Scotland authorizes board to pursue shared tax-collection agreement with Canterbury and Hampton

Scotland voters at a special town meeting on April 14, 2026, authorized the Board of Selectmen to negotiate and enter into an interlocal agreement with the towns of Canterbury and Hampton for shared revenue (tax) collection services.

The motion to "discuss and consider authorizing the Board of Selectmen to negotiate and enter into an interlocal agreement with the Towns of Canterbury and Hampton for shared revenue collection services" was made by Charleen Perry and seconded by Jennifer Nelson; a subsequent call for a vote was seconded by Peter Martin and the meeting recorded that the motion "carries." The meeting did not record a numerical vote tally.

First Selectman Dana Barrow Jr. told attendees the town has experienced multiple problems with services provided by the Town of Windham, including delayed reports and staffing shortages. "Reports are 4 months in arrears," Barrow said, and he added that in-person payments have caused parking issues for residents. Barrow also noted that the Town of Hampton is merging with Mansfield, a development he cited as part of the reason to pursue alternative arrangements.

Natalie Ellston, identified in the meeting as Tax Collector and Town Clerk of Canterbury, described Canterbury’s readiness to take on collection services. Ellston said she brings 27 years of experience, is hiring a full-time assistant, and that "they will begin the transition so that the bills can go out on time for July 1st." She also said Canterbury has applied for a grant and plans to address mailing-address issues to reduce costs for Scotland.

Moderator Tom McAvoy Jr. opened the meeting and reviewed ground rules for public comment and voting. After discussion, the attendees approved authorizing the Board of Selectmen to pursue the interlocal agreement and there was no other business. The meeting adjourned at 7:27 p.m.

Next steps: the selectmen are authorized to negotiate and (if agreement terms are acceptable) enter into the interlocal agreement with Canterbury and Hampton; the meeting minutes list no implementation timeline beyond the target billing transition mentioned by Canterbury for July 1.