In a recent Fairport Central School District Board of Education meeting, discussions centered around the upcoming property tax reassessment, a topic that has stirred curiosity and concern among community members. As the board prepares for a significant change in how property values are calculated, officials emphasized the importance of transparency and communication with residents.
The reassessment, slated for 2026, aims to ensure that property taxes reflect current market values more accurately. Board members explained that if a homeowner's property value increases by less than $200,000, their tax bill may actually decrease. Conversely, if the value rises beyond that threshold, homeowners could see an increase in their tax bills. This shift is designed to correct past discrepancies where some properties were undervalued, leading to an imbalance in tax contributions.
Officials acknowledged the complexity of the reassessment process, noting that it requires substantial staff resources to evaluate every home in the district. They highlighted that while the tax levy—the total amount collected—has increased by 2.98% this year, this does not mean that the district will collect double the funds. Instead, the levy remains the same; it is simply being redistributed more equitably among property owners.
To further clarify these changes, the board plans to hold a special session dedicated to the tax assessment, aiming to address community questions and concerns. This proactive approach reflects the board's commitment to keeping residents informed and engaged as they navigate this significant transition.
As the meeting wrapped up, discussions also touched on personnel matters, with board members acknowledging ongoing hiring efforts to support the district's needs. The combination of these topics underscores a pivotal moment for the Fairport Central School District as it prepares for a future that promises both challenges and opportunities for its community.