Disclaimer: The views I express here are my own and should NOT be construed as speaking for the City of Bangor or the City Council of Bangor.
Due to members being away in Washington, D.C. for the National League of Cities conference, only the Finance Committee meeting was held this evening.
You can click here to read the meeting agenda.
Bids, Purchases, and Property Agreements
- Police Patrol Vehicle: The committee approved the purchase of a patrol vehicle for $46,117, funded through budgeted capital.
- Sewer System Maintenance: Engineering requested a three-year “as-needed” contract for small sewer and stormwater repairs. The low bid from C&C Lynch Excavation was recommended.
- 290 Pearl Street: The city agreed to a deadline of April 15, 2026, for the owner to sign a purchase and sale agreement to settle $32,341 in back taxes rather than the city taking possession.
- 181 State Street: A workout agreement was approved for Mr. Butler, who owes $59,111 in taxes and utilities. He will pay $6,500 per quarter for one year while keeping all other property accounts current.
Proposed $75 Million Parks and Rec Bond
The most significant discussion involved a $75 million general obligation bond for a new consolidated parks and recreation facility. While counselors agreed the current facilities (Sawyer Arena and the old Armory) are at “end of life,” they expressed deep concerns regarding the project’s scale and cost.
Key Concerns:
- Tax Impact: The bond would be issued in five tranches. The estimated tax impact on a $250,000 home would be approximately $300 per year.
- Duplication of Services: Diane Dickerson, CEO of the YMCA, voiced concerns via Zoom that the proposal duplicates services the new YMCA will provide, specifically teen and senior centers, fitness facilities, and a running track.
- Project Feasibility: Several Councilors and members of the public argued the $75 million price tag (which totals $136 million with interest) is too high and likely to fail at the ballot.
- Economic Timing: Some Councilors cited the war in Iran and the inevitable supply price increases it will bring, as well as the local school budget increase, as reasons for voter “sticker shock”.
Outcome:
Despite reservations, the committee voted to move the bond order to the full City Council for a second reading and public hearing on Monday, March 23rd. This allows for a wider discussion and public input before a final decision is made on whether to place the item on the June ballot.
Note: The second reading has since taken place and the City Council voted unanimously against placing this item on the ballot.
