An officer with four years’ experience and specializing in field training is the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office’s Deputy of the Year. Sheriff Todd Brackett announced Jonathan Colby as the selection during the April 21 county commissioners’ meeting. A committee made up of Brackett, Chief Deputy Rand Maker and two division commanders selected Colby. The committee reviews deputies’ overall job performance, professionalism and dedication to the job in selecting Deputy of the Year. Brackett described Colby’s performance as field training officer as standing out among his peers. 

“This is the toughest award we make,” Brackett said. “Jonathan just really stood out. We are blessed in having a good, solid staff, but Jonathan really stood out in the area. His commitment ensures new hires are properly trained in local aspects of the job.”

Brackett made a second announcement. The department is seeking a U.S. Department of Justice Coronavirus Supplement Grant. Brackett described the grant as similar to the DOJ’s Burn-Formula Grant which allots funds based upon a department’s uniform crime report. The Sheriff’s Office is seeking a $34,656 grant. “I think it will be treated a lot like the Burn grant in that most departments qualify,” Brackett said. “We’ve already spent $3,000 to $5,000 on COVID-19 related costs such as overtime, equipment and personal protective gear. These funds would help in responding to more instances.”

County Emergency Management Agency Director Casey Stevens updated commissioners on local coronavirus reports. Stevens reported Lincoln County currently had 12 positive cases with eight recovering and no deaths. The county EMA is continuing coordination with Maine Emergency Management Agency, Center of Disease Control, and agencies throughout Lincoln County. Lincoln County EMA is also coordinating personal protective equipment resources. “Thankfully, we have had a number of donations which has allowed us to temporarily supply agencies that are in dire need while they wait for deliveries from Maine CDC,” Stevens said. 

“I believe this is a reflection of how the communities, individuals and organizations in Lincoln County are doing their part to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19. Our health and safety is the top priority. It's important that we continue to follow the guidance from Maine CDC,” Stevens said. 

Stevens also reported local efforts to combat the coronavirus are being assisted by two Damariscotta businesses. He told commissioners Main Street Grocery and Rising Tide Co-op are delivering groceries to prevent further human contact in spreading the virus. Lincoln County Regional Planning Commission is also working on food resource distribution. Stevens reported since March the LCRPC has coordinated volunteers assisting Main Street Grocery and Rising Tide Co-op in shopping and delivering groceries. “Currently, the need has been met and there is a nice roster of volunteers to contact if more help is needed,” Stevens said. 

Commissioners are scheduled to meet next at 9 a.m. Tuesday, May 4.