Falmouth Council Opposes CMP Power Line Project, Supports Food Pantry Grant

The Falmouth Town Council unanimously adopted a resolution opposing Central Maine Power's proposed Great Portland Transmission Upgrades project, following extensive public comment from residents and technical experts. The council also approved a temporary sign ordinance amendment and a resolution supporting the Falmouth Food Pantry's application for Community Development Block Grant funding.

Key points

• Council unanimously passed a resolution opposing the CMP transmission line project, citing concerns over environmental impact, property values, and health risks.
• Residents and representatives from the Alliance for Responsible Infrastructure presented data on potential financial losses, estimated at $43 million in assessed value, and environmental damage to conservation areas.
• The council approved an amendment to the temporary sign ordinance, which includes a $25 fine for non-compliant signs and prohibits signs in medians and roundabouts.
• Councilors unanimously supported a resolution to provide $15,000 in local matching funds for the Falmouth Food Pantry's $35,000 federal grant application.
• Staff clarified that the town cannot link to third-party advocacy groups on its website due to public forum laws, but can link to official town documents and PUC filings.

Next steps

• Staff will coordinate with the Alliance for Responsible Infrastructure to hold a town-sponsored open house before CMP's scheduled event on November 5.
• The town will file intervener testimony with the Maine Public Utilities Commission by the October 30 deadline.
• Staff will consult with the town attorney and a resident expert on zoning to determine if local ordinances can impose additional constraints on the utility project.

Read the full transcript The agenda