Thomaston board debates economic coordinator role, approves Verizon lease

The Thomaston Select Board held a workshop to redefine the Economic and Community Development Coordinator position, debating whether the role should focus on business liaison duties, social media, or both. The board also approved a renewed Verizon Wireless lease for the water tower, authorized a sewer and water utility grant application, and welcomed new members to the Library, Conservation, and Budget committees.

Key points

• Board members debated the scope of the economic coordinator position, with some arguing for a focus on business communication and others emphasizing the need for social media management and brand development.
• A motion was made to approve the renewal of the Verizon Wireless lease for the water tower, which includes a 30-year extension, a 3% annual rent escalator, and a $25,000 one-time payment.
• The board approved a municipal resolution authorizing the town manager to serve as an authorized official for the Northern Border Regional Commission grant for the LTE Circle Sewer and Water Utility Lines project.
• New members were appointed to the Library Board of Trustees, Conservation Commission, and Budget Committee, including Sean Moore, Antonia Foster, and Peter James.
• Public commenters discussed a historical society project documenting veterans from Thomaston and the Friends of the Library announced a Halloween story contest for children.

Next steps

• Kara is to draft a request for proposals for the economic coordinator position to be reviewed at the next board meeting.
• The board will discuss the resumption of community conversation groups to determine a feasible schedule.
• The Transfer Station Committee is seeking volunteers for the bulk waste subcommittee to facilitate a potential cooperative arrangement with Cushing.

Read the full transcript