Currently, the town government of Sanbornton is struggling.
In the past four years we have had four town administrators, two tax assessors, three highway department superintendents, two tax clerks, three transfer station supervisors and the resignation of three members of the select board. In addition, our deputy town clerk resigned and currently we have tax personnel from surrounding towns filling in when available.
As though this lack of competent governing hasn’t put enough pressure on our tax dollars, we have also acquired a full-time fire department (2019 budget, $473,022) along with the burden of providing 100% of their medical premiums, plus deductibles over $500 and their future retirement packages. Sanbornton has a population of 2,700. National research shows that 95% of towns with a population under 25,000 residents are protected by a volunteer department.
Currently, Sanbornton is being governed by two selectmen. Longtime resident Dave Nickerson has applied for the vacant seat. Dave served on the board for 9 years until he was unseated by now chairman John Olmstead. Dave is well acquainted with the governing process of the board and would be an excellent replacement for the open seat of Katy Wells North.
As I write this letter, there is one other candidate aside from Dave who has applied for the position. I urge the select board to seriously consider Dave Nickerson to fill the vacant seat as temporary selectman.
JACK ROBINSON
Sanbornton