York, Maine
Community Profile

York, Maine is a gracious, lively community comprised of four distinct areas-York Harbor, York Beach, York Village and Cape Neddick. The four areas cover 56 square miles near the rugged New England coast. The essence of New England spirit is captured at its best in York with scenes of lobstermen and fishermen coming in with the fresh catch of the day and by the townspeople participating in local business and community activities.

"The Yorks," as the community is known locally, is a popular summer destination. Quiet, snug harbors contrast with the excitement along several beaches to provide a perfect vacation haven for all. Cape Neddick Light, popularly known as Nubble Light, is a renowned American landmark and is arguably one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world.

The year-round population of approximately 13,000-14,000 is proud not only of the dramatic beauty that inspired many artists, but of York's maritime and colonial heritage. Whether you wish to mingle with the summer visitors enjoying shops and shoreline or prefer to take refuge in a rural retreat, York offers the best of both worlds.

Economy

Tourism is York's primary industry, and the beach area businesses contribute significantly to the community's prosperity. However, York is also home to a myriad of businesses including home "cottage" industries, small manufacturing firms and corporate headquarters of at least one major commercial concern. A tax rate of $9.70 per $1,000 at 100 percent valuation provides ample resources to offer a full complement of municipal services.

Policies

York's revised Master Plan was adopted in 1999. In the 1970s, the separate towns were merged to establish a single municipal government. The town has long exercised planning and zoning powers and has 16 distinct zoning districts, created to foster a blend of protected residential property, business development districts and mixed use areas.While the residential growth rate has exceeded that of business growth, York remains receptive to new business while striving to preserve the area's vast natural beauty and relaxing lifestyle.

Housing           

Almost any type of housing imaginable is available in York: from the well-kept colonial homes in the village and the storybook cottages along the rugged coastline to the elegant architecture tucked away along York's harbors. According to the 2003 statistics, the median cost of single-family homes (which comprise nearly 85 percent of the York housing market) was $267,650. Rental properties at the beach and throughout York are available as condominiums, apartments and houses. The steady increase in residential growth is evidence of the much-sought-out high quality of life found here.

 Education

Residents of York are well served by their own school system from elementary school through high school, and York schools have a reputation for offering quality education. Of the more than 698 students who attend the fully accredited York High School, 66 percent go on to institutions of higher learning.

Superintendent's Office (207)363-3403

Village Elementary School
124 York Street, (207)363-4870
Enrollment: 375 students

Coastal Ridge Elementary School
Post Road, (207)363-1800
Enrollment: 390 students

York Middle School
30 Organug Road
(207)363-4214 (grades 5-6);
(207)363-4214 (grades 7-8)
Enrollment: 695 students 

York High School
286 Long Sands Road, (207)363-3621
Enrollment: 656 students 

Profile

York Population (2003):
13,000-14,000 approx.

Annual Growth Rate (1990-2000): 30.9%

County: York

Municipal Government: Selectmen/Town Manager/Town Meeting (secret ballot)

Property Tax Rate: $9.70 per $1,000

at 100 percent valuation

Median Age (2000): 43.0

Utilities

Electric Source: Central Maine

Power Company;

(800)541-3995 in Maine;

(800)433-1458 outside Maine

Water Sources: York Water District

(207)363-2265; Municipal Reservoir

Sewer Source: York Sewer District

(207)363-5581

Sewer Type Treatment: Secondary

Solid Waste Disposal: Town-sponsored contractor for residential curbside waste pick-up and recycling; commercial establishments provide own services

Contacts

Town of York Town Hall
186 York St., York, ME 03909
P.O. Box 9, York, ME 03909

Town Clerk: (207)363-1003

Town Manager: 363-1000

Selectmen: 363-1000

Assessor: 363-1009

Planning: 363-1002

Town Planner: 363-1007

Police: 363-1031(General Business)

363-4445 and 911 (Emergency)

Fire: 363-1015 (General Business)

363-3144 and 911 (Emergency)