In January, Lincoln County Sheriff's Department will expand its coverage in Boothbay Harbor from 20 hours per week to 40. On Dec. 17, county commissioners voted, 3-0, to extend the sheriff's department coverage beginning Jan. 23 until May 23 to coincide with two Boothbay Harbor police officers' attendance at Maine Criminal Justice Academy. 

"Boothbay Harbor is still down three officers, and asked us to continue with the coverage while two current officers take the mandatory 18-week course," Sheriff Todd Brackett told commissioners.

In other action, commissioners tentatively approved a contract between Sweetser, a Maine-based nonprofit providing behavioral health services, and the sheriff's department. 

On Dec. 3, the county received four bids for a behavioral health liaison. Three bids included a person with Mental Health Rehabilitation Training (MHRT). Sweetser was one of two Maine companies who submitted bids. Sweetser's $96,962 bid was the second lowest and was preferred by Brackett. "You might want Carrie (Kipfer, county administrator) to take a closer look at all bids, which I don't have a problem with," he said.  

In seeking a behavioral health liaison, the sheriff's department advertised for a 40-hour position in a yearlong pilot program. The specialist would assist law enforcement in dealing with mental health issues involved in the criminal justice system. 

Other bids included $113,000 by Volunteers of America in Brunswick. Lincoln Center of Audubon, Pennsylvania bid $90,000 and True Care of Lakeland, Florida's bid wasn't clear. "It was confusing, and I'm not sure they included a bid which is why I think Carrie needs to take a closer look," Brackett said. Commissioners accepted Sweetser's bid pending Kipfer's recommendation after she reviews all bids.

Commissioners approved $2,879 as the first payment in a five-year contract with Motorola Watchguard Car/Body Cam System. Over the five years, the county will pay $13,679 with $2,700 paid in years two through five. Brackett reported the subscription would record video from an officer's body cam to the vehicle.

Commissioners approved an animal control officer contract renewal with Whitefield. Chief Deputy Rand Maker expects the five remaining towns (Southport, Boothbay, Edgecomb, South Bristol and Monhegan Island) will submit their renewal requests in the coming weeks.

The sheriff's department will welcome back a former officer next month. Commissioners approved rehiring Patrol Sgt. Kevin Dennison who recently retired. After a month off the job, Dennison decided he wanted to return to his former position. Brackett reported Dennison would start his probationary period on Jan. 4.