By Matt Riiska

Budgets are things that need to be continuously monitored. As winter goes on, we pay attention to our expenses related to road maintenance. Because of the varying weather conditions we’ve been having—rain, freezing rain and snow, sometimes all in one day—the amount of sand and salt that needs to be used changes. We have been keeping track of our salt usage in particular, and as of this week we are halfway through our $125,000 budget. As you might recall, last year we spent $205,000. We have been making an effort to reduce our salt usage while still keeping the roads safe.
Speaking of budgets, we have started the long process of drawing up next year’s. It is never an easy process and seems to change weekly as priorities change, but we will continue to keep everyone informed. With a change in the state administration, we can only guess what funding will be available. There are many projects that need to be addressed. The River Place bridge work will continue, road repairs and repairs to Botelle School will need to be addressed (including a new oil tank and gym roof), and we need to assess the current state of our public works equipment.
One expense that was not anticipated is the replacement of the stone Mountain Road bridge. Preliminary engineer reports indicate that this needs to be done sooner than later. The Department of Transportation monitors our bridges, and this one has been on their list for replacement for some time. Do not panic. We will need to make the bridge one-way, alternating traffic, and we will restrict its use, but we will keep it open until work starts next year. Also, don’t worry, we will not change its appearance. The first thing I told the engineers was that the bridge has to look like it does now.
Town Assessor Michele Sloan and her assistant Patty Carruthers have been working diligently to complete the revaluation. Early indicators are showing a drop in home values, which will mean reduction in the Grand List. In order to maintain a budget comparable to this year’s, the mil rate will need to be increased. This does not mean your taxes are going up that dramatically. We still have to meet our community’s needs.
As citizens, please keep yourselves updated, attend the budget hearings and ask questions.