Town to vote next meeting after insurer denies dock repair claim

Town Manager Sara J. Liscomb reported to the Winter Harbor Selectmen on Dec. 29 that the insurer for D.C. Air & Seafoods denied a claim to cover repairs to a damaged town dock. She said the Maine Municipal Association advised that roads and retaining walls are not covered under MMA policies and, given "great video evidence," suggested the town consider legal action to pursue recovery.

Selectman R. Hemenway told colleagues he was comfortable moving forward with a vote on the matter at the next meeting even though he expects not to be present. During public comment, H. Faulkingham said there was no posted weight limit on the dock; C. Byers stated "there are not hard feelings, this is why we have insurance," and S. Fortin said they do not want to raise taxes to pay for dock repairs.

The Selectmen did not take a formal vote at the Dec. 29 meeting; the board scheduled the matter for a vote at its next meeting and will consider staff recommendations and the available video evidence before deciding whether to pursue legal action or alternative remedies.

The Town Manager also said the completed audit will be available at the next agenda, where the dock item will appear for formal action.