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Bangor planning board recommends zone change for 355 Main Avenue to allow marketplace and event space
Summary
The City of Bangor Planning Board voted unanimously April 21 to recommend that the City Council rezone 355 Main Avenue from Government and Institutional Service to Shopping and Personal Service so Totem 2 LLC can convert the vacant building into an auction house, marketplace, small food service and event space.
The City of Bangor Planning Board on April 21 voted unanimously to recommend that the City Council approve a zone change for 355 Main Avenue, moving the property from Government and Institutional Service District to Shopping and Personal Service District.
Susan Brooks, a partner in Totem 2 LLC, told the board the property would become an auction house with a small event venue, food service and a marketplace with antique, artisan and retail booths. "Our plan is to use the building for an auction house with a small venue event space, food service, and a marketplace with antique, artisan, and retail booths," Brooks said.
Chair Jonathan Boucher disclosed that the University of Maine System owns the parcel and that he is an employee of the university; City solicitor David Savcheck advised the board that the chair should not vote on any conflict determination and outlined criteria for financial or special-interest conflicts. After discussion the board voted that no conflict existed and proceeded with the item.
Board members debated whether the rezoning would constitute spot zoning and whether it aligned with the city’s comprehensive plan. Member Ted Brush said he was "in favor of this, although I do see it as spot zoning." Vice Chair Janet Jonas said the future land-use map indicates a medium-residential designation for the area but that, after hearing staff analysis, she was satisfied the change would be a compatible use.
Planning Officer Anya Collette told the board courts have allowed legal spot zoning when a change aligns with the comprehensive plan and provides a community benefit and noted recent similar zone changes in the Broadway area.
After discussion a board member moved that the planning board "recommend to the city council that it ought to pass" the zone change for 355 Main Avenue (Map Lot R25-001-B); the motion was seconded and carried by roll-call vote with all members present voting yes. The recommendation now goes to the City Council for final action.
The applicant and board were advised that the council makes the final decision on zoning changes and that, if approved, the applicant must follow applicable code and permitting steps with city staff.
