9321-R4_ML&P_TownOfBuxton_2024-2025

Town Of Buxton

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Annual Town Report July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025

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This year we dedicate our Town Report to: Sheridan Bennett My father, Sheridan Bennett, 86, started his life-long public service career with a lie, though just a small one. In the late 1950s he wanted to join the Civil Air Patrol in his hometown of Waterboro but he was too young. “I think you had to be 18 to join,” he said, “But I told a fib and said I was 18 even though I was only 17.” The tall tale worked. My father soon learned to identify all sorts of planes, spotting, recording, and reporting their height and direction as part of a series of civilian observers protecting the United States during the height of the Cold War. He eventually racked up hundreds of observation hours and won an award. It felt important. It was also fun, a chance to do his part, working hard alongside his neighbors, toward a useful, common, goal. That enjoyable feeling, earned while doing good with — and for — others never left Sheridan and it’s kept him busy, working and volunteering in his adopted hometown of Buxton for six decades. Since first arriving in the early 1960s, Sheridan has served his neighbors in town government, public safety, public works and emergency management, while also dedicating time to several community organizations. In 1962, at age 22, Sheridan married his high school sweetheart, Janice Reynolds, in a ceremony at the Buxton Center Baptist Church. The couple soon took up residence in Groveville, where Sheridan still lives today. My brother Todd, arrived in 1963 and I followed in 1971. My parents began building their own house on the still unfinished Dunnell Road in 1968. Sheridan joined the Groveville Volunteer Fire Department right after landing in town and in 1982, he was elected assistant chief. The following two years, 1983 and 1984, saw him elevated to the department’s top job. My father’s tenure was not without controversy, however. In October 1983, the department accepted its first female member. Another soon followed. Sheridan supported the department’s gender expansion, reasoning that there were more women at home in town during the day and available to respond to calls. “They had an all-woman daytime crew in Baldwin at the time,” he said, “and it worked fine.” But those were different times and not everyone agreed in the almost all-male department. Internal strife ensued with one female member going to the Maine Human Rights Commission with a case of discrimination. Two years later, after many newspaper and television stories, the case was dropped and everything was smoothed over. But it’s hard to be at the vanguard of change and Sheridan was voted out the next year. My father didn’t quit public service, though. My childhood memories of his time with the fire department are rosy. I remember him having a ball, driving fire trucks in parades festooned with dozens of kids squirting spectators with hand pumps. One year, he rerouted the entire Groveville Fire Department Field Day parade to go by our recently disabled neighbor’s house. It was much appreciated. Tears flowed. I also remember spending many Saturday mornings with my father, filling swimming pools with pump truck water. “That’s how we taught people to run the pumper,” he said. As Groveville chief, he made a special point to give a student at Frank Jewett Elementary School an award for alerting his teachers to a house fire across the street. Also, around this time my father served two terms as the head of the York County Firefighters Association. Sometime before that, he worked weekends as a York County Sheriff’s Department deputy, too, supervising Saturday night dances at the old Buxton Grange Hall. That job also involved serving subpoenas.

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“I did that without a gun or handcuffs or anything,” he said. “Hard to believe now.” My father was elected to the Buxton budget committee in 1980. He went on to win reelection dozens of times, serving — often as chair — for the next 45 years without a break, retiring in 2025. It wasn’t easy, pouring over numbers and allocation requests, working quietly, in the background, without much recognition or any official power. But he stayed with it, knowing it was important, advocating for increases and recommending cuts he believed necessary and right. In the early 1980s, he plowed snow for Upper District Road Commissioner Harry Roberts. Some days, Harry waited for him at our house, with a plow truck, as my father got home from his day job. Sheridan would then dash inside, get a fresh cup of coffee and take off in the big rig. I remember looking out the window one snowy Christmas morning, waiting for my father to drive the plow truck into our driveway. He came in long enough for us to open presents before getting back to work, clearing roads. My father was also president of the local snowmobile club for a time, helping organize family rides, maintaining trails and stocking the well-known “shelter” on the pole line with enough fire wood for the winter. Sheridan was fire chief at Beech Ridge Motor Speedway for decades, too, always offering rides in the back of his pickup to any local teenagers who wanted to go and see the races. Buxton officials appointed my father Emergency Management Agency Director in 1985. He served the next 29 years, until 2014, running a packed emergency shelter throughout the Ice Storm of 1998. During that emergency, he made personal rounds every evening, filling elderly folks’ woodboxes, stoking their stoves and fireplaces to keep them warm for the night while we all waited for the power to come back on. One of his proudest moments was giving then U.S. Senator Olympia Snowe a tour of the shelter. These days, my father is still serving the town, as a Carroll Park trustee, even convincing two members of his old budget committee to serve as trustees, as well. And it’s not just ceremonial, my father has plans to upgrade the basketball hoops and possibly repair picnic tables this year.

Former Buxton E M A Director Sheridan Bennett (right) shakes hands with U.S. Senator Olympia Snowe at the town shelter during the Ice Storm of ‘98. Bennett, who was in charge of the shelter, was giving Snowe a tour.

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Selectmen’s Report 2024-2025

Like many municipalities, Buxton continues to navigate a range of challenges associated with economic pressures and community growth. The Town remains committed to managing this growth in a fiscally responsible manner, with a focus on maintaining affordability and preserving the quality of life for both long-standing and new residents. The following highlights reflect several of the key developments and accomplishments within the community over the past year. Heath Knight was elected to the Select Board in the June 2025 election, following a year of service on the Planning Board. The Town extends its sincere appreciation to Mark Blier for his many years of dedicated service and the depth of knowledge he contributed to the Board. His continued commitment to public service, both within the Buxton community and in his role as a State Representative for the State of Maine, is greatly valued. At the Annual Town Meeting on June 14, 2025, residents voted on a number of different articles, one of which was to become an ecomaine member community, joining more than 70 municipalities across the state. The Town subsequently partnered with Casella Waste Systems to provide roadside solid waste collection, with all collected materials delivered directly to ecomaine for processing. Recyclable materials are also transported to ecomaine’s state-of-the-art single-sort recycling facility, which accepts mixed recyclables from municipalities and businesses statewide. Through a combination of advanced automated systems and manual sorting processes, materials are separated into distinct commodity streams, baled, and marketed to manufacturers across North America. These materials are then further processed and repurposed into new products, including containers, packaging, textiles such as fleece, and composite building materials. Another article authorized the acquisition of a 3.32-acre parcel located in the Tory Hill area along Narragansett Trail, across Route 202 from Weymouth Park and adjacent to Nouria. The property has since been formally designated as Tory Hill Park. This multi-purpose recreational area provides substantial open space to accommodate a variety of athletic uses, including football, soccer, softball, and baseball. The Town is pleased to incorporate this new asset into its park system, further enhancing recreational opportunities for residents. Selectmen David Field and Heath Knight serve on the Bar Mills Dam Decommissioning Committee, in collaboration with representatives from the Town of Hollis. Brookfield White Pine Hydro is currently engaging with municipal stakeholders, members of the public, and state and federal regulatory agencies to evaluate the proposed decommissioning and scope of dam removal. The Bar Mills facility has experienced significant operational challenges that have prevented power generation for the past three years. In the absence of a feasible solution to restore the generating units to service, the project is considered a strong candidate for license surrender and subsequent decommissioning. As part of this process, Brookfield White Pine Hydro has identified several key resource areas for evaluation within the environmental assessment component of the surrender application. These include fisheries and fish passage,

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water quantity and flow regimes, recreational opportunities, and historic and cultural resources. In response to public input received during recent meetings, the scope of analysis will also be expanded to include potential impacts to wetlands, groundwater, flood conditions, threatened and endangered species, visual aesthetics, and land use. Additional information will be provided as it becomes available and as the Select Board receives more definitive details regarding the final plans for the dam removal. The Board of Selectmen extends its sincere gratitude and appreciation to all employees, trustees, and volunteers for their continued dedication and service. We also thank our residents for their ongoing support of the programs and services provided by the Town. Your collective contributions play a vital role in making Buxton a vibrant and thriving community in which to live and grow. Respectfully submitted,

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In Remembrance The Town of Buxton wishes to remember the residents in our community who passed away last year.

Anthony, Neil Aden Bangs, Floyd Calvin Jr. Boardman, Tracy Kay Bourque, Camille Lee Brown, Caroline Eva Chandler, John Wayne Charlton, Roger Martin Childs, Marjorie Ann Churchill, Patricia Jean Clark, Robert Arthur Jr. Bonnvie-Smith, Barbara Anne

Hague, Linda Mildred Harris, Eileen Debra Hegarty, Earl Marshall

Ranks, Deborah Lyn

Roberts, Claudia Lorraine

Robinson, Carol R.

Johnson, Craig W

Rose, Charles Dwight Jr. Russell, Martha Ann Ryder, Jason William Sanborn, Donna Avis Sanborn, Gordon Allen Sargent, Barry Worth Schissel, Priscilla Mae Sherwood, Michael Hall Short, Samuel Eugene Smith, Harold Clifton Smith, Virginia Rose Steeves, Theresa Louise Stevens, James Aaron Sullivan, Caroline Lee Sweeney, Warren F. Tracy, Ruth Florence Traver, Henry Bradley II Traver, Margaret L. Valliere, Gertrude M. Weeman, Ronald Elmer Sprague, Donna F.

Johnson, Lloyd Francis Johnston, Todd Paul

Keyser, Russell W.

LaBreck, David Michael Lamontagne, Joanne Marie LaPoint, Robert Louis Jr. Lesh, Michael Lynn Libby, Jeffrey Alan Libby, Nancy Stilphen Liebel, Leona Frances Lowell, John Maurice Sr.

Cobb, June Ellen

Corbeil, Thelma Jean Cram, Paul Steven

Darling, Marie J.

Dube, Jeanne Althea Elwell, Sharon Leo Esposito, Irene H. Frallicciardi, Pauline Frank, Janet Marie Frank, William D. Sr.

McDonough, Nancy

McLoughlin, Janice Mae Messer, Thomas Raymond

Micucci, June Walker

Morse, Ruth M.

Mountain, Marilyn Jean Nielsen, Deborah Q. Norman, Glen Robert Ouellette, David William Pitcher, Maureen E. Plummer, Wendy Lynn Odette, Barney

Frost, June L.

Fryer, James Atwell Gallant, Rachel Scott

Goodrich, Margaret Regina

Wood, Patricia Ann Young, William R.

Grant, Linda Arlene Groder, Joann Lillian

Zhong, Yuexi

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Elected Officers, Appointed Officials, Town Employees, Boards, Committees, Commissions and Trustees (Dates shown in parenthesis indicate when term ends, Month & Year)

Elected Officers Selectmen, Assessors and Overseers of the Poor David A. Field, Jr., Chair (6/26) Francis E. Pulsoni, Vice Chair (6/26) Heath D. Knight (6/28) Thomas J. Peters (6/28) Chad E. Poitras (6/27) Budget Committee David F. Kessler, Chair (6/28) Richard H. Emery Jr. (6/26) Richard J. Fitzgerald (6/26) Tardif, Ronald G. (6/28) Tyler D. Ladd (6/27) Michael F. Pettis (6/27) Luke G. Plummer (6/28) Maine School Administrative District Number Six District Directors Nathan M. Carlow (6/28) Ellen H. Decotiis (6/27) Cynthia J. Meserve (6/26) Planning Board Craig S. Lefebvre, Chair (6/28) Jeremiah K. Ross, III, Vice Chair (6/28) Scott A. Warchol, Treasurer (6/27) Travis A. Letellier (6/26) (SHB 6/27) Roger C. Tracy (6/26) Town Clerk John L. Myers, Jr. (6/26)

Health Officer Chad E. Poitras (12/26) Motor Vehicle Agent and Inland Fisheries & Wildlife Agent Angela H. Michie Public Access Officer John L. Myers Jr. Selectmen’s Office Donna Marie Buckley, Selectmen’s Assistant & Accounts Payable William C. Hall, Town Treasurer Kimberly A. Lefebvre, Human Resources & Welfare Director John Myers, Welfare Fair Hearing Authority Sub-Registrar for Disposition Permits James Pate (6/26) Chad E. Poitras (6/26) Town Departments Business Office John L. Myers Jr., Office Manager Abigail M. Camire, Deputy Town Clerk Angela H. Michie, Motor Vehicle Agent Ruth M. Scheibenpflug, Assistant Clerk Shelby R. St. Louis, Tax Collector Code Enforcement Officer, Building and Plumbing Inspector Patti J. McKenna (4/26) Kert A. Jackson, Deputy (4/26) Roxanne R. Gardner, Executive Assistant Kert A. Jackson, Facilities Manager Recreation Department Grace Mulherin - Director Matt Willis - Supervisor Vacant - Childcare Services Programmer Natalie St.Onge-Programmer

Town Meeting Moderator & State Election Warden Dana G. Deering Bette Robicheaw, Deputy Appointed Officials

Emergency Management Agency Nathan R. Schools, Director (12/26) William C. Roberts Jr., Deputy (12/26)

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Elected Officers, Appointed Officials, Town Employees, Boards, Committees, Commissions and Trustees (Cont.) (Dates shown in parenthesis indicate when term ends, Month & Year)

Fire-Rescue Department Nathan R. Schools, Chief

Animal Control Kristin Russell-Perkins

Jeremy M. Redlon, Assistant Chief Jeff Roblee – Division Chief - EMS Joanne C. Ward, Executive Assistant Marisa Morrison – Career Captain – CRR Charles Reed, Chaplain Gene D. Harmon, Safety Officer Connor Redlon – Captain Brandon Redlon - Career Captain Jack Stephen – Career Lieutenant Trevor Nason – Career Lieutenant Alex Mayotte – Lieutenant James Turgeon- Lieutenant Michael Banker – Fire-Police Captain Dana Deering – Fire Warden Police Administration Chief Kevin Collins Sergeant Heath Mains Brooke Murphy, Administrative Assistant Kolby Miller, Court Officer Chaplain Charles Reed Daryen Granata, Evidence Room/Grant Manager Detective Paul Shaw Full Time Police Officers Krista Lee Adam Ricci

Public Works Department Kevin M. Kimball, Director Dennis Nason, Mechanic Dale Deering Jason Gato Christopher E. Gaudet John MacLean Dellas Nason Charles “Ed” O’Neil Jr. Michael D. Roberts, Winter Seasonal Solid Waste & Recycling Gregory P. Heffernan, Manager Darren M. Mercier, Assistant Manager Kaleb Facteau, Foreman Sandra Smith, Booth Attendant Pierson Dunn, Part-time Joe Masciotta, Part-time Tyler Perkins, Part-time Voter Registration Ruth M. Scheibenpflug, Registrar (12/26) Helen J. Andronaco, Deputy (12/24) Jane E. Cummings, Deputy (12/26) Appointed Boards & Representatives Board of Appeals Michael F. Pettis, Chair (12/26) Gemma G. Baldinelli (12/28) Mark J. Blier (12/28) Chad D. Havu (12/27 Henry W. Huntley (12/27) Ecomaine Board David A. Field, Member (6/28) Heath D. Knight, Alternate (6/28) Saco River Cable Commission Mark J. Blier (12/28) Vacancy

Patrick Talbot Kelsey Vincent Reserve Police Officers Bret Smith

Matthew Dahms Kevin Cashman Dispatch Staff Aubrey Pennell, Dispatch Supervisor Jeremy Gagne Matthew Dahms

Cheri Emmons Shayla Skinner

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Elected Officers, Appointed Officials, Town Employees, Boards, Committees, Commissions and Trustees (Cont.) (Dates shown in parenthesis indicate when term ends, Month & Year)

Saco River Community Media Brenton R. Hill, Director (12/26) Alternate Vacancy Saco River Corridor Commission Benjamin L. Pinault (11/28) Jeremiah K. Ross, III, Alternate (11/28) Southern Maine Planning and Development Commission Patti J. McKenna, General Assembly Thomas J. Peters, Alternate Member Voter Registration Appeals Board Joan E. Plummer, Chair (12/26) Dorothy S. Bell, Democrat (3/29) Vacancy (Republican) Ellen Decotiis, Alternate Democrat (3/29) Trustees

Pleasant Point Park Donna P. Beal (12/27) David A. Field, Jr. (12/28) Vacancy (12/26) Tory Hill Park Jon E. Bartlett (12/27) Michael F. Pettis (12/28) Vacancy Town Farm Park Grace Mulherin (12/27) Tashia L. Pinkham (12/28) Ruth M. Scheibenpflug (12/26)

West Buxton Library Board of Trustees (Not Appointed by Board of Selectmen) Bart McCrum, Chairperson

Barry Plummer Beth Plummer Bette Robicheaw

Berry Memorial Library Ansel E. Stevens, Jr. (12/26) Gloria J. Stevens (12/27) Shelby R. St. Louis (12/28) Valerie Messana, Librarian Bonny Eagle Park William C. Hall (12/26) Vacancy (12/25) Carroll Park Sheridan W. Bennett (12/29) Kathleen M. Hagan (12/28) Michael F. Pettis (12/27) Luke G. Plummer (12/26) Estes Park Mia B. Dodge (12/27) Randall J. Porter (12/26) Vacancy (12/25)

Lila Wilkins Kyle Sargent Karen Yarumian – Treasurer

Linda Mulski Alisha Chaney Caroline Nickerson - Director Weymouth Park (Not Appointed by Board of Selectmen)

Charles A. Elwell Robert C. Elwell

Nicholas P. Pinkham Town Committees Buxton Toy Box Carolyn A. Snell, Chair (12/28) Karen S. Knight (12/27) William K. Nemitz (12/26)

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Elected Officers, Appointed Officials, Town Employees, Boards, Committees, Commissions and Trustees (Cont.) (Dates shown in parenthesis indicate when term ends, Month & Year) State Senator

Cemetery Committee Carrie M. Cousins (12/28) Chad E. Poitras (12/26) Vacancy Comprehensive Plan Committee Mark J. Blier (12/28) Henry W. Huntley (12/28) Heath D. Knight (12/28) Luke G. Plummer (12/28) Clifford W. Thomas (12/28) Keep the Heat on Committee Mark J. Blier (12/28) Krystal L. Dyer (12/27) Chad E. Poitras (12/27) Francis E. Pulsoni (12/28) Scott A. Warchol (12/26)

Senator Donna Bailey Maine Senate District 31

3 State House Station Augusta, ME 04333 State Senate Phone: 1-800-423-6900 State Representatives Representative Nathan M. Carlow Maine Representative District 137 2 State House Station Augusta, ME 04333 State House Phone: 1-800-423-2900 Representative Mark J. Blier Maine Representative District 138 2 State House Station Augusta, ME 04333 State House Phone: 1-800-423-2900

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Buxton Fire-Rescue 185 Portland Road

BUXTON FIRE-RESCUE 2021-2022 ANNUAL REPORT

Chief Nathan Schools, EFO Assistant Chief Jeremy Redlon Division Chief Jeffrey Roblee

Chief Nathan Schools, EFO Assistant Chief Jeremy Redlon Deputy Chief Conrad Jellison

Buxton, ME 04093 Office (207) 929-3099 2022, was the appointment of Firefighter/Paramedic Denise Nessmann (a 28-year veteran) to the position of career captain and the appointment of Firefighter/Paramedic Jeff Roblee to paid-on-call captain. During the Special Town Meeting on February 2, 2022, the taxpayers approved the purchase of the following items with use of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funds: • 2 – Lucas Chest Compressors These items remain necessary due to a shortage of staffing on emergency scenes. The Lucas Chest Compressor(s) provide the highest quality CPR compressions available in the field. The stretcher(s) and power load system(s) reduce back injury potential while lifting patients at medical emergencies. The fit test machine allows BFR to fit test employees to a much higher quality fit factor reducing the risk of airborne illness transmission, such as COVID-19, while utilizing required respirators (N95’s). BFR appreciates our continued community support. Unfortunately, in 2022 we lost two long time members (Ret.) Chief Durward Lang and (Ret) Lieutenant Robert Buxton Fire-Rescue 185 Portland Road Chief Nathan Schools, EFO Buxton, ME 04093 Assistant Chief Jeremy Redlon Office (207) 929-3099 Division Chief Jeffrey Roblee Fax (207) 929-3076 Department Website: www.buxtonfr.org Buxton Board of Selectmen 185 Portland Road Buxton, ME 04093 Board of Selectmen: The past year was another busy and meaningful one for Buxton Fire-Rescue. As we reflect on 2025, we are proud of the dedication, resilience, and compassion shown by our members while serving the residents of Buxton and our surrounding communities. Throughout the year, crews responded to several significant fires, including incidents on Rocky Dundee Road, 109 Turkey Lane, and 90 Depot Street. And assisting in other communities at major incidents. These events highlighted the importance of strong mutual aid partnerships and the professionalism of our personnel. Training remained a top priority. By the end of October, our members logged more than 3,000 training hours and over 1,600 hours of off-duty response. Training included multiple live burns at our training facility and an acquired structure on Old Orchard Road. That training proved invaluable when a real crash and vehicle fire occurred just over the Scarborough Townline, Buxton crews responded quickly, controlled the fire, and provided patient care until Scarborough Fire arrived. We were proud to welcome Jordan Hancock and Courteney Dery to fill our final career positions, while also recognizing the retirement of longtime Groveville Station member Dana Dodge. Several members achieved significant EMS licensure milestones: Mitchell Havu, Alex Mayotte, and Ethan Shephard earned paramedic certification; Courteney Dery became an Advanced EMT; and Connor Nicholson earned EMT-Basic certification. Our Community Risk Reduction efforts continued to expand. Crews assisted residents by shoveling walkways, snow-blowing driveways, installing smoke detectors, applying carpet tape to prevent falls, and partnering with Southern Maine Community College to complete community risk reduction plans. These small acts of service help prevent emergencies before they happen. The summer brought drought conditions and elevated wildfire risk, making prevention and preparedness a daily focus. Maine experienced one of its driest fire seasons since the historic wildfires of 1947, and we continue to stress wildfire awareness and preparedness. Beyond emergency response, our members represented Buxton Fire-Rescue at regional fire competitions, including the Junior Firefighter Muster in Scarborough, where Anthony, Jayden, Wyatt Turgeon, and Mathieu Poitras proudly competed against departments from Maine and New Hampshire. Events like these strengthen skills, teamwork, and camaraderie. We look forward to what 2026 has to bring. Fax (207) 929-3076 Department Website: www.buxtonfr.org It is my pleasure to submit the FY 2021-2022 Annual Report on behalf of the officers and members of Buxton Fire – Rescue. During FY 2022, the department began to experience a rebounding call volume, at times difficult to manage. In 2021, the department responded to 1,065 emergency calls and members participated in 5,341 hours of training. The past year was another busy and meaningful one for Buxton Fire-Rescue. As we reflect on 2025, we are proud of the dedication, resilience, and compassion shown by our members while serving the residents of Buxton and our surrounding communities. Throughout the year, crews responded to several significant fires, including incidents on Rocky Dundee Road, 109 Turkey Lane, and 90 Depot Street. And assisting in other communities at major incidents. These events highlighted the importance of strong mutual aid partnerships and the professionalism of our personnel. Training remained a top priority. By the end of October, our members logged more than 3,000 training hours and over 1,600 hours of off-duty response. Training included multiple live burns at our training facility and an acquired structure on Old Orchard Road. That training proved invaluable when a real crash and vehicle fire occurred just over the Scarborough Townline, Buxton crews responded quickly, controlled the fire, and provided patient care until Scarborough Fire arrived. We were proud to welcome Jordan Hancock and Courteney Dery to fill our final career positions, while also recognizing the retirement of longtime Groveville Station member Dana Dodge. Several members achieved significant EMS licensure milestones: Mitchell Havu, Alex Mayotte, and Ethan Shephard earned paramedic certification; Courteney Dery became an Advanced EMT; and Connor Nicholson earned EMT-Basic certification. Our Community Risk Reduction efforts continued to expand. Crews assisted residents by shoveling walkways, snow blowing driveways, installing smoke detectors, applying carpet tape to prevent falls, and partnering with Southern Maine Community College to complete community risk reduction plans. These small acts of service help prevent emergencies before they happen. The summer brought drought conditions and elevated wildfire risk, making prevention and preparedness a daily focus. Maine experienced one of its driest fire seasons since the historic wildfires of 1947, and we continue to stress wildfire awareness and preparedness. Beyond emergency response, our members represented Buxton Fire-Rescue at regional fire competitions, including the Junior Firefighter Muster in Scarborough, where Anthony, Jayden, Wyatt Turgeon, and Mathieu Poitras proudly competed against departments from Maine and New Hampshire. Events like these strengthen skills, teamwork, and camaraderie. We look forward to what 2026 has to bring. (Bob) Gorham. Both men served the department for decades; Durward retired in 2013 and Bob in 2021. Both men left a lasting impact on the department and their legacy lives on. Speaking of legacy, during the 2022 Regular Town Meeting I had the opportunity to present Deputy Chief Gene Harmon with Life Member Recognition. I was thrilled to present D/C Harmon with a rocking chair and firefighter flag in recognition for his more than 60-years of service to Buxton Fire-Rescue. Deputy Chief Harmon has served in many capacities through the years, from Firefighter to Chief of the Bar Mills Fire Department. Gene is part of the fabric of this organization, and I was humbled to present this to him. In closing, FY 2021-2022 was a year worth remembering. As we all bounced back out of the COVID year(s) we grew as an organization and had to re-learn how to best support our community with what many would call a new normal. We look forward to continual growth as an organization to best support the department’s mission and the citizens and visitors of our community. Respectfully, Chief Nathan R. Schools, EFO During FY 2022, Assistant Chief Redlon made great progress in two program areas, dry hydrants and recruitment. As part of BFR’s hydrant project, A/C Redlon completed a water supply study and identified areas in town that need hydrants and current hydrants that needed significant repair, including pond dredging. During that time, dozens of hydrant repairs were made placing hydrants back in service. Because Buxton is not serviced by a public water system, BFR relies on fire ponds, cisterns, streams, and the Saco River for fire suppression water supply. BFR currently maintains fifty-four (54) drafting sites throughout the community. The second programmatic push was the BFR recruitment project. Recruitment and retention was and remains a high priority for BFR during the creation of the career assistant chief’s position. In March 2022, BFR hosted a regional Basic Fire School program with students from Lebanon, Goodwin’s Mills, Limerick, York County EMA, and Buxton. This class provided initial training to three (3) BFR new hires, of which two (2) remain active. BFR continues to recruit and retain paid-on-call members by providing quality communication, training, and growth opportunities here in Buxton. Another part of BFR’s recruitment plan was to host the first BFR Citizen Academy . This provided an opportunity for adults to visit the station, talk with active members, climb ladders, use extrication equipment, flow hose lines, and grab an application all while their children attended the department’s fire prevention open house. Our outreach efforts continue as we look for new ways to recruit members. In FY 2022, BFR hired two (2) career firefighter/EMT’s who were current student live-ins. This was the first time as chief that I had the opportunity to hire students directly from our program. The student live-in program provides Southern Maine Community College students with a live-in program where they gain experience as firefighters and EMT’s. This helps them become career ready. The two hired have since obtained their EMT Advanced licenses and add value to our organization and continue to grow in their positions. Notable also in FY Respectfully, Buxton Fire- Rescue Budget Presenta�on Fire-Rescue Response Trends CY 2018 Total CY Call Volume 2018 = 977 2019 = 1,001 2020 = 1,045 2021 = 1,065 CY 2020 CY 2019 Tuesday, April 11, 2023 10 CY 2021 CY Overlapping Calls 2018 = 198 or 20.27% 2019 = 264 or 26.35% 2020 = 195 or 18.7% 2021 = 156 or 14.65% BFR Monday Message October 25, 2021 2 • 2 – Power Load Stretchers • 2 – Power Pro Stretchers • 1 – Fit Test Machine W ORKING T O PROMOTE AND PROTECT THE HEALTH AND SAFETY OF OUR COMMUNITY AND FIRST RESPONDERS | 1 W ORKING T O PROMOTE AND PROTECT THE HEALTH AND SAFETY OF OUR COMMUNITY AND FIRST RESPONDERS | 2 W ORKING T O PROMOTE AND PROTECT THE HEALTH AND SAFETY OF OUR COMMUNITY AND FIRST RESPONDERS | 1 Buxton Board of Selectmen 185 Portland Road Buxton, ME 04093 Board of Selectmen: Buxton Board of Selectmen 185 Portland Road Buxton, ME 04093 Board of Selectmen: Chief Nathan R. Schools, EFO

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Buxton Police Department Annual Report January 1 st , 2025 – December 31 st , 2025 Chief Kevin R. Collins

MISSION STATEMENT

“The mission of the Buxton Police Department is to uphold the law in a fair and firm manner. To seek justice and hold those who commit crimes accountable. To guard the life, property, and constitutional rights of all citizens. To perform these duties with respect, honesty, and determination, to ensure a safe and secure community. The Buxton Police Department desires to be professional and compassionate, while providing exceptional service to the citizens we serve. We aspire to proactively maintain the utmost training available, form positive community relations, and commit to our core values of Integrity, Teamwork, Courage, Professionalism, and Pride in our Service.”

ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF

Chief Kevin R. Collins Executive Assistant Brooke Murphy Sergeant Heath Mains & K9 Partner Stuka Sergeant Brian Donahue Dispatch Supervisor Aubrey Pennell Detective Paul Shaw Court Officer Kolby Miller Evidence Tech Daryen Granata Chaplain Charles Reed

Patrol Services:

PATROL STAFF

During the 2025 calendar year, Buxton officers responded to 14,977 calls, an increase of 8% from the previous year. The safety of the community, businesses and Buxton PD staff is a top priority. Some examples of other types of police responses can be found within the chart labeled Non-Criminal Data on the next page. This calendar year, officers arrested 76 individuals and issued 282 criminal summonses. There were 37 charges related to drug offenses including Drug Trafficking, Furnishing and Possession of Drugs, to include Fentanyl.

Officer Krista Lee Officer Adam Ricci

Officer Patrick Talbot Officer Kelsey Vincent Officer Sawyer Labarge

ACO Kristin Russell-Perkins Reserve Officer Bret Smith Reserve Officer Matthew Dahms (Officers who transitioned careers in 2025 listed below) Officer Jacob Wells Officer Colt Bernhardt Officer Camden LaBrecque

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Buxton Police Department Annual Report January 1 st , 2025 – December 31 st , 2025 Chief Kevin R. Collins Buxton Police Department Annual Report January 1 st , 2025 – December 31 st , 2025 Chief Kevin R. Collins 2025 ENFORCEMENT ACTIONS 2025 ENFORCEMENT ACTIONS

Traffic Citations Criminal/Civil Summonses Criminal Arrests Traffic Citations Criminal/Civil Summonses Criminal Arrests

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Traffic violations continue to keep the department busy, with officers stopping 1,734 vehicles. Of those stops, officers cited 144 drivers for traffic violations. Some criminal summonses charged this year include, 26 charges of speeding 30mph or more above the posted limit, 51 charges of Operating While License Suspended or Revoked, 20 charges of Operating Without a License, 30 charges of Operating with a Suspended Registration, and 29 arrests for Operating Under the Influence of Alcohol and/or Drugs. Officers stopped 28 drivers for Operating While Using Handheld Device. The most prevalent reason for traffic stops continues to be speed, year after year, this year tallying in at 391 stops for speeding 15 to 19 over the limit. Officers will continue to take a strong stance on enforcement actions in 2026 and encourage motorists to drive safely. Officers also handle a variety of calls that may not result in a criminal investigation or charges but serve to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our citizens. (See below – Statistical Data of these calls) Traffic violations continue to keep the department busy, with officers stopping 1,734 vehicles. Of those stops, officers cited 144 drivers for traffic violations. Some criminal summonses charged this year include, 26 charges of speeding 30mph or more above the posted limit, 51 charges of Operating While License Suspended or Revoked, 20 charges of Operating Without a License, 30 charges of Operating with a Suspended Registration, and 29 arrests for Operating Under the Influence of Alcohol and/or Drugs. Officers stopped 28 drivers for Operating While Using Handheld Device. The most prevalent reason for traffic stops continues to be speed, year after year, this year tallying in at 391 stops for speeding 15 to 19 over the limit. Officers will continue to take a strong stance on enforcement actions in 2026 and encourage motorists to drive safely. Officers also handle a variety of calls that may not result in a criminal investigation or charges but serve to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our citizens. (See below – Statistical Data of these calls)

Assist Other Agencies Abandoned 911 Calls Suspicious Calls Assist Citizens Animal Related Calls Building Checks Assist Other Agencies Abandoned 911 Calls Suspicious Calls Assist Citizens Animal Related Calls Building Checks

5704

356

339

5704

356

320

339

320 136

148 134

136

Well Being Checks Disabled Veh. & Traffic Hazards Business & Residential Alarms Non-Criminal Data Well Being Checks Disabled Veh. & Traffic Hazards Business & Residential Alarms Non-Criminal Data

148 134

144

100

144

0

1000

2000

3000

4000

5000

6000

100

0

1000

2000 2

3000

4000

5000

6000

15 2

Buxton Police Department Annual Report January 1 st , 2025 – December 31 st , 2025 Chief Kevin R. Collins Buxton Police Department Annual Report January 1 st , 2025 – December 31 st , 2025 Chief Kevin R. Collins

Buxton Police Department participates in the federal National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS) program. A monthly reporting summary of criminal offenses that have occurred within the community. (UCR/NIBRS Reporting Data) Buxton Police Department participates in the federal National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS) program. A monthly reporting summary of criminal offenses that have occurred within the community. (UCR/NIBRS Reporting Data)

Offense Offense Homicide

Reported Reported

Open Cases Open Cases

Closed Closed

Unfounded Unfounded

0 8 0 7 0 8 0 7

0 5 1 2 0 5 1 2

0 2 0 0 1 0 2 0 0 1 2 2

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Homicide Criminal Threatening Criminal Threatening Robbery

Robbery Assault Burglary Assault Burglary Theft

10 39 10 39 3 67 3 67

21 28 21 28 3 60 3 60

22 22 27 27

Theft Vehicle Theft Vehicle Theft TOTALS TOTALS

By tracking detailed crime data, it not only allows the FBI to track offenses and trends across the country, but it also gives the police department a comprehensive view of what is occurring in town. This information allows the department to focus services and patrols in a manner that will be most beneficial to the protection of the community. Officers manage a variety of calls that may not result in a criminal investigation or charges but serve to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our citizens. The numbers may show some discrepancies due to not all calls receiving a report. By tracking detailed crime data, it not only allows the FBI to track offenses and trends across the country, but it also gives the police department a comprehensive view of what is occurring in town. This information allows the department to focus services and patrols in a manner that will be most beneficial to the protection of the community. Officers manage a variety of calls that may not result in a criminal investigation or charges but serve to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our citizens. The numbers may show some discrepancies due to not all calls receiving a report.

Buxton Public Safety Drone Program In June of this year, the department was awarded a grant from Narragansett Number One Foundation to purchase a Parrott ANAFI USA Drone. This drone is a new tool the department will be utilizing regarding suspect searches, search and rescue, fire suppression, and much more. This grant also covered accessories and three years of the DroneSense Program that is used to monitor events, incidents and training. This program also tracks equipment, accessories and maintenance schedules. Currently we have two licensed pilots within the department, at remote pilot levels. This training aids our pilots with understanding airspace charting and airspace procedures. We are very excited to deploy this new technology in the upcoming year. Buxton Public Safety Drone Program In June of this year, the department was awarded a grant from Narragansett Number One Foundation to purchase a Parrott ANAFI USA Drone. This drone is a new tool the department will be utilizing regarding suspect searches, search and rescue, fire suppression, and much more. This grant also covered accessories and three years of the DroneSense Program that is used to monitor events, incidents and training. This program also tracks equipment, accessories and maintenance schedules. Currently we have two licensed pilots within the department, at remote pilot levels. This training aids our pilots with understanding airspace charting and airspace procedures. We are very excited to deploy this new technology in the upcoming year.

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Buxton Police Department Annual Report January 1 st , 2025 – December 31 st , 2025 Chief Kevin R. Collins

Dispatch Services:

DISPATCH STAFF

From January 1 st , 2025, through December 31 st , 2025, the Buxton Emergency Communications Center

Dispatcher Jeremy Gagne Dispatcher Matthew Dahms Dispatcher Shayla Skinner Dispatcher Cheri Emmons Reserve Dispatcher Kolby Miller

logged 16,019 calls. These were calls for Police, Fire and EMS services or calls requiring both departments together, as well as calls that did not require emergency response units such as Community Cares calls, Court Ordered Check-Ins, and Informational Calls, as a few examples. The chart shows a decrease of 2% from the 16,370 calls in 2024.

The Buxton Police Department as a whole strives to expand and improve to meet the needs of the residents and help protect all those living or traveling through the town of Buxton. It is our duty to defend the lives and property of the very people we serve. To aid in decreasing the frequency and fear of crime, strengthen public safety, all while working with the community to improve quality of life. We aim to do so with courage and honesty, while conducting with high moral standards.

Police/Fire/EMS 1609

2025 CALLS FOR SERVICE

Fire/EMS 1882

Police 13368

17 4

Stuka

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Solid Waste Manager’s 2025 Report

The Town of Buxton voted to join EcoMaine at the 2025 Annual Town Meeting. We now use a single stream recycling compactor at the Transfer Station. All of our recycling goes into what used to be our garbage compactor. Once our recycling compactor is full, it is hauled to the EcoMaine facility in Portland. We accept all cardboard, boxboard, glass, and plastic # 1 thru #7. Residents no longer have to sort any of this material. Our composting facility received approximately 1600 yards of leaves and grass, 6 yards of food waste, and 800 yards of animal manure and bedding. Composting eliminates the need to pay for hauling and disposal fees for leaves, grass, and manure, and provides compost as a useful end product for our community. We accept leaves, grass, sawdust from untreated wood, pine needles, garden clippings, manure, and non-animal kitchen scraps (fruits & vegetables) for our compost pile. We can’t accept meat, bones, vegetable oils, or dog/cat/human feces for composting. Compost and wood chips are available to Buxton residents for free if you shovel your own load. We charge $10 per bucket for us to load your vehicle with our loader. We recommend screening the compost on site to avoid getting trash in your compost. We don’t have a grinder or screen for our compost, so expect to find bits of trash, sticks, and other debris that residents have swept out of their truck beds. There is no charge to drop off wood chips or other compostable materials at the transfer station. Leaves, grass, and other organics will not be picked up if left out for curbside collection. The Transfer Station accepts returnable bottles for donation to the “Keep The Heat On” fund. This fund helps buy fuel for elderly Buxton residents in need of assistance. If you wish to donate returnable bottles to the “Keep the Heat On” fund, please ask for the bags and tags at Town Hall or the Transfer Station. Bags can be dropped off at the Transfer Station or any Clynk drop-off site like Hannaford. The Share Shop is open for books and other non-fabric items. Clothes and bedding are not accepted. Items dropped off for the Share Shop will be charged a fee to cover disposal costs unless the item is able to be recycled if no one takes it home. Please visit the Town web site at www.buxton.me.us, and click on the Solid Waste Department heading for information on recycling and other solid waste topics. Questions and comments can be e-mailed to gheffernan@buxton.me.us The Transfer Station is open Tuesdays, Thursdays, & Saturdays from 8am to 4pm. We are closed any Tuesday after a Sunday or Monday holiday. Our phone number is 929-3913. We are located at 185 Portland Road, behind Town Hall and the salt shed. Bird Watchers are welcome to come see/photograph the Bald Eagles that frequent the compost area.

Respectfully submitted by:

Greg Heffernan Solid Waste Manager

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Code Enforcement Report for 2025

This office is fully staffed by the following team members: Patti McKenna Dept. Head/ Code Enforcement Officer Kert Jackson – Deputy CEO / Building maintenance Roxanne Gardner – Codes and Planning Administrative Assistant Marcel DesRosiers – Electric Inspector

This office is seeing more Accessory Dwelling Unit applications. It is important to note that last year the town voted to increase the allowed size of an accessory dwelling to 800 square feet of living space. Living space doesn’t include bathrooms, closets, hallways or mechanical rooms. We receive a lot of questions about the new legislation passed this year that requires towns to reduce lot sizes and/or allow more houses on lots. That legislation passed gives towns until July of 2027 to comply with the law. Those required changes will not be in effect in Buxton until town meeting approves the zoning changes. Our plan is to have those ready for the June 2027 town meeting. As I close out the year, I’ve been going through active building permits and finding that quite a few expired permits did not get a final inspection. I notified people and am getting those completed. This is a reminder that all building permits require a final inspection just so that we can document that we inspected. It benefits you if you find yourself in the unfortunate circumstance where you have an insurance claim. Not being able to document inspections is a sure way for the insurance company to justify not paying on a claim. As I am doing these inspections, I have been told several times that “he” came by to verify the construction was finished but didn’t come inside. That was most likely the assessor and doesn’t count for the code office doing an inspection.

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A review of permits issued in the last eight years is depicted below. Category

2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025

Single Family Homes

21

21

15

31

31

34

21

23

Modular Homes

6

2

4

1 2

3 4

4 9

4 7 8

Accessory Dwelling dwellings

15

Mobile Home Garages/ Barns

10 28 34 66 12 23 9

7

18 33 64

25 26 56

23 41 49

17 25 51

22 27 47

25 36 55 18 33 5

18 48 52 30 33 8

Alterations & Additions

Sheds, Decks, Pools & Misc.

Home Occupations

4 5 8 1 9 1

Commercial permits/ addition/reno

4

Residential solar Renewal permits

3

4

4

Demolition

13

17

12

Driveway entrance

4

5

3

Total Building Permits SSWS (septic system)

142 136 138 136 168 249 238 247

53 41

50 37

41 34

70 59

66 57

70 91

58

62

Internal Plumbing Electric permits Total Permits

92 104 113 251

236 223 213 265 291 410 501 664

This office brought in a total of $145,025.83 in revenue during the period of January 1 to December 31, 2025. Respectfully submitted, This office brought in a total of $145,025.83 in revenue during the period of January 1 to December 31, 2025. Respectfully submitted, Patti McKenna, Code Enforcement Officer

Patti McKenna, Code Enforcement Officer

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Grace Mulherin, Recreation Director, 185 Portland Road, Buxton, Maine 04093 Office Phone: 207 - 929 - 8381 Fax Number: 207 - 929 - 3076 Email: gbibber@buxton.me.us

Dear Buxton Community,

December 17th, 2025

It ’ s a honor to submit the Annual Report for FY 2024 - 2025 on behalf of the staff members and volunteers of Buxton Recreation. The 24 - 25 fiscal year proved to be steady for the Recreation Department. Our philosophy is to create a welcoming and inclusive resource for community members. “ Play Every Day ” is more than our motto, its our mission. We want to promote a healthy, social, and active lifestyle to our com munity through the powers of play. In FY 24 - 25, we processed over 2,462 registrations as compared to 2,228 in FY 23 - 24, roughly a 10% of increase. Participants registered for over 128 programs, compared to the 112 the year before. An increase of around 13%.

# of program offerings per category Yearly comparison of Reg processed As part of our dedication to our community we partnered with several different community resources and agencies in FY 24 - 25. Through these partnerships we offered several programs like, our Annual Holiday Touch - a - Truck; where we saw a record turn out of over 300 community members. We also started a new luncheon series called Savor your Health. This once a month luncheon brings in local professionals to discuss a variety of topics that are beneficial to the aging population. Continuing the theme of community, a seed was planted within our department and grew into a wonderful community event. Our Community Yard Sale started by a group of participants that had been in the works of clearing out and organizing personal goods, however got stuck on what they should do with these items.

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