Augusta Planning Board approves solar project, advances childcare zoning changes

The Augusta Planning Board approved a major development application for a 0.99 megawatt solar project on Maple Brook Lane, subject to conditions including a decommissioning bond and revised landscaping. The board also voted to send proposed land use ordinance amendments regarding childcare facilities to City Council for final approval. Additionally, the board held a workshop to review complex housing-related ordinance changes required by new state laws.

Key points

• The board approved the AHOS LLC solar project application, granting waivers for boundary surveys and truck turnarounds while requiring a $183,600 decommissioning bond.
• Staff recommended and the board agreed to deny the applicant's request to delay decommissioning beyond 18 months in extraordinary circumstances.
• The board voted unanimously to send proposed amendments allowing childcare facilities in all residential districts to City Council, noting state law mandates these changes.
• Public comment from neighbor Bruce Cummings raised concerns about land value depreciation and stormwater runoff, which the applicant addressed by citing studies and existing site conditions.
• The board held a workshop on housing ordinance amendments, identifying affordable housing density overlays and community living arrangement parking standards as items that could move forward immediately.

Next steps

• City staff will send the childcare ordinance amendments to City Council for a vote.
• The applicant must submit a decommissioning bond, financing documentation, and revised landscaping plans before a building permit is issued.
• Planning staff will prepare a future memo with scenarios for minimum lot standards in rural residential districts to balance character with state density requirements.

Read the full transcript