The most recent Town Selectmen’s Meeting, held on September 18th, brought forth a series of discussions and decisions on important matters for the local community. Here’s a summary of the key points of the meeting.  The meeting began with the Board of Selectmen entering an executive session, which concluded without any specific actions being taken at 6:12 p.m. This executive session was for M.R.S.A Title 1, Chapter 13, Subchapter 1, 405 (6)(D) – union negotiations. While these sessions are often held for confidential matters, no details were provided regarding the specific topics discussed under the subject matter.

The meeting then opened to the public for a hearing on general assistance appendices versus the annual standard requirement. It was noted that this hearing aimed to address any questions or concerns about the appendices, which would later be addressed under consent items. No public members were in attendance to provide input on this matter. The minutes from the September 5th meeting were reviewed and approved. There was no public commentary for non-agenda items. Several copies of meeting minutes from various committees and commissions were provided, including the Sewer Commission organizational meeting, the Planning Board regular meeting, and the Comprehensive Plan Review and Implementation Committee.

The meeting saw the approval of a liquor license for C&C Food Design, doing business as “The Shed.” This decision was made unanimously without any objections.  The next topic was the Oquossoc Village Transportation Study.  Jim Jannace raised concerns about the financial aspects of the Oquossoc Village Transportation Study, mainly whether the town would recoup some of the expenses incurred. The Town Manager clarified that the town was working in partnership with Maine DOT, sharing a 50-50 cost split. The next step involves accepting the feasibility study draft, after which the town can submit for reimbursement. It was emphasized that the draft acceptance did not commit the town to implementing all its recommendations, and cherry-picking options aligned with community priorities and funding opportunities was possible. The Selectmen unanimously voted to accept the Oquossoc Village Transportation Study Draft.  The Town Manager was also authorized to sign the Rangeley Lake Boat Ramp Design Services Agreement, which aims to renovate and enhance the safety of the boat ramp and Oquossoc Fish Screen.

The selectmen then moved on to a brief discussion about the Franklin County Hazard Mitigation Plan 2023 Update. Towns in the county were encouraged to compile lists of necessary projects to ensure compliance with emergency management and FEMA guidelines. The focus appeared to be on improving infrastructure and addressing long-standing issues.  The selectmen approved the support of the plan and authorized the Town Manager to sign.

The meeting also unanimously accepted the Winter Roads Maintenance Contracts specifically for Country Club Road. A financial transfer of up to $8,500 was approved for the transfer station reserve to support VFD replacement. The Sand Bid Request for Proposal (RFP) for FY24 was unanimously approved. M&H was selected as the supplier at a rate of $13 per cubic yard, totaling $39,000.

The Town Manager recommended that the selectmen take FEMA/NIMS courses, emphasizing the importance of understanding that these courses are important for grant applications. The two courses recommended offer insights into the roles and policies crucial for elected officials.

The Town Manager’s Report was reviewed. The Fire Department and Police Reports were also received.  For the MMA Annual Business Meeting, a voting delegate and a backup delegate were chosen for this meeting.  The Grant Sheet was reviewed, and the Town Manager provided updates.

With the completion of these agenda items, the meeting was adjourned. The discussions and decisions during this session reflect the town’s ongoing commitment to addressing various community needs and fostering responsible governance.