RANGELEY – About 70 of Rangeley’s 1,500 voters decided on 45 warrant articles and spent more than $5.2 million at the annual town meeting Tuesday.

The Budget Committee had recommended expense articles totaling $5,257,163.62, but voters approved an additional $17,750 for recreation and culture and for Rangeley’s 150th year celebration.

The approved budget includes: $515,685 for general government, $561,884 for public safety, $1,103,969 for public works, $9,490 for health and welfare, $292,352 for recreation and culture, $197,838 for debt service, $37,560 for miscellaneous items, $310,752 for Franklin County taxes, $15,000 for the 150th year celebration, $12,000 for Rangeley Region health appointment transportation and social services, and $2,218,383.62 and for Rangeley Lakes Regional School funding.

The Budget Committee had recommended against the appropriation of $20,000 for the teacher summer wages reserve account and $24,700 for the Chamber of Commerce – an increase of $5,700 – but voters passed both measures.

In addition, residents approved leasing town property off Loon Lake Road to the Rangeley Lakes Snowmobile Club so the club could build a snow groomer barn and, potentially, a clubhouse.

A petition from the Rangeley Lakes Cross Country Ski Club asked that the town forgive $13,251.77 of the $22,251.77 debt owed to the town.

The selectmen recommended that the article not pass, but voters authorized the debt forgiveness by a 36-30 vote.

Voters approved the request of the Rangeley Lakes Regional School to borrow up to $159,469 for minor capital improvements to the Rangeley Lakes Regional School. The projects would include backboard safety restraints, industrial arts space renovations, a roof evaluation, window repairs, computer infrastructure, heating system safeguards, locker replacement, hallway flooring replacement, and adjustments and repairs to gym bleachers.

Harold Schaetzle, chair of the Rangeley School Committee, acknowledged departing Superintendent Ken Coville “for the job he’s done for the school, the kids and the community.” Schaetzle also publicly introduced the new Rangeley superintendent, Mike Buckley.

Steve Philbrick, Arthur Emory and Tony Jannace were elected to one-year terms on the Budget Committee. Mary Vaccaro was elected to a three-year term on the Budget Committee. Jo Davenport and Bob Silvia were also nominated, but declined election. One remaining seat on the Budget Committee remains vacant.

Steve Philbrick was re-elected as a trustee to the H.A. Furbish Trust for two years.

Copy the Story Link