When is a discussion not a discussion?

Hmm. Planning Board FAQ

How may I contact a Board member? The State of Maine's prohibition against Ex Parte communication requires Board members not to have private discussions about projects pending before the Board. Members of the public and applicants may contact the Board by writing them a letter and sending it to the Town Planner prior to the scheduled meeting. The Town Planner will make copies for all Board members and the letter will become part of the public record. Members of the public may also speak to the Board during a scheduled Public Hearing.

PB Minutes 11-2-11.doc

Sande Updegraph of FEDC explained that this project [Seacoast, ed.] was discussed at their last Board meeting. The Trustees took no action but asked her to convey their consensus that they view this field area as being in a buffer area. They are very concerned and very respectful of the abutting residents. They would not support contract zoning but they would give some consideration to an overlay district since it is a strong project, in the right place, provides a good tax base and traffic has been addressed. They would like to make an informal recommendation to this Board.

FEDC Board Meeting Minutes, October 25,2011

Seacoast Update Wendy Caisse said that the Planning Board is discussing a zoning amendment to allow the construction of a domed field. Contract zoning and a change of use in RR1 will likely not be considered but an overlay district is a possibility. The Planning Board will next meet on November 2. ACTION: Sande will draft a letter of support for the overlay option for Kate’s signature.

FREEPORT ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
Wendy Caisse, Vice Pres.

PLANNING BOARD
Wendy Caisse, Chair