Council rejects appointment to comprehensive plan committee after objections over past conduct

The Old Orchard Beach Town Council considered appointing Thomas to the comprehensive plan committee for a term ending Dec. 31, 2027, but the motion failed after councilors recorded a 3-2 vote against the appointment on July 21.

One councilor spoke in opposition, citing the candidate’s previous public comments at council meetings that the council member said were derogatory and, in the councilor’s view, never followed by an apology. "He belittled us, berated us, not totally telling the truth," the opposing councilor said, explaining that the lack of an apology made supporting the appointment difficult. Supporters, including a vice chair, said they were asked by members of the comprehensive plan committee to appoint Thomas to help the group finish its work.

After discussion and roll call, the motion to appoint Thomas failed (3-2) and no appointment was made. Councilors did not move to reconsider at the July 21 meeting.