AUGUSTA — Kennebec Valley Humane Society workers arrived at the shelter Thursday to find several boxes of abandoned cats and kittens outside.

The boxes contained 21 felines — five adult females and 16 kittens all around three weeks old.

With 21 extra animals to care for, the society is looking to the public for support. KVHS is seeking donations of money, dry and canned cat food, cat litter and families willing to help by fostering kittens too young to be placed for adoption.

Shelter officials don’t know how long the animals were outside in the boxes, which appear to be diaper boxes.

The cats were immediately given food, water and medical attention. Melanie Martinez, director of operations, said all the cats and kittens seem to be in pretty good shape.

Donations may be made online at www.pethavenlane.org or mailed or delivered to Kennebec Valley Humane Society at 10 Pet Haven Lane in Augusta. Anyone interested in fostering animals may contact the shelter at 626-3491 or email [email protected].

“This is the time of year when we see more animals arriving at our shelter either surrendered by owners or abandoned, and an unexpected arrival of 21 animals puts a strain on our resources,” Martinez said in a news release. “Our mission is to provide food, shelter, medical care and a second chance to animals in need. We strive every day to fulfill our mission, but we’re looking for help as we begin our busiest season.”

New police officers

get their badges

VASSALBORO — Just in time for Memorial Day weekend, Maine has 40 new police officers.

The class of officers has graduated from the Maine Criminal Justice Academy. They received their badges following 18 weeks of study and training at the Vassalboro training facility.

Many of the new officers will be begin patrolling immediately, including during the upcoming holiday weekend.

“The Maine Criminal Justice Academy consistently turns outstanding young cadets into modern law enforcement officers whose courage, commitment, and daily efforts keep our citizens safe,” Attorney General William Schneider told the graduates. “These are Maine’s finest; and I am pleased to join the academy staff, families and friends in welcoming them to our law enforcement community.”

Many of the new officers will be begin patrolling immediately, including during the upcoming Memorial Day weekend, police said.

Farmingdale worknearing completion

FARMINGDALE — Reconstruction of U.S. Route 201 in Farmingdale is in the final stages of construction, according to the general contractor completing the project.

“We are continuing our efforts to accelerate the project for final completion by June 30 with the least possible daytime disruption to the local businesses and the traveling public,” John Sturgeon, senior project manager for Sargent Corp., said in a news release.

The final grading of the road continues until 6 a.m. Sunday morning. The paving of the base and binder courses will take place on Sunday and Monday nights between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m., weather permitting.

Manchester selectmento discuss tax rate

MANCHESTER — Selectmen meet Tuesday to discuss setting the tax rate.

Selectmen are scheduled to discuss the tax rate with Town Manager Patrick Gilbert and Assessing Agent Charles Jordan.

Selectmen are also scheduled to discuss town website policy; discuss a performance evaluation of Gilbert’s work as manager; and discuss information provided to the selectmen by a resident, regarding firearms near schools.

Selectmen meet Tuesday at 6 p.m. at the Manchester Town Office.

Compiled from staff reports