8984-R2_NewGloucester_2023-2024_AnnualReport_Web

229th Annual Report

New Gloucester Maine

July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024

Town Facilities

TOWN HALL HOURS

Monday

10:00 am - 7:00 pm 8:00 am - 5:00 pm 7:00 am - 4:00 pm

Tuesday - Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

closed

Tel. (207) 926-4126

Fax (207) 926-4136

385 Intervale Road Website: www.newgloucester.com LIBRARY HOURS

Sunday Monday Tuesday

11:00 am – 3:00 pm 11:00 am – 7:00 pm 11:00 am – 7:00 pm 11:00 am – 5:00 pm 9:00 am – 4:00 pm

Wednesday Thursday

Tel. (207) 926-4840 379 Intervale Road Email: librarydirector@newgloucester.com FIRE STATION HOURS

Monday – Friday Saturday/Sunday

8:00 am – 4:00 pm 9:00 am – 11:00 am (if Personnel available) Fax (207) 926-4424

Tel. (207) 926-4142

611 Lewiston Road chief@newgloucester.com PUBLIC WORKS HOURS Tel. (207) 926-4574 611A Lewiston Road tshane@newgloucester.com TRANSFER STATION HOURS

Monday – Thursday

6:30 am – 5:00 pm

Tuesday & Thursday

9:00 am – 7:00 pm 9:00 am – 2:00 pm 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

Friday

Saturday

Tel. (207) 926-3145 264 Bald Hill Road transferstation@newgloucester.com

July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024 New Gloucester Grant made in 1736 • Settled in 1740 and 1750 Town Government Established in 1744 Town Manager Form of Government Adopted 1949

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

1

Dedications

2-4 5-7

Town Officers/Departments

State Representatives Boards/Committees Town Clerk Report

8-14

15-20

21 22 23 24

Town Manager – Letter of Transmittal

Report of Assessing

Report of Code Enforcement Office Report of Fire/Rescue Department

25-27 28-30 31-32 33-35

Report of Library

Report of Parks & Recreation

Report of Planning

Report of Public Works Report of Transfer Station

36 37

Report of Maine Waste to Energy

38-43 44-45

Report of Adhoc Semiquincentennial Committee

Report of Cable TV Committee Report of Cemetery Association

46

47-48 49-50

Report of Environmental Resources Committee

Report of Royal River Riders Report of NG Water District

51 52 53

Auditors Note – FY24 Treasurer’s Report

54-57 58-60 61-62 63-80

Tax Liens and Unpaid Taxes

Special Town Meeting Minutes 7-31-2023 Annual Town Meeting Minutes 5-6-2024 2024 Sabbathday Lake Water Quality Report

81-103

1

Annual Town Report Dedication KATHLEEN POTTER

New Gloucester is a town built on the dedication of its people—those who give their time, energy, and heart to make our community stronger. Among them, there are those who volunteer occasionally, those who commit themselves to a particular cause, and then there are the rare few who seem to be everywhere, always ready to lend a helping hand. Kathleen Potter is undoubtedly one of the latter. If there is an event in town—whether at the library, the fairgrounds, the school, the arrival of a new ambulance, or simply gardens in need of care— you can count on seeing Kathleen there. Her presence is not just familiar; it is a symbol of service, dedication, and unwavering community spirit. Kathleen’s contributions to New Gloucester are both vast and invaluable. She has not only served on numerous committees but has also taken on leadership roles as Chair of several. Her service includes the Budget Committee, Community Fair Committee, Board of Appeals, Capital Improvement Committee, Parks and Recreation Committee, Library Gazebo Committee, and School Board Member. In addition, she is a dedicated presence at the polls, where she serves as an Election/Ballot clerk. Beyond her official roles, Kathleen has devoted countless hours to volunteering at the library and assisting with its book and bake sales. She is also known for ensuring that no community event goes without food, whether through her own baking or coordinating refreshments. Her commitment extends to volunteering as traffic control, a role she takes on with both seriousness and enthusiasm. Whether directing cars for hours at the Community Fair or ensuring safety at Trunk or Treat and Lower Village trick-or-treating, Kathleen can be seen wearing her personal safety vest—thoughtfully given to her by the Fire Department—traffic wand in hand, ensuring that events run smoothly and safely. Time and again, in ways too numerous to count, Kathleen has demonstrated what it means to go above and beyond, setting the highest standard of civic engagement. She embodies the very spirit of New Gloucester—always stepping up, always helping out, and always bringing people together. With deep appreciation and admiration, the New Gloucester Selectboard proudly dedicates this Annual Town Report to Kathleen Potter —an exceptional volunteer, advocate, baker, leader, friend, and true pillar of our community. Thank you, Kathleen, for showing us all what it means to serve!

2

KATHLEEN POTTER w/Santa (Husband Frank)

3

Annual Town Report In Honor of New Gloucester Semiquincentennial Committee The Town of New Gloucester, incorporated on September 7, 1774, marked its 250 th anniversary in 2024 with a yearlong series of events and a grand celebration.To commemorate this historic milestone, the Select Board appointed a dedicated ad-hoc group, known as the Semiquincentennial Committee. For over two years, this passionate group of volunteers worked tirelessly to plan and execute a variety of events that brought the community together in celebration of New Gloucester’s rich history. Meeting more than 30 times, the committee meticulously coordinated every detail, ensuring that the town’s legacy was honored in meaningful and memorable ways. Beyond these meetings, hundreds of hours were spent organizing, preparing, and bringing each event to life. The yearlong celebration kicked off at AMVETS Post #6 with a bean supper and a cake decorating contest. The final event was the community celebration marking New Gloucester’s 250 th birthday on September 7, 2024. This grand occasion featured a parade, guest speakers—including Senator Susan Collins and the Mayor of Gloucester, Massachusetts— vendors, children’s games, food, animals, town artifacts, and much more. Additional celebratory events throughout the year included a photography contest, a barn dance, a community yard sale, a car show, a spoken word night, and church and garden tours. Each event was well attended and uniquely showcased the spirit of New Gloucester, all under the direction of the Semiquincentennial Committee. In addition to the many events, special commemorative items were created to honor the town’s 250 th anniversary. A local brewery crafted and canned a special beer for the occasion, the New Gloucester Historical Society designed a silver celebration coin, and a book was published highlighting the festivities and more. The success of this milestone year was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Semiquincentennial Committee, Town of New Gloucester employees, the Community Fair Committee, and the New Gloucester Historical Society, with invaluable sponsorship support from numerous local businesses and organizations. With deep appreciation, on behalf of the citizens of New Gloucester, the Select Board recognizes and honors the New Gloucester Semiquincentennial Committee through the 2023-2024 New Gloucester

Annual Report. Their dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment made this 250 th -anniversary celebration a remarkable success. Their efforts have strengthened our sense of community, honored our past, and truly celebrated New Gloucester. Thank You!

4

ANNUAL REPORT

TOWN OFFICERS – JULY 2023 to JUNE 2024

****************************************************************************

SELECT BOARD, ASSESSORS, OVERSEERS OF THE POOR

Tammy Donovan Stephen Hathorne Paul Larrivee, Jr. Colleen Strickler

Term Expires June 2025 Term Expires June 2024 Term Expires June 2024 Term Expires June 2026 Term Expires June 2025

Dustin Ward

TOWN MANAGER, ROAD COMMISSIONER, TAX COLLECTOR, TOWN CLERK, DEPUTY TREASURER, WELFARE ADMINISTRATOR William H. Kerbin, Jr.

TREASURER

Lori Anne Wilson

DEPUTY TOWN CLERK, ASSISTANT TREASURER DEPUTY TAX COLLECTOR, REGISTRAR OF VOTERS Sharlene F. Myers

DEPUTY TOWN CLERK, DEPUTY TAX COLLECTOR, DEPUTY REGISTRAR OF VOTERS Nancy Campbell (resigned August 2023)

5

ANNUAL REPORT

DEPUTY TOWN CLERK, DEPUTY TAX COLLECTOR, DEPUTY REGISTRAR OF VOTERS Teresa Grenier (commenced October 2023)

ASSESSORS’ AGENT

Michael O’Donnell (John O’Donnell and Associates)

CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER, HEALTH OFFICER, PLUMBING INSPECTOR Rick Haas

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT DIRECTOR

Craig Bouchard

FENCE VIEWER

Douglas P. Bowie

FIRE/RESCUE CHIEF, FOREST FIRE WARDEN

Craig Bouchard

6

ANNUAL REPORT

DEPUTY FIRE CHIEF

Hale Fitzgerald

DEPUTY RESCUE CHIEF

Mary Rich

LIBRARIAN

Emily Martin

ASSISTANT LIBRARIAN

Eleanor Marsh-Meservier (commenced September 2023)

PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR

Theodore Shane

TOWN PLANNER

Kathy Tombarelli

7

ANNUAL REPORT

STATE SENATOR DISTRICT 20 Eric Brakey

State Address: Senate Chamber

Home Address: P O Box 3331 Auburn, ME 04210 Tel. (207) 287-1505

3 State House Station Augusta, ME 04333

Email: eric.brakey@legislature.maine.com Website: www.mesenategop.com

STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 65 Amy Bradstreet Arata

State Address:

Home Address:

House of Representatives Room 332, State House 2 State House Station

PO Box 2

New Gloucester, ME 04260

Tel. (207) 333-1817

Augusta, ME 04333-0002 Tel. (207) 287-1440 E-Mail: Amy.Arata@legislature.maine.gov House Website: www.legislature.maine.gov/house

8

131 st MAINE SENATE

3 State House Station Augusta, ME 04333

Eric Brakey

Senator, District 20

Dear Friends and Neighbors: I want to thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve as your State Senator. It has been an honor to work on your behalf to make our state an even better place to live, work and conduct business. I assure you, I will continue to work tirelessly on behalf of the people of Senate District 20. The First Regular and First Special Sessions of the 131 st Maine State Legislature were notable as there were over 2,600 legislative bill requests and 2,019 of them were officially printed as Legislative Documents (LDs). No legislature this century has had as many LDs printed during its first year. One area of success was in the Highway Fund. In the past, the Highway Fund has been supported through gasoline taxes, which have been declining for years due to more fuel-efficient and electric/hybrid vehicles, and bonding; however, we now have created a sustainable source of funding to maintain our transportation infrastructure. We will accomplish this by dedicating 40% of the vehicle sales tax along with the sales and use taxes collected by the Bureau of Motor Vehicles. This action is predicted to raise more than $200 million for infrastructure each biennium. The Second Regular Session will begin in January 2024. I am eager to discuss the issues important to all of you. I have heard from many of you regarding the biggest concerns you are facing, including increasing energy costs; access to health care and child care; education; housing; inflation; child welfare; mental health and substance abuse; workforce development; and crime, among others. As your State Senator, I will continue to do all I can to advocate for your priorities in Augusta. Again, thank you for electing me to serve you in the State Senate. The 131 st Legislature has a great deal more work to do; however, I believe, if we work collaboratively, there is nothing we can’t accomplish. Please feel free to contact me by calling (207) 287-1505 or emailing me at Eric.Brakey@legislature.maine.gov. If you have comments, questions, or if you would like assistance in navigating our state’s bureaucracy.

For Liberty!

Eric Brakey State Senator

9

H OUSE OF R EPRESENTATIVES 2 S TATE H OUSE S TATION A UGUSTA , M AINE 04333-0002 (207) 287-1440 TTY: (207) 287-4469

Amy Bradstreet Arata P.O. Box 2, New Gloucester, ME 04260 Residence: (207) 333-1817 Amy.Arata@legislature.maine.gov

January 2024

Dear Friends & Neighbors,

I am honored by the opportunity to serve as your state representative for District 104 in the Maine House of Representatives for the 132st Legislature. In order for me to represent you the best I can, I encourage you to provide me your thoughts on all the issues that are important to you. Using the legislative homepage: Legislature.Maine.Gov you can monitor all legislative proposals being worked on at the State House. From here you can browse bill summaries and roll call votes, view session and public hearing schedules, listen to committee hearings or watch live streaming video of the House and Senate. You can also access committee hearings via Zoom, where you can observe or testify on a bill. For the 132st Legislature, I will be serving on the Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee. This committee's primary function is to decide how much funding each authorized federal government agency and program receives, effectively determining which can operate and to what extent. Thank you again for the opportunity to serve as your elected representative for the Town of New Gloucester. Please call me anytime at 333-1817 to keep me updated on your concerns. If you have an interest in receiving my regular E-Newsletter, please send along your email address to Amy.Arata@legislature.maine.gov so that it can be added to my distribution list. Again, thank you for providing me the honor of serving you in Augusta! Respectfully,

Amy B. Arata State Representative

Proudly Serving House District 104 New Gloucester/ Gray (Part)

10

2354 R AYBURN H OUSE O FFICE B UILDING W ASHINGTON , DC 20515

C OMMITTEE ON A PPROPRIATIONS S UBCOMMITTEES : I NTERIOR , E NVIRONMENT , AND R ELATED A GENCIES , R ANKING M EMBER A GRICULTURE , R URAL D EVELOPMENT , AND R ELATED A GENCIES M ILITARY C ONSTRUCTION , V ETERANS A FFAIRS , AND R ELATED A GENCIES

2354 R AYBURN H OUSE O FFICE B UILDING W ASHINGTON , DC 20515

C OMMITTEE ON A PPROPRIATIONS S UBCOMMITTEES : I NTERIOR , E NVIRONMENT , AND R ELATED A GENCIES , ANKING M EMBER A GRICULTURE , R URAL D EVELOPMENT , AND R ELATED A GENCIES M ILITARY C ONSTRUCTION , V ETERANS A FFAIRS , AND R ELATED A GENCIES

P HONE : 202-225-6116 F AX : 202-225-5590

P HONE : 202-225-6116 F AX : 202-225-5590

C HELLIE P INGREE C ONGRESS OF THE U NITED S TATES 1 ST D ISTRICT M AINE

C HELLIE P INGREE C ONGRESS OF THE U NITED S TATES 1 ST D ISTRICT M AINE

WWW . PINGREE . HOUSE . GOV

C OMMITTEE ON A GRICULTURE S UBCOMMITTEES : L IVESTOCK , D AIRY , AND P OULTRY F ORESTRY

C OMMITTEE ON A GRICULTURE S UBCOMMITTEES : L IVESTOCK , D AIRY , AND P OULTRY F ORESTRY

WWW . PINGREE . HOUSE . GOV

Dear Friends, I hope this letter finds you well and in good health. It is my honor to serve the people of Maine’s First District, and I’m pleased to share some ways that I can support you and your community this year. I know that navigating many federal agencies and programs can be frustrating. One of my most important roles as a Member of Congress is to assist you if you’re having trouble. My office can help to resolve challenges with a wide range of programs, including Social Security , veterans’ benefits, passport renewals, and more. If you need help, please reach out to my Portland office at (207) 774-5019 or visit my website at pingree.house.gov/contact. As you know, communities around Maine have experienced major damage as a result of winter storms and widespread flooding in recent months. These storms have underscored the importance of disaster preparation, particularly as we face the growing impact of climate change. I am working closely with Governor Mills and her administration to ensure that federal assistance is available for both short term recovery needs and long-term resiliency planning. My staff and I are continually updating my website with new resources and stand ready to answer any questions you may have. My office can also provide more information about the annual Community Project Funding (CPF) process. Each year, Congress enacts appropriations bills that provide the federal government with the funding it needs to operate. CPFs are a critical tool to directly support local governments and nonprofit organizations through federal appropriations. If you know of a project that might be a good fit, I encourage you to keep in touch as more details about the Fiscal Year 2025 funding process become available, as eligibility requirements and limitations can differ from year to year. It is always a privilege to hear from you, so don’t hesitate to reach out to my office any time that I can be helpful. Please rest assured that I do not take the responsibility of representing you lightly, and as we move into this new year, I will continue fighting for Mainers on the issues that impact us most. Thank you, and I hope to see you in Maine soon. Sincerely, Dear Friends, I hope this letter finds you well and in good health. It is my honor to serve the people of Maine’s First District, and I’m pleased to share some ways that I can support you and your community this year. I know that navigating many federal agencies and programs can be frustrating. One of my most important roles as a Member of Congress is to assist you if you’re having trouble. My office can help to resolve challenges with a wide range of programs, including Social Security , veterans’ benefits, passport renewals, and more. If you need help, please reach out to my Portland office at (207) 774-5019 or visit my website at pingree.house.gov/contact. As you know, communities around Maine have experienced major damage as a result of winter storms and widespread flooding in recent months. These storms have underscored the importance of disaster preparation, particularly as we face the growing impact of climate change. I am working closely with Governor Mills and her administration to ensure that federal assistance is available for both short term recovery needs and long-term resiliency planning. My staff and I are continually updating my website with new resources and stand ready to answer any questions you may have. My office can also provide more information about the annual Community Project Funding (CPF) process. Each year, Congress enacts appropriations bills that provide the federal government with the funding it needs to operate. CPFs are a critical tool to directly support local governments and nonprofit organizations through federal appropriations. If you know of a project that might be a good fit, I encourage you to keep in touch as more details about the Fiscal Year 2025 funding process become available, as eligibility requirements and limitations can differ from year to year. It is always a privilege to hear from you, so don’t hesitate to reach out to my office any time that I can be helpful. Please rest assured that I do not take the responsibility of representing you lightly, and as we move into this new year, I will continue fighting for Mainers on the issues that impact us most. Thank you, and I hope to see you in Maine soon. Sincerely,

Chellie Pingree Member of Congress

Chellie Pingree Member of Congress

2 P ORTLAND F ISH P IER , S UITE 304 P ORTLAND , ME 04101 P HONE : 207-774-5019 F AX : 207-871-0720

108 M AIN S TREET W ATERVILLE , ME 04901 P HONE : 207-873-5713 F AX : 207-873-5717

2 P ORTLAND F ISH P IER , S UITE 304 P ORTLAND , ME 04101 P HONE : 207-774-5019 F AX : 207-871-0720

108 M AIN S TREET W ATERVILLE , ME 04901 P HONE : 207-873-5713 F AX : 207-873-5717

11

12

Dear Friends: It is an honor to represent Maine in the United States Senate, and I welcome this opportunity to share several key accomplishments for our state from the previous year. As Vice Chair of the Appropriations Committee, I have secured nearly $580 million for 230 projects across all of Maine’s 16 counties to promote job creation, workforce training, and economic development; expand access to health care; support law enforcement; improve public education and infrastructure; and protect our environment. As the new Congress begins, I am honored to be taking the helm of the Committee, the first Mainer to do so in nearly a century, and I remain committed to ensuring that federal spending produces real results for our state and nation. Maine has the oldest average age in the country, which is why I have long prioritized health-focused legislative efforts. There were more than 1,860 health care bills introduced during the 118th Congress. Only 15 health care bills were signed into law, and I was a lead sponsor of five of them. These bills will enhance care for individuals with Alzheimer’s, autism, and substance abuse issues through improved research funding, strengthened public health programs, and increased support for rural first responders. Another important bill that I coauthored was the Social Security Fairness Act . Since 2003, when I led the first-ever Senate hearing on the Windfall Elimination Provision and the Government Pension Offset, I have sought to end these provisions of the Social Security Act that unfairly reduce the Social Security benefits that public employees or their spouses have earned. I am pleased to say that with the passage of my bill, the Social Security Fairness Act , in December, public sector retirees will now receive the full Social Security benefits they have earned. When the Maine way of life was under threat, I was certain to defend the interests of our state. I worked to protect Maine’s potato farmers when the Department of Agriculture tried to reclassify the potat o from a vegetable to a grain. I thwarted efforts to consolidate USPS mail operations at the Hampden postal facility, which would have disrupted mail delivery throughout our state. I sounded the alarm with leaders at the FBI and Departments of State and Treasury on the spate of illicit marijuana growing operations that are destroying properties and providing refuge to foreign criminals in our state. Following damage to our working waterfronts after last winter’s storms, I secured $15 million to help fishing communities recover. I championed funding to support the Maine Air National Guard base, Bath Iron Works, and Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. As of last December, I have cast more than 9,100 consecutive votes, continuing my record of never missing a roll-call vote since my Senate service began in 1997. My ranking as the most bipartisan Senator reflects Maine’s tradition of working with a spirit of cooperation and respect. My highest priority as a Senator is to ensure that Maine’s needs are met. If ever I can b e of assistance to you, please contact one of my state offices or visit my website at collins.senate.gov. Sincerely, Dear Friends: It is an honor to represent Maine in the United States Senate, and I welcome this opportunity to share several key accomplishments for our state from the previous year. As Vice Chair of the Appropriations Committee, I have secured nearly $580 million for 230 projects across all of Maine’s 16 counties to promote job creation, workforce training, and economic development; expand access to health care; support law enforcement; improve public education and infrastructure; and protect our environment. As the new Congress begins, I am honored to be taking the helm of the Committee, the first Mainer to do so in nearly a century, and I remain committed to ensuring that federal spending produces real results for our state and nation. Maine has the oldest average age in the country, which is why I have long prioritized health-focused legislative efforts. There were more than 1,860 health care bills introduced during the 118th Congress. Only 15 health care bills were signed into law, and I was a lead sponsor of five of them. These bills will enhance care for individuals with Alzheimer’s, autism, and substance abuse issues through improved research funding, strengthened public health programs, and increased support for rural first responders. Another important bill that I coauthored was the Social Security Fairness Act . Since 2003, when I led the first-ever Senate hearing on the Windfall Elimination Provision and the Government Pension Offset, I have sought to end these provisions of the Social Security Act that unfairly reduce the Social Security benefits that public employees or their spouses have earned. I am pleased to say that with the passage of my bill, the Social Security Fairness Act , in December, public sector retirees will now receive the full Social Security benefits they have earned. When the Maine way of life was under threat, I was certain to defend the interests of our state. I worked to protect Maine’s potato farmers when the Department of Agriculture tried to reclassify the potat o from a vegetable to a grain. I thwarted efforts to consolidate USPS mail operations at the Hampden postal facility, which would have disrupted mail delivery throughout our state. I sounded the alarm with leaders at the FBI and Departments of State and Treasury on the spate of illicit marijuana growing operations that are destroying properties and providing refuge to foreign criminals in our state. Following damage to our working waterfronts after last winter’s storms, I secured $15 million to help fishing communities recover. I championed funding to support the Maine Air National Guard base, Bath Iron Works, and Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. As of last December, I have cast more than 9,100 consecutive votes, continuing my record of never missing a roll-call vote since my Senate service began in 1997. My ranking as the most bipartisan Senator reflects Maine’s tradition of working with a spirit of cooperation and respect. My highest priority as a Senator is to ensure that Maine’s needs are met. If ever I can b e of assistance to you, please contact one of my state offices or visit my website at collins.senate.gov. Sincerely, Dear Friends: It is an honor to represent Maine in the United States Senate, and I welcome this opportunity to share several key accomplishments for our state from the previous year. As Vice Chair of the Appropriations Committee, I have secured nearly $580 million for 230 projects across all of Maine’s 16 counties to promote job creation, workforce training, and economic development; expand access to health care; support law enforcement; improve public education and infrastructure; and protect our environment. As the new Congress begins, I am honored to be taking the helm of the Committee, the first Mainer to do so in nearly a century, and I remain committed to ensuring that federal spending produces real results for our state and nation. Maine has the oldest average age in the country, which is why I have long prioritized health-focused legislative efforts. There were more than 1,860 health care bills introduced during the 118th Congress. Only 15 health care bills were signed into law, and I was a lead sponsor of five of them. These bills will enhance care for individuals with Alzheimer’s, autism, and substance abuse issues through improved research funding, strengthened public health programs, and increased support for rural first responders. Another important bill that I coauthored was the Social Security Fairness Act . Since 2003, when I led the first-ever Senate hearing on the Windfall Elimination Provision and the Government Pension Offset, I have sought to end these provisions of the Social Security Act that unfairly reduce the Social Security benefits that public employees or their spouses have earned. I am pleased to say that with the passage of my bill, the Social Security Fairness Act , in December, public sector retirees will now receive the full Social Security benefits they have earned. When the Maine way of life was under threat, I was certain to defend the interests of our state. I worked to protect Maine’s potato farmers when the Department of Agriculture tried to reclassify the potat o from a vegetable to a grain. I thwarted efforts to consolidate USPS mail operations at the Hampden postal facility, which would have disrupted mail delivery throughout our state. I sounded the alarm with leaders at the FBI and Departments of State and Treasury on the spate of illicit marijuana growing operations that are destroying properties and providing refuge to foreign criminals in our state. Following damage to our working waterfronts after last winter’s storms, I secured $15 million to help fishing communities recover. I championed funding to support the Maine Air National Guard base, Bath Iron Works, and Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. As of last December, I have cast more than 9,100 consecutive votes, continuing my record of never missing a roll-call vote since my Senate service began in 1997. My ranking as the most bipartisan Senator reflects Maine’s tradition of working with a spirit of cooperation and respect. My highest priority as a Senator is to ensure that Maine’s needs are met. If ever I can b e of assistance to you, please contact one of my state offices or visit my website at collins.senate.gov. Sincerely,

Susan M. Collins United States Senator

Susan M. Collins United States Senator

Susan M. Collins United States Senator

13

STATE OF MAINE OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR 1 STATE HOUSE STATION AUGUSTA, MAINE 04333-0001

STATE OF MAINE O FFICE OF THE G OVERNOR 1 STATE HOUSE STATION AUGUSTA, MAINE 04333-0001 STATE OF MAINE OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR 1 STATE HOUSE STATION AUGUSTA, MAINE 04333-0001 STATE OF MAINE O FFICE OF THE G OVERNOR 1 STATE HOUSE STATION AUGUSTA, MAINE 04333-0001 STATE OF MAINE OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR 1 STATE HOUSE STATION AUGUSTA, MAINE 04333-0001 Spring 2024 Spring 2024 Spring 2024

STATE OF MAINE OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR 1 STATE HOUSE STATION AUGUSTA, MAINE 04333-0001

Janet T. Mills GOVERNOR

Janet T. Mills GOVERNOR

Janet T. Mills GOVERNOR

Janet T. Mills GOVERNOR Dear Maine Resident:

Dear Maine Resident:

Dear Maine Resident:

Dear Maine Resident: In January, I was privileged to take the Oath of Office to begin my second term as your Governor. I am deeply humbled by the trust the people of Maine have placed in me, and I look forward to continuing to work hard over the next four years to improve the lives and livelihoods of Maine people. Over the past four years, we have made real progress. We have expanded health care, leading to the largest decline in the uninsured rate of any state in the nation. We fully funded the State’s share of public education. We delivered two-years of free community college. We fully restored municipal revenue sharing to five percent. We delivered substantial tax relief, nation-leading inflation relief, and emergency energy relief to help Maine people through difficult times. Through the Maine Jobs & Recovery Plan, we are strengthening and diversifying our economy. In 2022, our state’s gross domestic product – a key measure of economic growth – grew at the 9th fastest rate in the United States. People are moving to Maine at a rate higher than any other New England state, and at one of the highest rates in the nation. We have enacted balanced budgets, and we have built up Maine’s “Rainy Day” fund to a record high, preparing our state to continue meeting its commitments in the event of an economic downturn. While I am proud of the progress we have made, there is more to do, like addressing the housing crisis, the workforce shortage, and the opioid epidemic and strengthening health care, education, and the economy. I know that by working together to tackle these issues head-on, we can improve the lives and livelihoods of Maine people and make Maine the best place to live, work, and raise a family. Thank you again for the honor to serve you as Governor. Dear Maine Resident: Spring 2024 Since my first day in office, I have been guided by the belief that to strengthen our state, we have to invest in our greatest asset: the people of Maine. With the support of the Legislature, my Administration has invested in what people need to succeed - job training, child care, health care, education, broadband, and housing. Those investments are working - small businesses are expanding their operations; people are moving here to work and raise their families; and graduates are staying in Maine to pursue rewarding, life-long careers - all encouraging signs that are reflected in the strength of our economy. In fact, Maine has the best rate ofeconomic growth in New England and one of the best rates in the nation. At the same time, we have our challenges. In late October, a gunman took the lives of 18 innocent citizens and injured many more in an act ofsenseless and unconscionable violence. Then, in December and January, heavy rains and powerful winds brought massive flooding that destroyed homes and businesses, roads, and bridges, and changed the very landscape of our coast. I have proposed legislation to address both issues -first, to rebuild from these storms and prepare for those to come; and, second, to expand mental health services and keep weapons out of the hands of dangerous people to better protect public safety. We have made good progress over the past five years to ensure that every person can find a good-paying job in Maine; have affordable health insurance; have the peace of mind that their children are safe at home and at school; breathe clean air and drink clean water and enjoy the rolling hills, lush forests, mighty rivers, and bold coast of Maine. There are still plenty of challenges, particularly when it comes to the affordability of housing, child care, energy, and other things, but thanks to the resilience and the resolve of Maine people, I am more confident Dear Maine Resident: In January, I was privileged to take the Oath of Office to begin my second term as your Governor. I am deeply humbled by the trust the people of Maine have placed in me, and I look forward to continuing to work hard over the next four years to improve the lives and livelihoods of Maine people. Over the past four years, we have made real progress. We have expanded health care, leading to the largest decline in the uninsured rate of any state in the nation. We fully funded the State’s share of public education. We delivered two-years of free community college. We fully restored municipal revenue sharing to five percent. We delivered substantial tax relief, nation-leading inflation relief, and emergency energy relief to help Maine people through difficult times. Through the Maine Jobs & Recovery Plan, we are strengthening and diversifying our economy. In 2022, our state’s gross domestic product – a key measure of economic growth – grew at the 9th fastest rate in the United States. People are moving to Maine at a rate higher than any other New England state, and at one of the highest rates in the nation. We have enacted balanced budgets, and we have built up Maine’s “Rainy Day” fund to a record high, preparing our state to continue meeting its commitments in the event of an economic downturn. While I am proud of the progress we have made, there is more to do, like addressing the housing crisis, the workforce shortage, and the opioid epidemic and strengthening health care, education, and the economy. I know that by working together to tackle these issues head-on, we can improve the lives and livelihoods of Maine people and make Maine the best place to live, work, and raise a family. Thank you again for the honor to serve you as Governor. Since my first day in office, I have been guided by the belief that to strengthen our state, we have to invest in our greatest asset: the people of Maine. With the support of the Legislature, my Administration has invested in what people need to succeed - job training, child care, health care, education, broadband, and housing. Those investments are working - small businesses are expanding their operations; people are moving here to work and raise their families; and graduates are staying in Maine to pursue rewarding, life-long careers - all encouraging signs that are reflected in the strength of our economy. In fact, Maine has the best rate ofeconomic growth in New England and one of the best rates in the nation. At the same time, we have our challenges. In late October, a gunman took the lives of 18 innocent citizens and injured many more in an act ofsenseless and unconscionable violence. Then, in December and January, heavy rains and powerful winds brought massive flooding that destroyed homes and businesses, roads, and bridges, and changed the very landscape of our coast. I have proposed legislation to address both issues -first, to rebuild from these storms and prepare for those to come; and, second, to expand mental health services and keep weapons out of the hands of dangerous people to better protect public safety. We have made good progress over the past five years to ensure that every person can find a good-paying job in Maine; have affordable health insurance; have the peace of mind that their children are safe at home and at school; breathe clean air and drink clean water and enjoy the rolling hills, lush forests, mighty rivers, and bold coast of Maine. There are still plenty of challenges, particularly when it comes to the affordability of housing, child care, energy, and other things, but thanks to the resilience and the resolve of Maine people, I am more confident than ever before in the future of our state. It is my honor to serve as your governor. Sincerely, Since my first day in office, I have been guided by the belief that to strengthen our state, we have to invest in our greatest asset: the people of Maine. With the support of the Legislature, my Administration has invested in what people need to succeed - job training, child care, health care, education, broadband, and housing. Those investments are working - small businesses are expanding their operations; people are moving here to work and raise their families; and graduates are staying in Maine to pursue rewarding, life-long careers - all encouraging signs that are reflected in the strength of our economy. In fact, Maine has the best rate ofeconomic growth in New England and one of the best rates in the nation. At the same time, we have our challenges. In late October, a gunman took the lives of 18 innocent citizens and injured many more in an act ofsenseless and unconscionable violence. Then, in December and January, heavy rains and powerful winds brought massive flooding that destroyed homes and businesses, roads, and bridges, and changed the very landscape of our coast. I have proposed legislation to address both issues -first, to rebuild from these storms and prepare for those to come; and, second, to expand mental health services and keep weapons out of the hands of dangerous people to better protect public safety. We have made good progress over the past five years to ensure that every person can find a good-paying job in Maine; have affordable health insurance; have the peace of mind that their children are safe at home and at school; breathe clean air and drink clean water and enjoy the rolling hills, lush forests, mighty rivers, and bold coast of Maine. There are still plenty of challenges, particularly when it comes to the affordability of housing, child care, energy, and other things, but thanks to the resilience and the resolve of Maine people, I am more confident than ever before in the future of our state. It is my honor to serve as your governor. Sincerely, Since my first day in office, I have been guided by the belief that to strengthen our state, we have to invest in our greatest asset: the people of Maine. With the support of the Legislature, my Administration has invested in what people need to succeed - job training, child care, health care, education, broadband, and housing. Those investments are working - small businesses are expanding their operations; people are moving here to work and raise their families; and graduates are staying in Maine to pursue rewarding, life-long careers - all encouraging signs that are reflected in the strength of our economy. In fact, Maine has the best rate ofeconomic growth in New England and one of the best rates in the nation. At the same time, we have our challenges. In late October, a gunman took the lives of 18 innocent citizens and injured many more in an act ofsenseless and unconscionable violence. Then, in December and January, heavy rains and powerful winds brought massive flooding that destroyed homes and businesses, roads, and bridges, and changed the very landscape of our coast. I have proposed legislation to address both issues -first, to rebuild from these storms and prepare for those to come; and, second, to expand mental health services and keep weapons out of the hands of dangerous people to better protect public safety. We have made good progress over the past five years to ensure that every person can find a good-paying job in Maine; have affordable health insurance; have the peace of mind that their children are safe at home and at school; breathe clean air and drink clean water and enjoy the rolling hills, lush forests, mighty rivers, and bold coast of Maine. There are still plenty of challenges, particularly when it comes to the affordability of housing, child care, energy, and other things, but thanks to the resilience and the resolve of Maine people, I am more confident than ever before in the future of our state. It is my honor to serve as your governor. Sincerely,

Thank you, than ever before in the future of our state. It is my honor to serve as your governor. Sincerely, Thank you,

Janet T. Mills Governor

Janet T. Mills Governor

888-577-6690 (TTY) o, I .� \ 1 ,;, •' '. · .f PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER TTY USERS CALL 711 www.maine.gov www.maine.gov

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PHONE: (207) 287-3531 (Voice)

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FAX: (207) 287-1034

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14

ANNUAL REPORT

ADHOC MUNICIPAL COMPLEX ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Peter Bragdon Beverly Cadigan Terry Dewan Phoebe Hardesty Katie Hutchinson Steven Libby Kathleen Potter

No Term Length Resigned April 2024 No Term Length No Term Length No Term Length No Term Length No Term Length

Code Enforcement Officer, Staff Advisor

ADHOC SEMIQUINCENTENNIAL COMMITTEE

Jessica Farwell Penny Hilton Alana Jones Kelly Nichols Barbara Seaver

No Term Length Resigned May 2024 Resigned May 2024 No Term Length No Term Length No Term Length No Term Length No Term Length No Term Length No Term Length

Doug Smith Phil Blake Tom Blake

Linda Chase, Chair

Steven Libby

Tammy Donovan, Select Board Liaison Stephen Hathorne, Select Board Liaison Town Manager, Staff Advisor

BOARD OF APPEALS

Cristie Barone

Term Expires June 2026 Term Expires June 2024 Term Expires June 2024 Resigned May 2024 Term Expires June 2024

Norman Chamberlain Ray Hamilton (Chair) Nadeau, Mikaela

Kathleen Potter

Code Enforcement Officer, Staff Advisor

15

ANNUAL REPORT

CIP COMMITTEE

Peter Bragdon Linda Chase Steven Libby Douglas McAtee

Term Expires June 2026 Term Expires June 2024

Budget Committee Representative Planning Board Representative

Kathleen Potter (Vice-Chair)

Term Expires June 2024 Term Expires June 2026

Eric Purcell

Colleen Strickler, Select Board Liaison Town Manager, Staff Advisor

CABLE TV COMMITTEE

Richard Erwin (Chair) Patti Mikkelsen (Vice-Chair)

Term Expires June 2025 Term Expires June 2024 Term Expires June 2026

William Welte

Colleen Strickler, Select Board Liaison

CANDIDATE / REFERENDUM ISSUES COMMITTEE

Anne Gauthier-Maurice Kathleen Hutchinson

Term Expires June 2024 Term Expires June 2026 Term Expires June 2025

Diana Thurston

Library Director, Staff Advisor

COMMUNITY FAIR COMMITTEE

Jennifer Bragdon (Vice-Chair)

Term Expires June 2024 Term Expires June 2025 Term Expires June 2026 Term Expires June 2026

Peter Bragdon (Chair) Jessica Farwell Alana Espeaignette

Paul Larrivee, Jr., Select Board Liaison Parks & Recreation Director, Staff Advisor

16

ANNUAL REPORT

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE

Karen Asselin Belinda Desmond Connie Justice (Chair)

Resigned March 2024 Term Expires June 2025 Term Expires June 2026 Passed Away December 2023 Term Expires June 2025

Lado Ladoka Anne Maurice

Paul Larrivee, Jr., Select Board Liaison Town Planner, Staff Advisor

ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES COMMITTEE

Michael Brakey

Term Expires June 2024 Term Expires June 2026 Term Expires June 2025 Term Expires June 2025 Term Expires June 2026 Term Expires June 2026 Term Expires June 2026 Resigned August 2023

Sarah Kaplinger (Vice-Chair) Lauren Jordan (Chair)

Diane Lamson

Nathan Reimensnyder

Doug Smith Kyla Viger

Noreen Williams

Dustin Ward, Select Board Liaison Parks & Recreation Director, Staff Advisor

FINANCE COMMITTEE

Joe Bean

Term Expires June 2025 Resigned January 2024 Term Expires June 2024 Term Expires June 2026 Term Expires June 2024 Term Expires June 2025 Term Expires June 2024 Term Expires June 2026 Term Expires June 2024 Term Expires June 2024

Jennifer Bragdon Peter Bragdon

Julie Fralich Karen Gilles

Jeff Hamilton, Sr. Jean Libby (Chair) Steven Libby Nick Planson Brian Shedlarski

Dustin Ward, Select Board Liaison Tammy Donovan, Select Board Liaison Town Manager, Staff Advisor

17

ANNUAL REPORT

FORECLOSURE COMMITTEE

Assessors’ Agent Code Enforcement Officer Deputy Clerk Environmental Resources Committee Chair Fire/Rescue Chief Parks & Recreation Director Parks & Recreation Committee Chair

Planning Board Chair Public Works Director

Select Board Liaison, Colleen Strickler Select Board Liaison, Stephen Hathorne

Town Manager Town Planner

LAND MANAGEMENT PLANNING COMMITTEE

Belinda Desmond

Term Expires June 2026 Term Expires June 2025 Term Expires June 2024 Term Expires June 2024 Term Expires June 2026 Term Expires June 2026 Term Expires June 2024 Term Expires June 2026 Term Expires June 2025

Terry DeWan

Karen Gilles (Vice Chair)

Michael Joyce Connie Justice Donald Libby Nick Planson

Brian Shedlarski (Chair)

Elizabeth Splane

Paul Larrivee, Jr., Select Board Liaison Town Planner, Staff Advisor

LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Cristie Barone

Term Expires June 2025 Term Expires June 2024 Term Expires June 2025 Term Expires June 2026 Term Expires June 2024

Robert Cotiaux (Vice-Chair)

Carol Gillis Paul Morin

Cecile Rohrbach (Chair)

Colleen Strickler, Select Board Liaison Library Director/Staff Advisor Assistance Librarian, Staff Advisor

18

ANNUAL REPORT

PARKS & RECREATION COMMITTEE

Chris Brassbridge Kimberly Brusseau Michael Fralich Diantha Grant Rebecca Klotzle Kathleen Potter (Chair)

Term Expires June 2025 Term Expires June 2026 Passed Away May 2024 Term Expires June 2026 Term Expires June 2026 Term Expires June 2025 Term Expires June 2026

Laura Sturgis

Tammy Donovan, Select Board Liaison Parks & Recreation Director, Staff Advisor

PLANNING BOARD

Dan Ellingson Erik Hargreaves Donald Libby

Term Expires June 2024 Term Expires June 2025 Term Expires June 2024 Term Expires June 2024 Term Expires June 2026 Term Expires June 2024 Term Expires June 2026 Term Expires June 2025

Jean Libby (Alternate)

Steven Libby

Douglas McAtee (Chair)

Julie Tajonera

Ryan Tripp (Vice-Chair) Town Planner, Staff Advisor

PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE

Linda Chase (Vice-Chair) Karen Gilles (Vice-Chair) Richard Maguire Mikaela Nadeau Nick Planson (Chair)

Term Expires June 2024 Resigned March 2023 Resigned July 2022 Term Expires June 2026 Term Expires June 2024 Term Expires June 2024

Debra Smith

Paul Larrivee, Select Board Liaison Fire/Rescue Chief, Staff Advisor Public Works Director, Staff Advisor

19

ANNUAL REPORT

NEW GLOUCESTER DIRECTORS SCHOOL ADMINISTRATIVE DISTRICT #15

Penny Collins Misty Coolidge Gary Harriman Jason Hart Laura Sturgis Adam Copp

Term Expires June 2025 Term Expires June 2025 Term Expires June 2026 Term Expires June 2024 Resigned August 2023 Term Expires June 2025

20

ANNUAL REPORT Town Clerk’s Report

Births……………………………………………………….………67 Marriages……………………………………..…………………..91 Deaths……………………………………………………………...47

Beedy, Joyce Elaine 04/26/2024 Bernard, Julia M. 11/28/2023 Berry, Albert Ernest 09/02/2023 Black, Joann C. 03/11/2024 Bowie, Linda Margaret 11/14/2023 Bragdon,Wallace E Jr 01/27/2024 Burton, Muriell Anne 12/31/2023 Cameron, David Ernest 01/27/2024 Crowell, Jess B. 02/11/2024 Damon, Stephen Lennard 02/18/2024 Dichard, David James 05/06/2024 Dow, Gregory Lawrence 10/13/2023 Estes, Thomas Eugene Jr. 11/03/2023 Foley, Michael Patrick 09/08/2023 Fralich, Michael Dean 05/07/2024 Gelinas, Brenda 01/10/2024 Goforth, Wanda 11/12/2023 Greene, Sally Ann 05/31/2024 Haskell, Linda Elaine 05/24/2024 Heal, Frances Louise 02/04/2024 Hersey, Merrill Donald 08/12/2023 Joncas, Adelard E. Jr. 12/29/2023 King, Gayle Anne 04/20/2024 Ladd, Peter L. 10/19/2023

Lodoka, Lado

12/02/2023

Marshall, James 01/28/2024 Martin, Beverly Jean 02/21/2024 McClary, Jacqueline Taylor 08/03/2023 McGee, Audrey Viles 09/06/2023 Minott, Brian Theodore 07/23/2023 Olson, Donald 07/30/2023 Pepin, Dustin Allen 08/23/2023 Pinette, Eileen M 10/17/2023 Polonsky, Pauline Theresa 08/17/2023 Purcell, Bonnie Leigh 09/02/2023 Ray, Kelly Annette 02/02/2024 Sawyer, Dorothy 02/06/2024 Smith, Charles Lewis IIl 05/24/2024 Spriggs ,Audrey 01/24/2024 Stone, William 01/17/2024 Targett, Donald 09/21/2023 Thurlow, Rocky Lee 09/16/2023 Thurston, William Kenney 06/07/2024 Vassar, Robert W. 01/14/2024 Webb, Barry Arthur 11/21/2023 Wilcox, Rusty Allen 07/30/2023 Wing, Lyle Eugene 10/19/2023

21