Municipalities across the state, including New Gloucester, have grappled with the implications of the pandemic for elections and for town meeting. Governor Mills has now issued an executive order that clarifies how communities may proceed while protecting public health and safety. The new order authorizes the approach recently approved by the select board: in-person voting on budgets and other questions by secret ballot on July 14, instead of in an open town meeting.
Mills’s June 3 executive order does permit town meetings, but they must comply with the 50-person limit on mass gatherings as well as Maine CDC restrictions on shared microphones, restrooms, seating, and other health and safety measures. As an alternative, the order authorizes towns to hold elections and referenda by secret ballot on July 14, or anytime in 2020. Maine CDC and Secretary of State guidance regarding physical distancing, sanitation, and other measures to protect voters, clerks, and others at the polls must still be followed.
Among other provisions, the order also permits alternatives to public hearings to encourage safe public comment, extends deadlines, and relaxes notice requirements. The full text of the Governor’s June 3 order can be accessed here.
