JAY — Residents will consider a $6.18 million municipal budget for 2018-19 at the polls Tuesday, April 24, at the Community Building. Voting hours are from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The budget is $55,972 more than this fiscal year, which ends June 30. The amount includes the final $1.33 million payment to Verso Corp. to settle a tax dispute regarding overvaluation of the Androscoggin paper mill and associated equipment.

After factoring in anticipated revenues of nearly $1.77 million, the net budget represents a decrease of $79,528 from last year that residents would have to raise to support municipal government. 

Voters have 29 warrant articles to consider.

They will also consider electing two selectpersons, two Regional School Unit 73 directors and a trustee in each of the Jay Village and North Jay water districts. Only residents who are served by the particular district may vote on a trustee. George Merrill is seeking re-election to the Jay Village district and Roger Couture is running again for trustee of the North Jay district.

Selectperson Terry Bergeron is running unopposed for first selectperson for a three-year term. Selectperson Keith Cornelio and former Selectperson Tom Goding are vying for the second selectperson’s seat, also a three-year term.

RSU 73 Directors Michael Morrell and Joel Pike are being challenged for their seats by former Director Michael Schaedler.

Among the warrant articles is raising $123,000 for curbside trash and recyclables collection. The service is provided by Archie’s Inc. of Mexico.

Residents will also be asked to spend money from the Recreation/Tower Reserve Account: $12,000 for summer recreation, $11,300 for insurance for Spruce Mountain Ski Slope, $2,000 for July 4 fireworks (held on July 3) and $2,750 for insurance for Area Youth Sports.

dperry@sunmediagroup.net