Tax abatement discussed in Strong




STRONG — Strong board of selectmen met Aug. 27 with an agenda that included hearing information on a new computer program that would simplify motor vehicle registrations, training needed for the Freedom of Access and a tax abatement request.

Eunice Shurtleff was there with her family to request tax abatement on a camp and property that Shurtleff owns. Selectman Milt Baston excused himself from the board because of ties with the family. The abatement for 2010, 2011 and 2012 was requested due to emergency vehicles not having access to the camp because of a blocked road.

Chairperson Joan Reed informed the family of protocol and suggested that they follow that to request the abatement; the first step is filing with the town assessor. According to Reed, if the assessor declines the abatement the request will come before the board then the commissioners and finally may end up in court if the abatement is not approved.

Selectmen approved the purchase of a new TRIO computer program. The program will streamline motor vehicle registrations and reports. The cost of the program and a necessary receipt program is $7,006. Sandy Mitchell, town treasurer has viewed the program at the Kingfield town office and was impressed with it.

Selectman Mike Pond questioned spending the money on a computer program. “Why, as a taxpayer, are we investing $7,000 in this program? What are the benefits from a taxpayer standpoint?” Mitchell stated that the program was more accurate and would save time. Baston stated, “Over time, this will equal money savings because of the elimination of errors.”

Mitchell reported that selectmen and other town officials needed to complete the Freedom of Access, Right to Know certificate course which could either be done online or on paper. She stated that new officials had to complete it and that those who took it years ago should retake it.

Waste Management Disposal informed the town that as of Nov. 1, there would be a two percent consumer index increase bringing the total cost of disposal to $77.63 per ton of solid waste.

Mitchell reported that after swim lessons were over, all the pool noodles and life jackets were left in the Porter Association Building and asked if it mattered. Reed stated that it did matter and that everything needed to come back here. Pond brought laughter to the meeting stating, “I’m not sure they will steal the noodles.” Reed repeated that they needed to be returned, “This is where they have always been and we have better control of the equipment here.” The pool noodles and life jackets will be returned to Strong for the winter.

The next selectmen’s meeting will be held Sept. 10 at 7 p.m. in the town hall.



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