Selectman cites hearing loss in not seeking 2nd term

Paul Nadeau (Rochester Voice file photo)

LEBANON, Maine - Citing increasing hearing loss, Lebanon Selectman Paul Nadeau told The Rochester Voice in an exclusive interview today that he will not be seeking a second term.

Nadeau had first expressed his uncertainty about running earlier this month, but said today he was now certain he won't be among those taking out nominating papers which become available on Friday.

"My hearing's gone down a little bit more, it's not as good as it was three years ago," Nadeau said. "And you want to give it all you got."

Asked if the recent dust-up over school funding among the three towns served by MSAD 60 had anything to do with it, Nadeau said definitely not.

"That has nothing to do with it," he said adamantly. "Honestly, we feel we'll put it together. We're going to do the right thing."

The Lebanon Board of Selectmen have scheduled a trip to a North Berwick selectmen's meeting on Tuesday to discuss a meeting held regarding the school funding formula between Berwick and Lebanon in January that some felt was divisive.

Nadeau said even though his hearing can be a problem at meetings, he pledged to do his best for the people of Lebanon for the remainder of his term.

"I'll do my job to the last minute," he said, "and I want to thank the people of Lebanon for having faith in me. I done the best I could."

Nadeau won in a landslide victory in 2015 over incumbent Selectman Paul Philbrick, Corinna Cole and Leo Richer.