Budget Review Committee funds chamber-run information center after heated questioning

The Budget Review Committee on Monday approved $68,152 in town support for the chamber-run information center, continuing a long-standing 60/40 town–chamber cost split.

Eleanor, representing the information center, requested the town’s 40% share and described daily in-person services and website support that, she said, help residents and visitors. “We’re there 5 and a half days a week for people that come in looking for information,” she said, adding staff provide referrals for hotels, restaurants and tradespeople.

Committee member Dave challenged the request, arguing the center’s role has diminished and that the money could be redirected to town needs such as lifeguards. “There’s no benefit to $68,000 for the town of Wells,” Dave said during the discussion, calling a physical information center “antiquated” in an era when most people look online.

Chamber representatives countered that the information center still handles walk-in requests and promotes town events, school and library programs, and that the chamber covers 60% of the operating costs from membership and advertising revenues. A member pointed out that closing or defunding the center would likely force the chamber to either raise dues or find new sponsors.

After discussion and a second, the committee chair moved to fund the requested $68,152; the motion was seconded and approved.

The committee did not record an extended debate on a possible written memorandum of understanding; members noted the historical 60/40 arrangement dates to the 1970s and said the select board may review the arrangement and any existing MOU at a later date.

The information center vote was the most contested single line item at the meeting; other budget items continued afterward with less contention.