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Hartford Constable Requests Beach Ordinances on Lake Anasagunticook

June 18, 2010 - HARTFORD -- Chuck Merritt, constable for the town, told the Board of Selectmen Thursday night that he can't give citations legally because the town has no ordinance against numerous problems he encounters while patrolling the town beach on Lake Anasagunticook.

Rowdy behavior, beach fires, foul language, drinking, littering and trespassing have all been reported, but Merritt says his job is hindered because he cannot write people up.

Town Clerk Lianne Bedard said that several people called the office concerned because Merritt was carrying a firearm at the Heritage Day Celebration. Bedard said that the town does not have insurance to allow Merritt to carry a gun.

Selectman Jack Plumley asked Bedard to find out what the insurance would cost because Merritt is often called out for beach disturbances in the middle of the night. "These are not just kids he has to deal with, but adults who could pose a threat. He needs to have a firearm," Plumley said.

Bedard also pointed out that Merritt, who had been a policeman in Massachusetts, had not attended the required training for carrying a weapon.

Plumley requested that the board ask the Ordinance Committee to prepare a beach ordinance.

Board Chairman Lee Holman pointed out that it would not be possible to get an ordinance prepared and town approved for this year. She said it could be put on the list to have the ordinance ready for the 2011 annual town meeting. It was voted to proceed with the request.

The board reviewed additions to a camp on Thurlow Road and a mobile home addition at 30 Bear Mountain Road. They reviewed a 28-by-40-foot cape to be built at 324 Mahoney Road.

After considerable discussion over the 50 or more excess recycling bins that the town has, it was voted to give one to each new resident as well as people who volunteer for committees.

Holman read a letter from Code Enforcement Officer Bill Kennedy requesting that the town consider saving money by not requiring him to attend all Planning Board meetings.

Plumley said that some people are afraid of coming before the Planning Board and the code enforcement officer is there to provide support. It was discussed that perhaps the code enforcement officer should only attend if asked by the Planning Board or an applicant. The issue was tabled until next meeting when the Kennedy will be asked to attend.

Plumley reported that there have been seven burglaries in the town over the last few weeks and cautioned residents to be wary of anyone knocking on their doors and asking directions. "Burglaries have even occurred when people were home asleep in their beds," Plumley said.

by Mary Standard, Lewiston Sun Journal, June 18, 2010

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