PERU — Selectmen discussed the latest test of Worthley Spring’s water at their regular Monday night meeting.
The July sample tested positive for coliform bacteria. Selectmen’s Secretary Angela Barkhouse posted a boil-water notice at the spring, where many people regularly get their drinking water. It must have three good tests before the boil-water order can be rescinded. The state may require the spring to be treated with chlorine.
Selectmen have been trying to determine if the town has a public easement over the closed section of Stage Coach Road ever since dog complaints in the area brought the existence of an easement into question.
Residents Jim Gallagher and David Briggs reported to town officials that they had been attacked by dogs belonging to Steve Fuller while using the old road. Animal Control Officer Sue Milligan said she could not finish her investigation until selectmen clarified the status of the road.
Fuller has been keeping his dogs confined because of neighbors’ complaints. However, while his dogs were locked up and could not defend his livestock, dogs belonging to John Gallant escaped and attacked Fuller’s animals, doing considerable damage.
Selectmen agreed that the status of all closed roads should be established while addressing the problems with Stage Coach Road. They also plan a meeting with Fuller, Gallagher and Briggs at 4:30 p.m. on August 13.
Selectmen voted to accept a $4,000 bid from Maine Municipal Audit Services for the annual town audit. Town Clerk Vera Parent said that the audit will be conducted to established standards; however, it will not be a full forensic audit. This audit will be based on sampling the town records. Selectboard Chairman Lee Merrill said that a full audit would cost in excess of $15,000.
Selectman Larry Snowman reported that resident Jerry Gillman pointed out the existence of two fire ponds across the road from the closed Peru Elementary School. It was unclear when the ponds were built, but it is thought they were built at the same time as the school. Gillman said that the ponds existed at least as early as 1955. Selectmen will inspect the ponds and determine what, if any, action the town should take to ensure public safety.
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