Eliot, Maine
Community Profile

The rural community of Eliot, Maine continues to follow in the tradition of its forefathers with the preservation of environmental and historical assets and the pursuit of economic growth. Eliot is ideally situated along the banks of the Piscataqua River, just minutes from Portsmouth's downtown. The approximately 6,000 residents enjoy Eliot's natural charm throughout the year at the town's three parks. Boating and cross-country skiing are among the favorite leisure activities here.

Economy

With the current tax rate of $15.65 per $1,000 at 70 percent valuation, Eliot depends upon its modest commercial and industrial community as well as residential property owners for support of town services. The town will continue to benefit from the surrounding communities' healthy growth and prosperity while maintaining its own wholesome, protected environment so ideally suited to young families. 

Policies

Preserving the rural character of this quaint New England community will continue to be the focus of  the town's firm, yet fair, land use controls. The zoning ordinance divides Eliot into Village, Rural, Suburban, Commercial and Shoreland districts. In all districts, no building or structure erected or altered for dwelling purposes shall provide less than 650 square feet of enclosed area. The Planning Board sets general design standards for subdivisions as well as standards for the layout of water systems, sewage disposal and surface drainage.

Housing

Eliot offers a stable housing market, 90 percent of which comprises single-family dwellings. There is little rental property available. According to the Seacoast Board of Realtors, the median cost of a single family home in 2001 was $186,900. In accordance with state law, the town has adopted an ordinance allowing for the development of affordable housing.

Education

Residents attend Eliot Elementary School through the third grade. Grades four and five attend Marshwood Middle School in nearby South Berwick. Grades six through eight attend Marshwood Junior High. Marshwood High School, which serves 835 students, has grade levels nine through 12 for both Eliot and South Berwick pupils. The district maintains a reputation for excellence in education as well as strong athletic programs. Class sizes remain at a 1:20 teacher to student ratio.

Superintendent's Office
(207)439-2438

Eliot Elementary School
State Road
Eliot, ME
(207)439-9004
Enrollment: 361 students 

Marshwood Middle School   
Academy Street
South Berwick, ME
(207)384-4010
Enrollment: 376 students

Marshwood Junior High School
Depot Road
Eliot, ME
(207)439-1399
Enrollment: 602 students 

Marshwood High School
Rt. 236
South Berwick, ME
(207)384-4500
Enrollment: 835 

Profile

Eliot Population 2003: 6,000

Annual Growth Rate (1990-2000): 11.7%

County: York

Municipal Government: Selectmen/
Town Meeting

Property Tax Rate: $15.65 per $1,000
at 70 percent valuation

Median Age (2000): 39.7

Utilities

Electric Source:

Central Maine Power Company

(800)565-3181 in Maine;

(800)433-0458 outside Maine

Water Source: Municipal/
Kittery Storage

Sewer Type Treatment: Secondary; served by Kittery

Waste Disposal: Private. Weekly charge for pickup. Mandatory recycling. Fee for pickup from private company. Transfer station.

Contacts

Eliot Town Hall & Municipal Offices

1333 State Road

Eliot, ME 03903

(207)439-1813

Fire: 439-1253, 911 (Emergency)

Police: 439-1179, 911 (Emergency)