The debate on the Taxpayer Bill of Rights started early this morning, as voters came out to the polls before heading out to work.

In Buxton, where polls opened at 6 a.m., the first person to vote said he opposed the TABOR referendum question.

Keith Emery, a public works employee and chairman of the town’s planning board, was first in line when the polls opened. “I voted against it, Emery said. “They keep a close eye on budgets here.”

Buxton has an annual town meeting in June in which residents vote on a municipal budget. “If TABOR passed, it would penalize towns like Buxton, as far as I can see.”

One resident, Joe Graziano, favored TABOR. “I just like the idea of limiting our politicians’ ability to raise taxes,” Graziano said.

Buxton Town Clerk John Myers is expecting a large voter turnout this morning. “It’ll be pretty heavy,” Myers said, basing his observation on a lot of calls from residents Monday asking what time polls would open.

Deputy Registrar of Voters Bob Weeman also thought the election would draw a lot of voters. “I think it will be a big one,” Weeman said.

Before the polls opened, Hiram Davis was elected town moderator in a special town meeting at 5:30 a.m. Three residents cast secret ballots, electing Davis, who was sworn in by Myers.

Check www.keepMEcurrent.com throughout Election Day for the latest election news and results.

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