IPSWICH — The line forming at the treasurer/collector's office this week has been queueing up a bit earlier than normal this year.
The selectmen formally approved a hike in the beach sticker fee at their meeting Monday night, and residents have been trickling in to get theirs before the increase takes effect in July. The charge was raised from $15 for the year to $20.
Also getting the thumbs-up was the new summer water rate. Five years ago, the selectmen, acting as water commissioners, began charging more for each gallon of water used in the summer than is charged in the winter.
The goal is to encourage water conservation during the summer, and the charge this year beginning on May 1 will be $8.69 for every 1,000 cubic feet used, which is equal to about 750 gallons. Come November, the board will decide on a new winter rate.
Next up for consideration is a new fee to inspect barns. The animal control officer in every community is required to check out barns on a regular basis. The purpose is to maintain an accurate animal census and to make sure domestic animals are disease-free and well-cared-for.
There has never been a fee for this service, and the one proposed is $25. As the selectmen found out a couple of years ago, there's something else the animal officer does during his yearly visits — count cattle, or any other livestock roaming about, which are subject to the property tax.
Also Monday night, the board closed discussion on the Town Meeting warrant. With one exception, they'll be unanimously recommending favorable action on all agenda items.
One selectman, Ed Rauscher, does not support the school override.
