Select Board debates hydroelectric revaluation options, weighing one‑year vs five‑year contracts

The Town of Jay Select Board spent an extended portion of the meeting discussing two proposals to evaluate local hydroelectric facilities and how to reflect that value for property tax purposes.

Staff presented two contract options: a one‑year revaluation at $7,500 intended to capture the current operational value of facilities this year, and a five‑year contract at $6,000 per year that would update valuations annually for five years. Board members asked whether the facilities are now fully operational and whether the expense would generate corresponding taxable value sufficient to justify the cost. Staff said the plants are believed to be fully operational and that the one‑year option captures newly realized value this year; the five‑year option spreads updates over time at a lower annual cost.

Members debated trade‑offs. Some favored the one‑year engagement to capture the immediate uptick in value after recent repairs; others argued the five‑year contract provides continuity and a lower recurring price if the town expects ongoing increases. Several members said they would prefer to request a revaluation only if facilities report material upgrades in future years rather than commit to annual work.

The transcript records motions for a one‑year revaluation at $7,500 and a subsequent motion for the five‑year contract at $6,000 per year, with votes taken on motions during the segment. The record as transcribed contains voice‑vote calls but does not clearly capture a roll‑call tally or an unambiguous final decision on which contract was finally adopted; staff and board members discussed next steps and how to seek additional explanation from the assessor if necessary.

Next steps: staff will clarify the operational status of facilities with the assessor and provide follow‑up costing and recommended scope so the board can record a clear procurement decision in the minutes.