The Magic City Monthly
August 2025
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In 1937, the Great Northern Paper Company removed the old Cherry Street bridge. They then constructed a steel span across Millinocket Stream.
Photo courtesy of Millinocket Historical Society Curator, Trudy Wyman
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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!
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Get Ready for a Photo Op at the Millinocket Farmers' and Artisans Market!
Join us at the Millinocket Farmers' and Artisans Market on Saturday, September 6th, from 9am-1pm at Veterans Memorial Park, and snap a selfie with our new stunning banner! The 6' x 9' banner features a breathtaking panoramic view of Mt. Katahdin at night, created to honor the hikers and the rich history of the Appalachian Trail.
This beautiful piece of art was brought to life by the Millinocket Age-Friendly Committee and the Katahdin Collaborative. The idea for a "Hikers' Photobooth" was born out of a desire to celebrate hikers' accomplishments and provide a special way to commemorate their journey.
Local talent shines through in the banner's design, courtesy of Stearns senior Makenna Johnson, who created the original artwork. You'll also catch a glimpse of this banner at the Trails End Festival in September.
On September 6th, enjoy live music by the band New Relm on the bandstand from 11am-1pm, courtesy of Bandstand Jams. Mark your calendars and come out to support local artists, musicians, and our vibrant community! See you there!
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Music on the Porch: A Community Event for a Great Cause
Join us this Sunday, August 31st, from 2pm-5pm at Veterans Park for Music on the Porch! This free community event, organized by local citizens Ben Barr and Dan Rogan, will feature live music in a beautiful setting. Donations collected during the event will support the Veterans Memorial Restoration Project.
All musicians are welcome to come and jam - we encourage you to bring your instruments and join in on the fun! Bring your family and friends to enjoy a fun afternoon of music while giving back to our community. We look forward to seeing you there!
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Back to school safety tips as we get ready for this school year!
DRIVERS, SLOW DOWN:
Drivers should slow down as children head back to school. Know that flashing Yellow lights indicate school bus is getting ready to stop-motorists should slow down and prepare to stop. Flashing Red lights and or extended STOP signs indicate the bus is stopped and children will be entering or exiting the bus.
Walking Back to School Tips:
Walking back to school can be a healthy and active way to commute. Walkers, please use these tips to stay safe and help drivers.
· Cross at Crosswalks and obey traffic lights or signals if present.
· Use sidewalks if available, if not walk on the side of the street facing the traffic.
· Wear bright or reflective clothing.
· Don’t cross between parked vehicles or dart out into the street.
Tom Malcolm
Health & Safety Officer
Town of Millinocket
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Community Support Matters: Let's Keep Events Safe
We’re very thankful for the support we get from our friends and neighbors as we work to bring more life to downtown Millinocket through community events. This summer’s Bandstand Jams and Cinema Under the Stars are projects we’re really proud of.
Unfortunately, at recent Movie Nights, some local youth have been overly disruptive. We’ve seen yelling, fist fighting, swearing, and excessive bullying. This makes it hard for others to enjoy the event.
Our team is small, with lots of responsibility but not much authority. Starting this week, an EMPD officer will be present to help address these behaviors and talk with parents or guardians if needed.
Our goal is to make sure our staff and amazing volunteers can keep providing a safe, fun space for everyone. Let’s work together to make Movie Nights enjoyable for all. Thank you for your support and cooperation!
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Back to School Supply Giveaway
We're thrilled to announce that our 4th annual Back to School Supply Giveaway was a wonderful success! On Sunday, August 17th, from 11am-1pm, 80 children received essential school supplies to kick-start their new academic year at the Millinocket Fire Station.
We're grateful to Our Katahdin and the Town of East Millinocket for being our community partners and helping make this event possible. We also appreciate the efforts of our Events Team and the community volunteers who gave their time to help us serve local families.
In addition to the event, Community Initiatives Director, Amber Wheaton, met with families who were unable to attend, serving an additional 30 kids. In total, we were able to support 110 children this year.
Any leftover school supplies will be donated to Granite Street Elementary, Opal Myrick Elementary, and Kids Peace.
We're so proud to set up our students for success in the new school year, and we're honored to play a role in supporting our community's young learners.
Thank you to everyone who helped make this event a success!
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Town Clerk's and Tax Collector Department
The Town Clerk's office has been busy processing various transactions and reports. Here's a summary of our activities:
Receipt Summary:
From July 19 to August 22, we collected $2,296,397.43 through 3,161 transactions.
Tax Collector's Report:
As of August 20, 2025, we have:
- 197 Tax Liens Filed with a total balance of $298,136.55
- Real Estate Lien Summary: $147,382.25 (110 accounts)
- Real Estate Total Summary: $155,026.52 (174 accounts)
- Personal Property Total Summary: $8,233.19 (27 accounts)
Other Updates:
- We've seen an increase in Vital Record requests due to impending Real ID requirements.
- We're preparing for end-of-fiscal-year reports and reconciling weekly Motor Vehicle reports.
- We're advertising for elections, board/committee vacancies, and public hearings.
- We're processing daily payments, requests for tax information, and providing support to the community.
Elections:
- We're seeking volunteers for Town Council and School Board seats. Nominations are open until September 5, 2025.
- We're preparing for the November 4th Municipal election and maintaining voter registration files.
Volunteer Opportunities:
We're looking for volunteers to fill seats on various boards and committees, including:
- Recreation Advisory Committee
- Personnel Appeals Board
- Board of Appeals
2025 Transfer Site Permits:
Available for purchase at the Town Office for $20 (Millinocket and contracted county residents).
If you have any questions or need assistance, please don't hesitate to contact our office. We're here to help!
Diana Lakeman, Town Clerk
Sharon Cyr, Tax Collector
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Human Resource Department
The Town of Millinocket is seeking applications for the current job opportunities:
- Firefighter/EMT
- Public Works Operator - 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
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Public Works Department
The Public Works crew has been hard at work keeping our town running smoothly. Here are some of the projects they've been working on:
- Replaced the brick storm drain basin at the intersection of Penobscot and Bowdoin St with a new pre-cast concrete basin
- Started the annual storm drain catch basin cleaning and sewer line flushing and inspection
- Paved multiple utility cuts following storm drain and sewer repairs
- Mowed roadside areas on Medway Rd and Rice Farm Rd
- Replaced faded street signs in the "Little Italy" area and continued painting crosswalks and traffic arrows
- Responded to overtime call-ins for plugged sewer lines and started mixing and stockpiling winter road salt/sand
Transfer Station Update:
- Due to high fire danger, we're currently unable to accept materials in the burn pile area. We'll resume when conditions improve.
- We've hauled away a load of E-waste for recycling and remind residents to keep recyclables out of the landfill.
- Please note that refrigerators and freezers must be empty and have all grates, trays, or compartments removed for disposal.
- We're also asking that brush be no longer than 8 feet to avoid plugging the grinder.
Cemetery Update:
- Due to dry conditions, mowing has been suspended to avoid stressing the grass.
- Burials are ongoing as needed, and we remind residents to follow the Cemetery Rules and Regulations available on the Town's website.
- No small ornamental or decorative stones are allowed around grave markers or headstones due to safety concerns.
Thank you for your cooperation and understanding. 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
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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
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Code Enforcement
The Code Enforcement department has been busy ensuring that our community remains safe and compliant with local regulations. Here are some of the projects and activities we've been working on:
- We've been following up on complaints and conducting inspections to ensure that properties are in compliance with town codes.
- We've issued permits for various projects, including roof-mounted solar panels and new construction.
- We've been working with contractors and property owners to ensure that projects are done correctly and with the necessary permits.
Some notable projects we've been working on include:
- The new Trident Medical facility on Penobscot Ave, which has received its Certificate of Occupancy.
- The Wabanaki Wellness Recovery Home on Oxford St, which has been approved for Site Plan review by the Planning Board.
- The development and Sub-Division plan for Our Katahdin, which is moving forward with SMRT.
We're also committed to ongoing education and training, and have attended webinars on topics such as fire safety, building codes, and new legislation.
If you have any questions or concerns about code enforcement or permitting, please don't hesitate to reach out to our office. We're here to help and provide guidance on ensuring that your projects are done safely and correctly
Tom Malcolm, Code Enforcement Officer
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Fire/EMS Department
The Millinocket Fire & EMS Department has been busy serving our community and staying up-to-date on the latest training and equipment. Here are some of the department's recent activities:
- Chief Cote has been actively involved in various initiatives, including presenting at a national webinar on emergency response and road safety, serving on the Emergency Vehicle Drivers Training Committee, and attending webinars on topics such as Medicare Part B Ambulance Billing and fire safety.
- The department has been working on emergency planning for upcoming events, including the Millinocket Marathon and Half, and has been coordinating with other agencies to ensure a safe and effective response.
- We've been busy with training and equipment updates, including completing the State EMS Inspection List on our ambulances, training on new IV medication pumps, and installing a new workstation for crews to complete reports.
- We've also been working on updating our standard operating guidelines, written plans, and preplans, and are preparing for a SHAPE inspection with Maine Safety Works.
Community Outreach
- We've been distributing File of Life Cards and Naloxone to residents, and installing CO/Smoke Alarms and conducting home safety surveys.
- We've partnered with Meals on Wheels to offer Home Fire Safety Programs in Millinocket.
- We've also been working with the American Red Cross on disaster response and residential fires.
New Developments
- We've hired a new paid call member and are actively seeking applicants for two full-time positions.
- We're expecting new extrication tools to arrive in early September and are setting up a new gear washer.
- Our department members have been completing certifications and training, including Fire Officer II Certification and Advanced EMT classes.
Thank you for your support of the Millinocket Fire & EMS Department. We're committed to serving our community and keeping you safe.
Chief Jonathon P. Cote, Fire Chief, Emergency Management Director
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East Millinocket Police Department
The East Millinocket Police Department has been busy serving our community, responding to over 7,165 calls for service, with over 4,300 of those calls being in the Town of Millinocket.
New Initiatives
- We're excited to announce that our School Resource Officer (SRO) program is up and running for the 2025-2026 school year in the Millinocket schools. Ofc Frank Porfido will be serving in this role, working directly with students and staff to create a safe learning environment. We're hopeful that grant funding will allow us to make this a full-time position.
- We've implemented body-worn cameras, which have proven to be a huge benefit to our department and operation. Most officers have received training on their use.
- Our TruNarc Narcotic Analyzer has arrived, and officers will be trained in the upcoming weeks on this vital piece of equipment.
Community Involvement
- Officers have been busy participating in many community events throughout the summer in all three communities we serve.
- As back-to-school season approaches, we remind the public to drive with care, especially during arrival and dismissal times at our area schools.
Department Updates
- We're currently in the process of hiring for open patrol positions, with two applicants moving forward in the process. We hope to have them begin training in early to late fall.
We're committed to serving our community and keeping you safe. Thank you for your support of the East Millinocket Police Department.
Chief Cameron McDunnah & Corporal Bradley Fitzgerald
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Millinocket Airport
The Millinocket Municipal Airport has seen steady activity, with the G.A.R.D. System recording 133 aircraft operations as of August 21st.
Recent Highlights
- We were thrilled to host Make a Wish and Wings for Wishes on August 8th, as they stopped by with 22 planes for fuel on their statewide fundraising tour.
Airport Infrastructure Update
- Ongoing meetings with Hoyle Tanner, Maine Department of Transportation (MEDOT), and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are focused on updating airport infrastructure.
Upcoming Events
- Planning is underway for our annual Fly-In Cruise-In, scheduled for October 11th. Mark your calendars for a fun-filled day of aviation and automotive excitement!
We're committed to serving the aviation needs of our community and look forward to continuing to provide safe and efficient services.
Jeff Campbell, Airport Manager
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Recreation Department
The Recreation Department has been busy serving our community with various programs and activities. Here are some updates:
- Our August Senior Dinner was a success, serving 40 meals. This was our last Summer Special dinner, and our regular schedule will resume in September.
- Our playgrounds, basketball, tennis, and pickleball courts have been active and available for use daily, closing at 10pm and reopening at dawn.
- Our summer camps and clinics were well-attended, and we're grateful to our staff, coaches, and volunteers for making these opportunities possible. Our Fall/Winter program will be released soon, and travel soccer registration will be available soon.
- Our lifeguards completed their in-service training, practicing rescue skills and spinal motion restriction techniques.
- We've updated our Emergency Action Plans for the swimming pools to ensure compliance with Maine Health and Safety Code.
- Our end-of-season pool parties in Millinocket and East Millinocket were a blast, thanks to the organizations and volunteers who made them possible.
- The pools are now closed for the season, and we're performing final maintenance and winterization. We'll be replacing the pool gutter grating and deck caulking to improve the facility's life and aesthetics.
We're grateful for the support of our community and look forward to another great year of recreation programs and activities.
Cody McEwen, Recreation Director
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The Outdoor Sports Institute has some exciting updates to share:
Stay tuned to OSI's social media for more information and updates on these events!
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Take a Seat Katahdin: A Unique Art Auction
Get ready for a one-of-a-kind art experience in Millinocket! The "Take a Seat Katahdin" fundraiser features 15 Adirondack chairs transformed into vibrant works of art by local artists. Each chair showcases the beauty of the Katahdin region, from moose and bears to Mt. Katahdin and birch trees.
These stunning chairs will be auctioned off at the Trails End Festival, with bidding starting at $100. All proceeds will support Region 3 SkillsUSA, helping students participate in statewide competitions in fields like healthcare, business management, and automotive technology.
Before the festival, the chairs will be displayed along Main Street and Penobscot Avenue, giving you a sneak peek at these artistic masterpieces. We're thrilled to partner with Our Katahdin to bring this event to life.
Join us for an afternoon of art, community, and fun! Mark your calendars for the Trails End Festival and get ready to "Take a Seat Katahdin.
For more information check out Take A Seat Katahdin on Facebook.
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