Winslow councilors tackle variety of items

Yesterday at 12:00 AM

By Ben McCanna bmccanna@centralmaine.com Staff Writer

WINSLOW -- Town councilors faced a variety of significant issues during their Monday meeting, some of them contentious.

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The council approved, 61, a second reading of the 20122013 budget for $20,654,249 which will hold the current property tax rate at $15.50 per $1,000 of assessed valuation. Councilor Jerry Quirion was opposed. Tax due dates were also set for Oct. 12, Dec. 14, March 8, 2013, and June 14, 2013, which is a departure from the towns usual two payment-per-year system.

Town Manager Mike Heavener announced that the Maine Department of Economic and Community Development accepted a letter of intent regarding a $400,000 community development block grant and has invited the town to apply for the grant. It will help Orion Ropeworks upgrade equipment and hire about 25 additional employees, Heavener said.

The council approved, 70, an increase in the sewer rate. Residents will now be charged $2.60 per 100 cubic feet of sewage, an increase of 50 cents per 100 cubic feet. It is the first rate increase since 2009.

Councilor Raymond Caron announced he would not run for re-election this year, leaving an open seat for District 4.

In addition to approving a second reading of next year's $20 million budget and raising the sewer rate for the first time since 2009, the council hosted an open discussion on the future of the Winslow Municipal Track; debated options for a proposed expansion of the police station; and approved a nonbinding resolution that calls for an amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

Track reconstruction considered

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Winslow councilors tackle variety of items