Houlton passes annual budget with 8.6% increase

Houlton passes annual budget with 8.6% increase

HOULTON, Maine — The Houlton Town Council passed a $16.3 million budget, up $1.4 million from last year, on Monday night without any public response during a hearing. Employee benefits make-up the largest share of the budget at 18.5%, followed by police at 14% and public works at 11%. During a budget discussion meeting earlier this month, councilors highlighted recent resignations and the need for more support staff. “I think putting the money i…