RUMFORD – The two Norway maples decorating the front of the Municipal Building got yet another reprieve last week when Selectman Frank DiConzo said he was checking with an arborist to learn what species of trees would be more suitable for the location. Selectmen two weeks ago split their vote, with DiConzo absent, on whether to remove them or have them trimmed.

Since that vote last month, DiConzo said his phone had been ringing off the hook from people both for and against removing the nearly 50-year-old trees.

“I like the trees, but they should have been better taken care of,” he said. “I am looking into it and have talked to a licensed arborist.”

He said the trees, which have a broad crown, have an insufficient amount of space where they located.

The board gave the go-ahead to have the arborist look at not only the Norway maples, but also the rest of the trees growing along Congress Street.

DiConzo is also looking into Project Canopy for a possible matching grant program for downtown trees.

In other matters, board Chairman Greg Buccina asked residents interested in serving as Rumford representatives on the soon-to-be-formed Regional Planning Committee for the possible merger of area school districts. He will serve from the town, as will a Rumford representative from the SAD 43 school board.

Another two or three residents may also serve. He said anyone who chooses to sit on the committee must be committed to attending two or three meetings for several weeks. He said Rumford’s representation is important because such a merger could increase the own’s share of school taxes. He also said the town has managed to keep its budget at or below the amount allowed under the LD 1 state property tax program.

With the possible merger, he said if the town continues to stay at or below increases allowed by the state, then municipal services would have to be reduced.

Those interested should apply at the town office.

Town Manager Jim Doar will serve as an ex officio member.

Following a closed session after the regular board, selectmen fined David Willhoite $100 for violating the town’s shoreland zoning ordinance and a stop work order issued by code enforcement officer Rick Kent.

Willhoite had been building a structure near the banks of the Androscoggin River.