Newbury Board of Assessors Tackles Property Valuation and Tax Matters

Overview: The Newbury Board of Assessors meeting on July 9th, 2024, was a crucial convergence of discussions surrounding property valuation due to beach erosion, the reassessment of unknown ownership parcels, and the town’s right of first refusal in property transactions. The Board also engaged in procedural operations regarding abatements, exemptions, and the signing off of warrants and commitments for tax bills.

East Longmeadow Board of Assessors Grapple with Valuation and Taxation Issues

Overview: In a recent meeting of the East Longmeadow Board of Assessors, topics such as the review of fiscal year 2025 warrants, the proposed 2024 equalized valuation, and the taxation of telephone poles and cell towers were addressed. Furthermore, the meeting saw discussions on the RFP for valuation services and a proposed change to the property inspection notification process.

Shutesbury Board Debates Overlay Account Release

Overview: In a recent meeting of the Shutesbury Board of Assessors, the primary focus was the deliberation over the release of $52,673.73 from the overlay account, a reserve used for abating taxes, into the general fund. This move was deemed significant due to the approaching end of the fiscal year, which would automatically allocate any remaining overlay funds into free cash. The meeting also touched on the town’s preliminary tax commitments and motor vehicle excise tax commitments.

Granby Board Examines Property Assessment Discrepancies and Event Venue Traffic Concerns

Overview: In a meeting that addressed various topics, the Granby Board of Assessors focused on significant discrepancies between the assessed values and sale prices of properties, and concerns regarding a special event venue proposed at Reynolds Farm. The meeting also touched upon the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for document management, the necessity of inspecting vacant land, and the confusion surrounding internal inspections following town meetings.

Lunenburg Board of Assessors Grapple with Abatement Delays and Software Challenges

Overview: The Lunenburg Board of Assessors recently convened to address issues related to property abatements, tax billing complications, and the equalization of values that affect state aid distribution. The board deliberated on pending abatements with three cases still awaiting resolution and inspections scheduled for two. In another significant matter, members expressed dissatisfaction with the Munis software used for billing and discussed the engagement of a consultant to resolve errors before the dispatch of new bills on July 1st.