Brunswick assessment board denies tax abatement for 373 River Road

The Town of Brunswick Board of Assessment Review voted 4-0 on Feb. 9 to deny a property tax abatement requested by John and Hannah Hutchins for 373 River Road, tax map 15, lot 3A. Board Chair Stephen Holt opened the evidentiary phase of the appeal at 2:12 P.M., and the board heard presentations and questions from the appellant and Town Assessor Taylor Burns.

Appellant John Hutchins presented his case and answered questions from the board. Town Assessor Taylor Burns then presented documentation supporting the assessing office’s decision and responded to inquiries from both Mr. Hutchins and board members. After closing statements the board moved into deliberations; during that discussion Board member Richard Baribeau moved, and Board member Larry Delaney seconded, to deny the abatement request. The motion carried with four yeas. The board noted that a copy of its Findings of Fact will be attached to the permanent record.

The board’s action leaves the Assessor’s original determination intact. No formal quote was recorded in the minutes; the record shows both the appellant’s presentation and the Assessor’s supporting documentation were considered before the vote. Chair Holt closed the evidentiary phase at 3:12 P.M.; the hearing concluded and the meeting proceeded to elections and other business. The board adjourned at 3:39 P.M.