A rabies clinic has been scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 13. Town officials will also be available to license dogs during the 9 to 11 a.m. clinic at the fire and rescue barn on General Turner Hill Road.

Not many residents are aware that a large percentage of licensing fees paid to local communities go toward stopping animal cruelty statewide.

According to the Maine Department of Agriculture, 95 percent of the Animal Welfare Program’s yearly budget is composed of locally generated dog licensing fees. Licensing fees are split between the local community where they help pay for animal control programs and officers and the statewide program. Of the $6 fee for a neutered dog, half stays with the town and the other half supports the Animal Welfare Program. Of the $10 licensing fee for non-neutered dogs, $9 goes to the statewide program.

– Jody Goodwin
Auburn:

School cop renewed

The County Commission has approved the renewal of the federal grant that funds the school resource officer at Leavitt Area High School in Turner Tuesday.

Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Deputy Nelson Peters has served as resource officer since June 2002.

The federal grant will keep Peters and the program in place at least through the 2005-06 school year. The grant covers Peters’ salary and most costs associated with the program until June 2005.

The federal program requires that SAD 52 fund the position for one additional year.

– John Plestina
Leeds: School board member quits

Selectmen have regretfully accepted the resignation of School Board member Charles Dingman.

Dingman’s resignation will become effective Jan. 1, 2004. After the New Year, selectmen will consider a possible appointment for the term that expires in June, said Town Administrator Jane Wheeler.

– John Plestina

Copy the Story Link