KENNEDY — The Poland Town Board adopted its 2020 budget during a meeting this month. The tax rate is scheduled to be $6.61, an increase of 5 cents from the current rate.

Board members felt it was the most efficient budget they could accept, with some areas seeing cuts while others received increases. The town supervisor and town bookkeeper positions received $200 annual increases to $6,200.00, and the town clerk received a $500 increase to $38,500.

Meanwhile, the highway superintendent salary went from $63,189.00 to 64,768.00. Contractual increases for full-time employees were part of the increase, as well as costs for insurance and other services required by the town.

Supervisor Kelly Snow noted that while costs to the town increase, the revenues the town receives do not keep pace. Anyone wishing to look at the entire budget may do so at the Town Clerk’s office during normal business hours.

Rebecca Capitano was appointed to fill out the term of the dog control officer, and Darla Rissel was appointed to fill out the term of the court officer, both expiring on Dec. 31. The positions are appointed each year.

Town Assessor Heather Young-Deyell reported that the New York state liaison would be in the office to finalize reassessment documents and will discuss public relations options for upcoming assessment changes. Those with new assessments should receive letters in the mail next March.

Highway Superintendent Larry Mee said his department was ready for winter. To replenish the materials being used, salt and sand has been ordered.

Zoning officer George Gustafson noted that workers are finally proceeding with the new cell tower on Grubb Hill Road. A private road had been put in to deliver materials to the site, and a foundation has been constructed. A completion date is unknown.

The town board will next meet Tuesday, Dec. 10, at 7 p.m.