BUCKFIELD — With more than $1 million in added valuation, the Board of Assessors lowered the property tax rate by more than $3 on Thursday evening.

The board agreed on $18.70 per $1,000 of property valuation. Last year’s rate was $21.80.

New Town Manager Lorna Nichols, who’s been on the job since Oct. 4, has said town officials have worked diligently to review all of the data and calculate the tax rate ever since voters passed the town budget in late September.

Nichols credited Cape Elizabeth tax assessor Clinton Swett, a professional assessor who spent four days in the Town Office assisting staff with finalizing the figures. His know-how and prowess enabled the town to record the added $1 million in valuation.

The Board of Assessors, which includes Cheryl Coffman, Cameron Hinkley and Tina Brooks, unanimously approved the lower rate.

Tax bills are expected to be ready for mailing early next week. The first half is due in the Town Office by Nov. 15 and the rest by May 15. Due to a likely delay in delivery by the Postal Service, Nichols has said the bills will be posted on the town website for residents to print out and bring to the Town Office with their payment.