One notable matter addressed was the potential closure of the assessor’s office to the public on Fridays. The closure is aimed at allowing the staff to catch up on the backlog of work, including inputting new construction plans and footprints into their system. The conversation revealed the board’s concern over managing the office workload and highlighted the necessity of additional assistance. The possibility of hiring a retired assessor from Wareham and collaborating with a regional resource group was mentioned as a solution to the office’s escalating demands.

In tandem with administrative challenges, the board grappled with the recertification process. They looked at the commitment to CI Technologies for transferring their cards online, weighing the timing and mechanics of such a transition. The digital shift is a cornerstone for the board’s future efficiency but comes with its own set of complexities that need to be ironed out.

Cyclical inspections were another topic of weighty discussion. The board deliberated the value and necessity of these inspections, particularly whether to inspect certain streets and the potential cost savings of delaying this process. The debate revolved around the impact of cyclical inspections on home values and the need for such inspections. Additionally, the board members exchanged views on who would assume responsibility for inspecting specific streets.

Furthermore, the board examined the challenges of incorporating new construction into the system. There was uncertainty about the number of new constructions and concern about the time-consuming nature of the task. The debate extended to whether the staff should visit all new properties or only those over a certain value for review. This decision is critical in determining the board’s workload and the efficiency of the assessment process.

The valuation of specialized equipment, such as a Bridgeport La, was also brought to the table. Concerns were raised about the worth of such equipment and the specialized expertise required for its assessment. This points to the broader challenge of accurately valifying complex machinery within the community and ensuring equitable taxation.

The meeting also saw the board move into an executive session to discuss real estate abatements, signaling the sensitivity and confidentiality of certain matters they handle.