July 23, Southport selectmen received an email complaint about the swing bridge's operation from bright lights, loud and overly extending noises from horns, bells and whistles. In response to the email sent by a group of predominantly Southport residents and a few Boothbay Harbor ones, Chairman Gerry Gamage said: "The board meets every Wednesday at 5 p.m., and they could either just show up or make an appointment."

Aug. 20, 11 residents took the selectmen up on their offer, and showed up. This time, the group provided unofficial data recorded regarding the bridge's safety mechanism's operation. Thomas Yale acted as the group's spokesman and told selectmen how excessive noise and lights had diminished their quality of life. "The restored Southport Bridge has created significant noise, light and traffic disruptions for residents, exceeding reasonable standards and conflicting with state regulations," he said.

The group sought selectmen's assistance in bringing Maine Department of Transportation officials together with residents to discuss  possible solutions. Yale pointed out that MaineDOT modified the Barters Island bridge's operation after residents' complaints.

The group claims an adverse impact from bright lights and excessive noise prevents them from using their porches or outdoor space. Other problems include sleep disruption from loud, prolonged bells extending up to 2,000 feet away, traffic backed up .2 of a mile which blocks driveways, blinding pedestrian hazards from excessive lighting and property values and impact on wildlife. 

"We support bridge preservation, but request common-sense modifications to restore community quality of life. Simple adjustments can maintain safety while respecting residential neighbors who have lived harmoniously with bridge operations for decades," Yale said.

Selectman Smith Climo responded that there wasn't much town officials could do other than "rattle a few cages at DOT." 

The group provided several measures to reduce the noise and lighting problems. They requested MaineDOT reduce bell duration to a previous 15-second standard, lower volume significantly to previous levels and eliminate unnecessary chiming. Lighting suggestions included installing full-cutoff fixtures, reduction to a single red warning light and shield directional lights from homes.

The group previous contact with MaineDOT resulted in minimal success. "Initially, we were quietly working with them (MaineDOT), but everything stopped when the article (Boothbay Register July 25) came out. We haven't heard from them since," Debrah Yale said.   

Selectmen agreed with residents' complaints that the bridge safety mechanisms seemed "excessive" and agreed to broker a meeting with MaineDOT.  "We are on your side and will do what we can to help," Climo said.

Aug. 25, Gamage reported he had not contacted MaineDOT, but intends to.

In other action, Gamage shared Maine Municipal Association's insurance review of the fire station. Prior to the inspection, Gamage told the inspector, the  fire station had stored materials inside in anticipation of the Southport Fire Department Auction on Aug. 23.

Gamage said he believed at the time the inspector understood about the auction. "But his letter was totally contradictory to that, (the inspector) said the station didn't have enough clearance in general to walk around. One fire truck was outside, and another had stuff in front of it which I dispute. And fuel tanks (were) left out," Gamage said.

The letter continued with Gamage reading "Most likely a total loss if a fire broke out with concerns trucks couldn't get out in a timely manner."

Gamage proposed selectmen consider finding an alternative insurance company. Smith responded, "I love that idea."

Selectmen meet next at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 3 in the town hall.