Newcastle voters will have the opportunity to make some serious and important decisions regarding how Newcastle is governed and spends its hard earned tax dollars next Monday, March 30. The polls will open at the Newcastle Community Room at the Fire Station on River Rd at 10 a.m. and will close at 6 p.m.
There are six people running for the two seats on the Board of Selectmen. It is important that as many voters as possible cast their ballots so that those on the Board provide the best representation of the townspeople. Being a selectman requires dedication, time to study issues, time to keep information in an organized manner, and time to spend at lengthy meetings.
Much has been accomplished during the three years I have served as a member of the Board of Selectmen, but there is more to be done.
We have a very capable Town Administrator, a Certified Maine Tax Assessor who assesses property in a fair and unbiased manner, and we have developed a long range plan for the repair and maintenance of the town roads.
I would like to see the town continue to move forward so I would appreciate your vote on Monday.
I have no “pet projects”, but want to do what is best for the town as a whole and spend money wisely. The fiscal year needs to change to conform to that used by the state, county, and school to make budgeting more accurate.
We need to go to tax billing two times a year that will benefit the taxpayer and the town. The town would have a more even flow of income that will decrease the need to borrow a Tax Anticipation Note, and the taxpayer would benefit because the tax payment can be spread out over two bills. The roads plan that has been developed needs to be implemented to prevent further deterioration of our roads.
It is also important that as many as possible attend the town meeting at the Lincoln Academy Gym beginning at 7:30 p.m. There are several ordinances for voters to consider as well as a number of money expenditure articles.
During the past few weeks the Board of Selectmen has run a series of articles on the various accounts of the budget to better explain why the money is needed and why the Board is making its recommendations.
For the sake of the town’s government and your tax dollars, please go to the polls and vote and go to the town meeting in the evening.
Pat Hudson
Selectman, Newcastle
