Oxford County Commissioners Meeting

Nov. 15, 2016

Commissioners Office, South Paris

Radio training

What happened: James Miclon, director of the Oxford County Regional Communications Center, said he and Deputy Director Geff Inman will hold a training session for first responders on the proper use of the center’s radio and explain why it sometimes takes a while for the center to respond to questions. 

What it means: The one-hour training program will allow them to keep tabs on inappropriate uses of the radio, he said. Until responders are officially trained, it’s hard to fault them for any errors, Miclon said. Those who complete the training will receive a certificate.

What’s next: Miclon and Inman will begin contacting fire departments in the area to present the program, which is tentatively set to begin in December.

Authorizing pay raise

What happened: Commissioners unanimously voted to authorize a pay raise for Andrew Whitney of Bethel, who was promoted from Oxford County Sheriff’s deputy to corporal. His new hourly wage is $19.62.

What it means: Sheriff Wayne Gallant said three deputies applied for the position previously held by Chris Davis, who was promoted to sergeant this year. Whitney, Richard Murray and Matthew McDonnell took a written test and were interviewed by an oral board. On Oct. 27, Whitney was promoted.

Website revitalization

What happened: Bill Haynes, designer for the Oxford County website, told department heads that some areas have inaccurate or outdated information.

What it means: Oxford County Administrator Scott Cole told commissioners and department heads that “if we want a vigorous website, it needs to start with the department heads.” He admitted that “we can all own” the fact that the website has fallen behind in providing updates, and in making sure the office staff and their job titles for each department are accurate.

What’s next: Over the next several months, Haynes recommended that department heads start funneling new photographs and updates from their respective departments to him.

Spirit of America awards

What happened: Commissioners presented Spirit of America Foundation awards to Brenda Jarvis and Caroline Smith, both of Dixfield, Bruce Nason of Hiram, Sarah Glynn of Paris, the Mexico Lions Club and the Roxbury ATV Riders.

What it means: According to its website, the Spirit of America Foundation is a nonprofit public charity based in Augusta that honors volunteerism in Maine. Jarvis, Smith, Nason, Glynn, the Mexico Lions Club, and the Roxbury ATV Riders all received plaques in recognition of their volunteerism.