Acceptance of August 3, 2023, meeting minutes
• Parks Report
• Land Bank Commission Report

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will consider three variance requests during its September 7 meeting. The items involve requests for changes to lot area, building setbacks, and lot coverage for specific properties.

• Variance at 18 Central Ave to reduce minimum lot area from 20,000 SF to 5,646 SF for three affordable housing units
• Variance at 232 West Commercial St to reduce the setback from Commercial St from 100 feet to 91 feet to allow building height above 50 feet
• Variance at 36 Wendy Way to increase maximum lot coverage from 20% to 21.47% for a 48 SF detached shed

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved two variance requests for properties on Central Ave and West Commercial St. One appeal regarding lot coverage at Wendy Way was tabled. The meeting was conducted via remote Zoom webinar.

• Granted Practical Difficulty Variance for 18 Central Ave to reduce minimum lot area for 3 affordable housing units (5-0)
• Granted Hardship Variance for 232 West Commercial St to reduce setback from 100 feet to 91 feet (5-0)
• Tabled Practical Difficulty Variance for 36 Wendy Way regarding lot coverage for a detached shed

Creative Portland Corporation

The Creative Portland Board of Directors will review July minutes and August financials. The meeting includes updates on a public art installation at 54 Hanover Street and staff recruitment. The board will also consider upcoming board and executive committee vacancies.

• Vote to accept July minutes and August financials
• Public art installation at The Armature, 54 Hanover Street
• Operations & Program Coordinator staff vacancy
• Board vacancies for a lawyer and fundraisers
• Consideration of the 2023/24 EXCOM slate for a Treasurer vacancy

City Council

The City Council will discuss several items including the establishment of a tourism development district and updates to ranked choice voting. Other business includes appointing a new Corporation Counsel and authorizing school renovation loans.

• Appointment of Michael Goldman as Corporation Counsel with an annual base salary of $165,000
• Establishment of the Portland Tourism Municipal Development District and associated assessments
• Amendment to City Code regarding proportional ranked choice voting
• Acceptance of Herron Road as a public and utility easement for stormwater infrastructure
• Authorization of $1,684,816 in loans from the School Revolving Renovation Fund

The City Council appointed a new Corporation Counsel and approved several liquor licenses. The council also amended the city code regarding ranked choice voting and accepted Herron Road as a public easement.

• Appointed Michael Goldman as Corporation Counsel (6-0-3)
• Approved B/W/D on-premise consumption and outdoor dining license for Orange Bike Company at 31 Diamond Street (6-0-3)
• Approved Class A Lounge license with indoor entertainment and outdoor dining for Shipyard Brewing Company at 27 Hancock Street (6-0-3)
• Approved amendment to City Code Chapter 9 regarding Ranked Choice Voting (5-1-3)
• Accepted Herron Road as a public easement and utility easement (6-0-3)
• Postponed adoption of Development Program for Portland Tourism Municipal Development District until Sept 18 (4-2-3)
• Postponed implementation assessments for Portland Tourism Municipal Development District until Sept 18 (4-2-3)
• Postponed Development Program Manager Agreement with Visit Portland until Sept 18 (4-2-3)

Historic Preservation Board

The board will hold a public hearing regarding new construction at 76 Congress Street. Members will also review a request to reclassify 142 Free Street as non-contributing in the Congress Historic District. Additionally, the board will conduct preliminary reviews for projects on Newbury Street and Pine Street.

• Public hearing for new construction at 76 Congress Street
• Request to reclassify 142 Free Street within the Congress Historic District
• Preliminary review of addition and sitework at 73 Newbury Street
• Preliminary review of alterations at 106 Pine Street
• Election of a new Vice-Chairperson

Rent Board

The Portland Rent Board will hold public comments on multiple rent increase applications for various properties. Most of these requests are due to increased housing service costs. The board is also scheduled to conduct a workshop regarding Chapter 6 of the City Code.

• Rent increase application for 18 Casco St (62 units)
• Rent increase application for 37 Casco St (92 units)
• Rent increase application for 40-42 West St (12 units)
• Rent increase application for 55 William St (12 units)
• Workshop on Chapter 6 Buildings of the City Code

The Board held straw votes to tentatively approve rent increases based on housing service costs for eight properties managed by Port Property, pending further documentation of management fees. Two other rent increase applications were tabled until the September meeting. The Board also voted to recuse member Matt Walker from all Port Property applications.

• Recused Matt Walker from all Port Property applications (6-0)
• Tentatively approved $80.82/month increase for 61 Grant St (4-2)
• Tentatively approved $40.80/month increase for 18 Casco St (4-1)
• Tentatively approved $56.78/month increase for 37 Casco St (4-1)
• Tentatively approved $94.22/month increase for 19 Parris St (4-1)
• Tentatively approved $93.37/month increase for 20 Melbourne St (4-1)
• Tentatively approved $38.78/month increase for 40-42 West St (5-0)
• Tentatively approved $86.09/month increase for 55 William St (5-0)

Portland Fish Pier Authority

The Portland Fish Pier Authority will discuss the status of amended ground lease negotiations for the Marine Trade Center on Lot 2 and associated parking rights. The Board is asked to hold an executive session to evaluate these amendments for a potential vote at a later meeting.

• Approval of July 10, 2023, meeting minutes
• Review of Marine Trade Center ground lease negotiations for Lot 2 and Rear Parking Lot
• Executive session regarding real estate negotiations

The Board approved the minutes from the July 10, 2023 meeting. The Board entered an executive session to discuss real estate negotiations regarding the Marine Trade Center lease amendments.

• Approved July 10, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Entered executive session to discuss Marine Trade Center lease negotiations (5-0)

Emergency Shelter Assessment Committee

The Emergency Shelter Assessment Committee will review July shelter bed usage statistics and receive updates on encampments and specific regions. The agenda also includes discussions regarding Expo closure and winter planning.

• July shelter bed usage statistics
• Encampment update
• Region 1 and Hub 2 updates
• Expo closure discussion
• Winter planning

Portland Development Corporation

The Board will review a new loan application for Matcha Mood at 654 Congress Street and consider guidelines for the 2023 ARPA funded Microenterprise Grant Program. Additionally, the meeting includes a discussion on updated Post Loan Closing Service Guidelines and a treasurer's report.

• Loan application review: Matcha Mood, 654 Congress Street
• Proposed guidelines for 2023 ARPA funded Microenterprise Grant Program
• Updated Post Loan Closing Service Guidelines
• Treasurer's Report for June 30, 2023

The Board approved a business loan for a new matcha cafe and adopted guidelines for the 2023 ARPA-funded Microenterprise Grant Program. Additionally, the Board adopted updated Post Loan Closing Service Guidelines. The meeting also included a staff update on marketing and outreach efforts.

• Approved $50,000 loan for Matcha Mood at 654 Congress Street (6-0)
• Approved 2023 ARPA-funded Microenterprise Grant Program guidelines (6-0)
• Adopted updated Post Loan Closing Service Guidelines (6-0)
• Accepted June 15, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0-2)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct a hybrid workshop to review the first wave of land use code changes under ReCode Phase II. This session includes reviewing proposed updates to definitions, zones, use standards, and dimensional standards.

• Recode Portland Zoning Amendments: Review of Article 3 (Definitions), Article 5 (Zones), Article 6 (Use Standards), and Article 7 (Dimensional Standards)

City Council

The City Council will enter an executive session to review candidates for the position of Corporation Counsel. This discussion is scheduled as a workshop item.

• Review of candidates for the position of Corporation Counsel

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will review two variance requests at its August 17 meeting. One request seeks to reduce a setback requirement at 232 West Commercial St to allow for increased building height. Another proposes reducing lot area requirements at 18 Central Ave to facilitate the creation of three affordable housing units.

• Variance request for 232 West Commercial St to reduce setback from 100 feet to 91 feet
• Variance request for 18 Central Ave to reduce minimum lot area from 20,000 SF to 5,646 SF
• Proposal to convert an existing structure at 18 Central Ave into three affordable housing units

Rent Board

The Portland Rent Board will review multiple rent increase applications during this meeting. These applications involve requests based on increased housing service costs and capital improvement costs at various addresses. The board will also hold a discussion regarding MNOI.

• Rent increase application for 655 Congress St
• Rent increase applications for Montreal St properties (13, 19, and 25-27)
• Rent increase application for 304 Eastern Prom
• Rent increase applications for Grant St properties (63, 65, and 69)
• Discussion regarding MNOI

The Rent Board denied requests for rent increases at 13 and 19 Montreal Street. The Board asserted jurisdiction over a request for 655 Congress St but tabled further deliberation pending utility bill submissions. The remainder of the agenda was tabled until the September meeting.

• Determined jurisdiction for 655 Congress St rent increase and tabled deliberation until September (5-0)
• Denied rent increase of $62.14 per month for 13 Montreal St (2-3-1)
• Denied motion to reject 13 Montreal St application based on lack of compelling case (3-2-1)
• Denied rent increase of $112.30 per month for 19 Montreal St (3-2-1)
• Tabled remaining agenda items until September meeting (4-0)

Planning Board

The Portland Planning Board will hold workshops to consider site plans for 246 Eastern Promenade and 58 Fore Street. The board will also conduct a public hearing regarding a subdivision at 432-447 Fore Street. These items involve proposed residential, retail, and hotel developments.

• Workshop: Redevelopment of 246 Eastern Promenade to include two new residential buildings.
• Workshop: Phase 2 of the Portland Foreside Master Development Plan at 58 Fore Street featuring 444 residential units and a 128-room hotel.
• Public Hearing: Proposed subdivision of 432-447 Fore Street to create four new commercial lots.

Housing & Economic Development Committee

The committee will discuss negotiations regarding the USL Soccer proposal at Fitzpatrick Stadium during an executive session. Members will also review proposed revisions to the Outdoor Dining on Public Property Program and a recommendation for an Affordable Rental Housing Incentive Program. Additionally, the committee will provide feedback on changes to the City's Tax Increment Financing Policy.

• Negotiations regarding USL Soccer proposal at Fitzpatrick Stadium
• Proposed revisions to the Outdoor Dining on Public Property Program
• Review of Affordable Rental Housing Incentive Program recommendation
• Feedback on changes to the City's Tax Increment Financing Policy

The Committee approved a recommendation to the City Council for an Affordable Rental Housing Incentive Program to encourage short-term rental owners to provide long-term housing. The proposal includes amending the 2023 Jill C. Duson Housing Trust Fund Annual Plan to allocate up to $150,000 for the program.

• Approved and recommended Affordable Rental Housing Incentive Program to City Council (3-0)
• Approved amendment to 2023 Jill C. Duson Housing Trust Fund Annual Plan for up to $150,000 in funding (3-0)
• Accepted minutes from June 20, 2023 meeting (3-0)
• Entered executive session to provide staff direction on USL Soccer proposal at Fitzpatrick Stadium (3-0)

City Council

The Portland City Council will consider a resolution supporting the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty. The council will also vote on several appointments to local boards and commissions and approve various new business licenses. Additionally, staff will present updates regarding housing development, fossil fuel infrastructure, and encampment response.

• Resolution in support of the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty
• Appointments to Historic Preservation Board and Parks Commission
• Appointment of Nick Demling as Constable for Parks, Recreation & Facilities
• New business licenses at 100 Fore Street and 38 Resurgam Place
• $1,406.00 fee waiver for Maine Irish Heritage Center

The City Council approved five liquor license applications for local businesses and passed a resolution supporting the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty. The council also confirmed board appointments and the appointment of a constable for the Parks, Recreation & Facilities Department.

• Approved appointments to various boards and commissions (8-0-1)
• Appointed Nick Demling as Constable for Parks, Recreation & Facilities Department (8-0-1)
• Approved Class A Lounge license for Angoor Wine Bar at 100 Fore Street (8-0-1)
• Approved Class I FSE license for Bissell Brothers Brewing at 38 Resurgam Place (8-0-1)
• Approved Class I FSE license for Porttown Public House at 129 Commercial Street (8-0-1)
• Approved Class I FSE license for Little Tap House at 106 High Street (8-0-1)
• Approved Class III & IV license for Maine Irish Heritage Center at 34 Gray Street (8-0-1)
• Passed resolution in support of the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty (8-0-1)

City Council

The Council will vote on creating a tax increment financing district for a new 45-unit affordable housing development at 25 Casco Street. Other agenda items include parking restrictions on Fore Street and setting an election date for a rent-control initiative.

• Creation of a TIF district for 45 low-income rental units at 25 Casco Street
• $30,000 grant and $20,000 donation for the Lincoln Park Fence Project
• Two-hour parking limits on Fore Street between Atlantic and St. Lawrence Streets
• Agreement to participate in the State Small Business Credit Initiative funding
• Setting an election date for a rent-control ordinance citizen initiative

The City Council approved several emergency orders to establish an affordable housing development and tax increment financing district at 25 Casco Street. Other actions included approving bus shelter agreements and road improvement contracts. A zoning amendment for 900 Ocean Avenue was postponed.

• Approved 25 Casco Street affordable housing and TIF district as an emergency, amended to return 75% of tax revenues to developer (7-0-2)
• Approved Credit Enhancement Agreement with Equality Community LP as an emergency, amended to return 75% of tax revenues to developer (7-0-2)
• Approved $20,000 donation and $30,000 grant for Lincoln Park Fence Project (8-0-1)
• Approved 2-hour parking on Fore Street between Atlantic and St. Lawrence Streets (8-0-1)
• Postponed zoning map amendment for 900 Ocean Avenue until November 20, 2023 (8-0-1)
• Approved City Charter amendment regarding nomination petitions (7-0-2)
• Approved election date for citizen initiative to amend rent control ordinance (6-2-1)
• Approved York Street sidewalk and pavement improvement agreements with Maine DOT (8-0-1)

Police Citizen Review Subcommittee

The subcommittee will approve July 12, 2023 minutes and discuss a draft letter to the City Council about a new Civilian Police Review Board ordinance. The meeting also includes an executive session regarding IA2023-003.

• Approval of July 12, 2023 minutes
• Executive session to discuss IA2023-003
• Review of draft letter to City Council regarding new Civilian Police Review Board ordinance

The subcommittee voted to approve the findings of internal affairs investigation IA2023-003. Members also authorized the signing of a letter to the City Council regarding committee structure and staffing.

• Adopted July 12, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Found IA2023-003 to be timely (7-0)
• Found IA2023-003 to be thorough (7-0)
• Found IA2023-003 to be fair (7-0)
• Found IA2023-003 to be objective (7-0)
• Authorized Chair Reggie Parson to sign a letter to City Council with corrections (6-0)

Ad Hoc Committee

The Board of Assessment Review will meet to approve minutes from the June 23, 2023 hearing. The agenda also includes the withdrawal of assessment appeals for properties on Riverside Street and Congress Street.

• Approval of June 23, 2023 meeting minutes
• Withdrawal of appeal for 191 Riverside Street
• Withdrawal of appeal for 1230 Congress Street (Clarion Hotel)

Parks Commission

The commission will review CIP presentations and take public comment. The agenda also includes updates on citywide encampments, City Arborist hiring, and reports from the Parks and Land Bank Commissions.

• Acceptance of June 1, 2023 minutes
• CIP presentations with Q&A
• Citywide encampments update
• City Arborist hiring update
• Land Bank Commission report

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will review requests to reconsider a side setback decision for 14 Orchard Street. The board will also consider a new application for 232 West Commercial Street to reduce a required setback from 100 feet to 91 feet.

• Reconsideration of side setback variance at 14 Orchard Street
• Variance request for 232 West Commercial St to reduce setback from 100 feet to 91 feet

The Board voted to deny two requests to reconsider a previously granted variance for Family Crisis Services, Inc. A separate variance request for 232 West Commercial St was tabled.

• Denied request to reconsider Practical Difficulty Variance for 14 Orchard Street (3-2)
• Tabled Practical Difficulty Variance appeal for 232 West Commercial St (5-0)

Historic Preservation Board

The Historic Preservation Board is holding public hearings regarding new construction projects at 58 Fore Street and 48 Brown Street. The meeting also includes reports of approved applications from the July 19, 2023 meeting.

• Public hearing for new construction at 58 Fore Street (Block 4)
• Public hearing for new construction at 58 Fore Street (Block 6)
• Public hearing for new construction at 48 Brown Street
• Approved lighting project at 27 Park Avenue (Deering Oaks Park)
• Approved alterations at 215 Commercial Street

City Council

The Portland City Council will hold a workshop on August 2, 2023. The council intends to enter an executive session to review candidates for the position of Corporation Counsel.

• Review of candidates for the position of Corporation Counsel

Ad Hoc Committee

The committee will review minutes from the May 2, 2023 meeting. Members will also receive updates from the Sustainability Office and discuss a Landcare event scheduled for September.

• Review of May 2, 2023, meeting minutes
• Sustainability Office updates
• Discussion of September Landcare Event

The committee discussed planning for a Fall Landcare event scheduled for September 9th at Deering Oaks Park. No official votes were taken as the committee lacked a quorum to approve previous minutes.

• Unable to approve May 2nd minutes due to lack of quorum
• Scheduled Fall Landcare event for September 9th, 10am-12pm at Deering Oaks Park

Rent Board

The Portland Rent Board will hold public comment sessions for several pending rent increase applications. These include requests for properties on Montreal Street, Grant Street, and Congress Street. The board will also continue discussions regarding its annual report.

• Rent increase application for 13, 19, and 25-27 Montreal St
• Rent increase application for 304 Eastern Prom
• Rent increase applications for 63, 65, and 69 Grant St
• Rent increase application for 655 Congress St
• Discussion regarding the annual report

The Rent Board tabled several rent increase applications for properties on Montreal Street, Grant Street, Cushman Street, Congress Street, and Woodford Street. Some items were postponed to a special meeting on August 16, while others await City Council guidance on application rules.

• Approved June 28, 2023 minutes (5-0)
• Recused Matt Walker from agenda items A through G (5-0)
• Tabled rent increase applications for 13, 19, 25-27 Montreal St, 304 Eastern Prom, and 63, 65, 69 Grant St to August 16 (5-0)
• Tabled rent increase application for 34 Cushman St pending City Council rule approval (4-0)
• Tabled rent increase application for 655 Congress St to August 16 or 23 (6-0)
• Tabled rent increase application for 105 Woodford St pending City Council guidance on 2019 information requirements (4-0)

Emergency Shelter Assessment Committee

The committee will review monthly shelter bed usage statistics for June 2023. The agenda also includes updates on encampments, Region 1, Hub 2, and relevant legislation.

• June 2023 shelter bed usage statistics
• Encampment update
• Region 1 update
• Hub 2 update
• Federal, state, and local legislation review

Creative Portland Corporation

The board will vote on June minutes and financials and review the approved FY2024 work plan and budget. The Executive Director will provide updates on programs including the Summer Stage Series and CP Gallery. The board will also discuss vacancies for lawyer and fundraiser positions.

• Vote to accept June minutes and financials
• Review of FY2024 Approved Work Plan and Budget
• Executive Director updates on Summer Stage Series and CP Gallery
• Discussion of board vacancies for a lawyer and fundraisers
• Consideration of 2023/2024 EXCOMM slate

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will review two land use appeals during this meeting. The board will consider a request to operate a preschool at 17 Brentwood St and a variance regarding vehicle trip limits for a retail drive-through at 84 Auburn St. An election for secretary will also be held.

• Conditional Use Appeal (CU-002545-2023): Preschool facility for up to 12 children at 17 Brentwood St
• Hardship Variance (ZBA-002581-2023): Request to exceed vehicle trip limits for a retail drive-through at 84 Auburn St
• Election for Secretary

The Zoning Board of Appeals granted a conditional use permit for a preschool and a hardship variance for a retail drive-through. The board also appointed a new secretary.

• Granted conditional use for preschool facility at 17 Brentwood St (4-0)
• Granted hardship variance for retail drive-through vehicle trip limits at 84 Auburn St (4-0)
• Appointed Dan Black as secretary (4-0)

City Council

The council will vote on appointing Michael Murray as Director of Public_Works with an emergency request for immediate effect. The meeting also includes appointments to various boards and commissions. Additionally, the council will consider transferring forfeited funds and a handgun to the police department.

• Appointment of Michael Murray as Director of Public Works with a salary of $137,509
• Appointment of members to various Boards and Commissions
• Transfer of $16,696.00 and a .45 cal Springfield XD handgun to the police drug investigation account
• Declaration of July 29, 2023, as the 21st Annual Greater Portland Festival of Nations

The City Council approved several emergency appointments and fund transfers. The council also officially declared July 29, 2023, as the 21st Annual Greater Portland Festival of Nations.

• Appointed Michael Murray as Director of Public Works (8-0)
• Appointed members to various boards and commissions (8-0)
• Approved transfer of funds regarding Raymond Whittington (8-0)
• Declared July 29, 2023, the 21st Annual Greater Portland Festival of Nations (8-0)
• Approved June 26, 2023 meeting minutes (8-0)

City Council

The Portland City Council is reviewing several orders to implement the Fiscal Year 2024 budget. These items include authorizing administrative fees, employee pay adjustments, and service agreements. The council will also consider appropriating $3,611,343 from the fund balance for pension debt and tax payments.

• A 4.0% cost-of-living adjustment for non-union employees and elected officials
• Appropriation of $3,611,343 from the fund balance for pension debt and county taxes
• Allocation of $45,000 for various Peaks Island services
• Authorization for Parks, Recreation and Facilities to accept donations up to $10,000
• Establishment of a $400,000 limit for the City's self-insured liability program

The City Council unanimously passed a series of budget orders to implement Fiscal Year 2024 operations, including fee updates, fund appropriations, and personnel agreements. All approved orders were passed as emergencies to take effect immediately.

• Approved FY2024 administrative fees for parking garages and Parks, Recreation, and Facilities (9-0)
• Authorized FY2024 Human Resources and fringe benefits budgets (9-0)
• Approved FY2024 Self-insured Liability Program (9-0)
• Authorized Director of Parks, Recreation and Facilities to set fees and rental agreements (9-0)
• Authorized FY2024 Health & Human Services budget agreements (9-0)
• Approved non-union wage adjustments, including a 10% raise for the City Clerk (9-0)
• Appropriated $3,611,343 in Fund Balance (9-0)
• Appropriated $276,000 from Excess Fund for Casco Bay Island Transit District (9-0)

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The Legislative/Nominating Committee is scheduled to hold interviews for various city boards and commissions. The meeting includes a move into an executive session to perform these interviews.

• Interviews for Boards and Commissions
• Move into Executive Session for interviews

Sustainability and Transportation Committee

The Sustainability and Transportation Committee will receive sustainability program updates and review June minutes. The meeting includes presentations on streetlight repairs and ecomaine's new recycling facility plans. Members will also consider stormwater infrastructure easements on Herron Road and the Bird Safe Ordinance.

• Review and accept Herron Road stormwater infrastructure easements
• Discussion of Bird Safe Ordinance
• Update on streetlight repairs
• Presentation on ecomaine's new recycling facility plans

The committee voted to recommend that the City Council accept a public access and utility easement on Herron Road for a stormwater sand filtration system. The committee also reviewed a proposed Bird Safe Ordinance and received a sustainability update regarding electric vehicle infrastructure and energy benchmarking.

• Approved June 14, 2023 meeting minutes (2-0)
• Recommended to City Council the acceptance of a public access and utility easement on Herron Road

Police Citizen Review Subcommittee

The subcommittee will hold a Q&A session regarding the implementation of the new Civilian Police Review Board. This includes reviewing a draft of Chapter 2 and an ordinance memo. The meeting also includes approval of June 14, 2023 minutes.

• Review of Draft Chapter 2 for Civilian Police Review Board
• Review of Ordinance Creating Civilian Police Review Board memo
• Approval of June 14, 2023 minutes

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a workshop to consider a large-scale development proposal for 58 Fore Street involving residential units and a hotel. The meeting also includes public hearings regarding a new transportation facility at 172 Bishop Street and a subdivision amendment at 1190 Brighton Avenue.

• Phase 2 of Portland Foreside Development: 444 residential units, retail space, and a 128-room hotel
• Proposed intermodal transportation facility at 172 Bishop Street with 72 EV charging stations
• Subdivision amendment at 1190 Brighton Avenue involving the creation of 13 new lots

HHS and Public Safety Committee

The HHS and Public Safety Committee will review minutes from May 9, 2023. The agenda includes updates on marijuana businesses and pregnancy crisis center education campaigns. Discussion is also scheduled regarding Decriminalize Maine and cooling center protocols.

• Marijuana businesses update (Chapter 35)
• Decriminalize Maine item information
• Public Health education campaign updates regarding pregnancy crisis centers
• Cooling center protocol discussion
• Review of May 9, 2023 minutes

Portland Fish Pier Authority

The Board will receive updates regarding finances, facilities, and the Portland Fish Exchange. Members are asked to hold an executive session to continue reviewing lease amendments for the Marine Trade Center at Lot 2. This review is intended to prepare for a potential vote at a later meeting.

• Lease negotiations for Marine Trade Center Lot 2 and Rear Parking Lot
• Financial update from the Finance Department
• Facilities project updates
• Portland Fish Exchange management and subcommittee reports
• Approval of June 12, 2023, meeting minutes

The Board approved the minutes from the June 12, 2023 meeting. Members held an executive session to discuss real estate negotiations regarding the Marine Trade Center lease for Lot 2 and the Rear Parking Lot.

• Approved June 12, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Entered executive session to discuss Marine Trade Center lease negotiations (5-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will consider an appeal for 14 Orchard Street. The applicant seeks to reduce the required side setback from 10 feet to 7.5 feet. This change would allow a detached garage to be converted into a single-family home.

• Practical Difficulty Appeal (ZBA-002569-2023) for 14 Orchard Street
• Request to reduce side setback from 10 feet to 7.5 feet

The Zoning Board of Appeals met via Zoom to consider one practical difficulty appeal. The Board approved a request to reduce a side setback requirement to allow for the conversion of a garage into a single-family home.

• Approved Practical Difficulty Appeal (ZBA-002569-2023) to reduce minimum side setback from 10 feet to 7’6” at 14 Orchard Street (4-0)

Rent Board

The board will hear public comments on several rent increase applications for properties on Montreal Street, Grant Street, Cushman Street, and Congress Street. The meeting also includes a continued discussion regarding the annual report.

• Rent increase applications for Montreal St and Eastern Prom
• Rent increase applications for Grant St
• Rent increase application for 34 Cushman St
• Rent increase application for 655 Congress St
• Discussion regarding the annual report

The Board voted to recuse member Matt Walker from applications filed by Port Property due to an appearance of bias. Consequently, all Port Property rent increase applications and one application for 655 Congress St were tabled. A rent increase application for 34 Cushman St was voluntarily tabled by the applicant.

• Approved May 24, 2023 minutes (4-0)
• Recused Matt Walker from Port Property applications (3-0)
• Tabled rent increase applications for 13, 19, 25-27 Montreal St, 304 Eastern Prom, and 63, 65, 69 Grant St
• Tabled rent increase application for 34 Cushman St (voluntary)
• Tabled rent increase application for 655 Congress St (3-0)

City Council

The Portland City Council is holding a workshop for a mid-year evaluation and check-in with the City Clerk. The council also plans to enter an executive session to discuss the clerk's employment and duties.

• Mid-year evaluation of the City Clerk
• Executive session regarding City Clerk employment and duties

City Council

The City Council will hold a workshop to discuss the processes and resources involved in affordable housing development. The session includes reviewing the life cycle of city-subsidized projects and various funding programs. Discussion also covers city-owned and tax-acquired property.

• Life cycle of city-subsidized housing projects
• HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) Program
• Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program
• Jill C. Duson Housing Trust Fund
• Affordable Housing Tax Increment Financing (AHTIF) Program

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider a new multi-tenant office building with ground floor retail and a third-floor restaurant at 70 Thames Street. The board will also discuss zoning amendments for 17 & 25 Bates Street to facilitate mixed-use development. A public hearing is scheduled regarding a proposed expansion of the Community Hall at 76 Noyes Street.

• New 72,857 square foot office and retail building proposal at 70 Thames Street
• Zoning map amendment for 17 & 25 Bates Street to allow mixed-use development
• Proposed 4,719 square foot addition to the Community Hall at 76 Noyes Street

City Council

The City Council appointed Mark W. Dubois as Police Chief and approved several business licenses for outdoor dining and entertainment. A continuing resolution for the Fiscal Year 2024 appropriation was passed as an emergency. Most other budget-related orders were postponed until July 17, 2023.

• Appointed Mark W. Dubois as Police Chief (7-0)
• Approved 97th Annual St. Peter's Bazaar and Italian Street Festival (7-0)
• Approved license for The Thirsty Pig with no amplified outdoor entertainment (5-2)
• Approved outdoor dining for Great Lost Bear (7-0)
• Approved outdoor dining for Portland Beer Hub (7-0)
• Approved license for Tandoor Indian Restaurant (7-0)
• Approved license for Stars and Stripes Brewing (7-0)
• Passed FY2024 Continuing Resolution as an emergency (7-0)

Ad Hoc Committee

The Board of Assessment Review will conduct a hearing regarding an assessment appeal for the property at 191 Riverside Street. The board will also consider approving the minutes from the February 17, 2023 meeting.

• Assessment appeal for 191 Riverside Street
• Approval of February 17, 2023, meeting minutes

Creative Portland Corporation

The Board of Directors will vote on the FY2024 Work Plan and Budget and the May consent agenda. The meeting includes discussions regarding the organization's transition to a quasi-municipal entity and updates on staff oversight.

• Vote to approve FY2024 Work Plan and Budget
• Discussion of transition to a quasi-municipal organization
• Public art installation at East Bayside The Armature Condos and Plaza
• Board vacancies for a lawyer and fundraisers

City Council

The City Council will discuss the development of an Ethics Commission Ordinance and a Civilian Police Review Board Ordinance. The council also plans to enter an executive session to discuss the police review board ordinance.

• Development of an Ethics Commission Ordinance
• Development of a Civilian Police Review Board Ordinance
• Motion for executive session regarding the police review board ordinance

Civil Service Employment Subcommittee

The committee will review project reports for Congress Square Park, Gathering Stones, and Bramhall Square. Members will also discuss upcoming conservation work on the Armillary and the Loring Memorial granite post. Subcommittee updates regarding community grants and website maintenance will be provided.

• Contract amendment #3 with Sarah Sze Studios for Congress Square Park documentation phase
• Signage quote from Burr Signs for Gathering Stones project
• Conservation of the Armillary starting July 2023
• Risk Management assessment for damaged Loring Memorial granite post
• Maine Med community art grant at Lowell Street Park

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The Legislative/Nominating Committee will review a legislative tracker provided by Bernstein Shur. The committee will also receive an update regarding the state budget process and timeline.

• Approval of June 6, 2023 meeting minutes
• Review of Legislative Tracker (Bernstein Shur)
• Update on State Budget Process and Timeline (Bernstein Shur)
• Planning social breakfast with Portland Delegation

Housing & Economic Development Committee

The committee will review the 2022 Annual Housing Report and preview the June 28 City Council workshop agenda. Members will also consider a recommendation for an affordable housing Tax Increment Financing request at 15 Casco Street.

• Approval of April 25, 2023 meeting minutes
• Review of 2022 Annual Housing Report
• Preview of June 28 City Council Affordable Housing Workshop agenda
• Recommendation for an affordable housing TIF at 15 Casco Street
• Review of 2023 Committee Work Plan and Schedule

The Committee approved a recommendation to the City Council for an affordable housing TIF at 15 Casco Street. Members also reviewed the 2022 Annual Housing Report and previewed an upcoming City Council workshop on affordable housing.

• Approved and recommended to City Council an affordable housing TIF for 15 Casco Street at no higher than 55% for 30 years (3-0)
• Accepted April 25, 2023 draft meeting minutes (3-0)
• Decided to cancel July meeting and schedule next meeting for August 15

Emergency Shelter Assessment Committee

The committee will review May 2023 shelter bed usage statistics. The agenda also includes updates on hotel closures, the Cumberland County Service Hub, and legislative bill tracking.

• May 2023 shelter bed usage statistics
• Hotel closure update
• Cumberland County Service Hub update from United Way
• Federal, state, and local legislation updates
• HVJ Longest Day of Homelessness announcement

Portland Development Corporation

The Portland Development Corporation Board will review the May 18, 2023 meeting minutes and discuss proposed Post Loan Closing Service Guidelines. The Board also plans to vote on amending loan conditions for Longfellow Property, LLC.

• Vote on proposed amendment to loan conditions for Longfellow Property, LLC, 754 Congress Street
• Review and discussion of proposed Post Loan Closing Service Guidelines
• Review and acceptance of May 18, 2023 meeting minutes
• Presentation of the Treasurer's Report for May 31, 2023

The Board approved a loan amendment for the Longfellow Hotel to allow funds to be disbursed via an escrow account before construction completion. The Board also approved the May 18, 2023, meeting minutes and entered executive session to review a delinquency report.

• Approved loan amendment for Longfellow Hotel project (6-0)
• Approved May 18, 2023 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Voted to enter executive session to review Delinquency Report (6-0)
• Reached consensus to hold Awards event in November

Sustainability and Transportation Committee

The committee will review May 24, 2023 meeting minutes and receive sustainability program updates. Members will also discuss a mid-year progress report to queue items for future meetings. A presentation and discussion regarding time-limited parking on Fore Street is scheduled.

• Fore Street time-limited parking discussion
• Sustainability Program updates
• Mid-year progress report review

The Committee voted to recommend a parking schedule amendment for Fore Street to the full City Council. Staff provided updates on sustainability initiatives, including a new solar partnership and the upcoming arrival of an electric waste hauler.

• Approved May 24, 2023 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Recommended 2-hour parking limits on Fore Street between St. Lawrence Street and Atlantic Street to full Council (3-0)

Police Citizen Review Subcommittee

The Police Citizen Review Subcommittee will meet to approve May 10, 2023 minutes and finalize the 2022 Annual Report. The agenda also includes a public comment session and an executive session regarding IA2023-004.

• Approval of May 10, 2023 minutes
• Review and finalization of 2022 Annual Report
• Executive session to discuss IA2023-004

The Police Citizen Review Subcommittee approved the 2022 Annual Report and determined that internal affairs case IA2023-004 was timely, fair, thorough, and objective. Members also discussed the upcoming City Council workshop regarding a new ordinance.

• Adopted May 10, 2023 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved 2022 Annual Report subject to removal of redline markup (6-0)
• Found IA2023-004 was timely (6-0)
• Found IA2023-004 was fair (6-0)
• Found IA2023-004 was thorough (6-0)
• Found IA2023-004 was objective (6-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a workshop on a mixed-use development at 48 Brown Street. Public hearings are also scheduled for the West Bayside Master Development Plan and a residential redevelopment at 511 Congress Street.

• West Bayside Master Development Plan: 804 residential units and 28,500 square feet of commercial space
• Redevelopment of 511 Congress Street into 107 residential units
• New mixed-use building at 48 Brown Street with 54 residential units

City Council

The City Council is hosting an information and listening session regarding homelessness in Portland. Members of the public are invited to share thoughts, questions, and recommendations. City officials will provide information in response to public concerns.

• Public listening session on homelessness
• Information session with City Council and City Manager

Portland Fish Pier Authority

The board will discuss lease negotiations for the Marine Trade Center Lot 2 and associated parking rights. The agenda also includes updates on finances, facilities, and CARES Act infrastructure funding.

• Approval of May 8, 2023, meeting minutes
• Marine Trade Center ground lease amendments for Lot 2
• Update on CARES Act infrastructure and program funding
• Portland Fish Exchange management report

The Board approved the minutes from the May 8, 2023 meeting. The Board entered an executive session to discuss real estate negotiations regarding the Marine Trade Center lease. Updates on infrastructure funding and parking management were postponed.

• Approved May 8, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved motion to enter executive session for Marine Trade Center lease negotiations (5-0)
• Approved motion to exit executive session (4-0)
• Postponed update on CARES Act infrastructure and program funding
• Postponed proposal on parking management

City Council

The City Council approved a service provider subcontract involving DC Management LLC, DC Blueberry LLC, the Maine Immigrants' Rights Coalition, and the City of Portland. The agreement concerns the property at 166 Riverside Industrial Parkway.

• Approved Order 247-22/23 regarding service provider subcontract for 166 Riverside Industrial Parkway (8-1)
• Approved motion to suspend rules for public comment at 4:00pm (8-0)

City Council

The City Council will hold a workshop featuring a presentation on the First Amendment by the ACLU of Maine. The council will also review the Portland Police Department's after-action report regarding the April 1, 2023 rally.

• Presentation on the First Amendment by Zach Heiden of ACLU of Maine
• Review of Portland Police Department After-Action Report regarding the April 1, 2023 rally
• Motion for executive session to discuss the police after-action report

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee held a public hearing and voted to recommend the FY24 City Manager’s recommended budget to the full City Council. The budget was recommended as amended following a series of votes on specific amendment proposals.

• Approved Amendment 1B (2-0)
• Approved Amendment 2 (3-0)
• Approved Amendment 3 (3-0)
• Denied Amendment 1A (1-1)
• Recommended FY24 City Manager’s recommended budget as amended (3-0)

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The committee will review new LDs and a legislative tracker provided by Bernstein Shur. Members will also consider approving the minutes from the May 30, 2023 meeting.

• Approval of May 30, 2023, meeting minutes
• Review of new LDs from Bernstein Shur
• Review of legislative tracker from Bernstein Shur

The committee approved the minutes from the May 30, 2023 meeting. Members agreed to move to a bi-weekly meeting schedule for the summer. The committee discussed a potential breakfast with the delegation on June 30, 2023.

• Approved May 30, 2023 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Agreed to meet bi-weekly for the summer season

City Council

The Council will conduct its second public hearing regarding the city budget. The agenda also includes a proposal to close Lower Exchange Street on Sundays for a summer festival. Additionally, several appointments and business licenses are up for consideration.

• Second public hearing on the City Budget
• Proposal to close Lower Exchange Street on Sundays from June 16 to September 23
• Appointment of John Henshaw to the Board of Harbor Commissioners
• Declaration of July 4, 2023, as the July 4th Festival
• Appointment of William Needelman to the Portland Fish Exchange

The City Council approved several business licenses for outdoor dining and entertainment. The council also confirmed appointments for the Portland Fish Exchange and the Board of Harbor Commissioners. Multiple budget items were postponed to the June 26, 2023 meeting.

• Appointed William Needelman as Class E Director of the Portland Fish Exchange (9-0)
• Appointed Constables for Parks, Recreation & Facilities and Police Departments (9-0)
• Confirmed John Henshaw to the Board of Harbor Commissioners (9-0)
• Declared July 4, 2023 the July 4th Festival (9-0)
• Declared Open Air Sundays Festival on Lower Exchange Street from June 16 to September 23, 2023 (9-0)
• Approved parklet outdoor dining for Kirara Inc (N to Tail) at 29 Exchange Street (9-0)
• Approved indoor entertainment for Scarlet Ribbons LLC (The Henry) at 375 Fore Street (9-0)
• Postponed 12 municipal budget orders to June 26, 2023 (9-0)

Ad Hoc Committee

The committee will review and vote on search materials, including a job description and salary comparables. Members will also discuss the process for reviewing resumes and conducting interviews.

• Vote on job description edits and salary comparables
• Review proposed job posting locations and ad language
• Discussion of resume review, prescreen, and interview process
• Approval of minutes from the May 24 meeting

Parks Commission

The Parks Commission will hold annual elections for its Chair and Vice Chair. The meeting includes a presentation on the Back Cove South Storage Project and an update regarding the Bayside Trail. The commission will also discuss finalizing a date for the Green Space Gathering.

• Annual Chair and Vice Chair elections
• Back Cove South Storage Project presentation and update
• Bayside Trail and encampment update
• Dougherty Field Playground ribbon cutting ceremony
• Green Space Gathering date finalization

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The Legislative/Nominating Committee will review legislative updates and approve minutes from the May 23, 2023 meeting. The committee is scheduled to examine LD 1946, which proposes changes to income tax brackets and increases to lodging and short-term automobile rental taxes.

• Approval of meeting minutes from May 23, 2023
• Review of LD 1946 regarding income tax, lodging tax, and short-term automobile rental tax changes
• Review of legislative tracker provided by Bernstein Shur

The committee approved the minutes from the May 23, 2023 meeting. Members requested tracking for LD 1957 and discussed scheduling future meetings with the Portland Delegation.

• Approved May 23, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)

Ad Hoc Committee

The Search Committee will discuss the process for searching for a new Corporation Counsel. This meeting is being held remotely via Zoom.

• Discussion of Corporation Counsel search process

Rent Board

The Rent Board will hold a public comment period regarding a rent increase application for 16 Walnut St. The board is also scheduled to vote for the next Chair and Vice Chair.

• Rent increase application for 16 Walnut St, Units 1-8 & B
• Vote for the next Board Chair and Vice Chair
• Discussion regarding preparation for the Annual Report

The provided minutes consist of numerical codes and do not contain legible text, names, votes, or specific actions. No substantive decisions, approvals, or denials were recorded in a readable format.

Sustainability and Transportation Committee

The committee will discuss a request to designate Exchange Street as "Open Air Sundays" from June 16 to September 23, 2023. Additionally, members will hold a workshop on Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) and review Burlington, Vermont's Carbon Pollution Impact Fee.

• Request for "Open Air Sundays" on Exchange Street from June 16 to September 23, 2023
• Workshop on Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE)
• Review of Burlington, Vermont's Carbon Pollution Impact Fee
• Approval of May 10 meeting minutes

The committee voted to move a request from Portland Downtown to close Exchange Street to vehicles on Sundays from June 16 to September 23, 2023, to the full Council. Members also held a workshop on the C-PACE program and discussed a carbon pollution impact fee used in Burlington, Vermont.

• Approved May 10, 2023 meeting minutes (2-0)
• Recommended 'Open Air Sundays' on Exchange Street to full Council (2-0)

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The Legislative/Nominating Committee will review the minutes from the May 18, 2023, meeting. The committee is also scheduled to discuss updates on specific Maine legislative documents provided by Bernstein Shur.

• Approval of May 18, 2023, meeting minutes
• Review of LD 1897 regarding public roadways on unbridged islands
• Review of LD 1970 (Maine Indian Child Welfare Act)
• Review of legislative tracker updates from Bernstein Shur

The Legislative/Nominating Committee approved the May 18, 2023, meeting minutes. Members agreed to submit testimony in support of LD 1897 and LD 1970.

• Approved May 18, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Agreed to submit testimony in support of LD 1897
• Agreed to track and submit testimony in support of LD 1970

Finance Committee

The committee will hear budget presentations from various city department heads and administrative staff. Expected discussions include Housing and Economic Development, Information Technology, Portland Downtown District, and Memberships and Contributions. A public hearing is being held at this meeting, though final action has been postponed until June.

• Budget presentations for Housing and Economic Development
• Budget presentations for Information Technology
• Budget presentations for Portland Downtown District
• Budget presentations for Memberships and Contributions
• Public hearing on the FY24 City Manager’s Recommended Budget (action postponed)

The provided document contains only the legal notice regarding public record requirements and the location of meeting archives. No substantive decisions, motions, or votes are recorded in this text.

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold public hearings for two major development projects. One proposal involves converting vacant office space at 465 Congress Street into 63 market-rate residential units. Another seeks to redevelop the Riverton Park community with new residential, retail, and health clinic facilities.

• Conversion of floors 2-10 at 465 Congress Street into 63 market-rate units
• Demolition of four buildings and rehabilitation of 21 buildings at 2 Riverton Drive
• Construction of a new mixed-use building with offices, retail, and a health clinic
• Conditional use approval for a new neighborhood center as a place of assembly

City Council

The Portland City Council Workshop features a presentation from Acting Corporation Counsel Michael Goldman. The agenda also includes public comment and a council Q&A session.

• Presentation by Michael Goldman, Acting Corporation Counsel

Emergency Shelter Assessment Committee

The committee will review April 2023 monthly shelter bed usage statistics and discuss encampments and unsheltered homelessness. The agenda also includes updates on the Cumberland County Service Hub and state legislation.

• April 2023 monthly shelter bed usage statistics
• Discussion on encampments and unsheltered homelessness
• $12 million for shelter funding in Governor's Revised General Package
• Cumberland County Service Hub update

Portland Development Corporation

The Portland Development Corporation Board adopted a new policy allowing meetings to be held remotely, hybrid, or in person. The Board also approved a slate of five local organizations for economic development and business awards.

• Approved February 16, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0-3)
• Adopted Remote Participation Policy (8-0)
• Approved award nominations for Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine, Bissell Brothers Brewery, Bangs Island Mussels, Portland Food Co-op, and Intermed (8-0)
• Voted to enter executive session to discuss Delinquency Report (8-0)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is reviewing the City Manager’s recommended Fiscal Year 2024 budget. Department heads from Dispatch, City Clerk, Police, City Council, and Executive will provide presentations. This meeting is for discussion only, and no action will be taken.

• Budget presentations from Dispatch, City Clerk, Police, City Council, and Executive departments
• Discussion regarding potential changes to labor contracts with PBA and SOA

The Finance Committee heard budget presentations from the Dispatch, City Clerk, Police, City Council, and Executive departments. The committee entered executive session to discuss labor contracts with the Police Benevolent Association and Portland Police Superior Officers Association. No substantive actions were taken regarding the budget or contracts.

• Approved motion to enter executive session to discuss police labor contracts (3-0)
• Approved motion to adjourn (3-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will address an interpretation appeal regarding a denied building permit for a new rooftop terrace/roofdeck at 110 Thames Street. The board previously voted to table the vote on the Findings of Fact until this meeting.

• Interpretation Appeal (ZBA-002428-2023) regarding a denied building permit for a rooftop terrace/roofdeck at 110 Thames Street

The Zoning Board of Appeals reviewed an interpretation appeal regarding a denied building permit for a rooftop terrace at 110 Thames Street. The Board voted to uphold the City's original decision to deny the permit.

• Denied interpretation appeal for rooftop terrace at 110 Thames Street (6-0)

Public Art Committee

The committee will review updates on several local art projects and conservation efforts, including work on the Armillary and Loring Memorial granite post. Members will also discuss signage next steps for Gathering Stones and Passing the Torch. Additionally, artist Chris Miller is scheduled to present design development drawings for the Bramhall Square Redesign.

• Presentation of artwork design development drawings for Bramhall Square Redesign
• Conservation of 'Untitled- Armillary' beginning in May 2023
• Review of replacement estimate for damaged Loring Memorial granite post
• Requesting signage fabricator quotes from Burr Signs for Passing the Torch
• Update on Maine Med community art grant at Lowell Street Park

Historic Preservation Board

The Board will conduct a workshop for the preliminary review of new construction and an addition at 19 West Street. A public hearing is also scheduled regarding revisions to proposed alterations at 446 Fore Street.

• Workshop: Preliminary review of proposed new construction and addition at 19 West Street
• Public Hearing: Certificate of Appropriateness for revisions to proposed alterations at 446 Fore Street

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The Legislative/Nominating Committee will review new LDs and a legislative tracker provided by Bernstein Shur. The committee will also approve minutes from meetings held on April 28, May 2, and May 9, 2023.

• Approval of meeting minutes from April 28, May 2, and May 9, 2023
• Review of new LDs (Bernstein Shur)
• Review of Legislative Tracker (Bernstein Shur)

City Council

The City Council will consider the appointment of Danielle P. West as City Manager with a three-year contract and $210,000 annual salary. The meeting also includes discussions on non-union wage adjustments and various business licenses. Several budget-related items have been postponed to a future meeting.

• Appointment of Danielle P. West as City Manager with a $210,000 annual base salary
• A 4.0% cost of living adjustment for non-union employees and elected officials
• Approval of the Pride Portland! Parade & Festival for June 17, 2023
• Appointment of Sustainability Director Troy Moon as a Constable
• New outdoor dining and entertainment licenses for The Thirsty Pig and The Henry

The City Council appointed Danielle P. West as City Manager and Troy Moon as Sustainability Director. The council also approved several school budget funding allocations for Fiscal Year 2024 and granted two liquor and dining licenses.

• Appointed Danielle P. West as City Manager (9-0)
• Appointed Sustainability Director Troy Moon Constable (9-0)
• Approved FY 2024 State/Local EPS Funding for Portland Public Schools (9-0)
• Approved FY 2024 Non-State Funded School Construction Debt Service (9-0)
• Approved Class A Restaurant/Lounge license for Scarlet Ribbons LLC dba The Henry (8-0)
• Approved Parklet Outdoor Dining for Eighteen Exchange LLC dba Papi Portland (9-0)
• Declared June 17, 2023 the Pride Portland! Parade & Festival (9-0)
• Postponed license application for The Pig Exchange LLC to 6/26/23 (9-0)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will hear budget presentations for several city departments as part of the Fiscal Year 2024 budget review. Departments scheduled to present include Planning & Urban Development, Health & Human Services, Parks & Recreation, and Public Works. No action will be taken during this meeting.

• Budget presentations from Planning & Urban Development
• Budget presentations from Health & Human Services
• Budget presentations from Parks & Recreation
• Budget presentations from Public Works
• Review of the FY24 City Manager’s Recommended Budget

The provided document contains only the legal notice regarding public record requirements and the location of archived recordings. No specific motions, votes, or decisions were recorded in this text.

Land Bank Commission

The Land Bank Commission will discuss a hand carry boat launch evaluation for Hobart Street and Stroudwater Park. The meeting also includes the acceptance of April 12, 2023 minutes and various committee reports.

• Hand Carry Boat Launch Evaluation (Hobart Street and Stroudwater Park)
• Acceptance of April 12, 2023 meeting minutes
• Secretary's Report
• Treasurer's Report
• Parks Report

Sustainability and Transportation Committee

The committee will review March 22nd minutes and receive sustainability program updates. The agenda includes a presentation on the Stroudwater Dam, covering its 2022 inspection report and cost estimates. Members will also discuss a resolution supporting a Fossil Fuel Non Proliferation Treaty.

• Stroudwater Dam presentation including 2022 inspection report and cost estimate
• Resolution supporting a Fossil Fuel Non Proliferation Treaty
• Presentation by Metro
• Sustainability program updates

The committee unanimously voted to move a resolution supporting a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty to the City Council. Members also reviewed sustainability updates and requested further research on the Stroudwater Dam.

• Approved March 22, 2023 meeting minutes (2-0)
• Recommended Resolution Supporting a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty to City Council (unanimous)
• Tabled decision on Stroudwater Dam repairs pending further research on all options

Rent Board

The Rent Board will hold public comments on several rent increase applications for properties across the city. The agenda also includes nominations for the next Board Chair and an executive session with legal counsel.

• Rent increase application for 389 Cumberland Ave (116 units)
• Rent increase application for 16 Walnut St (Units 1-8 & B)
• Rent increase application for 132 Marginal Way (196 units)
• Rent increase application for 1267 Westbrook St
• Rent increase application for 14 Veranda St

The Rent Board approved rent increases for properties at 389 Cumberland Ave, 132 Marginal Way, and 1267 Westbrook St. One application for 16 Walnut St was tabled, and another for 14 Veranda St was sent back for resubmission. The Board also voted to recuse member Matt Walker from three specific applications due to conflicts of interest.

• Approved rent increase for 389 Cumberland Ave based on $626,040 roof cost (4-0)
• Approved $5.59 per unit increase for 132 Marginal Way (4-0)
• Approved rent increase to $1,200 per month for 1267 Westbrook St (5-0)
• Tabled rent increase application for 16 Walnut St (4-0)
• Required Rockprop LLC to resubmit 14 Veranda St application using MNOI worksheet (5-0)
• Recused Matt Walker from 389 Cumberland Ave, 16 Walnut St, and 132 Marginal Way votes (4-1 each)
• Approved March 22, 2023 minutes (5-0)

Police Citizen Review Subcommittee

The subcommittee will discuss the Roux Report and changes made by the Charter Commission regarding Question 7. The meeting also includes reviewing the timeline for implementing a new Citizen Review Board and considering a proposed quarterly in-person meeting schedule.

• Approval of April 12, 2023 minutes
• Discussion of Roux Report
• Implementation timeline for the new Citizen Review Board
• Adoption of a proposed quarterly in-person meeting schedule

The subcommittee received a presentation on the Roux Report regarding arrest and traffic stop patterns in Portland. Members discussed the transition to a new board following a pending City Council ordinance and tabled the 2022 Annual Report.

• Adopted April 12, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Tabled 2022 Annual Report discussion until next month
• Scheduled June meeting to be held remotely
• Adjourned meeting (7-0)

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The Legislative/Nominating Committee will review several Maine legislative updates. The discussion includes bills related to adult use cannabis laws and historic rehabilitation tax credits. The committee will also review a bill concerning transitional housing communities for homeless populations.

• Review of LD 1880 regarding adult use cannabis laws
• Review of LD 1810 regarding historic rehabilitation and weatherization tax credits
• Review of LD 1721 regarding transitional housing communities for homeless populations
• Approval of meeting minutes from April 28, 2023, and May 2, 2023

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold workshops regarding waterfront restaurant zoning and a transportation facility at 172 Bishop Street. Public hearings are also scheduled for a performance arts hall at 76 Congress Street and a residential rezoning at 900 Ocean Avenue.

• Zoning amendment to allow restaurants in the Eastern Waterfront Port Zone
• Redevelopment of 172 Bishop Street with 344 parking spaces and 72 EV chargers
• Public hearing for a 401-seat Performance Arts Hall at 76 Congress Street
• Rezoning of 26.6 acres at 900 Ocean Avenue from R-3 to R-5A Residential

HHS and Public Safety Committee

The HHS and Public Safety Committee will discuss recommendations regarding encampments and unsheltered homelessness. The committee may enter an executive session with counsel to discuss the City's legal rights and duties regarding encampments. No public comment will be taken on this item during this meeting.

• Discussion of recommendations for encampments and unsheltered homelessness
• Potential executive session regarding legal rights and duties related to encampments
• Review and approval of minutes from April 11, 2023, and May 2, 2023

Portland Fish Pier Authority

The Board will consider a request to use approximately $61,476 to fund part of the Waterfront Coordinator position. Members will also review lease amendments for the Marine Trade Center and vote on a new remote meeting policy. Updates regarding the Portland Fish Exchange and CARES Act funding are also scheduled.

• Adoption of a new remote meeting policy
• Review of Marine Trade Center lease amendments for Lot 2
• Request to use $61,476 for Waterfront Coordinator compensation
• Update on CARES Act infrastructure and program funding

The Portland Fish Pier Authority Board approved several financial actions, including forgiving FY23 rent payments for the Portland Fish Exchange and providing $80,000 to cover FY24 budget shortfalls. The board also allocated $15,000 for legal fees related to a potential board merger, approved a remote meeting policy, and authorized $61,476 for partial funding of the Waterfront Coordinator position. All votes were 4-0.

• Approved abatement of FY23 rental payments from Portland Fish Exchange to PFPA (4-0)
• Approved $80,000 to Portland Fish Exchange for FY24 budget shortfalls, including rent, with quarterly reporting (4-0)
• Allocated $15,000 for legal fees supporting board merger process (4-0)
• Approved Remote Meeting Participation Policy (4-0)
• Approved $61,476 for 50% of FY24 Waterfront Coordinator salary and benefits (4-0)
• Approved March 13, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved executive session for real estate negotiations (4-0)

City Council

The City Council will meet in an executive session to discuss the use of Portland property for temporary shelter. The council will also consult with Corporation Counsel regarding associated legal rights and duties.

• Discussion on using property in Portland for temporary shelter

Emergency Shelter Assessment Committee

The committee will conduct introductions. The meeting includes a review of a Health & Human Services recommendation memo regarding encampments.

• HHS Recommendation Memo regarding encampments

Finance Committee

The meeting was procedural only, with no votes or substantive decisions taken. The minutes consist solely of a boilerplate statement about public record requirements and a link to the meeting archive.

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will meet remotely to review two agenda items. The board will hear an appeal regarding a denied building permit for a rooftop terrace at 110 Thames Street. Additionally, the board will consider a hardship variance request for a proposed retail drive-through at 84 Auburn Street.

• Interpretation Appeal (ZBA-002428-2023) regarding a rooftop terrace/roofdeck at 110 Thames Street
• Hardship Variance (ZBA-002481-2023) for a drive-through at 84 Auburn St

The board voted 6-0 to grant a new hardship variance for a drive-through at 84 Auburn Street, after the previous variance expired. The board also tabled an appeal regarding a rooftop deck at 110 Thames Street to a future meeting.

• Granted new hardship variance for drive-through at 84 Auburn St. (6-0)
• Tabled interpretation appeal for rooftop deck at 110 Thames St. (6-0)

Creative Portland Corporation

The Creative Portland Corporation Board of Directors will review the draft FY24 Work Plan and consider the 2023/24 EXCOM slate. The agenda includes updates on a public art project at East Bayside's The Armature condos and plaza. The board will also discuss organizational roles and vacancies for lawyer and fundraiser positions.

• Review of draft FY24 Work Plan
• Public art project at East Bayside's The Armature condos and plaza
• AR Experience Applications funded by NEA Grant
• Board vacancies for lawyer and fundraiser roles
• Consideration of 2023/24 EXCOM slate

Historic Preservation Board

The Historic Preservation Board will hold public hearings regarding certificates of appropriateness for three projects. These include proposed alterations at 25 Forest Avenue, a cemetery expansion at 672 Stevens Avenue, and an addition at 511 Congress Street.

• Proposed alterations at 25 Forest Avenue
• Proposed cemetery expansion at 672 Stevens Avenue (Evergreen Cemetery)
• Proposed addition at 511 Congress Street

City Council

The Portland City Council will meet in an executive session to discuss the City Manager search process. This meeting is scheduled for May 3, 2023.

• Executive Session regarding City Manager search process

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The Legislative/Nominating Committee will review new legislative documents regarding federal funding for emergency medical services and community drug checking initiatives. The committee will also review the legislative tracker. A motion to enter executive session for appointments is on the agenda.

• Review of LD 1751 regarding federal funding for Emergency Medical Services
• Review of LD 1745 regarding community drug checking initiatives
• Review of the legislative tracker from Bernstein Shur
• Motion to enter executive session for appointments

The committee discussed two legislative items: LD 1751 (An Act to Maximize Federal Funding in Support of Emergency Medical Services) and LD 1745 (An Act to Support Public Health by Protecting Certain Activities Conducted Under Comprehensive Community Drug Checking Initiatives). Members supported creating testimony for LD 1751 and expressed support for providing testimony on LD 1745. No formal votes were taken; the executive session was cancelled. The meeting adjourned at 8:40am.

• Supported creation of testimony for LD 1751 (EMS funding)
• Expressed support for testimony on LD 1745 (drug checking initiatives)
• Cancelled planned executive session (no need)

HHS and Public Safety Committee

The HHS and Public Safety Committee will review current encampment policies and staff recommendations. The agenda includes a discussion of ESAC concerns and a potential executive session regarding the City's legal rights and duties. No public comment will be taken during this meeting.

• Overview of current encampment policy
• HHS staff recommendations
• ESAC concerns
• Potential executive session on legal rights and duties

Ad Hoc Committee

The committee will review minutes from the April 4 meeting and receive sustainability updates. The agenda also includes a discussion regarding a Fall Landcare Event.

• Review of April 4th Meeting Minutes
• Sustainability Updates
• Discussion of Fall Landcare Event

The Pesticide Management Advisory Committee approved the April 4 minutes unanimously. The Sustainability Office presented a 'Mow Tall Until Fall' campaign to educate residents on organic lawn care, and a field day demonstration event was discussed for September 9.

• Approved April 4 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Set next meeting for first Tuesday in August

City Council

The Portland City Council will hold a workshop on May 1, 2023. The council intends to enter an executive session to discuss the city's legal rights and duties regarding litigation involving FEDEQ DV004, LLC and FEDEQ DV005, LLC.

• Motion for executive session regarding pending litigation (FEDEQ DV004, LLC and FEDEQ DV005, LLC v. City of Portland et al.)

City Council

The City Council is conducting the first reading of several orders related to the Fiscal Year 2024 school budget. This includes discussions on operating budgets, debt service, and state funding allocations. A public hearing for the budget is scheduled for May 15, 2023.

• First reading of the $136,777,421 total school operating budget for Fiscal Year 2024
• Order to approve $30,238,748 in additional local funds for Portland Schools
• Amendments to City Code regarding a Clean Elections Fund and campaign finance requirements
• License applications for several food service establishments and lounges
• Appropriation of $2,732,531 for Adult Education for Fiscal Year 2024

The City Council approved an amendment to the Clean Elections code and granted six municipal licenses. The council also approved a modification to the Union Branch Trail Connector agreement and appointed members to various boards and commissions.

• Approved Amendment to Portland City Code Chapter 9 Re: Clean Elections (5-3)
• Approved Modification 1 to Union Branch Trail Connector agreement with Maine DOT (8-0)
• Approved appointments to various boards and commissions (8-0)
• Approved indoor entertainment license for Maine Ballroom Dancing at 616 Congress Street (8-0)
• Approved Class I FSE license for The Great Lost Bear at 540 Forest Avenue (8-0)
• Approved Class I FSE and entertainment license for Cherished Pub at 64 Auburn Street (8-0)
• Approved Class XI Restaurant/Lounge license for Hot Liquor Tank at 43 Wharf Street (8-0)
• Approved Class I FSE license for Taco A Go Go at 0 Canal Plaza (8-0)

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The committee will discuss upcoming legislation regarding general assistance and housing. Interim City Manager Danielle West will also provide an update on the FY24 budget.

• Discussion of upcoming general assistance bills
• Discussion of upcoming housing bills
• FY24 budget update from Interim City Manager Danielle West
• Approval of April 25, 2023 meeting minutes

The committee approved the minutes from the April 25, 2023 meeting. Members held discussions regarding upcoming General Assistance and Housing bills, and received an FY24 Budget update from Interim City Manager Danielle West.

• Approved April 25, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)

City Council

The City Manager Search Subcommittee will meet to discuss the City Manager search process. This meeting is scheduled as an executive session.

• Motion to enter Executive Session to discuss the City Manager search process

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee held a public hearing and voted to recommend the Portland Board of Public Education Fiscal Year 2024 Budget as presented. The committee also began a review of the City Manager's FY24 Municipal Budget, though no action was taken on that item.

• Recommended FY24 Board of Public Education Budget to City Council (3-0)

Emergency Shelter Assessment Committee

The Emergency Shelter Assessment Committee will discuss encampments and hotel closures. The provided agenda does not contain specific details regarding proposed actions or decisions for these topics.

• Encampments
• Hotel Closures

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The Legislative/Nominating Committee will approve the minutes from the April 18, 2023, meeting. The committee will also review new legislative documents and a legislative tracker provided by Bernstein Shur.

• Approval of April 18, 2023, meeting minutes
• Review of new LDs from Bernstein Shur
• Review of Legislative Tracker from Bernstein Shur

The Legislative/Nominating Committee determined its testimony positions on several legislative bills (LDs). The committee agreed to support bills LD 1721, 1559, 1480, 1634, 1664, and 1584.

• Approved April 18, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Agreed to testify in support of LD 1721
• Agreed to provide written testimony for LD 1559
• Agreed to provide written testimony in support of LD 1480
• Agreed to provide written testimony in support of LD 1634
• Agreed to testify in support of LD 1664 at May 5 public hearing
• Agreed to provide testimony in support of LD 1584
• Requested LD 1710 and LD 1690 be placed on the tracker

Housing & Economic Development Committee

The Housing & Economic Development Committee will hold public hearings on several items, including updates to workforce development programs and a proposed amendment to the City's Tax Increment Financing Policy. The committee will also review a report on fair housing impediments and a recommendation for establishing a Tourism Development District.

• FY2023 TIF-funded Workforce Development Programs update and FY2024 funding request
• Proposed amendment to the City's Tax Increment Financing Policy
• Report to HUD on Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing
• Establishment of a Tourism Development District

The Committee recommended funding for Portland Adult Ed's workforce programs and proposed amendments to the TIF policy to lower construction costs. It also recommended approval of a fair housing impediments report. The meeting ended before a vote was recorded on the Tourism Development District.

• Recommended $200,000 in FY2024 TIF funding for Portland Adult Ed workforce training (4-0)
• Recommended approval of amendments to the Tax Increment Financing Policy regarding wage rates (3-1)
• Recommended approval of the Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing report (4-0)
• Accepted April 4, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)

City Council

The Portland City Council will meet to discuss the City Manager search process during an executive session. The agenda contains only this discussion and standard procedural items.

• Discussion of the City Manager search process

City Council

The Council will review the Fiscal Year 2024 school and municipal budgets. The agenda also includes approving $8.96 million in federal grants for airport infrastructure and establishing a Clean Election Fund. Additionally, several business license applications for outdoor dining are up for consideration.

• $8.96 million FAA grant for airport infrastructure projects
• Establishment of a Clean Election Fund and campaign finance ordinance
• FY24 school and municipal budget reviews
• Outdoor dining and lounge license applications
• Resolution opposing federal preemption of pesticide regulations

The City Council referred the FY2024 municipal and school budget estimates to the Finance Committee for further review. The council also approved several business licenses, zoning amendments, and a resolution opposing federal preemption of municipal pesticide regulations.

• Referred FY2024 Board of Public Education budget estimate to Finance Committee (9-0)
• Referred FY2024 Municipal Budget to Finance Committee (9-0)
• Approved resolution opposing federal preemption of municipal pesticide regulations (9-0)
• Approved zoning map amendment from R-6 to B-3 at 211 Cumberland Avenue (9-0)
• Approved zoning map amendment repealing C-5 Conditional Zone Agreement at 22 Park Avenue (9-0)
• Approved outdoor dining for LB Kitchen at 255 Congress Street (9-0)
• Approved outdoor dining for Room for Improvement at 41 Wharf Street (8-1)
• Postponed Clean Elections ordinance amendment until May 1, 2023 (9-0)

Emergency Shelter Assessment Committee

The Emergency Shelter Assessment Committee will review March 2023 monthly shelter bed usage statistics. The meeting includes updates on South Portland hotel closures and the Cumberland County Service Hub. Members will also receive federal, state, and local legislation updates.

• Review of March 2023 monthly shelter bed usage statistics
• Updates on South Portland hotel closures
• Cumberland County Service Hub update from United Way
• Federal, state, and local legislation updates

Public Art Committee

The committee will review project reports for Congress Square Park, Bramhall Square, and the Gathering Stones project. Members will also discuss conservation efforts for several artworks and subcommittee updates. A public hearing regarding the committee's participation policy is scheduled.

• Artist contract amendments for Congress Square Park construction documentation
• Signage and memorial bench relocation for Gathering Stones project
• Purchase and installation of two signs for Passing the Torch at USM campus corner
• Conservation of Armillary artwork beginning in May 2023
• Insurance claim regarding damaged Loring Memorial granite posts

Historic Preservation Board

The board will hold a workshop to review a revised design proposal for new construction at the former St. Lawrence Church sanctuary site. There is also a public hearing regarding the adoption of a revised Remote Participation Policy.

• Preliminary review of revised design proposal for 76 Congress Street
• Public hearing for adoption of revised Remote Participation Policy

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The Legislative/Nominating Committee will meet to approve the minutes from the April 11, 2023, meeting. The committee is also scheduled to review new LDs and a legislative tracker provided by Bernstein Shur.

• Approval of April 11, 2023, meeting minutes
• Review of new LDs from Bernstein Shur
• Review of legislative tracker from Bernstein Shur

The Legislative/Nominating Committee approved the April 11, 2023, meeting minutes. Members identified several legislative docket (LD) items for tracking, staff feedback, or testimony.

• Approved April 11, 2023 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Added LD 1584 to tracker with request to testify in support
• Added LD 1574 to tracker with request for staff feedback
• Added LD 1593 to tracker with request for staff feedback
• Added LD 1568 to tracker
• Scheduled Mayor to testify in support of LD 847 on April 20

Ad Hoc Committee

The committee will conduct interviews with three City Manager candidates in executive session. This includes panels involving staff, directors, and council members. Following these sessions, the Council will meet with Anne Lewis from Baker Tilly to discuss next steps.

• Interviews with three City Manager candidates
• Council debriefs with staff interview panels
• Meeting with Anne Lewis from Baker Tilly
• Public community reception and survey on April 14

Land Bank Commission

The commission will discuss updates regarding homelessness and its relation to Land Bank properties. The agenda also includes reports from the Parks Division and the Parks Commission.

• Update on homelessness and Land Bank properties
• Davis Family Pines Update
• Wetland Report - Coolidge
• Acceptance of March 8, 2023 meeting minutes

The commission decided to keep its existing meeting schedule to remain in room 24. The meeting otherwise consisted of reports on homeless encampments, parks maintenance, and open space projects.

• Approved keeping current meeting day and time (majority vote)

Police Citizen Review Subcommittee

The subcommittee will review the draft 2022 Annual Report. The meeting also includes an election for a new Vice Chairperson and a discussion regarding hybrid versus remote meeting formats.

• Review of 2022 Draft Annual Report
• Election of new Vice Chairperson
• Discussion of hybrid vs. remote meetings
• Approval of March 8, 2023 minutes

The subcommittee approved the March 8, 2023 meeting minutes and elected a new vice chairperson. Members discussed revisions to the 2022 Annual Report and decided to postpone changes to meeting formats until the committee is reformatted, potentially in July.

• Adopted March 8, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Elected Anne Hardcastle as vice chairperson (6-0)

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The Legislative/Nominating Committee will review new legislative documents and a tracker provided by Bernstein Shur. The committee will also discuss LD 406, which concerns a rail corridor use vision plan for Maine-owned railroads.

• Approval of April 4, 2023 meeting minutes
• Review of new Legislative Documents (LDs)
• Review of LD 406 regarding a rail corridor use vision plan for state-owned railroads

The committee added eight bills to its legislative tracker for monitoring or staff feedback. Members expressed support for testimony regarding LD 406. The minutes from the April 4, 2023 meeting were approved.

• Approved minutes from April 4, 2023 meeting (3-0)
• Added LD 1413, LD 1415, LD 1426, LD 1403, and LD 1448 to tracker for monitoring
• Requested staff feedback for LD 1480 and LD 1538
• Requested City Clerk feedback for LD 1500
• Expressed support for testimony on LD 406

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a workshop to consider rezoning 16.19 acres at 900 Ocean Avenue from R-3 to R-5A Residential. The meeting also includes public hearings for a residential development at 73 Powsland Street and an appeal regarding a blasting permit at 368 Ray Street. Additionally, the board will conduct officer elections.

• Rezoning of 900 Ocean Avenue from R-3 to R-5A Residential
• Major site plan for nine residential units at 73 Powsland Street
• Administrative appeal of a blasting permit for 368 Ray Street
• Planning Board officer elections

HHS and Public Safety Committee

The committee will discuss a pregnancy crisis centers ordinance and review staff reports on enforcement and removal procedures for unauthorized campsites. Members will also receive an update on the Homeless Services Center & Expo and an overview of public safety responses at rallies.

• Pregnancy Crisis Centers Ordinance discussion
• Staff review of encampment enforcement and removal policies
• Homeless Services Center & Expo update
• Public safety response at rallies overview
• Approval of March 16, 2023 minutes

City Council

The City Council approved the FY 2023-2024 Housing and Community Development Annual Action Plan and the 2023 Jill C. Duson Housing Trust Fund Annual Plan. The council also granted five liquor licenses and approved an administrative fee increase for the Ocean Gateway parking lot. Several zoning and code amendments were introduced as first reads with no action taken.

• Approved FY 2023-2024 Housing and Community Development Annual Action Plan (8-0)
• Approved 2023 Jill C. Duson Housing Trust Fund Annual Plan (8-0)
• Approved 2023 Affordable Housing Development and Tax Increment Financing Application (8-0)
• Approved administrative fee increase for Ocean Gateway parking lot (7-1-1)
• Approved easement for Central Maine Power at Portland Ocean Terminal (8-0)
• Granted liquor licenses to Quanto Basta, Freedom’s Edge Cider, Urban Farm Fermentory, Thai Esaan, and The End (all 8-0)
• Appointed Patrick Ferraiolo as Constable and Elisa A. Marr as Tax Assessor (all 8-0)
• Declared April 29 to October 31, 2023 as the In the Square Festival (8-0)

Parks Commission

The commission will review the March 2, 2023, meeting minutes and consider accepting new hybrid meeting rules. The agenda also includes updates regarding the CIP and homeless encampments.

• Acceptance of new Hybrid Meeting rules
• CIP update
• Homeless Encampment Update
• Parks Department Hiring update

The Commission unanimously accepted the minutes from the March 2, 2023 meeting. Members discussed Capital Improvement Plan updates, homeless encampment reports, and the process for reviewing large-scale event applications.

• Approved March 2, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will consider an application to operate a sheltered care group home at 59 Pine Street. The board will also discuss and vote on adopting a Remote Participation Policy.

• Conditional Use Appeal for 59 Pine St (sheltered care group home)
• Vote on Remote Participation Policy adoption

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a conditional use request for a sheltered care group home and adopted a new policy regarding remote participation.

• Approved Conditional Use Appeal for sheltered care group home at 59 Pine St for two years (5-0)
• Adopted Remote Participation Policy (5-0)

Finance Committee

The provided document contains only the legal notice regarding public record requirements and recording archives. No substantive decisions, motions, or votes were recorded in this text.

Creative Portland Corporation

The Board of Directors will discuss the draft FY2024 Work Plan and Budget. The meeting includes updates on an arts advocacy trip to Capitol Hill and a public art project at The Armature condos. The board will also address vacancies for lawyer and fundraiser positions.

• Review of draft FY2024 Work Plan and Budget
• Arts advocacy trip to Capitol Hill on April 18-19
• Public art project at East Bayside's The Armature condos and plaza
• Board vacancies for a lawyer and fundraisers
• Vote to accept February minutes and March financials

Historic Preservation Board

The Board will conduct preliminary reviews of proposed new construction for Blocks 4 and 6 at 58 Fore Street. No public hearings are scheduled for this meeting. The agenda also includes a report on a previous decision regarding 73 Winter Street.

• Preliminary review of proposed new construction at 58 Fore Street (Block 4)
• Preliminary review of proposed new construction at 58 Fore Street (Block 6)
• Report on approved revisions for 73 Winter Street

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The committee identified several bills for which the city will prepare testimony in support or opposition. The meeting minutes from March 24, 2023, were approved. The committee adjourned to enter an executive session to discuss candidate applications.

• Approved March 24, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Determined testimony in support for LD 1286, LD 1293, LD 1298, LD 1310, and LD 1380
• Determined testimony in support for LD 1402
• Determined testimony in opposition for LD 1365
• Voted to enter executive session to discuss candidate applications (4-0)

Housing & Economic Development Committee

The Committee reached a consensus to move forward with installing four EV charging stations at the 0 Marginal Way parking lot. Members also discussed the potential for future housing production on the site and the Franklin Street redesign. No formal votes were taken on these proposals.

• Approved minutes from March 21, 2023 meeting (4-0)
• Consensus to proceed with EV charging stations at 0 Marginal Way
• Consensus to move forward with Franklin Street redesign analysis

Ad Hoc Committee

The committee will review minutes from February 7 and March 7 meetings. Members will receive updates from the Sustainability Office and discuss the origins of 'No Mow May.' The agenda also includes planning for a fall Landcare event.

• Approval of February 7 and March 7 meeting minutes
• Sustainability Office updates
• Discussion regarding the origins of 'No Mow May'
• Planning for a fall Landcare event

Ad Hoc Committee

The subcommittee will review the draft interview schedule and the feedback survey process for community and staff receptions on April 14. The committee also plans to discuss finalist interview questions and review additional candidate resumes in executive session.

• Review of draft interview schedule
• Review of Feedback-Loop Survey for April 14 receptions
• Discussion of City Manager finalist interview questions
• Review of additional candidate resumes

Civil Service Employment Subcommittee

The Nominating Committee is scheduled to conduct interviews for various boards and commissions. The agenda also includes a call to order and an executive session.

• Interviews for boards and commissions
• Executive session

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The committee will review new legislative updates and a tracker provided by Bernstein Shur. This includes reviewing LD 793, An Act to Support Municipal Services with Revenue Sharing. The committee will also approve minutes from the March 24, 2023, meeting.

• Review of LD 793, An Act to Support Municipal Services with Revenue Sharing
• Approval of March 24, 2023, meeting minutes
• Review of new legislative updates from Bernstein Shur

Planning Board

The board will hold a workshop to consider the redevelopment of Riverton Park, involving building demolition and new construction. Public hearings are also scheduled for a new USM performing arts facility and a hotel conversion on Middle Street.

• Redevelopment of Riverton Park at 2 Riverton Drive involving demolition and new construction
• New 40,000 square foot USM Center for the Arts facility at 111 Bedford Street
• Conversion of office space into a 19-room hotel at 178–184 Middle Street
• Tabled site plan amendment for 57 Douglass Street moved to April 25, 2023

Finance Committee

The committee will review the proposed FY24 budget for Portland Public Schools and results from the 6/30/22 audit. City-only discussions include updates on air handler repairs at the Portland Public Library and upcoming union contract negotiations. No formal actions are scheduled during this meeting.

• Presentation of FY24 Portland Public Schools proposed budget
• Review of 6/30/22 audit results by Marcum LLP
• Update on Portland Public Library air handler failure and repair funding
• Discussion of open FY24 union contracts (PBA, SOA, CEBA, Pro-Tech, and Labor and Trades)
• Potential reallocation of ARPA funds from Burbank Library to the main library

The committee held discussions regarding Portland Public Library air handler failures, the FY24 City Budget, 2022 audit results, and the proposed FY24 school budget. No substantive actions were taken on these items. The committee voted to enter executive session to discuss specific union contracts.

• Approved motion to enter executive session to discuss labor contracts (3-0)

City Council

The Portland City Council will receive a communication from Interim City Manager Danielle P. West regarding the Temporary/Emergency Housing Plan. This item requires no formal council action or public comment.

• Communication 28-22/23 regarding the Temporary/Emergency Housing Plan

The City Council approved the minutes from the March 20, 2023 meeting. The Interim City Manager provided an update on the Temporary/Emergency Housing Plan, which required no formal action.

• Approved City Council Meeting minutes from March 20, 2023 (9-0)

City Council

The City Council is holding a workshop to review draft ordinances regarding clean elections and campaign finance. Attorneys from Perkins Thompson will present proposed language for Article V and Article VI. The council will also discuss Chapter 9, Article III concerning initiation and referendum processes.

• Presentation of Draft Article VI Campaign Finance Ordinance
• Presentation of Draft Article V Clean Elections Ordinance
• Presentation on Chapter 9, Article III (Initiation and Referendum)

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The committee will receive a presentation on the City of Portland FY24 Budget from Interim City Manager Danielle West. The meeting also includes discussions regarding SNAP benefits and continued reviews of specific legislative items.

• Presentation of the FY24 Budget
• Discussion regarding SNAP benefits
• Review of LD 1153 (solar energy equipment taxation)
• Review of LD 1170 (passenger rail for commuters)
• Review of LD 1176 (municipal cannabis revenue sharing)

The committee received a presentation on factors affecting the FY24 City budget, including General Assistance and ELL funding. Members discussed several legislative bills, though no final votes were taken on the proposed legislation.

• Approved meeting minutes from March 21, 2023 (0-3)
• Postponed discussion of LD 1170 (Passenger Rail for Commuters) to March 28
• Postponed discussion of LD 1176 (Municipal Cannabis Revenue Sharing) to March 28

Rent Board

The Portland Rent Board is reviewing several applications for rent increases at various properties. These requests are based on capital improvement costs and increased housing service costs. The meeting includes opportunities for public comment on these proposals.

• Rent increase application for 132 Marginal Way (196 units)
• Rent increase application for 389 Cumberland Ave (116 units)
• Rent increase applications for properties on Montreal St and Walnut St
• Rent increase applications for Grant Street properties

The Rent Board tabled multiple rent increase applications due to notice issues and requests for additional information. The Board also entered an executive session to receive legal counsel on the interpretation of the Rent Stabilization ordinance.

• Approved February 22, 2023 minutes with one amendment (5-0)
• Approved motion to enter Executive Session for legal consultation on Rent Stabilization ordinance (5-0)
• Tabled rent increase application for 389 Cumberland Ave due to notice requirements (5-0)
• Approved first motion for six applications from Eastern Residential Inc. to review building by building (5-0)
• Tabled three rent increase applications for Grant Street properties (5-0)
• Tabled rent increase application for 132 Marginal Way pending additional information (5-0)
• Postponed application for Capital Improvement Costs at 132 Marginal Way (5-0)

Sustainability and Transportation Committee

The committee unanimously approved a resolution opposing HR7266 and supporting the Protect America’s Children from Toxic Pesticides Act of 2023 to preserve local pesticide regulation. A vote to update the City's greenhouse gas reduction targets to a science-based target was postponed. The committee also approved the March 8 meeting minutes.

• Approved Resolution to Oppose the Federal Preemption of Local Pesticide Ordinances 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved March 8, 2023 meeting minutes (2-0)
• Postponed vote on Updating the City’s Greenhouse Gas Reduction Target to a Science-Based Target to April 12th (unanimous)

Peaks Island Council

The Peaks Island Council will review committee updates on ferry service, parking, and environment. The meeting includes a discussion regarding the Sandy Beach ramp and a report on a Zoning and Recode event.

• Discussion of Sandy Beach ramp
• Report on Zoning and Recode event
• Ferry service update
• Environment & Sustainability committee report

The Council approved a $45,000 budget request to be submitted to the City of Portland. The budget prioritizes transportation and needs-based tickets while denying funding for several local organizations. A contingency plan was approved to reduce funding requests equally if the city denies the full amount.

• Approved FY2024 budget request of $45,000 (unanimous)
• Approved contingency to reduce funding requests equally if city budget is cut, exempting Administration, Needs-Based tickets, and Island Transportation System (unanimous)
• Denied budget funding for Peaks Island Info and Peaks Island Historical Society
• Denied budget funding for Umbrella Cover Museum and PI Elementary School project
• Approved January 25, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Treasurer's report showing balance of $6,975.64 (unanimous)

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The Legislative/Nominating Committee will vote on LD 937 regarding a commission for foreign-trained physicians in Maine. The committee will also discuss legislative updates concerning public drinking and electronic data privacy. Additionally, members will review testimony for property tax bills and prepare for Hill Day.

• Vote on LD 937 to establish a commission for foreign-trained physicians in Maine
• Discussion of LD 1046 regarding decriminalizing public drinking
• Discussion of LD 1056 regarding state assistance in federal electronic data collection
• Review of testimony for property tax stabilization bills (LD 37, LD 89, and LD 130)
• Preparation for Hill Day on March 28, 2023

The Committee approved a list of federal priorities for the upcoming Hill Day on March 28, 2023. Members directed staff to draft testimony for several legislative bills. Approval of the March 14 meeting minutes was postponed due to a lack of quorum.

• Approved federal priorities list for Hill Day
• Directed testimony in support of LD 1060
• Directed testimony in opposition to LD 1050
• Directed testimony in support of LD 199
• Postponed approval of March 14 meeting minutes

Housing & Economic Development Committee

The committee will review the 2023 Jill C. Duson Housing Trust Fund Annual Plan for recommendation to the City Council. Members will also vote on an application for the Affordable Housing TIF and Development Fund. Additionally, the committee will discuss negotiations regarding a soccer proposal at Fitzpatrick Stadium.

• 2023 Jill C. Duson Housing Trust Fund Annual Plan review
• 2023 Affordable Housing TIF application vote
• Cumberland County HOME Consortium participation recommendation
• USL Soccer Proposal negotiations at Fitzpatrick Stadium

The Committee recommended that the City Council adopt the 2023 Jill C. Duson Housing Trust Fund and Affordable Housing TIF applications, with amendments to prioritize rental projects and 50% AMI income levels. The Committee also recommended continuing the City's participation in the Cumberland County HOME Consortium.

• Approved February 21, 2023 draft meeting minutes (3-0)
• Recommended 2023 Jill C. Duson Housing Trust Fund Application for City Council adoption, amended for income and rental priorities (4-0)
• Recommended 2023 Affordable Housing Development and Affordable Housing TIF Application for City Council adoption, amended for income and rental priorities (4-0)
• Recommended City Council continue participation in the Cumberland County HOME Consortium (4-0)
• Voted to enter executive session to discuss USL Soccer Proposal at Fitzpatrick Stadium (4-0)

City Council

The City Council approved several funding measures for the FY 2024 Capital Improvement Program and set an election date for a citizen initiative regarding tenant protections. The council also granted two liquor licenses and approved the FY 2023-2024 Housing and Community Development Annual Action Plan.

• Approved General Obligation Bonds up to $17,455,000 for FY 2024 Capital Improvement Program (9-0)
• Appropriated up to $24,530,000 for FY 2024 Capital Improvement Program (9-0)
• Approved election date for citizen initiative on tenant protections, as amended (9-0)
• Approved FY 2023-2024 Housing and Community Development Annual Action Plan (9-0)
• Approved HOME American Rescue Plan Allocation Plan (9-0)
• Approved Rent Board rules as an emergency (9-0)
• Approved Class A Lounge license for One City Wine Academy Inc dba Citrus (8-0)
• Approved Class III & IV FSE license for Cera LLC dba Cera (8-0)

Public Art Committee

The committee will discuss progress on several public art projects, including the Bramhall Square Redesign and the Jewel Box glass replacement. Members will also review artist applications for utility boxes and bicycle racks. A new committee member, Stephanie Motter, will be introduced.

• Bramhall Square Redesign design development phase
• Jewel Box glass replacement status update
• Introduction of new committee member Stephanie Motter
• Portland Downtown Utility Box artist application review
• TEMPOart summer 2023 application review

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The Legislative/Nominating Committee will discuss several state legislative proposals. Topics include municipal authority over energy systems, senior property tax stabilization, and cannabis tax revenue.

• Vote on LD 894 regarding municipality prohibitions on energy systems
• Discussion of LD 787 for the Maine Resident Service Coordination Program
• Discussion of LD 37, LD 89, and LD 130 regarding senior property tax stabilization
• Review of testimony for LD 88 regarding cannabis tax revenues
• Review of testimony for LD 812 regarding absentee voting access

The Legislative/Nominating Committee approved previous meeting minutes and determined the city's testimony positions on several state legislative bills (LDs). Members identified additional bills to track and requested further data on property tax and police matters.

• Approved minutes from March 3 and March 7, 2023 (4-0)
• Supported delivery of testimony by Sustainability Director for LD 894
• Supported submission of testimony in support of LD 787
• Requested Finance Director cost data for LD 130
• Requested police insight on LD 1046 for next meeting
• Agreed to track LD 1046, LD 984, LD 1055, LD 1060, LD 1050, and LD 996
• Submitted testimony in support of LD 88
• Submitted testimony neither for nor against LD 812

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a workshop to consider a development proposal for 13 parcels in the West Bayside neighborhood. The plan includes 804 residential units, with 201 designated as affordable, and 28,500 square feet of commercial space. The project also proposes a new linear park along Lancaster Street.

• Master Development Plan for 196 Lancaster Street
• Proposal for 804 residential units (201 affordable)
• Proposed 28,500 square feet of commercial space
• Proposed linear park/shared street along Lancaster Street
• Tabled: Major Site Plan Amendment for 57 Douglass Street

Portland Fish Pier Authority

The Board will review financial updates, facilities projects, and CARES Act funding. A motion may be considered to adopt a new oversight board framework. The meeting also includes discussions on parking management and officer elections.

• Motion regarding single entity oversight Board (Option 2)
• Proposal for a front lot pay kiosk
• Election of Vice President and Treasurer
• CARES Act infrastructure funding update

The Board voted to accept a subcommittee recommendation to move toward a single 11-member oversight board. The Board also filled vacant officer positions and received updates on pier infrastructure and CARES Act funding.

• Approved February 13, 2023 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Approved recommendation to pursue a single governance board as described in Option 2 (5-0)
• Appointed Brendan O’Connell as Treasurer and Ben Martens as Vice President (4-0)
• Requested detailed proposal for a front lot pay kiosk for future action

City Council

Finance Director Brendan T. O’Connell will provide updates on the FY24 City Manager’s Recommended Budget. The Council will discuss budget information to provide staff with guidance regarding the mill rate and acceptable increase levels.

• FY24 budget development updates
• Discussion of budget guidance for staff
• Review of mill rate and acceptable increase levels

City Council

The City Council will hold a workshop regarding how the City of Portland Clean Elections program should be structured. Attorneys from Perkins Thompson will introduce the purpose and process for the discussion. The council will also review examples of clean election laws, including the Maine Clean Election Act.

• Introduction to the Clean Elections program purpose and process by Perkins Thompson attorneys
• Public comment period regarding the structure of the Clean Elections program
• Review and discussion of the Maine Clean Election Act

Ad Hoc Committee

The committee will meet with the City Manager to review funding recommendations. Staff will also provide updates on the appeals process and final HUD allocation.

• Review of City Manager's recommendations
• Update on appeals process and final HUD allocation
• Presentation of recommendations to City Council on March 20
• Final allocation decisions by City Council on April 10

The committee approved the minutes from February 9, 2022. Members discussed CDBG funding caps, the use of contingency funds, and the scoring process for new project set-asides. The committee will send a reviewed recommendation letter to the HCD office on February 17.

• Approved minutes from February 9, 2022

Land Bank Commission

The Commission unanimously voted to adopt state-issued hybrid meeting policies. No other substantive actions were taken on agenda items, which included discussions on the Bayside Community Garden, Stroudwater Bridge project, and Davis Family Pines property.

• Accepted February 8, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adopted state-issued hybrid meeting policies (unanimous)
• Bayside Community Garden: Determined matter is not within commission purview
• Stroudwater Bridge project: No action taken
• Davis Family Pines property: No action taken

Sustainability and Transportation Committee

The committee will hear a presentation on transportation priorities from City Engineer Keith Gray. Members will also receive an update on the GPCOG Rapid Transit Study and discuss sustainability program updates. The meeting includes discussion to finalize the committee workplan.

• Transportation Priorities Presentation by City Engineer Keith Gray
• GPCOG update on the Rapid Transit Study
• Rail Use Advisory Committee follow up
• Finalizing the committee workplan
• Review and approval of January 11 minutes

The committee approved the January 11, 2023, meeting minutes. Members received updates on sustainability initiatives, major transportation projects, and the Gorham-Westbrook-Portland Rapid Transit Study. The committee also established a priority workplan for future policy goals.

• Approved January 11, 2023 meeting minutes (3-0)

Police Citizen Review Subcommittee

The subcommittee will review draft guidelines for all categories of IA investigations and discuss the PPD checklist for each case category. The meeting also includes discussions regarding goals for the Annual Report and the election of a new Chairperson. An executive session is scheduled to discuss cases IA2022-14 and IA2023-001.

• Draft guidelines for reviewing all categories of IA investigations
• Review and discussion of PPD checklist for each case category
• Executive session regarding IA2022-14 and IA2023-001
• Recommendations and goals for Annual Report
• Election of a new Chairperson

The subcommittee approved updated guidelines for reviewing Internal Affairs (IA) cases and found two specific IA cases to be thorough, fair, timely, and objective. The group also elected a new chair and discussed the 2022 Annual Report. No other substantive policy changes were decided.

• Approved minutes of February 8, 2023 meeting (5-0)
• Approved updated suggested guidelines for reviewing IA cases (6-0)
• Found IA2022-014 to be thorough, fair, timely, and objective (6-0)
• Found IA2023-001 to be thorough, fair, timely, and objective (6-0)
• Elected Reggie Parson as new chair (5-0)

Ad Hoc Committee

The Landcare Management Advisory Committee will review February meeting minutes and hear a presentation regarding Maine state agriculture programs. The committee will also discuss ordinance amendment outreach and elect a new chair.

• Vote on acceptance of Draft Annual Report
• Presentation regarding Maine Dept. of Agriculture, Conservation, and Forestry programs
• Review of ordinance amendment outreach efforts
• Election for Committee Chair

City Council

The Council is considering bond authorizations and appropriations for the Fiscal Year 2024 Capital Improvement Program. The agenda also includes a property sale on Thames Street and a zoning amendment for Allagash Brewery. Additionally, the council will set a public hearing date for a tenant protection initiative.

• $24,530,000 appropriation for the Fiscal Year 2024 Capital Improvement Program
• Sale of City-owned Thames Street property to 144 Fore St. OZ LLC for $1.15 million net
• Zoning amendment for Allagash Brewery expansion at 50 Industrial Way
• Public hearing date setting for 'An Act to Improve Tenant Protections' initiative
• Updates to outdoor dining and parklet rules

The City Council approved a purchase and sale agreement for a property on Thames Street. The Council also scheduled a public hearing for a citizen initiative regarding tenant protections.

• Approved purchase and sale agreement for Thames Street property (8-1)
• Approved setting a public hearing for citizen initiative on tenant protections (9-0)
• Approved February 27, 2023 meeting minutes (9-0)

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The committee will review minutes from the February 28, 2023 meeting. Members will also discuss existing or anticipated LDs and emergency shelter or transitional housing needs.

• Approval of February 28, 2023, meeting minutes
• Discussion of existing or anticipated LDs
• Discussion regarding emergency shelter and transitional housing needs

The committee discussed existing and anticipated Legislative Documents (LDs) and emergency shelter and transitional housing needs. The only formal action taken was the approval of the February 28, 2023, meeting minutes.

• Approved meeting minutes from February 28, 2023 (4-0)

Parks Commission

The Commission established 2023 goals including the creation of an annual report and policies for mega-events and homelessness. The Finance committee approved the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) and forwarded it to the City Council for final approval.

• Approved meeting minutes from March 2, 2023
• Established 2023 priorities: Annual Parks Report, Green Space Gathering, and CIP process improvements
• Formed Annual Report sub-committee (Cheri, Jaime)
• Formed CIP sub-committee (Katie, Zack)
• Formed Green Space Gathering sub-committee (Beth, Stephen, Donna)
• Formed Public Engagement sub-committee (Jaime)
• Finance committee approved CIP projects including Longfellow Playground Phase 2 ($450K) and Deering Oaks Phase 3 ($335K)
• Finance committee approved conversion of 2 Riverton tennis courts to 6 pickleball courts ($150K)

Finance Committee

The committee will review results from the Spinglass Management, LLC audit of Portland Public Schools payroll. Finance Director Brendan T. O’Connell will also provide an update on the development of the FY24 operating budget.

• Spinglass Management, LLC audit results for Portland Public Schools payroll
• FY24 City Manager’s Recommended Budget development update
• Discussion regarding a targeted tax rate increase for the FY24 budget

The provided document contains only the legal notice regarding public record requirements and recording archives. No substantive decisions, motions, or votes were recorded in this text.

Historic Preservation Board

The Historic Preservation Board will hold a public hearing regarding building alterations and dormer additions at 11 O'Brion Street. The meeting also includes preliminary reviews of a cemetery expansion at 672 Stevens Avenue and work at 73 Newbury Street.

• Public hearing for proposed alterations and dormer additions at 11 O’Brion Street
• Preliminary review of cemetery expansion at 672 Stevens Avenue (Evergreen Cemetery)
• Preliminary review of addition and sitework at 73 Newbury Street (The Abyssinian Meeting House)

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The Legislative/Nominating Committee will review recent legislative documents and the legislative tracker. The committee will also discuss LD 211, introduced by Representative Skold. Approval of minutes from the February 14, 2023 meeting is on the agenda.

• Review of new Legislative Documents (LDs)
• Discussion of LD 211 (Rep. Skold)
• Approval of February 14, 2023 meeting minutes

The Committee reviewed several legislative drafts (LDs) and determined which would require testimony or further departmental review. No final votes were taken on the bills, though the committee decided not to testify on LD 527.

• Approved February 14, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Decided not to testify on LD 527
• Requested testimony be prepared for LD 812 public hearing
• Requested Police Department review LD 518 and LD 405
• Requested LD 748 be discussed at March 3 meeting with Corporation Counsel and Police Chief

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a workshop for the USM Center for the Arts and several public hearings. These include proposals for new mixed-use construction, large-scale affordable housing, and zoning amendments.

• Workshop: 40,000 square foot USM Center for the Arts at 111 Bedford Street
• Public hearing: Six-story mixed-use building at 185 Commercial Street
• Public hearing: 165 affordable units at 165 Lambert Street and 622 Auburn Street
• Zoning amendment: 22 Park Avenue to facilitate affordable housing
• Zoning and height amendments: 211 Cumberland Avenue for Franklin Towers renovations

City Council

The Portland City Council will consider several appointments to various city boards and commissions. The meeting includes reviews of business license applications for indoor entertainment and outdoor dining. Additionally, the Council will discuss a purchase agreement for 24 acres of land in the North Deering neighborhood.

• Purchase and sale agreement for approximately 24 acres in North Deering Park with a City contribution of $644,123
• Appointments to various boards including the Planning Board and Police Citizen Review Subcommittee
• License applications for indoor entertainment at 155 Riverside Street and outdoor dining at 505 Fore Street
• Memorandum of Understanding with the City of Westbrook regarding mutual aid procedures
• Acceptance of a $10,000 anonymous donation to the National EMS Appreciation Week Fund

The City Council approved the purchase and sale agreement for North Deering Park and granted several business licenses. The council also accepted a $10,000 donation for the National EMS Appreciation Week Fund and approved a mutual aid agreement with the City of Westbrook.

• Approved purchase and sale agreement for North Deering Park (8-0-1)
• Approved indoor entertainment license for Volcano LLC at 155 Riverside Street (8-0-1)
• Approved Class III & IV FSE license with outdoor dining for Bread and Friends, LLC at 505 Fore Street (8-0-1)
• Approved civic auditorium license with combined entertainment for Portland Sea Dogs at 271 Park Avenue (8-0-1)
• Approved amended Memorandum of Understanding for Mutual Aid with the City of Westbrook (8-0-1)
• Accepted 2022 Annual Land Bank Report (8-0-1)
• Approved Winchester Woods Boundary Line Agreement (8-0-1)
• Appropriated $10,000 anonymous donation to National EMS Appreciation Week Fund (8-0-1)

Rent Board

The Rent Board will review a rent increase application for 57 Walton Street, Unit 1, based on capital improvement costs. The meeting also includes discussions regarding the Remote Participation Policy and Rules of Procedure. Additionally, the board will consider a revised MNOI draft and a proposal to delete certain application forms.

• Rent increase application for 57 Walton Street, Unit 1
• Rent Board Remote Participation Policy
• Rent Board Rules of Procedure
• Revised MNOI draft
• Proposal to delete 'Tenant Complaint & Rent Increase Appeal Application'

The Rent Board approved a monthly rent increase based on capital improvements for a property at 57 Walton Street. The Board also adopted a remote participation policy, revised its rules of procedure, and updated several administrative forms.

• Approved $386 monthly rent increase for 57 Walton Street, Unit 1 based on $46,341.75 in capital improvements (5-0)
• Adopted Remote Participation Policy as written (5-0)
• Approved revised Rules of Procedure (5-0)
• Approved Rent Increase Appeal Application with deletion of page 3, item #4 (5-0)
• Approved Landlord Worksheet/Petition for Rent Board Approved Increase (MNOI Worksheet) with minor changes (5-0)
• Deleted 'Tenant Complaint & Rent Increase Appeal Application' as an operating form (5-0)
• Approved January 25, 2023 minutes as corrected (5-0)
• Accepted February 8, 2023 workshop minutes as written (4-0)

Peaks Island Council

The Peaks Island Council will meet to vote on the FY2024 budget request. The meeting also includes committee reports and notice of an upcoming community zoning discussion.

• Approval of FY2024 budget request
• Upcoming community zoning discussion

The council swore in new members Jessica Burton and Rhonda Berg and elected a new leadership slate for 2023. The council also approved the December 2022 minutes and the January treasurer's report.

• Approved December 21, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Treasurer's report with balance of $7,268.64 (unanimous)
• Swore in new council members Jessica Burton and Rhonda Berg
• Elected Jerzy Sylvester and Scott Mohler as Co-chairs (unanimous)
• Elected Fred Somers as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Peter McLaughlin as Secretary (unanimous)
• Established 2023 monthly meeting schedule

Housing & Economic Development Committee

The Housing & Economic Development Committee will conduct public hearings regarding the FY2024 Housing Program Budget, the HOME-ARP Program Plan, and the Thames Street Purchase and Sale Agreement. The committee will also discuss department responsibilities and review a letter from the Rental Housing Advisory Committee.

• Public hearing for FY2024 Housing Program Budget
• Public hearing for HOME-ARP Program Plan
• Public hearing for Thames Street Purchase and Sale Agreement
• Workshop on Housing and Economic Development Department responsibilities
• Review of letter from Rental Housing Advisory Committee

The Housing and Economic Development Committee recommended that the City Council approve the FY2024 Housing Program Budget, the HOME ARP Allocation Plan, and a purchase and sale agreement for city-owned land on Thames Street. The committee also discussed the potential disbanding or redefining of the Rental Housing Advisory Committee.

• Recommended FY2024 Housing Program Budget for City Council approval (4-0)
• Recommended HOME ARP Allocation Plan for City Council approval (4-0)
• Recommended Thames Street Purchase and Sale Agreement for City Council approval (4-0)
• Accepted minutes from January 17, 2023 meeting (4-0)

Ad Hoc Committee

The Board of Assessment Review will meet to consider proposed changes to its Rules of Procedure and application forms. The board will also review a new Remote Participation Policy.

• Revisions to Rules of Procedure
• New application form based on Maine Revenue Services model
• New Remote Participation Policy

City Council

The City Manager Search Subcommittee is meeting to review the general search timeline and an updated interview schedule. The committee will also approve minutes from the February 9, 2023, meeting.

• Review of general search timeline
• Discussion of updated interview plan and schedule
• Approval of February 9, 2023, meeting minutes

Emergency Shelter Assessment Committee

The committee will review January emergency shelter bed usage statistics and updates regarding area hotels and housing. The agenda includes discussions on winter warming and legislative bill tracking. A vote is scheduled for the ESG Budget 2023-202.

• Vote on the ESG Budget 2023-202
• Review of January emergency shelter bed usage statistics
• Update on area hotels, housing, and shelter situation
• Winter warming discussion update
• Federal, state, and local legislation bill tracking

Ad Hoc Committee

The CDBG Allocation Committee is meeting to approve minutes from the February 16, 2023, meeting. The committee will also finalize its recommendations and a letter to the City Manager.

• Finalizing committee recommendations
• Finalizing a letter to the City Manager
• Approval of minutes from February 16, 2023

Portland Development Corporation

The Board will review a Brownfields Assessment Grant request for the Bayside Development Project. Members will also consider three new loan applications for businesses and properties in Portland. Additionally, the Board will review the January 2023 Treasurer's Report.

• Brownfields Assessment Grant request from Tom Watson & Co., LLC (Bayside Development Project)
• Loan application: AAA Rue Marchie, LLC (Timber Restaurant) at 106 Exchange Street
• Loan application: Longfellow Property, LLC at 754 Congress Street
• Loan application: Forefront Partners, I, LP at Thompson's Point

The Board approved three loans for a restaurant, a hotel, and an ice rink project. It also approved a grant for environmental assessments of properties in Bayside. The Board accepted the December 15, 2022, meeting minutes and the January 31, 2023, Treasurer's Report.

• Approved $30,700 Brownfields assessment grant for Tom Watson LLC (4-3)
• Approved $40,000 loan for Timber Restaurant (7-0)
• Approved $200,000 loan for Longfellow Property, LLC (7-0)
• Approved $200,000 loan for Forefront Partners, I, LP (7-0)
• Accepted December 15, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted January 31, 2023 Treasurer's Report (7-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will consider a variance request for 2 Maple Street regarding lot coverage and side setbacks. The board will also discuss transitioning to a hybrid meeting format.

• Variance appeal for 2 Maple St to increase lot coverage from 20% to 34%
• Request to reduce side setbacks at 2 Maple St to 10'7 ½" and 4'6 ½"
• Discussion of transition to a hybrid meeting format

The Zoning Board of Appeals denied a request for a Practical Difficulty Variance at 2 Maple St. The applicant sought to increase lot coverage and decrease side setbacks for a deck and basement addition.

• Denied request to increase maximum lot coverage at 2 Maple St (4-0)
• Denied request to decrease minimum side setbacks at 2 Maple St (4-0)

Public Art Committee

The committee is reviewing progress on several public art projects, including the Bramhall Square Redesign and conservation efforts for the Armillary piece. Members will also discuss upcoming artist calls for utility boxes and bicycle racks. Subcommittee reports regarding governance and community grants will be presented.

• Bramhall Square Redesign design development with artist Chris Miller
• Finalizing signage for Passing the Torch sculpture at USM campus
• Conservation of Armillary piece beginning spring 2023
• Upcoming Portland Downtown Utility Box call for artist
• Maine Med community art grant at Lowell Street Park

Historic Preservation Board

The Historic Preservation Board will hold a public hearing regarding proposed alterations at 115 Thames Street. The board will also review reports of decisions from its February 1, 2023, meeting.

• Public hearing for proposed alterations at 115 Thames Street
• Report of approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 175 Vaughan Street

Legislative/Nominating Committee

This meeting covers procedural items, including the approval of minutes from February 7, 2023. The committee will also review new LDs and the bill tracker.

• Approval of February 7, 2023 meeting minutes
• Review of new LDs
• Bill tracker update

The Legislative/Nominating Committee voted to offer testimony in support of LD 145 while expressing concerns about its proposed penalties. The committee also discussed opposition to LD 454 and the tracking of LD 462 and LD 492.

• Approved February 7, 2023 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Approved motion to offer testimony in support of LD 145 and express concerns regarding proposed penalties (3-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold workshops to consider site plans for 185 Commercial Street and 73 Powsland Street. A public hearing is also scheduled regarding a Phase I development proposal at 385 Congress Street.

• Proposed 12-story hotel and residential building at 385 Congress Street
• Proposed six-story mixed-use building at 185 Commercial Street
• Proposed nine new residential units at 73 Powsland Street

HHS and Public Safety Committee

The HHS and Public Safety Committee will discuss next steps for an ordinance regarding pregnancy crisis centers and deceptive advertising practices. The meeting also includes discussions on the Homeless Winter Emergency Response Plan and updates on the Alternative Response Program.

• HSC Management Plan staff presentation
• Discussion on Portland’s Homeless Winter Emergency Response Plan
• Fire Department update on potential training facility
• Alternative Response Program status update
• Next steps for pregnancy crisis center ordinance

Portland Fish Pier Authority

The Portland Fish Pier Authority Board will review meeting minutes and receive updates on CARES Act infrastructure funding. The agenda also includes a rent abatement request for the Portland Fish Exchange and a parking management recommendation.

• Approval of December 21, 2022, meeting minutes
• Update on infrastructure and program funding through CARES Act funding
• Request for rent abatement for the Portland Fish Exchange from February 2023 to July 2023
• Recommendation for a pay kiosk in the front lot parking area

The Board approved a one-year rent abatement for the Portland Fish Exchange through the end of its fiscal year on April 30, 2023. Members also received updates on CARES Act infrastructure funding and pier repairs.

• Approved December 21, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved rent abatement for Portland Fish Exchange through April 30, 2023 (5-0)

Ad Hoc Committee

The City Manager Search Subcommittee will review benchmark and community survey results. Members will also discuss a draft interview plan and timeline. The committee will receive an update from Baker Tilly regarding a memo dated February 6, 2023.

• Review of Benchmark Survey Results
• Review of Community Survey Results
• Discussion of draft Interview Plan and Timeline
• Update from Baker Tilly (Memo 2-06-23)

Ad Hoc Committee

The CDBG Allocation Committee will review social service scores and recommend funds for social services and development. The committee will also discuss adjusted budgets per category according to the final HUD allocation.

• Review of Social Service Scores
• Recommendation of fund allocations for Social Service and Development
• Discussion of adjusted budgets per category according to final HUD Allocation
• Approval of February 2, 2023 minutes

Finance Committee

The committee will conduct a public hearing and vote on the City Manager's recommended Capital Improvement Plan. Interim City Manager Danielle West and Finance Director Brendan T. O’Connell will address questions regarding proposed projects. The committee will also discuss 2023 goals and upcoming budget dates.

• Public hearing and vote on the City Manager's recommended Capital Improvement Plan
• Discussion of 2023 Finance Committee goals
• Review of FY24 key budget dates

The Finance Committee voted to move the City Manager Recommended Capital Improvement Plan forward to the City Council. The plan will receive a first reading on February 27, 2023, and a second reading and vote on March 6, 2023.

• Approved City Manager Recommended Capital Improvement Plan (3-0)

Creative Portland Corporation

The board will vote to accept January minutes and December financials. The meeting includes updates on the Resilience Show artist call, the Creative Portland App marketing plan, and a City TIF request update.

• Vote to accept January minutes and December financials
• Artist submissions due March 10, 2023, for the Resilience Show
• Update on Creative Portland App marketing plan
• Discussion of City TIF request update
• Board vacancies for a lawyer and fundraisers

Rent Board

The Portland Rent Board meeting includes a discussion regarding revised forms, rules, and procedures. The agenda also contains the approval of minutes and roll call.

• Discussion of revised forms, rules, and procedures

The board conducted a workshop regarding revised forms, rules, and procedures. No votes or substantive actions were taken during the meeting.

• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Land Bank Commission

The Land Bank Commission will review minutes from December 14, 2022. The agenda includes a presentation on the Westbrook Hand Carry Boat Launch and an update on North Deering Park.

• Westbrook Hand Carry Boat Launch presentation by Robyn Saunders
• North Deering Park update from Ethan Hipple
• Review of December 14, 2022 meeting minutes
• Update on in-person and hybrid meeting formats

The Commission reviewed a presentation on the Westbrook Hand-Carry Boat Launch to discuss potential implementation at the Fore River Preserve. Members identified the Hobart Street space as a CDBG eligible neighborhood. No formal votes were taken on new business.

• Approved December 14, 2022 meeting minutes
• Volunteered Baxter Miatke and Simon Rucker to lead potential funding for Fore River boat launch
• Assigned Ethan Hipple to review legal questions on Land Bank funding

Police Citizen Review Subcommittee

The subcommittee will discuss planning a public session regarding the new citizen oversight board structure. Members will also consider approving a revised remote participation policy and discussing the appointment of a new chair. The committee may enter executive session to review Category Us with Attorney Millette.

• Planning a public session for the new citizen oversight board structure
• Approval of the Revised Remote Participation Policy of the PCRS
• Discussion regarding the appointment of a new chair
• Review of Category Us in executive session with Attorney Millette
• Discussion of complainant letters

The subcommittee decided that Category U cases fall under its purview for review based on thorough, timely, fair, and objective criteria. Members voted to remove existing Category U guidelines and requested revised versions from the Associate Corporation Counsel. The group also adopted a new Remote Participation Policy.

• Adopted January 11, 2023 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Affirmed Category U cases are under subcommittee purview for review (7-0)
• Removed current Category U guidelines and directed Attorney Millette to revise them (7-0)
• Adopted new Remote Participation Policy (7-0)
• Tabled discussion of new oversight board structure until July

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The Legislative/Nominating Committee will review new legislative documents and a bill tracker. The committee also plans to approve its 2023 Committee Work Plan.

• Review of new Legislative Documents (LDs) from Bernstein Shur
• Approval of the 2023 Committee Work Plan

The committee approved its work plan for 2023 and the minutes from the January 31, 2023 meeting. Members also received a legislative update and review of new LDs from Bernstein Shur.

• Approved minutes from January 31, 2023 meeting (3-0)
• Approved 2023 Committee Work Plan (3-0)

Ad Hoc Committee

The committee will discuss ways to educate the public about the Landcare ordinance using tools like City Alerts and pamphlets. The meeting also includes a presentation by Heather Spalding of MOFGA and an update on received applicator reports.

• Reviewing public education ideas for the Landcare ordinance
• Presentation by Heather Spalding of MOFGA
• Staff update regarding received applicator reports
• Approval of December 6, 2022 minutes

City Council

The City Council approved three orders regarding zoning and map amendments for the Roux Institute, including the creation of a Community Advisory Group. The Council also approved several transportation agreements and a harbor dredging fund application. One affordable housing project was postponed indefinitely.

• Approved Roux Institute Overlay Zone amendment with Community Advisory Group (9-0)
• Approved B-5 Urban Commercial Zone map amendment for Roux Institute (9-0)
• Approved Institutional Overlay Zone map amendment for Roux Institute (9-0)
• Postponed Avesta Housing Winchester Woods project funding indefinitely
• Approved Cumberland Avenue improvement agreement modification (9-0)
• Approved West Commercial Street Trail agreement modification (9-0)
• Approved federal fund application for Portland Harbor dredging (9-0)
• Approved revised Remote Participation Policy (9-0)

Ad Hoc Committee

The CDBG Allocation Committee will review answers to social services questions and evaluate social service applications 21-24. The committee will also approve minutes from the January 5, 2023, meeting.

• Review of Social Service Applications 21-24
• Review of Answers to Social Services Questions
• Approval of minutes from 1/05/23

Parks Commission

The Commission received updates on winter sidewalk clearing and the Portland Harbor Commons project. Members discussed the need for interpretive park signage and the potential for a sub-committee. No formal votes were recorded for new business items.

• Accepted December 1, 2022 meeting minutes

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Board granted a conditional use permit for a preschool and a variance for lot width at 1 Coolidge Avenue. An interpretation appeal regarding a retaining wall and parking screening was denied. The Board also elected its Chair and Secretary.

• Granted Conditional Use Appeal for preschool facility at 26 Johansen St. for two years (7-0)
• Denied Interpretation Appeal regarding retaining wall and parking screening at 60 Merrymeeting Drive (6-0)
• Granted Practical Difficulty Variance to reduce lot width to 50 feet at 1 Coolidge Avenue (7-0)
• Denied Practical Difficulty Variance to reduce side yard setbacks to 10 feet at 1 Coolidge Avenue (7-0)
• Elected Joseph Zamboni as Chair (7-0)
• Elected Jared Falcon as Secretary (7-0)

City Council

The Nominating Committee will conduct interviews for various city boards and commissions. The committee plans to move into an executive session to perform these interviews.

• Interviews for Boards and Commissions

Historic Preservation Board

The Historic Preservation Board will hold a public hearing regarding proposed alterations at 175 Vaughan Street. Additionally, staff will provide an update on the transition to hybrid board meetings.

• Public hearing for proposed alterations at 175 Vaughan Street
• Update on transitioning to hybrid board meetings

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The Legislative/Nominating Committee will review new legislative documents and the committee work plan. Members will also discuss the reallocation of dredge project funding per LD 206. The meeting includes a review of upcoming committee meeting schedules.

• Discussion on reallocating dredge project funding (LD 206)
• Review of new legislative documents
• Review of Committee Work Plan
• Review of Delegation/Committee Meeting Schedule

The Legislative/Nominating Committee reviewed new legislative documents and recommended preparing testimony in opposition to three specific bills. The committee also adjusted its monthly meeting schedule.

• Approved January 24, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Recommended preparing testimony in opposition to LDs 268, 182, and 183
• Changed fourth meeting of each month to Friday at 8:00 AM

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will discuss the City Manager's recommended Capital Improvement Plan. The committee will also brainstorm goals for the 2023 calendar year. No official actions are scheduled for this meeting.

• Discussion of City Manager Recommended Capital Improvement Plan
• Brainstorming of 2023 Finance Committee goals
• Planning of future committee meeting dates

The provided document contains only the legal notice regarding public record requirements and the location of archived recordings. No substantive decisions, motions, or votes are listed in this record.

City Council

The City Council is conducting a workshop for FY24 budget preparation. Finance Director Brendan O'Connell will present the budget calendar, significant challenges, and opportunities for the fiscal year. The council will also discuss budget guidance.

• FY24 Budget Presentation by Finance Director Brendan O'Connell
• Review of FY24 budget challenges
• Review of FY24 budget opportunities
• Discussion on Council Budget Guidance

Ad Hoc Committee

The CDBG Allocation Committee will review answers to social service questions during this meeting. The committee is also scheduled to discuss between 15 and 20 social service applications.

• Review of answers to social service questions
• Discussion of 15-20 social service applications

The committee approved the minutes from the January 19, 2023 meeting. Members reviewed social service questions and applications.

• Approved Minutes from 1/19/23

Ad Hoc Committee

The Joint Governance Committee will discuss potential structures for future boards. The agenda includes a presentation on the overlap between the Portland Fish Exchange and the Portland Fish Pier Authority. Members will also address industry representation needs for any resulting boards.

• Presentation on PFE and PFPA overlap
• Discussion of critical industry representation for boards
• Discussion of potential board structures

Rent Board

The Portland Rent Board will consider multiple applications for rent increases based on capital improvements and renovations. The meeting also includes a discussion regarding new forms and procedures.

• Rent increase application: 39 Holly Street, Unit 2 (Capital Improvement Costs)
• Rent increase application: 25 Grant St, all 7 units (Capital Improvement Costs)
• Rent increase application: 27 Grant St, all 6 units (Capital Improvement Costs)
• Rent increase application: 57 Walton Street, Unit 1 (Renovation/Reconfiguration)
• Rent increase application: 278 Park Ave, Unit 5 (Renovation/Reconfiguration)

The Board approved rent increase applications for properties on Holly Street, Grant Street, and Park Avenue. One application for Walton Street was tabled. The Board also scheduled a special workshop to review forms and rules.

• Approved new base rent of $1,681.00 for 39 Holly St (5-0)
• Approved requested rental increase for 25 Grant St (5-0)
• Approved requested rental increase for 27 Grant St (5-0)
• Approved new base rent of $1,376.83 for 278 Park Ave, Unit 5 (5-0)
• Tabled rent increase application for 57 Walton St, Unit 1 (5-0)
• Approved previous meeting minutes with one amendment (5-0)
• Scheduled special workshop meeting for February 8th at 4pm (5-0)

Peaks Island Council

The Peaks Island Council will hold elections for Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary. The meeting includes the swearing-in of new members Rhonda Berg and Jess Burton. Members will also review the 2023 work calendar and discuss the budget process timeline.

• Swearing-in of new members Rhonda Berg and Jess Burton
• Election of Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary
• Review of 2023 major work items calendar
• Discussion of budget process timeline and community funding
• Upcoming community zoning discussion

The Council appointed Rhonda Berg, Jessica Burton, and Natasha Markov-Riss to one-year seats. Members also approved the 2023 monthly meeting schedule and the Treasurer's report. City staff provided updates on ferry landside operations, including plans for webcams and real-time information displays.

• Appointed Rhonda Berg, Jessica Burton, and Natasha Markov-Riss to 1-year seats (unanimous)
• Approved 2023 monthly meeting schedule (unanimous)
• Approved Treasurer's report showing balance of $7,468.64 (unanimous)
• Accepted December 16, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The Legislative/Nominating Committee will discuss legislation sponsored by the Portland Delegation and review upcoming meeting schedules. The committee will also review new legislative documents from Bernstein Shur and consider staff feedback on LD 130 and LD 96.

• Discussion of legislation sponsored by Portland Delegation
• Review of new Legislative Documents (LDs) from Bernstein Shur
• Request for testimony in support of LD 166
• Staff feedback on LD 130 and LD 96

The Legislative/Nominating Committee approved the minutes from January 10 and January 17, 2023. Members discussed sponsored legislation for the 131st Session and reviewed new LDs. No other formal votes were recorded.

• Approved minutes from January 10 and January 17, 2023 meetings (4-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider a zoning map amendment at 50 Industrial Way to accommodate the growth of Allagash Brewing Company. The agenda also includes a workshop for a new warehouse at 180 Read Street and hearings for residential and subdivision projects. An item regarding 165 Lambert Street has been tabled.

• Zoning map amendment for 50 Industrial Way, including several adjacent parcels
• New 60,630 square foot warehouse building at 180 Read Street
• Three-unit multi-family residential building proposal at 31 Forest Street
• Subdivision of 2.26 acres into three separate parcels at 385 Congress Street

City Council

The City Manager Search Subcommittee is meeting to discuss the progress of the city manager recruitment process. The subcommittee will review the Baker Tilly timeline and the status of the job description and final brochure. Members will also discuss stakeholder survey tools and the process for handling applications once they are received.

• Review of Baker Tilly search timeline
• Status of City Manager job description and posting brochure
• Discussion of stakeholder survey tool and Baker Tilly memo
• Discussion of application review process

Emergency Shelter Assessment Committee

The Emergency Shelter Assessment Committee will review December shelter bed usage statistics and the current status of area hotels, housing, and shelters. The meeting also includes updates on winter warming efforts and legislation regarding resources for unhoused individuals.

• Review of December monthly shelter bed usage statistics
• Update on area hotels, housing, and shelter situation
• Winter warming discussion update
• Point-In-Time count update
• Legislative update regarding LD 3 and resources for unhoused individuals

Ad Hoc Committee

The CDBG Allocation Committee will review development scores and the scoring matrix for social service activities. The committee will also discuss social service applications.

• Review of development scores
• Review of scoring matrix for social service activities
• Discussion of social service applications

Historic Preservation Board

The Historic Preservation Board will hold public hearings regarding certificates of appropriateness for several projects. These include a proposed toolshed at Western Cemetery, a new gazebo at Western Promenade, and building alterations at 100 Pleasant Street.

• Proposed toolshed construction at 6 Vaughan Street (Western Cemetery)
• Proposed gazebo construction at 51 Valley Street (Western Promenade)
• Proposed alterations at 100 Pleasant Street

City Council

The City Council is reviewing first readings of several zoning amendments related to the development of a mixed-use campus for the Roux Institute at 1 Bean Pot Circle. The agenda also includes requests for various business licenses and the acceptance of two state-funded grants.

• Zoning amendments for the Roux Institute Overlay Zone and B-5 Urban Commercial Zone
• Acceptance of a $17,000 Community Resilience Partnership grant for a Sustainable Neighborhood program
• Acceptance of a $9,000 Maine DEP Waste Diversion Grant for composting education materials
• Business license applications for Otto at 250 Read Street and Continental at 170 Brighton Avenue
• License renewal application for Pat’s Pizza at 30 Market Street

The City Council approved four business license applications and accepted two grants totaling $26,000 for community resilience and waste diversion. Councilor April Fournier was appointed to the Maine Municipal Association Legislative Policy Committee. Three zoning amendments regarding the Roux Institute were introduced for first read with no action taken.

• Appointed Councilor April Fournier to the Maine Municipal Association Legislative Policy Committee (9-0)
• Approved Class I FSE license for Oscar Pizza LLC dba Otto at 250 Read Street (9-0)
• Approved Combined Entertainment license for Foundation Brewing Company at 1 Industrial Way, Ste 7 (9-0)
• Approved Class I FSE with Outdoor Dining license for SBS Worldwide LLC dba Continental at 170 Brighton Avenue (9-0)
• Approved Class XI Restaurant/Lounge renewal for Old Port Pizza Bar LLC dba Pat’s Pizza at 30 Market Street (9-0)
• Accepted and appropriated $17,000 Community Resilience Partnership Community Action Grant (9-0)
• Accepted and appropriated $9,000 Maine Department of Environmental Protection Waste Diversion Grant (9-0)
• Approved January 4, 2023 meeting minutes (9-0)

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The Legislative/Nominating Committee will review proposed state legislation and discuss 2023 federal policy priorities. The committee will also discuss its 2023 work plan.

• Review of proposed State legislation
• Discussion regarding 2023 Federal Policy Priorities
• Discussion of the 2023 Work Plan

The committee did not have a quorum present, so the approval of previous meeting minutes was postponed. Members requested the tracking of state legislation LD 130 and discussed federal policy priorities and a concept draft for LR 745.

• Postponed approval of January 10, 2023 minutes due to lack of quorum
• Requested tracking of state legislation LD 130
• Postponed discussion of 2023 Work Plan

Housing & Economic Development Committee

The committee will review and accept minutes from previous meetings, including a joint session with the Sustainability and Transportation Committee. Members will also discuss updates to the 2023 Calendar Year Work Plan.

• Review of joint meeting minutes with Sustainability and Transportation Committee
• Review of November 15, 2022, meeting minutes
• Review of the 2023 Calendar Year Work Plan updates

The Committee unanimously approved the amended minutes from a November 15, 2022, joint meeting. Members and staff discussed the 2023 Work Plan, including potential additions regarding tenant safety, affordable housing, and the Franklin Street Master Plan.

• Approved November 15, 2022, joint HEDC and Sustainability and Transportation Committee Minutes as amended (3-0)

City Council

The City Manager Search Subcommittee will discuss and finalize the salary range for the City Manager position using the 2021 Salary Study. The committee also plans to review and vote on the final job description and recruitment brochure. Additionally, members will work to set the date for posting the job vacancy.

• Finalizing salary range for the City Manager position
• Reviewing City Manager job description and posting brochure
• Vote to approve final job description and recruitment materials
• Setting the date for the City Manager job posting

Ad Hoc Committee

The CDBG Allocation Committee will hold listening sessions and a public service announcement. The committee is also scheduled to address the allocation agenda schedule.

• Allocation agenda schedule discussion
• Listening sessions

Sustainability and Transportation Committee

The committee will discuss policy recommendations from the Rail Use Advisory Committee and set goals for 2023. The agenda also includes sustainability program updates and a discussion regarding remote or hybrid meetings.

• Rail Use Advisory Committee policy recommendation discussion
• 2023 committee goal setting
• Sustainability Program and One Climate Future updates
• Review of November 30, 2022 minutes

The committee approved the minutes from the November 30, 2022, meeting. Members discussed a staff recommendation for a "trail with rail" approach for the St. Lawrence and Atlantic Line but took no action on the proposal. The committee also brainstormed priority goals for 2023, including energy performance ordinances and pedestrian safety.

• Approved November 30, 2022 meeting minutes (3-0)

Police Citizen Review Subcommittee

The Police Citizen Review Subcommittee will hold a virtual meeting on January 11, 2023. The agenda includes the approval of November 9, 2022 minutes and an executive session to discuss IA2022-10 and IA2022-13. The subcommittee may also consult with its attorney regarding legal rights under the Subcommittee Ordinance and Charter modification in Ballot Question 7.

• Approval of November 9, 2022 minutes
• Executive session to discuss IA2022-10 and IA2022-13
• Potential executive session regarding legal rights under the Subcommittee Ordinance and Ballot Question 7

The Police Citizen Review Subcommittee reviewed and approved the categorizations of two internal affairs complaints. The group also discussed the transition to the new Civilian Police Review Board following a ballot measure.

• Adopted November 9, 2022 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved IA2022-10 complaint categorization as consistent with SOP 90 (7-0)
• Approved IA2022-13 complaint categorization as consistent with SOP 90 (4-2)

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The Legislative/Nominating Committee will approve minutes from the January 3, 2023, meeting. The committee will also review proposed State legislation from Bernstein Shur and examine delegations of the 131st Legislature.

• Approval of January 3, 2023, meeting minutes
• Review of proposed State legislation (Bernstein Shur)
• Review of delegations of the 131st Legislature

The Legislative/Nominating Committee approved the minutes from January 3, 2023. Members reviewed new bills from the Revisor's Office and identified legislation for Bernstein Shur to track during the 131st Legislative session.

• Approved January 3, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Identified state bills for Bernstein Shur to track for the 131st Legislative session

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a workshop to consider a Phase 2 proposal for 58 Fore Street. This project includes 401 residential units and over 21,000 square feet of commercial space. Additionally, the Parks Department will provide an update on using ARPA funds for tree equity in the Bayside Neighborhood.

• Phase 2 development at 58 Fore Street including 401 residential units
• Update on ARPA funds for tree equity in the Bayside Neighborhood
• Overview of 2022 development activity

HHS and Public Safety Committee

The HHS and Public Safety Committee will meet to conduct 2023 goal-setting and discuss committee values. The agenda also includes the review of minutes from October 11, 2022.

• Review and approval of October 11, 2022, draft minutes
• Discussion regarding 2023 goals and processes

The committee established a quarterly action plan for 2023 focusing on public health, human services, and public safety. Members discussed priorities including the Homeless Services Center implementation and a proposed abortion access resolution.

• Approved minutes from previous meeting (3-0)

City Council

The City Council will hold a workshop to discuss proposed map and text amendments for the Roux Institute / IDEALS. The agenda also includes an executive session check-in with City Clerk Ashley Rand and a presentation by the Planning and Urban Development Department.

• Discussion of Roux Institute/IDEALS proposed map and text amendments
• Executive session check-in with City Clerk Ashley Rand
• Presentation by the Planning and Urban Development Department

Civil Service Employment Subcommittee

The Remote Rental Housing Advisory Committee will review past minutes and membership updates. The group will also discuss a memo regarding its official charge and duties.

• Nomination and selection of new Tenant Co-Chair
• Update on RHAC membership changes
• Discussion of memo regarding RHAC's charge and duties
• Review of December 12, 2022 meeting minutes

Creative Portland Corporation

The Creative Portland Corporation Board of Directors will vote on approving November minutes and financials. The board will also consider appointing Clare Hannan to the Board of Directors and review the FY2023 Work Plan and Budget.

• Vote to appoint Clare Hannan, COO of Maine Public, to the Board of Directors
• Vote to accept November minutes and financials
• Review of the FY2023 Work Plan and Budget
• Update on an open call to artists for the May First Friday Resilience Show

Historic Preservation Board

The Historic Preservation Board will conduct a workshop for the preliminary review of proposed alterations and dormer additions at 11 O'Brion Street. The agenda also includes reports on attendance from previous workshops regarding 175 Vaughan Street and 25 Forest Avenue. No public hearings are scheduled for this meeting.

• Preliminary review of proposed alterations and dormer additions at 11 O’Brion Street
• Attendance report for 175 Vaughan Street workshop
• Attendance report for 25 Forest Avenue workshop

City Council

The City Council will consider an order to appropriate $4,257,004 for the purchase of the Winchester Woods development in East Deering. This funding would support Avesta Housing in providing 48 rental units for asylum-seeking families. The appropriation includes funds from the Housing Trust Fund and ARPA.

• $4,257,004 appropriation for Winchester Woods affordable housing
• Appointment of Duane Cote as Constable
• Appointment of Gynt Grube as Interim Assessor
• Acceptance of PDC Fiscal Year 2022 Activity and Financial Reports

The City Council approved two appointments and postponed a decision on funding for an affordable housing project. The council also received an annual report from the Portland Development Corporation.

• Appointed Duane Cote as Constable for 2023 (9-0)
• Appointed Gynt Grube as Interim Assessor (9-0)
• Postponed appropriation of $3,257,004 in Housing Trust Funds and $1,000,000 in ARPA funds for Avesta Housing Winchester Woods project until February 6, 2023 (9-0)
• Approved minutes from December 19, 2022 meeting (9-0)

Legislative/Nominating Committee

The Legislative/Nominating Committee will review legislative priorities adopted in September 2022. The meeting includes an update on in-progress general assistance legislation and a recap of policy work from regional coalitions. Members will also discuss the 2023 committee work plan.

• Review of Legislative Priorities adopted September 20, 2022
• Update on in-progress General Assistance legislation
• Recap of Maine Mayors' Coalition and GPCOG policy work
• Discussion of the 2023 Committee Work Plan