It doesn’t happen often, but the Lincoln County commissioners had a special guest attend their Aug. 18 meeting. Andre Cushing, the president of the Maine County Commissioners Association, visited to update commissioners on the upcoming state convention.

Cushing is a former state senator from Newport and is one of the three Penobscot County commissioners. Cushing sought input from Lincoln County commissioners about topics for the Sept. 22-25 convention at Sundary River Resort in Newry.

In other action, Sheriff Todd Brackett introduced Holly Harris as the department’s new records and training manager. Harris previously worked for Cheney Insurance as a vice-president and agent. She worked at Cheney for 12 years. Harris also worked for the Maine State Prison and has a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. As a college student, she interned at Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office. “So, I guess I’ve come full circle in my career,” she said.

The Communications Center has a new dispatch supervisor. Michael Johnson, who previously worked as a part-time dispatcher, was promoted to supervisor. Communications Director Tara Doe said Johnson previously worked full-time for the department. “He has military service, worked as an air traffic controller, reserve police officer and as an EMT (emergency medical technician). He is a wonderful addition,” she said.

Doe also reported reserve telecommunicator Sabrina Poulin submitted her resignation. Doe said Poulin recently became a registered nurse and found full-time employment in that field.

The district attorney’s office reported a resignation. Ronda Randall submitted her resignation as a witness victim’s advocate. County Administrator Carrie Kipfer said Randall’s last day would be Aug. 24.

Commissioners approved Lincoln County Regional Planning Commission to seek a Maine Office of Community Affairs Housing Opportunity Service Provider grant. Executive Director Emily Rabbe told commissioners the state is allocating up to $1 million for grants statewide with the minimum awards at $50,000.

If Lincoln County receives a grant, Rabbe said the county would hire a consultant for creating a data base coordinating data for identifying potential housing project developments. The grant deadline is Aug. 28.

Commissioners meet next at 9 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 1 in the courthouse.