Deirdre McArdle

The Annual Town Meeting included the election of Town officials, the recognition of community service awards, and the authorization of various financial appropriations. Key topics included funding for municipal administration, paving, public works, fire equipment, community cemetery, building and grounds, and emergency medical services. The town also approved appropriations for harbor, pond, legal, revaluation, and coastal planning reserves, as well as contributions to local charitable and historical organizations. Additionally, the town authorized the disposition of surplus municipal vehicles, set tax payment due dates and interest rates, and granted the Select Board authority over property gifts, grants, and lien foreclosures.

The meeting included a public hearing for innkeeper and tavern-keeper license renewals, which were approved. The Board authorized payroll and A/P warrants, adopted an Interdepartmental Budget Transfer Policy, and signed the warrant for the upcoming Annual Town Meeting. Updates were provided on various municipal projects including security system upgrades, causeway repairs, road preparations, paving, and assessments. The Board also authorized an administrative adjustment for a tax account, approved the closure of the Town Office for staff attendance at the MMA Convention, and adopted a mutual aid agreement for law enforcement services between Gouldsboro and Winter Harbor.

The board meeting addressed various administrative and municipal matters, including the discussion of an administrative tax account adjustment and the approval of a Mutual Aid Agreement for Law Enforcement Services between the towns of Gouldsboro and Winter Harbor. The board also reviewed department reports and discussed potential funding and repair efforts for the Prospect Harbor Woman's Club, as well as the scheduling of office closures for staff training. Additionally, the board signed the Annual Town Meeting warrant.

The meeting included a public hearing regarding the Shellfish Management Ordinance and Harbor Ordinance. The Board addressed various departmental reports, including updates from the police, code enforcement, and town manager. Key actions included the adoption of the fiscal years 2027-2036 Capital Improvement Plan, the appointment of an interim Fire Chief, and revisions to the Fire Department operating budget. The Board authorized expenditures for paving at the Crowley Island Causeway, awarded contracts for 2026 road preparation, paving projects, heating and electrical assessments, revaluation and assessing services, and security camera system installation. Additionally, the Board approved the allocation of funds for the Irving S. & Ada H. Ray Memorial Scholarships and signed the RSU 24 Budget Validation Referendum warrants.

The meeting was focused on the review and discussion of the draft warrant for the upcoming Annual Town Meeting. The Select Board concluded that the draft was prepared and ready to be submitted for signature at a subsequent meeting, noting that no significant changes were required.