Candidate for Edgecomb selectboard Forrest Carver
Address: 252 Middle Road, Edgecomb
Occupation: Bath Cycle and Ski/BIKEMAN, manager and co-owner
Education: Whitman College | Walla Walla, WA, Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies/Biology, 2005-2009
Political History (Board, Committees): Edgecomb Economic Development Committee, 2017; Town Constable | 2024-2025
Clubs/Organizations: Edgecomb Fire Department | EMT, Firefighter; Edgecomb Historical Society | Secretary; Edgecomb 250th Road Race | Organizer
Considering the position you are running for, what do you feel are the three most pressing issues?
There’s no question that the most pressing issue in town is property taxes. That is the topic on everyone’s mind. I’d like to commend the people on boards and committees across the community for their hard work and commitment to saving the townspeople money. There is no such thing as too much scrutiny when it comes to public funding, and the conversations we’re having now are extremely important.
Staying positive and working together will be the way Edgecomb moves forward. I have spoken with dozens of Edgecomb residents over the past few weeks, and it is amazing how much we all have in common: we want to keep what we have while balancing financial sustainability in the process. We have a very special town, and everyone can agree on that. I’m truly excited to see where we can go when we realize that we’re all on the same team.
Committee/board meetings are public, and a great way to gather information and influence the town’s policy. However, attendance is not particularly stellar right now. Getting people to come to meetings, meet their neighbors, and play an active role in town management would energize us all. Business isn’t the only thing that can bring us together, though. A common thread in my discussions, especially among Edgecomb’s younger crowd, is a lack of community activities. I know people who live a quarter mile away from each other who would get along famously but just need a nudge to get together. We can, and should, create a framework for regular community events that are engaging for all demographics in town.
Any other thoughts on why you are running or what you can bring to the office?
I’m an independent voter, and I think that a position like Selectman need not be partisan. My goal is simply to serve the town by getting to the heart of each matter and finding solutions as quickly and painlessly as possible. I attempt to see each viewpoint independently, and work with people to find a fair compromise. A “razor” is a principle used to eliminate unlikely explanations or prevent unnecessary actions. I try to use these whenever possible by asking the right questions and always giving people the benefit of the doubt. I feel this approach will make us more efficient, more compassionate, and stronger. I’ve lived in Edgecomb for most of my life: I was brought up here, educated here, and have chosen to raise my family here. It’s a place I love and will fight hard for.