In Local News
Camden neighbors ask federal court to block alcohol rehab center - Bangor Daily News
By Stephen Betts, March 27, 2014 | Several neighbors of a proposed high-end alcohol treatment center have asked a federal court to block the project. … The neighbors have hired attorney David Burger of New York City and Dana Strout of Rockport to represent them.
Camden fight over Fox Hill proposal renews in federal court - Pen Bay Pilot
By Linda Clancy, March 27, 2014 | A group of Bay View Street neighbors hired a New York City attorney, as well as a Rockport attorney, and filed a complaint in U.S. District Court against Fox Hill Real Estate Company and McLean Hospital Corporation, asking a judge to prohibit the use of Fox Hill for treatment of clients with drug and alcohol addictions. The case was filed Thursday, March 27, in Portland.
Citizens group continues to challenge Fox Hill plans - Village Soup
By Stephanie Grinnell, March 11, 2014 | Citizens of Camden for Responsible Zoning continue to research options in the wake of Fox Hill investors' announcement to take a different tack to establish a residential alcohol treatment facility on Bay View Street.
Camden attorney agrees that scaled-down alcohol treatment center can open without zoning vote - Bangor Daily News
By Stephen Betts, March 7, 2014 | A controversial high-end alcohol treatment center proposed for a Camden neighborhood is an allowed residential use under federal laws, the town attorney has concluded.
Camden lawyer sees ‘no clear legal prohibition’ of Fox Hill, opposition issues lists of questions - Pen Bay Pilot
By Linda Clancy, March 5, 2014 | Camden Town Attorney Bill Kelly has issued an “advisory-type” opinion on the plan to convert the Fox Hill Estate to a residence where clients will be treated for alcohol and drug addictions, saying it appears to fall within state and federal statutes as cited by project proponents. Opponents are questioning the legalities of the recent announcement by Fox Hill Real Estate LLC to convert the 1903 Borden Cottage.
Scaled-down Camden alcohol treatment center to proceed without town vote - Bangor Daily News
By Stephen Betts, February 25, 2014 | The developers of a high-end alcohol treatment center on Bay View Street announced Tuesday afternoon that they would proceed with a scaled-back project that will not require a zone change or town planning board review.
Camden’s Fox Hill takes new tack: Establishes community living facility - Pen Bay Pilot
By Linda Clancy, February 25, 2014 | In a surprise move, Fox Hill Real Estate LLC is withdrawing its zoning amendment proposal that has been before the town of Camden for many months; instead, the investors plan to create an eight-bed community living facility at its Fox Hill property on Bay View Street.
Fox Hill downsizes plan, hopes to open rehab facility by fall - Village Soup
By Stephanie Grinnell, Feb 25, 2014 | Representatives of Fox Hill Real Estate LLC announced plans Feb. 26 for a scaled-down residential alcohol treatment facility that will only require town building permits and state licensing for tenant McLean Hospital.
Paperwork filed with Camden town office, but no Fox Hill petition currently circulating - Pen Bay Pilot
By Linda Clancy, February 14, 2014 | Camden attorney Paul Gibbons, who represents Fox Hill LLC, said Feb. 13 that no citizens’ petition requesting a zoning amendment be placed on the June Town Meeting Warrant for Camden voters is currently circulating.
An anti-climactic end? - Camden Herald editorial
Camden Herald Editorial Board, February 13, 2014 | More than a week ago, during a public hearing, Camden Selectmen made a decision on behalf of town residents to deny them a chance to vote on a proposed zoning change in the Coastal-Residential district. The question we are left with is why?
Camden Select Board refuses to send controversial zone change for high-end rehab facility to voters - Bangor Daily News
By Stephen Betts, February 5, 2014 | The Camden Select Board refused Tuesday night to send a hotly contested proposed zone change to voters which could have allowed a high-end alcohol treatment center to locate in a high-end residential neighborhood.
Future of Proposed Camden Rehab Center in Doubt - MPBN Radio
By Jay Field, February 5, 2014 | Camden voters, at least for now, will not get the chance to vote on whether a Harvard-affiliated, alcohol rehab center can open in one of the town's toniest neighborhoods. After a lengthy public hearing, the town's select board refused late last night to put a zoning change referendum on the June ballot.
Camden Select Board votes against putting Fox Hill zoning amendment before voters - Pen Bay Pilot
By Linda Clancy, February 4, 2014 | Voting 3 to 2, the Camden Select Board shot down a motion to put the Fox Hill zoning amendment proposal before voters. Don White and Chairman Martin Cates voted in favor of putting the amendment on a town ballot; opposing the motion were Leonard Lookner, Jim Heard and John French.
Fox Hill Amendment Fails to Pass in Camden - The Free Press
A proposed zoning change that would have allowed a high-end residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation center to be established at the Fox Hill estate on upper Bay View Street in Camden was stopped in its tracks Tuesday, February 4, when the Camden Select Board voted against it, 3-2.
Selectmen defeat Fox Hill zoning proposal - Village Soup
By Stephanie Grinnell, February 5, 2014 | In a close vote, selectmen decided against sending to voters a zoning change that could have eventually lead to a rehabilitation facility on Bay View Street.
Camden sets hearing on zoning change that would allow alcohol treatment center in residential area - Bangor Daily News
By Stephen Betts, January 16, 2014 | The Camden Select Board has scheduled a public hearing—to consider the zoning amendment that would allow the Fox Hill facility to operate—for 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 4, at the Camden Opera House.
Judge Rules Against Rezoning Portland West End Church - Portland Press Herald
By Randy Billings, January 6, 2014 | A judge has ruled that the Portland City Council erred in 2012 when it rezoned the site of a historic church in the West End so the building could be used as office space. Superior Court Justice Joyce Wheeler ruled last week that the rezoning, which many residents opposed, was not consistent with the city’s comprehensive plan, which guides development throughout the city.
Does court ruling against Portland in church rezone case bode ill for $150 million Midtown project? - Bangor Daily News
By Seth Koenig, January 8, 2013 | How does the proposed conversion of a historic Portland church to serve as a business headquarters compare to a plan to build four 165-foot towers elsewhere in the city?
Camden Planning board agrees town citizenry should vote on Fox Hill amendment language - Pen Bay Pilot
By Linda Clancy, January 2, 2014 | Voting 4 to 1, the Camden Planning Board is sending the matter of a Fox Hill amendment to the Camden Select Board, recommending that citizens vote on proposed changes to the town’s zoning ordinance.
Planning Board Sends Fox Hill Rehab Proposal to Select Board - The Free Press
By Christine Parrish, January 9, 2114 | The planning board voted 4-1 to send the question of proposed changes to the ordinance to the select board, with the recommendation that the select board bring it to a town-wide vote. The planning board did not endorse the proposal.
Special exception proposal sent to Select Board - Village Soup
By Stephanie Grinnell | January 2, 2014 The Planning Board on Jan. 2 approved sending the proposal for a special exception in the Coastal-Residential district for a high-end alcohol and substance abuse treatment facility to selectmen for potential inclusion on the next ballot.
Camden board listens to more Fox Hill testimony, tables deliberations - Pen Bay Pilot
By Linda Clancy, December 12, 2013 | After listening for three hours to more public and professional commentary on the merits or pitfalls of a proposed ordinance amendment, the Planning Board agreed to schedule another meeting for its own internal conversation and final vote on the matter. That meeting has yet to be scheduled
Camden Planning Board Wraps up Fox Hill Public Hearing Tonight - Pen Bay Pilot
By Linda Clancy, December 12, 2013 | The Planning Board’s current task is to evaluate the language of the proposed ordinance amendment, determine if it is in conflict with the town’s comprehensive plan, and decide whether to move it forward to the Select Board.
Rehabilitation center splits Camden: Is zoning change worth year-round jobs? - Bangor Daily News
By Stephen Betts, November 30, 2013 | Opponents argue that a proposal to add private rehabilitation facilities as a special exception to the zone would be a clear case of spot zoning that would erode the protection for residential neighborhoods. Proponents point out that the town needs year-round full-time jobs.
After second four-hour public hearing, next steps outlined for Camden rehab center deliberations - Pen Bay Pilot
By Lynda Clancy, December 2, 2013 | Camden Attorney Paul Gibbons sets off as the first of many speakers before the Camden Planning Board, Nov. 20. The public hearing took place at the Camden Opera House, with approximately 125 citizens, lawyers and consultants in attendance.
Camden planners prepare to make recommendation on whether to allow high-end alcohol rehab center – Bangor Daily News
By Stephen Betts, November. 21, 2013 | The town’s planning board heard dramatically different views Wednesday night on an amendment to the town’s zoning laws that could pave the way for a high-end alcohol rehabilitation center.
Fox Hill rehab center and Camden’s Comprehensive Plan: In conformance or not? – Pen Bay Pilot
By Lynda Clancy, November 20, 2013 | Armed with statute books and ordinances, attorneys representing proponents and opponents of the Fox Hill alcohol and drug rehabilitation facility have spent hours over the last several months trying to convince the Camden Planning Board of their respective positions.
Residents, Planning Board hear new arguments on Fox Hill – The Camden Gazette
By Sarah E. Reynolds, October 22, 2013 | The Camden Planning Board heard new information at its Oct. 17 meeting for and against an amendment to the coastal residential zone proposed by Fox Hill Real Estate LLC.
Rehab center would threaten Camden’s beauty, tranquility – Bangor Daily News
By John and Wynne Phelan, October 6, 2013 | In a Sept. 24 op-ed, Bob Campbell describes the sunrise over Penobscot Bay from his deck. Campbell is a Fox Hill Real Estate investor. “Sharing” the view is code for changing Camden’s zoning to permit a commercial zone at 235 Bay View Street.
Neighbors Air Concerns Over Fox Hill Rehab – The Free Press
By Christine Parrish, September 26, 2013 | Neighbors of the proposed luxury rehab center at Fox Hill, the former MBNA executive retreat on upper Bay View Street, turned out for a walk-though of the property on Wednesday, September 18, with developers, lawyers and the Camden Planning Board.
Camden Planning Board walks Fox Hill estate – The PenBay Pilot
By Lynda Clancy, September 19, 2013 | The Camden Planning Board spent approximately one hour Sept. 18 touring Fox Hill estate, the proposed site of a Bay View Street alcohol and drug abuse treatment facility.
Camden residents turn out in high numbers to oppose zone change for alcohol rehab center – Bangor Daily News
By Stephen Betts, August 30, 2013 | Opponents clearly outnumbered supporters Thursday night at a public hearing held by the Camden Planning Board for a change to zoning law that would allow a high-end private residential alcohol treatment clinic to open at the Fox Hill estate.
Neighbors say high-end Camden rehab center would attract aggressive news media – Bangor Daily News
By Stephen Betts, August 1, 2013 |The proposed zone change to allow a high-end residential alcohol treatment center to locate in town will not be on the November ballot.
Packed house airs thoughts on Fox Hill proposal – The Camden Herald/Courier Gazette
By Stephanie Grinnell, August 29, 2013 | More than a dozens residents spoke against the special exception, while a few spoke in favor or were neutral. Planning Board Vice Chairman Lowrie Sargent said the board received about 35 letters and emails regarding Fox Hill in the past two weeks; they will be posted on the town website.
Abutters, public weigh in on Fox Hill proposal – The Camden Herald/Courier Gazette
By Sarah E. Reynolds, August 2, 2013 | Proponents and opponents of a proposed zoning change that would allow an upscale substance abuse treatment facility with 12 beds at 235 Bay View St., known as Fox Hill, weighed in at a meeting of the Planning Board Thursday, Aug. 1st.
Fox Hill rehabilitation facility proposal returns to planning board – The Camden Herald/Courier Gazette
By Stephanie Grinnell, July 26, 2013 |Several months after an initial proposal for a high-end residential treatment facility at Fox Hill in Camden, the attorney representing the new owners appeared before the planning board July 25 to pick up the process where it left off.
High-end alcohol rehab center back before Camden officials – Bangor Daily News
By Stephen Betts, July 25, 2013 |Fox Hill Real Estate, LLC filed a request Thursday with Camden for an amendment to the town’s zoning ordinance to allow the Fox Hill property at 235 Bay View St. to be used as a high-end, private residential alcohol treatment clinic.
By Stephen Betts, March 27, 2014 | Several neighbors of a proposed high-end alcohol treatment center have asked a federal court to block the project. … The neighbors have hired attorney David Burger of New York City and Dana Strout of Rockport to represent them.
Camden fight over Fox Hill proposal renews in federal court - Pen Bay Pilot
By Linda Clancy, March 27, 2014 | A group of Bay View Street neighbors hired a New York City attorney, as well as a Rockport attorney, and filed a complaint in U.S. District Court against Fox Hill Real Estate Company and McLean Hospital Corporation, asking a judge to prohibit the use of Fox Hill for treatment of clients with drug and alcohol addictions. The case was filed Thursday, March 27, in Portland.
Citizens group continues to challenge Fox Hill plans - Village Soup
By Stephanie Grinnell, March 11, 2014 | Citizens of Camden for Responsible Zoning continue to research options in the wake of Fox Hill investors' announcement to take a different tack to establish a residential alcohol treatment facility on Bay View Street.
Camden attorney agrees that scaled-down alcohol treatment center can open without zoning vote - Bangor Daily News
By Stephen Betts, March 7, 2014 | A controversial high-end alcohol treatment center proposed for a Camden neighborhood is an allowed residential use under federal laws, the town attorney has concluded.
Camden lawyer sees ‘no clear legal prohibition’ of Fox Hill, opposition issues lists of questions - Pen Bay Pilot
By Linda Clancy, March 5, 2014 | Camden Town Attorney Bill Kelly has issued an “advisory-type” opinion on the plan to convert the Fox Hill Estate to a residence where clients will be treated for alcohol and drug addictions, saying it appears to fall within state and federal statutes as cited by project proponents. Opponents are questioning the legalities of the recent announcement by Fox Hill Real Estate LLC to convert the 1903 Borden Cottage.
Scaled-down Camden alcohol treatment center to proceed without town vote - Bangor Daily News
By Stephen Betts, February 25, 2014 | The developers of a high-end alcohol treatment center on Bay View Street announced Tuesday afternoon that they would proceed with a scaled-back project that will not require a zone change or town planning board review.
Camden’s Fox Hill takes new tack: Establishes community living facility - Pen Bay Pilot
By Linda Clancy, February 25, 2014 | In a surprise move, Fox Hill Real Estate LLC is withdrawing its zoning amendment proposal that has been before the town of Camden for many months; instead, the investors plan to create an eight-bed community living facility at its Fox Hill property on Bay View Street.
Fox Hill downsizes plan, hopes to open rehab facility by fall - Village Soup
By Stephanie Grinnell, Feb 25, 2014 | Representatives of Fox Hill Real Estate LLC announced plans Feb. 26 for a scaled-down residential alcohol treatment facility that will only require town building permits and state licensing for tenant McLean Hospital.
Paperwork filed with Camden town office, but no Fox Hill petition currently circulating - Pen Bay Pilot
By Linda Clancy, February 14, 2014 | Camden attorney Paul Gibbons, who represents Fox Hill LLC, said Feb. 13 that no citizens’ petition requesting a zoning amendment be placed on the June Town Meeting Warrant for Camden voters is currently circulating.
An anti-climactic end? - Camden Herald editorial
Camden Herald Editorial Board, February 13, 2014 | More than a week ago, during a public hearing, Camden Selectmen made a decision on behalf of town residents to deny them a chance to vote on a proposed zoning change in the Coastal-Residential district. The question we are left with is why?
Camden Select Board refuses to send controversial zone change for high-end rehab facility to voters - Bangor Daily News
By Stephen Betts, February 5, 2014 | The Camden Select Board refused Tuesday night to send a hotly contested proposed zone change to voters which could have allowed a high-end alcohol treatment center to locate in a high-end residential neighborhood.
Future of Proposed Camden Rehab Center in Doubt - MPBN Radio
By Jay Field, February 5, 2014 | Camden voters, at least for now, will not get the chance to vote on whether a Harvard-affiliated, alcohol rehab center can open in one of the town's toniest neighborhoods. After a lengthy public hearing, the town's select board refused late last night to put a zoning change referendum on the June ballot.
Camden Select Board votes against putting Fox Hill zoning amendment before voters - Pen Bay Pilot
By Linda Clancy, February 4, 2014 | Voting 3 to 2, the Camden Select Board shot down a motion to put the Fox Hill zoning amendment proposal before voters. Don White and Chairman Martin Cates voted in favor of putting the amendment on a town ballot; opposing the motion were Leonard Lookner, Jim Heard and John French.
Fox Hill Amendment Fails to Pass in Camden - The Free Press
A proposed zoning change that would have allowed a high-end residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation center to be established at the Fox Hill estate on upper Bay View Street in Camden was stopped in its tracks Tuesday, February 4, when the Camden Select Board voted against it, 3-2.
Selectmen defeat Fox Hill zoning proposal - Village Soup
By Stephanie Grinnell, February 5, 2014 | In a close vote, selectmen decided against sending to voters a zoning change that could have eventually lead to a rehabilitation facility on Bay View Street.
Camden sets hearing on zoning change that would allow alcohol treatment center in residential area - Bangor Daily News
By Stephen Betts, January 16, 2014 | The Camden Select Board has scheduled a public hearing—to consider the zoning amendment that would allow the Fox Hill facility to operate—for 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 4, at the Camden Opera House.
Judge Rules Against Rezoning Portland West End Church - Portland Press Herald
By Randy Billings, January 6, 2014 | A judge has ruled that the Portland City Council erred in 2012 when it rezoned the site of a historic church in the West End so the building could be used as office space. Superior Court Justice Joyce Wheeler ruled last week that the rezoning, which many residents opposed, was not consistent with the city’s comprehensive plan, which guides development throughout the city.
Does court ruling against Portland in church rezone case bode ill for $150 million Midtown project? - Bangor Daily News
By Seth Koenig, January 8, 2013 | How does the proposed conversion of a historic Portland church to serve as a business headquarters compare to a plan to build four 165-foot towers elsewhere in the city?
Camden Planning board agrees town citizenry should vote on Fox Hill amendment language - Pen Bay Pilot
By Linda Clancy, January 2, 2014 | Voting 4 to 1, the Camden Planning Board is sending the matter of a Fox Hill amendment to the Camden Select Board, recommending that citizens vote on proposed changes to the town’s zoning ordinance.
Planning Board Sends Fox Hill Rehab Proposal to Select Board - The Free Press
By Christine Parrish, January 9, 2114 | The planning board voted 4-1 to send the question of proposed changes to the ordinance to the select board, with the recommendation that the select board bring it to a town-wide vote. The planning board did not endorse the proposal.
Special exception proposal sent to Select Board - Village Soup
By Stephanie Grinnell | January 2, 2014 The Planning Board on Jan. 2 approved sending the proposal for a special exception in the Coastal-Residential district for a high-end alcohol and substance abuse treatment facility to selectmen for potential inclusion on the next ballot.
Camden board listens to more Fox Hill testimony, tables deliberations - Pen Bay Pilot
By Linda Clancy, December 12, 2013 | After listening for three hours to more public and professional commentary on the merits or pitfalls of a proposed ordinance amendment, the Planning Board agreed to schedule another meeting for its own internal conversation and final vote on the matter. That meeting has yet to be scheduled
Camden Planning Board Wraps up Fox Hill Public Hearing Tonight - Pen Bay Pilot
By Linda Clancy, December 12, 2013 | The Planning Board’s current task is to evaluate the language of the proposed ordinance amendment, determine if it is in conflict with the town’s comprehensive plan, and decide whether to move it forward to the Select Board.
Rehabilitation center splits Camden: Is zoning change worth year-round jobs? - Bangor Daily News
By Stephen Betts, November 30, 2013 | Opponents argue that a proposal to add private rehabilitation facilities as a special exception to the zone would be a clear case of spot zoning that would erode the protection for residential neighborhoods. Proponents point out that the town needs year-round full-time jobs.
After second four-hour public hearing, next steps outlined for Camden rehab center deliberations - Pen Bay Pilot
By Lynda Clancy, December 2, 2013 | Camden Attorney Paul Gibbons sets off as the first of many speakers before the Camden Planning Board, Nov. 20. The public hearing took place at the Camden Opera House, with approximately 125 citizens, lawyers and consultants in attendance.
Camden planners prepare to make recommendation on whether to allow high-end alcohol rehab center – Bangor Daily News
By Stephen Betts, November. 21, 2013 | The town’s planning board heard dramatically different views Wednesday night on an amendment to the town’s zoning laws that could pave the way for a high-end alcohol rehabilitation center.
Fox Hill rehab center and Camden’s Comprehensive Plan: In conformance or not? – Pen Bay Pilot
By Lynda Clancy, November 20, 2013 | Armed with statute books and ordinances, attorneys representing proponents and opponents of the Fox Hill alcohol and drug rehabilitation facility have spent hours over the last several months trying to convince the Camden Planning Board of their respective positions.
Residents, Planning Board hear new arguments on Fox Hill – The Camden Gazette
By Sarah E. Reynolds, October 22, 2013 | The Camden Planning Board heard new information at its Oct. 17 meeting for and against an amendment to the coastal residential zone proposed by Fox Hill Real Estate LLC.
Rehab center would threaten Camden’s beauty, tranquility – Bangor Daily News
By John and Wynne Phelan, October 6, 2013 | In a Sept. 24 op-ed, Bob Campbell describes the sunrise over Penobscot Bay from his deck. Campbell is a Fox Hill Real Estate investor. “Sharing” the view is code for changing Camden’s zoning to permit a commercial zone at 235 Bay View Street.
Neighbors Air Concerns Over Fox Hill Rehab – The Free Press
By Christine Parrish, September 26, 2013 | Neighbors of the proposed luxury rehab center at Fox Hill, the former MBNA executive retreat on upper Bay View Street, turned out for a walk-though of the property on Wednesday, September 18, with developers, lawyers and the Camden Planning Board.
Camden Planning Board walks Fox Hill estate – The PenBay Pilot
By Lynda Clancy, September 19, 2013 | The Camden Planning Board spent approximately one hour Sept. 18 touring Fox Hill estate, the proposed site of a Bay View Street alcohol and drug abuse treatment facility.
Camden residents turn out in high numbers to oppose zone change for alcohol rehab center – Bangor Daily News
By Stephen Betts, August 30, 2013 | Opponents clearly outnumbered supporters Thursday night at a public hearing held by the Camden Planning Board for a change to zoning law that would allow a high-end private residential alcohol treatment clinic to open at the Fox Hill estate.
Neighbors say high-end Camden rehab center would attract aggressive news media – Bangor Daily News
By Stephen Betts, August 1, 2013 |The proposed zone change to allow a high-end residential alcohol treatment center to locate in town will not be on the November ballot.
Packed house airs thoughts on Fox Hill proposal – The Camden Herald/Courier Gazette
By Stephanie Grinnell, August 29, 2013 | More than a dozens residents spoke against the special exception, while a few spoke in favor or were neutral. Planning Board Vice Chairman Lowrie Sargent said the board received about 35 letters and emails regarding Fox Hill in the past two weeks; they will be posted on the town website.
Abutters, public weigh in on Fox Hill proposal – The Camden Herald/Courier Gazette
By Sarah E. Reynolds, August 2, 2013 | Proponents and opponents of a proposed zoning change that would allow an upscale substance abuse treatment facility with 12 beds at 235 Bay View St., known as Fox Hill, weighed in at a meeting of the Planning Board Thursday, Aug. 1st.
Fox Hill rehabilitation facility proposal returns to planning board – The Camden Herald/Courier Gazette
By Stephanie Grinnell, July 26, 2013 |Several months after an initial proposal for a high-end residential treatment facility at Fox Hill in Camden, the attorney representing the new owners appeared before the planning board July 25 to pick up the process where it left off.
High-end alcohol rehab center back before Camden officials – Bangor Daily News
By Stephen Betts, July 25, 2013 |Fox Hill Real Estate, LLC filed a request Thursday with Camden for an amendment to the town’s zoning ordinance to allow the Fox Hill property at 235 Bay View St. to be used as a high-end, private residential alcohol treatment clinic.