I'm not justifying what he did. I'm just saying it's to bad he had to do so. The owners I'm talking about are the mslum lords who do have the money and they will do anything to keep it without bringing buildings up to code and having code officials letting them slide for some reason. The blight in my area is just that. Private home owners do a good job keeping their property looking good. It's the apartment building owners who live local and the absentee landlords that need cracking down on. It's not getting done. WHY?

the slumlord is the chicken because he bribes or makes promises to upgrade an never does so they can fill their geedy pockets. Then the egg comes along which contributes their piggyness that that is destructive in itself. When the state puts a stop to these types of landlords then maybe cities and towns can cleanup the blight.

I hope they crack down in every town in Oxford County. Rumford and Mexico best be on that list.

Stubborn people who won't let change happen. Let's Save Dirigo, at what cost? People refuse to look at combining the sports programs ,at least Mt. Valley/Dirigo. They refuse to look at combining the schools. There are cuts that have been suggested that should have been made long ago. Which are good. The RSU 10 Board needs swallow some courage seeds and make the decisions that should be made. If done right the students will be the real winners.

If the boards of Rumford /Mexico had any committment to the people they would look at consildating the towns. The more people contributing to one pot would bring a tax savings to all plus the working together bring about better facilities for the entire area. Extend to idea to include Dixfield also. Use the Santa Clarita Ca. model. Combine all small towns into one major town with district names . That would be the names already present. Therefore saving individual identities for adresses etc.

Positions lost could be lessened. Money saved on single sports teams . RSU 10 beating RSU10 shouldn't be happening. Additional course offerings for students could happen. 9 through 12 should be happening and 6 through 8 should be happening. This would be better for the education of the students. This is common sense.

As I am recovering from and illness and could not attend the Region 9 meeting of April 4th I would like to go on record ,that if I was present, that I'm not in favor of the presented budget. It is bad enough that all the schools in RSU 10 have an over abundance of Ed Techs now there seems that Region 9 now desires them. Then to approve a mileage payment increase on top of and tech addition is a little overboard.
At first I was torn on both issues. It is dissappointing that two members of the RSU board ,who are on the Region 9 board, voted against the inctreases and they do nothing to stop the over spending for RSU 10 budget. There should be changes made across the Cooperative agreement that says you cannot serve on both boards. The townspeople should vote for their Region 9 member reps also. For the RSU10 board having the authority to appoint should be discontinued. The is an example of conflict of interest from one of the RSU board appointments and it is not being corrected but allowed to continue. Mr. Kauback is employed by RSU 10 and gives Region 9 contracted services and serves on the Region 9 board. The Region 9 Director has been made to believe there is no conflict. Region 9 Board Policy or any school policy states" A Board member shall not have any direct or indirect pecuniary interest(as defined by law) in a contract with the school, nor shall he/she furnish directly any labor,equipment,or supplies to Region 9. The RSU10 Board should give Mr. Kaulback a choice. If he wants to serve on the Region 9 Board he should resign from such emploment or resign from the Region 9 Board. This a reason for election by the people. Region 9 is a great school but the Board is giving in to the RSU 10 frame of mind.

if the Peru residents have their minds set on Saving Dirigo. If Peru wants savings in taxes they best submit letter telling the RSU Board to look at combining ninth through twelve Grades; along with combining either sixth through eight or seventh and eighth grades. By doing so you elimnate double sports teams on both levels. Educationally, combining High schools would combine subject areas for full classrooms and not 1/2 empty classrooms which in turn could bring about more educational offerings. Expansion of educational opportunities should be the main goal. Sports should be secondary. Doesn't matter what class one plays in for sports. It is for the purpose of students to have physical activity to become more well rounded individuals. Give them a chance for athletic scholarships beyond high school. Good parenting along with good education and working the two together make for success. This area has always had difficult accepting change. What is most important? Creating better opportunities for better education or keeping old tradition alive. Right now the bang for the buck is not present.

Did this accident happen? Was the driver being inattentive for some reason. This accident could have been deadly. Like the one in Rumford where a man was killed and nothing has happened to the driver as yet. Someone or department is not doing their job.

My first thought on this issue is this, has Mahamed Mahamud become a sworn in citizen yet? Has he conformed to our country ways yet? Does he still make his wife conform to the Somalia country ways of dressing? Is he contributing to the Social Security system yet? Does he pay into State income tax system? Yes this country is a melting pot> But when my ancestors came here years ago they had to take classes and learn the language and they had just so much time to be sworn in as citizens and pay their fair share. If they moved they had to inform the immigration department where they were at all times. Yes , let's allow those who need refuge to do so but they must abide by our rules. Why are these same people seeking refuge refusing to pledge the allegiance to the flag? Why are some of these refugees putting pressure on government official to tkae the word God out of our pledge. If those seeking refuge here should comply with to what we believe in,in order to stay. This is why 911 happened! This is why our country is in so much turmoil. Outsiders attempting to make our country comform to their ways. They can fly into any airport or land at any seaport with who knows what on their minds. It's time we take our country back. Conform or get out!

With the present board in control of town spending you will not see a tax decline because they are afraid to make cost cutting measures. They are not capable of making the tough decisions for saving money. To the voters who put them in office ;you should be the ones to pay for tax increases.

This is being done. But at Mountain Valley it should be 9 through 12 and at Dirigo 6 through 8 should be the break down. Then look at the K through 5 housing at various buildings. You don't put 9th graders into a Jr. High setting. They are high schoolers. They play high school sports. Sixth through eight are Jr. High students and in most communities, sports wise, all Jr High sports competitions are 6 through 8. Stop trying to save buildings. If one or two can be closed down to save costs than so be it. Common sense is needed and you don't have to try and be rocket scientists and create multiple conclusions.

Does that mean the chief will take a cut in pay? This department is getting way out of hand. Let's talk safety selectpersons. Not locking down access to the police department should be taking place. This department needs a total re-alignment. Starting with the chief's duties. It seems that every officer is doing detective work. What is this all about? Chief should be doing detective work that would then free up the other detective to man the window during day and do some admin work at same time. Then look at not locking Police entrance at 4PM. The department has been allowed way to many allowances and needs to be dealt with. RE-ALLIGNMENTT TIME ! And let's not leave out cutting back on the cruiser fleet.

That is what is lacking in the town of Rumford. New sidewalk plows should not be slipping off of sidewalks if sanding would take place in a more timely manner. There is plenty wrong but proper corrections of situations are being overlooked by town selectpersons for some reason.

For a private firm by firemen from Rumford. Who's paying for that.

Looks like I need new key board. The u has to be ponded to work. The word in my last comment should have been ruffling

area towns followed Mexicos' lead to turn dispatching over to the county. This should never have been done in the first place. It has made it worse. These dispatchers at the county level do not know anything about or area. That's the problem. Wake up. Safety has been compromised. Lack of insight to what could happen was ignored. It will continue to happen as long as Selectboards continue to move in the wrong direction. Stop sitting on heads.

When the State sends its engineers out to look at making corrections to improve hazadous areas and the area becomes worse, I wonder where they get these brain powered wonders. The money spent here in Rumford to correct a dandgerous problem has become worse. When the worked was started and the under lying springs were discovered seeping more vigorously the plan of correction should have changed immediately. Did the company contracting the job notify the State or not, who knows. If you want to see wasted money awards by the Stae here is a prime example.

That is why the empolyees signed the petition because they feared the retaliation of the Town garage foreman. A foreman who continually turned workers against workers. A foreman that was politically given the job in the first place who was not fully qualified. Interim town manager before present town manager had complete folder on town foreman that no disciplinary action was taken before he left. There should be a complete overhaul of that department. People have been singled out for years at that town garage under current management. The intire workforce should have rebelled over current head but have been afraid due to fear of retaliation. AND THEY WILL NEVER SPEAK UP OUT OF FEAR .

Think again Kevin. If there is a slush fund it was created while you were in office. Unless you are referring to the general fund as such which has always been there. If it goes into police fund and not general fund that was done so by previous boards before me and town mamgers from the past for allowing it.

Bottom line the town should not be absorbing added costs placed on us by the state. Yes cab service is nice but the town doesn't have to grant licenses. The cab companies opened a business. We should not be subdisizing them. The owners regulate the drivers pay the town doesn't. Stop trying to make the town responsible for the wages paid by taxi company owners. One company keeps bouncing ownership because the original owner kept getting in trouble with the law. The drivers had to have clean records and what's wrong with the owners having to keep themselves clean. Other business owners need to pay certain fees to the town. What if they pettitioned the town to pay their fees.

I have heard of the Sonalies getting SSI in which they have not continued. Why did this country get away from mandary citizenship after a certain period of time. I believe that those who have been discriminated against don't file a grievance for fear of retaliation of some sort. Either by our own government whether it be state or federal. We as Americans who have contibuted are be discriminated against. Yes it is obvious! Why is it these and others who come to the US refuse to conform to our laws and our ways. They push for taking the word God out of the Pledge of Allegiance and changing the words printed on our money" In God We Trust ". Over the years this country caters to others before taking care of its own more and more each passing day. We put people in office who pay nothing to SSI themselves but will draw from it. These same people we put into office are there because they snookered us all in believing they are there for their state and their country. When do we stop believing their bull and put people into office who will at least try and end the depletion of SSI by those who don't contribute. Should there continue to be a party system in this country? The party system pits citizen against citizen. That way both parties screw the people from all angles. This country is going to ,someplace, in a hand basket and the party system is the blame. There is a saying that people become lawyers so they can legally steal. I think politicians fit that bill also.

Your not listed in Rumford phone directory. You must have a cell phone or maybe don't even live in the River Valley area. But yet you feel the need to comment about something that doesn't affect you. Why!

Did I wrong you in a previous life. Yeah I helped cut the dying trees because they needed to be cut. They got done and no one got hurt. What have you done Fred? Except continued bitching about it. To accomplish anything you need to votes of other board members Fred. That's why nothing gets done because people go in with personnel agendas. I had none. I was there for the whole town. Fred you just are an unhappy person who doesn't like positive change.

To all of the people who recieved service awards last night. Rumford is a great town and it still can be. It needs people to step up and dedicate time to serving in some capacity. Even though these positons are thankless, they are rewarding at the same time. Performing a civic duty is what makes communities strong. The people who step up to the plate realize they are doing it for the welfare of all and not just a few.

Doesn't Kevin? You continually change mid stream and when the vote goes opposite of the way you think. Mostly middle of the road you side with the vote. Don't talk to me about maturity. You need to grow up and stop playing both sides from the middle.

with Moe -Larry and Curly and you are now Shemp the fourth of that comic group.

I comment to get points across. I rely on spell check for spelling. Excuse me if your perfect.

This unit has been under restore how many times over the years. It should have been condenmed years ago. That's what we have Code Enforcement for. Winter is also around the corner. There should be no parking in the streets anyway. The only time parking seems to be a problem is during football games and the season is coming to a close and besides that no buses run at night. Why is this board creating a problem where there is none.

This paper and all comments for same registering and voting are contributing to the laziness of society. On election day your clerk should be monitoring the voting machines and making sure each voter gets all their ballots needed to vote. The costs on election day could be much less if same day registration were done away with. I'm a Democrat and I feel that geting rid of same day registration does not in any way impede my right to vote. I believe the law should read that you have to register 7 days in adnvance if you are not on a towns register. Do away with provisional ballot. Show multiple proofs of your residency at time of registration. Place it on a state wide system as a check. At point of registration it automatically removes name from any previous registration. Yes in this age of technology that should be accomplishable. So to the writer of this editorial and those who want to continue to make people lazy, you are irresponsible at to the worst level.

You like others just want to throw in the towel because you have had enough. Once again this attitude is defeatist one. The people must vote "NO" in order to send a message to this Board that their heads are in the sand. Yes we have to move on but not by giving in to the anti-wind lobby. All this board had to do was to use the states version and it would have been what the town needed. To many members of the present board are influenced by the anti-wind people. Why don't you inform people that Black MTn. would have never had to come to the town for money anymore with wind. Why don't you tell people that a few of these anti-wind people are making money during the upgrade of the power line for use of their land as lay down areas for equipment. I've even heard of one board member getting a road built on her property. What's this all about? This sought of stuff is going on behind the towns back. So these people benefit and the town loses. So vote yes Kevin and assist this group get their way and the town conyinues to get nothing.

Negative people Mark. This board will run this town into the ground. They are in capable of making good decisions for Rumford. They are influenced by oil barron that see the potential in lost revenues while get monies for leasing their properties as laydown yards for the upgrades of power lines to carry power generated for the grid. We have tried to expose this type of behavior but deaf ears can't hear. This board could have adopted the states and made people aware that any change the state makes the wind companies would have to abide by. They should have sat down with the wind company and been working on deals for the town instaed of trying to write antiwind ordinances. Why aren't the land owners who were to benefit standing up for themselves. Why aren't those land owners who said they would shut their lands down by posting them stepping up? Once again big talk no action. Land owners who had agreements made with First Wind your rights are now being infringed upon. Fight back. I encorage the people of Rumford to vote NO. Don't listen to the Fred Stones and Roger Arsenaults and Buottes and Thibodeaus and other anti wind supporters. They are destroying Rumford.

If communities stike agreements to allow greater benefits for them and keep the rich from getting richer but continue to make some profit but not big extremes of profit. We have to create a way of change that discontinues greed of the rich while getting our needs met at same time.

Because they don't stay informed and the town doesn't do anything to remind the voters of this. The only thing you see in the newspapers is the liberals preaching getting rid of excellent changes for voting and registering before voting day. Can there be a savings keepng it this way? Sure can with the right people in the right places. But the liberals want to continue creating lazy people who are no benefit to society. The liberals and so called do gooders are simply lazy people.

the bottom of Maine Ave. and Spruce Street. We all know what is wrong there. The entrance is to narrow and without high barrier walls and the exit on the other side needs a directional walls on the right and left side that extends to the curve behind the Viger residence. But this board can't handle getting this done at the same time. They are to busy caught up in the tangled webs that they don't know how to maneuver. One reason is they have talented members on the town crew capable of doing major repairs from a crisis but they are to busy doing major road construction work that should be bidded out. Then you have sceduling problems that should not be happening at all. We all know what causes this problem ,don't we.

Released on his own recognizance !!!!! what is wrong with this picture?
No wonder crimes get committed over and over again. The justice system is in the toilet.

Poor Ira, When growing up I had been trained that one of the first things you do when moving to a different community is to go and register to vote. I guess that somewhere along the way it stopped being instilled into your head that is a responsibility of yours to do. Shame on society for allowing it to stop being taught in schools. You have become lazy along with those who can't accept a positive change. So maybe the liberals in this state and country should be given a new name "THE LAZY PARTY".

Mr. Thibodeau to say that the committee you were on was not made up of anti-winders is an outright lie. You continually try to make yourself look good but the citizens are wise to you. Unfortunately the voters have voted in no do gooders on this board right now;and one has taken over your spot as an outright dictator. Well maybe MR. Sterling and Mr. Adley show, occasionally, a bit of brilliance. A hand full of voters in town,the board and the anti wind group from the River Valley have created the sign "THIS TOWN NOT OPEN FOR BUSINESS". So whatever happens from here on in is anyones guessing game. Maybe now the Town Manager will set directions to do something with the destructive trees on Congress Street and get rid of the trees entering Rumford from Route 108 so you can see the town as you enter. Back to taking care of this town properly should be this Boards ,now, priority.

the majority of the Rumford Board are anti-winders and are being governed by the anti-winders of the River Valley Region. They do not have the expertise to write this ordinance and the people are fedup with their bull. Accept the state regulations and work on what the wind companies will do for the town is what they should be concentrating on. There are more pressing issues that need attention. These items are mentioned and then pushed to the wayside. They still are not working in the best interest of the town. RECALL!!!!!!!

with Mr. Saisi which doesn't happen very often. " Critical" I don't think so. This board is not acting in the best interset of Rumford. There are more pressing needs at this time for Rumford. Again I say it's time for recall.

Where Bean Brook crosses again. The design where the water enter should be redone differently and the exit side should be redone. Why is this not being discussed also. If it's going to be done right this time then lets fix the entire problem and not just half. If our road superintendent can't see what needs to be done then it's time to replace him.

Not realistic. Start making cut backs in spending. This board has to step to the plate and stop playing around. There are tingts that can and should be done ASAP to cut costs. They just don't want to do it. This town should realyy consider starting recall petitions because they are not acting in the best interest of the town. As written in charter and by laws. Call the University of Maine system and ask for a student exploring a field in community develop and give them the opportunity to work for the town. Again true insight goes a long way. This board has none because they work the wrong people and their ideas.

This board is controlled by three anti-winders. It has been obvious from the start that they are and it will be Rumfords downfall. These three,and we all know which three, have flashing neons on their foreheads "NOT OPEN FOR BUSINESS". Now that the mill has filed for Chapter 11 ,which some of us knew they did, what will this board do for internal restructuring? No doubt, nothing. Tax payers get ready. Those of you who voted for the three ,B-L and V thanks for nothing.
Use the DEP model and give this town a chance to grow. Work on a benefit package with wind companies that we could get instead of finding ways to keep them out. I guess B-L and V like sitting on their heads. And by the way Mr.Buccina you still owe me an apology for your arrogance during Irene. Just goes to show what kind of person you are.

To the Nicols owners and the many volunteers for their donation of time and energy to make Swain Road open to traffic until the proper construction can be made to prevent this from happening again.

If the fix was done right ,by the towns public works director, the first time at bottom of Maine Ave. this area might not have been damaged this time around. Wrong decisions and short cuts will always be made with this type of direction.

By combining the high schools and 7th and 8th grade levels locally and using the new Peru school for K-3 and use the building that can house 4th,5th and 6th best locally would save a great deal of money. House k-8 at the new Buckfield Jr/Sr high School or K-5 there with 6,7 an8 at the Sumner building. By doing so would also cut back on sports spending three team structures into one team structures. Oh I forget this RSU board doesn't have what it takes to make these changes.

Like most of the people in Rumford your not awake yet. Stay gullible and keep your blinders on because you'll never admit to what is really happening to Rumford. People like you who always take the middle road will never be able to help make changes that need to be made. That's why Rumford is in such a predicament.

To think that the town needs afull time code officer. When Mr. Kent took job with the Rumford PD it was stated at the time that the position could be done at 20 hrs. a week but when it was found that he could not do both the manager and selectboard reinstate him at full time once again. People ask me why I don't attend meetings anymore. It would be difficult to keep quiet to observe the dictatorship that the Chairman has been able to institute. I hope that in Sat. article that this newspaper informs the town on who got the fuel bid to supply the town. And I hope that all bids are printed so citizens can see how corruption works at its best. By the way Mr. B how about not wasting money on your fireworks project and leave the street lights alone. And if the board and manager are gullible enough to believe that Newpage is only considering Chapter 11 then you all should be recalled. To save paying just their taxes to the town would be a good kick in the butt for them. But yet the powers to be will just sit on their thrones and not do the things needed to be done in preperation for this downfall. Wonder how the town will be able to meet its bills then.

I've brought it up even longer Mark. No one believed it could happen because of their lack of insight. You know that old saying "You can lead a horse to water but can't make them drink".I tried for many years to make cuts that the town could afford but other board members couldn't see the writing on the wall. A town of less thann 6000 people with departments heads and unions dictating and controling this town has been happening for years. But the citizens didn't listen to us. What a shame! And this boad will do nothing to reclaim this town from this type of control. I've always maintained that employees of Rumford work for us. We don't work for them. Changes could have been made to save monies many times but past and present board members turned a deaf ear and will continue to do so. Isn't there a new ordinance for recall? If they are not working for the best interest of the town.

Who have agreements with First wind should jump on this band wagon. Private property no ordinance regulations.

And get it over with. There are 3 anti winders on this board. The Maine State Planning has a model. Just adopt it. And again and again people who do reside in Rumford should not be allowed to interfere with what we do. This board minus Adley and Sterling are on the right track sometimes. But they give in to aesily to the antiwind board members. Mr. Volkernic and Buccina what will happen to you when the mill files bankruptcy? Sure they will operate for awhile but then what? Keep selling our town down the drain. You have help coming from Lovejoy to do so. Moe,Lary and Curly GREAT TEAM!

The board of Selectpersons have 3 anti-winders on it. The Planning board has to major anti-winders on it. Should there be an ordinance that protects the town. YES! Should it enable wind development? Yes!But that won't happen because of those people in office an on planning committee. If the 2 planning board members were getting something of value for them they would probably be in favor of wind. Our oil company owners who are getting something for the power line upgrade are doing ok. If a couple of turbines were going to supply power to Black Mtn. like originally told to the old and present Selectboard members (2) then possibly the ountain could convert to total electricity. Woops! what oil company supplies Black Mtn.? Do the people ever ask themselves why the offiliated oil owners would be against wind. Did the Co-gen deal go through yet? Has anyone asked why? Could it cause the mill to file for bankruptcy? Who will be the blame if so? We definately will not be able to afford much then unless we are paying 60 or 70 mils per $1000 on our properties. This is where town leadership is taking us. WAKE UP CITIZENS!

And like all other trees in Rumford they will not be maintained properly and will over grow and not look good. Cities are now developing tree height ordinances in order to prevent damages to property in all forms. I think it's time that Rumford should get out of road construction . A towns road crew should be for maintenance of roads and sidewalks with a tree division. There would be plenty of work to do by doing so. Property owners who want to plant trees next to road ways have to maintain them so they cannot grow above the wires on the poles that decorate our roads that carry phone and power lines. Common sense for prevention for safety and cut back costs to a the town.

your comments and points are well made. Great questions are pointed out and this is where the state went wrong. But we as municipalities can change that. Do I like seeing all this production go else where? NO ! Can towns do something about it? YES! That's where we should be taking a stand.

the Buccina/Volkernic/Lovejoy Ordinance on wind will now be written to keep the antiwinders in their favor. These people really don't care about your town. When are the people going to realize this. The public ban for comments will only be against people in favor of wind. tHAT'S WHY THESE PEOPLE DON'T GO TO THESE SESSIONS. The anti winders have always had free reigns and will continue to have with BVL majority. The State has what it takes to monitor wind developement . The wind companies will be mandated to follow any changes that are developed. This is a continued waste of time. Let the people vote for the states version and no doubt it will pass. But that won't happen because the anti winders have the BVL controlling the board and in their back pocket. Keep sending the word out to all the country BVL that, RUMFORD IS CLOSED FOR BUSINESS. wHEN ARE THOSE CHICKEN LAND OWNERS GOING TO STEP UP AND CLOSE OFF THEIR LANDS? gUESS YOU'RE IN THE ANTI WINDERS BACK POCKET ALSO. mORE WITH NO GUTS JUST HOT AIR!

Thank you Mr. Puiia for mentioning the trees on Conress Street for removal. I showed pictures 2 years ago of the damage these trees are doing to our sidewalks and nothing has been done. That's the problem in Rumfod ,NOTHING GETS DONE. We have town garage employees that are good workers and can take care of such things and at the same take care of our trees leading into Rumford on Rte. 108 so tourists can at least see the town way in advance and decide to drive down Canal St. sooner. What is the problem? We all know what it is. Maybe it's time for a major shake up at the town garage. Trees can be replaced on Congress with large concrete planters and then place dwarf trees in them for the green effect. It can be done with thye right people behind the wheels.

To all who were recognized. And to those who were not.

This board does not have the guts to save money and make changes where they should to save monies. And the people approved $56,000.00 for Black Mtn. ,what's wrong with this picture. I keep saying this over and over again. Take the bull by the horns and make the police chief a working person who fills in covering all facits of the dept. Saves overtime etc. If need be last man in is first man out or bring back dispatching keeping window open 24-7 and no cuts have to be made and offer position to last person in. The tax office fool up would have save more than the $6000.00 The poor managing of the town garage and it's workforce could also save thousands. I don't think I have to go further with this comment. Shuttingt down street lights is not the answer. This board refuses to make cuts where cuts should be made and where changes should be made within admin positions and running of departments the right way. BOTTOM LINE !

If the library board would have worked properly years ago the library would be updated with necessary repairs. Prime example is when the roof was done. You don't do half at a time. It should have been the entire roof at once. Then the next year the windows should have been replaced; then the heating system. But let's remember the past librarian and board could have had an addition but refused to listen to the people and pushed for a new library. They can look all they want but will they start doing the needed repairs in stages and stay on track. They can't even get the town garage foreman to get road holes fixed around town. Some swallow you up.

Kevin you stated it well. Mr. Buccina is another Thibodeau. Plain an simple dictator for what they want and wanted. Get rid of the Charter brings in state rules. We have a charter for our own protection as a town. Does the Charter still need some revisions? Yes! But not like it was handled the last time. People on that commission went in with an agenda controlled by self seeking individuals. Mr Carter should be a working police chief and not a politician. He has a larger police force than there has ever been for a smaller population. It's the weak judges and laws that promote domestic abuse and stupid men and women who don't know how to move on and keep allowing one or the back. When this town was buzzing the police officer and his billy club were respected. They weren't afraid to use it. Become soft and crime rises. Mr. Buccina you have what you have wanted for a long time and we all know how you will use it. The self seekers love this board because you will help bring this town on to its knees. If their is and should be a commission formed you will put those self seeking people on it to do their and your bidding. Hello DOOMSFORD.

First off I would like to thank all the voters who have always supported me in the town of Rumford. In the 21 years of service on the muninipal end I've strived to make taxes reasonable for the citizens. It seems that those I've worked with just didn't want to do the same. These people seem to have greater influence on people than anyone could imagine. This is unfortunate for the seniors and others living on fixed incomes. I've written letters to inform the public of waste spending and what could be done and people are deaf to it. The windpower vote defeat will cost the town of Rumford dearly. It would have helped Black Mt. greatly. Especially with their dependency for monies from town. It would have been non existent. The Libra Foundation and the board it allowed to stay in place are at odds with one another over this issue. The Libra Foundation should be ashamed for allowing that board to do what they have accomplished over wind. The people should ask about who is making land lease monies by allowing the use of their land for lay down area to the wind developers for Roxbury. Some of those people pushed for no wind in Rumford. But are making money from Roxbury wind. The land owners who stepped up and stated they would close their lands down should do so now. Or was is it just bull. We lost the veterans home. We lost the chipping mill. We the Budwieser brewery. It's because of who sits on your boards and past managers who have drivin them away. Less than 5000 people but levels of service have increased and not decreased. Poor work management and loosey work ethics by some,not all, add to increases. The RSU that could save millions but won't. Having people in positions they are truly not qualified for add to increase taxes. Put them all together voters ,who. Well we have put them in office, who then make appointments, who won't step up and do what's best for you - Let's change our name to DOOMford and post signs- CLOSED FOR BUSINESS -WE LIVE EXTRAVAGENT !

This RSU board has to get moving on consolidation of schools. Enough of just sitting around the table and socializing. There are monies to be saved without losing programs if this is done. One high school, one 7 and 8; one 4,5 ,6 and K thru 3 in River Valley area; one K thru 8 in Buckfield area. Then if Bucfield doesn't agree to it then refigure their share paid into the RSU. But at least do it in the old SAD's of 43 and 21. We have schools to accommodate this. We don't need expensive bonds to build new ones. This would be ludicrousness.

Would be a better proposal for the size of our state houses. Let it coinside with the number of counties. Giving the largest populated county the extra seat in Senate and the lowest populated county gets the extra seat in the representative side. And term limits are fine but at same time 12 yearss service should not warrant a pension from the State of Maine. Then go one more critical step. No party affiliations. People are elected by qualifications and not party offiliation. This takes the boxing gloves off and puts common sense in all the seats. It places people who are interested in Maine and not party beliefs.

And no charges have been filed yet. This is absurd. I guess the man has to die first for it to happen. What is law enforcement all about in Rumford. Is there any?

Time for moratoriums should be over. The board has procrastinated long enough. It is unfortunate that two members of the selectboard have held up this ordinance for this long. They have never kept an open mind through the entire process. They have allowed the anti-winders to control their every thought. Now they should make sure that any wind company ,no matter which one, contributeS to the towns needs whenever a need arises; like a new Public Safety Building for the River Valley area. HINT! HINT! MERGER OR CONSOLIDATION !

By this board, what a laugh. The only one who is not afraid to step up to the plate is Mr. Belanger. This is a lame duck board. Afraid to make the tough decisions that need to be made to save money and to re-energize growth.

It's time to clump all the private schools togther and let them have their own tournament. But let's go one step further. Non privates are now recruiting the same way because of the current set-up. There are superintendent agreements between schools etc. that should not be allowed. With the new RSU system set-up none of these things should be happening. One more steo Jon RSU 10 should not be playing RSU 10. This has to stop also. So you see the whole system has to change but people can't except change so that makes the WPA or MPA admins. do nothing.

with good managing skills any budget can be met. Working department heads help decrease budgets with no loss of services. Make it happen board. Eliminate a few police cars. Contract out new roads that have to be done. Town crew then do maintainance from that point on. Make the garage foreman complete his job description requirements that he suppose to do when Mr. Greaney was in office and that helps manpower in that department. No mre vehicle use of deptment heads back in forth to work. Only the on call detective gets to take home. Gas saving,gas savings. Less vehicle maintenance. Mr. Volkernick it's to bad that you have change of heart now that you are not in fire department. You left for reasons. REMEMBER? I've listed where more savings can be made in other posts. They are all possible. JUST DO IT!

In the right direction but plenty more has to be done. This town budget should be below 5 million for our population. Can it be done yes it can. All working department heads; less police vehicles; get out of the road construction business and into just maintenance; eliminate certain dept. heads taking vehicles home(gas savings) especially two detective vehicles; better time management and planning in all departments. All paper products bought as a whole and not individual depts.;32 or 35 hr. weeks instead of 40 or cut back personnel; and there are other ways. RSU 10 has to come in line also. Their budget is ridiculous. Representatives from Rumford should be sat down with this selectboard and told outright that the people voted you into office to to do whats best and to get the best for the least amount. There are ares that can do that within that budget also. The voters have to start saying "NO" in the voting booth. ENOUGH IS ENOUGH! THINGS MUST CHANGE? If the elected officials don't do it then we the voters must do it.

The figures I got from a sight two days ago that had the 2010 figures already. That's where I got figures

You said it right Ed. No one wants to be withoutout a job. But something has to give. I've said it for years and no one has listened. If you want an over abundant amount of services you have to pay for them. People are now realizing that they can't afford them. It could have been a gradual change if started long time ago and more palatable but certain factions in this town just make that hard to do. Two of those factions are the book ends on either side of the selectboard. The taxpayer has to step up to the plate and say it's time to stop the over spending and send the message to the selectboard, finance comm. and town manger. Most of the people who work for the town have two family incomes so they do quite well for themselves and they are no doubt big spenders. They don't have it as hard as fixed income people . We have businesses struggling to keep their heads above water because people can't afford the things they use to. We have a bowling alley that might have to close it's doors because it can't afford to stay open. A recreation facility that has been here for years but gets no help from the town yet Black Mtn. asks and gets help each year. The census figures are out. Rumford has 4795 people. Of those people how many are actual taxpayers. That means that means we have approx. 1 police and fire employee for every 342 people and in 1960 we had 1 for every 1000 people. Whats wrong with this picture? You have one selectperson still fighting for the people, Mr. Belanger. Let's give hime support and vote no to every money item this June. This would send the message for sure.

Where the windtowers are going to be located, I don't think will send flicker that distance onto Rte. 2. There is more glare from the sun in certainition in the sky. Just another scare tactic of the anti-winders. Mr. Powell wants to help Rumford create an ordinance??? An outspoken anti-winder wants to do what ??? What's your game Mr. Powell???? And for Mr. Volkernick an Mr. Buccina why don't you both take money from your own pockets an place signs on every entrance into Rumford with the statement;"THE TOWN OF RUMFORD IS CLOSED TO NEW BUSINESSES! WE DEPEND SOLELY ON OUR GOING THE THE TUBE PAPER MILL!" THANK YOU!

You don't own the mountains. Work with thw wind developers so what they want to accomplish will benefit the towns they are being built in. See if they will invest in modern technology like the jet turbine (less destructive land involvement). If they have jumped the gun already and purchased the old fashion turbines then shame on them. If they want to really show they care about environment they would upgrade to newer technology. You shouldn't complain then as much.You don't complain about cell towers and they are popping up all over the place. You are discriminating.

Change, no one likes change. That is why Rumford and the surrounding communities don't seem to want to work together because there are those few that refuse change all the time. Unfortunately Mr. Volkernick you don't seem to understand that if the town got out of the road construction business and into maintainining what is here then upkeep would be no problem. Any major construction should have been contracted out years ago. There is plenty of work remaininmg for our town crew. Another example of change that some won't bring about for some reason. Maybe lack of common sense ?

And let's go further to say it's time that dept. heads become workers in order to save monies. It is difficult to fathom that the board and manager just don't say from here on in that the big 3, police, fire and town garage foreman will be working dept. heads and not just sit on their butts an get wages. I know the fire chief is a working administrator,now, so let's make it across the board in this area. I fought for it for a long time but my fellow board members couldn't step to the plate. It boiled down to the fact of being affraid of retaliation by certain dept. heads. The dept. heads work for the town. We don't for them. Again I say we have to take our town back from them. The police chief is qualified in all areas and no training is needed to step up. The fire cheif is working chief already. The town garage foreman is not being told to become qualified for his job in order to step up. So there you have it. No money savings. Gas is another area where savings could happen. Does the chief of police need to take vehicle back and forth to work at town expense. Does the road foreman need to do the same. Do both detectives need to take the cars back and forth from home. I can see one when on call but not both. And getting this humvy gas guzzler approved. What's wrong with this board? Time for the spenders to be recalled. It's time for the people also to realize that most of the finance board appointtees were appointed by the selectboard because they wanted those who would be like them. Spenders!

I've never been to a Class A Sate Hockey Championship game before at the Collisee. After sitting through this exciting event I will attempt to never miss an other. The young men I observed on the ice put all their energies on the line and played one heck of a game and should be congratulated. The only disappointment I observed was at the end of the game when back up goal keeper for Lewiston ,when the teams were lining up, showed lack of sportmanship by kicking a TA helmet very angrily towards the TA players. This player should be given a course in manners and sportsmanship.

if towns write their ordinances correctly and force wind turbine developers for local cost reductions before allowing construction and receive lower electrical costs then maybe people will convert over from use of oil. If not written with those terms then write ordinances that wouldn't allow development.

In the time of rising costs the department heads are attempting to bankrupt the town of Rumford with their requests. Thank you Linnell Geronda for your consideration of the tax payers of our town. All department heads should follow her lead in their budget requests.
The select board should take the hard line across the board and hold the line on any and all increases in department budgets.
Approval of increases of pay above the proposed 3 percent is not keeping with the current climate of state and national reductions of costs.
For the population of Rumford the current levels of service employees should be decreased to lower cost levels; and in certain departments there are ways to reduce costs effectively without increasing manpower. Department heads need to become a working participent and not just an administrator.
With what is happening at the state and national levels the select board should realize that they need to be cost effective in all matters to money requests. If any member of the board is unable to step up to the plate and to do what is right then they should take themselves out of the ballgame because they would be doing an injustice to the people who put them in office.

Well said! Kids learn no matter what the size of the class. It boils down to how the teacher,teaches. In my day there were no Ed Techs. and the teacher did it all. Those teachers were under paid. The teachers today with all the assisiants etc. are over paid. Todays teachers don't do even 1/2 of what the teachers from years back did and on top of that they are constantly b_ _ _ _ ing. Teachers today are paid more but do less. What a sham!

Stay in Dixfield and leave your political views to assist with the downfall of Dixfield. The Rumford selectpersons minus the tandem two will now take the state template and gear it to what is best for the town of Rumford. It's people like you that create negative pressures which leads to controversy. Then add the local channel that won't show the excellent clip of the windfarm in NH to our area residences because it shows windpower in a positive light. Anti winders trying to control the area through negative pursuation on all fronts. Good reporting covers all the bases not just yours and that is what the news reporters are doing, SORRY!

is this Rumford board out of their minds. Restructure the police dept. . forget the hummer. At least Mr. Belanger is looking out for our welfare. Then we hire from outside instead of from our own call force. That's right ,what call force . that was destroyed by the present full timers.

Once again have proven that they can't do right by the people who put them in office. This boarrd could vote in the DEP version with it's own built in protections. Mr Belanger , thank you for being the lone listener of the people. Once again the bookends at either end of the board do the town of Rumford continued injustice .

Again the wind ordinance is on the agenda. The board can vote to adopt the states and put and end to passing the buck. The people voted that they want wind development in Rumford. What don't you understand ? Mr Volkernick and Buccina are not tuned in to this fact yet. But how can these two people control what needs to be done. Time for the book ends of the board to be made to get on board or resign.

What does consolidate really mean. To me it means to combine where ever possible and it's not being done. This is because people don't want to move forward from keeping their own identties in tack. This comes with cost with this frame of mind. I've given this scenario once before and it seems that their are way to many deaf ears on this RSU Board. One high school, one Jr. high 7-8, one K-3, and one 4-6. At least here in River Valley. Then look at the sports programs. If you can combine for one lacrosse team for all schools then it can be done for all sports. Another chunk of change being saved. Bite the bullet board or keep paying the high price. There are benefits to the students by doing so. If you can't see the positive potential to this idea then you shouldn't be on this RSU Board.

should not be allowed to present anything for regulations in the town of Rumford. The town manager and board should demand that our local access channell show the news broadcast about the windfarm in NH that Mr. Boivin brought in to air. It hasn't aired yet. Why? Let the people view it. Play the violin all you want board and manager but it doesn't work with the people anymore. They have spoken. Now it's time to burn the midnight oil and get the ordinance done as a board and manager without committees and assists from non residents that are anti winders.

Let's test our houses in state government. What the executives make is ludicrous. If this legislation doesn't go through then the people in office should be put on a slow boat to China and never allowed back into this country.

The people of your own community have stated many times that they are in favor of wind powerr. Good thing the election is over. Because some of those people who voted for you were and are still in favor of wind power and they might not have voted for you knowing that you were going to change your mind.

I hope people in your school system realize the importance in this vote. Consolidate is the way to go. I hope that it is successfull and others systems with declining enrollments jump on the bandwagon also. Even sysytems that have created an RSU unit but need to combine their educational buildings for the educational benefit of it's students while truly saving monies for the tax payers as well. By doing so your communities will get a better bang for your buck that deals with education. It's to bad that RSU 10 can't see your picture. Dixfield/Rumford area.

and there woulldn"t be a need to hire additional officers. The population doesn"t warrant it. What kind of training do these officers get that the chief cries safety all the time to keep force at these numbers. Back when the town was three times the size the job got done the officers did the job. With all the technology that this dept. has to make the job easier they seem to get softer. This dept. should have no more than 8 total staffing and the cheif should be doing detective work and investigations. The pay does not just warrant admin only.

a picture of yourself rumforddude. Are you ashamed of what you look like or is it you don't want people to know who you really are? Unfortunately Judge Clifford must have went to MMA for guidance to render his decision. We know that this organization was wrong in the past and cost the towns monies and they've done it again to the tune of $51000.00. So if this decision was made in this manner then so be it. The $51000.00 could have been better used for new windows at the Library. I hope the people do the right by the town again when June roles around.

Sorry Rumforddude I'm not looking for clout. I 'm still interested in the voters of Rumford and protecting them from people like you.The real embarressment is you. A person who is the real uneducated one. Who continually wants to hide behind a wall and slam people who are truly watching out for the town. You surely are not one of those.

That school systems have to consider closing schools but reality says that the student teacher ratios are out of wack and something needs to be done. It is the same everywhere. A classroom should have more than 15 students in them. I remmeber when there were 30 plus in a class room. The teachers then, taught, and we learned. They didn't say their classes were to large. They taught because they wanted to. It was their calling to want to contribute to kids learning ,at all levels ,and making a life for themselves after high school. The kids you want to learn and who have a support system at home will learn and be successful. To many mandates on class size and teachers whining they can teach more if class sizes were small. Number of students does not dictate learning. It comes from the enthusiasm of the teacher who is committed and innovated to entise children to learn that breeds success. Again , throw in home support and it will work. Learning that is. Restructuring was thrown at this state in mandates for the sole purpose of the state not being able to fund education with it fair share. Therefore accept what is taking place and except that schools with low numbers should be closed and classes brought to a level where a teacher is earning his/her pay. And remember this there was no such thing as Ed techs. The real teachers did it all.

were made that if monies were not received then the mountain could not open. The voters have been duped again into believing these poor me whining threats. IT OPENED! The tax payers are tired of giving to an organization that sits back and does nothing in fund raising to help themselves. That's the bottom line. They should have seen that from the previous years election that was very close to getting voted down. But this board at BMOM lacked insight to say they best think about fund raising campaigns other than always coming to the town. Oh and the town did give additional assistance to their opening with having to call in the police for some type of unrulely disturbance. The bar must have been open.

can"t be done anymore. It's the greedy wealthy americans who own the big companies that take their manufacturing outside our boundaries for cheap labor costs and add the profit to their pockets and eliminate jobs here in the US and the Feds let them get away with it. When I say Feds I mean all those elected officials that we voted into office to make the right decisions. Well, they don't. They don't contribute to Social Security but they will live good after they retire from office won't they. Who pays their insurance premiums, who pays for their hobnobbing around the country. Eliminate party offiliations. Wonder what would happen?

And should be said again. If Lepage wants to really help our state then he should move to cut the size of our State Legislature and Senate down in size. This is where the States waste is located. Sixteen counties > 16 reps and 16 state senators. To get the odd vote give the extra senate seat to the largest populated area and the extra rep seat the largest county that is largest land area. That would make both houses at 17. The savings would be in the millions. Then look at the RSU restructuing calamity. Is there going to be a real savings? I don't think so! Because the Dept. of Ed and our outgoing Governor made the mistake of saying that their would be no school closings. They have said that systems within this new RSU that have schools within an 8 mile radius will combine then you would have true savings. Common sense.

Because trust was given to one person who came up with the idea and it came in not looking like an OX. And the board wanted to appoint this same person as eco developer. For once Mr. Belanger got some assistance with the right vote. Now it's time to move the bull over with Paul. Somehow figure a way to get a yoke on him and maybe help it look like an Ox. Then let's have the Town Manager request a fighter jet or helicopter for the Vets Park at the end of Congress street that should have been done long ago. Then move the super reunion stone to the Stephens site where it belongs. Trim those blocking trees along Rte 108 entering town. People might have time to slow down and make turn on Canal St. if they could see that there is a town on the other side of the grown in investation. There are many little things that could be getting done but no one will take initiative and say Do it! That's what you got voted into office to do and appointed Town Manager to do. The Growth council is a joke. If you want to see what the people who work there do most of the time just ride by and look for the cigarette smoke rising into the air.

That Bangor misplaced their ballots. Ever since our present Governor brought gambling to his home area it has been difficult to spread the wealth out. Are you sure these ballots are from this last election result. Something smells here!

To the people! Never have!!! It will be be unfortunate if the Selectboard allows the anti wind people to contribute anything. The people spoke at the polls. Can't they get the hint? I think not! If any board member wants to side with the anti-winders then they should step down from the board because they they refuse to listen to the people. Dr. A should stay on his side of the river on this issue and stop attempting to persuade Rumford citizens anymore.

On the way. Don't be like Rumford. As selectpersons you should all take charge and yes portect but not ban windpower. Put it all down on paper what you expect from the windpeople. Make sure that the town of Dixfield gets what they want more than the developeers do. They will make there monies twofold but make sure you get your share. Work together for your people. Don't be like the 4 selectpersons of Rumford and shuck their duties. When people speak listen; minorities should not control your town. Good luck. Step up and do what you were voted into office to do.

Enough is enough! Moritorium was extende once already. The poll was 2to1 in favor of wind power coming to Rumford. The vote was taken and the anti d ordinance did not pass. And you want to play right into the hands of the anti winders again. What is wrong with this picture? I'll tell you what is wrong the selectboard still refuses to listen to the people. Give this minority another chance like you did with Black Mountain. How the heck did you people get elected? It looks like some must be working for these minority special interest groups.

Mr. Puiia you stated the Wind Committees job is done. You want to let them participate again. Think again. It's up to the Select persons and you to now work with Androscoggin Valley Council of Governments and First Wind to develop whats the best wind ordinance that will benefit the town of Rumford. Anti wind people participating would throw a monkey wrench into a positive worthwhile ordinace for our town.

another truck for Public works. The foreman does not need a truck since most of the time he sits in his office and is allowed to take truck back and forth from home. This not not good use of what we have already. Keep up the good work Mr. Belanger. Mr. Sterling congratulations to you also for once.

You and your followers know what is meant by my statement. You obviously like to try and make everything come out to the way you think it should be stated. There are people who realize that you speak for the spenders of Rumford. These same people know what I mean.

The town gets nothing in return. Another duped voter

Less than 800 people voting Kevin is not the majority of tax paying citizens. BMOM cost the town money because they couldn"t accept the results of the June election. Those people who voted in favor of it this time should have donated $100.00 each when leaving the poll and BMOM would have gotten their $51000.00..So now all pay the price for the enjoyment of a few. But now the courts will decide. Thanks goodness for Ordinances that correct a faulty Charter that was never corrected properly.

Mr. Aniel does not live in Rumford and should not have been allowed to speak. Mr. Buccina is beyond center field and needs to move to an anti business community. And don't forget to bring Aniel and the others who wrote that ordinance. In fact the tickets wouldn"t cost anything if you can jump on one of those wasteful firework rockets that would help with the very quick move.

Things around Kevin. Your good at it. She was never going to lose her job Kevin. She still had the job at 12 /week. She said she would leave if that happened. Well it didn"t happen. The inner manipulation took place and the town saves no money. That's the bottom line . The only witch hunt Kevin is what you make up and spew out. What you do Kevin is not reality. The town does follow state law. But how administered is up to the town. And yes you are on the bandwagon of not saving money. So you stay in the back pocket of of the powers to be and help them over spend.

Sorry for the spelling of cost at the end of #1. coat should be cost.

Hooray for special interests! They've done it again. The people have spoken but they don't like the outcome. They found a loop hole in the charter but the ordinance is plain and simple. It says a vote is a vote when Initiated articles are concerned. The only one that realizes this is Mr. Belanger. But being on the short end of a 4 to1 or 3 to 1 vote and the Town Manager continually skirting the issues does not sit well for the majority of taxpayers. Between General Assistance and Tax office realignment and contrary to what the Town Manager says , we are not saving monies. The citizen taxpayers of Rumford should not be swayed from their original vote. Take the time once again when the time comes to say no. If the message is not heard then the wrong people are running your town.

Why don't you list them. The real hyprocrite is people who call others that for no reason. Who seem to crawl out from the woodwork with their sarcasm because they either belong to special interest or have a thorn in their foot that's bothering them. The only kettle thats black must be yours. I don't own one.

Does the charter and ordinance say that changes such as is trying to be proposed can only be done once a year? And that once a year is in April for the June poll. Again is this board and manager trying to side step. Have any of the Board members taken the time to thoroughly read our town chater and ordinances? These problems again wouldn't have happened if the former commission wouldn't have had an agenda. Are any of those people from the commission on the wind power. Sure does seem it! The mind set of "What's best for me and the heck with the rest of the citizens." Taxpayers of Rumford you voted what you wanted to happen and it's not. Stand your ground. Don't let the scare tactics change your mind. You have a voice and now they are trying to take it away again. They don't know what KISS means!

That is the problem with serving on any town boards and owning a business in the town you serve. There are cowards out there that will threaten you if you don't vote their way. Mr. Adley should have gotten mad instead of backing down to this form of intimidation and should have reported the individuals to law enforcement as a threat. Instead he sold himself to the threarteners and sold out on his integrity. This is what makes up anti winders. Save your integrity Mr. Adley and earn back some of the respect you have been losing by reporting who threatened you. That's the right thing to do.