Board: Auburn City Council

Met: Monday night

Sprinklers

Issue: The city has required some buildings to have automatic fire sprinklers since 1982, but city councilors said that unfairly punishes developers hoping to build on lots that are far away from city water lines. Councilors had heard complaints from developers that said the rule hurts them.

The scoop: The proposed changes would remove the restriction for buildings larger than 200,000 cubic feet but still require sprinklers for three-story buildings, those 40 feet tall or taller, and apartments with five dwelling units.

Councilor Dan Herrick said that rule is especially hard on warehouse developers, but they would not be the only kind of developer to benefit.

Auburn Fire Inspector Gary Simard said better sprinklers in the loading dock of a South Paris warehouse would have helped slow a dangerous fire there this month, and he urged councilors to reconsider. But councilors said the changes would be more business-friendly.

Up next: Councilors approved the change. They are scheduled to vote on it again at their Jan. 5 meeting.

Habitat sale delayed

Issue: Charity builders Habitat for Humanity had hoped to build its newest project next spring in Auburn. The group hoped to purchase a .11 acre lot at 133 Hampshire St. from the city for $3,000, well below the assessed property value of $20,100.

The scoop: Neighbor Joanne Luizzo of 131 Hampshire St. told councilors that her family uses the lot as an open space, and her family rakes the leaves there and maintains it. Her children have even built a tree house on the lot. She said it was unfair to sell the property to a charity without checking with neighbors, and she offered to purchase the lot for the same $3,000. Councilors tabled the matter earlier this month.

City Manager Glenn Aho said he had been contacted by several neighbors who agreed that they wanted to see the lot remain open. He was still gathering information, however, and urged councilors to hold off on making a decision.

Up next: Councilors left the matter on the table and will likely review it at their Jan. 5 meeting.

Liquor licenses

Issue: Local restaurants and bars must reapply for liquor licenses and amusement permits each year. Liquor licenses let them serve alcohol; amusement permits let them play music, have a DJ or karaoke, or have games on site.

The scoop: Councilors renewed special amusement permits for the American Legion 426 Washington Ave.; Fireside Inn and Suites, 177 Washington Ave.; Lost Valley, 200 Lost Valley Road; Martindale Country Club, 527 Beech Hill Road; the New Auburn American Legion, 71 South Main St.; the New Auburn Social Club, 7 Second Ave.; and the VFW Post 1603 588 Minot Ave.

Contact government reporter Scott Taylor via phone at 689-2846 or via e-mail at [email protected]