Wiscasset selectmen on June 1 passed a policy letting merchants seek annual licenses from the town clerk for sidewalk space and letting other applicants seek selectmen’s OK. In any conflicts for space, preference goes to the merchant, according to the policy in the meeting’s supporting documents.

Officials noted, unlike an ordinance, which takes town approval to change, the board can change the policy. “This is not perfect. But it’s certainly a good place for us to start,” Town Manager Dennis Simmons said of the policy.

The ordinance review committee drafted it. The policy covers sidewalks on the north side of Main Street from Water to Middle streets and on the south side of Main from Water “to the end of the widened sidewalk beyond Middle Street” in front of 106 Main St.

Selectmen’s vote came as part of the sidewalk on the Wawanock block remained indefinitely closed after bricks fell off a building. All the work done so far has been hazard mitigation, Simmons told selectmen in his written manager’s report. “I understand having a construction site on Main (Street) during the summer months will be an unpleasant (sight), but it is one we will be forced to live with.”

The board put John Rafter Jr. on the comprehensive plan committee; approved Barnhouse Grill for a special amusement permit for live music on the patio this summer; and approved Taste of Orient’s liquor license renewal 4-1, Jeff Slack dissenting. According to the meeting packet, the town has received food poisoning complaints. And during the meeting, Police Chief Larry Hesseltine cited complaints of overserving. “I will be working on that on our end to curb that,” Hesseltine told the board. 

Owner Cecilio Juntera said those who complained were trying to ruin his business.