Orleans: Behind the Scenes

Latest Episodes:

Building a Thriving Local Economy | Economic Development in Orleans (S2, 12) Jul 10, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Orleans: Behind the Scenes, host Mia Baumgarten switches things up and interviews Amanda Converse (her usual co-host), the Town’s Public Information Officer and Economic Development Coordinator. Amanda shares how she defines economic development in a small-town context, what makes Orleans unique, and how the Town is working to support local businesses, attract visitors, and strengthen year-round vibrancy.

From walkability and wayfinding to housing, public-private partnerships, and grant programs, this episode offers a look into the strategy behind Orleans’ economic development efforts.

Town of Orleans business information:

town.orleans.ma.us/35/Business

lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/srLoFyG/orleansbusinessconnection

Expanding the Vision | Orleans Recreation Gets a Refresh (S2, 11) Jun 26, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, we catch up with Recreation Director Tom DeSiervo and introduce Jamie Demetri, the newest member of the team. The department has a new name—Recreation, Culture & Community Events—and a renewed focus on engaging Orleans through inclusive, enriching programs. Tune in to hear what’s new, what’s stayed the same, and what’s ahead.

Orleans Recreation Department:https://www.town.orleans.ma.us/945/Recreation-Culture-Community-Events

Beach Ready | Everything You Need to Know for a Safe and Fun Summer in Orleans (S2, 10) Jun 12, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Amanda and Mia chat with Beach Safety Officer Tony Pike about everything you need to know to enjoy Orleans beaches this summer. From getting your beach sticker to staying safe in the water (yes, we talk about sharks), Tony shares helpful tips and insights for residents and visitors alike.

Beach Sticker information: https://orleansstickers.townhall247.com/

Atlantic White Shark Conservancy: https://www.atlanticwhiteshark.org/

Engineering Orleans | DPW Director Rich Waldo (S2, 09) May 29, 2025

Show notes

What does the Department of Public Works and Natural Resources actually do? In this episode, Mia and Amanda talk with DPW Director Rich Waldo about the critical work his team does to keep Orleans running—from roads and water to beaches and long-term infrastructure projects. Rich also shares a bit about his background and how residents can stay informed and engaged.

Public Works & Natural Resources | Orleans, MA

Inside Town Meeting 2025 | What Passed, What Surprised Us, and What’s Next (S2, 08) May 15, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, we sit down with Select Board Chair Mark Mathison and Vice Chair Kevin Galligan to unpack the 2025 Annual Town Meeting. We talk about key articles that passed — including the fire-rescue station design, housing initiatives, the cannabis courier bylaw, and waterfront and infrastructure improvements — as well as moments that sparked big discussion (and even a dramatic re-vote). Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at what these decisions mean for Orleans, how the meeting process played out, and what’s ahead for the community.

Behind the 2025 Annual Town Meeting Warrant (S2, 07) May 02, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Orleans Behind the Scenes, we sit down with Assistant Town Manager Mark Reil to break down what’s in the 2025 Annual Town Meeting Warrant. Learn about how the warrant is developed, which articles might need a closer look, and how residents can stay informed and get involved. We also talk about efforts to make the process more transparent and accessible for the Orleans community.

Annual Town Meeting – May 12 at Nauset Regional Middle School at 6pm

For more info, visit the Town Meeting Central page https://www.town.orleans.ma.us/894/Town-Meeting-Information

To sign up for childcare at the Town Meeting, visit https://orleansma.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=30177

For further background on warrant articles, listen to OBS Episode 32 on the annual budget and Episode 33 on the Fire-Rescue Station

Inside the Orleans Cultural District and Arts Week (S2, 06) Apr 17, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Orleans Behind the Scenes, we’re joined by Bonny Campbell-Runyon from the Orleans Cultural District to talk about how Orleans supports and celebrates the arts.

We explore the mission of the Cultural District, how it differs from the Orleans Cultural Council, and the role arts play in fostering community and economic vitality.

Plus, we dive into Orleans Arts Week—a weeklong celebration held during April school vacation featuring 22 events around town, from gallery openings and performances to public art and family-friendly activities.

Whether you're an artist, an arts lover, or just looking for something fun to do during school break, this episode offers a glimpse into the vibrant cultural life of Orleans.

Links & Resources:

Orleans Cultural District: orleansmaculturaldistrict.org

Orleans Arts Week Schedule: orleansmaculturaldistrict.org/arts-week

Learn more about the Orleans Cultural Council: massculturalcouncil.org/local-council/orleans

Why Orleans Needs a New Fire Station (S2, 05) Apr 10, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Orleans Behind the Scenes, Public Information Officer Amanda Converse and Media Operations Coordinator Mia Baumgarten sit down with Fire Chief Geof Deering to discuss the challenges facing the current Orleans Fire-Rescue Station—and why now is the time to plan for the future.

The station, built in 1987, no longer meets the demands of a growing and aging community or the needs of a modern emergency response team. Chief Deering shares insights into how the department has evolved, what constraints the current facility presents, and how a new station would enhance safety, efficiency, and service delivery.

Whether you're a longtime resident or a seasonal visitor, this conversation sheds light on an essential part of our town’s infrastructure—and the importance of investing in public safety for years to come.

Resources & Links:

Orleans Fire-Rescue webpage:https://www.town.orleans.ma.us/1004/Fire-Rescue

Orleans Fire-Rescue Station Feasibility Studies: https://www.town.orleans.ma.us/981/New-Fire-Rescue-Station-Feasibility-Stud

Meeting about Campus Plan Study: https://videoplayer.telvue.com/player/zzV8HNURw1G02-ue3glR7BRTpI-bknlL/series/4028/media/941542

Town Meeting Fire-Rescue Station Article information: https://www.town.orleans.ma.us/894/Town-Meeting-Information

Breaking Down the Town's Annual Budget (S2, 04) Mar 27, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Orleans Behind the Scenes, we dive into one of the most important topics in town government—the annual budget.

Hosts Mia and Amanda are joined by Town Manager Kim Newman and Assistant Town Manager Mark Reil to explain how the budget comes together, what the Town is prioritizing this year, and what residents can expect at the upcoming Town Meeting.

We cover: How the budget process works, key investments and priorities for FY26, the challenges Orleans is facing this year, including inflation, staffing, and long-term capital needs, what the Capital Improvement Plan is and how it guides big projects, and how residents can learn more and get involved.

Whether you’re a longtime Town Meeting voter or new to local government, this episode is your guide to understanding how Orleans makes financial decisions that shape our community’s future.

Resources & Links:

FY26 Budget Overview https://www.town.orleans.ma.us/DocumentCenter/View/8483/FY26-Orleans-Budget-31225https://www.town.orleans.ma.us/237/Finance-Town-Accountant

Behind the Tap | How Orleans Delivers Clean Water (S2, 03) Mar 04, 2025

Show notes

Clean, safe water doesn’t just happen—it takes careful management and a dedicated team. In this episode, we sit down with Susan Brown from Orleans’ award-winning Water Department to explore how our water is sourced, treated, and delivered straight to your tap.

We dive into what it takes to maintain the town’s water system, tackle infrastructure challenges, and ensure top-quality service year-round. Plus, Sue shares tips on conservation, reading your water bill, and what to do if you notice an issue.

To view the Annual Water Report, download the Eye on Water tool, and learn about other Water Department issues and initiatives visit https://www.town.orleans.ma.us/457/Water-DepartmentTo report a leak or a break call 508.255.1200 or off-hours 508.255.0117Sign up for the Town Talk newsletter https://www.town.orleans.ma.us/948/News-and-Notifications and follow us on social @townoforleansma

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