9358-R3_LGP_MechanicFalls_2024AnnualReport

Town Manager February 12th, 2026 To The Citizens of Mechanic Falls:

Again, it is 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 exterior renovations to many of the town complex buildings, including the wonderful exterior renovation of the town office building. We also added LED lighting to the Depot Square parking lot. In addition, we completed road work on North Street, Highland Avenue, and Riverside Drive… Mechanic Falls continues to be on the move. I am also proud to report to you that the financial state of the Town of Mechanic Falls continues to be stronger than ever. I would encourage you all to take a moment and celebrate the fact that the Town is now debt free. FY ’27 will have zero dollars dedicated to debt service. This milestone would not have been possible without everyone pulling in the same direction. 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. Looking forward… for FY ‘27 we intend to work on repairing several roads in and around the Spring Street area. In addition, we are told by MDOT that the Bill Dunlop Memorial Bridge deck replacement and bridge painting will begin in May this year. In addition, 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

20