We’re continuing our Town Meeting education series with a conversation about Warrant Article 2, which proposes the Downtown Housing Overlay District. Co-hosts Mia Baumgarten and Amanda Converse talk with Elizabeth Jenkins and George Meservey from the Town’s Planning Department about what an overlay district is, how it supports year-round housing and local businesses, and how it maintains the character of Downtown Orleans.
Town Meeting Central: https://www.town.orleans.ma.us/894/Town-Meeting-Information
Voters will consider Article 9 at the November 17 Special Town Meeting — a proposal to invest $3 million in Community Preservation Act funds to renovate and modernize Eldredge Park, Orleans’ most iconic public space.
Hosts Amanda Converse and Mia Baumgarten talk with Director of Recreation, Culture & Community Events Tom DeSiervo and Assistant Town Manager Mark Reil about the project’s design, scope, and funding strategy. From new tennis and pickleball courts to a fully inclusive playground and improved accessibility, this project strengthens the park’s role as a community hub for all ages.
Town Meeting Central: https://www.town.orleans.ma.us/894/Town-Meeting-Information
In this episode, Amanda and Mia sit down with Town Clerk Kelly Darling to explore one of the most essential — and busiest — departments in Orleans.
Kelly shares insights into her background and training, what her team handles day to day, how they manage elections and Town Meeting, and why attention to detail is so critical in keeping local government running smoothly.
Whether you’ve visited to get a marriage license, register to vote, or just ask a question, you’ll learn something new about how this small office plays a big role in the life of the town.
town.orleans.ma.us/465/Town-Clerktown.orleans.ma.us/794/Town-Meeting-Doings-by-Year
Town Meeting is the oldest form of direct democracy in New England, and it’s how Orleans makes many of its most important decisions.
In this episode, Amanda and Mia walk through what Town Meeting is, how it works, and what to expect on the day.
You’ll also learn how to stay informed in the weeks leading up to Town Meeting and why reading the warrant ahead of time is the best way to prepare.
Summer may be winding down, but life in Orleans is just as vibrant in the fall. From crisp walks on the beach with your dog to youth sports, adult programs, cultural events, and hidden trails waiting to be discovered, Orleans is truly a year-round community.
In this episode, Amanda and Mia talk with:
Tom DeSiervo, Director of Recreation, Culture & Community Events – about fall programs, events, and the ways recreation helps bring our community together.
Kristyna Smith, Principal Clerk for the Conservation Department – about some of Orleans’ “hidden gem” properties beyond the well-known spots, and how to enjoy these places responsibly.
Whether you’re looking for activities to join, new places to explore, or simply a reminder of what makes Orleans special, this episode is filled with ideas for making the most of the season.
Resources & LinksOrleans Recreation Department: orleansma.myrec.com
Orleans Conservation Properties: https://www.town.orleans.ma.us/202/Conservation-
PropertiesOrleans Community Calendar:https://website.withapps.io/orleansma
In this episode of Orleans Behind the Scenes, hosts Amanda Converse and Mia Baumgarten talk with Alex Fitch, Director of Orleans’ newly renamed Department of Health and Human Services. Alex shares her career journey and how she came to lead the department, explains the wide range of responsibilities her team carries - from food safety and septic oversight to public health nursing and wellness initiatives - and discusses why the department’s new name better reflects its expanded role in supporting the wellbeing of Orleans residents.
The conversation also highlights the Town’s new partnership with CredibleMind, an online mental well-being platform that provides trusted resources for residents while giving the Town valuable insights into community health needs. Tune in to hear how Orleans is rethinking public health, expanding access to services, and making mental wellness more accessible for everyone.
🔗 Explore CredibleMind for free at lowercape.crediblemind.com
🔗 Learn more about the Department of Health and Human Services: https://www.town.orleans.ma.us/254/Health-Human-Services
In this episode of Orleans Behind the Scenes, we talk with Davis Walters, Building Commissioner for the Town of Orleans. Davis shares how he got into public service, what his team does to keep buildings safe, and how residents and business owners can best navigate the permitting process.
Whether you're planning a renovation or just curious about how inspections and building codes work, this episode is packed with helpful insight and advice from the person in charge of making sure it’s all done right.
Building Department Page: https://www.town.orleans.ma.us/186/Building
In this episode of Orleans Behind the Scenes, co-hosts Mia Baumgarten and Amanda Converse sit down with George Meservey, Director of Planning and Community Development, and Elizabeth Jenkins, Assistant Director, to break down a topic that directly shapes how Orleans looks and feels: zoning.
Orleans is undergoing a major Zoning Modernization Project focused on the downtown area, aiming to simplify the rules, encourage smart development, and support a more vibrant year-round community. George and Elizabeth explain what zoning is, why our current rules need updating, and how new regulations - like form-based zoning -could improve walkability, housing options, and economic vitality.
Whether you're a resident, business owner, or just curious about how your town works, this conversation sheds light on one of the most powerful tools local government uses to plan for the future.
Zoning Modernization Project webpage: orleans.ma.us/1676/Zoning-Update-Downtown-Orleans
In this episode, Amanda flips the script and interviews her usual cohost, Media Operations Coordinator Mia Baumgarten, about the behind-the-scenes work of Channel 8 in Orleans. They break down how residents can access public meetings - before, during, and after they happen - and why transparency and accessibility are at the core of their work.Listen now to stay connected to your town government.Access Chanel 8 at town.orleans.ma.us
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
Sign up for the business newsletter:
lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/srLoFyG/orleansbusinessconnection
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
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/
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.
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.
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
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
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
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
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
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
Sign up for town alerts and newsletters https://www.town.orleans.ma.us/List.aspx
Follow us on social media at @townoforleansma