Coming up with cost figures is the next step in making improvements to Route 27, Edgecomb selectmen were told at their weekly meeting Monday, June 2.

Selectman Rodd Hopper said the Route 27 Corridor Study will be working with the Maine Department of Transportation to get a price tag on the recommendations made by the committee.

The committee is made up of representatives from Boothbay Harbor, Boothbay and Edgecomb. They began meeting in August of 2001 to develop a series of recommendations that fall into three categories; land use; improvements to the operation and safety of Route 27; and the identification of specific problem areas.

The study was completed in December of last year. It was funded by a $24,000 grant from the State Planning Office and $10,000 in matching funds.

Edgecomb voters approved several ordinances changes at their recent annual town meeting relating to the Route 27 study.

Carrying out an annual town meeting warrant article, the selectmen appointed a committee to explore the town's future needs.

Appointed to the committee to serve with the three selectmen include: Barry Johnston, Fire Chief; Jack Sarmanian, Budget Committee; Stuart Smith, Planning Board; Russ Griffin, Road Commissioner; and Mike Smith, member-at-large.

The committee's duties will include looking into land acquisition for a new fire station, new town offices and a public works department. This committee will report back at the town meeting in 2004.

The first meeting of the group is scheduled for Tuesday, June 24 at 7 p.m. at the town hall.

The selectmen discussed preparation for the June 10 bond package for the state.

According to information received by the selectmen, the Maine Municipal Association Executive Committee voted to support the $60 million bond package, saying the state's strong bond rating would allow for favorable interest rates.

The selectmen received a letter from the Federal Emergency Management Agency designating 10 Maine counties that are eligible for federal disaster funds to help local governments recover from the effects of extreme winter conditions.

Other counties included eligible for funds include: Aroostock; Hancock; Washington; Penobscot; Piscataquis; Franklin; Oxford; Cumberland; and Androscoggin.

Lincoln County's official briefing with the state and the county was Friday, May 30.