Wiscasset selectmen voted 5-0 April 7 to place on the June 9 ballot, and recommend voters pass, a proposed zero-interest, $793,311 loan for school security improvements, through Maine's School Revolving Renovation Fund program. On a question from resident Ed Polewarczyk, Town Manager Dennis Simmons explained the payments would start in fiscal year 2027-28 as part of the school budget, and the town would take out the loan because the school department does not have that authority. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kim Andersson added, 35%, or $277,183, of the loan does not have to be paid back, “which is like a grant.”

The applications to SRRF sought “a secure main entry vestibule” for Wiscasset Elementary School and an updated and extended one at Wiscasset Middle High School.

Of the 35 proposals statewide that prevailed over 54 other eligible ones, the security work at WES and WMHS came in sixth and seventh, according to Wiscasset Newspaper files. Andersson said at the time, she wasn't surprised, because both projects are desperately needed. 

Also April 7, the selectboard nodded the June 9 annual town meeting warrant, with the proposed town budget town officials said totals $15,761,118; and nodded April 29 as the date for the special town meeting on the school budget. The budget that results goes on to a vote at the polls June 9. The special town meeting at WMHS starts at 6 p.m. 

The board nodded renewal of an adult use cannabis establishment license for JAR Cannabis, 564 Bath Road. And selectmen took another step in the town's pursuit of Community Development Block Grant funds to address blight on the facades of 43-45 Water St. and 80 Main St. The board agreed to have Simmons apply for funding and have Chair Sarah Whitfield sign a letter of support. Simmons noted in his manager's report, the board on Feb. 17 nodded submitting a letter of intent. "The Office of Community Development has reviewed the letter and invited a full application," Simmons wrote.