Selectboard approves lower property tax rate
GUILFORD — GUILFORD - Some property owners' tax bills will shrink this year.
The Selectboard approved the 2017 municipal tax rate at their Aug. 14 regular meeting, and it's lower than last year's.
The homestead rate is $2.4256 per $1,000 value, down by about 22 cents. The nonresidential rate went down by about 21 cents, for a rate of $2.2704 per $1,000 value.
“Our total expenses for the upcoming fiscal year are $2,099,286,” to be raised by taxes, explained Selectboard Chair Sheila Morse.
This year's Grand List is $2,371,637, Morse said. She pointed out that while Guilford completed a town-wide property reappraisal this year, it only changed the Grand List by about $200,000.
“Even though some people's appraisals went up - some of them considerably - it is possible your tax bill will be lower this year,” said Morse, who added, “it varies considerably for every property owner."
Town Administrator Peder Rude invited residents and property owners to call the Town Offices at 802-254-6857 with questions.
Winter sand plan
GUILFORD - Whereas most years the winter sand bid goes to one company, this year the Selectboard accepted a unique proposal: Split it between two firms.
Road Commissioner Dan Zumbruski told Board members Zaluzny and Cersosimo submitted identical bids for 4,000 yards of sand: $8 per yard, picked up. Both companies' sand pits are close to the Guilford Town Garage, he noted, and the rates for delivered sand were higher.
“We usually truck it,” Zumbruski said, unless “my shed happens to get empty and we're using it. Then I'll have them bring it in.”
Zumbruski suggested the Board approve a 50/50 split for the winter sand. They unanimously agreed.