Cushing accepts sex offender ordinance, Marchut for select board

Cushing voters strongly supported an ordinance designed to prohibit sex offenders from living within 750 feet of the school and chose Martha Marchut to serve her first term on the select board.

The ordinance was approved 152 to 20.

The local restriction bars registered offenders from living within close proximity of the elementary school. The law is not retroactive — offenders already living at a residence within the bounds cannot be forced to relocate.

Marchut defeated challenger Randy Robbins 121 to 48 to fill Willard Payson's seat. Payson did not seek re-election.

At a March 5 candidates' night, Marchut said she is a capable candidate because of her experience in corporate settings, making difficult decisions and implementing them. She also has experience working on budgets, policy writing, and hiring and training employees.

Marchut said she loves the town and wants to give back to the community she describes as "a wonderful place to be."

The annual town meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, March 19 at 7 p.m. at the community center.

Courier Publications reporter Juliette Laaka can be reached at 594-4401 ext. 118 or via email at jlaaka@courierpublicationsllc.com.