GREENWOOD — Selectmen discussed project goals for 2022 at their regular meeting on Dec. 21, including broadband access, lodging tax, infrastructure and more.
Regarding broadband, the board has proposals from both Spectrum and First Light to increase and upgrade access. Both companies are asking all the towns in the region to meet with them in February. Selectman noted that the Strategy A10 grant, offered to all Maine communities through ConnectME, is intended to upgrade broadband access for underserved residents and to support telecommuting, access to remote education and telehealth. Application period is open only through the fall.
There is a 9% lodging tax for residents who rent out their homes in Greenwood. That money is state revenue and none of it goes to the town of Greenwood. Town Manager Kim Sparks noted that if people did visit they were likely to spend money at local places like The Hub, giving Greenwood more business. The board discussed the lodging tax and its impact on the town, and may consider an ordinance some time in the future.
The board also continued its waste plan discussions, with Bethel set to put forth a proposal the first week in January. Discussions will continue whether to consider one waste plant or two plants to manage the needs of Greenwood, Newry, Bethel and two other towns.
At the Dec. 21 Newry selectmen’s meeting, after attorneys for both Newry and Bethel reviewed an agreement for the towns to jointly hire a code enforcement officer, Newry selectmen agreed to sign the agreement.
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