In an effort to “improve communications,” Wiscasset selectmen will meet with fire department officers.

Selectman Judy Flanagan suggested the meeting, saying she was concerned about the “rift between the fire department and the board.”

Selectmen Jeff Slack and Ben Rines were clearly surprised by Flanagan’s request. Both Rines and Slack have previously meet or spoken to firemen. Rines recently attended a firefighters meeting.

“What will be the topic of conservation,” Slack asked, adding, “It’s just about one issue, the washing of their vehicles at the fire house.”

Several months ago, selectmen voted 3-2, Rines and Slack dissenting, to bar firefighters from washing their personal vehicles at the firehouse. Some firefighters also objected to a decision by the town office requiring them to receive their stipend through direct deposit.

Selectman David Cherry said the meeting would reduce tension.

A difference of opinion again arose on the issue of firefighters washing their vehicles at the firehouse. Firemen are considering circulating a petition to bring their argument directly to the townspeople by calling for a special town meeting.

Chairman Judy Colby said she hoped they could avoid a town meeting. Colby and the town manager recently met with firefighters.

Cherry pointed out if firefighters get a majority town meeting vote it won’t change the liability issue. “The opinion from Maine Municipal Association has made it very clear,” he said.

“Just talking for the sake of talking doesn’t do anything,” Rines commented. “The votes on this board are not going to change. If we’re not willing to move at all then it’s a waste of time.”

“I feel there are more issues to talk about than washing cars and direct deposit,” Flanagan responded.

“What do you want to do,” Slack asked.

“I want to listen to them,” Flanagan replied. “I want to sit down with their officers not as an individual but as a board.”

Colby said the problem didn’t originate with the current board of selectmen. “It started by not following policy. We have policies in place for a reason. I’d like to sit down and hear their concerns and I’m sure they have more on their minds than washing their cars and direct deposit.”

Rines said the policy was enacted in 2002. “This town manager interpreted the policy differently and so here we are,” he said. “I think we’re going into this meeting with nothing to say.”

After 30 minutes of discussion, the board agreed to have the town manager arrange the meeting. No vote was taken and no date was set.