Wells has rung in the New Year and is welcoming 2025 with open arms. We hope that you and your families had a safe and joy-filled holiday season. Here in the Town of Wells, we’re taking time to reflect on the successes and milestones of 2024 while eagerly setting our sights on the opportunities and possibilities that lie ahead in 2025. This year, we’re committed to continuing our forward-looking vision for 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 season, read on for a glimpse at what's happening in and around our Town offices.

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Dear Wells Residents,

Happy New Year! As we welcome 2025, I want to take a moment to reflect on the past year as we also look forward to the opportunities and possibilities that lie ahead.

2024 was a year of growth and resilience for our community. Together, we celebrated advancements, weathered storms, tackled challenges, and continued to make improvements within the daily operations of the Town. From grant funding obtained for upcoming infrastructure projects, enhancements to many of our roadways, advancement of the “Route 1 Community Gateway, Implementing a Multimodal Vision for Transportation in Wells” project, the expansion of the Transportation Center designed to further enhance rail service in Wells and beyond, staffing changes, the addition of updated and efficient equipment for our municipal departments, the addition of 12 new EV chargers acquired through grant funding, a significant rebuilding of the harbor float and mooring system, ongoing dredge work in efforts to preserve our beaches, research into improving cell service in Wells, and the formation of new committees, we have continued to strengthen the foundation of what makes Wells such a special place to live, work and visit.

Looking ahead, we are excited about the projects and initiatives planned for 2025. We are committed to preserving the character of Wells, while continuing to improve municipal services, and enhancing the well-being of our community. As our vital work on the Comprehensive Plan continues, there will be ongoing conversation to explore a collaborative approach to Fire and EMS services with the goal of enhancing public safety services within the town, the conceptual work on Founder’s Park Community Center will continue taking shape through the dedicated efforts of many community members, and our Recreation Department aims to complete construction on long-awaited recreational projects for the community. These are just a handful of the many initiatives that will take shape in the coming year. These efforts will require collaboration and hard work from our town departments, and I know that as always, our staff will rise to the occasion.

We will continue to ensure transparent and effective communication with you. We encourage you to stay informed and engaged by attending public meetings, participating in town programs, volunteering on boards and committees and sharing your thoughts and ideas, which will inform us as we consider the needs and values 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

As the Winter temperatures arrive and with the water being considerably warmer than the air, early morning photo opportunities take on a new twist. Steam fog forming just above the water’s surface and drifting with the light winds, make a great foreground for sunrise pictures.

Dredge Work Aids in Dune Restoration

It appears we will be dredging again this winter in an effort to restore damaged dunes from last January’s storms. York County has applied for FEMA assistance on this project, and presently plans to work on Drake’s Island. Michels Construction, who dredged last winter, has entered into a contract to operate the County dredge, removing sand from two locations in the Harbor that were not dredged last year. These locations will be the focus of this year’s work along with any new shoaling areas.

The equipment should begin arriving late next month, with dredging beginning in early February. Like last year, access to Eastern Shore parking lot and the Drake’s Island lot, will be limited during construction. The dunes just South of the jetties were damaged as well and will be part of this effort when the sand placement permits, and FEMA funds are authorized. This work will require us to move some floats and moorings, but nowhere to the extent of last year.

The launch floats and channel markers have been removed for the season, as we prepare for the possibility of severe winter storms once again.

Winter is Coming! Are You Ready?

As the cold weather sets in, it's time to gear up for another Maine winter. Our crew has been hard at work preparing the plow trucks and equipment while making the most of the temperate days. To help you stay safe and ready for the challenges of snow and ice, we've put together some essential tips and reminders for the season ahead.

Salt/Sand Availability for Residents

The Town provides a salt/sand mix for residents at the Public Works Department, located at 585 North Berwick Road. Look for the small shed clearly marked for resident use. Each household may fill up to two (2) 5-gallon buckets per storm event. Please bring your own shovel. This is a great way to lend a helping hand to a neighbor in need, especially for clearing icy walkways and reducing the risk of slips and falls.

What happens if a plow truck knocks over my mailbox?

Unfortunately, during snowstorms, mailboxes may occasionally be struck by plow trucks or heavy snow. While we take every precaution to avoid this, these incidents can happen, especially in low-visibility conditions or during significant snowfalls.

The Town does not take responsibility for mailboxes or any other objects placed within the Town’s right-of-way. To avoid future issues, consider reviewing your mailbox placement to ensure it is well-positioned for winter. 

Can I push snow across the road or into the street from my property?

No. According to Maine law (29-A § 2396), it is illegal to place or allow snow to remain on a public way unless it accumulated there naturally. A “public way” includes the entire right-of-way of state, county, or municipal roads. Violations can result in penalties of up to $500, license suspension, or both.

In addition to being illegal, this practice creates safety hazards. Piles of “unnatural” snow can freeze differently, damaging vehicles and snow removal equipment. They can also narrow roadways, forcing drivers to swerve and increasing the risk of accidents.

Winter Safety Tips

1. Share the road – Plow trucks require extra space, particularly when using plow wings. Please keep a safe distance.
2. Stay off the roads during major storms – Travel only if absolutely necessary.
3. Snow tires matter – Equip your vehicle with proper winter tires for improved traction.
4. Use generators safely – Keep them away from doors and windows. Never run them inside your home!
5. Plan ahead for outages – Stock up on food and water and ensure you're prepared.
6. Check the Town’s website and local TV stations (WCSH 6, WMTW 8, WGME 13) for updates on closures or emergencies.
7. During extended power outages, look to the Town website for information about warming centers.
8. Finally, please be patient. The Town of Wells has 140.56 miles of centerline roads, which totals approximately 280 miles of roads that need to be addressed. Snow removal is a difficult and time-consuming job; we strive to accomplish this task in a safe and timely manner.

Travel safe this winter, please remember to drive responsibly and respect the road conditions. Plow drivers work very long hours, give them the room as well as patience and courtesy to do their jobs.

The Planning Office and Public Works Department have received many questions over the years about property lines along roads. This article is to shed some light on the subject.

It is a common misconception that lot owners believe their property ownership extends to the edge of the pavement or gravel of a road. This is seldom the case. Roads are located within a street right of way. These right of ways are typically 50 feet in width but will vary depending on how the street was created. Old streets were created by Towns and Counties in the 1700 and 1800’s and were usually 3 rods in width. A rod is equal to 16.5 feet, so many streets are 49.5 feet in width. More traveled county roads/streets were 4 rods or 66 feet in width. Even in colonial times, it was known the roads need to be cleared of trees wider than the travel way/road surface and ditches and swales are required to handle drainage. Newer streets that are part of residential subdivisions are mostly 50 feet in width although some are only 40 feet.

If a property owner reads their deed or knows where their lot corners are marked, the markers will usually be approximately 10 feet from the edge of pavement or gravel. Property corner markers can be stone or concrete bounds, iron pipes, iron pins or can be an old stone wall or barbed wire fence. The distance from the pavement will vary based on the right of way width and whether the paved surface is located in the center of the right of way.

Many fences, lawns, stone walls and other landscaping items extend into the Town or private street right of ways. These types of items can be subject to damage or removal during construction of utilities or road upgrades or reconstruction. These items are at risk because they are not on the lot owner’s property.

Coming into winter, this is important to realize due to almost all mailboxes being located within the street right of way. If a Town plow destroys a mailbox, the Town is not liable for that damage. The mailbox is an encroachment into a Town street. There is also a State statute that clearly absolves the Town from such damage claims.

The Town of Wells has a charitable fuel program. We call it the “Special Fuel Fund” and individuals and businesses have generously donated to it 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 as 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 Town Hall. 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 (propane for the gauge to read at 100 psi) 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.

Welcome 2025!! Did you make a New Year’s resolutions to meet new people? To learn a new craft or improve that high school French? We’ve got activities for you! Or just come work on the puzzle on the puzzle table, read the newspaper, and hang out. We’d love to see you at the library in 2025!

Search for a New Library Director

Cindy Appleby left the Library Director position at the beginning of December to spend more time being a grandma to her first grandchild. In the meantime, Allison Herman will act as Interim Director. Applications have been coming in and we hope to have a new director before summer. Cindy is missed, but pictures of her adorable grandson ease the pain!

Story Trees by the Sea at the Ogunquit Museum of American Art

The Wells Public Library partnered with the Ogunquit Museum of American Art to present Story Trees by the Sea the weekend of December 14-15. The Museum was transformed into a winter wonderland, featuring trees decorated by local schools and arts groups. There were children’s stories read by student ambassadors and local authors, as well as art-making activities hosted by Common Roots Studio’s mobile art bus. With a visit from Santa and over 500 people in attendance, this first-ever event proved to be a great success!

New Merlin Viewer

A generous patron has donated a Merlin Viewer to the library. This device enables the user to magnify reading materials and change viewing settings to make fonts more visible or change contrast. We’d be happy to show you how to use it the next time you come to visit.

Teen Advisory Board

Sabrina is on the hunt for students interested in making an impact at the library! She is looking for program concepts, book recos, design ideas – all from the teenage perspective. Junior High students are invited to attend the advisory board every other Thursday at 2:30 p.m., beginning January 16th. High schoolers are invited every other Thursday beginning January 23rd at 6:30 p.m. No registration needed – just come and help us brainstorm!

What is it About Opera?

Join Opera Maine with dramaturg Calien Lewis on Tuesday, January 7th at 6 p.m. for a special presentation that will include images and musical examples for a discussion of La bohème and Puccini's place in opera. One of opera’s most beloved classics, Puccini’s La bohème is a classic tale of tragic romance and an immersive and poignant journey for both seasoned opera enthusiasts and those new to the art form.

And don’t forget about our Friends of the Library Book Sale on Saturday, January 18th at 10:15 a.m.!  

The end of one year and the beginning of the next brings with it the renewal of Transfer Station stickers. The Finance staff has been busy assisting Residents and Taxpayers to obtain their 2025 Transfer Station stickers in person by stopping in the office during regular business hours or by filling by mail requests.

• The 2025 Transfer Station stickers will be required for entrance into the Transfer Station starting January 1, 2025.
•  The Transfer Station is now honoring vehicles displaying the new 2025 sticker, and allowing a short grace period for those still in need of renewal.
• The cost of a Transfer Station sticker is $5.00 and are vehicle specific. 
• 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 at the Transfer Station here.
• Starting in May 2025, as Residents renew their current Chickadee Plate registrations and receive the new Pine Tree Flag plate, department staff will be issuing replacement 2025 Transfer Station stickers at no cost since the license information on the sticker needs to match the license plate on the car.

Vehicle Registration changes for the State of Maine

The Finance Staff act as Motor Vehicle Agents for the State of Maine and are required to follow the rules established by the State of Maine for vehicle registration. 

Below are some important changes that residents of the Town of Wells should know:

• Prior registration required: The Town of Wells will now be requiring all registrants that are doing a reregistration, plate change or a plate transfer registration to provide staff with the prior registration before the transaction can be completed.  Motor vehicle has seen an increase in municipalities reregistering the wrong vehicle. 
• Right-hand Drive Vehicles: The only right-hand drive vehicles that can be registered in Maine are to postal carriers. The general public can’t register a right-hand drive in the State of Maine. Often times these vehicles were manufactured in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, India, Japan and the United Kingdom.  The first character in the vehicle identification number could start with 2, 6A-6W, 7A-7E, MA-ME, J, or SA-SM. Registrants can reach out to Nikki Batchelder, Director of Vehicle Services at the Bureau of Motor Vehicle by phone at (207)624-9191 or email at Nikki.Bachelder@maine.gov with questions.
• §101, sub-§3. Antique Auto: A law change took place that changes the definition of an antique automobile to require that the vehicle is more than 35 years old instead of more than 25 years old. However it does allow the vehicles that are registered in Maine as an antique vehicle before January 2025 to remain registered as an antique vehicle.
• §101, sub-§4. Antique Motorcycle: A law change took place that changes the definition of an antique motorcycle to require that the motorcycle is more than 35 years old instead of more than 25 years old. However it does allow the motorcycles that are registered in Maine as an antique vehicle before January 2025 to remain registered as an antique motorcycle.
• §461, sub-§2. Nonplate issue year: In other than a plate issue year, when a person fails to reregister and the registration remains expired for 6 consecutive months, the reservation of the same number ceases and the number becomes available for reissuance. For a maximum of 2 registration years, a person may reserve the registration number assigned to that person by sending $25 for each year to the Secretary of State. A person wishing to select a number out of rotation may do so by paying the registration fee and a reserved number fee of $25. This law change repealed the provision that allowed a person during a nonplate issue year to reserve an unexpired registration plate number for more than 6 months.
• §523, sub-§1. Amputee or blind veteran: The law change replaced the reference to “Veterans Administration” and replaced it with the “United States Department of Veterans Affairs”. It also eliminates the requirement for a disabled veteran to display a plate with the designation “Disabled Veteran” to qualifying for benefits in this section. It also clarifies that the Secretary of State may issue a registration certificate and special designating plates for more than one vehicle owed by certain disabled veterans.
• §523, sub-§2. Disabled veterans; special free license plates: This law adds that a Veteran who either pays an excise tax, or is exempt from the payment of excise tax under Title 36, section 1483, subsection 12, is exempt from the motor vehicle registration fee and may request disabled veteran plates or may use another type of plate, for vehicles with a registered gross weight of not more than 26,000 pounds to an 100% disabled veteran when the application is accompanied by certification from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs or any branch of the United States Armed Forces as to the veteran’s permanent disability and receipt of 100% service-connected benefits. It also adds that a disability placard may be issued upon request at no fee, but it is not automatically issued to each veteran. The change also includes that the exemption under the law are not limited to just one vehicle registered by the veteran.

We know this is a busy time of year for us all, but don't forget about your four-legged companions! 

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.

Why do dogs need to be licensed? Many reasons! Dog licensing ensures rabies vaccination which protects the health of your pet. Also, dog license fees go directly to the Maine Animal Welfare Program to fight animal cruelty and abuse, accounting for 95% of the State Animal Welfare Program’s entire funding. Without these fees, the State would be unable to protect the animals of this state.

Potential Ordinance Changes for the June 2025 Town Meeting:

To allow adult use (recreation use) cannabis sales in Wells; Street Standards and approval updates; Sidewalk requirements and specifications; Short Term Rental requirements, regulations and licensing; Work Force Housing standards, Accessory Dwelling and Affordable Housing ordinance updates.

Moratorium Extension

The Moratorium on large-scale residential development was extended by the Board of Selectmen until April 15th. Large-scale residential development means a subdivision that proposes 45 or more residential dwelling units. No such projects have been proposed.

New Ordinances adopted in November

Several new ordinances directly affecting subdivision requirements were passed at the Special Town Meeting in November and will impact future applications. Seven subdivision applications are grandfathered that were vested prior to the Town vote and will be reviewed by the Planning Board per the previous ordinances.

Eastern Trail Project Update

The portion of the long-standing Eastern Trail Project from downtown North Berwick (Pratt & Whitney) to Perry Oliver Road is in final design and bidding phase. It is a Federally funded project with Maine DOT administering the project. Construction could begin in late 2025.

New Open Space Acquired

A new parcel was acquired by the Town on Perry Oliver Road consisting of 31 acres adjacent to other Town conservation land and the future Eastern Trail. The Town also was given a conservation easement on 24 acres of land adjacent to Branch Brook as required from a subdivision off Chick Crossing Road.

Train Station Expansion Update

The expansion of the train station continues for the additional platform, overhead pedestrian bridge access to the new platform, and the secondary track.

Founders Park Community Center Work Progresses

The project has begun the site plan approval process with the Planning Board. The Committee continues to raise funds and is coordinating the design. The Planning Board continues to review various subdivision and site applications at their regularly scheduled meetings. 

Wells Town Hall to close on Monday, January 20th

Please plan ahead, the Wells Town Hall Offices will be closed on Monday, January 20th, 2025 for Martin Luther King Jr. Day. The Transfer Station, Wells Public Library, Parks and Recreation and Public Works will also be closed.

The Town will reopen with normal business hours again on Tuesday, January 21st.

Thank you for your understanding.

Recently, the Wells Fire Department responded to a large building fire on Sanford Road, west of the turnpike. This fire was significant and progressed to 4 alarms before being extinguished. The reason for 4 alarms was partly due to the need for more tankers from our surrounding communities. In layman terms- we needed more water. 

Getting water for fires in many cities is easy with a vast infrastructure of water mains along almost every city street with fire hydrants placed typically every 600 feet or so from each other. This allows fire trucks to access water quickly and easily and within a short distance of almost every building in a community. The hydrants in these systems are pressurized and when opened, easily flow water with large gallon per minute (GPM) capacities.

Using tanker trucks for rural water supplies

Many smaller rural towns do not have this significant of an infrastructure and rely on tanker trucks to bring the water with them to the fire. In many cases, this works extremely well, but sometimes the fire is too big and requires much more water than what the department can bring with them. This is where rural water supplies are established. Wells has established a strong rural water supply of dry hydrants and water sources over the years through thoughtful planning when new developments are created within the town limits. 

Wells requires at least one water supply within 1 mile of every new development of three or more homes, or if sprinklers are not installed within the home. Many developments in Wells are therefore required to supply their own water supply, which can also be used by future developments within 1 mile. These water supplies have previously been fire ponds that can meet or exceed 30,000 gallons of water. Recently, these requirements have been modified through the Planning Board to be changed to underground cisterns of 30,000 gallons. Each fire pond and cistern is equipped with a dry hydrant.

Drafting Process

These hydrants are just large diameter pipes installed into the water supply which is then used to pull the water out of the water source and into a fire truck. They do not have pressurized water in them like in the bigger cities and require a fire truck to pull the water out through a drafting process. This is a process where the water is sucked from the pond or cistern. This requires more work by firefighters and requires a hard hose line or “suction” line to be connected between the dry hydrant and the intake of the fire truck water pump. In many cases this works very well. The engine pulls water from the cistern and pumps water through several hundred feet of hose line to a truck near the fire. The fire is then pumped onto the fire with a continuous supply of water.

When the water supply is not close enough or practical for thousands of feet of hose, then a tanker shuttle is established. This was required at the Sanford Road Fire this last November.

A tanker shuttle is a series of tanker trucks, (fire trucks with at least 2,600-gallon water capacity) that “shuttle” water from a dry hydrant to the fire. Although this sounds simple, it does take time to establish and is manpower intensive. 

First, a fire truck must be “set in” to the dry hydrant and a draft must be established to remove the water from the pond, or river, where the hydrant is placed. Once this is set up the truck is ready to supply other tankers with water. An empty tanker truck will pull up next to the fire truck on the dry hydrant. Firefighters will hook up already placed hoses into the empty truck. Once connected, the dry hydrant truck will fill the empty truck quickly with the water coming in from the pond or river. This can be done quickly because the truck can push the water into the empty truck with the pressure from the pump. Once the truck is filled, it is disconnected and sent on its way to the fire scene. Once the filled tanker arrives at the fire scene, it will quickly dump its load of water into a large portable tank set up on the ground that resembles a small swimming pool. This is done to eliminate the tedious process of hooking up hoses which takes up precious time. Instead, the pool is filled with water and another tanker is set into the pool to draft water out of it. As other tankers come to dump water into the pool, there is already a continuous water supply being pulled from it to the engines nearest the fire. The pool is big enough to accommodate several truck loads of water and two pools can be tied together for an even larger supply. 

The distance from the water source to the fire scene can be up to a mile and in some instances may be longer. This distance hinders quick water supply turnaround. So, with longer distances, more tanker trucks are needed to keep the pools filled and to maintain constant water flow onto the fire. In addition, bigger fires require more water, and not just more water overall, but more water at any given instant, or, more gallons per minute of water. This requires more tankers to keep more water flowing in a short time frame. 

What makes Wells unique

In the case of the Wells fire in November, this takes considerable coordination between multiple town fire departments working in unison to accomplish the task required. Out-of-town firefighters are also at a disadvantage due to not knowing where Wells water supplies might be located. In this case, it takes the knowledge of the Wells firefighters to establish a water supply and then communicate this to all other responding tankers. With the water supply required for this fire, two water sources were established at two different locations to reduce tanker truck traffic congestion at each site. Overall, the process worked well and utilized more than a dozen tankers to keep the water flowing without significant gaps in the supply of water to the fire. 

Wells is unique in its infrastructure. Locations east of the turnpike are mostly set up with a city water supply with pressurized water hydrants throughout most of this area. Pressurized water for firefighters is a much easier and less manpower intensive task because all the firefighter needs to do is hook into the hydrant and open it. The water flows freely into the truck and all the firefighter must do is add more pressure and send it where it is needed. In the rural or western parts of town, the firefighters must complete a more complicated series of tasks. These include removing the hard “suction” line off the truck, which can be heavy and cumbersome to manage by oneself. Then the intake valve must be removed from the intake side of the pump on the fire engine. Once this is done, the 8 to 10’ hard suction line of over 6” in diameter must be connected to the intake of the truck and tightened to avoid any air leaks. The stiffness of the suction hose now makes it difficult to line up the truck with the hydrant as there is very little flexibility of this hose. Typically, this can be done fairly easily with one firefighter holding the end of the line while another firefighter maneuvers the truck into place making sure he is not too close, or too far away from the hydrant as well as lined up properly so the threads can be turned and the line connected successfully to the hydrant. In most cases, however, this must be done with only one firefighter. Wells firefighters train for this and have become proficient at it, however it still takes precious time when a fire is engulfing a residence and the pressure to supply water to the attacking fire crews is paramount. 

In summary, Wells firefighters adapt to the challenges they are met with every day and choose appropriate firefighting equipment and apparatus based on the nature and location of a call when it comes in. Sometimes our firefighters must change their tactics if certain trucks are not available or situations are not as anticipated. After all, firefighters overcome and adapt every day to meet the needs of our citizens, and Wells firefighters are no exception. The Wells firefighters are dedicated to the best service possible for its residents and visitors to our great community. We wish everyone a safe and happy New Year!

Winter is here and the population of our town has entered the seasonal low we usually experience around this time. The assessing office takes this opportunity to take part in a large amount of training.

Through this, we ensure that we remain at the forefront of assessment’s best practices. Recently, our team has participated in several professional development opportunities with organizations such as the International Association of Assessing Officers (IAAO) and the Maine Association of Assessing Officers (MAAO). These training courses help us stay current on the latest changes in property assessment as well as network with other Maine Assessors.



One exciting event we've taken part in is the first ever Property Tax Academy, a virtual seminar that took place on Wednesday, December 11, 2024. This seminar provided valuable insights into a range of property tax-related topics, including the property tax implications of PFAS and the fundamentals of data evaluation.

In addition to our professional development, we continue to invest in the tools and technology that improve our assessment processes. Every year, we update our property tax maps as of April 1st. This includes adding new subdivisions as well as roads and new single lots split from larger parcels. We use Nearmap software, an online tool that provides highly accurate, real-time imagery with a level of definition superior to traditional satellite maps.



We are also excited to share that we are in the process of digitizing and preserving our historical records. This project involves manually scanning tax cards dating back to 1972, prior to the town’s zoning, to ensure that these important documents remain accessible and secure. These records are vital not only for our office but also for the Code Enforcement office and anyone who needs historical information about properties in our town.

As always, our goal is to improve the efficiency and accuracy of our work. We appreciate your support as we continue to improve and modernize our assessment practices. We would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a safe, healthy and happy holiday season.

Before starting any work on your property, it’s essential to know when a building permit is required. Posting the permit where it can be seen from the public way is also a key requirement.

This guide is based on common questions received by the Wells Code Enforcement Office to help you navigate permitting requirements.

The information is based on the most frequently asked question to the Code Enforcement Office.

Permits are required to build a new structure and/or move it onto the property and/or enlarge, alter, repair, renovate, remodel and update any existing structure. This includes new and replacement of the following.

• Sheds, decks, generators, gazebos, solar systems, landscape walls that retain soil and seawalls (timber or concrete) also require permitting. Fences over 7’ in height that are moved onto, built or rebuilt require permitting for Residential and Commercial uses. All structures require permits. Even if it is built off-site and brought to the site it still requires permitting.
• Any window replacement and exterior door replacement in residential use and all doors and windows in Commercial use.
• Above ground and inground swimming pools as well as hot tubs require permits for Residential and Commercial uses.
• Demolition or removal of a structure (hazard determination may also be required) for Residential and Commercial uses.
•  Any existing structure that is adding a new use or occupancy; to include changing the use of the unit/structure or updating the unit/structure with the same use for Residential and Commercial uses.
• Buildings/structures moved into or within the Town of Wells for Residential and Commercial uses.
• Installation or replacement of a sign or banner prior to it being erected for Residential and Commercial uses.
• Driveway openings may require permits for one of the following: new, relocated or altered.
• New Recreational Vehicles and Park Models brought on site after March 1, 2024, that do not have a valid registration and license plate affixed to it requires a permit. All add-a-rooms, decks, stairs and sheds require permits in Recreational Parks/Campgrounds and are not date sensitive. 

Tips for frequently asked questions

• Replacing, building or placing stairs, handrails and guardrails on a deck, staircase or within any structure requires a permit.
• Replacing any window(s) to include exact replacement windows requires a permit.
• Renovating/updating a kitchen requires a permit.
• Adding, removing or replacing insulation or sheet rock requires a permit. Water damage does not exempt the permitting requirement.
• Plumbing permits are also required by the Code.

Permits are not issued the same day. Permits are reviewed in the order that they are received. We recognize that your project is important to you and no project is too big or too small to be ahead of yours. When incomplete applications are submitted, it slows down the review process for everyone in the queue. Please submit the required documentation so that we can get your project reviewed! Currently, it is taking up to 14 +/- business days to review a permit with 2 Code Officer’s reviewing plans full-time.

 We encourage you to call or email the Code Office if you are not sure if a permit is required to avoid a Stop Work Order and the associated fees. Application for a Standard Building Permit. Application for Accessory Structure permits    

And remember, posting the permit in a location that can be seen from the Public Way is important so that everyone knows you have a Building Permit!

If you are not sure what will be required for your project, please call the Code Office at 207-646-5187 or click the Red Request Information button at the top of the Code Office page and we will respond as quickly as we can. Link to Research Request Form

Wells was proud to hold its second annual wreath laying ceremony at Ocean View Cemetery on December 14th, with an amazing turnout of volunteers who helped us lay wreaths on each of the 600 veteran's graves there. We are grateful to have the support of the community as we come together to express our gratitude each holiday season for all those who have defended our freedoms.

We would like to give a huge thank you to the Rotary Club of Wells, Maine. Without them, this event would not have been possible. Because of their support and efforts, due in large part to the ongoing Festival of Trees fundraiser, we were able to sponsor enough wreaths to honor every veteran laid to rest. We would also like to thank the Board of Selectmen for their generous donations, the Committee for Veteran Affairs, the Congregational Church of Wells, Tom Martineau- our bagpiper, the Wells Police and Fire Departments, Maine State Representative Robert Foley, Atlantic Harmonies Youth Choir, all those in the community who sponsored wreaths, and our impressive showing of volunteers who helped make the day so meaningful.

View photos from the event here.

In addition to the wreath laying ceremony, that same week, Wells also welcomed the Wreaths Across America escort to our community, on its annual journey to lay wreaths at Arlington National Cemetery, and hosted a ceremony at our Junior High School.

Earlier this Fall, Wreaths Across America contacted Wells and offered us the honor of hosting hundreds of convoy participants, including Gold Star families and veterans, for a ceremony right here in the heart of Wells. They mentioned the spirit and energy they feel each year, as they drive through Wells, and are moved by our outpouring of support. We graciously accepted this honor and the Junior High School, as well as the entire school district worked hard to prepare a moving and meaningful ceremony.

We are so proud of Wells, and proud to bring such a significant event to our town. Thank you to all those who worked so hard on this day, especially staff and administration at the Junior High School. Thank you to the music departments, student speakers, student council, and the many who poured their hearts into making this event a success.

View photos from the event here.

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 your New Year's resolution is to become 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 of Assessment Review - 2 alternate member vacancies
• Budget Committee - 2 alternate member vacancies
• Comprehensive Plan Update Committee - 1 member vacancy
• Energy Advisory Committee- 1 alternate member vacancy
• Lodging Facility Advisory Committee- 1 alternate member vacancy
• Recreation Commission -1 alternate member vacancy
• Shellfish Conservation Commission - 1 alternate member vacancy
• Zoning Board of Appeals - 1 member vacancy

Learn more about each Board and Committee here.

Apply today to join our team!



The Town of Wells has several open employment opportunities. We encourage you to take a look at the job opportunities currently available with the Town of Wells on our Employment Opportunities page. There is so much important work that goes in to keeping the town running, often behind the scenes.

If nothing is a great fit for you, consider passing the listings along to friends and family who might be looking for a satisfying and important career.

Stay informed with the RAVE Alert System

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.