Bar Harbor task force reviews draft sustainable tourism strategy

The Sustainable Tourism Management Task Force reviewed a draft strategy document covering six key areas, including vehicle use and resident quality of life. Members debated how to address cruise ship impacts, prioritizing a "moderation" approach over strict bans, and discussed the need for clearer implementation priorities. The group agreed to provide written feedback before a final draft is presented to the Town Council in November.

Key points

• Task force members discussed the draft strategy's six strategic areas, noting that housing affordability is addressed primarily through the comprehensive plan rather than this document.
• A significant portion of the meeting focused on cruise ships, with members agreeing to include language recommending the town seek moderation in passenger numbers and manage disembarkation impacts.
• Members criticized the draft for lacking clear priorities, arguing that without a ranked list of actions and a defined funding mechanism, the strategy may not be implemented.
• Discussion on vehicle management included concerns about seasonal street closures on Main Street, with members noting the need to preserve access to banks and emergency services.
• The group agreed to change language regarding the Chamber of Commerce and other partners from "should" to "recommended collaborators" to avoid implying direct authority over external organizations.

Next steps

• Ben and Joe will draft specific language regarding cruise ship moderation and management to share with the task force within a few days.
• Task force members will submit detailed written feedback on the strategy document within the next two weeks.
• Staff will prepare a revised draft of the strategy for review at the final task force meeting on November 18.
• A public presentation and Town Council briefing on the final strategy are scheduled for late November or early December.

Read the full transcript The agenda