The scoop: Firefighters can start cleaning residential chimneys again. The practice, which brings in revenue for the department’s Fire Association, was halted because of concerns about injury and insurance coverage. Now that the town’s insurance policy covers volunteers, however, board members gave their approval to start the service again. There is no set fee for the job, but donations to the department will be accepted.

Taking on Wales business

The issue: The Wales Town Office temporarily has been closed because of staff illness. In the interim, Sabattus town office workers will process registrations and other normal municipal business for their neighbors. Separate accounts have been set up in the record keeping system to track each town’s excise revenues.

Cable programming

The issue: The town’s franchise agreement with Time Warner Cable expires in July 2009. The town could levy a franchise fee of one to five percent upon the next contract, which could be used to create local programming and televised coverage of municipal meetings and other events.

Up next: Town Manager Greg Gill will set up a workshop with the cable company’s representative to explore available options.

Recycling Open House

The scoop: Sabattus Recycling Appreciation Day is scheduled Saturday, Nov. 3, at the Transfer Station and Recycling Center. Free doughnuts and coffee will be served, and board members also are planning some free giveaways.

Contact JT Leonard at [email protected] or 252-6040 with municipal government news.