RUMFORD – Small towns in western Maine may get help with code enforcement under a plan being considered by the Androscoggin Valley Council of Governments.
Lisa Bonney and Janet Pelletier of the regional planning agency told nearly a dozen members of the Western Maine Town Managers Association on Tuesday that there is discussion of having a full-time code enforcement officer who could be hired by smaller towns.
According to an informational sheet distributed to the managers, the position would provide smaller towns with a higher level of professionalism, direct supervision by AVCOG and technical assistance if needed. The officer could also provide continuity in code-related issues if the regular code enforcement officer is on vacation or absent for other reasons.
Most managers said growth is affecting their towns, creating more need for code enforcement. While some of the larger towns can afford to hire a half-time or full-time code enforcement officer, the smaller ones cannot. And Farmington Town Manager Richard Davis said part-time code enforcement officers often don’t stay long.
Perry Ellsworth, town manager of Rangeley, said his town employs a full-time code enforcement officer but has enough development to employ two.
Rumford Town Manager Steve Eldridge said his town had a difficult time finding a qualified half-time code enforcement officer, and when he did, the half-time position was combined with another half-time position to make the job full time.
“We’re seeing growth here, as well, especially around the ponds,” he said.
Bethel Town Manager Scott Cole said his town shares an officer with neighboring Newry.
Bonney said she knows of several towns that are working to get shared code enforcement officers.
If the AVCOG position is created, the person filling it would work from the towns served.
The managers at their bi-monthly meeting also discussed other common issues and problems. They want to invite area legislators to a meeting to discuss legislation that could help service center towns, such as Rumford, Farmington, Jay and Rangeley.
Many town officials believe their towns are unfairly burdened because they often provide services such as fire protection to unorganized townships and plantations.
Other issues discussed included shared purchases, federal Environmental Protection Agency grants to clean up former industrial sites, and possibly ending personal property reimbursement to towns.
Rhonda Irish, the new administrator for Minot, said such meetings are beneficial.
“We get to exchange information and keep in contact with other town officials,” she said.
David, who has been a town manager for many years, also enjoys the bi-monthly event.
“It gives us a chance to exchange ideas and blow off a little steam. It’s good networking,” he said.
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