Lisbon council advances marijuana zoning change, delays veterans shelter vote

The Lisbon Town Council voted 7-0 to advance an amendment removing marijuana uses from the Diversified Development zone, setting a public hearing for October 20. The council also delayed action on American Legion temporary shelters for unhoused veterans, setting a public hearing on an emergency ordinance for the same date. The town announced a new assistant town manager and approved several routine items, including an HVAC contract and a shared services agreement with the Water Department.

Key points

• The council voted 7-0 to advance a first reading amending the Chapter 70 land use table to remove marijuana uses from the Diversified Development zone, with a public hearing and second reading set for October 20.
• Several residents spoke against allowing a marijuana grow operation at the former Springworks property, citing odor, light pollution, and property values; one resident spoke in favor of due diligence and property rights.
• The council set a public hearing for October 20 on an emergency contract zoning ordinance to allow American Legion Post 158 to place temporary shelters for unhoused veterans, after legal advice required a public hearing before adoption.
• The council approved a one-year HVAC services contract with Siemens Industry for $24,200, citing better responsiveness than the prior vendor.
• The council authorized a shared services agreement between the town and the Lisbon Water Department to combine operational management of the Water and Sewer departments for one year.
• Town Manager Sarah announced the appointment of Lee J. Feldman as the new assistant town manager, effective October 19.

Next steps

• Public hearings on the marijuana zoning amendment and the American Legion emergency contract zoning ordinance are set for October 20.
• The Planning Board is expected to review the marijuana zoning amendment and provide feedback.
• The town will notify the auctioneer of the council's zoning decision ahead of the Springworks property auction.
• The council will hold a first reading on a proposed Water Department ordinance at its next meeting.
• Absentee voting is open until October 29, with extended hours and a Meet the Candidates night on October 27.

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