The tax assessor emphasized the need for an annual reassessment program to keep assessments at market value and reduce tax appeals. The council debated the cost savings and the impact on tax distribution, with the assessor stating that reassessment redistributes the tax burden without changing the total taxes collected. A detailed breakdown of cost analysis for reevaluation and reassessment was provided, along with a history of tax levy from 2019 to 2023, and a pie chart of the 2023 tax rate. The impact of tax appeals on the township’s finances and the delay in approving the final tax rate, which led to taxpayer confusion, were also highlighted.

Regarding the town budget and property taxes, there was extensive debate on potential ways to lower taxes, the upcoming ballot on property tax collection methods, and the need for clear information on the ballot options. The council discussed the town’s purchasing manual, which requires multiple quotes for any purchase over $1,000, in contrast to the state’s $6,600 requirement, touching on the limitations of purchasing and the use of state contracts, county co-ops, and federal contracts. The State Tax Court’s backlog of appeals, potential cost savings in legal and expert appraisal fees, and the disparity in property tax bills for similar houses were also topics of vigorous discussion.

The 2019 full inspection and the subsequent 20% inspection cycle, targeting approximately 2,800 properties each year, was outlined. The importance of maintaining accurate property records, the methodology for establishing the assessment, and the implications for property owners who might appeal were explained. The assessment budget’s impact on individual property owners was also a subject of concern.

Council members debated the accuracy of assessments, with instances cited where properties were assessed for nonexistent features. The potential impact of reassessments on property taxes, the challenges of reducing taxes, and the complexities involved in addressing property tax issues were all discussed at length.

The management and efficiency of the Department of Public Works (DPW) were called into question, with suggestions that DPW managers may need additional skills and the possibility of shared services to save costs. The council debated the reassessment’s effects on the tax rate, the overall budget, and the need for creative solutions to manage the tax balance. The control over the school budget and the impact of new home developments on the budget were also discussed.

Residents voiced frustrations over property valuations, citing a news article that ranked Vernon as likely to become a ghost town if current trends continue. Challenges faced by seniors and the financial strain caused by annual reassessments and the appeal process were emphasized. The need for transparency in the assessment process, particularly regarding market analysis and comparable sales data, was raised by residents.

A realtor provided insights into the current real estate market, discussing high demand, low supply, and the potential future changes in the market and their impact on property assessments and taxes. The conversation also addressed the shortage of homes nationally and the potential impact of new construction on the market.