of the municipal officers - maine

Photo Credits: Charlie Chase, Owls Heads Hired Route Contractor (Mailman to us) and his partner Mary Hare have been delivering mail for Owls Head for over 15 years. He has an eye

for photography and as you can imagine, sees many interesting shots on his route. Thank you, Charlie, for the beautiful photo.

The cover picture is the Crocketts Beach Boathouse owned by Lynn Williams. The Wexler home can be seen in the background.

Annual Report of the

Municipal Officers of the

Town of Owls Head

Published by Hollow Ridge Communicationswww.hollowridge.com

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Town of Owls Head

2020 Annual Report

Table of ConTenTs

Dedication .................................................................................................................... 3General Information ..................................................................................................... 4Elected Town Officials ................................................................................................. 5Appointed Town Officials ............................................................................................ 6Owl’s Head Fire Department-Squad List ..................................................................... 7Govenor Janet Mills ..................................................................................................... 8State Senator Dave Miramant ...................................................................................... 9Congresswoman Chellie Pingree ............................................................................... 10Senator Susan Collins .................................................................................................11Senator Angus King ................................................................................................... 12Reports: • Board of Selectmen ........................................................................................... 13 • Assessor’s ...........................................................................................................14 • Tax Collector .................................................................................................... 15 • Bulk Waste Facility ........................................................................................... 20 • Town Clerk .........................................................................................................21 • CEO .................................................................................................................. 23 • Inland Fisheries & Wildlife .............................................................................. 24 • Plumbing Inspector ........................................................................................... 25 • Animal Control Report ..................................................................................... 26 • Road Commissioner .......................................................................................... 27 • Volunteer Fire Department ............................................................................... 28 • Waste Services .................................................................................................. 29 • Forest Fire Warden’s Report ..............................................................................31 • Owls Head Harbor Park Project ....................................................................... 32Committees: • Boards & Committees ...................................................................................... 33 • Airport .............................................................................................................. 30 • Cemetery ........................................................................................................... 34 • Conservation Commission ................................................................................ 35 • Fire Department ................................................................................................ 36 • Kitchen .............................................................................................................. 38Clubs: • Mussel Ridge Historical Society ....................................................................... 39 • Library .............................................................................................................. 40RSU #13 ......................................................................................................................41Auditor’s Report ......................................................................................................... 44Town Warrant ............................................................................................................. 49

Town of Owls Head

32020 Annual Report

DeDiCaTion

This year’s annual report is dedicated to Frank Ross III

Frank moved to Maine at an early age of 6 weeks. It was apparent as a young boy that Frank liked to stay busy, from fishing (both freshwater and deep sea), hunting, target practicing, and building things. He especially enjoyed spending time with his dad and hanging out behind the counters at H.H Crie Co. Today’s latest project is building a 1932 Model 18 Ford Roadster. Cooking is another hobby Frank loves to do.

In 1975, he married the love of his life, Heather E Young of Rockland. Together they have one daughter, Angelica L Ross of Owls Head. They built their forever home together here in Owls Head in 1975.

He maintains two businesses, Earth Services, and Ross Signs, all the while being Fire Chief of the Owls Head Fire Department. Frank serves in many capacities for the town of Owls Head. He is always willing to help the office staff with projects without hesitation.

There are moments in time when small towns like Owls Head produce an individual the caliber of Frank, a man who quietly and without fanfare and unnecessary

confusion does what needs to be done. He is the calm, capable, comforting presence in the best of times and in times of enormous pressure. With a minimum of stress and

a maximum of ability he meets the challenges and demands life brings him with a steady hand. In good times and times of unspeakable loss many of us have been the

recipients of his steady presence. May we always be so blessed.

Thank you, Frank, for all your years of being here for us.

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2020 Annual Report

General informaTion

Town Office HoursMonday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday

8 am – 4:30 pmClosed Thursdays

(Hours are subject to change)

Website: owlshead.maine.gov

Mailing address:Town of Owls Head

224 Ash Point DrOwls Head, ME 04854

Telephone: (207) 594-7434 Fax: (207) 594:7598

Town Clerk & Tax Collector: [email protected]: [email protected]: [email protected]

MeetingsSelectmen: 1st & 3rd Monday of each month at 4 pmOwls Head, South Thomaston, Thomaston Solid Waste Board: 4th Thursday of each monthPlanning Board: 2nd Wednesday of each month at 6 pmZoning Board of Appeals: When needed, posted at least 10 days prior to start of the meeting

Owls Head Stump DumpOpen Wednesdays & Saturdays 8 am to 4 pm

Closed from noon to 1 pm for lunchStump Dump stickers are available at the town office

Owls Head, South Thomaston, Thomaston Solid Waste CorporationOpen Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday & Saturdays

8 am to 4 pmTelephone: (207) 594-0748

OHSTT Transfer Solid Waste stickers are purchased at the transfer station

Town of Owls Head

52020 Annual Report

eleCTeD offiCials2019-2020

Selectmen, Assessors and Overseers of the poor: Thomas Von Malder ‘21 [email protected] Linda Post ‘22 [email protected] Gordon Page ‘20 [email protected]

Town Council Members: Richard Carver ‘21 Lynn Chaplin ’22 Dave Matthews ‘20 Harbor Master: Adam Philbrook ‘20

Deputy Harbor Master: Walter Wotton ‘20

Road Commissioner: William Leppanen ‘20

RSU #13 Director: Susan Thomas ‘20

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Town of Owls Head

2020 Annual Report

appoinTeD offiCials2019-2020

Appointed Officials

2019-2020 Animal Control Officer: William Demmons Assessor's Agent: Thomas Edwards Code Enforcement Officer/LPI: Scott Bickford Deputy LPI: David Studer Fire Chief: Frank Ross ‘23 Deputy Fire Chief: Donald Pierce ‘20 Assistant Fire Chief: John Gamage ‘20 General Assistance Administrator: Eleanor Stone Public Health Officer: Eliot Scott ‘20 Registrar of Voters: Eleanor Stone Deputy Registrar of Voters: Susan Wilson Secretary: Eleanor Stone [email protected] Tax Collector: Susan Wilson Town Clerk: Susan Wilson [email protected] Deputy Town Clerk: Eleanor Stone Treasurer: Pamela Curtis [email protected] Deputy Treasurer: Eleanor Stone

Town of Owls Head

72020 Annual Report

Chief OfficersFrank Ross ChiefDonald Pierce Deputy ChiefJohn Gamage Asst Chief

Interior FirefightersDavid GeddisTrinity DearbornAdam PhilbrookDakota PritchetteChristopher DarnellDaniel PierceJulie WinzlerTheodore HallettDaniel Pierce

Fire Police OfficersBob CarlsonDavid Darnell

Eliot ScottMedical Officer

Line OfficersSteven Hallett CaptainMichael Root LieutenantTim Sternberg LieutenantEliot Scott Medical Officer

Exterior FirefightersChad NicklesPeyton FeenerRussell HallockRoss AlexCole StevensCorie PritchetteSteffani-Rae JillsonJay RossKolja PhilbrookRohobot CarlsonAlden ShelleySteven Dearborn

OWLS HEAD FIRE DEPARTMENTSquad List

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Town of Owls Head

2020 Annual Report

Town of Owls Head

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Town of Owls Head

2020 Annual Report

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Town of Owls Head

2020 Annual Report

Town of Owls Head


REPORT OF THE BOARD OF SELECTMENReport of the Board of Selectmen

It was a quiet year … until it wasn’t.

Linda Post was reelected as selectman and Gordon Page and Thomas R. Von Malder continued their terms on the board, with Von Malder again elected board chairman.

Things initially were so quiet that rooster/chicken complaints disappeared without a peep and snowplow complaints, including Cooper’s Beach Road, melted away.

Work on Harbor Park with its new public access to the water proceeded smoothly and the selectmen voted to name the park after Richard Carver, a longtime selectman and public servant who, as head of the Harbor Committee, spearheaded the design and permit process for the new park.

The Select Board also sold one tax-acquired property at 20 Owls Head Lane and, as this is written at the end of June, is prepared to sell the tax-acquired property at 357 Dublin Road, which cost the Town $86,881.27 to clean up.

There were disruptions to the quiet, though. The first was when the Fire Department’s pumper truck was knocked off the road in a collision with a St. George fire truck when responding to a fire in October. Firemen Donald Pierce and Russell Hallock were injured in the accident but recovered quickly. While the truck was considered a total loss, our Maine Municipal Association replacement insurance covered the cost of a replacement vehicle, which has been ordered.

Then in March, Covid-19 struck, and the pandemic changed everything. We closed the Town Office to the public from mid-March through May 31, but our incredible, hard-working staff – Tax Collector/Town Clerk Susan Wilson, Treasurer Pamela Curtis and Secretary/Registrar of Voters Eleanor Stone – worked through the closure to keep the Town going.

Again, as of the end of June, Robert Hirsch’s Finance Committee was still working on the budget, which we expect will be heavily impacted by Covid-19, especially in revenue. While we are trying to limit the Town’s expenditures as much as possible, Owls Head is being hit by a $185,000 increase in the Town’s share of the RSU 13 school budget, as well as increases in the Knox County Budget and a 4 percent increase in our ambulance service provided by the Rockland Fire Department.

As we mention Robert Hirsch, we are reminded what a good example he is of people in the community who volunteer to serve on the various boards and committees. We always encourage “fresh blood” to participate. Another committee, the Owls Head Airport Committee, headed by Ken Wexler, has worked on the new interlocal agreement with Knox County for the Knox County Airport Regional Airport, as the current 20-year agreement expires in 2021.

And speaking of those who serve, former Animal Control Officer Gordon Poland, who retired last year, died this year. Tom Edwards, our longtime assessor’s agent, recently resigned after the death of his wife, Cindy, in Florida.

Next year will mark the 100th anniversary of Owls Head breaking away from South Thomaston to become an independent village. We are looking to commemorate the event and would welcome suggestions and volunteers.

As always, it is our pleasure to serve you.

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Town of Owls Head

2020 Annual Report

Town of Owls Head


2020 UNPAID REAL ESTATE TAXESAS OF 6/30/20

NAME BALANCE

Baudanza, Mathew F (TIC) $ 1,160.81Betts, Joyce $ 1,056.28Blackman, Donald A $ 3,111.67Blackman, Donald A $ 896.94Brackett, Sherry $ 934.58 ***Brown, Tina $ 424.24Brown, Tina $ 418.37Campbell Airo, LLC $ 302.57 ***Campbell Airo, LLC $ 334.42 ***Coleman, Rachel & Matthew $ 1,103.77Colson, Bruce $ 90.80 ***Crescent Beach Cottage LLC $ 5,005.26Curtis, Peter $ 975.66Daly, Donna $ 3,176.53 ***Darnell, David E. $ 2,528.51 (P)Davis Family Nominee Trust $ 1,966.10 ***Delaney, Jill L $ 1,904.63Dodge, Alice K ET ALS $ 354.32 ***Doughty Jr Harold A $ 998.66 ***Dow, John S, Estate of $ 2,939.98 ***Dureault, Kenneth & Susan $ 1,692.92Dutch Neck LLC $ 158.87 *** Eaton, David (J/T) $ 1,729.37Elliott, Jr.,Danny $ 5,505.86Faulkingham, Charles & Geri $ 518.42Feener, Ryan (TIC), Catherine $ 832.14Feeney, Patricia $ 329.07Ferraiolo, John & Tammra $ 4,588.64Fifield, Winston (TIC) $ 1,386.95 ***Follett, Kenneth $ 1,602.98 ***

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Town of Owls Head

2020 Annual Report

Fredericks, Amy (J/T) $ 570.40 ***Freeman, Scott & Diana $ 2,395.80 ***Frothingham Jr, R. Scott $ 1,907.39Gaston, James $ 318.55Glover, Grace $ 2,227.66 *** Goehry, Richard $ 2,328.00 ***Goehry, Richard $ 200.90 ***Hall, Andrea $ 1,470.56 ***Harvey, Sarah Reilly $ 911.11 (P)Haskell, Joshua $ 1,646.27Hatch, Gary $ 18.25Highfield, Henry 2012 Trust $ 739.58 ***Holland, Pamela $ 2,770.83 ***Ilvonen, Kerry $ 307.40Jones, Frances $ 750.55 ***Jones Jr Lowell A $ 689.28Joy, Darlene $ 1,106.47Keating, Olive M. $ 165.72Keating, Olive M. $ 1,844.83Knight, Christopher $ 2,574.97Liberty, Robert & Dorothy $ 11,140.17Lipton, James & Margaret $ 6,894.02Little, Peter $ 872.79 ***Macmillan, Huge Dame Estate $ 1,381.70McConchie Jr. Arnold $ 168.71McGee, Richard & Niedzielski $ 2,592.56 ***McNeilly, Joshua D $ 440.01Morse, Christopher $ 3,837.12 ***Newcomb III, Frederick $ 555.86 ***Nickles, Christina $ 2,885.47Nickles, Donald & Christina $ 472.42Overlock, Dwight $ 1,096.83Overlock, Dwight $ 421.25Overlock, Dwight $ 782.81Overlock, Peter $ 4,897.51Philbrick, Bert A. $ 1,954.20 ***Philbrook, Adam & Tayler $ 2,528.85Philbrook, Jason $ 5,966.78 ***

Town of Owls Head


Philbrook, Adam & Tayler $ 515.66Philbrook, Adam (J/T) $ 451.95Post, John R $ 1,837.18Regulators, LLC $ 1,051.73 ***Reynolds, Travis & Kelly $ 356.61 ***Robson Penelope, Trustee $ 854.45 ***Ross, Clifton $ 940.64 ***Scott, Willis & Nathalie $ 1,688.37 ***Seagrave Cottage LLC $ 2,815.43 ***Shoreline, LLC $ 1,052.25 ***Smith, Irving $ 1,792.56Smith, Irving $ 2,923.30Snow, Patricia $ 2,344.27 ***Spearing, Charmen & Joshua $ 2,706.53Stewart, Sabrina & David $ 1,965.93Stone III, Charles $ 2,789.56Stone III, Charles $ 80.04Stone III, Travis & Charles $ 1,245.33Stump, Rita Harper $ 419.12 ***Sutela, Richard (TIC) $ 183.66Sylvester, Warren $ 147.09Taylor, James P $ 5,488.86 ***Thompson, Damian & Cassandra $ 383.76 ***Thompson, Elizabeth $ 74.46 ***Van Nuis, Martha $ 1,485.35 (P)Wilhelm Jr., Frederick A $ 1,171.73 *** Winter, William A. (TIC) $ 512.86Yattaw, Thomas (J/T) $ 333.04 ***Yattaw, Thomas $ 753.42 ***Young, Scott $ 1,156.33 (F)

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Town of Owls Head

2020 Annual Report

2019 UNPAID REAL ESTATE TAXESAS OF 6/30/20

NAME BALANCE

Baudanza, Matthew (TIC) $ 596.50Darnell, David E $ 640.65 ***Eaton, David (J/T) $ 1,743.80Faulkinham, Charles & Geri $ 568.36Feener, Ryan (TIC),Catherine (TIC) $ 462.92Frothingham Jr R Scott $ 1,916.61Keating, Olive M. $ 226.00Keating, Olive M. $ 1,855.89Lipton, James & Margaret $ 121.48McConchie Jr., Arnold $ 228.89Nickles, Christina $ 2,866.00Nickles, Donald & Christina $ 523.71 ***Sylvester, Warren $ 207.91Thompson. Damian & Cassandra $ 248.58 ***Young, Scott $ 1,187.56 (F)

2016-2018 UNPAID REAL ESTATES TAXESFORECLOSURES

AS OF 6/30/20

NAME BALANCE

Bradford, Wendy (2018) $ 676.57 (F)Young, Scott (2018) $ 1,168.23 (F)Bradford, Wendy (2017) $ 770.70 (F)Bradford, Wendy (2016) $ 761.46 (F)

Town of Owls Head


2004-2020 UNPAID PERSONAL PROPERTY TAXESAS OF 6/30/20

NAME BALANCE

Overlock, Dwight (2020) $ 1,150.00Overlock, Dwight (2019) $ 1,075.00Overlock, Dwight (2018) $ 1,055.00Overlock, Dwight (2017) $ 1,060.00Overlock, Dwight (2016) $ 1,050.00Overlock, Dwight (2015) $ 960.00Overlock, Dwight (2014) $ 975.00Overlock, Dwight (2013) $ 5,186.02Overlock, Dwight (2012) $ 5,186.02Overlock, Dwight (2011) $ 5,449.28Overlock, Dwight (2010) $ 6,727.50Overlock, Dwight (2009) $ 5,589.15Overlock, Dwight (2008) $ 5,089.50Overlock, Dwight (2007) $ 3,444.00Overlock, Dwight (2006) $ 3,404.00Overlock, Dwight (2005) $ 2,775.00Overlock, Dwight (2004) $ 13,920.00

***paid after 6/30/20 and before 8/01/20(P) partial payment

(F/C) foreclosureAmounts do not include interest and/or costs.

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Town of Owls Head

2020 Annual Report

Bulk Waste Transfer Facility (AKA Stump Dump)

Tyler and Bill are working hard to make the facility an easy place to use. Clean and safe. Please see them when you come into the facility. They can advise you what can be accepted and how much it will cost. Some of the things the facility cannot accept are any kind of electronics, tires, any kind of liquids including paint, pesticides, old gasoline or drain oil. No asbestos, whether roofing, tiles, siding, flooring, or insulation cannot be accepted. We want to help you properly dispose of your materials. If the attendants cannot answer where you can dispose of materials properly, they or I will try to find that place for you.

Please, please stay off from the grassed areas with vehicles. There is a closed land fill under the transfer facility, and you will be held liable for repairs if you sink into the ground and damage the liners in place.

We are still trying to give away compost. Take all you want; it is great for gardens and lawns with screening. Free, Free, Free. Where do you hear that anymore?

Respectfully submitted,Frank E. RossFacility Manager

Town of Owls Head


REPORT OF THE TOWN CLERK We have all encountered a lot of changes with the threat of Covid-19. We are all trying to keep you safe and ourselves as well. I appreciate your patience in this difficult time and thank you for all that you are doing at a time like this. I am so proud of our Town and the good people in it. We know how to rally together. Thank you to my fellow employees for stepping up. I can always count on them. And to the Selectmen and the many volunteers, thank you for all you do. The following statistics and licenses were recorded in the Town of Owls Head for the year 7/01/2019 through 6/30/2020:

VITAL STATISTICS Births 11 Marriages 10 Deaths 31 (list below) Name Date Place of Death Age Alden, Sylvia Ann 03/27/20 Rockland 80 Anderson, Shirley B 12/06/19 Owls Head 80 Batty Sr., James F 02/01/20 Rockport 76 Brown, Dianne L. 11/12/19 Rockport 64 Coffey, Andrew E 08/20/19 Rockport 95 Damboise-Grindle, Donna 09/09/19 Owls Head 60 Flint Sr., William T 05/05/20 Portland 79 Gilmore, Daniel J 08/05/19 Owls Head 68 Grant, May Ellis 03/28/20 Camden 91 Hardy, Curtis B 01/07/20 Rockport 82 Hennings, Jane E 09/09/19 Owls Head 102 Hudson, Elvi E 09/22/19 Rockport 98 Hurd., Alice A 08/07/19 Owls Head 85 Ilvonen, Richard W 08/01/19 Rockport 92 Johnson, Charles M 06/06/20 Rockport 90 Laite, Karen T 02/15/20 Rockport 87 Lobkowicz, Dominik N 02/24/20 Rockland 89 Martel, William C 03/04/20 Owls Head 82 McLain, Lance K 08/01/19 Owls Head 52 Nicholas, Nathalie 04/12/20 Rockport 98 O’Hara, Jean C 11/19/19 Owls Head 88 Pearl, Henrietta F 5/22/20 Rockport 85 Perry, Francis C 02/20/20 Owls Head 95 Perry, Idabelle E 02/25/20 Owls Head 87 Philbrook, Norma A 04/03/20 Rockport 92

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Town of Owls Head

2020 Annual Report

Poland, Gordon M 04/14/20 Rockport 83 Thro, Stuart W 09/05/19 Rockport 77 Vedoe, John D 04/17/20 Owls Head 100 Weymouth, Ralph 01/22/20 Rockport 102 Willcox, Linda A 08/18/19 Owls Head 81 Woodward, Kent P 12/12/19 Augusta 90

HUNTING & FISHING LICENSES Combination 23 Hunting 11 Fishing 43 Muzzleload/Turkey 4 Archery 5 Lifetime (over 70) 3 Saltwater Fishing 3

DOG LICENSES

Male/ Female 33 Neutered/ Spayed 285 Kennel Licenses 3 (All dog licenses expire 12/31/20 must be licensed no later than 1/31/2021 to avoid late charges.Proof of Rabies and neutering/ spaying must be presented before a license will be issued).

BOATS/ ATVS/ SNOWMOBILES Boats 221 Documented Boats 25 ATVs 43 Snowmobiles 44 (Please note that all Documented boats must pay excise tax in the town of residence). Respectfully Submitted, Susan A. Wilson, Town Clerk

Town of Owls Head


CoDe enforCemenT offiCer’s reporTREPORT OF THE CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER

Building/Use Permits July 1, 2019--June 30, 2020 I hereby submit my sixteenth annual report as your Code Enforcement Officer

Type of Use/Construction (Other than Shoreland Zoning Districts) 11- Accessory structures (sheds, detached garage, storage tents etc.) 5- Decks 2- Demolitions 5- Dwellings (3 with attached garages) 0- Fence 5- Filling/Excavation >100 cu.yds. 1- Moving structure (mobile Home) 0- Other misc. 7- Renovations/additions 2- Sign

1-Use permits (such as change of use) 1-Swimming pool (above ground)

1-Private Way (for entrance and rear lot access) (SLZ=Shoreland Zoning Districts) 3- Accessory structures (sheds, detached garage, storage tents etc.) 4- Decks 3- Demolitions 3- Dwellings 0-Fences 1- Filling/Excavation >10 cu. yds. 0- Permit renewal 1- Piers, docks, wharfs 9- Renovations/additions 1- Rip-Rap stabilization 0-Other misc. 0- Shore access (stairs or steps) 0- Flood Hazard Development Major 2- Flood Hazard Development Minor 0- Vegetative clearing

Total town permits issued =68 (of that amount 27 was in the Shoreland Zone) Total permit fees collected to defray expenses =$ 3,858.98 Estimated Valuation (when given) =$3,598,323.00

As a general rule-structures are anything built or placed in or on the ground with few exceptions and do require a permit. Some structures are in very poor shape and are considered as possibly dangerous. Please keep your structures in good repair and safe. Flood Plain rules are very stringent and can be costly to meet and comply with-to not complete the process for permitting can carry severe penalties so please contact me prior to starting a project. Assessor Tom Edwards has resigned and I wish him nothing but the best. I enjoyed working with him and now look forward to working with the replacement as we move ahead. Respectfully Submitted, Scott E. Bickford Code Enforcement Officer

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Town of Owls Head

2020 Annual Report

The Inland Fisheries and Wildlife Committee has been fairly “quiet” this past year, but we continue to be vigilant on issues that affect Clerks and Tax Collectors!

Having the ListServe out of commission got in the way of us sending out reminders. Now that we are all connected again, we’ll be back at it. Be on the lookout!The MOSES Team in Augusta has re-started the process of including boat excise into our on-line transactions…..no specifics on when we will see testing and eventual implementation, so stay tuned. We’re even looking at having a transfer pro-rated in the calculation, although this is not a common transaction for us.The Committee tried once again to get documented boat listings from Maine Revenue. Unfortunately our efforts over the past three years were for naught, as USCG will no longer release any data.In March we lost out on some MOSES training due to the State’s emergency. We’re hoping to get a new series of classes for the fourth quarter of 2020.During our Emergency the MOSES crew stayed active in support-ing our counter service gaps in service by working diligently from home and with limited in-house staffing…..kudos for their efforts!Our Committee added Tom Bourett of Rumford, representing The Tax Collector’s Assn.!

So…..looking back our year was not as active as in the past. However, we are here and always ready to help you and to do whatever we can to make your daily work more efficient. Please continue to ask us questions and seek our help.

Respectfully submitted by,David Anderson, Tom Bourett, Laura Bragg, Joan Linscott, Joyce Pratt and Pauline Weiss

Inland Fisheries & Wildlife Committee ReportFor Year 2020

Town of Owls Head


REPORT OF THE PLUMBING INSPECTOR Plumbing, Subsurface Wastewater for July 1, 2019-June 30, 2020

I hereby submit my sixteenth annual report as your Plumbing Inspector as follows: Internal Plumbing (within the building) 23 Subsurface Wastewater (septic systems or parts of) 13 Public Sewer connection 0 D.E.P. (D.M.R.) required fee for complete systems only 9 Total fees collected: $ 4570.00 of which: ¾ (75%) of $ 4570.00 = $ 3428.00 and paid to the Plumbing Inspector. The state still requires the town to collect and send to them $15.00 for each complete septic system installed. The money we forward is given to the D.E.P. for the Department of Marine Resources. Fee(s) collected (we keep none) and passed onto the state for (DMR) = $150.00 Currently the state minimum for internal plumbing is $10.00 per fixture with a $40.00 minimum. A complete septic system is $250.00 plus the $15.00 D.M.R. fee. A variance fee is not uncommon with small lots, setbacks, soil restrictions or well placements being the most common reasons. The variance carries a $20 fee only for a new system and not for a replacement. Other fees are available on request for system components such as a septic tank only. The two State Plumbing Inspectors have retired within the next few months. Their experience will be difficult to find in the job description. A septic system may be repaired but requiring the acknowledgement of the Plumbing Inspector. Any plumbing or septic system work done without a permit, if required, is an automatic doubling of the fee. For internal plumbing minimum that would mean $40.00 doubled to $80.00 and for septic systems it would be much more. The property owner or person having work done should always ensure the person doing the work is licensed if required and all necessary permits are obtained. Ask for the permit copy signed by the Plumbing Inspector and if in doubt please call me. Septic tanks should be pumped every few years at the maximum for system longevity. I anticipate the virus will be with us for quite some time. I hope all residents will work to be safe from it. I certainly will be cautious and wish you all to remain well. Don’t hesitate to contact me if I may be of service. Respectfully Submitted, Scott E. Bickford Plumbing Inspector

REPORT OF THE PLUMBING INSPECTOR

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Town of Owls Head

2020 Annual Report

animal ConTrol reporTAnimal Control Officers Report

There were 3 reports of rabies in Knox County in 2019. Last winter was very cold. We received a lot of calls of animals being left outside. Please remember those small animals should not be left out for long periods. Also, as a reminder, state law requires that you register your dog after 6 months of age, and up to date on rabies shots. The animal control officer duties are for domestic animals only, dogs, cats, rabbits, etc. If you do come in contact with an animal you suspect is rabid, please call the Wildlife Warden Service. The Town of Thomaston has a dog park where you can take your dog to meet and play with other dogs, please remember that you are responsible for your dog. Please report any altercations at the dog park to Animal Control Officer William Demmons @ (207) 542-3057. Please remember to treat your animals with the love and care he/she deserves and you will see it in return. If you have any animal related concerns, complaints or questions, I will do my best to answer them for you. Respectfully submitted, William A Demmons Owls Head Animal Control Officer (207) 542-3057

Town of Owls Head


roaD Commissioner reporT

Town of Owls Head

Incorporated 1921

05-26-2020

In 2019 we did about the same amount of ditching as we always do. At the time of this

letter, we have not paved any roads yet. You will have to live another year to find out

which ones we paved. In 2019, we also G.P.S'ed all public easement roads from where

they start and end. That way we will have a public record from now on. In the 2020/2021

budget, we cut the budget 10%, not 10% of the proposed increase we would like. I hope

the state does the same.

William Leppanen

224 Ash Point Dr., Owls Head, Maine 04854

Telephone (207) 594-7434 Fax (207) 594-7598

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Town of Owls Head

2020 Annual Report

THE OWLS HEAD VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANY, INC.

The Owls Head Volunteer Fire Company, Inc is a benevolent, charitable organization that was the original fire dept in Owls Head. We held bean and chicken pie suppers with the help of the wives and others to buy all the equip-ment and supplies for the firefighters. A few years ago, the town voted to change the fire dept to a municipal department, but the firefighters kept the be-nevolent organization to help the firefighters as well as townspeople in need. One thing we want to ensure is our firefighters do not have any costs when they are injured in the line of duty. With the fire engine accident that totaled the towns Pumper/Tanker 4 and injured two of our firefighters, one of our fire-fighter fighting cancer and a couple other problems the fire companies funds were very low when Deena Carafelli and Beth long, two friends of the fire company, came forward and penned the now infamous unsigned begging let-ter letting you all know of our plight and sending it to every taxpayer in town. You all stepped up and boy did you step up. Our coffers are full, and we have begun using the money to save the taxpayers’ money and assist where we can people in need. The fire company also maintains a fleet of hospital equipment we lend out at no cost to any towns person who needs them. Crutches, wheel-chairs, pot chairs, hospital beds, walkers, nearly any durable hospital item you could need. Let any member know if you or someone you know needs them and we will try our best to help.

Thank you all so much for everything you did to help us.

Frank Ross, Company Clerk

Town of Owls Head


Town of Owls Head2019 Year End Waste Totals

Demolition Debris Disposal = $32,116.74Roll off Service = $23,460.00Ash Disposal & Testing = $1,826.02Container Rental = $330.00Total for 2019 = $57,732.76

Demolition Debris = 395.45 tons (86 loads) Wood Ash 11.49 tons (1 load)

DM&J44 Transfer Station RdWinterport, ME(207) 223-4112

Ellsworth Waste Service15 Industrial RdEllsworth, ME(207) 667-4333

Mailing Address for bothcompanies are:219 Stream RdWinterport, ME 04496

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Town of Owls Head

2020 Annual Report

OWLS HEAD AIRPORT COMMITTEE

This has been a busy year for the Owls Head Airport Committee.

We have had (2) new people join the Committee, Kathryn DerMarderosian and Lauren Swartzbaugh, who will

bring much needed support and expertise to our Committee.

The Airport has a new Manager, Jeremy Shaw, who started right after the first of the year. Jeremy is very

interested in improving Town and Airport communications and cooperation, and we all feel that going forward

we will be able to maintain a much better relationship with the Airport.

We have been working with the County and the Selectboard in drafting a new agreement to replace the

expiring (6/2021) Interlocal Agreement. The Interlocal Agreement protects the Town from expansion of the

Airport beyond the current boundaries. The goal is to have a new Agreement worked out with the County

before the end of the year. The Agreement will be then brought to a special Town Meeting for approval.

We have also been working with the Airport, and the Owls Head Conservation Commission on landscaping and

planting upgrades and perhaps even a walking trail on the Airport property.

Lastly, the Airport is planning to move forward with the infrastructure for the construction of (8) new hangers

on Ash Point Road. The long term plan is for providing infrastructure for up to (34) new hangers. We have

been keeping the Selectboard up-to-date on this.

As always, we welcome new members to OHAC.

Ken Wexler Charlie Siletti Kathryn DerMarderosian Lauren Swartzbaugh

Town of Owls Head


foresT fire WarDens reporT

The Town of Owls Head has an ordinance requiring a written fire permit signed by the fire chief for all out of door fires. With COVID- 19, permits have been issued by telephone to keep everybody safe. When this whole thing resides we will be returning to written permits, in the meantime be safe, wear a mask when you cannot safe distance (6 ft minimum) and if you do not feel good stay home and away from others.

There were no out of control brush or forest fires in town during the period 1 July 2019 and 30 June 2020.

A written fire permit is required for all out-of-door fires, debris, grass or leaves and recreational campfires or fire rings burning wood and all fires are permit-ted for between 5 and 10pm unless it is raining or snow covers the ground then permits are available for between 9am and 10pm, and are wind depen-dant. Permits are available on the day of the burn for debris, grass, or leaf fires on the day of the fire. Call an hour or so before 5 pm. Recreational fire permits are available for the entire year, January 1st to December 31st with an inspection of the area the first permit. For more information and permits call 594-4076.

Respectfully submitted,Frank RossForest Fire Warden

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OWLS HEAD HARBOR PARK PROJECT

Owls Head Harbor Park Project

A project like the Owls Head Harbor Park requires multiple permits from local, state and federal agencies so progress is at a stand still until permits are obtained. In January of 2020 the final permit was granted. Shortly thereafter weather condition allowed construction to commence on the park area off Lighthouse Road. That was followed by the construction of a walkway to the waterfront. In early spring Prock Marine dredged the dock/float site in Owls Head Harbor. Next, the new parking area and walkway were surfaced and open to all. The waterfront parking area was neatened and a shoreside landing area for the pier was created. A circular walking trail was completed that connects the new parking area, walkway, waterfront parking area, pier, beach, mowed path towards Lighthouse Road (across two new bridges) and returns to the new parking lot. A park sign will be placed at the entrance on Lighthouse Road and a kiosk displaying park information will be installed nearby. Construction of the pier and final installation of it and the floats, in addition to more harbor site preparation, will be completed before the end of 2020. Owls Head Harbor Park is funded by the Town of Owls Head and matching funds from the Land & Water Conservation Fund. The Town pays up front cost incurred then must apply to the Land & Water Conservation Fund for 50% reimbursement. It is anticipated that the Harbor Park Project will be completed before June 30, 2021. This ending date includes final payment and final reimbursement with the total project cost to the Town estimated to be $187,100.

Town of Owls Head


BOARDS & COMMITTEES2019-2020

Planning Board Zoning Board of Appeals Kenneth Wexler ’22 Kermit VonCannon ‘22William Leppanen ’21 Sherry Stanley ‘21Dale Martin ’21 Rodney Mason ‘21Marc McNeilly ’20 Lynn Chaplin ‘22Russell Wolfertz, Jr (Chair) ’20 David Walker ‘20Maria Devery (Alternate) ’22 Pamela Holland (Alternate) ‘20 OHSTT Solid Waste Board Shoreland Ordinance Review CommitteeBruce Colson ’20 Larkin Post Kenneth WexlerGordon Page ’20 Richard Carver Linda Post Lynn Chaplin William Gay Scott Bickford (advisor)

** THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DO! **

Airport Committee Budget Committee Cemetery CommitteeCharles Siletti ‘21 Robert Hirsch ‘22 William GayKen Wexler ‘22 David Walker ‘21 Walter Guptill Barbara Nims ‘20 Ellen Feldman ‘20 Michael VonCannonVacant Vacant Dan Clough Jesse Ellis

Conservation Commission Harbor Committee Kitchen CommitteeKathryn DerMarderosian ‘22 Richard Goehry ‘21 Deena CarafelliKen Wexler ‘20 Mike Gustin ‘21 Beth LongJames Devery ‘20 Mike Keating ‘20 Frank RossRichard Matlack ‘21 Richard Carver ‘22 Carolyn PhilbrookJohn Ware (Alternate) ‘20 Jeffrey Edwards ‘22 Kay DodgeBeth Long ‘21 Robert O’Hara ‘20Stuart Rich ’22

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Town of Owls Head

2020 Annual Report

OWLS HEAD CEMETERY COMMITTEE

Town of Owls Head


THE OWLS HEAD CONSERVATION COMMISSIONOWLS HEAD CONSERVATION COMMISSION - ANNUAL REPORT 2020

OHCC MISSION STATEMENT

The Owls Head Conservation Commission seeks to preserve and protect the natural resources of Owls Head, and to advise, educate and make recommendations to its residents and to the town’s governing bodies. The commission works to create opportunities for residents to interact with the natural world, thus fostering life long stewardship in retaining the natural beauty of Owls Head for future generations.

Plaisted Preserve welcomes many visitors throughout the year, but never more since the event of the COVID-19 pandemic. Gratefully, several years ago, as noted in the comprehensive plan, residents expressed a desire for more outdoor spaces and off road walking trails. Since that time, Georges River Land Trust has opened Ash Point Preserve, the town of Owls Head has created Plaisted Preserve, and the town is currently developing The Harbor Park. These spaces have provided a great respite during this time of unprecedented restrictions.

Plaisted Preserve continues to be maintained by its members, who groom trails, work to control invasive species, maintain trail marking, and create new trails. This year several foot bridges were added. The construction of a more substantial bridge system is currently under way to navigate through a particularly wet area. As in all forests, trees have blown down, and though they continue to serve the natural world, some block the trails and need to be removed. All that is described requires attention. Volunteers are welcome. We appreciate the ongoing support we receive from Georges River Land Trust in working with the preserve.

OHCC will be introducing its own web page this year which will include: our mission statement, list of members, information regarding upcoming meetings and events, meeting minutes, and links to areas of related interests and concerns.

OHCC members compiled a list of all public water access points within the town, and visited the sites to assure they were properly maintained and accessible. This information is now recorded and filed with the town of OH.

A hot topic with all coastal towns and conservation commissions is the concern for sea level rise. To be proactive rather than reactive will not only help to put safety measures into place to protect persons and properties (both public and private), but it will save the town tax dollars. Good planning is ultimately cost effective, and in the case of sea level rise, there are federal funds available to support preventative and safety measures. A few members of the OHCC attended a workshop sponsored by the town of St. George, in which a task force created an assessment plan related to prevention and readiness for the effects of a rise in sea level. The OHCC will be working diligently to get the wheels in motion to support a similar initiative for Owls Head.

The Roadside Pick-Up initiative this year was to include a collaboration with Ash Point Elementary School, but due to the pandemic, residents were invited to pick up bags from the town office and work on the clean up independently. We hope to involve the community in more creative ways in the future.

The OHCC meets the first Wednesday of the month at 6PM. All are welcome. Meetings are normally held at the airport, but have been scheduled on the ZOOM platform since March. Check the OH town website and the OH town bulletin boards for updates.

Respectfully submitted, Kathryn DerMarderosian

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Town of Owls Head

2020 Annual Report

OWLS HEAD FIRE DEPARTMENT

The Owls Head Fire Department is always looking for more people who want to help in town and out. Currently there are 30 members on the dept, 25 men and 5 women. 14 qualified interior personnel 9 exterior and 2 fire police. With the loss of Pumper/Tanker 4 the dept has had to enlist even more mutual aid for structural fire calls. Warren Fire has been sending a tanker from their sta-tion when we need one along with trucks from Rockland, So Thomaston and St George. Our new truck which was 100% replaced by insurance should be here in early 2021. The dept responded to 40 calls for assistance as follows:

Date Time Type of Call Responding07/14/19 1215hrs Alarm Investigation 407/05 1246 Elect Short in Outlet 1007/06 2100 CO Alarm Sounding 607/06 1114 Elect Wires Down 1107/08 1216 Alarm Sounding 707/20 002 Alarm Sounding 807/22 0445 Alarm Sounding 507/29 1249 Loose Trailer Hit Car ST 408/02 2038 Ambulance Lift Assist 1108/05 2030 Ambulance Assist CPR 1308/14 1517 Motor Vehicle Accident 608/16 1247 Alarm Investigation 609/09 1200 Ambulance Assist CPR 510/08 0500 Tree & Wires in Road 710/18 1248 Struct Fire MA Clark Island 1210/18 1310 MVA-fire engine Clark Island 1110/09 2034 Ambulance Lift Assist 1111/06 0031 Smoke Alarm Call 712/04 1445 Ambulance Lift Assist 312/11 0815 Ambulance Lift Assist 512/20 1041 Fire Alarm Sounding 412/21 2032 Smoke Alarm Call 601/04/20 0949 Odor Investigation 901/09 1147 Smoke Alarm Call 6

Town of Owls Head


01/10 1727 Hot Tub Elect Fire 1501/16 2302 Out Bldg Fire St George 801/18 0203 Broken Pipe/Flood Cellar 602/11 0907 Fire Alarm Sounding 202/22 0813 Body Search – shoreline 902/22 1337 Struct Fire So Thom 1002/25 0845 Ambulance Assist CPR 103/01 2328 CMP Pole Fire 703/22 1119 Lift Assist on Walk Trail 1103/22 1715 Fire Alarm Sounding 605/07 1518 Fire Alarm Sounding 805/09 1400 Trees & Wires in Road 1106/03 1607 Aircraft Incident 1006/03 1843 Ambulance Lift Assist 1006/04 1510 Alarm Investigation 1006/30 0947 Alarm Investigation 2

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2020 Annual Report

OWLS HEAD KITCHEN COMMITTEE

Town of Owls Head


MUSSEL RIDGE HISTORICAL SOCIETY 2019-2020

The Mussel Ridge Historical Society meets at the Owls Head community building on the second Tuesday of each month at 9:30 under normal circumstances. All are welcome to join us and get involved in preserving the history of our town and the surrounding area. We continue to maintain the three historic buildings – the Homestead, the Village School, and the Grange Hall as best we can. There is a long list of needs for each of these buildings which we work away as we can. And we are always thinking about the best future for each of them. The Old Homestead is open on Wednesday afternoons from 2-4 from July through September. All are invited to stop in, learn what you want, share your stories of Owls Head, and enjoy seeing an old farmhouse and the life it must have shared with “its” family. We were sad to lose our friend and treasurer, Stu Thro, in September 2019. He was a great help to us. We miss him. We are pleased, however, to have Dave Matthews, replace Stu as our new treasurer. Dave has done yeoman’s work for us in all sorts of ways. We appreciate it! We had been very excited to finally be working on our Local History Center. With the town’s approval, with designs for the building drawn and approved, with getting our capital campaign figured out – COVID 19 struck and changed the life of MRHS as it did everyone’s. We were just about to start the open phase of the campaign but had to put a temporary stop to the whole process. It would have included meeting with peo-ple, preparing mailings, and so forth. All of that, besides people’s uncertainty about their financial future, caused us to put the whole process aside for the time being. David Matthews, our treasure says: Despite the shutdown of almost all we are used to in our normal lives, MRHS continues to look forward to the time when we cant get back together and continue the work of preserving the important history of Owls Head and the people who made and continue to make it the special place it is today. Even with the shutdowns resulting from this pandemic, we have received nearly $21,000 toward our goal. We hope you will continue to see the importance of the LHC and will consider helping our efforts. Anyone interested in donating can do so by...mailing a check to:

Respectfully submitted,Marty Shaw, President

Mussel Ridge Historical Society

MRHSPO BOX 133Owls Head ME 04854

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Town of Owls Head

2020 Annual Report

OWLS HEAD VILLAGE LIBRARY

Dear Members of the Owl Head Community, After more than 22 years, this was the year that I was ready to hand in my papers. This decision on my part was aided by the fact that the patronage of the library had declined tremendously in the past few years. It was time to move on to other interests. The governing board for the Owls Head Village Library had made it known through emails, articles in the newspaper, annual meeting announcements, websites and word of mouth that we were ready to call it quits on the library. The feedback we received was that nobody,even those who had never set foot into the building, wanted the library to close. “It was so much a part of the history of the town.” they claimed. Therefore it was decided that a last ditch effort should be made by sending out postcards to people in Owls Head asking for their help. Surprisingly several new faces appeared and eventually stepped forward to take over the reins. This takes care of the new board but just a reminder that even with a new board, if the people of Owls Head do not use the library, all their efforts will have been for naught. President- Kerry Hadley Vice President- Rod Weeks Secretary- Diane Nelson Treasurer- Tom Flavin Trustees- Gordon Page Carolyn Philbrook Mark Harris Valerie Stevens Librarian- Pat Stephens Thank you for your support throughout the years. Sincerely, Deena Carafelli Past Librarian Former Officers & Trustees

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REGIONAL SCHOOL UNIT 13annual reporT

1

REGIONAL SCHOOL UNIT 13 ANNUAL REPORT

This is the annual report to the citizens served by RSU 13 concerning the conditions and progress of the public schools in the municipalities of Cushing, Owls Head, Rockland, South Thomaston and Thomaston. RSU 13 is governed by the School Board. These individuals are elected by their city/town and serve all five municipalities as Directors of the Regional School Unit. The members of the RSU 13 Board are: Term Ending

Loren Andrews, Chair Cushing 2021 Carol Bachofner, Vice Chair Rockland 2020 Chelsea Avirett Rockland 2021 Douglas Curtis, Jr. Rockland 2021 Mark Lewis Thomaston 2021 Ryan Minikis So. Thomaston 2020 Thomas Peaco Rockland 2021 Susan Allen Thomas Owls Head 2020 Gerald Weinand Rockland 2021 Amy Williams-Beers Thomaston 2021

Maine State statutes outline the specific duties and responsibilities of the Board of Directors. They are responsible for policy development and approval, finances, evaluation, public relations, personnel, negotiations, and the selection and employment of the Superintendent. Each of these roles is very time consuming and directors give freely of their time to insure that school programs provide students with the best educational programs and services within the District’s means. SCHOOLS Ash Point Community School serves children in grades Pre-K-5 from Owls Head and South Thomaston. Enrollment is 168 students. Ben Tripp is the Principal. Cushing Community School serves children in grades K-5 from Cushing. Enrollment is 79 children. Dawn Jones is the Principal. South School serves children in grades Pre-K-5 from Rockland. Enrollment is 336 students. Justin Bennett is the Principal and David (Jake) Carlson is the Assistant Principal. Thomaston Grammar School serves children in grades K-5 from Thomaston, as well as a regional Special Education program in life skills. Enrollment is 182 students. Ainslee Riley is the Principal. Oceanside Middle School serves students in grades 6-8 from all five towns. Enrollment is 373 students. William Gifford is the Principal and Stefani Lund is the Assistant Principal. Oceanside High School serves students in grades 9-12 from all five towns. Enrollment is 480 students. Jesse Bartke is the Principal and Terri Church is the Assistant Principal. McLain School is the current home of district offices and services for RSU 13. Adult Education classes are located in this school. The RSU 13 Board Room has been moved to the South School Campus and includes full live-streaming capabilities as well as room for more community access to technologically advanced meeting space. Alternative Education has also moved to the South School campus. SCHOOLS OF OUR FUTURE In the Fall of 2015, we unveiled our plans to improve the efficiency of our schools and improve our school learning environments and student performance. We have in place a 9-12 high school in Rockland, a 6-8 regional middle school in Thomaston and K-5 or Pre-K-5 elementary schools. We also partnered with Siemens Energy to make improvements in our facilities in areas such as heating, lighting, ventilation, and a portion of window replacements at OHS. We are also planning a number of renovation and construction projects. These projects were partially financed through capturing energy savings and the cost savings of reducing the number of facilities we maintain. In 2016, RSU 13 closed the Lura Libby School in

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Thomaston and transferred ownership to the town. The RSU has also turned over the Gilford Butler School to the Town of South Thomaston. Our newest elementary school, Ash Point Community School, opened in the Fall of 2018. The school, located in Owls Head, serves students in grades Pre-K through 5 from the Towns of Owls Head and South Thomaston. Renovations to Oceanside High School in Rockland and Oceanside Middle School in Thomaston are almost complete. Each facility has a new cafeteria and increased and updated classroom spaces. Oceanside High School has renovated locker rooms and a new fitness space. Moving forward, Schools of Our Future 2.0 will provide students with options for studies in multiple pathways that will provide them with opportunities for learning within the classroom setting and beyond the classroom. Instruction will instill Critical Skills needed for success in continuing education and the modern workforce as well as content knowledge in the core subjects and opportunities for electives. Our focus on social and emotional learning will continue, with our belief that positive relationships and emotional health are key to successful, engaged learning and success in life. RSU 13 FINANCES Like any business, the RSU’s contracted personnel and benefit cost increases are the primary source of any expected expenditure increase every year. With contracted steps and cost of living increases, this adds about 3.6% to our salaries per year. Escalating insurance premiums, and the increasing percentage of staff that take advantage of this benefit, state determined retirement contributions, and other mandated increases, such as workers comp contributions, increase the total salary and benefit cost even more by over an average of over 6% over the past 5 years. Benefit costs are increasing at a rate that is more than double what would be expected just due to premium increases. This is very concerning and the Board and Seacoast Education Association have made adjustments to the RSU’s offered benefits to help control this cost long term. Every year, we say that the district continues to experience challenging and uncertain times. This year is no different, nor is it different for any business or individual. We do our best at anticipating costs for our operations and we were caught off guard this past year with the unanticipated increases in our statutory mandated support services for all of our students. We, as well as the whole country, are facing an increase in the number of students needing support services. This area of our expenses is increasing at double digit rates which we did not anticipate, so our FY20 budget increase was much higher than anyone was comfortable with. We have taken the extraordinary step to work with our US Congressional delegation to help them understand the effects on communities like ours. All we can do is predict our expenses as best as possible and continue to ask ourselves if every dollar we spend is necessary to fulfill the goals set by the RSU 13 School Board and to make sure that the RSU is providing the best value for every tax dollar raised. Finally, while we can somewhat control our expenditure increases, we are subject to student enrollment fluctuations, property valuation changes and, especially a declining contribution to education by the State of Maine. These changes, in addition to the expenditure increase, are the driving force behind the tax impact of our budget, which will vary by city/town. The administration of RSU 13 in concert with our elected state representatives is working on a better way to distribute state aid so the state contributes to every student’s education and not just the students who come from communities with relatively high property value. No community in RSU 13 is receiving its fair share of state aid to education. Last years’ operating budget saw the final addition of our bond payments on the Schools of Our Future comprehensive plan. This is a complicated and multi-faceted plan that will, in the long term, streamline our district and prevent some major expenses and, we hope, limit our exposure to unplanned repair and maintenance expenses. We are making every effort to ensure the Schools of Our Future building projects are budget neutral, which means that savings and efficiencies from energy, consolidation, and lower operating costs will fund the necessary minimum improvements to our infrastructure leading to an improved learning environment in our schools and improve our students’ futures. After a number of years strengthening its cash position, while at the same time taking advantage of its very low debt allowing the district to spend money on capital improvements in an effort to minimize operational repairs and maintenance, including emergencies, we are faced with a couple of years where we had to use our entire savings, and then some, to balance the unanticipated increases in support services and health insurance increases. RSU 13 has a total of $24 million worth of debt, including the recent addition of $23.2 million in FY18. In summary, the biggest change in the finances continues to be the approach we are taking; we are looking at the long term and using some standard business practices to operate the district. If we can spend $100 today, to save $50 per year for four years, we will because it saves taxpayer money in the long run and controls future increases. We are trying to control our budgets and not just defer expenses for another administration. We ask that our member towns and taxpayers continue to challenge us on our methods so we can continue to improve this district, strengthen our finances, and be a good partner to our communities.

Town of Owls Head


3

CONCLUSION RSU 13’s professional staff and service personnel strive to serve our communities’ students and to insure that the best use is made of tax dollars. Audits are on file at the Office of the Superintendent, 28 Lincoln Street, Rockland, Maine and available on the website at www.rsu13.org/audit. The RSU 13 Adult Education program continues to thrive and provide a variety of programs and opportunities to adults and children in our region. We urge all citizens to take advantage of the many listings in the program guide that is provided at the beginning of each semester. While our free classes in college preparation remain open to the public, and are well attended, it is the diversity of offerings in vocational enrichment and life-long learning that truly reminds us that, at any age, education is the heart of our community. We invite you to visit our website, www.rsu13.org, or Facebook page, for more information about all of our schools and district programs. Those interested may also review district-wide assessment results by clicking on ‘Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment’ under the ‘Central Office’ website banner. We also remind people that our budget meetings are the place to be if you want your voice to be heard in shaping the school budget - please attend! On behalf of the staff, a sincere “thank you” is extended to the citizens of our five municipalities, to parents and to our students for your continued support. Your interest and cooperation greatly assists us in carrying out our responsibilities to RSU 13 children. If there are any questions concerning this report, please do not hesitate to call our office or any of the schools. John C. McDonald Superintendent of Schools

of the municipal officers - maine

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