WOODLAND, Maine — Selectmen unanimously approved a 2015 mill rate of $20 per thousand in property value during their June 23 town meeting. The figure is 50 cents lower than the 2014 tax level.
In other business, a grant proposal to replace a culvert on the Margison Road was considered by the selectmen and residents. The application was filled out and signed during the meeting.
In addition, Woodland selectman discussed the status of tax acquired properties. They found that there are two properties in the Woodland area that may go up for auction soon if the owners fail to make required payments.
A few residents expressed discontent with the town’s annual budget estimates during the public comment portion of the meeting. The selectmen stated that it is better to err on the side of caution while making these estimates.
The approved 2015 Woodland budget is $1,283,821 of which $606,582 is for education. It is $10,383 (.8 percent) higher than the previous spending package.
“More often than not, you’re presented with a Catch-22 scenario when you make these decisions,” said Thomas Drew, a selectman. “It’s nearly impossible to please everyone, but we do our best to make sure the majority is satisfied.”
Another citizen inquired about a small piece of land that he is charged taxes for, but does not technically own. He explained that he would like to obtain a deed for the property and that, since the previous owner passed away, nobody technically owns the land. However, since all annual tax payments are up to date, the town of Woodland does not own the property either.
The selectmen suggested contacting the Maine Municipal Association and explaining the man’s unique predicament.
The remaining articles discussed include a bid for a new photocopier in the town office, in which the selectmen decided on a higher quality machine for a lower price than their current model. The meeting was adjourned after a brief discussion regarding personnel policy within the office.
