SABATTUS – After being denied spending rights to buy a thermal-imaging camera just months ago, firefighters approached the Board of Selectmen again this week.

The majority of the board approved the purchase for this year’s fiscal budget, wishing they had approved it last year. The camera gives firefighters the ability to detect hot spots and people in fires.

With the purchase, both town stations will be equipped with cameras that firefighters say gives them back their eyes in dangerous, fire-related emergencies.

“I’m just grateful we are going to have two cameras,” Fire Chief Robert Scott.

The $9,900 estimated cost of the camera is $4,900 more than it would have cost in May.

Selectmen Chairwoman Rudy Gayton said she believes, as she did before, that one camera is all the town needs.

“Lewiston has two for its entire city,” Gayton said. “Sabattus only needs one.” Scott said the camera would be ordered immediately and would add to the town’s overall safety.

In other business:

• Tax Collector Amy Crocker announced that the town still needs to collect $164,858.30 in outstanding 2004 taxes. Thirty-day notices have been sent out. Those requiring assistance may contact the Town Hall.

• The board approved an application renewal by Our Lady of the Rosary parish for a license to operate beano/bingo or a game of chance.

• Selectmen signed off on the town’s new employee policy. Copies will be distributed to department heads and will be posted for 10 days before taking effect.

• The town is putting its electric stove, currently stored at the Town Hall, up for public bid.

Those interested may contact the Town Hall for more information. Bids must be in before the next selectmen’s meeting on Aug. 3.