SABATTUS — Town Manager Andrew Gilmore announced his resignation at the Board of Selectmen meeting Tuesday evening.

Gilmore is moving to Raleigh, N.C., where his wife has accepted a nursing position. His last day is Friday, July 24.

In his resignation letter, he said he is saddened to leave a community he has grown to love but feels confident Sabattus will continue to grow and prosper while maintaining its small-town character.

The board unanimously appointed Police Chief Tony Ward as interim town manager, starting Saturday, July 25. He will continue his duties as chief.

Gilmore said Ward is an excellent candidate, considering his knowledge of town matters, his many years of administrative experience and his master’s degree in public policy and management.

In other news:

* The board signed a warrant for the Regional School Unit 4 budget vote set for Wednesday, July 22, at the Oak Hill High School gymnasium. The budget will go to a validation referendum at the polls from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, July 28, at the Town Office.

* The board approved a 2 percent cost-of-living increase for all town employees.

* Legal steps continue regarding the dispute over the Androscoggin County Charter and the interpretation of commissioners’ control over their salaries and benefit packages.

Commissioners have final approval over these items, while the 12 municipalities involved in the dispute understand the county Budget Committee has veto power over these matters.

The commissioners have been formally notified, in a letter submitted to their attorney from the legal representative of the participating municipalities, of a demand for settlement.

* The town’s auditing team continues an examination of the Sabattus school lunch deficit of $10,381. The investigative process is ongoing and will not be resolved for this year’s school budget.

* The town will launch its new website at 3 p.m. Wednesday, July 8. It offers easy access to town events and meetings. Video streaming will soon be available for those not able to attend meetings.

* The town’s annual Fun Fest will take place from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, July 16, at the Town Office. Hot dogs, hamburgers and other foods, as well as games for children are planned. Fire, police and Public Works vehicles will be on display.

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