Wells has rung in the New Year and is welcoming 2026 with open arms. We hope that you and your families had a restful and joy-filled holiday season. Here in the Town of Wells, we are taking time to reflect on the successes and milestones of 2025 while eagerly looking ahead to the opportunities and possibilities that lie ahead in 2026. As always, we are committed to continued progress and improvement in Wells with fresh ideas, collaborative efforts, and a shared commitment to making our town an even better place to live, work, and visit.  While you make the most of the winter season, read on for a message of reflection and gratitude from our Town Manager as well as a glimpse at the many happenings in and around our Wells offices.

Did You Know?...You can take in live views of Wells jetty from the comfort of your home, via the Wells PD Jetty Cam. You can access the live webcam anytime here.

Keep In Mind...Sometimes our newsletters are shortened in email inboxes. If that is happening to you, be sure to click where it says "[Message clipped] View entire message" on the bottom left. We want you to be fully informed!

Dear Wells Residents,

Happy New Year! Over the past year, the Town of Wells has continued advancing projects and planning efforts that will shape our community in the years ahead. This work includes important planning and infrastructure efforts which require strong regional partnerships, continued public engagement, and thoughtful consideration to our unique community needs and goals.

A few of the projects and initiatives that have advanced over the past year include:

• Advancement of the Route 1 Community Gateway project that has moved into the design phase
• Continued expansion of the Transportation Center to support enhanced rail service
• Completion of the Buffam Bridge Superstructure replacement on Route 1
• Securement of grant funds for a commercial docking facility and viewing platform at Wells Harbor
• Exploration of the Wells Emergency Medical Service (WEMS), a private provider, becoming a part of the Town of Wells’ service delivery system
• Adoption of the 2025 Comprehensive Plan
• Completion of new tennis and pickleball courts at the Town’s Recreation Department
• Implementation of a new Multi Use Pass combining beach and transfer station access
• Addition of mobile payment stations at beach parking lots
• Completion of a facilities study that included the assessment of current and future space needs at several municipal buildings
• Adoption of a Volunteer Handbook designed to serve as a guide to our Boards, Commissions, and Committees
• Adoption of a newly revised Employee Handbook designed to serve as a guide for our municipal staff
• Recognition of a record-breaking number of fledged Piping Plovers as a result of the efforts of dedicated volunteers
• Exploration of an alternative transportation option to address seasonal traffic demands

The above items are reflective of some of the efforts achieved this past year as we work to continue to strengthen the foundation of what makes Wells such a special place to live, work, and visit.

Looking ahead, I am excited about the projects and initiatives planned for 2026. Each of these projects has been undertaken with a commitment to preserve the character of Wells, while continuing to improve municipal services, and enhancing the well-being of our community.

Below, I have highlighted a few of these projects.

• Wells Founders Park Community Center project, an idea long in the making, secured Planning Board approval this year. The project is overseen by the Ad Hoc Committee for the Founders Park Community Center, established by the Board of Selectmen in June 2024 for the sole purpose of designing, funding, and undertaking construction of the facility. With design approvals secured, the Committee continues planning and fundraising efforts related to the project.

• Wells Regional Transportation Center as part of the Wells Area Improvement Project, led by the Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority. This year, new passenger platforms were installed, alongside structural steel for elevator towers and an elevated pedestrian bridge that will connect the expanded platforms, marking a major visible milestone for the project. Once complete, and in conjunction with signal upgrades, the expanded infrastructure will allow Amtrak Downeaster service to add an additional daily round trip between Brunswick and Wells, providing commuters with increased access to jobs and services in southern Maine.

• Replacement of the Drakes Island Road Bridge. The Drakes Island Road Bridge, originally constructed in 1938, is nearing the end of its service life and is showing significant deterioration. As the sole access point to the Drakes Island community, the bridge is a critical piece of infrastructure for residents, emergency services, and seasonal visitors. By addressing structural needs and environmental considerations early in the process, the Town is working to plan for a reliable long-term crossing while respecting the surrounding natural resources.

These are just a handful of the many initiatives that will take shape in the coming year. These efforts will require continual collaboration across departments, partnerships with federal, state and local agencies, and most importantly, the continued dedicated work of the tremendous team of professionals that serve our great community. I cannot express my appreciation enough for the support of the Board of Selectmen, the numerous volunteers that serve our community, and Town staff that come to work each day not just to perform their duties and responsibilities, but to carry forward their passion to serve.

The Town will remain steadfast in our commitment to prioritize transparent, timely, and effective communication with you. We encourage you to stay informed and engaged by attending public meetings, staying abreast of news and updates through our official communication channels, participating in town programs, volunteering on boards and committees, and sharing feedback that informs us as we consider the vision and goals of our community.

Thank you for all you do to make Wells a wonderful place to call home. Here’s to a year of continued progress and success. Wishing you and your loved ones a healthy and happy New Year!



Warm Regards,

Michael Pardue

Wells Town Manager

The end of one year and the beginning of the next brings with it the renewal of Multi-Use Passes and Transfer Station stickers. The Finance staff have been busy assisting Residents and Taxpayers to obtain their 2026 Multi-Use or Transfer Station stickers in person during regular business hours and filling by-mail requests.

In Person Sales

All in-person Transfer Station and Multi-Use Pass sales have begun in the Finance Office during regular Town Hall hours. For residents and taxpayers that will be purchasing their passes in person, for faster processing please make sure to bring:

• All vehicle registrations you want stickers for
• Proof of veteran/service member status (if applicable for Multi-Use Pass)

By-Mail Sticker Sales

The By-Mail Request Form can be used to purchase either a standalone Transfer Station sticker or a Multi-Use Pass. Requests are processed by the Finance Office and will be mailed once processed. The By-Mail Request Form can be found here.

Online Sticker Sales Starting in January

This year, the Town is rolling out a new software program that will allow for the online purchase of both Transfer Station stickers and Multi-Use Passes. This will make pass purchasing more convenient and will prevent residents/taxpayers from having to purchase a separate Transfer Station sticker in addition to a Multi-Use Pass.

We have been waiting on a final software update for the new platform, and will announce the start of online sales when the site is live in early January.

Transfer Station Stickers

All residents are required to display a Wells Transfer Station sticker on their vehicle for any use of the Transfer Station. Stickers will be required for each vehicle that enters the Transfer Station, regardless of household number. 

To ensure that a sticker is issued to the correct vehicle that will be going to the Transfer Station, Residents and Taxpayers need to provide Staff with the vehicle registration or a copy of the registration. 

You can obtain the mail in request form for Transfer Station stickers here.

Grace Period

2025 passes will continue to be accepted at the Transfer Station until further notice, and a grace period will be in place once 2026 passes become available online, to allow ample time to purchase your passes.

Transfer Station Sticker Location

Sticker must be affixed to the interior front driver's side of the assigned vehicle's windshield, no more than four (4) inches from the bottom of the windshield.

Pricing

• Standalone Transfer Station Sticker: $5.00

Multi-Use Passes

The Multi-Use Pass combines Transfer Station use and Beach Parking. The Multi-Use Beach Parking Pass is required for beach parking from the Saturday of Memorial Day Weekend through the Monday of Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples' Day and year round for Transfer Station access.

Eligibility

Passes will be issued for all those who can prove their taxpayer status.

Proof of Residency

• Property taxpayer
• Excise (vehicle) taxpayer
• If more than one individual is the owner of property, additional proof such as a deed, showing all named owners

Requirements

• Multi Use Pass must be for a vehicle owned or assigned to the Taxpayer.  

Sticker Limits

A Resident or a taxpayer may purchase up to two (2) stickers per tax parcel.

Multi-Use Pass Location

Sticker must be affixed to the interior front driver's side of the assigned vehicle's windshield, no more than four (4) inches from the bottom of the windshield.

Pricing

• Multi-Use Pass (Transfer Station and Beach Parking): $50.00

The 2026 Wells Harbor dredge and Atlantic Avenue dune restoration is back on track after hitting multiple stumbling blocks along the way. Originally slated to start on November 15, 2025, FEMA decided to postpone releasing funds until a further environmental review could be done. Then, the federal government shutdown occurred, which delayed activities to the point of possibly missing the dredge window dates for 2026. In an overnight surprise on December 17, FEMA gave the go ahead for three York County Category B sand replenishment projects.

The Wells Harbor project marks the first time the York County owned dredge will be put to work. Michel’s Corporation from Wisconsin will be operating the dredge, as well as reconstructing the dunes located in front of Atlantic Ave. The equipment needed for the project will be operating out of the Eastern Shore parking lot at the north end of Atlantic Avenue. Some parts of the parking lot will be inaccessible for the duration of the project. The dunes will be rebuilt to preexisting conditions prior to the January 2024 storms and planted with dune grass to fortify oceanfront infrastructure against future storm damage.

Honoring the Life of Captain Dan Durgin

It is with a very heavy heart that I touch on the passing of Captain Dan Durgin, owner of Sea-Gar Charters. Dan was an amiable person to be around and work with, he was always willing to give a helping hand to myself and anyone in the harbor. Dan was an extraordinary family man working beside his son and grandson. Dan, you will be forever missed in Wells Harbor. Tight lines and fair seas forever my friend!

Several ordinances and items were approved by the voters at the November 2025 Special Town Meeting. See summary of ordinance changes below:

Updates to the Affordable Housing Performance Standards in order to comply with State statute LD2003: Use allowed in additional Districts – RA, RC and GB; Density allowance increased from 2 times to 2.5 times the minimum requirement; Affordable Housing Development definition added.

Updates to Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) requirements in order to comply with State statute LD2003 and revise other requirements: Either unit (home or ADU) can be occupied by the owner; detached ADU allowed; Maximum size increased from 600 to 800 square feet; Minimum lease/occupancy of 6 months.

Changes to the sidewalk requirements for development along Sanford Road, Route One and Chapel Road: Areas requiring sidewalks to be installed enlarged; Threshold for requiring sidewalk construction to include new dwellings; Construction standard change to allow concrete sidewalks; Elimination of the Sidewalk Development fund contribution.

The Comprehensive Plan Update was also approved.

Planning Board Update

The Planning Board continues to review various subdivision and site applications at their regularly scheduled meetings.

• A 25 lot cluster subdivision with over 32 acres of Open Space was approved off of Meetinghouse Road, with construction to begin soon.
• A new dental facility is proposed on Route 1.
• Review of a 6 unit multifamily development off of Burnt Mill Road continues
• Amendments to various existing approvals also continue: Congdons, Fairway Village, Compass Point, Holiday House, Burnt Mill Estates, Sea Vu West Campground.
• The review of the Bald Hill RV campground also continues.

State Statute Changes

A new land use law (LD 1829) has been passed which will significantly affect local zoning and increase housing density and development. The law requires towns to allow higher density (more dwellings) on lots. Another new law (LD 427) has been passed which restricts towns from requiring more than one parking space for each dwelling and requires towns to allow off-site parking.

Possible Ordinance Changes for June 2026

Possible ordinance changes for June 2026 include: Short Term Rental regulations and licensing, Flood Ordinance changes, Timber Harvesting update, Private street approval process, Subdivision definition updates.

The beginning of the year brings with it the start of the next fiscal budget process. The Town of Wells fiscal year runs from July 1 to June 30. Department Heads started compiling their budget requests in November and December, which will move to the Town Manager and Finance Director for review. The review process then moves to the Select Board and Budget Review Committee, which provides opportunities to learn more from individual departments and make any adjustments. It also creates space for public participation and input in the budget. The budget process typically concludes in early June, where voters have the final say on whether to adopt the budget for the following fiscal year. 

The Town Budget Process & Warrant Articles

One of the most important responsibilities of the Selectmen is overseeing the town budget, which determines funding for town services and infrastructure. The process follows these steps:

• Department Requests: Each department submits budget requests based on operational needs.
• Budget Committee Review: The Budget Committee, made up of appointed residents, provides review and recommendations.
• Budget Review & Recommendations: The Board of Selectmen reviews the requests and makes recommendations.
• Public Hearing on the Budget: Residents have the opportunity to weigh in on the proposed budget.
• Final Selectmen Approval & Warrant Inclusion: After review, the Board of Selectmen finalizes the budget and places funding items on the Town Meeting warrant, where voters have the final say.

How Can I Stay Involved?

Stay informed of the most important notifications from the Town of Wells by subscribing to the Notify Me feature of the Town website. You can choose to receive custom email or text alerts for a variety of different updates, including Budget meeting notices, voting results, posted agendas, and calendar updates.

This feature is free and available to any member of the public. You are able to unsubscribe at any time.

Town of Wells social media pages are also a great resources for quick and timely updates. We share news, reminders, pertinent information and more! Follow the Town of Wells on Facebook, on Instagram. 

Conclusion



The decision-making process in Wells prioritizes transparency, public participation, and careful consideration of important town matters. From Selectmen workshops to public hearings and the final say of voters at Town Meeting, residents play an important role in shaping the town’s future. Staying informed and participating in these processes helps maintain an engaged community and ensures that decisions reflect the needs and priorities of Wells residents.

Dog licenses expired December 31st, and there are a few weeks left to register your dog before a late fee incurs.

In order to obtain a license for your dog, you must present a current Rabies Certificate obtained from a veterinarian, even if you have previously brought it with you - a new State program requires this each year. Also, bring with you written proof that the dog(s) has been spayed or neutered, if applicable. If you have already shown proof to the Town Clerk's Office, then additional proof is not necessary.

• The fee for an intact male or female dog is $11.
• The fee for a neutered or spayed dog is $6.
• A $25.00 late fine starts February 1st, in addition to the licensing fee.

How do I license my dog?

In Person Licensing

• To receive a license for your dog, please come into the Town Clerk's Office at Town Hall during our business hours which are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. You may also re-license your dog through the mail or on-line at the website below. You MUST bring a copy of a current, State of Maine rabies certificate

Online Dog Licensing

• State of Maine - Dog Licensing

By-mail Dog Licensing

• Our mailing address is Town Clerk's Office, 208 Sanford Rd, Wells, ME 04090. You MUST send a copy of a current, State of Maine rabies certificate, along with a check payable to the "Town of Wells" for the appropriate fee, and we will process the license and return the material to you. For more information, please call 207-646-2882.

Note: Although cats do not require a license, they must be vaccinated against rabies.

If you have further questions, please call the Town Clerk's office, open Monday through Friday, from 8am to 4pm at (207) 646-2882.

Story Trees by the Sea Recap

Story Trees by the Sea, hosted by the Wells Public Library and the Ogunquit Museum of American Art, was held on Saturday, December 13 and Sunday, December 14 at the museum. For the second year in a row, trees and wreaths decorated by local schools, businesses, and art groups were on display for the public to enjoy. Stories read by Wells Junior High and High School students were a definite highlight, as well as carol singing directed by Wells Elementary School music teacher, Ms. Ozsaydi. Guests were also given the opportunity to create crafts with artists from Common Roots Studio, located in Biddeford.

And what holiday event would be complete without a visit from Santa? He came to the museum on Saturday and gave a very animated reading of Clement Moore’s ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas. Kids (and adults!) then had the opportunity to have their picture taken with Santa.

Even though the weather tried to keep people away on Sunday, the crowds kept coming! In all, the event drew over 450 adults and children, making it a rousing success. There is always hope for more participants, and next year’s planning is already underway! If you or your department is interested in participating in 2026’s Story Trees by the Sea, reach out to Allison at aherman@wellstown.org. Trees and wreaths can be provided, if needed!

Raising Healthy Teens Program

The library will be partnering with the Community Health team at York Hospital to offer a program for the parents of teenagers. This special presentation will touch on various topics, such as diet, mental health, vaping, and substance use.

Teen Space Updates

The young adult area of the library will be getting some remodeling to make more space for users. A new table and chairs, purchased by the Friends of the Library, will be added in the coming weeks.

Trivia Night

On November 18th, we hosted our 3rd Trivia Night, which once again was a success. With 35 people in attendance, participants answered questions on nursery rhymes, broadway musicals, Christmas movies, and other topics. At the end of the night, two teams were tied in first place and so we had a sudden death round, where each team was asked a question, and the first team to get a question wrong lost the tie breaker. It was a great time and we are looking forward to our next trivia night on Tuesday, January 13th.

Cookbook Club

At the end of January, the library will be hosting its first Cookbook Book Club. Participants will try their hand at cooking recipes from the selected book, and bring the results to share with the group! 

What happens when things go wrong inside a fire?

It happens - despite our best efforts, firefighters can experience dire consequences inside a burning building while fighting a standard home or building fire. Firefighters are trained to enter burning buildings, to crawl inside searching for victims in a dark, smoke-obscured dwelling, to find the seat of the fire by feeling the temperature increase as we get closer, to follow our hoseline out of the building as our only direction to get outside, and to trust our instinct and experience when things go wrong.  

Sometimes things DO go wrong and sometimes our experience and instinct cannot help us. Firefighters are entering unfamiliar buildings with no ability to see their way around a smoke-filled environment and can become quickly disoriented and lost inside. Following a hose line out can help but sometimes we lose the hose while searching or something falls on the hose and it can no longer be found. Time is of the essence as we can only survive inside a burning home with the air we take with us on our backs and that air is limited. 

Why is air the most critical factor?

Firefighters wear an “Air Pack” or SCBA (Self Contained Breathing Apparatus). This device is a large bottle made of aluminum that is strapped onto the back of every interior firefighter. The bottle holds highly compressed air, not oxygen, as some people might think. The tank is attached with a hose to a regulator worn on the front of a face mask. The face mask covers a firefighter's entire face. The regulator lowers the air pressure in the bottle to allow breathable air. This regulator also gives air on-demand. When a firefighter inhales, the air is released from the regulator and inhaled directly. The firefighter exhales through a one-way valve, allowing the carbon dioxide to escape the face mask. A typical air bottle can last up to 30 minutes, but that is highly dependent on the health and condition of the firefighter wearing it as well as the conditions they are wearing it in. If they are doing hard work like swinging an axe, forcing entry or carrying a victim, they can quickly consume that air in 20 minutes, or even 15 minutes in some circumstances. Once the air is gone, there is very little a firefighter can do to survive the conditions within a burning structure.  

Breathing superheated air can kill a firefighter with just one breath but other situations can also occur including acrid black smoke, as well as soot and toxic fumes, all of which can cause a firefighter to lose consciousness. Once a firefighter loses consciousness, they can no longer communicate via radio to the outside Incident Commander (IC). If the firefighter never contacts the IC, the IC may never realize a firefighter is lost or not responding. 

How are firefighters accounted for?

It is up to the Incident Commander to keep track of all firefighters on a fire scene with an accountability board. When used properly, all interior firefighters tags are placed in the location where the firefighter is assigned to go within the structure (for example: the basement, first floor, second floor or attic). The IC places each name tag on the corresponding sector of the board to ensure all firefighters' locations are known in the event that one goes missing. If an interior firefighter moves from one floor to another, he must inform the IC so they can move name tags accordingly.

It is also important for the IC to call for a P.A.R. (Personal Accountability Report) every so often. This is a call out to each engine and truck company on scene, particularly those within the structure. The IC has the name tag of each individual placed on an additional Engine Company Tag. The Engine Company tag is called a “Passport” and the names of everyone that came in on that Engine are placed on that passport. The passport is then placed on the board in the area they were requested to go. For example, when the IC calls Engine 1 for a PAR, the Engine 1 Officer or Crew must reply with “all accounted for,” at which point the IC moves on to the next crew's call for accountability. This is more efficient then calling out individuals, since no firefighter can ever enter a burning structure alone unless it is an immediate life or death situation. All crews work with no less than two individuals. Using a Passport helps maintain this, since no single name tag should be placed on the accountability board alone.  

What is a MAYDAY and when is a MAYDAY declared?

If someone does not respond when a PAR is conducted, that firefighter is assumed missing and a MAYDAY is declared on the scene. The Incident Commander must indicate over the radio for all firefighters to hear “MAYDAY MAYDAY MAYDAY" on the fireground. "All crews initiate radio silence and change to Channel 2." The IC then requests more resources from the dispatch center to raise the incident up an additional alarm. While all of this is happening, a crew already assigned on the scene to RIT (Rapid Intervention Team) is geared up and ready to save one of their own. They coordinate with Command, make entry, and navigate to the lost firefighter's last known location.   

This MAYDAY announcement can also be requested from an interior crew or individual firefighter if they become disoriented, trapped, or are running out of air. When the firefighter declares a MAYDAY, radio silence for all other companies on the scene will occur and the IC communicates directly with the trapped firefighter, requesting their exact location if known or last known location, how much air they have left and what the problem is. The RIT is deployed immediately and works to find the downed firefighter. If the firefighter becomes unconscious or if they did not respond to the PAR, the IC is at an extreme disadvantage since there is no knowledge of how long the firefighter has been down or missing. Their location is not known and their condition is also unknown.  

A MAYDAY on the scene of a working fire is an extremely stressful situation and everyone on scene becomes immediately concerned about their lost brother or sister. All tasks on the scene must continue, however, though new assignments might be made and crews can be shifted to different tasks to assist in the location of the injured firefighter.  

When the RIT team finds the downed firefighter, they immediately give an extra air bottle to them. If the firefighter is conscious and not trapped, the firefighter will be led out by the Rapid Intervention Team. If the firefighter is injured or trapped, the team has specialty equipment to aid in removing debris to help disentangle the firefighter. They also have medical supplies and EMTs or paramedics on the team to help assist the victim if life saving measures are necessary but this must also be weighed against the time they remain inside with dangerous life threatening conditions. In that case, rapid intervention may be required. Once the firefighter is found and removed, the IC must announce over the radio that the MAYDAY is now cleared.

How do we save one of our own?

Every time firefighters are called to a working fire, whether it is in Wells or the surrounding communities for mutual aid, they may be involved in assisting a MAYDAY or the one in need when a MAYDAY is declared. This requires significant teamwork among all firefighters on the scene and all departments come together to work on the same goal of locating one of their own. We train every day on the many tasks a firefighter might encounter at any given fire. Rapid Intervention is one of the skills trained on, as well as all of the non-intervening tasks at a fire. Training on Rapid Intervention requires simulations where firefighters try to train blindfolded among obstacles or inside a building for training. Training firefighters to deploy and work only by feel can be a significant challenge but they must be ready to fulfill that task when needed. They also train as the distressed firefighter to learn how to disentangle themselves and how to use techniques to make their way out of every structure if their way out is blocked or an unexpected challenge occurs.  

If you ever see firefighters at a fire scene seemingly standing around, know that every single firefighter has an extremely important role. Some of them are rehabbing from fighting the fire, while others are preparing to go “on deck", which means to go in and relieve others coming out. And finally, there is the RIT team, who is only there to intervene if and only if a MAYDAY occurs to save one of our own.

The “Winter Blues” are real!

Shorter days, cold weather, and disrupted routines can zap your energy and mood. Here are some practical ways to get through or even feel better than just “surviving the winter blues”:

Light & Environment

• Get morning light: 10–30 minutes outdoors early in the day helps reset your body clock. Even cloudy light counts.
• Use bright indoor lighting: Consider a 10,000-lux light box for 20–30 minutes in the morning if winter blues are strong.
• Declutter & warm lighting: Cozy, well-lit spaces reduce mental fatigue, i.e. a warm salt lamp!

Mind & Mood

• Set manageable goals: Winter is not the season for peak productivity. Aim for maintenance plus small wins. Celebrate all your wins – even if they feel small.
• Practice “winter pacing”: Fewer tasks, more breaks, gentler goals.
• Mindfulness or journaling: Especially gratitude or “what went right today”.

Body & Energy

• Movement: 10–20 minutes walking, stretching, yoga, or bodyweight exercises.
• Prioritize sleep consistency: Same wake-up times daily, even on weekends.
• Eat warm, nutrient-dense foods: Soups, stews, roasted vegetables, healthy fats.
• Check vitamin D: Deficiency is common in the winter months; consider supplementation if advised by a clinician or sun lamp therapy.

Connection & Pleasure

• Schedule social contact: With people that energize you, “refill your cup” Don’t wait to “feel like it.” Coffee dates, walks, or video calls.
• Create winter rituals: Weekly movie night, Sunday soup, evening tea and a book.
• Plan something to look forward to: Even small future events boost mood.

Perspective Shifts

• Treat winter as a “low-power mode”: Rest, reflect, and prepare rather than push.
• Acknowledge it: Don’t deny it, try positive affirmations and grounding techniques to get through those trying times.

When to Get Extra Help

If low mood, fatigue, or hopelessness last most days for 2+ weeks, interfere with daily life, or include thoughts of self-harm, reach out to a mental health professional. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is common and manageable; you are not alone!

RESOURCES:

               Crisis Hotline: 988

               Peer Support: 866-771-9276

               Wells Mental Health Liaison: 207-219-5590

The Town of Wells has a charitable fuel program called the “Special Fuel Fund," which individuals and businesses have generously donated to for many years now. Its purpose is to assist eligible residents who have applied for LIHEAP and are waiting for acceptance or who have expended all their LIHEAP award and have no other options to obtain fuel. It should not be considered an emergency program. We do try to respond quickly but cannot guarantee same day delivery. This fund is available to Wells Residents ONLY.

It is administered by the General Assistance Office at the Wells Police Department. We use the Federal Hypothermia guidelines for eligibility: A Resident Household containing a household member over the age of 62 or under the age of 2 and/or a member that is disabled. The Special Fuel Fund cannot be used for income producing properties.

How does the Fuel Fund Work?

Please call when your tank reads at or below a ¼ full (#2 fuel oil or K-1). Your tank must be able to accommodate the full 100 gallon delivery as our provider will not make multiple deliveries to reach a total of 100 gal.

The Special Fuel Fund provides 100 gallons of fuel (oil, K-1 or Propane) one time per calendar year. Each household is encouraged to apply for the federally Funded LIHEAP Program through York County Community Action Center.

Can I Donate to the Fund?

Should you wish to donate, you can mail or drop off a check payable to: Town of Wells Special Fuel Fund (Tax Deductible).

As always, if your household is experiencing financial distress please contact General Assistance at (207) 361-8866 to determine eligibility for assistance and/or referrals to appropriate resources.

Wells Beach Alerts: Be Prepared and Stay Informed

Text WELLS to 226787 for Wells Beach Alerts, including weather conditions, rip currents and emergency announcements.

The service is free to use, though standard messaging rates may apply.

Users can opt out at any time by texting LEAVE. Visitors are reminded to dial 9-1-1 for emergencies as this text service is not monitored.

Town staff and the the Board of Selectmen are supported by the efforts of the many volunteers who make up our resident-led boards and committees. These committees advance the work on present issues in Wells and do the research and preparation before bringing it to the board.

If you want to be more involved in your community, having a role in local government activities is a great way to start. There are currently vacancies on the following boards/committees.

Board and Committee Vacancies

• Board of Assessment Review - 1 member vacancy, 2 alternate member vacancies
• Budget Review Committee- 1 alternate member vacancy
• Committee for Veterans Affairs- 1 alternate member vacancy
• Energy Advisory Committee- 3 member vacancies, 3 alternate member vacancies
• Lodging Facility Advisory Committee- 2 member vacancies
• Voter Registration Board of Appeals- 1 member vacancy

Learn more about each Board and Committee here.

Sign up for the RAVE Alert System for York County to ensure you receive emergency alerts.

​The RAVE Alert System is a reverse 911 application that allows citizens to sign up for emergency alerts. The program allows users to create a profile to alert first responders to their specific needs as well. For example, if there was an evacuation, the program would let first responders know if a user needed evacuation assistance through their profile. The profiles allow users to mark if they need specialized assistance, are dependent on electric supply, or even if they have pets or livestock.

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Examples of alerts include: winter storm notices, evacuation notices, flood alerts, bio-terrorism alerts, and boil water notices.

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Click here to Sign Up for RAVE Alerts.

We are always looking for ways to improve communication with our community members.

As always, if there is anything we can do to better communicate information, please let us know by emailing rkelley@wellstown.org.

Be sure to check out our Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube pages using the buttons below. You can also see news and updates on the Town of Wells website at www.wellstown.org.