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Local officials say raw mill-rate figures can mislead taxpayers; Baldwin’s certified ratio cited
Summary
Planning board members discussed how differing certified assessment ratios, not only mill rates, determine property tax burdens. Neil cautioned that Baldwin’s lower certification ratio inflates its reported mill rate and noted the state’s recalculation methods could lower the town’s ratio further.
Neil said the town’s higher mill rate can be misleading without examining assessment ratios, pointing to a contrast with a neighboring town assessed at 100% while Baldwin’s certification ratio is about 68%.
"When you look at it, those numbers really don't mean a whole lot unless you dig a little deeper," Neil said, explaining that a lower certified assessment ratio drives up a town’s mill rate even though the budgetary dollars to be raised remain the same. He estimated that if Baldwin assessed property at 100%, the mill rate would be roughly 10.9 to 11.
Board members noted the state performs an affordability calculation that adjusts assessed values so towns can be compared 'apples to apples' for school budget contributions. Neil said he was told by Cumberland County officials the town’s certification ratio may fall to about 66% and that state guidance recommends maintaining between 70% and 110%.
Members discussed asking the county or state for a statistical re-evaluation and requested a concise pro-con list and a short briefing from technical staff or consultants before deciding whether to pursue a reevaluation.
The board agreed to follow up by emailing county contacts and arranging a visit from a knowledgeable official who could explain the formulas and implications for taxpayers.
The planning board did not take formal action at the meeting; the topic will reappear on a future agenda when staff or a consultant can present a pro-con analysis.
