BRISTOL – About 100 residents passed all warrant articles at Town Meeting Saturday, adding several thousand dollars to the proposed budget in the process.


It took three hours to pass the articles, and there was little debate, a change from past years, said Moderator Ned Gordon, adding that he can remember some meetings many years ago that lasted into the night because of arguments over spending.


"There wasn't much controversy this year," Gordon said after the meeting.


Town Administrator Michael Capone said the quick meeting was likely due to the lack of bond issues on the warrant.


Residents passed a $5,375,456 operating budget, which was increased by $4,300 by voters from the proposed budget. Capone said the passed budget's impact on the tax rate has not yet been determined.


Voters added $2,300 to add new protective suits for the fire department, $1,000 for the lake hosting program conducted by the Newfound Lake Association, and $1,000 for support of the Newfound Area Nursing Association.


In addition to the passed operating budget, voters approved an additional $25,000 for Article 15, which asked for $59,933 for repairs to the Old Town Hall. Voters approved the additional money, which Gordon said will be added into the budget when the tax rate is calculated, to add a metal roof to the building.


Voters approved Article 12, a request for $70,000 appropriation for the purchase of lighting fixtures for the Central Square Transportation Enhancement Project.


Also approved was Article 14, which called for $30,000 for energy efficiency improvements to the fire station and the town offices.



dseufert@newstote.com