CANTON – Selectman Donny Hutchins stressed Thursday night the importance of Canton and Hartford residents attending the hearing on the Canton dam project next week.

It begins at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 15, the Canton Municipal building.

The hearing will be an opportunity to learn about the plans for the new dam on Whitney Brook and make suggestions for improvements. Hutchins said it would be disheartening if only a handful of residents showed up to discuss a project that will have such a significant impact on the two towns.

The new dam would replace the dilapidated one the town took by eminent domain in 2008. It is located on the brook, an outlet on the northeast shore of Lake Anasagunticook in Canton, and controls water levels in the lake. Most of the 556-acre lake’s shoreline is in Hartford.

Selectmen said they are hoping for a good turnout for the June 19 workday at the dam site. Hot dogs and cold drinks will be furnished for the workers. Residents of Canton and Hartford are urged to bring work gloves and loppers for removing brush, and garden tools for planting perennials along the waterway. Workers will gather at the dam site at 9 am.

In other matters Thursday night, selectmen praised Sewer Department Superintendent Dave Madison for his efforts to save the town money.

Administrative Assistant Kathy Hutchins said, “Danny just hates to spend money.”

Madison recently rebuilt pump rotors, which is not part of his job description, for under $700 each rather than purchasing new ones that cost about $6,000. Hutchins suggested that the town needs a way to recognize employees who save the town money.

Volunteer Tom Hadley, who leads efforts to beautify the new park on Route 108 nearly across from the Victorian Villa nursing home, reported on the recent plant sale. His committee took in $1,350.

The plants were donated or taken from the yards of homes in the former village that flooded in December 2003, causing more than $2 million damage. Residents relocated due to the damage.

Hadley is is keeping track of the source of the plants so appropriate markers can be installed.

Mark Blanchette, owner of Blanchette Builders in Canton, has built a gazebo for the park using donated labor and material. Local students are helping with the painting as part of their required community service.

Selectmen and Hadley discussed a dedication ceremony for the park.

They chose Mexico Town Manager John Madigan and Rumford Selectman Gregory Buccina as their representatives to the Maine Municipal Association Board.