At the recent MSAD 51 School Board meeting, a significant discussion centered on the school district's tax assessment process, revealing key financial insights for the communities of Cumberland and North Yarmouth. The board announced a decrease in debt service by $177,000, a natural decline that reflects the district's ongoing financial management.

The total tax assessment for the two communities stands at $34,412,000, a figure derived from the gross budget, which is projected to be around $47 million this year and potentially exceeding $50 million next year. The assessment is calculated by subtracting various revenues, including state and miscellaneous funds, from the gross budget.

Cumberland and North Yarmouth's contributions to this assessment are based on their average state valuations over the past three years. Cumberland accounts for approximately 72.35% of the total valuation, while North Yarmouth represents 27.65%. This valuation plays a crucial role in determining how the additional local funds are raised beyond the required state contributions.

For the current year, Cumberland's assessment is about $25 million, reflecting an increase of approximately $1.8 million, which translates to an 88-cent increase on the tax rate per $100,000 of property value, or a 3.98% rise. In contrast, North Yarmouth's assessment has increased by around $370,000, resulting in a 60-cent increase on the tax rate, or a 3.13% rise.

This detailed breakdown of tax assessments highlights the financial dynamics between the two communities and underscores the importance of understanding local funding mechanisms as the district prepares for future budgets. The board's transparency in discussing these figures aims to foster community awareness and engagement regarding school funding.