7/9/1996 BOARD OF ASSESSORS Minutes

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Board of Assessors Meeting Page 4 The Overlay Reserve (continued) wait until the Selectmen ask for the transfer of funds. Upon question by Marcia King, David Bailey explained that as of three gears ago, it was Assessing' s prerogative if Its funds were released; it was never our prerogative where the money went . now we rust release it or have .a- good reason not to do so. There used to be so many ATB cases Statewide; the Assessors dial and could still say they want these funded l00% . Marcia King strongly made suggestion that the press be involved in this issue . M . she could call the papers tomorrow and publicly state that we would appreciate and like the funds used to lower the tax rate we should push the issue! ! The Board of Assessors should get credit for this ! ! Chairman Greig made comment that others have taken credit for what the Assessors have done, vice Chairman Porter made comment that the Assessors receive only condemnation. Marcia King expressed strong opinion that because this issue is a financial one, the Financial Committee should be involved. Mr. Bailey stated that his only fear is this may look like interference because the purpose of the letter is asking the Selectmen to request from us the release of this money'. He would like the letter to go only to the Selectmen with a copy to -Fin om he does not want to ruffle any feathers . Marcia King furnished lengthy information concerning The Town ' s financial situation- she expressed feeling there is enough money out there for the nett couple of years . slice Chairman Porter asked if the money will be spent the way Marcia Ding is thinking . She feels it will ; publicity will help, she again made strong suggestion that an article in Friday ' s Enterprise would serve as the "first punch" . Side discussions followed.. Chairman Greig expressed hope that Town Meeting can vote on the use of Assessing' s Assessing' surplus funds. David Bailey pointed out that Assessing could transfer the funds on the clay of Town Meeting; the Town Accountant simply changes it from one account to another, and it is available for appropriation. He warned that once the transfer is dome, perhaps too soon, it cannot be taken back. - Marcia ding made suggestion that the Board of Assessors release the ihoney now to surplus , then rake an Article to Town Meeting to tape this money and appropriate it to free cash. side discussions followed concerning possible ramifications of this action. Marcia King expressed strong feeling that her suggested action may pave the way for a Town Meeting vote on the funds .