The Gorham Town Board has approved a local law that will abolish the elected office of Highway Superintendent and create an appointed position instead. The decision was made during a special meeting held on Oct. 2, where the board passed Local Law 3-2024, which is now set to go to a mandatory referendum on Dec. 3.
The referendum will allow town residents to vote on whether they support the change, with polling stations at the Gorham Fire Company and the Crystal Beach Fire Department. Voting will take place from noon to 8 p.m.
Heated public hearing before decision
The board’s decision followed a public hearing during which residents expressed both support and opposition to the proposal. Those in favor of the change, including Debbie North and Sally Napolitano, argued that appointing the Highway Superintendent would increase accountability and transparency, citing past issues with the current superintendent. Napolitano mentioned a series of problems, including poor responses to storm cleanup and unauthorized spending on town equipment.
Opponents, including Rodney Miller, voiced strong concerns about losing the ability to vote for the position, calling it an erosion of democratic rights. Miller referenced the Constitution, stating that the right to vote for officials is fundamental and shouldn’t be taken away.
Town board divided on issue
The board’s vote was not unanimous, with Councilmember Brian Lazarus voting against the measure. Lazarus suggested that shortening the term of the elected Highway Superintendent to two years might be a better alternative to an appointed position. However, the other four board members, including Supervisor Dale Stell, voted in favor of moving forward with the appointed role.
Supervisor Stell emphasized that the referendum will give the town residents the final say, assuring that they are not being stripped of their voting rights but rather given the opportunity to decide how the role is filled.
December special election
The special election on Dec. 3 will determine the future of the Highway Superintendent’s position. If voters approve the change, the current superintendent will be removed within 30 days, and the town board will appoint a temporary replacement while beginning the hiring process for a permanent appointee. If voters reject the proposal, the current superintendent will remain in office until the end of his elected term on Dec. 31, 2025.
In addition to deciding on the Local Law, residents can expect information to be distributed in the coming weeks regarding the special election, including notices in newspapers and postings on the town’s website. The board is also considering mailing out informational cards to ensure voters are well-informed.
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