The Bangor City Council held a workshop on August 25, 2025, focusing on proposed changes to zoning districts aimed at enhancing residential, commercial, and industrial development in the city. The meeting outlined a comprehensive restructuring of zoning classifications to better accommodate growth and preserve community character.

The proposed residential zoning changes include the introduction of seven districts, categorized into three main groups. The Rural Residential Area (RRA) will focus on preserving rural character with a minimum lot size of 1.5 acres. The R1, R2, and R3 districts will cater to areas within the growth boundary but outside the I-95 corridor, with R1 maintaining a 12,000 square foot minimum lot size, R2 accommodating smaller lots, and R3 designed for multi-family housing options.

In the commercial sector, six new districts are proposed, including a Mixed Use Transitional District and a Downtown District, which aims to support high-intensity mixed-use development. The plan suggests eliminating lot area minimums in certain districts to facilitate redevelopment and new development.

For industrial zoning, the council proposed three distinct districts: a General Industrial District for traditional industrial uses, a Light Industrial District for less impactful operations, and an Industrial Mixed Use District to allow for a blend of uses in transitioning areas.

Additionally, the council discussed maintaining several special purpose and overlay districts, such as the Airport Development District and the Waterfront Development District, while proposing updates to development standards. These updates include consolidating general development standards, revising parking requirements, and enhancing landscaping regulations to promote sustainability and aesthetic appeal.

The workshop concluded with a commitment to further evaluate the proposed changes and their implications for the community, emphasizing the importance of balancing development with the preservation of Bangor's unique character. The council plans to continue discussions and gather public input as they refine these zoning proposals.