Bangor Planning Board approves parking expansion at 570 Stillwater Ave

The Bangor Planning Board approved a major site development permit for the demolition of a building front and parking expansion at 570 Stillwater Avenue, subject to a Maine DEP stormwater permit amendment. The board also postponed a zoning change request for 26 Walter Street to the March 17 meeting because the applicant did not join the virtual session. A public presentation on climate migration statistics sparked a debate regarding the accuracy of the data and its relevance to local planning.

Key points

• The board unanimously approved the land development permit for 570 Stillwater Avenue, with the condition that the applicant obtains an approved Maine DEP stormwater permit amendment.
• The zoning change application for 26 Walter Street was postponed to the March 17 meeting after the applicant failed to appear on Zoom.
• A public commenter challenged the climate migration presentation, arguing that survey data showed most movers cited minimal climate influence and questioning the science behind sea level rise predictions.
• Planning Officer Anya Collette clarified that the presentation was prepared by state economists and intended to provide context for future planning, noting that climate is one of several factors influencing migration.
• The board approved the minutes from the February 17 meeting without modification.

Next steps

• The applicant for 570 Stillwater Avenue must submit a package for a modification to the existing stormwater permit to the Maine DEP.
• The zoning change for 26 Walter Street will be revisited at the March 17, 2026 meeting.
• Staff will continue outreach regarding upcoming land development code changes, with a public information session scheduled for March 17.

Read the full transcript