CAMDEN — Anita Brosius Scott, a current Planning Board member and former Select Board member herself, tuned into the June 1 Zoom meeting of the Select Board, not sure why she had been summonsed to attend, but ready just the same to participate. 

Geoff, her husband, was not in the room, but the message was clear: This year’s Annual Town Report — a compendium of municipal business and local history — was being dedicated to the Scotts.

“Are you kidding me?” said Brosius-Scott, her hands clasping her mouth in astonishment.  “This is real? I can’t believe it. You all must have been really desperate.”

Having sat on the Select Board, Brosius-Scott is familiar with the process of considering and assigning the annual report dedication honor. It is a process done in secret, with much research into the honorees’ lives — without leaking any hints.

“I can’t think of anyone who has worn more hats,” said board member Jenna Lookner, describing how the Scotts are firmly part of the town’s tapestry.

“I can’t get over it,” said Anita.

“It was a very easy selection,” said board member Marc Ratner. “It took Alison 25 minutes to read all the committees you have been on.”

“No matter the topic, I am always interested in what Anita and Geoff have to say about it,” said board member Taylor Benzie.

The town report dedication page reads:

“The Town of Camden is pleased to dedicate this year’s report to Anita Brosius-Scott and Geoff Scott, two people who have contributed immensely to the Town over many years, both as individuals, and as a team. From visionary concepts like the Megunticook Riverwalk and to the minutia of crosswalk placement and pedestrian safety, their achievements offer a compelling case for what can be achieved by playing ‘the long game’ of informed civic engagement, patient advocacy and civil discourse.”

The report described Anita a wildlife biologist, professional photographer and talented artist, and a citizen who has served on the Select Board, Budget Committee, multiple iterations of the Tannery Advisory Committee, Energy Committee, Camden-Rockport Pathways Committee, and Planning Board.

“She is known for her attention to detail, her willingness to ask questions and her boundless energy for good.”

As for Geoff, the dedication cited his abilities as a mechanic, and as an avid cyclist and runner.

“He is the driving force and patient voice behind the Megunticook Riverwalk project and has quietly worked with government officials, committees and administrators to identify opportunities and find common ground for the pathway, which will eventually provide a continuous route from downtown Camden to Shirttail [Point].”

Anita and Geoff are, the dedication said: “passionate about Camden and a vision for the community where people can enjoy and navigate the built and natural environment without deepening on a motorized vehicle. They have taken the long view, sticking out when progress was slow, respect others along the way, and providing a valuable voice and service to our entire community.”