Town Meeting Update

At the October Town Meeting this past Saturday, several items were approved that will affect all islanders.

First, the budget for 2002 was approved. This budget provides for $83,000 in new SAD #6 spending, $2,500 in new spending to Cumberland County, and $40,000 in new spending for the Town. The net result of this is a tax increase of $4.08 per thousand.

Second, the Town Meeting voted to include in the proposed budget, $16,000 for a proposed revaluation of all of the island properties. It is planned that this will take place during next summer, with an acceptance by the Town at the October meeting. The new values will be effective on April 1, 2003, and will then be used for the 2004 budget. The funds for this revaluation  are to come out of the approved budget.

Third, the Town Meeting approved a new ordinance that will require all homes on Frye Island to be identified with your 911 address, no later than August of next year. This identification will assist emergency crews should they have to find you quickly.

Lastly, Frye Island Incorporated voted overwhelmingly to offer the water system to the Town. The Town Meeting then accepted this offer. As soon as the paperwork can be completed, the Town will be the owner of the water treatment system, distribution system, pumps, tanks and pipes, as well as the land under the pump house. This will enable the Town to proceed with a State loan to make improvements to the water system over the next year or two.