Middleton taxes down

By Heather Killen

The Spectator

NovaNewsNow.com

There’s good news and bad news for taxpayers in the Town of Middleton.

While both residential and commercial tax rates were reduced by $.17, a new sewer rate was introduced to every property connected to the sewer system.

The residential tax rate has been reduced from $1.97 to $1.80, while commercial rates are set at $3.93, down from a proposed hike of $4.10, according to an official release.

The commercial tax rate for seasonal tourist business has been set at $2.95, or 75 per cent of the commercial rate.

The new sewer rate being introduced this year, a flat rate of $250 plus $.15/$100, will be charged to all users. This new charge reflects the costs of providing the service, and anticipates planned major improvements to the facility.

On average, residents will see an overall increase of $215 in their municipal taxes.

While the budget maintains the current levels of service, roads, sidewalks, storm sewers and parks are likely get a facelift.

The capital budget has been increased this year, to repair and enhance the town’s deteriorating infrastructure. These 2008-2009 rates were set during a special meeting held on June 9.