After 12 years as selectman but a rough stretch last year, Gray won't run again

Milton Selectmen Chair Tom Gray makes remarks during the dedication of the new Milton Fire and EMS Station on Saturday. (The Lebanon Voice)

Editor's note: Selectman Tom Gray has been the chairman of the board for three years. The amount of time was incorrect in an earlier version of this story. The Lebanon Voice apologizes for the error.

MILTON - After 12 years as selectmen, the last three as the selectmen chair, Milton resident Tom Gray has decided not to run for another term after a bumpy stretch last year.

The void leaves three townresidents who will vie for the lone vacant selectman's slot.

Those include Larry Brown, a frequent visitor at selectmen's meeting who serves on several town boards and has run several times for state rep; budget committee member Thomas McDougall and political newcomer Ryan Thibeault who recently moved to town.

Gray had no comment for The Lebanon Voice on why he is not running, but was widely criticized by many in December after orchestrating a selectmen's vote seen as allowing him to rent the downstairs room of the Emma Ramsey Center for a private function, something that had never been done before due to town records being stored there.

There was also blowback after a Toys for Tots party sponsored by the VFW was postponed so his function could take priority in scheduling.

Gray has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing, but the policy change that he asked for was rescinded soon after his function occurred, leaving many scratching their heads.

Gray also came under fire in June after earlier applying for the $60,000 a year town administrator position that was briefly held by interim TA Jeremy Bourgeois after the resignation of former TA Liz Dionne.

Back in 2015 Gray was among those in the town that supported a hugely unpopular proposal for a landfill to be located on Piggott's Hill.

On March 10 of that year Milton residents voted a resounding no, 1,100-182, killing the proposal.

Gray, however, did have some notable moments during his tenure, including helping to shepherd the building of the new Milton Fire and EMS Station and solar arrays at two town landfills.

The three candidates vying to replace Gray will be on hand for a Candidates Night at Town Hall on March 2 at 6 p.m.