Edgecomb selectmen directed the town’s code enforcement and health officer to investigate a sanitation complaint regarding a McKay Road residence. Matthew Schmal attended the June 19 board meeting to complain about an “ongoing” problem he’s had with a neighbor. Schmal reported he’s seen three rats on his property in the past year and blames  a growing pile of trash at his neighbor’s property.

Schmal said he contacted a local trash collector who reported the company hasn’t picked up any trash from the property in over a year. Schmal believes as summer begins, the smell will only get worse.

“All I can smell is trash and it’s a problem that’s been going on for years. It’s barbecue season and I think it’s about time something is done about this.”

According to Schmal, the neighboring property has had other problems with trash disposal over the years. Schmal said his neighbors are renting from a man he identified as Richard Blake.

“This has been going on for over 10 years. Once there were over 60 full trash bags in a boat and they caught fire. The health officer inspected the house but nothing ever came of it. Why isn’t he doing his job,” Schmal said.

Selectmen directed Code Enforcement Officer Stan Waltz and Health Officer Roy Potter to visit the property. Waltz will also draft a letter to the land owner indicating any possible concerns about the property’s sanitary and health conditions.

In other action, selectmen directed Waltz to assist a River Road couple in getting their mail. Mark Babineau and his fiancee have lived at their address for over a year, but can’t get mail. Babineau and a former owner share the same address.

The couple purchased four of the 10 acres owned by the previous owner. Babineau said the previous owner plans to build on the remaining six acres and the two share the same mailing address.

Babineau requested Waltz make the long driveway off River Road they live on Enhanced 9-1-1 compliant by giving them their own address. Waltz believed that had already been done. But he will work with the local post master to rectify the problem.

Selectmen also want Waltz to enforce the local sign ordinance on U.S. Route 1. Selectman Mike Smith received complaints from members of the comprehensive planning committee stating the large inflated gorilla outside Pyro City is a violation.

The selectmen will meet next at 6 p.m. on Monday, June 26 to set the town’s tax commitment for the next fiscal year.