WOODSTOCK — This year, municipal costs in Woodstock have increased by 4%, the county rate has risen by 12%, and Town Manager Vern Maxfield estimates that the school budget will see a 9% rise.
“This is the hardest we’ve ever been hit,” Maxfield noted, adding that last year’s increases in municipal, school, and county appropriations were significantly smaller.
The 4% increase in municipal expenses, Maxfield explained, is mainly due to higher operating costs. However, he clarified that no new equipment was purchased, nor are there any major projects currently underway. The increase in costs can be attributed to higher overhead, wages, insurance, and oil prices — “the same things everyone else is paying higher prices for,” he said.
Maxfield, who is stepping down this year after 43 years in public service, including 36 years as Woodstock’s town manager, will be present at the town’s annual meeting.
Woodstock’s annual town meeting, Maxfield’s last, will be held on Monday, March 31, at 6 p.m. at the Town Highway Building.
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