MEXICO – The just over 400 residents who went to the polls Tuesday overwhelmingly approved a $3.61 million budget for fiscal year 2009-10.

Although that figure is about $34,000 less than the current budget, Town Manager John Madigan doesn’t know yet whether the current tax rate of $23.35 per $1,000 will be maintained. It all depends on the amount of revenues collected and how much of the town’s undesignated funds will be used.

The reduction of one police officer from the five-member department, along with small cuts in virtually every department were responsible for the decrease in this year’s proposed budget. Madigan had said that almost all cost centers came in less this year than last.

Along with adopting the budget, voters approved amendments to the town’s comprehensive plan, shoreland zoning ordinance and flood plain management ordinance.

They also agreed to accept the SAD 43 central office by a vote of 304-91. Selectmen will hold a special workshop to decide what to do with the early 1960s building. The district no longer needs the two-story building because it has joined with the Western Foothills School District, and that central office is in Dixfield.

Voters chose to continue to vote on the annual meeting warrant at the polls rather than at a public meeting. The vote was 260-139.

The only article voted down was a question asking for approval to increase the property tax levy limit, known as LD 1. A yes vote wasn’t necessary since the tax commitment approved came in under the maximum amount allowed by the state.

The tax rate will be set this summer.