9304-R4_NewGloucester_2024-2025_AnnualReport_Web

• In December 2023, the State of Maine accepted ERC’s application to be enrolled in the Community Resilience Partnership (CRP). The CRP is a grant program designed to help communities prepare for the effects of climate change and is part of the Governor’s Office of Policy, Innovation and the Future. In July 2024, The State of Maine awarded the Town of New Gloucester a Community Action Grant to support the creation of a comprehensive climate vulnerability assessment for the town. In planning for this work, the town has partnered with ERC, the Sabbathday Lake Association, the Royal River Conservation Trust, and the Greater Portland Council of Governments (GPCOG). In April 2025, ERC and GPCOG hosted a public workshop for GPCOG to present New Gloucester’s climate hazards and overview of climate vulnerabilities, and a chance for residents to share their knowledge, concerns, and priorities on how climate change will impact the town’s ecosystems, infrastructure, and community. A public survey was available February 2025 – September 2025. The survey was a place for residents to share their climate concerns and help guide New Gloucester’s climate vulnerability assessment. The project will result in a comprehensive Climate Vulnerability Assessment Report including a section on recommendations for immediate next steps; and a report of community engagement efforts and events with information on approaches used, attendance, and outcomes. In June 2025, we accepted the resignation of Diane Lamson. Continuing members include chair Lauren Jordan, vice chair Sarah Kaplinger, secretary Nate Reminsnyder, Doug Smith, Ariel Provencal (welcomed in August 2025), Elizabeth Randall (welcomed in September 2025), and Mike Brakey. Dustin Ward served as select board liaison, and Sarah Rodriques continues as Parks and Rec liaison.

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