|Debra Smith, NGX|
Wednesday, April 1
Interim Town Manager Paul First provided an update on what is happening with key aspects of the town’s business during the COVID-19 orders from the governor. Town offices are closed to the public while staff are hard at work behind closed doors and may be reached by phone or email.
The NG Board of Selectmen will be moving to virtual meetings via ZOOM, which will protect the board and staff, and allow for public participation. Other essential meetings will also take place via ZOOM, including the Planning Board and Board of Appeals. Meetings of other committees are not deemed essential by the state, and will be suspended until the COVID-19 danger has passed. Town meeting will not take place virtually: LD 2167, which allows for virtual meetings during this time, excludes town meetings. The board is moving forward on the budget, and will have a conversation with the budget committee chair. The board plans to have a final workshop in late April. It is unknown whether there will be a public hearing, given the circumstances. Citizens comments sent to the town manager will be shared with the board. townmanager@newgloucester.com
LD 2167 also allows the town to move forward with this year’s budget into the new fiscal year, but that doesn’t account for changes in revenue, the school budget or other factors such as capital improvement projects. Town meeting is tentatively scheduled for June 15, but may be held as late as July 15 if needed.
What will happen with elections is still up in the air, awaiting guidance from Augusta. Nomination papers for local offices may be returned to the deputy clerk, but candidates should call to make an appointment first. (926-4126).
Always a glass-half-full person, First says he has “a lot of confidence in the skill and resilience of our staff. It’s important that we be kind to each other, and we’ll all get through this.”
