THORNDIKE -- Most people frown when they come into Thorndike town office to pay taxes or fees. Beulah Fortier came in Thursday smiling from ear to ear and gave the town a $6,500 gift not because she was asked to, she said, but because she cares.

Fortier, 93 and a lifelong resident, grinned happily while holding out the check as selectmen, friends and the media took pictures. Third selectman Jim Bennett announced that Fortier was the formerly anonymous donor who recently pledged the money to buy a 3/4-acre parcel behind the town office.

The land may eventually be used should townspeople vote to build a new town office to replace the small and aging one, according to Bennett. The proposal was rejected at the last town meeting but will be on next year's warrant, Bennett said.

Asked why she offered the money, Fortier said, "I've lived here a long time and I think a lot of the town." She added that she believes a new town office is needed.

"I'm not the only one who can afford to give," Fortier said. "There are lots of others who could too." Fortier held the check out toward the cameras and said, "I want you to see this check so you don't think I will gyp the town."

The current town office is a former school house that her father attended many years ago and is an old building. "It's due for a change," Fortier said. I'm glad to do this for the town."

Bennett credited Fortier for her support of the building project and the town. "I thinks its super and it won't cost the town anything." He was disappointed that the proposal was rejected and hopes that residents will change their minds later. "We had a good deal." Bennett said. He added the town would like to have a plaque made with names of people who donate to the project.

Bennett said that with more land available, the proposal to build a new town office will be brought up at the 2009 town meeting. "We will try it again," Bennett said adding that he supports the project and would like to see it passed. "I hope so, too," Fortier said.

By David leaming -- 861-9255 dleaming@centralmaine.com