The Selectmen’s Meeting on November 6th, 2023, was a platform for the community to voice their concerns and for local officials to provide updates on various important issues. Here’s a brief overview of the key highlights from the meeting:

The meeting commenced at 6 p.m., with a quorum established, although Selectman Ethan Shaffer was running late. The board started by unanimously approving the minutes from the previous meeting.

An individual from Cross Street stepped forward to represent his neighbors and express concerns about water quality, particularly the high iron levels leading to staining of fixtures and white clothing. He inquired about the town’s plans to address these water quality issues. In response, Ethna Thompson, the Chairperson, clarified that the water district management operates as a quasi-municipal entity and is not directly under the town’s jurisdiction. However, she assured the community that the Selectmen would follow up on these concerns and convey the issue to the appropriate authorities. Town manager Joe Roach was also asked to follow up on the matter.

Lee Libby, the Planning Board Chair, provided an update on the Planning Board’s efforts, particularly concerning shore zoning and Chapter 38 enforcement. Libby emphasized significant developments, including the workforce housing project on Cross Street and Rangeley West’s land development. A new code officer was commended as a positive addition to the team, contributing to efficient enforcement.

Ethna Thompson, who also chairs the Ordinance Committee, shared insights into the progress of the Alternative Energy ordinance draft. The next step involves an attorney review, followed by a potential placement on the Town Warrant. However, the sign ordinance has not yet been directed to the Ordinance Committee for addressing. A unanimous motion was passed to direct the sign ordinance to the Ordinance Committee for further consideration.

Several consent items were approved during the meeting. This included an event permit for “The Giving Tree.” The town expressed its intent to replace the current Giving Tree in May or June next year and budget accordingly. The board discussed the preparations, such as installing new lights, trimming, and repainting the star that has occurred for this year.

The board also approved the MMA Risk Reduction grant for railing at the Transfer Station. The Fire Department’s request to dispose of two older pieces of equipment and acquire a used 202 Skidoo Expedition Extreme Snowmobile, financed by the Fire Department Reserve, was also unanimously approved. Additionally, the Selectmen approved the acceptance of a 100% forgiven loan (which is essentially a grant) from the DEP.

Old Business Updates: The Attainable Housing on Cross Street project was discussed, with a focus on planning and permitting processes. The board delved into topics such as pricing and maintaining the intended use of the units through deed restrictions. A question regarding mobile home parks revealed no expressed interest in this particular area of development. The meeting also included discussions about an increase in the estimate for the IEC Electrical and Data project for Highway Garage Heat Pumps, totaling an additional $3,000 due to material cost increases. While the original estimates dated from July, the board voted to approve the revised estimate and allocated the extra cost from the Highway Reserve, which was unanimously approved.

The Oquossoc Village Transportation Study’s next step is the design phase. Sam White proposed hosting a public hearing, followed by another workshop, to involve the community in shaping the study’s next steps and addressing safety concerns.  Town Manager Joe Roach will provide dates for the public hearing at the next Board of Selectmen’s meeting.

In new business, compliance with Maine State Tax laws was confirmed by Town Manager Joe Roach. A unanimous vote scheduled a public hearing for November 20th to extend the solar moratorium.

The Town Manager, Joe Roach, presented the monthly financials and discussed a resignation from the Comprehensive Review Committee. Terry Palmer’s resignation was accepted, and gratitude was expressed for their contributions.

The meeting concluded with an announcement of a meeting scheduled for the following week with department heads in preparation for contract negotiations and budget preparation.  Selectman Ethan Shaffer emphasized the importance of maintaining an available and on-duty police force.

The meeting adjourned at 7 p.m., providing a platform for community engagement and the diligent pursuit of solutions to ongoing concerns and projects within the town.