Dear Editor:

The peninsula has been consumed by St. Andrews fever. The only item discussed in coffee houses, barber shops and town offices has been the impending changes to healthcare in our small community. It’s very impactful no matter where allegiances lie. Some people have followed the discussions intently, some have jobs on the line, and many have their retirement security in mind. I try to remain impartial. I aim to deliver a service to the community that is without opinion and bias. Yet, I am not impartial. I do attempt to achieve neutral ground, hopefully that is noticed. The people should decide their direction. 

The next steps are important for both sides of the issue. A taskforce has been established to look at the options available to the community. If there are no options, people will gain a deeper and better understanding for the struggles that Lincoln County Healthcare has encountered in their decisions. If there are options available, the community will rally to achieve the options that make the most sense. 

The Town of Boothbay is leading the charge on the task force. The Town of Boothbay Board of Selectmen has made it very clear that they want organization in this process but more importantly strong collaboration. We have joined efforts of the towns of Boothbay Harbor, Southport and Edgecomb in creating the task force. We will need all of our resources in order to claim any success. 

Very skilled and educated people have volunteered to help. Some have volunteered money to the cause. Until now we have been unprepared to accept any of these generous gifts. We are prepared now. Boothbay will maintain a list of volunteers and maintain the fiduciary responsibilities of the task force. If you are inclined to donate skills and service please contact me. If you would like to donate funds, please make them payable to the Town of Boothbay – St. Andrews project, 1011 Wiscasset Road, P.O. Box 106, Boothbay, ME 04537. For more information, email townmanager@townofboothbay.org.

Finally, I am humbled at the support and credit that the people of the peninsula have been giving me for this effort. I want to remind everyone that this is not one man, it is us. I will stand in the front as long as you continue to stand with me. Thank you.

James D. Chaousis II
Town Manager