Town Council meets

 By Elna Seabrooks
Staff Writer
    HOULTON — When the Houlton Town Council met Monday evening, it expressed appreciation to Detective Carolyn Crandall, Sgt. Eric Crouse and Officer Jared Sylvia for their professionalism leading to the arrest of two individuals after evidence gathering and crime-scene processing in connection with the break-in and robbery last November at Andy’s IGA. They will receive the proclamation that was read regarding their “dedication and work on the case.”
    Sue Tortello spoke highly of the first Citizens’ Police Academy which she said was well attended, adding that it could be a vehicle to help improve community relations with the police department.
    In response to Ben Drew’s public comments on investing more into recreation for the town, councilors basically agreed that it would be a benefit, but would require a major infusion of cash through philanthropy or borrowed money, probably requiring a tax hike. Raising the mill rate would then fall heavily on homeowners due to the limited business tax base.  
    Councilors discussed the pros and cons of airing public comments on television and will take the subject up at the next meeting on April 27. And, they also discussed a movement in the legislature to use federal stimulus money to extend I-95 with its possible damaging effects on the Houlton economy.
    Town Manager Doug Hazlett said the initial presentation on the energy audit indicated “the potential for savings on energy is phenomenal.”
    The council also voted unanimously on the following: the Roads 2000 account will not be funded by 1 mill in 2009 but will revert back to 1 mill for the future; Police Chief Butch Asselin is authorized to apply for a grant from the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program to upgrade various supplies and equipment; the town manager is authorized to apply for a grant on behalf of the Houlton Band of Maliseets. Sue Tortello abstained on the latter grant application due to her employment by the Maliseets.     Neither of the grant applications requires matching town funds. The council also accepted a $2,250 grant from the department of Inland Fisheries for ATV patrols. It does not require matching town money.
    The Shiretown Development Corporation held its annual meeting Monday evening to elect officers. The voting was: Walter Goodrich — president, Sue Tortello — vice president, Nancy Ketch — treasurer, Severson, Hand & Nelson — clerk. Prior to going into executive session on economic development issues, the group discussed the collapse of the Houlton International Building and officers said they anticipate the balance of  the insurance settlement.
    At their April 7 meeting, the Houlton Planning Board reviewed building permits including the one in process for the Houlton Regional Hospital renovations. The board will send its recommendations on the Shoreland Zoning Ordinance to the town council. With no negative impacts on neighboring properties, or safety issues, it reviewed and approved a variance application for Aroostook Print Shop and it also approved an application for a new illuminated sign for Traction. The next planning board meeting is scheduled for April 21.