Boothbay Harbor selectmen on Dec. 23 unanimously approved the town’s next finance officer. Selectmen also renewed a yearly lease with Atlantic Edge Lobster and appointed Town Manager Julia Latter to the Lincoln County Regional Planning Commission’s board.

Denise Griffin recused herself from the lease vote due to a possible conflict of interest.

A panel interviewed nine candidates for finance officer, said Latter, who had held the job. “We are thrilled to introduce you to Kathleen Pearce who I'm recommending to replace me … She comes to us with an abundance of experience from working previously at the superintendent's office and Hodgdon Yachts. I'm very confident she's the best fit ....”

Latter said Pearce will start Jan. 13. Pearce gave Alternative Organizational Structure (AOS) 98 four weeks’ notice, Latter said. Pearce will also serve as deputy tax collector, deputy treasurer and general assistance administrator. 

Selectmen voted 3-0 to renew a yearly lease with Atlantic Edge Lobster Inc. Denise Griffin recused herself due to a possible conflict of interest.

Latter said Baker Design Consultants will give a footbridge presentation at the next board meeting, Jan. 13. The firm’s owner, Barney Baker, will give a cost analysis on two design options the public gave feedback on in March.

The fire department was set to have its new fire truck Dec. 27 or 30, said Latter. The department is trading in the truck being replaced.

The port and budget committees still have openings, Latter said. Applications are available online or in the office. The first budget meeting was Dec. 11 and the next is at 4:30 p.m. Jan. 8 in the town office.

The town office will close at 12 p.m. Dec. 31 and resume regular hours Jan. 2.