Town leaders propose Woodstock budget hike

WOODSTOCK — Woodstock's proposed budget for 2011 is $2,559,260.72. The estimated amount to be raised from taxes is $2,081,769.88.

Outside of the town's school commitment, the budget is up $133,000 from last year. "Of this amount, an estimated $90,000 for a new plow truck will come out of the savings account, $30,000 is for the dam and Fire Department, so the actual town budget is up only [$8,000 or $9,000]" said Town Manager Vern Maxfield.

As presented, the budget would raise the mil rate to .01514 or $1,514 per $100,000 property valuation.

There will be a warrant article seeking $15,000 to pay Woodstock's share of the proposed enhanced mutual aid agreement with the Greenwood fire department. Another asks for $15,000 to start preparing for the day when the town has to take action on the municipal-owned dam at the outlet to Bryant Pond.

Actual figures for the school commitment will not be known until the school budget is presented in June. Maxfield said his estimate "is probably not enough."

"We are in the same boat as the schools as far as cuts are concerned, and we cannot use any more surplus," Maxfield commented.

A 40-article warrant for the March 28 Annual Town Meeting was approved and signed by the board.

An addition to the school budget, referendum day will see the application of Bob Breau to sell hard liquor at Breau's Too in Bryant Pond. A public vote is required before a license can be issued.

Concord Pond Road has washed out and is closed for the foreseeable future.

Bruce Korhonen will not be running for re-election to the Board of Selectmen. Steve Bies is the only person who has taken out nominating papers for this position.

The next regular Selectmen's meeting is Tuesday, March 15 at 5 p.m.