Slow economy impacts town budget

By Elna Seabrooks
Staff Writer
    HOULTON — Slower growth and higher fuel costs are among the financial issues driving spending adjustments in the 2009 Houlton budget, explained Town Manager Douglas Hazlett during the council meeting Monday evening. A first look at the projected budget, showing revenue of $8,054,870, will mean a shortfall of $74,821 for expenses due, in part, to lower tax receipts, higher expenses for fuel and a possible bond issue to improve roads.
Some good news
    While many cities and towns around the country are facing extreme financial deficits due to foreclosures, layoffs, bankruptcies and other reductions in tax revenue, Hazlett says that’s not the case in Houlton. He added the town’s financial picture is not as dramatic as others that have to slash programs and deal with major budget cuts. Since revenue is basically flat, because of the slowing economy, the town is “trying to keep expenses as flat as possible.”
    Also discussed were next year’s proposed public works projects to improve roads if taxpayers endorse a  $1 million bond issue which carries an annual debt of nearly $81,000 for 20 years to pay off the loan. Hazlett says “the bond issue is a benefit to the town, local contractors and the roads with a very low debt service.”
    Other capital projects involve budgeting a $100,000 reserve account for public works equipment that has become overly expensive to maintain, $10,000 to upgrade the council’s audio and video equipment and $30,000 in matching funds for the $4 million FAA grant to improve the airport runway.
    Other business
    The council, in a unanimous 5-0 vote, authorized payment of $6,000 from the Animal Welfare Account to the Houlton Human Society. Cathy Davis, animal shelter president, in response to the issue of rabies, explained that the state mandates all cats be vaccinated against the disease. And, with regard to euthanasia, she said that particular cost is roughly the same as keeping an animal alive for six months to a year. It is only an option, she said, in extreme cases for health or safety reasons.
    Davis says expenses involved in pet adoption are due to basic costs related to vaccinations, spaying or neutering. In some cases, she said, the fees are waived. Hazlett added that the shelter’s work “is invaluable to the town.”
    Maintenance of town roads was discussed as well as the request to take over 3,300 feet of private unpaved roads, in the County Fields Subdivision on Court Street. Developer James Brown requested winter and summer maintenance by the town on roads he says are ready for hot top and meet or exceed town specifications. The councilors discussed financial considerations and various public safety issues, especially when emergency vehicles have to navigate unplowed roads. They decided to review the matter at the next meeting on Nov. 24. 
    During public comments on the current wood boiler ordinance, Stanley Ginish offered his services to residents who want another evaluation after a complaint. He said he is certified and will do the evaluation at no charge. The council voted 5 – 0 to repeal the town ordinance and conform with the state’s regulations.
    Nancy Ketch expressed condolences to the family of James McPartland who had been an active resident and businessman in Houlton. Councilors attending the meeting were Paul Cleary, Brian Donnelly, John Fitzpatrick, Walter Goodrich, Nancy Ketch, Sue Tortello.