During the Village of Waukesha Board of Review meeting on September 11, 2025, discussions centered around property assessments, particularly focusing on the challenges of finding comparable properties for evaluation. One resident raised concerns about the impact of nearby railroad tracks on property value, citing increased noise levels that could deter potential buyers.
The resident explained that their property is located adjacent to the railroad tracks, which has led to a significant increase in train frequency and noise since their purchase. They expressed frustration over the difficulty in identifying comparable properties that reflect the unique circumstances of their home, particularly its age and location. The assessor acknowledged the challenges in selecting comparables, noting that while the properties chosen for assessment were similar in size and age, they were located in different neighborhoods, which may not accurately represent the resident's situation.
The discussion highlighted the importance of considering external factors, such as noise pollution from the railroad, in property assessments. The resident suggested that if the village could implement measures to reduce train noise, they would be more amenable to the current assessment. However, without such changes, they argued that the assessment does not accurately reflect the property's marketability.
The meeting underscored the complexities involved in property valuation, especially in areas affected by external factors like transportation infrastructure. As the Board of Review continues to address these concerns, it remains to be seen how they will adapt their assessment practices to better reflect the realities faced by residents living near such disruptive elements.