As we approach the end of 2024, it’s a great time to reflect on a year of accomplishments in Orleans and look ahead to the opportunities that lie before us in 2025. This past year has been filled with meaningful progress for our town, thanks to the dedication of our residents, business owners, volunteers, and town staff. 

December has brought a wonderful sense of holiday cheer to Orleans. From the annual tree lighting to Small Business Saturday and the shopping stroll, these events capture the charm, community spirit, and unique character that make Orleans such a special place. They also highlight the incredible effort that goes into creating these memorable moments—effort that comes from people deeply invested in our town’s success. 

I am incredibly proud of the work that happens every day in Orleans. Our volunteers give generously of their time, our businesses continue to contribute to a vibrant economy, and our town staff work tirelessly to serve the community. This shared commitment to growth and making Orleans thrive is truly inspiring. 

As we move into the new year, we remain focused on working hard for you—our residents and businesses. Whether it’s supporting our local economy, advancing infrastructure improvements, or fostering opportunities for community connection, we are ready to take on the challenges and opportunities of 2025. 

Wishing you all a joyful holiday season and a happy, healthy New Year. 

Sincerely,

Kim Newman 
Town Manager

ADU Bylaw Receives State Approval 

The Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office has officially approved the Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Bylaw, which was passed during the May 2024 Town Meeting. 

This important amendment allows accessory dwellings to expand to a maximum size of 1,200 square feet, while removing restrictions on lot coverage and minimum lot size requirements. Homeowners connected to the Town sewer system or those with sufficient septic capacity can now build accessory dwellings, whether attached or detached. 

These enhancements represent a significant step forward in increasing housing opportunities in Orleans. Key changes include the allowance for up to six apartments by right, duplexes on downtown sewered lots, and reduced parking requirements. 

Please reach out to the Orleans Planning Department with any questions about how these bylaw changes may affect properties.

Orleans Cultural District's Solstice Sparkle

The Orleans Cultural District hosts a festive day of art, music, light, and community celebration for the Winter Solstice on Saturday, December 21st from 11:00-4:00 pm

 Event Highlights Include: 

• Solstice Story Time & Crafts (11:00 - 12:30)Youth story time and crafts at Snow Library.
• Snowflake Ice Sculpture (12:00 - 2:00)Watch a snowflake ice sculpture being carved at the Town Green.
• Snowflake Workshop (11:00 - 3:00)Snowflake-themed crafts at the Community Center, including lanterns and ornaments.
• Solstice Sparkle Surprise Popup (1:30 - 3:30)Live music featuring Frank Toppa around town and a festive sing-along at Snow Library.
• Walk the Solstice Labyrinth Path: Experience a peaceful sunset walk along the glowing labyrinth path.
• Luminary Light Up: Luminaries light up the town starting at sunset.

Orleans Citizens Police Academy 

The Orleans Police Citizens Police Academy is an engaging and educational program designed to strengthen the bond between the Orleans Police Department and the community it serves while providing education and tips to remain safe. This interactive academy provides participants with an inside look at the department's daily operations, offering a unique opportunity to learn directly from law enforcement professionals.  

Topics covered during the academy include:  

• Patrol operations and traffic enforcement 
• Criminal investigations, Interview & Interrogation techniques 
• Narcotics Investigations 
• Fraud and scam prevention techniques 
• Orleans Police Dispatcher discussion 
• Emergency response and use of force protocols 
• Community policing strategies and crime prevention 
• Cape Cod Regional Law Enforcement Council Special unit demonstrations 
• Behind-the-scenes tours of the police station and equipment 

The academy held at the Orleans Police Department for 8 weeks on Mondays between 6:00-8:00 pm starting January 13th.  All participants will be able to engage in hands-on activities and demonstrations, fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges and responsibilities of modern policing. The program is an excellent opportunity for residents to build trust, learn about public safety, and become informed advocates for the Orleans community.  To apply to the academy, please stop by the police department to fill out an application or contact Sergeant Patrick Cronin. 

Recreation Opportunities this Winter

The Orleans Recreation Department still has some spaces available for a few of the youth program offerings that start in January.  

Those programs include Dance/Movement Class, Organized Pick Up Basketball for 7th and 8th Graders, Indoor Open Gym Youth Soccer, and Instructional Basketball for Grades K-2. 

Wastewater Infrastructure Key Updates

This important work on sewer construction can be challenging, and the patience and understanding shown throughout this process are truly appreciated. Every effort is focused on keeping everyone informed with the most accurate and timely updates as the project moves forward. 

Construction Schedule:
Sewer construction on Main Street in East Orleans is set to resume January 6, 2025, with a potential delayed start date of January 13, 2025. Crews may begin preliminary work, such as staking, marking, and surveying, before construction begins. Please avoid removing stakes or covering markings. 

For questions or additional information, feel free to contact the Town Manager’s Office. 

Sewer Betterment Charges:
For property owners, sewer betterment assessment charges will be applied to Real Estate tax bills over a 30-year period. Here’s how it works: 

• The total betterment assessment is divided equally across 30 Fiscal Years.
• Each annual amount is then split among quarterly tax bills.
• FY25 Start: Because betterment charges begin mid-year, the first charges will appear on the February 1, 2025 and May 1, 2025 bills. These charges will be for two quarters each.

Residents are encouraged to contact the Tax Collector's Office with any questions. 

Sewer Connection Grant Program:
To assist eligible residents connecting to the Town sewer, the Sewer Connection Grant Program is now available. Grants of up to $7,500 can help cover: 

• Engineering services
• Construction costs
• Abandonment of existing septic systems

The program is open to single-family, owner-occupied, year-round, primary residences under order to connect. Grant applications open on January 6 and are first-come, first- served and will be distributed until funds are exhausted. Payments will be made directly to contractors upon project completion. 

For more information about this program and sewer connection requirements, contact John Nelson, Water/Sewer Program Coordinator. 

Additional Financial Assistance: 

• Cape Cod AquiFund: Offers low-interest betterment loans to assist with sewer-related costs.
• Massachusetts Title 5 Tax Credit: A tax credit of up to $6,000 over four years is available for septic-to-sewer conversions.
• Local financial institutions provide financing options for sewer connection costs.

Want to learn more even more about these topics and more? Check out the latest episode of the Orleans: Behind the Scenes podcast, where we dive into a comprehensive discussion about the sewer project, including updates, timelines, and available resources. Listen now on the Town website or your favorite podcast platform! 

Thrive in the New Year

The Department of Health & Human Services is hosting a wellness program for Orleans residents aiming to improve health and wellness in the new year. Paving the Path to Wellness is an eight-week group health coaching program with certified practitioner Kristen Siminski. Sessions will be held on Thursdays at Orleans Town Hall from 2-3:30 pm beginning January 9, 2025. Group size is limited to 12 participants - call (508) 240-3700 ext. 2450 to reserve a spot! 

What makes winter in Orleans special for you? 
Take our community poll!

Grants & Awards

The Town of Orleans has received a $1 million grant from the Massachusetts Seaport Economic Council. This funding will be used to enhance Orleans’ waterfront and surrounding areas, supporting the town’s ongoing efforts to revitalize key parts of the community. The grant will help fund critical infrastructure improvements that will improve access to the waterfront, attract visitors, and stimulate local business growth. 
 
The reconstruction will include: 

• Installation of a new steel sheet pile bulkhead designed to accommodate future elevation increases to adapt to rising sea levels.
• Construction of two commercial floats with pier and gangway access for improved vessel berthing.
• Development of a 5,420-square-foot pile-supported commercial offloading deck equipped with a hoist.
• Addition of a 1,480-square-foot public viewing area to enhance community access to the waterfront.
• Upgrades to fuel dispensers, with removal of outdated fuel tanks and optimization of the wharf layout.
• A 20-foot landward retreat of the wharf, restoring approximately 3,400 square feet of water sheet area.

Additionally, Orleans, in partnership with Brewster and Eastham, has also been awarded a School Regionalization grant to explore opportunities for improving educational services across the three communities. These grants are a testament to the region’s commitment to economic growth and collaboration.

Also, this past month, Lieutenant Andy McLaughlin of the Orleans Police Department was honored with the prestigious Paul Harris Fellow Award by the Nauset Rotary Club. This recognition celebrates Lt. McLaughlin’s commitment to the Town of Orleans and the Orleans Police Block Party. Paul Harris founded the first Rotary Club in 1905, and this award is one of Rotary International's highest honors, symbolizing a shared vision of peace, goodwill, and service to humanity. 

Important Reminders for 
Orleans Residents 

Annual Town Census/Street Listing
Look out for the Annual Town Census, which will be mailed to all year-round households during the week of December 30. This document is a state requirement to verify residency and maintain accurate voter, veteran, and housing data. A prompt review, signature, and return of the form by mail, email, in-person, or through the drop box will help ensure continued eligibility for important benefits and services. It’s also vital for keeping the community’s data up to date for things like jury selection and school census.  

Property Tax Bills Coming Soon  
Orleans property owners should expect their Real Estate and Personal Property Tax bills to be mailed by the end of December. These bills cover the next two tax installments. If you don’t receive your bill by early January, you can view it online through the Town’s tax payment portal or call the Tax Collector’s office at (508) 240-3700 x2420. Payments can be made online, by mail to the Bank Lockbox (Town of Orleans, P.O. Box 881, Reading, MA 01867-0407), or through your bank’s online bill pay system—be sure to include your current bill number.  

2025 Dog Licenses Now Available
Dog licenses for 2025 are now available! Licenses are $10 for spayed/neutered dogs and $15 for unaltered dogs. Proof of spay/neutering and current rabies vaccination is required. Residents can complete the licensing process in person or by mail (a form is included with the annual census form). 

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