The Dresden Board of Selectmen signed a tax commitment Monday night, September 10 to cover the town’s $1.8 million share of local, county and school expenses for 2012-2013.

At the last board meeting on August 27, the board voted for the 15 mil tax rate, one mil more than last year’s tax rate. Administrative Assistant Trudy Foss estimated the overlay for the year would be about $36,000 but reported a definite figure of $28,000 resulting from readjustments in the Homestead and Veterans exemptions.

State revenue sharing reduced the total cost of $2.2 million by $383,755. Thus the total amount coming from local taxes totals $1.8 million. The town mailed tax bills last week with the new 15 mil tax rate applied to local property assessments.

Property damage

Selectman David Probert reported some property damage done to the wall of the recycling center when a Pine Tree Recycling truck placed one of its recycling bins at the town’s transfer station.

Chairman Phil Johnston recommended withholding the next payment to the company until the matter is settled.

Committee appointments

In other matters, the board discussed the need for filling a couple of committees with appointments. They spoke about contacting three people to fill vacancies on the budget review committee as appointed members. Currently the only members on the committee are Eleanor Everson and Sharon Allen.

Probert expressed his desire for reappointment to the Conservation Commission leaving one more vacancy to fill. Selectmen intend to contact a prospective member for that slot.

Other business

Selectman Allan Moeller said he will contact someone about taking down the dead fir tree on the corner of Route 27 and Route 127. He also reported on work being done on Blinn Hill including ditching and rip rap and 3,000 yards of sand ordered for the winter months at $11 per yard from the contractor the town has hired to take care of plowing and sanding.

Moeller reported at a regular board meeting on August 13 that a $35,000 to $50,000 estimate to complete paving of the roads was planned for the year.

Probert said leveling of the area where the community gardens and raised bed were. No community members showed any interest in planting, selectmen said at a previous meeting. Because of the lack of interest, the board at that time agreed to have the land cleaned up.

After covering agenda items, the board went into executive session to discuss a personnel matter. After reconvening for the public portion of the meeting, the board voted to review the matter with the Maine Municipal Association and report back at a later meeting.

Board members spoke about the new policy of no pay for 15 minutes over the closing time at the transfer station, which went into effect August 16. However, they made clear Monday night attendants could opt to work and be paid for 15 minutes before opening time.

Fire Chief Gerald Lilley reported the small pumper the fire department needed some repair work on the shift before the department can use the truck, which it usually uses for accidents.

The board will hold its next regular meeting on Monday, Sept. 24 at 6 p.m. at Pownalborough Hall. It will hold its next workshop on Monday, Sept. 17 at the town office.

Fire department open house

Fire Chief Lilley announced the local fire department plans to hold its annual open house at the Pownalborough Fire Station on Wednesday, Oct. 3 from 6 to 8 p.m. Members of the department will serve hot dogs and drinks to the general public.