A proposed merger between Lincoln County Television and county government received zero support April 9 from the Boothbay selectboard.  All five selectmen opposed the proposed merger and want to tell their County Commissioner Evan Goodkowsky personnaly at a future selectboard meeting. "I'll speak for myself, but this is poor use of county tax dollars for something which doesn't benefit us at all," Selectman Chuck Cunningham said.

Cunningham shared a "blurb" he found on Facebook regarding LCTV's proposal. "As many of you know, our current funding comes from sponsors, donors, memberships and dwindling franchise fees as more people move away from traditional cable television," wrote LCTV station manager Larry Sidelinger. "This exciting potential merger will bring expanded programs and services along with new and retained staffing ensuring more comprehensive coverage of important stories."

Under the proposed merger, the county would either incorporate the cable-access station as part of the governmental operation or grant a funding request through a budget committee recommendation.

In other action, selectmen met the new Boothbay Region Television station manager Lang Sheppard. He lives in Jefferson and announced the station is back on Spectrum channels 7 and 1301, brctv.org, and boothbaytv.com. As summer approaches, Sheppard foresees broadcasting many local events in the coming months. "I've found people in the region very hospitable and welcoming," he said. "Everyone is excited the channel is back up in time for summer. We will be out and about filming new projects creating new programming and fostering new relationships."

Town Manager Dan Bryer reported Jensen Baird will no longer serve as their municipal attorney. The Portland firm has informed clients it's no longer advising municipal clients. Boothbay will post an RFP (request for proposals) in search of new counsel. Other Jensen and Baird local municial clients are Southport and Edgecomb. Southport announced Jensen Baird's decision during the selectboard's April 9 meeting. Edgecomb makes its announcement during the selectboard's April 15 meeting, according to chairman Michael Maxim.

Boothbay selectmenctmen also approved a new Class V Bed and Breakfast Liquor License for Ryan Edwards doing business as Five Gables Inn in East Boothbay. 

Selectmen meet next at 6 p.m. Wednesday, April 23 in the conference room.