Town of Dedham

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance. Announcements included recognizing community generosity for facilitating Christmas presents for seven children. Reports were received from the Fire Chief, Treasurer, and CEO, which were subsequently accepted. The agenda included the approval of several warrants for payroll and payables. Under New Business, the Selectmen voted to approve a new animal control contract before adjourning the meeting.

The Selectmen's meeting included the adoption of the previous meeting's minutes and the acceptance of reports from the Fire Chief, Treasurer, and CEO. Warrants for payables and payroll were approved. Appointments were made to the Budget Committee and as an Alternate to the Planning Board, with terms expiring June 30, 2028. Old business involved a review of the draft Short Term Rental Application form and existing Fees Policy. In new business, the Town decided not to clean up dumping on Atlantic Communications property and encouraged the owner to install security measures. The board agreed to include a vote at the June Town Meeting regarding a potential contribution of up to $9,000 to the Phillips Lake Association for a Watershed Survey. Additionally, the board approved an amendment to the personnel benefits policy, effective March 1, 2026, to allow employees to enroll a domestic partner. The winter maintenance contract with Nolan Webber was extended for three years with specified yearly percentage increases.

The meeting included announcements about a Veterans ceremony at the school, the success of the voting process, and a grant obtained through Maine Municipal Association to improve the security system. Reports were presented by the Fire Chief, Treasurer, Animal Control Officer, and Road Commissioner. The warrants were approved as prepared. The abatements were approved, and the supplement was tabled. The board decided to contract with Solar on Earth for joining the solar program for Town buildings.

The meeting addressed several key items, including reports from the Fire Chief and CEO/LPI, approval of various payroll and payables warrants, and approval of abatements/supplements. Residents requested the Selectmen to consider allowing a youth recreation program outside of the Holbrook Recreation program. The board agreed to move forward with planning for this endeavor and approved updated General Assistance maximums. Residents from Green Lake Road requested reconsideration of the speed limit on Green Lake Road, but no action was taken. The board entered into an executive session to discuss a poverty abatement application, which was subsequently denied.

The meeting included discussions on the 2025 Tax Bills, Fire Department matters such as retiring the old rescue truck and proposed electrical work for the addition, and paving quotes, with a decision made to do a shim on the entire length of Upper Dedham Road.