MECHANIC FALLS — The Town Council on Monday approved the sale and consumption of beer during an adult softball tournament on town land July 22-24.

Scott Lessard, spokesman for the Recreation Committee, said the intent was to increase participation and provide a fundraising opportunity for American Legion Post 150 of Mechanic Falls.

Lessard said the Legion will set up a tent with a clearly marked area where beer can be consumed. The hours haven’t been decided but will probably be noon to 10 p.m., he said.

Council members suggested establishing limits on what an individual could be served.

Lessard said the local legionnaires have experience serving alcohol to the public and are aware that it is their license that is at stake.

In giving its approval, the council placed no specific conditions but noted if things didn’t go well, there wouldn’t be a second softball tournament with a beer tent on town property.

In other business:

* Town Manager Koriene Low told the board that Maine Municipal Association insurance officials inspected properties the town wants covered and had reservations about the old church on Elm Street that is headquarters for the Mechanic Falls Historical Society.

The officials noted some loose bricks, bowing on some walls, roof shingles to be replaced and peeling paint that probably has lead in it. Low said it might mean they won’t want to insure the building for full value.

Low said full value is in the $300,000 to $350,000 range but it might only be insurable for a little over $100,000 “as is.”

“We’ll know in a couple of months what they decide,” Low said.

* The council accepted the resignation of transfer station manager Kathryn Oak, who will be replaced by Code Enforcement Officer Les Johnson. Low said she will advertise for a code enforcement officer.

* Councilors approved hiring Miranda Hinkley of Otisfield as town clerk.

Low said the town clerk budget for this year might be overdrawn by $5,000 or so because of the vacation payout for former Town Clerk Shirley Marquis.

* The council named Lou Annance to serve as chairman for one year beginning July 1, and named Wayne Hackett vice chairman.