Welcome to Public Service!
The purpose of this handbook is to provide you with background information on the Town and its government and to introduce you to your role in that structure. It includes, first, a general history of the Town and a description of its government and administration. The majority of the handbook is directed specifically to operation procedures, and the responsibilities of Board and Committee members. Finally, the handbook reviews conflict of interest laws and Freedom of Access Laws that apply to Board, Committee and Council members.
The Town of Kittery considers volunteers a great natural resource. The mission of the volunteer program is to enhance town programs and services by matching the varied talents of concerned individuals of all ages, interests and skills with a wide variety of interesting and challenging municipal projects. Volunteering doesn't demand special training or education - only a degree of care, concern and commitment. How much time is required? It all depends on your schedule and the board/committee you choose. It could be several hours each week or only a few hours now and then.
While you will find that your role requires time, effort, and some long evening meetings, it also provides an opportunity for genuine public service. You will be able to help shape the future of Kittery and to make decisions affecting every citizen's satisfaction with the Town. The Town of Kittery needs your personal resources and enthusiasm in order to maintain the qualities of the Town that are enjoyed by its residents. Volunteer Board, Committee and Council Members work together to accomplish policy formation for the Town. The performance of public service brings with it the feeling of contribution and you will most likely develop a close relationship with other volunteers, all working toward a common end of providing for the community, its citizens and its future.
As members of Boards, Committees or the Town Council, you are essential to the Town's commitment to developing policies and services that reflect the needs and values of the community. In carrying out your responsibilities, you will work closely with your fellow Board members, the Town Council, and staff - all of who play a critical role in the Town organization. The Town Council may also appoint citizen s to study particular, short-term issues.
We think that you will enjoy your role as a Board, Committee or Council member and that at the end of your term you will find that you have played an important part in shaping Kittery's future.
Jonathan L. Carter, Town Manager
PURPOSE
The purpose of this guide is to introduce the Town of Kittery to volunteers and residents, and to provide information that will better enable the Town Officials to:
- Accomplish their mission
- Establish community involvement
- Improve volunteer and team effectiveness
VISION
Recognized as the oldest incorporated town in the State of Maine, and be one of Maine's most forward thinking residential and business communities. By working together and focusing on initiatives that support controlled growth and promote policies that will strengthen our Town's economy and lifestyle.
MISSION
The mission statement for volunteers is to serve the residents and businesses of the Town of Kittery and be its voice in the betterment of the community.
GOALS/OBJECTIVES
1. To provide creative leadership and effective coordination of all interested parties in solving community problems and in initiating constructive community action;
2. Foster and support private enterprise, economic vitality and stability;
3. To provide a forum for idea exchange
4. To create broad understanding and appreciation of the great opportunities in the surrounding area, and to promote the advantages of the community;
5. To create a climate conducive to developing individual volunteers through participation and interaction;
6. To create an enthusiastic working partnership between staff and member volunteers built on trust and mutual respect.
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