The Rockland Report November 3, 2017
Title : The Rockland Report November 3, 2017
link : The Rockland Report November 3, 2017
Sports History |
OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
Met with Maine Municipal Association on our Worker Compensation Claims. The Safety Committee has worked hard in turning our modification rating around which should result in lower premiums.
Attended a meeting between Wright Pierce and City Personnel to discuss WWTP upgrades and the sewer/ storm water separation projects. The South Main Street storm water separation engineering will be done by Wright Pierce. We are still optimistic that an April 2018 project will be underway.
Attended the REDAC meeting where we discussed three Weatherize Rockland applications and the Camden Street Overlay Zone. The Camden Street discussion will continue at their next scheduled meeting.
A representative from the Harbor Trail and I met with representatives from Dragon Cement on an possible easement to place a bench on their Atlantic Street property that abuts the Harbor Trail. The talks will continue.
Had a phone conversation with the Samoset General Manager on the proposed public restrooms at the end of Samoset Road. We will meet once more information is gathered.
Have a scheduled meeting with Patricia Quinn of Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority to see what their plans are for introducing passenger rail service back to Rockland.
OFFICE OF THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
Onboarding. Our new Community Development Director is now on board, settled in, and ready to get to work.
Broadband status. We expect to meet soon with Lincolnville Communications to discuss the status of broadband in Rockland and their plans for the region.
Support for federal working waterfront initiative. At the request of Congresswoman Pingree’s office, and in collaboration with the Harbormaster, we provided brief remarks on the importance of working waterfronts, the regional role of the Rockland Municipal Fish Pier, and the importance of federal resources for addressing working waterfront needs in Rockland and generally.
Municipal Fish Pier. We will be meeting with the Harbormaster to bring the Community Development Director up to speed on the vision for the fish pier and harbor, the need for pier repairs, and the status of grant proposals.
Dupont acquisition of FMC. Village Soup reports that the sale of FMC Corp’s plant to Dupont Nutrition USA was finalized on Oct 26. We will reach out to schedule a relationship visit to learn more about company plans and opportunities.
Passenger rail. The Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority (NEPRA) has expressed interest in developing a pilot program to extend the line with new stops in Bath, Wiscasset, Newcastle and Rockland. A schedule for developing the program, including public meetings, is expected soon. There will be opportunities to express support for the program, if desired.
OFFICE OF THE CHIEF OF POLICE
Administration –
Assisted the department’s new officer with administrative paperwork. Officer Michael Rolerson has begun his field training program and will be on that program for the next 15 weeks.
Attended a Maine Chiefs of Police District 6 meeting.
Received confirmation that the department has been awarded a federal grant to offset the costs of bulletproof vests for the next fiscal year.
DC Young assisted the Patrol Division with responding to calls for service during the storm on Monday.
Met with Field Training Officers to discuss the progress of new officers that are currently on the field training program.
Criminal Investigations Division –
Completed rifle and night qualifications for new officers.
Participated in the Lonza Safety Day.
Assisted the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency with an investigation.
Continued working on open criminal investigations in Rockland.
Patrol Division –
Participated in the semi-annual Drug Take Back Initiative.
Officer Scott Redmun and his wife welcomed their second child into the family (recruitment is ongoing at this time).
Assisted the Rockport Police Department with an investigation.
Provided assistance to Rockland Fire and EMS.
Delivered City Council Packets.
Assisted the Maine State Police as they were escorting large pieces of bridge through downtown.
Provided escort services to local financial institutions while they maintained their ATMs.
Conducted Taxi inspections.
Conducted probation compliance checks on Rockland residence that are currently on probation to ensure they are abiding by their probation conditions.
Conducted bail compliance checks on Rockland residence that are currently free on bail to ensure they are abiding by the conditions of bail.
Conducted alcohol compliance checks on establishments in Rockland that serve alcohol to ensure they are in compliance.
Conducted targeted traffic enforcement details at various locations throughout the city. The focus of these details was distracted driving and operating under the influence.
Officers responded to 162 calls for service, investigated 9 traffic accidents and conducted 27 traffic stops. As a result 13 people were either summonsed or arrested for various violations.
Parking Enforcement / Animal Control –
Issued 70 Parking Tickets
Responded to 4 animal calls.
OFFICE OF THE PUBLIC SERVICES DIRECTOR
Crews completed regular tasks of picking up city wide trash, applying cold patch to potholes in city roads, roadside mowing, sign repair and city wide street sweeping.
Deliver Harbormaster concrete treads for Snow Marine Park boat launch project
Maintenance at City Library
Crew worked on Snow Marine Park on boat launch
Crew repaired Bog Road in preparation of paving
Traffic control for Wastewater Department
Took down seasonal flowers from Main Street
Maintenance at City Hall
Cleaned basins and curb gutters in preparation of rain
Finalized equipment for Fall leaf pickup
Pavement cutting on Gay Street, Winter Street, Park Street and Commercial Street
Responded to 10/29-10/30 storm for a four day period, 11/30-11/2
Had electrical outlet installed by the City’s electrician as part of preventing the ice build-up on the
eve by the Children’s Garden. This was one of the measures recommended by Casco Bay Engineering.
New Meadows Abatement removed all the asbestos siding off 8 Rockland Street. The unsafe front porch was removed by Public Services.
Assisting with other City departments on FEMA form 7.
The DOT Pedestrian Forum has been set for Dec 6, 6 - 8pm. Patrick Adams from Maine DOT & Jim Tasse at the Bicycle Coalition of Maine will both be facilitating the forum at the High School Auditorium.
Assisted Fire Department with the investigation of a petroleum leak.
Renewed our MSW hauling contract.
Met with Alexis Iammarino to discuss an Arts In Action educational recycling mural on the Transfer Station.
Q2S & Q2N survey was submitted to determine volume calculations.
Published the fall leaf and brush clean-up schedule which starts next Monday 11/6/17.
The Transfer Station will be closed Saturday 11/11/17 in observance of Veterans Day.
Gave a tour to Chris Littlefield ,the Hartland Town Manager. Chris wanted to see the Rockland Solid Waste Facility Operation to help him with the Hartland Facility.
Attended Energy Committee meeting.
Met with Woodard & Curran to discuss the physical changes in preparation for our conversion to single stream recycling and the building materials processing area which will replace the landfill.
Met with Atlantic Equipment to discuss the options for equipment in preparation for the conversion to single stream recycling.
OFFICE OF THE LIBRARY DIRECTOR
This week, Catinka Knoth’s Adult Drawing class was cancelled due to the wild weather; the Children’s class theme was scary Halloween scenes.
Writing of Halloween—several staff members were in costume:
It’s been a very, very busy week! Following a brief stint when NetworkMaine at Orono had all Internet connections down, we’ve served as a warming center, charging station, Internet/Wi Fi source, source of light, connection, and, as ever, information. We put up an extra table and chairs to accommodate all the
laptops/devices, and saw many new faces. It’s nice to be a port in a storm.
During the no-Internet phase, Teresa Verrill, who would normally be cataloging then, had a chance to work on re-surfacing damaged CDs and DVDs.
Electrician Scott Michaud installed an exterior outlet, to be used for heat tape in an effort to prevent a recurrence of the ice buildup we had overlooking the Children’s Garden, a few years ago. I also met with Dave St. Laurent about a number of building issues, and temporary fixes to get the Library building through the winter.
Thanks to Public Services staff who completed painting the hopefully soon-to-be office on the lower level, and for replacing the batteries in the emergency lighting. They also removed the Children’s Garden furniture for the winter. We’re very grateful for all their assistance.
Patty King installed the travelling exhibit entitled “Threads of Our Lives: Maine Folk Fiber Art.” The exhibit was made possible through a National Endowment of the Arts grant the Maine Folklife Center (MFC) received in 2015. The exhibit features four 3x7 free-standing panels: “Wabanaki,” “Settlers,” “New Mainers,” and “Community.” The panels illustrate how Mainers from various
backgrounds are carrying on their fiber art traditions.
Jessie Blanchard and volunteer Katie Syrett worked in concert to weed, and de-accession a number of items from the adult paperback collection, which we are trying to consolidate.
Patty also arranged for artist Lori Schafer, to install a Fleece-to-Fiber Art display at the Library, which takes the visitor through the many stages of working with a natural sheep fleece.
Stop by during the month to see the lovely display and travelling exhibit.
Also on Wednesday morning, Jean Young held the last of four Family Place™ Library workshops (for this year), aimed at 0 to 3 year-olds and their parents or care-givers. For those who may be unaware of this program, it’s designed to emphasize the role of the parent as baby’s first teacher, and promote early
literacy and learning through play. This week’s expert on young child development discussed nutrition, which, unusually, took up the whole hour, so Jean extended the program so the littles could still enjoy playtime.
While the above-mentioned workshops were occurring, Judith Andersen hosted Wednesday Storytime, reading several familiar books to a loyal audience who want the same stories over and over. These included Bark, George, by Jules Feiffer (children have memorized this offering) and Have You Seen My
Duckling? by Nancy Tafuri. Following the readings, the kids gathered at the craft table coloring a variety of Autumn pictures.
Katie hosted, or rather played, Baby Time on Thursday morning, with around ten participants.
The Thursday evening Community Event was a Camden Conference Talk: The Threat and Consequences of Climate Change to World Order, where a full house of attendees learned about the effects of global warming on the future of humanity, from the disappearance of many species, to changes in human
behavior. Presenter Andrew Stancioff is a geologist, natural resource planner, analyst, and manager with 35 years of experience in geology, hydrology, agriculture, fisheries, forestry, climatology, and oceanography.
I attended the third joint listening session of the Comprehensive Planning Commission and Rockland Heart & Soul. While the Commission’s purpose is to gather information for the re-writing of the City’s Comprehensive Plan, they may also provide valuable information for planning for the Library’s current and
future program and services initiatives. I’m finding both the process and the conversations fascinating; the public engagement is both civil and thoughtful; the Commission is doing a great job of soliciting input. And facilitating these discussions. There are two more sessions planned—if you’re reading this, and
haven’t yet been, I’d urge you to go.
During the Library Community Event, the toilet in one of the restrooms would not stop running; we had a bit of a flood. Between us, Patty and I managed a temporary fix until the plumber was able to come in on Friday.
On Saturday, Jean Young hosted the Hampstead Stage Company’s production of Robin Hood. Part of The Arts for Kids and their Families at Rockland Public Library series, the play lasts is performed by two actors in full period costume, each playing several roles, and includes audience participation.
Upcoming: CPPC Family Resource Hub Open House--The Community Partnerships for Protecting Children has a new resource center! In partnership with the Rockland Public Library, they have a new central Hub, in the lower level of the Library. Also, the Creative Art Crew will craft painted-dot trees.
OFFICE OF THE WASTEWATER TREATMENT FACILITY DIRECTOR
The treatment plant survived Monday’s storm with no damage to the property or equipment.
All backup and portable generators were run and tested in preparation for the storm.
Power was out for twenty four hours at the Waldo Ave. pump station, the backup generator continued to power the pumps with no problems.
The four pump stations that do not have backup generators were monitored closely during the storm. If power was lost a portable generator could have been setup to keep pumps running.
Protection Professionals completed repairs to the fire alarm system that were identified during the annual system inspection.
Rear brakes were repaired on the f-250 ford pickup.
Replaced the wall ladder in the belt filter press room that is used for access to the hydraulic drive units for maintenance.
Interstate Septic Systems pumped and cleaned the wet well at the Industrial Park pump station.
Made adjustments to the skimmer arm in the #2 secondary clarifier.
Rebuilt the swing check valve on W.A.S. sludge pump #1.
Made repairs to the control panel for the pump station at Midcoast school of technology.
The lighting in the process area of the treatment plant was upgraded from fluorescent to LED lighting to provide better lighting and use less energy.
Roof replacement at the Park St. pump station has been completed and replacement of the roof on the lab building at the treatment plant was started.
The upgrade to the controls at the pump stations has been completed. This will allow monitoring and control of the pump stations through the S.C.A.D.A. system at the treatment plant.
Responded to a call for a sewer backup on Birch St. Place. The problem appeared to be in the service lateral to the house not the city sewer main.
Continued working with tech support from CUES Inc. to resolve issues with the computer in the CCTV camera trailer.
Answered a call about a flooded basement on Florence Street.
Met with a contractor to discuss replacement of the sewer service lateral to a property on Gurdy Street.
Inspected and approved a new sewer connection to a property on Center Street.
Shipped the controller for the CCTV push camera to the manufacturer to have the footage counter repaired.
Worked with Wright-Pierce Engineering on transfer of sewer main and manhole inspection data to be used in design and engineering of sewer repair and improvement projects.
Responded to two Dig-Safe requests.
OFFICE OF THE CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER
We received an application for Site Plan Review of a Parking Storage area for Yachting Solutions at 56 New County Road. It is scheduled to be reviewed by the Planning Board at their November 21, 2017 meeting.
John attended a meeting of the Rockland Planning Board.
John along with the City Manager and city attorney spent the entire day in court Friday Oct 27. Ultimately the case was dismissed.
Bill attended a MCEOA meeting in Union.
Bill performed a victualers’ license inspection. He also performed a routine safety inspection of City Hall.
Bill performed a pre-conveyance inspection of a multi-unit dwelling at 18 Lindsey Street in conjunction with the Fire Department.
Bill performed an inspection of and issued a Certificate of Occupancy following alterations of a single-family dwelling on Jefferson St.
John and Bill met with contractors, property, and business owners regarding various proposed projects throughout the city; some of these meetings were in conjunction with the Fire Department and included on-site inspections.
We issued seven building permits. We issued a permit for a new commercial garage at 173 Pleasant St. We issued a permit to Harbor Freight Tools to make alternations at 165 Camden St. We issued a permit for a new single family dwelling on Clayton Ln. Additionally, we issued residential building permits for a new garage on Mechanic St, new decks on Gay St, adding a dormer on West Meadow Rd, and repairs on Jameson Point Rd.
We continue to be busy with various other permits, inspections, and assisting the public with questions. The following permits were issued by the Code Office:
o 7 Building Permits
o 3 Electrical Permits
o 6 Plumbing Permits
o 1 Sewer Connection Permit
o 1 Sign Permit
o 4 Street Excavation Permits
OFFICE OF THE FINANCE DIRECTOR
The lease financing for our 2017/2108 capital improvement programs is in the final stages. Funding is expected to be available starting the week of 11.06.17. All forms have been completed and either forwarded to our attorney or the financing institution, Key Government Financing, Inc. All department heads have forwarded their purchase progress to the Finance Office
Our annual audit process is still moving along. The auditor’s on-site phase has been completed, and they continue to complete their work back at their office.
As reported last time, representatives of Bar Harbor Bank & Trust’s Trust Department were invited to meet with us. They reviewed the City’s reserve account portfolio in detail and discussed how they manage the portfolio in keeping with the City’s requirements. We now have on-line access to
their reporting. We have identified a way to upload multiple month-end entries and will be testing various scenarios in the upcoming week. This process will save time and provide timely information.
The City’s 2002 comprehensive plan was updated with 2018 financial information and previous 10 year historical financial data and given to the Comps Committee for completion.
Payroll continues to be completed by HR as the payroll position is temporarily vacant. October 31st was the closing date for all applicants. Applications are currently being reviewed and interviews set up.
We sent out an RFP for a $3.0MM bond anticipation note. This will be used for the storm water separation project in the south end of Rockland. Bids are due November 15th, 2017 on or before 2 PM.
The General Account cash balance per the bank: $6.6MM. Approximately the same level as it was a week ago.
We received our annual commercial insurance package from our agent at the Allen Agency. All coverage appeared to be reasonable and in line with the City’s needs.
OFFICE OF THE FIRE CHIEF
Over this preceding two weeks, in addition to the response to 70 Fire and EMS calls, conducting apparatus checks, daily cleaning, routine repairs and maintenance to the fleet and of the quarters, the following occurred:
Training for the month of November is Rapid Intervention Teams, or RIT. This function of the fire service is dedicated to saving our own firefighters in the event of an injury, collapse, lost, or downed firefighter. The training is specific to rescue techniques designed to find and remove an injured or unresponsive firefighter. This month we will be training with Rockport Fire to prepare our members for an incident like this.
Members attended a “live burn” in Rockport which allows our firefighters the opportunity to train in a real life environment while in a controlled manner. We can assess our new employees skills and design future trainings to provide a level of confidence that is needed to perform this job. Big thanks to our brothers in Rockport for the opportunity.
Chief Whytock attended a PAC meeting for the fire and EMS program at the MidCoast School of Technology. The program appears to be running with an almost full enrollment. We look forward to helping the students in any way possible.
Rockland has survived another storm! As of Friday afternoon, CMP has Rockland down to 34 outages associated with Mondays strong wind storm that rolled through the State. Many hours were put in by Public Services, Fire & EMS, Police, and Harbor to clear streets, check on residence, and keep the City in working order. Numerous houses sustained damages due to either falling
trees or downed wires. While we are still monitoring a few outages, things seem to be heading in the right direction.
A fire at Fisher Engineering kept crews from Rockland, Rockport, and South Thomaston busy for 2 hours on Wednesday. The fire was contained to the area of origin but due to electrical and other mechanical issues, the fire couldn’t be extinguished with any large volume of water. Crew did a great job and the successful outcome was a collaborative effort by all the fire departments as well
as the staff from Fisher’s.
Rockland Fire & EMS was represented at the Lonza Safety and Wellness Expo on Thomaston Street. We were there to answer safety related questions and it appeared to be well attended by staff and a variety of other vendors. Thank you Lonza for the invite and we look forward to seeing you next year.
Met with Maine Municipal Association on our Worker Compensation Claims. The Safety Committee has worked hard in turning our modification rating around which should result in lower premiums.
Attended a meeting between Wright Pierce and City Personnel to discuss WWTP upgrades and the sewer/ storm water separation projects. The South Main Street storm water separation engineering will be done by Wright Pierce. We are still optimistic that an April 2018 project will be underway.
Attended the REDAC meeting where we discussed three Weatherize Rockland applications and the Camden Street Overlay Zone. The Camden Street discussion will continue at their next scheduled meeting.
A representative from the Harbor Trail and I met with representatives from Dragon Cement on an possible easement to place a bench on their Atlantic Street property that abuts the Harbor Trail. The talks will continue.
Had a phone conversation with the Samoset General Manager on the proposed public restrooms at the end of Samoset Road. We will meet once more information is gathered.
Have a scheduled meeting with Patricia Quinn of Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority to see what their plans are for introducing passenger rail service back to Rockland.
OFFICE OF THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
Onboarding. Our new Community Development Director is now on board, settled in, and ready to get to work.
Broadband status. We expect to meet soon with Lincolnville Communications to discuss the status of broadband in Rockland and their plans for the region.
Support for federal working waterfront initiative. At the request of Congresswoman Pingree’s office, and in collaboration with the Harbormaster, we provided brief remarks on the importance of working waterfronts, the regional role of the Rockland Municipal Fish Pier, and the importance of federal resources for addressing working waterfront needs in Rockland and generally.
Municipal Fish Pier. We will be meeting with the Harbormaster to bring the Community Development Director up to speed on the vision for the fish pier and harbor, the need for pier repairs, and the status of grant proposals.
Dupont acquisition of FMC. Village Soup reports that the sale of FMC Corp’s plant to Dupont Nutrition USA was finalized on Oct 26. We will reach out to schedule a relationship visit to learn more about company plans and opportunities.
Passenger rail. The Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority (NEPRA) has expressed interest in developing a pilot program to extend the line with new stops in Bath, Wiscasset, Newcastle and Rockland. A schedule for developing the program, including public meetings, is expected soon. There will be opportunities to express support for the program, if desired.
OFFICE OF THE CHIEF OF POLICE
Administration –
Assisted the department’s new officer with administrative paperwork. Officer Michael Rolerson has begun his field training program and will be on that program for the next 15 weeks.
Attended a Maine Chiefs of Police District 6 meeting.
Received confirmation that the department has been awarded a federal grant to offset the costs of bulletproof vests for the next fiscal year.
DC Young assisted the Patrol Division with responding to calls for service during the storm on Monday.
Met with Field Training Officers to discuss the progress of new officers that are currently on the field training program.
Criminal Investigations Division –
Completed rifle and night qualifications for new officers.
Participated in the Lonza Safety Day.
Assisted the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency with an investigation.
Continued working on open criminal investigations in Rockland.
Patrol Division –
Participated in the semi-annual Drug Take Back Initiative.
Officer Scott Redmun and his wife welcomed their second child into the family (recruitment is ongoing at this time).
Assisted the Rockport Police Department with an investigation.
Provided assistance to Rockland Fire and EMS.
Delivered City Council Packets.
Assisted the Maine State Police as they were escorting large pieces of bridge through downtown.
Provided escort services to local financial institutions while they maintained their ATMs.
Conducted Taxi inspections.
Conducted probation compliance checks on Rockland residence that are currently on probation to ensure they are abiding by their probation conditions.
Conducted bail compliance checks on Rockland residence that are currently free on bail to ensure they are abiding by the conditions of bail.
Conducted alcohol compliance checks on establishments in Rockland that serve alcohol to ensure they are in compliance.
Conducted targeted traffic enforcement details at various locations throughout the city. The focus of these details was distracted driving and operating under the influence.
Officers responded to 162 calls for service, investigated 9 traffic accidents and conducted 27 traffic stops. As a result 13 people were either summonsed or arrested for various violations.
Parking Enforcement / Animal Control –
Issued 70 Parking Tickets
Responded to 4 animal calls.
OFFICE OF THE PUBLIC SERVICES DIRECTOR
Crews completed regular tasks of picking up city wide trash, applying cold patch to potholes in city roads, roadside mowing, sign repair and city wide street sweeping.
Deliver Harbormaster concrete treads for Snow Marine Park boat launch project
Maintenance at City Library
Crew worked on Snow Marine Park on boat launch
Crew repaired Bog Road in preparation of paving
Traffic control for Wastewater Department
Took down seasonal flowers from Main Street
Maintenance at City Hall
Cleaned basins and curb gutters in preparation of rain
Finalized equipment for Fall leaf pickup
Pavement cutting on Gay Street, Winter Street, Park Street and Commercial Street
Responded to 10/29-10/30 storm for a four day period, 11/30-11/2
Had electrical outlet installed by the City’s electrician as part of preventing the ice build-up on the
eve by the Children’s Garden. This was one of the measures recommended by Casco Bay Engineering.
New Meadows Abatement removed all the asbestos siding off 8 Rockland Street. The unsafe front porch was removed by Public Services.
Assisting with other City departments on FEMA form 7.
The DOT Pedestrian Forum has been set for Dec 6, 6 - 8pm. Patrick Adams from Maine DOT & Jim Tasse at the Bicycle Coalition of Maine will both be facilitating the forum at the High School Auditorium.
Assisted Fire Department with the investigation of a petroleum leak.
Renewed our MSW hauling contract.
Met with Alexis Iammarino to discuss an Arts In Action educational recycling mural on the Transfer Station.
Q2S & Q2N survey was submitted to determine volume calculations.
Published the fall leaf and brush clean-up schedule which starts next Monday 11/6/17.
The Transfer Station will be closed Saturday 11/11/17 in observance of Veterans Day.
Gave a tour to Chris Littlefield ,the Hartland Town Manager. Chris wanted to see the Rockland Solid Waste Facility Operation to help him with the Hartland Facility.
Attended Energy Committee meeting.
Met with Woodard & Curran to discuss the physical changes in preparation for our conversion to single stream recycling and the building materials processing area which will replace the landfill.
Met with Atlantic Equipment to discuss the options for equipment in preparation for the conversion to single stream recycling.
OFFICE OF THE LIBRARY DIRECTOR
This week, Catinka Knoth’s Adult Drawing class was cancelled due to the wild weather; the Children’s class theme was scary Halloween scenes.
Writing of Halloween—several staff members were in costume:
It’s been a very, very busy week! Following a brief stint when NetworkMaine at Orono had all Internet connections down, we’ve served as a warming center, charging station, Internet/Wi Fi source, source of light, connection, and, as ever, information. We put up an extra table and chairs to accommodate all the
laptops/devices, and saw many new faces. It’s nice to be a port in a storm.
During the no-Internet phase, Teresa Verrill, who would normally be cataloging then, had a chance to work on re-surfacing damaged CDs and DVDs.
Electrician Scott Michaud installed an exterior outlet, to be used for heat tape in an effort to prevent a recurrence of the ice buildup we had overlooking the Children’s Garden, a few years ago. I also met with Dave St. Laurent about a number of building issues, and temporary fixes to get the Library building through the winter.
Thanks to Public Services staff who completed painting the hopefully soon-to-be office on the lower level, and for replacing the batteries in the emergency lighting. They also removed the Children’s Garden furniture for the winter. We’re very grateful for all their assistance.
Patty King installed the travelling exhibit entitled “Threads of Our Lives: Maine Folk Fiber Art.” The exhibit was made possible through a National Endowment of the Arts grant the Maine Folklife Center (MFC) received in 2015. The exhibit features four 3x7 free-standing panels: “Wabanaki,” “Settlers,” “New Mainers,” and “Community.” The panels illustrate how Mainers from various
backgrounds are carrying on their fiber art traditions.
Jessie Blanchard and volunteer Katie Syrett worked in concert to weed, and de-accession a number of items from the adult paperback collection, which we are trying to consolidate.
Patty also arranged for artist Lori Schafer, to install a Fleece-to-Fiber Art display at the Library, which takes the visitor through the many stages of working with a natural sheep fleece.
Stop by during the month to see the lovely display and travelling exhibit.
Also on Wednesday morning, Jean Young held the last of four Family Place™ Library workshops (for this year), aimed at 0 to 3 year-olds and their parents or care-givers. For those who may be unaware of this program, it’s designed to emphasize the role of the parent as baby’s first teacher, and promote early
literacy and learning through play. This week’s expert on young child development discussed nutrition, which, unusually, took up the whole hour, so Jean extended the program so the littles could still enjoy playtime.
While the above-mentioned workshops were occurring, Judith Andersen hosted Wednesday Storytime, reading several familiar books to a loyal audience who want the same stories over and over. These included Bark, George, by Jules Feiffer (children have memorized this offering) and Have You Seen My
Duckling? by Nancy Tafuri. Following the readings, the kids gathered at the craft table coloring a variety of Autumn pictures.
Katie hosted, or rather played, Baby Time on Thursday morning, with around ten participants.
The Thursday evening Community Event was a Camden Conference Talk: The Threat and Consequences of Climate Change to World Order, where a full house of attendees learned about the effects of global warming on the future of humanity, from the disappearance of many species, to changes in human
behavior. Presenter Andrew Stancioff is a geologist, natural resource planner, analyst, and manager with 35 years of experience in geology, hydrology, agriculture, fisheries, forestry, climatology, and oceanography.
I attended the third joint listening session of the Comprehensive Planning Commission and Rockland Heart & Soul. While the Commission’s purpose is to gather information for the re-writing of the City’s Comprehensive Plan, they may also provide valuable information for planning for the Library’s current and
future program and services initiatives. I’m finding both the process and the conversations fascinating; the public engagement is both civil and thoughtful; the Commission is doing a great job of soliciting input. And facilitating these discussions. There are two more sessions planned—if you’re reading this, and
haven’t yet been, I’d urge you to go.
During the Library Community Event, the toilet in one of the restrooms would not stop running; we had a bit of a flood. Between us, Patty and I managed a temporary fix until the plumber was able to come in on Friday.
On Saturday, Jean Young hosted the Hampstead Stage Company’s production of Robin Hood. Part of The Arts for Kids and their Families at Rockland Public Library series, the play lasts is performed by two actors in full period costume, each playing several roles, and includes audience participation.
Upcoming: CPPC Family Resource Hub Open House--The Community Partnerships for Protecting Children has a new resource center! In partnership with the Rockland Public Library, they have a new central Hub, in the lower level of the Library. Also, the Creative Art Crew will craft painted-dot trees.
OFFICE OF THE WASTEWATER TREATMENT FACILITY DIRECTOR
The treatment plant survived Monday’s storm with no damage to the property or equipment.
All backup and portable generators were run and tested in preparation for the storm.
Power was out for twenty four hours at the Waldo Ave. pump station, the backup generator continued to power the pumps with no problems.
The four pump stations that do not have backup generators were monitored closely during the storm. If power was lost a portable generator could have been setup to keep pumps running.
Protection Professionals completed repairs to the fire alarm system that were identified during the annual system inspection.
Rear brakes were repaired on the f-250 ford pickup.
Replaced the wall ladder in the belt filter press room that is used for access to the hydraulic drive units for maintenance.
Interstate Septic Systems pumped and cleaned the wet well at the Industrial Park pump station.
Made adjustments to the skimmer arm in the #2 secondary clarifier.
Rebuilt the swing check valve on W.A.S. sludge pump #1.
Made repairs to the control panel for the pump station at Midcoast school of technology.
The lighting in the process area of the treatment plant was upgraded from fluorescent to LED lighting to provide better lighting and use less energy.
Roof replacement at the Park St. pump station has been completed and replacement of the roof on the lab building at the treatment plant was started.
The upgrade to the controls at the pump stations has been completed. This will allow monitoring and control of the pump stations through the S.C.A.D.A. system at the treatment plant.
Responded to a call for a sewer backup on Birch St. Place. The problem appeared to be in the service lateral to the house not the city sewer main.
Continued working with tech support from CUES Inc. to resolve issues with the computer in the CCTV camera trailer.
Answered a call about a flooded basement on Florence Street.
Met with a contractor to discuss replacement of the sewer service lateral to a property on Gurdy Street.
Inspected and approved a new sewer connection to a property on Center Street.
Shipped the controller for the CCTV push camera to the manufacturer to have the footage counter repaired.
Worked with Wright-Pierce Engineering on transfer of sewer main and manhole inspection data to be used in design and engineering of sewer repair and improvement projects.
Responded to two Dig-Safe requests.
OFFICE OF THE CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER
We received an application for Site Plan Review of a Parking Storage area for Yachting Solutions at 56 New County Road. It is scheduled to be reviewed by the Planning Board at their November 21, 2017 meeting.
John attended a meeting of the Rockland Planning Board.
John along with the City Manager and city attorney spent the entire day in court Friday Oct 27. Ultimately the case was dismissed.
Bill attended a MCEOA meeting in Union.
Bill performed a victualers’ license inspection. He also performed a routine safety inspection of City Hall.
Bill performed a pre-conveyance inspection of a multi-unit dwelling at 18 Lindsey Street in conjunction with the Fire Department.
Bill performed an inspection of and issued a Certificate of Occupancy following alterations of a single-family dwelling on Jefferson St.
John and Bill met with contractors, property, and business owners regarding various proposed projects throughout the city; some of these meetings were in conjunction with the Fire Department and included on-site inspections.
We issued seven building permits. We issued a permit for a new commercial garage at 173 Pleasant St. We issued a permit to Harbor Freight Tools to make alternations at 165 Camden St. We issued a permit for a new single family dwelling on Clayton Ln. Additionally, we issued residential building permits for a new garage on Mechanic St, new decks on Gay St, adding a dormer on West Meadow Rd, and repairs on Jameson Point Rd.
We continue to be busy with various other permits, inspections, and assisting the public with questions. The following permits were issued by the Code Office:
o 7 Building Permits
o 3 Electrical Permits
o 6 Plumbing Permits
o 1 Sewer Connection Permit
o 1 Sign Permit
o 4 Street Excavation Permits
OFFICE OF THE FINANCE DIRECTOR
The lease financing for our 2017/2108 capital improvement programs is in the final stages. Funding is expected to be available starting the week of 11.06.17. All forms have been completed and either forwarded to our attorney or the financing institution, Key Government Financing, Inc. All department heads have forwarded their purchase progress to the Finance Office
Our annual audit process is still moving along. The auditor’s on-site phase has been completed, and they continue to complete their work back at their office.
As reported last time, representatives of Bar Harbor Bank & Trust’s Trust Department were invited to meet with us. They reviewed the City’s reserve account portfolio in detail and discussed how they manage the portfolio in keeping with the City’s requirements. We now have on-line access to
their reporting. We have identified a way to upload multiple month-end entries and will be testing various scenarios in the upcoming week. This process will save time and provide timely information.
The City’s 2002 comprehensive plan was updated with 2018 financial information and previous 10 year historical financial data and given to the Comps Committee for completion.
Payroll continues to be completed by HR as the payroll position is temporarily vacant. October 31st was the closing date for all applicants. Applications are currently being reviewed and interviews set up.
We sent out an RFP for a $3.0MM bond anticipation note. This will be used for the storm water separation project in the south end of Rockland. Bids are due November 15th, 2017 on or before 2 PM.
The General Account cash balance per the bank: $6.6MM. Approximately the same level as it was a week ago.
We received our annual commercial insurance package from our agent at the Allen Agency. All coverage appeared to be reasonable and in line with the City’s needs.
OFFICE OF THE FIRE CHIEF
Over this preceding two weeks, in addition to the response to 70 Fire and EMS calls, conducting apparatus checks, daily cleaning, routine repairs and maintenance to the fleet and of the quarters, the following occurred:
Training for the month of November is Rapid Intervention Teams, or RIT. This function of the fire service is dedicated to saving our own firefighters in the event of an injury, collapse, lost, or downed firefighter. The training is specific to rescue techniques designed to find and remove an injured or unresponsive firefighter. This month we will be training with Rockport Fire to prepare our members for an incident like this.
Members attended a “live burn” in Rockport which allows our firefighters the opportunity to train in a real life environment while in a controlled manner. We can assess our new employees skills and design future trainings to provide a level of confidence that is needed to perform this job. Big thanks to our brothers in Rockport for the opportunity.
Chief Whytock attended a PAC meeting for the fire and EMS program at the MidCoast School of Technology. The program appears to be running with an almost full enrollment. We look forward to helping the students in any way possible.
Rockland has survived another storm! As of Friday afternoon, CMP has Rockland down to 34 outages associated with Mondays strong wind storm that rolled through the State. Many hours were put in by Public Services, Fire & EMS, Police, and Harbor to clear streets, check on residence, and keep the City in working order. Numerous houses sustained damages due to either falling
trees or downed wires. While we are still monitoring a few outages, things seem to be heading in the right direction.
A fire at Fisher Engineering kept crews from Rockland, Rockport, and South Thomaston busy for 2 hours on Wednesday. The fire was contained to the area of origin but due to electrical and other mechanical issues, the fire couldn’t be extinguished with any large volume of water. Crew did a great job and the successful outcome was a collaborative effort by all the fire departments as well
as the staff from Fisher’s.
Rockland Fire & EMS was represented at the Lonza Safety and Wellness Expo on Thomaston Street. We were there to answer safety related questions and it appeared to be well attended by staff and a variety of other vendors. Thank you Lonza for the invite and we look forward to seeing you next year.
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