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Surry releases election counts as Newbury Neck measures fail; board cites public-safety concerns
Summary
The Surry Select Board reported town election totals April 15, showing three Newbury Neck ballot measures and a GSA question defeated. Residents cited cost and view impacts; the board emphasized public-safety planning and said federal offices expressed disappointment about lack of local support for federal funding.
The Surry Select Board on April 15 announced town election results that returned mixed outcomes and renewed debate over a proposed Newbury Neck project. Town officials reported 418 voters attended the meeting; Select Board tallies were William Booth 116 and Nicholas Noddin 261, and School Board winners were Jared Benner (286) and Patrick Shepard (271).
Board members said the three Newbury Neck questions and a separate GSA question failed at the polls, and residents gave mixed feedback. Many speakers and written comments opposed the project citing cost concerns, impact on scenic views and preferred alternative routes. The board also reported that offices of U.S. Senator Susan Collins and U.S. Senator Angus King conveyed disappointment at the town’s lack of support for proposals seeking federal funding.
Select Board Chair Chris Stark framed the issue in public-safety terms, saying the board’s responsibility is to keep residents safe and asking that planning consider access and emergency response. Resident Kathy Tracy suggested the town develop an emergency management plan in case the road becomes impassable.
Why it matters: The failed ballot measures remove one route for federal funding tied to the Newbury Neck proposal and leave unresolved questions about how to address safety, cost and visual impacts. The Select Board indicated staff will continue to evaluate options and that federal offices have requested further engagement.
What’s next: The board did not adopt a new funding plan at the meeting; it agreed to continue discussions and consider emergency-planning steps and outreach at upcoming meetings and listening sessions.
