Board: Turner selectmen

Met: Monday night

2009/10 Budget

Issue: Faced with a tight budget due to declining state revenues and less property tax, selectmen have set the organizational meeting for the budget committee for 7 p.m. Dec. 11 at town hall.

The scoop: Selectmen are looking to reduce the capital budget and have a smaller list of items for consideration. Making that list are a reserve for the Old Town House and repair of the GAR Hall roof, as well as delaying funds for a townwide revaluation. Considerations for the operating budget will include building maintenance issues, public works and equipment repairs accounts at public works and the transfer station.

Up next: Selectmen and the committee will work on the budget until April, and have set the ballot for candidates for April 3 and the open town meeting for April 4.

Diesel storage tank

Issue: Public works requested the storage tank for use during winter storms.

The scoop: Refueling during winter storms in the evening hours has presented problems in the past due to some local gas stations being closed at those times.

Up next: The cost of setting up the 500-gallon tank is $2,400.

Grader repairs

Issue: The town grader, used to clear snow drifts and ice accumulation from roadways, is in need of three repairs.

The scoop: Repairs have been needed for some time, but postponed while the replacement of the equipment was considered. After consideration, selectmen decided to repair the current grader.

Up next: Staff at public works, with the assistance of a local mechanic, will begin repair work consisting of replacing the front and rear axles, bushings and seals; rebuilding brakes and differential; as well as replacing the radiator.