REED PLANTATION, Maine — A group of 15 residents spent nearly four and a half hours debating town matters Saturday before ultimately approving a municipal budget of $213,231.
According to Town Manager Diane Hines, the overall budget is down $1,894 from last year, but one line item drew significant discussion during the session. At $12,236, the town’s ambulance costs for 2016 are up nearly $4,000 from last year — a nearly 49 percent jump.
Residents decided to form a committee to explore other options for possible ambulance coverage. Another committee was formed to look at the use and maintenance of the town’s buildings.
Nyoka Irish was re-elected as town clerk for the 36th year. Others elected to positions were: Mitch Lansky, assessor/selectman for a three-year term; Hines, treasurer, one-year term; and Theresa Hannington, school board director for a three-year term.
