A major focus of the meeting was the exploration of GIS technology as a means to enhance the efficiency of the town’s property assessments. Board members discussed the potential for collaboration with CI, a company that provides GIS services, and weighed the cost and benefits of different software access levels. The integration of GIS is expected to improve data management, enabling assessors to visualize neighborhood classifications through interactive maps linked to the town’s website. This technology promises to streamline field inspections by allowing direct data entry via mobile devices, thereby reducing paperwork and minimizing manual data transfer.

Furthermore, the board highlighted the importance of leveraging GIS tools to address various challenges, such as accurately assessing properties with diverse topographies and understanding the impact of proximity to commercial areas or infrastructure like railroad tracks. The potential for GIS to provide granular data was emphasized, as it could help assessors and residents understand property value influences more transparently. The conversation also included the possibility of using GIS for environmental data management, such as stormwater and infrastructure mapping, which could contribute to more informed decision-making.

The principal assessor reported on efforts to standardize criteria for these adjustments and emphasized the importance of fairness and transparency in communication with homeowners. A standard list for functional obsolescence adjustments was being developed, with specific criteria like reductions for homes lacking basement access and additional discounts for properties with severe issues. This initiative aims to ensure consistent assessments across different property types.

The board also addressed concerns related to economic obsolescence, with inspections completed for some properties and appropriate discounts applied. The principal assessor acknowledged that some properties were already receiving typical discounts due to their affordable status. These adjustments were to be communicated to homeowners following thorough inspections.

In addition to these discussions, the board considered the status of the senior means-tested exemption program. With eight applications submitted by the meeting date, the board was hopeful that awareness of the program would grow, encouraging more seniors to apply. The financial implications of these exemptions were considered, with an understanding that tax benefits for some would redistribute the financial burden across other taxpayers.

The board also deliberated on upcoming technological transitions, including the town’s contract with the current software provider set to end in December. Concerns about the efficiency of the existing system led to discussions about switching to Vision, a service noted for its effectiveness in other municipalities. This change aims to improve operational efficiency and address training needs for new staff, especially in light of recent staff departures.

Lastly, the board explored the development of a new website to enhance public access to property information. Acknowledging the need for both digital and physical records, members expressed a desire for a user-friendly platform that would facilitate community engagement and transparency. The proposed website would include comprehensive property data and updates, with a “dummy website” to be created for review before going public.