The Magic City Monthly

March 2025

A Piece of Our Past

Millinocket was incorporated as a town March 16, 1901. Now, 124 years later, Millinocket’s Penobscot Avenue looks much different than in the early days. The photo shows that buildings were constructed starting near the mill. On the right are two of the Rush brothers’ businesses and on the left, the building constructed by Frank LePage. It is unknown what group is marching down the street.

Photo courtesy of Millinocket Historical Society Curator, Trudy Wyman

Engage, Participate, & Subscribe!

Stay in the know by attending the various Council and Committee meetings. We appreciate any and all input and feedback. Please remember this is YOUR community and YOUR voice matters. CLICK HERE to view the Community Calendar and stay up to date with all scheduled meetings. If you cannot attend a meeting you can stay in the know by watching the recordings on our YouTube Channel. Feel free to subscribe to the channel to stay up to date.

The Millinocket Town Council meets on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month at 5:30. Meetings are held in-person in Charles Sanders Council Chambers and remote access available via Zoom. CLICK HERE for more information regarding town council meetings! Please considering joining these meetings are participating in the discussion. All are welcome!

Celebrating Women's History Month

As we celebrate Women's History Month, the Town of Millinocket takes a moment to recognize and honor the incredible women who work tirelessly to make our community thrive. From the Town Office to the School Department, these women are the backbone of our community, and we are grateful for their dedication and hard work.

We would like to extend a special thank you to each and every one of the women who serve our community, including Jane Danforth, Tammy McLaughlin, Gail Mackin, Lori Santerre, Sharon Cyr, Diana Lakeman, Amber Shaw, Roxanne Johnson, Amy Dunn, Lorna Thompson, Traci Thompson, Amber Wheaton, Jennifer Bernier, Katie Cullen, Julia Allen, Stacy Labby, Lorri Haskell, Brittany Adams, Linda Albert, Heather Ambrose, Amy Anderson, Makayla Anderson, Karen Birmingham, RandiLee Bishop, Leslie Blanchette, Shawna Boyer, Sandra Brooker, Emma Brown, Susan Buzzell, Katie Byers, Victoria Campbell, Katie Carr, Rhonda Casey, Mia Charette, Joan Clark-Fournier, Cynthia Clukey, Hillary Cyr, Lorri Cyr, Rachel Cyr, Alison DeMello, Tessa DeSilva, Katherine DiFrederico, Sara Eastman, Chelsea Ehret, Pamela Farquhar, Shelley Farrington, Jessica Freeman, Heather Girsa, Marissa Grindle, Julie Hale, Angela Hannafin, Kristen Harmon, Michelle Hatch, Kristi Hayes, Miranda Hayes, Julie Hewke, Angela Jackson, Cassandra Kunkel, Shelley Lane, Alyssa LaPorte, Alicia Lazareva, Jessica Leach, Katie Leavitt, Courtney LeGassey, Anna Loome, Carrie Lyons, Linda Madore, Christy Malcolm, Danielle McGillicuddy, Michelle McGreevy, Danielle McNally, Tara McNulty, Jo-Anna Merry, Kamma Michaud, Staci Michaud, Debra Mooney, Susan Morrison, Jessie Morrison, Laurie Moscone, Lisa Murray, Beata Mutnanska, Lorrie Nadeau, Jan Neureuther, Nancy Newberry, Heather Oakes, Karen Oloughlin, Angela Osborne, Mary Osborne, Katy Pangburn, Barbara Pascale, Beth Peavey, Mercedes Perzanowski, Kimberly Petrin, Jill Potvin, Roseline Raymond, Corinne Reece, Patti Rioux, Dawn Robbins, Donna Seamans, Cathleen Sennett, Catherine Shaw, Katherine Shields, Kristen Stanley, Joy Stewart, Taylor Sulander, Melanie Thibodeau, Rhonda Tracy, Danielle Waite, Amanda Welch, Melissa Wheaton, and Karen Wyman.

These women, who work in various roles across the Town and School Department, are the unsung heroes of our community. They work behind the scenes to ensure that our town runs smoothly, our children receive a quality education, and our community remains a wonderful place to live.

As we celebrate Women's History Month, let us take a moment to thank these women for all that they do. Their dedication, hard work, and commitment to our community are truly appreciated.

Thank you, ladies, for all that you do to make Millinocket a great place to live, work, and play. We are grateful for your service and look forward to continuing to work together to make our community the best it can be.

FY26 Municipal Budget Workshop Schedule

The Town of Millinocket is gearing up for the FY26 municipal budget process, and we invite you to participate. A series of workshops and public hearings have been scheduled to discuss the upcoming budget.

Important Note: The schedule and agenda are tentative and subject to change.

Tentative Workshop Schedule

The following workshops are open to the public for observation, but not for public comment:

Thursday, March 27th
Thursday, April 3rd

Public Hearings

Two special public hearings have been scheduled, where citizens will have the opportunity to provide comment on the proposed budget:

Thursday, April 17th
Thursday, April 24th

Location and Time

All workshops and hearings will be held in the Charles Sanders Council Chambers, located upstairs at 197 Penobscot Avenue. The tentative start time for each session is 5:30pm.

For further information and documents related to the FY26 municipal budget process, please visit our website here.

We encourage all interested citizens to attend these sessions and stay informed about the FY26 municipal budget process. Your participation and input are valuable to us. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to our office.

Thank you for your continued interest in the Town of Millinocket's municipal budget process.

Announcing the 2025 Millinocket Farmers' and Artisans' Market Season

Age Friendly Millinocket is excited to announce the return of the Millinocket Farmers' and Artisans' Market for the 2025 season. This popular market will take place on the first Saturday of each month, from July to October, at Veterans Memorial Park.

Market Dates and Details

Dates: July 5th, August 2nd, September 6th, and October 4th
Time: 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Location: Veterans Memorial Park
Vendor fees: $40 for the season, or $10 for a single Saturday

Calling All Vendors!

The market is seeking Maine farmers, craftspeople, live musicians, and food truck vendors to join the fun. This is a wonderful opportunity to showcase your products and talents to a enthusiastic audience.

New This Year!

To celebrate hikers finishing their trail experience, the market plans to set up a photo booth. Come and capture the moment!

Questions or Interested in Becoming a Vendor?

Contact Barbara Riddle-Dvorak at millinocketfarmersmarket@gmail.com or call (917) 279-5890 for more information. Application forms are also available at www.millinocket.org or in person at the town office, 197 Penobscot Avenue.

Mark Your Calendars!

Join us for a fun-filled morning of shopping, eating, and community connection. We look forward to seeing you at the Millinocket Farmers' and Artisans' Market!

Short-Term Rental Registrations in Millinocket

The Town of Millinocket is introducing a new registration process for short-term rentals, aiming to balance the needs of property owners, visitors, and residents. This initiative follows the passage of a short-term rental ordinance by the Town Council on March 14, 2025.

Why Register?

Registering your short-term rental property helps ensure that visitors have access to safe and well-maintained accommodations, while also respecting the quiet enjoyment of our neighborhoods.

How to Register?

For more information on the registration process and requirements, please visit our website at www.millinocket.org and navigate to the Code Enforcement section. Click here for a digital file of the application.

Have Questions?

If you have any questions or concerns about the new short-term rental registration process, please don't hesitate to reach out to Tom Malcolm, CEO-LPI-Health & Safety Officer, at 723-7005 X2.

We appreciate your cooperation and look forward to working together to make Millinocket a welcoming destination for visitors while preserving the character of our community.

Municipal Updates

Town Clerk's and Tax Collector Department

New License Plate Reservations

As part of the State of Maine's effort to issue new license plates, the Town Clerk's Department wants to ensure that the process goes smoothly for all involved. Here are some frequently asked questions and important updates:

There is currently no reservation cut-off, but it's recommended to reserve as early as possible.
For renewals after May 1st, the stand-alone reservation portal will become unavailable 30 days prior to expiration.
You can verify your plate reservation by calling the Bureau's Registration Section at 207-624-9000 ext. 52149 or emailing platereserve.bmv@maine.gov.
When renewing, you're encouraged to present your reservation letter, but only required to present the plates.
If you reserve your plate ahead of time, you'll receive new plates shipped directly to you approximately 30 days before the renewal date.

Volunteer Opportunities: Serve on a Town Board

The Millinocket Town Council is seeking volunteers to serve on various boards. If you're interested in making a difference in our community, consider applying for one of the following positions:

Personnel Appeals Board: One partial seat for a two-year term (expires November 2026)
Recreation Advisory Committee: One member seat for a three-year term and one alternate seat for a partial term (expires April 2026)
Board of Assessment Review: One member seat for a three-year term
Board of Appeals: One member seat for a three-year term

To apply, pick up an application at the Town Clerk's Office or visit our website at millinocket.org. Submit completed applications by email to townclerk@millinocket.org, in person, drop box, or mail to:

Town of Millinocket

197 Penobscot Ave.

Millinocket, ME 04462

Diana Lakeman, Town Clerk

Sharon Cyr, Tax Collector

Human Resource Department

The Town of Millinocket is seeking applications for the current job opportunities:

Public Works Mechanic Level 1

These position are all open for immediate hire. Please go online or stop into the Town Office for a full job description or application. Please submit applications to the Human Resource Director via email or mail 197 Penobscot Ave., Millinocket.

The Town of Millinocket is an E.O.E/AA Employer.

Lori Santerre, Human Resource Director

Public Works Department

The Millinocket Public Works Department has been hard at work, ensuring the safety and maintenance of our town's infrastructure. Here are some updates from the department:

Safety Training and Initiatives

The public works crew recently completed an in-house Power Tool and PPE safety training, and the department's supervisor completed a DOT "Supervisory Reasonable Suspicion of Drugs and Alcohol Training" class. These initiatives demonstrate the department's commitment to safety and responsible practices.

Road Maintenance and Repairs

The public works crew has been busy spreading cold patch in potholes, cleaning drains and catch basins, and repairing a broken traffic light at the Central St/Rhode Island intersection. They also assisted Maine DOT with a frozen and plugged culvert on Bates St and responded to multiple plugged sewer calls.

Collaboration and Assistance

The department would like to extend a thank you to the Medway Public Works Department for their assistance in opening a frozen culvert on Station Rd.

Winter Reminders

As we continue through the winter season, please remember to adhere to the winter parking ban and give large plow trucks room to maneuver. Your cooperation helps the department effectively clear snow from the streets and sidewalks.

Transfer Station Updates

The transfer station has installed new powered door openers, and there are some important reminders regarding shingle disposal, tipping fees, and refrigerator/freezer disposal. Please note that only cardboard, plastic jugs, and tin cans are accepted for recycling, and brush longer than 8 feet is not accepted.

Cemetery Update

The cemetery is currently closed for the season, with only foot traffic allowed.

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we work to maintain our town's infrastructure and services. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to the public works department.

Bryan Duprey, Director of Public Works

Wastewater Department

Help Prevent Problems: Flush Wisely

To avoid these issues, please remember:

Toilet paper ONLY should be flushed
Avoid flushing other items, such as wipes, sanitary products, and trash

What to Do in Case of a Sewer Issue

If you experience:

Slow-running drains
Sewer backups in your basement

Call the Public Works Department first at 207.723.7030 to determine if the issue is with the Town's infrastructure. This can save you time and money on unnecessary plumbing calls.

Jason Ingalls,

Wastewater Treatment Facility Superintendent

East Millinocket Police Department

As we welcome the arrival of spring, the East Millinocket Police Department remains committed to serving and protecting our community. Here are some updates from the department:

Call Volume and Response

To date, our officers have responded to over 2,900 calls for service, with more than 1,860 of those calls originating within the Town of Millinocket. As the weather warms up, we anticipate an increase in call volume, and our officers are prepared to respond to the needs of our community.

Spring Safety Reminders

As the nicer weather approaches, more people are taking advantage of the outdoors to walk, exercise, bicycle, and enjoy other activities. We remind motorists to be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists sharing the roadways. Let's work together to ensure everyone's safety.

ATV Trail Closures

Important reminder: All ATV Trails are CLOSED. When ATV Trails are closed, local access trails are also CLOSED. Riding an ATV on a public way, including access routes, while trails are closed is a violation and may result in charges. We urge all ATV enthusiasts to respect trail closures and follow the rules to ensure a safe and enjoyable riding season.

Stay safe, Millinocket!

Chief Cameron McDunnah & Corporal Bradley Fitzgerald

Recreation Department

As we welcome the arrival of spring, the Recreation Department is busy with various programs and activities. Here are some updates from the department:

Senior Programs

Our recent St. Patrick's Day themed senior dinner served 79 meals, and we're looking forward to our next senior dinner on April 14th at the East Millinocket Rec Hall. Our Senior Socials continue every Wednesday in East Millinocket, offering a welcoming space for seniors to socialize and engage in activities.

Ice Rink and Winter Recreation

Our Ice Rink in Millinocket has closed for the season, but we're already looking forward to next winter, when we'll introduce additional winter recreation opportunities, including a ski tow lift.

Open Gym and Soccer Programs

Our last Open Gym for the season will be on March 30th, and we thank our dedicated volunteers for making this program a success. Our after-school soccer program is currently underway and will continue through April.

Trail Updates and Reminders

Snowmobile and ATV trails are currently closed, and we ask that you respect local clubs and landowners by staying off trails and fields until they reopen.

Upcoming Events

Mark your calendars for the 36th annual Father/Daughter and Mother/Son dances on April 11th and 12th. We're also excited to announce that our tennis/pickleball courts will be opening in mid-April, weather permitting.

Staff Development and Summer Preparation

Our Director has recertified as a Lifeguard/First Aid/CPR/AED Instructor, and both the Director and Maintenance Director will be completing the Certified Pool Operator course in April. Applications for Summer employment are now available, and we'll be releasing our Spring/Summer brochure soon.

Cody McEwen, Recreation Director

Fire/EMS Department

The Millinocket Fire/EMS Department has been busy with various training sessions, meetings, and community activities. Here are some highlights from the department:

Training and Development

Chief Cote attended several meetings and training sessions, including the Penobscot County Fire Chiefs Association Meeting, Maine CDC Healthcare Coalition Leadership Team Meeting, and the Maine Fire Chiefs Conference. He also completed a two-day National Fire Academy Course on Leadership in Fire Service.

The department hosted the Town Fire Warden Meeting with the Maine Forest Service, and full-time crews attended part 2 of Water Rescue Training, obtaining their Water Rescue Technician Certifications. D-Crew and Chief Cote also trained with Dr. Turnquist and nursing supervisors at Millinocket Regional Hospital on the LUCAS device.

New Equipment and Staff

The department has received new equipment, including wildland equipment, thermal imaging cameras, ventilation saws, ventilation fan, and three new sets of firefighting gear. Two new staff members have completed their orientation and have been assigned to the A and B Crews.

Grants and Funding

The department was awarded a Gear Washer grant of $5,000.00 and received the Maine EMS Community Paramedicine Money and contract in the amount of $34,000.00 for education until the end of August.

Upcoming Initiatives

Chief Cote is working on Spring Trainings on the new Engine, Side by Side EVOC course, and shorthand firefighting with mutual aid departments. The Fire & Life Safety Smoke Alarm Install program will kick off in April, and the department continues to distribute File of Life Cards and Naloxone to residents.

Ongoing Projects

Chief Cote is working on applying for the second round of the EMS Stabilization Money from Maine EMS and updating standard operating guidelines, written plans, mutual aid plans, response plans, and preplans. Ambulance 788 is currently out for repairs, and a loaner ambulance has been put in service.

Chief Jonathon P. Cote, Fire Chief, Emergency Management Director

School Department

The Millinocket School Department has been buzzing with exciting activities and achievements. Here are some highlights from the past month:

Celebrating Reading and STEM

Granite Street School celebrated Dr. Seuss and Read Across America with a week-long celebration, featuring visits from high school students and adults, and fun theme days. Meanwhile, Ms. Angela Jackson's Middle School STEM Class got creative with recycled materials, building and decorating sleds while learning about aerodynamics.

Hands-on Learning and Community Engagement

Mrs. Laurie Moscone's health class participated in a trauma assessment class with the Maine Army National Guard, learning valuable skills and competing in a fun challenge. The PE Classes took advantage of winter weather to enjoy some outdoor fun. The Annual Financial Fitness Fair brought together vendors and area schools for a valuable learning experience.

Athletic Achievements

The girls varsity basketball team was awarded the 2025 Class D Sportsmanship Award, and several students received PVC all-star selections. Congratulations to Mariah Frost, Madison Carr, Shayne Grass, Lucas Pelkey, and Emerson Michaud on their achievements!

Unified Performing Arts Department Shines

The Unified Harmony Show Choir and Jr. High Show Choir performed exceptionally well at the District 5 Vocal Jazz and Show Choir festival, scoring high marks and qualifying for the State Festival. The Unified Performing Arts One Act group has been preparing for their festival season, performing a comedy entitled "Wendy's Tale" and competing in the MPA Regional One Act

Festival.

Mark your calendars for upcoming events, including the State Festival on Saturday, March 29, and the MPA Class B Drama Festival on Friday, March 21, and Saturday, March 22.

Dr. Shelley Lane, Superintendent of Schools