Frequently Asked Questions
Below you will find information that might help you understand how to find things or learn about information you might need to know about your city or town.
Revaluation FAQ - Revaluation Basics
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Revaluation FAQ - Revaluation Basics
A Revaluation is the process of conducting the Data Collection and Market Analysis necessary to equalize the values of all properties within a municipality for the purpose of a fair distribution of the tax burden. The purpose of a Revaluation is not to raise or lower the tax assessments or tax base of a municipality. The main purpose of a Revaluation is to establish fairness and equity among all property owners and all property types.
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Revaluation FAQ - Revaluation Basics
A Revaluation is done to equalize the values within a municipality to ensure a fair distribution of the tax burden. Property values change over time, but they do not all change at the same rate. Market value may have increased more for some neighborhoods and property types than for others, while others still may have decreased in value. A Revaluation is done to make sure assessed values reflect changes that have occurred in the real estate market. A Revaluation includes measuring and listing all properties to verify existing assessment data. The end goal is for assessments to be adjusted to reflect market value as of April 1, 2026.
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Revaluation FAQ - Revaluation Basics
No, it is to create an equitable distribution of the property taxes, based on market value, required to meet the needs of local schools, government, and the county.
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Revaluation FAQ - Revaluation Basics
The Revaluation will be effective for the April 1, 2026, assessment date and reflected in the 2026-2027 Tax Commitment in July 2026.
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Revaluation FAQ - Revaluation Basics
Below are a few of the assumptions that underlie the International Association of Assessing Officer’s Standard on Data Quality, as approved April 2021.
• High-quality data used as an input foster high-quality assessments.
• The quality of recorded data erodes over time as physical, economic, governmental, and societal factors change.
• Quality data and consistent practices are required and ensure that assessments are accurate and fair.
The last city-wide revaluation occurred in Bangor during the 1980’s. Sales have taken place where there is a significant difference between the assessed value and the sale price. Much of the difference is attributed to the assessed values being based on older property data. Title 36 of the Maine Revised Statutes Section 328 expressly requires that assessors perform a physical inspection and inventory of each parcel of land at least every four years. A review found that only 32% of properties in the City have been inspected over the last ten years.
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Revaluation FAQ - Revaluation Procedures & Methods
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Revaluation FAQ - Revaluation Procedures & Methods
Full Revaluations involve the interior and exterior inspection and re-measurement of all properties, which necessitates entry into each residence or building.
Statistical Revaluations use existing data to revalue properties, avoiding onsite property inspections except to confirm validity of data for a sample of properties. The City has performed the in-house Statistical Revaluations each year since the last full revaluation was completed in the 1980s.
With respect to each of these processes, the resulting valuations from a Full Revaluation are much more accurate than a Statistical Revaluation.
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Revaluation FAQ - Revaluation Procedures & Methods
All factors that may affect the market value of your property will also be considered, such as the cost to replace your building(s) less any depreciation, plus the value of the land could be used to estimate the market value. For income producing properties, the income and expenses will be considered.
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Revaluation FAQ - Revaluation Procedures & Methods
The purpose of the inspection visit is to verify the current property data on file with the Assessor's Office. This includes exterior measurements of all buildings (main structure and outbuildings) and interior information such as building quality, condition, bedroom and bathroom counts and construction materials used. How many dwelling units are on the property. Has the attic or basement been finished. Have there been any recent renovations. Are there items that need to be replaced? What type of flooring is in the home. What types of heating/cooling equipment are in the home. In the end, the overall quality and condition will be estimated based on this objective data. The data collector will take a digital image/photo of the structure's exterior. No interior photos will be taken.
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Revaluation FAQ - Revaluation Procedures & Methods
If a property owner is uncomfortable with an interior inspection, they can verify the interior information at the door. The data collector will ask a few questions such as: What year was the house built or remodeled? How many bedrooms and bathrooms are in the home? Has the attic or basement been finished? How would you describe the overall condition of the home? Have there been any recent renovations? Are there items that need to be replaced? What type of flooring is in the home? What type of heating/cooling is in the home? The overall quality and condition will be estimated based on the responses and factual data will be updated.
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Revaluation FAQ - Revaluation Procedures & Methods
The data collector will inform the tenant that the owner was sent an inspection post card. While the data collector is there, the tenant could call the landlord to see if it's ok to allow KRT into the home. If the tenant is uncomfortable letting KRT in, the data collector will inform them that a letter will go out to the owner in the winter of 2026 asking for an interior inspection appointment. At that point, the owner can arrange for an inspection around the tenant's schedule.
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Revaluation FAQ - Revaluation Procedures & Methods
The Assessor’s Office maintains a complete record of each property. Information is kept current through permit inspections, sales inspections, periodic re-inspection and exterior reviews; these records are available for your review in our office, as well. Current data will be considered by KRT when they establish a new value.
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Revaluation FAQ - Revaluation Procedures & Methods
The Revaluation will consider all three approach to value: Cost approach, market-sales approach and the income approach. Each approach utilizes a different formula. The real question is whether the final total value is in the ballpark (within 10%) of market value.
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Revaluation FAQ - Revaluation Procedures & Methods
There are two very good methods of determining this. First, compare your property to similar, nearby properties that sold in the previous year. Your value should be in line with these sale prices. Second, if no recent sales are available, compare your assessment to other similar properties in your area using the data available in the Assessor’s Office or on the City website. Your value should be in line with these similar properties. Remember, very few properties are exactly alike. Your value should be comparable, but it seldom will be exactly the same as what seems to be a similar property.
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Revaluation FAQ - Impact on Property Taxes
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Revaluation FAQ - Impact on Property Taxes
Although a Revaluation may result in an adjustment to nearly each individual assessment; it does not mean that property taxes will increase. Please remember, assessments are only the base that is used to determine the individual tax impact on each and every taxable property. Key point - The overall budget, and the tax levy, for the city is not related to the revaluation. The tax levy is the amount of property taxes needed to fund municipal, school and county approved budgets.
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Revaluation FAQ - Impact on Property Taxes
In the State of Maine, property tax rates are typically denominated in millage rates. A mill represents the tax per thousand dollars of assessed value. For instance, if a home has an assessed value of $200,000 and a mill rate of 20 (which translates to $20 of tax per $1,000 of assessed value), the annual property tax would amount to $4,000.
Date of Valuation -- Bangor’s Historic Mill Rates
04/01/2019 $23.00
04/01/2020 $23.20
04/01/2021 $22.30
04/01/2022 $20.40
04/01/2023 $19.15
04/01/2024 $18.55
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Revaluation FAQ - Impact on Property Taxes
No. The City, School and County approved budgets determine the amount to be raised via taxation, regardless of the change in property values. Revising valuations ensures that the property tax burden is distributed according to a more accurate estimate of value.
This is the concept of uniformity and the basis for Maine property tax law.
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Revaluation FAQ - Impact on Property Taxes
We cannot say at this time, as the final mill (tax) rate (corresponding to the revaluation year) will not be set until the tax commitment in July 2026. Your assessed value may go up, but it is possible the mill (tax) rate may go down, which would result in a moderate increase in taxes, or potentially even a decrease. Keep in mind that the mill (tax) rate is based in part on City, School and County budgets. Typically, if you see a big increase in assessed value, it is because your property has been undervalued for some time or you’ve made improvements.
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Revaluation FAQ - Impact on Property Taxes
A notice stating the proposed assessed value will be mailed to each property owner. The goal is for this phase to be completed by June of 2026. The mill rate (the rate used to calculate property taxes due) is determined after the municipal, county, and school budgets and property values are finalized. The Assessor typically delivers the list of new values and taxes due to the Tax Collector during the month of July and tax bills go out by the middle of August; it is at that time that we can tell you what your tax bill will be.
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Revaluation FAQ - Assessed Value / Market Value / Project Phases
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Revaluation FAQ - Assessed Value / Market Value / Project Phases
The phone number on the postcard, 207-992-4213, goes directly to the Assessor's prerecorded message which provides additional information regarding the revaluation. The message lasts around three minutes, hits on the revaluation's purposed and why the property owner received the postcard in the mail. The caller is able to leave a message if they need additional information from the Assessing Office.
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Revaluation FAQ - Assessed Value / Market Value / Project Phases
The timeline is for information purposes only.
Task Start Date Completion Date Public Relations N/A On-Going Data Collection November 1, 2024 March 13, 2026 Callback Appointments November 1, 2024 March 18, 2026 Data Entry into Software November 1, 2024 March 20, 2026 Field Review of Sold Properties March 26, 2026 April 3, 2026 Update Tables in Software April 6, 2026 May 1, 2026 Field Review with New Values May 4, 2026 May 22, 2026 Final Valuations Delivered May 25, 2026 June 5, 2026 Assessor Review of New Values June 8, 2026 June 19, 2026 Valuation Notices to Owners June 22, 2026 June 26, 2026 Informal Hearings June 29, 2026 June 17, 2026 Hearing Review July 13, 2026 July 21, 2026 Final Work-Products Delivered July 22, 2026 July 24, 2026 Project Completion N/A July 24, 2026 Appraisal Report Delivered N/A October 31, 2026 Powered by Froala Editor
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Revaluation FAQ - Assessed Value / Market Value / Project Phases
Phase 1: Data Collection
The first phase, Data Collection of all property, will begin in November 2024. During this phase "Data Collectors" go to each property in the City to measure the exterior of each building and attempt to inspect the interior if the owner is available at the time of the visit. These Data Collectors note the buildings’ location, size, age, quality of construction, improvements, topography, utilities, and numerous other characteristics both inside and out. They may also ask the homeowner a few questions regarding the property. To confirm that a home was inspected, the homeowner is asked to sign a data collection form. The data collected is subject to verification by the City Assessor and a KRT Supervisor. KRT Field Representatives will carry Picture IDs, Municipal Letters of Introduction, and have their vehicles listed with both the Assessor’s Office and Police Department.
Prior to starting the data collection, a postcard will be mailed to each property as notification that the property will be visited in the next few weeks. Data Collectors will show up unannounced shortly after the postcard is mailed and ring the bell or knock on the door. If someone is home, they will explain who they are, with their KRT badge visible, and ask for an interior and exterior inspection.
If no one is home, they will assume it is ok to measure the outside of the building and proceed to do so. A second attempt to inspect the property shall be made either after 5:00 p.m. on weekdays or on Saturday. If a second attempt to inspect the property is unsuccessful, KRT shall either leave a door-hanger at the property or send a letter to the property owner requesting the property owner call KRT to set up an appointment for an interior inspection. The visit from KRT shouldn’t take more than 15 minutes from start to finish. Data Collectors will not visit a property posted “No Trespassing”. Posted properties will receive a letter asking for permission to visit the property at a scheduled time convenient for everyone.
Phase 2: Sales Review / Validation
During this phase, KRT appraisers will field review each property that sold between April 1, 2024, and March 31, 2026, and review the information on the property record card for data accuracy. The appraiser will make notes regarding the property location, size, condition, quality of construction, and numerous other characteristics that may affect value. The goal is to gain a clear understanding of what sold and for what price. In conjunction with the Assessing Office, KRT will begin the process of qualifying sales as “arm’s length”. Only sales with market exposure between a willing buyer and willing seller (in other words, an “arm’s length” sale) will be used in the analysis
Phase 3: Market Analysis / Valuation
A variety of resources are used to analyze the real estate market. KRT will be analyzing property sales that occurred between April 1, 2024, and March 31, 2026, to determine which market factors influenced property values. KRT will gather and use information from Maine Multiple Listing Service (MLS), property managers, developers, and local real estate professionals. Once all the data is collected and reviewed for accuracy, the appraiser will determine land values and delineate neighborhoods, which rate the desirability of locations throughout the City as determined by actual market activity.
Valuation is done using one of the three recognized appraisal methods: Cost Approach, Income Approach and Sales Comparable Approach.
During this phase, individual characteristics of the buildings are analyzed using information gathered in both phases 1 and 2. Each property is compared to other comparable properties with similar characteristics. Then the market values of the improvements are added to the land value that was previously determined. This value is the final estimate for each parcel of property, building and land.
The valuations produced for each appraisal model are then tested for accuracy using actual market sales. After testing, the result of the mass appraisal model for the City of Bangor is then measured against statistical standards of the International Association of Assessing Officers (IAAO). If a model fails the required standards, further review and refinements are necessary before acceptance.
Phase 4: Field Review
Field Review is the method of checking and re-checking both the values that have been determined and the accuracy of the data used. During this phase, properties are viewed in the field by experienced appraisers to ensure that the appraisal methodology established from the sale properties is consistently applied to the entire population of properties within the City.
Phase 5: Informal Hearings
Once the Field Review is completed and the values are approved by the Assessor’s Office, a notice stating the proposed value will be mailed to each property owner. The goal is for this phase to be completed in the middle of July of 2026. At that time anyone with questions concerning the revaluation process or the value established for their property will have an opportunity to meet with a member of KRT’s staff.
After all five phases are completed, all data, files, records, etc. used in the revaluation will be turned over to the Assessor’s Office for retention.
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Revaluation FAQ - Assessed Value / Market Value / Project Phases
Prior to starting the data collection, a postcard will be mailed to each property as notification that the property will be visited in the next few weeks. Data Collectors will show up unannounced shortly after the postcard is mailed and ring the bell or knock on the door. If someone is home, they will explain who they are, with their KRT badge visible, and ask for an interior and exterior inspection.
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Revaluation FAQ - Assessed Value / Market Value / Project Phases
If no one is home, they will assume it is ok to measure the outside of the building and proceed to do so. A second attempt to inspect the property shall be made either after 5:00 p.m. on weekdays or on Saturday. If a second attempt to inspect the property is unsuccessful, KRT shall either leave a door-hanger at the property or send a letter to the property owner requesting the property owner call KRT to set up an appointment for an interior inspection.
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Revaluation FAQ - Assessed Value / Market Value / Project Phases
In a revaluation year, advanced notifications of preliminary property valuations will be provided to ALL property owners as part of Phase 5 of the revaluation project, the Assessing office will communicate expectations for the timeframe of these notifications.
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Revaluation FAQ - Assessed Value / Market Value / Project Phases
There can be several reasons, such as:
- The property was undervalued before
- Your location has improved in value
- We had been using mistaken information about the property
- Changes in the real estate market
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Revaluation FAQ - Assessed Value / Market Value / Project Phases
It is possible that the information we had on their property was already more accurate, or that they did not maintain their property as well, or we discovered missing information about your property. It is also possible that there is inaccurate information on your property’s assessment record. This is one reason we send out a notice of proposed valuation for your review in advance of tax commitment. Thousands and thousands of pieces of information have been entered into our system over the years, so it is possible for errors to occur. Please let us know of any data corrections that need to be made. Some changes may cause value increases and some may cause value decreases. Assessment data will be available online.
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Revaluation FAQ - Assessed Value / Market Value / Project Phases
It is likely that most property values will change, however, they will not all change at the same rate. Market value may have increased more for some neighborhoods and property types than for others. The values of some neighborhoods and property types may have even stayed the same or decreased in the current market. The purpose of the revaluation is to make sure that the assessments reflect those changes in market value.
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Revaluation FAQ - Assessed Value / Market Value / Project Phases
Not necessarily. Individual properties within the same neighborhood differ in characteristics and different neighborhoods command different values. In one area, the sales may indicate a substantial increase in value, while another neighborhood may see a lesser change in property values. Different types of properties within the same neighborhood may show different value changes. For example, older homes may be rising in value more slowly than newer homes in the same neighborhood, or one-story homes may be in more demand than two story homes, or vice versa. There are numerous factors that will cause values to differ between properties including, but not limited to, location, condition, size, age, quality, and building style.
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Revaluation FAQ - Assessed Value / Market Value / Project Phases
There are a number of reasons beyond general market changes as to why individual properties or groups of related properties could experience a change in their assessed value in any given year, whether or not there is a city-wide revaluation. Some common examples include:
- New Value Created
Construction of new buildings; renovations or additions to pre-existing buildings; subdivisions of larger parcels into smaller lots. - Property Changes
Change in a property's permitted use; physical damage to a building. - New Information
Survey displaying different acreage than lot size on record or an area designated as wetlands; review of deeds outlining an encumbrance like an easement; discovery of errors or inconsistencies requiring correction.
- New Value Created
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Revaluation FAQ - Assessed Value / Market Value / Project Phases
Market Value is defined as the amount a typical, well-informed buyer would be willing to pay a willing seller for a property. For a sale to be considered a qualified sale used to determine market value, it must be an arm's length transaction - the buyer and seller must not be related, the buyer must not be under pressure to buy and the seller must not be under pressure to sell, the property must be on the market for a reasonable length of time, the payment must be in cash or equivalent, and the financing must be typical for that type of property.
"Just Value" defined: "In the assessment of property, assessors in determining just value are to define this term in a manner which recognizes only that value arising from presently possible land use alternatives to which the particular parcel of land being valued may be put. Assessors must consider the effect upon value of any enforceable restrictions to which the use of the land may be subjected. Restrictions shall include but are not limited to zoning restrictions limiting the use of the land, subdivision restrictions, and any recorded contractual provisions limiting the use of lands. The just value of land is deemed to arise from and is attributable to legally permissible use or uses only." "For the purposes of establishing the valuation of improved real property, the property must be valued based on its highest and best use as of April 1st of each year, taking all of the following 3 approaches to value into consideration: cost, income, and sales comparison. In establishing the valuation of improved real property, assessors shall consider age, condition, use, type of construction, location, design, physical features, and economic characteristics." (36 MRSA 701-A)
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Revaluation FAQ - Assessed Value / Market Value / Project Phases
People (including you); the person who sold your house to you; and the person who is willing to buy it from you determine the market value of your property. Some people will pay more than fair market value for property, while others may have purchased their property at a lower price, or some property may have been purchased years ago when prices and values and the market were considerably different. The true test is what your property is worth now in today’s real estate market. Ask yourself this question, is your property’s assessment in line with recent sales prices of similar properties?
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Revaluation FAQ - Hearings, Appeals & Tax Relief
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Revaluation FAQ - Hearings, Appeals & Tax Relief
If you believe the assessment on your property is in excess of its Fair Market value, you are afforded the opportunity to appeal. You should first notify the appraisal firm KRT to set up an informal hearing. When questioning the assessment value, ask yourself three questions:
- Is my property data correct? (living area, bedrooms, baths, lot size, etc.)
- Is my value in line with others on the street?
- Is my value in line with recent sale prices in my neighborhood or comparable areas?
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Revaluation FAQ - Hearings, Appeals & Tax Relief
If you believe the new assessed value does not represent fair market value of your property, you will be afforded an opportunity to have your concerns addressed through informal hearings, as well as more formal processes. Details regarding the appeal process will be published in the coming months to ensure taxpayers are fully aware of their rights and options.
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Revaluation FAQ - Hearings, Appeals & Tax Relief
Towards the end of the Revaluation Project, every property owner will receive a notice of their proposed valuation based on the analysis performed. When a property owner has a question or concern about the proposed valuation, they are asked to schedule a date and time to discuss the valuation process and get answers to any questions they may have. An informal hearing is not a forum to discuss taxes; it is strictly meant to answer questions on the property valuations.
Property owners are asked to come prepared with questions and should have already compared their property to other similar sale properties in their neighborhood. Once the hearing is finished, a determination will be made on the need for further review and if changes are warranted.
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Revaluation FAQ - Hearings, Appeals & Tax Relief
If you still feel entitled to relief after meeting or speaking with the Assessor, you should file a formal appeal in accordance with Maine State Statute, Title 36, §843: Appeals.
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Revaluation FAQ - Hearings, Appeals & Tax Relief
Yes. You should pay your taxes under protest for two major reasons:
- To avoid interest being added and avoid any court costs including attorney's fees, if your non-payment is referred for collection.
- So you will not lose your right of appeal for nonpayment as required by law.
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Revaluation FAQ - Hearings, Appeals & Tax Relief
Yes, tax relief programs that are available: Veteran's Exemption, Homestead Exemption, Blind Exemption, Property Tax Fairness Credit, Property Tax Deferral Program, Tree Growth Tax Program, Farm and Open Space Tax Program. For businesses: Maine Business Equipment Tax Reimbursement Program (BETR) and the Business Equipment Tax Exemption Program (BETE). Information on these programs is available on the Property Tax page.
Assessing - Online Property Information
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Assessing - Online Property Information
The value is shown as subtotals. When there are multiple cards for an account you must add the land and building subtotals for each card in order to determine the total value.
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Assessing - Online Property Information
Copies of property record cards are available using the Online Parcel Viewer. Use the search feature to locate the property you are interested in, click on the parcel, and the property information will be displayed. The property record card is shown as an attachment in PDF format. Once you have opened the attachment the card can be viewed, saved to your computer, or printed out. The below screenshot shows how to access the property record card:
Assessment data available via the online Parcel Viewer includes Property Record Cards in PDF format.
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Assessing - Online Property Information
Assessment information in PDF format is fixed as of the assessment date. The information published on the website is not updated until the following year. More current information may be available at the Assessing Department.
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Assessing - Online Property Information
The Assessing Department does not have contact information beyond the mailing address for owners. The owner's address available through the online parcel viewer, shown on the property record card in PDF format, is the address that the City uses to mail tax bills.
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Assessing - Online Property Information
No. At this time sketch information is not available digitally. The Assessing Department hopes to have the sketches available digitally in the future, but there is no firm date available for this project. Sketches are available on hard-copy cards in the Assessing Department and can be obtained by contacting the office. The measurement tool on the online parcel viewer can be used to estimate the size of improvements. When using the measurement tool, be aware that roof overhangs and building lean can exaggerate the size of an improvement.
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Assessing - Online Property Information
The Assessing Department is committed to maintaining complete and accurate records. If you find a problem with information about a property, please contact the Assessing Department. We will be happy to review any information you have or schedule an inspection of the property.
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Assessing - Online Property Information
The imagery was produced in May of 2019. There may be changes to the structures shown on the imagery over time. The aerial imagery will likely be updated every five years.
City Clerk - Voter Registration & Elections
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City Clerk - Voter Registration & Elections
All Bangor voters vote at the Cross Insurance Center, 515 Main Street, Bangor.
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City Clerk - Voter Registration & Elections
Besides Election Day, Bangor voters can vote early by absentee ballot. Applications for an absentee ballot will be available three months prior to the election. Absentee ballots will be available 30 days prior to Election Day.
Election Day voting is held at the Cross Insurance Center, 515 Main Street. Polls are open from 7 am to 8 pm.
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City Clerk - Voter Registration & Elections
Voter Registration is available for new voters or for existing Bangor voters to change their address or name as follows:
- At the Cross Insurance Center on Election Day
- At the City Clerk's office during regular business hours
- At the Cross Insurance Center during Early Voting
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City Clerk - Voter Registration & Elections
To request an absentee ballot:
- Call the City Clerk's office at 207-992-4200
- Mail a written application to the City Clerk, 73 Harlow Street, Bangor
- Visit the City Clerk's office during regular business hours
To expedite your application, consider using the online absentee ballot application administered by the Secretary of State. This service is only available during State and Federal Elections. Please note this service is available only to current registered voters and when a state election is being held at the same time as the city election. Use this link to obtain an accessible ballot if you have a disability that makes it difficult for you to use a paper ballot.
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City Clerk - Voter Registration & Elections
Yes! View a sample city ballot (PDF)
The State of Maine provides a tool to look up voter information, including sample ballots.
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City Clerk - Voter Registration & Elections
Election Results will be posted here (link).
City Clerk - Voter Registration & Elections - Voter Registration
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City Clerk - Voter Registration & Elections - Voter Registration
To register to vote you must:
- Be a United States citizen
- Be at least 16 years of age to pre-register (not eligible to vote)
- Be a Maine resident
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City Clerk - Voter Registration & Elections - Voter Registration
Voter Registration is available for new voters or for existing Bangor voters to change their address or name as follows:
- At the Cross Insurance Center on Election Day
- At City Hall during regular business hours
Maine residents can also register at any Motor Vehicle branch office, in most state and federal social service agencies, or at voter registration drives. Completed registration cards can be delivered to the City Clerk's office.
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City Clerk - Voter Registration & Elections - Voter Registration
You must show identification and proof of Bangor residency. Examples include but are not limited to:
- Driver's license
- State identification card
- U.S. passport
- Birth Certificate
- Social Security Card
- Other official documents such as public benefit determination, utility bills, bank statements, government checks, etc. showing name and address
If your current Bangor address is not listed on the proof of identity, you must provide additional documentation of residency. Examples include but are not limited to motor vehicle registration, current tax return, hunting and fishing license, mail, property lease, or deed.
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City Clerk - Voter Registration & Elections - Voter Registration
All Bangor voters vote at the Cross Insurance Center.
Code Enforcement - Marijuana Businesses & Facilities
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Code Enforcement - Marijuana Businesses & Facilities
Yes, in some places and with some restrictions. Medical marijuana stores and recreational marijuana stores are allowed in some commercial districts, with setbacks from other uses such as schools and churches. The accompanying map should give you an idea of where the marijuana stores can locate.
Download and review the Map of Acceptable Marijuana Areas (PDF).
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Code Enforcement - Marijuana Businesses & Facilities
Under state law, dispensaries are a particular kind of large medical marijuana store. Only a few dispensaries are allowed in Maine. Dispensaries are treated the same as other medical marijuana stores under the Bangor ordinances.
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Code Enforcement - Marijuana Businesses & Facilities
Yes. Marijuana stores operated by a medical marijuana caregiver are treated the same as other marijuana stores under Bangor's ordinances, and may operate in the same areas under the same restrictions.
Caregivers may also grow and sell marijuana as a home occupation. They must meet all the requirements of any other home occupation.
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Code Enforcement - Marijuana Businesses & Facilities
No.
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Code Enforcement - Marijuana Businesses & Facilities
Signage designed to appeal to children is prohibited. No outdoor display of marijuana is allowed. Video cameras are required, and marijuana odors may not reach other properties. More information on these and other restrictions can be found in Chapters 165 and 177 of the Bangor Code of Ordinances.
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Code Enforcement - Marijuana Businesses & Facilities
Marijuana cultivation facilities are allowed in industrial zones, with similar restrictions as marijuana stores. See the Map of Acceptable Marijuana Areas (PDF) for more detail.
Marijuana grown for one's own personal use is regulated through the state.
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Code Enforcement - Marijuana Businesses & Facilities
Manufacturing facilities, where edibles, extracts, and other marijuana products are created, and testing facilities are allowed in industrial zones with similar restrictions as stores and cultivation facilities. See the Map of Acceptable Marijuana Areas (PDF) for more information.
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Code Enforcement - Marijuana Businesses & Facilities
The City's Code Enforcement Department is a good first place to contact if you are interested in setting up a marijuana facility. The permitting process is similar to that for other businesses, but there are some additional restrictions. Some of these are restrictions regarding marijuana in particular (see question: What other restrictions are there?). Others are more general; for instance, for anything involving extraction (e.g. manufacturing), you may need a flammable liquid license. Code Enforcement can assist you in identifying these restrictions.
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Code Enforcement - Marijuana Businesses & Facilities
More information can be found in the City of Bangor Code of Ordinances:
- Home Occupations: Section 165-22
- Definitions: Section 165-13
- Commercial Districts:
- Industrial Districts:
- Section 165-96
- Section 165-103
- Section 165-103.1 (testing facilities only)
- Security and Oversight Requirements: Chapter 177
Code Enforcement - Placarding
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That the structure or equipment in it is found by the code official to be unsafe; or the structure is found to be unfit for human occupancy; or that a structure is found to be unlawful. "Placarded building" and "condemned building" have the same meaning.Code Enforcement - Placarding
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A placard is issued for one of three safety reasons: unsafe structures (i.e., collapsing roof), unsafe equipment (furnaces, boilers, electrical equipment, etc.), or unfit for human occupancy (sanitary conditions, infestation, lack of ventilation, illumination, sanitary or heating facilities).Code Enforcement - Placarding
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Code Enforcement - Placarding
Yes, placarding means removal of the certificate of occupancy for that building. A new Certificate of Occupancy Application (PDF) will need to be applied for and issued prior to the building being occupied. The application for certificate of occupancy is available online or can be obtained in person at the Code Enforcement Office on the 1st floor of City Hall.
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Code Enforcement - Placarding
Placards can be removed when the defect(s) causing the condemnation has been eliminated. Removal of the placard does not mean the building is ready to be occupied, though. To reoccupy the building, a certificate of occupancy is required.
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Code Enforcement - Placarding
Removing the placard does not mean the building is code compliant. It means the cause(s) of the placard has been repaired. There may be, and often times are, other code violations at the property.
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Code Enforcement - Placarding
The Code Enforcement Office recommends arranging a walk-through inspection with code (207-992-4230). This can help identify violations and needed repairs. The next step is to get a dependable contractor to perform the needed tasks, being sure to obtain any necessary permits to do that work (see below). The final step is to have the Code Office inspect the completed work.
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Code Enforcement - Placarding
Applicable building, plumbing, and electrical permits for the needed work must be applied for and issued prior to commencing repair work. Plumbing and electrical permits require a licensed professional to pull the permit in person at the Code Enforcement Office at City Hall. Building permits can be pulled by the property owner or agent of the owner and are available online or in person at the Code Enforcement Office at City Hall.
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Code Enforcement - Placarding
Placards do not expire. They remain on the building until the issues causing the placard are remedied.
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Code Enforcement - Placarding
The red "X" sign on a placarded building means there are dangers in the building that first responders need to be aware of. These dangers are often structural in nature, such as collapsed roofs, floor damage, foundation collapse, damaged decks, etc. Additionally, a large fire load (items contained in a building) in a placarded building will earn it a red "X." Any access to a building with a red "X" should be considered highly dangerous and is discouraged.
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Code Enforcement - Placarding
Contact the listing Agent to schedule a viewing. Placarded buildings means they cannot be occupied, but viewing or inspecting the property is allowed. In all placarded buildings, and particularly in "red X" buildings, use of caution when viewing and inspecting is always advised.
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Code Enforcement - Placarding
You may list and show a placarded property as you would a non-placarded property. Please do not remove or tamper with the posted placard notice. As stated above, please use caution when showing any placarded property.
Community Connector - Schedules & Fares - Half Cash Fare Program
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Community Connector - Schedules & Fares - Half Cash Fare Program
- Senior citizens 60 years old or older.
- Persons with a Medicare card.
- Persons on SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance).
- Persons with valid ADA Paratransit ID card.
- Persons with limited mobility.
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Community Connector - Schedules & Fares - Half Cash Fare Program
At your local City Hall or Town Office:
- Bangor City Hall, 73 Harlow Street, Bangor
- Brewer City Hall, 80 N Main Street, Brewer
- Hampden Town Office, 106 Western Avenue, Hampden
- Old Town City Hall, 265 Main Street, Old Town
- Orono Town Office, 59 Main Street, Orono
- Veazie Town Office, 1084 Main Street, Veazie
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Community Connector - Schedules & Fares - Half Cash Fare Program
- Photo ID (60 years or older) to verify identity.
- Medicare card, bring that and photo ID (if you have Medicare).
- SSDI verification and Photo ID (if you have SSDI).
- ADA Paratransit ID card and Photo ID (if you qualify for ADA Paratransit).
Stormwater - Urban Impaired Streams
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Stormwater - Urban Impaired Streams
The City of Bangor is making efforts to improve the water quality in the waters of the impaired streams in the City. These efforts include: raising awareness of water quality issues through education and outreach, writing and implementing watershed-based plans, structural Best Management Practices (BMPs) to improve stormwater quality, and following development regulations from the Maine DEP.
Stormwater education and outreach are largely accomplished in a collaborative effort of Bangor area municipalities, federal facilities, and public universities through their membership in the Bangor Area Stormwater Group (BASWG). These efforts are aimed at improving stewardship of lands to improve stormwater quality by local residents.
Watershed-Based Plans (WBPs, sometimes referred to as "watershed management plans") are written for specific waterbodies as a "road map" to improve water quality and/or habitat within a waterbody. The City of Bangor has active WBPs for Arctic Brook and Capehart Brook. Birch Stream and Penjajawoc Stream have had active WBPs in the past, and updated plans for these two streams will be written by 2027. Sucker Brook and Shaw Brook do not have WBPs at this time.
The City has installed many structural Best Management Practices (BMPs) in Urban Impaired Stream watersheds over the years. These BMPs are usually designed to capture stormwater, remove pollutants, lower temperatures, and slowly release the stormwater. Slowly releasing the stormwater mimics a more natural environment with less impervious cover.
The goal of both the Maine DEP and the City of Bangor is to improve water quality in these waterbodies to the point where they are no longer impaired.
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Stormwater - Urban Impaired Streams
Citizens can make small changes in their everyday lives that can have a big impact when multiplied over a larger population. Reducing individual pollutant loads from many individuals in a community can be effective at reducing pollutant loads in waterways. Non-point source pollution reduction can be reduced on an individual level. Common non-point source pollutants in Maine and ways to reduce them include:
- Sediment - From eroding soils
- These can be reduced by stabilizing soils with vegetation and mulch
- Mow your lawn at 3 inches or higher for healthy turf
- Repair areas damaged by snow removal in the spring
- Nutrients - From fertilizers and pet wastes
- Only apply lawn chemicals when needed
- Pick up your pets' waste and dispose in the trash
- Don't dump yard wastes in ditches or drainage ways
- Oils, Greases, and other chemicals - From mechanical system leaks
- Maintain mechanical items such as vehicles and outdoor power equipment to fix and prevent leaks
- Clean up leaks and spills immediately using absorbent materials - do not "wash them away"
- Litter - garbage and other disposed items
- Keep your outdoor waste receptacles covered and secured from wind
- Clean up litter
- Chlorides - From salts used for snow and ice control
- Follow the instructions on the packaging for the ice-melting product
- Pay attention to the outside temperature when applying salts
- Salt is not as effective in extreme cold, no matter how much is used
- Not as much product is needed in warmer temperatures and sunny days
- Sediment - From eroding soils
Stormwater - Urban Impaired Streams - Arctic Brook
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Stormwater - Urban Impaired Streams - Arctic Brook
The City of Bangor developed a Watershed-Based Management Plan for Arctic Brook in 2016. The project was funded in part by a United States Environmental Protection Agency under Section 604(b) of the Clean Water Act. The Watershed-based Plan for Arctic Brook was developed to aid the City in improving the water quality in Arctic Brook. The plan:
- Provides an overview of the watershed
- Discusses causes of impairment
- Identifies environmental stressors
- Provides management strategies
- Identifies locations for stormwater treatment retrofits
- Discusses key changes in behavior which could reduce pollution
- Provides suggestions for water quality monitoring
- Provides a plan to implement all of the elements in the watershed-based plan
- Estimates costs for implementation
- Provides a plan for measuring success of the plan
Stormwater runoff from the developed areas in the watershed (parking lots, buildings and roads) is likely the largest source of pollution to the Arctic Brook. Stormwater flows quickly off impervious surfaces, carrying pollutants, and sending high volumes of flow to the stream. An Impervious Cover Total Maximum Daily Load (ICTMDL) report was developed for Arctic Brook in 2011 which states the watershed is currently 23% impervious with a target goal of 8% effective impervious cover, a 65% reduction.
The purpose of the plan is to have a detailed, user-friendly watershed-based plan describing effective actions which will improve water quality and aquatic habitat conditions in Arctic Brook. The plan will build upon local support to help address polluted runoff problems in the watershed and provide the City with a road map for restoration.
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Stormwater - Urban Impaired Streams - Arctic Brook
Both property owners and the City of Bangor have completed some of the actions listed in the watershed-based plan for Arctic Brook.
2022: Fluvial Geomorphic improvements on reaches 1 and 2 both upstream and downstream of Grandview Avenue. This work included floodplain restoration, floodplain wood additions, log walls, log constrictors, and restorative plantings. These features will improve stream habitat and function in the upper watershed.
2022: Culvert Replacement on Arctic Brook at Grandview Avenue. The failing 54-inch corrugated metal culvert was replaced with a 102-inch by 71-inch corrugated metal pipe arch. This vastly increase the hydraulic capacity of the culvert and also improves the habitat connectivity in Arctic Brook and along its corridor for both aquatic and terrestrial animals. This culvert replacement will also complement the floodplain restoration that was completed concurrently in the fluvial geomorphic improvements.
2022: 685/699 Broadway redevelopment plans include a bioretention soil filter to treat stormwater onsite. This site will also see a reduction in overall impervious through this redevelopment.
2019: 711 Broadway property was retrofit with two new under-drained soil filters to treat existing impervious areas. A third soil filter was installed to treat some new impervious area.
Stormwater - Urban Impaired Streams - Shaw Brook
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Stormwater - Urban Impaired Streams - Shaw Brook
Shaw Brook does not have a Watershed-based Plan and the City of Bangor does not currently have a plan to develop a watershed-based plan.
The City plans to have a geomorphic assessment completed on Shaw Brook by July 2027. This report will include an overview of the morphology of the stream, as well as areas of interest for future improvements along the stream. The focus of this work is to identify areas where in-stream habitat can be improved, and also to identify any problem areas that might be addressed.
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Stormwater - Urban Impaired Streams - Shaw Brook
The City of Bangor will implement one structural stormwater best management practice (BMP) in the Shaw Brook Watershed by June 30, 2027.
Stormwater - Urban Impaired Streams - Sucker Brook
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Stormwater - Urban Impaired Streams - Sucker Brook
Sucker Brook does not have a Watershed-based Plan. Efforts to understand Sucker Brook have been undertaken in the form of a Stream Corridor and Watershed Survey, and a fluvial geomorphic assessment. A watershed based plan may be developed in the future.
The Stream Corridor and Watershed Survey was completed in October 2014 and includes a basic assessment of the stream. The City of Bangor, the Town of Hampden, and the Maine DEP worked in cooperation to complete the Survey and report.
A Geomorphic Assessment and Restoration Recommendations report was prepared by Field Geology Services for the City of Bangor and the Town of Hampden in 2023. This report included an overview of the morphology of the stream, as well as areas of interest for future improvements along the stream. The focus of this work is to identify areas where in-stream habitat can be improved, and also to identify any problem areas that might be addressed.
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Stormwater - Urban Impaired Streams - Sucker Brook
The City of Bangor will implement one structural stormwater best management practice (BMP) in the Sucker Brook Watershed by June 30, 2027.
Stormwater Utility
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Stormwater Utility
Stormwater is water from rain, snow and ice melt. Precipitation in agricultural and undeveloped areas is either absorbed or slowly runs off and dissipates. In developed areas such as the City of Bangor, where rooftops and paved areas not only prevent the water from being absorbed but help it run off at a much faster rate, problems arise.
In these developed areas, the stormwater makes its way much more quickly to streams and other waterways, creating sudden high flows. Inadequate drainage systems compound the problems associated with heavy rains. The stormwater accumulates in many areas of the city, causing flooding, impairments to our urban streams, and potential threats to public health and safety. In some highly developed areas of Bangor over 90% of the water runs off (compared to 29% in less developed areas).
Flooding is only part of the problem. Water quality is also an issue. Precipitation picks up sediments from buildings, streets, and driveways and carries with it pollutants such as gasoline, oil, and heavy metals. Pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers are washed from lawns and other green spaces. The stormwater acts like a broom, pushing these sediments and pollutants into the waterways. In warm weather, stormwater runoff from surfaces such as asphalt heats up, compounding the problem. With the passage of time, these pollutants build up in our waterways and underground drainage systems, causing significant environmental damage to our urban streams. These pollutants also threaten our fish and aquatic life.
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Stormwater Utility
An impervious area is a surface that either prevents or slows the natural absorption of water into soil. Rooftops, streets, parking lots, driveways, sidewalks, patios and artificial turf are all examples of impervious areas. Impervious areas also includes compacted gravel and compacted unpaved surfaces.
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Stormwater Utility
Yes. Stormwater runoff is our most common cause of water pollution. It can carry harmful pollutants, cause flooding, erode topsoil and ditch banks and create impairments to aquatic habitats. The majority of stormwater runoff in the City flows into several smaller urban streams, plus the Kenduskeag Stream and Penobscot River. Urbanization increases the variety and amount of pollutants carried into our natural water bodies. The pollutants include sediments; oil, grease and toxic chemicals from motor vehicles; pesticides and nutrients from lawns and gardens; nutrients from pet waste and failing sanitary sewer systems; and thermal pollution from warm impervious surfaces such as asphalt streets and rooftops.
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Stormwater Utility
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued stormwater and water quality regulations that require communities, even smaller ones like the City of Bangor, to control water pollution from stormwater runoff. This means that the City must take a more active role in managing its stormwater. We are required by EPA to implement municipal stormwater programs to reduce stormwater pollution discharges
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Stormwater Utility
The federal Clean Water Act sets standards for Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4s) under the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) program.
An MS4 is a publicly owned conveyance or system of conveyances (roads with drainage systems, ditches curbs, catch basins, etc.) that is designed or used for collecting or conveying stormwater and discharges to surface waters of the State. Because it owns and operates roads and storm drain systems, the City of Bangor is a regulated MS4 community.
Under the NPDES program, MS4 owners/operators must obtain stormwater permits and implement a comprehensive stormwater management program that reduces the contamination of stormwater runoff and prohibits illicit discharges to the "maximum extent practicable".
Stormwater management programs for MS4 communities include measures to:
- Identify major outfalls and pollutant loadings
- Detect and eliminate non-stormwater discharges to the system
- Reduce pollutants in runoff from industrial, commercial, and residential areas
- Control stormwater discharges from new development and redevelopment areas
- Implement a monitoring program
The City is required to pay particular attention to certain streams that do not meet state-imposed water quality classifications. These streams are called urban impaired streams, and are listed in the 2012 Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report and its appendices. One of the primary goals of the City's stormwater program is to improve the water quality in these streams so that they meet their water quality classifications.
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Stormwater Utility
The stormwater utility was established to provide revenue to maintain and improve existing stormwater infrastructure in the City of Bangor, and to develop and maintain a comprehensive water quality focused stormwater management plan as mandated by the Federal government under the Clean Water Act.
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Stormwater Utility
City staff, with assistance from CH2M Hill Engineers and others, developed the organizational structure and budget that would allow the City to meet its stormwater management needs. City staff held informational meetings with local civic groups, businesses and organizations. In addition, twelve open meetings were held over a number of months to inform the general public. Various funding solutions were discussed with the City Council, including increased taxes and the formation of a fee based utility. The funding solutions were compared for cost of administration, equity, and ease of development. After reviewing the studies and conducting numerous public meetings and a public hearing, the Council determined that establishing a utility was the best solution for meeting the funding needs.
The City Council passed Ordinance 12-133 establishing the Stormwater Utility in May 2012. On October 22, 2012, the City Council through Council Order 12-342 set the utility rate at $22 per year for the first 3000 square feet of impervious area and $11 per year for each additional 1000 square feet of impervious area.
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Stormwater Utility
The stormwater utility fee is based on a property's total impervious area rounded to the nearest 1,000 square feet. The total area is multiplied by a dollar amount per 1,000 square feet to produce the property's stormwater fee. For all properties, the first 3,000 square feet is charged a fee of $22 per year. For properties with an impervious area greater than 3,000 feet, an additional fee of $11 per year per 1,000 square feet is added to the total.
For example, a property with 6,000 square feet of impervious area would pay $55 per year. This property would therefore receive a quarterly bill of $13.75.
You will not be charged a stormwater utility fee if your property has less than 500 square feet of impervious area.
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Stormwater Utility
The City uses aerial photography and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software to measure all impervious areas in the city. Aerial photography is updated every few years so that changes in impervious area that might not be otherwise apparent via subdivision or site plan approval will be taken into account.
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Stormwater Utility
All property owners within the City of Bangor with one or more parcels of land containing 500 or more square feet of impervious area will pay a stormwater fee. That includes homeowners, public and private schools, public facilities, houses of worship and other non-profit organizations, and businesses.
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Stormwater Utility
The stormwater fee, just like a water or sewer fee, is not a tax. It is a fee based on the cost of services provided and is collected from everyone who receives the service. Houses of worship, non-profit organizations and schools contribute stormwater because of the impervious area in their buildings and parking lots. They are treated like all other customers under the rate structure.
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Stormwater Utility
All impervious areas within one property location will be consolidated into one bill. For a multi-tenant facility, such as a shopping center or apartment complex, there will be a single bill. The bill will be sent to the owner as shown on the database maintained by the City's Assessors. The owner is responsible for paying the bill.
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Stormwater Utility
No. There are a number of communities in Maine that have established or are considering a Stormwater Utility and associated fees. Nationally, there are hundreds of cities of all sizes that have established stormwater utilities similar to Bangor's.
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Stormwater Utility
The revenue from the stormwater fee will be placed in a separate fund that, by ordinance, can only be spent for stormwater activities. Some of the important components of this program include:
- Development of stormwater design standards and regulations
- Improved and increased maintenance/repair of the City's stormwater system
- Public information and education concerning stormwater issues to reduce pollution
- Improved stormwater quality through monitoring and reduction of illicit discharges
- Design, permitting and construction of stormwater projects including stream restoration
- Field inspection/enforcement of these standards.
- Low impact development, green infrastructure projects, and best management practices
Specific watershed management plans have already been developed or are being developed for three of Bangor's streams: Penjajawoc Stream, Birch Stream, and Capehart Brook. Over the next few years, watershed management plans will be developed for Bangor's other impaired streams. Additional City initiatives are outlined in the City's MS4 permit.
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Stormwater Utility
No. The City's General Fund provides limited funding. A dedicated revenue stream will allow the City to accomplish the Federal and State mandates for water quality improvement.
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Stormwater Utility
You may not have a problem, but the runoff generated from your property contributes to problems downstream. The approach taken by this program recognizes that everyone contributes to runoff and pollution and everyone will share in the benefits (improved water quality, reduced flooding, better access to roads, etc.).
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Stormwater Utility
The stormwater utility has established a credit system to evaluate stormwater control facilities and a credit may be available. Please call the Engineering Department at 207-992-4183 to initiate the process of determining whether a credit will be applied to the property.
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Stormwater Utility
Under the Clean Water Act, the EPA can levy fines against the City of Bangor of up to $25,000 a day.
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Stormwater Utility
To request a review of your stormwater fee amount or the square footage assessment, you may obtain an "appeal of current stormwater fee assessment" form from the City Engineering Department. This form will be made available on the City's website.
Return the completed form and any attachments within 30 days of receiving your service fee bill to the office of:
Director of Public Services
73 Harlow Street
Bangor, ME 04401Your appeal will be reviewed within 30 days and you will receive notice of the results. A field crew may come to your location to measure your property's impervious area.
Public Works - Browntail Moth Response - Clipping Tool Loan Program
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Public Works - Browntail Moth Response - Clipping Tool Loan Program
Only residents of Bangor may borrow the pole pruners. Proof of residency will be required.
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Public Works - Browntail Moth Response - Clipping Tool Loan Program
Extendable pole pruners.
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Public Works - Browntail Moth Response - Clipping Tool Loan Program
Pole pruners are only loaned to residents for one week.
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Public Works - Browntail Moth Response - Clipping Tool Loan Program
The City of Bangor has purchased 5 sets of pole pruners to start the program. If there is great interest, additional investments may be made in equipment.
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Public Works - Browntail Moth Response - Clipping Tool Loan Program
Call 207-992-4500, or stop by Public Works, to see if pole pruners are available for loan. If all pruners have already been loaned, you can put your name and contact information on a waiting list. As poles become available, residents will be called and allowed 24 hours to respond whether they still want to borrow a pruner. After 24 hours, Public Works will move on to the next person on the waiting list.
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Public Works - Browntail Moth Response - Clipping Tool Loan Program
Pole pruners not returned in one week will result in the borrower being liable for $1/day fine. After 30 days, the pole pruner will be considered stolen and the borrower will be responsible for the full replacement cost.
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Public Works - Browntail Moth Response - Clipping Tool Loan Program
Damage from misuse or negligence will result in the resident being responsible for the full replacement cost.
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Public Works - Browntail Moth Response - Clipping Tool Loan Program
A copy of the loan agreement can be seen here.
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Public Works - Browntail Moth Response - Clipping Tool Loan Program
A copy of the operating instructions can be found here.
Public Works - Trash Collection
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Public Works - Trash Collection
Schedule changes will be announced on the City of Bangor Facebook and City of Bangor Twitter pages. Citizens can sign up for email notifications; scroll down to select "Curbside Trash Collection Notification's".
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Public Works - Trash Collection
Yes, please mix both trash and recycling together in your bin. Plastic containers should be compressed if possible, and cardboard broken down and flattened. Bulkier items such as cardboard do not need to be bagged, but they must be placed inside the bin and the lid of the bin must be closed.
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Public Works - Trash Collection
As long as your trash and recycling fit inside the bin and the lid closes securely, you are good to go. If garbage is sticking above the rim of the trash can, if your lid will not close, or if bags are piled on top of the lid, your trash will not be serviced that week. You will need to wait until your next scheduled pickup.
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Public Works - Trash Collection
No. All trash and recycling, whether bagged up or not, must go inside the bin. There is not a worker outside the truck to collect anything that is not in the bin.
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Public Works - Trash Collection
The bag and weight limits of the past have been enforced for the safety of the workers picking up the bags. The automated side-load arm on the new trucks can lift heavier trash bins. Generally, as long as your trash and recycling fit inside the bin and the lid closes securely, you are good to go.
We have experienced instances of the hydraulic arm being unable to pick up a bin due to it being filled with concrete and soil (unacceptable waste) or filled with ice, due to the lid being open during a winter storm. When the bin is too heavy for the hydraulic arm to lift it, the bin will not be serviced until material is removed to reduce the weight.
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Public Works - Trash Collection
Yes, each household receives a 96-gallon bin. If there are three apartments in your building, then your building will receive three bins. Building with more than four units must contract privately for trash and recycling collection.
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Public Works - Trash Collection
These bins are very large and exceed the weekly average output of Bangor households. After the December holiday season Public Works will have a drop-off event where residents can drop off excess wrapping paper, packing material, boxes, bows, etc. That being said, additional 96-gallon bins are available for $260 each year, which averages out to $5/week. The fee covers the disposal cost of the extra trash generated, as well as the cost of service and maintenance for the bin. Call Public Works at 207-992-4500 for more information.
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Public Works - Trash Collection
Yes, the front of the bin should face the street, leave 3' clearance around the bin and 15' clearance overhead. All trash and recycling must fit in the bin and the lid must close in order for the truck to pick it up. The bins are clearly marked with placement directions.
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Public Works - Trash Collection
You may put a label with your address on the lid, or you may write your address or apartment number on the lid with a paint marker or permanent marker. Make sure you do this only on the lid. Do not write, paint, or affix anything on the body of the bin.
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Public Works - Trash Collection
Your bin is tagged with a code that corresponds to your address. If bins are damaged by the collection contractor and are unusable, they are repaired free of charge to the household. Please report damaged bins to Public Works via the SeeClickFix app, by submitting a service request, or by calling 207-992-4500.
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Public Works - Trash Collection
The City of Bangor is a member of the Municipal Review Committee, a group of 115 cities and towns working together to ensure affordable, long term, and environmentally sound disposal of municipal solid waste. MRC is working diligently to re-open the Hampden waste processing facility, now called Municipal Waste Solutions (MWS), with their new business partner, Innovative Resource Recovery, with the goal of reopening in 2025. When fully operational, the facility should easily exceed 50% diversion of recyclable materials from the waste stream, with an ultimate goal of 70% to 80% of solid waste being recycled.
C&ED Foreign Trade Zone FAQ
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C&ED Foreign Trade Zone FAQ
No. With the Alternative Site Framework that exists, businesses can apply to activate FTZ status at their own facility – no warehouse required – so long as the business meets application criteria.
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C&ED Foreign Trade Zone FAQ
A tariff is the tax category on imports; a duty is the specific amount charged.
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C&ED Foreign Trade Zone FAQ
Your business must import and export goods internationally. Your business must be located in Hancock, Penobscot, Piscataquis, Waldo, or Washington County. Your facility must be able to store goods until ready to go to market.
Legal Department - Maine's Freedom of Access Act
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Legal Department - Maine's Freedom of Access Act
Contact the City department containing the records you seek, or contact the City’s Public Access Officer, Grace Innis, at grace.innis@bangormaine.gov if you are unsure of the department to contact.
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Legal Department - Maine's Freedom of Access Act
You can apply for a vital record through the City Clerk's office. Email the City Clerk at cityclerk@bangormaine.gov.
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Legal Department - Maine's Freedom of Access Act
Send an email request to the City's Code Enforcement Office at code.enf@bangormaine.gov.
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Legal Department - Maine's Freedom of Access Act
Send an email request to the Police Department at police@bangormaine.gov.
Legal Department - Accessibility Accomodations
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Legal Department - Accessibility Accomodations
Contact the City’s ADA Coordinator, Grace Innis, by phone at 207-992-4276 or by email at adabangor@bangormaine.gov.
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Legal Department - Accessibility Accomodations
Contact the City’s ADA Coordinator Grace Innis by phone at 207-992-4276 or by email at adabangor@bangormaine.gov.
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Legal Department - Accessibility Accomodations
Submit complaints regarding public accessibility under the ADA on the ADA Grievance form . If you choose not to use the form, your complaint should contain information about the alleged discrimination including your name, address, and phone number, and location, date, and description of the problem. While complaints should generally be submitted in writing, alternative means of filing complaints, such as personal interviews or acceptance of recorded complaints, will be accommodated. The complaint should be submitted as soon as possible after the alleged violation was discovered. Send complaints by email to adabangor@bangormaine.gov or by mail to City of Bangor ADA Coordinator, 73 Harlow Street, Bangor, Maine 04401. Contact the City’s ADA Coordinator at 207-992-4276 or via email at adabangor@bangormaine.gov, with any questions about this process.
Legal Department - Quitclaim Deeds
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Legal Department - Quitclaim Deeds
Search the Penobscot County Registry of Deeds website at https://penobscotdeeds.com/ to obtain a copy of a recorded deed, or visit the Registry in person at 97 Hammond Street, Bangor, on the first floor of the historic Penobscot County Courthouse.
Legal Department - Appeals and Variances
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Legal Department - Appeals and Variances
Visit the City’s Code Enforcement Division, complete and file a Board of Appeals Application and pay the required processing fee within 30 days after the decision to be appealed. The appeal application form must specifically set forth the grounds that form the basis of your appeal. If the Code Enforcement Division determines that your appeal is in the proper form, and you have paid the required fee, the Code Enforcement Division will refer the appeal to the Board of Appeals (Board). The Board will hold a public hearing within 60 days of the receipt of the application and required fee. The City’s Legal Department will notify you of your hearing date.
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Legal Department - Appeals and Variances
Visit the City’s Code Enforcement Division, complete and file a Board of Appeals Application and pay the required processing fee within 30 days after the decision to be appealed, if there was a decision. The appeal application form must specifically set forth the grounds that form the basis of your appeal. If the Code Enforcement Division determines that your appeal is in the proper form and you have paid the required fee, the Code Enforcement Division will refer the appeal to the Board of Appeals (Board). The Board will hold a public hearing within 60 days of the receipt of the application and required fee. The City’s Legal Department will notify you of your hearing date.
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Legal Department - Appeals and Variances
Visit the City’s Code Enforcement Division, complete and file a Board of Appeals Application. The appeal application form must specifically set forth the grounds that form the basis of your appeal. If the Code Enforcement Division determines that your appeal is in the proper form, the Code Enforcement Division will refer the appeal to the Board of Appeals (Board). The Board will hold a public hearing within 60 days of the receipt of the application. The City’s Legal Department will notify you of your hearing date.
Legal Department - Vacant Building Registration
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Legal Department - Vacant Building Registration
Vacant or abandoned properties, particularly residential properties, create and pose significant and costly problems for the City. These properties often become a drain on the City budget and detract from the quality of life of the neighborhood and the City as a whole. These structures are unsightly, often structurally unsound or otherwise dangerous, attract criminal activity, and otherwise create a threat to public health, safety, and welfare of neighboring properties and the general public. The registration process is intended to prevent or mitigate dangers to health, safety and welfare, promote responsible management, provide a safe neighborhood for residents, safeguard property values, expedite housing repairs, and provide for prompt contact with owners or managers by Police, Fire, and Code Enforcement when issues or emergencies develop.
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Legal Department - Vacant Building Registration
A registration is required within 60 days of a building becoming vacant.
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Legal Department - Vacant Building Registration
Vacant buildings located within the URD-1, URD-2, M&SD, NSD, DDD, LDR, HDR, and RR&A zoning districts are required to register. If you are unsure of the zoning district in which your vacant building is located, you can look up the address at this link.
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Legal Department - Vacant Building Registration
Yes. Primary residences of members of the armed forces on active duty, vacation or resort facilities, or residences of persons on extended vacations or alternative living arrangements with the intention to return to the property and live (e.g., "snowbirds") are exempt from having to register, but they are required to have the property maintained by a property manager and to provide the City with a valid emergency contact number for the owner or the property manager.
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Legal Department - Vacant Building Registration
There are two situations where a property owner may request a temporary deferral of the payment of the vacant building registration fee.
First, if the building is your primary residence that became uninhabitable because of a fire or other casualty event that you did not cause, you may request deferral of the payment of the registration fee for up to 6 months. You still have to file the application to register the building as vacant, make the building available for inspection by the City, provide a valid emergency contact phone number, and agree to be readily available to the Code Enforcement Office during the period of the deferral. In certain circumstances, you may also be able to request an additional 6 months of deferral of the payment of the fee. Once the building is no longer vacant within the period of the deferral, you may request a waiver of the required payment of the deferred fee.
Second, a property owner may also request that the vacant building registration fee be deferred for up to 6 months if you have an active building permit on file with the City’s Code Enforcement Office. You still have to file the application to register the building as vacant and make the building available for inspection by the City. In certain circumstances, you may also be able to request an additional 6 months of deferral of the payment of the fee. Once the building is no longer vacant within the period of the deferral, you may request a waiver of the required payment of the deferred fee.
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Legal Department - Vacant Building Registration
Complete and submit the on-line, fillable Vacant Building Registration Application and pay the required fee at the City’s Code Enforcement Division (Code). Contact Code at 207-992-4230 or code.enf@bangormaine.gov if you have any questions or to request a hard copy application.
Legal Department - Legal Assistance
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Legal Department - Legal Assistance
The City’s attorneys represent the City’s interests, and can speak with you about certain City issues. The City’s Legal Department advises the City Council, Boards, Commissions, and staff on legal issues pertaining to the City. Private citizens should seek legal advice about their personal matters from a licensed attorney with expertise in the area of practice needed. For information on finding a reliable lawyer, you may contact the Maine Lawyer Referral Service, which is provided by the Maine State Bar Association, by calling (800) 860-1460, or you may visit their webpage at Looking for an Attorney? - Maine State Bar Association. You may also look for an attorney by visiting the American Bar Association’s webpage at How Do I Find a Lawyer? To inquire as to whether you qualify in Maine for certain free civil legal aid, you may contact Pine Tree Legal Assistance at Self-Help Tools | Pine Tree Legal Assistance or by calling (207) 942-8322.
Legal Department - Rights and Responsibilities of Residential Tenants and Landlords
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Legal Department - Rights and Responsibilities of Residential Tenants and Landlords
Yes. The landlord of a residential housing unit in Bangor must give a tenant 60 days’ written notice of any rent increase.
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Legal Department - Rights and Responsibilities of Residential Tenants and Landlords
Tenant rights information can be found at the following link: Tenants' Housing Rights Ordinance | Bangor, ME
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Legal Department - Rights and Responsibilities of Residential Tenants and Landlords
The fillable complaint form can be found at the following link: Fillable-Complaint-Form-PDF
Once you have filled out the complaint form, please return in person or via mail to the Code Enforcement Department at 73 Harlow Street, or email to code.enforcement@bangormaine.gov.
Community Connector - ADA Paratransit
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Community Connector - ADA Paratransit
No. All Community Connector buses are wheelchair accessible.
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Community Connector - ADA Paratransit
Call 207-992-4670 to reschedule.
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Community Connector - ADA Paratransit
Yes, but they are responsible for paying the $3 fare each way. You also need to let dispatch know to ensure there is enough room.
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Community Connector - ADA Paratransit
You can fill out and return the Request to Appeal Form (PDF) to appeal this determination.