FARMINGTON — Selectmen on Nov. 26 voted 3-1 in opposition of paying $1,203.63 towards installation of two USGS [United States Geological Survey] river gauges in the Sandy and Carrabassett rivers.

Selectmen Byron Staples, Richard Morton and Chair Joshua Bell were opposed. Selectman Dennis O’Neil was in favor. Selectman Matthew Smith was absent.

According to information provided the town, “The total estimated cost of the project is $151,400, with 75% anticipated to be funded by federal resources through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, leaving a non-federal match requirement of 25% or $37,850. This initiative is essential for enhancing our flood monitoring capabilities and improving emergency response efforts across our communities.”

One gauge would be installed near the Fairbanks Bridge in the Sandy River in Farmington, the other adjacent to the South Branch of the Carrabassett River in Carrabassett Valley, the information states.

Town Manager Erica LaCroix indicated there had been some concern about ongoing costs. “This request is for installation of river gauges,” she said. “Right now we rely on the one in Mercer which is several hours behind up here regarding flood stage. I did talk with TD [Hardy, Farmington Fire Rescue Department chief] about this today. He is very much in favor of getting these.”

LaCroix noted she received clarification from Maine Emergency Management – they are asking for contributions to install the gauges. Ongoing costs will be paid for by the state, she added.

“I am all in favor of the gauges,” Bell said. “Why isn’t EMA just not doing this in the county budget? Why are they not just budgeting this … just like any request?”

To install the gauges this year rather than waiting until next year’s budget cycle, LaCroix answered.

“It is not an extraordinary amount of money,” O’Neil said. He asked what would happen if other towns don’t pay, who would make up the difference.

“I think we need it,” Bell stressed. He thought the county should be looking at it in its budget.

Morton said it was on the county’s agenda. He didn’t remember what action was taken.

Bell noted installation of gauges is being proposed at the Fairbanks bridge. He asked if there was talk about installing gauges in Strong, which would be further north and provide more reaction time. “Or do they feel this will give plenty of time to react,” he asked.

The location was suggested by USGS, LaCroix answered.

Based on the information provided, if enough towns aren’t willing to fund the project, it appears a different direction will be needed, Morton said.

“I say vote this down, tell them to put it in [the county’s] budget,” Bell suggested.

“I am willing to go the other way,” O’Neil said and moved to pay the amount requested.

Acting as devil’s advocate, LaCroix asked, “Who gets hurt when you don’t have advanced warning of these things? The money that we spend, this one is one of the lesser things.”

“It’s not an argument of the need of it, it’s the process,” Bell stated.

The fire chief believes in the need for it, supports it, LaCroix noted.

“If the county is shortsighted enough not to fund it, that is on them,” Morton stated.

Byron asked if the town would still be on the hook if enough towns don’t agree to pay and it doesn’t get done until next year’s county budget.

“I am in favor of getting the gauges, I just think this is something that the county can figure out in the budget process,” Bell said.

In September, commissioners voted 2-1 to permit county Emergency Management Agency [EMA] directors to apply for the grant to gather data on the Sandy and Carrabassett rivers to help prepare for flooding. The $37,850 local match was expected to be split between the county and the unorganized territories, it was noted then.

Jay’s Select Board on Nov. 25 wanted more information before voting on the project. Franklin County EMA is requesting $1,059.80 from Jay toward the 25% match.

Wilton selectmen on Dec. 3 asked to have county EMA directors attend a meeting to explain the need for a town local match. The agency is requesting Wilton contribute $919.76.