Auditor tells Houlton council financial numbers look good

HOULTON, Maine — Characterizing Houlton as “a virtually debt-free town,” auditor Ron Smith of RHR Smith & Company, also said “the economy has taken no prisoners and Houlton is no exception.”
Smith cautioned the councilors at their meeting on Monday that the fund balance was just below the 30-day level of $700,000, to maintain operating expenses and he would like to see a higher number.
He also said that the use of funds to maintain the mil rate and taking on debt to invest in infrastructure were “good and conscious choices that are showing up now.” Smith said “the staff is very capable and there were no signs of mismanagement.”
Although other communities may have more cash on hand, Smith said they have not made the investment in infrastructure. “Houlton still looks good on paper,” commented Smith about the town’s finances.
“I’m bringing a message of caution,” said Smith who added that in July he will present a statement of financial status as of June 30. With the low interest rates, Smith suggested that the town use financing for any long-term projects. The councilors and Smith discussed a possible financial review prior to the budget process.
Busy summer predicted
Lori Weston, executive director of the Greater Houlton Chamber of Commerce commented on several events and activities for the summer. She predicted success for the Houlton Fair and events over the Fourth of July weekend as well as other summer events including the relocation of an expanded Houlton Community Market in downtown starting this weekend and running through Sept. 4. Weston said the downtown merchants are “so excited” about the new farmers’ market location. Hours are from 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Weston said the directory of Houlton businesses that took four years to complete is in all the hotels, motels, campgrounds, real estate offices as well as the tourist information centers from Fryeburg to Houlton. “Be prepared because this town is going to be full, almost continuously,” said Weston. She added that the Thomaston Place Auction Galleries will be at the Houlton Higher Education Center on June 25 to review and appraise antiques similar to TV’s “Antiques Roadshow.”
During public comments, Phil Bernaiche, a resident, asked why political signs with comments were not allowed in certain locations although he has seen them. Council Chairman Walter Goodrich responded by saying that those responsible for illegal signs have been notified.
The councilors also continued their review of land use definitions that will eventually be compiled for code enforcement.
The next council meeting is Monday, June 7 at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers, 21 Water St.