Police: Pot ordinance not enforceable

SUMNER – Though Lt. Donald Pomelow of the Maine State Police told selectmen he would not be able to attend the March 27 hearing on the proposed marijuana ordinance. He said state police would not enforce if it passed. He also said the ordinance appears to contradict state laws and would not be enforceable anyway.

Selectman Cliff McNeil favored doing away with the public hearing, but Mark Silber and Glenn Hinkley favored continuing with it. Silber said there were 92 signatures on the petition and only 40 people attended the last annual town meeting, which indicated that it generated more interest than a meeting.

The ordinance states the town wants enforcement of marijuana laws to be the lowest priority by police. The town is patrolled by the county sheriff’s department and state police on a rotating basis.

Hinkley also said that SAD 39 is looking for a $150,000 increase in its budget. Last year there was a $100,000 increase. If the school budget passes, it would mean $450 more in taxes on a $150,000 house.

On March 29 at 6:30 p.m., a community forum will be held at the high school to discuss the Ad Hoc Committee’s report on consolidation and regionalization, and the future of SAD 39.

Road foreman to be appointed

CANTON – Three people have been interviewed for the position of road foreman, and selectmen are expected to appoint one of them Thursday night at their regular meeting.

Previously, the town has had an elected road commissioner.

Selectmen’s Chairman Jackie Conant said the main difference is the position will change from elected to appointed.

The foreman will work with the selectmen on such things as the budget and road priorities.

Emergency team course scheduled

HARTFORD – A two-day Community Emergency Response Team course will be held April 14 and 28 anyone interested. Residents are asked to contact their town office to enroll.

Selectmen were encouraged to attend a meeting with fire chiefs and Buckfield and Sumner selectmen on April 25 to discuss a draft plan on policy and procedure for emergency operations. Selectman David Bowen suggested inviting Turner and Canton fire chiefs also.

Town Clerk Lianne Bedard informed the board that county tax figures show Hartford’s share of the 2007 budget is $62,303, up from $57,167 last year.

– by Mary Standard