What your boards and committees decided. Recent meetings · October 5 – October 20.
Select Board Meeting - 2nd Meeting of the Month
Tue, Oct 20, 2026
Board weighs keeping Perkins Cove Bridge raised for the winter, after Christmas by the Sea
Your Select Board met for its second October meeting to approve routine business and hear a busy-season harbor report. Most of the meeting went to a public workshop on the Perkins Cove Bridge.
Watch the recording: Select Board Meeting - 2nd Meeting of the Month, Tue, Oct 20, 2026 · Agenda & packet: Select Board Meeting - 2nd Meeting of the Month, Tue, Oct 20, 2026
Mark Inangelo appointed to the Planning Board on consent
The Board approved its consent agenda without pulling any items. That included the October 6, 2026 minutes, accepting donations, and appointing Mark Inangelo to the Planning Board as a full member, with a term expiring June 30, 2028. Carole Aaron, the Board's Vice-Chair, moved the motion and Scott Vogel seconded; the Board approved it by voice vote.
- What changed
- The Board approved its consent agenda, including appointing Mark Inangelo to the Planning Board as a full member, with a term expiring June 30, 2028.
- Why it matters
- Not stated in the source.
- What's next
- Not stated in the source.
Recorded disposition: approved
Source: Consent agenda; transcript: motion by Carole Aaron, seconded by Scott Vogel, "All in favor? That is approved."
Nov. 3 town meeting hearing draws no comment
The Board opened a public hearing to take comment on the warrant articles for the Special Town Meeting on November 3, 2026. No one spoke in person or online, and the Chair closed the hearing. This was a hearing only, with no vote taken.
- What changed
- No vote taken.
- Why it matters
- Not stated in the source.
- What's next
- Voters take up the warrant articles at the November 3 Special Town Meeting. The Oct. 6 Select Board report in this issue covers the Board's earlier hearing on the articles, and the Parks & Recreation Committee report describes Warrant Article 4. (Date to be set)
Source: Agenda item 3.1; transcript: public hearing opened at 9:02, no hands raised, hearing closed.
Harbor reports a busy, incident-free season at the Cove
Harbormaster Erin Gott gave the 2026 season update for Perkins Cove, calling it an incredibly busy summer with no incidents, sinkings, or emergencies. All 65 moorings were filled, tour and tuna boats had a strong year, and short-term stays rose about 11% while overnight transients dipped slightly. He estimated the harbor hosts just over 800 visiting boats a year. Crews hauled and launched 18 boats, added four new pilings to strengthen the inner docks, built a new dock that will fit four more small boats next year, and refitted the harbor's ice-breaking boat. He thanked other departments, especially Public Works.
- What changed
- No vote taken.
- Why it matters
- Not stated in the source.
- What's next
- Not stated in the source.
- Seasonal moorings filled this season
- 65
- Increase in short-term stays
- ~11%
- Estimated visiting boats a year
- 800+
Source: Agenda item 4.1; transcript: Harbormaster 2026 season update.
Plan to lock Perkins Cove Bridge open for the deep winter
The Board held a public workshop on whether to secure the failing Perkins Cove Bridge in its raised, open position for the winter. The Board set this workshop on Oct. 6; see the Oct. 6 Select Board report in this issue. The Harbormaster explained that a fishing vessel now needs the bridge opened at least twice a day, and that running its hydraulic system in below-zero cold risks a catastrophic breakdown that could leave the bridge broken all next summer. The Chair noted the Town's obligation to provide access as a federally improved commercial harbor. The Police Chief and a fire representative both favored locking it open for winter, citing summer traffic and pedestrian-safety problems when it broke down. Resident Amy Forbes asked that it stay working through Christmas by the Sea and urged a winter workshop on what to do if the bridge fails mid-summer. The Chair suggested leaving the dates to the Town Manager, and the Harbormaster suggested locking it open from about January 1 to the end of March.
- What changed
- No vote taken.
- Why it matters
- Not stated in the source.
- What's next
- Board member Heath Ouellette asked that the plan be publicized and that the public get another chance to comment; the Town Manager agreed to give notice of a follow-up workshop. (Date to be set)
Source: Agenda item 5.1; transcript: workshop discussion, Harbormaster, Chair, Police Chief, fire representative, Amy Forbes, Heath Ouellette, and Town Manager.
At a glance
- Mark Inangelo appointed to the Planning Board on consent — The Board approved its consent agenda, including appointing Mark Inangelo to the Planning Board as a full member, with a term expiring June 30, 2028.
- Nov. 3 town meeting hearing draws no comment — No vote taken.
- Harbor reports a busy, incident-free season at the Cove — No vote taken.
- Plan to lock Perkins Cove Bridge open for the deep winter — No vote taken.
Ogunquit River Watershed Committee
Thu, Oct 15, 2026
Watershed Committee picks five 2027 river priorities and reviews water-quality notification options
Your Ogunquit River Watershed Committee held a regular meeting, elected its officers, and worked through a draft annual work plan to choose the river-health priorities it will send to the Select Board for 2027.
Watch the recording: Ogunquit River Watershed Committee, Thu, Oct 15, 2026 · Agenda & packet: Ogunquit River Watershed Committee, Thu, Oct 15, 2026
Jane Greene elected chair
The committee chose its leaders for the coming term. Members nominated and elected Jane Greene as chair, Suzanne Williams as vice chair, and Pam Sawyer as secretary, each by roll-call vote. Members noted that under the ordinance the chair must be a full-time Ogunquit resident, and confirmed that Suzanne Williams, who is not an Ogunquit resident, may still serve as vice chair.
- What changed
- The committee elected Jane Greene chair, Suzanne Williams vice chair, and Pam Sawyer secretary by roll-call vote.
- Why it matters
- Not stated in the source.
- What's next
- Not stated in the source.
Recorded disposition: named
Recorded motions
- Nominate Jane Greene as chair. — adopted; vote 4–0
- Nominate Suzanne Williams as vice chair. — adopted; vote 4–0
- Nominate Pam Sawyer as secretary. — adopted; vote 4–0
Source: Transcript, election of officers: nominations and roll-call votes for chair, vice chair, secretary; note on resident requirement for chair.
September minutes approved
The committee approved the minutes of its September 24, 2026 meeting by roll-call vote. Suzanne Williams asked that Christopher Nobile, still listed on the committee's template as the Shellfish Conservation Commission representative, be removed; the chair said staff would update it.
- What changed
- The committee approved the September 24, 2026 meeting minutes by roll-call vote.
- Why it matters
- Not stated in the source.
- What's next
- Staff will update the committee's template to remove Christopher Nobile as the Shellfish Conservation Commission representative. (Date to be set)
Recorded disposition: approved
Recorded vote: 4–0
Source: Transcript, minutes: motion to approve September 24, 2026 minutes, roll-call all yes; Suzanne Williams's request to remove Christopher Nobile from the template.
Committee picks five river priorities for 2027
The committee voted to have Chair Jane Greene draft a list of its 2027 priorities to deliver to the Select Board. Working from a chart that lines up the 2025 Watershed-Based Plan's action items with the town's Comprehensive Plan strategies, members agreed to focus on five strategies, numbered as in the draft work plan: water resources (strategy 6), stormwater catch basins (strategy 8), public education including pet-waste disposal (strategy 15), work with the Ogunquit Sewer District (strategy 16), and encouraging landowners to protect water quality (strategy 17). Members said several other items, such as land conservation, water-body setbacks, and the pesticide ordinance, overlap with the Conservation Commission's work, and agreed to ask the town liaison to clarify which body takes the lead. They also discussed drafting a consistent dog/leash ordinance for the beach and the Marginal Way. Members noted the Select Board does not require them to complete these actions in 2027.
- What changed
- The committee voted for Chair Jane Greene to develop a draft list of the committee's 2027 priorities to deliver to the Select Board.
- Why it matters
- These priorities shape which river-protection actions the committee pursues next year and tie its work to the town's Comprehensive Plan.
- What's next
- Chair Jane Greene will circulate the draft to committee members before delivering it to the Select Board. (Date to be set)
Recorded disposition: approved
Recorded vote: 4–0
Path discussed for a consistent dog ordinance
- Committee drafts
The committee writes up a draft ordinance for consistent dog and leash rules on the beach and the Marginal Way, based on the current ordinance.
- Review
The draft is reviewed and its wording refined.
- Planning Board
The ordinance goes to the Planning Board for review.
- Select Board
From the Planning Board it goes to the Select Board.
Source: Transcript, item 5.1: chart aligning action items with Comp Plan strategies; motion for Jane Greene to draft priorities (work-plan strategies 6, 8, 15, 16, 17), roll-call all yes; discussion of overlap and dog ordinance pathway.
Committee reviews water-quality notification options
Members discussed the plan's goal of improving public notice of high-bacteria advisories, possibly with color flags or signs. They concluded they cannot offer real-time alerts: the town tests beach water only periodically and not after September 1, results can swing between days, and the "biomeme" rapid-test device bought earlier has unresolved questions about where it is stored, whether test strips are still available, who is trained to run it, and the cost. Suzanne Williams said real-time means knowing water quality every day, which the town cannot currently do, and that beach water safety is a public-health matter better handled by the town through the fire department, which manages the beaches. The committee agreed no vote could move it forward and that it needs Select Board guidance.
- What changed
- No vote taken.
- Why it matters
- Not stated in the source.
- What's next
- The committee will write up questions about the biomeme device, including its location, strip availability, training, and cost, and seek guidance from the Select Board. (Date to be set)
Source: Transcript, discussion of plan item 4D/7 on notification; Suzanne Williams on real-time testing and public health; no vote taken.
New watershed map planned for outreach
The committee began work on a new, more user-friendly map of the Ogunquit River Watershed for public outreach, tied to priority strategy 17. Suzanne Williams volunteered to lead a small task group, and Avery Seuter offered GIS help using a school license available through December. No money was authorized; members noted the budget lists $800 for graphics as an estimate, and that under the member handbook the committee must vote on an amount once the task group brings back a cost or bid.
- What changed
- No vote taken.
- Why it matters
- Not stated in the source.
- What's next
- The task group will define the project's scope and obtain a bid for the next meeting, when the committee will vote on an amount to authorize. (Next meeting)
- Budget estimate for graphics; no money authorized
- $800
Source: Transcript: Suzanne Williams volunteers to head a task group, Avery Seuter offers GIS help; $800 graphics figure described as an estimate; handbook requires a vote on amount.
Outreach table tents delivered to local businesses
The chair reported delivering 94 table tents to the Norseman. She said the Norseman, Ogunquit Tides, and the Chambers have agreed to display them, and she is waiting to hear from the Trident Inn.
- What changed
- No vote taken.
- Why it matters
- Not stated in the source.
- What's next
- Not stated in the source.
Source: Transcript, communications: chair reports delivering 94 table tents to the Norseman; businesses agreeing to display them.
At a glance
- Jane Greene elected chair — The committee elected Jane Greene chair, Suzanne Williams vice chair, and Pam Sawyer secretary by roll-call vote.
- Committee picks five river priorities for 2027 — The committee voted for Chair Jane Greene to develop a draft list of the committee's 2027 priorities to deliver to the Select Board.
- Committee reviews water-quality notification options — No vote taken.
- New watershed map planned for outreach — No vote taken.
Parks & Recreation Committee
Wed, Oct 14, 2026
Parks & Rec weighs moving some summer concerts to the beach
Your Parks and Recreation Committee met at the Dunaway Center to recap a busy season of events and to talk through how its work fits the town's comprehensive plan.
Watch the recording: Parks & Recreation Committee, Wed, Oct 14, 2026 · Agenda & packet: Parks & Recreation Committee, Wed, Oct 14, 2026
September minutes approved
Your committee approved the minutes of its September 9 meeting on a 5–0 vote. Joining by Zoom, member Jennifer Lewer said she didn't recall voting to put the Agamenticus Park project on a town warrant. The Chair explained that residents — the tennis and pickleball groups — brought that forward, and that the committee had only discussed it, not voted on it.
- What changed
- The committee approved the minutes of its September 9 meeting.
- Why it matters
- Not stated in the source.
- What's next
- Not stated in the source.
Recorded disposition: approved
Recorded vote: 5–0
Recorded motions
- Motion to approve the minutes of the September 9, 2026 meeting. — adopted; vote 5–0
Source: Transcript: motion to approve minutes, seconded; Chair announced 5-0; Lewer question on the Agamenticus warrant article.
More artwork sold than ever at Plein Air
Jennifer Lewer recapped the Plein Air day, held in September. About 140 artists registered, and with some no-shows and cancellations roughly 120 took part. She said every artist has been paid, with one graphics bill still outstanding, and that more artwork sold than ever. The Chair thanked the Parks and Rec members and volunteers who ran the event.
- What changed
- Not stated in the source.
- Why it matters
- Not stated in the source.
- What's next
- Not stated in the source.
- Artists who took part in Plein Air
- ~120
- Artists registered for Plein Air
- ~140
Source: Transcript: Lewer's Plein Air recap — about 120 artists, artists paid, one outstanding graphics bill, record crowds and sales.
OgunquitFest parade and Cove activities set for Oct. 24
The committee reviewed its plans for Saturday, October 24, during the Ogunquit Chamber of Commerce's OgunquitFest. A parade steps off at 10:30 a.m., followed by trick-or-treating in Perkins Cove and rock painting across the bridge starting around 11, led by members and volunteers. A local restaurant will let organizers use its valet parking area before it opens, the rocks were donated, and three volunteers are lined up.
- What changed
- Not stated in the source.
- Why it matters
- Not stated in the source.
- What's next
- OgunquitFest's Saturday, October 24, events include a 10:30 a.m. parade, trick-or-treating in Perkins Cove, and rock painting. (Oct 24, 2026 · OgunquitFest parade and Cove activities)
Source: Transcript: OgunquitFest update — Saturday the 24th, parade at 10:30, trick-or-treating, rock painting at 11, donated rocks, three volunteers. Sponsor: Ogunquit Chamber of Commerce.
Christmas by the Sea: Friday Cove gathering Dec. 11
At its October 14 meeting, Parks & Recreation discussed a Friday, December 11 gathering in the Cove from 5 to 6:30 p.m., with Santa, cookies, cocoa and music. Jennifer Lewer asked for volunteers. This gathering is one part of the broader December 11–13 Christmas by the Sea festival.
- What changed
- Not stated in the source.
- Why it matters
- Not stated in the source.
- What's next
- The Parks & Recreation Cove gathering is planned for Friday, December 11, from 5 to 6:30 p.m.; volunteers are welcome. (Dec 11, 2026 · Christmas by the Sea Cove gathering, 5–6:30 p.m.)
Source: Transcript: Christmas by the Sea update — Friday the 11th, 5 to 6:30, Santa, cookies, cocoa, band, Rotary s'mores, no ornaments this year.
Vote on $100,000 parks reserve funding set for Nov. 3
The committee discussed Warrant Article 4 on the November 3 ballot. It would transfer $100,000 from the Unassigned Fund Balance into the Parks and Public Spaces Reserve. The ballot names maintenance or repair of the Agamenticus Park courts as the initial intended use. The Chair recalled the $100,000 as $50,000 in town funds plus $50,000 from another committee's funds; that split is not part of the ballot wording. Members discussed the pickleball and tennis courts, including the two back tennis courts that remain in use.
- What changed
- Not stated in the source.
- Why it matters
- Voters will decide whether to put $100,000 into the parks reserve. Repair or maintenance of the Agamenticus Park courts is the initial intended use, not a separately earmarked expenditure.
- What's next
- Ogunquit voters decide Warrant Article 4 on November 3. Polls at the Dunaway Community Center, 23 School Street, are open 8 a.m.–8 p.m. (November town vote)
- Proposed transfer to the parks reserve (Nov. 3 vote)
- $100,000
Source: Town of Ogunquit Nov. 3, 2026 sample ballot, Article 4 (Parks and Public Spaces Reserve; Agamenticus Park courts intended use); Oct. 14 Parks & Recreation meeting recording (court discussion and chair’s funding split).
Committee weighs its priorities for the town plan
Select Board member and liaison Heath Ouellette walked the committee through a draft Select Board policy — not yet voted by the Select Board — that would have each committee set three to five yearly priorities tied to the comprehensive plan, share them with the Select Board, receive feedback, and review results at year's end. He said the goal is better two-way communication, and that the Select Board looks each year at whether its many committees are still needed. Members talked through possible priorities: Agamenticus Park upgrades, programming at the Dunaway Center, concerts on the beach, walking-trail maps, more off-season activities, and beautification. Because several members were absent, the committee agreed to ask the Town Clerk to extend the Oct. 15 deadline for its written comments, and Rick Stewart offered to draft the priorities. Ouellette said the Select Board will likely revisit the draft in November and aim to finalize it in December or early January.
- What changed
- Not stated in the source.
- Why it matters
- The draft policy would set how your committee picks its yearly goals and reports to the Select Board.
- What's next
- Not stated in the source.
- Yearly priorities each committee would set under the draft policy
- 3–5
- Select Board priorities this year
- ~20
Proposed committee-priorities cycle
- Select Board sets priorities
In the fall, the Select Board sets its roughly 20 priorities for the year.
- Committees set 3–5 priorities
Each committee drafts three to five priorities tied to the comprehensive plan and its own goals.
- Present and get feedback
The committee presents its priorities to the Select Board, which gives feedback so work stays on course.
- Year-end review
At year's end, the committee evaluates what it accomplished and what work continues.
Source: Transcript: Ouellette's comprehensive plan presentation on the draft Select Board communication policy; committee agrees to seek an extension; Stewart to draft priorities.
Parks & Recreation plans Nov. 4 budget vote
Parks & Recreation reviewed its proposed 2027–28 budget but postponed a vote until November 4. Proposed expenses are $44,075; projected revenue of $8,775 would leave a $35,300 town request, $3,500 more than this year. Members also discussed moving some summer concerts to the beach; they still need a portable-stage cost and suitable tide times.
- What changed
- The committee postponed its budget vote to November 4.
- Why it matters
- The net request is the share the town funds through the budget; as drafted it would rise about $3,500 over this year.
- What's next
- The committee plans to vote the budget at its November 4 meeting, after learning what a beach-concert stage would cost. (Nov 4, 2026 · Parks & Recreation budget vote (planned))
Recorded disposition: deferred
- Total proposed expenses
- $44,075
- Net town request in the proposed budget
- $35,300
Net amount requested from the town ($)| Period | Value |
|---|
| This year | 31800 |
|---|
| Proposed 2027–2028 | 35300 |
|---|
Source: Oct. 14 Parks & Recreation meeting recording: proposed budget expenses $44,075, revenue $8,775, net town request $35,300 vs. $31,800; vote deferred to Nov. 4; beach-concert and stage discussion.
At a glance
- More artwork sold than ever at Plein Air
- OgunquitFest parade and Cove activities set for Oct. 24
Planning Board Workshop
Tue, Oct 13, 2026
Planning Board polishes zoning overhaul, lines up trolley-sign and Farm District workshops
Your Planning Board met in a workshop and took no formal votes. Members fine-tuned a batch of ordinance changes before a public hearing and chose the topics for their next workshops.
Watch the recording: Planning Board Workshop, Tue, Oct 13, 2026 · Agenda & packet: Planning Board Workshop, Tue, Oct 13, 2026
Reply set for Select Board's committee letter
The Board went over a draft reply to a letter the Select Board had sent to all town committees. Members felt most of it did not apply to them, since much of their work is driven by applications they are required to handle, but they agreed they could share their yearly workshop plans. The plan going forward: after each election, when the board is full, hold an early workshop to set the year's priorities and send that to the Select Board so it knows the agenda. Members were unsure who their current Select Board liaison is and will check. The Parks & Recreation Committee report in this issue describes the Select Board's draft policy on committee priorities.
- What changed
- No vote taken.
- Why it matters
- Not stated in the source.
- What's next
- The Chair will send the drafted reply to the Select Board as written and find out who the board's Select Board liaison is before the next meeting. (Date to be set)
Source: Discussion of draft response to Select Board letter to all committees; 'I'll send them that note as is... find out who our liaison is.' Workshop — no votes taken.
District merges and TA4 lodging limits move ahead
The Board worked through the last pieces of a zoning package it wants ready for a public hearing. Members would merge the two general business districts (GB1 and GB2) into a single 'GB' and drop the GB2 column from the use table, with a note to the public that this removes transient accommodation 'TA4' as an allowed use and makes existing ones nonconforming. In the growth area, allowed density would rise to three dwelling units per lot. They agreed to keep TA4's standards and definition so existing properties still have guardrails — a 60-foot setback and a limit that expansion stay within the owner's contiguous lots of record, not land bought next door. They also cleaned up nonconforming language that had tied TA4 to the old GB2 district. The draft already deletes the one-family residential district and merges the rural residential districts.
- What changed
- No vote taken.
- Why it matters
- These rules decide what can be built and where. Existing TA4 transient accommodations in the merged business district would become nonconforming.
- What's next
- The Chair will finalize the draft and route it for formatting and review, then to the Select Board, before the Planning Board holds a public hearing. (Date to be set)
- Setback kept for existing TA4 transient accommodations
- 60 ft
From draft to public hearing
- Format the changes
Put the ordinance sections into strike-through and underline format for review.
- Staff review
Send it to be double-checked.
- Select Board
Send it to the Select Board.
- Public hearing
Hold the Planning Board's public hearing.
Source: Discussion of table 702.1 (GB1/GB2 merge), density 225-9.5, TA4 and 225-3.5 nonconforming language, and review process. Workshop — no votes taken.
Board to tidy up split zoning lots
Beyond moving three Glen Avenue lots (53A, 53B and 53C) fully into the residential zone, members talked about reducing the number of lots that are split between business and residential zones, especially on the north end near Route 1. The rule they discussed: keep lots that abut Route 1 as business, but where a back lot is residential and split, move it fully into residential. Affected owners would receive abutter notices. The Chair will map the changes and work with staff on the GIS system, and will look at how many lots are involved.
- What changed
- No vote taken.
- Why it matters
- Lots split between two zones create confusion about which rules apply; consolidating them is meant to simplify things. Owners of affected lots would get abutter notices.
- What's next
- The Chair will draw the proposed map changes, check how many lots are affected, and send them to staff; abutter notices would go to affected owners. (Date to be set)
Source: Discussion of split lots along Route 1 and Glen Ave (53A/53B/53C), abutter notices and GIS back end. Workshop — no votes taken.
Conditional zoning would cover municipal uses
The Board refined language for 'conditional zoning' — a tool that lets the town approve a use while attaching conditions. Members changed the wording from 'public' to 'municipal' so it clearly covers town building structures or uses, which they said could help with things like municipal parking. They looked at 'light industry,' which the code allows but never defines, and weighed writing a definition. Instead they decided to drop light industry from the conditional-zoning language entirely. It had been added years ago for building trolleys in the Farm District, and the town has since approved conditional zoning for a Route 1 development, so the Farm District tie no longer fit. As discussed, the language would authorize conditional zoning only for high-density residential development and municipal building structures or uses.
- What changed
- No vote taken.
- Why it matters
- Adding municipal uses to conditional zoning could let the town pursue projects such as parking on properties where they would not otherwise be allowed.
- What's next
- The change will be folded into the ordinance package. (Date to be set)
Source: Discussion of municipal conditional zoning, 'public' vs 'municipal,' and dropping light industry. Workshop — no votes taken.
Next workshops: trolley signs, Farm District, noise
With the main revisions nearly done, the Board picked topics for upcoming workshops and set the first for its next meeting. Top of the list: letting ride-sharing and transportation businesses — the trolley and taxis — show signs or advertising on their vehicles, which current outdoor-sales rules restrict. Members noted the trolley crosses three towns and can't easily strip its signs at each line, and said they would invite the operators and write careful rules so only vehicles actually carrying passengers qualify, not rolling billboards. They would also exclude bike and scooter sharing from the outdoor-sales definition and sort out how to treat e-bikes and scooters. Other topics for later: limiting the Farm District to agricultural and environmental uses and removing other commercial uses; reviewing the noise ordinance, though members doubted it could be enforced; and asking the Historic Preservation Commission about shifting the 1930 historic cutoff to a rolling window such as 50 years. Members also revisited banning new piers on the estuary but decided not to pursue it, citing property rights and the town's past court wins on a rejected pier.
- What changed
- No vote taken.
- Why it matters
- These workshop topics could lead to future ordinance changes affecting local transportation businesses, the Farm District, noise rules and historic-building protections.
- What's next
- The next workshop is set for October 26 at 5 p.m., starting with ride-sharing and vehicle signage. (Date to be set)
Source: Discussion of next-round workshop topics: ride-sharing/signs, piers, Farm District, noise ordinance, OHPC 1930 date; next meeting set for the 26th at 5. Workshop — no votes taken.
Update from the Conservation Commission
Members shared an update from the Conservation Commission, which met the prior week, on takeout containers and a possible tree-cutting ordinance; see the commission's own report, which follows.
- What changed
- No vote taken.
- Why it matters
- Not stated in the source.
- What's next
- Not stated in the source.
Source: Report of Conservation Commission meeting last week: biodegradable containers, possible tree-cutting ordinance. Workshop — no votes taken.
At a glance
- Reply set for Select Board's committee letter — No vote taken.
- District merges and TA4 lodging limits move ahead — No vote taken.
- Board to tidy up split zoning lots — No vote taken.
- Conditional zoning would cover municipal uses — No vote taken.
Conservation Commission
Wed, Oct 7, 2026
Conservation Commission maps out container and tree ordinances and eyes buying land
Your Conservation Commission met October 7. Apart from approving its minutes, the board spent the hour planning next steps — on takeout containers, tree protection, and conserving land — without taking other votes.
Watch the recording: Conservation Commission, Wed, Oct 7, 2026 · Agenda & packet: Conservation Commission, Wed, Oct 7, 2026
September minutes approved
Your Conservation Commission approved its September 2026 minutes. The Chair asked for additions or corrections, a member moved approval, it was seconded, and the board voted aye.
- What changed
- Approved the September 2026 minutes.
- Why it matters
- Not applicable.
- What's next
- Not stated in the source.
Recorded disposition: approved
Recorded motions
- Move to approve the September 2026 minutes. — adopted
Source: Transcript: 'I move to approve the minutes... Second. All in favor? Aye.'
Shorebird season winds down; dunes to be checked after Nov. 1
Vice-Chair Amy Kelley gave the fall shorebird and coastal update; no vote was taken. She reported that the piping plovers have moved on but migrating shorebirds like sandpipers and yellowlegs are still using the beach and mudflats, and she is again serving as a volunteer shorebird ambassador. She said last year's dune grass replenishment did well through the summer, but she noticed a couple of bald spots near marker 3 and possible storm damage. She said no one could enter the dunes until about November 1 because of the migratory birds and that an engineer working on another project would then assess the spots; Select Board liaison Robert Whitelaw said some of the planting is believed to be under warranty. Looking ahead, she and Suzanne Craig plan to add educational signage about shorebirds near the footbridge, main beach, and North Beach.
- What changed
- No vote taken.
- Why it matters
- The beach dunes and shorebirds are protected habitat, and repairs and public signage affect how the town maintains them.
- What's next
- Members discussed an assessment of the bald spots after approximately November 1; the Select Board liaison said the installer would be engaged. (Date to be set)
Source: Transcript: Amy Kelley's piping plover/coastal report on shorebirds, dune bald spots near marker 3, Nov. 1 access, warranty, and planned signage.
Board starts drafting a biodegradable-container ordinance
The board talked through, but did not vote on, a proposed ordinance that would require all town food businesses to switch to biodegradable takeout containers. Members learned that polystyrene (Styrofoam) is already banned in Maine, and that the transfer station's Chris Perry checked with the state Department of Environmental Protection, where a department contact advised that putting compostable containers into the town compost would not work. The Chair proposed requiring biodegradable containers. Tyler McOsker, the town's Code Enforcement Officer, explained the process: the commission drafts a basic outline with staff help and votes, then it goes to the Planning Board and Select Board, each with a public hearing, and possibly onto the June ballot. He cautioned the Planning Board is already heavily loaded with state housing ordinance work. Select Board liaison Robert Whitelaw urged members to be scientifically precise and to plan for enforcement and business costs, noting many containers in use now are plastic, not Styrofoam, so the change would be real for businesses.
- What changed
- No vote taken.
- Why it matters
- If adopted, the ordinance would require town food businesses to replace plastic takeout containers with biodegradable ones.
- What's next
- Members will draft a basic outline with staff. (June ballot possible)
Path for a proposed container ordinance
- Commission drafts and votes
Members develop a basic outline with staff help, then vote to send it forward.
- Planning Board review
Planning Board reviews the language and holds a public hearing.
- Select Board hearing
Select Board holds its own public hearing and decides whether to place it on a ballot.
- Town vote
Could reach the June ballot if the earlier steps finish in time.
Source: Transcript: discussion of biodegradable-container ordinance, polystyrene ban, DEP advice, Tyler McOsker's process explanation, and Whitelaw's cautions.
Members pick focus areas: air, land, water, wildlife
Members talked over how to divide their work and did not take a vote. The Chair framed the commission's mission in four overlapping areas — air, land, water, and wildlife — and members noted their interests: Vice-Chair Amy Kelley on water and wildlife, the Chair on land and trees, and another speaker on air, which led into a discussion of native bushes and trees improving air quality.
- What changed
- No vote taken.
- Why it matters
- Not stated in the source.
- What's next
- Not stated in the source.
Source: Transcript: Chair's discussion of four categories (air, land, water, wildlife) and members' chosen interests.
Tree-protection ordinance weighed against buying land
The board discussed, without voting, how to protect trees on private and town land. The Chair said she wants stronger tree-removal rules and pointed to clear-cutting on lots being redeveloped. Code Enforcement Officer Tyler McOsker and Select Board liaison Robert Whitelaw warned that a cutting ordinance is hard to write and enforce. They cited state housing changes as a complication; those rules can permit smaller lots and more units in qualifying areas. Whitelaw urged the commission instead to raise money and buy land, including unbuildable wetland, to hold in conservation. He said he would support putting a purchase initiative forward before he leaves the board in June. The Chair recalled the town once budgeted $25,000 a year for land and said her recent requests to revive the budget have gone nowhere; members noted an initiative would need to go through staff and the Select Board to reach a ballot.
- What changed
- No vote taken.
- Why it matters
- A tree ordinance would limit what owners can cut on private property, while buying land would preserve it permanently; either would shape how Ogunquit develops.
- What's next
- Robert Whitelaw offered to help bring a conservation land-purchase initiative forward before his Select Board term ends in June. (Before June)
- Past annual town budget for conservation land
- $25,000/yr
- Conservation Commission work-plan budget line
- $25,970
Source: Oct. 7 Conservation Commission recording: tree ordinance and land-buying discussion, past $25,000 budget, $25,970 work-plan line. Maine Title 30-A §4364-A: housing density and lot-size rules depend on area and utility conditions.
Volunteers sought for November and December king-tide photos
Vice-Chair Amy Kelley updated the board on the king-tide monitoring project; no vote was taken. Len Pierce, who lives near the footbridge, offered to help monitor king-tide events there. The next king tides fall in November and December, with one on Christmas Day. Volunteers are asked to go to the beach at high tide, photograph high water or its evidence (seaweed, washed-over sand, damage), and upload the photos and impressions to the Gulf of Maine Research Institute website. Kelley explained the commission does this informally because joining the institute's formal marker program would cost several thousand dollars.
- What changed
- No vote taken.
- Why it matters
- The photos help document rising high-water levels and coastal impacts along Ogunquit's shore over time.
- What's next
- The commission is seeking volunteers to photograph the November and December king tides and upload observations to the Gulf of Maine Research Institute. (November king tide)
Source: Transcript: Amy Kelley's king-tide report, Len Pierce's offer to monitor near footbridge, November/December tides incl. Christmas Day, and Gulf of Maine Research Institute uploads.
At a glance
- Shorebird season winds down; dunes to be checked after Nov. 1 — No vote taken.
- Board starts drafting a biodegradable-container ordinance — No vote taken.
- Members pick focus areas: air, land, water, wildlife — No vote taken.
- Tree-protection ordinance weighed against buying land — No vote taken.
Select Board Meeting - 1st Meeting of the Month
Tue, Oct 6, 2026
Town Manager Buttrick resigns; Board reviews $15.7M campus finances
Your Select Board met the morning of October 6 for a long agenda dominated by the town manager's departure and a final accounting of the completed municipal campus.
Watch the recording: Select Board Meeting - 1st Meeting of the Month, Tue, Oct 6, 2026 · Agenda & packet: Select Board Meeting - 1st Meeting of the Month, Tue, Oct 6, 2026
Board accepts Town Manager Buttrick's resignation
The Select Board accepted Town Manager Matthew Buttrick's resignation after he said his last day will be January 29, 2027. Chair Robert Whitelaw cast the lone vote against. Buttrick said he submitted his resignation September 24 and thanked town staff, residents, and visitors.
- What changed
- The board accepted Town Manager Matthew Buttrick's resignation; his last day is January 29, 2027.
- Why it matters
- The town will need to find a new town manager.
- What's next
- Not stated in the source.
Recorded disposition: approved
Source: October 6 Select Board meeting recording for the vote and last-day statement; the 2027 year was confirmed directly by Town Manager Matthew Buttrick.
Treasurer presents final cost of the municipal campus
Assistant Town Manager and Treasurer Mandy Cummings reported the completed municipal campus cost $15,726,252 across the new town hall and police station, Dunaway Community Center, playground and site. The project closeout report lists $11,935,000 in bond proceeds, $3,413,667 in private donations and $513,610 in other funding, for $15,862,277 secured. That left $136,025 after final costs. Cummings said bonds sold at a 3.64% true interest cost, below the 4% estimate. Town Manager Matthew Buttrick credited the Facilities and Space Needs Committee and its volunteers. Residents including Barbara Ferraro and Peter Griswold disputed how Dunaway Center money was handled, saying a $2.3 million commitment was part of a compromise; board members and staff said voters approved one combined project and donations allowed $3.7 million to be spent on the Dunaway, whose final cost the closeout report puts at $3,713,628.
- What changed
- Not stated in the source.
- Why it matters
- Not stated in the source.
- What's next
- Not stated in the source.
- Total cost of the municipal campus
- $15,726,252
- Bond repaid by taxpayers
- $11.9M
- Donations and other project funding
- ≈$3.93M
Interest rate on the campus bond (%)| Period | Value |
|---|
| Estimated rate | 4 |
|---|
| Actual true interest cost | 3.64 |
|---|
Source: Oct. 6 Select Board agenda 7.3 and meeting recording; Municipal Campus Project Closeout Report, pp. 14, 20–22; public comments from Ferraro and Griswold.
Town to apply for state grant for cruiser weapon-storage vaults
The board agreed to apply for a state grant to buy weapon-storage vaults for police cruisers. Chief John Lizanecz said about $740,000 is available statewide and each vault costs up to $5,750. If awarded, the grant would cover eligible vaults without a required town match. The chief said nine cruisers could be equipped with transferable units. The board added the item to the agenda and, on board member Heath Ouellette's suggestion, amended the motion so the town, rather than the police chief, applies.
- What changed
- The board directed the town to apply for a state grant for police weapon-storage vaults.
- Why it matters
- The board authorized an application; no award has been announced.
- What's next
- The town must submit its application by 4 p.m. on October 28; the state will decide which applications receive funding. (Oct 28, 2026 · State grant application for police cruiser vaults due, 4 p.m.)
Recorded disposition: approved
Recorded vote: 5–0; 0 abstained; 0 absent
- State grant funding available statewide
- ≈$740,000
- Cost per cruiser weapon-storage vault
- Up to $5,750
- Cruisers that could be equipped
- 9
Source: Transcript: chief describes $740,000 state grant, 9 cruisers, due Oct 28; Town Manager's memo (packet): units cost up to $5,750 each; motion amended to have the town apply, vote 5-0.
Workshop set on keeping the Perkins Cove Bridge raised this winter
The board directed the Town Manager to arrange a public workshop about securing the Perkins Cove Bridge in its raised, open position this winter. The workshop would let residents and the board hear from the Harbormaster and representatives of Police, Fire, and Public Works. Heath Ouellette asked that the Harbor Committee also be invited. The workshop was held at the board's Oct. 20 meeting; see the Oct. 20 Select Board report in this issue.
- What changed
- The board directed the Town Manager to arrange a public workshop about securing the Perkins Cove Bridge in its raised, open position this winter.
- Why it matters
- Not stated in the source.
- What's next
- Not stated in the source.
Recorded disposition: approved
Recorded vote: 5–0; 0 abstained; 0 absent
Source: Agenda 8.2–8.3; transcript: motion to direct the workshop, vote 5-0.
Consent items approved, plus new Dunaway Center activities
The board approved its consent agenda, then separately approved two new Dunaway Community Center activities that had been pulled for discussion. The consent items included the September 15 minutes, liquor license renewals for Angelina's Ristorante and Wine Bar and West Meadow Pub, an amusement license for West Meadow Pub, September donations, the appointments of Amanda Messore to the Parks & Recreation Committee as 2nd alternate and Jeffrey Messore to the Conservation Commission as a full member with terms to June 30, 2027, a porta-potty at the Footbridge lot for the recreational clamming season, disposal of surplus lifeguard stands, and adoption of the municipal EMS transport plan. The two Dunaway activities are a free line dancing class on Mondays from 8:30 to 9 a.m. and a monthly senior luncheon starting in January, on the second Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., run with local restaurants.
- What changed
- The board approved its consent agenda, then separately approved two new Dunaway Community Center activities that had been pulled for discussion.
- Why it matters
- Not stated in the source.
- What's next
- Not stated in the source.
Recorded disposition: approved
Recorded vote: 5–0; 0 abstained; 0 absent
Recorded motions
- Approve the consent agenda except the Dunaway Community Center use. — adopted; vote 5–0; 0 abstained; 0 absent
- Approve use of the Dunaway Community Center for a line dancing class and a monthly senior luncheon. — adopted; vote 5–0; 0 abstained; 0 absent
Source: Agenda 4.1–4.9, 4.6; transcript: motion to approve consent except Dunaway use (5-0), then motion approving line dancing and senior luncheon (5-0).
Police chief presents summer 2026 department report
Police Chief John Lizanecz presented the department's summer 2026 report. For May 1 through August 31, its written chart lists about 6,620 calls for service and 74 crash reports. The report also describes staffing pressures and traffic studies.
- What changed
- Not stated in the source.
- Why it matters
- Not stated in the source.
- What's next
- Not stated in the source.
- Calls for service · May 1–Aug. 31, 2026
- ≈6,620
- Crash reports · May 1–Aug. 31, 2026
- 74
Source: October 6 Select Board agenda packet, Ogunquit Police Department Summer 2026 Report to the Board, pp. 59–60 (May 1–August 31 figures).
Lead-cleanup bid at Heritage Museum comes in far over budget
Town Manager Matthew Buttrick reported that the only bid for lead remediation at the Ogunquit Heritage Museum came in at about $298,000 — far above early estimates and the roughly $150,000 donated for the work. Much of the cost involves safely removing and storing historic artifacts. The Chair noted that the work does not include climate control or collection management. Buttrick said the town would narrow the request for bids, possibly using Public Works for some tasks, and put it out to bid again.
- What changed
- Not stated in the source.
- Why it matters
- Not stated in the source.
- What's next
- Not stated in the source.
- Only bid received for lead remediation
- ≈$298,000
- Amount donated toward the work
- ≈$150,000
Source: Agenda 7.2; transcript: Buttrick reports single bid ~$298,000, ~$150,000 donated, RFP to be re-posted.
Nov. 3 Special Town Meeting follows Oct. 6 warrant hearing
At its October 6 meeting, the Select Board held a public hearing on warrant articles for the November 3 Special Town Meeting. Assistant Town Manager Mandy Cummings answered questions about reserve-fund wording and said bond articles now state outstanding principal only. The board took no vote at the hearing.
- What changed
- No vote taken.
- Why it matters
- Not stated in the source.
- What's next
- Residents will vote on these warrant articles at the November 3 Special Town Meeting. The Parks & Recreation Committee report in this issue describes Warrant Article 4 on the November 3 ballot. (Nov 3, 2026 · Special Town Meeting)
Source: October 6 Select Board agenda items 5.1 and 7.1 and meeting transcript: warrant hearing and Cummings' article explanations.
At a glance
- Board accepts Town Manager Buttrick's resignation — The board accepted Town Manager Matthew Buttrick's resignation; he said his last day would be January 29.
- Town to apply for state grant for cruiser weapon-storage vaults — The board directed the town to apply for a 100%-state-funded grant for police weapon-storage vaults, with no town match.
- Workshop set on keeping the Perkins Cove Bridge raised this winter — The board directed the Town Manager to coordinate a public workshop on securing the Perkins Cove Bridge in its raised, open position for the coming winter.
- Consent items approved, plus new Dunaway Center activities — The board approved consent agenda items 4.1 through 4.9 except the Dunaway use, and separately approved a line dancing class and a monthly senior luncheon at the Dunaway Center.
Executive session. The Select Board met in executive session on a personnel matter, closed to the public under Maine law.
Marginal Way Committee - October 5, 2026
Mon, Oct 5, 2026
Marginal Way Committee discusses path safety improvements
Your Marginal Way Committee met October 5 at the Dunaway Center, spending much of the afternoon on the path's safety and maintenance needs.
Watch the recording: Marginal Way Committee - October 5, 2026, Mon, Oct 5, 2026 · Agenda & packet: Marginal Way Committee - October 5, 2026, Mon, Oct 5, 2026
September minutes approved
The committee approved the minutes of its September 8 meeting on a hand vote. Members noted the edits requested last time had already been made.
- What changed
- Approved the minutes of the September 8 meeting.
- Why it matters
- Not stated in the source.
- What's next
- Not stated in the source.
Recorded disposition: approved
Source: Transcript: motion to accept the minutes, seconded, "can we have a hand vote to approve? Thank you for everyone."
Groundskeeper paid $1,560; budget and visitor counts reviewed
The committee approved a $1,560 September groundskeeping invoice for work by the Marginal Way groundskeeper. The treasurer reported $56,297.01 remaining from the $67,400 annual budget. Volunteers logged 241 hours in September, bringing the 2026 total to 1,840. The path counter recorded 4,747 passings on Labor Day; members described it as a record day.
- What changed
- Approved $1,560 for September groundskeeping work by the Marginal Way groundskeeper.
- Why it matters
- Not stated in the source.
- What's next
- The treasurer will bring prior-year volunteer-hour comparisons to the next meeting. (Next meeting)
Recorded disposition: approved
- Budget balance remaining
- $56,297.01
- Approved for September groundskeeping
- $1,560
- Labor Day path-counter passings, a reported record
- 4,747
Source: October 5 Marginal Way Committee transcript: groundskeeping vote, budget and volunteer figures, and Labor Day path counter.
Fall updates: plantings, new fencing, and a volunteer-liability question
The chair reported that current committee documents and the five Centennial talks have been reposted on the town web page. New sumacs were planted at Bench 8, the first bench north of the lighthouse, on a second try at the exposed, sandy slope; they were sprayed with Wilt Proof to help them survive the winter. Public Works removed the snow fence and made a first cut of the hillside grasses at the Beachmere, and volunteers recut the rest and installed a rope-and-stake fence, getting 21 of 28 stakes into the ledge before Public Works helped with the last seven. Volunteers raised a concern that working near crowds of visitors could injure a tourist or a worker, and asked whether town insurance covers volunteers; the committee will check how York, Kennebunk and Wells handle it. The chair reported that weed warriors collected about 800 pounds of swallowwort seed pods this year. Monitors finished their sixth month with 22 walks in September and only 14.5 gallons of trash. Susan Drisko reported about 42 weeding hours in September and over 390 for the season. Louesa Gillespie described the dedication of bench plaque 9, with two plaques left, and a printed booklet of plaque-holder stories. Leftovers from the volunteer potluck went to the Biddeford Food Pantry.
- What changed
- Not stated in the source.
- Why it matters
- Not stated in the source.
- What's next
- Not stated in the source.
- Volunteer weeding hours this season
- 390+ hrs
- Trash collected by monitors in September
- 14.5 gal
Source: Transcript: chair report on Bench 8 sumacs and Wilt Proof, fence install (21 of 28 stakes), liability discussion; monitor 22 walks/14.5 gallons; Susan Drisko weeding hours; Louesa Gillespie plaque dedication.
Updated ecological gardening protocols adopted
The committee adopted its revised Protocols of Ecological Gardening, with two changes agreed at the table: removing a reference to black locust, since it is invasive, and numbering the bulleted items. The update adds guidance that irrigation must be lined up before any new restoration site is chosen, that new plantings need watering for at least their first two years, and that no site is ever maintenance-free. Members also talked through how much to cut back goldenrod so it does not take over, the timing of cutting its seed heads with pollinators in mind, and possibly adding clump-forming bluestem goldenrod.
- What changed
- Adopted the updated Protocols of Ecological Gardening, removing a black locust reference and numbering the bulleted items.
- Why it matters
- The protocols guide how the committee and its volunteers plant and care for restoration sites, and are meant to carry forward to future members.
- What's next
- Not stated in the source.
Recorded disposition: approved
Source: Transcript: motion to accept the protocols "taking out the black locust and putting numbers where the bullets are," seconded, approved by show of hands.
Committee reworks its internal strategic-pillars chart
The committee went section by section through its internal strategic-pillars chart, covering public safety, horticulture, outreach and education, and administration. Members decided it is a working document, not something to formally adopt, and simply dated it October 5. Edits included retitling the "professional monitoring evaluations" heading to reflect monitoring and advising the town, adding stormwater runoff, tree damage and permanent safety fencing under public safety, renaming the "brand" heading to outreach, dropping the goats idea, adding the self-guided historical walking tour the committee is developing, adding a liaison to the new watershed committee, and setting a review of resolutions, bylaws, standards and protocols at least every five years.
- What changed
- No vote taken.
- Why it matters
- Not stated in the source.
- What's next
- The chair will make the agreed edits to the internal working document. (Date to be set)
Source: Transcript: "we don't need to make a motion to approve it. We're just having a discussion and agreeing today"; document dated the 5th as an internal working document.
Hazard report on path trouble spots headed to town officials
Gail Brother and Jackie Danner compiled a 140-slide survey of Marginal Way hazards and a shorter list of critical fall repairs. At the October 5 meeting, members described narrow stretches, cracked surfaces, drainage and ice concerns, loose mortar, and unsafe fencing. They also reported wheelchair incidents near Locust Grove and a serious fall near the lighthouse. As of the meeting, the report had been shown to the code officer and was due to go to the town manager and Public Works. Members again asked for a boundary survey; no vote was taken.
- What changed
- No vote taken.
- Why it matters
- Committee members reported recent falls and other path hazards. Larger repairs and a boundary survey depend on town decisions and funding.
- What's next
- The chair said she would arrange a meeting with the town manager. (Date to be set)
Source: October 5 Marginal Way Committee transcript: hazard survey, members' reported incidents, and proposed follow-up with town staff.
Liaison's report to the Preservation Fund prompts communication concerns
The chair raised concerns about a written report the committee's liaison had presented to the Marginal Way Preservation Fund, saying some of it was inaccurate and that it addressed matters not first brought to the committee. The liaison said the report was meant as a request for better communication between the two organizations and suggested tabling the discussion. The chair said the matter could be taken up at the November meeting; no motion was made.
- What changed
- No vote taken.
- Why it matters
- Not stated in the source.
- What's next
- Not stated in the source.
Source: Transcript: chair questions the liaison's Preservation Fund report; "I think maybe we should table this discussion today" and talk "at the November meeting."
At a glance
- Groundskeeper paid $1,560; budget and visitor counts reviewed — Approved $1,560 for September groundskeeping work by the Marginal Way groundskeeper.
- Updated ecological gardening protocols adopted — Adopted the updated Protocols of Ecological Gardening, removing a black locust reference and numbering the bulleted items.
- Committee reworks its internal strategic-pillars chart — No vote taken.
- Hazard report on path trouble spots headed to town officials — No vote taken.