Council tables solar ordinance, approves fireworks curfew change and adopts senior tax-deferral policy amendment

The Cumberland Town Council met Feb. 10 and took several formal actions on local ordinances and appointments, including tabling a proposed update to the town's solar ordinance, approving amended hours for residential fireworks, and approving local rules to allow partial tax deferral for qualifying seniors (the council increased the income cap in its amendment). The council also referred a zoning-definition change on dwelling-unit size to the planning board and appointed members to several boards and committees.

Nut graf: Councilors said they prefer to refine the proposed solar regulations and consult additional stakeholders after a lengthy public hearing; by contrast, they moved more quickly on fireworks and a state-authorized senior deferral program after public input and committee recommendations.

Key votes and outcomes (at-a-glance)

- Solar energy ordinance (amendments to Chapter 232): TABLED. After a public hearing that included developers and nearby residents, councilors said the draft still needs research on height limits, setbacks, screening and a clear definition distinguishing residential-use systems from commercial production. The ordinance committee recommended a sliding scale of setbacks and a 24-foot maximum height for ground-mounted systems; several councilors and public speakers recommended a higher maximum (35 feet) and/or alternative metrics (e.g., production in kilowatts) and asked for time to consult municipal climate and sustainability committees. The council voted…