The following report was delivered by Town Manager Patrick Fox at the January 2025 Town Council Meeting.

Town Manager’s Report 

January 13, 2025

Manager Remarks:

Happy 2025 everyone.  A new year is a great opportunity for reflection, as well as committing to progress for the coming year.  Through the collaboration I see between our elected officials and staff, we will continue to demonstrate effectiveness and clarity in what we do and why we do it.  Our collective efforts will be visible through enhanced communication, including budget planning documents, efficient meeting agendas, a new website, and other innovative strategies to inform and engage our community in 2025.

Projects, Plans and Studies:

• Fort Williams Projects- The contractor, RJ Grondin, was awarded the pond reclamation project, and is scheduled to begin work within the month. The bell at Portland Headlight fell from its display supports in December.  It will be removed for repairs within the next week, by a specialty contractor found by Community Services.
• Outdoor Basketball Court adjacent to the Library parking lot- Site survey work is complete.  Preliminary design work is ongoing and the project will be heading to the Planning Board in February to begin the site plan amendment process.

 Councilor Requests and Follow ups:

• Landfill Solar Project- The Contractor, Encore Renewable Energy, has committed to a spring construction start as soon as weather permits (March/April) and has ordered the major equipment for the project. Their current Planning Board approvals and land lease option require construction to commence prior to May 21, 2025.

Bids, Events and Special Announcements:

• The Town Center Intersection project is now out to bid.  Bids will be received until Thursday, February 6^th at 2:00pm.  A mandatory pre-bid conference will be held at Cape Elizabeth Town Hall on January 23^rd.  Please visit the website for more information.
• Beginning in February, Community Services will begin processing passport applications.  Residents will soon be able to register online for an appointment.