DIXFIELD – Selectmen set the tax rate at $16.25 per $1,000 valuation for fiscal 2009 at a special meeting Monday night. They also devised a more detailed plan for the search for a new town manager.

The rate is now $29.50 per $1,000 valuation.

A complete property revaluation has just been completed to bring property values in line with state numbers. The new figures will be applied for fiscal 2009.

Town Manager Tom Richmond said the tax rate allows a $51,000 overlay, which is within the 5 percent allowed by state law. That money can be applied to tax abatements.

He said the new tax rate will support a $3,307,810 budget, which includes $1.9 million to operate the town, $1.33 million for SAD 21, and $73,783 for the Oxford County tax. About $400,000 in state revenue sharing and $475,000 in other revenues will be applied against the $3.3 million overall budget.

Tax bills are expected to be mailed next week. The first half of tax payments is due without penalties by Sept. 15. The second half is due in April.

The board also unanimously agreed to retain the right to search for and hire a new town manager. Sometimes in the past, a citizens group has participated in the search.

“It’s my recommendation that the board do the hiring,” Chairwoman Bettina Martin said.

“It’s mine, too,” said Selectman Norine Clarke. “It’s our responsibility.”

Advertisements are running in several state newspapers as well as on the Maine Municipal Association Web site.

Richmond earns $50,000 annually.

Applications for the position are due by Aug. 15. At that time, selectmen will receive copies of the applications, then meet to review them at a special, closed-door session on Aug. 18. If any of the applicants are qualified, interviews will be scheduled. If not, the position will be re-advertised.

Richmond leaves the job he has held since November 2006 on Aug. 29. He will begin a similar job with the town of Carmel on Oct. 1.

Martin said an interim town manager will not be hired. She and town office workers will cover any necessary municipal tasks until a new town manager is on board.