Wiscasset selectmen William “Bill” Maloney and Alissa Eason volunteered Feb. 17 to serve on the working group crafting a request for proposals (RFP) on some high-interest, town-owned properties. 

Fellow selectmen took Maloney and Eason up on their offers.Town Manager Dennis Simmons had noted in his written report, the board last November paused accepting and discussing development proposals for the town’s properties at Mason Station and Old Ferry Road “until a comprehensive and transparent process is established for how proposals will be submitted, reviewed, and evaluated. (The) Board agreed to appoint two Selectboard members to work with staff in developing a formal RFP process for the solicitation and evaluation of potential development proposals. 

“With the Mason Station Redevelopment Company approaching the end of its due diligence period, it is important that we move forward in this process to avoid unnecessary delays in any potential development plans. In addition, multiple parties continue to express interest in the Old Ferry Road property, and staff is nearing completion of several required preliminary steps necessary to begin formally considering proposals for that parcel."

Simmons said the two selectmen will “work with staff to complete and bring forward a proposed RFP process for Board review and approval.”

Also Feb. 17, the board named David Gagnon to the waterfront committee; and nodded pursuit of a Community Development Block Grant toward rehabilitating two facades downtown, at 43-45 Water St., home to Jodie's Cafe and Bakery; and 80 Main St., the Rundlett Block, home to Treats. "The project focuses on correcting documented blighting conditions at two priority commercial buildings in the historic village center," Economic Development Director Aaron Chrostowsky's memo stated. Selectmen authorized Simmons to submit a letter of intent to the Maine Office of Community Development. If the town is then to invited to apply for the CDBG, the town would hold public hearings, work with property owners, and apply by the April 10 deadline, according to Chrostowsky's memo.

"That (grant) could be a huge help," Selectmen's Chair Sarah Whitfield said.

The board honored Friends of Wiscasset Public Library for the volunteer group's now 60 years of "steadfast ... support."

Whitfield read, “the Friends have played an essential role in enhancing library services through fundraising, advocacy, volunteerism and stewardship, helping ensure that the library remains a welcoming and vibrant center for learning, culture and community connection …”

Selectboard Vice Chair Pamela Dunning, the library’s longtime director, said she can attest to the Friends' great work. And Steve Whitfield, vice president of the library's board of trustees, said they "would also like to thank Friends for all the work that they've done over the years. Sometimes, it's those little things that so much improve the library, that otherwise we would not be able to do."

Selectmen’s resolution encouraged residents, businesses and community partners to take part in and promote the group’s events that will celebrate this anniversary year.