West Paris set for single stream recycling

WEST PARIS — West Paris is set to switch over to single stream recycling.

According to West Paris Town Manager John White, the new system will go into effect on July 2.

For residents, it will mean a simpler process for disposal of recyclables. Rather than sorting different types of recyclables and then bringing them to the transfer station, residents will be able to combine all recyclable items together. They will then be transported together to locations in Lewiston and finally Massachusetts, where Pine Tree Recycling will do the sorting.

Employee health care compromise struck

BUCKFIELD — Taxpayers and town employees each walked away with something at the end of a dispute about who should pay for employee benefits.

Traditionally, the town has paid for 100 percent of the cost of health care for its employees. The system was attacked by taxpayers, as escalating health care costs have increased the burden to the town.

Under newly-approved rules, town employees will pay 50 percent of future increases to family plans, and 20 percent of future increases to single plans.

Norway voters approve 44 articles on warrant

NORWAY — The 44 articles on Norway's annual warrant passed town meeting with almost no dissent on Monday.

Major investments included $200,000 for a final coat of pavement on roads that were improved with a $1 million bond last year.

"It's a long, drawn-out process and it will never be done," said Town Manager David Holt. "[The roads] continually get better, but they will never be completely satisfactory."

General assistance article provokes controversy at town meeting

NORWAY — Controversy erupted just once at Norway town meeting, when the article to appropriate $110,000 to general assistance was brought before the town.

While the article was ultimately passed by everyone in attendance, and the town had virtually no choice but to do so under state law, some in attendance cast aspersions on the integrity of those who use the program.