OLD ORCHARD BEACH — Voters will be asked to fund the Town’s share of improvements to the regional communications center in Scarborough at a special referendum in November.
On Tuesday, Aug. 18, the Town Council approved adding a question to the Nov. 3 general election ballot, seeking permission to issue up to $3.3 million in bonds for the project. The Scarborough Town Council is expected to approve a similar referendum, also for Nov. 3.
The communications center uses 1950s-era infrastructure and outdated equipment, hindering communications among agencies and often delaying vital information until after an agency is on scene.
The communications center supports Old Orchard Beach Police, Fire/Lifeguards, Public Works and Wastewater Departments, as well as RSU 23 Old Orchard Beach School and Bus Departments.
Project recommendations were advised by Communications Design Consulting Group (CDCG) of New Hampshire. The findings can be viewed here.
The proposal calls for a new radio system to connect all departments and agencies, allowing for open lines of communication 24/7. The plan also calls for new 180-foot towers at the Old Orchard Beach Public Works Department, and in Scarborough at the Public Safety Building, and the North Scarborough and Dunstan Fire Stations. Also planned are a new 100-foot tower at the Black Point Fire Station in Scarborough, and rooftop antennas at the MaineHealth Scarborough Campus.
While the project is anticipated to cost $12.4 million total, U.S. Sen. Angus King has requested $5 million in Congressionally Directed Funding to support this work. This would reduce Old Orchard Beach’s share to $1.8 million and Scarborough’s share to $5.6 million.
The Town Council will hold a public hearing on all ballot questions on Tuesday, Oct. 20, beginning at 6:30 p.m. in Council Chambers.
If approved, work will begin in February 2027 and is expected to be complete by October 2028.
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