GREENWOOD — Town Manager Kimberly Sparks said homes valued at $100,000 would be taxed $4 more a year if the School Administrative District 44 cost-sharing formula is changed to 90 percent property valuation and 10 percent student enrollment.
If, as proposed, the formula changes to an 85/15 split in 202o, those same homes would be taxed $8 more a year.
Board of Selectmen Chairman Fred Henderson said he’ll be happy with the outcome of the vote either way, but doesn’t want to see Newry withdraw.
“If Newry withdraws, it’ll make our taxes extremely high, so it’s not a good situation,” he said. “Most of the tax money (in Newry) is from out-of-state people that have property up at Sunday River, so it’s not really hurting the year-round residents as much, but some feel they can get a better deal.
“My hope is we can convince them to stay in the district,” Henderson said. “The quality of education plus the taxes are a big concern and something people should consider when they go to vote.”
Jake Clockodile, a facilitator hired by the district and who proposed the formula be changed from 100 percent valuation, said if Newry withdraws, it’ll make it very difficult for the other three towns.
“I’m not sure they can sustain the cost,” he said. “It could lead to the shrinking of schools and staff reductions. It all depends on (if) the other towns decide they can handle that increase.”
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