Building a Resilient Downtown | Orleans' Ecological Infrastructure Project (S3, 09)

Building a Resilient Downtown | Orleans' Ecological Infrastructure Project (S3, 09)

What does it take to make Downtown Orleans more resilient to flooding, water quality threats, and a changing climate? We sit down with Elizabeth Jenkins from the Town's Planningand Community Development department along with Peter Flinker and Nate Burgess from landscape architecture firm Dodson & Flinker to find out - and along the way, we uncover some surprising local history. In this episode: • The difference between ecological, green, and grey infrastructure • Why saltmarshes are one of Orleans' most important climate defenses • The buried story of Jeremiah's Gutter - the Cape's first canal • Phragmites: the invasive plant blocking the view at Window on the Cove   Want to get involved? Join the Community Charrette on June 5–6 and help shape the future of Downtown Orleans. https://www.town.orleans.ma.us/1898/Downtown-Town-Cove-Resiliency-Project

Sun, Sand & Stickers | Getting Ready for Orleans Summer (S3, 08)

We've been waiting for this! Stacy Faber from the DPW & Natural Resources Sticker Office joins Mia and Amanda to cover everything you need for a great Orleans summer - from beach stickers and over-sand vehicles to shellfish permits and getting on the water. All the links are at town.orleans.ma.us/544 [https://www.town.orleans.ma.us/544/Natural-Resources].

Fire-Rescue Station & Town Meeting | A Project Update for Orleans Residents (S3, 07)

In this episode, we take a closer look at the proposed new Fire-Rescue Station and the articles on the upcoming Town Meeting warrant. Hosts Mia and Amanda are joined by Fire Chief Geof Deering to walk through where the project stands today, what progress has been made since last fall’s Town Meeting vote, and what residents are being asked to consider this spring. The conversation covers: * Why the current Fire-Rescue Station no longer meets today’s needs * What has happened since funding for the design phase was approved * A clear breakdown of the two warrant articles related to the project * What the timeline looks like moving forward * Responses to common questions submitted by residents Whether you’ve been following the project closely or are just starting to learn more, this episode provides a straightforward overview to help you feel informed ahead of Town Meeting. Learn more, view project materials, and stay up to date: https://www.town.orleans.ma.us/1742/Orleans-Fire-Rescue-Station-Headquarters [https://www.town.orleans.ma.us/1742/Orleans-Fire-Rescue-Station-Headquarters]

Wastewater Planning and Projects | What to Expect at Town Meeting (S3, 06)

In this episode of Orleans: Behind the Scenes, we sit down with Rich Waldo to walk through upcoming wastewater-related items that will be before voters at Town Meeting. The conversation focuses on two key areas: continuing the planning and design work needed to move future phases of the Town’s Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan forward and ensuring that a previously approved sewer project for the Lakes and Ponds area can proceed as expected if construction costs come in higher than originally estimated. Listeners will hear why these investments are necessary, how the Town is approaching wastewater as a long-term, phased effort, and what steps are being taken to manage and offset costs through low-interest financing and outside funding sources. If you’re looking to better understand what’s ahead and how these decisions fit into the bigger picture of protecting Orleans’ water quality, this episode offers a clear and accessible overview.Show notes: John Nelson, Sewer Program Coordinator, Contact Information: jnelson@orleansma.gov

Understanding the FY27 Town Budget | What Residents Need to Know (S03, 05)

Annual Town Meeting is where Orleans residents vote on the Town’s budget - and in this episode of Orleans Behind the Scenes, we’re breaking down what that actually means. Amanda and Mia are joined by Assistant Town Manager Mark Reil and Finance Director Darrin Tangeman to walk through the FY27 budget in a clear and approachable way. They cover how the budget is developed, what shaped this year’s priorities, and what residents should know before heading into Town Meeting. The conversation also touches on commonly asked questions, including the Council on Aging position, how to understand discussions around a potential override, and what happens after Town Meeting. The episode also introduces the Town’s new OpenGov platform - an interactive tool that allows residents to explore the budget in more detail. Whether you’re new to Town Meeting or just looking for a clearer understanding of how the budget impacts daily life in Orleans, this episode is designed to help you feel more informed and prepared to participate.