WINDSOR — The proposed town budget of $5.38 million represents an increase of almost $243,000, or about 4.7%, from the current year.
Salary increases, debt service for a new truck and higher costs for health insurance are among the major factors for the increase, Town Manager Tom Marsh said. Workers compensation decreased by $11,000. The amount to be raised from taxes for the budget is $3.8 million.
Also on the warning are appropriations for 18 outside agencies that will be voted on individually. The total of nearly $186,700 represents an increase of a little more than $26,000 from this year. There are three new agencies seeking appropriations: Rachel’s Kitchen ($5,000), Windsor Historical Society ($3,000) and Windsor Library Capital Fund ($10,000). The Windsor Cemetery Association is asking for a $5,000 increase to $20,000.
If voters approve all requested spending, the municipal tax rate is projected to increase about 6.5 cents per $100 of assessed property value, or 4%, to $1.62. Marsh said an anticipated increase in the grand list means the actual rate increase will likely be less.
Chris Goulet and Eric Saltonstall are running for a three-year seat on the Selectboard and Amanda Smith is uncontested for a two-year seat. Incumbents Mike Rice and Mike McNaughton are not running.
The first session of Town Meeting is Monday, March 2 at 7 p.m. in the Lois White Auditorium of Windsor High School to act on articles 1-6. Voting on the budget, other appropriations and the election of officers is Tuesday, March 3, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. in the municipal building on Union Street.