SABATTUS — Police Chief Anthony Ward was named town manager by the Board of Selectmen Tuesday, effective immediately.

Ward, who was acting town manager since Andrew Gilmore left in July, was one of 23 candidates interested in the position. He will continue his duties as police chief until that position is filled.

Ward said he was honored town officials were placing their trust in him and positive that collaboratively they will promote economic and community development without adversely affecting the town’s tax rate. 

In other action at the meeting Tuesday night, selectmen approved a five-year loan with Androscoggin Bank to pay for leasing a dump truck and tractor. The money is for a 2016 Western Star cab and chassis from O’Connor GMC in Augusta, and a 2015 Massey Ferguson tractor from Waterman Machinery in Sabattus.

The interest on the loan is 2.88 percent.

The truck lease is $154,786; the tractor lease is $21,402. At the end of the lease, the town will be able to purchase the vehicles for $1.

Selectmen Jeff Baril and Don Fournier Jr. will attend their last board meeting at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 1. Newly elected board members J.P. Curran and Guy Desjardins will take their seats at the following meeting, scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 15, at the Town Hall.

St. Laurent & Son Inc. was awarded the 2015-16 winter sand contract for $6.90 per 2,500 yards.

The town successfully passed the MS4 storm water audit. Two areas of remaining concern are the parking area at Martin Point and the road in front of Veterans Park where sediment tends to build up. The town has already started to address these areas.

The town is seeking part-time plow drivers for the winter. For more information or to apply, visit the Town Hall at 190 Middle Road or go online at www.sabattus.org.

A benefit supper for Lorri Morin will be held at American Legion Post 135, 40 Island Road, on Saturday, Nov 21. Dinner will be served from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., followed by the band Roadhouse playing until 11 p.m. Cost is $15 per person or $25 per couple. Tickets can be purchased in advance from Sabattus Fire Association members or at the door. All proceeds will be given to Morin, who is facing amputation due to a tumor on her ankle.

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