Council offers support

By Elna Seabrooks
Staff Writer
    HOULTON — In an ironic twist of fate Monday evening, the Houlton Town Council unanimously approved the renewal of a liquor license for the Elm Tree Diner in the event that Gary Dwyer rebuilds the popular eatery that several councilors termed “a landmark.” (See related story.)
    The Sunday night fire destroyed the restaurant that Councilor Paul Romanelli said “will be missed and is a major loss to the town.” Councilor Sue Tortello said: “I can’t imagine Houlton without the Elm Tree Diner. And, I hope every effort will be made to connect employees with services they need to get back on their feet again.”
    Town Manager Doug Hazlett said he hoped that Dwyer would rebuild and reapply for the liquor license. “The town will certainly do everything in its power to work with him and assist him in the process of rebuilding.” Chairman Paul Cleary termed it a “sad day.”
    The brief meeting Monday set Tuesday, Oct. 13 for the public hearing on a lease with Aroostook Renewable Energy for property at Houlton International Airport and for a lease with Terrance Beals for property, also at the airport.
    Before the councilors went into executive session with Hazlett, Cleary said more than 850 people attended the Houlton Fair’s Motor Sports Weekend and Rock Dox concert with no problems.
    Cleary acknowledged the support of Bernie Reece, head of the Houlton Rec Department, Mike Prosser of the Public Works Department, several volunteers, the Houlton Fire Department, and the Houlton Police Department.
    Sue Tortello reminded viewers watching the broadcast that Thursday marked the beginning of Domestic Violence Awareness Month with a vigil and walk — rain or shine — starting at 6 p.m. in Monument Park.
    Due to the Columbus Day holiday, the next meeting of the council is slated for Tuesday, Oct. 13 at 6:30 p.m. at the Town Office, 21 Water Street.