MEXICO – Selectmen on Wednesday night supported the idea of having a suggested weight limit sign posted at the Veterans Bridge in Mexico and the Morse Bridge in Rumford.
Rumford Selectman Jim Peterson attended the meeting to find out if Mexico would support the idea.
The two towns are at odds over creating a truck bypass on Route 2 in Rumford that would bypass Mexico’s downtown business district. Rumford backs the idea for safety reasons, and Mexico opposes it for economic reasons.
Mexico Selectman Monique Aniel favored the weight limit idea, and suggested discussing this with the trucking industry.
Road Commissioner David Errington said the signs should be orange, indicating the limit was a suggestion, not a law.
Selectman Barbara Laramee questioned if delivery trucks would be included.
Town Manager Joseph Derouche said that would not be a problem.
When asked what Rumford’s next step would be, Peterson said selectmen would like to meet with the Department of Transportation and with representatives from Rumford and Mexico boards.
In other news, Derouche reported the latest state valuation for the town is $80,756,000.
A request from the owner of LaBella Bellezza for a crosswalk between Dick’s restaurant and LaBella Bellezza cited dangerous conditions in the street. Board Chairman Arthur Bordeau motioned for the road commissioner to check with the state on having crosswalks at driveways.
The board approved having Derouche look for additional downtown parking.
The problem of police shortage was discussed, but no action was recommended.
Derouche said the recreation board is close to bringing a full proposal to the board to accept the Wellness Program.
The board held discussion on the River Valley Technology Center liability. It was voted to meet with the center board for more clarification and concerns.
Derouche said the area had lost 200 jobs and really needed to create the possible 40 jobs from the center renovations.
Errington reported that a business on Granite Street had complained of water draining under the foundation of his business and wants the drain moved 35 feet. He said he couldn’t get to it until spring, and the project would cost about $5,500.
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