2025/2026 Annual Report
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D U R H A Town of Durham Maine M Maine’s 69th Town 236th Annual Report January 1, 2025 ~ June 30, 2026
236th Annual Report & Warrant
Town of Durham, Maine For the Fiscal Year January 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026
Durham Town Office 630 Hallowell Road Durham, Maine 04222 Tel: 207-353-2561 Fax: 207-353-5367
View from the Eureka Community Center upstairs window.
Photo Credits: Kimberly Garneau, Chief Rob Tripp, Tia Wilson & Durham Historical Society
Design Credit:
Kimberly Garneau Website: durhammaine.gov
Cover Photo: Facebook: facebook.com/townofdurham/
YouTube Channel: durhammaine.tv
Runaround Pond in WinterTown of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 2
Helpful Information Durham Community School Tel: 207-353-9333 dcs.rsu5.org
Durham Public Works Department Garage: (207) 353-3281 Road Commissioner: (207) 844-1774
Durham Town Office 207-353-2561 Town Manager - Ext. 110 Town Clerk - Ext. 111 (Fax) 207-353-5367 (Website) durhammaine.gov
Freeport High School Tel: 207-865-4706 Website: s.rsu5.org
Game Warden Service
1-800-452-4664
Androscoggin Sheriffs Department
207-753-2500 General Assistance (Hotline)
1-800-442-6003
(Non-Emergency) Sheriff Eric Samson
esamson@androscoggincountymaine.gov Greater Androscoggin Humane Society
info@gahumane.org
Chief Deputy William Gagne 207-783-2311
wgagne@androscoggincountymaine.gov
Lisbon Post Office
Androscoggin County Commissioners 207-353-4935 or 1-800-275-8777
207-753-2500 (Ext. 1801)
Maine Department of Human Services
Androscoggin Registry of Deeds 207-287-3707
207-753-2500 (Ext. 1981)
Maine Dept. of Environmental Protection Services
Animal Control Officer, Ray Schlotterveck 207-287-7688 or 1-800-452-1942
207-353-2500 (Ext. 1)
Maine Department of Transportation
Casella Waste Systems, Inc. 207-624-3000
1-888-485-1469 or www.casella.com/casella
Maine Poison Control
Durham Fire & Rescue 1-800-222-1222
(Emergency) 911
(Non-Emergency/Health Officer/EMA Director) Maine State Police (Troop B)
207-353-2473 207-624-7076 or 1-800-452-4664Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 3
Table of Contents
Town Office Information 2
Helpful Phone Numbers 3
Table of Contents 4
Town Officers, Committees & Officials 5
In Memoriam 6-7
Select Board Report 8-9
Town Manager Report 10 - 11
Town Clerk Report 12
Transitions 13 - 14
Giving Tree/Ornament Parade 14
Outstanding Real Estate Tax 15 - 18 Solid Waste Committee Report 34 - 35
Solid Waste Tonnage Report 36
RSU5 Superintendent Report 37
Animal Control Report 38
Governor Janet Mills Letter 39
Senator Susan Collins Letter 40
Senator Angus King Letter 41
Congressman Jared Golden Letter 42
Senator Bruce Bickford 43
State Representative Webb 44
Proposed Municipal Budget 45 - 66
2026 Dra Town Warrant Report 67 - 74
Outstanding Personal Property Tax 18
Holiday Closings 75
Ladies Auxiliary Report 19
Forest Warden Report 20
Fire, Rescue & EMA Report 21
Road Commissioner Report 22 - 23
Board of Assessor Report 24 - 25
Code Enforcement Report 26
Conservation Commission Report 27
Planning Board Report 28 - 29
Historical Society Report 30 - 31
Cemetery Committee Report 32
Eureka Committee Report 33Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 4
Town Officers, Committee’s & Officials As of May 1, 2026
Town Manager Select Board Agriculture Committee
Jerry Douglass Joe Roy, Chair 2026 David Colson, Co-Chair
Josh Klein-Golden, Vice Chair 2028 Jonah Fertig-Burd, Co-Chair
Clerk/Registrar/Deputy Tax Collector/ Deborah Oliver 2027 Steven Sinisi, Secretary
DeputyTreasurer/GA Administrator Rebekah Polster 2028 Meaghan Grimes
Jessica Landberg John Talbot 2026 Gary Goodrich
Eric Day
Deputy Clerk/Deputy Treasurer/
Planning Board
Information Technology Liaison Cemetery Committee
Brian Lanoie, Chair 2028
Devin Garneau Tia Wilson, Chair
Juliet Caplinger, Vice-Chair 2027 Linda Bowie, Vice Chair
Administrative Assistant/ Allan Purinton 2027 Lindsey Lopes, Secretary
Deputy Clerk/Deputy Treasurer Brian Stickney 2030 Philip Baker
Public Information Officer Xiaoshu Du 2031 Joseph Donovick
Kimberly Garneau Daryn Levesque, Alternate 2031 Natasha Skelton
Greg Wilson
Animal Control Officer Board of Appeals
Ray Schlotterveck Conservation Commission
Darin Baker 2029
Jess Costa, Chair
Assessor Neil Berry 2027
Roberta Brezinski
Donna Hays Terry Kirk 2030
Todd Chaudhry
Milton Simon 2027
Samantha Cuccaro
Code Enforcement Officer Byron Philbrick 2028 Michael Friendly
Alan Plummer (Jan. 2025 - Feb. 2026)
Jeffrey Tindall
Town Planner Budget Committee Kelly Waddle
George Thebarge Milton Simon, Chair 2026
Eureka Center Committee
Jill Gastonguay, Vice Chair 2028
Fire Rescue Chief/Fire Warden/ Pearl Scribner
Neil Berry 2027
Emergency Management Director Jeanne Costigan
Phyllis Brannon 2027
Kathleen Lowe
Robert J. Tripp Donna Church 2026 Anita Sellars
Curtis Dimock, Assistant
Marc Derr 2027 Cathy Sentner
Fire/EMS Administration Allan Purinton 2026
Scholarship Committee
Kevin Merrill Jeffrey Wakeman 2028
Christine Cormier
EMS Deputy Chief Susan Hardison
RSU5 School Board Committee
John Faith Kendra O’Connell
Michelle Ritcheson, Chair 2028
Jonathan Pollock
Road Commissioner/Code Officer Stephanie Worth 2027
Calvin Beaumier Danielle George - Resigned Jan. 2026 Solid Waste Committee
Lois Kilby-Chesley 2026 Juliet Caplinger, Chair
Public Works Catherine Curtis, Vice Chair
Ron Dubé Part-time/Seasonal Milton Simon, Secretary
Thomas Griswold Elmer Allen Board, Committee or Commission Todd Beaulieu
Dale Newton Mark Blake Members with dates are appointed or Phyllis Brannon
Brian Wilson Ryan Henry elected for multi-year terms Jack Pacent, AlternateTown of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 5
In Memoriam Peter A. Lowe August 4, 1940 ~ November 18, 2025
On November 18, 2025, the community lost a dear friend and the Fire Department family lost a dedicated member. Peter devoted 52 years of volunteer service to the Durham Fire Department, a commitment that became one of the great honors of his life. His steady presence, reliability, and courage made him a respected and valued member of the department for more than half a century. He will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, and a man whose life reflected a deep commitment to family, community, and the natural world.
A service of remembrance and celebration was held on Saturday, January 31, 2026 at the Shiloh Chapel. Ronald Parker shared a lesson that he learned about life from Peter. “I was always too busy. Life lesson: Life is short, don’t be too busy to enjoy time with your friends and loved ones.”
Curtis Dimock shared these words, “Peter invested many hours in functions at the fire department. Fire Prevention Week was a big thing for Peter when that got started. He would participate in all the firefighter I and II programs. As a firefighter and an engineer, his number was Portable 8 and that’s going to leave a void that I don’t think will ever be filled.”
Chief St. Michel shared that, “Peter’s dedication was unmatched. He was always there to help even if it did mean rearranging his schedule. At age 60, Peter completed the Tri-County Firefighter One Program, tested out, and became a State Certified Firefighter One. He received his 50 Years of Service well before retirement.”
Peter’s son, Andy, also spoke of fond memories of time spent at the family camp in Brooklin.
In closing, Peter’s daughter, Beth shared these words, “Your story doesn’t end here. It lives on in your grandchildren, in the places you loved, and in everyone of us who learned something from you. We will keep telling your stories, laughing at your jokes, and passing on the traditions. We will carry you with us in the woods, on the water, in the snow, and around every family table. You are a part of us always. We’ve got it from here, Dad.”
“It was a good relationship. A lot of time at the station. And we’re going to miss you, Peter. We already have.” ~ Ken Scribner
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 6
In Memoriam Nancy Austin Gayton July 22, 1952~ January 28, 2026
On January 28, 2026 the community lost a beautiful soul. Nancy attended Durham Elementary and Lisbon High School and earned an Education degree at the University of Maine at Farmington. She taught kindergarten at Durham Elementary School for 25 years, retiring in 2005. Nancy was an intensely private person with a very giving and empathetic heart. She preferred to do her good works behind the scenes, helping those in need with quiet generosity and Christian kindness.
A Celebration of Life was held on February 20, 2026 at the Shiloh Chapel. Her daughter, Katie shared these words. “If I were to use one word to describe my Mom, it would be fierce. She loved all of her children, grandchildren, and children that she fostered, fiercely. She loved my Dad, fiercely. And thankfully had a fierce sense of humor with him, because you really had to or you wouldn’t survive his shenanigans. In the final weeks of her life, she fought fiercely and despite the outcome not being what anyone of us wanted, she won, and she’s still here living on through all of us who will continue her fierce fight of loving others well.”
A former student shared a fond memory of Mrs. Gayton. “On my very first day of Kindergarten, she taught me one of the best lessons learned. If you have something that you can share with somebody, something that you can give to someone else, then just give it freely. I hope that Alex and Katie know just what a kind, humble, loving servant your Mom was and how we are all so special to have been touched by that spirit.”
In closing, Nancy’s sister, Peggy shared a quote, “People may leave, years may pass but memories walk with us quietly. Memories do not fade, they grow gentler with time. We learn that peace matters more than being right. Age teaches gently what youth could not.”
“We are visitors to this time, this place. We are just passing through. Our purpose here is to observe, to learn, to grow, to love. And then we return home.” ~ A.B. Shephard
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 7
Select Board Report
2025, like the previous years, was a busy year for the Select Board. This year, we welcomed 2 new Select Board members, John Talbot and Rebekah Polster. Both hit the ground running and joined Joseph Roy (Chair), Josh Klein-Golden (vice-chair), and Deborah Oliver as we continue to focus on the current needs of our community and plan for the future. Based on the feedback from the community in 2024 and 2025, we continued to focus on priorities provided to us, including the following:
• Shiing our budget to a fiscal year
• Working with our new Agriculture and Solid Waste Committee
• Shiing to automated trash pickup
• Enhancing Communication and community engagement
• Addressing solar permit costs
• Codifying our land use ordinance
• Increasing revenue
• Improving departmental efficiencies
• Identifying cost-saving opportunities
• Integrating new legal counsel One of the biggest changes was the transition from a calendar year to a fiscal year. This has long been a need for our municipality, so we could align our budget cycle with the school and county cycles. This led to an 18-month budget from January 2025 to June 2026. Now that we have completed the transitional budget, we have moved back to a 12-month budget cycle running from July 1 to June 30. This change has allowed us to present a budget this year with actual expenses from our two major budget lines, which are county taxes and school expenses. Those two items, which are generally over 70% or our expenses, have had to be estimated in the past. Moving forward, we will stay with a 12-month budget, and the bill can be paid in two installments throughout the year, rather than all at once.
In 2024, we adjusted the town fee schedule to better align with modern fees and expenses. We maintained this fee structure during 2025 and saw an 86.5% increase in revenue generated from fees, which go towards municipal expenses. We have continued the process of codifying our land use ordinance to address inconsistencies and modernize the document. That process has culminated in the warrant language being placed before the voters at the town meeting. To increase communication, we continue to provide a weekly news blast, post updates to the town website and town social media and utilize our texting communication service. The texting service is utilized by 23% of residents, and you can still subscribe by texting “DURHAMALERTS” to 91896.
We have transitioned our trash pickup to an automated system, as scheduled within our 5-year trash contract with Casella. Automated pickup has been underway for several weeks, and we will be moving to a pay-as-you-throw bag system starting in August. This pay-as-you-throw transition utilized feedback and recommendations from the Durham Solid Waste Committee, which examined several options and worked on behalf of the community to help cra a new practice.
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 8
Our recently formed Agriculture Committee has been hard at work elevating the voices of our agriculture industry in town. They are bringing forward policy recommendations to assist the agricultural producers who help our town maintain its rural character.
While I have mentioned two new committees in this annual report, several other committees and boards remain hard at work supporting our community. The Select Board is proud of the progress we have made, but none of it would have been possible without our community members. Every year, many community members volunteer their time to boards, committees, commissions, or provide valuable public input. This community shows us every year that we are greater than the sum of our parts. The Select Board is honored to be able to work with our community to tackle the everyday challenges and work towards a healthy future. We look forward to another successful year.
In community,
Joseph Roy, Select Board Chair Joshua Klein-Golden, Select Board Vice Chair
Deborah Oliver Rebekah Polster John Talbot
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 9
Town Manager Report
This annual report reflects an 18-month fiscal period during which the Town has continued to make progress in its transition to a Town Manager form of government, adopted in 2021. While structural change occurred several years ago, the transition remains ongoing as the Town continues to refine internal processes, roles, and operational practices. Although transitions of this scale require time, steady progress is being made toward strengthening governance, improving efficiency, and enhancing long-term planning.
I would like to express my appreciation to the Select Board for their continued support, guidance, and collaboration. Their leadership has been instrumental in maintaining stability and direction during this period of ongoing transition.
I also extend my sincere thanks to the Town’s employees for their professionalism, dedication, and commitment to public service. Their efforts have ensured the continued delivery of municipal services throughout this extended fiscal period and organizational evolution.
I am grateful to the residents for their patience and understanding during this 18-month fiscal cycle. The adjustment required taxpayers to make two payments of nine months’ worth of taxes within a relatively short timeframe, which created challenges for some households and required additional coordination with escrow accounts. The community’s cooperation during this process is sincerely appreciated.
Aligning the Town’s fiscal year with those of the State and RSU5 represents an important step forward in financial management. This alignment allows for the development of more accurate and informed budgets based on known data, rather than projections, thereby improving fiscal planning and decision-making.
During this period, the Town also implemented an automated solid waste collection system in accordance with industry standards and contractual requirements. I appreciate residents’ cooperation as this transition has been completed.
The Town was successful in securing over $150,000 in planning grant funding in partnership with the Greater Portland Council of Governments. These funds will support the development of an Open Space Plan and the evaluation of economic development opportunities. As the Town looks ahead to its next Comprehensive Plan, consideration of strategies that promote thoughtful economic development will be important in diversifying revenue sources and helping to offset reliance on property taxes.
Property taxes remain the Town’s primary source of revenue. In the absence of additional revenue streams, continued upward pressure on property taxes is likely. While the Town will continue to manage its budget responsibly, broader and sustained property tax relief will likely require action at the state and federal levels.
The Town will undergo a property revaluation in the coming year, the first in approximately 15 years. Property values are expected to be updated to reflect current market conditions, which may result in signi2cant increases in assessed values. This process is necessary to ensure fairness and equity in the distribution of the tax burden.
It is important to note that the overall tax rate is determined by three primary components: County, School (Education), and Municipal budgets. While each contributes to the total tax impact, recent increases have been driven largely by growth in County and School expenditures rather than the Municipal budget.
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 10
Education costs continue to represent the largest portion of the total tax assessment, generally accounting for approximately 36% to fi6% of the overall tax burden, while County costs have also experienced consistent growth. In contrast, the Municipal share remains a much smaller portion of the total and has been comparatively stable, with periods of limited growth or decline.
A signi2cant factor contributing to these increases is in7ation, which has a0ected the cost of labor, services, and capital investments across all levels of government. These pressures have been particularly evident in education and county budgets, which have a substantial in7uence on the overall tax rate.
The Town remains committed to responsible municipal budgeting and prudent 2nancial management. However, it is important to recognize that changes in the overall tax rate are in7uenced more signi2cantly by School and County spending trends than by municipal expenditures alone.
In closing, I would like to thank the Select Board, Town sta0, and residents for their continued support, cooperation, and commitment to the community during this period of continued transition and progress.
Respectfully submitted,
Jerry Douglass Town Manager
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 11
Town Clerk Report
The Town Clerk’s office is the record keeping department Elections 2025
for the Town of Durham. The office issues licenses and
maintains and preserves vital records (birth, marriage, and Municipal Officers Election
death certificates), the Municipal Code of Ordinances and April 4, 2025
other official documents. The office is also responsible for
the following: dog, hunting, fishing, boat, ATV, snowmobile, Town Meeting
April 5, 2025
and business licenses. The Town Clerk administers all
aspects of elections, voter registrations and campaign
RSU5 Budget Validation
finance as well as Board, Committee and Commission June 10, 2025
openings and applications and Notary services.
Referendum Election
Dog licenses are done by calendar year. Licenses are November 4, 2025
available for the following year on October 15th. A late fee of
$25 per dog is applied beginning February 1st. To avoid a
late fee, either come to the town office or register your dog
online between October 15 to January 31. The cost to
November 4th Election
register a neuter/spayed dog is $6, or $11 for an intact male or
female. Per Maine law, all dogs six (6) months and older are The total votes cast for the November
required to be registered. Current rabies certificate and 4th Election was 1880 and of those,
certificate of spaying, if applicable, are required to process 476 were Absentee Votes.
the registration.Voter Registration
Democrat 83fi
Green Independent fl3ff
Dog Licenses Issued for 2025:
Libertarian 9fl
Intact - 22
Republican fl688
Neuter/Spay - 212
Unenrolled fl9flfl
Total: 234 Total 3485Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 12
2025 Transitions
Vitals Births Birth, Marriage, and Death Certificates are available at the Town Office There were 45 Births in during regular office hours. Certificates are $15 for the first one and $6 Durham in 2025. for each additional of the same certificate requested during the same visit. Congratulations and Welcome! Marriage licenses are available at the Town Office during regular office hours. One of the parties must be a Durham resident or, if both reside outside of Maine, they must intend to be married in Maine. If either party has been married previously, a certified copy of the Divorce or Death Certificate is required. The cost of a marriage license is $40 and both parties must be present. The marriage license process takes approximately 30 minutes to complete, therefore appointments are required. Marriage licenses are valid for ninety days from issuance.
Deaths
Residents who have passed in 2025. We send our condolences to the
families and friends of these deceased individuals. Marcia Lynne McGee
Beth Sandra Morrill
Paul William Aldrich Howard Daniel Durant Helen Toppan Nannery
Lynn Ellen Arbour Gregory Allen Eger Brenda Palmer
Sandra Marie Asselyn Coplin Douglas Fickett Robert Dean Purinton
Donna L. Baril Jeffrey Adam Finik John Sheldon Ranger
Errica May Beaulieu Linda Fiorenzi Carolyn Annette Russell
Lesha Lorraine Beaulieu Todd Michael Ham Ronald Gene Scribner
Rita Sears Bonang Ronald Perley Hood Larry Bruce Smith Jr.
Wyatt Spencer Bragdon Kevin Mark Kendall Burton Leslie Spencer
Edna Elizabeth Chase Robert Bartlett King Beverly Joyce Tremper
Elnora Wetmore Clement Joshua Allan Leino Denis Jason Turcotte
Margaret Rose Cole Jacob Louis Levasseur Joseph Marcus Whisper
Travis Walton Cras Peter Albert Lowe William Burke White
Anna Jane Doody Michael Anthony Marchesseault Francine Gay WilletteMarriages There were 36 marriages in 2025. Congratulations to our Newlyweds!
Marissa Gail Apodaca to Derek Edward Bell March 2, 2025 Danielle Alexis Rider to Zachary Robert Wetzel April 6, 2025 Elizabeth Ann Hartsig to Eric David Schwan May 3, 2025 Josie Candace Desjardins to Connor Josef Coburn May 31, 2025 Nicole Alexandria Anderson to Daniel Harvey Seavey June 7, 2025 Kristen Jean Doherty to Samuel Clinton Gates June 7, 2025 Sarah Elizabeth Minnihan to Lance Walter Stevens June 7, 2025 Krystal Tierra Wlley to Travis Michael Dame June 7, 2025 Danica Josephine Perry to Michael James Demarest June 14, 2025 Renatta Emma Montell to Ethan Robert Huot June 14, 2025 Kaylan Nichole Pacheco to Nicholas Peter Gillespie June 21, 2025 Jaclyn Park-Stevens Macomber to Timothy Paul Mateosian July 13, 2025
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 13
2025 Transitions (continued)
Alison Emily Howe to Christopher James Hall July 17, 2025 Razzane Cleograce Mag-aso to Joseph Allen Sylvester July 18, 2025 Shaina Marie Deutsch to Jacob James Gormely July 19, 2025 Ashley Marie Delcourt to Benjamin Austin Roach August 10, 2025 Hayley Jane Shoemaker to Zachary David Huber August 16, 2025 Paula Jean Verrill to Travis Jerome Best August 16, 2025 Nancy Marie Doherty to Jody Dale Rose August 22, 2025 Samantha Lee Cuccaro to Jerome Patrick O’Sullivan August 24, 2025 Laicie Marie Ellington to Connor John Rouillard August 30, 2025 Elizabeth Grace Fecto to Jacob John Coughlin September 6, 2025 Asma Abdourahman Alale to Robert Scott Doster September 13, 2025 Molly Lynch Huey to Tyler Christian Pierson September 13, 2025 Juliann Katelyn Desjardins to Mason Todd King September 20, 2025 Olivia Melissa Immordino to Colby James Maurice September 27, 2025 Morgan-Renee Lane to Kade Robert Strout October 4, 2025 Dakota Jayanne Ryan to Joshua David Julian October 11, 2025 Nicole Sandra Latulippe to Gabriel Morrison Henson October 18, 2025 Kelly Jean Carr to Justin David Lord October 24, 2025 Ashli Anne Boucher to Megan Claire Pfeffer October 25, 2025 Naylyn Lee Planche to Devinn Scott Violette October 25, 2025 Amy Lynn Stanely to Sean M Evans October 25, 2025 Kathryn Louise Keeney to Carson Blake Hawbaker November 8, 2025 Alyson Kate Sylvester to Brandon Tyler Pierce November 8, 2025 Claire Macdonald Ross to Ethan Christopher Burgess November 15, 2025 24th Annual Durham 4th Annual Ornament Parade Giving Tree The residents of Durham Continuing our tradition with Durham generously donated to the Community School, on December 4, 2025, 2025 Giving Tree. The Town the Town staff welcomed the Pre-K and collaborated with the Kindergarten students to decorate the Community Cares Team at Durham Giving Tree with their handmade Durham Community School to ornaments. We want to thank the teachers support a larger number of and students and Durham Public Works families in our community. and Durham Fire Department for Thank you for supporting the continuing to make this a special tradition Durham Giving Tree! for the Town of Durham.
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 14
Outstanding Taxes
* Interest as of 6/1/26
Real Estate
Property Owner Total Due Property Owner Total Due
w/interest* w/interest*
2023 Scammon, Robert $2,038.18
Scribner, Diane E. $369.05
Bachelder, Cindy M. $2,311.35
Shute, Richard L. $2,765.31
Blake Forest LLC $176.09
Smith, Stacie A. $3,919.32
Brookhouse, Susan J. $4,361.44
SOPO Holdings, LLC $2,290.54
Dewitt, Kevin Andrew(Party in Possession) $1,250.68
St. Pierre, Tammy $2,075.69
Dewitt, Lisa $1,860.06
Thompson, Jeremy $393.18
Easler, Doreen B. $3,832.04
Thompson, Justin $434.99
Emerson, John (Heirs of) $3,319.52
Gillespie, Kristine $1,032.78 2026 (Jan 2025 - June 2026)
Lane, Scott $1,082.20
4B Holdings, Inc. $705.71
Newell, Steven D. II, PR $2,117.62
Autumns Kaleidoscope $20,497.22
Perry, Angela $397.94
Babcock, Jerel K. $2,792.81
Stevens, Betty Cleaves $457.84
Bachelder, Cindy M. $4,325.06
Thompson, Jeremy $344.67
Bailey, Joshua D. $3,563.19
2024
Bailey, Kenneth $2,612.67
Bachelder, Cindy M. $3,181.12 Beaulieu, Evan M. $5,477.73
Blake Forest LLC $2,475.41 Beaulieu, James E. $4,032.54
Brookhouse, Susan J. $4,250.33 Bertrand, Glenn H. $1,664.68
Copp, Michael S. $7,027.72 Blake Forest LLC $3,319.04
Dewitt, Kevin Andrew (Party in Possession) $1,205.21 Blazer, Kevin P. $302.67
Dewitt, Lisa $1,785.90 Bonang, Rita S. $4,651.82
Easler, Doreen B. $3,679.51 Bowie, Inc. $5,609.17
Emerson, John (Heirs of) $3,187.37 Breen, Susan L. $2,345.69
Gillespie, Kristine $3,640.52 Brookhouse, Susan J. $5,797.14
Harkins, Sandra $8,669.43 Brooks, Thomas M. $2,321.61
Huntington, Vincent W II $1,020.39 Brown, Elizabeth C. $1,663.00
Johnson, Greg L $7,863.90 Brunswick Trucking LLC $2,455.74
Lacasse, Michael R. Jr. $1,440.98 Butler, Jonathan S. $2,376.93
Lane, Scott $1038.95 Caldwell, Joseph Brancato $9,096.07
Maclean, Peter $3,214.85 Caron, Joseph L. $6,268.35
Newell, Steven D. II, PR $2,033.23 Chaisson, Donald J. $3,916.65
Perry, Angela $381.94 Chapman, Barrett A. $2,323.97
Quigg, Patrick $8,326.19 Cleveland, Michelle $3,070.35
Ridlon, Tyler $4,274.06 Collins, John A. $2,235.62Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 15
Outstanding Taxes
* Interest as of 6/1/26
Real Estate
Property Owner Total Due Property Owner Total Due
w/interest* w/interest*
2026 (continued) Griffin, Thomas $1,289.36
Harkins, Sandra $6,067.05
Copp Properties, LLC $3,940.52 Harter, Christopher J. $4,300.14
Copp, Michael S. $29,514.75 Hewitt, Kristin $4,302.71
Copp, LLC. $1,654.39 Higgins, Andrew J. $202.92
Coslet, Jacqueline Y. $4,047.73 Hilliker, Lorelei L. $7,026.73
Costigan, Jeanne S. $5,481.11 Holbrook, Heather N. $1,677.25
Coull, Justin $1,162.84 Holbrook, Jason L. $1,058.40
Dame, Ryan $1,901.99 Howitt, Julia Carolyn $4,215.35
Daniels, Denise $426.91 Hummer, Timothy R. Jr. $239.35
Darling, Jeffrey $8,125.64 Hunnewell, Charles G. $7,444.62
Detert, James $1,097.40 Huntington, Vincent W. II $2,082.57
Detert, Jean $1,615.71 Jewett, Brian $365.79
Dewitt, Kevin Andrew (Party in Possession) $1,540.85 Johnson, Amanda G. $4,424.41
Dewitt, Lisa $2,369.76 Johnson, Greg L. $10,737.87
Dewitt, Patricia R. $1,869.40 Jones, Alisha M. $3,862.46
Disselkamp, Joseph Patrick $2,332.05 Jordan, Susan A. $4,699.97
Doten, Rebecca Lynn $6,004.16 Keith, Ryan S. $6,519.43
Doughty, Jack $5,154.82 Kincer, Charles L. $5,375.59
Doyon, Jayce $563.60 Knickrehm, Douglas P. $4,666.34
Easler, Doreen B. $4,976.85 Knowles, David W. $4,561.83
Emerson, John (Heirs of) $4,299.27 Koval, Deborah I. $567.27
Emerson-Mains, Heather L. $5,197.87 Lacasse, Michael R.,Jr. $1,994.86
Enman, Brian $3,910.13 Lachance, Kevin William $1,623.41
Faith, John L. $3,063.21 Laflamme, Philip A. $5,067.99
Feely, Tina M. $2,363.64 Lane, Scott $1,341.37
Fickett, Coplin D. $2,426.95 Lenentine, Erika $995.32
Finch, Wanda $1,915.20 Lobozzo, Jonathan $4,732.64
Fish, James A. $4,084.88 Lopez, Celeste C. $1,496.15
Ford, Reginald W. $1,673.65 Lorello, Maria S. $2,501.10
Gamache, Robert $3,748.90 Maclean, Peter $4,337.11
Gillespie, Kristine $4,868.50 Maine Custom Woodlands LLC $13,547.58
Good, Valerie L. $2405.84 Mainely Woods, LLC $122.90
Goodrich, Matthew R. $4,489.74 Martin, Doreen M. $2,947.79
Goulet, Andrea $3,835.01 Miller, Camden T. $10,827.29Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 16
Outstanding Taxes (continued)
Real Estate, continued * Interest as of 6/1/26
Property Owner Total Due Property Owner Total Due
w/interest* w/interest*
2026 (continued)
Stephenson, David A. $15,154.08
Morse, Cheryl Ann $7,761.03 Sullivan, Bruce A. $4,271.76
Nappi, Beverly C. $5270.92 Sun Side Properties, LLC $1,151.43
Newell, Ronald E., JR $4,048.03 Surace, Joseph L. $2,540.91
Newell, Steven D. II, PR $2,710.26 Thompson, Jeremy $468.68
Oconnor, David J. $3,941.37 Thompson, Justin $515.92
Ostrowski, Steven K. $3,578.38 Tremper, Beverly $4,489.95
Page, Robert D. $1,833.20 Turner, Adam $1028.18
Pascarelli, Mario $3,027.99 Watson, Ross M. $4,871.63
Pellerin, Christian J. $3072.73 Webb, Jacob W. $6,304.45
Perry, Angela $436.81 Werner, Lisa $1,823.41
PMA Real Estate LLC $1,805.70 Whitmore, Robert R. $2,296.95
Quigg, Patrick $11,379.32 Wight, Shana P. $4,402.28
Reilly, Sean P. $1,888.24 Willette, Alan $1,866.77
Reilly, Ted $1,620.49 Woerter, Carolyn A. $233.87
Ridlon, Tyler $5,795.43 Woerter, Richard $347.38
Rugan, Jeremy F. $1,809.14
Scammon, Robert $2,717.14
Schlichting, Douglas E. $388.65
Schneider, William $3,744.81
Scribner, Diane E. $5,790.26
Shute, Richard L. $3,723.17
Smith, Christina A. $3,981.89
Smith, Dean $2,266.58
Smith, Julia E. $4,766.95
Smith, Stacie A. $4,851.30
Snell Construction, LLC $12,894.38
Sopo Holdings, LLC $3,064.53
Spear, Justin $1,011.25
Spier, Calvin C. $1,336.30
St. Germain, Thomas $1,475.58
St. Pierre, Tammy $2,768.73
Stackpole Stables LLC $3,513.38
Stanley, James $6,647.37Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 17
Outstanding Taxes (continued)
Personal Property * Interest as of 6/1/26
Property Owner Total Due
w/interest*
Personal Property 2023
Coastal Construction Services $1,721.17
Huntington’s Truck Repair $44.27
Total $1,765.44
Personal Property 2024
Coastal Construction Services $1,1301.54
Huntington’s Truck Repair $34.97
Synchrony Bank $89.93
Total $1,426.44
Personal Property 2026
AT & T Mobility LLC $60.14
Autumns Kaleidoscope $457.44
Coastal Construction Services $1,551.18
Huntington’s Truck Repair $44.71
Larrabee Construction Inc $196.05
Sitarz, Jon $44.71
Total $2,354.23Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 18
Durham Ladies Auxiliary Report
The Ladies Auxiliary is proud of the time, dedication, and heart our members have given in support of our fire department and community. This year was marked by teamwork, service, and a shared commitment to backing the firefighters and EMS workers who serve us every day.
The Auxiliary continued its tradition of supporting Durham Fire Department members and their families during times of celebration and hardship. Whether recognizing milestones, assisting during emergencies, or simply offering a warm meal and a kind word during the difficult calls, our mission of care and compassion remained at the forefront. This year highlighted the strength of our membership. New members brought fresh energy, while long-standing members continued to share their experience and leadership. The teamwork shown across all activities reflects the Auxiliary’s strong foundation and shared purpose.
Durham Ladies Auxiliary Members
Linda Morris, President
Jen Therrien, Vice President
Debbie Koval, Treasurer
Kimberlei Bradstreet, Secretary
Laura Gagnon
Lauire Merrill-Belanger
Gwen Koval
Amy Pate
Aimee Larrabee
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 19
Forest Warden Report
This year we fully transitioned to the state of maine.gov burn permit site.
By de2nition, a “recreational camp2re” means an outdoor 2re that is used for cooking, personal warmth, light or ceremonial or aesthetic purposes that is not a part of debris disposal (AKA burning brush). A residential 2re contained within an outdoor 2replace also falls into this category. Camp2res may not exceed 1 feet in diameter on the ground at the base of the 2re or 1 feet in height.
We are encouraging the public to utilize the state of Maine.gov burn permit site. This site can be accessed on your computer, smartphone or tablet. If you do have technical issues, please call the station at 151-9431 and the on-duty sta0 will assist you. This method has transitioned to a free service.
Any person wanting to burn logs, brush, grass, pasture, blueberry land or have a camp2re is required by Maine Law to obtain a burning permit. If you have a question about whether it is permissible to burn the material you are considering, please call the station and we’d be happy to come out and inspect it.
There are time frames in which burning can and cannot be done. Permits cannot be taken before 8AM. The class day and local weather conditions play a part in determining whether burning permits will be issued as well. Please understand that changes in weather conditions may require us to suspend permits that have already been issued. You will be contacted by the 2re department directly should this happen.
The individual who applies for the permit is legally responsible for the 2re. They are required to make sure all safety precautions and time frames are adhered to. The 2re must be always attended. The person signing the permit is legally responsible for any damages or suppression costs resulting from the Fire Department being called to contain the 2re should it get out of control.
Rob Tripp Fire Chief Town Forest Warden
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 20
Fire, Rescue & EMA Report
2025 was another active and impactful year for our volunteer firefighters. Members responded to a wide range of emergencies, such as structure fires, motor vehicle accidents, medical emergencies, hazardous conditions and public service requests.
Of the total call volume, approximately 76% were emergency medical responses, continuing a national trend where fire departments play a critical role in pre-hospital care. Fire related incidents accounted for 24% of our calls, including residential, commercial and brush fires. Responses for 2025 Our department remains committed to a rapid response and professional service. In 2025, our Structure Vehicle average response time improved slightly due to Structure Fire 2 Extrications 3 continued training efforts and strong Mutual Aid Fire 15 MVA 61 coordination with neighboring departments. Mutual aid remains a cornerstone of our Fire/ CO Alarms 6 Vehicle fire 2 operations, and we are proud to both give and Chimney Fire 3 receive assistance to ensure the highest level of protection for our citizens. Forestry Other Grass/Wildland Fire 9 Mutual aid rescue 13 None of this would be possible without the Outdoor Burn Invest. 6 Wires/tree down 19 unwavering dedication of our volunteer Outside smoke 6 Inside smoke 11 firefighters, these men and women sacrifice their time, comfort and oen their personal safety to serve others. Whether responding in the middle of the night, during work hours or on holidays, their commitment is truly commendable. Their ongoing training and professionalism ensure that our community receives the highest standard of emergency services.
As always, if you want to volunteer and become a family member, just stop in or call. We never close. 207-353-2473
Rob Tripp Fire & Rescue Chief/EMA Director
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 21
Road Commissioner’s Report
In 2025 the Durham Public Works Department ditched 2.35 miles of road (that is 4.7 miles of ditch-line) and paved 2.35 miles of roadway network.
2025 Maintenance Paving:
• Auburn Pownal Road - 2.35 Miles
Scope of Maintenance Paving:
We ditched, replaced culverts as needed, shimmed and overlayed existing pavement with 9.5 mm hot mix asphalt, and applied new shoulders. We also performed crack- sealing on various roads with hot liquified rubber to keep water from getting into the pavement. Crack-sealing is a valuable tool in our toolbox as a preventative maintenance measure. When water gets into the cracks it freezes and expands, which breaks the pavement and makes the cracks even larger, eventually becoming potholes.
2025-26 Winter Roads: The Durham Public Works Department plows and treats 152 lane miles of roadway throughout the winter months. As of April 26th, 2026, we have responded to 40 winter weather related events using 1692 tons of road salt and 332 yards of winter sand.
2025/26 Highlights: I will start by saying we were very short-handed during the summer and early winter months due to two job openings. It has been a challenge filling those positions, due in large part to competitive regional wage tables.
• Completed our third season of maintaining all Town owned cemeteries in Durham and have continued a very thorough removal of leaves and brush in addition to mowing and grass trimming. We will continue to work on wall and headstone repairs along with other restoration and preservation projects in collaboration with the Cemetery Committee.
• We paved all 2.35 miles of Auburn Pownal Road.
• Ditched, reconstructed, and widened sections of Haskins Road. There were sections that were only wide enough for single lane traffic.
• We completed our annual town-wide roadside mowing. We were able to negotiate a contract with the City of Auburn to lease their road grader at an exceptionally low cost to the Durham taxpayers.
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 22
• MDOT resurfaced- paved Royalsborough Road (Rt 136) from the Freeport Town Line to the Auburn Town Line.
• Ditched and replaced culverts along a 1.3mile section of Auburn Pownal Road from Stackpole Road to the Pownal town line.
• MDOT added an ALL-WAY STOP at the intersection of Quaker Meeting, Rabbit and Royalsborough Roads due to the number of accidents at this location.
• In the Fall of 2025, we traded our 2015 GMC pickup truck for a new 2025 GMC that is primarily driven by the Road Commissioner.
• In the spring of 2026, we traded our 2012 John Deere front end loader for a 2026 Volvo front end loader. As of April 28, 2026, we are still awaiting delivery.
• We are in the process of trading in our 2015 GMC one ton for a 2026 one-ton dump body truck. This transaction should be completed before Town Meeting in June 2026.
2026/27 Work Plan:
• Ditching and culvert replacements in connection with an extremely aggressive maintenance overlay paving program that will include approximately 1.5 miles of roadway. We will also be completing a lot of ditching and road work on gravel roads.
• Paving Stackpole Road - 1.15 miles from Bowie Hill Northward.
• Crack Sealing several miles with $25,000 budgeted.
• Double yellow centerline striping twenty plus miles.
• We have budgeted $100,000 from PW capital for bridge and in-slope work on Mill Pond Road.
• We have budgeted $45,320 from PW capital for repair (slip line) large 4 culverts on New Gloucester Road.
• We have budgeted $34,000 from PW capital to slip - line Very large and deep culverts on Passbrook Road and Collins Way
Once again, I would like to thank the many Durham citizens for another year of support and the many compliments and thanks we at the department have received over the past year. We will continue to make every effort to earn your support and trust as we move forward.
Respectfully submitted, Calvin Beaumier Road Commissioner
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 23
Board of Assessor’s Report Donna M. Hays, CMA serves as agent of the Board of Assessors. She reviews all new construction and properties that have building permits or are being carried as unfinished on the Town’s records. This is done in the spring of the year aer April 1st. The agent also processes all the property transfers and reviews the applications for exemptions. Ms. Hays works the first and third Mondays of the month and if you wish to speak with her about your valuation, please call the Town Office. The assessor can also be reached via email at assessor@durhammaine.gov but will respond during office hours only.
WAYS TO REDUCE YOUR PROPERTY TAX
The following information is provided in an effort to help reduce your property tax burden. All applications are available on the town website assessing page durhammaine.gov or at the Town Office. You can also visit the Maine Revenue Services website at www.maine.gov/revenue/propertytax.
Property Tax Exemptions
Homestead Exemption
Under this law, homeowners are eligible for a $25,000 reduction in valuation. In order to qualify you must have owned homestead property in Maine for at least twelve months prior to April 1st and make the property you occupy your permanent residence.
Veteran’s Exemption
A homeowner may be eligible for a reduction in the valuation of their property if they:
• Have their permanent residence in Durham on April 1st
• Are a veteran who was honorably discharged
• Served during a recognized war period in the U.S. Armed Forces
• Are 62 or older or an un-remarried widow/widower of a qualifying veteran
• Are under 62 but 100% disabled due to a service-related disability
An application along with proof of service and discharge, such as a copy of their DD214 must be provided. For veterans who served during World War II or later the exemption is a $6,000 reduction in valuation.
Paraplegic Veteran
A veteran who received a federal grant for a specially adapted housing unit may receive an exemption of $50,000 in valuation.
Blind Exemption
A homeowner who is determined to be legally blind by a medical doctor receives a $4,000 exemption.
Note: All of the above exemptions require a completed application and may require additional information to support the claim for exemption. All applications must be submitted to the Town Office no later than April 1st.
Current Use Programs
The State of Maine offers the following “current use programs” which give the property owner a reduction in their assessed value. Applications for all these programs are available at the Town Office or at the Maine Revenue Services website and must be filed on or before April 1st. In order to be eligible each program has certain criteria that must be met and any change in use of the land warrants withdrawal from the program and a penalty assessed.
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 24
Tree Growth
This program provides for the landowner with at least 10 acres of forested land who wishes to maintain land for the planting, culture and continuous harvesting of trees. A Forest Management and Harvest Plan must be prepared and submitted with the application. Applications must include a map of the parcel indicating the forest type breakdown as well as all other areas not classified as tree growth. The 100% valuation per acre for each forest type by county is determined by the State Tax Assessor each year. If the classified parcel no longer meets the criteria of eligibility or the landowner withdraws from the program a penalty of an amount between 20 and 30% of the difference between the tree growth value and the fair market value will be assessed depending on the amount of time in the program.
Farm Land
In the farmland program the land must be used for farming, agriculture, horticulture and can include woodland and wasteland. At least 5 contiguous acres of land are required and the tract must contribute at least $2,000 gross income from farming activities per year in one of the two or three of the five calendar years preceding the date of application. If the classified parcel no longer meets the criteria of eligibility or the landowner withdraws from the program a penalty of an amount between 20 and 30% of the difference between the farmland value and the fair market value will be assessed depending on the amount of time in the program, or a penalty equal to an amount of taxes that would have been paid in the last five years had it not been in the program, less the taxes that were originally assessed, plus any interest on that balance will be assessed, whichever is greater.
Open Space
Under this program no minimum acreage is required and the tract of land must be preserved or restricted in use to provide a public benefit such as public recreation, scenic resources, game management or preserving wildlife habitat. Classified land is valued by reducing the fair market value in accordance with a cumulative percentage reduction for which the land is eligible according to certain categories.
• Ordinary Open Space – 20% reduction
• Permanently Protected – 30% reduction
• Forever Wild – 20% reduction
• Public Access – 25% reduction
If the property met all of the above requirements, the owner would see a cumulative reduction of up to 95% on the classified land. If the classified parcel no longer meets the criteria of eligibility or the landowner withdraws from the program a penalty of an amount between 20 and 30% of the difference between the open space value and fair market value will be assessed depending on the amount of time in the program.
Property Tax Fairness Credit
The State of Maine also offers a Property Tax Fairness Credit. Eligible Maine taxpayers may receive a portion of the property tax or rent paid during the tax year on the Maine individual income tax return whether they owe Maine income tax or not. To claim credit, file Form 1040ME and Schedule PTFC for the tax year during which the property tax or rent was paid. For more information call 207-626-8475 or visit the State of Maine website at www.maine.gov/revenue/taxrelief/ptfcsummary.htm. Respectfully Submitted, Donna Hays Town Assessor
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 25
Code Enforcement Report
Permits Issued 2025:
• Total Building Permits Issued: 76
• New Single-Family Homes: 33
• Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs): 2
• Electrical Permits: 107
• Demolitions: 5
• Internal Plumbing Permits: 55
• External Plumbing (Septic Systems): 46
• Annual total of Permit Fees Collected: $110,583.02
• Average Permit Fee (All): Approximately $386.38
2024 ANNUAL Totals 2025 ANNUAL Totals
All Building Permits 65 All Building Permits 76
Demolition 4 Demolition 5
Electrical 147 Electrical 107
Flood Plane 0 Flood Plane 1
Internal Plumbing 52 Internal Plumbing 55
Septic Systems 35 Septic Systems 46
Annual Total of Permit (Approx) Annual Total of Permit (Approx)
Fees Collected $61,881.99 Fees Collected $110,583.02
(Approx) (Approx)
Average Permit Fee Average Permit Fee
$206.27 $386.38Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 26
Conservation Commission Report
The Durham Conservation Commission focuses on conservation- related issues in collaboration with Town sta0, volunteers, residents, neighboring communities, and public and private advocacy groups.
Our goals are to: protect current and potential water resources; conserve natural resources within the Town of Durham; create and preserve open space for recreational use and wildlife habitat; advise the Select Board and Planning Board on sustaining natural resources, including land, water, air, wildlife habitat, and scenic views; and conduct research, in conjunction with the Planning Board, on land areas under consideration for development.
Activities and Accomplishments in 2025: During the past year, the Commission made meaningful progress toward advancing conservation planning in Durham. Most notably, we were awarded a no-match grant through the Community Resiliency Partnership, coordinated by the State’s Governor’s Office of Policy Innovation and the Future.
This grant supports the development of an Open Space Plan for the Town. A key component of this e0ort will be gathering input from residents to identify valued natural areas, landscapes, and recreational spaces. This engagement will help guide future conservation priorities and ensure the plan re7ects community needs. Participating communities typically complete a self-assessment, hold public workshops, and adopt a municipal resolution to prioritize actions, and the Commission has begun coordinating these steps with project partners.
Commission members also participated in site visits for proposed subdivisions with active applications. Following these visits, we provided site-specific recommendations to the Planning Board to help minimize impacts to natural resources. For example, we suggested seasonal restrictions on tree removal to avoid disturbance to nesting bats and other wildlife.
Looking Ahead: In the coming year, the Commission will continue working with FB Environmental and the Greater Portland Council of Governments to incorporate workshop input and resident feedback into an Open Space Plan that re7ects community priorities and supports Durham’s long-term conservation goals.
Conservation Commission Members: Roberta Brezinski, Todd Chaudhry, Jess Costa, Samantha Cuccaro, Michael Friendly, Je0 Tindall, and Kelly Waddle
Respectfully submitted, Durham Conservation Commission
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 27
Planning Board Report Planning Board Report for 2025
The Durham Planning Board continues its mission to implement the Durham Comprehensive Plan and guide the town's growth in a manner that preserves its rural character and important natural resources while accommodating needed development opportunities. In 2025, the Board balanced a workload of application reviews with long-range planning initiatives, including the adoption of Land Use Ordinance amendments and participating in a digital codification of the Land Use Ordinance. Supported by the Town Planner, the Board meets on the first Wednesday of each month to conduct its business and schedules additional meetings for public workshops on policy issues.
Highlights of 2025 Activities
1. Land Use Ordinance Amendments and Policy
• April 2025 Town Meeting Approvals: Voters approved three significant updates to the Land Use Ordinance: ๏ Resource Protection: Revisions to the Resource Protection District boundaries based on updated state data and to provide relief for landowners with existing buildings in the district. ๏ Energy Systems: Enactment of performance standards for Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and the establishment of contract zoning for large-scale solar energy and BESS projects. ๏ Historic Preservation: Streamlined regulations to align with legal requirements and Comprehensive Plan recommendations to focus regulations on recognized historic properties rather than larger areas and transformed the Historic Commission to an advisory capacity like the Conservation Commission.
• Codification Project: A major effort was undertaken to digitize the Land Use Ordinance through the General Code Corporation that manages online ordinances for more than 30 Maine communities. This project includes a comprehensive legal and editorial review to align local regulations with state laws.
• Minor Policy Revisions & Administrative Changes: The Board spent the latter half of 2025 draing "minor policy" changes for the 2026 Town Meeting. Some of these changes include addressing back lots, private ways, subdivision road buffers, and fire protection water supplies. These changes will provide clearer directions for decision-making by applicants, staff, and the Planning Board. A third set of administrative changes to improve the project review process and clarify areas of confusion will be included in the Town Meeting warrants.
2. Application Reviews and Approvals
• Subdivisions: ๏ Durham Heights: Conducted a sketch plan review for a 13-lot cluster subdivision on Quaker Meeting House Road. ๏ Pinkham Brook Road: Reviewed a sketch plan for a 13-lot cluster subdivision. ๏ Bowie Hill Subdivision (Phase 2): Granted a six-month extension and approved a lot-line adjustment. ๏ Ruby Farmview: Reinstated subdivision approval for completion of the road paving and granted preliminary approval for a 4-lot expansion. ๏ Deer Creek Crossing: Approved amendments to remove lot sale restrictions and individual home sprinkler requirements aer the installation of a compliant fire pond.
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 28
๏ Blue Jay Way: Approved a revised back lot access. ๏ Greystone Ridge: Conducted a sketch plan review for a 13-lot cluster subdivision on Pinkham Brook Road.
• Conditional Uses and Site Plans: ๏ Leisure Campground: Granted final site plan approval for a 40-site expansion on Royalsborough Road aer the applicant secured necessary State permits for wastewater and stormwater management. ๏ Replenova Farm Market: Approved outdoor seating and seasonal fair activities. ๏ The Kids Next Door Daycare: Reviewed and approved expansion plans for the Hallowell Road facility.
3. Long-Range Planning and Strategic Initiatives
• Community Facilities Visioning: Planning staff coordinated a citizen participation process with the Greater Portland Council of Governments to establish goals for Town properties along Hallowell Road. A framework was developed based on public feedback regarding the need for expanded office and meeting spaces and maintenance of Town assets.
• Open Space and Conservation: The Conservation Commission secured an $80,000 state grant to develop a comprehensive Open Space and Conservation Plan that will be incorporated into the coming Comprehensive Plan update.
• Agriculture Modernization: Collaborated with the Agriculture Committee and Maine Farmland Trust to moderinize definitions for agricultural activities, including agritourism, to support the local farming economy.
• Economic Development: Supported a grant application to explore the establishment of an economic development district in South Durham.
Future Outlook and Challenges
The Planning Board is currently monitoring a possible uptick in subdivision development and housing construction, with multiple subdivision applications in the initial review phases. To ensure a coordinated response to any dramatic increase in development rates, the Town’s Comprehensive Plan contains an appendix setting out the process for responding in a coordinated manner in keeping with State laws. The Board will continue to carefully monitor housing starts and subdivision lot approvals and will advise the Select Board if action is necessary to manage this growth.
Significant changes to Maine’s Growth Management Act in 2025 have extended the certification of Durham’s 2018 Comprehensive Plan by two years, meaning it is now valid until June 2031. This extension allows the Town to focus on completing current long-range projects - such as open space, agriculture, and economic development - before beginning a full update of the Comprehensive Plan beginning in 2028 - 2029.
For the coming year, the Board’s priority remains the successful completion of the codification project to ensure Durham’s regulations are accessible, consistent, and legally sound and the Board will then focus on implementation of state-mandated housing changes and other policy issues that were deferred until aer codification.
Submitted by the Durham Planning Board, March 2026
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 29
Historical Society Report
2025 Durham Historical Society Annual Report As we said goodbye to 2025, we wanted to pause, just for a moment, to reflect and to thank the people who make the Durham Historical Society what it is: our volunteers, our supporters, and our community.
The Heart of it All Small-town organizations live in a delicate space. We know that. We feel it. And that is why we never take for granted the incredibly committed group of volunteers who show up for Durham’s history again and again. Our volunteers are the heart of the Historical Society. Without them, we would not exist. This year, we welcomed a record number of volunteers, from young helpers to seasoned historians, and even a few four-legged assistants who kept morale high. They are a patchwork of individuals, each bringing their own stories, talents, and viewpoints. That patchwork is what makes us stronger. It makes us thoughtful. It makes us resilient. To watch this group come together under a shared passion for Durham’s history is a truly beautiful thing.
A Community That Shows Up Beyond our volunteer core, 2025 was filled with generosity from local businesses and neighbors. We extend heartfelt thanks to: Green Island Stonework, Paris Farmers Union, Amy Johnson & Wilson’s Wiener Wagon. We are equally grateful to the many residents, past and present, who entrusted us with Durham-related items for our growing archive. Every photograph, document, and artifact adds another layer to the story we are preserving. And to our Facebook followers: Thank you. Thank you for sharing your memories, commenting on posts, offering transcriptions, and reminding us that history is not just something stored on shelves; it is something living and shared.
A Year of Effort, Joy, and Determination Like most meaningful work, 2025 brought both highs and lows. We kicked off the year with our annual Heartbombing event, shining love on Durham’s historic bandstand. We continue to advocate for the attention and care it deserves and have reached out multiple times to the Select Board to discuss its future. We remain hopeful that 2026 will bring movement and restoration.
• One of our biggest highlights was our very first Hot Dogs & History event, and what a success it was! The combination of storytelling, community connection, and partnering with Wilson's Wieners made for an evening we won’t soon forget. If you missed it, don’t worry, we hope it becomes a tradition.
• In May, we honored local veterans by placing flags on their graves for Memorial Day, a quiet but powerful reminder of service and sacrifice.
• In July, we joined the Moxie Festival parade with a float in the “Hang Loose” celebration, proudly representing Durham’s past in the midst of its present-day joy.
• Thanks to our incredible volunteers, we were even able to expand our efforts beyond town lines, participating in Pownal’s Festival of Trees and strengthening community ties with our neighbors.
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 30
The Harder Moments Not everything unfolded as we had hoped. Heartbreakingly, the contractor lined up to begin museum repair work this year fell through. Later in the summer, the museum’s application to be added to Maine’s 2025 Most
Endangered Buildings list was denied.
Those were difficult moments. But if there is one thing 2025 confirmed, it is this: setbacks do not define us. We
stayed focused. We kept moving.
The WDMC saw meaningful progress when volunteers spent a weekend clearing out the church, and Northeast Housewrights began sill work, an encouraging and tangible step forward. And in the fall, we planted bulbs around the museum grounds. It may seem like a small act, but it was intentional. A future of lovely things starts now. We are already looking forward to seeing those first blooms in 2026, just in time for the Durham
Historical Society’s 50th anniversary.
Looking Ahead As we turn our focus toward the coming year, we remain committed to fostering a community rooted in togetherness, kindness, and excitement for Durham’s history. There will be challenges. There will be celebrations. There will be stories waiting to be uncovered. And we will face them the way we always do, together. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for being part of this work. Here’s to 2026, to 50 years of the Durham Historical Society, and to many more chapters yet to be written.
Durham Historical Society Officers & Senior Members:
Tia Wilson - Chair Natasha Skelton Sandra Hilton - Co-Chair, Greg Wilson Lois Kilby-Chesley - Secretary Jennifer Fitzpatrick Tyler Hutchison - Treasurer, Kat Jewell Emily Alexander - Archivist Kevin Morgan Eliza Howe Gradi Schutt Candy DeCsipkes Jeff Lockwood
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 31
Cemetery Committee Report 2025 Cemetery Committee Report The Durham Cemetery Committee works for and under the authority of the Board of Selectmen. We are a group of unpaid volunteers whose mission is the care and maintenance of the sixteen (16) cemeteries for which the Town of Durham has responsibility.
We also offer cemetery plots in Strout Cemetery, located on Hallowell Road, for those wishing to be buried in town. The Committee has no affiliation with the private cemetery associations located within Durham.
Organization & Oversight The Town’s Public Works Department continued to provide maintenance services for the cemeteries this year. We extend our sincere appreciation to the Public Works team for their continued dedication and for keeping our cemeteries looking beautiful and well cared for.
Cemetery preservation is a community effort, and we are grateful for those who assist us in honoring Durham’s past. Special thanks to the Acacia Masonic Lodge for their continued work at Cedar Grove Cemetery. Honoring Our Veterans
2025 Committee Work Throughout the year, committee members:
• Inspected all cemeteries under our jurisdiction to ensure proper maintenance and identify areas needing attention.
• Worked with Thomas Stevens Cemetery Restoration to repair and clean Waterhouse Cemetery, located on Auburn Pownal Road.
• Three cemetery plots were sold in 2025.
In 2026, we aim to clean and repair Strout Cemetery on Hallowell Road. We look forward to continuing our stewardship with care, respect, and dedication to Durham’s history.
Honoring our Veterans & Community Support There are 254 known veterans buried in Durham cemeteries, representing service in the Revolutionary War, War of 1812, Civil War, World War I, World War II, Korean War, Vietnam War, and the Gulf War. These veterans rest in 21 of the town’s 25 cemeteries. We take great pride in preserving their final resting places and maintaining the beauty and respect these sacred grounds deserve.
We also extend our gratitude to the following individuals who helped place flags on veterans’ graves in observance of Memorial Day: Lindsey Lopes, Greg & Tia Wilson, Eliza Howe, Nick Lowery, Linda & Warren Bowie, Natasha & Noel Skelton, & Emily Alexander. Your time and care ensure that those who served our country are remembered with dignity and respect.
Respectfully submitted, Tia Wilson Chair, Durham Cemetery Committee
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 32
Eureka Committee Report
The community center has been active with projects, events, meetings and rents. The rents have averaged more than two a month. Town groups use the center on a regular basis as well as girl scouts. Other groups use the center seasonally. The committee has held two collection events, one for the Lisbon Area Christian Outreach (LACO) and one for animal rescue.
Some of the improvements this year:
• New Exterior Doors
• Wi-Fi has been added to the building.
• And Heating is still being addressed.
The committee, along with volunteers, cleaned, organized and did some repairs. The Girl Scout troop does a yearly project. This year they removed and cleaned the grids from the windows and washed the windows inside and out. The troop also weeded the planter under the Eureka sign. Public Works cleaned the upstairs and attic and the eves were sealed where the two buildings come together, the old house and the grange addition.
Improvements still needing to be addressed:
• Parking Lot lighting
• First floor flooring needs to be replaced.
The committee wishes to thank our volunteers, the Town Office staff and Public Works for all they do for the center. Thanks to the Fire Department for staffing the cooling center days. And special thanks to Girl Scouts Troop 500.
Respectfully Submitted,
The Durham Eureka Community Center Committee
Pearl Scribner, Chair Kathleen Lowe, Vice Chair Cathy Sentern Jennie Costigan Anita Sellars Linda Litchfield
GIRL SCOUT TROOP 500
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 33
Solid Waste Committee Report
For the 2025-2026 physical year, the Solid Waste Committee worked to determine whether a transfer station was a viable option for the Town of Durham. We were also asked to review the options regarding ongoing curve side pick-up options as well. Additionally, we met with members from the Agricultural Committee for options to reduce our tipping fees through composting.
Regarding a town transfer station: As part of the Solid Waste Committee bylaws, we have been charged with determining a long-term solid waste plan by comparing options in terms of environmental impacts and cost effectiveness. The options evaluated included the status quo (curb-side pick-up) vs. a transfer station facility (either owned and managed by the town of Durham or partnering with another town). Curb-side pick-up was the preferred option.
The Road Commissioner had provided the Committee with information regarding land owned by the town as possible sites for a transfer station and information gathered related to other towns in the area of similar size who own/operate a landfill and/or transfer station was also reviewed.
During the Committee's November 2025 meeting, options were reviewed by performing a "weighted" exercise (please see attached worksheet), evaluating the following:
• Cost to town/residents
• Service quality
• Flexibility and control
• Sustainability
• Scalability
• Equity
• Local economic impact
• Regular compliance
• Community feedback
Our analysis concluded that continued curb-side pick-up was the best option for the town of Durham.
A summary of our review:
• Curb-side pick-up: scored the most favorable for: Cost, Service quality, Sustainability, Scalability, Equity, Local economic impact, Regulatory compliance.
• Transfer Station owned by the town scored most favorable for: Service quality, Flexibility & Control, Equity, Local economic impact, Regulatory compliance.
• Transfer Station shared with another community scored most favorability for: Service quality, Equity, Local economic impact, Regulatory compliance.
The transfer station option(s) did not score well for the following:
• Cost (primarily due to construction, labor costs and maintenance).
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 34
• Sustainability & Scalability (due to limited growth options over the years).
• We also discussed the ability for some residents to actually use a transfer station given the challenges of moving trash from one location to another and also the impact on recycling and likely increased tipping costs as a result of a transfer station.
We determined that given our analysis the current curb-side pick-up was the best option. Our conclusion is based on several factors as noted above including overall cost, sustainability, scalability, equity, local impact and regulatory compliance. The environmental impact on likely increased tipping fees and reduced recycling were also considered.
The Committee voted unanimously in November 2025 to move forward with the recommendation that the current curb-side pick-up was the best option for the town. In December 2025 we met with the Cassella Representation and shied our focus to the PAYT option as directed by the town manager. The Committee then agreed at our January 2026 meeting to provide our transfer station/curb-side pick-up analysis to the Select Board with our conclusion that the current system is the best overall option for the town of Durham.
Regarding ongoing curb-side pick-up: The committee reviewed the current Tag program, Pay-as-you- throw option, and whether absorbing cost through taxes (no cost for bag, etc) was appropriate. The Solid Waste committee felt that absorbing the cost should not be absorbed by tax revenue alone. The committee made the following recommendations:
1. Initiate the Pay-As-You-Throw (PAYT) program with colored bags. We made this recommendation with or without AI technology to start;
2. Obtain 64-gallon containers for both trash and recycling with the option for a 48-gallon container upon request of the resident.
In 2026-2027, the committee will be focusing on a Solid Waste Ordinance as requested by the Town Manager and additional steps to reduce our overall tipping fee which will include communication to residents on options for disposal of non-trash related items, composting options, recycling, etc.
Respectfully submitted, The Solid Waste Committee
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 35
Solid Waste Report
The Town of Durham contracts with Casella for curbside solid waste and recycling collection. Your residential curbside trash and recycling will be picked up by an automated side-load truck. Trash and recycling collection occurs weekly on your scheduled day, either Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday. All trash must be inside of the bins with the lid closed. A pay-as-you-throw program will begin August 1, 2026. Residents can purchase designated purple bags at the Durham Get and Go and local grocery stores. The bags are available in two sizes, 15-gallon bags (1.80 each) and 33-gallon bags (3.00 each). Residents can contact Casella’s customer service representatives at 207-518-8653 or report issues through Casella’s Mobile App.
Town of Durham, Maine 2025 - Municipal Solid Waste & Recycling Report (By Tons)
Municipal Zero-Sort Oversized Bulky
Solid Waste Recycling Waste/
(Curbside (Curbside Recycled Constructiion Total Tons
Month Services) Services) Metal Debris Collected
January 73.74 25.64 0.00 0.00 99.38
February 50.60 19.95 0.00 0.00 70.55
March 58.29 20.00 0.00 0.00 78.29
April 62.02 23.00 0.00 0.00 85.02
May 73.42 25.00 6.83 38.25 143.50
June 57.93 18.04 0.00 0.00 75.97
July 77.54 27.35 0.00 0.00 104.89
August 63.12 20.67 0.00 0.00 83.79
September 62.31 33.17 0.00 0.00 95.48
October 64.98 36.81 0.00 0.00 101.79
November 63.31 21.66 0.00 0.00 84.97
December 58.86 21.03 0.00 0.00 79.89
Total Tons 766.12 292.32 6.83 38.25 1103.52Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 36
RSU5 Superintendent Report
Dear Citizens,
We want to thank all the residents for the passage of our current budget. The adopted budget for 2025-2026 is $44,455,929. In addition to contractual salaries and benefits, the majority of the expenditure increases included the following: funding for a Grade 4 Teacher at Mast Landing School, a Response to Intervention- Behavior Educational Technician for Durham Community School and additional days for the Guidance Counselor Secretary at Freeport High School, needed technology replacement, significant security and life safety upgrades in all of our schools and the continued funding of the district’s Capital Improvement Plan.
We are grateful for the individuals willing to volunteer and serve on the RSU5 Board of Directors. Current Board members from Durham are Danielle George, Stephanie Worth, and School Board Chair Michelle Ritcheson; members from Freeport are Colin Cheney, Anna Child, Kara Kaikini, Vice-Chair Maura Pillsbury, Kelly Sink and Valerie Williams; and members from Pownal are Malik Farlow and Christopher Savaiano. Two student representatives from Freeport High School are selected each fall.
All Board goals aim to ensure every student has an engaging, student-centered education, and graduates ready to enter postsecondary education or the workforce. In June, 164 students graduated from Freeport High School, ready to venture into their post-graduation lives. We are very appreciative of all the financial contributions for scholarships to support our students in post-secondary education.
We have an extremely dedicated, qualified staff serving our students. We educated 1997 students during the 2024-2025 school year, which was a decrease of 87 students from the October 1st enrollment from 2023. The projected enrollment for 2025-2026 is 2018. If this remains stable, this will be an increase of 21 from last year’s October 1st certified enrollment.
Through the collective efforts of our staff, parents, students and community members, we strive to provide a quality education for all of our students. As we strive “to inspire and support every learner by challenging minds, building character, sparking creativity, and nurturing passions,” we appreciate your support and involvement in educating our students in RSU5!
Sincerely,
Jean M. Skorapa Superintendent of Schools
GRADUATING CLASS OF 2025
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 37
Animal Control Report
Bowdoin Durham Lisbon Sabattus
Animal Related Issues 6 8 72 14
Missing Animals 14 6 26 0
Cat Complaints 21 6 57 21
Cruelty 5 0 8 6
Dog Bites 5 7 20 2
Barking Dog 1 0 17 8
Dangerous Dog 0 1 1 0
Loose Dog 39 21 136 30
Animal Trespass 1 0 2 0
Rabid Animal 0 0 6 1
Wildlife 2 2 63 2
Assist Other Agency 1 1 58 8
Poultry 2 1 14 4
Swine 1 0 1 1
Institutionalized 0 0 1 0
Animal In Car 0 0 0 0
Total Calls 86 53 482 97
Total Combined Calls 7182025 Feral Cats Trapped by Town
Bowdoin 30 Durham 1 Lisbon 19 Sabattus 14
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 38
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 39
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 40
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 41
Dear Friends,
I hope this letter finds you well.
As you likely know, my time in Congress will come to an end in January 2027, after which I’ll return to my family and my life as a private citizen. In other words, this is my final town letter.
My time as your representative has included a fair share of ups and downs, but one thing that never changed was the pride I brought with me to represent your community and all the others across Maine’s 2nd Congressional District.
Maine has been home for my entire life. And while serving in Congress has meant a lot of time in Washington, D.C., I’ve tried my best to stay connected to the people, places and values that made me who I am.
Growing up in Leeds, I learned the value of hard work and community. When I enlisted in the U.S. Marines, a decision driven by the commitment to service and patriotism instilled in me by the people and places that raised me, I learned a lot about sacrifice and leadership. After my time in the military, I settled in Lewiston and served my city in the Maine State House, where I got a crash course in what representation really meant: listening, understanding, and fighting to make life better for the people and families who’d placed their trust in me.
I brought these values and experiences with me to Congress and tried to live up to them every day I have served.
I share all this not because my story is special or my values unique, but because I know that it is not.
It’s fair to say that I’ve worked in one way or another with most every community in the District. Together, we’ve reduced pressure on property taxes by securing congressional funds for local projects. We’ve passed laws to support Maine’s heritage industries and small businesses. And my staff and I have provided direct constituent services, helping thousands of Mainers across the state — including recovering millions of dollars in missing or delayed federal benefits.
What I’ve learned through our work together is that there are leaders all over Maine everywhere you look — people committed to service, to their communities and their country: Municipal officials and workers. Business owners and innovators. Servicemembers and law enforcement officers. Volunteer firefighters. And of course, the everyday workers, parents and students who are all doing their part to contribute how they can to their families and communities.
I am grateful to share this state with every single one of you, and despite all our challenges, I am optimistic about our future because of what I’ve seen and learned. I know that the things that divide us are no match for the things we have in common and our commitment to each other.
While this may be my final letter in this format, I am still working hard to represent you for the rest of this year. If your community, small business, or family has a need, reach out to my nearest district office and talk to us about it. My staff and I can help navigate government programs; find federal resources in Maine; and resolve issues with Medicare, Social Security, the VA, and other agencies. Here’s the contact info for my offices:
● Caribou Office: 7 Hatch Drive, Suite 230, Caribou, ME 04736. Phone: (207) 492-6009
● Lewiston Office: 179 Lisbon Street, Lewiston, ME 04240. Phone: (207) 241-6767
● Bangor Office: 6 State Street, Suite 101, Bangor, ME 04401. Phone: (207) 249-7400
Thank you again for the great honor of representing you in Congress and the opportunity to serve you and your community. I will spend the rest of my time in Congress working just as hard as I always have to deliver what I can to Maine.
Respectfully,
Jared Golden Member of Congres
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 42
Bruce Bickford THE MAINE SENATE 3 State House Station Senator, District 20 132nd Legislature Augusta, Maine 04333
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve as your State Senator. It is an honor to represent our communities, and I remain committed to working on your behalf to address rising costs, protect seniors, and ensure state policies reflect the realities faced by Maine families and businesses.
The First Regular Session and the First Special Session of the 132nd Legislature adjourned in March and July of 2025, respectively. The Second Regular Session will convene in January 2026, and with many bills carried over, there will be significant work ahead.
I am pleased to report that the Legislature passed several critical bills aimed at expanding access to medical care, including measures to improve prescription access in Maine’s most rural communities. We also secured key wins to protect our vital forest and logging industries, strengthen Maine’s hospitality sector and create new economic opportunities in agriculture by supporting food processing and manufacturing incentives.
One of my main priorities this session was addressing Maine’s high energy costs. Maine continues to rank among the states with the highest residential electricity rates, and recent increases have placed a growing burden on ratepayers. I sponsored LD 359 to rein in costs associated with the Net Energy Billing program by limiting overlapping subsidies that contribute to higher electric bills. While that bill did not pass, the Legislature did enact reforms to reduce program costs, and I supported the creation of the Net Energy Billing Cost Stabilization Fund through LD 839, which will help offset ratepayer expenses. Additional reforms have been carried over, and I will continue working to provide further relief.
I also supported legislation aimed at providing property tax relief for Maine seniors. LD 1144 would have reinstated the Property Tax Stabilization Program, allowing eligible seniors to freeze property taxes on their primary residence while fully reimbursing municipalities. Although the bill did not pass, I believe helping older Mainers remain in their homes is essential and will continue advocating for solutions to ease the property tax burden.
Thank you again for placing your trust in me as your State Senator. Please feel free to contact my office at (207) 287-1505 if you have questions, comments, or need assistance with a state matter.
Sincerely,
Bruce Bickford State Senator, District 20
Taxation Committee State House (207) 287-1505 * Fax (207) 287-1527 * Toll Free 1-800-423-6900 * TTY 711 Bruce.Bickford@legislature.maine.gov * legislature.maine.gov/senate
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 43
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 2 STATE HOUSE STATION AUGUSTA, MAINE 04333-0002
Kilton Webb (207) 287-1400 Cell: (207) 458-0172 Kilton.Webb@legislature.maine.gov TTY: MAINE RELAY 711
March 9, 2026
Dear Durham Neighbors:
It continues to be an honor to serve you in the Maine House of Representatives. I am proud to be your advocate in Augusta.
Since taking office, one of the biggest issues I’ve heard loud and clear from constituents is that the rising cost of living is making it harder for working families to make ends meet. Household budgets just aren’t going as far as they used to, and it’s making it difficult for everyday Mainers to afford to build their lives here.
In 2025, the Legislature put working families first by passing measures to protect critical investments in health care, food security, education, child care and housing. But we still have a lot more work to do. This year, I will continue fighting for real solutions to help address the problems facing families here in our district and across the state, including tackling the rising costs of housing, health care, child care and energy.
As of this writing, we have begun the second year of the two-year term. Over the next few months, we will consider hundreds of bills before we adjourn, which will likely be in mid-April. Once again, I am proud to serve on the Energy, Utilities and Technology Committee, where we will work to develop energy policies that lower costs, improve the efficiency of our electric system and work to meet our climate goals.
If there is anything I can do to be of assistance to you or your family, please feel welcome to reach out. I always enjoy connecting with constituents – whether you have concerns about local matters, questions about state programs or would like to discuss your thoughts on legislation. I can be reached at Kilton.Webb@legislature.maine.gov and (207) 458-0172.
Sincerely,
Kilton Webb State Representative
District 98: Durham, Pownal, and parts of Bowdoin, Lisbon and Topsham
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 44
July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2027 Proposed Budget
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 45
Town of Durham
Proposed FY2027 Budget
FY2024 FY2026 FY2026 FY2027 FY26 - FY27
SUMMARY Actual Budget Actual YTD Budget % Norm Var
Funding Requirements
General Government $ 669,172 $ 1,143,060 $ 730,175 $ 821,165 7.8%
Public Safety 595,041 1,055,920 632,884 776,090 10.2%
Public Works 1,830,490 2,880,550 1,633,214 1,959,352 2.0%
Community Services 16,100 1,000 755 1,000 50.0%
Town-wide 8,239,085 12,509,067 8,801,915 9,745,518 16.9%
Total Funding Requirements 11,349,888 17,589,597 11,798,943 13,303,125 13.4%
Less: Funding Sources
Excise Taxes 1,144,570 1,721,000 1,215,747 1,286,300 12.1%
Permits and Fees 87,349 129,100 155,375 160,500 86.5%
Intergovernmental 1,029,404 1,383,792 1,022,583 1,001,221 8.5%
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026
Charges for Services 196,579 279,370 174,278 291,120 56.3%
Other Revenues 152,144 252,000 166,658 160,000 -4.8%
Other Financing Sources - - - -
Total Funding Sources 2,610,046 3,765,262 2,734,641 2,899,141 15.5%
Equals: Deficit (Surplus) Before Changes in Fund Balance and Taxes 8,739,842 13,824,335 9,064,302 10,403,984 12.9%
Additions to (Use of) Fund Balance (419,291) (740,000) 4,044,299 (500,000) 1.4%
Equals: Property Tax Levy $ 8,320,551 $ 13,084,335 $ 13,108,601 $ 9,903,984 13.5%
Taxable Valuation ($ thousands) $ 382,819 $ 389,647 $ 389,647 $ 389,647 0.0%
Mil Rate (per $1,000) $ 21.750 $ 33.580 $ 33.580 $ 25.418 13.5%
Page 1 of 20 As of 5/12/202646
Town of Durham
Proposed FY2027 Budget
FY2024 FY2026 FY2026 FY2027 FY26 - FY27
Categorized Expenditures Actual Budget Actual YTD Budget % Norm Var
Wages and Benefits
Administration $ 322,965 $ 526,700 $ 338,100 $ 406,160 15.7%
Planning and Code Enforcement 110,520 184,310 117,195 102,060 -16.9%
Fire Department 380,673 721,220 406,129 545,790 13.5%
Public Works 532,798 846,850 481,141 782,170 38.5%
Municipal Buildings 6,150 14,000 6,786 11,270 20.8%
Total Wages and Benefits 1,353,106 2,293,080 1,349,351 1,847,450 20.8%
Fixed Costs
Education* 6,088,292 10,271,448 6,725,078 7,807,619 10.1%
Debt service* 782,712 805,318 638,635 624,111 -1.8%
County tax* 742,140 816,323 816,323 918,788 12.6%
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026
Contracts and set fees 717,528 1,206,450 740,126 860,915 7.0%
Utilities and fuel 96,764 196,250 99,096 110,930 -15.2%
Total Fixed Costs 8,427,436 13,295,789 9,019,258 10,322,363 8.9%
Variable and Discretionary Costs
Roads maintenance 617,060 851,450 506,476 413,562 -27.1%
Transfers to reserves 616,836 595,652 593,652 395,000 -0.5%
Supplies and equipment 67,152 91,150 58,475 73,350 20.7%
Abatements and bad debt 9,105 20,326 28,227 - -100.0%
Community services 16,100 1,000 755 1,000 50.0%
All other expenditures 243,093 441,150 242,749 250,400 -14.9%
Total Variable and Discretionary Costs 1,569,346 2,000,728 1,430,334 1,133,312 -15.0%
Total Expenditures $ 11,349,888 $ 17,589,597 $ 11,798,943 $ 13,303,125 7.8%* The % Norm Var calcualtion for Education, Debt Service, and County Tax are based on 12-month comparisons instead of the conversion of FY26 budget amount (representing 18 months) to a 12-month figure by multiplying the figure by 2/3rds. This is a more appropriate comparison for these three categories because the expenditures are paid out ratably over the year, as all other expenditure categories are.
Page 2 of 20 As of 5/12/2026
47
Town of Durham
Proposed FY2027 Budget
FY2024 FY2026 FY2026 FY2027
Category % of Total Expenditures Actual Budget Actual YTD Budget
Wages and Benefits
Administration 2.8% 3.0% 2.9% 3.1%
Planning and Code Enforcement 1.0% 1.0% 1.0% 0.8%
Fire Department 3.4% 4.1% 3.4% 4.1%
Public Works 4.7% 4.8% 4.1% 5.9%
Municipal Buildings 0.1% 0.1% 0.1% 0.1%
Total Wages and Benefits 11.9% 13.0% 11.4% 13.9%
Fixed Costs
Education 53.6% 58.4% 57.0% 58.7%
Debt service 6.9% 4.6% 5.4% 4.7%
County tax 6.5% 4.6% 6.9% 6.9%
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026
Contracts and set fees 6.3% 6.9% 6.3% 6.5%
Utilities and fuel 0.9% 1.1% 0.8% 0.8%
Total Fixed Costs 74.3% 75.6% 76.4% 77.6%
Variable and Discretionary Costs
Roads maintenance 5.4% 4.8% 4.3% 3.1%
Transfers to reserves 5.4% 3.4% 5.0% 3.0%
Supplies and equipment 0.6% 0.5% 0.5% 0.6%
Abatements and bad debt 0.1% 0.1% 0.2% 0.0%
Community services 0.1% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%
All other expenditures 2.1% 2.5% 2.1% 1.9%
Total Variable and Discretionary Costs 13.8% 11.4% 12.1% 8.5%
Total Expenditures 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0%
Page 3 of 20 As of 5/12/202648
Town of Durham
Proposed FY2027 Budget
FY2024 Actual
Intergovernmental All Other
Revenue Property taxes
Excise taxes
Wages and Benefits Debt Service Other Fixed Costs
Expenditures Education
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026
County Tax Var and Discr Costs
- 3,000,000 6,000,000 9,000,000 12,000,000 15,000,000FY2026 Actual YTD
Intergovernmental All Other
Revenue Property taxes
Excise taxes
Wages and Benefits Debt Service Other Fixed Costs
Expenditures Education
County Tax Var and Discr Costs
- 3,000,000 6,000,000 9,000,000 12,000,000 15,000,000 18,000,000
Page 4 of 20 As of 5/12/202649
Town of Durham
Proposed FY2027 Budget
FY2026 Budget
Intergovernmental All Other Revenue Property taxes
Excise taxes
Wages and Benefits Debt Service Other Fixed Costs
Expenditures Education
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026
County Tax Var and Discr Costs
- 3,000,000 6,000,000 9,000,000 12,000,000 15,000,000 18,000,000FY2027 Budget
Intergovernmental All Other Revenue Property taxes
Excise taxes
Wages and Benefits Debt Service Other Fixed Costs Expenditures Education County Tax Var and Discr Costs - 3,000,000 6,000,000 9,000,000 12,000,000 15,000,000 Page 5 of 20 As of 5/12/2026
50
Town of Durham
Proposed FY2027 Budget
FY2024 FY2026 FY2026 FY2027 FY26 - FY27
FUNDING SOURCES Actual Budget Actual YTD Budget % Norm Var
Excise Taxes
01-00-6100 Motor Vehicle Excise $ 1,140,564 $ 1,715,000 $ 1,209,565 $ 1,280,000 12.0%
01-00-6105 Other Excise 4,006 6,000 6,182 6,300 57.5%
Total Excise Taxes 1,144,570 1,721,000 1,215,747 1,286,300 12.1%
Permits and Fees
01-00-6200 Town Clerk Fees 30,356 45,000 37,454 40,000 33.3%
01-00-6205 Lien Fees 1,380 2,000 2,744 3,000 125.0%
01-00-6210 Planning Board Fees 10,671 15,500 5,450 6,000 -41.9%
01-00-6215 Code Enforcement Fees 43,395 65,000 108,493 110,000 153.8%
01-00-6220 Dog Licenses 1,273 1,600 1,034 1,200 12.5%
01-00-6299 Miscellaneous Permits and Fees 274 - 200 300
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026
Total Permits and Fees 87,349 129,100 155,375 160,500 86.5%
Intergovernmental
01-00-6300 State Revenue Sharing 680,649 904,908 627,527 613,619 1.7%
01-00-6305 Homestead Exemption 262,933 391,917 279,199 280,000 7.2%
01-00-6310 Business Equipment Tax Exemption 4,460 3,167 3,177 3,200 51.6%
01-00-6315 Veterans Exemption 2,743 2,800 2,329 2,400 28.6%
01-00-6320 Tree Growth 11,301 12,000 - 12,000 50.0%
01-00-6325 Local Road Assistance Program 63,916 65,000 87,652 87,652 102.3%
01-00-6330 Snowmobile Program 2,032 4,000 1,701 1,800 -32.5%
01-00-6345 General Assistance - - 528 550
01-00-6399 Miscellaneous Intergovernmental 1,370 - 20,470 -
Total Intergovernmental 1,029,404 1,383,792 1,022,583 1,001,221 8.5%
Page 6 of 20 As of 5/12/202651
Town of Durham
Proposed FY2027 Budget
FY2024 FY2026 FY2026 FY2027 FY26 - FY27
FUNDING SOURCES Actual Budget Actual YTD Budget % Norm Var
Charges for Services
01-00-6425 Eureka Rental Fees $ 2,350 $ 3,250 $ 2,150 2,400 10.8%
01-00-6430 Cemetery Lots 60 - 600 600
01-00-6450 Junkyard Fees 120 120 120 120 50.0%
01-00-6451 User Fees and Trash Tags 38,661 50,000 22,140 125,000 275.0%
01-00-6460 Cable Franchise Fees 37,462 51,000 34,072 33,000 -2.9%
01-00-6470 Ambulance Fees 117,780 175,000 112,963 129,000 10.6%
01-00-6499 Misc Charges for Services 146 - 2,233 1,000
Total Charges for Services 196,579 279,370 174,278 291,120 56.3%Other Revenues 01-00-6900 Interest on Property Taxes 34,716 52,000 37,007 40,000 15.4% Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026
01-00-6910 Interest Income 112,776 200,000 102,455 115,000 -13.8%
01-00-6950 Private Donations - - - -
01-00-6999 Miscellaneous Revenue 4,652 - 27,196 5,000
Total Other Revenues 152,144 252,000 166,658 160,000 -4.8%
Other Financing Sources
01-00-8000 Transfers In - - - -
Total Other Financing Sources - - - -
TOTAL FUNDING SOURCES $ 2,610,046 $ 3,765,262 $ 2,734,641 $ 2,899,141 15.5%
Page 7 of 20 As of 5/12/202652
Town of Durham
Proposed FY2027 Budget
FY2024 FY2026 FY2026 FY2027 FY26 - FY27
FUNDING REQUIREMENTS Actual Budget Actual YTD Budget % Norm Var
General Government
20 Administration $ 480,279 $ 808,250 $ 499,317 $ 608,340 12.9%
23 Assessing 19,669 32,700 25,434 26,800 22.9%
26 Information Technology 54,301 108,600 84,580 77,515 7.1%
27 Planning and Code Enforcement 114,923 193,510 120,844 108,510 -15.9%
Total General Government 669,172 1,143,060 730,175 821,165 7.8%
Public Safety
30 Fire Department 582,702 1,026,920 601,894 753,490 10.1%
39 Other Public Safety 12,339 29,000 30,990 22,600 16.9%
Total Public Safety 595,041 1,055,920 632,884 776,090 10.2%
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026
Public Works
40 Public Works 1,363,564 2,102,500 1,188,799 1,419,582 1.3%
41 Municipal Buildings 20,138 52,250 26,411 38,720 11.2%
42 Solid Waste 446,788 725,800 418,004 501,050 3.6%
Total Public Works 1,830,490 2,880,550 1,633,214 1,959,352 2.0%
Community Services
69 Other Community Services 16,100 1,000 755 1,000 50.0%
Total Community Services 16,100 1,000 755 1,000 50.0%
Page 8 of 20 As of 5/12/202653
Town of Durham
Proposed FY2027 Budget
FY2024 FY2026 FY2026 FY2027 FY26 - FY27
FUNDING REQUIREMENTS Actual Budget Actual YTD Budget % Norm Var
Town-wide
92 Debt Service 782,712 805,318 638,635 624,111 16.2%
96 Assessments and Fixed Costs 6,830,432 11,087,771 7,541,401 8,726,407 18.1%
97 Abatements and Bad Debt 9,105 20,326 28,227 - -100.0%
99 Other Financing Uses 616,836 595,652 593,652 395,000 -0.5%
Total Town-wide 8,239,085 12,509,067 8,801,915 9,745,518 16.9%
TOTAL FUNDING REQUIREMENTS $ 11,349,888 $ 17,589,597 $ 11,798,943 $ 13,303,125 13.4%
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026
Page 9 of 20 As of 5/12/202654
Town of Durham
Proposed FY2027 Budget
FY2024 FY2026 FY2026 FY2027 FY26 - FY27
General Government Actual Budget Actual YTD Budget % Norm Var
Administration
01-20-7000 Department Head Wages $ 111,450 $ 171,420 $ 114,278 $ 127,820 11.8%
01-20-7015 Full Time Staff Wages 116,143 217,950 134,559 167,170 15.1%
01-20-7020 Part Time Staff Wages 26,509 - - -
01-20-7026 Election Worker Wages 7,080 6,600 4,892 4,530 3.0%
01-20-7030 Elected Official Wages 11,017 15,480 9,249 12,600 22.1%
01-20-7050 Payroll Taxes 8,327 11,490 7,041 8,740 14.1%
01-20-7055 Health Insurance 19,819 67,030 45,017 50,370 12.7%
01-20-7070 Workers Comp 3,541 2,420 994 1,830 13.4%
01-20-7072 Unemployment - - - 3,000
01-20-7075 Retirement 19,079 34,310 22,070 30,100 31.6%
01-20-7105 Training and Development 2,395 6,000 3,919 3,000 -25.0%
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026
01-20-7110 Travel and Mileage 52 500 373 600 80.0%
01-20-7200 Heat 1,328 3,750 1,204 1,500 -40.0%
01-20-7201 Electricity 3,432 6,000 2,788 3,500 -12.5%
01-20-7210 Telephone and Internet 4,419 7,000 5,805 3,630 -22.2%
01-20-7220 Legal 8,505 22,500 11,976 15,000 0.0%
01-20-7221 Auditor 15,000 17,000 11,500 22,050 94.6%
01-20-7222 Business Services 30,854 65,000 30,021 45,000 3.8%
01-20-7223 Payroll Processing Services 4,916 10,000 4,284 5,500 -17.5%
01-20-7250 Equipment Rentals 3,840 5,000 2,199 2,400 -28.0%
01-20-7253 Building Repairs and Maint 3,375 7,500 2,131 5,000 0.0%
01-20-7340 General Insurance 45,081 72,000 46,834 50,000 4.2%
01-20-7350 Advertising - 1,500 - 1,000 0.0%
01-20-7351 Printing and Copying 4,629 10,000 4,530 6,500 -2.5%
01-20-7352 Postage and Freight 4,449 7,000 5,876 6,500 39.3%
01-20-7354 Dues and Subscriptions 15,505 22,000 16,825 17,000 15.9%
01-20-7400 General Supplies 4,020 7,000 3,585 4,500 -3.6%
01-20-7800 Lien Costs 2,150 3,000 1,955 2,500 25.0%
01-20-7801 Election Costs 2,375 3,000 877 2,000 0.0%
01-20-7999 Miscellaneous Expenditures 989 5,800 4,535 5,000 29.3%
Total Administration 480,279 808,250 499,317 608,340 12.9%
Page 10 of 20 As of 5/12/202655
Town of Durham
Proposed FY2027 Budget
FY2024 FY2026 FY2026 FY2027 FY26 - FY27
General Government Actual Budget Actual YTD Budget % Norm Var
Assessing
01-23-7228 Mapping 203 2,800 5,998 3,700 98.2%
01-23-7235 Assessing Services 18,800 28,800 19,200 20,400 6.3%
01-23-7356 Software Licenese - - - 2,000
01-23-7400 General Supplies - 250 - 150 -10.0%
01-23-7802 Deeds Costs 426 600 236 400 0.0%
01-23-7999 Miscellaneous Expenditures 240 250 - 150 -10.0%
Total Assessing 19,669 32,700 25,434 26,800 22.9%
Information Technology
01-26-7212 IT Services $ 17,496 $ 51,000 $ 37,642 $ 31,000 -8.8%
01-26-7213 Website 5,696 10,100 6,045 5,015 -25.5%
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026
01-26-7356 Software Licenses 27,359 40,000 39,275 30,000 12.5%
01-26-7358 Text Messaging Service - - - 4,000
01-26-7404 Hardware 3,750 7,500 1,618 7,500 50.0%
Total Information Technology 54,301 108,600 84,580 77,515 7.1%
Page 11 of 20 As of 5/12/202656
Town of Durham
Proposed FY2027 Budget
FY2024 FY2026 FY2026 FY2027 FY26 - FY27
General Government Actual Budget Actual YTD Budget % Norm Var
Planning and Code Enforcement
01-27-7015 Full Time Staff Wages 58,042 93,810 60,197 - -100.0%
01-27-7020 Part Time Staff Wages 40,390 65,100 40,010 73,780 70.0%
01-27-7035 Committee Member Wages 1,100 5,400 2,460 3,600 0.0%
01-27-7050 Payroll Taxes 3,655 8,430 5,202 5,390 -4.1%
01-27-7055 Health Insurance 1,797 2,430 1,738 16,670 929.0%
01-27-7070 Workers Comp - 870 2,206 450 -22.4%
01-27-7075 Retirement 5,536 8,270 5,382 2,170 -60.6%
01-27-7105 Training and Development - - - 800
01-27-7110 Travel and Mileage 1,982 3,000 2,143 - -100.0%
01-27-7350 Advertising 365 700 257 450 -3.6%
01-27-7352 Postage and Freight 264 1,500 11 1,000 0.0%
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026
01-27-7354 Dues and Subscriptions 658 1,750 886 1,700 45.7%
01-27-7357 E-Code Maintenance - - - 1,500
01-27-7400 General Supplies 650 1,500 352 500 -50.0%
01-27-7999 Miscellaneous Expenditures 484 750 - 500 0.0%
Total Planning and Code Enforcement 114,923 193,510 120,844 108,510 -15.9%
TOTAL GENERAL GOVERNMENT $ 669,172 $ 1,143,060 $ 730,175 $ 821,165 7.8%
Page 12 of 20 As of 5/12/202657
Town of Durham
Proposed FY2027 Budget
FY2024 FY2026 FY2026 FY2027 FY26 - FY27
Public Safety Actual Budget Actual YTD Budget % Norm Var
Fire Department
01-30-7000 Department Head Wages $ 80,664 $ 125,810 $ 77,112 $ 98,530 17.5%
01-30-7015 Full Time Staff Wages - - - 45,760
01-30-7016 Overtime Wages - - - 5,000
01-30-7020 Part Time Staff Wages 232,391 458,850 258,473 300,000 -1.9%
01-30-7050 Payroll Taxes 19,055 42,800 24,656 29,940 4.9%
01-30-7055 Health Insurance 2,440 3,750 2,380 2,400 -4.0%
01-30-7070 Workers Comp 35,273 64,320 29,980 49,430 15.3%
01-30-7075 Retirement 7,370 11,090 7,268 14,730 99.2%
01-30-7100 Stipends 3,480 14,600 6,260 - -100.0%
01-30-7105 Training and Development 4,355 10,000 6,618 8,000 20.0%
01-30-7200 Heat 6,217 10,000 5,531 6,300 -5.5%
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026
01-30-7201 Electricity 7,273 12,000 5,998 7,000 -12.5%
01-30-7210 Telephone and Internet 6,855 13,500 9,725 6,000 -33.3%
01-30-7229 Dispatch Services 27,977 35,000 28,051 30,000 28.6%
01-30-7230 Ambulance Services 32,876 45,000 27,157 33,000 10.0%
01-30-7252 Equipment Repairs and Maintenance 25,723 35,000 25,593 28,000 20.0%
01-30-7253 Building Repairs and Maintenance 7,340 18,000 8,674 10,000 -16.7%
01-30-7255 Vehicle Repairs and Maintenance 28,641 60,000 32,399 28,000 -30.0%
01-30-7354 Dues and Subscriptions 1,480 4,500 1,734 2,000 -33.3%
01-30-7356 Software Licenses - - - -
01-30-7400 General Supplies 1,645 7,200 3,362 3,900 -18.8%
01-30-7502 Radios 4,068 10,000 9,519 10,000 50.0%
01-30-7504 Safety Equipment 35,356 25,000 24,522 25,000 50.0%
01-30-7550 Gas and Diesel 7,872 16,000 3,563 6,500 -39.1%
01-30-7999 Miscellaneous Expenditures 4,351 4,500 3,319 4,000 33.3%
Total Fire Department 582,702 1,026,920 601,894 753,490 10.1%
Page 13 of 20 As of 5/12/202658
Town of Durham
Proposed FY2027 Budget
FY2024 FY2026 FY2026 FY2027 FY26 - FY27
Public Safety Actual Budget Actual YTD Budget % Norm Var
Other Public Safety
01-39-7239 Targeted Enforcement - - - -
01-39-7240 Animal Control 12,339 29,000 30,990 22,600 16.9%
Total Other Public Safety 12,339 29,000 30,990 22,600 16.9%
TOTAL PUBLIC SAFETY $ 595,041 $ 1,055,920 $ 632,884 $ 776,090 10.2%Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026
Page 14 of 20 As of 5/12/2026
59
Town of Durham
Proposed FY2027 Budget
FY2024 FY2026 FY2026 FY2027 FY26 - FY27
Public Works Actual Budget Actual YTD Budget % Norm Var
Public Works
01-40-7000 Department Head Wages $ 76,919 $ 119,820 $ 78,790 $ 98,530 23.3%
01-40-7015 Full Time Staff Wages 247,396 378,650 216,748 320,880 27.1%
01-40-7016 Overtime Wages 23,053 46,420 27,353 39,330 27.1%
01-40-7020 Part Time Staff Wages 21,103 34,160 16,439 69,060 203.2%
01-40-7050 Payroll Taxes 6,039 16,370 9,218 15,940 46.1%
01-40-7055 Health Insurance 97,652 166,840 83,571 158,910 42.9%
01-40-7070 Workers Comp 28,740 34,800 19,555 30,530 31.6%
01-40-7075 Retirement 30,396 47,990 28,747 48,990 53.1%
01-40-7100 Stipends 1,500 1,800 720 - -100.0%
01-40-7105 Training and Development 1,050 2,250 750 1,500 0.0%
01-40-7200 Heat 5,819 10,000 6,646 7,550 13.3%
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026
01-40-7201 Electricity 6,744 10,500 10,752 11,700 67.1%
01-40-7210 Telephone and Internet 4,747 8,000 5,131 4,500 -15.6%
01-40-7249 Other Contracted Services 9,491 40,000 13,525 5,000 -81.3%
01-40-7250 Equipment Rentals 9,779 15,000 5,609 11,000 10.0%
01-40-7252 Equipment Repairs and Maintenance 30,624 60,000 35,347 40,000 0.0%
01-40-7253 Building Repairs and Maintenance 12,319 15,000 5,887 10,000 0.0%
01-40-7254 Grounds Maintenance 6,306 - - -
01-40-7255 Vehicle Repairs and Maintenance 73,311 120,000 66,266 65,000 -18.8%
01-40-7256 Tree Services 3,500 9,000 - 5,000 -16.7%
01-40-7257 Paving and Road Work 379,157 400,000 284,555 152,062 -43.0%
01-40-7258 Road Painting and Striping 18,858 20,000 19,205 21,000 57.5%
01-40-7259 Crack Sealing 15,000 20,000 19,420 25,000 87.5%
01-40-7400 General Supplies 4,063 6,750 3,519 4,000 -11.1%
01-40-7450 Salt 133,120 294,000 136,473 143,500 -26.8%
01-40-7451 Liquid De-Icer 14,854 32,000 16,185 16,000 -25.0%
01-40-7452 Winter Sand 6,456 7,000 - 7,000 50.0%
01-40-7454 Gravel, Asphal, Tar, Concrete 29,317 46,500 16,280 25,000 -19.4%
01-40-7455 Erosion Control 3,688 5,200 539 4,000 15.4%
01-40-7456 Signs 4,047 6,000 5,420 5,000 25.0%
01-40-7457 Culverts 5,000 5,000 4,880 6,000 80.0%
01-40-7500 Small Equipment 2,502 5,200 2,300 2,500 -27.9%
Page 15 of 20 As of 5/12/202660
Town of Durham
Proposed FY2027 Budget
FY2024 FY2026 FY2026 FY2027 FY26 - FY27
Public Works Actual Budget Actual YTD Budget % Norm Var
Public Works
01-40-7501 Tools $ 689 $ 1,500 $ 59 $ 1,000 0.0%
01-40-7502 Radios 572 3,000 840 1,500 -25.0%
01-40-7503 Uniforms 2,932 6,500 864 5,200 20.0%
01-40-7504 Safety Equipment 3,252 4,500 3,504 2,600 -13.3%
01-40-7549 Miscellaneous Equipment 7,325 11,250 7,430 8,500 13.3%
01-40-7550 Gas and Diesel 35,639 90,000 35,520 45,000 -25.0%
01-40-7999 Miscellaneous Expenditures 605 1,500 752 1,300 30.0%
Total Public Works 1,363,564 2,102,500 1,188,799 1,419,582 1.3%Municipal Buildings 01-41-7020 Part Time Staff Wages $ 5,713 $ 12,420 $ 6,098 $ 10,000 20.8% Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026
01-41-7050 Payroll Taxes 437 1,080 529 870 20.8%
01-41-7070 Workers Comp - 500 159 400 20.0%
01-41-7200 Heat - 500 77 250 -25.0%
01-41-7201 Electricity 5,763 9,000 6,356 7,500 25.0%
01-41-7210 Telephone and Internet 656 - - -
01-41-7253 Building Repairs and Maint 4,617 8,500 3,970 5,000 -11.8%
01-41-7254 Grounds Maintenance - 15,000 4,996 10,000 0.0%
01-41-7362 Security 1,698 1,500 1,020 1,200 20.0%
01-41-7400 General Supplies 391 750 520 500 0.0%
01-41-7808 Flags 863 3,000 2,686 3,000 50.0%
Total Municipal Buildings 20,138 52,250 26,411 38,720 11.2%
Page 16 of 20 As of 5/12/202661
Town of Durham
Proposed FY2027 Budget
FY2024 FY2026 FY2026 FY2027 FY26 - FY27
Public Works Actual Budget Actual YTD Budget % Norm Var
Solid Waste
01-42-7231 Hauling 429,673 690,000 400,375 421,000 -8.5%
01-42-7233 Trash Bin Management - - - 80,050
01-42-7407 Tags 2,080 3,000 - - -100.0%
01-42-7815 Bulky Waste Day 15,035 32,800 17,629 - -100.0%
Total Solid Waste 446,788 725,800 418,004 501,050 3.6%
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 TOTAL PUBLIC WORKS $ 1,830,490 $ 2,880,550 $ 1,633,214 $ 1,959,352 2.0%
Page 17 of 20 As of 5/12/202662
Proposed Town of Durham
FY2027 Budget
FY2024 FY2026 FY2026 FY2027 FY26 - FY27
Community Services Actual Budget Actual YTD Budget % Norm Var
Other Community Services
01-69-7805 General Assistance $ - $ 1,000 $ 755 $ 1,000 50.0%
01-69-7807 Outside Organizations 16,100 - - -
Total Other Community Services 16,100 1,000 755 1,000 50.0%
TOTAL COMMUNITY SERVICES $ 16,100 $ 1,000 $ 755 $ 1,000 50.0%
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026
63 Page 18 of 20 As of 5/12/2026Town of Durham
Proposed FY2027 Budget
FY2024 FY2026 FY2026 FY2027 FY26 - FY27
Town-wide Actual Budget Actual YTD Budget % Norm Var
Debt Service
01-92-7900 Debt Service Principal 693,296 698,798 569,359 580,443 24.6%
01-92-7901 Debt Service Interest 89,416 106,520 69,276 43,668 -38.5%
Total Debt Service 782,712 805,318 638,635 624,111 16.2%
Assessments and Fixed Costs
01-96-7910 County Tax 742,140 816,323 816,323 918,788 12.6%
01-96-7915 Education 6,088,292 10,271,448 6,725,078 7,807,619 14.0%
Total Assessments and Fixed Costs 6,830,432 11,087,771 7,541,401 8,726,407 18.1%Abatements and Bad Debt 01-97-7970 Tax Abatements 9,105 20,326 28,227 - -100.0% Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026
Total Abatements and Bad Debt 9,105 20,326 28,227 - -100.0%
Other Financing Uses
01-00-8500 Transfers Out 616,836 595,652 593,652 395,000 -0.5%
Total Other Financing Uses 616,836 595,652 593,652 395,000 -0.5%
TOTAL TOWN-WIDE $ 8,239,085 $ 12,509,067 $ 8,801,915 $ 9,745,518 16.9%
Page 19 of 20 As of 5/12/2026
64Town of Durham
Proposed FY2027 Budget
FY2026 Projected Projected Projected Projected
Fund # Fund Name Beginning Balance Revenue Txfrs In (Out) Expenditures Ending Balance
01 General Fund $ 3,238,948 $ 17,001,318 $ (593,651) $ (16,494,793) $ 3,151,822
10 ARPA Fund 114,887 - - (114,887) -
12 River Park Donations Fund 8,201 443 - - 8,644
13 Scholarships Fund 12,129 817 - (1,000) 11,946
14 Heating Assistance Fund 13,145 200 - - 13,345
15 Giving Tree Fund - 470 - - 470
16 Historic District Commission Fund 1,330 - - - 1,330
17 Jackson-Tupper Memorial Fund 123 - - - 123
Total Restricted 149,815 1,930 - (115,887) 35,858
18 Contingency Fund 16,953 - 33,047 - 50,000
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026
19 Grants Matching Fund 26,848 - 3,152 (4,224) 25,776
20 Recreation Fund 23,742 - - (4,000) 19,742
21 Telecommunications Fund 73,531 - (73,531) - -
22 Revlauation Fund 220,000 - - - 220,000
23 Grants Non-Matching Fund - 30,976 - (30,976) -
50 Eureka Capital Fund 53,719 - (43,017) (10,702) -
51 Fire Rescue Capital Fund 322,091 25,898 270,000 (50,271) 567,718
52 Municipal Building Capital Fund 70,886 - 98,500 (22,242) 147,144
53 Public Works Capital Fund 329,800 - 305,500 (345,369) 289,931
54 Union Church Restoration Fund 31,825 572 - (25,620) 6,777
Total Committed 1,169,395 57,446 593,651 (493,404) 1,327,088
90 Cemetery Permanent Fund 7,907 427 - - 8,334
Total Governmental Fund Balances $ 4,566,065 $ 17,061,121 $ - $ (17,104,084) $ 4,523,102Notes A B
C
Page 20 of 20 As of 5/12/2026 65
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Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 66
2026
Durham Town Warrant
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 67
FISCAL YEAR 2027 DURHAM TOWN WARRANT ARTICLES
To: Kevin Merrill, a resident of the Town of Durham, Androscoggin County, State of Maine
Greetings:
In the name of the State of Maine, you are hereby required to notify and warn the Inhabitants of the Town of Durham in said county and state, qualified by law to vote in Town affairs, to assemble at The AMVETS Hall, 1049 Royalsborough Road, Durham, Maine on Tuesday, June 9, 2026 at 7:45 a.m., then and there to act upon Article 1 and by secret ballot on Article 2 as set out below. Polls will be open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Further, to notify and warn said inhabitants to assemble at Durham Community School on Saturday, June 13th, 2026, at 9:00 a.m., then and there to act upon Articles 3 through 30 as set out to wit:
Article 1 To choose a moderator to preside at said meeting.
Article 2 To elect all municipal officers, school committee members, and budget committee
members as are required to be elected.
Article 3 To see if the town will allow non-residents, who have information pertaining to any
following articles, to speak when recognized.Article 4 To see if the Town will vote in the event that any proposed budget articles in this warrant are not approved, the Town is authorized to raise and appropriate for the same purposes as previously approved an amount not to exceed the twelve (12) month equivalent of the 2026 Municipal Budget, said equivalent to be determined by dividing the eighteen (18) month budget by one and one-half.
OPERATING BUDGET ARTICLES
Note that all requested amounts to be raised and appropriated below are for a twelve-month period running from July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027. This period is referred to “Fiscal Year 2027” in these warrant articles.
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 68
FISCAL YEAR 2027 DURHAM TOWN WARRANT ARTICLES
Article 5 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate $821,165 for General
Government.
FY26 Appr FY27 Req
Administration $ 808,250 $ 608,340
Assessing $ 32,700 $ 26,800
Information Technology $ 108,600 $ 77,515
Planning and Code Enforcement $ 193,510 $ 108,510Select Board recommends $821,165. Budget Committee recommends $763,309.
Article 6 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate $776,090 for Public Safety.
FY26 Appr FY27 Req
Fire Department $ 1,026,920 $ 753,490
Animal Control $ 29,000 $ 22,600Select Board recommends $776,090. Budget Committee recommends $745,485.
Article 7 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate $1,979,352 for Public Works.
FY26 Appr FY27 Req
Public Works $ 2,102,500 $ 1,419,582
Municipal Buildings & Grounds $ 52,250 $ 38,720
Solid Waste Hauling $ 725,800 $ 521,050Select Board recommends $1,979,352. Budget Committee recommends $1,922,727.
Article 8 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate $1,000 for Community
Services.
FY26 Appr FY27 Req
General Assistance $ 1,000 $ 1,000Select Board and Budget Committee recommend $1,000.
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 69
FISCAL YEAR 2027 DURHAM TOWN WARRANT ARTICLES
Article 9 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate $624,111 for Debt Service.
FY26 Appr FY27 Req
Debt Service $ 805,318 $ 624,111Select Board and Budget Committee recommend 624,111.
ADDITIONS TO RESERVES ARTICLES
Article 10 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate $140,000 for the Fire Department Capital Reserve, an existing non-lapsing capital reserve fund from which the Select Board may expend for the designated purpose of the reserve.
Select Board recommends $140,000. Budget Committee recommends $40,000.
Article 11 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate $250,000 for the Public Works Capital Reserve, an existing non-lapsing capital reserve fund from which the Select Board may expend for the designated purpose of the reserve.
Select Board and Budget Committee recommend $250,000.
Article 12 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate $5,000 for the Municipal Buildings Capital Reserve, an existing non-lapsing capital reserve fund from which the Select Board may expend for the designated purpose of the reserve.
Select Board recommends $5,000. Budget Committee recommends $0.
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 70
FISCAL YEAR 2027 DURHAM TOWN WARRANT ARTICLES
FUNDING SOURCES ARTICLES
Article 13 To see if the Town will vote to reduce the amounts authorized to be raised in taxes in the previous warrant articles by $3,651,770 based on estimates for non-tax municipal revenues.
Note: Total Intergovernmental estimates will change based on the state’s final projections
for State Revenue Sharing and based on Homestead and BETE reimbursement valuations
and the selected mil rate.
FY26 Est FY27 Est
Excise Taxes $ 1,721,000 $ 1,286,300
Licenses, Permits, and Fees $ 129,100 $ 160,500
Intergovernmental Revenue $ 1,383,792 $ 1,001,221
Charges for Services $ 279,370 $ 296,120
Other Revenues $ 252,000 $ 160,000Select Board and Budget Committee recommend Approval.
Article 14 To see if the Town will authorize the Select Board to appropriate up to $500,000 from the General Fund’s existing fund balance to reduce the amounts authorized to be raised in taxes in the previous warrant articles.
Select Board recommends $500,000. Budget Committee recommends $350,000.
2026 ORDINANCE WARRANT ARTICLES
PART 1 – MINOR POLICY CHANGES
Article 15 Shall an ordinance entitled "Town of Durham, Land Use Ordinance as Adopted at Town Meeting, April 5th, 2025, Proposed Revisions for Town Meeting, June 13, 2026, PART 1 – MINOR POLICY CHANGES” being enacted as recommended by the Planning Board to address the issues of: 1) back lots & private ways; 2) expansion of nonconforming structures; 3) subdivision road buffers; 4) fire protection water supplies; 5) marijuana growing facilities loophole; 6) State requirements for manufactured housing & accessory apartments; and, 7) road frontage calculations. “Copies are available at the Town Office or online at durhammaine.gov.
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 71
FISCAL YEAR 2027 DURHAM TOWN WARRANT ARTICLES
PART 2 – ADMINISTRATIVE CHANGES
Article 16 Shall an ordinance entitled "Town of Durham, Land Use Ordinance as Adopted at Town Meeting, April 5th, 2025, Proposed Revisions for Town Meeting, June 13, 2026, PART 2 – ADMINISTRATIVE CHANGES” be enacted as recommended by the Planning Board to: 1) update road standards; 2) update driveway standards; 3) reassign zoning boundary determination authority; 4) require subdivision solid waste plans; 5) streamline campground permitting; 6) extend Planning Board submission deadlines & reduce printed copies; 7) allow Select Board corrections of textual errors; 8) require proof of payment of taxes; 9) list conditional use application submissions; and, 10) limit tree clearing in subdivisions before approval. “Copies are available at the Town Office or online at durhammaine.gov.
PART 3 – CODIFICATION OF LAND USE ORDINANCE
Article 17 Shall an ordinance entitled "Town of Durham, Land Use Ordinance as Adopted at Town Meeting, April 5th, 2025, Proposed Revisions for Town Meeting, June 13, 2026, PART 3 – CODIFICATION be enacted to enact a digitized version with editorial changes to be known as the Land Use Code and to incorporate any changes approved in Warrant Articles X and/or Y if approved by voters. “Copies are available at the Town Office or online at durhammaine.gov.
BUSINESS ARTICLES
Article 18 To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Select Board to appropriate and transfer to the Penguins Snowmobile Club an amount not to exceed the total funds received by the Town from the State for snowmobile registrations, for the purpose of maintaining the Club’s network of snowmobile trails: provided that such trails shall be open to the public to snowmobile at all times during the snow season at no charge.
Article 19 To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Select Board to seek, accept and disburse grant funds from private, state or federal agencies, for the purpose so designated in each specific grant.
Article 20 To see what action the Town will take to fix the rate of interest on delinquent taxes and to establish the dates on which such interest shall begin to accrue. Interest on all unpaid taxes shall begin to accrue on October 16 and April 16 following the commitment of taxes. The interest rate on delinquent taxes shall be the maximum allowable by State law.
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 72
FISCAL YEAR 2027 DURHAM TOWN WARRANT ARTICLES
Article 21 To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Select Board to dispose of town property which they determine is no longer needed or usable by the town, on such terms as it deems advisable.
Article 22 To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Select Board, on behalf of the Town, to sell and/or dispose of any property acquired by tax liens in their discretion as permitted by law, and to allow the Select Board to authorize the Treasurer to waive automatic lien foreclosures when it is in the best interest of the Town.
Article 23 To see if the Town will vote to set the interest rate to be paid by the Town on
overpayment of abated taxes at 2% pursuant to 36 MRS § 506-A.
Article 24 To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Tax Collector to accept prepayments of
taxes not yet due or assessed, and no pay interest thereon.Article 25 To see if the Town will authorize the Select Board to resolve any disputes with parties having an interest adverse to that of the Town which do not involve the expenditure of public funds or where there are sufficient funds in budgeted accounts to allow payment of any claim which is to be settled.
Article 26 To see if the Town will authorize the Select Board to move up to 5% of budget lines that have unexpended appropriations to other budget lines, as they deem necessary, to avoid individual budget lines being over-expended.
Article 27 To see if the Town will vote to establish a Paving Reserve Account for the purpose of funding road construction, reconstruction, and or maintenance, and to authorize the Select Board to transfer any unexpended balances remaining in paving-related appropriations at the end of the 2027 fiscal year into said reserve account, such funds to be expended for future road improvements in subsequent fiscal years; and further to authorize the Select Board to expend funds from said account for those purposes.
Article 28 To see if the Town will authorize the Select Board to transfer the proceeds from any
sales of capital assets into the Town’s related capital reserve funds.Article 29 To see if the Town will vote, pursuant to 20-A M.R.S. § 1003, to establish that the term of newly elected school board members shall start on the 30th day of June, immediately following the municipal election.
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FISCAL YEAR 2027 DURHAM TOWN WARRANT ARTICLES
Article 30 To see if the Town of Durham (Town) will vote to change its Maine Public Employees Retirement System (MainePERS) plan to adopt Regular Plan AC for eligible full-time employees and appointed officials effective July 1, 2026, for future service only.
The Town agrees to:
a) Adopt Regular Plan AC for its permanent, full-time employees who are not seasonal and its full-time appointed officials for service rendered after June 30, 2026. Any service accrued by full-time employees and appointed officials before July 1, 2026, remains under Regular Plan AN; and
b) Continue to exclude employees and appointed officials who work less than full- time, seasonal employees, temporary employees and select board members, from participating in The Plan.
c) To authorize Jerry Douglass, Town Manager to sign the Amended Agreement between the Town and Maine Public Employees Retirement System.
Article approved as written.
Given under our hands this 2nd day of June 2026 by the Durham Select Board:
_____________________________________ Joseph Roy, Chair
_____________________________________ Josh Klein-Golden, Vice Chair
_____________________________________ Deborah Oliver
_____________________________________ Rebekah Polster
_____________________________________ John Talbot
Town of Durham, Maine - Annual Report 2025 - 2026 74
2026
Holiday Closings
New Year’s Day January 1, 2026 Martin Luther King Day January 19, 2026 President’s Day February 16, 2026 Patriot’s Day April 20, 2026 Memorial Day May 25, 2026 Juneteenth June 19, 2026 Independence Day July 4, 2026 Labor Day September 7, 2026 Indigenous People’s Day October 12, 2026 Veteran’s Day November 11, 2026 Thanksgiving Day November 26, 2026 Day Aer Thanksgiving November 27, 2026 Christmas Eve December 24, 2026 Christmas Day December 25, 2026
2026 Annual Town Meeting Durham Community School Saturday, June 13, 2026 9 am
Source: 2025-annual-report.pdf on durhammaine.gov. Text extracted with pdftotext; no wording has been corrected.