With Election Day fast approaching and the last day of school just around the corner, the Town of Wells is looking ahead and gearing up for a busy summer. From continued Multi-Use Beach Parking Pass sales, Absentee Ballot requests, upcoming summer events, Summer Reading Programs, and carrying out ongoing municipal projects, there is a lot happening across town!

Read on for the latest updates, department news, and staffing announcements from the Town of Wells, as well as how you can get involved in the community this season.

Important Dates:

• June 3rd: Select Board Meeting to be held at York County Community College
• June 10th: Annual Town Meeting- Polls open from 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
• June 19th: Town Hall Offices and Wells Transfer Station to close in observance of Juneteenth
• June 21st: Summer Concert Series Begins at Wells Harbor
• July 26th: HarborFest, 11:00 am - 3:00 pm at Wells Harbor Park

You can learn additional information about election day here.

Four ordinance changes will appear on the June ballot

Ordinance Changes for the June 2025 Town Meeting:

• Revised Street Standards for new private streets or streets on which new lots are added: turnaround requirements, road widths and specifications.

• Hotel Seasonal Worker Housing: Allows a limited number of hotel units to be occupied seasonally by hotel employees that work on that property.

• Stormwater requirements for subdivisions: Updates to referenced manuals and an increase to analysis and design requirements to a 50-year storm event.

• Typographic error: Correct a reference from §115-6 to §116-6.

You can view a sample ballot here.

Route 1 Corridor Study Update

At the June 3, 2025 Board of Selectmen meeting, representatives from VHB Consulting and MaineDOT will provide updates on the Route 1 Corridor Study, particularly regarding Active Transportation, including bike and pedestrian connectivity. These updates follow a previous Public Meeting held as part of the ongoing Route 1 Corridor Study.

Notice of Public Hearing

The meeting will also include a public hearing on the Comprehensive Plan.

As June begins, Piping Plover chicks are beginning to hatch on Wells beaches. This is an extremely delicate time, as the chicks are still flightless, fragile, and beginning to explore their surroundings. They often move up and down the beach in search of food and shelter, sometimes traveling far from posted signs or fenced nesting areas. It takes about 28 to 35 days for chicks to "fledge," or take their first flight. Until then, they are especially vulnerable to human activity, pets, and environmental threats.

We also want to note that the storm and high tides on May 23rd impacted several active nests, displacing pairs. Thankfully, some plovers have already begun to re-nest, and we are hopeful for continued success throughout the season.

Efforts Leading to Positive Change

In 2024, Wells had a record high of 17 piping plover pairs, with 37 fledged chicks. This was part of a larger trend where Maine's plover populations have been increasing. For the past seven breeding seasons, Maine’s Piping Plover numbers have been on the rise, breaking records year after year. After seeing a record high of 157 pairs in 2023, in 2024 we had 143 breeding pairs. Piping Plovers in Maine fledged 237 chicks for a productivity rate of 1.66 chicks per pair which surpasses the state’s recovery goals of 1.5. This is compared to 2023, when plovers fledged 201 chicks for a productivity rate of 1.28, the lowest recorded since 2007. Knowing that our productivity numbers are back on track is reassuring, even with fewer breeding pairs. Many of those fledged chicks will return to beaches and help grow our breeding population for future years. Much of Wells’ success can be attributed to its incredible volunteer force, led by lead Plover monitor, Suzanne Craig, and a crew of about 35 volunteers.

Landowners who allow fencing to be erected to protect nesting areas are another asset to keeping them safe. Additionally, the Town of Wells ceased all raking activity on the beach until the plover breeding season was over, and extreme precautions are taken any time a vehicle is needed on the beach or in putting out the lifeguard chairs for the season.

However, despite the growth seen here, there are still only 2,000 pairs of Piping Plovers estimated to nest along the whole Atlantic Coast. For this reason, it is important that Maine’s Piping Plovers continue to prosper and contribute to the international recovery goals for the species.

Here are some ways that you can help:

• The best (and only) place for these birds is on the beach. Please enjoy watching these amazing endangered birds from a distance! We know they are fascinating and adorable, but they appreciate lots of space to roam. All photos taken by our volunteers and Maine Audubon are taken with either a wide lens camera or from a great distance.

• When a plover chick feels threatened, it will freeze in the hope of being overlooked. Sometimes people mistake this for an injury and pick the chick up, which puts the chick at risk of injury or even death. Never pick up or handle a "frozen" chick.

• Stay clear of fenced areas marked with “Restricted Area” signs.

• If you see a hole that someone has enjoyed digging but abandoned for the day, fill the hole in so no chicks are inadvertently trapped.

• Keep dogs leashed and all pets far away from nesting areas. Roaming dogs and cats are among the top threats to the eggs and chicks of Piping Plovers and Least Terns.

• Fly kites well away from nesting areas. Plovers and terns mistake them for predators and leave their nests to ward off the “intruders.”

• Take your trash and food scraps with you when you leave the beach for the day. Garbage attracts gulls, foxes, raccoons, and skunks, which prey on plover and tern eggs and chicks.

• Notify Maine Audubon of any disturbances to nesting areas by calling (207) 233-6811.

Beach season is here, and with it comes the start of water quality monitoring through the Maine Healthy Beaches (MHB) program. The Town of Wells partners with MHB to test water quality weekly at Wells Beach, Casino Square, Crescent Beach, Wells Harbor, and Drakes Island Beach.

Water samples are typically collected by trained volunteers on Tuesday mornings and tested for enterococci, a fecal indicator bacteria used to identify potential health risks in the water.

Check out the Results for Yourself

Results are available on the Maine Healthy Beaches Dashboard. If bacteria levels exceed Maine’s safety threshold (104 MPN/100mL), advisories will be issued both online and on-site at the affected beaches.

Common causes include pet or wildlife waste, stormwater runoff, and improper hygiene. Please do your part to help keep our beaches clean and safe for all!

For more information or to sign up for alerts, visit mainehealthybeaches.org.

As we move into the summer season, the Wells Public Works Department has been hard at work preparing the Town for the busy summer months ahead.

Our team has completed the installation of beach mats and access stairs and has been prepping parking lots to ensure our beaches are accessible for all visitors.

Unfortunately, the weather hasn’t cooperated so far, as every weekend in April and May brought rain, but we’re hopeful for better conditions as summer begins.

Across Town, street sweeping and catch basin cleaning have been underway as part of our annual maintenance program. This work will continue over the next few weeks.

Looking ahead to June, several infrastructure projects are planned, including drainage improvements, tree removal, and roadside trimming. Tree work is scheduled along Coles Hill Road, Bragdon Road, and Perry Oliver Road as part of the department’s multi-year tree management program. This initiative focuses on identifying dead or unhealthy trees and removing low-hanging branches along roadways to improve safety and visibility.

We’ll also be preparing several roads around Town for paving work, which is scheduled to begin in late summer and continue into the fall.

Transfer Station Update



Beginning at the end of June, the Wells Transfer Station will no longer accept brush. From July 1st, only leaves and grass clippings will be accepted. Residents can bring brush to several area businesses that are equipped to dispose of it at significantly lower cost than the Town. This change is intended to reduce expenses and offer a more cost-effective option for residents.

A reminder that summer leash rules go into effect starting June 16th. Below is a refresher on the the year round leash rules for all public beaches, to include Wells Beach, Crescent Beach and Drakes Island Beach.

• Between April 1 and June 15, dogs are allowed on the beach at all times but MUST be on a leash and under the charge of a responsible person. In charge of a responsible person means that the leash MUST be held at all times by an individual capable of controlling the dog (not a child).

• Between June 16 and September 15, dogs are NOT permitted on the beach from 8am to 6pm. Before 8am and after 6pm, dogs are allowed on the beaches but MUST be on a leash and under the charge of a responsible person.

• Between September 16 and March 31, dogs are permitted on the beach at all times. The control of dogs is enforced by the Dog at Large Town Ordinance which is written based off of the Maine State Law.

According to the Town Ordinance for Dogs at Large, "any dog leaving the property of its owner or custodian must be on a leash of suitable strength or must be under the supervision and verbal control of its master."

Please be aware, Harbor Park is NOT considered a beach and the rule for dogs is enforced as the Dog at Large Town Ordinance, above.

Please note: These restrictions do not apply to dogs on the property of their owner or on another property with the owner's permission, Seeing Eye dogs or other dogs assisting an individual with a disability or working police dogs.

Additional information regarding animal control can be found here.

Wells came together on a beautiful Monday morning for Memorial Day to remember and honor those who have served, and especially those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

The Town’s annual Memorial Day observances began with a parade that stepped off from Wells High School and made its way to Ocean View Cemetery, where a ceremony was held. Maine State Representative Robert Foley served as Master of Ceremonies, with remarks that captured the spirit of the day.

Participants included Atlantic Harmonies Youth Choir, Rev. David Hughes of Wells Congregational Church, the WOCSD Music Departments, local Boy Scout troops, Wells EMS, Wells Police, the Wells Fire Department, bagpiper MW George Pulkkinen, members of the Wells Select Board, Town Manager, and, of course, our Veterans.

A special thank you goes out to the Committee for Veteran’s Affairs for their tremendous work behind the scenes to help support this event. We’re also grateful to Brettski’s Beach Shuttle and Cindy Roche from WOCSD for ensuring our veterans were escorted along the route, and to all of our musical performers.

We are grateful for the efforts of those who took part in this year's parade and thank all who gathered to remember and honor. A special thank you to the veterans and active service members who marched; we thank you for your service!

The month of May brought with it the start of the State of Maine new plate issuance, continued multi-use (beach) sticker sales and 2025 tax bill collection. 



In the past month, staff have completed over 1,300 motor vehicle transactions, issued over 1,800 multi-use stickers and collected more than 5,100 tax payments. Staff continues to help educate residents regarding the new plate issuance for the State that started as of May 1st. Town staff is trying to complete motor vehicle transactions in the office to help reduce the long lines that are being seen at motor vehicle branches throughout the State. Most motor vehicle branches are currently booking registration and driver’s license appointments into the middle of August.

During the month of May, four staff members celebrated work anniversaries. We would like to congratulate Stephanie Correia for her first year anniversary,  Lesley Nawfel for her two-year anniversary, Tammi Hollins for her nineteen years and Jodie Sanborn for her twenty-three years.  

Multi-Use Beach Parking Pass sales, both online and in-person, have begun, with steady sales over the past few weeks.

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 owner of property additional proof such as a deed, etc 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 a tax parcel.

Resident and Taxpayer Multi-Use Stickers are available online, by mail or in person before the start of the season in which the sticker is needed.

Online Beach Parking Pass Portal

For those who are looking to purchase their Multi-Use Beach Parking Passes online, use the link to our online Parking Pass Portal.

Before starting the process make sure you have the following information:

• ID Number - From your tax bill this is the parcel number. Enter exactly as shown on the bill.
• Last name from tax bill.
• If you are a new owner and haven’t received a tax bill in your name please contact the Assessor’s Office at (207) 646-6081. Within 24 hours of the Assessor’s Office verifying that you are eligible for a beach sticker, your online account will become active.
• If you are not a new owner or did not purchase a sticker last year and are experiencing difficulty accessing your account after you have correctly entered your ID Number and Last Name, please contact the the Assessor's Office at (207) 646-6081. Within 24 hours of the Assessor's Office verifying that you are eligible for a beach sticker, your online account will become active.
• Vehicle Registration you are requesting the sticker for. Beach stickers are not transferable. Sticker must be affixed to the inside of the driver's side windshield no more than four (4) inches from the bottom of the windshield.
• Registered Owner Information and Relationship to Driver.
• Credit Card for payment ($50.00 per sticker).
• You will need to create an account in order to request your multi-use pass. 

In-Person Multi-Use Sales

All in-person multi-use sticker sales will take place at the temporary office trailer located in the Town Hall parking lot, Monday-Friday between 8 AM and 3 PM. Please note that traffic flow at Town Hall has been adjusted to accommodate these transactions. We ask that you enter through the rear Town Hall door and exit through the front Town Hall or Finance Office doors only.

For residents and taxpayers that will be purchasing their beach parking 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.

By-Mail Multi-Use Sales

You can access the By-Mail Request Form here.

Multi-Use Pass Location

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

• Motorcycles and scooters without windshields must affix the sticker on the left side so it is visible to the Community Service Officer.
• The sticker must be visible and completely legible all times while parked in one of the Town of Wells Municipal Parking Lots. If not properly displayed, vehicle may be issued a parking ticket.

As part of our continued efforts to improve convenience for residents and visitors, we’ve added a new payment option through ParkMobile, a widely used mobile app that allows you to pay for parking directly from your smartphone.

With ParkMobile, you can easily start and manage your parking session from anywhere, including from your beach chair. If you decide to stay a little longer, you can simply add time through the app without returning to your vehicle.

While you’re enjoying your time in Wells, we encourage you to greet our friendly Community Service Officers, who are available to assist and ensure a smooth experience for all.

Thank you for helping us keep our beaches accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

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.

WEMS & WFD Merger Update

The Strategic Planning Group continues to meet regularly to evaluate the potential merger of Wells Emergency Medical Services (WEMS) with the Wells Fire Department. The group is in the early stages of drafting a proposal to be presented to the Board of Selectmen for review this fall.

In addition to discussing a timeline for advancement, the group is also continuing to assess proposed staffing models to ensure operational effectiveness and service continuity.

The Town remains committed to a transparent and thoughtful process, and updates will continue to be shared as they become available.

WEMS and WFD Merger Exploration Webpage

• For more information, visit our website.

Wells gives a warm welcome to new staff member

Please join us in welcoming Dylan Putnam, the newest Town of Wells staff member. We are confident that his skills will prove to be an asset to the Public Works department and we know he will be a wonderful addition to our team.

The Town of Wells is fortunate to have Dylan join our staff and we are confident he will shine in his new role. We wish you all the best!

Wells Parks & Recreation has been very busy wrapping up Spring programs and gearing up for Summer! The newly built pickleball & tennis courts are ready to play on! Information on how to become a member and participate can be found on our website.

On April 19th, we hosted our Annual Easter Egg Hunt with a special visit from the Easter Bunny! Over 200 children enjoyed the “hunt” for special eggs that either had a piece of candy, toy or a special note to receive a prize at the concession stand. It was a great day with many smiles and laughter.

May has now arrived and almost gone and with it came rain and more rain… Things are finally drying out and field programs are rocking with lacrosse, archery, track, and soccer. Summer programs have been open for registrations and we are happy to say that we were able to take a fair amount of people off the Summer Camp waitlist as we added more staff to the summer team. 

Directly following summer will be Fall and along with that will be our Annual Haunted Hayride! If you or someone you know is looking for a great way to get involved in the community, putting on a scene on the best haunted hayride in the area is the way to go! We are looking for additional scenes throughout our haunted woods on October 18th with a rain date of October 19th.  It may take some time to create your creepy scene so start thinking about it now! We welcome businesses, families, and HS & College students to participate. For more information, please contact the Recreation Department and we will give you all the gory details!

We are looking forward to another fun-filled summer here at the Recreation Department! Congratulations to the Wells High School Class of 2025!

The Assessing Office is currently busy setting up beach parking pass accounts for new property owners in the Town of Wells. If you have never received a parking pass before, please call or visit the office so they can create an account for you. Beach passes can be purchased online, by mail application, or you can come visit our new beach pass express here at the town hall! 

Fall Tax Bills & Visible Street Numbers

Also, please make sure the Assessing Office has your correct mailing address on file for the upcoming fall tax bill. If you’ve recently purchased property, it's important to let us know where you'd like your tax bill to be sent. It is also good to know your Wells address, even if it is at a campground. This will help us find your property when you come in for things like a beach pass, transfer station sticker, etc. It is also useful to know in case of an emergency so that emergency services can help find you. Please make sure your street number is clearly visible on your home in a contrasting number from the color of your structure. If your house sits far back from the road and the street number isn’t visible, make sure there is a post with the street number clearly visible.  

New Property Owners

If you’ve recently purchased property at a campground and would like to purchase a beach sticker, you will need to bring us your bill of sale. Please note that only taxpayers are eligible for beach passes. If your unit was not on the campground site as of our assessing date of April 1st, you will not be eligible for a beach sticker. The good news is that you will not have a tax bill! Bring on the beach weather!  

The Town of Wells is pleased to announce the return of its beloved Summer Concert Series, a free community event held every Saturday evening from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Wells Harbor Park, located at 331 Harbor Road. This year’s concert series will run from June 21 through August 30, 2025, offering residents and visitors eleven weeks of live music in a beautiful outdoor setting.

Concerts take place at the Hope Hobbs Gazebo, where attendees can enjoy performances with scenic harbor views. Bench seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis, and guests are encouraged to bring folding chairs or blankets. All parking at the venue is free.

The 2025 lineup includes a variety of genres and tribute acts sure to appeal to music lovers of all ages. Highlights include performances by Counterfeit Cash (a tribute to Johnny Cash), Tru Diamond (paying tribute to Neil Diamond), and the ever-popular Rockin’ Daddios, Reminisants, and Deep Blue C Studio Orchestra. Please note that there will be no concert on July 19, as the Wells Chamber of Commerce hosts its annual Pow Wow that weekend.

The full 2025 Summer Concert Series schedule is as follows:

• June 21- Counterfeit Cash (Johnny Cash Tribute)
• June 28- The Rockin’ Daddios
• July 5- The Deep Blue C Studio Orchestra
• July 12- The Fossils
• July 19- No concert (Wells Chamber of Commerce Pow Wow)
• July 26- J.C. and the Elvis Experience
• August 2- The Reminisants
• August 9- Tru Diamond (Tribute to Neil Diamond)
• August 16- Club Soda Band
• August 23- New Legacy Swing Band
• August 30- The Party Starters

Whether you're a local resident or visiting the area, the Wells Summer Concert Series is the perfect way to enjoy a Saturday evening with family, friends, and great music by the water.

For more information, visit www.wellstown.org or contact Rebekah Kelley at rkelley@wellstown.org.

Maine is implementing new statewide building codes to make construction of homes and commercial buildings more safe, efficient, and sustainable. These updated codes ensure that all buildings meet modern standards for structural integrity, energy efficiency, and indoor air quality.

What You Need to Know

The updated codes are required by law and apply to both new construction and renovations.

They include improvements to residential and commercial building standards, energy efficiency, and ventilation requirements.

Compliance is required for new buildings and renovations in the state, with training support available for code enforcement officers and builders in multiple locations statewide.

Effective Date: The new codes are effective as of April 7, 2025.

Why These Changes Matter

• Safer Buildings: Improved structural guidelines will help protect homes and businesses from natural disasters and wear over time.
• Energy Efficiency: Improved energy efficiency standards will reduce heating and cooling costs and promote clean energy.
• Healthier Indoor Environments: Better ventilation and radon protection measures will improve indoor air quality.
• Consistency Statewide: A uniform code ensures minimum standards of construction and clarity for builders, contractors, and homeowners.

These updates are effective as of April 7, 2025. For more details, including on upcoming trainings for code enforcement officers and building professionals, visit the State Fire Marshal’s Office website.

Respect Your Septic System

Here are some things you can do to help with the life expectancy of your septic system. What you put in your septic tank will affect its ability to do its job considerably. By educating everybody in your home about what's acceptable and what's not for your septic tank, you can save yourself a lot of headaches and money, prolong the life of your septic system and protect the health of your property, family, and the environment.

Do Enlarge Your Septic System If Needed

If you have plans to add on an addition to your home that will add over 15 percent to the floor area of your home, will increase the number of plumbing fixtures or increase the number of bedrooms, you might need to enlarge your septic system.

Don't Put Hazardous Waste into the System

At all costs, do not put hazardous substances into the system. Never put paint, paint thinners, gasoline or motor oil into your septic system. This is the "kiss of death" to a septic tank.

Do Limit the Number of Solids

Too many solids flushed down your toilet will make your septic tank fill up very fast. You should not put these items into your commode/septic system:

• Cat litter
• Coffee grounds
• Cigarette butts
• Dental floss
• Disposable diapers
• Earplugs
• Sanitary napkins or tampons

Do Install an Effluent Filter

Make sure you install an effluent filter on your septic tank which helps decrease how many solids leave the tank and increases your system's lifespan.

Don't Put Grease or Fat into the System

It may surprise you, but grease and oil can spoil a septic system by clogging up the drain field and polluting the surrounding soil. Polluted soil cannot absorb and process liquids from your system. You may have to replace your septic tank system if you incur serious issues.

Don't Put Any Chemicals into Your System



Don't put chemicals down the drain such as:

• Gasoline
• Insect or weed killers.
• Oil
• Photographic chemicals
• Paint thinners.
• Solvents

How to Tell If Your Septic Tank Is Full



Your septic tank, when maintained correctly, provides an effective way of managing the wastewater your household generates. For septic systems to function properly, they must be regularly pumped. Many individuals aren't sure when this action is necessary.

Some signs it's time to pump your septic tank are:

1. Pooling Water

If you see large pools of water around your septic system's drain field, this could indicate overflowing, particularly if it hasn't rained. When it reaches capacity, your tank's solid waste can clog the field piping system's drain field and force liquid to the surface. Your tank needs to be professionally pumped if you see this.

2. Odors

Along with waste, your septic tank collects gray water from things like:

• Washing dishes
• Showering
• Doing laundry

As the septic tank begins filling up, odor-causing gasses can start emanating from your drains, toilets, drain field or outdoor septic tank area. If you start noticing strange odors outside or inside your home, it could mean your septic tank is full and needs draining.

3. Sewage Backup

A full septic tank can result in a foul sewage backup in your toilets, sinks and tubs. If you allow this problem to escalate further, the sewage can begin flooding your floors and render your house completely uninhabitable and unsafe.

4. Slow Drains

If you notice the drains of your home and toilet flushes continue to be slow after you've tried unclogging them, this could mean you have a full septic tank.

5. Gurgling Water

Another sign you have a full septic tank is if your drains or toilets have gurgling sounding pipes. You'll want a professional to come in and inspect these noises.

6. Lush Lawn

If your lawn is abnormally lush or green, particularly around the drainage field, it could be a sign of a full septic tank that you need to have pumped.

7. Trouble Flushing

Another indication your septic tank may need emptying is if you're having trouble flushing your toilet and it’s not taking in the water you're trying to flush.

Maintaining a Healthy Septic System Is Important

The plumbing and septic systems play a significant role in maintaining the comfort of your home. It's essential you give some thought into these areas and ensure your septic tank is maintained.

If you want the plumbing in your home to work correctly, septic tank maintenance is a must. A forgotten septic system can lead to major blockages, backups and even wastewater overflowing. You'll want to invest in routine septic system service to avoid these types of issues.

HarborFest, Wells’ biggest summer celebration, returns for its 11th year on Saturday, July 26, 2025, bringing a full day of free, family-friendly fun to Wells Harbor Community Park. The event will take place from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at 331 Harbor Road, with overflow parking available at Wells Junior High School (1470 Post Road) and a free shuttle transporting guests to and from the park throughout the day.

Each year, HarborFest draws over a thousand visitors with its exciting lineup of activities, live entertainment, and community spirit. The event will feature live music, dancing, food trucks, touch tanks, glitter tattoos, axe throwing, kite making, and a sandcastle building area. Families can enjoy the bounce house, bubble soccer, and hands-on marine life demonstrations, while classic car enthusiasts will appreciate the antique car display. The Wells Police and Fire Departments will be on site offering live demonstrations, including a canine demonstration from the Wells Police K-9 unit. Crabbing, ice cream, and interactive games will be available for guests of all ages to enjoy.

A major highlight of the day is the 11th Annual Doughnut Eating Contest, sponsored by Congdon’s Doughnuts, which will take place at 2:00 p.m. Throughout the day, attendees can also test their strength and skill in the World Championship Lobster Trap Toss Contest, with cash prizes awarded for first, second, and third place.

All activities are free and open to the public. Guests are encouraged to bring their families and friends to this annual community tradition.

For more information about HarborFest or to inquire about volunteer and vendor opportunities, please contact Rebekah Kelley at rkelley@wellstown.org or by phone at (207) 361-8130.

HarborFest 2025: Calling All Kid Entrepreneurs!

This year’s HarborFest on Saturday, July 26 will feature a new Children’s Entrepreneur Market, and we’re looking for young business owners to join us! If you know a creative, hardworking kid who makes crafts, art, treats, or other goodies, encourage them to sign up and be part of Wells’ biggest summer celebration.

To learn more or register, contact Rebekah Kelley at rkelley@wellstown.org or (207) 361-8130 or visiting the Wells Children's Entrepreneur Market webpage.

Step back in time and join the Wells Ogunquit Historical Society for a lively celebration as Wells welcomes the Marquis de Lafayette! On June 24, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Wells Junior High School, the Historical Society of Wells and Ogunquit will host a colorful reenactment of Lafayette’s historic 1825 visit, when he toured all 24 states as the “Nation’s Guest” at the invitation of President James Monroe. As the last living American general from the War of Independence and an ever-faithful friend to our country, the Marquis was greeted like a rock star at every stop on his tour. During his brief but memorable stop in Wells, Lafayette was greeted by state and local officials and dined at the Lindsey Tavern.

To commemorate the bicentennial, the American Friends of Lafayette are reenacting the General's thirteen-month triumphant tour through the then-existing 24 states, in the exact order he traveled in 1824 and 1825. A bona fide Lafayette costumed interpreter and his entourage will visit Wells on June 24, just as he did 200 years ago, arriving in grand style and greeted with plenty of cheer. Fife and drum musicians will add to the festive fanfare, and costumes are encouraged, although not required. The Marquis himself will also host a short meet-and-greet and take photos with visitors—a perfect chance to capture the moment! Join us and be a part of this vibrant family-friendly celebration, where history comes to life!

Summer Fun at Wells Public Library



Our favorite time of year has arrived: Summer Reading Season! This year’s Summer Reading theme is Level Up at Your Library, and we have lots of fun planned for patrons of all ages.

Summer Reading Kick-Off

Saturday, June 14th from 10:30-12:30 PM

To mark the beginning of Summer Reading, we are having a celebration with outdoor games, bubbles, sidewalk chalk, and more. Come to sign-up for the Level Up program - stay for the party! Andrew Silver of the Silver Circus will be joining us at 11:00am for a hilarious, high-energy performance.

Flying High Dogs

Friday, June 20th at 11 AM

Come watch some of the most athletic Border Collies you will ever see! Mike Piazza and his team of dogs are multiple world finalists and world record holders in the sport of K-9 frisbee. Get ready to watch some amazing animals – and help through audience participation!

Craft Projects with Common Roots Studio

Monday, June 23rd at 2 PM

Nick from Common Roots studio is joining us again! This drop-in event will have crafts for all ages. Come by and make a craft or choose to make one of each! All supplies will be provided.

Opera Maine Presents

Tuesday, June 10th at 6 PM

Join Opera Maine with dramaturg Calien Lewis for a special presentation to talk about Opera Maine's summer season, featuring Sondheim's Sweeney Todd and the contemporary opera Paul's Case.

Adult Crafternoon: Follow Along Lighthouse Painting

Thursday, June 19th at 2PM

This month, we will follow an online tutorial to paint a lighthouse! All supplies will be provided. This free event is sponsored by the Friends of the Wells Public Library. Please note: Registration is required for this event.

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
• Comprehensive Plan Update Committee - 2 member vacancies
• Conservation Commission- 1 alternate member vacancy
• Energy Advisory Committee- 1 alternate member vacancy
• Lodging Facility Advisory Committee- 1 alternate member vacancy
• Personnel Advisory Board- 1 member vacancy
• Shellfish Conservation Commission - 1 alternate member vacancy

Learn more about each Board and Committee here.

June 2025 Programs at Wells Reserve at Laudholm

Tuesday, June 3, 7-10am

Bird Banding Demonstration

Come visit our bird banding station! Weather permitting, find the bird banders just beyond the porch of the Coastal Ecology Center or under the large copper beech tree on campus ready to share their avian research with you. Learn about the data they record, and the fascinating natural history of the birds temporarily caught in the researchers’ mist nets. Banding will occur on Tuesday mornings (with the rain date of Wednesday) from June 3 – August 5. The most opportune time to visit the bird banding demonstration is between 7:30 and 9:30am. Free with site admission.

Wednesday, June 4, 12-1pm

Poisoning the Well: How Forever Chemicals Contaminated America

Award-winning environmental journalist Sharon Udasin will present her new book, Poisoning the Well: How Forever Chemicals Contaminated America, which traces an ugly history of corporate greed, military impunity and community devastation, based on original reporting in four highly contaminated places. The book introduces readers to people who, while fighting for their own livelihoods, take action to fix a broken regulatory system. Among those individuals are several Maine farmers and residents, who will join Sharon in a discussion following her presentation. Join us in Mather Auditorium. Preregistration is not required. Suggested donation: $5/person. 

Saturday, June 7, 7-10am

Birding by Ear

Expert bird mimic Dan Gardoqui will help you connect with birds you can't see by getting to know their songs and calls (as well as what they're saying). In this program, we'll do a little exploring on foot, but a lot more listening with our ears. Dan can help you learn the calls by mimicking them for the group as you hear and see the actual birds in the field. If you're experienced with visual bird identification, this course will be a good next step in building your birding skills. All are welcome. This program is co-sponsored by York County Audubon and Wells Reserve, with members of either organization (and Maine Audubon) receiving the discounted program pricing. $40/$32. Preregistration required at suzanne@wellsnerr.org or (207) 646-1555 x116.

Sunday, June 8. 9am-12pm

Sunday Kayaking on the Little River Estuary

Come explore where the river meets the sea—by kayak! Paddle the quiet waters of the Reserve’s estuary while watching for wildlife and learning about this treasured habitat. This is a relaxing paddling experience appropriate for all levels of kayaking ability. Minimum age is 12, and 12-15 year olds must be accompanied by an adult. Maximum number of participants is 4, providing the added value of a smaller group experience. Weather dependent. $80/$64. Preregistration required at www.wellsreserve.org. Please note: Program fee does not include site admission fee.

Monday, June 9, 10am-12pm

Mindful Experience

Slow down and open yourself to the sights, sounds and scents surrounding you on the Laudholm Campus of the Wells Reserve. With heightened awareness as our goal, we will practice slow and quiet walking, using our senses in different ways. This is a peaceful, guided experience which teaches mindful practices that can be applied at home. This program is geared towards adults, but is appropriate for ages 12 and up. $8/$6. Preregistration required: linda@wellsnerr.org or (207) 646-1555 x128. Please note: Program fee does not include site admission fee.

Tuesday, June 10, 7:30-9:30pm

Full Moon Walk

Dress for the weather and join Maine Master Naturalist Linda Littlefield Grenfell for a slow and quiet walk to the beach. We’ll watch the sun set over the fields and the moon rise over the ocean, while sharing stories and poems. Come enjoy the Reserve after dark, while bathed in sunset glow and moonlight! Bring the family--children who can be calm will love it. $8/$6 (individual) or $20/$15 (family). Preregistration required: linda@wellsnerr.org or (207) 646-1555 x128. Please note: Program fee does not include site admission fee. Learn more at wellsreserve.org/calendar.

Wednesday, June 11, 12-1pm

Meet the Scientist: Planning for the Future of Southern Maine’s Coastal Marshes

Tidal marshes are vital to Maine’s wildlife, fisheries, and coastal communities, but historical development and rising sea levels now threaten their future. At the Wells Reserve, scientists and partners are working to reverse these trends and restore these critical ecosystems. Join Jacob Aman, Director of Stewardship at the Wells Reserve, for a look at current efforts to enhance salt marshes in southern Maine and the tools being used to plan for the future. Preregistration is not required. Suggested donation: $5/person. Learn more at wellsreserve.org/calendar.

Thursday, June 12, 10:30-11:30am

Preschool Story Hour: Over in a River: Flowing Out to the Sea

Join Education Director Suzanne Kahn for a reading of Marianne Berke’s Over in a River: Flowing Out to the Sea, followed by a related craft activity and outdoor discovery time! This program is geared towards ages 3 to 5 and their caregivers. Preregistration required at suzanne@wellsnerr.org or (207) 646-1555 x116. Free with site admission.

Friday, June 13, 10am-12pm

Wild Wonder Forest Bathing

Forest Bathing is an immersive sensory experience exploring nature at a leisurely pace. A burgeoning body of evidence has shown that spending time in natural places improves the health and well-being of humans young and old. “Trees are little furnaces, showering us with invisible phytoncide aerosols that have the effect of boosting our immune systems and decreasing cortisol levels, blood pressure, and heart rate. They do wonders for your spirit and mental wellness. But you don’t really need science to tell you; you feel it,” says leader Jennifer Comeau. $20/$16. Preregistration required at suzanne@wellsnerr.org or (207) 646-1555 x116. Please note: Program fee does not include site admission fee.

Saturday, June 14, 7:30-9:30am

Bird Walk

Join York County Audubon birders every other Saturday this summer, May 17-August 9, for a guided bird walk around the Reserve property. Beginners are welcome. Please bring binoculars if you have them. Space is limited, and pre-registration required at suzanne@wellsnerr.org or (207) 646-1555 x116. Free with site admission.

Tuesday, June 17, 10am-12pm

Piping Plover Walk & Talk

In 1981 there were only seven pairs of piping plovers in the entire state of Maine. After decades of hard work and dedication, in 2023 there was a record 157 pairs recorded! Come learn about this federally threatened and state endangered beach-nesting shorebird and what makes it so special. Helen Manning, a Biological Science Technician from Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge, will lead an educational walk on the Wells Reserve’s Laudholm Beach to discuss the biology of the piping plover and the monitoring and management efforts that have helped this species begin to make a recovery. Free with site admission. Preregistration required at suzanne@wellsnerr.org or (207) 646-1555 x116.

Tuesday, June 17, 7-8:15pm

Iceland: Land of the Midnight Sun and Magnificent Birds – with Shawn Carey – preceded by (brief!) Annual Meeting

Iceland abounds in natural splendor: Waterfalls and glaciers, panoramic views and otherworldly landscapes. During the summer months, Iceland’s round-the-clock sunlight draws in a panoply of birds. Come along with wildlife photographer and Mass Audubon instructor Shawn Carey as he shares images and stories from his journey spent on two Icelandic islands. This program is presented by York County Audubon, in person at Mather Auditorium at the Wells Reserve at Laudholm and on Zoom. Free and open to all ages, and no registration is required for attending the program in person. Registration required for Zoom link: wellsreserve.org/calendar.

Wednesday, June 18, 12-1pm

Planting for Climate Resilience in Northeast Landscapes (on Zoom).

Join us for a presentation from Tyler Refsland, Manager of Applied Ecology at the Wild Seed Project (WSP) on the benefits native plants offer in the age of climate change. When native plant communities are re-established and maintained with ecologically attuned landscaping practices, they can minimize flooding and stormwater runoff, shade and cool concrete-heavy areas, survive droughts, and facilitate carbon storage more effectively than the landscapes dominated by turf and mulch that blanket so many of our communities. We may not be able to garden our way out of climate change, but what we do at home matters. Cost: Free. Preregistration required for Zoom link at wellsreserve.org/calendar.

Tuesday, June 24. 10am-3pm

Dwellers of the Wells Reserve

Facilitated by artist Eric Gold, Dwellers of the Wells Reserve is a community-created, large-scale portrait project showcasing animals found at the Wells Reserve. People of all ages and abilities are invited to paint a small segment of the portrait. We will sit together in groups to make art in community while discussing themes of habitat conservation and the animals we are painting. Participation in the project takes an hour or less. Available painting sessions are at 10am, 11am, 12pm, 1pm, and 2pm. Minimum age is 5, accompanied by an adult. Preregistration is required at suzanne@wellsnerr.org or (207) 646-1555 x116. Free with site admission.

Saturday, June 28, 7:30-9:30am

Bird Walk

Join York County Audubon birders every other Saturday this summer, May 17-August 9, for a guided bird walk around the Reserve property. Beginners are welcome. Please bring binoculars if you have them. Space is limited, and pre-registration required at suzanne@wellsnerr.org or (207) 646-1555 x116. Free with site admission.

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.

Current Opportunities:

• Police Officer
• Recreation Program Coordinator

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.

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.