Boothbay Harbor’s finest have received recognition for their professional standards. For three years, a collection of Maine law enforcement officials examined procedures used by Boothbay Harbor Police Department which culminated March 9 with Chief Doug Snyder’s department receiving Maine Law Enforcement Accreditation Program certification.  During a Monday, March 13 ceremony at the selectmen’s meeting, Maine Sheriff Association Executive Director Ed Tolan presented Snyder with a plaque commemorating the department’s achievement.

Tolan is a retired Yarmouth police chief. He served as chief for 23 years and spent 43 total years in law enforcement. He explained how MLEAP formed 10 years ago to improve professionalism in the state’s 115 municipal police, 16 county sheriff’s and Maine State Police departments. Tolan added the program developed over 160 professional standards for operations, personnel, equipment and training. “This is a long process which takes about three years. MLEAP partners with Dirigo Safety assisting departments in putting together a program for accreditation.” 

Boothbay Harbor is one of 16 municipal police departments that have received accreditation, according to MLEAP. Snyder accepted the honor on behalf of the entire department. “I want to thank the ‘crew’ who worked hard for this. Also, retired Chief Hasch did a lot of the work, and should get most of the credit,” he said. 

Mike Tomko is the Boothbay Harbor select board chairman. He praised the department for its outstanding professional standards. “The community is so proud of our police force. You are the cornerstone of our community. The things you do with the support of our community makes Boothbay Harbor such a unique place,” he said.

Boothbay Region Ambulance EMS Chief Dan Gardner presented Snyder with a plaque commemorating their community work. “Emergency services is a tight-knit brotherhood and sisterhood. We take care and support one another in our life and career goals. We want to congratulate the Boothbay Harbor Police Department with this plaque,” he said. 

In other action, selectmen approved three liquor license requests. Action for Animals, in care of Farm 23 on 102 Ocean Road, received a renewal for liquor, malt and wine. Waves Restaurant of 43 Commercial St. received a new license for liquor, malt and wine. Brisetto’s Second Cup, located at 41 Commercial St., received a renewal for liquor, malt and wine.

Selectmen approved a tax abatement for 29 McKown, LLC for 2020 and 2021. Town Manager Julia Latter reported Tax Assessor Rob Duplisea Jr. already abated the business’ 2022 taxes. “In 2006, McKown 29 received approval for a subdivision, but never recorded it. A condominium is taxed at a higher rate and state law allows for an abatement for up to three years,” she said.

Selectmen meet next at 6 p.m. Monday, March 27 in the conference room.