July 13, Boothbay Harbor selectmen narrowed down what development projects they want Economic Recovery Corps Fellow Elyse Oliver to pursue as part of the town’s Rural Infrastructure Strengths Evaluation (RISE).

As reported in the Register, RCAP Solutions approached Lincoln County Regional Planning Commission last year about conducting an economic development strategy for county towns. Boothbay and Boothbay Harbor were chosen for the RISE pilot program at no additional cost to the towns.  

During a June 8 meeting, Oliver provided a progress update as she moved into phase 3, which focused on identifying key values and going forward with implementation. Through workshop feedback, making both towns premier “blue economy” hubs in Maine, year-round tourism supporting year-round community, and arts and youth services were highlighted as key visions.

July 13, Oliver presented five potential projects, whose implementation is also offered at no additional cost:  

(1) Research on existing blue and green economy vocational education programs. This involves identifying local businesses and programs that can be tapped into, and gaps in the educational spectrum; (2) Map of existing recreational trials and how they can support an active transportation network; (3) Define affordable housing for Boothbay and Boothbay Harbor as state standards may differ from local realities; (4) An ordinance comparison between Boothbay Harbor and surrounding municipalities to understand how they support or conflict with each other. This can include recommendations on how to unify or streamline ordinances, if desired; (5) A PDF guide, informational resource for aspiring entrepreneurs on how to start a business in the region.

After discussion, the board was leaning towards the latter two projects, as they felt the others were being addressed by different local entities. They asked Oliver to take a hybrid approach, as understanding local ordinances across different sectors is invaluable for anyone starting a business.  

In other business, Lisa Matthews and Kate Sullivan shared a tentative plan to commemorate the 125th anniversary of the Boothbay Harbor Footbridge on Saturday, Oct. 24. They suggested having a “reopening” ribbon-cutting ceremony featuring the Maddox family and Fuller Marine, a drone flyover/photograph of locals filling the bridge, and a barbecue. However, they are open to changes and other community ideas. All interested parties are invited to a discussion Monday, July 27, at 6 p.m. at the Boothbay Harbor Town Office.

During public comment, the abutter of Boothbay Harbor Waterfront Preservation (BBHWP)’s East Side Park, Joe Doyle, alleged there had been an inappropriate meeting at the town office between selectboard chair Mike Tomko, BBHWP lawyer Anthony Muri and Code Enforcement Officer (CEO) Dan Feeney. 

Joe and Jill Doyle said they were not informed of this meeting. Their lawyer, Kristin Collins, was also not present. Tomko confirmed he was there and was invited by the CEO. Doyle asked Tomko to recuse or resign. He also asked that the board vote on the matter. No action was taken.

Doyle alleged Tomko had misled the selectboard about a planning board appointment.  

More information forthcoming.

The next comprehensive plan hybrid meeting is July 23, at 5 p.m. The town has openings for a full-time code enforcement officer and other public works positions. Application information is on the town website.

This is the second year Maine Commercial Fishing Remembrance Day has been officially recognized, and Boothbay Harbor will host a Midcoast ceremony at Fisherman’s Memorial on July 21, at 3 p.m. A simultaneous ceremony will happen at the Lost Fishermen’s Memorial in Lubec.

Boothbay Harbor Fire Department’s annual Lobster Bake fundraiser is at the Boothbay Region High School field on Aug. 1, from 12 to 4 p.m.

Full recording is on BRTV’s Facebook page.