It’s been a busy winter at Mitchell Field, with one of two big projects completed and the other nearing completion. In addition to these major evolutions, we are seeing progress on several initiatives I mentioned in an earlier update. Here’s a brief overview.
Boat launch: The ramp, floats and stub pier are complete. The final grading and paving for the causeway and final surfacing for the parking area are in progress. We appreciate everyone’s patience while we work. The main road, perimeter roads, beach and parking area at the site of the former administration building are open to the public. Remember, the causeway is an active construction area. Use caution if you decide to access it before the project is complete. Our goal is to have the facility ready for use by the end of May.
Administration building: Removal of the building is complete. We are working now to finish the cleanup, grading, loaming and seeding of the area so we can use it this summer.
Generator building: We recently had the roof evaluated as part of a larger discussion about the future of the building. Stay tuned as we move forward.
Sentry building: Voters approved funds for the removal of hazardous materials. The town will get an estimate for that work. We are reviewing the current uses of this building and the generator building as part of the process to update the master plan for Mitchell Field.
Coastal erosion study: Mitchell Field was one of three sites selected by the Greater Portland Council of Governments and the Cumberland County Soil & Water Conservation District for a study of ongoing shore erosion, which will include recommendations to mitigate existing damage and further erosion. The final report is expected by the end of May. At that time, there will be a presentation of the recommendations and next steps at a Select Board meeting. However, there are no funds to implement the recommendations.
PFAS testing: The Friends of Casco Bay organization has issued a report based on a series of samples taken last year. You can find more information at cascobay.org. We are reviewing the results to develop an action plan. Finally, we tested both large dirt piles in the lower meadow and received approval from the Maine Department of Environmental Protection to use the dirt for certain purposes at the field. It did not test positive for PFAS.
Well testing: The state hydrologist is looking at wells that have not been actively used in two years. Five of our six wells meet the criteria. We will update everyone when we receive further guidance. Our active well is the Harpswell Community Garden’s clean water source.
Master plan update: A subcommittee is working diligently on the long, deliberate process of updating the master plan for Mitchell Field. With major changes happening at the property, we need to look at the impacts of those changes and what future projects should address. After reviewing the current master plan and meeting with focus groups (fishing, harbor and waterfront, etc.), we will conduct community meetings to inform the public and solicit feedback, ultimately producing a plan we all can support.
Dog rules: I have always told pet owners using Mitchell Field that I am the “reminder,” not the enforcer, as I ask them to please obey the rules. The town continues to receive complaints about noncompliance with leash times, aggressive dogs, dog bites and failure to clean up. The Select Board recently held a workshop to review the issues and listen to public feedback, then concluded that enforcement mechanisms should be strengthened before any rule changes are considered. Voters will be asked to weigh in on the June ballot.
Lost and found: Yes, people find things left at the field on a regular basis. There is a small wooden box attached to the windowsill of the sentry building at the front gate. Found items are left there. When an important or expensive item is found (wedding ring, camera lens, binoculars, phone, etc.), it is taken to the front desk at the Town Office for safekeeping.
Stay abreast of what’s happening at Mitchell Field by checking the town website, harpswell.maine.gov. Our meeting agendas, minutes and other materials are available to the public electronically. We meet the first Monday of the month, except on holidays. The public is welcome to attend.
Finally, you can provide feedback on the town website. In the drop-down menu under “Things to do,” choose “Mitchell Field,” then click on “questions, comments or lost items.”
