The issue: Selectmen approved a credit-enhancement agreement for the downtown village tax increment finance district.

The scoop: KP Realty LLC is planning construction of three retail buildings along Route 26. In order to help the developer make public improvements, such as the addition of a center turning lane along the state highway, the TIF will keep the development off the state books and allow funds to be generated for the town.

Dispatch service renewed

The issue: Selectmen approved the town’s dispatching contract with the Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Department.

The scoop: This marks more than five years that the town has renewed its yearly contract with the county agency. The cost is based on a series of monthly fees and individual dispatch charges.

Board: Sabattus Selectmen

Met: Tuesday night

Seeking a fire chief

The issue: Selectmen postponed a decision on appointing a new fire chief, despite the election Sunday of former Sabattus Fire Department Chief Robert Scott.

The scoop: Selectman Guy Desjardins moved that the board wait until all members were present before voting on the new chief. Some in the audience Tuesday said that the decision should be based on merit, and not by the outcome of Sunday’s election.

Truck repairs

The issue: Acting Road Commissioner Gary Labonte told selectmen that the plow crew was up and running in time for Friday’s storm. Though there are still repairs needed to some of the trucks.

The scoop: Selectmen voiced concern over the equipment troubles of the public works department. Recently, the town’s backhoe was added to the list equipment needing repairs. Until then, the town will rent a backhoe from Glen Dube Excavation.

Board-member shuffle

The scoop: A number of new and needed members for various boards were brought up Tuesday, including the search for an alternate planning board member, and a budget committee member. Selectmen Mark Duquette was also nominated for the Lake Dam Commission.

Junkyard permit

The scoop: Selectmen awarded a junkyard renewal permit to Marc Cyr for his Cross Road property.

Sabattus Pond grant

The issue: A Watershed Improvement Financial Assistance Partnership grant was recently awarded to Androscoggin Valley Soil & Water Conservation District with the Sabattus Pond Watershed Partnership. The grant focuses on improving the water quality of Sabattus Pond by reducing the amount of soil, sediments, and associated contaminants that wash into Sabattus Pond from roads and private properties

The scoop: The grant will provide technical assistance to a minimum of 12 property owners and financial help with the installation of conservation practices on at least 12 sites. Conservation practices protect soil and water resources, and can lower maintenance costs and enhance property values.

Up next: A steering committee comprised of the SPWP, municipal representatives and watershed residents is being formed. For more information, phone 753-9400, ext. 400. A public meeting will be held to introduce the project to watershed residents, date to be announced.

– Glen Bolduc