The run-off election for a seat on the Damariscotta Board of Selectmen is Tues., Aug. 9. The polls will be open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Damariscotta Municipal Facility.
The election pits Dick McLean, the longest-serving selectman in Damariscotta history and the current chairman, against former Selectman Josh Pinkham.
McLean and Pinkham, who are running for a three-year term, tied in the June 14 election.
McLean, a retired businessman, serves as the chairman of the Lincoln County Regional Planning Commission and as a member of the Midcoast Economic Development District general assembly.
The veteran official also acts as an informal liaison between Damariscotta and the Dept. of Transportation on various construction projects, including the upcoming sidewalk project on Bus. Rt. 1.
McLean, in a brief July 28 telephone conversation, said he’s spent his 14-plus years “trying to do a good job” and “would like to continue.”
Pinkham, the owner of J & J Lawn & Landscaping, also serves as the 2nd assistant chief of the Massasoit Fire Company.
Pinkham pointed out that, if elected, he would be the youngest member of the board. Although many retirees live in Damariscotta, “there are a lot of younger people who live and pay taxes here too,” Pinkham said.
“I think I did a good job before,” Pinkham said, referring to his two previous terms (2005, 2007-2010) as a selectman.
Pinkham did not run for reelection in 2010.
Pinkham said, in his previous service, he “listened to facts and information” and made “reasoned and sound” judgments, acting “in the best interests of the town.”
“Listening to both sides is key,” he said.
