It has been a privilege for the Selectboard to serve the residents of New Sharon over the past year. We are grateful for the trust placed in us and for the many ways our community continues to support one another. The following is a brief overview of the Board’s activities and decisions during the year.

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In March, the Board welcomed Robert Neal to a three-year term and Paula Nason to a one-year term.  

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In February, a public meeting was held to discuss the formation of an Emergency Planning Committee. In April, Robert Ayer was appointed Director of the Emergency Planning Committee. During these discussions, the possibility of using the Town Office meeting room as an emergency shelter was reviewed. The space may be used as a warming shelter; however, it cannot serve as an overnight emergency shelter due to the absence of a sprinkler system. When the building was constructed, funding was not available for a sprinkler system, and retrofitting the building would now exceed $100,000.

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We are thankful to John Pond, who generously donated and installed a well cover at the Town Office to improve safety while the ballfield is in use.

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While the Town Office building is still quite new it is in need of several repairs. A Request for Proposals was issued, but no responses were received. The work will be advertised again in February, with the goal of completing repairs in the spring.

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Robert Ayer resigned from his position as Animal Control Officer effective July 31, 2025. The Selectboard covered Animal Control duties until a new officer was hired in September. We are pleased to welcome Lucas Fitch as New Sharon’s Animal Control Officer.

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Robert Neal resigned from his position as Selectman on October 21, 2025. After consulting with Maine Municipal Association, the Selectboard decided not to fill the vacancy, as doing so would require a special Town Meeting and would bring the process very close to the March 2026 Town Meeting.

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During the year, several residents experienced their dug wells running dry. In response, the spigot at the Village Cemetery was made available for non-potable water. Bottled water, donated by Poland Spring, Hannaford, and Walmart, was made available at the Town Office for any resident in need and is still available as we draft this letter.

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At the request of a local business, the Board worked with the Department of Transportation to address speeding concerns on Route 2. DOT will be installing a flashing speed display sign near the intersection of Route 2 and Cape Cod Hill Road once it becomes available. Additionally, the existing speed sign in front of the Nason residence will be relocated beyond Tuttle’s Auto in hopes of encouraging reduced speeds.

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New Sharon continues to rely on the dedication of volunteers, and several volunteer positions remain unfilled. Residents interested in serving the town are encouraged to check the posted list at the Town Office.

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The Board would like to extend our sincere thanks to Paula Nason for her many years of service and dedication as a member of the Board of Selectmen.

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We look forward to continuing to serve the Town of New Sharon in the coming year and appreciate the continued support and involvement of our residents.