RUMFORD – The SAD 43 board agreed to put the Palesky tax-cap proposal on the agenda during its first meeting in October.

At the previous meeting on Sept. 7, the board decided against taking a stance on the issue that many believe will devastate municipalities and school administrative districts.

However, Superintendent Jim Hodgkin brought new data to Monday’s meeting, showing that the district could lose nearly $4 million from its member towns if the referendum question is passed in November.

“We have to look at how all would share in the impact,” he said.

He also brought an alternative resolution to the board that differs slightly from the one the Maine School Management Association has sent to school districts throughout the state. In the new one, signers would agree that taxes are too high and that a message should be sent to the Legislature that action must be taken to lower the state’s tax burden.

However, the resolution states: “despite our frustration, we cannot support the passage of the so-called Palesky Initiative as it will have a devastating effect on the educational program of MSAD#43 and on the services available to the four towns that make up the district.”

If signed by a majority of the board on Oct. 4, it will be forwarded to the commissioner of education and Gov. John E. Baldacci.

The board decided not to take a vote on it Monday because five of its 13 members were absent.

Board member Tracey Higley, a strong supporter of the resolution, said it would not only affect the district, but also the Rumford Police Department, of which he is a sergeant.

“This Palesky thing is a major issue. I beg you to please inform yourselves,” he said.

Board member Peter Zanoni said he has heard that many people would feel less protected if the proposal is passed.

Others, including some who were not in attendance Monday, had said that taking a stance is equal to telling residents how to vote.

The board also heard a report from the new day treatment program at Meroby Elementary School for elementary-aged children.

Paige Coville, special services director, and Diane Taylor-Moore, director of the new program, said five children take part at the site, and several more have been returned to other schools in the district. Plans are in the works to recruit youngsters with specific needs from neighboring districts.

Prior to the establishment this year of the program, named the Pennacook Learning Center, these children were sent to programs in Wilton or Lewiston for their education and treatment.