Residents upset after KRT postcards arrive; board explains revaluation timing and abatement process

Select board members spent significant time addressing public confusion about a postcard mailed by KRT, the contracted revaluation firm. The board said KRT told the town its initial revaluation used statistical methods and that in‑home verification, which can change assessed values, would follow at a later date. Several members noted the timing — postcards arriving just after tax bills — produced bad optics and raised resident ire.

KRT / assessor staff explained that values are finalized when the tax warrant is printed in December and that any changes resulting from in‑home visits would be reflected in the next tax cycle; there will be no automatic refunds for the current printed bills. The assessor noted homeowners may file abatement requests for individual corrections; if granted by the board, adjustments would be applied as appropriate.

Board members discussed whether to replace KRT or to give the contractor time to complete the contract; members noted KRT holds records and the town would incur expense and delay to hire a replacement midcontract. The board asked staff to collect and publish clear guidance for residents about the revaluation timeline and abatement steps.