Scotland board approves three‑year audit contract, hears fiscal snapshot showing $2M in General Fund cash

At the Oct. 27 special meeting, the Scotland Board of Selectmen voted to enter a three‑year contract with Mahoney Sabol for professional auditing services after Treasurer David Zito presented the firm’s proposal and noted only a minimal fee increase.

Selectman Mike Gurnack moved to approve the contract; Selectman Bart Laws seconded and the motion carried. The treasurer said that since engaging Mahoney Sabol the town has completed timely audits in three of the last four years, which informed his recommendation.

The board also approved tax refunds to Douglas Rochester ($374.02) and Christopher Clark ($59.40) on the motion of Selectman Mike Gurnack, seconded by Bart Laws.

In a detailed Treasurer’s Report, David Zito said total current‑year tax revenue collections for the three months ended Sept. 30, 2025, totaled $2.68 million (54.8% of the full year budget) and total revenues were $2.73 million (43% of the full year budget). He reported General Fund cash on Sept. 30, 2025, of about $2.0 million, including $361,000 in a STIF investment account and another $767,000 in a second STIF account. The treasurer also listed FY26 capital expenditures and reimbursements: Town Hall Renovation costs of $274,000 to date with $237,000 reimbursed, Kemp Road Bridge engineering costs of $11,200, Town Aid Road paving at $95,900 and $453,000 available in CNR funds.

Zito said a bond resolution for short‑term financing was approved at a special Town Meeting on Oct. 7; counsel will prepare a request for proposals to solicit bank financing offers. The treasurer also noted required personnel‑policy clarifications so the town can book a liability for unpaid absences as mandated by the State.

The board made the audit and refund approvals by voice vote; no roll‑call tallies were recorded in the minutes.