The Chesterville Select Board discussed open seats in the upcoming election, the need for a new server to support TRIO software, and plans for a potential property revaluation at the Dec. 19 meeting at the town hall, sign for it pictured here, in Chesterville. Rebecca Richard/Franklin Journal

CHESTERVILLE — Open seats in the next election, hall rental policies, and necessary technology upgrades were among the key issues addressed at the Dec. 19 Select Board meeting as the town prepares for 2025.

Two three-year Select Board seats, a one-year Select Board seat and a three-year school board seat will be on the ballot, offering residents opportunities to take active roles in local governance.

The Board discussed changes to hall rental policies, highlighting concerns about renters not cleaning after events. Currently, residents pay $50 with a $25 refundable deposit, while non-residents pay $100. Chair Eric Hilton shared his frustration with enforcing cleaning standards. “The issue I have seen is that it is hard to tell a person they left a mess. People might make it difficult,” Hilton said.

Treasurer Erin Norton proposed raising the deposit to $50 and implementing a checklist for renters. “Maybe it is just worth making a little bit more enforcement,” Norton said. She suggested a system where renters would need to check off tasks on a form, and deposits could be withheld if they fail to meet the requirements. Norton also noted that sometimes a simple reminder could be effective. “A group email reminding everyone to clean up after themselves might be all that’s needed,” she added.

In other business, Norton updated the board on the need for a new server to support the town’s TRIO software. TRIO is software for Maine local governments that streamlines operations and boosts efficiency for municipalities and utility districts.

“Our server doesn’t meet the specs for what we will have to upgrade to,” she said, adding that the current server is at least nine years old. Norton assured the Board the cost would be manageable, citing quotes for similar upgrades in other towns ranging from $2,000 to $6,000. “Don’t panic. It is not crazy expensive,” she said. Norton also mentioned plans to replace outdated computers in the town office, highlighting how much faster and more efficient new equipment could be. “You don’t realize how slow it is until you have an upgrade,” she said.

Discussions also centered on the search for a new assessor and the potential for a town-wide property revaluation. Norton voiced her opposition to changing assessors without careful consideration, warning that it could be a significant mistake.

“I think our focus should be looking into a reval before switching assessors, to get our values closer to fair market value,” Norton said. She stressed the importance of educating residents about the process. “It is important to educate your citizens so they can ask questions and be informed,” she added.

Norton recommended including an article on the town warrant to get voter approval for the revaluation, which she estimated would take several years and require substantial funding.

Hilton discussed the challenges of finding a new assessor, noting that many professionals in the field are retiring. “I reached out to eight assessors, and only three got back to me,” Hilton said, adding that only one viable candidate was identified in New Gloucester. He expressed the need for someone reliable who could work closely with the town. “We need someone to work with us,” Hilton emphasized, highlighting the complexity of assessing and the importance of accessibility in a new hire. Hilton mentioned inviting John E. O’Donnell and Associates Inc. for a presentation. “They are very accessible, around since the 90s,” he said.

Finally, there will be a Planning Board public hearing on the Site Plan Review Ordinance  Jan. 14, at 6 p.m. at the Town Hall. Additionally, the Recreation Committee will host a Family Dance Party Saturday, Feb. 15, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Town Hall. The event will feature Sugar Momma DJ, photos by Bethany Hoyt Photography and light snacks. Tickets are $5 per person, with a family cap of $20. “So everybody, get excited about that,” Hilton said.