By Suzanne Hodgson

Staff Writer

Voters in Kennebunk will see changes in town representation after June 8 with the election of two new members of the board of selectmen and two school board members.

In Kennebunk, Board of Selectmen Chairman Wayne Berry and Selectman Tom Wellman both are stepping down after more than 18 years on the board each. Only one candidate, Kevin Donovan, will have his name on the ballot.

“I was disappointed when I heard they weren’t running for re-election and no one else was that interested (in running),” Donovan said.

 Some residents may know Donovan, 58, from his time on the budget board or his 26 years as administrative sergeant for the Maine State Police.

“I work with figures and spread sheets and understand public safety needs,” Donovan said. “I’m not looking to change anyone or anything but if I have something to say, I’ll say it. If I have a question, I’ll ask it but I don’t see the need to go on and on and on.”

Donovan has kept an eye on recent decisions selectmen have made.

“I supported the Mobil Station buyout,” Donovan said. “The gas station is an ugly eyesore. I’m opposed to basically getting rid of it; I’d like to return it to the tax roll if at all possible.”

Donovan said empty lots send the wrong message, especially during the downtown revitalization project.

Barry Tibbetts, Kennebunk town manager said the other new selectman will be elected by write-in votes. Both seats carry a three-year term.

 Wellman and Berry will leave their seats open after many years serving the town.

“I’ve enjoyed my time,” Wellman said, “We’ve gotten a lot done, over the last nine years especially.”

Wellman said he is stepping down to give somebody else a chance to be a selectman.

“This doesn’t mean I won’t be back. I’m really going to miss the four-hour meetings,” Wellman joked.

After gathering enough signatures to qualify, Matthew Fadiman, 43, and Frank Drigotas, 46, will be on the ballot for two open three-year terms for Kennebunk on the RSU 21 School Board. Current members Gayle Spofford and Jim Smith are stepping down.

Both Fadiman and Drigotas were present to hear discontent from Kennebunk residents who spoke during the recent school budget validation meeting and both plan to focus on financial responsibility.

“I absolutely believe we can be both fiscally responsible and provide an excellent education for our children. However, achieving that balance requires collective passion, intellect and effort,” Fadiman wrote in an e-mail. “If we do that well, our next generation will surely accomplish the most amazing things. Serving on the school board is a way for me to contribute to that process.”

Fadiman said he would like to see more money go to taxpayers and students instead of buildings. He said he also believes the Thornton Academy Middle School contract with Arundel was written with a “buyout” clause that should be explored further to see if it could benefit both taxpayers and student education.

“The district has a clear focus on the student and a commitment to providing a quality education for all. Our incredibly talented teachers and administrators are succeeding in their mission to prepare students to be the leaders of our global society. Parents are interested and involved, and the students themselves are working hard – and succeeding,” Fadiman wrote.

Drigotas said he is running because of his commitments to the town.

“I care deeply about the education of kids in the towns of Kennebunk, Kennebunkport and Arundel. I believe I may be able to offer something to the board in terms of (being) a business owner and I’m committed to the idea of providing world class education without a spending increase.”

Drigotas said he understands he represents not only those in the district with children, but also those without and understands the impact a tax increase has on working people in Maine.

“I’m going in with an open mind. I don’t pretend to know all the details and intricacies. I’m not coming in with a specific agenda but I’m not opposed to change,” Drigotas said. “I think the school board is doing a very good job handling the issues the state is throwing at them. They are dealing with some very dire situations they didn’t create.”

Drigotas said he hopes to bring a common sense approach to the board and some of his skills learned while running a business.

Both candidates have children who are involved in RSU 21.

Spofford offered some advice to new board members who fill the seats.

“Read everything sent to you, please listen to everyone, even if you disagree. Be prepared to present your argument in a logical manner but don’t be surprised when your argument doesn’t win,” Spofford said.

The state primary, annual Town Meeting and Kennebunk referendum elections will be held Tuesday, June 8, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. in the Edward C. Winston Town Hall Auditorium.

Staff Writer Suzanne Hodgson can be reached at 282-4337, ext. 233.