MEXICO — The Board of Selectmen unanimously voted during Tuesday evening’s meeting to approve ATV access on Mitchell, Granite, Hill, Pine and Brook streets.

The request for ATV access came from Clyde Wardwall, the trailmaster of the Mexico ATV riders.

Selectmen also voted to amend certain sections of their ATV use policy, including increasing the speed limit from 10 to 15 miles per hour and allowing residents to travel less than 500 yards on any road to access an approved trail or a road that allows ATV access.

Police Chief Roy Hodsdon said that he was a “little concerned” about ATV access on Granite and Mitchell streets because of “high levels of traffic,” but said he “was not opposed to trying this out and seeing what happens.”

Selectman Byron Ouellette agreed, saying that “it’s worth a try” and that the town can re-evaluate their decision if there are any complaints.

Selectman Reggie Arsenault suggested that Wardwall return to the Board of Selectmen in September to see how well opening the five streets to ATV access worked.

“At least then, we see if there were any complaints or issues that need to be worked out, and we can move forward from there,” Arsenault said.

During the selectmen’s report, Selectman George Byam told the board and other residents in the audience that Tuesday’s meeting was his last meeting as selectman, and that he has enjoyed serving the town for the last six years.

Town Manager John Madigan said that Byam has been “a real asset to this town for the last six years” and lauded him for his ability in dealing with town equipment and machinery.

“I know that every one of those guys at the Highway Department are going to be missing you,” Madigan said. “They told me that you were crackerjack with anything equipment-oriented.”

Arsenault agreed, saying that Byam brought “great ideas” that were helpful to the town.

mdaigle@sunjournal.com

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