Three candidates are competing for two seats on the Old Orchard Beach Town Council on Nov. 3.

Incumbents Joseph Thornton and Jay Kelley are seeking two-year terms and face a challenge from John Bird, who is active on town committees.

Kelley, 63, is the director of operations for Regional School Unit 23. He said his priorities are hiring a new public works director, upgrading the public works facility and exploring the possibility of opening a recreation center for children and adults.

“I would like to return to the council so we can continue the work we have started and to move OOB forward in a positive and fiscally sound manner,” he said. “This council works well together and I would love to see that continue.”

Thornton, 31, has served on the council since 2013 and has been vice-chairman since November 2014. If re-elected, he said, he wants to ensure the new comprehensive plan is adopted and put to immediate use, address infrastructure needs and focus on fiscal responsibility to ensure Old Orchard Beach remains affordable.

“I have worked in municipal government for 15 years in public safety. Combining that experience and my education … and government continuity, I wish to continue to bring honest, open and fair leadership to Old Orchard Beach along with fresh, new and effective thinking,” he said.

Bird, who frequently speaks at council meetings, serves on the Conservation Commission and Comprehensive Plan Committee. He didn’t respond to requests for more information.

Old Orchard Beach voters also will decide whether or not to borrow $857,000 to pay for wastewater treatment facility improvements.

 

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