Commission to invite MMA, COG and other witnesses; plans hearings and site visits

Commissioners agreed to seek outside presenters and training to inform the charter revision process, naming the Maine Municipal Association and the Androscoggin Valley Council of Governments as potential presenters. One commissioner said training and models from similarly sized municipalities would be useful; another asked MMA whether the commission could publish notices on a website or still must use a newspaper under state statute. "We have the ability to post minutes of our meetings," a member said, urging that MMA be asked for clear guidance on publication requirements.

Members approved the chair reaching out to APCOG/OM(A) and MMA to arrange testimony at public hearings. They emphasized that public hearings should come early so the commission hears residents’ concerns before making removal or revision decisions to the charter.