LEWISTON — The City Council voted against Mayor Carl Sheline’s nomination to the Planning Board this week, but those opposed did not disclose the reason.
Sheline nominated Bates College staffer Leigh Albert to the open seat, stating Albert’s experience and knowledge of Lewiston would bring a unique perspective.
Leigh Albert Submitted photo
The nomination failed 3-3, with Councilors Larry Pease, Lee Clement and Robert McCarthy opposed. Councilors Rick Lachapelle and Stephanie Gelinas were absent, meaning Sheline was able to vote.
Sheline said he’s disappointed by the outcome, but plans to keep his nomination as is for now.
“We need fresh perspective on city committees and I look forward to working with the council to confirm her appointment at a future council meeting,” he said.
He added that “it seemed odd those who voted against Leigh’s appointment didn’t comment.”
Councilors were also tight-lipped during a previous meeting, when the council postponed the nomination vote.
A new clause in the charter stipulates that the mayor’s appointments of full members to the Planning Board must be confirmed by a vote of the City Council. The provision was one of nine amendments approved by voters in November.
Albert, a Lewiston resident of 14 years, ran for the Ward 6 School Committee seat in November, but lost to Meghan Hird. She’s vice president for enrollment and dean of admissions and financial aid at Bates College.
Prior to the vote Tuesday, Sheline said Albert is “one of those rare individuals who has the ability to take into account details without losing perspective, and this is very handy on the Planning Board.”
Councilor Scott Harriman, who also voted to confirm the nomination, said Albert is raising her family in Lewiston and is “committed to the city.” He also said Albert’s location in Ward 6 would provide more representation for the more rural areas of Lewiston.
In her application for the seat, Albert said she’s “deeply dedicated to the sustainable development and growth of our community.”
Send questions/comments to the editors.
