HOULTON, Maine — Councilors are mulling an amendment to the municipal charter that would change when they receive a review of the town’s finances.
Currently, the town receives a six-month review of its finances, in addition to a full audit. This year, that full review was held in July with Ron Smith of RHR Smith and Company. Smith suggested changing the six-month review to an eight-month review, so that the council would have a better grasp of where they are at financially when preparing a new budget.
In order to amend the town charter, a formal referendum vote must be taken. That vote will coincide with the November elections.
During his July review, Smith informed the council that the town’s undesignated fund balance had increased by $140,000, bringing the total to $480,000.
That figure is still lower than what Smith suggested the town should have in its coffers. He suggested a minimum of $700,000, which would cover 30 days of operating costs. If the town wanted to have 60 days of operating costs in its reserve account, it would need to have $1.4 million, while 90 days would be $2.1 million.
In other agenda items, the town is considering increasing the cost for handling cremated remains at its cemetery. Currently, the town charges $75 for cremated remains, but under the new proposal that fee is going to be raised to $125. The weekend/holiday fee is also set to increase from $125 to $175.
At least two councilors, John White and Chairman Paul Cleary, have concerns about the increase.
“Is the main reason we are doing this because it is costing us more money?” Cleary asked. “If you are opening a grave, I can understand the reason for (raising the fee). But when it comes to cremated remains, I just don’t know about this.”
Cleary said the matter warranted more discussion at their next meeting before it becomes enacted. Members of the public can also weigh in on the rate hike at the next regular council meeting on Sept. 8 at 6 p.m.
