It was a mixed agenda when Southport selectmen met Wednesday, July 20.  The town’s mil rate was officially set at 3.91, down from the previous year’s 3.95.

The mil rate determines the amount of property tax an owner will pay. Taxes are calculated per thousand dollars of a property’s assessed value. The total property valuation including Capitol Island and Squirrel Island was more than $747 million. Of this amount, the total valuation for Squirrel Island was $88.1 million and $28.7 million for Capitol Island.

The town will realize revenues of $165,520 from taxes, fees and amounts carried over from the previous year. The total commitment is $2,920,875.

The recent discussion between Cameron Point property owner Diane Blasco and the town over the use of a boathouse has resulted in a postponement of the town’s deadline. The violation notice issued to Blasco cited mattresses and beds located in the boathouse and requested that they be removed. The notice claimed use of the boathouse as a bunkhouse, which is a violation of a town ordinance.

Southport officials have recently heard from Blasco’s attorney, contesting the violation notice. They conferred with the town’s attorney who confirmed that the bedding material could remain. Henry Berne, Southport code enforcement officer, indicated that the town is now waiting to hear from the state Department of Environmental Protection for further clarification.

Speeding concerns on the island have been discussed often at selectmen meetings and Sarah Sherman McGrail presented a petition on Wednesday evening asking for the removal of recently placed speed bumps on Pratt’s Island Road. The document was signed by 24 residents and gave a number of reasons for the request; among these are damage to vehicles and the lack of evidence (other than anecdotal) that there is a speeding problem. The petition also asked for a meeting of all area residents to address the speeding issue if there is further debate.

Sectmen voted to remove the speed bumps. Immediately following the meeting, they were removed by Selectman and Fire Chief Gerry Gamage.