Residents at the annual town meeting turned down a proposed ordinance that would have slowed growth on the town’s west side.

The intent of the growth ordinance, said selectman Joan Mooney, was to limit the number of building permits that can be issued in parts of town that are not serviced by public water and sewer lines.

But residents voted strongly against the ordinance, so there will be no limits on growth this year, Mooney said.

The town’s $14.6 million budget was passed, with a few minor modifications.
Residents also approved a $1.3 million project to replace the sea wall at Webhannet Drive, which sustained heavy damage during storms over the past two years.

The town meeting, held at Wells High School, included balloting on Friday and a moderated discussion on Saturday, which drew about 100 people.

James Spiller was re-elected as a selectman, beating Russell Fox and Richard Lambert in the only contested municipal race.

A moment of silence was held Saturday for Harold Pauk Jr., the longtime manager of the town transfer station, who committed suicide earlier this month at the facility.

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