Tax assessor David Sawyer came before the Windham Town Council on Tuesday to announce this year’s tax rate. As anticipated in the 2005-2006 budgets, the tax rate will be $17.90 per thousand, a drop of $1.10 from last year’s rate.

Though this is good news for Windham residents who have seen their property taxes steadily increase in recent years, the tax rate could have been even less had the state fully funded the Homestead Exemption, Sawyer said.

“Had that been the situation, the tax would have been some 40 cents less,” Sawyer said.

The state raised the Homestead Exemption from seven to 13 percent this year, but only funded half of the cost. This leaves the municipality to pay the difference and therefore set the tax rate at $17.90 per thousand as opposed to $17.50 per thousand.

“Even though this Homestead Exemption may benefit some people, other people have to pay for it and there’s nothing the municipality can do about it,” said Councilor David Tobin.

Sawyer went on to explain that the state’s “circuit breaker” program (otherwise known as Maine Residence and Rent Refund program) has changed its rebate policy. More property owners and renters are now eligible for a refund from the state and the maximum rebate has been increased. Sawyer said that applications for the “circuit breaker” program are available in his office or can be sent directly to private residences if requested.

As for the tax bills, the Tax Assessor’s Office said they will be issued to Windham residents sometime between the end of August and September 1.

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