At its first ever Zoom meeting, Dresden selectmen on March 31 refined the town’s protocol in light of the enhanced state measures on public and social meetings effective April 2. The press and a few townspeople joined in online to watch and listen as selectmen sat six feet apart at Pownalborough Hall.

The board moved the election for first selectman from April 7 until the annual town meeting on Tuesday, June 9. The four candidates will remain on the ballot.

Third Selectman Allan Moeller said the virus situation would also create problems for collecting signatures on nomination papers for candidates for the third selectman’s seat. The board agreed to begin the collection of signatures on Friday, May 1 to be turned in by Tuesday, May 12. 

“They will have to back off six feet to sign the papers,” said Town Administrator Michael Henderson. “We may have to move town meeting,” he added.

They agreed to furlough Town Clerk Hannah Kutschinski so as to maintain minimal staffing at the town office.

“She can collect unemployment,” said Moeller.

First Selectman Trudy Foss said the public can re-register vehicles online. “That has been extended, anyway, “ she added.

The board agreed to meet Thursday, April 2 to review the annual budget. The selectmen will hold an emergency meeting following to approve the budget. Selectmen will meet separately at the town office on Tuesday, April 14 to sign the warrant. “We still have to pay out the money,” said Henderson.

The board voted to close the transfer station until further notice on Sundays, leaving it open on Thursdays and Saturdays. Foss displayed a bicentennial flag State Rep. Allison Hepler, D – Woolwich, donated to the town.