By Dawn De Busk

Staff Writer

CASCO — After this town’s representation on the local school board resigned unexpectedly, the Casco Board of Selectmen decided to try to fill the seat for the remaining five months.

Casco resident Tuan Nguyen recently stepped down from his seat on the Maine School Administrative District (MSAD) 61 Board of Directors. 

It was not discussed why Nguyen resigned.

His term ends June 30, 2021.  

Under state law, the board of selectmen has the power to appoint a replacement until such time an election is scheduled, according to Casco Interim Town Manager Don Gerrish. 

The selectmen are the only people who can make this appointment prior to the election — per state law. 

However, the vacant seat does not have to be filled. The board can decide to wait until the school board seat goes to the polls.  

“I would suggest that the selectboard advertise for citizens [who] would like to be appointed and then make a decision at your next meeting from the names of people interested,” Gerrish said. 

“You have the options,” he said.

Either the board advertises the position and chooses someone from the candidate pool or the seat remains vacant until June, he said. 

“His term is up in five months. If you want to replace the position, I would suggest that you put an ad out,” Gerrish said.

He said he spoke with SAD 61 Superintendent Al Smith to double-check the protocol.   

“The superintendent said you don’t have to [replace Nguyen]. If you are comfortable, you still have two members on the [school] board,” Gerrish said.

Selectman Holly Hancock spoke. 

“I think a third voice would be appropriate. I would propose that we place the ad and try to find someone,” Hancock said. 

Gerrish said that he would place a notice of the open seat as soon as possible.