The Gorham Town Council will hold a televised workshop on Tuesday, Aug. 22 to discuss a transfer of development rights proposal aimed at preserving open space in the town.
The proposal would allow developers to increase the number of lots allowed on new developments served by public water and sewer in exchange for a fee. The town would use the money to either buy land or development rights on parcels like farmland.
Mike Phinney, chairman of the town council, said the Ordinance Committee had worked hard in developing the proposal. The planning board has already endorsed the proposal.
Phinney favored holding the workshop so homeowners had an additional opportunity to be informed about changes in allowable lot sizes in neighborhoods that would be effected by the proposal.
The council also authorized the Recreation Department to borrow up to $35,000 from the town’s capital reserve account to buy a 14-passenger bus, which could cost $58,000.
The loan from the capital reserve would have to be paid back in five years. The Recreation Department already has $23,000 in its reserve fund to go towards purchasing a bus.
The bus would be handicapped accessible and accommodate two wheelchairs.
Cindy Hazelton, director of Gorham Recreation Department, said she’s doing “homework” about whether to buy a gasoline or diesel bus. “I’m thrilled,” Hazelton said Wednesday.
In a 3- 4 vote, the council declined to approve a council policy governing tax increment financing, better known as TIFs.
Tom Ellsworth, president of the Gorham Economic Development Corporation, opposed a policy, fearing it could be a deterrent in attracting new business.
Norm Justice, vice chairman of the council, said he didn’t want to “hamstring” Ellsworth and Town Manager David Cole in bringing business to Gorham.
Town Councilor Matt Robinson wanted the council to look at TIFs on an individual basis.
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