In June, the town of Southport will support “Pride” month with a proclamation. acknowledging “the inherent dignity and equality of all individuals regardless of gender, identity or expression.” Selectmen voted, 3-0, last month to endorse a proclamation recognizing June as “Pride Month,” fly the Pride flag in June, and paint a crosswalk in the rainbow pattern.

On Feb. 28, selectmen received a dissenting view from a couple residents. Ray and Amy Bateman sent correspondence to selectmen opposing their decision. “It was short and sweet saying they didn’t think the town should’ve done that,” Selectman Gerry Gamage said.

In other action, Efficiency Maine notified town officials the state received incentive funds for heat pump installation. Southport installed heat pumps at the public works garage at a $25,000 cost. The town is receiving an $11,000 rebate from Efficiency Maine.

The state is promoting February as “Browntail Moth Awareness Month” and wants towns to take action. State officials sent selectmen correspondence describing the invasive insect as a problem. “Browntail Moth caterpillars have been an ongoing nuisance in Maine causing tree defoliation and rashes in humans. Reduce your chances of encountering this pest by learning how to recognize and remove their winter webs from your trees this month,” read the state correspondence.

Selectmen also received a breakdown of the 2024 $13.743 million Lincoln County budget which reflects an 8.99% increase. “They just sent it so we could see where the spending went up or down. There is nothing we can do about it,” said Gamage.

Southport has its annual town meeting at 7:30 p.m. Monday, March 4 in the town hall. The board meets next at 5 p.m. Wednesday, March 6 in the municipal building.