Oscar Warner, a resident, asked the board to allow patriotic veterans’ banners on Main Street after strong community interest following a recent display.

Warner said residents wanted family members and veterans recognized and asked how to proceed. The board discussed concerns about maintenance, torn or tattered banners and who would be responsible and whether the town should assume ongoing upkeep.

Town Manager Paul Harrington and selectmen said they support the banners in concept but want clear policies. Harrington asked to meet with volunteers and build answers to key operational questions: who pays for replacement, what happens when banners are damaged, and whether a rotation or removal schedule is needed. He suggested a small committee of three or four volunteers and town staff to develop a draft ordinance or policy for board consideration.

Why it matters: Speakers said the banners are an emotional and visible way to honor veterans, but staff raised practical concerns about labor, limited public-works capacity and the town’s liability if banners are not maintained.

What happens next: The board asked citizens interested in organizing banners to meet with staff and volunteer committee members; the committee will return a recommended policy or ordinance to a future meeting. The board did not adopt a formal ordinance at the July 7 meeting.

Ending: Volunteer organizers and veterans’ groups said they would meet with the town manager and public works staff to produce a draft policy for future board review.