News Briefs 3/11/09

By Elna Seabrooks
Staff Writer
Planning Board reviews wind power, TIFs
    HOULTON — The Houlton Planning Board sent its recommendations for a wind energy ordinance to the town council last week which disallows turbines in the downtown historic district but does allow them in rural areas.
    The board also forwarded its recommendations on a tax increment financing (TIF) district  to be designated as the Downtown Tax Increment Financing district. TIFs provide municipalities and businesses with tax incentives for economic development in a community. The board also reviewed some future construction and development opportunities.
    Their next meeting is Tuesday, March 17 at 6:30 p.m.
Taxes, referendum, water — council items  
    In compliance with state regulations the Houlton Town Council held a public hearing Monday evening specifying that taxes are due and payable no later than October 15 and delinquent taxes are due at a rate of 9 percent until paid in full. Overpayment is to be repaid at the rate of 5 percent, also in accordance with state law.
    The council held a first reading on an ordinance to establish and designate the Downtown Tax Increment Financing District (TIF). Another first reading was held on an amendment to the wording of Chapter 16 Drinking Water Protection Ordinance.
    The amendment to the existing ordinance addresses chemical replacement by farmers in a four-acre parcel of land south of Walker Road in the wellhead protection zone.
    In conformance with legal requirements for the upcoming referendum on the road bond, the councilors authorized the Registrar of voters to be at the Town Office from 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m., March 11-23 to register voters and make changes. Absentee ballots are available.
    The next meeting of the town council is Monday, March 23 at 6:30 p.m.