After five months of random alcohol-compliance checks, Hillsboro Police Chief David Roarick reported all 18 businesses in town have passed.  Hillsboro Police began by warning businesses that sold alcohol to minors, but were eventually forced to make arrests and put some local business liquor licenses on notice.  “In short if you sell alcohol to minors you will be arrested and your liquor license could be revoked” said Roarick.

Roarick is an active member of CAT (Community Action Team), a group of concerned citizens who received a grant through the Capital Region Community Prevention Coalition to reduce underage drinking. “The things we are doing are beginning to make a difference,” said Judy Fournier who serves as the CAT grant coordinator.  “CAT has sponsored numerous special events and we are slowly building awareness and strengthening our local substance abuse coalition,” said Fournier.

CAT is actively recruiting new members to assist in its mission of reducing drug and alcohol use among young people.  The Community Action Team is an initiative begun by former Hillsboro selectmen Paul Haley.  For more information about the Community Action Team or to get involved please contact CAT Chairman John Bramley at the Hillsboro-Deering High School @ 464-1130.

-Peter Brigham, Office of Youth Services