Scotland treasurer warns Windham tax‑collector delays could prompt contract review

Treasurer David Zito reported to the Scotland Board of Selectmen that the Windham Tax Collector Office has been short‑staffed and has not provided the routine tax collection reports the town needs to reconcile receipts. The lack of reports means tax revenue reconciliations have not been completed since November, Zito said, and the board may need to revisit its contract with Windham.

The treasurer provided a snapshot of collections through Dec. 12, 2025: total current‑year tax revenue collections stood at $2.8 million, or 57.6% of the full‑year budget; back tax collections totaled $31,300; current‑year interest income was $5,700 and interest on back taxes was $6,500. Zito noted that December and January collections were not yet available because Windham had not supplied the data.

The missing reports have practical consequences for budgeting and reconciliation. Zito said several routine month‑end and interfund reconciliations have been completed, but tax revenue figures remain outstanding, complicating the town’s ability to close financial periods and provide complete quarterly reconciliations.

The board heard that the town has identified a repetitive audit finding related to the Board of Education’s reconciliations; the recent audit by Mahoney & Sabol has been finalized and filed with the Office of Policy and Management. In light of the Windham office’s recent turmoil, the treasurer recommended the Board consider alternative arrangements for tax collection services to ensure timely reporting and reconciliation.

The Board did not record a formal vote to terminate or change the contract at the Jan. 20 meeting; next steps were limited to discussion and a raised recommendation from the treasurer that alternatives be explored. The board will address any formal contractual action in a future meeting once staff can present options and cost estimates.