Roxbury: Tax Increase Questioned, Transfer Station Process Reviewed

By Mary A. Crisafulli

ROXBURY - A member of the public called the recent 6% tax increase for the 2026 budget embarrassing at a board meeting on Dec. 8th. She questioned why the board did not do more to increase revenues throughout the year to avoid such a significant increase.

The $4.2 million 2026 budget was adopted in November, with nearly $3 million to be raised through taxes. The total tax levy exceeds $2.7 million, which is approximately $93,992 above the tax cap.

The resident scolded the board, asking how they could not have been aware of the expenses that led to such a strained budget. She noted that surrounding towns reported staying below the tax cap, with some seeing a 1% increase and others seeing a decrease.

The individual asked the board to review short-term rental fees, which could generate significant revenue to help balance future budgets. “Rather than raising taxes, let's generate some income for the town,” she concluded.

Supervisor Allen Hinkley stated that years prior, the board did explore implementing fees; however, the decision was later terminated. He noted that the board would need to develop a local law, which could be explored.

Councilmember Deanna Osborn agreed that the board should review potential fees. Though the process, she said, “would not happen overnight.”

Transfer Station

In another discussion, the board asked the transfer station operator to explain the process for ensuring compliance with required permits.

Most of the town's residents using the facility are known to staff, and it is easy to recognize them as having a permit. The stickers are color-coded by year to indicate any laps. Each permit has a number associated with it and the vehicle, so staff can look up the individual.

Permits are issued per household, so someone could come in a vehicle without the permit displayed in the window. However, the staff would be required to recognize those individuals and look up their permits.

Residential permit fees are set at $25 annually. However, the operator asked the board to consider raising commercial permits. Middletown charges $600, while Roxbury charges $250, they noted. The increase could help cover operational costs.

Other Business

The organizational meeting is scheduled Monday, Jan. 6th at 5:30 p.m., directly following a public hearing regarding a potential grant application.

Eagle Scout Liam Bullock presented his scout project. Bullock spent the last several months building a case to showcase Eagle Scout memorabilia from Roxbury members. His project is on display at the town hall.

Several reappointments were made, including Peg Ellsworth and Christine O’Shaughnessy to the Roxbury Historic Preservation Committee for three-year terms. Brad Zambri and Ed Hinkley were reappointed to the Planning Board for a five-year term.

Hinkley will review potential grants for demolishing the old highway garage.

The board is still reviewing potential changes to fees for building permits and water, and sewer.

Jeff Ormiston was hired as a part-time snow removal support for the highway department.

The board signed an agreement to support Congressman Nick Langworthy’s Energy Choice Act, opposing government-mandated natural gas bans. “Energy choice is a great thing but, this program will be extremely costly for local families,” said Hinkley.

The comprehensive plan was adopted.

The remaining ARPA funds will be used to upgrade the sound system, improving Zoom quality.

Councilmember Kenneth Davie was absent.