increase font size Funding outside organizations triggers debate on Waterville’s budget priorities Some councilors on Tuesday questioned whether the city should commit to funding certain organizations in the proposed budget, while others said the city has the money to do so. WATERVILLE — Should the city donate money toward community service groups? That controversial question is prompting city councilors to debate other key budget priorities — whether to fund a new economic development position at the Central Maine Growth Council, or cut the tax rate — as they examine tens of thousands of dollars in municipal funding. The debate started Tuesday night as the council considered funding the Alfond Youth & Community Center with $10,000 each year for three years; $15,000 for Kennebec Valley Community Action program; and $43,500 for the growth council. Councilors also discussed another $100,000 for a three-year period to hire a person who would be dedicated to economic development in Waterville.