A potential change in Wiscasset Water District’s charter may allow for expansion into Edgecomb. Selectmen Mike Smith and Ted Hugger gave “two thumbs up” April 4 in responding to a water district query about the town’s possible future inclusion. Superintendent Chris Cossette sent an email seeking Edgecomb selectmen’s input about including charter language allowing Edgecomb’s incorporation into the district.

A second potential charter change could also impact both Edgecomb and Wiscasset residents. In his email, Cossette wrote: “The town of Wiscasset is asking to amend our charter to provide sewer services. This language does not mandate this service, rather, it provides Wiscasset with a host of options currently unavailable. Should the Edgecomb select board desire the same enabling language, we can include that within this current legislative charter change.”

On April 7, Cossette told the Boothbay Register a bill would likely be submitted during the current legislative session. “We are currently working on the language and seeking a potential sponsor,” he said. If the charter is changed expanding the district and adding sewer services, it would require local voter approval.

Hugger said the language inclusion was a “no-brainer.” Smith agreed. “It doesn’t lock us into anything. It only provides us the opportunity to join at a future time,” he said.

In other action, Town Clerk Claudia Coffin reported absentee ballots are available for the April 15 special town referendum. The ballot has three main questions. There are two special elections for selectmen. One is between Lynn Norgang and Craig Urwin vying to fill Hugger’s two-year unexpired term. Frances Mague is the only candidate seeking Dawn Murray’s unexpired term which ends in May. 

A public hearing was held following the selectmen’s meeting. The special referendum includes an additional article seeking authorization to expend funds designated at last year’s town meeting. Town officials discovered last year’s poorly worded article did not allow for expending funds for technological equipment earmarked for the harbor master. Harbor Master Terry Stockwell said it would assist him in cataloging mooring locations and other job-related functions.

Selectmen elevated planning board alternate Phillip Haas to a full member. He succeeds former chairman Barry Hathorne who submitted his resignation last month.

Selectmen meet next at 6 p.m. Tuesday, April 18 in the meeting room.