Government at a glance

Board: Turner selectmen

Met: Monday, Sept. 22

Permit renewal

The issue: During a public hearing seven automobile junkyard permits that were up for renewal were discussed. 

The scoop: Pictures of each of the sites were provided by Roger
Williams. Materials were visible from the road from both Lester Quimby’s Quimby Road junkyard and Jesse Walker’s site on Country Road. Thomas
Heikkinen’s site on Fern Street, Harry Williams’ on Cobb Road, George Spear’s on Bates
Road, and David Richardson’s Auburn Road and Harlow Hill sites were all in
compliance.

Up next: After closing the public hearing, the board voted to
approve all seven application renewals with conditions placed on Lester Quimby and
Jesse Walker granting them each 30 days to clear and screen their sites.

Rescue position

The issue: Laurel Gagne, rescue chief, and members of the rescue department requested the addition of a 32-hour per week position.

The scoop: The rescue department has had an increase in call volume during recent months, and needs more coverage since the loss of on-call person. Gagne proposed the additional position be funded with savings in
overtime and equipment repair budgeted funds.

Up next: Budget Committee Chairman
Rodney Shaw supported the request on a trial basis. The board approved the position after
lengthy discussion. The cost of this position will be subject to ongoing review.

Use agreement

The issue: The need for a use agreement with Turner Museum and Historical Association was presented by Town Manager Eva Leavitt.

The scoop: Use of the fourth floor at the Leavitt Institute Building requires a use agreement.

Up next: Leavitt will discuss and provide a draft
to the board of directors of the LIB, and then seek approval for the agreement from the
Selectmen.

Bylaws

The issue: A draft of bylaws to establish a board of directors for the GAR Hall and Community House was reviewed by the board.

The scoop: The draft, which included a membership minimum of three people, was approved by the board.

Up next: The selectmen will now be accepting
applications from Turner residents to serve on this board.

Contact reporter Tammy Chamberland via phone at 689-28947 or via E-mail at [email protected].