Saco Planning Board approves 11-lot Lebanon Street subdivision with conditions

The Saco Planning Board voted unanimously July 1 to approve final major‑subdivision, site‑plan and private‑way applications (2026‑18‑FS) for an 11‑lot cluster subdivision on Lebanon Street proposed by Housing Maine LLC.

Jamie, a planning staff member, summarized the project as an 11‑lot subdivision on roughly 105 acres with primary frontage on Lebanon Street, a proposed private access road, two wetland crossings and stormwater detention basins. Kendra Marris, agent for the applicant, told the board the plans include an open‑space easement over lot 11, detention basins that may be converted to treatment BMPs if the lot is later developed, and that Army Corps and NRPA permit applications will be submitted for the stream crossing and wetlands impacts (described in the materials as under 4,300 square feet).

The board’s approval was conditioned on several requirements specified in staff memos and code‑enforcement comments. Conditions include: submission of revised plan sets and an AutoCAD file by Oct. 1, 2026; a note on the recorded plan stating that ‘‘residential fire sprinkler systems are required’’; additional snow‑storage shown on plans; confirmation that the SD2 cross‑culvert outfall is contained within the proposed drainage easement; final, recorded easement language for open space and drainage; verification that the USPS accepts the proposed cluster mailbox location; labeling corrections on plan sheets; and standard performance‑guarantee and inspection conditions. The board’s written motion also required the private‑way plan be revised to show a paved 4‑foot shoulder on the same side of the road as the community mailbox.

Matt Provencher, the city engineer, recommended paving the shoulder proposed for pedestrian use, citing complete‑streets guidance and the need for a consistent, safe walking surface. He warned that paved shoulders reduce available snow‑storage along the roadway and urged the applicant to show additional storage areas outside the travelway. Kendra Marris said the applicant will continue coordination with the postmaster and with the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife and has provided a drainage easement over Lot 11 for stormwater detention features.

Board members asked detailed questions about mailbox siting, the placement and extent of stormwater measures, the 40‑foot vegetated buffer proposed along Lebanon Street, and how trash will be collected. The applicant confirmed trash pickup will be at individual homes via a private hauler and provided a capacity letter from the hauler.

The board read findings of conformance with multiple sections of the subdivision and zoning ordinances and approved the application by roll call (six in favor, none opposed). The approval is subject to the conditions listed in staff and code‑enforcement memos; final signatures and recording will follow submission of the required revised plans and outside‑agency approvals.

Votes at a glance 2026‑18‑FS (Lebanon Street; Housing Maine LLC) — Approved (motion carries 6‑0). Conditions: revised plan submissions by Oct. 1, 2026; pave 4‑ft shoulder on mailbox side; additional snow storage; finalize open‑space and drainage easements; add residential fire‑sprinkler note; verify USPS acceptance of cluster mailbox; label lots and correct plan sheets; standard performance guarantees and recording requirements.

The board recorded the approval and instructed staff to track outstanding agency sign‑offs and the required plan revisions.