As the days grow longer and spring approaches, there’s plenty happening in Wells! This month’s newsletter is packed with updates on town initiatives, upcoming programs, and ways to get involved. From exciting offerings at the Wells Public Library, to welcoming new staff members, to important potential ordinance changes heading to the June Town Meeting, we’ve got you covered.


The budget process is also moving forward, with the Budget Review Committee finalizing recommendations ahead of a public hearing. Meanwhile, work continues on the WEMS-FD merger and the seasonal hiring process has begun.


Whether you're looking to attend a community event, stay informed on town decisions, or just find your next great read, we hope this newsletter helps you stay connected to all that’s happening in Wells.

Happy March!

Daylight Savings Reminder! 

We are just a few days out from the start of daylight saving time, beginning on Sunday, March 9th. Don’t forget to set your clocks ahead one hour and enjoy the later sunsets.

Winter in Wells Harbor: snow, ice, and upcoming events!

Michael Yorke, Harbormaster

February has proven to be difficult to get around in Wells Harbor, snow bankings have choked the parking lot with little room left to park. Other than a few Lobsterman and hardy photographers, visitation is down to a trickle. On Valentine's Day, Hobbs Harborside reopened and appears to have plenty of visitors viewing the ice flows coming and going while dining.

The potential dredge and dune restoration has been put on hold, pending future funding by FEMA. With the agency's future hanging in the balance, FEMA has requested proposals to have funding in place, before the project starts.


On March 2nd, Rett's Roost will be hosting a polar plunge at Harbor Beach. Those hardy individuals who would like to join in the fun, should arrive by 11:00 A.M. for an anticipated 11:30 plunge. Spectators are always encouraged to cheer on the participants.


The invoices for the 2025 boating season are being mailed out at the time of writing. Like every year, boats can assume their usual mooring, after invoices are paid in full, and after May1, 2025.

Let’s all hope for a break in the weather as Meteorological Winter nears an end!

Plunge for Cause!


The 4th Annual Behold the Cold Polar Plunge in support of Rett’s Roost is coming to Wells Harbor on Sunday, March 2, at 11 AM! Participants will take the plunge to support Rett’s Roost’s mission to be a source of hope and healing for families impacted by childhood cancer and child loss. The group plunge is set for 11:30 AM, with a weather contingency date of March 9 at 10 AM. While the Town of Wells is not hosting this event, residents should be aware of increased activity in the area. Those interested in participating can find more information and register below.

Register Today

Give the gift of your time and join our Beach Clean Up

Are you interested in making a difference in your community, our beaches, and the planet? Plan now to attend the Wells Beach Cleanup on Saturday, April 19th, 2025 starting at 10 AM.



Volunteers will meet at Wells High School this year- 200 Sanford Road- at 10 AM, and then break into groups to disperse to Wells Harbor, Wells Beach and Drake's Island Beach for the clean up. The event is hosted by the Wells Police Department. To RSVP, please email Saundra at beachcleanup@yahoo.com with your name and the number of people in your group that will be attending by April 12th.


Beach lovers of all ages are welcome! Supplies, including gloves will be provided. If you have a reach extender of your own that you would like to bring to collect the litter, you are encouraged to do so.



Let’s plan to have some fun and enjoy some free Congdon’s Donuts! Help make a difference to our environment.

Did You Know?


Did you know the library has museum passes available for local attractions? The Brick Store Museum, the Children's Museum of Maine, the Children's Museum of New Hampshire, the Portland Museum of Art, the Ogunquit Museum of American Art, the Southworth Planetarium, and Historic New England can be visited for free or at a discount. We thank the Friends of the Wells Library for providing the support for these passes. Contact the library for more information.

What's happening at the Library this March?

Allison Herman, Interim Library Director

Adult Book Bags



Looking for a new book or author? One of our recurring programs is our Adult Book Bag Sign-Up. Library card holders who are 18+ can register on our event calendar or by scanning the QR code. Then an email will be sent with a survey to fill out regarding reading preferences. Each bag contains two library books personally chosen by a librarian, and some extra goodies to keep. Limited to 24 registrants, so sign up soon!

Mainely Ticks Presentation


On Thursday, March 20th at 5:30, Mainely Ticks will share strategies to better protect your family from the ever-increasing threat of ticks and tick-borne diseases. Items discussed will include personal protection strategies, landscape modifications and the life cycle of the deer tick. No registration necessary.

 

Weekly Storytimes


Don’t forget about our regularly scheduled programs for kids! We have Mother Goose every Monday beginning at 10:30. Children ages 0-24 months and their caregivers are invited to engage in lap activities, rhymes, songs, and fingerplays. Everyone is welcome to stay afterwards to play and make new friends. On Wednesdays we have Toddler Storytime at 10:30 for ages 2-5 and their caregivers. Come for stories, songs, and movement, and finish up with a craft.

Thinking Spring?


Our seed catalog is ready for the warmer weather! Come browse our collection and bring home seeds for wildflowers, summer squash, kale, cucumbers, and more. Each packet comes with info about how to plant the seeds and what to expect from the harvest. Patrons are welcome to pick up to 3 packets of seeds each.


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

Wells Public Library

Wi-Fi Hot Spots Available


Did you know that the Wells Public Library has Wi-Fi HotSpots to check out? Wells cardholders at least 18 years old can check one out for a week at a time. The HotSpots use T-Mobile 5G signal, and up to 10 user devices can connect! Great for remote workers and days when leaving the house is just not in the cards.


Please ask at the circulation desk or call 207-646-8181 to check availability.

Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Update


The budget review process is well underway as the Town moves closer to finalizing the Fiscal Year 2026 Operating and Capital Budget. Over the past several weeks, the Budget Review Committee has been carefully reviewing all department operating and capital budget requests. Once their review is complete, the recommended budget will be returned to the Select Board for further discussion.


Next, a reconciliation meeting between the Select Board and the Budget Review Committee will be scheduled to finalize the budget that will be presented to voters. A public hearing on the proposed Fiscal Year 2026 budget will take place in March, offering residents an opportunity to learn more and provide input before it moves forward for final approval at the June Town Meeting.


Stay tuned for more updates as the budget process progresses!

Run for Local Office: Nomination Papers Available March 3rd

Nomination papers will be available in the Town Clerk's Office starting March 3rd, 2025, for the upcoming Municipal Election on June 10, 2025.


The following positions are open for election:


  • (2) Selectmen – 3-year term
  • (1) Trustee – C.S.D. Committee – 3-year term
  • (2) Trustees – Wells Sanitary District – 3-year term
  • (3) Trustees – Wells Public Library – 3-year term
  • (1) Trustee – KK&W – 3-year term


Interested candidates can pick up nomination papers in the Town Clerk's Office at the Wells Town Hall, located at 208 Sanford Road, Wells.


The deadline to file completed nomination papers is April 11, 2025.


  • For more information, please contact the Town Clerk’s Office at (207) 646-2882.

Motorcycle registration renewal reminder


With nice weather coming, this is a reminder to all residents with motorcycles that motorcycle registrations expire annually in the month of March. Come into the Town Hall to reregister your motorcycle or visit the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles website to renew online.


Please bring your current registration, insurance card and your current mileage with you when you come to reregister.

Proposed ordinance changes for the June 2025 Town Meeting

Mike Livingston, Town Planner & Engineer

  • 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 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.


  • Accessory Dwelling Unit and Affordable Housing ordinance updatescompliance with LD2003.


Moratorium - 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.

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

Fire Codes Uncovered: What You Need to Know (Without the Confusion!)

Mark Dupuis, Fire Chief

Have you ever wondered why an existing building that never had sprinklers might need them under new ownership? Or have you ever wondered why the Fire Department requires some fire protection systems in one place, but a nearby similar building might not? Or have you ever wondered what is a determining factor that decides all these things? And finally, maybe you’ve wondering why it is when you call the department and ask what is needed for a property to meet the Life Safety code, I’m told that they don’t know until it has been designed? 

 

Well, we hope this article will help you better understand how the code works and how we must implement it as the fire authority for the town.

Where Does Wells’ Code Come From?


We must start off with the authority that creates the code requirements. The State of Maine, like so many other states, follows the NFPA Life Safety Code for all buildings, new and current, also known as NFPA 101. NFPA is an acronym for the National Fire Protection Association and the number represents THAT code. In this case we will be discussing 101. It is a national code, and any state can adopt it. Every three years, the code is updated. Once a code is adopted by a state, it becomes law, and every part of the code, including any other codes referenced by the original code becomes a legal requirement for all businesses and homeowners to follow. The state of Maine continues to use the 2018 edition of the code, so any newer codes since 2018 are not valid in Maine. It is not unusual for a state to continue to follow an older edition for years. It is also not unusual for a state to adopt the whole code, or portions of the code, or the entire code with a section removed from the state’s acceptance. For example, the Life Safety Code 2018 edition requires that all residential structures are sprinklered. The State of Maine, however, opted to adopt the chapter without the sprinkler requirements. So, in Maine all single-family homes are not required to be sprinklered unless an individual town makes a decision to require it in a town ordinance. But another state using the same code book might require it, which explains the discrepancies you may bump into depending on where you live or work. 


All communities in Maine will reference this code, and all architectural firms tasked with designing a building for anyone in the state must design it with this code in mind. Other codes, including the electrical code, the International Building Code (IBC) and many others which must be considered in a new building design.

How is NFPA 101 used in Wells?


The Life Safety Code, referred here as NFPA 101, is divided up into many sections or chapters. The first 10 chapters are considered core chapters. The remaining chapters 11 through 42 are in reference to the occupancy type of the building. Each occupancy chapter will reference the core chapters as they pertain to egress, doors, stairs, occupancy load and others. When using the code book, each fire inspector, as well as every design engineer must start with the occupancy chapter of the book. The inspector must know what the occupancy of the building is before he/she can determine if something is compliant or not. For example, a general business office that employs people who work in the building every day has an occupancy that is defined as “Business Occupancy” (Chapters 38 and 39) In the code book, each occupancy has two chapters. One is for “new” and the other is for “existing.” Existing means that any building that has been in place prior to the day of inspection. In addition, any new business includes not only any new building that has been built, but it also includes any existing building that is planned to be changed to something different than what it was meant for originally. This is also considered new. This is where most people are confused. The building might be 50 years old, but if you choose to change the use of the building, that triggers the “new” section of the life safety code and all items within that code must be brought into compliance.

 

For example, if someone wanted to buy a building that was once used as a store, and now wants to turn it into a daycare, the owner and designer must find the chapter on New Daycare Occupancies. Another misunderstanding occurs when people mention being “grandfathered.” NFPA 101 does not and has never recognized grandfathering. When a new code edition comes out the latest edition is now the new code for all buildings. Of course, one would reference the existing portion of the appropriate occupancy code. However, anything that is identified as no longer code compliant must be updated to reflect any new changes. Once the Fire Department conducts an inspection, anything that is found during that inspection not up to the current code whether existing or new, must be changed to meet the code. The fire inspector has no legal authority to allow anything less than the law requires.

How Inspections Keep Wells Safe


When the Fire Department conducts an inspection, they must do their best to look at all aspects of the building. Some buildings are complex, and it is possible a fire inspector misses something. If something is missing and the building is approved as compliant, the building owner must understand that if it is discovered later, the inspector must note the violation and require the owner to make the necessary changes. A good inspector working for a Fire Department and a Town that is business friendly will work with the owner to come up with a time frame to make the change that works for the business owner but still shows a due diligence to comply. If the change is considered extreme or an immediate threat to life if a fire were to occur, then those times may be shortened, or the business may not be allowed to operate again until the issue is resolved. An inspector cannot unsee a violation. Once there is a record of entry and inspection, we must notify the business owner of the violation, and it must be followed through to the end in order to ensure there are no injuries or deaths as a result of the violation.

 

NFPA 101 has many different occupancy classifications. These classifications vary in the level of requirements. A storage or warehouse occupancy is typically much less restrictive than a Night Club or “assembly” occupancy. A residential occupancy is much less restrictive than a hotel occupancy. This is why any inspector must be able to ask the owner what the intended occupancy is or will be. Based on what they are told, they can look up in the Life Safety Code to see which occupancy classification is best suited for the planned use of the building.

 

The intent of the Life Safety Code is in the name, life safety. Buildings that are inherently more dangerous will require more safety devices, such as fire alarm systems, or sprinkler systems. A building that is utilized for lots of people to use, most of which may not be intimately familiar with the building layout, or a building that has dim lighting and /or has live entertainment will be required to be sprinkled and alarmed based on these criteria. A small storage building will not have those same requirements, unless the building begins to exceed a certain size. This is explained in each occupancy chapter. And each occupancy chapter is laid out in the same format, so it is easy to find the area of concern in each and every chapter.

 

And finally, many business owners will call the Fire Department and ask the department to tell them what they need to do in their “new-to-them” building. We try to help if the question is concise or specific, however if we are asked to tell them all they need to make their business compliant, we are unable to do this for the owner. This requires building plans, dimensions, construction details etc., which is beyond the scope of our capabilities, requirements and available time. That job is for design professionals. 

 

As a final step, anyone who wishes to make changes to their building or home must always reach out to the Wells Code Enforcement Office. Calling the Fire Department will only get you transferred to Town Hall as Wells does not have an inspection division within the Fire Department. Also, please be aware that fire alarms and sprinkler system plans must be submitted to the State Fire Marshal’s office, but still must coordinate with the Code Office. This ensures that the town is involved in all processes to ensure the business owner is not subjected to problems later.


If you have any further questions regarding the fire code, please contact the Fire Chief at 207-646-7912.  

Salt and Sand Mix Available for Residents


With the recent storms, we want to remind Wells residents that salt and sand mix is available at the Public Works Facility, located at 577 North Berwick Rd, Wells, ME. The mix is located in the shed adjacent to the salt building.


You can take up to two 5 gallon buckets at a time. Please bring your own shovel!

Stay Safe: Tips to Spot and Stop Scammers from Wells Police

Jo-Ann Putnam, Police Chief

Unfortunately, we continue to receive reports of people being scammed out of their hard-earned money far too often. Scammers are constantly finding new ways to target individuals, and they use a variety of methods to do so. These scams can happen through the mail, over the phone, via email, and even in person.

Please be cautious and keep these tips in mind:



  1. Suspicious Calls: If someone claims to be a relative or says they are calling on behalf of a relative, hang up and contact your relative directly to verify the claim.
  2. Money Offers and Gift Cards: If someone offers you money or asks you to purchase gift cards, hang up immediately or do not respond to the message through mail or email.



Your safety and security are important to us, and staying alert can help prevent these scammers from taking advantage of you or your loved ones.

Please share this information and the following from the Social Security Administration with your family and friends to help protect them as well.

On National Slam the Scam Day and throughout the year, we give you the tools to recognize Social Security-related scams and stop scammers from stealing your money and personal information. 

Help protect your loved ones and people in your community this Slam the Scam Day by: 


  • Learning about the latest scams. Information can empower you to quickly recognize a scam. Signs of a scam include:
  • An unexpected problem or offer of a prize or benefit increase,
  • Pressure to act immediately, and
  • A request for an unusual payment like cryptocurrency, gift cards, gold bars, and wire transfers, even with the promise of keeping your money “safe.”
  • Reporting scams as soon as possible. Victims shouldn’t be embarrassed if they shared personal information or suffered a financial loss. We are all vulnerable. 
  • Sharing our Scam Alert  fact sheet and helping educate others about how to protect themselves.  



Report Social Security-related scams to the Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General (OIG). 

Visit www.ssa.gov/scam for more information and follow SSA OIG on Facebook, X, and LinkedIn to stay up to date on the latest scam tactics. Repost #SlamtheScam information on social media to keep your friends and family safe. 

Report a Scam

Wells gives a warm welcome to new Police Department staff members

Please join us in welcoming the two newest members of the Wells Police Department! Officer Abaigeal Gilman and Officer Patrick Breslin were officially sworn in last month and are looking forward to starting their law enforcement careers.

Name: Abaigeal Gilman

Department: Wells Police Department

Position: Patrol Officer


Working as a police officer has been my childhood dream ever since I can remember. I can’t picture working in any other profession. To finally achieve my dream seems unreal. I grew up in Wells here over the summers as a seasonal resident so I’ve always had a love for this community. I’m ecstatic to serve and build a relationship with the residents in Wells. I started at Wells PD three summers ago as a community service officer and have worked as a reserve officer for two summers. I have grown to love the town and the personal connection I have with fellow officers.


About Me:

Growing up in a law enforcement family it was inevitable I landed in this field of work but that is not the only thing that defines me. I come from a small family who I am grateful for their support on my journey. In my free time, I enjoy riding motorcycles, snowmobiling, and snowboarding all with my boyfriend by my side. I recently earned my Bachelor Degree in Criminal Justice a year early while playing sports at the collegiate level. I also love spending time with my pets. In the summer if I’m not working you can find me at the lake jet skiing and swimming. I also love a good shopping spree. 

Name: Patrick Breslin

Department: Wells Police Department

Position: Patrol Officer


I have wanted to be a police officer for as long as I can remember. Wells is an amazing community with great people and I am looking forward to working with everyone in the town and all that visit.


About Me: In my free time I enjoy golfing and fishing.

The Town of Wells is fortunate to have Officer Gilman and Officer Breslin join our staff and we are confident they will shine in their new roles. We wish you all the best!

Spring Thaw Road Policy in effect through April 11th


The Spring Thaw Road Policy has been posted and will be in effect from February 24, 2025, through April 11, 2025. 


A list of roads with posted weight restrictions (prohibiting heavy loads over 23,000 lbs gross registered weight) can be found here:

Spring Thaw Road Policy

WEMS FD Strategic Planning Group Update


Work continues on the exploration of a potential merger between Wells Emergency Medical Services (WEMS) and the Wells Fire Department. Eight focus groups have been formed to evaluate key areas such as communications, financials, personnel, facilities, equipment, legal considerations, and labor relations.


As part of the process, a SWOT Analysis has been conducted. Discussions remain focused on ensuring high-quality emergency services, operational efficiency, and financial sustainability.


The next Strategic Planning Group Meeting is scheduled for March 10, where updates on findings and next steps will be discussed.

Code Office reminds residents to display visible house numbers

Do you have clear, easy to see numbers on your home to identify your address in an emergency?


When you are in distress and our first responders need to ask questions, you may be frustrated and scared for yourself or a family member, feeling we are wasting time. Rest assured that emergency services are headed towards you. But sometimes what you feel is simple to find may be because you are more familiar with your neighborhood and surroundings then we are. Sometimes the emergency is not visible from the outside of the building, especially medical emergencies and you may not be able to come out and flag us down.

 

The Wells Code §201-4 requires that all buildings be numbered. This is so that in an emergency Fire, Police, Ambulance or another emergency services can find you. The Code Enforcement Office is required to insure your house/property is visible numbered from the street. 

 

The Code requires that the numbers be displayed near or upon the front door and be clearly visible from the road. All numbers shall be in Arabic letters no less than 3 inches in height and a minimum of a half inch stroke and shall contrast in color with the building or background to which they are attached.

 

Houses or buildings that are set back and not visible from the road shall post a sign at the driveway entrance upon which shall be affixed the specific numbers in accordance with the numbering policy.

 

Please call us is you have any questions or would like our expertise as to where it would be best to affix the number identifying your property if your house number cannot be seen from the street.

Excise Tax explained by our Finance Department

What is excise tax? 


Excise tax is one of the major sources of revenue collected by the department. It is an annual local town tax that is paid to the community where the vehicle resides for over six (6) months of the year. Except for a few statutory exemptions, all vehicles registered in the State of Maine are subject to excise tax.  Registrants must always come to Town Hall first to pay their excise tax. They then have the option to register the vehicle at Town Hall or to go to a Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) branch to complete the registration.

 

The same excise tax calculation formula is used by all municipalities in Maine so that everyone that owns the same year, make, model and vehicle with similar upgrades or options will all pay the same excise tax. Excise tax is computed using the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the year the vehicle was produced less destination multiplied by the tax rate.  The tax rates for all vehicles start at the year of production and then decrease for the next five years. A vehicle reaches the lowest excise tax rate once it is 6 years of age or older from the production year. 


When looking to purchase a new or used vehicle remember that you can call the office to get an estimated excise tax amount.

Exemption Forms Due April 1st


Reminder: all Homestead, Veterans, and Blind exemption forms are due by April 1st. For copies and links to these forms, please visit the Assessing Department homepage. 

Seasonal Staff hiring process begins for Summer 2025

The Town of Wells is now hiring for a variety of seasonal positions.


Summer Reserve Police Officers and Community Service Officers


  • The Town of Wells is now accepting applications for the positions of Summer Reserve Police Officers & Community Service Officers (CSO), for the 2025 season. The police positions include bike, foot, or cruiser patrol. Officers are required to work various shifts including nights, weekends and holidays. The community service officers will support police operations and work in the beach areas assisting citizens with parking and other duties to include town ordinance enforcement. 
  • All positions have an anticipated start in mid-May 2025. 


Day Counselors for Grades 1-6


  • We are looking for Day Camp Counselors to supervise young campers to make sure they learn and have fun. The most important of all Camp Counselor duties is to ensure campers are always safe. You’ll be responsible for overseeing camper games and activities. The job duties of a Camp Counselor also include organizing summer camp games, educating campers, ensuring campers are following rules and setting up equipment. If you love to work with children, are patient, enjoy working outdoors, energetic, and stern when needed, we’d like to meet you!  

Seasonal Lifeguards


Wells Ocean Rescue is now hiring for the 2025 season. Wells lifeguards watch over the tens of thousands of visitors to our beautiful beaches from June through September. This is a fulfilling position, in which you play a critical role in ensuring the safety of others and are a key member of our community.


  • Paid Workouts
  • Paid certifications
  • Paid 45 minute breaks
  • No experience necessary
  • Must be 16+
  • Starting pay, $19.50-$24.00 based on experience


Applicants must be 16 years of age.


Interested in applying? Fill out an application below and email it to employment@wellstown.org



Community Partners: Stay; For Life public presentation

Join Stay; For Life at the Wells High School Auditorium on Wednesday, March 26th, 2025 at 6:30 PM, where Angela will offer her insights on the critical importance of mental health awareness and suicide prevention. She will also share her journey as a mother who lost her son to suicide.


Attendees will be provided with practical strategies and resources to facilitate mental health awareness and navigate difficult situations such as suicidal ideation.

The event is FREE, and donations are welcome.

Stay For Life

Current Board and Committee vacancies available: apply today!

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 of Assessment Review - 2 alternate member vacancies
  • Budget Committee - 2 alternate member vacancies
  • Comprehensive Plan Update Committee - 1 member vacancy
  • Conservation Commission- 1 alternate 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


Learn more about each Board and Committee here.

Apply Now

Wells Reserve plans for March programs for the whole family

Make a Difference:

Volunteer Info Session


Get Involved! Become a Volunteer: Zoom Info Session.

Details: Wednesday, March 5, 12-1pm


Volunteers are vital to our success. Can you help? Whether welcoming visitors, guiding school groups, or assisting with community science initiatives, there are so many ways to get involved. Join Wells Reserve staff and volunteers for a virtual conversation and find out how you can make a difference. We are grateful for our volunteers!


For questions, contact Lynne Benoit at lbenoit@wellsnerr.org or 207-646-1555 x 118.

Register

WELLS RESERVE AT LAUDHOLM MARCH 2025 PROGRAMS


Tuesdays, March 4-April 29, 8-9:15am

Morning Yoga Series (Virtual) Begin your day with a gentle Hatha yoga class designed to increase your strength, flexibility, endurance, focus, and concentration. This is a 9-week Tuesday morning series beginning on March 4 and ending on April 29. All classes will be held online on Zoom. $108/ $90 for the series. Preregistration required at suzanne@wellsnerr.org or 207-646-1555 x 116.

 

Wednesday, March 5, 10:30am-12pm

Wednesday Walk

Join Norma Fox, certified interpretive guide and Wells Reserve docent and ranger, for a series of walks designed to help you get outside and enjoy nature throughout the changing seasons. Wednesday walks run bi-weekly through April. A variety of trails and topics will be incorporated, so repeat participation is most welcome. This walk is geared towards adults, but ages 12 and older are welcome. Free. Preregistration required at caryn@wellsnerr.org or (207) 646-1555 x110.


Friday March 7, 1:30-4:30pm 

Art in Nature: Block Printing Workshop

Join us for an afternoon of creativity! Learn the fun and easy technique of block printing and create your own design and final products. No experience necessary. All materials provided. We will have examples and inspiration relating to the flora and fauna of Maine to help you get started. Participants will leave with their own block print, new skills, a set of their own handmade greeting cards, and a beautiful tote bag. Geared toward ages 16+. $20/$16. Preregistration required at caryn@wellsnerr.org or (207) 646-1555 x110.

 

Saturday, March 8, 10am-12:30pm

Bare Trees & Naked Shrubs: Woody Plant ID

Join this late-winter walk focused on identifying woody plants during the colder months, when many trees and shrubs have shed their leaves. Discover how to identify plants by their branching patterns, bark, buds, galls, and any persistent fruits that remain throughout the season. Learn not only plant ID techniques but also the fascinating natural history and folklore about the plants we see. This program is appropriate for ages 16+. $13/$10. Preregistration required at suzanne@wellsnerr.org or (207) 646-1555 x116.

 

Monday, March 10, 12-1pm

Lunch & Learn: Protecting Infrastructure from Storm Surge and Floods

The financial and human cost of storms continues to increase. The oceans and atmosphere are warming and that means more energy to create powerful storms. Sea level rise also creates new challenges for low-lying coastal communities and tidal areas. In this presentation, engineer Rob Kibler will look at a variety of water control methods utilized by cities, airports, highways and rail yards, as well as products for the at-risk homeowner. Preregistration is not required. Suggested donation: $5/person.

 

Thursday, March 13, 9:30am-12:30 PM

Caring for Grief with Compassion and Nature

Grief touches all of us, yet we are often unsupported to navigate it. In this workshop, participants learn how to create a space of compassion for grief to care for it and build resilience. The workshop teaches compassion, awareness, and nature as resources for grief. Led by Elizabeth Straka, local author, therapist, and compassion-focused grief educator. Session begins in the Coastal Resource Library. Weather permitting, participants move outdoors for a healing walk. Free. Preregistration required at edgesofgrief@yahoo.com or (207) 408-5657.

 

Friday March 14, 7:00-8:45pm

Full Moon Walk

Join us for a peaceful walk on the trails to the beach after dark. We hope to catch the last colors of sunset and the full moon. Please come prepared for the trail and weather conditions. Families with children ages 12+ welcome. $8/$6 (individuals) $20/$15 (families). Preregistration required at caryn@wellsnerr.org or (207) 646-1555 x110. Learn more at wellsreserve.org/calendar.

 

Sunday, March 16, 10-11am

Sunday Compassion Grief Walk

A walk to expand awareness, cultivate compassion, and connect with nature as resources for grief. Join us for a guided meditation followed by a nature walk to care for grief as we collectively expand awareness and cultivate compassion. Led by compassion and grief educator Elizabeth Straka. This event will ground your body and gently settle your mind and heart. The walk is neither strenuous nor fast-paced. We will meet outside the barn to begin. Free. Preregistration required at edgesofgrief@yahoo.com or (207) 408-5657. 

 

Tuesday, March 18, 6-8pm

Wingspan Game Night

Join us for an evening of learning and playing the award-winning board game, Wingspan. All are welcome. Wingspan is best suited for ages 10 and up. If you have a copy of the game, please bring it! Free. Preregistration required at lbenoit@wellsnerr.org or 207-646-1555 x118.

 

Tuesday, March 25, 5-7pm

Cribbage Night

Join us on the last Tuesday in March for a fun night of Cribbage. All playing levels welcome. New to the game? Need to sharpen your skills? Experienced players can help. Located in Mather Auditorium at the Wells Reserve. Free. Preregistration required at lbenoit@wellsnerr.org or 207-646-1555 x 118.

 

Thursday, March 27, 10:30-11:30am

Preschool Story Hour with Lyn Smith

Join local author, Lyn Smith for an interactive reading of her two picture books, A Porcupine's Promenade-An Encounter in the Winter Woods and What Makes an Opossum Tick. Each story will be followed by a craft activity and interactive songs. Geared toward ages 3-5 and their caregivers. Free. Preregistration required by emailing suzanne@wellsnerr.org or calling (207) 646-1555 x116.

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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.

Employment Opportunities

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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.

Agendas and Minutes

Beaches

Calendar

Employment Opportunities

Town Code & Charter

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.

Town of Wells

208 Sanford Road

Wells, ME 04090

207-646-5113

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