Hartford, Maine operates under a traditional New England town meeting form of government. Registered voters gather annually at Town Meeting to approve the municipal budget, enact ordinances, and decide matters of local policy. Between Town Meetings, the Select Board serves as the chief executive body, overseeing daily operations and administration.
Select Board
The Select Board consists of three elected members who manage town affairs, set policy, authorize expenditures, and represent Hartford in intergovernmental matters. Members serve staggered terms. A current roster, meeting schedule, and minutes are available on the Select Board page.
Meetings
The Board meets regularly at the Town Office, 1196 Main Street, and all meetings are open to the public.
- Phone: 207-388-2674
- Email: hartforddeputy@gmail.com
- Meeting recordings: Town of Hartford YouTube channel
Town Charter
The Town of Hartford was incorporated in 1798 under a charter that established it as a municipality in the District of Maine, then part of Massachusetts. The original Town Charter of 1798 is available in the documents library.
Boards and Committees
Hartford relies on volunteer boards and committees to advise the Select Board and carry out specialized municipal functions. Residents interested in serving should contact the Town Office at 207-388-2674 or email hartforddeputy@gmail.com. Full descriptions are available on the Boards and Committees page.
- Appeals Board - hears appeals and variance requests under the town’s land use ordinances
- Budget Committee - reviews the proposed municipal budget and makes recommendations to voters
- Cemetery Committee - oversees the maintenance and management of Hartford’s municipal cemeteries
- Comprehensive Plan Committee - guides Hartford’s long-range planning efforts
- Ordinance Committee - reviews and drafts local ordinances for the Select Board and Town Meeting
- Planning Board - reviews subdivision applications, site plan reviews, and land use matters
- Recreation Committee - oversees recreational programs and facilities, including Hartford Beach
- Road Committee - advises the Select Board on road maintenance, construction, and improvements
- Solid Waste Committee - oversees recycling and waste collection programs
Town Meeting and Elections
Hartford holds its Annual Town Meeting each June, and Special Town Meetings may be called as needed by the Select Board. All registered voters are eligible to participate in Town Meeting and to vote in municipal, state, and federal elections. For results, voter registration, and absentee ballot information, visit the Town Meeting and Elections page.
Comprehensive Plan
The Comprehensive Plan Committee guides Hartford’s long-range planning. The town’s 2008 Comprehensive Plan was repealed at the June 2025 Town Meeting, and a new comprehensive planning process is currently underway to develop an updated plan that reflects Hartford’s current needs and future goals. Related Comprehensive Plan documents are available in the documents library, and committee details are on the Boards and Committees page.
Town Office
The Hartford Town Office handles day-to-day municipal business including vehicle registrations, tax collection, vital records, and general inquiries. For hours, staff, and a full list of services, visit the Town Office page.
Annual Audits and Reports
The Town of Hartford publishes annual audit reports and town reports for public review. View the annual audit reports, or browse town reports and meeting minutes in the documents library.