NEW GLOUCESTER – Leaders from 14 town departments set spending priorities for the next five years Thursday.

Exploring public water and sewer systems and redesigning the Upper Gloucester ranked high and got Town Manager Rosemary Kulow’ support.

Town Planner Rebeccah Shaffner said the comprehensive plan needs to be revised and a better information collection system established.

A staff assistant will be hired.

Solid waste disposal and recycling in the next five years can be drastically different than today, the group learned. A study of costs for collecting waste at the transfer station versus at the curb is pending.

Also making the long-range list is painting the exterior of the library in the next two years and updating computers.

Recreation will consider contracting with the YMCA at Pineland to run certain town recreation programs. A part-time recreation director with a stipend is recommended.

The town’s financial road map will be updated annually.