LIVERMORE – Officials discussed their concerns about the Palesky tax cap proposal when they met Tuesday night.

Administrator Kurt Schaub said the town would have to use other sources of income, in addition to property taxes, just to pay the school assessment if the tax cap is approved in November.

The board also reviewed a proposed resolution regarding the use of savings from increased state support to schools through Question 1. The proposal, which originated in the city of Brewer, would dedicate a minimum of 90 percent of new funding made available through Question 1 to reduce the mill rate.

Livermore’s board agreed with Brewer’s intent, but agreed to take no action on the resolution until gaining input from SAD 36 Superintendent Terry Despres.

“He’s done an excellent job; his primary purpose is to keep the mill rate down,” said John Wakefield of Despres. “There’s been a spirit of cooperation with him, the director and the towns. We want to keep that relationship going and get his input.”

In other budget matters, selectpersons suggested that Fire Chief Randy Berry be given a printout of funds available because he already had a $6,560 deficit from last year to absorb.

The department had a lot of repairs to the tanker and Engine 4 last year, which contributed to the deficit, Schaub explained.

Road Commissioner Bert Bryant was given permission to hire part-time help as needed on projects this summer, rather than fill a 20-hour position.

Bryant and his crew will be working on Center Hill Road, Botka Hill and Goding Road, he said.

The town was approved for the Work Zone Safety Sign grant program from the Department of Transportation, which enables the Highway Department to receive more than $3,000 worth of signs and other safety gear for just $373.99.

Selectpersons approved the establishment of the position of cemetery sexton to report directly to Schaub. A trial contractual relationship will be made with Jamie Roy for maintenance oversight and grave services. Roy has the needed liability insurance and equipment, Schaub reported.


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