Orleans: Behind the Scenes

Latest Episodes:

Addressing Housing Needs in Orleans (S2, 02) Feb 10, 2025

Show notes

In this episode ofOrleans: Behind the Scenes, we speak with Elizabeth Jenkins, Assistant Director of Planning and Community Development for the Town of Orleans, about the housing challenges facing our community and the Cape Cod region. Elizabeth shares her passion for planning, provides insight into the current housing crisis, and discusses the initiatives Orleans is implementing to meet these challenges. Tune in to learn how the town is working toward sustainable solutions for housing now and in the future.

For comprehensive and up-to-date information on housing in Orleans: https://www.town.orleans.ma.us/1026/Housing

Housing partners:

Lower Cape Community Development Partnership www.capecdp.org

Homeless Prevention Council www.hpccapecod.org

Housing Assistance Corp www.haconcapecod.org

Planning for Orleans’ Future | Planning + Community Development Department (S2, 01) Jan 27, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Orleans: Behind the Scenes, we chat with George Meservey, Director of Planning and Community Development, to explore how the department helps shape the town’s future through thoughtful planning and community collaboration. From managing growth and preserving Orleans’ character to addressing housing challenges and developing the Local Comprehensive Plan (LCP), George shares insights into the planning process and how community input drives decisions. We also discuss the opportunities and challenges ahead for creating a sustainable, thriving Orleans. Tune in to learn how you can get involved and contribute to the town’s vision for the future.

Stay up to date on Planning related activities: https://www.town.orleans.ma.us/297/Planning-and-Community-Development

Episode 28: Understanding the Orleans Sewer Project | Construction, Betterments, and Connections Dec 19, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of Orleans Behind the Scenes, we dive into the Town of Orleans’ phased sewer project—a vital effort to protect our environment, support sustainable growth, and ensure the long-term health of our community.

Co-host Mike Solitro (Special Projects Coordinator), alongside guests Scott Walker (Treasurer/Collector), and Alex Fitch (Health and Human Services Director) join us to explain the why, how, and what’s next of the project.

Mike Solitro discusses the environmental and economic benefits of the sewer system, where the project currently stands, and what to expect in the next phases.
Scott Walker breaks down sewer betterments and how they will appear on your tax bill, making it clear and manageable for residents.
Alex Fitch shares details about the Sewer Connection Grant Program and other funding opportunities, including the 0% financing offered through Cape Cod AquiFund.

We’ll also highlight why this investment is not just good for residents but also for businesses and Orleans’ long-term growth. Tune in to learn how to stay informed and connected as the project evolves.

Stay up to date: Visit the Town of Orleans website, sign up for Town Talk, and follow us on social media for the latest updates.

Comprehensive information on the Wastewater Infrastructure: www.town.orleans.ma.us/171/Wastewater-Infrastructure Water/Sewer Program Coordinator: https://www.town.orleans.ma.us/formcenter/Health-Department-29/Contact-John-Nelson-150 Pay tax bills online: https://www.town.orleans.ma.us/913/Online-Bill-Pay

Cape Cod AquiFund: https://www.capecod.gov/departments/health-environment/programs-services/water-and-wastewater/community-septic-management-loan-program-csmlp/

MA Title 5 Tax Credit: https://www.town.orleans.ma.us/1651/Title-5-Credit-for-Mandated-Septic-Syste

Sign up for town alerts and newsletters: https://www.town.orleans.ma.us/List.aspx Follow us on social media at @townoforleansma

Episode 27: Town of Orleans Council on Aging and Senior Center Dec 11, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of Orleans: Behind the Scenes, we sit down with Judi Wilson, Director of the Orleans Council on Aging, to explore how the Senior Center supports the town's senior community through innovative programs, essential services, and meaningful connections. Judi shares the Center's mission, its impact on residents, and exciting plans for the future, offering a closer look at how the COA continues to make a difference in Orleans.

COA/Senior Center webpage

https://www.town.orleans.ma.us/220/Council-on-Aging-Senior-Center

Episode 26: Gabby Parker + Ian Mack, Orleans Fire Department Annual Holiday Donation Drive Nov 26, 2024

Show notes

This episode focuses on the Orleans Fire Department's "Homeless for the Holidays" initiative, an annual event designed to raise awareness and support for those who might be struggling in the local community. The event has become a vital part of the holiday season on Cape Cod, with the fire department working closely with the Lower Cape Outreach Council to gather donations, such as unwrapped toys, new clothing and pet food, for families in need.

Lower Cape Outreach Council Art Cottages on Market Square

Orleans Chamber of Commerce

Red Balloon Toy Shop

Homeless for the Holidays Event Information

Contact Information: homelessfortheholidaysofd@gmail.com

Episode 25: Amanda Converse | Keeping Orleans Informed Nov 08, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of Orleans Behind the Scenes, Mia sits down with the Town's new Public Information Officer Amanda Converse, who shares her background and vision for community communication in Orleans. They discuss the launch of Town Talk, the new monthly newsletter designed to keep residents informed on town projects, events, and more. The conversation also covers the importance of accessible communication channels, including Channel 8 and the podcast itself, as ways to engage and connect with Orleans residents.

Link to follow on FB: https://www.facebook.com/townoforleansma

Link to follow on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/townoforleansma/

Link to subscribe to Town Talk: https://www.town.orleans.ma.us/List.aspx (scroll down to the bottom and find it under the News Flash category)

Link to sign up for CivicReady: https://orleans-ma.myfreealerts.com/

Episode 24: Kevin Galligan | Special Town Meeting Recap Nov 01, 2024

Show notes

On this week's episode of Orleans: Behind the Scenes, the Mia and Mike recap the highlights from the recent Special Town Meeting with a special guest, Kevin Galligan, Vice Chair of the Select Board. Together they explore the history of Town Meeting as the “truest form of democracy” and discuss memorable moments, key decisions, and the importance of civic participation in Orleans.

Revisit the October 25 episode of Orleans: Behind the Scenes where Assistant Town Manager, Mark Reil previewed the Special Town Meeting

For Special Town Meeting results and information, visit: Town Meeting Information | Orleans, MA

Episode 23: Special Town Meeting Preview with Assistant Town Manager, Mark Reil Oct 25, 2024

Show notes

On this week's episode of ⁠⁠Orleans: Behind the Scenes⁠⁠, hosts Mia Baumgarten and Mike Solitro welcome Town of Orleans' Assistant Town Manager, Mark Reil to discuss the upcoming Special Town Meeting.

Special Town Meeting will be held on Monday, October 28 at 6:00 pm at the Nauset Regional Middle School, located at 70 South Orleans Road. More details are found here.

The Town Meeting Warrant is available: town.orleans.ma.us/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/418

Welcome to Orleans! Are you a longtime visitor, lifetime resident, or new explorer? Mia and Mike are here for you with the scoop on happenings on the beautiful Lower Cape.

Want to know what's driving the initiatives and innovations coming out of Town Hall?

Get a glimpse behind the scenes as Mia and Mike introduce you to the fresh faces and dynamic projects around town.

Mia and Mike will keep you up to date and informed about all the ways local government works.For a weekly dose of local news delivered with a different perspective, subscribe and listen to Orleans: Behind the Scenes⁠.⁠⁠ ---------------------------------------------------------------

Visit town.orleans.ma.us/894 for more information.

Contact Mark: town.orleans.ma.us/formcenter/Town-Manager-24

Town Meeting Central: town.orleans.ma.us/894

Free Cash Policy Presentation

-----------------------------------------------------------Connect with the Town of Orleans on ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠Contact us at: ⁠⁠orleansbts@town.orleans.ma.us⁠

Episode 22: Stephen Smith | Cape Cod Technology Council & FixCapeInternet.com Jul 06, 2024

Show notes

On this week's episode of ⁠⁠Orleans: Behind the Scenes⁠⁠, hosts Mia Baumgarten and Mike Solitro welcome Steve Smith, Executive Director of the Cape Cod Technology Council to discuss the Massachusetts Broadband Equity Access & Deployment (BEAD) Challenge Process.

Visit FixCapeInternet.com for more information.

Welcome to Orleans! Are you a longtime visitor, lifetime resident, or newly minted explorer? Mia and Mike are here for you with the scoop on happenings in this bustling and beautiful Lower Cape town. Want to know what's driving the initiatives and innovations coming out of Town Hall?

Get a glimpse behind the scenes as Mia and Mike introduce you to the fresh faces and dynamic projects around town.

Mia and Mike will keep you up to date and informed about all the ways your local government works.

For a weekly dose of local news delivered with a different perspective, subscribe and listen to ⁠⁠Orleans: Behind the Scenes⁠⁠.

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Visit ⁠FixCapeInternet.com⁠ for more information.

Massachusetts has $147 million in funding available to build more broadband internet infrastructure. This is Cape Cod's chance to challenge their data.

Want faster internet on Cape? Go to: FixCapeInternet.com

Who: All Barnstable County Residents and Businesses

When: June 20 - July 20, 2024

Visit: FixCapeInternet.com

Upcoming Events:

Fourth of July Festivities

- July 2: Independence Day Fireworks

- July 4: Town Parade - May the Fourth Be With You

- July 5: First Friday

Snow Library ⁠⁠Calendar⁠⁠

⁠Orleans Farmers’ Market⁠: Every Saturday 8 AM - 12 PM |⁠ ⁠orleansfarmersmarket.org⁠

⁠⁠Pop Up Practices in Parish Park⁠⁠ - Sponsored by the ⁠Orleans Cultural District⁠: Every Saturday 1 - 2 PM

Orleans Chamber ⁠⁠Events Calendar⁠⁠

⁠Orleans Firebirds ⁠⁠Schedule⁠

#fixcapeinternet

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Connect with the Town of Orleans on ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠

Episode 21: Stacy Faber | Town of Orleans Sticker Office Jun 14, 2024

Show notes

On this week's episode of ⁠⁠Orleans: Behind the Scenes⁠⁠, hosts Mia Baumgarten and Mike Solitro welcome Stacy Faber, Assistant to the DPW Director/Sticker Office Manager to discuss all things stickers.

Welcome to Orleans! Are you a longtime visitor, lifetime resident, or newly minted explorer? Mia and Mike are here for you with the scoop on happenings in this bustling and beautiful Lower Cape town.

Want to know what's driving the initiatives and innovations coming out of Town Hall?

Get a glimpse behind the scenes as Mia and Mike introduce you to the fresh faces and dynamic projects around town.

Mia and Mike will keep you up to date and informed about all the ways your local government works.

For a weekly dose of local news delivered with a different perspective, subscribe and listen to ⁠⁠Orleans: Behind the Scenes⁠⁠.

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For more information:

Online Sticker Portal: orleansstickers.townhall247.com

All Sticker Information: town.orleans.ma.us/544

Nauset Beach Rules & Regulations for Over Sand Vehicles (OSV): town.orleans.ma.us/DocumentCenter/View/1490

2024 Parking Dates & Fees: town.orleans.ma.us/DocumentCenter/View/2737

Contact Stacy: (508) 240-3790 x3101

Beach Webcams

Town Landings & Access Points: town.orleans.ma.us/444

Upcoming Events:

Snow Library ⁠Calendar⁠

Orleans Farmers Market: Every Saturday 8 AM - 12 PM |⁠ orleansfarmersmarket.org

⁠Pop Up Practices in Parish Park⁠ - Sponsored by the Orleans Cultural District: Every Saturday 1 - 2 PM

Orleans Chamber ⁠Events Calendar⁠

Orleans Firebirds Schedule

2024 Cape Coastal Conference | Tuesday, June 18 at 9 AM

Orleans Improvement Association: 34th Annual Orleans Garden Tour, Saturday, June 22 – 10:00AM to 4:00PM - orleansimprovement.org/garden-tour-2024-orleans-improvement-association

Temporary East Orleans Water Shutoff - Monday, June 24

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Connect with the Town of Orleans on ⁠Facebook⁠ and ⁠Instagram⁠

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