Grand Island residents demand halt on controversial property tax reassessments

The Grand Island Town Board meeting on April 21, 2025, focused heavily on concerns regarding recent property tax reassessments that have sparked significant public outcry. Residents expressed frustration over drastic tax increases, with some seeing their assessments rise by as much as 277% in just one year. This has led to a substantial financial burden on homeowners, particularly vulnerable populations such as the elderly.

One of the most alarming points raised was that 205 out of 250 nonresident commercial properties experienced tax decreases, resulting in a shift of over $700,000 in tax burdens onto residential properties. This shift is reported to be double the annual town budget increase, raising concerns about fairness and equity in the tax system. Residents noted that similar homes in close proximity had wildly different assessments, with some properties experiencing increases while others saw decreases without clear justification.

Several speakers, including Mike Madigan, called for an immediate halt to the reassessment process, arguing that the current methodology is flawed and relies on inaccurate data. Many residents reported that their properties were assessed at values significantly higher than their market worth, with some assessments not reflecting the actual condition of the homes. Complaints included the use of AI-generated assessments that did not consider individual property characteristics, leading to what many described as arbitrary and unjust tax increases.

The board heard from numerous residents who shared personal stories of financial strain due to the reassessments. Many expressed disbelief at the lack of transparency and the perceived errors in the assessment process. Calls for a thorough review of the reassessment algorithm and a suspension of the current program were echoed throughout the meeting.

In conclusion, the Grand Island Town Board faces mounting pressure to address the concerns raised by residents regarding property tax reassessments. The board's next steps will be crucial in determining how to rectify the situation and restore confidence in the town's tax assessment practices.