Ellsworth man indicted after allegedly showing himself to a child
An Ellsworth man charged with a felony after allegedly exposing himself to a child has been indicted by a Hancock County grand jury.
68-year-old Earl Hilton was indicted on Aug. 6.
The Ellsworth American reports the incident happened in 2025 stating Hilton exposed himself to a child that was seven years old.
He’s charged with visual sexual aggression against a child and indecent conduct according to the publication.
Versant Power scam warning
Utility scams have become more frequent in Maine.
Versant Power is warning customers how they can be aware of when a salesperson shows up at their door.
WABI news reports a salesperson offering to lower your electric bill or enroll you in a community solar program may mention Versant Power but that does not mean the person actually works for the company.
Utility scams and legitimate third-party energy offers can sometimes look similar when a salesperson shows up at your door.
However representatives say they don’t send anyone door to door and to always review the terms presented to you.
Fate of Ellsworth Hydroelectric project remains unknown
Black Bear Hydro Partners LLC has pushed back against a ruling regarding two dams on Leonard Lake and Graham Lake.
The Maine Department of Environmental Protection decided to deny their water quality certification.
The Ellsworth American reports Black Bear is a subsidiary of the hydropower company Brookfield Renewable.
The publication reports for the second time that Black Bear has been denied water quality certification and filed an appeal as they try to renew a license with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.
Request for Proposals of Merrill Lane extension released
The City of Ellsworth has put out a request for proposals regarding the construction of the Merrill Lane Extension.
1,225 linear feet of Merrill Lane could transform into a finished municipal roadway including stormwater infrastructure, sanitary sewer, water, electrical and communication utilities.
City leaders say the clearing and grubbing has already been completed.
A non-mandatory pre-proposal meeting will be held at Merrill Lane on Monday, Aug. 17 at 10 a.m.
For more information on where to submit questions or if you’re an interested contractor, follow the link.
https://www.ellsworthmaine.gov/city-of-ellsworth-seeks-proposals-for-merrill-lane-extension/
Land use violation hearing over Blue Hill restaurant delayed
A restaurant in Blue Hill has allegedly violated its land use, however the owner says the right protocols were taken.
The owner of Blaze Restaurant says they’re working with Blue Hill town officials to find a common ground with alleged construction violations.
The Bangor Daily News reports the town considered legal action against the violations however, the owner says the projects were approved by the Blue Hill’s then-code enforcement officer and state officials.
The publication reports the hearing regarding the matter has been postponed and attorneys representing both parties are having discussions about the settlement.
City of Ellsworth Craft & Vendor Fair
Calling all crafters, makers & vendors- the City of Ellsworth has a table waiting for you!
The Craft/Vendor Fair is coming up Saturday, September 26th.
Your table reservation helps support Backpacks for Kids and Christmas for Kids.
Registration information can be found on the city’s website and Facebook page.
https://www.facebook.com/ellsworthme
Maine Outdoor Film Festival returns to Ellsworth
Mark your calendars for a creative summer event.
The Maine Outdoor Film Festival will return to Ellsworth at Knowlton Park on Aug. 26.
The Heart of Ellsworth will host the evening and the fun starts at 6 p.m.
Participants can expect food vendors, activities, educational tables and raffles before the films at 7:30 p.m.
The event highlights outdoor storytelling to communities across the state that celebrates adventure, conservation and creativity.
To check out a full lineup of events follow the link below.
