Caribou residents could pay higher property taxes if more isn’t cut from proposed 2025 expenses.
City councilors discussed a potential $1.2 million shortfall in revenues that could mean raising the mill rate.
The projected $13.6 million in expenses is more than anticipated revenue and reserves of $12.4 million, City Manager Penny Thompson said during the March 10 council meeting. Last year’s mill rate of 21.24 could go up 2.5 mills or more if things remain as is, she said.
“The shortfall is based on capital expenses as amended last time,” she said. “You can raise the mill rate, or you can cut spending.”
The budget proposes $12.5 million in general expenses, an amended total of $1.1 million in capital expenses, and projects reserves of $865,944 and revenue of $11.5 million, according to Thompson.
Department heads presented annual budget requests on Jan. 27 and Feb. 10. Two weeks ago, members of the city’s capital expense committee recommended cutting $1.9 million in capital spending requests in half to save money.
A public hearing Monday on the budget drew no comments from residents.
Councilors agreed to consider any necessary changes and share them with Thompson prior to next week’s final budget vote, which will take place during the March 17 meeting.
March 10 was also a night of celebration, as councilors recognized the recent achievements of several athletes and coaches at Caribou High School.
“By recognizing and celebrating the achievements of student athletes and coaches, the Caribou City Council hopes to inspire future generations to pursue their dreams, embrace challenges, and contribute positively to our community,” Thompson said.
The council commended parents, family members and coaches for supporting and mentoring student athletes. Mayor Courtney Boma presented certificates of appreciation.
Grace Jean was recognized as the 2025 Maine girls wrestling champion, along with coach Casey Ryan.
The group honored the entire Viking girls basketball team and head coach Kayla Brown for their recent state championship victory, their first gold basketball.
Brown was also named the 2025 Coach of the Year for the Big East basketball division.
Most recently, Viking Madelynn Deprey was named Miss Maine Basketball, an award given to the state’s top senior male and female basketball players by the Maine Association of Basketball Coaches.
Councilors also recognized Caribou High School Principal Jamie Selfridge, who was recently chosen Maine’s 2025 Principal of the Year.
“Two gold balls, Principal of the Year, Coach of the Year — there are a lot of good things going on here,” Deputy Mayor Jody Smith said.
The Viking boys basketball team, which also won the state championship, will be recognized at the March 17 meeting, Boma said.
Thompson had other congratulations to share. Caribou Recreation and Parks Superintendent Gary Marquis will be named Citizen of the Year, and Beaulieu’s Garage as Business of the Year for Community Impact, during the Central Aroostook Chamber of Commerce’s annual dinner on March 13, she said.
Additionally, Hollie Doody was recertified as a treasurer by the Maine Municipal Tax Collectors’ and Treasurers’ Association, Thompson said.
The next council meeting is slated at 6 p.m. Monday, March 17, in the council chambers at the Caribou Municipal Building.
