Wiscasset's commercial floats are in tough shape and Town Manager Dennis Simmons is doing something about it. Citing an exception to the town's purchasing policy, he has given Public Works Director Ted Snowdon the nod to go with Ocean's Edge Marine, the contractor that recently installed the town's new boat launch floats.  

"The commercial floats are in very poor condition and have generated numerous complaints. Because their continued deterioration presents a potential safety hazard and could interfere with the efficient operation of the commercial pier, replacing them as soon as possible is a priority," Simmons tells selectmen in his manager's report released ahead of the board's Tuesday, Aug. 4 meeting.

"Ted has contacted several companies that manufacture commercial floats. Most indicated that they could not complete the work until December or later." Ocean's Edge Marine said it could have most done within about 45 days, Simmons said. "However, the Town needed to commit promptly because the company was filling its remaining production schedule."

He said the purchasing policy allows skipping the bidding process "when public health or safety may be compromised or when significant disruption of Town operations may be prevented. Given the condition of the floats, the safety concerns, the limited availability of qualified manufacturers, and the importance of keeping the commercial pier functioning efficiently, I determined that delaying the project for a formal bid process would not be in the Town's best interest."

Acting as the town's purchasing agent, he authorized Snowdon to proceed with Ocean's Edge Marine.

Selectmen Aug. 4 were set to consider Androscoggin Bank's lease-purchase offer for a 2026 Ford Explorer police cruiser Simmons said is an addition, not a replacement. This will spread mileage and wear across more vehicles, to help them last longer, according to Simmons' report. The lease is in the budget voters approved, Simmons said.

Androscoggin Bank's proposal, dated July 21, lists a three-year term at $16,105 a year and the option to then buy the vehicle for a dollar.

The board meets at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 4 at the town office. Find the Zoom link at wiscasset.gov