The Hooksett Town Council held a budget review meeting on September 17, 2025, focusing on the assessing department's financial needs and challenges. Council members discussed the implications of not fully funding the department, which is crucial for maintaining accurate property assessments and ensuring compliance with state requirements.

A key point of discussion was the potential loss incurred by not assessing a 25% increase in the budget for the assessing department. Council members acknowledged that previous budget cuts had left the department underfunded, which could hinder its ability to meet future revaluation requirements. The department, consisting of only two staff members, plays a vital role in the town's revenue stream and must be adequately supported to function effectively.

The council also addressed the decision to replace a part-time employee's salary with funds for temporary professional services, reflecting a shift in strategy to manage workload without increasing permanent staffing costs. This change aims to ensure that the department can handle its responsibilities without falling behind on assessments.

Concerns were raised about the town's financial preparedness for the upcoming revaluation scheduled for 2028. While the department is on schedule for its assessments, there is worry that insufficient funding could lead to reliance on state intervention, which would result in less control over costs.

The council emphasized the importance of public understanding regarding how property taxes are assessed and the potential consequences of underfunding the assessing department. A motion was made to approve the proposed budget for the assessing department, which includes a 5% increase primarily allocated to professional services.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted the critical need for adequate funding of the assessing department to maintain property assessment accuracy and compliance with state regulations. The council's decisions will have lasting implications for the town's financial health and taxpayer relations.