Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Senior Tax Relief topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Council extends senior tax-relief application deadline to April 15
Summary
The Lisbon Falls Town Council passed an emergency ordinance extending the senior tax-relief application deadline from April 1 to April 15 after staff reported limited uptake so far and an estimated $60,000 cost to the budget.
The Lisbon Falls Town Council on a roll call vote approved an emergency ordinance extending the application deadline for the senior tax-relief program from April 1 to April 15.
Chair opened discussion by saying the extension was intended as a temporary measure to accommodate seniors who are still filing taxes. "Earlier today, I checked approximately 90 people have applied," the chair said, adding staff estimates the program will cost the town "approximately $60,000," about "6¢ on the tax rate." Staff and councilors discussed outreach options — including presentations at senior centers and direct mailers — to reach homebound seniors.
Councilors asked whether the town could better advertise the program to reach eligible but currently unaware residents. One councilor suggested postal mail or inserts in tax bills; another noted some seniors are on escrow and may not see tax-bill mailings.
Clerk placed the order (2026-045) on the agenda. The motion to approve the emergency ordinance was moved and seconded; the council then took a roll call and the order passed.
The extended deadline gives staff additional time to process applications and provide the council with a final cost tally after April 15; earlier in the meeting staff said they track applications and will report a precise total after the new deadline.
