In 2020, Boothbay received a $250,000 matching federal Land and Water Grant to renovate Clifford Park Playground. The proposed improvements include a new Little League field, bleachers, multi-use field,  playground, Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant bathrooms and pavilion, increased public parking and walkways. Local businessman Paul Coulombe volunteered to contribute the town’s $250,000 required match.

But the proposed $500,000 project is going to cost more. Town Manager Dan Bryer advised selectmen Jan. 12, the price tag is now closer to $1.75 to $2 million. Additional ADA-compliant equipment and tactile boards increased the project’s cost. However, Bryer assured selectmen the project wouldn’t cost taxpayers anything. “Paul’s ready to kick in the rest,” he said. 

Selectman Steve Lewis believed Coulombe’s continued generosity needed to be recognized. He proposed a plaque or renaming one of the ballfields in Coulombe’s honor. 

In other action, selectmen spoke with Spectrum officials about a new customer initiative to expand broadband internet town-wide. Last year, Spectrum offered a new program called “Community Wifi” to the town. Spectrum has offered a similar program to other communities nationwide, but Boothbay would be the first town in Maine. But that proposal happened nearly10 months ago which has left Boothbay officials wondering if Spectrum was still interested.

Two Spectrum officials discussed details of a possible agreement. Spectrum Community Solutions Vice President Ben Topor was the primary speaker who attended the meeting via a Webex video conference. Account Manager Steven Holmes attended in-person. Topor explained the proposal has a few changes. One is a new name, “Advanced Community Wi-Fi.” The new proposal also provides a higher level  of technology.

The previous proposal used “asymmetrical” technology. The new proposal uses “symmetrical technology” and costs $39.95 per month, $10 more than “asymmetrical.” Another change is an annual fee increase up to 3%. 

While the meeting’s purpose was to discuss a deal for expanding broadband for 100% town-wide accessibility, Lewis was more interested in why no progress occurred for almost a year. 

“I like the idea, but I’m skittish. No phone calls for a year. Plus, the price is higher and the previous price was locked in for 10 years,” he said. Spectrum officials explained the proposed rate increase was due to the advanced technology and staff changes played a role in the lack of communication. “The salesperson who previously spoke to you left the company, but we are here now committed to make this work,” Topor said. 

Any agreement between the town and Spectrum must be approved by voters. Selectmen cautioned Spectrum they would need a written proposal within 30 days to make the May town meeting warrant. If not, the next possible town meeting referendum would occur in June. 

On Jan. 14, Bryer reported Spectrum officials planned on sending a proposal “ASAP” and selectmen may review it later this month. 

Selectmen also acknowledged the recent death of planning board member Mike Leighton.

Selectmen meet next at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 26 in the municipal conference room.