Woolwich mill rate up slightly

had) Woolwich mill rate up slightly

Woolwich Selectmen set a tentative 2007-2008 mill rate at their meeting Monday evening of 12.05, an increase over last year's rate of 11.90.

The amount the town has to raise from local taxes is nearly $4 million. The town's commitments include: county taxes $553,000; town expenses, $853,000; and education, $2.6 million.

The selectmen debated briefly about the amount of overlay (money for unanticipated expenses) and settled on just over $34,000.

On Thursday, September 27, beginning at 8:30 a.m. the Nequasset Road will be closed to through traffic due to culvert replacements. The work is expected to be completed by 3:30 p.m. the same day.

On Friday, September 28, beginning at 8:30 a.m., the Barley Neck Road will be closed to through traffic for culvert replacement. This work is expected to be completed by 3:30 p.m. the same day. The work both days will depend on weather conditions.

Road Commissioner Jack Shaw apologized for any inconvenience and asked if anyone has questions to call him at 443-3932.

Kenneth Desmond, the town's code enforcement officer told the selectmen he had issued six building permits since their last meeting, and two of the permits were for new homes.

This year there have been 24 new home permits issued, and two mobile homes, at a total value of $5.3 million.

As the town's fire chief, Desmond told the selectmen that two of the town's firefighters had completed the Fire Academy and graduation ceremonies will be held October 13, at Fishermen's Wharf in Boothbay Harbor.

The selectmen received a request from the Bath committee raising money for maintenance on the Bath recreation fields.

The selectmen tabled the request until further information could be provided.

McMinn Fields, and Tainter Fields, located on Congress Ave. in Bath are both in need of work which could cost about $700,000.

The Bath committee of volunteers is seeking 300 private and public supporters who will contribute to this project and help make it happen.

"Will your town please consider a commitment of $10,000, payable over two years to support this worthwhile program for our young people?" William Haggett, co-chairman of the fund-raising committee wrote in the request to the selectmen.

Selectman Dan Skillin suggested the question should be put before the voters at next year's town meeting.

Selectman Todd McPhee suggested that more information is needed regarding the cost to Woolwich students who play ball on the fields.

The next selectmen's meeting will be Tuesday, October 9 because of the Columbus Day holiday on Monday, October 8.