2/10/2003 BOARD OF SELECTMEN Minutes

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Board of Select-men Minutes February 10, 20 Senator Robert 'Dear Motion made by Selectman Green to place the above topic on the Selectmen's agenda. Motion seconded by Selectman Cahalane. VOTE: Unanimous. 4-0. Senator Robert O'Leary was in attendance to update the Selectmen on the state deficit and made note of estimated difficulties with upcoming fiscal year projections. Many tons are struggling with midyear state budget cuts and dismal forecasts for the next fiscal year, Presently this is a preliminary to what will be a difficult situation to the state budget.- Massive udget:l assive changes are projected in all areas that would call for a significant reduction in programs and services to assist in the resolution of the t financial crisis. The Senator also indicated that he recently represented the Town taking a position on the Target Share proposal, a bill relative to the Chapter 70 education distribution formula. It was noted that Democrat Therese Murray is now the new chairwoman of the influential Senate Ways and Means Committee. APPOINTMENTS AND HEARINGS: Seniors' Tax Abatement Incentive Pro am: The Town Clerk was present with the Council on Aging Director to recon end the Selectmen vote to eliminate the maximum income cap of $265500 the tax abatement incentive program. Under the guidelines of the abatement program, and income requirement a senior citizen would have to work a number of hours multiplied by the minimum wage rate not to exceed $500 per fiscal year in order to qualify for tax abatement. During a time of financial constraint,the elimination of the cap would afford the seniors an opportunity to ease their tax burden and assist the Town in the Property tax work-off pro gram. Ms. Rami noted-Haat her office is short-staffed and assistance from retired senior citizens could b utilized effectively in the sticker office with sales. It was agreed that a subconittee would be formed to further review the program and ramifications on the budget. A recommendation from the committee will be submitted to the Selectmen in two weeps.