The town of Oxford has been buzzing with activity lately, and the recent business meeting held on February 1 was no exception. The meeting began with the selectmen discussing a property tax rebate requested by Oxford Solar 1, LLC, amounting to $62,675. Although the selectmen approved the application, there was a lot of grumbling and debate over the renewable energy exemption program that allows companies like Oxford Solar 1, LLC to be exempted from paying local property taxes. Some selectmen expressed concern over the potential loss of tax income and proposed a moratorium on future projects until officials determine ways to make up the lost revenue.
Apart from this, the meeting also covered some important topics such as recreational activities, boater safety classes, and upcoming events. Recreation Director Kayla Laird presented a detailed analysis of what neighboring communities charge for private parties at town-owned facilities and proposed a new fee schedule for the Station House Community Center. The board unanimously approved the new fee schedule, effective immediately, although any groups or individuals who have already paid for upcoming events will be grandfathered.
Oxford in a Dilemma Over Solar Farms: Will a Moratorium be the Solution? (Photo from: Elektrek)
The Fire Chief, Shawn Cordwell, informed the selectmen that the department had traded recently acquired battery-pack extrication tools for lighter-weight equipment, substituting the battering ram for a high-power fan for clearing smoke and other exhausts from fire and accident scenes. However, Vice-Chair Scott Hunter raised concerns over town-owned capital equipment being bartered by employees without select board approval.
In his manager’s report, Adam Garland stated that a recent RFP for renovations to the town office’s conference wing did not attract any bids. However, contractors said they would submit one if the deadline were extended from January 31 to February 5. Garland also mentioned that they will need more election clerks before the presidential primary elections on March 5.
The meeting concluded with the unanimous approval of Oxford Casino Hotel’s casino operating license and Honey Badger Bar & Grill’s liquor license renewals. All in all, it was a productive meeting, and the selectmen made some critical decisions for the betterment of Oxford’s community.
