FREEPORT — The Town Council Tuesday night authorized Town Manager Dale Olmstead to negotiate terms for consolidation of dispatch services with both Cumberland County and the Brunswick Police Department.
The council voted 6-1, with Councilor Eric Pandora opposed.
Council Chairman Bill Muldoon said Olmstead will go to both agencies and determine which services are available at what cost for both scenarios.
“We heard loud and clear that the decision will be based on delivery of service,” he said. “There are no decisions made at this point, just information gathering.”
Councilor Sara Gideon also said the decision to have Olmstead negotiate is not a final decision to consolidate dispatch services.
“This is not just about numbers,” she said. “Service to our residents is the primary consideration.”
Muldoon said he expects Olmstead to report back to the council within a few weeks. At that time, he said, there should be a proposal in hand.
In other business, the council voted 5-2 to once more authorize Olmstead to look into a fee structure for farmers participating in the Freeport Farmers Market.
According to Gideon, the council requested four spots be made available for farmers from Freeport to participate in the market if they chose. And, she said, Olmstead will look into a fee structure similar to what is in place in Portland and Brunswick.
Councilors Muldoon and Charlotte Bishop voted against pursuing a fee structure.
The council also found consensus on authorizing the use of town-owned property for the extension of School Street.
In addition, Muldoon said the council agreed to accept the road once it is complete, on the condition there would be a sidewalk placed on both sides of the street, not just one.
“We are working to create a new neighborhood with increased walking and biking,” he said. “We feel it is important to create safety and a sidewalk is necessary.”
The next council meeting will be Tuesday, March 23 at 7 p.m. at Town Hall.
Amy Anderson can be reached at781-3661 ext. 110 or aanderson@theforecaster.net
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