Boothbay Region Development Corp. has another town supporting its initiative to create more affordable housing. On Oct. 31, Edgecomb selectmen agreed to join Boothbay, Boothbay Harbor and Southport in signing a letter of support. The BRDC wants municipal support in seeking grants for the public-private partnership. In her presentation, corporation Vice President Erin Cooperrider told selectmen the program has a  $5.2 million financial goal with “40% coming from grants and 60% in donations.” 

Cooperrider told selectmen the first unit wouldn’t be built for at least two years. She explained how the BRDC formed nearly two years ago with her, President Steve Malcom and Treasurer Susan Witt. Besides money, the project’s greatest obstacle was land, but that changed earlier this year. Cooperrider reported the corporation found a 35.8-acre site on Butler Road in Boothbay. “The property wasn’t on the market, but the owner supports the concept of affordable housing, and agreed to sell it,” she said.

The corporation requested $50,000 from Boothbay and Boothbay Harbor select boards and a letter of support. Boothbay agreed to contribute $50,000 from its American Rescue Plan Act funds. Boothbay Harbor officials told the corporation all of their ARPA money had been committed, but they may make a future contribution. BRDC didn’t ask either Southport or Edgecomb for money. Instead, all the corporation sought was a letter of support.

In other action, a good Samaritan is looking to make a donation to the town’s fuel fund. Board Chairman Dawn Murray reported she received a call from “someone who wished to remain anonymous” about the town’s fuel assistance program. “I told him general assistance had strict guidelines, but the Dodge Fund was created years ago for such contributions,” she said. Once a contribution is made, it is added to the Dodge Fund account. The program is funded through investment profits. “The goal is to keep things from being shut off,” Murray said. 

Selectmen will host another “Meet and Greet” from 9:30 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 19. The event is open to the public for planning Edgecomb’s 250th Anniversary celebration scheduled for 2024. 

Selectmen entered into an executive session to discuss a legal matter. Murray reported no action was taken following the session. Selectmen meet next at 6 p.m. Monday, Nov. 14 in the town hall.