About Us
WELCOME
to the website of SMARTaxes — Scarborough Maine Advocates for Reasonable Taxes. The group is growing as a result of several years of real estate tax increases that have far exceeded the general inflation rate. And most of us do not understand why. Although the Town and School Department make much financial information public, it is currently impossible for ordinary citizens to make informed judgments on the appropriateness of program and capital expenditures.
This group was inspired by a similar group in Saco, to whom we extend our thanks.
This group was inspired by a similar group in Saco, to whom we extend our thanks.
MISSION:
To provide and widely share information and analyses of Town and School finances and to advocate for tax rates that support excellent public education, provide quality public services and are affordable for all Scarborough residents.
MAJOR ACTIVITIES:
- Understand the Town and School operating and capital budgets at the detail level.
- Review and analyze all Town/School budgets in cooperation with appropriate staff.
- Attend and monitor all Town/School public meetings.
- Summarize and share our findings with group members and the public at large.
- Encourage informed voter participation in all aspects of Town/School financial matters.
MEMBERS
A growing group of concerned Scarborough citizens.
