Rising insurance costs, funding for new staff at the District Attorney's office and slight salary increases were cited as some of the reasons for an overall increase to this year's tax commitment for Lincoln County, according to county administrator John O'Connell.

The grand total for Lincoln County taxpayers is $8.56 million, which is 2.12 percent higher this year compared to last ($8.38 million). The differences in what towns are being asked to pay to the county compared to last year range from an increase of $48,268 (South Bristol) to a decrease of $51,182 (Bristol).

The lowest amount asked of towns comes from Somerville ($61,554) and the highest figure comes from Bristol ($1,224,272).

The total budget of $10,242,428 reflects revenue ($1,316,325), surplus ($433,366) and overlay ($70,000) to reduce its impact and give towns the total commitment ($8,562,737).