Torrington approves two‑year phase‑in of 2024 grand list revaluation

Torrington’s City Council and Board of Finance voted on May 12, 2025, to phase in the Oct. 1, 2024 grand list revaluation over two years following extended discussion and multiple failed motions on other options. The motion for a two‑year phase‑in passed on a roll‑call vote after the council and finance members returned to the question late in the meeting.

The decision matters because a phase‑in spreads the impact of higher assessed values over multiple years. City staff and members debated whether to implement no phase‑in, a two‑year phasing, or longer options. Supporters said two years gives taxpayers time to adjust; opponents argued it shifts burden to businesses and complicates budgeting. The assessor must notify the state Office of Policy and Management (OPM) of the legislative body’s choice and submit related reports by the city’s June 1 deadline.

City staff presented two spreadsheet models showing effects on a median residential home and on a higher‑value home. Stacy from the assessor’s office said the models assume no growth in the grand list and no change in the budget and that the analysis applied the mill rates being discussed to the…