Select board chairman Ed Millette did his best to explain why Chichester’s operating budget and tax rate needed to increase, saying that costs were up everywhere and more money was needed to meet the needs of residents.

In classic fashion this time of year, some residents fought back with vigor and colorful language, insisting, yet again, that retirees won’t be moving up the salary scale and therefore these annual hikes were tarnishing their golden years.

The operating budget of $3.44 million eventually passed after a spirited debate that included a failed amendment to cut the budget by $100,000.

Millette explained the numbers before voting began, saying the $262,000 increase in the budget equaled an 8% hike, due largely to the rising costs for services.

The town portion of the tax rate is expected to be $3.79 per $1,000 of assessed property value. None of this data sat well with Charlie Sims.

“We just recently had a big tax increase and we are on a fixed income,” said Sims, his voice slowly growing louder. “Every time the county wants something, the city wants something or the school board wants something, they come down and reach in our pockets and snatch money out of it.”

Sims questioned the intentions and transparency of budget makers.

“We realize it takes money to operate everything,” Sims said. “But every time you turn around, you’re getting more money, and you disguise it in such forms. A lot of us have to get a dictionary out to even understand it.”

Sims suggested that town warrants be reviewed line by line to ensure residents have a firm understanding, but moderator Ewen MacKinnon said that was not practical.

“Over the years (the town has) not wanted me to go line by line,” MacKinnon said. “We’d be here until supper time.”

The select board and other town officials also caught an earful from Dennis Call, who made no attempt to hide his frustration and wondered if officials had the passion to invest the time needed to serve properly.

“You’ve got to pay attention,” Call said. “You don't want to do the job, then get the hell out.”

Call allied himself with Sims, saying, “this gentleman is trying to tell you that people have been forced out and that this does not end here.”

On a sad note before the meeting began, a moment of silence was held for Holly MacCleerly, the wife of board member Stephen MacCleery, who died last month following a debilitating illness.

Stephen mentioned that his wife of 47 years fought bravely, adding that he lifted her into their tractor last summer so she could work the farm.

“She bailed hay three times,” Stephen said.