The town's share of the county tax has increased from $161,044 in 2000 to $258,923 in 2004.

"We know we are going to be hit again [with an increase in state valuation] in 2005 so we have to do something," Greenville Town Manager John Simko said recently.

Greenville has seen a greater than $20,000 average per year increase in the county tax over each of the past five years, according to Simko.

The county tax is based on state valuation, which has increased because of the high property sales in the small community. Another factor hurting the community is that about one-third of the town is made up of lake or pond water which isn't taxed, he said.

"This growing state valuation is outpacing all other communities in Piscataquis County, including the county seat of Dover-Foxcroft," Simko noted.

To help local taxpayers, selectmen have recommended that the county consider an annual contribution to the town's recreation program; cover the approximately $1,000 cost of mowing the airport, which is used by both residents and nonresidents; contribute 10 percent of Greenville's local share for capital improvement to the airport; and fund that portion of the Junction Revitalization Plan that falls in Moosehead Junction Township.

Selectmen also have urged the commissioners to continue their support of the Piscataquis County Economic Development Council and to pursue another economic development bond referendum in 2006.

As for the county's new manager, Greenville officials have asked that Mike Henderson be directed to work with town officials to implement the Junction Wharf Revitalization Plan and to develop strategies and help with grant applications to secure permanent snowmobile trail routes in the unorganized territories.

Additionally, town officials have suggested that Sheriff John Goggin work with Greenville police to cover the town when the duty officer is unavailable.

Town officials are very aware of the budget challenges facing the county, but they also want the commissioners to recognize the unique position of the town and the costs it incurs for regional infrastructure each year, Simko said.
"This content originally appeared as a copyrighted article in the Monday, November 22, 2004 edition of the Bangor Daily NEWS and is used here with permission."