If anyone is looking for a used sailboat, they should contact the Edgecomb Board of Selectmen. On May 27, Harbor Master Terry Stockwell reported the discovery of an abandoned sailboat in the Sheepscot River near Fort Edgecomb. An investigation ensued to determine ownership. Stockwell discovered the owner was a Wiscasset man who had recently died. 

Stockwell told selectmen he contacted the wife who had no interest in retaining ownership. So this left Stockwell with the challenge of disposing of the abandoned boat. He reported local residents had tied the sailboat to a nearby mooring resulting in protests from the owner, town of Wiscasset.

"I'm seeking legal advice on handling abandoned property. There is no (boat) paperwork and I'm asking if we can auction it off," he said.

Selectmen decided on seeking legal advice prior to making any decision. Stockwell reported the sailboat is a Cape Dory 25.  

In other business, selectmen tabled a liquor license renewal request from Glidden Point Oyster Farms. Code Enforcement Officer Marian Anderson told selectmen the establishment is not licensed to operate a restaurant, but the farm stand serves food. Selectmen added, Glidden requested to serve spirits (distilled liquors).

Glidden Point has submitted a planning board application to operate a restaurant. During a recent planning board meeting, the planning board advised Glidden Point officials about their application. 

As the conversation continued, former CEO and currernt Selectman George Chase reported the farm had a sauna in the shoreland zone which is not allowed. Selectmen decided to allow Glidden Point to work through its planning board application before they approve the license.  

Anderson received selectmen's approval to proceed with the next step in dealing with Pioneer Motel. In April 2024, a Maine Department of Health and Human Services inspection identified three critical and 11 non-critical violations of Maine Rules Relating to Lodging Establishments.

Violations included rodent infestation, lack of adequate cleaning, no commercial laundry facility, improper linen storage, missing smoke/carbon monoxide detectors, improper extension cord use, no material safety data sheets for on-site chemicals in use, loose and rotten handrails, and equipment and facilities needing maintenance, repair, or replacement. 

Following the report, Pioneer Motel surrendered its licensing resulting in a reclassification. The business is no longer a motel, under state supervision. The new classification is rental rooms, under municipal supervision.

"I'm hoping to resolve this amicably," Anderson said. "If you have driven by you've seen the campers and more activity beyond the structure. If they continue to operate they need to come in for a change of use." Anderson also listed concerns about the heating and septic systems. 

Selectmen welcomed new member Forrest Carver, who was elected May 17. The new board re-nominated Maxim as chairman. Carver had previously served as town constable. He has resigned from the position and selectmen will likely nominate a replacement in June.

Selectmen unanimously approved a liquor license renewal for The Water's Edge. 

Selectmen meet next at 6 p.m. Tuesday, June 2 in the conference room.