Nickerson Apologizes For Creating Turmoil

Expressed concerns about supervising town construction projects

The Sanbornton Board of Selectmen’s meeting last night opened on a conciliatory note with Selectmen David Nickerson’s apology to his two colleagues for what he termed the “turmoil I caused at last week’s meeting.”

Nickerson was referring to his announcement at the meeting on August 26 that he intended to resign from the board because of his concerns over how the town’s Department of Public Works, more commonly known as the highway department, had been supervising the work of independent contractors on town projects. In his opinion, “the town has wasted a ton of money on these projects.”

During the meeting, however, several members of the audience pleaded with Nickerson to wait at least 24 hours before tendering his resignation. He did so, and, in the end, Nickerson announced he would not resign. He attributed his decision to his wife, who, Nickerson said, “really put the pressure on me. She said the people voted for me so they wanted me; they wanted whatever they saw in me; for me to do what I can. She said you can’t resign until your term is up.”

In a written statement, Nickerson last night referred to his “rookie selectmen” status on the board. Addressing Chairman Andrew Livernois, he said, “Andy you were exactly right with your statement that what I said was one man’s opinion. I know, but I forgot, the correct protocol when it comes of making decisions by the board.”

“You and Steve (Ober, the other selectmen) made a decision about (paving) the parking lot (at town hall) and the roads, and I should have honored that.”

“I know the Selectboard keeps the taxpayer’s interests in mind, and I trust we will continue to do so”

Nickerson then mentioned his primary concern. “I do see issues such as bidding out highway projects (costing) over $5,000, permits, and procedures when contractors are working in our town as something we need to address and establish policies for.”

“The upcoming selection of a director of Public Works is going to be a decision that will set the tone of highway operations in this town for years to come. I hope we make the right decision, Nickerson concluded.”

Both Livernois and Ober responded to the apology by saying that it was accepted even though it not necessary.

Nickerson is a former Verizon employee who has experience working on road projects with that company.