Conceptual rendering of the Village Gateway Project. Gray residents will vote June 8 on whether the town should acquire a 7-acre parcel. Contributed / Town of Gray
Hamilton parcel acquisition and bond on June 8 ballot
Residents have an opportunity to bring the vision of the Comprehensive Plan to life by acquiring the 7-acre Hamilton parcel in the center of town under Article 10 on the election ballot June 8.
Some feel the Village Gateway Project at Main Street and Lewiston Road, opposite Colley Hill Road, could revitalize Gray by creating a livelier, attractive and safer village center for residents of all ages, along with economic and lifestyle benefits.
Gray residents may support the acquisition of the Hamilton parcel by voting to approve $50,000 in bonds for the purchase under Article 11.
On the ballot, Maurice Murray and Zhenya Shevchenko are running for one five-year term on the Gray Water District.
Residents will also vote on the SAD 15 school budget via referendum. See a sample ballot at graymaine.org under “Elections.”
Early in-person voting
Early in-person absentee voting for the June 8 election can be done in the town clerk’s office at Town Hall at Henry Pennell Municipal Complex, 24 Main St., during normal business hours (8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Thursday and 8:30 a.m. to noon Friday).
The last day to vote in-person via absentee ballot (with no reason) is Friday, June 4, until 5 p.m.
Ballots can be returned in the mail or dropped off in the ballot box near the front door of Town Hall. Ballots must be returned by 8 p.m. on election day.
The polls will be open for in-person voting from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Newbegin Gym, 20 Main St.
Updated COVID protocols
Residents and visitors are still required to wear a mask in indoor settings in town, including at the Transfer Station, regardless of vaccination status, according to the town’s revised COVID-19 protocols.
The policy is consistent with guidance from Maine Centers for Disease Control, which advises masks minimize the spread of the virus and protect unvaccinated people, including those who are at higher risk for severe illness. Masks are not required in outdoor settings where physical distancing is possible, including open spaces and ball fields.
According to the CDC, as of May 20, more than 2,000 people, or 25%, of residents in Gray have not yet been vaccinated.
For more information or to see the complete document, including town employee requirements, see graymaine.org or call 657-3339.
Maine Wildlife Park
Join the Friends of the Maine Wildlife Park, 56 Game Farm Road, at its annual plant sale from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, May 29, and Sunday, May 30. All proceeds help maintain and improve the animal exhibits and enclosures. Choose from flowers, vegetable seedlings and hanging baskets. Plants will be available for purchase in the parking lot so an admission fee is not required. Plan to pay with cash or check; credit cards will not be accepted.
Shut Up n’ Eat It, a local food truck, will be on site Friday, May 28, from 3:30-7:30 p.m. The park will close at 8 p.m. that day; no reservations will be required for the special extended holiday hours.
Legion elects officers
Congratulations to all the newly elected officers of American Legion Post 86, including new Commander Jeff Small, 1st Vice Commander Frank Russell, Adjutant Kelly Skehan, Post Service Officer Tommy Somerville, Chaplain Rev. Rick Lepage II and Sgt. At Arms Ken Small.
Blood drive
A blood drive will be held at American Legion Post 86 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, June, 5, at 15 Lewiston Road.
Marilyn Keating-Porcaro can be contacted at mkp657@aol.com.
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