PERU — The timing of Thursday night’s public hearing on town ordinances was challenged by Tammy Ferland, who said it had to be 10 days before voting, not five.
Voters go to the polls Tuesday, Nov. 6, to decide whether to adopt the ordinances on wind power projects, recalling elected officials, electronic signs and keeping the selectmen’s secretarial position full time and appointed.
Town officials said an informational hearing was held Sept. 10. And Jim Pulsifer added that if Thursday’s hearing was ruled illegal, another could be held and a special town meeting scheduled to vote on the ordinances.
Selectman Dickie Powell said he thought the Industrial Wind Power Committee jumped the gun on creating the ordinance, because there’s a moratorium on wind projects until May.
Selectman Laurieann Milligan expressed appreciation for the committee’s work.
Fire Chief Bill Hussey said the electronic sign ordinance is required by state law due to the potential for drivers to be distracted.
Powell said he had a problem with Selectman Kathy Hussey voting on the ordinance that would keep her board secretary’s position full time and appointed by the board.
At the selectmen’s meeting before the hearing, it was reported that all three weekly tests on the Greenwoods Road public spring were negative. Hussey said she was concerned, because so much rain had fallen since her tests more groundwater could have gotten in.
The state will test the water before the boil-water order is lifted, she said.
Dawna Kazregis said fellow petitioners supporting public input at every selectmen’s meeting want a referendum vote on the issue.
Board Chairman Tim Holland agreed they must put the petition to a vote, and said the board could put forth a competing petition. He said selectmen were not required to offer open session at every meeting, but praised the group for letting the board take care of business.
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