Voters at the town meeting also approved funds for a computer system.
STONEHAM – Money to fix up the fire station and buy equipment to get the tax bills done in two days instead of two weeks was approved by voters Saturday.
John Woodward moderated the meeting attended by about 35 residents.
Now that the town’s mortgage on the community room attached to the fire station has been retired, Fire Chief Albert Fox said there needs to be some maintenance and repair on the building. Townspeople voted to appropriate $10,000 for a new furnace and two oil tanks, and to repair trim this year before installing a new, insulated door next year.
Jim Tinder, who volunteers his expertise in matters financial and technological, explained the state’s valuation of Stoneham has risen from about $34 million in 2003 to about $39 million this year. Between 60 percent and 66 percent of the money the town raises goes to the school budget, he said, and though that actual figure isn’t available until late June, the town needs to plan for a 6 percent increase.
Voters committed the town to raise $89,091 through taxes and to appropriate $98,729 from the general fund.
Residents agreed to take $1,123 from surplus for new electronic data equipment so, as Tinder said, “tax bills can be done in two days instead of two weeks.”
The only item in which voters voiced disagreement was the decision to spend $1,000 to buy two town name signs at two highway entrances and 16 American flags. Those who thought one or two flags would be sufficient for Stoneham were in the minority.
There were no requests for salary increases, and the town voted to accept the request that town clerk and treasurer each receive a $750 stipend toward personal health insurance.
Midge Silvio and Mary Fox retained their positions as town clerk and treasurer, respectively.
John Collins was elected selectman and Jim Owens to the Board of Appeals from his former position as alternate.
Prior to the business meeting, Dan Barker announced that one the earliest town meetings was held in 1834 at James Mckeen’s home.
First Selectman Neal Littlefield announced the town has been offered the Knights of Pythias building, and a group of volunteers agreed to discuss the implications and possibilities and report to selectmen in 60 days.
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