Finance Committee
Nov. 16, 2009

The meeting was called to order at 6:30 by Chairman John Martin.

Members present were John Martin, John Thompson, Vicki Merrill, Tony Butterall, and Barry Patrie. Also in attendance was Selectmen Richard Hunt.

Old Business

None.

New Business

Minutes of the Oct. 16 meeting could not be approved because of the missing members.

Richard Hunt told the committee that the Selectmen’s goal his year was to keep the mil rate at its present level of 12.75%. The committee stated that we would do our best.

The committee began looking at the budget request for 2010. It was decided not to review outside agency’s requests until after the town’s operating budget is determined.

The committee reviewed the public works budget and voted to table the overall request until Brad Grover was able to come in and clarify the wage portion and the parts and repair sections of his budget. John Martin will contact Brad and informed him of the committee’s questions.

The transfer station budget was tabled needing more information on parts of the overall budget as well as information on the skid steer and accessories request. John Martin will contact Dawn Hagar and request that she attend the next meeting.

There were questions with the Werner Park and Cemetery budgets. It was noted that there is no request for town funds, but the committee needs to see what projects are in the planning stages to see if there is enough money in the respective savings accounts to cover proposed plans. John Martin will contact Bill Haynes.

SAD 17 assessment could rise $60,500

Selectman Hunt informed the committee about the proposed school budget increases. He said he has spoken to the School Superintendent of SAD 17, Dr. Eastman. After his conversation with Dr. Eastman, it was felt that due to the state revenue lagging behind projections, state assistance to the school district will be decreased. The end result is that more of the burden will be shifted to the towns. It is expected that Waterford’s share of the increase could be approximately $60,500 bringing the town’s share of the overall school budget to $1.6 million.

Richard also noted that Waterford’s county tax burden will also increase by approximately $14,500.
 
Richard Hunt presented the committee with the Selectmen’s recommendations for some of the basic town operational budgets.

The following items were voted on and will be forwarded to the Selectmen.

The next meeting will be on Tuesday, December 8, 2009 at 6:30.

The meeting adjourned at 8:45 pm.

John Martin