Francestown Select Board members are hoping to secure a state grant that they say will help community members in winter emergencies.  

On Monday, Select Board members presented a proposal for purchasing two, 28- by 60-inch electric message signs to be displayed in town during emergencies. The signs would help alert community members of poor road conditions and direct residents to nearby shelters in case of a major snowstorm. 

One sign will be displayed on a hitch mount and the other will posted on a pole in town. The board has submitted two preliminary applications for a $10,600 grant to the New Hampshire Homeland Security and Emergency Management’s Hazard Mitigation Program to help purchase the two signs. 

According to Town Administrator Jamie Pike, the state grant would cover 75 percent of the costs, which is approximately $8,000. Francestown taxpayers would cover the remaining balance. 

Select Board member George Ravalico said he’s in favor of the proposal because it’s important for the town to be proactive in case of an emergency. 

“It was brought to light by the three-foot snowstorm at the end of season. Because of that, we have turned to emergency preparedness and alert citizens that there’s a shelter,” said Ravalico.

However, longtime Francestown resident Larry Laber said he’s not in favor of the signs because they will negatively affect the town’s historical integrity. 

“I have lived in this town and to tell you the truth, I have never seen an emergency. My concern is that you’re going to ruin the character of this town and it makes no sense to me at all. It sounds like politicians who came up with a stupid rule,” he said.

Based on his experience, Laber also said the town will likely experience problems with the signs due to the lack of replacement parts available. 

“For 30 years, I worked as an electrician. My personal opinion is that you’re going to ruin this town like Bennington and Antrim. We don’t need [a sign] in this town. It’s just junk coming from China,” said Laber.

Select Board Chair Scot Heath said he encourages public input, but believes the signs may come in handy during emergencies. 

“I understand his concerns and I agree. It’s just temporary signs to be used for emergency purposes,” said Heath. 

According to Pike, the final application for the grant is due in November, and board members are expected to submit it by September.