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Council Discusses Pet Goat
Christine Ludwiczak

Instead of a dog, James and Ginger Proulx decided on a pet goat for their children. Although the goat is smaller than most golden retrievers, the size of the Proulx's property may prevent them from keeping the newest member of their family.

The Proulxs, reside on 2.2 acres of land in an urban residential zoned lot. This may appear to be ample space for the needs of one goat, but current regulation requires a minumum of six acres to keep farm animals.

"The ordinance initially came about as an attempt to address livestock," explained Councilman Burleigh Loveitt at last week's Town Council meeting. Since much has changed in Gorham since the ordinance was written, Ms. Proulx stood before the Council to request an amendment to the Land Use and Development Code that would allow for her family to keep the goat, despite the smaller land plot.

After a neighbor voiced concern over the possibility of the goat's manure contaminating their well, the Proulxs approached the Cumberland County Soil and Water Conservation District for assistance. They arranged for the organization to come out and view their property, and advise on practices to help ensure that near-by land and water is not negatively affected by the goat. The Proulxs also went to the town for clarification on their ability to keep a goat in their current residence.

Councilman Noah Miner stressed the need to regulate and enforce restrictions with respect to the keeping of farm animals, but noted the ordinance should not be based on acreage alone, and should contain more specific language.

The Proulxs realize it is a lengthy process, but continue to be proactive in their efforts to work with the town on an amendment that would allow for the goat to remain in its current 2.2-acre home. The Council approved the request to go before the Ordinance Committee for further discussion.

The annual Gorham Art Fair is right around the corner, and Jeremy Greene spoke on behalf of the organization to request the necessary Mass Gathering Permit. This year's fair will take place at Shaw Gymnasium on Saturday, Nov. 7, 9a.m.-4 p.m, rain or shine. The admission free event will feature local artits and talent in an all-day show and sale. (Artwork donations are currently being accepted for the silent auction, with proceeds to benefit the Gorham Food Pantry).

The Council also discussed a proposal to adjust the fee schedule for subdivision applications, which was unanimously approved. The proposed fee adjustment, as well as the corresponding amendment to Land Use and Development Code, will be sent onto to the Planning Board for their recommendation and public hearing.

Susan Duchaine, owner of Design Dwellings, addressed the Council to present her views on the proposed fee adjustment. "Developers always pay the fees up front; it's part of the ordinance." She felt that the proposed increase of two and a half percent "seems a little high," but noted her support as long as the excess funds come back to developers.

Sandra Mowery, Zoning Administrator for the town, fielded questions and addressed some concerns regarding the proposal. She explained the fee schedule is designed to give the applicant reasonable expectations of what lies before them in the development process. "We want to protect the town so that we're not left with a project partially completed. We'll also work closely with the developer to protect the finances."

The meeting agenda also consisted of an overview of the Town Clerk's Department. Town Clerk, Christina Silberman, provided a report on the role of the department, and explained that it is "often viewed as the face of the local government." The list of departmental responsibilities included service to the Town Council and Zoning Board, vehicle registration, property tax collection, keeping of vital records, voter registration, election administration, as well as various licenses and notary public services. Silberman thanked the department staff for their time and continued commitment to the town.

Lastly, the Council reviewed poll times for the approaching Nov. 3, Municipal and State Referendum Election, noting open polls between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m.

To view results from this meeting in it's entirety, please visit the Town of Gorham Web site for posted minutes at www.gorham-me.org/Public_Documents/GorhamME_PlanMinutes/

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Absentee Voting Underway

Election Day is Tuesday, November 3. Gorham will elect two members to the Town Council and two members to the School Committee. This is also a State Referendum Election with seven questions on the state ballot. Important information regarding the election is available at www.gorham-me.org, under Town Clerk's Department and then Elections. Absentee voting is underway. If you would like to vote by absentee ballot, please visit the Town website under Town Clerk's Department then Absentee Voting for more information. Representatives from the Town Clerk's office will be visiting the North Gorham Library to conduct absentee voting on Tuesday, October 27, 3 -7 p.m.

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