The goal of the Planning Department is to make Ellsworth a better place to live. We work to develop, maintain and update plans, systems, facilities, and services necessary to accommodate growth and development.

The objectives of the Planning Department are to:

1. Further the goals of the Comprehensive Plan, including;
2. Provide a client-centered application process that facilitates responsible development;
3. Ensure meaningful stakeholder input.

• Protecting the public interest, critical resources and private property rights;
• Ensuring a vibrant urban core area with thriving businesses;
• Maintaining mobility on major roads and arteries;

The scope of work of the department is wide-ranging and requires close coordination with the Code, Water, Wastewater, Highway, Fire, and Police Departments, as well as with key community partners such as the Ellsworth Area Chamber of Commerce, the Hancock County Planning Commission, the Union River Watershed Coalition, the Branch Pond Association, the Union River Healthy Communities Coalition, neighboring communities, and various other stakeholder groups.

The Planning Department wants to thank the numerous committee members that volunteer their time and share their knowledge and expertise, which is so vital to the development of meaningful plans and successful projects. If you are interested in learning more about a project or would like to volunteer your time, please call us.