The Nobleboro Planning Board has approved, with conditions, an application from Maritime Energy to install a 30,000-gallon propane tank at its location at the corner of Route 1 and Vannah Road.
The 3-2 vote on Thursday, Oct. 27 followed several meetings about the project.
Board Vice Chairman Richard Powell said the board approved Maritime Energy’s application contingent on a number of conditions.
“All conditions must be met before it becomes operational,” Powell said.
The conditions include the installation of 24-hour video monitoring and a security system, screening of the storage tank that will consist of evergreen trees at least 6 feet tall, the development of an evacuation plan, and the elimination of all loading and unloading of propane during lightning storms.
Additionally, Maritime Energy must update the fire safety analysis for the site, recognizing the presence of two tanks on the site and accurately reflecting the response time of fire departments from nearby towns, in addition to water availability.
Powell said that during a public hearing in September, a number of residents raised concerns about adequate screening for the tank.
“We want them to screen it as safely as they can, while still allowing the tank to be observed for safety reasons,” Powell said.
Maritime Energy wants to install the tank to better serve customers in the area, according to Vice President Charlie Page. Maritime Energy also has 30,000-gallon storage tanks in Montville and Rockland.
A public hearing on the matter drew both concerns and support for the project from residents. Safety issues were a primary concern among members of the public.
