Boothbay Harbor Select Board Vice Chair Tricia Warren told fellow selectmen Monday, she wants to start investigating short-term projects ahead of the budget season. Selectmen and planning board members have been discussing a new comprehensive plan and harbor master plan, but have noted the importance of attacking some issues sooner rather than later.

Warren asked the rest of the board to start by reviewing the 2015 comp plan for priorities. The board can start reviewing findings and brainstorming during regular meetings, she said. “It's really an opportunity for those who are new on the board to review it (and for) those of us who have been on the board for a while and haven't read it recently to rereview it and see if there's anything that shakes out in the end.”

Chair Mike Tomko said the planning board's Oct. 15 housing update from Lincoln County Planner Emily Rabbe yielded some ideas about short-term planning, namely housing. Selectman Ken Rayle said he has had the local economy, population and demographics on his mind and Warren said she has been thinking about transportation issues.

Town Manager Julia Latter said the town is still seeking nominations for the Boston Post Cane, an honor the now defunct newspaper started in 1909 for the eldest resident in 431 Maine towns. Said Latter, “The holder of the cane must be the oldest known resident and must reside in the town of Boothbay Harbor for a minimum of five years.”

Applications are available in the town office and on the town's website and Facebook page. Nominations must be submitted to the town clerk by Nov. 5.

Public Works Foreman Nick Upham and Latter interviewed an applicant for the heavy equipment operator job which has been advertised for several weeks. Latter said she and Upham were impressed with the candidate and offered him a conditional hire Oct. 25 pending drug testing and a physical. The candidate will need to give notice to his current employer should he accept the offer, so once he accepts the offer, the board will be forwarded his name, Latter said.

After assessing the costs of closing the public restrooms from Oct. 11 until Boothbay Lights, Latter said she decided to keep them open through the end of Gardens Aglow in January.