MARS HILL, Maine — The municipal budget was set earlier this year, with the final figure coming in at $1,151,596, with town leaders now waiting on the county and school portion to be determined.
“Our year starts Feb. 1. We came in close to last year’s total. It’s about $66,445 higher than last year, due to a one-time item in this year’s budget. We added $50,000 because of revaluation. That was actually a $90,000 item we spread over three years — some was added last year, this year was $50,000 and the rest will come in next year’s budget,” said Ray Mersereau, interim town manager.
Mersereau said there was a slight increase due to labor and the cost of fuel.
“Otherwise, we had a level budget. We anticipate the school budget will be near the same as last year, so we hope to maintain our mil rate at 25.75, the same as last year,” said Mersereau.
He noted that there was a big increase in the school budget last year but doesn’t think that will happen this year.
“We’ve also been affected by cuts to revenue sharing. Our portion has been cut about in half the last couple years. We expect to get the same from revenue sharing as we did last year. We budgeted $14,000 less than last year,” he said, noting the town won’t know for sure what it will receive until around August, when the state’s budget has been determined.
Mersereau said it’s better to underestimate what will be received.
“Last year we budgeted for $90,000 but in 2013 we only received $87,000. This year, with regard to revenue sharing, we budgeted for $75,819. We budgeted conservatively,” said Mersereau.
In other town business, the annual town meeting and elections were held on March 17. Penny Rideout did not seek re-election for her seat on the Town Council, with Frank “Sam” Mahan Jr. and Todd Grass vying for the opening. Voters selected Mahan for the position.
The Library Board of Trustees had one contested seat, with incumbent Rena Kearney being defeated by Jill Lunney.
Carolee Hallett and Jason Woollard, both incumbents were elected to return to the SAD 42 School Board. Two seats were open on the Utility District Board, with incumbents Evan Lento and Dirk McCrum retaining their spots.
Mersereau said with regard to the elections, experience plays a vital role in municipal government.
“Having people with experience is important when working with a new town manager. We had a good turnout for election, with several familiar faces receiving the support of voters,” said Mersereau.
