9032-R1_ML&P_BuxtonAnnualReport_2023-2024_Web

Town Of Buxton 2023-2024 ANNUAL REPORT

Town Of Buxton

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Annual Town Report July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2024

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With eminence honor the Board of Selectmen dedicate this year’s Town Report to: Richard “Sandy” Atkinson and Beverly Atkinson Seventy years ago, Richard “Sandy” Atkinson, a young man from Bar Mills, married and brought his bride, Beverly, here to Buxton to begin their lifelong journey together. Sandy and Beverly have dedicated their lives to family ... children Pamela and Daniel, grandchildren Meghann, Aaron and Molly, and great grandchildren Liberty and Thomas. While embracing family life and growing the family business, Silvex Inc., Sandy and Beverly have contributed to their hometown of Buxton. Their talents, generosity and diligence have brought Buxton residents together to celebrate and preserve a sense of community for over 50 years. In 1972, Sandy became “King Lion” of the Buxton Hollis Lions Club, and this is when the spark for event planning and merriment first took hold for the Atkinsons. To commemorate Buxton’s Bicentennial, Sandy, along with his fellow Lions Club members, founded the first annual Buxton Old Home Days. This two-day event included road races, a parade, a bean hole bean supper, carnival rides, arcade games, food vendors, live music, and fireworks. This event was a tremendous success and continued for years; the parade and 5K road race still occur at the Dorcas Festival in August. In the 1990s, Beverly and Sandy started offering their newly purchased home, the Royal Brewster Mansion, as the site for the annual Dorcas Fair. The larger grounds gave way to grander possibilities and the size of the Dorcas Fair began to grow. These fairs featured Civil War reenactors and encampments. There were house tours, fashion shows, artists and vendors on the lawns and traditional live music. People visiting the barn shopped for collectable dolls, unique artifacts, handmade hats, and silver trays. Visitors enjoyed viewing Beverly and Sandy’s collection of framed black and white prints of historical Buxton scenes. The Dorcas members presented a traditional summer luncheon on the lawn of the historic Tory Hill Meeting House, much in keeping with the custom of the original Dorcas Lawn Parties held in the late 1800’s. This Dorcas Fair has evolved into the Dorcas Festival. The current Dorcas Festival activities held every August continue to bring friends and families from Buxton and surrounding communities together for an action-packed day. Beverly and Sandy, along with Dorcas Society members, host a Cars and Coffee Show in the morning and a Mallett Brothers rock concert in the evening on the grounds of the Brewster Mansion. Throughout the day visitors may explore Beverly and Sandy’s gardens. While doing so, one may hear the unique sounds of a calliope, the boom of Sandy’s cannon or the engine roar of his restored race car. Upon entering the barn, folks discover a bountiful display of stuffed animals, such as dragons or snow leopards and often, a bicycle or two. Beverly invites children and their parents to enter their names into a free raffle to win these toys while enjoying an ice cream treat. Fond memories are made when happy children return to Beverly and Sandy’s home to claim these toys in the following days. All proceeds from these events fund scholarships at Bonny Eagle High School, maintain the historic parish house and contribute to other worthy causes in the Buxton community.

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Sandy and Beverly were instrumental in welcoming Gerald Charles Dickens to Buxton in 2002 and 2006. Gerald Dickens is an English actor and performer best known for his one-man show based upon the novels of his great-great-grandfather Charles Dickens. Gerald performed A Christmas Carol to sold-out crowds at the Tory Hill Meetinghouse for local audiences with all the proceeds benefiting the Dorcas Society’s fundraising goals for the Buxton community. Sandy and Beverly are also instrumental members of the Buxton Hollis Historical Society. They have hosted numerous fund-raising events in their historic barn, including “Antique Roadshowlike” events and Box Lunch auctions. Beverly and Sandy’s barn holds the unique distinction of being quite possibly the only barn in Buxton with multiple Oriental rugs, a disco ball, two hot dog machines and an array of antique carousel horses. They are ready for a party at a moment’s notice! These functions, once again, brought Buxton residents together to share memories and to support the preservation of history by the Buxton Hollis Historical Society. Always imaginative and playful at heart, Sandy and Beverly opened their historic barn for Halloween Trick-or-treaters for decades. Atkinson family members and friends donated elaborate costumes and strategically positioned themselves amidst Beverly’s carefully curated scenes that often-included truckloads of live greenery, bushes, and historic artifacts. Hundreds of families visited year after year to enjoy the merriment including Snow White chatting with Dracula or Cinderella laughing with the Grim Reaper, as well as enjoying the king-sized candy treats. Now when Beverly and Sandy, in the front hall of their home, greet trick or treaters, the children’s parents often share their own memories of coming to the Brewster Barn on Halloween night. Since 2005, serving as President of the South Buxton Cemetery Association, Sandy has worked to enhance the beauty of the cemetery, preserve its historical features, promote safety, and improve the financial status of the cemetery. Sandy’s efforts, along with dedicated staff and community members, have delivered noteworthy results. The historic stones of Buxton’s earliest settlers have been professionally cleaned and restored. The cemetery shed is remodeled into a functional office for sales and the storage of cemetery records. Roads, avenues, and ditches are repaired to ensure safe travel within the cemetery. Fencing has been added or repaired, and the American flag now prominently waves on a tall flagpole positioned in the center of the cemetery. Sandy introduced the first columbarium to the cemetery. Columbaria are often preferred to traditional burials because they are generally less expensive and can be more environmentally friendly due to their reduced land usage. Nearly all the columbarium’s niches are sold, and a second columbarium is scheduled to be delivered in the spring. Due to careful planning and sound investments, the financial outlook for the South Buxton Cemetery is much brighter. Finally, Sandy and Beverly, along with their dear friends, have planted thousands of daffodils in the cemetery near the columbarium, a welcome sight in the early days of spring. The South Buxton Cemetery is a lovely memorial to Buxton’s history and community members and hopefully it will be for generations to come. In 2007, Sandy, supported by the South Buxton Cemetery Association’s board and members, initiated Buxton’s participation in the Wreaths Across America event. The mission of Wreaths Across America is to “Remember the fallen. Honor those who serve. Teach the next generation the value of freedom.” For nearly 20 years, friends, families, and veterans have gathered in the South Buxton Cemetery on the second or third Saturday of December. Attendees place wreaths on veterans’ stones

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and then gather for a poignant Moment of Silence that is simultaneously shared with thousands of Wreaths Across America sites in the United States and abroad. This event also features patriotic music, a bagpiper’s rendition of Amazing Grace, a Revolutionary War musket salute and guest speakers. Veteran representatives from each branch of America’s military participate in a wreath presentation ceremony,. Community members have gathered in snow, sleet, freezing rain and occasionally sunshine to participate in this event, which strengthens Buxton’s community and fosters American patriotism. Sandy and Beverly are powerful role models for younger generations as they have committed their public lives to bringing people from every comer of Buxton and the surrounding communities together. They have championed the use of beauty, music, and celebration to honor the shared history of Buxton with all its residents. Their enduring efforts have fostered a sense of connection and unity in the town of Buxton. Like the historical figures and landmarks, they have worked to honor, Sandy and Beverly Atkinson’s contributions will be remembered and inspire future generations to preserve and celebrate our vibrant Buxton community. By Daughter Pamela Ridley

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Hi All, Once again, it has been an eventful year for the Town of Buxton. We have had to weather many changes and challenges as we move forward as a community. We are increasingly aware of the difficult economic environment that our residents are facing. Our focus on good fiscal planning is essential as we face challenging economic pressures and constant growth. We have welcomed many new residents to Buxton, with over 75 new residences built in 2023-24, and over 120 new homes since 2021. Such growth is exciting and fundamental to the sustainability of our Town, but with that growth comes the necessary expansion of town services like permitting and inspections, trash collection, road maintenance, and snow removal. It is our constant effort to manage growth in financially responsible ways, with an eye to ensuring that both new and old residents can continue to afford to live in our wonderful community. In the past few years, we have worked hard to financially insulate the Town and its services. We have successfully paid down our debts, without accruing new ones. We have also worked to maintain a healthy reserve fund balance. This lack of burdensome debt and emphasis on savings allows us to ensure that needed capital items and service improvements are not placed solely on the taxpayers. Prudent fiscal planning has also allowed Buxton to maintain one of the lowest mill rates in the area. The success of our Town would not be possible without the contributions of hundreds of individuals. We are always amazed and grateful for the employees, residents, volunteers, and committee members who diligently and selflessly serve our community. Their efforts and community spirit are essential in making Buxton the wonderful town that it is. We also wish to send heartful gratitude to the families of Sharon Elwell and Fred Farnum, who served the Town for many years in the offices of Road Commissioner and Code Enforcement Officer. We also said goodbye to long-time residents Joanne Groder and Ron Weeman who cheerfully served at the Buxton Food Co-Op for many years, providing food, comfort, and a warm smile to all those in need. We will miss them. Finally, we extend our gratitude to the whole community. Way to go, on another memorable year!

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Respectfully submitted,

Buxton Board of Selectmen

____________________________ Francis E. Pulsoni, Selectman

__________________________ David A. Field, Selectman

____________________________ Chad E. Poitras, Selectman

__________________________ Thomas J. Peters, Selectman

____________________________ Mark J Blier, Selectman

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In Remembrance The Town of Buxton wishes to remember the residents in our community who passed away last year.

Adams, Carl Henry Allen, Sandra Kay

Doyle, Thomas David Sr. Driskell, Audrey Elaine Erickson, Richard L. Sr. Fitz, James Elwood Foley, ‘ThomasJoscphJr. Forbis, Sharon L. Frederick, Paul Matthew Gilbert, Winona Margaret Gorman, Roy Olen Grace, Brenda.I osephine Hawkes, Kenneth Elmer Hoar, Gregory Clayton Hujsak, Marjorie Grant Irish, Barbara Ann Jolmson, Casey Nathaniel Jordan, Sarah Louise Kenney,James Henry Kenney, Joyce Marie Konan, Steven J oscph Langille, Angela Marie Laughlin, Mark A. Leask, Richard Scott Leroux,Jay Gerard Littlefield, Carl Arthur Maher, Laurence Michael Mahony, Joseph J a.mes

Martin, Barbara Louise Mason, Robert H. Jr. May, Norma Bernice McLeese, Barbara Ann Mercier, Eleanor G. Meserve, Gary Allen Micucci, Lawrence Ouellette, Wade Deacon Pease, Barbara Betts Pendleton, Mai:jorie L. Ramondo, Dorothy K. Rm1sey, Edward Franklin Reardon, Stephai1ic Claire Rexford, Crystal Mai·ic Ross, Lisa Ann Schlosser, Jessica Rae Smith, Erwin Lawrence Jr. Spiller, Lillian Mae Stitham, Robert.I ames Sullivan, Richard S. Townsend, Stai1lcy L. Jr. ‘T’ownsend, Steven Lawrence Tucci, Patricia Ann Walsh, Clayton Bruce Webber, Ann Chainberlain

Amen, Burdette Bruce Anderson, Roger Merrill Anderson, Shawn William Atienza, Nancy Tapec Austin, Jaime H. Baclunan, Raymond H. Barnes, Christine R. Barnett, Maurice Eugene Bibeau, Philip Edward.Jr . Bouffard, Deborah.Jean Brackett, Candy Lee Brien, Ernest Henry Brooks-Rea, Tina Maria Brown, Frederick M. Sr. Brown, Mary Jean Bussiere, Maurice Roger Cain, Patricia Mae Charles, Stanley R. Chrysler, Gary B. Churchill, Christopher Allen Cook, Cynthia Marie Cox,Joshua Carl Cuffey, Robyn Marie

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Elected Officers, Appointed Officials, Town Employees, Boards, Committees, Commissions and Trustees (Dates shown in parenthesis indicate when term ends, Month & Year)

Elected Officers Selectmen, Assessors and Overseers of the Poor David A. Field, Jr., Chair (6/26) Francis E. Pulsoni, Vice Chair (6/26) Mark J. Blier (6/25) Thomas J. Peters (6/25) Chad E. Poitras (6/27) Budget Committee Sheridan W. Bennett, Chair (6/25) Richard H. Emery Jr. (6/26) Richard J. Fitzgerald (6/26) David F. Kessler (6/25) Tyler D. Ladd (6/27) Michael F. Pettis (6/27) Luke G. Plummer (6/25) Maine School Administrative District Number Six District Directors

Health Officer Chad E. Poitras (12/26) Motor Vehicle Agent and Inland Fisheries & Wildlife Agent Angela H. Michie Public Access Officer John L. Myers Jr. Selectmen’s Assistant & Welfare Director Chase Hunter Cox Krystal L. Dyer, Deputy Welfare Director John L. Myers, Jr., Fair Hearing Authority Sub-Registrar for Disposition Permits James Pate (6/25) Chad E. Poitras (6/25) Tax Collector Elizabeth “LeeAnn” A. Pratt John L. Myers Jr., Office Manager Krystal L. Dyer, Accounts Payable Angela H. Michie, Deputy Town Clerk Elizabeth “LeeAnn” A. Pratt, Tax Collector Ruth M. Scheibenpflug, Assistant Clerk Shelby R. St. Louis, Deputy Town Clerk Code Enforcement Officer, Building and Plumbing Inspector Patti J. McKenna (4/25) Kert A. Jackson, Deputy ( 4/25) Roxanne R. Gardner, Executive Assistant Kert A. Jackson, Facilities Manager Town Treasurer William C. Hall Town Departments Business Office

Nathan M. Carlow (6/25) Ellen H. Decotiis ( 6/27) Cynthia J. Meserve (6/26) Planning Board

Jeremiah K. Ross, III, Chair (6/25) Craig S. Lefebvre, Vice Chair (6/25) Heath D. Knight, Secretary (6/27) Scott A. Warchol, Treasurer (6/27) Roger C. Tracy (6/26) Town Clerk John L. Myers, Jr. (6/26)

Town Meeting Moderator & State Election Warden Dana G. Deering Bette Robicheaw, Deputy Appointed Officials

Emergency Management Agency Nathan R. Schools, Director (12/26) William C. Roberts Jr., Deputy (12/26)

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Elected Officers, Appointed Officials, Town Employees, Boards, Committees, Commissions and Trustees (Cont.) (Dates shown in parenthesis indicate when term ends, Month & Year)

Recreation Department Grace Mulherin- Director Zachary McGouldrick- Supervisor Matt Willis- Childcare Services Programmer Natalie St.Onge-Programmer Jeremy M. Redlon, Assistant Chief Jeff Roblee- Division Chief - EMS Joanne C. Ward, Executive Assistant Marisa Morrison - Career Captain - CRR Charles Reed, Chaplain Gene D. Harmon, Safety Officer Connor Redlon - Captain Brandon Redlon - Career Captain Jack Stephen- Career Lieutenant Trevor Nason - Career Lieutenant Steve Plympton - Career Lieutenant Alex Mayotte - Lieutenant Shaun Blanchard - Lieutenant Michael Banker-Fire-Police Captain Dana Deering-Fire Warden Police Administration Chief Kevin Collins Sergeant Heath Mains Sergeant Brian Donahue Frank Costa, Executive Assistant Kolby Miller, Court Officer Chaplain Charles Reed Daryen Granata, Evidence Room/Grant Manager Detective Paul Shaw Full Time Police Officers Krista Lee Jacob Wells Fire-Rescue Department Nathan R. Schools, Chief

Reserve Officers Bret Smith Matthew Dahms Kevin Cashman Dispatch Staff Jeremy Gagne

Matthew Dahms Aubrey Pennell Animal Control Kristin Russell-Perkins

Public Works Department Kevin M. Kimball, Director Dennis Nason, Mechanic Charles “Ed” O’Neil Jr. Christopher E. Gaudet Dale Deering

John Mac Lean Thomas Putnam Michael D. Roberts, Winter Seasonal Solid Waste & Recycling Gregory P. Heffernan, Manager Darren M. Mercier, Assistant Manager Kaleb Facteau, Foreman Joe Masciotta, Part Time Tyler Perkins, Part Time Lydia Weymouth, Part Time Voter Registration Ruth M. Scheibenpflug, Registrar (12/26) Helen J. Andronaco, Deputy (12/24) Jane E. Cummings, Deputy (12/26) Appointed Boards & Representatives Board of Appeals

Camden LaBrecque Nicholas LaRiviere Patrick Talbot Colt Bernhardt Andrew Ward Adam Ricci

Michael F. Pettis, Chair (12/26) Gemma G. Baldinelli (12/25) Jon E. Bartlett (12/25) Maryjo L. Hanna (12/26) Chad D. Havu (12/27)

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Elected Officers, Appointed Officials, Town Employees, Boards, Committees, Commissions and Trustees (Cont.) (Dates shown in parenthesis indicate when term ends, Month & Year)

Saco River Cable Commission Mark J. Blier (12/25) Vacancy Saco River Community Media Brenton R. Hill, Director (12/26) Alternate Vacancy Saco River Corridor Commission Benjamin L. Pinault (11/25) Member Vacancy (11/25) Alternate Vacancy (11/25) Southern Maine Planning and Development Commission Patti J. McKenna, General Assembly Thomas J. Peters, Alternate Member Voter Registration Appeals Board Joan E. Plummer, Chair (12/26)

Pleasant Point Park Donna P. Beal (12/27) David A. Field, Jr. (12/25) Vacancy ( 12/26) Town Farm Park Grace Mulherin (12/27) Tashia L. Pinkham (12/25) Ruth M. Scheibenpflug (12/26)

West Buxton Library Board of Trustees (Not Appointed by Board of Selectmen) Bart McCrum, Chairperson Barry Plummer Joyce Segee - Secretary Betsy Clay Beth Plummer Bette Robicheaw Karen Y arumian - Treasurer Caroline Nickerson - Director Weymouth Park (Not Appointed by Board of Selectmen) Lila Wilkins Kyle Sargent

Vacancy (Democrat) Vacancy (Republican) Trustees

Berry Memorial Library Ansel E. Stevens, Jr. (12/26) Gloria J. Stevens (12/27) Vacancy (12/25) Valerie Messana, Librarian Bonny Eagle Park Ethan A. Bump (12/26) William C. Hall (12/26) Vacancy (12/25) Carroll Park Sheridan W. Bennett (12/25) Luke G. Plummer (12/26) Vacancy Estes Park Mia B. Dodge (12/27) Randall J. Porter (12/26) Vacancy (12/25)

Charles A. Elwell Robert C. Elwell

Nicholas P. Pinkham Town Committees Cemetery Committee Carrie M. Cousins (12/25)

Chad E. Poitras (12/26) Ethan A. Bump (12/27) Comprehensive Plan Committee Mark J. Blier (12/25) Vacancies Keep the Heat on Committee Mark J. Blier (12/25) Krystal L. Dyer (12/27) Scott A. Warchol (12/26)

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Elected Officers, Appointed Officials, Town Employees, Boards, Committees, Commissions and Trustees (Cont.) (Dates shown in parenthesis indicate when term ends, Month & Year)

Keep the Heat on Committee Mark J. Blier (12/25) Krystal L. Dyer (12/24) Kert A. Jackson (12/24) Scott A. Warchol (12/26) Toy Box Carolyn A. Snell, Chair (12/25) Karen S. Knight (12/27) William K. Nimitz (12/26) State Senator 3 State House Station Augusta, ME 04333 State Senate Phone: 1-800-423-6900 State Representatives Representative Nathan M. Carlow . Maine Representative District 137 2 State House Station Augusta, ME 04333 State House Phone: 1-800-423-2900 Representative Mark J. Blier Maine Representative District 138 2 State House Station Augusta, ME 04333 State House Phone: 1-800-423-2900 Senator Donna Bailey Maine Senate District 31

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BUXTON FIRE-RESCUE 2021-2022 ANNUAL REPORT

Buxton Fire-Rescue 185 Portland Road Buxton Fire-Rescue 185 Portland Road

Chief Nathan Schools, EFO Assistant Chief Jeremy Redlon Division Chief Jeffrey Roblee Chief Nathan Schools, EFO Assistant Chief Jeremy Redlon Division Chief Jeffrey Roblee

Chief Nathan Schools, EFO Assistant Chief Jeremy Redlon Deputy Chief Conrad Jellison 2022, was the appointment of Firefighter/Paramedic Denise Nessmann (a 28-year veteran) to the position of career captain and the appointment of Firefighter/Paramedic Jeff Roblee to paid-on-call captain. During the Special Town Meeting on February 2, 2022, the taxpayers approved the purchase of the following items with use of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funds: • 2 – Lucas Chest Compressors Buxton, ME 04093 Office (207) 929-3099 Fax (207) 929-3076 Department Website: www.buxtonfr.org Buxton, ME 04093 Office (207) 929-3099 Fax (207) 929-3076 Department Website: www.buxtonfr.org

• 2 – Power Load Stretchers • 2 – Power Pro Stretchers • 1 – Fit Test Machine

Buxton Board of Selectmen 185 Portland Road Buxton, ME 04093 Board of Selectmen: Buxton Board of Selectmen 185 Portland Road Buxton, ME 04093 Board of Selectmen: Buxton Board of Selectmen 185 Portland Road Buxton, ME 04093 Board of Selectmen:

It is my pleasure to submit the FY 2021-2022 Annual Report on behalf of the officers and members of Buxton Fire – Rescue. During FY 2022, the department began to experience a rebounding call volume, at times difficult to manage. In 2021, the department responded to 1,065 emergency calls and members participated in 5,341 hours of training. It is my pleasure to submit the FY 2023-2024 Annual Report on behalf of the officers and members of Buxton Fire – Rescue (BFR). During calendar year 2024, the department responded to 1,412 emergency calls, breaking all previous emergency response on records. Below are two charts, the first identifying 2024 calls for service, and the second, a review of a decade of emergency responses for BFR. These items remain necessary due to a shortage of staffing on emergency scenes. The Lucas Chest Compressor(s) provide the highest quality CPR compressions available in the field. The stretcher(s) and power load system(s) reduce back injury potential while lifting patients at medical emergencies. The fit test machine allows BFR to fit test employees to a much higher quality fit factor reducing the risk of airborne illness transmission, such as COVID-19, while utilizing required respirators (N95’s). BFR appreciates our continued community support. Unfortunately, in 2022 we lost two long time members (Ret.) Chief Durward Lang and (Ret) Lieutenant Robert It is my pleasure to submit the FY 2023-2024 Annual Report on behalf of the officers and members of Buxton Fire – Rescue (BFR). During calendar year 2024, the department responded to 1,412 emergency calls, breaking all previous emergency response on records. Below are two charts, the first identifying 2024 calls for service, and the second, a review of a decade of emergency responses for BFR. During FY 2022, Assistant Chief Redlon made great progress in two program areas, dry hydrants and recruitment. As part of BFR’s hydrant project, A/C Redlon completed a water supply study and identified areas in town that need hydrants and current hydrants that needed significant repair, including pond dredging. During that time, dozens of hydrant repairs were made placing hydrants back in service. Because Buxton is not serviced by a public water system, BFR relies on fire ponds, cisterns, streams, and the Saco River for fire suppression water supply. BFR currently recognition for his more than 60-years of service to Buxton Fire-Rescue. Deputy Chief Harmon has served in many capacities through the years, from Firefighter to Chief of the Bar Mills Fire Department. Gene is part of the fabric of this organization, and I was humbled to present this to him. In closing, FY 2021-2022 was a year worth remembering. As we all bounced back out of the COVID year(s) we grew as an organization and had to re-learn how to best support our community with what many would call a new normal. We look forward to continual growth as an organization to best support the department’s mission and the citizens and visitors of our community. 100 - Fires 3% 200 - Overpressure rupture, explosion, overheat - no fire 0% 400 - Hazardous Conditions (No Fire) 7% 500 - Service Call 6% 600 - Good Intent Call 6% 700 - False Alarm & False Call 4% 800 - Severe Weather & Natural Disaster Group 1% 900 - Special Type Incident 1% maintains fifty-four (54) drafting sites throughout the community. The second programmatic push was the BFR recruitment project. Recruitment and retention was and remains a high priority for BFR during the creation of the career assistant chief’s position. In March 2022, BFR hosted a regional Basic Fire School program with students from Lebanon, Goodwin’s Mills, Limerick, York County EMA, and Buxton. This class provided initial training to Buxton Fire- Rescue Budget Presenta�on Fire-Rescue Response Trends CY 2018 Total CY Call Volume 2018 = 977 2019 = 1,001 2020 = 1,045 2021 = 1,065 CY 2020 CY 2019 Tuesday, April 11, 2023 10 CY 2021 (Bob) Gorham. Both men served the department for decades; Durward retired in 2013 and Bob in 2021. Both men left a lasting impact on the department and their legacy lives on. Speaking of legacy, during the 2022 Regular Town Meeting I had the opportunity to present Deputy Chief Gene Harmon with Life Member Recognition. I was thrilled to present D/C Harmon with a rocking chair and firefighter flag in CY Overlapping Calls 2018 = 198 or 20.27% 2019 = 264 or 26.35% 2020 = 195 or 18.7% 2021 = 156 or 14.65%

three (3) BFR new hires, of which two (2) remain active. BFR continues to recruit and retain paid-on-call members by providing quality communication, training, and growth opportunities here in Buxton. Another part of BFR’s recruitment plan was to host the first BFR Citizen Academy . This provided an opportunity for adults to visit the station, talk with active members, climb ladders, use extrication equipment, flow hose lines, and grab an application all while their children attended the department’s fire prevention open house. Our outreach efforts continue as we look for new ways to recruit members. 300 - Rescue & Medical Emergency 72%

BFR Monday Message October 25, 2021

Respectfully,

Chief Nathan R. Schools, EFO 2024 NFIRS MAJOR INCIDENT TYPES

W ORKING T O PROMOTE AND PROTECT THE HEALTH AND SAFETY OF OUR COMMUNITY AND FIRST RESPONDERS | 1 W ORKING T O PROMOTE AND PROTECT THE HEALTH AND SAFETY OF OUR COMMUNITY AND FIRST RESPONDERS | 2 Over the last decade there have been many changes within the department. In 2012 we had three fire companies and one rescue, each had assigned apparatus, and the rescue units were stationed at Bar Mills Station, and per diems staffed the ambulances. There was a clear divide between the fire division and the rescue division. In early 2013, all officer’s positions were posted for reappointment. This was a culture change and a realignment of responsibility within the department. Following the reorganization, we reevaluated our mission, vision and core values that are displayed on our patch today. Some of the organizational changes are highlighted below and will forever be part of our history, as we continue to serve the community. • Adding career staff; initially through the SAFER Grant, • Moving the ambulance(s) to Groveville to better serve the entire town • Increasing fire and EMS training • Reducing the fleet while making the apparatus multi-role • Reducing the ISO Rating • Collaborating with other town departments on outside events In FY 2022, BFR hired two (2) career firefighter/EMT’s who were current student live-ins. This was the first time as chief that I had the opportunity to hire students directly from our program. The student live-in program provides Southern Maine Community College students with a live-in program where they gain experience as firefighters and EMT’s. This helps them become career ready. The two hired have since obtained their EMT Advanced licenses and add value to our organization and continue to grow in their positions. Notable also in FY Over the last decade there have been many changes within the department. In 2012 we had three fire companies and one rescue, each had assigned apparatus, and the rescue units were stationed at Bar Mills Station, and per diems staffed the ambulances. There was a clear divide between the fire division and the rescue division. In early 2013, all officer’s positions were posted for reappointment. This was a culture change and a realignment of responsibility within the department. Following the reorganization, we reevaluated our mission, vision and core values that are displayed on our patch today. Some of the organizational changes are highlighted below and will forever be part of our history, as we continue to serve the community. 2

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W ORKING T O PROMOTE AND PROTECT THE HEALTH AND SAFETY OF OUR COMMUNITY AND FIRST RESPONDERS | 1

BUXTON FIRE-RESCUE 2021-2022 ANNUAL REPORT BUXTON FIRE-RESCUE 2023-2024 ANNUAL REPORT

BUXTON FIRE-RESCUE 2021-2022 ANNUAL REPORT 2022, was the appointment of Firefighter/Paramedic Denise Nessmann (a 28-year veteran) to the position of career captain and the appointment of Firefighter/Paramedic Jeff Roblee to paid-on-call captain. During the Special Town Meeting on February 2, 2022, the taxpayers approved the purchase of the following items with use of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funds: • 2 – Lucas Chest Compressors These items remain necessary due to a shortage of staffing on emergency scenes. The Lucas Chest Compressor(s) provide the highest quality CPR compressions available in the field. The stretcher(s) and power load system(s) reduce back injury potential while lifting patients at medical emergencies. The fit test machine allows BFR to fit test employees to a much higher quality fit factor reducing the risk of airborne illness transmission, such as COVID-19, while utilizing required respirators (N95’s). BFR appreciates our continued community support. Unfortunately, in 2022 we lost two long time members (Ret.) Chief Durward Lang and (Ret) Lieutenant Robert These items remain necessary due to a shortage of staffing on emergency scenes. The Lucas Chest Compressor(s) provide the highest quality CPR compressions available in the field. The stretcher(s) and power load system(s) reduce back injury potential while lifting patients at medical emergencies. The fit test machine allows BFR to fit test employees to a much higher quality fit factor reducing the risk of airborne illness transmission, such as COVID-19, while utilizing required respirators (N95’s). BFR appreciates our continued community support. Unfortunately, in 2022 we lost two long time members (Ret.) Chief Durward Lang and (Ret) Lieutenant Robert (Bob) Gorham. Both men served the department for decades; Durward retired in 2013 and Bob in 2021. Both men left a lasting impact on the department and their legacy lives on. Speaking of legacy, during the 2022 Regular Town Meeting I had the opportunity to present Deputy Chief Gene Harmon with Life Member Recognition. I was thrilled to present D/C Harmon with a rocking chair and firefighter flag in recognition for his more than 60-years of service to Buxton Fire-Rescue. Deputy Chief Harmon has served in many capacities through the years, from Firefighter to Chief of the Bar Mills Fire Department. Gene is part of the fabric of this organization, and I was humbled to present this to him. In closing, FY 2021-2022 was a year worth remembering. As we all bounced back out of the COVID year(s) we grew as an organization and had to re-learn how to best support our community with what many would call a new normal. We look forward to continual growth as an organization to best support the department’s mission and the citizens and visitors of our community. • Adding career staff; initially through the SAFER Grant, • Moving the ambulance(s) to Groveville to better serve the entire town • Increasing fire and EMS training • Reducing the fleet while making the apparatus multi-role • Reducing the ISO Rating • Collaborating with other town departments on outside events • Closing Chicopee Station • Adding around the clock supervision for paid staff • Adding the career Assistant Chief position • Adding the Community Risk Reduction Coordinator position This coming year, 2025, is the department’s 30-Year Anniversary. The changes over the last 12 years pale in comparison to the challenges the four departments faced prior to the merger as a municipal fire-rescue department in 1995. Many members before us provided a path to present and now we are responsible for maintaining it, while continuing to move and grow into the future to best support our growing community. I have included the 10-Year NFIRS Major Incident Types Chart, showing an overall incident increase over the period of roughly 40%. BUXTON FIRE-RESCUE 2023-2024 ANNUAL REPORT • Closing Chicopee Station • Adding around the clock supervision for paid staff • Adding the career Assistant Chief position • Adding the Community Risk Reduction Coordinator position This coming year, 2025, is the department’s 30-Year Anniversary. The changes over the last 12 years pale in comparison to the challenges the four departments faced prior to the merger as a municipal fire-rescue department in 1995. Many members before us provided a path to present and now we are responsible for maintaining it, while continuing to move and grow into the future to best support our growing community. I have included the 10-Year NFIRS Major Incident Types Chart, showing an overall incident increase over the period of roughly 40%. 36 1 757 43 82 43 38 9 3 39 2 1,019 103 86 90 56 6 11 0 200 400 600 800 1,000 1,200 2014-2024 NFIRS Major Incident Types • 2 – Power Load Stretchers • 2 – Power Pro Stretchers • 1 – Fit Test Machine (Bob) Gorham. Both men served the department for decades; Durward retired in 2013 and Bob in 2021. Both men left a lasting impact on the department and their legacy lives on. Speaking of legacy, during the 2022 Regular Town Meeting I had the opportunity to present Deputy Chief Gene Harmon with Life Member Recognition. I was thrilled to present D/C Harmon with a rocking chair and firefighter flag in recognition for his more than 60-years of service to Buxton Fire-Rescue. Deputy Chief Harmon has served in many capacities through the years, from Firefighter to Chief of the Bar Mills Fire Department. Gene is part of the fabric of this organization, and I was humbled to present this to him. In closing, FY 2021-2022 was a year worth remembering. As we all bounced back out of the COVID year(s) we grew as an organization and had to re-learn how to best support our community with what many would call a new normal. We look forward to continual growth as an organization to best support the department’s mission and the citizens and visitors of our community. Respectfully, Chief Nathan R. Schools, EFO We look forward to continual growth as an organization to best support the department’s mission and the citizens and visitors of our community. Thank you and the community for the continued support BFR receives each year. Respectfully, 200 - Overpressure rupture,… 300 - Rescue & Medical… 400 - Hazardous Conditions (No… 500 - Service Call 600 - Good Intent Call 700 - False Alarm & False Call 800 - Severe Weather & Natural… 900 - Special Type Incident 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 We look forward to continual growth as an organization to best support the department’s mission and the citizens and visitors of our community. Thank you and the community for the continued support BFR receives each year. 2022, was the appointment of Firefighter/Paramedic Denise Nessmann (a 28-year veteran) to the position of career captain and the appointment of Firefighter/Paramedic Jeff Roblee to paid-on-call captain. During the Special Town Meeting on February 2, 2022, the taxpayers approved the purchase of the following items with use of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funds: • 2 – Lucas Chest Compressors • 2 – Power Load Stretchers • 2 – Power Pro Stretchers • 1 – Fit Test Machine 100 - Fires

Respectfully,

Chief Nathan R. Schools, EFO Chief Nathan R. Schools, EFO

W ORKING T O PROMOTE AND PROTECT THE HEALTH AND SAFETY OF OUR COMMUNITY AND FIRST RESPONDERS | 2

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Solid Waste Manager’s 2024 Report

Buxton residents produced 2,753 tons of household trash in 2024, which is a 4.5% increase from 2023. Buxton residents also disposed of 1,024 tons of bulky waste in 2024 compared to 1,178 tons in 2023. The Buxton Transfer Station recycled 62.6 tons of boxboard, 79.8 tons of cardboard, and 220 tons of metal. Keep up the good work recycling! Our composting facility received approximately 1600 yards of leaves and grass, 6 yards of food waste, and 800 yards of animal manure and bedding. Composting eliminates the need to pay for hauling and disposal fees for leaves, grass, and manure, and provides compost as a useful end product for our community. We accept leaves, grass, sawdust from untreated wood, pine needles, garden clippings, manure, and non-animal kitchen scraps (fruits & vegetables) for our compost pile. We can’t accept meat, bones, vegetable oils, or dog/cat/human feces for composting. Compost and wood chips are available to Buxton residents for free if you shovel your own load. We charge $5 per bucket for us to load your vehicle with our loader. We recommend screening the compost on site to avoid getting trash in your compost. We don’t have a grinder or screen for our compost, so expect to find bits of trash, sticks, and other debris that residents have swept out of their truck beds. There is no charge to drop off wood chips or other compostable materials at the transfer station. Leaves, grass, and other organics will not be picked up if left out for curbside collection. The Transfer Station accepts returnable bottles for donation to the “Keep The Heat On” fund. This fund helps buy fuel for elderly Buxton residents in need of assistance. If you wish to donate returnable bottles to the “Keep the Heat On” fund, please ask for the bags and tags at Town Hall or the Transfer Station. Bags can be dropped off at the Transfer Station or any Clynk drop-off site like Hannaford. The Share Shop is open for books and other non-fabric items. Clothes and bedding are not accepted. Items dropped off for the Share Shop will be charged a fee to cover disposal costs unless the item is able to be recycled if no one takes it home. Please visit the Town web site at www.buxton.me.us, and click on the Solid Waste Department heading for information on recycling and other solid waste topics. Questions and comments can be e-mailed to buxtonts@buxton.me.us The Transfer Station is open Tuesdays, Thursdays, & Saturdays from 8am to 4pm. We are closed any Tuesday after a Sunday or Monday holiday. Our phone number is 929-3913. We are located at 185 Portland Road, behind Town Hall and the salt shed. Bird Watchers are welcome to come see the pair of Bald Eagles that frequent the compost area.

Respectfully submitted by:

Greg Heffernan Solid Waste Manager

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Code Enforcement Report for 2024

This office is fully staffed by the following team members: Kert Jackson – Deputy CEO / Building maintenance Roxanne Gardner – Codes and Planning Administrative Assistant

Marcel DesRosiers – Electric Inspector Rick Emery – Deputy Electric Inspector After town meeting in June approved the requirement of electric permits, we began requiring permits on August 1, 2024. The process is running smoothly. There are two issues that are recurring this year that I want to comment on. There have been a few people in town this year who have hired builders and have not received the service that they contracted to get and have lost money. They’ve paid in advance and had to hire someone else to finish. Four in one year, that I know of here in Buxton, is too many in my humble opinion. Two of the contracts had wording that prohibited the homeowner from commenting negatively on social media. That seems like a red flag to me. All of the contractors were researched by the homeowner’s and had good reviews online. In busy times, if a contractor is readily available, it might be a sign that they are so new, they don’t have experience, or just that they have a truck and a hammer, and ready to take your money. My only suggestion is to get local recommendations or local feedback on contractors and not rely on reviews online. Those can be manufactured or be fake news. I’ve been getting reports of “contractors” stopping by resident’s properties to solicit paving work or carpentry work. One didn’t take measurements but gave a price and wanted half of the money up front. Another red flag. Even if they provide a contract that doesn’t ensure that you will get quality work, or even a finished product. Please be careful, it seems the scammers are getting bolder these days. The other topic that comes up a lot is people asking if the town is considering lowering the minimum lot size anytime soon. Some people just want to sell a lot for financial reasons. More people want to have a lot for their family to be able to live close to them. I am seeing an increasing trend of families wanting to live on the same property. While zoning allows one accessory dwelling per lot, sometimes that maximum 500 square feet of living space is not practical for them. This is a common conversation which happens frequently, multiple times a week. I do share the comments with the Planning Board and the Board of Selectmen. My advice is: If many of you want these changes, please write to the Selectmen or Planning Board, or even me and I’ll pass it along. Or: Go to their meetings and voice these requests to them directly. Quite a few people take the time to ask me about it, and it seems that there is a desire for change. It will take more than just voicing it to me to bring about the changes.

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A review of permits issued in the last seven years is depicted below. Category

2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024

Stick Build Homes Modular Homes

21

21

15

31

31

34

21

6

2

4

1 2

3 4

4 9

4 7 8

Accessory Dwelling dwellings

Mobile Home Garages/ Barns

10 28 34 66 12 23 9

18 33 64

25 26 56

23 41 49

17 25 51

22 27 47

25 36 55 18 33 5

Alterations & Additions

Sheds, Decks, Pools & Misc.

Home Occupations

4 5 8 1 9 1

Comm Buildings/ addition/reno

4

Residential solar Renewal permits

3

4

Demolition

13

17

Driveway entrance

4

5

Total Building Permits SSWS (septic system)

142 136 138 136 168 249 238

53 41

50 37

41 34

70 59

66 57

70 91

58 92

Internal Plumbing Electric permits Total Permits

113

236 223 213 265 291 410 501

This office brought in a total of $114,025 in revenue during the period of January 1 to Decembe 31, 2023. This office brought in a total of $114,025 in revenue during the period of January 1 to December 31, 2023.

Respectfully submitted, Respectfully submitted, Patti McKenna, Code Enforcement Officer

Patti McKenna, Code Enforcement Officer

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Grace Bibber, Recreation Director 185 Portland Road, Buxton, Maine 04093 Office Phone: 207-929-8381 Fax Number: 207-929-3076 Email: gbibber@buxton.me.us

Dear Buxton Community,

October 25th, 2024

It’s a honor to submit the Annual Report for FY 2023-2024 on behalf of the staff members and volunteers of Buxton Recreation. The 23-24 fiscal year provided growth and prosperity. We strive to create a welcoming and inclusive resource for community members from all walks of life and all ages. “Play Every Day” is more then our motto, its our mission. We want our community to play in some capacity each and every day for healthier and brighter future.

In FY 23-24, we looked deep to see how we can connect to the community. We processed over 2,224 registrations as compared to 2,097 in FY 22-23. A part of that deep dive we offered 112 programs that retained 228 first time participants.

As part our dedication to a healthier and brighter community we partnered with several different community recourses and agencies in FY 23-24. The University of Southern Maine

Nursing program gave us an opportunity to connect with our aging population to provide fitness classes. These fitness programs specialized in movements to improve balance and strength to prevent falls. Through our partnership, to provide over 20 aging adult the this program.

We strive to get all ages involved in our community. In FY 23-24 a new program came to fruition. We were able to team up with a local fitness instructor and business owner Rachel Pelletier of Mama Bear Fitness to create a women’s fitness classes that specialized in prenatal and postpartum fitness. From there this class blossomed into another that was for both Mom and Baby and a social group for moms. We have seen a steady growth of participants in Mom’s Coffee Hour.

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Fitness programs compared to FY22-23

Our dedicated employees, as well as, fellow Town Departments came together to host our biggest Touch A Truck event to date. With many thanks to Buxton Fire-Rescue’s Community Risk Coordinator, Marisa Morison we were able to team up and branch out to offer a fresh new look. We had a turn out of roughly over 300 community members.

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Grace Bibber, Recreation Director 185 Portland Road, Buxton, Maine 04093 Office Phone: 207-929-8381 Fax Number: 207-929-3076 Email: gbibber@buxton.me.us Grace Bibber, Recreation Director 185 Portland Road, Buxton, Maine 04093 Office Phone: 207-929-8381 Fax Number: 207-929-3076 Email: gbibber@buxton.me.us

Our youth basketball and soccer leagues continued to climb in registrations. In our Basketball league alone we saw influx of over 50% more registration in FY23-24 as compared to the year prior. Having two leagues continuing to grow shows how dedicated and passionate our volunteer coaches are. Many have coached over multiple years and sports with in our department. Without their help we would not be able to have the numbers we do year in and year out. We truly thank them for all they do! Our youth basketball and soccer leagues continued to climb in registrations. In our Basketball league alone we saw influx of over 50% more registration in FY23-24 as compared to the year prior. Having two leagues continuing to grow shows how dedicated and passionate our volunteer coaches are. Many have coached over multiple years and sports with in our department. Without their help we would not be able to have the numbers we do year in and year out. We truly thank them for all they do!

FY 2022-2023 FY2023-24

FY 2022-2023 FY2023-24

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We continued to face the challenges that the childcare industry is facing. Staffing continues to play a huge role in the number of Before and Aftercare spots that we are able to provide. Our mighty staff group continue to show up with boots on the ground and provide over 4,142 hours of a nurturing and inclusive childcare opportunity for the community. On top of our school year childcare opportunities we offer an additional 660 hours of summer camp programming. We continued to face the challenges that the childcare industry is facing. Staffing continues to play a huge role in the number of Before and Aftercare spots that we are able to provide. Our mighty staff group continue to show up with boots on the ground and provide over 4,142 hours of a nurturing and inclusive childcare opportunity for the community. On top of our school year childcare opportunities we offer an additional 660 hours of summer camp programming.

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100

100

50

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0

Soccer Basketball Track

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Soccer Basketball Track

We often get told “I didn’t know that Buxton Recreation put on that trip?” or “I didn’t know that there was a morning for cards and coffee?”. We have various methods of how we market our programs. We put out quarterly flyers that are mailed and emailed to community members. We also have a website at www.buxtonrec.com where our programs, events and activities are listed along with how to register for our offerings. Finally you can also follow us on Facebook at Buxton Recreation Department for all the up to date information. If you wish to be added to our mailing list for either mail or email contact the Recreation Office. Registration Numbers We often get told “I didn’t know that Buxton Recreation put on that trip?” or “I didn’t know that there was a morning for cards and coffee?”. We have various methods of how we market our programs. We put out quarterly flyers that are mailed and emailed to community members. We also have a website at www.buxtonrec.com where our programs, events and activities are listed along with how to register for our offerings. Finally you can also follow us on Facebook at Buxton Recreation Department for all the up to date information. If you wish to be added to our mailing list for either mail or email contact the Recreation Office. Registration Numbers

As we look ahead to FY 24-25 we are excited to continue our connection to the community. I would like to extend a huge thank you to the Buxton Recreation Team. They often work tirelessly and thankless to work activities and programs for the community. I would also like to take a moment to thank Matt Willis, Childcare Services Programmer and Zach McGoldrick, Recreation Supervisor, for all the heart they put into creating activities, programs and events for our community. With out their support Buxton Recreation could not put out the amount of programs As we look ahead to FY 24-25 we are excited to continue our connection to the community. I would like to extend a huge thank you to the Buxton Recreation Team. They often work tirelessly and thankless to work activities and programs for the community. I would also like to take a moment to thank Matt Willis, Childcare Services Programmer and Zach McGoldrick, Recreation Supervisor, for all the heart they put into creating activities, programs and events for our community. With out their support Buxton Recreation could not put out the amount of programs

that we do. We look forward to helping the community Play Every Day! that we do. We look forward to helping the community Play Every Day!

Respectfully, Grace Bibber Grace Bibber, Recreation Director

Respectfully, Grace Bibber Grace Bibber, Recreation Director

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