Town manager reports grant submission, radio station setup and infrastructure work

At the May 19 meeting, Town Manager Eric updated the Readfield Select Board on several staff matters, including a grant submission, progress on a community low‑power FM radio station and recent public‑works activity.

Eric said the town’s application for the Land and Water Conservation Fund grant has been transmitted to federal authorities and that the town’s cooperating state programs will support the submission; he cautioned that final funding depends on federal availability. "Provided the money is still there when it shows up, we will have a very good chance of being given that," he said, adding that final federal and state approvals remain possible obstacles.

Almost all equipment and software for a low‑power FM emergency and community broadcasting station are already at the town office, Eric said, and staff hope to complete computer setup this week. He invited community volunteers and noted staff member Jen will help with programming.

Public‑works updates included completed gravel work, ditching and culvert work on Gay Road and grading in advance of paving; sweeping is scheduled but timing was not firm. Grant reporting for the sidewalk project is current through March; personnel and technology purchases for staff (PCs and monitors) and a planned transition to cloud‑based productivity software were also discussed. Eric said the town is preparing audit paperwork for the fiscal 2025 audit that ends in June.

He also reminded residents that absentee ballots are available and in‑person voting for the June 10 town meeting is scheduled 8 a.m.–8 p.m. at the Kent Hill School (Alon Center).