SUMNER — Voters will be asked to approve $693,00 in local spending at the annual town meeting Saturday. 

The meeting will begin at 9 a.m. at Hartford-Sumner Elementary School, 145 Main St.

Voters will be asked to approve a municipal budget that is $1,680 less than last year. The tax rate is expected to rise an estimated 30 cents per $1,000 of valuation, according to Town Treasurer Susan Runes. 

Though local spending has decreased, the amount owed to Regional School Unit 10 is driving the tax rate increase. That increase would be closer to 60 cents per $1,000 if not for $388,500 in revenue, Runes said. 

Runes said the town anticipated an increase in the school assessment and a decrease in state funding. The proposed budget maintains most programs and services.

The town is asking voters to approve $250,000 in bonds for capital improvement projects, including replacing a culvert on Redding Road this summer and replacing the bridge over the West Branch of the Nezinscot River near the intersection of Tuell and Redding roads next spring.

The town’s Shoreland Zoning Ordinance and maps are up for a vote because changes in state law have increased the setback for new construction to 250 feet. Sumner has several ponds with residential homes.

Voters will also be asked to choose a selectman for three years. Incumbent Mary Ann Haxton is being challenged by Clifford McNeil. James Keach is running uncontested for road commissioner. 

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