Brenda Keeble presents new GIS technology for property assessment efficiency
March 13, 2025 | Lincoln, Providence County, Rhode Island
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The Lincoln Budget Board meeting on March 13, 2025, highlighted the town's commitment to enhancing property assessments through innovative technology. A key discussion centered around the introduction of a new Geographic Information System (GIS) program, which aims to improve the accuracy of property evaluations and address issues related to unpermitted work on homes.
Brenda Keeble, the town's tax assessor, presented the program, emphasizing its potential to streamline assessments and provide valuable data for multiple departments. The current assessment process has faced challenges, particularly with homeowners not obtaining full permits for renovations, leading to discrepancies in property values. The new GIS tool will allow assessors to monitor changes in properties more effectively, even in cases where access to backyards is restricted.
The program includes advanced aerial imagery capabilities, which can reveal significant changes over time, such as the removal of pools or the addition of structures. This feature not only aids in accurate assessments but also helps identify properties that may not be in compliance with local regulations. For instance, Keeble shared an example where the program helped adjust a homeowner's assessment after discovering a filled-in pool that had not been reported.
Additionally, the GIS tool can assist in resolving disputes over property boundaries and square footage, as demonstrated in a recent case involving shared buildings with Central Falls. The ability to measure and visualize properties accurately can prevent misunderstandings and ensure fair taxation.
The board discussed the financial implications of implementing this technology, with an estimated cost of around $11,000 for annual aerial flyovers, significantly less than what neighboring towns have paid. The investment is seen as a necessary step to enhance the town's operational efficiency and improve service delivery to residents.
In conclusion, the Lincoln Budget Board's meeting underscored a proactive approach to property assessment, leveraging technology to better serve the community. As the town moves forward with this initiative, residents can expect more accurate assessments and improved oversight of property developments, ultimately benefiting the local economy and ensuring fair taxation practices.
Brenda Keeble, the town's tax assessor, presented the program, emphasizing its potential to streamline assessments and provide valuable data for multiple departments. The current assessment process has faced challenges, particularly with homeowners not obtaining full permits for renovations, leading to discrepancies in property values. The new GIS tool will allow assessors to monitor changes in properties more effectively, even in cases where access to backyards is restricted.
The program includes advanced aerial imagery capabilities, which can reveal significant changes over time, such as the removal of pools or the addition of structures. This feature not only aids in accurate assessments but also helps identify properties that may not be in compliance with local regulations. For instance, Keeble shared an example where the program helped adjust a homeowner's assessment after discovering a filled-in pool that had not been reported.
Additionally, the GIS tool can assist in resolving disputes over property boundaries and square footage, as demonstrated in a recent case involving shared buildings with Central Falls. The ability to measure and visualize properties accurately can prevent misunderstandings and ensure fair taxation.
The board discussed the financial implications of implementing this technology, with an estimated cost of around $11,000 for annual aerial flyovers, significantly less than what neighboring towns have paid. The investment is seen as a necessary step to enhance the town's operational efficiency and improve service delivery to residents.
In conclusion, the Lincoln Budget Board's meeting underscored a proactive approach to property assessment, leveraging technology to better serve the community. As the town moves forward with this initiative, residents can expect more accurate assessments and improved oversight of property developments, ultimately benefiting the local economy and ensuring fair taxation practices.
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