Oxford Selectmen: Nov. 30 meeting

Operation Santa set for kickoff,
Clam Box license suspended for 3 days

by Janet Stoica
Patriot Correspondent

OXFORD - It was a dark and stormy night, but the Oxford Selectmen held their customary meeting on the pre-arranged date and time. As the last vestiges of rain from Hurricane Sandy pelted the windows of the Town Hall, Chairman John Saad gaveled the meeting to order and declared a moment of silence for two local residents, recently passed away, who had given their valuable time and efforts to the Town of Oxford: Mr. Ernest Lavoie, who served as Light Equipment Operator for the Oxford DPW; and Mr. Francis P. Shea, Jr., who served on many Town committees in the 1970s and 1980s as well as a Selectman from 1977-80.

Operation Santa plans were discussed with the introduction of Deb Light, administrative assistant for the Oxford Police Chief, and Police Officer Matt Laskes. Officer Laskes advised the Board that the annual event will be held on Sunday, December 2, at the Oxford Community Center from 2-5 p.m. All Oxford children from infants to 10-year-olds are invited to participate and will receive a gift and special visit from Santa Claus. Registration is necessary and can be completed by contacting Deb Light at the Police Station, (508) 987-6293, Ext. 131, or via email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it   Registration dates are Nov. 1 – 16.

Operation Santa is sponsored by the Police and Fire Departments as well as the Oxford Womens Club. Officer Laskes stated that “we can use all the help we can get.” New and unwrapped gifts in the age range of infants to age 10 can be dropped off at the Police Station and checks would also be greatly appreciated. They should be made payable to:  Operation Santa.” He invited all selectmen to the December 2 event. Ms. Light then indicated that their Annual Clothing Drive would also be part of the activities and anyone wishing to donate new or gently-used coats, boots, mittens, or scarves can do so at this time as well. All items would be very much welcomed.

Selectmen then awaited the presence of Daniel E. Saad, Manager of The Clam Box, who was next on the agenda. The Clam Box had failed a compliance check for the sale of alcohol to a minor on August 23, 2012. When no representative from the audience responded to their request to come forward for the violation hearing, the Board reviewed other agenda items with the intent of returning to the hearing at a later time of the agenda. At the conclusion of the night’s agenda, the Board then made a second request for a Clam Box representative to come forward. Hearing no response, the Board requested Police Chief Michael Hassett to read aloud the Police Report from the day of the violation. After his recitation, Chief Hassett noted that the Clam Box employee who had committed the liquor violation had been placed on three months’ probation following a hearing conducted at the Dudley Court House.  In accordance with Board Policy, it was then voted to suspend The Clam Box’s alcohol pouring license for three days: November 12, 13, and 14. (Chairman Saad abstained.)

In other business, the board appointed Ms. Tina Weldon to the Tercentennial Committee and the following individuals as Election Workers to serve until 8/15/13: Gina Bengtson, Precinct 3; Joann Maywalt, Beverly Plante, Stephen Racicot, and Martha Rheault, all of Precinct 4.

Additionally, Selectmen voted to release the North Oxford Walmart store project’s security bond and reviewed the notice from Aquarion Water that hydrant flushing had been and continues to be in progress since October 23.

Aquarion had begun its flushing schedule in the north end of town and continues to make its way to the south end until completion. It was noted that any water discoloration, while no threat to health, can be alleviated by running cold water until clear. Any questions should be directed to the Aquarion Customer Service Department at (800) 928-3734.

The Annual Veterans Day Parade will take place on Sunday, November 11, with lunch for all veterans and marchers to follow at the VFW. US Air Force jets will be conducting a flyover, weather-permitting.

Daniel Scotti of Access Oxford also appeared before the Board to review measures taken since their last meeting in June. Mr. Scotti discussed their lease for space, who was responsible for cable access materials, and equipment improvements.  Joseph Zeneski, Town Manager, stated that “we are making tremendous progress in a relatively short time. The new equipment will not only allow for meeting storage but also allow for cable air signal as well as internet broadcasts.” Mr. Scotti reviewed new camera placements and positioning as well as a new larger monitor size for display that would assist in PowerPoint presentations. A new equipment storage area was also reviewed and the need for a secure location.