Since Maine is reopening its economy, Boothbay Harbor should reach out to residents, taxpayers and businesses on what the town expects for public safety, Selectman Wendy Wolf said June 8. Wolf said communicating is important “based on both state and federal guidance to prevent the spread of COVID-19.”

The four core practices will still be hand washing, distancing of six feet, face coverings, and quarantining at home when exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19.

Said Wolf, “A face covering is really an essential thing to do to protect our neighbors and the people in our community … I really want to emphasize wearing a mask is not a political statement … The mask is a way to protect other people and frankly wearing a mask is a sign that you are trying to care for your neighbors and other people in the community by preventing the spread of your respiratory droplets when you're out in public.”

The state is making businesses post signs requiring customers to wear face coverings, and businesses have the authority to deny entry to anyone who is not, Wolf noted.

The board unanimously approved a letter to the public outlining the guidelines.

The board also approved three-year appointments to Bill Hamblen for planning board, Lee Corbin for planning board alternate, Peggy Splaine and Leslie Bird for budget committee, Fred Farnham for port committee, and Merritt Blakeslee for board of appeals.

The board unanimously agreed to fees Town Manager Julia Latter announced for 2020-21. Winter docking fees will return to $10 from the current $15; tickets for parking on sidewalks or in crosswalks will increase from $25 to $50; and fees for variance applications will increase from $50 to $100. 

Selectmen approved a purchase order of $28,362.22 to Baker Design Consultants for work on the footbridge and Fish Pier and $5,250 to Boothbay for Boothbay Harbor's share of hiring Casco Bay Advisors for a broadband inventory.

Vehicle registrations are now due since the public has access to the town office by appointment, Latter said. Towns without access to their town offices have until July 15.

Elections are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (corrected from earlier posting) June 19 and the town meeting is at 9 a.m. June 20. Latter said town reports should arrive by the week of June 15, and will be at the town office and post office for residents to pick up.

Chair Mike Tomko announced, due to a new law, Boothbay Region TV – Channel 1301 – will be going back to Channel 7. “It will also still be available on 1301 and will be coming to you in high definition.”