Last month the Gorham Town Board voted 4-1 to approve Local Law 3-2024 during a public hearing, paving the way for the restructuring of the Highway Superintendent position from an elected role to an appointed one. The decision follows months of debate and input from residents at the meeting.
The question at hand: Should the Town fundamentally change how it manages the highway superintendent’s office?
The resolution is subject to a mandatory referendum scheduled for December 3, allowing Gorham voters to have the final say on the proposal.
Supervisor Dale C. Stell explained that this change aims to enhance accountability and transparency for a position that oversees the town’s largest budget allocation. “If the law passes, the Town Board can later revert to an elected position if necessary,” Stell assured attendees during October’s session.
Public Debate
The hearing saw diverse opinions. Proponents, like residents Debbie North and Sally Napolitano, argued that appointing the position ensures better oversight and responsiveness to the Town Board and residents. Concerns were raised about past leadership issues, including unauthorized purchases and delays in addressing community needs.
Opponents like Rodney Miller emphasized the importance of retaining the public’s right to vote for this critical position.
The law’s critics voiced concerns that a special election would not accurately reflect the town’s voters, citing traditionally low turnout. Councilmember Brian Lazarus cast the lone dissenting vote on the resolution for that reason.
Next Steps
If voters approve the measure on December 3, the current Highway Superintendent will be relieved of duties within 30 days, and the Town Board will appoint an interim superintendent before initiating a formal hiring process.
Polling will occur from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Gorham Fire Company and the Crystal Beach Fire Department. Notices will be distributed to residents to ensure awareness of the referendum.
The Town Board also addressed other matters, including appointing Justice Walt Olsen to temporarily assume all Town Justice responsibilities following the sudden passing of Justice Kathy Schwartz.
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