Selectmen set 2020 mil rate at 1.157 and draw $150,000 from surplus

The Town of Stonington Selectmen set the 2020 mil rate at 1.157 and voted to apply $150,000 from the town’s surplus to offset the tax commitment. The decision followed a review of current revenues, projected receipts and the potential impact of COVID‑19 on collections.

Selectman John Steed moved to set the rate and draw the surplus funds; the motion carried unanimously. Board discussion noted concern about slower collections and potential borrowing constraints for the coming fiscal year; officials said preserving liquidity was a priority.

The mil‑rate decision establishes the basis for tax bills the town expects to issue on the usual schedule, and the board said it would monitor collection performance and revisit reserve and capital spending if needed.