Skip Colson

The meeting included the assignment of board officer positions, the approval of several tax abatements, and discussions regarding road maintenance, including edge clearing and potential culvert repair. Key updates were provided regarding a municipal plowing contract, a positive mold test in the office requiring remediation, and a transition to an online property tax software version. Additionally, the board accepted a formal resignation for the clerk/tax collector/treasurer position, addressed price increases for the transfer station and ambulance services, and discussed DBU operations and broadband marketing initiatives. The meeting also included an executive session to review and approve a concealed weapons permit.

The meeting covered the Downeast Broadband Utility updates, including connectivity statistics and plans for future meetings. Discussions were held regarding a donation offer to subsidize new fiber optic internet installations and improving communication of DBU updates to the town. Road maintenance, specifically regarding culvert replacement, was reviewed. The board decided to pursue a one-year snow plowing contract. A contract was awarded for floor repairs in the town clerk's office to address mold issues. A workshop was scheduled for the upcoming town meeting warrant, and a concealed weapons permit was approved during an executive session.

The meeting covered tax assessment timelines, property tax liens, and revaluation updates. Discussions included maintenance tasks for cemeteries and various town roads, including coordinating gravel and paving efforts on Crawford Road. The board addressed contractor liability insurance requirements, reviewed town financial reports, and discussed the implementation of a town Facebook page. Additional topics included emergency service coordination, FEMA-funded storm damage repairs, and the town's upcoming 200th-anniversary recognition.

The meeting included reports on the status of the Downeast Broadband Utility, detailing subscriber figures and financial health. The School Board representative provided updates on the AOS 77 budget increase, central office operations, and infrastructure needs. The school safety committee presented concerns regarding traffic safety and speed limits near the elementary school, and the Board agreed to endorse a request to the state for safety improvements. Discussions were also held regarding the insurance requirements for the town's snowplowing contract, the status of tax collections, and administrative training for the interim clerk. Finally, the Board reviewed and approved a concealed weapons permit.

The board discussed concerns regarding the terms and financial structure of a new loan with the Downeast Broadband Utility, noting discrepancies compared to previous loan agreements. The meeting included a review of the recent school budget process, specifically addressing expenditures and concerns over transparency and local control. Administrative topics included cemetery maintenance, town income and expense reports, and stabilization efforts for the Pokey Lake boat landing funded by FEMA. Additionally, the board considered improving public communication through a potential town Facebook page and a town-wide text alert system. The meeting concluded with an executive session regarding a concealed weapons permit and personnel matters.