NEW GLOUCESTER – Selectmen took no action to hire a town manager after meeting in closed session on Monday.

The board is negotiating with two candidates, said Selectmen Steve Libby, but a finalist is yet to be named.

A search was launched in mid-September after the unexpected resignation of former manager Rosemary Kulow.

Selectmen retained the Maine Municipal Association to launch the search for her replacement, which drew 73 candidates.

In other business, the board agreed to ask the town attorney to review preliminary draft documents that would begin steps to allow the New Gloucester Historical Society to locate a history barn at the Lower Gloucester municipal complex.

The society wants to bring its collection into one place from storage in private homes and barns.

The draft documents are for a required special use permit.

The society will defray $1,500 in legal costs toward the project. Voters must approve it, and the planning board must also give its approval before construction can begin.

Stephen Chandler, speaking for the New Gloucester Maine Historical Society, said a special town meeting is preferred to move the process forward.

“Next year the NGMHS will be celebrating its 75th anniversary. With that event in mind, we wish to initiate serious fundraising with a home clearly defined for the history barn. In addition, we would like to plan for a September, 2009, open house showcasing the town hearse, which will be 100 years old,” said Chandler.

The history barn would be located on the site of a former stable used by the New Gloucester Fire Department, which will be moving to a new fire station by March 2009.

Having the 30- by 40-foot barn to store historical items and property would enhance the society’s education program. The society would insure the building and be responsible for maintenance and electricity costs.