Turner officials want lower speed limit around beach

TURNER — Concerns about pedestrian safety and the speed limit in the area of the town beach may go unanswered, according to Town Manager Kurt Schaub.

The section of Route 219 from the beach up to Route 4 has more pedestrians during summer and town officials would like the speed limit reduced from 45 miles per hour. They requested the state review the limit.

The Maine Department of Transportation, after considering the number of cross roads and driveways, traffic numbers and speeds, suggested an increase to 50 mph was justifiable, but not planned.

Schaub said he disagreed with the MDOT, but did not think it likely the agency would alter its decision to leave the speed limit at 45 mph.

Selectman Ralph Caldwell said he would like to see the stop sign at the corner of Merrills Mill Road and Plains Road changed to a yield sign because of the good visibility and moderate level of traffic.

In other business Tuesday, the board agreed to put off buying an additional emergency vehicle for 2016 to curb capital spending in the coming fiscal year. It approved $17,500 for the Turner Athletic Association and $3,500 for the Snowmobile Club.

Rescue Chief Toby Martin said the department will sell two rescue units and use the money for buy another ambulance. He said Turner Rescue “will operate with two ambulances instead of three, which we believe is more appropriate for the volume and types of calls typical of our department.”

Plans for the 25th annual Fourth of July parade have begun. Parade organizer Peter Angell announced they are looking for traffic control volunteers. The daylong event also includes musical guests, children’s games and food.

The board approved a liquor license application from Jacqueline and Stephen Andrews, who recently took over the Fore Seasons Restaurant at Turner Highlands golf course.

Selectmen will meet Monday, March 7, at the Town Office. A Tri-Town selectmen meeting will be held Thursday, March 24, at the Leeds Town Office.