Two companies, Rice Tree Service and Webster Tree Service, have been awarded a joint contract to remove dead trees from cemeteries in Paris, Maine. The decision to split the contract between the two companies was made by the Select Board, with Chairman Christopher Summers stating that it will save the town approximately $10,000.
Under the agreement, Rice Tree Service will be responsible for removing two trees from Streaked Mountain Cemetery and three trees from Daniels Cemetery. However, arborist Sheldon Rice from Rice Tree Service has highlighted the need to coordinate with Central Maine Power for the safe removal of the trees at the Daniels site due to the presence of wires. This may require a protective cover or a temporary power outage.
On the other hand, Webster Tree Service will handle the tree removal in the remaining town cemeteries, except for Fairview Cemetery on East Oxford Road. It was determined that an oak tree planned for removal at Fairview is not actually dead, as initially believed, so further assessment will be conducted next year to determine its fate. Webster Tree Service will need to rent a crane to complete their work.
In addition to the tree removal contract, the Paris Select Board also approved a code of conduct for visitors to the Town Office. This decision follows a series of incidents involving tirades and bullying directed at town office staff. The new policy prohibits threatening and abusive behavior as well as the use of profanity. Individuals who do not adhere to the policy will be asked to leave and will need to make an appointment to return.
Other updates from the meeting include the announcement of the town’s mil rate for the upcoming year, set at $16.10 per $1,000 of valuation. This represents an increase of $1.25 compared to the previous mil rate. Tax bills were also to be mailed out on the same day as the meeting.
Furthermore, the Town Office will be closed on Friday for a verbal judo workshop taking place at the fire station. The workshop aims to teach non-confrontational techniques for keeping people calm and deescalating tense situations.
Lastly, the town’s annual Founders Day celebration is scheduled for Saturday on Paris Hill. The event will include a tour of Bob Bahre’s antique and classic car collection, which is housed at the birthplace of Hannibal Hamlin, Abraham Lincoln’s Vice President during the Civil War. The collection, featuring over 50 cars, is open to the public for one day only. Admission costs $10 per person and $2 for children under 12, with proceeds benefiting the Hamlin Memorial Library and Museum.
