Penobscot County public meetings in 2024
50 substantive meetings from 2024, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
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The Penobscot County Commissioners will consider ARPA fund allocations to sub-recipients, commissioners funds, and county departments. They will also appoint representation to the MCCA & Risk Pool and approve payroll and general fund warrants totaling over $2.2 million.
- ARPA allocations to sub-recipients, commissioners funds, and county departments
- Appointment of MCCA & Risk Pool representation
- Payroll warrant of $332,587.82 for December 20, 2024
- Accounts Payable General Fund warrant of $652,215.01
- ARPA warrant of $1,234,869.50
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The Commission approved ARPA funding allocations for various district agencies and county capital projects, including equipment for the Sheriff's Office and EMA. They also appointed representatives for the MCCA and the County's Risk Pool. Remaining ARPA funds were allocated to the County building HVAC project.
- Approved $153,568 in ARPA allocations for District I agencies (3-0)
- Approved $40,000 ARPA award for Town of Newport (3-0)
- Approved $20,000 ARPA award for Breaking the Cycle (3-0)
- Approved $329,450 for County Capital Requests, including SO radar and AED units (3-0)
- Allocated remaining ARPA balance to County building HVAC project (3-0)
- Appointed CC Cushing as MCCA representative with CC Tremble and CA Adkins as proxies (3-0)
- Appointed CC Marshall to the Risk Pool with CC Tremble and CA Adkins as proxies (3-0)
- Approved payroll and A/P warrants totaling $2,221,676.21 (3-0)
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Commissioners approved the 2025 County Budget and the FY26 Unorganized Territory (UT) Budget. The board also authorized several ARPA grants and approved a 2% wage adjustment for employees.
- Approved 2025 County Budget ($31,457,861) and FY26 UT Budget ($2,614,310) (3-0)
- Approved $1M release of funds for Bangor Y (2-1)
- Approved $50,000 from ARPA undesignated funds for Veazie Water District generator and camera (3-0)
- Approved $49,999 from District 2 ARPA funds for Harmony Hall repairs (3-0)
- Approved $12,000 from District 3 ARPA funds for Town of Lincoln drone (3-0)
- Approved 2% increase in wage adjustments (3-0)
- Approved $8,500 from ARPA for three Starlink devices (3-0)
- Approved new retiree and spouse health coverage buy-out policy (2-0)
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The Penobscot County Commissioners will consider canceling the UT EMS services contract with the East Millinocket Fire Department, review a memorandum of understanding for FEMA/MEMA application related to the Argyle landslide, and discuss a liquor license renewal. They will also receive updates on Franklin Street renovations and HVAC at the courthouse. A public hearing and approval of the 2025 commissioner budget is scheduled for December 17, 2024.
- Liquor License Renewal for Rivers Drivers Lodge – discussion and vote
- Argyle Landslide – review and approval of FEMA & MEMA Application MOU
- East Millinocket Fire Dept. – cancellation of UT EMS Services Contract
- Franklin Street Renovations and HVAC updates at the courthouse
- 2025 Commissioner Budget – public hearing and approval set for December 17, 2024
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The board approved several ARPA funding requests for local organizations and the Town of Lincoln. They also renewed a liquor license and approved a memorandum of understanding regarding the Argyle landslide. Warrants and previous meeting minutes were approved.
- Approved $10,000 ARPA grant for Bangor Art Society (3-0)
- Approved $5,800 ARPA grant for Stetson Historical Society (3-0)
- Approved $41,033 ARPA grant for Town of Lincoln TRU Narc request (3-0)
- Approved reallocation of $350,000 for United Way Nonprofit Hub Project (3-0)
- Approved liquor license renewal for River Drivers Restaurant (2-0)
- Approved MOU for the Argyle landslide (2-0)
- Approved payroll and A/P warrants (3-0)
- Approved November 19 and November 21 meeting minutes (2-0)
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The Penobscot County Commissioners will discuss and vote on an ambulance contract for several townships, including Patten Ambulance. Public hearings are scheduled on a food sovereignty ordinance for unorganized territory and a special permit for the Millinocket Marathon. The board will also consider ARPA sub-recipient requests, sign a PRCC contract, and enter executive sessions on labor negotiations and real property acquisition.
- Discussion and vote on ambulance contract for several townships (Patten Ambulance)
- Public hearing on Food Sovereignty Ordinance for Unorganized Territory
- Public hearing on Special Permit for Millinocket Marathon & Half
- PRCC contract signing with AFSCME union representatives
- ARPA grant manager update on sub-recipient requests and county needs
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The board approved several ARPA grants for the Millinocket Regional Hospital and Patten Memorial Library, while denying a request from UMaine Ambulance. They also approved an ambulance contract for 15 townships and a special event permit for the Millinocket Marathon and Half.
- Approved ambulance contract for 15 townships (3-0)
- Approved special event permit for Millinocket Marathon and Half and waived $50 fee (3-0)
- Approved $150K ARPA grant for Millinocket Regional Hospital CT scan project (3-0)
- Approved $150K ARPA grant for Patten Memorial Library with conditional thresholds (3-0)
- Denied ARPA grant request from UMaine Ambulance (3-0)
- Approved dividing $220K in returned Wellspring funds equally between three districts for Commissioners Funds (3-0)
- Approved policy allowing sign-on bonuses for employees after three years of separation from County employment (3-0)
- Tabled vote on Unorganized Territory Food Sovereignty Ordinance
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The County Commissioners will review and approve the FY26 budget for signatures and conduct a 2025 budget review. The meeting includes discussions on cannabis planning and the de-organization of Webster Plantation.
- Review and approval of FY26 Budget
- Review and approval of Drew Township (Reed Plantation) Fire Agreement
- Discussion and vote on compensation review for ACO Ethel (Ann) Greenlaw
- Payroll warrants for 10.18.24 ($313,911.51) and 10.25.24 ($334,513.01)
- General Fund A/P warrants for 10.22.24 ($2,058,342.65) and 10.29.24 ($2,602,509.22)
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The Commissioners approved the 2025 County Budget with total expenditures of $31,457,861. They also approved the FY26 Unorganized Territory budget and authorized additional staffing for the District Attorney's Office. Several grants and service agreements were approved.
- Approved 2025 County Budget with a 9.65% assessment increase over 2024 (3-0)
- Approved FY26 UT Budget and motion to exceed the CAP (3-0)
- Approved one full-time clerical position and one full-time VWA for the DA's Office (3-0)
- Approved $5,000 ARPA fund request for Clifton Community Food Bank (3-0)
- Approved Drew Township (Reed Plantation) Fire Protection Agreement (3-0)
- Approved $0.75 per hour compensation increase for ACO Ethel (Ann) Greenlaw (3-0)
- Approved letter of project understanding for Hammond Ridge master plan phase two (3-0)
- Approved reallocation of Wellspring funds to unallocated funds (3-0)
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The Penobscot County Commissioners will hold executive sessions on personnel, labor negotiations, and real property acquisition. They will review and potentially approve a fire protection agreement with the Town of Springfield for Prentiss & Pukakon. The main agenda item is 2025 budget presentations for numerous departments including bridges, insurance, and wage adjustments. They will also approve payroll and accounts payable warrants totaling over $317,000 and other fund warrants.
- Fire Protection Agreement (Prentiss & Pukakon) with Town of Springfield – review and approval
- 2025 budget updates for Orono HAZMAT Team and Together Place Peer Run Recovery Center
- Department budget presentations: Maine State Retirement, Health & Safety, Insurance, Bridges, Soil Conservation, Labor Negotiations, Wage Adjustments, and others
- Payroll warrant of $317,116.45 and A/P General Fund warrant of $165,943.11 for October 2024
- Executive sessions for personnel, labor negotiations, and acquisition of real property
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The Commission approved an agreement with Epstein Commercial Real Estate to negotiate property for a new jail. They also approved several 2025 budget items, a finance software upgrade, and a fire protection agreement. A request for funding from the Maine Discovery Museum was denied.
- Approved agreement with Epstein Commercial Real Estate for new jail property negotiations (3-0)
- Approved $94,600 Edmunds Gov Tech finance software upgrade over three years (3-0)
- Approved $23,500 PDQ quote for Matagamon shed overhead door (3-0)
- Approved Springfield Fire Protection Agreement with Prentiss and Pukakon (3-0)
- Approved $27,000 for Orono Haz Mat Team 2025 budget (3-0)
- Denied $9,000 funding request for Maine Discovery Museum (3-0)
- Flat funded Pine Tree Hospice at $1,500, Hirundo Wildlife Refuse at $12,000, and Together Place at $10,000 (3-0)
- Approved 2025 budgets for MPERS, Health & Safety, County Insurance, Bridge Account, Loans & Interest, Soil Conservation, Wage Adjustment, and Miscellaneous Revenues (3-0)
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The board approved 2025 budget requests for Probate, County Extension, EMDC, and Penquis, along with several program donations. They authorized the purchase of 11 sheriff's vehicles and allocated ARPA funds for radios and safety systems. Some budget requests for the jail and other donations were taken under advisement.
- Approved purchase of 11 vehicles from Colonial Municipal Group at $53,786 per vehicle (3-0)
- Approved 2025 budgets for Probate ($649,663), County Extension ($100,360), EMDC ($63,000), and Penquis ($25,000) (3-0)
- Approved 2025 Sheriff's Department budget at $9,392,518 and Civil Process budget at $575,528 (3-0)
- Approved ARPA funding for Jail Man Down System and radios ($250,000), Mobile Radios and Repeaters ($142,403), and Portable Radios ($43,870) (3-0)
- Approved 2025 donations for Rape Response ($3,500), Bangor Area Shelter ($15,000), B.I.L.L.S. ($22,500), and B.A.R.N. ($20,000) (3-0)
- Tabled 2025 budget requests for Jail, Jail Cap, and several program donations under advisement (3-0)
- Approved liquor license renewal for Five Lakes Lodge (3-0)
- Approved UAS (Drone) operations policy (3-0)
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The Penobscot County Commissioners will hold a public hearing on a liquor license renewal for Five Lakes Lodge and review a drone operations policy. The main focus is presentations of the 2025 budgets for the Sheriff, Probate, and several community programs, along with administrative budgets. The board will also discuss and possibly approve a Sheriff's vehicle RFP and approve several warrants totaling over $1.4 million. Multiple executive sessions are scheduled for labor negotiations and real property acquisition.
- Public hearing: Liquor license renewal for Five Lakes Lodge
- Review and approval of UAS (drone) operations policy
- Sheriff's vehicle RFP (09-17) discussion and approval
- Approval of warrants: Payroll $381,675.07, A/P General Fund $856,694.15, others
- 2025 budget presentations from Sheriff, Probate, and community programs
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The Board approved 2025 budget requests for the Registry of Deeds, UT Administration, PRCC, Buildings, and Finance. They also authorized the hiring of a K9-certified officer and approved a criminal forfeiture transfer. A public hearing for a Food Sovereignty Ordinance is scheduled for November 19.
- Approved 2025 Registry of Deeds budget ($452,896) (3-0)
- Approved 2025 UT Administration budget ($214,485) (3-0)
- Approved 2025 PRCC budget ($4,526,023) (3-0)
- Approved 2025 Buildings budget ($1,445,997) (3-0)
- Approved 2025 Finance budget ($449,745) (3-0)
- Approved $1,600 criminal forfeiture transfer to Sheriff's Office (3-0)
- Approved hiring of K9-certified officer with 3.5 overtime hours per week (3-0)
- Approved MOU for PRCC double overtime for eight weeks (3-0)
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The County Commissioners will hear 2025 budget presentations from the District Attorney, Registry of Deeds, UT Administration, PRCC, Build/Build Improvements, and Finance departments. The body will also discuss a Food Sovereignty Ordinance and review bids for Sheriff's vehicles.
- 2025 County Budget presentations from six departments
- Discussion and review of Food Sovereignty Ordinance
- Bid opening for RFP regarding Sheriff’s Vehicles
- Approval of criminal forfeiture for Wood at $1,600
- Payroll and A/P warrants including Payroll Warrant 09.06.24 for $313,948.07
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The Board approved a 5-year computer services contract and a demolition project for the Franklin Street office space. Commissioners also took several 2025 budget requests under advisement and scheduled a future public hearing for a Food Sovereignty Ordinance.
- Approved Browntech 5-year computer services contract for $166,566 (3-0)
- Approved Lakeside Concrete Cutting and Abatement Professionals bid for Franklin Street Office Space Demolition at $46,600 (2-0)
- Approved holding a public hearing for the Unorganized Territories Food Sovereignty Ordinance after attorney review (3-0)
- Took 2025 Emergency Management Agency budget requests under advisement (3-0)
- Took 2025 Human Resources budget requests under advisement (3-0)
- Took 2025 Administration budget requests under advisement (3-0)
- Approved payroll and A/P warrants (3-0)
- Approved August 20th, 2024 meeting minutes (3-0)
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The Penobscot County Commissioners will review and discuss the first draft of the 2025 county budget, including departmental budgets for HR and the Commission. They will also review quotes and decide on the Franklin Street demolition, and discuss a Food Sovereignty Ordinance. Several executive sessions are scheduled for labor negotiations, real property acquisition, and personnel matters.
- Franklin Street Demolition – review of quotes and decision
- Food Sovereignty Ordinance – discussion and review
- 2025 County Budget 1st Draft Review (presentations from EMA and Administrator Adkins)
- Warrants approval: Payroll $318,719.66, A/P General Fund $764,398.09, A/P ARPA $200,620.21, among others
- Executive sessions on labor negotiations, real property acquisition, and personnel
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The Board approved a $66,447 TIF application for a new tractor and renewed a $10,500 contract with Maine Stream Finance. They also approved an ambulance agreement for Argyle Township and several payment warrants. Two personnel grievances were denied, and one was deferred.
- Approved $66,447 TIF application for East Branch Sno-Rovers & ATV, Inc. (3-0)
- Approved one-year Maine Stream Finance contract for $10,500 (3-0)
- Approved Old Town ambulance agreement for Argyle Township (3-0)
- Approved payroll and A/P warrants totaling $473,321.18 (3-0)
- Denied personnel grievance #182 (3-0)
- Denied personnel grievance #183 (3-0)
- Deferred personnel grievance #184 (3-0)
- Approved August 13, 2024 meeting minutes (3-0)
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The County Commissioners will discuss an ambulance agreement for Argyle and review a TIF application for East Branch Sno-Rovers & ATV, Inc. The meeting includes a bid opening for the demolition of Franklin Street office space and a budget presentation for Information Technology. Several executive sessions are scheduled regarding personnel grievances, real property acquisition, and labor negotiations.
- Bid opening for Franklin Street Office Space Demolition
- Ambulance Agreement for Argyle (Old Town) discussion and approval
- TIF Application Review for East Branch Sno-Rovers & ATV, Inc.
- Review and vote on new contract for services with ME Stream Finance
- Budget presentation for Dept. 15 / Info Tech
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The Board approved a contract for a County Campus security camera upgrade and funding for Fire-EMS coordination. They declined a request to use an EMA vehicle for commuting and took several records management bids under advisement.
- Approved $51,970 bid to Central Security for camera system upgrade (3-0)
- Approved funding from LATCF for Froman Consulting Services for Fire-EMS Coordination (3-0)
- Declined request to use second EMA county vehicle for commuting purposes (3-0)
- Approved waiving employee parking tag initial fee, with $5 for additional tags (3-0)
- Took Registry of Deeds Records Management System bids under advisement (3-0)
- Approved July 30th, 2024 Meeting Minutes (3-0)
- Approved payroll and A/P warrants as presented (3-0)
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The Penobscot County Commissioners will meet to approve minutes and warrants, discuss a security camera RFP recommendation for the county campus, and consider a deputy director's request to use a county vehicle for commuting. The board will also receive updates on fire-EMS coordination funding, budget presentations, and the interview process for a Human Relations Director. Two executive sessions are scheduled: one for real property acquisition and another for labor negotiations.
- Approval of payroll warrant $326,066.33 and multiple other warrants including A/P General Fund $174,910.89
- Discussion and approval of security camera RFP recommendation for county campus (IT Director Tenney)
- Request to allow EMA deputy director commuting use of county vehicle
- Executive session for acquisition of real property (1 M.R.S.A. § 405 (6) (C))
- Executive session for labor negotiations (1 M.R.S.A. § 405 (6) (D))
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The Commissioners approved several public safety expenditures, including emergency management equipment and law enforcement uniforms. They also authorized multiple municipal service agreements for unorganized territories and renewed a local liquor license.
- Approved up to $175,000 for EMA communication tower, message boards, and drones (3-0)
- Approved up to $60,000 for Sheriff's carrier vests and uniforms using ARPA funds (3-0)
- Approved liquor license renewal for Knife Edge Brewing and Pizzeria (3-0)
- Approved seven part-time law enforcement contracts for various towns (3-0)
- Approved Joe Reinzo Excavating bid for Myra Road gravel project (3-0)
- Approved snow removal, solid waste, and ambulance/fire agreements for UTs (3-0)
- Approved three IT policies and standard operating procedures (3-0)
- Approved sale of 2014 Ford F150 ($667) and 2012 Toyota Corolla ($2,112) to Eugene Abramov (3-0)
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The Penobscot County Commissioners will discuss and approve a Fire-EMS Coordination consulting agreement, hold a public hearing for a liquor license renewal, and consider multiple interlocal agreements with towns. They will also act on ARPA funding requests for emergency management equipment and sheriff's office carrier vests. The meeting includes updates from several county departments and bid openings for surplus vehicles.
- Public hearing for Knives Edge Brewing & Pizzeria liquor license renewal
- Discussion and approval of Grindstone Rd snow removal agreement with Medway
- Approval of Myra Rd gravel project (Greenfield TWP) to Joseph Reinzo Excavating
- ARPA funding requests for EMA: variable message boards, telescoping tower, cargo trailer, unmanned aircraft
- Sheriff's ARPA funding request for carrier vests and uniforms, and 2025 vehicle purchases
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The board approved a road paving contract for Greenfield Township and a Lee Ambulance agreement. They also authorized funding for Trident Medical International and the Katahdin Historical Society, and agreed to sponsor a FEMA hazard mitigation grant for a family affected by the Argyle landslide.
- Approved road paving contract for Street’s Landscape & Lawn Care (3-0)
- Approved Lee Ambulance Agreement (3-0)
- Approved Central Maine Highland Fire and EMS to join District 1 (3-0)
- Approved sponsoring FEMA hazard mitigation grant for Argyle landslide homeowners (3-0)
- Approved $30K funding for Trident Medical International (3-0)
- Approved $20K for Katahdin Historical Society pending documentation (3-0)
- Approved Special Event Permit and fee waiver for Rocky Mountain Trail Riders ATV Poker Run (3-0)
- Approved creation of a 5-year strategic & capital planning municipal subcommittee (3-0)
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The commissioners will discuss fire and EMS service agreements, including joining District #1 and the Lee Ambulance agreement. They will also oversee bid openings for Greenfield Township road projects and ARPA-funded emergency equipment. Additionally, the board will review various payroll and accounts payable warrants.
- Approval of Central Maine Highlands Fire & EMS joining District #1
- Bid openings for Myra Road gravel and paving projects in Greenfield Township
- Review and approval of tuition reimbursement policy
- Bid openings for ARPA-funded equipment, including drones and message boards
- Approval of payroll warrant for $313,641.06
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The Commissioners will discuss and consider approvals for East Millinocket's ambulance and fire service agreements. The meeting also includes reviewing RFPs for emergency management equipment and authorizing criminal forfeiture transfers.
- Discussion and approval of East Millinocket Ambulance and Fire agreements
- Criminal forfeiture transfers totaling $1,251.30
- RFPs for a communication tower, drones, and an enclosed cargo trailer
- Review of the $425,875.46 payroll warrant
- Executive session regarding the acquisition of real property
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The Commission removed an armored vehicle from the ARPA project list following public opposition. Other actions included approving equipment purchases for the DA's office, a new PRCC pickup truck, and emergency service contracts for East Millinocket.
- Removed armored vehicle from ARPA project list
- Approved $49,238 bid from Darling’s Newport for 2024 Ram 2500 Tradesman (3-0)
- Approved up to $40K from undesignated funds for a Sheriff's Office deputy buyout (3-0)
- Approved $12,500 for DA office laptops, desktop, and screens (3-0)
- Approved East Millinocket fire and ambulance service contracts (3-0)
- Approved RFPs for Variable Message Board, Telescoping Communication Tower, Uncrewed Aircraft Systems, and Enclosed Cargo Trailer (3-0)
- Approved Matagamon Wilderness liquor license renewal (3-0)
- Approved county offices to be closed as a paid day on July 5th (3-0)
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The commissioners will discuss the Millinocket Fire and Ambulance Service contract and FY25 capital road projects. The meeting includes public hearings for special amusement permits in unorganized territories and several ARPA funding requests. The board will also review bids for solid waste services.
- AFSCME Corrections Supervisors contract signing
- Millinocket Fire and Ambulance Service contract vote
- Public hearings for special amusement permits at River Drivers Restaurant, Knife Edge Brewing & Pizza, and Kataadn Resorts Event Center
- Bid openings for solid waste services in Springfield, Kingman, Drew, Mattamiscontis, Prentiss, Lower Shin Pond, and Matagamon Lake
- Approval of warrants including $628,013.17 for General Fund accounts payable
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The board approved several Unorganized Territory (UT) service contracts, including waste collection and fire and ambulance services. They also authorized funding for IT network switches and MDT Toughbooks. Special amusement permits were granted for three local businesses.
- Approved Millinocket fire and ambulance contracts (3-0)
- Approved FY25 capital road project plan (3-0)
- Approved up to $12,000 for four UT dumpsters (3-0)
- Approved Special Event Permits for Rivers Drivers Restaurant, Knife Edge Brewing and Pizza, and Kataadn Resorts Event Center (3-0)
- Approved up to $130K for network switches and MDT Toughbooks (3-0)
- Awarded Springfield bulky waste contract to Ireland’s Rubbish Service (3-0)
- Awarded Kingman, Drew, Mattamiscontis and Prentiss townships waste contract to Neil Bonneville (3-0)
- Awarded Lower Shin Pond and Matagamon Lake waste contract to Neil Bonneville (3-0)
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The Penobscot County Court of County Commissioners will approve May meeting minutes, process payroll and agency warrants, and receive departmental updates. Closed executive sessions are scheduled for labor negotiations and real property acquisition under Maine statute. Commissioners will also review vehicle purchase quotes to make a decision, sign a land purchase agreement with Central Maine & Quebec Railway, and discuss solid waste bids and junk yard issues near Lower Shin Pond and Tar Ridge Road. These agenda items determine county spending, staff compensation, local infrastructure projects, and utility services for residents.
- Executive sessions on labor negotiations and real property acquisition
- Land purchase agreement and signatures for Central Maine & Quebec Railway property
- Review of quotes and decision on a vehicle purchase for PRCC
- Solid waste bids for Northern Penobscot County and discussion of junk yard issues near Lower Shin Pond and Tar Ridge Road
- Approval of warrants including $318,787.25 in payroll and $1,000,000.00 in ARPA payments
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The Penobscot County Commissioners approved a land purchase contract with the Central Maine and Quebec Railway and authorized the Administrator to sign. The board also approved several payroll and general fund warrants. Decisions on ARPA funding requests for the EMA and Facilities departments were tabled until June.
- Approved Central Maine and Quebec Railway land purchase contract (3-0)
- Approved payroll and A/P warrants as presented (3-0)
- Approved May 7, 2024 meeting minutes (3-0)
- Tabled EMA ARPA funding requests for communication and light towers
- Tabled Facilities ARPA funding requests for storage building and renovations
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The Penobscot County Court of County Commissioners will review American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding allocations, including a $118,000 sub-recipient award to the Veazie Water District and smaller grants for local organizations. The agenda also covers bid openings for county road salt purchases and a Mattagamon salt shed project, utility department updates such as a firetruck replacement, and public hearings on event permits and liquor licenses. Commissioners will enter executive session to discuss real property acquisition and labor negotiations. These items affect county service funding, local business licensing, and road maintenance costs.
- ARPA sub-recipient discussion for Veazie Water District ($118,000)
- Bid opening for county road salt purchasing and Mattagamon Salt Shed Project
- Public hearing on special event permit for Millinocket X-Stream Canoe Race (June 1, 2024)
- Public hearing on liquor license renewal for New England Whitewater Center / Katahdin Resorts Event Center
- Sheriff’s office updates on opioid funding use and body/camera program tech support position
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The Commission approved a $9M Tax Anticipation Note from Machias Savings Bank and authorized several infrastructure and service payments. They also approved bids for road salt and a salt shed project, and released $1M in funding for the Bangor Y capital project.
- Approved $9M Tax Anticipation Note from Machias Savings Bank at 5.85% (3-0)
- Released $1M of $3M authorized for Bangor Y Capital Project (3-0)
- Approved Morton Salt's bid for UT Road Salt Purchasing (3-0)
- Approved Williams Construction bid for Mattagamon Salt Shed Project (3-0)
- Approved up to $140K for UT fire truck replacement via TIF funds (3-0)
- Approved use of opioid settlement funds for six months of methadone treatment (3-0)
- Set work detail fees at $90/hr for municipalities/schools and $120/hr for private events (3-0)
- Approved Special Event Permit for Millinocket X-Stream Canoe Race and liquor license renewal for New England Whitewater Center, Inc. (3-0)
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The Commission approved funding for HVAC upgrades at the Franklin Street offices and awarded ARPA grants to Bobbie's Garden and the Town of Hampden. They denied a tax abatement appeal for a Mattawamkeag property and a personnel grievance. Bids for a $9M Tax Anticipation Note were taken under advisement.
- Approved Franklin Street HVAC project not to exceed $374,350 (3-0)
- Denied tax abatement appeal for 327 Main Street, Mattawamkeag (3-0)
- Approved $1,000 ARPA grant for Bobbie’s Garden (3-0)
- Approved up to $46,000 ARPA grant for Town of Hampden (3-0)
- Approved ATV use permit changes for Greenfield/Summit Townships (3-0)
- Denied personnel grievance GCN #179 (3-0)
- Tabled ARPA request from Town of Mt. Chase for more information
- Approved payroll and A/P warrants as presented (3-0)
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The Penobscot County Court of Commissioners will deliberate on federal American Rescue Plan Act fund distributions, a property tax abatement appeal, and facility updates. Distributing these grants directs money to regional health providers, community groups, and municipal operating budgets. Tax abatement rulings directly adjust property tax assessments for specific landowners.
- ARPA fund allocations of $35,209.66 to Trident Health, $1,000 to Bobbie’s Garden, $50,935 to the Town of Hampden, and $124,000 to the Town of Mt. Chase
- Deliberations and vote on a tax abatement appeal between Mattawamkeag and Hanscom from the March 19 hearing
- Review of an HVAC quote for Franklin Street facilities and an update on the Y demolition project
- Approval of payroll warrants totaling $327,499.28 and general fund accounts payable warrants at $251,430.62
- Discussion of HR tuition reimbursement and rehire eligibility policies
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The Board approved several ARPA funding requests for the Heart of Maine Resource Center, Save-A-Life, and Penquis. Other actions included approving a special amusement permit and a snow removal contract addendum. No bids were received for the Franklin Street HVAC replacement.
- Approved $650,000 ARPA grant for Penquis Milford Place Project (3-0)
- Approved $275,000 ARPA grant for Heart of Maine Resource Center (3-0)
- Approved $149,850 ARPA grant for Save-A-Life (3-0)
- Approved Special Amusement Permit for 5 Lakes Lodge (3-0)
- Approved TJ Glidden Logging snow removal contract addendum (3-0)
- Approved 15% County share of criminal forfeiture requests (3-0)
- Approved Vinal Applebee – Rocky Mountain Trail Riders Project Certification (3-0)
- Tabled ARPA application for Patten Veterans Memorial Library
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The Penobscot County Commissioners are reviewing ARPA grant awards totaling $58,455 for local organizations and discussing low-interest disaster loans through an SBA presentation. The body will hold a public hearing on a special amusement permit for 5 Lakes Lodge, open bids for Franklin Street HVAC replacement, and vote on a Millinocket Lake Road snow removal contract addendum with TJ Glidden Logging. Executive sessions are scheduled to address personnel grievances and labor negotiations with AFSCME supervisors. These items determine how federal recovery funds are distributed, what permits are issued for local venues, and how county payroll and vendor payments are processed.
- Awarding ARPA checks: The Brick Church ($22,000), Wabanaki Public Health ($20,000), Corinna Water District ($16,455)
- Public hearing for 5 Lakes Lodge special amusement permit
- Bid opening for Franklin Street HVAC replacement
- Vote on Millinocket Lake Road snow removal contract addendum with TJ Glidden Logging
- Executive sessions on personnel grievance and AFSCME supervisors labor negotiations
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The Board approved increasing hourly fees for court-appointed attorneys to $150 effective May 1. Several ARPA grant requests were approved for community projects, while others were tabled for further review. A tax abatement hearing was held for a property in Mattawamkeag, with a decision pending.
- Approved increase of court-appointed attorney fees to $150 per hour effective May 1 (3-0)
- Approved $22,000 ARPA grant for Brick Church updates (3-0)
- Approved $20,000 ARPA grant for Wabanaki Public Health kitchen buildout (3-0)
- Approved $16,455 ARPA grant for Corinna Water District accounting system (3-0)
- Approved up to $214,000 ARPA grant for East Millinocket rubble removal (3-0)
- Approved up to $200,000 ARPA grant for Town of Kenduskeag Sandy Preston Case Memorial Library (3-0)
- Tabled ARPA requests for Heart of Maine Resource Center, Patten Veterans Memorial Library, and Save-A-Life
- Approved payroll and A/P warrants as presented (3-0)
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The Penobscot County Commissioners will sign FOP supervisors and line contracts. The agenda includes updates on ARPA grants and a discussion regarding probate attorney fees. A scheduled public hearing for the Millinockeclipse Fun Run/Walk was pulled by the applicant.
- Signing of FOP Supervisors and FOP Line contracts
- Discussion regarding probate attorney fees
- ARPA grant updates for Commissioners Fund and sub-recipients
- Tax abatement appeal schedule: Mattawamkeag vs Hanscom
- Approval of warrants, including $1,100,000.00 for ARPA accounts payable
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The Penobscot County Commissioners will discuss departmental updates, financial warrants, and policy reviews. The meeting includes a vote on an educational grant and discussions regarding tax interest rates.
- $10,000 educational grant request for Kat Rgn Chamber of Commerce
- Increased purchase amount for Sheriff’s Office FARO Scanner
- Approval of $1,134,319.00 ARPA accounts payable warrant
- Annual review of salt bid and snow removal contract extension for Millinocket Lake Road
- Liquor license renewal for Northern Timber Cruisers
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The Penobscot County Commissioners approved a $650,000 ARPA grant for a baler system for the Eagle Point Energy Company. The board also approved funding for Sheriff's Office equipment and uniforms, a liquor license renewal, and the 2024 Tax Commitment.
- Approved $650K ARPA grant for Cambridge Flexus baler system for Eagle Point Energy Company (2-0)
- Approved up to $80K for Faro Scanner for the Sheriff’s Office (2-0)
- Approved up to $40K from ARPA funds for Sheriff’s Office / Jail black stock uniforms (2-0)
- Approved Northern Timber Cruisers liquor license renewal (2-0)
- Approved updated corrected copy of the 2024 Tax Commitment (2-0)
- Approved annual delinquency interest rate of 6% (2-0)
- Approved Deputy Director to send UT Salt Bids to 59 towns
- Approved February 20, 2024 Meeting Minutes (2-0)
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The Commissioners will review criminal forfeiture transfers and the Franklin Street HVAC RFP release. They will also discuss ARPA sub-recipients and the Central Maine Highlands Fire and EMS District #1 budget.
- $14,000 ARPA award presentation for Jericho Road / Melvin Coombs
- Authorization of $4,849.38 in criminal forfeiture transfers
- Request to purchase three Remarkable 2 tablets for $1,555 from the DA Forfeiture account
- Review and authorization of Franklin Street HVAC RFP for release
- Budget presentation for Central Maine Highlands Fire and EMS District #1
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The Board approved significant ARPA funding for Our Katahdin and Penobscot Valley Hospital. They also authorized the start of a Tax Anticipation Note (TAN) process and a $4 million internal loan from ARPA funds. Additionally, the board gave preliminary approval for the county's role in the Central Maine Highlands Fire and EMS District #1.
- Approved $650,000 ARPA grant to Our Katahdin (3-0)
- Approved up to $600,000 ARPA grant to Penobscot Valley Hospital (3-0)
- Approved $4 million transfer/borrowing from ARPA funds to be repaid by year-end (3-0)
- Authorized Treasurer and Administration to start the TAN process for $11M (3-0)
- Preliminarily approved Penobscot County government's role in UT for Fire and EMS District #1 (3-0)
- Approved 2024 Commissioners Tax Commitment (3-0)
- Approved criminal forfeiture request of $4,849.38 and purchase of 3 Remarkable 2 Tablets for $1,555 (3-0)
- Approved payroll and A/P warrants (3-0)
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The Commissioners will review ARPA recruiting and retention transfers, cooperative projects with the City of Bangor, and various financial warrants. The agenda also includes updates on facilities, strategic goals, and a letter regarding the Maine Revenue Services portal.
- Review and approval of ARPA Recruiting & Retention transfer/payment
- Review of Bangor City Council project approvals for cooperative projects
- Review and approval of Commissioner Fund / Round 3 applications
- Approval of payroll and accounts payable warrants
- Executive session regarding labor negotiations
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The Board approved a $720,000 transfer from ARPA funding to the General Fund and granted $14,000 to the Jericho Road Street Ministry. Commissioners also reaffirmed support for cooperative projects with the City of Bangor and approved several payment warrants.
- Approved $720K transfer from ARPA funding to General Fund for recruitment and retention (3-0)
- Approved $14,000 ARPA grant to Jericho Road Street Ministry (3-0)
- Reaffirmed commitment to support cooperative projects with City of Bangor (3-0)
- Approved January 30, 2024 Meeting Minutes (3-0)
- Approved payroll and A/P warrants totaling $1,263,800.66 (3-0)
- Approved motion to enter Executive Session for labor negotiations (3-0)
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The Board approved several TIF grants for fire and ambulance equipment and authorized funding for a FARO scanner and MAT medication. They also approved a plan restoration project for the Registry of Deeds and a waste recycling contract for Pukakon Twp.
- Approved up to $75K for Registry of Deeds plan restoration (3-0)
- Approved $10K TIF grant for Howland Fire/Ambulance ATV (3-0)
- Approved $33,500 TIF grant for Mattawamkeag/Kingman Fire JAWS of Life (3-0)
- Approved $25K TIF grant for Mt. Chase fire truck (3-0)
- Approved 3-year Lakeville Solid Waste & Recycling contract for Pukakon Twp (3-0)
- Approved bidding for metal roof replacement at Matagamon sand shed (3-0)
- Approved purchase of FARO scanner for up to $75K (3-0)
- Approved up to $25K in Opioid funds for MAT medication (3-0)
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The Penobscot County Commissioners approved several financial warrants and granted a special amusement permit and liquor license renewal for Sawmill Grill. The board also distributed ARPA funding to the City of Brewer Fire, Manna Inc, and Corinna Sewer District.
- Approved January 9, 2023 Meeting Minutes (2-0)
- Approved special amusement permit for Sawmill Grill/Indian Purchase Twp (2-0)
- Approved liquor license renewal for Sawmill Grill (2-0)
- Issued ARPA grants: City of Brewer Fire $15,000, Manna Inc $5,000, Corinna Sewer District $26,000
- Approved payroll and A/P warrants as presented (2-0)
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The Commissioners will hold a public hearing regarding a special amusement license for Sawmill Grill in Indian Purchase Twp. The agenda also includes updates on probate data, emergency management, and sheriff's office funding requests.
- Public Hearing: Special Amusement License for Sawmill Grill / Indian Purchase Twp
- Liquor License discussion for Sawmill Grill / Indian Purchase Twp
- Sheriff's Office purchase request for FARO Scanner using ARPA funds
- Approval of Payroll Warrant (01.05.24) for $373,079.35
- Approval of A/P General Fund (01.09.24) for $328,779.46
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The Penobscot County Commissioners approved several funding awards for healthcare, housing, and infrastructure projects using ARPA and Commissioner funds. The board also elected Commissioner Cushing as Chair for 2024 and approved various financial warrants.
- Elected Commissioner Cushing as Chair for 2024 (3-0)
- Approved $50,000 ARPA award to Bangor Nursing & Rehabilitation (3-0)
- Approved $550,000 ARPA award to Community Care / Shaw House (3-0)
- Approved $350,000 ARPA award to United Way (HOME) (3-0)
- Approved $220,000 ARPA award to Wellspring (3-0)
- Approved $250,000 ARPA award to Northern Forest Center (3-0)
- Approved $15,000 grant to Brewer Fire Dept. for CPR/Lucas device (3-0)
- Approved $26,000 grant to Town of Corinna for sewer/wastewater system (3-0)
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The Board of Commissioners will meet to conduct an election for the Commission Chair and review ARPA grant proposals. The agenda also includes updates on jail operations, the Old Y Building demolition, and various warrant approvals.
- Election of Commission Chair
- Discussion and finalization of Bangor Council ARPA proposal
- Update on Old Y Building demolition process
- Sheriff update regarding jail counts and body scanner use
- Approval of payroll warrants totaling $661,372.87 for December 2023