Photo taken by local artist Ross Knowlton. Ross Knowlton is a Millinocket-based wildlife and landscape photographer whose work can be viewed and purchased online at RossKnowlton.com | |
The Magic City Monthly
January 2025
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“All the news that fits, we print!” That statement was part of the introduction to
Millinocket’s newest newspaper in 1939. World War II was underway in Europe when the Millinocket Journal began printing a weekly issue. Underneath the Journal heading was the description, "The oldest weekly newspaper in the United States".
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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Town Clerk's and Tax Collector Department
The Town Clerk/Tax Collector's Office has been busy serving the community. Here are some highlights:
Tax Collection Update
Between November 21, 2024, and January 17, 2025, our office collected $3,936,744.68 in taxes, processing 3,420 transactions.
Tax Reminders
- 2nd Half Real Estate and Personal Property Tax payments are due January 29, 2025, with interest accruing on January 30, 2025.
- January Sewer Billing for 2025 1st Quarter is due February 28, 2025, with interest accruing on March 3, 2025.
Elections Update
Our Elections Department successfully completed the November 5, 2024, General/Referendum & Municipal Elections, certifying results and processing absentee ballot requests.
Volunteer Opportunities
The Millinocket Town Council seeks volunteers for the following boards:
- Personnel Appeals Board (1 partial seat, 2-year term)
- Recreation Advisory Committee (1 member seat, 3-year term; 1 alternate seat, 3-year term)
- Board of Assessment Review (1 member seat, 3-year term)
- Board of Appeals (1 member seat, 3-year term)
Pick up an application at the Town Clerk's Office or visit our website. Submit completed applications to townclerk@millinocket.org or in person.
Additional Reminders
- 2025 Transfer Site Permits are available for $20.
- 2025 IF&W Licenses (Game, Snowmobile, & Boat) are now available.
- 2025 Dog Licenses require Rabies Certificates; new online registration coming soon.
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:
- Paid Call Fire Fighters
- Full Time Fire Fighter/Advanced EMT or Paramedic
- Public Works Mechanic Level 1
- Public Works Operator Level 1
- Public Works Call Truck Driver - Class B accepted, Class A preferred
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 Department has been hard at work this winter season. Here are some updates and reminders:
Winter Reminders
- Please remember our winter parking ban is in effect. Vehicles left on the streets prohibit us from effectively clearing snow.
- Give our large plow trucks room to maneuver, as they have blind spots and may need to back up at intersections.
Storm Response
Our crew has responded to several storms, plowing and sanding roads to keep them safe for travel.
Maintenance and Projects
- Completed brush cutting at the ski tow area and assisted in setting up the ski tow.
- Trimmed and cut trees to reestablish a fire break around the Transfer site.
Transfer Station Updates
- We are now collecting newsprint, magazine, and paperboard materials for recycling. Please drop them off in the Recycling building.
- Tipping fees for solid waste have increased to $88 per ton. Every ton of recycled material saves the Town this fee and generates revenue.
- Reminder: refrigerators and freezers must be empty, with grates and compartments removed, for disposal.
- Brush longer than 8 feet cannot be accepted, as it plugs the grinder.
- The compost pile is open for brush and yard waste. Bagged leaves must be emptied, and bags disposed of properly.
Cemetery Update
The Cemetery is closed for the season, with only foot traffic allowed.
Thank you for your cooperation and help in keeping our community safe and clean. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Public Works Department.
Bryan Duprey, Director of Public Works
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Wastewater Department
Important Reminder: Protect Our Sewer Lines
Due to this year's low rainfall and flows, our town's sewer lines are under increased stress. This can lead to:
- Increased plugs and blocks
- Unnecessary bypasses
- Potential backups into residential basements
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 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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Fire/EMS Department
The Millinocket Fire/EMS Department has been busy with various activities and training exercises. Here are some highlights:
Grant Awards
We are pleased to announce that the Fire/EMS Department in partnership with the Age Friendly Committee have received two grants. The first grant, in the amount of $9,607.00, was awarded by Community Connector for the Fire & Life Program to install co/smoke alarms and fall prevention items. The second grant, in the amount of $1,237.00, was awarded by the Maine Forest Service Volunteer Fire Assistance Program.
Training and Exercises
- All full-time staff attended Water Rescue Training and now have their Water Rescue Awareness Certification.
- Department members participated in an annual refresher on snowmobile rescues and ice water rescue.
- Firefighter/Paramedic Cullen attended the ACLS/PALS Renewal Course.
- Chief Cote conducted the 2025 Annual BLS Training with the Fire & Ambulance, Airport, Public Works, & Transfer Departments Staff.
Equipment and Vehicle Updates
- A new Stair Chair has been received by Stryker and has been put in service.
- Department Snowmobile and Rescue Boggan has been serviced and is ready to be put to use if needed this winter.
- 789 was serviced for new batteries, and 788 was serviced with new software upgrades.
Community Events
- Department members took part in the Festival of Lights Parade.
- The Fire Department held their annual supper meeting for all department members.
Recruitment and Staffing
- We currently have two full-time Firefighter/EMS positions open.
- One FF/Paramedic is out for an on-the-job injury, and the duration of their absence is unknown at this time.
Chief Jonathon P. Cote, Fire Chief, Emergency Management Director
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Millinocket Municipal Airport
The Millinocket Airport has been busy with various activities and projects. Here are some highlights:
Airport Operations
As of January 17, 2025, the G.A.R.D. system has recorded 46 aircraft operations. This is a great start to the new year, and we look forward to continued activity at the airport.
New Hangar Update
The new hangar currently under construction is nearing completion and is already being utilized by two aircraft. This new hangar will provide additional storage and shelter for aircraft, supporting the growth and development of the airport.
Winter Operations
Winter operations have presented some challenges, particularly with the recent weather conditions. The runway was ice-covered and closed for a week, but our team worked diligently to clear the ice and restore safe operations.
Taxiway Project Update
Design, engineering, and permitting for the taxiway project are progressing well, with construction slated to begin this summer. This project will enhance the safety and efficiency of airport operations.
Budget Season
The 2026 budget season is now underway. Our team is working to ensure that the airport's needs are met while being mindful of budget constraints. We will keep the community informed as the budget process unfolds.
Jeff Campbell, Airport Manager
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School Department
The Millinocket School Department has been busy with various initiatives and partnerships. Here are some highlights:
New Internship Program
We are excited to announce that two Stearns students will begin an internship in our PreK classrooms in February as part of their Region 3 Early Childhood Education program. This learning opportunity will provide valuable hands-on experience for our students.
Fundraising Efforts
Granite Street School is exploring fundraising activities to support expenses for events such as field day, guest speakers, and assemblies. We appreciate the community's support in these efforts.
Evaluating Teaching Methods
Stearns High School is surveying returning college students about their high school experience. This feedback will help us evaluate and refine our teaching methods and strategies.
WORC Grant Partnership
Stearns High School has launched a partnership with the WORC (Workforce Opportunities in Rural Communities) grant. This program will provide students with career exploration opportunities, real-world learning experiences, and the chance to earn high school credits.
Technology Department Update
The Technology Department has successfully sold over 25 outdated devices, generating over $750 for the district. Student volunteers are assisting with inventory and recycling efforts.
Budget and Shared Services
Budget work for the 2025-2026 school year is underway. Additionally, we are exploring shared service opportunities with East Millinocket and Medway to provide additional programs for our students and identify mutually beneficial services. We welcome your ideas and input!
Dr. Shelley Lane, Superintendent of Schools
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East Millinocket Police Department
The Millinocket Police Department wrapped up 2024 with a record-breaking year, responding to 11,895 calls, a significant increase from previous years. We're proud of our officers' hard work and dedication, especially considering we've been short-staffed.
Training and Certification
Our officers completed their 2024 MCJA mandatory trainings, as well as yearly recertification trainings for taser and firearms. Ofc. Knappe also successfully completed his MCJA PT Test and will attend the BLETP in January, graduating in May.
New Year, New Challenges
2025 started with a bang, literally. On New Year's Eve, we made three arrests, resulting in transports to PCJ. Charges included drugs, violation of bail, resisting arrest, disorderly conduct, and DV assault. Sgt. Clayton and K9 Derby also assisted PCSO in Mattawamkeag, leading to a significant drug and cash seizure.
Community Events
December was a busy month, with the successful Millinocket Marathon, Festival of Lights Parade, and Red Knights Santa event. Ofc. Edson has also begun teaching the DARE Program in local schools, receiving positive feedback.
Grants and Funding
We're grateful to receive $94,000 from Congressman Golden's Law Enforcement Modernization funding project. This will enable us to purchase body cameras, software, and cloud storage, as well as a TruNarc handheld narcotics analyzer.
Upgrades and Improvements
We auctioned off two retired patrol vehicles, using the funds to update our station computers, printers, and hardware. This upgrade is long overdue, as our current computers are nearing 7-8 years old.
We appreciate the continued support from the Town of Millinocket, Manager Peter Jamieson, and the Town Council. Their cooperation and communication have been instrumental in our success.
Chief Cameron McDunnah and Corporal Bradley Fitzgerald
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An Update From Our Katahdin
Our Katahdin, has been busy with various initiatives to support our community. Here are some updates:
Emergency Heat Fund
Our Katahdin has established an Emergency Heat Fund to support Tri-town families in need. Eligible families will receive one delivery of fuel (100 gallons) per year. Customers in need should contact their supplier directly. Participating suppliers include Preble Oil, Dead River, and Bragdon Energy. Donations to the Emergency Heat Fund can be made online.
Community Projects
Our Katahdin is seeking school-related projects to support with fundraising efforts. If you have a project idea, please reach out to Our Katahdin.
Community Champion Nominations
Our Katahdin's Community Champion Committee selects a quarterly winner to recognize unsung heroes in our region. Winners receive a $50 gift certificate to a local business, a Community Champion Award Certificate, and recognition through social media, radio, and newspaper announcements. Nominate your community champion today!
Website Update
Our Katahdin has launched a new and vibrant website, thanks to Design Lab. Check it out here!
Support Our Katahdin
Our Katahdin relies on donations to support their initiatives. Consider making a gift today to support the Emergency Heating Fund, Christmas Tree Santas, Capital Campaign, or General Donation Fund. Visit the links below to learn more:
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