Houlton councilors approve abatement, licenses

HOULTON, Maine — It was a quick night of business for the Houlton Town Council Monday as the board spent less than 10 minutes in open session granting licenses, writing off taxes and appointing members to the board of assessment review.
    The council actually spent more time in executive session discussing a tax abatement request. Following the 15-minute closed-door session, which included Lauren Asselin, town clerk/general assistance administrator, and Dan Nelson, town attorney, the council granted a tax abatement request in the amount of $1,768 by a vote of 4-2. Councilors John White and Michael Jenkins voted against the request.
According Town Manager Doug Hazlett, the name of the individual requesting the tax abatement was not public information under Maine law.
In regular business, the council approved a new victualer license for Ammael Appleby doing business as Café Rendezous, located at 8 Market Square. Appleby told the council she hopes to open her shop within the next two weeks.
The council also:
• Approved a liquor license renewal for the American Legion Post No. 47.
• Agreed to write off unpaid personal property taxes and costs assessed to Russell Gillen of MC Wireless in the amount of $332.58; and to Heidi Campbell-Fitzpatrick of County Girl Fitness in the amount of $293.38.
• Appointed Dana Delano, Joyce Fitzpatrick, Carl Lord Jr., Gerard Berthelette, Francis Fitzpatrick, Dorothy Donahue and Philip Bernaiche to three-year terms on the Board of Assessment Review.
The next regular council meeting is scheduled for Monday, Aug. 22 at 6:30 p.m.