FARMINGTON – SAD 9 directors postponed electing a new chairman Tuesday until their Feb. 8 meeting.
Director Francis Orcutt of Farmington made the motion to postpone the election until after current Chairman Greg Webber of New Sharon resigns. Webber gave his notice two weeks ago and the resignation is effective Feb. 1.
Orcutt said he thought that not making a decision until after Webber was gone would be a much cleaner way to handle the situation.
Director Janis Stinson of Wilton said it would also give members time to think about electing a new chairman.
Temple director Jo Josephson, who was one of four members opposing the postponement, lobbied for Vice Chairman Ray Glass of Farmington to be elected chairman at the next meeting.
Webber, who has served on the board for 11 years, pounded the gavel for the last time Tuesday.
On behalf of fellow board members, Glass presented Webber with a framed certificate and a new gavel to take with him, commemorating his dedication to education and the district.
Webber said the district would always be near and dear to him.
“It doesn’t matter what I do after this; I’ll always be reading the headlines,” Webber said.
He commended the staff and others for making the district what it is. Those in attendance gave Webber a round of applause.
Cormier said near the end of the meeting that he would miss Webber.
Bob Neal, resident of New Sharon and former SAD 9 director and chairman of the board, has been appointed by New Sharon selectmen to fill Webber’s seat.
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