Daniel Evarts

The primary discussion centered on the proposed BIW parking garage project, which plans to add 860 parking spaces by consolidating employees from satellite lots. Concerns were raised regarding the concentration of traffic flow onto specific routes and the impact on downtown Bath roads, as the initial traffic study scope was deemed insufficient. Discussions also covered the management of satellite parking lots and the resulting impact on private lot owners who profit from employee parking. Separately, the board received an update on the disposition of an abandoned sailboat found in town waters, with suggestions to destroy it due to liability. Furthermore, updates were provided on the town's response to a recent significant storm, including plow routes and bus turnarounds. Finally, a community event, the tree lighting, was announced, and one member noted potential absence from a future December meeting due to holiday travel.

The meeting addressed several topics, including a climate workshop, citizen communications, and support for the Witch Veterans Memorial Bridge. There was discussion of a rumble strip project and a Veterans Day event. The staff was recognized for their work during the election. Concerns raised by Bill Potter at the Fish House were discussed, and the board considered upgrading the security system with cameras, including license plate recognition, and using ARPA funds for the project. The Selectboard also discussed a FOIA request from Edgecom and the Thanksgiving holiday closing schedule. A code enforcement officer reported on permits issued, complaints about a mobile home, a digital sign, and a vandalized sign. Finally, a setback issue concerning a new house construction was addressed.

The meeting included discussions regarding the purchase and sale agreement of the Salt Sand building, municipal water and election matters, and a contract agreement between the Marrisons and the town for water supplies, including maintenance of their filtration system. The Selectboard also discussed a copier lease extension, a climate resilience workshop, and recognized the fire and EMS departments for their open house. Additionally, there were conversations about housing statutes, recycling reimbursements, a sailboat issue, computer updates, and the Larkin property.

The meeting included discussions and decisions regarding snowplow bids, with an executive session planned for review and a vote to award them anticipated. The communications committee shared updates on their newsletter and email list. Road work on the middle road was discussed, as well as the removal of the Robert Dwick sign. Also discussed was the Mid Coast Wood Bank, which provides firewood for people in need of heating assistance. They also discussed the town administrator evaluations and the possibility of split payments for county taxes. Finally, they talked about the traffic congestion near the school during drop-off and pick-up times.

The Selectboard discussed broadband activation, with Consolidated Communications planning to activate service in phases in August. A community picnic and a ribbon-cutting celebration at the Wiscasset Community Center were mentioned. Additionally, the board discussed transportation issues with officials in Sagadahoc County and Brunswick. The board also addressed a quote for trimming at the pedestrian underpass, neighborhood watch signs, and a poorly maintained porta potty on a vacant lot. They also discussed property assessments and the mill rate, informing residents that letters with new valuations were sent out.