How would you feel about local police cruisers and fire trucks bearing corporate logos?

That’s the question Selectman Ron Belanger posed at the Monday, Nov.13, selectmen’s meeting as a suggestion to lower taxes.

The town could seek sponsorship from corporations who would then get exposure by having their names on town vehicles and property. Doing so could save taxpayers millions, he said.

Corporations like Wal-Mart already give money to police and fire departments. It wouldn’t be too much of a stretch to put their names on town property, he said.

Belanger said he realized that many might be critical of the idea but he said he wants to pursue it to aid lower-income residents.

The idea came from several residents who approached Belanger after recently receiving their property tax bills that have increased since last year due to the town’s revaluation.

“Maybe it’ll work, maybe it won’t work,” he said. “But we should look into it.”

Belanger said he didn’t want town vehicles and property smothered in logos but small ones would be appropriate.

When Belanger made the suggestion, none of his fellow selectmen or Town Manager Dr. Henry LaBranche commented on it.

Belanger said he knew support would not be strong from town officials but he wanted to put the idea on the table.

If residents are interested in the idea, he said, the should put together a citizens petition for the March election that would allow it to appear as a warrant article.

Selectmen Chairman Michael Lyons would not share his thoughts of the idea, only saying, “I’ve got to think about it.”

Selectman Arthur Barnes, a former Salem fire chief was more upfront with his views.

“Let’s put it this way,” he said. “If the idea were to become a policy decision, I would be voting in the negative.” Still, Belanger said he’s going to look into it. “People in town have every right to find a way to lower taxes,” he said.