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Budget committee keeps selectmen stipend at $10,000, approves routine budget items and modest capital adjustments
Summary
On Jan. 21, 2026, the Vinalhaven Budget Committee voted unanimously to keep the Board of Selectmen stipend at $10,000, approve several departmental budgets (septage site, animal control, general assistance) and recommend modest capital reserve adjustments including a $5,000 increase for Lanes Island engineering.
The Vinalhaven Budget Committee on Jan. 21, 2026, voted to keep the Board of Selectmen stipend at $10,000 total (about $2,000 per member) and approved several routine budget items and modest capital adjustments.
Town Manager Marjorie Stratton told the committee she has a phone call scheduled with Interim County Administrator Michael Schultz to follow up on details of the contract with the Knox County Sheriff’s Office. She also reported that MaineWater has indicated a likely 10%–15% rate increase for hydrants and that the Parks Commission will meet to outline parks needs that could affect next year’s budget.
Under the Harbor Master item, the committee discussed where boat insurance should be charged (it falls under general insurance), along with supplies, fuel, travel and training. Andrea Hogan moved to reduce the Repairs & Maintenance line from $2,000 to $1,000; Bill Alcorn seconded and the motion passed unanimously. The minutes note that “Jim” takes most of his classes online; the transcript identifies that remark under the Harbor Master discussion.
On insurance matters, the committee discussed possible trainings that could lower the town’s workers’ compensation rate. Bill Alcorn moved to accept the Town Manager’s insurance recommendations; Andrea Hogan seconded and the motion carried.
The committee approved several departmental budgets by motion and voice vote: the septage site budget (motion by Bill Alcorn, seconded by Andrea Hogan), Animal Control (motion by Bill Alcorn, seconded by Andrea Hogan) and General Assistance (motion by Andrea Hogan, seconded by Bill Alcorn). All votes recorded in the minutes were in favor.
The committee revisited capital projects planning, asking that staff check with PIA about potential airport improvements and that department heads discuss needs for fire, ambulance and public works garage and vehicles. The committee recommended adding $5,000 to the Lanes Island engineering reserve. Members also discussed replacement of the town server and whether backups are stored off-site; Marjorie Stratton will consult with the vendor Gusco on backup arrangements and replacement timing.
The meeting adjourned at 5:25 p.m.
