Lunenburg Board of Assessors Grapple with Abatement Delays and Software Challenges

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.

During the meeting, the board examined the protocol for executive sessions, with a focus on the process for recusal and the importance of confidentiality in these meetings. A debate ensued on whether a recused member should leave the room to prevent undue influence or breach of sensitive information.

In the realm of property taxation, a member brought to light an article discussing the rise in property values and taxes on a national level, prompting a conversation on the implications for local assessments. The board also tackled the challenge of locating property owners for tax matters, weighing the efficacy of internet searches against traditional mailed follow-ups.

The meeting included discussions on the importance of the equalized value, which is recalculated biennially and impacts state aid and county assessments. The significance of this value was underscored as a state-mandated measure to maintain consistency across communities. Additionally, a presentation by an attorney on exemptions and abatements was referenced, with a plan to disperse informational handouts among the board members.

Technical issues with the Munis software were a recurring theme, as members aired grievances over its performance and the impending fiscal year’s billing concerns. A consultant’s visit was planned to specifically address these issues and to ensure accuracy in the forthcoming billing cycle.

Further discussions revolved around the Y2K file, with an explanation requested for its significance. The board underscored the need to rectify billing errors promptly and identified the tax collector as responsible for sending out the bills, emphasizing the necessity for checks and balances in the process.

On the administrative front, the board reviewed and approved various financial documents, including a debit of $18,194.82 and a corresponding credit, unpaid bills, interest, and the high volume of motor vehicle and real estate abatement requests. The meeting also acknowledged the competency of the individual responsible for the meeting minutes of June 3rd.

Lastly, the board contemplated the implications of a car transferred between individuals post the owner’s death on excise taxes. They also discussed the upcoming neighborhood review team meeting, described as a “meet and greet” session, and the launch of a new website, noting the need for thorough content review.

Note: This meeting summary was generated by AI, which can occasionally misspell names, misattribute actions, and state inaccuracies. This summary is intended to be a starting point and you should review the meeting record linked above before acting on anything you read. If we got something wrong, let us know. We’re working every day to improve our process in pursuit of universal local government transparency.
Town Manager:
Heather R. Lemieux
Property Assessment Board Officials:
Brian Laffond, Sarah Cammer, Jack Rabbitt, Rena Swezey (Interim Principal Assessor), Sheila Craigen (Administrative Assessing Assistant)

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