TOWN OF SURRY, ME

We need to hear the opinions and concerns of Surry residents about the potential growth of short term rentals in the Town.  The responses will guide the Town’s direction on this critical issue.  Please fill out the survey here on the website by December 15.  Thank you from the Surry Comprehensive Plan Committee and the Surry Planning Board! 
Short Term Rental Survey

In May and June of this year, over 320 Surry residents completed the Community Survey distributed by the Comprehensive Plan Committee, providing the Committee with very helpful input for creating our next Plan.  That Plan should provide guidance to Town leaders on various boards and committees making decisions for the Town over the next five to ten years.  You can access the results of the Survey by clicking on the following links.  One link shows results of community-oriented questions, and the other shows demographic information provided by the Survey respondents.  Thanks for your interest in the future of our town!

Survey Results

The LD290 "Property Tax Stabilization for Senior Citizens" program, enacted in August 2022 was repealed by the Maine Legislature on July 6, 2023.  The repeal of this program means there will be no reapplication process and no need to follow-up with the Assessing Department or Town Office in August/September, as previously communicated.  Although the program has been repealed, your initial application will still be administered this year for the current Tax Commitment in July of 2023-FY24.  As a result, approximately 153 eligible Surry applicants will only be responsibly for the “frozen” property tax bill amount for the 2023-FY23 billing cycle – this amount will be equal to the tax amount the owner was billed in 2022-FY23, unless their new billed amount would be lower, in which case they’d owe the lower of the two amounts.  Per the law, the State will reimburse the town for 100% of the difference between actual and frozen taxes. 

*It is important to note that these are state programs and while the town plays a role in the administration of them, the town is not responsible for the policy objectives of these initiatives.  Any questions or concerns owners have regarding this program should be directed to your legislative representative.  To find your representative, please visit: State Representatives

To help lower income seniors avoid higher property taxes and remain in their homes, two existing state programs are being expanded:
The Property Tax Fairness Credit – allows eligible Mainers to receive a $1,500 credit, has increased to $2,000 and also loosens limits on the program in a way that allows the benefits to remain constant for a Mainer whose spouse passes away.  Note:  This program is not administered by the Town of Surry.  To claim the credit, you must file a 1040ME and Schedule PTFC/STFC for the tax year during which the property tax or rent was paid.  For assistance, please call 207-624-9784 or visit: Property Tax Fairness Credit Information

The State Property Tax Deferral Program – a lifeline loan program that covers the annual property tax bills of Maine seniors age 65 and older who cannot afford to pay them on their own, has been expanded.  It doubles the income limit on that program to $80,000 and also raises asset limits. Taxes must be paid back when the home is sold or becomes part of an estate.  This program is administered by the state; however, applications must be filed with the Assessor’s Office between January 1 and April 1 each year.  Applications are forwarded to Maine Revenue Services who review and make determination for acceptance and approval.  Questions can be referred to Maine Revenue Services, Property Tax Division at 207-624-5600 or prop.tax@maine.gov.  For more information please visit: Tax Deferral Program Information

https://www.ellsworthamerican.com/news/surry-gets-fiber-internet-service/article_cc423d54-be93-11ed-83e7-a3e6255082e1.html
Please see the Ellsworth American link for details!

The Downeast Wood Bank is available to assist Surry residents who are experiencing a heating crisis this winter.  If you are unable to adequately heat your home for any reason, the Wood Bank can provide up to 1/3 cord of seasoned firewood per family.  An appointment can be made for pickup by contacting Tom at 667-4392 or Ken at 374-2061.  

The Downeast Wood Bank also provides firewood for Blue Hill, Brooklin, Brooksville, Penobscot, and Sedgwick families.  The Wood Bank is all volunteers and we are in need of individuals to help cut, split, and stack.  We take tree length donations of hardwood if residents have any to donate.  Call one of the above numbers if you have wood to donate or want to be part of our team.