Rep. Mick Devin, D-Newcastle, and the Skidompha Public Library in Damariscotta are teaming up to co-host a public forum Friday, Jan. 23, on the potential impacts of taxing local nonprofit organizations. 

The forum, moderated by Sherwood Olin, will take place at the Porter Meeting Hall from 8 to 10 a.m. Coffee and donuts will be served starting at 7:30 a.m., prior to the event

“This conversation is particularly relevant, given the governor’s new proposal to allow cities and towns to tax nonprofits,” said Devin. “The forum will be a chance for local stakeholders and residents to get together and learn from each other about the potential consequences of this proposal. It’s also a great opportunity for members of the general public to ask questions or express concerns.” 

Gov. Paul LePage’s biennial budget proposal released last week includes full property taxes for nonprofits valued over $500,000 with a 50 percent rebate for nonprofit organizations that are subject to the tax. The governor’s administration says the proposed tax on non-profits is designed to offset the loss of revenue contained in another item in the budget proposal — the elimination of the state’s revenue sharing program starting in fiscal year 2017. 

The first hour of the forum will feature presentations from local municipal officials and leaders of nonprofits in central Lincoln County. The second hour will include both a moderated discussion and the chance for the public to ask questions of the presenters.

Devin is serving his second term in the Maine House and represents Bremen, Bristol, Damariscotta, Newcastle, part of Nobleboro, part of South Bristol and Monhegan Plantation.