NORWICH – Tax rates may lower in 2007 for Town of Norwich residents.

The $1.34 million preliminary budget was proposed Nov. 9 public hearing and residents were given the chance to respond and discuss the spending plan.

The town’s budget as indicated would include $294,460 in the general fund, a decrease of $44,300 from the 2006 budget. Highway spending would decrease by $16,000 to $398,294.

Norwich’s proposed highway tax rate would see a decrease of approximately 11 cents per $1,000 of assessed value. Town revenue has increased nearly $7 million this year. The town experienced almost continuous growth of new business in 2006, enabling it to upgrade the water system just south of the city.