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Assessors Estimate 2013 Tax Rate

Chairman of the Board of Assessors Garrett Boles advised Selectmen Monday night that the town has $283K in new growth, and based on that, levy limit next year would be $25,440,159 leading to an estimated tax rate of $16.85 per thousand dollars of valuation.

Bowles also reported that his board is recommending that Selectmen keep the single tax rate for residential and commercial properties. He said that split rates are usually considered when commercial entities comprise 20 percent or more properties and then a split rate begins to have some benefit. In Groton 93.64 percent of parcels are residential. Tax rate determination is made on an annual basis.

Selectman Chairman Stuart Schulman said, the Board is "conscious of our small businesses, and I support keeping the single rate." The Board voted unanimously to do just that and the single tax rate will remain in Groton for 2013.

The Board also voted to set the date for a Special Town Meeting Saturday, Jan. 26, 2013 at 9 a.m. at the Middle School Performing Arts Center for the purpose of voting funds to construct the new Center Fire Station on Farmers Row. In addition, there will be at least two other articles on the warrant, one to approve the bid on demolition of Fitch's Bridge, and the other to approve Lost Lake Herbicide treatment. Snow date - if needed - is set for Saturday, Feb. 2, same time, and same location.

Clover Farm General Store, in the heart of West Groton village, received unanimous approval from the Board for a retail alcohol Beer and Wine License. They also approved the request from Seven Hills Pediatric Hospital for standard school zone signs to be located on Hillside Avenue, Fairview Ave., West St., and possibly - at the discretion of the DPW Director - on Whiting Ave.

Selectmen Anna Eliot said she was surprised at the school zone signs that were placed on Farmers Row by Groton School, saying that they were not what she expected. Selectman Peter Cunningham said he thought that they would be a more traditional height. Noting that they were tall, Selectman Josh Degen stressed that there are a lot of large trucks that use that road and it gets their attention. "I went through there in my truck and they got my attention," he said.

Selectmen are seeking a volunteer to serve as a Water Department Commissioner, due to the resignation of Jessica Cajigas. Residents wishing to volunteer should fill out interest forms at f Selectmen's office in Town Hall.

Groton Herald

Mailing Address
P.O. Box 610, Groton, Massachusetts 01450
 

Office
145 Main Street, Groton, Massachusetts 014510
[Prescott Community Center]
 

Telephone: 978-448-6061
 

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