The selection process of appointing members to town boards and committees in New Gloucester could be improved. Currently the board of selectmen operates without any apparent guidelines to follow when the number of candidates who apply for a post exceeds the quantity of available open seats.

At the June 20 meeting, Selectman Mark Leighton commented that he bases his decision on experience. It seems to me that this criterion, by itself, is a recipe for stagnation. Experience is certainly an important factor, but must be one of many to produce effective boards and committees that consist of a healthy balance. Veterans are needed to impart advice based on acquired knowledge, and new people are essential to infuse a fresh perspective.

Other factors come into play as well.

Should current board and committee members who have poor attendance be reappointed because of their experience? Should a selectman who is a close relative (parent, child, sibling, spouse) to the applicant recuse himself/herself from voting? Should close relatives be permitted to serve on the same board or committee concurrently?

Fortunately, Selectman Josh McHenry has insisted on a review of the appointment process. The first step will be a selectmen’s workshop.

The phrase that surfaced at the June 20 meeting was, “We base our appointments on what’s good for the town.” It will be interesting to find out how this subjective goal translates into policy.

Patti Mikkelsen, New Gloucester