DIXFIELD – A computer glitch apparently caused some landowners to be assessed twice.

Town Manager Tom Richmond told selectmen Monday night that the “hiccup” resulted in the need to return about $43,000 in abatements on about 170 tree growth properties.

That’s about $26,000 more than the town had set aside in overlay for tax abatements.

Richmond said the error came to light soon after the tax bills were mailed about 10 days ago.

“People came in and asked why?” he said.

The additional abatement money will likely come from surplus funds, he said.

Tax bills went out Aug. 17. The first half of property taxes is due by Sept. 15 and the second half by April 15, without penalty. The tax rate is $29.50 per $1,000 of value.

Richmond said he plans to discuss the error with assessors John E. O’Connell & Associates of New Gloucester. O’Connell has also begun a total revaluation of town properties.

In other matters, the board decided to issue the annual town report in April, rather than the traditional October.

Richmond said the change was made to make as much information as possible available just prior to the annual town meeting.

The board also heard a report from fire Chief Scott Dennett on plans to buy a new fire engine next year. Tentative plans are to replace a 1952 Mack engine and 1984 International pumper with one engine that would have the capability to maneuver in off-the-main-road places. He said the truck he has in mind would have a 500-gallon water tank and foam capability.

Richmond said a capital account of about $266,000 has the money needed to buy the vehicle.

In other matters, the board:

• delayed action on a proposed all-terrain vehicle policy until they, ATV spokesman Dan Mitchell and police Chief Richard Pickett can meet to iron out details;

• will meet with a representative from Time Warner Cable to discuss problems residents may have with the service, and to begin negotiating for a new contract. Richmond said the current 10-year agreement expired last year; and

• held a closed session to discuss a personnel matter; no decisions were made.