Wells Development News
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Select Board Meeting
Published: Jun 16, 2026
Wells Considers Data Center Moratorium Amidst Resident Concerns Over Energy, Water, and Costs
The Town of Wells held a public hearing to discuss a proposed ordinance establishing a data center moratorium. Multiple residents expressed concerns regarding the significant energy and water demands of data centers, potential increases in electricity costs for homeowners, environmental impacts, noise pollution, and the generation of e-waste. Concerns were also raised about the adequacy of existing infrastructure and the potential for data centers to exacerbate heat island effects. The board discussed the process for enacting a moratorium, which requires town meeting approval, and the potential for retroactivity to prevent vested rights. The state's Data Center Advisory Council is also working on developing statewide guardrails. The board ultimately decided to proceed with the moratorium process, acknowledging the need for further study and community input before enacting permanent regulations.
Town Officials Praise First Responders and Community for Actions During Fire and Other Incidents
The meeting began with a statement from a speaker (presumably a select board member) commending the town's first responders and community members for their actions during recent incidents, including a fire at Atlanta Gav and a smaller incident at a school. The speaker highlighted the immediate response, coordination, and professionalism of the fire department and EMS, noting their success in saving houses from fire spread. The speaker also praised community members for their supportive actions, such as displaying thank-you signs and providing food and water to first responders. A specific EMT was praised for going above and beyond by ensuring firefighters were hydrated. The speaker emphasized how fortunate the town is to have such dedicated individuals working in these roles.
Town of Wells Audit Reveals Strong Financial Health, Growing Surplus, and Prudent Spending
Ron Smith presented the fiscal year 2025 audit for the Town of Wells. He highlighted the town's strong financial condition, with a carry-forward surplus of approximately $14.4 million as of June 30, 2025, an increase from the previous year. This growth was attributed to strong property and excise tax collections, higher-than-estimated investment earnings, and prudent expense management, with money returned to various departments. The town's fund balance is considered healthy, exceeding the recommended 120-day norm, which allows for infrastructure investment. Smith commended the town for its fiscal planning, infrastructure investment, and maintaining a consistent plan. He also discussed enterprise funds (beach, code office, recreation) which are healthy and supplement future services. Potential areas for attention include managing bond proceeds drawdown and residual ARPA funds. The audit noted a management letter comment regarding bank reconciliations and outstanding checks, which is being addressed.
Adam Shaw Appointed Interim Assistant Town Manager to Support Police Department Transition
The Board of Selectmen appointed Adam Shaw as Temporary Interim Acting Assistant Town Manager. This appointment is necessary because Town Manager Michael Pardew needs to dedicate additional time to overseeing the police department due to the recent retirement of Police Chief Joanne Putnam and the upcoming retirement of Police Captain Kevin Shabbat. The recruitment process for a new Police Chief is expected to take four or more months. Adam Shaw will continue to serve as Captain of the Wells Police Department concurrently with this temporary assignment. The appointment is effective June 16, 2026, and will last until a new police chief is hired or the assignment is rescinded.
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The Wells News archive
Wells Select Board Meeting 6/16/26
Planning Board Meeting
Wells Planning Board Meeting 6/15/26
Planning Board Agenda
Select Board Meeting
Wells Select Board Meeting 6/2/26
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