The Brentwood Selectboard meeting on October 7, 2025, addressed several key issues impacting the community, particularly regarding property assessments and the ongoing reevaluation process.
One of the primary discussions centered on the contract extension with KRT, the company responsible for property evaluations. Mr. Tozier from KRT provided updates on the timeline for completing the use map manual, which is due in early November. He reassured the board that the data collection process, which is crucial for accurate property assessments, is already included in their existing contract. However, concerns were raised about potential inaccuracies in property valuations due to outdated data from previous assessments.
Board members expressed worries that residents might experience unexpected increases in property evaluations once the data collection is completed. They highlighted that many residents have reported discrepancies in their property assessments, particularly undervaluations. Mr. Tozier acknowledged these concerns and emphasized that the upcoming data collection would help rectify inaccuracies, ensuring that property values reflect current conditions.
The meeting also touched on the importance of transparency and accessibility of property assessment data. Residents requested clearer communication regarding the codes used in property assessments, which can be confusing for those unfamiliar with the terminology. The board agreed to work on providing a table of codes to help residents better understand their property cards.
In conclusion, the Selectboard's discussions underscored the importance of accurate property assessments and the need for effective communication with residents. As the town moves forward with the reevaluation process, officials aim to address community concerns and ensure that property values are fair and transparent. The next steps will involve completing the data collection and making necessary adjustments to property assessments, ultimately benefiting the residents of Brentwood.