Gov. Janet Mills’ coronavirus emergency declaration last year let elected bodies hold remote meetings in an attempt to stop the deadly virus’ spread. When the Maine Legislature returned to in-person session, the body approved a new law this spring allowing elected bodies to hold emergency remote meetings. On Nov. 2, Lincoln County commissioners unanimously approved an emergency remote meeting policy following a public hearing.

County Administrator Carrie Kipfer drafted the new policy based on Maine Municipal Association-suggested language and other elected bodies’ approved policies. Commissioners may now participate in meetings if they physically can’t attend. The policy lists several conditions which constitute an emergency or urgent issue requiring remote participation. These include illness, physical condition, family emergency, a board member temporarily absent within county boundaries or a temporary absence which causes significant difficulty traveling to the meeting’s location, and providing reasonable accommodation to a member wth a disability.

Under the policy, the absent commissioner could call or use teleconferencing to participate. Kipfer told commissioners telephone would be the primary mode because the county courthouse isn’t equipped for teleconferencing.  The chairman, in consultation with the county administrator, will make a determination that a remote participation method is necessary. The policy requires a commissioner to notify the chairman or county administrator “as far in advance as possible.”

Kipfer said text messages or emails were prohibited means of communication and a roll call must be used in all votes. 

In other action, commissioners unanimously approved office supervisor Mandy Charlton’s recommendation for a new Lincoln County District Attorney office paralegal. She recommended Becky Nelson of Newcastle who recently moved to Lincoln County from California. Nelson has previous experience working in California law offices, according to Kipfer. 

Commissioners also approved facility infrastructure improvements. They authorized a new heat pump for the courthouse and a new boiler for the Lincoln County Regional Planning Office. Commissioners approved buying an $8,500 heat pump from Heat Pumps of Maine in Damariscotta. The new one replaces a dual-air conditioner used in the courthouse’s multipurpose room and probate office. The new boiler for the LCRPC building is being bought for $9,124 from Midcoast Energy of Damariscotta.

Commissioners authorized paying a purchase order for Lincoln County Recyling’s broken baler. Fitch Company of Bangor performed the mechanical repairs which included installing a new magnetic rod. Repair costs were $7,061.37.

Commissioners ended the meeting with two executive sessions. One regarded a personnel issue; the other, a legal matter. Commissioners meet next at 9 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 16 in the courthouse.