November 15, 2012
The meeting of the Board of Selectmen was called to order at 7 p.m. by Chairman Soter with all members in attendance except Mr. Featherston.
Mr. Soter explained the meeting was scheduled as a workshop in order to discuss the tax classification hearing which was continued until November 19. Mr. Soter asked Mrs. Mathieu to give an overview of the attached documents which were provided to each Board member.
Mrs. Mathieu explained the Town was presently ranked by the D.O.R. at 206 on a scale of 1 to 351 with one being the community with the highest tax burden in the State and 351 the lowest tax burden. Mrs. Mathieu stated the Town has been listed in the bottom 40% or lower for the past 20 years indicating Bellingham’s tax burden is low relative to State wide averages.
Mr. Mayhew asked Mrs. Mathieu whether the Board of Assessors intended to recommend the 10% small business exemption. Mrs. Mathieu stated the Board was recommending the full 10% exemption and noted 68 businesses had taken advantage of the exemption last year.
Mr. Connor stated in past years he felt the need for the Town to continue to close the tax split; however, his view has changed particularly in light of the recent debt exclusion for water improvements and the increased water rates. Mr. Spencer agreed with Mr. Connor stating the debt exclusion will have an impact on residential taxes.
Mr. Soter stated his preference to increase the split based on the sluggish economy and the impact on residential property owners. Mr. Spencer agreed with Mr. Soter but expressed his desire for further review.
Mr. Mayhew expressed his desire to find a level of fairness for residential and the business community.
Mr. Soter stated the Board would resume the tax classification discussion during the Board’s next meeting scheduled for November 19.
On a Mayhew/Connor motion, the Board unanimously voted to adjourn at 7:50 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Denis C. Fraine
Town Administrator
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