BUCKFIELD — To help save heating costs at the Public Works complex, the Select Board agreed Tuesday to purchase a furnace to utilize waste oil produced by the Transfer Station.
Town Manager Lorna Nichols estimates the $12,000 system would pay for itself within two years.
The Public Works complex, which is about 3,000 square feet, uses an old oil heating system. Funds were set aside to upgrade the system, but that work has not started because “the contractor was not available to do the work,” Nichols said.
The Transfer Station generates between 150 and 200 gallons of waste oil per month, which the town gives away because it has no way to use it. At current oil prices, the town could recoup its investment within two years, perhaps sooner if prices continue to climb, Nichols said.
Weldon Lucas, road commissioner and Public Works director, said the town would transport the waste oil to the Public Works complex and store any extra at the facility.
The board agreed to purchase a reconditioned waste oil furnace with a 250-gallon tank from Dirigo Waste Oil in Waterville for just over $12,000, which includes installation. Funds to upgrade the old system will be used toward the purchase. A small portion of the cost may need to come from next year’s budget.
In other business, the board approved the final draft for a request for bids for a townwide property revaluation, which has not been done since the 1970s.
In 1975, Maine’s Property Tax Law added language that requires municipalities to maintain valuations equitably to at least 70% of market value.
“With the State’s Certified Ratio for Buckfield at 73%, it is increasingly clear that this equalization project take place as soon as possible,” Nichols said in her report.
The board announced that a public hearing on the town meeting warrant and a proposed marijuana ordinance will be held July 7. The town meeting is tentatively set for Aug. 14.
The 1997 Ford fire squad truck has failed inspection due to cooling leaks, tires, brake lines and a fuel leak. The coolant hoses must be custom made. It was purchased as an ambulance in 1996 as a demonstration unit and transferred to the fire department in 2014.
The vehicle goes on nearly every call and carries equipment and supplies to a scene, Nichols said.
The board requested estimates on what it would cost to make the repairs so the truck passes inspection.
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