The most notable topic of discussion was the frustration surrounding uncollectible tax bills from earlier fiscal years. The board grappled with the inability to collect taxes not processed through the state’s Vadar system. These included uncollected boat excise taxes from 2020, 2021, and 2022, amounting to $1,600, $911, and $1,488 respectively. The board members were perplexed about the transition from previously using a spreadsheet method to the new state system, which complicated the verification of payments and tracking of debtors.

The difficulties arose from mismatched account names and bill numbers, making it challenging to identify who owed money. One participant noted that the verification process was possible but difficult, primarily because previous records did not align with the current system. These administrative adjustments led to confusion over unpaid taxes, raising questions about the fairness of charging interest on debts that might not have been properly communicated to taxpayers. A participant emphasized that charging substantial interest on minor overdue bills, which sometimes amounted to just $40 or $50, was unreasonable.

A consensus emerged that the best course of action might be to write off these uncollectible debts, particularly given that the amounts were relatively small and the individuals billed might not even own the taxable items anymore. Concerns were raised about the potential burden on taxpayers, who could face inflated bills due to accumulated interest over the years. One member voiced that presenting someone with a $200 obligation for a $25 bill from five years ago was “ridiculous.”

The board considered waiving interest on amounts below $15, as permitted by law, to alleviate this burden. A member highlighted logistical challenges, noting the inefficiency of pursuing these debts when the return on investment of time and effort was minimal. Complicating matters further, old records might include deceased individuals, making collection efforts even less feasible.

In light of these issues, a motion was made to sign a monthly list of abatements for uncollectible boat taxes from fiscal year 2020, totaling $1,680. Although there was discomfort in forgiving these debts, the board recognized it as a necessary step to ensure fairness for those who had paid their taxes. The board decided to table the motions for fiscal years 2021 and 2022 due to discrepancies in the amounts stated.

Another notable discussion point was the sewer enterprise warrant, which involved a commitment of $155,144.84. This motion, like others during the meeting, was approved without further discussion. The board also addressed a unique boat abatement related to a sold boat, resulting in a proposed abatement of $38, which passed unanimously.

The board’s conversations underscored the challenges in managing tax collections and highlighted the need for more efficient administrative practices.