SOUTH BERWICK
BOARD OF ASSESSORS
AUGUST 10, 2009
Senior member Michelle Kareckas called the meeting to order at 6:04pm. Councilors present included David Burke and Gerald W. MacPherson, Sr. Town Manager John B. Schempf and Assessing Agent Craig Skelton were also in attendance. Jean Demetracopoulos arrived at approximately 6:10pm.
The Board discussed setting the tax rate and commitment. Value adjustments were made for deed changes, new construction, and alterations for an increase in value of $902,867 over fiscal year 2009. The proposed rate of $15.20 includes an increase of $.11 for the town and $.21 for the schools and county.
-Richard Clough, Academy St, stated that the rate should remain at $14.90. This would still allow for an addition of $194,000 to the undesignated fund if not used for abatements.
-Eric Pelchat, Front St, stated that the potential loss of excise tax revenues (with the upcoming November vote) may have a significant impact on the budget and taxes.
-Richard Young, Tamarack Dr, stated that jobs are harder to find and a tax increase can not be absorbed by many residents.
-Norma Tutelian, Butler St, stated that the tax rate does not need to be increased. She also expressed her displeasure at the starting time of the meeting; 6:00pm is too early.
-Mr. Burke stated that he is in favor of the Assessing Agent’s recommendation. He added that there is the potential for numerous abatement requests. Mr. Burke also stated that he believes the undesignated fund should be around $2 million.
-Mrs. Kareckas made a motion to set the tax rate at 15.20/1000 of valuation for fiscal year 2010. Mr. Macpherson seconded the motion.
-Mrs. Demetracopoulos stated that auditors recommend that our minimum undesignated fund be at least 1 month of expenses plus 10% of the commitment that would be $1,980,000; or 3 months of expenditures which would be $2,400,000. The undesignated fund has been depleted to an unhealthy point. And, we are required to make school payments of over $500,000 per month.
-Mr. MacPherson stated that by putting a little more in the surplus now may soften the blow if the excise tax referendum is passed in November.
The original motion to set the fiscal year 2010 tax rate at $15.20 per $1000 of valuation passed unanimously.
The meeting adjourned at 6:17pm.
Attest:
Barbara Bennett, CCM
Town Clerk
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