Southport selectmen voted unanimously Nov. 3 to buy a $2,020 sketch package for inclusion in the TRIO system used for cataloging real estate property. Town Clerk Donna Climo told selectmen the current software didn’t have this function for including digital photos with the town property tax cards. 

The purchase doesn’t include a yearly $424 maintenance fee or training. The town plans on hiring Amy Dunn, an independent contractor selectmen described as a “Trio expert.” Climo reported Dunn offered to photograph any properties that need photos for the tax cards. 

“She asked about digital photographs, and said she would bring a team down for a weekend to take them,” Climo said. Board Chairman Gerry Gamage estimated there are about 1,300 properties and digital photography would likely cost the town about $18,000. 

In other action, selectmen discussed plans for their federal American Rescue Plan Act funds. Southport will receive two installments of the 2021 federal stimulus money. Southport received $63,369 in ARPA money Sept. 29. Town officials weren’t sure about the second round’s arrival. 

Gamage volunteered to ditch Joppa Road. Selectmen also voted 3-0 to rent the town hall to the Blaney family for a Nov. 7 birthday party. 

Selectmen meet next at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 9 in the town hall.