51 Human Resources & Communications Human Resources Mission Statement “The Human Resources Department will attract and retain qualified, productive, motivated, and dedicated employees who will provide efficient and effective services to the citizens. The Town recognizes that the Town's employees are a considerable resource that requires investment to ensure that we have the talents and skills needed to meet the needs of the Town.” Scope We hired 81 seasonal staff (consisting of new and returning: Police Reserve Officers, Lifeguards, Beach Cleaners, Public Works Laborers and Election Workers), 7 full time new hires: Jordan Miles, Finance Director; Jaime Conte, Payroll/AP Clerk; Aaron Davis, Police Maintenance/Custodian; William Blackwell, Patrol Officer; Thomas Mullaly, Public Works Driver/Operator; Dellas Nason, Public Works Driver/Operator; Jason Lebreton, Wastewater Assistant Mechanic; 12 part time employees (consisting of Per Diem Fire, Call Fire, Fire Police, & General Assistance). We promoted 9 employees to full time: Dimitri Baumann- Code Office; Christopher Boynton, Alex Cirillo, Travis Ramsey, & Dale Stout-Fire Department; Kira Clark-Recreation Department; Gregory Bunce, Noah Poulin, & Cameron Valentine-Police Department. This year we combined the management for Public Works and Wastewater and promoted Christopher White to Director of Public Works/Waste Water and Michael Hersey to Deputy Director of Public Works/ Waste Water. We promoted Elise Chard to Police Chief. We had several big retirements this year: Fire Captain John Fitzpatrick retired on 9/4/21 after 23 years of service; Fire Lieutenant William Young retired on 7/31/21 after 13 years of service; Police Chief Dana Kelley retired on 5/6/22 after 49 years of service; Police Sergeant Gerard Hamilton Jr retired on 12/21/2021 after 30 years of service; Parking Superintendent Joseph Levasseur retired on 5/27/22 after 21 years of service; Public Works Driver/Operator Marc Picard retired on 11/2/21 after 22 years of service; Public Works Foreman Dennis Poisson retired on 4/29/22 after 36 years of service; Public Works Director Joseph Cooper Jr retired on 3/16/22 after 6 years of service; and Waste Water Senior Mechanic Daniel Deshaies retired on 5/2/22 after 29 years of service. We wish them the absolute best as they begin a new chapter! We, like all businesses in the nation, were still feeling the hiring crunch. COVID and the economy created more jobs with less people to fill them. We completed and began the incremental steps to implement the wage study, which included many increases for our Non-Union employees. We also opened discussions with the Public Works and Fire Department Unions to make wage adjustments for those employees, in recognition of the current markets and difficulty hiring specific skills. Responsibilities Employee Recruitment Employee Relations Development & Implementation of Personnel Policies Compensation Contract Negotiations Risk Management Training Terminations Retirements Employee Benefits Internal Administration of Worker’s Compensation
52 The Town employees include a non-unionized workforce that makes up our senior management staff, administrative personnel, and part-time/seasonal staff that is governed by our Personnel Policy. The balance of the full-time workforce is unionized and is governed by their respective collective bargaining agreements. Five Separate Bargaining Units Represent Union Employees Maine Association of Police: Police Command & Patrol Employees International Association of Firefighters: Firefighters/EMTs/Paramedic Employees American Federation of States, County, & Municipal Employees: Public Work’s Employees Old Orchard Beach Wastewater Association: Wastewater Treatment Plant Employees Teamsters Local 340: Town Hall Administrative Support Staff & 2 Custodians Federal & State Mandates Many Federal and State laws impact the work of the Human Resources Department, such as but not limited to, the Maine and Federal Family Medical Leave Acts, the Fair Labor Standards Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the State Workers Compensation laws, and multiple state laws covered in Title 26 of the Maine Revised Statues. The Town is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Job opportunities are listed on the Town’s website, Jobs in Maine, Indeed.com, Town OOB page on Facebook and the Maine Municipal Association website. Communication Mission The mission of the Communications Department is to gather and share information to support and encourage an open, participatory government and an informed community. This department is responsible for providing effective communication with the community to increase the understanding of and support for town programs, policies, and projects, and to develop positive media relations that provide balanced coverage of town issues. To accomplish this mission, the team manages media/external communications, and creates/posts content for the website and town's social media pages. Scope The Communication team consists of Jen Hayes, Executive Assistant, Kim McLaughlin, Town Clerk, and me. We collaborate on Channel 3 to ensure that viewers can watch meetings and have information at hand with the slides shown between recorded meetings. Jen and I have revived our Social Media presence on Facebook and Instagram. We keep up to date information posted and respond to messages timely. The Town has added a YouTube Channel to stream meetings and store important videos. Thanks to the efforts of the OOB Community Friendly Connection, we have an amazing electronic sign at Town Hall. The Team works to keep current information and alerts on the sign regarding meetings, parking bans, & notices. The team works with departments to keep content updated and to send information out to those subscribing to news and announcements. We had lots of support and feedback from residents and business owners on the new branding and logo. The designs were narrowed from 6 to 3 and sent to a vote. We had 494 responses to the survey with 54.5% of them loving 1 design. The tagline that received a landslide of votes was Memories Start Here.
53 The Winning Design: We will be working to implement the new logo and colors into the Town forms, signs, and website. The new website is in development, and we hope to roll it out in early 2023. Respectfully, Fran Beaulieu, Director of Human Resources & Communications Stay Connected:
54 Code Enforcement Office The office of Code Enforcement is responsible for the administration and enforcement of Town ordinances and adopted codes as they relate to land use, building construction and property maintenance as well as Flood Hazard and Shoreland overlay zones. The Code office is also responsible for processing applications and inspecting all development related to construction and business licenses, new and renewal. The Code office serves as staff support for the Zoning Board of Appeals. If required, the Board meets once a month, all applications and mailers are processed, supporting documentation collected and meeting packages prepared for that meeting. The Code office also serves as first contact and educator to the property owners of the Town, developers, contractors and outside agencies. This involves explaining and aiding in the permit process, project development and clarifying zoning and land use ordinances. Respectively Submitted, Rick Haskell, Director of Code Enforcement Type of application # Processed Building permit 467 Electrical permit 360 Plumbing permit 157 Sewer connection permit 32 Subsurface waste (septic system) permit 46 Sign 4 Certificate of occupancy 107 Business license 638 Zoning Board of Appeals 15 Total processed 1826
55 Letter from the Health Officer Once again, the fiscal year has ended, and summer has been quite warm. The Pandemic continues to be a concern, although not as severe as the past two years. Caution should still be taken when out in public. Merchants are still required to disinfect their common surfaces to lessen the chance of spreading germs. Many people are using masks, as a precaution which helps. This can serve as a reminder that health care providers have noted instances of colds, flu, and other illness have been significantly lower, and attribute this to masking, disinfecting, and frequent hand washing. The Brown Tail Moth (BTM)issue has spread more in Maine, and the public is advised to remove any BTM webs, carefully, and dispose of them. The BTM frequently causes severe rashes to people who encounter them. Any webs on trees and shrubs should be removed, (with proper personal protection,) placed in a plastic bag and disposed of in the trash or burned. Do not dispose of it in the woods. Web worms are not as bothersome to humans, but they can defoliate and kill trees and shrubs. Residents are urged to remove all moth nests in trees and shrubs. Mold is a common issue, particularly in the summer. Many areas develop mold due to damp conditions and the absence of sun. When it is found in the home, the origin must be determined and corrected. Cleaning mold can usually be successful by using a good detergent. If bleach is used, never mix it with any detergent. It is advisable to use gloves and a face mask while doing the cleanup. Additionally, mushrooms are more prolific this year. The Public is cautioned not to eat or even handle mushrooms that grow wild. Some mushrooms may be poisonous to pets as well as people. Parents are advised to check their yards before children are allowed to go out to play. Mushrooms appear overnight, Rabies is always a danger when wildlife is present. Wildlife biologists strongly urge the public not to feed, touch, or allow any wildlife in their home. If a wild animal appears to be ill, report it to the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. (IF&W) The local animal control officer does not address wildlife. The bird flu has been prevalent this year. IF&W have cautioned against handling a dead bird without proper personal protection. If a dead eagle is found, please file a report to IF&W. Domestic birds should not be taken outside the home to lessen the possibility of contamination. Another issue is bedbugs, which can be found in beds, under chairs, and in, or under any kind of furniture. Although they do not normally carry disease, they bite, and they are a nuisance. They do not necessarily indicate sanitation issues. Check luggage when returning from a trip to assure they have not tagged along for a “free ride.” A reminder that all domestic animal waste as well as farm animal waste must be disposed of appropriately. Improper disposal can subject people to many illnesses, including Campylobacter, Giardia, and other diseases. Once again, thank you for allowing me to be your Health Officer. It is a pleasure to work with the Town employees, and the residents. Respectfully Submitted, Anita L. Anderson Local Health Officer
56 Town Planner As your Town Planners, our primary responsibility is to coordinate growth and development in Old Orchard Beach through the administration of local, state, and federal laws, regulations, and ordinances. Some of our duties include responding to requests for assistance on land use development questions, reviewing development proposals and plans, production and implementation of the comprehensive plan, development and amendment of zoning ordinances, staff advisor for the Planning Board, Design Review Committee, Comprehensive Plan Committee, and Development Review Committee. Fiscal Year 22 (7/1/21 – 6/30/22) Highlights Increased number of development proposals including double the number of subdivisions compared to FY21. Adoption of first adult use marijuana ordinance. Entire Planning Board up to date on Maine Municipal Association Planning Board education. Successful appeal of proposed FEMA floodplain maps which resulted in reduced floodplain locations and elevations. Continued interest in residential development. Continued increase in the number of active construction sites required to be inspected per the MS4 program. Redevelopment of single-family structures in Ocean Park dropped slightly from the previous two fiscal years. Planning Board: The Planning Board is a 5 regular and 2 alternate member volunteer board appointed by the Town Council. The Planning Board responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the review of subdivisions under State Subdivision law and Old Orchard Beach Subdivision Ordinance, Site Plan Review, Conditional Use applications, Shoreland Zoning permits, and consideration of zoning map and ordinance changes. Below is a summary of proposals considered by the Board during FY22: 0 lot residential cluster development 4 lot residential development Family day care 26 lot and 10-unit residential development Restaurant with drive-thru 25-unit residential development Two nonconforming home expansion in shoreland zone Self-storage unit facility 3-unit residential development Private way Condition compliance review of several subdivisions
57 Contract zone for 8-unit building Add 10th lot to 9 lot residential development 28 lot and 45-unit residential development 72-unit congregate care facility Development revision- 88 condo units to 55 lot residential development 6 lot residential development 2 lot residential development Structure dem and replace in shoreland zone 4-unit apartment building Several subdivision amendments 1 Certificate of Appropriateness for building additions and alterations 6 zoning ordinance amendment proposals Design Review Committee The Design Review Committee (DRC) held six (6) meetings in FY2022 (July 1, 2021 – June 30, 2022). During FY2022 the DRC reviewed and made approval recommendations for one (1) design review certificate for alterations and addition to a structure in the Downtown District 2. The DRC continued to review draft ordinance updates for regulating construction activities and adding design guideline performance standards for the Downtown Districts. There were four (4) administrative reviews for proposals in the Downtown Districts that received an administrative design review certification. Also, the DRC adopted a remote participation policy that allows them to meet remotely during certain situations. Comprehensive Plan Committee A Comprehensive Plan is the adopted official binding document for future development and conservation. The plan sets forth goals; analyzes existing conditions and trends; describes and illustrates a vision for the physical, social, and economic characteristics of Old Orchard Beach in the years ahead; and outlines policies and guidelines intended to implement that vision. Considerable progress was made during 2019 and 2020 until COVID temporarily halted committee meetings and work. Internal work on the Future Land Use Plan and Inventories continued during this time as it is now near completion. It is the staff’s intent to have the full draft completed by the end of 2022. Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System To meet the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permitting requirements, the Town complies with six (6) Minimum Control Measures (MCMs) to manage stormwater. Planning oversees MCM 4, Construction Site Stormwater Runoff Control, and MCM 5, Post-Construction Stormwater Management in New Development and Redevelopment. For FY2022 we monitored twenty (20) projects under construction. Inspections were conducted at construction sites to ensure Erosion and Sedimentation Controls (ESCs) have been installed and maintained as required. These construction projects are greater than an acre, inspections, and Annual PostConstruction Best Management Practice (BMP) Certifications are tracked using an MS4 tracking spreadsheet. Eight (8) sites have post-construction BMPs that discharge to the Town’s MS4. As
58 part of the permitting requirement an MS4 Annual Report is also submitted to the Maine Department of Environmental Protection. We thank all our Board and Committee members for the time and work they voluntarily offer the Town. Respectively Submitted, Jeffrey Hinderliter, Town Planner & Michael Foster, Associate Planner
59 Police Department Please find the 2021-2022 annual report for the Old Orchard Beach Police Department. The 2021- 2022 Uniform Crime reporting statistics are included with this report. With the retirement of Chief Dana Kelly, I was appointed Chief in late June to lead the Police Department. I have been with the department now for 30 years and have held many positions in the department, most recently the Captain of Patrol. I am extremely excited to have the support of the Town Manager, Town Council members, and the Officers of this department in stepping into this position. I am extremely grateful and excited for the opportunity. There has been a slight increase in crime this year in the area of assault and Larceny. These crimes tend to increase with substance use. We also had a slight increase in liquor law violations and DUI related arrests. We continue to investigate and arrest drug-related crimes and with the availability of each Officer having the ability to use Narcan our drug-related deaths have declined although our overdose-related calls have not declined. In February we were able to secure the funding and hire a Social Services Navigator who has been able to assist our Officers tremendously. This position assists the Officers on patrol with mental health, calls for service, adult protective, homelessness, people in crisis and offers assistance for those dealing with substance abuse. Our SSN has collaborated with the Recreation department as well and started a community closet to assist those people in need in our community. The position has also helped with the Officers and Fire personnel who have and continue to deal with sensitive calls for service in which they may need assistance in speaking with someone. This has been well received and the position continues to grow. We have hired three new officers this year, Officer William Blackwell, Officer Noah Poulin and Officer Cameron Valentine. These officers are a great asset to our department, and we are pleased to have them on our team. The Officers of this department are motivated, educated, and proud to be serving here in Old Orchard Beach. We continue to be more innovative in our approach to best serving the members of this community and as always, we strive to give our community the best possible service and dedication it deserves. Respectfully submitted, Chief Elise Chard
60 POLICE DEPARTMENT ANNUAL REPORT (2021-2022) CRIME ANALYSIS REPORT 7/1/2021-6/30/2022 July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May June Totals Kidnapping/Abduction 1 1 Rape 3 1 1 5 Fondling 1 1 2 1 5 Robbery 1 1 Aggravated Assault 3 1 1 2 1 1 4 13 Simple Assault 30 27 11 5 2 2 12 5 10 3 16 17 140 Intimidation 10 9 6 5 3 2 1 1 2 2 5 46 Burglary/Break-Entering 1 4 2 3 5 1 16 Shoplifting 3 2 1 1 1 1 4 1 14 Theft from MV 1 2 1 1 1 2 2 10 All Other Larceny 18 13 13 16 6 8 3 3 3 5 5 8 101 Motor Vehicle Theft 2 2 1 2 2 9 Counterfeiting/ Forgery 1 10 2 4 1 4 22 False Pretenses/Swindle 2 4 1 2 4 7 3 1 24 Credit Card/Automatic Teller 1 2 1 3 7 Impersonation 1 1 2 Welfare Fraud 1 1 Destruction/ Damage/Vandalism 7 8 8 5 2 2 1 2 3 1 8 7 54 Drug/Narcotic Violations 9 6 12 6 10 2 2 2 4 1 54 Drug Equip. Violations 4 1 2 2 9 Pornography/Obscene Material 1 1 Weapon Law Violations 2 1 1 3 1 2 10 Bad Checks 1 1 Disorderly Conduct 32 16 1 2 2 1 2 5 11 72 DUI 12 15 15 6 3 4 4 4 8 6 8 6 91 Drunkenness 1 1 Family Offenses-Non-Violent 2 1 3 Liquor Law Violations 33 23 5 1 2 4 1 10 15 94 Trespass of Real Property 17 6 2 3 1 2 4 3 38 All Other Offenses 50 34 27 29 14 22 26 17 25 33 26 36 339 Traffic-Town-By Law Offenses 45 37 27 24 22 26 22 25 26 33 40 19 346 Totals 279 209 143 118 65 88 83 67 105 91 139 143 1530
61 2021-2022 PERSONNEL Chief Dana M. Kelley (Retired 5/6/2022) Captain Elise Chard (Chief 6/21/22) Captain David Hemingway Sgt. Vincent Mattia Sgt. Gerard L. Hamilton (Retired 12/20/21) Sgt. Kevin Riordan Sgt. Christopher Gray (Promoted to Sgt 03/27/22) Cpl. Jeffrey Regan (Detective) (Resigned 5/28/22) Cpl. Jami-Ellen Ladakakos-Regan Cpl. Anthony Germaine Cpl. Angelo Sellitto (Promoted to Cpl. on 3/27/22) Officer Damon Ramsay Officer Scott Jarrett Officer Peter Guay Officer William Watson Officer Steven Broy (Detective) (Resigned 6/12/22) Officer Wade Beattie (Resigned 12/31/21) K-9 Tito (Resigned 12/31/21) Officer Sokthearrith Dong Officer Cody Hogan Officer Liam Mellaly (Went to Reserve 1/24/2021) (Resigned 5/3/21) Officer Zachary Novick Officer Kyle Sheahan (1/22/2021) Officer William Blackwell (07/04/21) Officer Noah Poulin (01/02/22) Cameron Valentine (05/16/2022) Social Services Navigator Sasha Morelli (02/07/22) Administrative Assistant - Kathy Smith Court & Records Officer - Patricia Coreau Clerk – Ginne Hebert *New in June 2022 Reserve Officers Sean Cummings Margaret Doyle Cameron Valentine Brenna Frye Robert Gray Joseph Kibbie Steven VanHoeven Minju Kim Gunner Nunn Colin Kinney Adam Bettelli Rebecca Kniss Somer Bren Camden LaBrecque Michael Curry Jay Manning Mark McShane III Kyle Kelly * Kyle Noble Taylor McCarthy* Noah Poulin Chase Panza * Cameron Arnold * Matthew Reinfurt * Parking Enforcement Joe Levasseur-Supervisor Tim Potvin George Antoine Neal Change * Michelle Murphy David Sullivan Colleen Barney Robert Ryder Kathie Veer Greg Bunce Nancy Heyner *
62 The Old Orchard Beach Animal Control and Police Department have continued their mission to ensure the health and welfare of all animals within the town. Town ordinance 14-6 has been amended, and there is no longer a restriction regarding dogs on Old Orchard Street. The same ordinance has also been strengthened, regarding dogs on the beach, specifically to protect endangered species that may be nesting or residing on the beach or in the dune area. While there is no specific leash law in Old Orchard Beach, the changes to Town ordinance 14-6 does allow law enforcement officers to order a dog on the beach to be leashed if the situation requires it. A dog owner who refuses to leash their dog may be fined $100.00 per violation. The number of nesting pairs of Piping Plovers on the beach is increasing. Plovers are federally protected and frequently nest along the beach in Old Orchard. The owner of a dog that injures or kills a Piping Plover is subject to stiff fines and receiving a summons to federal court. Throughout the year, the Police Department and Animal Control Officer responded to calls regarding seals on the beach. We would like to remind residents and guests that they should leave any stranded or beached marine animal alone and immediately contact the Old Orchard Beach Police Department or the Maine Marine Patrol. We would also like to remind pet owners, residents, and guests to call the police department if they see any animal they believe is in distress. This is especially important when animals are being left in a vehicle or when they are left outside in extreme weather conditions. This includes both the cold of the winter months as well as the heat of the summer. As a reminder all dog licenses expire on January 1st of each year so, please, remember to license your dog. Dog licensing helps to support Maine’s animal welfare programs including the “Fix ME” low cost spay and neuter program. In addition, licensed dogs are much more likely to be returned to their owners if they get loose. Please remember to place your dog’s license on their collar, so that they can “Jingle all the way Home.”
63 Fire & Rescue Department This past fiscal year saw a change in faces at the Old Orchard Beach Fire Department. We are happy to recognize the Retirement of Captain John Fitzpatrick1 , Lieutenant William Young2 and Firefighter Paramedic Shawn Smith3. We wish these men a happy and healthy retirement. Because of these retirements, we are pleased to welcome Fire Fighter EMT Paramedic Christopher Boynton4, Fire Fighter EMT Advanced Travis Ramsey5 and Firefighter Paramedic Alex Cirillo6. Effective January 9, 2022, we appointed Lieutenant EMT-Paramedic Zachary Apgar to the Rank of Captain and Firefighter EMT-Paramedic Corey Pelletier and Firefighter EMT-Paramedic Mario Byram to Lieutenant EMT-Paramedics. Despite the best efforts of our nation, state, and community, as of the writing of this report, Old Orchard Beach is open for business; but residents and the community are still enduring the COVID-19 Virus. While there are not any public restrictions on activities in the town, the COVID-19 Virus and the sub variants are present in our community. First response to medical calls still requires masks, gloves, eye protection and gowns. Hospitals are on diversion regularly because of patient overload or staffing shortages. As a system, we are managing despite a shortage of new qualified, fulltime, part-time, and call force members available to meet the emergency needs of our community. Regardless of the cause, there are fewer individuals entering into the field of public safety, and this is affecting our ability to hire employees for all roles within the department. As we enter into the summer of 2022, we are facing a shortage of per-diem fire fighters and lifeguards and as such will likely need to modify our staffing structure towards more full-time employees and led dependency on part-time status. Calls for service in the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022, have increased slightly. During the period of July 1, 2021, through June 30, 2022, the department responded to 2582 calls in FY22. Of these calls, Emergency Medical Responses accounted for approximately 72.70% (1877) of our calls for service. The remaining 27.30% (705) were fire-related calls. This is an 8.26% (197) increase in calls for service for FY22. FY22 saw the completion of the station facelift that has been ongoing for several capital budgets and the delivery of a third ambulance in our replacement program. This third ambulance is significant as it allows us to re-utilize the patient compartment and replace the truck chassis only as ambulance chassis needs replacing due to mileage and wear. The transfer of the “patient compartment” is anticipated to produce savings, as we will only need to replace the chassis in coming years versus purchase an entire ambulance. In closing, I wish to recognize the efforts of everyone who makes the daily operation of the Old Orchard Beach Fire Department seem so seamless. Without the effort and professionalism put forth by the full-time, part-time, call force, lifeguards, and administrative staff we could not accomplish all the tasks before us each day. Respectfully Submitted, Fred LaMontagne, Fire Chief 1 Captain John Fitzpatrick – EMT - Paramedic appointed May 11, 1998, and retired on September 3, 2021 2 Lieutenant William Young – EMT-Paramedic appointed May 28, 2008, and retired July 31, 2021 3 Firefighter Shawn Smith _ EMT- Paramedic August 2, 2000, to February 5, 2022 4 Firefighter EMT-Paramedic Christopher Boynton appointed July 21, 2021 5 Firefighter EMT-Advanced Travis Ramsey appointed September 12, 2021 6 Firefighter EMT-Paramedic Alex Cirillo appointed October 31, 2021
64 Surf Rescue OLD ORCHARD BEACH SURF RESCUE 136 Saco Avenue Old Orchard Beach, Maine 04064 Fred LaMontagne KEITH M. WILLETT Fire Chief Lifeguard Captain Tel. (207) 934-7790 Tel. (207) 934-7790 Another summer of COVID, with the boarders still closed and the unknown looming in the air, Old Orchard Surf Rescue staff saw a slower summer than normal. In June, 25 guards returned, and 6 new guards were hired to protect the shores of Old Orchard Beach. Guards were trained and re certified in preparation for the season throughout the month. A huge thanks goes to Powder Horn Camp Ground and Camp Oceanwood, for the donation of pool time for these trainings. At full staff and with training complete all 12 towers were placed on the beach for the summer. When July came, guards were already in full swing and enjoyed the beautiful weather with plenty of sun and warm water for all to enjoy. Guards patrolled the beach from Saco to Scarborough making sure that all beach goers were safe. Even though it was a slower than normal July there was still plenty to keep the guards busy, including multiple mutual aid calls to surrounding municipalities. In August, the Old Orchard Beach surf rescue staff started preparing for the return of the Ironman event, which was canceled last year due to COVID. The Ironman brought 2,800 competitors and their families to the beach. This year’s event was also declared a pro races bringing the top athletes in the world here. We saw many competitors arriving a week in advance in order to prepare for the triathlon and remaining throughout the following week so they could take in all that Old Orchard has to offer. It was a successful event with more than 50 lifeguards showing up the morning of. Guards came from Biddeford, Saco, Scarborough, Wells and Ogunquit to help us out. On the day of the actual event, surf rescue staff arrived at 4:30 A.M. and watched a beautiful sunrise from the beach as they prepared for the start of the race. The swim leg went very well with guards only having to assist 9 athletes from the water, many of them kicked by other competitors as they swam side by side. Over the course of the summer surf rescue staff showed that they could get the job done in spite of COVID and all the changes it has brought. The staff responded to 46 emergency calls on the beach, down from years past. Guards pulled 9 distressed swimmers from the surf, assisted multiple kayakers, paddle boarders and inflatable’s back to shore, after being blown out to sea by high winds. They responded to 19 medical emergencies with the members of the fire department and assisted the police 14 times with unruly subjects. In addition, 46 lost children were reunited with their parents and/or guardians. Marine 78 responded mutual aid multiple times and played a crucial role in pulling 3 people in distress after their boat capsized in Scarborough. The shores of Old Orchard Beach sit quietly as winter looms in the air and preparation for the next season has begun. The Surf Rescue Staff would like to thank you all for your support throughout the season. Enjoy the off season and see you next year on the beach. Surf Rescue Captain Keith Willett
65 Public Works & Waste Water Departments Public Works The Town of Old Orchard Beach Public Works Department is responsible for the upkeep of roads, sidewalks, stormwater systems and signs. In March of 2022, the wastewater superintendent and department foreman offered to assist the public works department. As discussions continued it was agreed that we would take the position of public works director and deputy director on a sixmonth probationary basis. Immediately we took over the West Grand improvement and Washington avenue projects and made multiple changes to these projects. We also began working with Woodard and Curran on a capital project list for future reference. In-house projects included fixing sinkholes and addressing public concerns that were long outstanding. Ongoing training and safety awareness is important to ensure the town is prepared for the future. With the limited time we were in the public works department in the FY22 year we have already seen positive changes. Staff turnover initially created challenges and I certainly thank the new and existing staff for their patience. Moving forward we have much work to do and will be concentrating on safety, stormwater program, outfall testing program as well as recruiting new employees. Waste Water The Town of Old Orchard Beach Wastewater Department maintains and operates nine pump stations as well as the wastewater treatment facility that is licensed to discharge up to 3.5 million gallons a day. The license also requires that the facility removes a minimum of 85% of the suspended solids and biological oxygen demand (BOD is defined as biological activity in the waste stream). Staff are classified as either operators or mechanics. Both must deal with a myriad of mechanical and process issues. All are required to learn the basics of process control with operators having the responsibility of reporting lab results to the state and federal government. Testing routines require advanced knowledge of the biological and chemical processes. The mechanics at the facility are required to have advanced knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic applications. All staff are required to respond to rain events, power outages and process issues. Some of these responses demand quick decision making to avoid potential discharge violations and protect public health. Proper training and safety practices are important to keeping this department operating efficiently. Operational Totals Treated wastewater discharged 422 million gallons Bio-Solids produced 1,137 tons Polymer used in dewatering process 12,561 pounds Hypochlorite used in disinfection process 14,654 gallons Solids removed 98.0% BOD removed 94.0% Total precipitation 49.61 inches Number of call outs by SCADA 31
66 The wastewater department’s focus has been on design of the new wastewater facility and maintaining operations. The FY22 budget was impacted by price increases across the board for the two main chemicals used in the process. Due to legislative action bio solids disposal increased dramatically. A new contract was negotiated with the wastewater association that management felt was favorable to both parties. Staff development will be especially important as we move through the upgrade. For both departments covid still created challenges. Meetings were limited and parts and services still can be difficult to come by. With the combining of management many changes still need to take place. Much time is spent recruiting new staff for both departments. New staff needs to be trained in multiple aspects of town operations and public works needs to establish a more comprehensive capital improvement program. These items will be the focus as we move in to the FY23 budget year. Most importantly we will continue to address the needs of the individual citizens and their concerns in a timely manner. Longtime employee Daniel Deshaies left employment for the town, and we all wish him a happy retirement. In his place we welcomed Jay LeBreton on as an assistant mechanic. I would like to congratulate Diana Asanza on being given the position of town manager. I would also like to thank the town council for giving me the opportunity to serve the community in a greater capacity. Respectively submitted by Christopher White
67 Conservation Commission Fiscal 2022 Report July 1, 2021 - June 30, 2022 The Conservation Commission consists of five regular members slots (Mark Koenigs, Cynthia Nye, Barry Jackman, Kimbark Smith, Irvin Paradis) and two alternate members (Dawn-Marie Dunbar, Charlie Backus). Our guiding principle is CBEL: Community Based Environmental Learning. The extension of Covid curtailed the normal activities we would do with the kids at Loranger Memorial School, except for Cynthia, who supported environmental projects there again. Loranger students studied Japanese knotweed and invasive crabs. They also were involved in growing American chestnut seedlings and visited Tom Klack, professor at UNE, who heads up an American chestnut research program. We planted native chestnut seedlings in two locations in town: 2 at Loranger and 6 at the Rec Department. At the request of Loranger students, the Conservation Commission purchased 250 predator beetles to combat hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA) in Jameson Woods. Students with assistance from Maine state forest entomologist Colleen Teerling released the beetles in June. We also supported the planting of 3 pollinator gardens with Community Friendly Connections at Loranger by 5th graders. There will be a number of new pollinator gardens planted at different locations throughout the town through this connection. Cynthia gave a presentation on the OOB beach profiling program at the Beaches Conference in June. Other highlight activities include: All the trails (miles?) were rough marked, laid out and cleared at the new properties at Sumter Landing and the Solar Farm and linked to Blueberry Plains trails. These will now link trails from the Golf course development all the way to the Ross Road and in the future to the Eastern Trail. We also had a cleanup day with 8 participants for the trails behind Sumter Landing. 3 new kiosks, produced by Brooks Bowen’s classes at the High School, were installed: 1 at Sumter Landing, 1 at the Solar Farm and 1 installed at Milliken Mills Woods North. Stantec was hired to maintenance-treat phragmites in the marshes in Ocean Park and to treat Black Swallow Wort in the dunes. We will be adding knotweed to the list in FY 24. We were active in a number of organizational activities including the creation of a “leash law,” the Property committee, CFC, the Rec Dept., and the Goosefare Restoration. Plans for next year include: Finish the trails for Sumter Landing and the Solar Farm. Formal marking and mapping on the Kiosks. Development of plans for the Ahern property connecting Milliken Trail to the Eastern Trail; mapping, trail clearing, kiosk installation and marking. Finish the trails and parking lot at MMW North with full marking and mapping installed at the kiosk. Creation and installation of a plover memorial to Roger Stevens. Over the past year, the OOB Conservation Commission has continued to support Veterans' Memorial Park through its Memorial Park Subcommittee. The Memorial Park Report will be published in a separate section. Kimbark G. Smith, Chair OOB Conservation Commission
68 General Assistance General Assistance is a social services program mandated by the State of Maine. General Assistance is a program of last resort, and we are here to assist the residents of this community with the most basic needs. The current administrator for the town is Jo Anne Dunn. In the past year funds totaling $81,736.60 were administered in 101 cases, helping a total of 166 individuals. This help included payments for CMP, housing, food vouchers, emergency oil and propane tank fills as well as help with cremation costs. We work closely with other agencies and assist individuals and families in finding other services and resources to ensure they are getting the help they need. Office hours are Wednesday 8-4, Thursday 8-4 and Friday 8-1. Please call 937- 5637 to make an appointment or to ask any questions. You can also email me at [email protected]. The General Assistance Office is located in the Recreation building at the Ballpark.
69 Recreation & Ballpark Facility Dear Residents of Old Orchard Beach, I am pleased to present the FY22 annual report from the Recreation Department, highlighting our achievements over the past year and outlining our goals for the future. It has been an eventful and productive period, and we are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. Over the past year, we have accomplished several significant milestones. We organized a wide range of recreational programs and events that catered to the diverse interests of our community. From youth sports leagues and summer camps to concerts at the Ballpark and senior activities, we strived to provide engaging and inclusive opportunities for residents of all ages. We also made notable improvements to our recreational facilities at the Ballpark. The Ballpark underwent renovations, including the installation of new playground equipment and the enhancement of walking trails. These upgrades have created a more enjoyable and accessible space for families and individuals to enjoy outdoor activities. In addition, we have upgraded all the classrooms within the clubhouse. These rooms will allow us to host community meetings, summer camp activities, 50 plus events. It also will be available for the community to rent out for birthday parties and small events. Looking forward, we have ambitious goals for the future. Our primary focus will be expanding recreational opportunities and improving our facilities at the Ballpark. In doing so, collaboration will also play a crucial role in our future endeavors. We aim to establish partnerships with local organizations, businesses, and volunteers to leverage resources and expand our offerings. Working together can create a vibrant and thriving recreational environment for our community. As we move forward, we value your input and feedback. We encourage you to share your ideas, suggestions, and concerns with us so that we can better serve the needs and aspirations of our residents. Together, we can continue to make Old Orchard Beach a wonderful place to live, work, and play. Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to an exciting future filled with recreation and community engagement. Sincerely, Jason Webber Town of Old Orchard Beach Recreation Director / Ballpark Manager
70 Historical Society-Harmon Museum The Old Orchard Historical Society welcomed 342 visitors this summer. We are pleased to report that 74 were from various parts of Maine. A total of 18 states, 5 Canadian provinces (New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Quebec, Ontario & Toronto) along with Argentina, Australia, England, Romania, and Jordan were represented. The museum opened July 7th and closed September 16th. The hours of operation were M-F from 10:00am to 4:00pm. Our new display features “Museum in the Street” historical locations throughout Old Orchard Beach and Ocean Park with photos of the same locations as they appear today. On Saturday, August 13th, Miss Ann Googins of Cape Elizabeth, whose family was one of the founding families of Old Orchard Beach, and relatives from Arundel, Maine and Hampton Falls, New Hampshire, met at the museum to review their family history on file in the museum. Miss Googins added more information to the family file. Our volunteers are: Faith Litwin, Database Manager & Archivist Docent volunteers are: Daniel Blaney Arlene Bellevue Hanson Jaynie Flaherty Linda Babbit Brian Bergeron Arthur Guerin Scott Eccleston Old Orchard Beach Historical Society Officers: Historical Museum Trustees: Brian Bergeron, President Daniel Blaney Daniel Blaney, Vice President Scott Eccleston Scott Eccleston, Treasurer Joseph Reardon Pamela Trempe, Assistant Treasurer Arlene Bellevue Hanson, Secretary Respectfully Submitted, Jeanne Boisvert Guerin Curator
71 LibbyMemorial Library Annual Report – 2021/2022 The purpose and function of the Edith Belle Libby Memorial Library is to provide services and materials in all formats that will promote life-long personal enrichment for all citizens of this community—Libby Memorial Library Mission Statement. TEAM LIBBY! Staff: Bonnie Bill-Library Clerk, Wendy Brown-Library Assistant, Chandra Weigle-Library Assistant, Kim McLaughlin-Adult Svcs Librarian, Heather MacNeill-Juvenile Svcs Librarian, Valerie Messana-Juvenile Services Assistant and Lee Koenigs-Library Director Trustees: Kenny Blow-President, Neal Weinstein-Vice-President, Don Radley-Treasurer, Sally JonesSecretary, Jo-Ann Costello, Christine Leach, Paul Marshall, Larry Mead, Cathy Mullen-Pearl, and Moira Rascati. We kicked off FY22 by restoring public access to the Library, without an appointment or time limit! Programming continued to be virtual or outside for the majority of the year and curbside pickup was retained due to its popularity. To facilitate fun, exploration and creativity (and leaving the house), but staying safe with distancing, we added to our passive program offerings, i.e., program options without a facilitator or set schedule, to be engaged in on one’s own. These programs were also a great way to combat the winter blues. Giant Scrabble was available from late January through late March, and four adult Adventure Packs were created for use outdoors with a 7-day checkout period. These backpacks are completely self-contained and facilitate exploring Beachcombing, Bird Watching, Astronomy and playing the part of Naturalist. At the same time, the children’s STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) backpacks were expanded by another 4 subjects, now totaling 8 altogether, with subjects such as Engineering & Building, the Human Body, Geometry in Art and Early Math Literacy, to name a few. Other accomplishments included completion of the Adult Reader’s Courtyard, which is located adjacent to the parking lot entrance walkway and has gone from a bedraggled patch of grass and dirt to a beautiful patio area with lovely plantings and Adirondack chairs in which to relax. This courtyard is dedicated in memory of Mary Ann Kotros, the outstanding, long-time President of the Board of Trustees who was also an enthusiastic user, supporter, and advocate of Libby Memorial Library. An amazing granite marker has been placed under the tree in the courtyard, in recognition of Mary Ann. Libby Library also underwent significant changes in staffing this year. Two long-time staff members left, and an entire restructuring of the remaining staff ensued, followed by the hiring of two new staff members, both of whom have been fantastic additions to the Library team. The result is an energetic, dynamic, capable, friendly, and welcoming group. Wendy Brown was hired in October ’21, Chandra Weigle came onboard in April ’22, and our Kim McLaughlin went from twenty years as the head of Juvenile Services, to the new head of Adult Services. Although Heather MacNeill was still Libby Library’s (very) part-time Technology Librarian, a substantial coup for us was being able to hire Heather back from South Portland Public, full-time, as the new head of Juvenile Services. Although absolutely a challenging year regarding staffing, the final outcome has been amazing, especially facing the national shortage of qualified candidates across all fields and wage levels. Come on down and see what (and who) is new! Respectfully Submitted, Lee M. Koenigs, Library Director
72 Department Locations Town Hall 1 Portland Ave Old Orchard Beach ME 04064 207.934.5714 Fire Department 136 Saco Ave Old Orchard Beach ME 04064 207.934.7790 Police Department 16 E. Emerson Cummings Blvd Old Orchard Beach ME 04064 207.934.4911 Public Works 103 Smithwheel Rd Old Orchard Beach ME 04064 207.934.2250 Recreation/Ballpark Complex 7 Ballpark Way Old Orchard Beach ME 04064 207.934.0860 Wastewater Department 24 Manor St Old Orchard Beach ME 04064 207.934.4416