Island homeowners challenge property assessment fairness and demand transparency from appraisers

The Cumberland County Board of Assessment Review convened on May 24, 2025, to address ongoing concerns regarding property assessments, particularly those affecting island properties. The meeting highlighted significant dissatisfaction among property owners regarding perceived inconsistencies and unfairness in the assessment process.

A key point of contention arose from the assessment of properties on an island compared to those on the mainland. One board member expressed discomfort with the methodology used to derive property values, specifically criticizing the reliance on sales data from Long Lake to inform assessments for island properties. The member emphasized the need for more precise data to justify any adjustments in property values, suggesting that the current system may be inherently flawed and potentially discriminatory.

The discussion also included a specific case involving a property assessed as a cove, which had not been classified as such in previous assessments. Homeowners voiced their frustration over the lack of communication regarding this change, arguing that it resulted in an unfair advantage for that property compared to others on the island. They claimed that the assessment process lacked transparency and fairness, with one homeowner stating that the adjustments appeared to be made only after persistent inquiries.

The board acknowledged the challenges of accurately assessing properties in unique locations like islands, where access and market conditions differ significantly from the mainland. However, homeowners expressed skepticism about the assessment practices, suggesting that the board's decisions could reflect a broader issue of inconsistency and lack of accountability in the assessment process.

As the meeting concluded, the board members were tasked with reviewing the concerns raised and considering the implications for future assessments. The discussions underscored the importance of ensuring fairness and transparency in property evaluations, particularly in areas with distinct characteristics that may not align with standard assessment practices. The board's next steps will be crucial in addressing these concerns and restoring trust among property owners in Cumberland County.