Counselor Thorsen leads successful orchard field trip for 200 local fourth graders

The Town Council and TIF Workshop held on June 2, 2025, in Cumberland Center, Maine, featured discussions on community engagement, local initiatives, and upcoming elections. Councilor Thorsen shared an enthusiastic account of a recent field trip where approximately 200 fourth graders participated in planting wildflower seeds at the local orchard. This initiative aimed to promote food independence and environmental awareness among students, highlighting the importance of community involvement in local projects.

Thorsen noted the orchard's progress, mentioning that only two trees had died over the past year and that many were already blossoming. He encouraged residents to visit the orchard and enjoy the fruits of their labor in the coming years. Additionally, he reminded attendees about the importance of voting, particularly regarding the school budget, which is up for reaffirmation every three years.

Councilor Kopp expressed gratitude for the community's support of the local food pantry and announced his continued donations to both the pantry and the Special Olympics. He also shared personal reflections on his time serving on the council, emphasizing the collective commitment of council members to the community.

Looking ahead, Kopp invited the public to a crosswalk dedication event on June 14 and announced a council caucus on June 16 for leadership positions. He also mentioned a new legislative bill that could impact local regulations on chicken ownership, indicating a shift towards more lenient municipal policies.

As the council prepares for upcoming elections, Kopp acknowledged the potential for new members and expressed appreciation for the collaborative spirit of the current council. The meeting underscored the council's focus on community engagement and the importance of local governance in shaping the future of Cumberland.