9051_LGP_MechanicFalls_2024AnnualReport_Web

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M E C H A N

F A

ANNUAL REPORT FY 2024-2025

TABLE OF CONTENTS

For the Year

January 1, 2024 to December 31, 2024

Including Town Audit Report for the fiscal year July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024

Website: mechanicfalls.org Facebook: facebook.com/mechanicfalls/

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Annual Report Dedication ….….…. 4 Spirit of America Award ……..……… 5 Demographics ………………………..……. 6 Hours of Operation ………………..…… 7 Useful phone numbers ……….………. 8 Meeting Schedules……………….….….…9 Elected Municipal Officials…….…...9 Appointed Boards/Committees…..10 Elected State Officials…………….….….11 Elected State Officials Letters …… 12-17 Annual Report Dedication …...…. 4 Spirit of America Award …….….… 5 Demographics …………………..……. 6 Hours of Operation …………...…… 7 Useful phone numbers ……………. 8 Meeting Schedules………………..…. 9 Elected Municipal Officials……......9 Appointed Boards/Committees….10 Elected State Officials…………….….11 Elected State Officials Letters …... 12-17

Town Manager ……………….……………… 18 Town Clerk/Vitals/Registrar ……… 19-21 Animal Control ……………………….……. 22 Fire/Rescue ……………………………………. 23-24 Emergency Management ……………. 25 Code Enforcement ………………………. 26-27 Library……………………………………….…… 28-29 Police ……………………………….……..……… 30-31 Public Works ……………………..………… 32-33 Water Department ………………………. 34-35 Town Manager ………...……………… 18 Town Clerk/Vitals/Registrar ..…… 19-21 Animal Control …………..…….……. 22 Fire/Rescue ……………….……………. 23-24 Emergency Management …….……. 25 Code Enforcement ……....…………. 26-27 Library………………………..……...…… 28-29 Police ……………………...……...……… 30-31 Public Works ………………...………… 32-33 Water Department ………..…………. 34-35

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Transfer Station …………………………. 36-37 Santa Program………………………………38-39 Recreation Committee…………….….40-41 Community Days ……………….………. 42-43 General Assistance ……………………..44 Municipal Revenues Received ….45 Budget Summary Letter ………….….46 Budget Summary FY 2024-25 …. 47-48 Municipal Audit ………………………... 49-65 RSU #16 Letters ……………….………... 66-70 Tax Information ……………………….… 71 Unpaid Taxes …………………………….. 72-76 Municipal Warrant ……………….…. 77-79 Transfer Station ………….…………. 36-37 Santa Program…………...……………38-39 Recreation Committee…………..… 40-41 Community Days ……….….………. 42-43 General Assistance ……..……….…..44 Municipal Revenues Received …..45 Budget Summary Letter …….….….46 Budget Summary FY 2024-25 ….. 47-48 Municipal Audit ………….…….…... 49-65 RSU #16 Letters ………….………... 66-70 Tax Information ……………….….… 71 Unpaid Taxes ………………….…….. 72-76 Municipal Warrant ……………..…. 77-79

** MECHANIC FALLS ** ANNUAL REPORT DEDICATION **

This 2024-25 Annual Report of the Town of Mechanic Falls is dedicated to Scott Penney

When you mention the name Scott Penney to residents of Mechanic Falls, they will tell you certain words come to mind. Words like, dedicated, hard working, and respected community member. Scott Penney has faithfully served the Town of Mechanic Falls for 29 years. Hired, in June 1995 in the public works department, Scott was promoted to Director in March 1998, and retired in August 2024. In those years, Scott built a reputation of doing whatever it took to take care of the town, and its citizens. He could always be seen out and about, plowing, sanding, ditching, and mowing. In addition, Scott took great pride in caring for the flowers in Veteran’s Park, placing flags on veteran graves, and decorating the town for Christmas.

Scott is known for helping others: whether it’s pitching in to build a wheelchair ramp for a veteran, or thawing pipes for a neighbor during a cold snap. Scott has helped many in the community over the years. Scott continues to serve the community in many other ways including as a longtime member of the Sons of the American Legion Post 150, and as a Trustee of the Sanitary District.

A life-long resident of the Mechanic Falls area, Scott continues to reside on Fourth Avenue in Mechanic Falls. This 2024 Mechanic Falls Annual Town Report is dedicated to Scott Penney, a true community hero.

pg. 4

** MECHANIC FALLS ** SPIRIT OF AMERICA AWARD **

The Mechanic Falls 2024 Spirit of America Recognition is awarded to

Mary Martin

The Spirit of America Award was established in Maine in 1990 to honor volunteerism and community service by individuals living in Maine communities. Each year during National Volunteer Month the Town Council recognizes an individual or group who represent excellence in community service and volunteerism. This year the Town Council has chosen to recognize Mary Martin.

Teacher… Principal… School Board Chair. Mary certainly embodies all the attributes that the Spirit of America upholds. When you think about education in Mechanic Falls, the first name that always comes to mind is Mary Martin, and with good reason. Mary started her teaching career at Elm Street Elementary School in 1984, where she taught first and second grade for 13 years. In 1997, Mary was promoted to Principal of Elm Street Elementary and remained in that position for 14 years until she retired in 2011. After retiring… in 2012, Mary was elected to represent Mechanic Falls on the school board, where she served for 13 years with many of those years as Board Chair. That’s over 40 years of dedicated service educating children. In addition to volunteering for many events over the years, Mary has given her time as a member of the local Optimist Club and has served as Board Chair of the Ecology School in Saco. Mary and her husband Forrest are the proud parents of two adult children, and three grandchildren. They currently reside on Jordan Road in Mechanic Falls. Congratulations to Mary Martin, this year’s Spirit of America Award Winner for the Town of Mechanic Falls.

pg. 5

DEMOGRAPHICS MECHANIC FALLS * ANDROSCOGGIN COUNTY * STATE OF MAINE DEMOGRAPHICS MECHANIC FALLS * ANDROSCOGGIN COUNTY * STATE OF MAINE

Population by Census 1980 ……. 2,589 Population by Census 1980 ……. 2,589 1990 ……. 2,919

2000 ……. 3,138

1990 ……. 2,919

2010 ……. 3,023

2000 ……. 3,138

Form of Government Form of Government Charter / Council / Town Manager Fiscal year: July 1 through June 30 Charter / Council / Town Manager Fiscal year: July 1 through June 30

2010 ……. 3,023

2020 ……. 3,107

Altitude

Approximately 300 feet above sea level (downtown area) to Approximately 300 feet above sea level (downtown area) to about 600 feet above sea level (Pigeon Hill area) about 600 feet above sea level (Pigeon Hill area)

Area

Approximately 11.6 square miles Approximately 11.6 square miles

Approximately 21.77 miles of publicly maintained roads Approximately 21.77 miles of publicly maintained roads

Public Schools Public Schools

Regional School Unit # 16 Regional School Unit # 16

Mechanic Falls, Minot & Poland Elm Street School, PreK thru 6 Mechanic Falls, Minot & Poland Elm Street School, PreK thru 6

Bruce M. Whittier Middle School, 7 thru 8 Poland Regional High School, 9 thru 12 Bruce M. Whittier Middle School, 7 thru 8 Poland Regional High School, 9 thru 12

pg. 6

HOURS OF OPERATION

Town Office Monday & Tuesday……... 8:00am-5:00pm Wednesday ……..…….……... 8:00am-4:00pm Thursday…….……….…….…... 8:30am-5:30pm Friday……………………….….... 7:30am-11:30am

Transfer Station Wednesday……….………. 12:00pm-4:00pm Thursday……….……………12:00pm-6:00pm (Thursdays Summer Only May-Sept) Saturday………………..……. 8:00am-4:00pm Sunday………………………… 8:00am–1:00pm

Library Monday & Wednesday ......... 9:00am–5:30pm Tuesday & Thursday ............. 3:00pm-7:00pm Saturday .................................... 9:00am–2:00pm

Water Department

Monday – Friday ...............7:30am– 4:00pm

pg. 7 pg. 7

PHONE NUMBERS

Androscoggin County Dispatch: 207-753-2500 Option 8 Animal Control Officer: 207-890-4932

Code Enfocement: 207-345-3221 Elm Street School: 207-345-3381 Library: 207-345-9450 Poland Middle School: 207-998-3462 Poland High School: 207-998-5400 Public Works: 207-345-3089 RSU 16: 207-998-2727 Sanitary District: 207-345-3077 Town Office: 207-345-2871 Fax: 207-345-9201 Transfer Station: 207-345-3556 Water Department: 207-345-5351

pg. 8 pg. 8

MEETING SCHEDULES MEETING SCHEDULES

Board of Appeals Budget Committee Charter Commission Board of Appeals Budget Committee Charter Commission

As Needed As Needed As Needed Quarterly As Needed As Needed As Needed

February-April

Development Commission Development Commission

5:30pm 7:00pm 7:00pm 6:30pm 6:00pm

Second Monday Second Monday Third Wednesday Second Monday Second Monday

Quarterly Monthly Monthly Monthly Monthly

Fire & Rescue

Monthly Monthly Monthly Monthly

Historical Society Town Council Planning Board Town Council Planning Board

Historical Society

Third Wednesday

First Monday

Wednesday following the Council meeting Wednesday following the Council meeting

Recreation Committee Recreation Committee

6:00pm 7:00pm

Second Thursday First Thursday First Thursday

Second Thursday

Monthly

Library Trustees

Monthly (Sep-Jun)

ELECTED MUNICIPAL OFFICIALS ELECTED MUNICIPAL OFFICIALS

Town Council

RSU #16 School Board RSU #16 School Board

Term Exp.

Darrell Young, Chair Darrell Young, Chair

2027 2025 2026 2026 2027

Mary Martin, Chair

2025 2025 2025 2026 2027

Stanley Morgan, Vice Chair Stanley Morgan, Vice Chair

Jessica Smith Andrea Winn Stephen Turner Jessica Smith Andrea Winn

Paula Stotts Ray Lavoie Walter Berry Paula Stotts Ray Lavoie Walter Berry

Stephen Turner

Patrick Irish

Sanitary District Trustees Term Exp. Michael Baird, Chair 2025 Scott Penney, Vice Chair 2026 Gary Purington 2025 Mark Gary 2027 Anthony Emery 2027 Sanitary District Trustees Term Exp. Michael Baird, Chair 2025 Scott Penney, Vice Chair 2026 Gary Purington 2025 Mark Gary 2027 Anthony Emery 2027

pg. 9 pg. 9

pg. 9

APPOINTED BOARDS/COMMITTEES APPOINTED BOARDS/COMMITTEES

Planning Board

Board of Appeals

Walter Goss, Vice Chair

2024 2024 2024 2025 2026

Martha Wiseman Eriks Petersons Christopher Strout Martha Wiseman Eriks Petersons Christopher Strout

2026 2026 2026

Shannon Snowman, Vice Chair Shannon Snowman, Vice Chair

David Griffiths Shannon Sturgis Rebecca Boynton Alternate (vacant) David Griffiths Shannon Sturgis Rebecca Boynton Alternate (vacant)

Vacant Vacant

Library Trustees

Historical Society

Martha Wiseman Georgia Randall, Vice Chair

James Craig Eriks Petersons Nancy Petersons Patricia Dyer Lindsey Anderson Dorothy Bouchles Steve Turner James Craig Eriks Petersons Nancy Petersons Patricia Dyer Lindsey Anderson Dorothy Bouchles Steve Turner Justin Starbird, Chair Jay Bryant Robyn Coleman Craig Smith Jessica Cummings Wayne Usher Jill Starbird

Jenn Durant, Secretary Janice Earle, Treasurer Patty Dyer Ann Hobart Laura Vincent

Recreation Committee Recreation Committee

Budget Committee

Andrea Winn Taylor DiDonato Connor Sheehy

Justin Starbird, Chair Jay Bryant Robyn Coleman Craig Smith Jessica Cummings Wayne Usher Jill Starbird

Vacant Vacant

Development Commission Michael Baird, President Stuart Davis, Treasurer Brenda Coleman Paul Weller Development Commission Michael Baird, President Stuart Davis, Treasurer Brenda Coleman Paul Weller

pg. 10 pg. 10

pg. 10

ELECTED STATE OFFICIALS ELECTED STATE OFFICIALS

SUSAN COLLINS US SENATOR

ANGUS KING US SENATOR

JARED GOLDEN CONGRESS 2 ND DISTRICT

413 Dirksen Senate Office Bldg. Washington DC 20510 Tel (202)224-2523 413 Dirksen Senate Office Bldg. Washington DC 20510 Tel (202)224-2523

133 Hart Senate Office Bldg. Washington DC 20510 Tel (202)224-5344

1223 Longworth House Office Bldg. Washington DC 20510 Tel (202)225-6306 DAVID BOYER REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 87 1223 Longworth House Office Bldg. Washington DC 20510 Tel (202)225-6306 DAVID BOYER REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 87

JANET T. MILLS MAINE GOVERNOR JANET T. MILLS MAINE GOVERNOR

RICHARD BENNETT MAINE SENATOR DISTRICT 18 RICHARD BENNETT MAINE SENATOR DISTRICT 18

1 State House Station Augusta ME 04333 Tel (207)287-3531

3 State House Station Augusta ME 04333 Tel (207)287-1515

2 State House Station Augusta, ME 04333 Tel (207)287-1400

pg. 11

pg. 11 pg. 11

PHONE: (207) 287-3531 (Voice)

888-577-6690 (TTY)

FAX: (207) 287-1034

www.maine.gov

pg. 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 potato 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 rollcall 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 be 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

pg. 13

pg. 14 pg. 14

Dear Friends, I hope this letter finds you well. It’s an honor to continue serving as your representative in Congress, and I take the responsibility very seriously. Thank you for the opportunity to share an update on the work I've been doing for the people of the Second Congressional District. Fisheries: This spring, the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) announced a gauge increase for lobsters caught in the Gulf of Maine beginning in January 2025. Maine fishermen warned that this decision is founded on incomplete and inaccurate data. Additionally, this gauge increase could put Mainers at a competitive disadvantage to Canadian fishermen with looser regulations. That’s why I sent a letter to the ASMFC urging them to delay their decision until they can evaluate data with fishermen, whose proactive stewardship provides invaluable insight. I have also submitted an amendment to this year’s funding bill that would block federal funding from being used to implement and enforce a gauge increase. Because of these efforts, the ASFMC made the decision to delay the implementation of this new requirement. I’ll always stand with Maine lobstermen against unfair, unnecessary regulations that threaten their livelihoods and industry. Veterans: The first meeting I attended as an elected official was with a large group of veterans and the former Director of the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services. We discussed a lot, but one issue rose above the rest: how little was being done for Maine veterans who needed treatment for mental health issues or substance use. At the time, there were no in-patient treatment beds in Maine, so veterans had to wait for a bed to open up at an out-of-state facility. Fast forward 10 years, through unending red tape, and I’m delighted to report we just broke ground on a treatment facility at the Togus VA Medical Center in Augusta. This was the direct result of the tireless advocacy of veterans from across our state — this win is theirs. Postal Service: This spring, the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) announced plans to consolidate and move some processing operations from the Eastern Maine Processing & Distribution Center in Hampden to Scarborough. This would have caused significant mail delivery delays that disproportionately harm rural communities. That’s why I introduced the Timely Mail Delivery and Postal Services Protection Act, which would have halted this planned consolidation across the country. Following these efforts, the USPS announced they have scrapped their plan entirely. While this is a win for Maine, it is also evidence that we cannot become complacent. That’s why I recently introduced the bipartisan Postmaster General Reform Act , which would establish term limits for the United States Postal Service’s (USPS) postmaster general and require nominations to be confirmed by the Senate. Regardless of the year, one of my top priorities is ensuring I’m accessible to you. My staff and I can help navigate federal programs; find resources in Maine; and resolve issues with Medicare, Social Security, the VA, and other federal agencies and programs. We are here to help: ● Caribou Office: 7 Hatch Drive, Suite 230, Caribou, ME 04736. Phone: (207) 492-6009 ● Lewiston Office: 179 Lisbon Street, Lewiston, ME 04240. Phone: (207) 241-6767 ● Bangor Office: 6 State Street, Suite 101, Bangor, ME 04401. Phone: (207) 249-7400 I wish you a healthy and prosperous year to come. Respectfully,

Jared Golden Member of Congress

pg. 15

pg. 16 pg. 16

David Boyer 112 Verrill Road Poland, ME 04274 Office: (207) 287-1440 Cell: (207) 274-4633 David.Boyer@legislature.maine.gov

April 2025

Dear Friends and Neighbors, It is a pleasure to serve the residents of Mechanic Falls in District #87. Representing you is truly an honor and a privilege. This session, I will continue to champion bills that make our state government more transparent and accountable to Maine taxpayers. The impact of inflation and high costs is worsened by excessive taxation. With the highest property tax burden in the country and the fourth highest overall tax burden, something needs to change. I supported efforts to reduce the burden on taxpayers while maintaining the state’s commitments to funding our schools, roads, and most vulnerable, while opposing efforts to increase taxes on seniors and working Mainers. I encourage you to actively participate in your state government. Phone calls and letters are always welcome. With the wider use of technology, meetings and hearings are more accessible than ever at: www.legislature.maine.gov. If you would like to learn more about state government or have a question, please contact me at: David.Boyer@legislature.maine.gov or call my cell at 207-274-4633. I look forward to serving you in the 132 nd Legislature to help our community have a voice in the direction of our state as I continue to serve as the Ranking House Republican on the Joint Standing Committee on Veterans and Legal Affairs. Once again, thank you for the opportunity to serve you. Please stay safe and healthy.

David Boyer State Representative

pg. 17

TOWN MANAGER – VIC HODGKINS Town Manager Annual Report

March 6th, 2025 To The Citizens of Mechanic Falls:

It is once again my pleasure to update you on the continued forward progress of our town. I am proud to say that the state of the town continues to be strong. The past year has seen many positive events including much needed renovations to the town complex. From repairs at the town office building, including the installation of new LED Exterior lights, to road work on North Street and Elm Street, a new sidewalk, to the recent purchase of a new pumper truck for the fire station, Mechanic Falls is on the move. I am also proud to report to you that the financial state of the Town of Mechanic Falls continues to be strong. FY ’26 will see the last payments on our remaining debt service, which means this time next year the town will be debt free. With that said, in the years to come, the town must continue to plan for and set aside monies for, future needed and necessary asset purchases. This no debt philosophy is a major win for the town that saves monies on unnecessary interest payments, while also gaining interest in monies set aside for upcoming needs. This in the end saves the taxpayer money. Looking forward… over the next year our road plan has us adding a topcoat of asphalt to North Street. In addition, we are looking forward to more projects through MDOT, and we will see continued renovation work to the town office complex. I do want to take a moment and thank our staff for all that they do for the town… they are the soul of our operation. Every day they work hard in their respective roles to serve you. Please be sure to thank these folks when you see them. Positive words are always welcome and appreciated. In addition, I also want to thank the Council for their dedication and hard work for the town. They, too, deserve your thanks. As always, know that I have an open-door policy. I will meet with anyone, anytime, to discuss any topic concerning the town. I look forward to another exciting year of challenges and opportunities. Sincerely,

Vic Hodgkins, Town Manager

pg. 18 pg. 18

TOWN CLERK /REGISTRAR– JANICE FERRI

The Clerk’s Office is responsible for issuing various registrations and licenses such as business licenses, dog licenses, hunting, fishing, ATV, boats and snowmobile licensing. Many of the services we handle can be done online such as Rapid Renew for vehicle registrations, ATV, Boat, Snowmobile registrations, Hunting and Fishing licensing as well as Dog Registrations. All the links are posted on the town’s website: www.mechanicfalls.org. Please do not hesitate to contact us at 207-345-2871 if you have any questions. Dates to Remember: • Snowmobile & ATV registrations expire June 30 th each year. • Boat registrations, hunting & fishing licenses expire December 31 st each year. • Dog licenses are due every year by Dec. 31 st . State mandated late fee charged if not done by Jan. 31 st . • Transfer Station stickers are valid July 1 – June 30, which follows our fiscal year. Vehicle & Camper Registrations: What to bring to the Town Office … Re-registration v Bring the old registration, current (unexpired) proof of insurance, and the exact current mileage of the vehicle. New Registration v Dealer Sale – Bring Bill of Sale showing sales tax was paid, blue Title Application form, window sticker, current (unexpired) proof of insurance, and exact mileage of the vehicle. v Private Sale – Bring Bill of Sale, Title (1995 and newer), Release of Lien (if applicable), current (unexpired) proof of insurance, and exact mileage of the vehicle. v Transfer of Plates – Bring all applicable documents/information above PLUS registration from old vehicle.

Voting

Motor Vehicle Registrations

Inland Fisheries & Wildlife

2168 Active Voters 774 Republicans

3026 registrations

174 Hunting/Fishing licenses

518 Democrats

94 Boat Registrations 172 ATV Registrations

124 Green Independent

23 Libertarian 692 Unenrolled

111 Snowmobile Registrations

pg. 19 pg. 19

VITAL STATISTICS

The Town Clerk’s office is responsible for the care and preservation of the town’s records. State law requires that the clerk maintain certain records such as birth, death and marriage certificates. Certificates are $15 for one and $6 for each additional one issued at the same time. Marriage licenses cost $40 and require approximately 30 minutes to complete.

Congratulations to those Married in 2024

Tia Rose Lavigne & Robert Donovan – 1/19 Samantha Spomer & Shayla Gonzalez – 03/09

Roger Downs & Diamond Brown – 08/31

Nicole Cyr & Todd Yates – 09/07

Madison Sirois & Kyle Harper -06/01

Megan Moulton & Nicholas Sprague – 09/14 Marissa Abbott & Tyler Kimball – 09/15 Galen McLaughlin & Katelyn Campos – 09/17 Mary Katherine Richards & Jeffrey Hill – 09/21 Steven Francoeur & Nicole Hickman – 9/22 Alexandria Grondin & Trent Vaillancourt – 09/28 Rachael Morton & Christopher Jones – 09/28 Courtney Marston & Joshua Staples – 10/12 Kimberly Benton & Marc Sinclair – 10/19 Abigail Lachance & Kacee Brinkerhoff-Bryant – 11/17

Josephine Hebert & Richard Hemond – 06/08 Spencer Cramp & Noelle Reynolds – 06/15 Krystal Duguay & Dylan Staton – 06/22 Kayla Jean Edmonds & Jeffery Cox – 7/4 Mandy Keach & Devvyn Pinard – 07/06 Olivia Goodwin-Douglass & Devon Vance – 07/13 Candace Whitten & Dun Chao Zheng 07/26 Harmony Welsch & Justin Richards – 07/27 Ashley Miclon & Matthew Kelley – 08/08 Gregory Foster & Brenda LaPierre – 08/30

Monique Collins & Paul Andrews, Jr. – 11/23

Matthew Perkins & Clara Baillargeon – 11/30

Mechanic Falls welcomed 36 babies in 2024. Congratulations to the new parents!

pg. 20 pg. 20

We lost 39 residents in 2024. Our heartfelt condolences go to the families and friends of those who lost loved ones in 2024.

Judith G. Arris

86 07/08/2024 81 06/17/2024 37 07/27/2024

Catherine Ann Maroon Dennis F. Mazurkiewicz Michael James McCormick

75 74 90 77 51 70 88 76 92 84 82 68 78 81 83 74 60 96 90

02/13/2024 09/18/2024 04/18/2024 02/27/2024 06/06/2024 02/05/2024 12/04/2024 10/23/2024 09/20/2024 11/22/2024 08/31/2024 10/20/2024 11/25/2024 02/17/2024 03/18/2024 02/14/2024 02/28/2024 10/09/2024 07/19/2024

Sandra A. Ballard

Jennifer Rose Barney Naomi Rita Cesare

01/02/2024

Beverly J. Morin Eric Lee Morse

Ryan Clifford Ryan T. Cote

45 06/09/2024

43 82 88

10/29/2024 03/13/2024 11/17/2024

Maryanne I. Mulldune Nelson Raymond Peters

Robert R. Crabtree Edward Sewall Durgin

Alan D. Pray

Ivan R. Fifield Frank E. Ford

93 08/15/2024 90 03/30/2024

Robert Kevin Ryan Doreene F. Sargent Carol A. Sevigny

Robert William Herrick Anna Miriam Hodgkin Helen Frances Hunter Richard C. Huskins Cathy Jean Kendrick Donna Lee LaChance

93 81 78 92

10/20/2024 12/29/2024 11/18/2024 02/15/2024

Larry I. Smith

Susan Ruth Smith

David Charles Stimson Rozan E. Truman Gerald R. Wheeler Steven R. Wilbur Lillian Averilla Willson Richard Eaton Wing

74 09/05/2024

07/21/2024

Linda L. Lenahan

83 04/07/2024 91 05/29/2024 47 08/08/2024

Robert Joseph Levesque, Sr. Michelle T. Macchi-Feeley

Robert J. Malcolm

02/19/2024

I would like to thank the residents of Mechanic Falls for welcoming me into your community 3 ½ years ago as your Town Clerk. It has been my privilege getting to know so many of you and to help with the needs that bring you into the Town Office. I have learned so much along the way and want to thank each of my colleagues, especially Lisa Prevost, for their help and patience. As I turn the page to the next chapter, which will include travel and lots of family time, I hope to see some of you at the library or one of the businesses in town. I have made some lifelong friends while working in Mechanic Falls, I am grateful for each and every one. In the words of Aesop “No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” Take Care, Janice Ferri

pg. 21 pg. 21

ANIMAL CONTROL For over 30 years Robert Larrabee has been our Animal Control Officer. State Law requires the licensing of all dogs, as you can imagine, this also creates the requirement for someone to enforce these laws. Robert generally visits the Town on a daily basis to check in, answer domestic animal complaints, and enforce dog licensing requirements. Total # of complaints: 254 Registered Dogs 39 Cat Complaints 62 Unaltered 4 Animal Bites 310 Spayed/Neutered 5 Animal Trespass 3 Service Dogs 24 Dog pick-ups 2 Kennel Licenses

RABIES IS FATAL – PLEASE VACCINATE YOUR PETS !

All dogs MUST (by State Law) be licensed within the municipality of which their owner resides annually by December 31 st . Cost to license is $11 for unaltered and $6 if spayed/neutered. After January 31 st , a $25 late fee, per dog, is assessed. Service

dogs, although they do not require the annual fee, must still be licensed by December 31 st and will still be assessed the late fee as applicable . Please bring current rabies certificate (furnished by your vet) when licensing your dog. Reminder: Rabies is fatal, please vaccinate your dogs or cats.

pg. 22 pg. 22

FIRE\RESCUE DEPARTMENT

Mechanic Falls Fire/Rescue Town Report 2024-25

Hello from the Mechanic Falls Fire. It’s that time again, when the weather starts to warm up and we become aware of and involved in the Town’s budget process. This year’s budget reflects the Town and department needs while trying to keep expenses as low as possible in this economy. The major upgrades to your fire department this year were new SCBAs (air packs) which were purchased in April. The new air packs are working out very well. We also replaced E2 2000 with a new 2024 Spartan Pumper. Neither of these major purchases increased our budget or taxes because we have been saving for them in our Capital Improvement Fund. By doing this, we did not have to borrow from the bank to purchase, so will not be paying any interest in the future. It’s been kind of busy this year with two structure fires in our town. Structure fires use a lot of resources and energy. I am glad for the dedicated fire fighters we have on the department who show up to help in times of need. I would also like to thank our mutual aid towns; without them it would make our tasks much more difficult. Rescue is still a little short on people, but the ones that respond give it their all. We are always looking for individuals who would like to try it. Jon has gotten the Rescue some grant money through the state and this is much appreciated as it helps with the cost of new equipment. I have been the chief for quite a long time and I know that without the backing and support of the town’s people we wouldn’t be where we are. I would like to say thank you all!

pg. 23 pg. 23

The Fire/Rescue Departments held another Touch-A-Truck event this year. We would like to thank the surrounding towns and departments who participated by bringing trucks & equipment for the kids to explore. We hope that the families who came to the event enjoyed it and will come out again when we hold the next one in the fall. Take Care. Fred C. Sturtevant III Fire Chief Mechanic Falls Fire/Rescue

pg. 24 pg. 24

MECHANIC FALLS EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

Emergency Management/Safety https://www.maine.gov/mema/ EMA Town Report Letter 2024-25

Hi Everyone! I can’t believe we are starting another new year. I hope you all made it through the winter safely. This winter did not give us a lot of

snow, but February made up for it, and we are looking forward to the warmer weather. Thankfully, here in Maine we know how to deal with snow, while the rest of the country has been hit hard with dangerous storms. We are thankful to have a great Public Works Department that never fails to jump in and help with clean-up. Once again, we want to stress that we all have to be prepared and ready to take care of ourselves for at least 3 days, in case of an emergency or extended power outage. It’s good to have extra food and water, a generator and sump pump ready, or have a place to go if you have no back up heat source or have medical needs. Always hope for the best, but be prepared for the worst. I hope everyone enjoys a great Maine summer. Remember, disasters can happen but being prepared is the key to surviving them. We will be here to keep you informed and as soon as we hear of something happening, we’ll get the word out. Take care, be safe and remember if you see something , say something . Report it. Fred C. Sturtevant III Town EMA director

https://www.maine.gov/mema/todays-tip for the Tip of the Day and start your plan today.

pg. 25 pg. 25

CODE ENFORCEMENT Code Enforcement 2024

Good day all! My name is Thomas Moore. For those that don’t know, Ryan Smith has left which created an opening for me to take over and help you out for all your Code Enforcement, Planning, new addressing, Health Officering, Plumbing Inspecting, Occupancy Issuing, Sub-divisioning, and Ordinance interpretation needs! A little about me. I am a Lewiston native that moved to Turner about two and a half years ago with my wife and our collective, four children. I worked in Lewiston for approximately a year and a half as a Grant Manager and did five years of work with a general contractor before that. The hands-on field work coupled with the complexity of Lewiston’s infrastructure made me a decent candidate for the role that I am in to assist any and all with questions or concerns. Let’s talk about some new things, shall we? 1) Did you know that there was something passed at the state level that allowed EVERYONE that owns a single-family home to have an ADU on their lot? That is attached or detached. That does not, however, mean you can create one without speaking to me first. There are still some rules and permitting that need to be followed. 2) There are some ordinance changes that are up on the website and, again, I am here to help with what they are and interpret what you are reading with you. If you have questions, reach out. I’m here to help! 3) I have run into a few situations in my short time here with people building/replacing things, mostly decks, onto their homes and either not knowing they need to speak with me or hoping not to get caught. I’d appreciate it if we could stop that cycle. If you are planning on doing anything to your home, simply call and ask please. There are a lot of things that don’t require a permit, but it would be better if you check first and save yourself the headache.

How about some statistics? Our 2024 numbers are as follows: - 64 building permits Of which:

§ 16 Solar arrays § 27 Sheds, decks, or garages § 9 New homes or ADUs § 12 Misc/other uses

- 14 Plumbing Permits - 11 Septic Systems

pg. 26

I still have a bunch of older permits open that may or may not need to be finished out so if you have gotten a permit and completed your project, be it a shed, deck, or an ADU and you haven’t gotten a sign off from myself or one of the previous CEOs please reach out! Lastly, I haven’t received too many written complaints from you wonderful town’s people this far but that doesn’t mean that you haven’t thought about it. There are some things that I can enforce and others I can’t. If you see something in the ordinances that someone is doing to hurt the community or the Town, say something. If it isn’t something I can help with, there may still be someone who can. This may not be the community I live in but that doesn’t mean that it doesn’t hold a special place for me. Seeing the turnout for Town events or events for people that have been in this community for years is something special and I’d like to do my part in keeping this a place you can all be proud of. Until next time…. Thomas Moore Code Enforcement Officer

pg. 27 pg. 27

LIBRARY

Mechanic Falls Public Library Our Mission is to Provide Lifelong Enjoyment of Learning, Exploring and Reading!

The Mechanic Falls Public Library is located in the Mechanic Falls Town Office Building, on the third floor. The Library has been in this location for 13 years and has convenient elevator access. Free library cards are available to all residents of Mechanic Falls. Proof of address is all that is required to sign up! We continue to participate in the reciprocal borrowing program within the Maine State Library System. This program allows any current library cardholder to request books from any participating library within the state, and the items are delivered directly to our library weekly! The Inter-Library loan program took a short break last summer but, is back up and running now. Your library card also allows you to visit any participating library in the State in person and check out books just as you would here. Many patrons are now using this feature. Another great program your library card gives you access to is the Cloud Library, where you can access thousands of free E-Book and Audiobook titles at no cost. Our weekly preschool story time continues to be

popular, meeting every Monday throughout the school year. We read a book (or two) and have a craft every week. Our adult book group meets in the library on the second Thursday of every month. Books are provided for all members, and we read a wide variety of books! Please get in touch with us if you are interested in joining! This year, the library added a new fiber group to our schedule. The group meets every Tuesday evening from 5:30-7 PM. Anyone interested in knitting, crochet, needlepoint or any other fiber arts is welcome to come and check it out anytime. Beginners to experienced artists of all ages are welcome to join.

pg. 28 pg. 28

We will once again be offering our Summer Reading Program this year, beginning in July. We will have a weekly craft/activity available for kids to do, and prizes for all who complete their reading goal at the end of the month. All titles from the Maine Student Book Awards list will be available again this year. This is the list that teachers provide students for suggested summer reading. Last summer, the library provided free passes to the current library cardholder, for the Botanical Gardens in Boothbay, as well as discount passes to The Maine Wildlife Park in Gray. Both were popular. 4,918 children and young adult books, 805 Dvds, and 6,248 Adult print books. We also provided free access to 238

Audiobooks and 276 E-Books through the cloud library. Using the Library Use Calculator provided through the Maine State Library, this adds value to the services provided to the Town of Mechanic Falls of $185,626.50! We would also like to announce the retirement of our longtime Library Directory, Nancy Petersons. We thank her for all her years of service to the town, and the people of Mechanic Falls!

Nancy Petersons & Michelle Paladino Mechanic Falls Public Library Director 108 Lewiston Street, 3 rd floor Mechanic Falls, Maine mechanicfallslibrary@gmail.com 207-345-9450

Show me a family of readers and I will show you people who move the world. - Napoleon

pg. 29 pg. 29

POLICE DEPARTMENT

The Mechanic Falls Police Department has had a busy year of re-building, training and Academy Graduations. We saw Cole Cushman Graduate the Academy in May and Andrew Streeter graduate in December. Both Officers did an outstanding job at the Academy and anxiously rejoined the ranks to continue their careers on the force. We responded to the tragic Murder / Suicide that happened in July. The State Police handled the investigation as is policy for every department in the state with only a couple of exceptions.

They handle all Murder investigations statewide. We assisted in any way that we could with local interviews and scene security. Overall crime has been down since last year (2023). We had 33 less crimes committed. The different categories of crime showed the largest decrease to be property crimes with theft being reduced by 15. The category of “Crimes Against People – Group A Crimes” had no change. There were 36 in total. The total number of crimes across all categories was 145. Our calls for service increased almost by 1000 (4728-2023 / 5549-2024). One of the largest complaints that we receive from the citizens of Mechanic Falls is about traffic infractions happening on their streets. We try to respond in one manner or another to all complaints. In 2024 we made 2310 traffic stops. The stops were on 30 different streets in town. The major street that traffic violators were stopped on was Lewiston Street with 475. We do recognize that traffic fines are expensive and often issue warnings in hopes that the motorist will comply without having to pay a fine. We issued warnings at well over a 4 to 1 ratio. I am writing this end of year report knowing that it will be my last. I will retire in June after nearly 38 years with the Mechanic Falls Police Department. I have made many friends and acquaintances over those years. I am looking forward to my retirement. I will miss many of the people that I see so often. In a profession where we usually meet and see people when they are having a bad day, it is always good to see them at later times when their lives are on a normal track. Most people are good people who are having a rough go of it when we deal with them. It has been an honor and pleasure serving the community of Mechanic Falls and watching the town grow over my years here. Thank You!! Jeffrey Goss

Chief of Police

pg. 30 pg. 30

Group A Crimes Murder

2 2 3

Rape

Aggravated Assault

Simple Assault Intimidation Drug Violations Pornography Incest

14 13

1 1 1 4

Burglary

Larceny/Theft

Fraud

Vandalism

Group B Crimes Disorderly Conduct

Driving Under the Influence

Trespass

All other Offenses

Officer Andrew Streeter

Officer Cole Cushman

pg. 31 pg. 31

PUBLIC WORKS YEARLY REPORT OF THE MECHANIC FALLS PUBLIC WORKS DEPT. 2024-25

This past year has been a busy one, with a couple of changes. First and foremost, Scott Penney retired after Twenty-nine and half years of dedication to this department and our town. He was one of the best bosses, mentors and friends to his crew. He taught us a lot over the years and is missed around the shop. However, don’t be fooled, he still pops in from time to time and we pull him out of retirement here and there when we need help. He is always willing to help.

pg. 32 pg. 32

This past year our big projects were reclaiming the outer end of North Street where we had the road ground up and regraded to reshape the crown on the road. We hauled in gravel to fill in low spots and replaced the last couple of metal culverts in the road. We ripped out the old sidewalk on Elm Street and replaced the base with new gravel and placed new pavement to make it a much safer walking surface. These projects kept us busy trying to beat the weather and keep to our schedule. The fleet keeps growing, due to the unavailability of bucket truck rentals lately we purchased one of our own. This was a great addition to our fleet, allowing us to create our own schedule in hopes of catching up on our roadside trimming and getting a better handle on some of the hazardous trees around town. We also replaced the Terra Star (which had numerous issues) with a new Chevy 5500. The public works dept is always trying to do our best to keep the town and equipment in the best shape possible. This can be a daunting task for a small crew, but we make it happen. There is a lot to be done every year, and it seems like more comes up but we’re always willing to tackle it head on. Unfortunately, we can’t be everywhere at once so if you do see something that needs to be addressed contact us and we will get to it as soon as possible.

Thank you for the support.

Road Commissioner, Chris Arsenault

pg. 33 pg. 33

WATER DEPARTMENT

The Mechanic Falls Water Department 2024 The Mechanic Falls Water Department 2024

Hello once again from all of us here at the water department. When we were not out shoveling hydrants, fixing freeze ups, and making sure our daily and weekly routines were accomplished over the Hello once again from all of us here at the water department. When we were not out shoveling hydrants, fixing freeze ups, and making sure our daily and weekly routines were accomplished over the

winter months, Matt and Derek spent time taking classes and studying for their licensing tests. I am happy to report that Derek passed his treatment portion and now is licensed on both the distribution and treatment side. Matt also passed his distribution portion and will be working towards his treatment license in early 2025. Michelle and I worked with Maine Rural Water Association on the development of a business continuity plan. This plan is established to ensure the department can and will run smoothly during and after a multitude of emergencies that could occur. As we moved into spring, we had two leaks to deal with right off the bat. Both were service leaks, one on our side of the service and the other on the customer's side. Unfortunately, we had an employee out with a non-work-related injury over this time and for several more weeks after that which introduced another challenge to adjust to. Elm Street was slated to be paved so we wanted to ensure all our service shut offs and our gates operated correctly so that we would not have to dig them after the paving was done. We got on all of them and made sure they turned, we did have to dig and replace a few. As the paving date approached, we cut all our gate boxes out and added extensions to raise them to the top of the new pavement. Over the spring, we also completed our annual flushing program, started our annual hydrant painting and maintenance and our gate check program. During the summer months, we continued with our flow testing that we have been doing over the last few years to have more accurate data. Once flow testing is done, we must re paint hydrants to the appropriate NFPA colors. We continued with our lead service line inventory for the EPA and on GPS locating service boxes, both have been major projects and very time consuming over the last couple of years. We have been in the process of changing all our chemical pumps so that they are the same, this was finally accomplished. However shortly after we got the last one in there was a warranty issue and we had to take one out at a time to send back and have the issue replaced, both the sales company and manufacturer were great to deal with. Logging at the pump station also took place over late summer, this happens every 10 years or so and brings in some revenue for us. The revenue from this will go back into the infrastructure, this time on Highland Avenue which is expected to take place in September of 2025. In the summer of 2024 one of our favorites retired from the public works department. We want to thank Scott (Poon) Penney for all his winter months, Matt and Derek spent time taking classes and studying for their licensing tests. I am happy to report that Derek passed his treatment portion and now is licensed on both the distribution and treatment side. Matt also passed his distribution portion and will be working towards his treatment license in early 2025. Michelle and I worked with Maine Rural Water Association on the development of a business continuity plan. This plan is established to ensure the department can and will run smoothly during and after a multitude of emergencies that could occur. As we moved into spring, we had two leaks to deal with right off the bat. Both were service leaks, one on our side of the service and the other on the customer's side. Unfortunately, we had an employee out with a non-work-related injury over this time and for several more weeks after that which introduced another challenge to adjust to. Elm Street was slated to be paved so we wanted to ensure all our service shut offs and our gates operated correctly so that we would not have to dig them after the paving was done. We got on all of them and made sure they turned, we did have to dig and replace a few. As the paving date approached, we cut all our gate boxes out and added extensions to raise them to the top of the new pavement. Over the spring, we also completed our annual flushing program, started our annual hydrant painting and maintenance and our gate check program. During the summer months, we continued with our flow testing that we have been doing over the last few years to have more accurate data. Once flow testing is done, we must re paint hydrants to the appropriate NFPA colors. We continued with our lead service line inventory for the EPA and on GPS locating service boxes, both have been major projects and very time consuming over the last couple of years. We have been in the process of changing all our chemical pumps so that they are the same, this was finally accomplished. However shortly after we got the last one in there was a warranty issue and we had to take one out at a time to send back and have the issue replaced, both the sales company and manufacturer were great to deal with. Logging at the pump station also took place over late summer, this happens every 10 years or so and brings in some revenue for us. The revenue from this will go back into the infrastructure, this time on Highland Avenue which is expected to take place in September of 2025. In the summer of 2024 one of our favorites retired from the public works department. We want to thank Scott (Poon) Penney for all his

pg. 34

pg. 34 pg. 34

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