ORFORD — P. Chase Kling won a contested race against Jennifer Carter to serve a three-year term on the Selectboard in a 70-65 vote.
In a voice vote, residents approved the creation of an Orford Town Road Committee. Five residents with relevant experience, including in road construction or bid writing, will assist the road agent with his work in the highway department. Voters amended the article to make sure that only residents would be eligible to serve.
In a voice vote, residents approved the expenditure of $250,000 to repair River Road, Brook Road and Dublin Road. They amended the article to remove a clause that would have allowed the funds to be spent on “any other paving project approved by the Selectboard.” Voters also approved the purchase of a dump truck with a snowplow and other equipment for $231,000.
Two articles on the ballot by petition failed. For the third consecutive year, voters rejected an article to make the town road agent an elected position rather than one appointed by the Selectboard. In a 77-12 vote, they also rejected a proposal to form a statutory budget committee.
— Claire Potter