TURNER – Selectmen devoted much of their attention Tuesday night to developing plans for town’s 225th anniversary.

Activities scheduled for the July 3 event include a massive fireworks display, bean-hole dinner, street dance, helicopter rides, live entertainment and more.

The fireworks company inspected the proposed site for and found it more than adequate. A total of $6,000 will be spent on fireworks with additional funds required for crowd control, parking, etc.

Town Manager Eva Leavitt pointed out that the Maine Municipal Association has cautioned towns about having adequate insurance for celebrations. She said that the pyrotechnic company will provide proof that the town and the property owner will be co-insured on their policy.

Board Chairman Angelo Terreri said the town was actively seeking commercial sponsors and others who want to contribute to financing the anniversary celebration. The town has set up an account for funds donated for the event.

When Selectman Ralph Caldwell suggested that future budgets should include $2,000 per year to cover the cost of the 250th anniversary celebration, Selectman Lawrence House, the oldest member of the board, said in jest that that was too much since he probably would not be around for the next party.

In other business, Patrick Wyman was the low bidder for the mowing contract. His bid was $6,500 for the grassy areas and $600 for the landfill.

Caldwell said he was pleased the contract went to a local contractor.

Rampart Bituminous, LLC of Windham provided the low bid of $50.80 per cubic yard for 3,500 cubic yards of cold mix asphalt.

The board considered a Budget Preparation & Review Procedure Policy. It clarifies the concept of department heads presenting their request to the town manager who then presents recommendations to the Board of Selectmen. The proposed budget will then be presented to the Budget Committee for its recommendations.

Selectmen agreed with the policy in general but had questions on some details. They will consider the policy again at their next meeting.

Bids have been solicited for crushing materials at the town gravel pit. Selectmen agreed that a survey should be made to verify the volume involved.

Leavitt said she would like to also see the property lines surveyed because  they are not clearly marked. “Memories fail, but documents prevail,” she said.

Selectmen agreed to keep the beach pass permit fee at $10 per year for Turner resident families and guest.