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Farmington voters approved a warrant article Monday, May 11, authorizing borrowing of up to $500,000 toward the proposed Sandy River multiuse bridge project connecting downtown with the Whistle Stop Trail. This historic postcard view shows the former railroad bridge crossing the Sandy River in Farmington, where sections of the old bridge abutments and center pier remain visible near the site of the proposed crossing. (Courtesy of Brent West)

FARMINGTON — Voters at the annual town meeting May 11 approved all warrant articles except Article 33, which proposed modifications to marijuana permit and license fees. It was postponed indefinitely.

The proposal would have modified marijuana permit and license fees, including reductions tied to cultivation facilities.

Residents approved funding measures tied to the town budget, a new ladder truck for the fire department and the Sandy River bridge project.

Voters authorized borrowing up to $500,000 toward the bridge project, a multiuse crossing intended to connect downtown Farmington with the Whistle Stop Trail and broader regional recreation network. Town officials previously said the funds would only be borrowed if the bridge project advances to construction.

The bridge, estimated at about $4.2 million, would span the river between downtown Farmington and West Farmington and is intended to improve access for pedestrians, bicyclists, equestrians and snowmobilers.

High Peaks Alliance Executive Director Brent West thanked residents after the vote.

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“Farmington voters, thank you for showing up, for your overwhelming support of the Sandy River Bridge Project, and for approving the $500K ask,” West said in a statement.

Voters also approved the purchase of a new ladder truck for the Farmington Fire Rescue Department to replace an aging truck currently in service. Town officials previously said the department ordered the truck earlier this year to avoid additional price increases and lengthy manufacturing delays.

Articles tied to the town’s proposed $16.58 million budget were also approved. Town officials previously said most of the increase was driven by higher Franklin county and Regional School Unit 9 assessments rather than municipal spending increases.

Rebecca Richard is a reporter for the Franklin Journal. She graduated from the University of Maine after studying literature and writing. She is a small business owner, wife of 33 years and mom of eight...

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