A public hearing in Jefferson on April 7th addressed significant financial and regulatory matters ahead of the upcoming town meeting by referendum. Residents engaged in discussions concerning a proposed food sovereignty ordinance and updates to the municipal budget, which reflects an 11.47% increase over the previous year. The proposed municipal budget totals $1,533,997, with notable increases in administration, audit, and health services sectors. Additionally, two articles related to the Jefferson Fire Department aim to bolster funding for fire truck reserves and acquire a new mini pumper. A proposal to renovate the town office building also emerged as a focal point during the meeting.
The administration category saw the most substantial budgetary hike, reaching a recommended total of $531,219, reflecting a 15.36% increase from last year. This surge is attributed to ongoing adjustments in staffing at the town office, according to Town Administrator Lynne Barnikow. Another major expense increase was observed in the audit budget, rising to $37,000 due to the hiring of a new auditor with higher rates. Health and protection costs climbed to $490,605, largely driven by the escalating expenses of ambulance service contracts, totaling $272,400 for the coming fiscal year.
Road maintenance and highway budgets were also augmented, amounting to $496,650, marking a 9.35% increase compared to the prior year's allocation. This adjustment includes a rise in road repair expenditures and snow plowing contract costs. Concerning the unclassified category, the public library's budget witnessed a slight increase, now totaling $7,773.
Residents showed keen interest in the two articles proposing funds for the Jefferson Fire Department. Article 18 suggests raising $80,000 for the department’s fire truck reserve fund, aiming to eventually afford a new vehicle amidst rising costs. Fire Chief Darin Walker highlighted the necessity of increased investment due to the escalating prices of fire trucks. Furthermore, Article 20 seeks voter approval to allocate $50,000 towards purchasing a "mini pumper," facilitating safer access to narrow roads and driveways.
Discussion on the proposed town office renovations revolved around Article 15, which requests $73,950 for repairs and modifications. Select Board member Robert “Jigger” Clark noted that the majority of necessary work pertains to exterior rotting issues. Chair Pamela Grotton assured attendees that meetings would continue to be held in the office but with rearranged spaces to optimize utilization.
A pivotal topic at the hearing was the proposed Local Food and Community Self-Governance Ordinance of 2025. Submitted by resident Jon Olson, the ordinance aims to exempt certain local food producers from state oversight, allowing direct sales to consumers without licensing requirements. While supporting the reduction of regulations on small farmers, some residents questioned the ordinance's specificity regarding farm scale eligibility. Lawyer review confirmation provided reassurance about the document's legal standing, based on templates utilized by other Maine municipalities.
Jefferson's annual town meeting by referendum will occur on April 22nd at the Jefferson Village School, where voters will deliberate on these critical issues. Polls will remain open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., enabling residents to cast their votes on the future direction of their community finances and policies.