Proposed Palmyra budget leaves tax rate stable

PALMYRA – The proposed expenditures that Palmyra voters will decide upon at their annual town meeting March 8 are slightly less than last year, but that may be balanced by an increase in the county tax and school payments, said administrative assistant Valerie Sprague.

“Recommendations of the total appropriations will be down from last year by $14,145,” said Sprague, “so we are saving a bit.”

Last year’s appropriation was $469,485 and this year’s recommendation is $455,340.

“The county tax has gone up considerably,” she said, from $94,000 in 2002 to $109,000 this year.

She said the mill rate, currently $13 per $1,000 valuation, is likely to remain stable.

Two projects are being brought forward for completion. The construction of a salt-sand shed is expected. The proposal is to take $150,000 from surplus and use $44,220 set aside in a reserve account. “We want to pay for that out of surplus,” said Sprague, “rather than have to borrow and pay interest.”

The second project involves assisting the local snowmobile club with purchasing the abandoned railroad bed, as has already been done in neighboring Newport and Pittsfield. It is suggested that the amount to be appropriated not exceed $28,000.

Two small changes to the town’s zoning ordinance are also on the warrant.

Other articles include expenditures of $10,000 for continuing repairs to the Town Hall, including foundation work; $36,000 for town insurances; $20,000 for summer roads; $43,000 for winter roads; $32,000 for road equipment; $40,000 for road improvements; $35,000 for fire protection; $60,000 for solid-waste disposal; $10,000 for recycling; $5,000 for general assistance; and $3,500 for recreation programs.

Support of three area food banks also has been proposed at a total of $1,175.

The town is also suggesting carrying into 2003 the $3,000 donated by the Palmyra Wal-Mart for playground equipment.

Selectmen have suggested taking $150,000 from surplus to help lower appropriations; however, the budget committee recommended $200,000.

The town meeting will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 8, and will be moved to Town Hall this year rather than the Palmyra School gymnasium. “We just haven’t been getting a good turnout in recent years,” said Sprague.